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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 20-F

 

 

 

REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016

OR

 

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

 

SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number 001-35931

 

 

Constellium N.V.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

 

 

Constellium N.V.

(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

The Netherlands

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

 

 

Tupolevlaan 41-61,

1119 NW Schiphol-Rijk

The Netherlands

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

 

Title of each class

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

Ordinary Shares   New York Stock Exchange

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

None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

None

 

 

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the period covered by the annual report:

105,581,673 Class A Ordinary Shares, Nominal Value €0.02 per share

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

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.    ☐  Yes    ☒  No

Note—Checking the box above will not relieve any registrant required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 from their obligations under those Sections.

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    ☐  No

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    ☐  No

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

Large accelerated filer  ☒            Accelerated  filer  ☐            Non-accelerated filer  ☐

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

 

U.S. GAAP  ☐     

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International

Accounting Standards Board  ☒

  Other  ☐

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow:    Item 17  ☐    Item 18  ☐

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    ☐  Yes    ☒  No

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

     Page  

SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     ii  

PART I

     1  

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

     1  

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

     1  

Item 3. Key Information

     1  

Item 4. Information on the Company

     29  

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments

     53  

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

     53  

Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

     81  

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

     98  

Item 8. Financial Information

     103  

Item 9. The Offer and Listing

     105  

Item 10. Additional Information

     106  

Item  11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

     131  

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

     131  

PART II

     132  

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

     132  

Item  14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

     132  

Item 15. Controls and Procedures

     132  

Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert

     133  

Item 16B. Code of Ethics

     133  

Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

     133  

Item  16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

     134  

Item  16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

     134  

Item 16F. Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

     134  

Item 16G. Corporate Governance

     135  

Item 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure

     138  

PART III

     139  

Item 17. Financial Statements

     139  

Item 18. Financial Statements

     139  

Item 19. Exhibits

     139  

Index to Financial Statements

     F-1  

 

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SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This annual report on Form 20-F contains “forward-looking statements” with respect to our business, results of operations and financial condition, and our expectations or beliefs concerning future events and conditions. You can identify certain forward-looking statements because they contain words such as, but not limited to, “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “should,” “approximately,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “intends,” “plans,” “targets,” “likely,” “will,” “would,” “could” and similar expressions (or the negative of these terminologies or expressions). All forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Many risks and uncertainties are inherent in our industry and markets. Others are more specific to our business and operations. The occurrence of the events described and the achievement of the expected results depend on many events, some or all of which are not predictable or within our control. Actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this annual report on Form 20-F.

Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements are disclosed under “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F, including, without limitation, in conjunction with the forward-looking statements included in this annual report on Form 20-F and including with respect to our estimated and projected earnings, income, equity, assets, ratios and other estimated financial results. All forward-looking statements in this annual report on Form 20-F and subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us, or persons acting on our behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements. Some of the factors that we believe could materially affect our results include:

 

    the highly competitive nature of the metals industry and the risk that aluminium will become less competitive compared to alternative materials;

 

    the substantial capital investment requirements of our business;

 

    unplanned business interruptions and equipment failure;

 

    our ability to manage our labor costs and labor relations;

 

    the risk associated with dependency on a limited number of customers for a substantial portion of our sales;

 

    the risk associated with consolidation among our customers;

 

    the risk associated with being dependent on a limited number of suppliers for a substantial portion of our aluminium supply;

 

    the volatility of aluminium prices;

 

    our inability to adequately mitigate the costs of price increases of our raw materials;

 

    the volatility of energy prices;

 

    adverse changes in currency exchange rates;

 

    our inability to execute an effective hedging policy;

 

    a deterioration in our financial position or a downgrade of our ratings by a credit rating agency, which could increase our borrowing costs, lead to our inability to access liquidity facilities, and adversely affect our business relationships;

 

    our indebtedness could materially adversely affect our ability to invest in or fund our operations, limit our ability to react to changes in the economy or our industry or force us to take alternative measures;

 

    our ability to attract and retain certain members of our management team;

 

    our ability to implement our business strategy, including our productivity and cost reduction initiatives;

 

    our susceptibility to cyclical fluctuations in the metals industry, our end-markets and our customers’ industries, and changes in general economic conditions;

 

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    reduced customer demand in our can end-market resulting from higher consumer focus on obesity and other health concerns;

 

    insufficient or inflexible production capacity;

 

    risks associated with our resources and product and geographic diversity relative to those of our competitors;

 

    reductions in demand for our products;

 

    our joint venture with UACJ in Body-in-White/auto body sheet products in the United States may not generate the expected returns and we may be unable to execute on our strategy with respect to the joint venture;

 

    inability to develop or implement technology initiatives and other strategic investments in a timely manner;

 

    failures of our information systems or protection thereof;

 

    disruptive upgrades to our information technology infrastructure;

 

    the risks associated with renegotiation of labor contracts;

 

    the risks associated with any restructuring efforts;

 

    ongoing uncertainty in a deterioration of the global economy due to political, regulatory or other developments;

 

    the effects on our business of disruptions in European economies;

 

    the risks associated with our international operations;

 

    the impact of regulations with respect to carbon dioxide emissions on our business;

 

    restrictive covenants and other terms of our indebtedness that could restrict our operations;

 

    our exposure to variable interest rate risk through our present or future indebtedness;

 

    losses or increased funding and expenses related to our pensions, other post-employment benefits and other long-term employee benefits plans;

 

    failure to adequately protect proprietary rights to our technology;

 

    risks associated with litigation involving our intellectual property;

 

    costs or liabilities associated with environmental, health and safety matters;

 

    the effects of potential changes in laws and government regulations;

 

    costs associated with product liability claims against us;

 

    unknown or unanticipated issues, expenses, and liabilities as a result of the Wise Acquisition;

 

    risks of injury or death in our business operations;

 

    risk of carrying inadequate insurance;

 

    changes in income tax rates, income tax laws and additional income tax liabilities;

 

    risk that historical financial information in this annual report is not representative of our future results;

 

    failure to adequately maintain our financial reporting and internal controls;

 

    risks associated with losing our status as a foreign private issuer; and

 

    the other factors presented under “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors.”

We caution you that the foregoing list may not contain all of the factors that are important to you. In addition, in light of these risks and uncertainties, the matters referred to in the forward-looking statements contained in this annual report on Form 20-F may not in fact occur. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

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PART I

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

Not applicable.

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Not applicable.

Item 3. Key Information

 

A. Selected Financial Data

The following tables set forth our selected historical financial and operating data.

On January 4, 2011, Omega Holdco B.V., which later changed its name to Constellium Holdco B.V., and then again to Constellium N.V. (“Constellium”) acquired the Engineered Aluminum Products business unit (the “EAP Business”) from affiliates of Rio Tinto, a leading international mining group (the “Acquisition”).

The selected historical financial information as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report. The selected historical financial information as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2013 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this Annual Report.

The audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report have been prepared in a manner that complies, in all material respects, with the International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (the “IASB”), and as endorsed by the European Union (“EU”).

Effective January 1, 2013, we have adopted IAS 19 “Employee Benefits” (revised) (IAS 19) in our audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013 and in accordance with transition rules in IAS 19 we have retrospectively applied this standard to the year ending December 31, 2012.

Effective January 1, 2014, we changed the measure of profitability for our segments under IFRS 8 “Operating Segments” from Management Adjusted EBITDA to Adjusted EBITDA.

References to “tons” throughout this Annual Report are to metric tons.

 

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References to the Wise Acquisition refer to our January 5, 2015 acquisition of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC and its subsidiaries, which companies we refer to collectively as “Wise.” The transaction is therefore not included in the Group’s consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2014.

 

     As of and for the year ended
December 31,
 
(€ in millions other than per share and per ton
data)
   2016     2015     2014     2013      2012  

Statement of income data:

           

Revenue

     4,743       5,153       3,666       3,495        3,610  

Gross profit

     516       450       483       471        474  

(Loss)/Income from operations

     246       (426     150       209        263  

Net (loss)/income for the period—continuing operations

     (4     (552     54       96        149  

Net (loss)/income for the period

     (4     (552     54       100        141  

(Loss)/earnings per share—basic

     (0.04     (5.27     0.48       1.00        1.55  

(Loss)/earnings per share—diluted

     (0.04     (5.27     0.48       0.99        1.55  

(Loss)/earnings per share—basic—continuing operations

     (0.04     (5.27     0.48       0.96        1.64  

(Loss)/earnings per share—diluted—continuing operations

     (0.04     (5.27     0.48       0.95        1.64  

Weighted average number of shares outstanding

     105,500,327       105,097,442       105,326,872       98,890,945        89,442,416  

Dividends per ordinary share (Euro) (1)

                               

Balance sheet data:

           

Total assets (2)

     3,787       3,628       3,012       1,764        1,631  

Net (liabilities)/assets or total invested equity

     (570     (540     (37     36        (37

Share capital

     2       2       2       2         

Other operational and financial data (unaudited):

           

Net trade working capital (3)

     199       149       210       222        289  

Capital expenditure (4)

     355       350       199       144        126  

Volumes (in kt)

     1,470       1,478       1,062       1,025        1,033  

Revenue per ton (€ per ton)

     3,227       3,486       3,452       3,410        3,495  

 

(1) Prior to our initial public offering in May 2013 (the “IPO”), we paid certain dividends to holders of our ordinary shares, as well as to holders of our preferred shares.
(2) In the third quarter of 2015, the Group decided to withdraw its disposal plan for a company from the A&T operating segment classified as held for sale at the end of 2014. Accordingly, related assets and liabilities are not presented as held for sale at December 31, 2014 and 2015.
(3) Net trade working capital, a measurement not defined by IFRS, represents total inventories plus trade receivables less trade payables.

 

     As of December 31,  
(€ in millions)    2016      2015      2014      2013      2012  

Trade receivables – net

     235        264        436        363        386  

Inventories

     591        542        436        328        385  

Trade payables

     (627      (657      (662      (469      (482
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net trade working capital

     199        149        210        222        289  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
(4) Represents purchases of property, plant, and equipment.

 

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B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not applicable.

 

C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable.

 

D. Risk Factors

You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below and the other information in this Annual Report. Our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected if any of these risks occurs, and as a result, the ma r ket price of our ordinary shares could decline. This Annual Report also contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. See “Special Note About Forward-Looking Statements.” Our actual results could differ materially and adversely from those antic i pated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors.

We may not be able to compete successfully in the highly competitive markets in which we operate, and new competitors could emerge, which could negatively impact our share of industry sales, sales volumes and selling prices.

We are engaged in a highly competitive industry. We compete in the production and sale of rolled aluminium products with a number of other aluminium rolling mills, including large, single-purpose sheet mills, continuous casters and other multi-purpose mills, some of which are larger and have greater financial and technical resources than we do. Producers with a different cost basis may, in certain circumstances, have a competitive pricing advantage. Our competitors may be better able to withstand reductions in price or other adverse industry or economic conditions.

In addition, a current or new competitor may also add or build new capacity, which could diminish our profitability by decreasing equilibrium prices in our marketplace. New competitors could emerge from within Europe or North America or globally, including from China, Russia and the Middle East, and could include existing producers and sellers of steel products that may seek to compete in our industry. Emerging or transitioning markets in these regions with abundant natural resources, low-cost labor and energy, and lower environmental and other standards may pose a significant competitive threat to our business. Our competitive position may also be affected by exchange rate fluctuations that may make our products less competitive. Changes in regulation that have a disproportionately negative effect on us or our methods of production may also diminish our competitive advantage and industry position. In addition, technological innovation is important to our customers who require us to lead or keep pace with new innovations to address their needs. If we do not compete successfully, our share of industry sales, sales volumes and selling prices may be negatively impacted.

In addition, the aluminium industry has experienced consolidation over the past years and there may be further industry consolidation in the future. Although industry consolidation has not yet had a significant negative impact on our business, if we do not have sufficient market presence or are unable to differentiate ourselves from our competitors, we may not be able to compete successfully against other companies. If as a result of consolidation, our competitors are able to obtain more favorable terms from suppliers or otherwise take actions that could increase their competitive strengths, our competitive position and therefore our business, results of operations and financial condition may be materially adversely affected.

Aluminium may become less competitive with alternative materials, which could reduce our share of industry sales, lower our selling prices and reduce our sales volumes.

Our fabricated aluminium products compete with products made from other materials—such as steel, glass, plastics and composite materials—for various applications. Higher aluminium prices relative to substitute materials tend to make aluminium products less competitive with these alternative materials. The willingness of customers to accept aluminium substitutes could result in reduced prices or sales volumes, either of which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Environmental and other regulations may also increase our costs and may be passed on to our customers, and may restrict the use of chemicals needed to produce aluminium products. These regulations may make our

 

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products less competitive as compared to materials that are subject to fewer regulations. Relatedly, certain existing regulations may make our products more attractive than competing products, including the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (“CAFE”) standards that require material improvements in the automotive and light truck miles per gallon by 2025. We believe such standards have increased demand for lighter materials used in the vehicle’s body. Any deregulation or relaxation of the CAFE or other fuel economy or emissions standards, which may result from recent changes in the political climate, could reduce the need for lighter materials among our customers and may therefore have the effect of making our products less competitive with alternative materials. Any reduction in the competitiveness of our products relative to alternative materials could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Customers in our end-markets, including the can, aerospace and automotive sectors, use and continue to evaluate the further use of alternative materials to aluminium in order to reduce the weight and increase the efficiency of their products. Although trends in “light-weighting” have generally increased rates of using aluminium as a substitution of other materials, the willingness of customers to accept substitutions for aluminium, or the ability of large customers to exert leverage in the marketplace to reduce the pricing for fabricated aluminium products, could adversely affect the demand for our products, and thus materially adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Our business requires substantial capital investments that we may be unable to fulfill. We may be unable to timely complete our expected capital investments, including in Body-in-White/auto body sheet, or may be unable to achieve the anticipated benefits of such investments.

Our operations are capital intensive. Our total capital expenditures were €355 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, and €350 million and €199 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

There can be no assurance that we will be able to complete our capital investments, including our expected investments in Body-in-White (which others in our industry refer to as auto body sheet and which we refer to herein as “BiW/ABS”), on schedule, or that we will be able to achieve the anticipated benefits of such capital investments. In addition, we are under no legal obligation to complete the expansion of our BiW/ABS program. We may at any time determine not to complete the expansion of our BiW/ABS program. Additionally, we may not generate sufficient operating cash flows and our external financing sources may not be available in an amount sufficient to enable us to make anticipated capital expenditures (including completing our expected BiW/ABS investments), service or refinance our indebtedness or fund other liquidity needs. We may experience delays in materializing demand for our BiW/ABS products, and we may not receive customer orders for BiW/ABS products as quickly as we had anticipated. Delays in materializing demand or revenues from our BiW/ABS investments could adversely affect our results of operations.

If we are unable to make upgrades or purchase new plants and equipment, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected by higher maintenance costs, lower sales volumes due to the impact of reduced product quality, and other competitive factors. If we are unable or determine not to complete our expected BiW/ABS investments, or such investments are delayed, we will not realize the anticipated benefits of such investments, which may adversely affect our results of operations.

We are subject to unplanned business interruptions that may materially adversely affect our business.

Our operations may be materially adversely affected by unplanned business interruptions caused by events such as explosions, fires, war or terrorism, inclement weather, natural disasters, accidents, equipment, information technology systems and process failures, electrical blackouts or outages, transportation interruptions and supply interruptions. Operational interruptions at one or more of our production facilities could cause substantial losses and delays in our production capacity or increase our operating costs. In addition, replacement of assets damaged by such events could be difficult or expensive, and to the extent these losses are not covered by insurance or our insurance policies have significant deductibles, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows may be materially

 

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adversely affected by such events. For example, in 2008, a stretcher at Constellium’s Ravenswood, West Virginia facility was damaged due to a defect in its hydraulic system, causing a substantial outage at that facility that had a material impact on our production volumes at this facility and on our financial results for the affected period. Further, in September 2015, Constellium’s Neuf-Brisach plant suffered an unplanned outage at the manufacturing facility as a result of the breakdown of a scalper, which had an adverse impact on the earnings in 2015.

Furthermore, because customers may be dependent on planned deliveries from us, customers that have to reschedule their own production due to our delivery delays may be able to pursue financial claims against us, and we may incur costs to correct such problems in addition to any liability resulting from such claims. Interruptions may also harm our reputation among actual and potential customers, potentially resulting in a loss of business.

We could experience labor disputes and work stoppages that could disrupt our business and have a negative impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

From time to time, we may experience labor disputes and work stoppages at our facilities. For example, we experienced work stoppages and labor disturbances at our Ravenswood, West Virginia facility in 2012 in conjunction with the renegotiation of the collective bargaining agreement. Additionally, we experienced work stoppages and labor disturbances at our Issoire and Neuf-Brisach facilities in November 2013 and resumed normal operations in early December 2013. We also faced minor stoppages in our Issoire site in December 2015 during the yearly Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations. Existing collective bargaining agreements may not prevent a strike or work stoppage at our facilities in the future. Any such stoppages or disturbances may have a negative impact on our financial condition and results of operations by limiting plant production, sales volumes, profitability and operating costs. Our Ravenswood facility is due to renegotiate its collective bargaining agreement in 2017.

In addition, in light of demographic trends in the labor markets where we operate, we expect that our factories will be confronted with high levels of natural attrition in the coming years due to retirements. Strategic workforce planning will be a challenge to ensure a controlled exit of skills and competencies and the timely acquisition of new talent and competencies, in line with changing technological and industrial needs.

We are dependent on a limited number of customers for a substantial portion of our sales, and a failure to successfully renew, renegotiate or re-price our long-term or other agreements with our customers may adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Our business is exposed to risks related to existing market concentration of our customers. We estimate that our 10 largest customers accounted for approximately 55% of our consolidated revenues in 2016, two of which accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated revenues over the same period. A significant downturn in the business or financial condition of our significant customers exposes us to the risk of default on contractual agreements and trade receivables, and this risk is increased by weak and deteriorating economic conditions on a global, regional or industry sector level.

We have long-term contracts and related arrangements with a significant number of our customers. Some of our long-term customer contracts and related arrangements have provisions that, by their terms, may become less favorable to us over time. If we fail to successfully renegotiate or re-price these less favorable provisions in our long-term agreements and related arrangements then our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. Furthermore, some of our long-term contracts and related arrangements are subject to renewal, renegotiation or re-pricing at periodic intervals or upon changes in competitive and regulatory supply conditions, or provide termination rights to our customers. If we fail to renew, renegotiate or re-price these long-term contracts or arrangements at all, or on favorable terms, then our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could be materially adversely affected. Any of these risks, or any material deterioration in or termination of these customer relationships, could result in a reduction or loss in customer purchase volume or revenue, which could adversely affect our results of operations. If we are not successful in replacing business lost from such customers, or in negotiating favorable terms, our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

 

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In addition, our strategy of having dedicated facilities and arrangements with customers subjects us to the inherent risk of increased dependence on a single or a few customers with respect to these facilities. In such cases, the loss of such a customer, or the reduction of that customer’s business at one or more of our facilities, could negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations, and we may be unable to timely replace, or replace at all, lost order volumes and revenue.

Customer consolidation could adversely impact our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Customers in our end-markets, including the can, aerospace and automotive sectors, may consolidate and grow in a manner that could affect their relationships with us. For example, if one of our competitors’ customers acquires any of our customers, we may lose that acquired customer’s business. Additionally, if our customers become larger and more concentrated, they could exert pricing pressure on all suppliers, including us. Accordingly, our ability to maintain or raise prices in the future may be limited, including during periods of raw material and other cost increases. If we are forced to reduce prices or to maintain prices during periods of increased costs, or if we lose customers because of consolidation, pricing or other methods of competition, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows may be adversely affected.

We are dependent on a limited number of suppliers for a substantial portion of our aluminium supply and a failure to successfully renew, renegotiate or re-price our long-term agreements or other arrangements with our suppliers may adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Our ability to produce competitively priced aluminium products depends on our ability to procure competitively priced supply of aluminium in a timely manner and in sufficient quantities to meet our production needs. We have supply arrangements with a limited number of suppliers for aluminium and other raw materials. Our top 10 suppliers accounted for approximately 45% of our total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2016. Increasing aluminium demand levels have caused regional supply constraints in the industry, and further increases in demand levels could exacerbate these issues. We maintain long-term contracts for a majority of our supply requirements, and for the remainder we depend on annual and spot purchases. There can be no assurance that we will be able to renew, or obtain replacements for, any of our long-term contracts or any related arrangements when they expire on terms that are as favorable as our existing agreements or at all. Additionally, if any of our key suppliers is unable to deliver sufficient quantities of this material on a timely basis, our production may be disrupted and we could be forced to purchase primary metal and other supplies from alternative sources, which may not be available in sufficient quantities or may only be available on terms that are less favorable to us. As a result, an interruption in key supplies required for our operations could have a material adverse effect on our ability to produce and deliver products on a timely or cost-efficient basis and therefore on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, a significant downturn in the business or financial condition of our significant suppliers exposes us to the risk of default by the supplier on our contractual agreements, and this risk is increased by weak and deteriorating economic conditions on a global, regional or industry sector level.

We depend on scrap aluminium for our operations and acquire our scrap inventory from numerous sources. Our suppliers generally are not bound by long-term contracts and have no obligation to sell scrap metal to us. In periods of low inventory prices, suppliers may elect to hold scrap until they are able to charge higher prices. In addition, a decrease in the supply of used beverage containers (“UBCs”) available to us resulting from a decrease in the rate at which consumers consume or recycle products contained or packaged in aluminium beverage cans could negatively impact our supply of aluminium. For example, the slowdown in industrial production and consumer consumption during the recent economic crisis reduced and may continue to reduce the supply of scrap metal available. Previously, we had relied on our relationship with AB InBev to provide us with certain amounts of UBCs, but since November 2016 we have now transitioned the procurement of UBCs inhouse to Constellium Metal Procurement, a new Muscle Shoals location. If an adequate supply of scrap metal is not available to us, we would be unable to recycle metals at desired volumes and our results of operation, financial condition and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

 

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In addition, we seek to take advantage of the lower price of scrap aluminium compared to primary aluminium to provide a cost-competitive product. A decrease in the supply of scrap aluminium could increase its cost per pound. To the extent the discount between the primary aluminium price and scrap price narrows, our competitive advantage may be reduced. We cannot make use of financial markets to effectively hedge against reductions in this discount as this market is not readily available. If the difference between the price of primary and scrap aluminium is narrow for a considerable period of time, it could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our financial results could be adversely affected by the volatility in aluminium prices.

The overall price of primary aluminium consists of several components: (1) the underlying base metal component, which is typically based on quoted prices from the London Metal Exchange (“LME”); (2) the regional premium, which represents an incremental price over the base LME component that is associated with the physical delivery of metal to a particular region (e.g., the Midwest premium for metal sold in the United States or the Rotterdam premium for metal sold in Europe); and (3) the product premium, which represents a separate incremental price for receiving physical metal in a particular shape (e.g., billet, slab, rod, etc.), alloy, or purity. Each of these three components has its own drivers of variability. The LME price is typically driven by macroeconomic factors, global supply and demand of aluminium, including expectations for growth and contraction and the level of global inventories. Regional premiums tend to vary based on the supply and demand for metal in a particular region and associated warehousing and transportation costs. Product premiums generally are a function of supply and demand as well as production and raw material costs for a given primary aluminium shape and alloy combination in a particular region.

Speculative trading in aluminium has increased in recent years, contributing to higher levels of price volatility. In 2015, the LME cash price of aluminium reached a high of $1,919 per metric ton and a low of $1,424 per metric ton compared to a high of $2,114 and a low of $1,642 per metric ton in 2014. During 2014, regional premiums reached levels substantially higher than historical averages, whereas in 2015, such premiums experienced significant decreases in all regions, reverting to levels that are closer to historical averages. The Rotterdam regional premium increased from an average of 3% of the LME base price in the period from 2000 to 2009 to 26% of the LME base price in December 2014. The Midwest regional premium increased from an average of 6% of the LME base price to 27% of the LME base price during the same periods. New LME warehousing rules, which took effect in February 2015, and increasing exports from China led to an increase in the supply of aluminium entering the physical market and in turn caused regional premiums to decrease sharply between February and April 2015 to reach 11% of the LME base price for the Rotterdam regional premium and to 13% of the LME base price for the Midwest regional premium in December 2015. In December 2016, regional premiums represented 7% of the LME base price for the Rotterdam regional premium and to 10% of the LME base price for the Midwest regional premium. Sustained high aluminium prices, increases in aluminium prices, the inability to meaningfully hedge our exposure to aluminium prices, or the inability to pass through any fluctuation in regional premiums or product premiums to our customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations and cash flow.

If we are unable to adequately mitigate the cost of price increases of our raw materials, including aluminium, our profitability could be adversely affected.

Prices for the raw materials we require are subject to continuous volatility and may increase from time to time. Although our sales are generally made on a “margin over metal price” basis, if prices increase we may not be able to pass on the entire cost of the increases to our customers. There could also be a time lag between when changes in prices under our purchase contracts are effective and the point when we can implement corresponding changes under our sales contracts with our customers. As a result, we are exposed to fluctuations in raw materials prices, including metal, since during this time lag we may have to temporarily bear the additional cost of the price change under our purchase contracts. Further, although most of our contracts allow us to pass through metal prices to our customers, we have certain contracts that are based on fixed metal pricing where pass through is not

 

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available. Similarly, in certain contracts we have ineffective pass-through mechanisms related to regional premium fluctuation. A related risk is that a sustained significant increase in raw materials prices may cause some of our customers to substitute our products with other materials. We attempt to mitigate these risks, including through hedging, but we may not be able to successfully reduce or eliminate any resulting negative impact, which could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and financial results.

The price volatility of energy costs may adversely affect our profitability.

Our operations use natural gas and electricity, which represent the third largest component of our cost of sales, after metal and labor costs. We purchase part of our natural gas and electricity on a market basis. The volatility in costs of fuel, principally natural gas, and other utility services, principally electricity, used by our production facilities affects operating costs. Fuel and utility prices have been, and will continue to be, affected by factors outside our control, such as supply and demand for fuel and utility services in both local and regional markets as well as governmental regulation and imposition of further taxes on energy. Although we have secured a large part of our natural gas and electricity under fixed price commitments or long-term contracts with suppliers, future increases in fuel and utility prices, or disruptions in energy supply, may have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Adverse changes in currency exchange rates could negatively affect our financial results.

The financial condition and results of operations of some of our operating entities are reported in various currencies and then translated into euros at the applicable exchange rate for inclusion in our consolidated financial statements. As a result, the appreciation of the euro against the currencies of our operating local entities may have a negative impact on reported revenues and operating profit, and the resulting accounts receivable, while depreciation of the euro against these currencies may generally have a positive effect on reported revenues and operating profit. We do not hedge translation of forecasted results or actual results.

In addition, while the majority of costs incurred are denominated in local currencies, a portion of the revenues are denominated in U.S. dollars and other currencies. As a result, appreciation in the U.S. dollar may have a positive impact on earnings while depreciation of the U.S. dollar may have a negative impact on earnings. While we engage in significant hedging activity to attempt to mitigate this foreign transactions currency risk, this may not fully protect us from adverse effects due to currency fluctuations on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected if we are unable to execute on our hedging policy, if counterparties to our derivative instruments fail to honor their agreements or if we are unable to purchase derivative instruments.

We purchase and sell LME and other forwards, futures and options contracts as part of our efforts to reduce our exposure to changes in currency exchange rates, aluminium prices and other raw materials prices. If we are unable to purchase derivative instruments to manage those risks due to the cost or availability of such instruments or other factors, or if we are not successful in passing through the costs of our risk management activities, our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected. Our ability to realize the benefit of our hedging program is dependent upon many factors, including factors that are beyond our control. For example, our foreign exchange hedges are scheduled to mature on the expected payment date by the customer; therefore, if the customer fails to pay an invoice on time and does not warn us in advance, we may be unable to reschedule the maturity date of the foreign exchange hedge, which could result in an outflow of foreign currency that will not be offset until the customer makes the payment. We may realize a gain or a loss in unwinding such hedges. In addition, our metal-price hedging programs depend on our ability to match our monthly exposure to sold and purchased metal, which

 

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can be made difficult by seasonal variations in metal demand, unplanned changes in metal delivery dates by either us or by our customers and other disruptions to our inventories, including for maintenance. As an example, in 2015, we were unable to hedge all of our exposure to the increase in the Midwest regional premium component of aluminium prices, resulting in unrecovered Midwest premium charges of €22 million at Wise.

We may also be exposed to losses if the counterparties to our derivative instruments fail to honor their agreements. Further, if major financial institutions continue to consolidate and are forced to operate under more restrictive capital constraints and regulations, there could be less liquidity in the derivative markets, which could have a negative effect on our ability to hedge and transact with creditworthy counterparties.

To the extent our hedging transactions fix prices or exchange rates, if primary aluminium prices, energy costs or foreign exchange rates are below the fixed prices or rates established by our hedging transactions, then our income and cash flows will be lower than they otherwise would have been. Similarly, if we do not adequately hedge for prices and premiums (including the Midwest regional premium) of our aluminium and other raw materials, our financial results may also be negatively impacted. Further, with the exception of derivatives hedging forecasted cash flows on certain long-term aerospace contracts, we do not apply hedge accounting to our forwards, futures or option contracts. Unrealized gains and losses on our derivative financial instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting are reported in our consolidated results of operations. The inclusion of such unrealized gains and losses in earnings may produce significant period-over-period earnings volatility that is not necessarily reflective of our underlying operating performance. In addition, in certain scenarios when market price movements result in a decline in value of our current derivatives position, our mark-to-market expense may exceed our credit line and counterparties may request the posting of cash collateral which, in turn, can be a significant demand on our liquidity.

At certain times, hedging instruments may simply be unavailable or not available on terms acceptable to us. In addition, recent legislation has been adopted to increase the regulatory oversight of over-the-counter derivatives markets and derivative transactions. The companies and transactions that are subject to these regulations may change. If future regulations subject us to additional capital or margin requirements or other restrictions on our trading and commodity positions, this could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

A deterioration in our financial position or a downgrade of our ratings by a credit rating agency could increase our borrowing costs, lead to our inability to access liquidity facilities, and adversely affect our business relationships.

A deterioration in our financial position or a downgrade of our credit ratings could adversely affect our financing, limit access to the capital or credit markets or our liquidity facilities, or otherwise adversely affect the availability of other new financing on favorable terms or at all, result in more restrictive covenants in agreements governing the terms of any future indebtedness that we incur, increase our borrowing costs, or otherwise impair our business, financial condition and results of operations.

While the terms of our other existing financing arrangements do not require us to maintain a specific credit rating, the commitments of the New Wise RPA Purchasers under the New Wise RPA are conditioned on, among other things, (i) Constellium’s corporate credit rating not having been withdrawn by either Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s or downgraded below B- by Standard & Poor’s and B3 by Moody’s, and (ii) there not having occurred a material adverse change in the business condition, operations, or performance of Wise Alloys Funding II LLC (the “New Wise RPA Seller”), Wise Alloys, or Constellium Holdco II B.V. If Constellium’s corporate credit rating is withdrawn by either Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s or downgraded below B- by Standard & Poor’s and B3 by Moody’s, or a material adverse change occurs in the business condition, operations or performance of the New Wise RPA Seller, Wise Alloys, or Constellium Holdco II B.V., a condition precedent to the obligation of the New Wise RPA Purchasers under the New Wise RPA to purchase receivables from the New Wise RPA Seller will not be satisfied, and all purchases under the New Wise RPA will become uncommitted. If the New Wise RPA is not extended, refinanced or replaced, Wise’s cash collections from customers will be on longer terms

 

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than currently funded through the New Wise RPA. As a result, Wise’s liquidity could meaningfully decrease, causing Wise to have insufficient liquidity to operate its business and service its indebtedness, unless another source of liquidity, which may include capital contributions from the ultimate parent Constellium N.V., is identified.

A deterioration of our financial position or a further downgrade of our credit ratings for any reason could also increase our borrowing costs and have an adverse effect on our business relationships with customers, suppliers and hedging counterparties. As discussed above, we enter into various forms of hedging arrangements against currency, interest rate or metal price fluctuations and trade metal contracts on the LME. Financial strength and credit ratings are important to the availability and pricing of these hedging and trading activities. As a result, any downgrade of our credit ratings may make it more costly for us to engage in these activities, and changes to our level of indebtedness may make it more difficult or costly for us to engage in hedging and trading activities in the future.

Our level of indebtedness could limit cash flow available for our operations and capital expenditures and could adversely affect our ability to service our debt or obtain additional financing, if necessary.

We have now and will continue to have a significant amount of indebtedness. As of December 31, 2016, we had total indebtedness of €2,468 million (of which €401 million consisted of the principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes issued on March 30, 2016, net of €12 million of issuance costs, €1,306 million of May 2014 Notes and December 2014 Notes, €635 million of debt of Wise and its direct or indirect subsidiaries (before giving effect to the redemption of the Wise Secured Notes), and the balance consisted of debt under the Ravenswood ABL Facility and other debt). Our level of indebtedness could adversely affect our operations. Among other things, our substantial indebtedness could:

 

    limit our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, research and development efforts, acquisitions and general corporate purposes;

 

    make it more difficult for us to satisfy leverage and fixed charge coverage ratios required for us to incur additional indebtedness under our existing indebtedness;

 

    make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations;

 

    increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;

 

    require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, research and development efforts and other general corporate purposes;

 

    limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the markets in which we compete; and

 

    place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt.

In addition, the agreements governing our existing indebtedness contain financial and other restrictive covenants that will limit our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests. Our failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debts.

Further, we have substantial pension and other post-employment benefit obligations, resulting in net liabilities of €735 million as of December 31, 2016. Certain of these obligations may, under applicable law or otherwise, be effectively senior to our obligations under the May 2014 Notes, the December 2014 Notes, the Senior Secured Notes and the February 2017 Notes. In particular, certain plant, property, and equipment of Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC (“Ravenswood”) located at the Ravenswood, West Virginia facility are subject to a lien in favor of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (the “PBGC”) pursuant to a Settlement Agreement (the “PBGC Agreement”) dated January 26, 2001 between Ravenswood (formerly known as Pechiney Rolled Products, LLC) and the PBGC, and a related deed of trust, which secures Ravenswood’s obligations under the PBGC Agreement in a maximum amount of $35 million.

 

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Despite current indebtedness levels, we and our subsidiaries may still be able to incur substantially more debt. This could further exacerbate the risks associated with our substantial leverage.

We and our subsidiaries may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future. The terms of the indentures and agreements governing our existing indebtedness do not fully prohibit us or our subsidiaries from doing so. If new debt is added to our and our subsidiaries’ current debt levels, the related risks that we and they now face could intensify.

The terms of our indebtedness contain covenants that restrict our current and future operations, and a failure by us to comply with those covenants may materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Our indebtedness contains, and any future indebtedness we may incur would likely contain, a number of restrictive covenants that will impose significant operating and financial restrictions on our ability to, among other things: (i) incur or guarantee additional debt; (ii) pay dividends and make other restricted payments and investments (including investments in and guarantees of certain indebtedness of Wise); (iii) create or incur certain liens; (iv) make certain loans, acquisitions or investments; (v) engage in sales of assets and subsidiary stock; (vi) enter into transactions with affiliates; (vii) transfer all or substantially all of our assets or enter into merger or consolidation transactions; and (viii) enter into sale and lease-back transactions.

In addition, the Wise ABL Facility provides that if borrowing availability thereunder drops below a threshold amount equal to the greater of (a) 10% of the aggregate commitments under the Wise ABL Facility and (b) $20 million, Wise Alloys LLC will be required to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.0 to 1.0, calculated on a trailing 12-month basis until such time as borrowing availability has been at least equal to the greater of $20 million and 10% of the aggregate commitments under the Wise ABL Facility for 30 consecutive days.

A failure to comply with our debt covenants could result in an event of default that, if not cured or waived, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. If we default under our indebtedness, we may not be able to borrow additional amounts and our lenders could elect to declare all outstanding borrowings, together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, to be due and payable, or take other remedial actions. Our indebtedness also contains cross-default provisions, which means that if an event of default occurs under certain material indebtedness, such event of default may trigger an event of default under our other indebtedness. If our indebtedness were to be accelerated, we cannot assure you that our assets would be sufficient to repay such indebtedness in full and our lenders could foreclose on our pledged assets. See “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts.”

Our indebtedness could materially adversely affect our ability to invest in or fund our operations, limit our ability to react to changes in the economy or our industry or force us to take alternative measures.

Our indebtedness impacts our flexibility in operating our business and could have important consequences for our business and operations, including the following: (i) it may make us more vulnerable to downturns in our business or the economy; (ii) a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations will be dedicated to the repayment of our indebtedness and will not be available for other purposes; (iii) it may restrict us from making strategic acquisitions, introducing new technologies or exploiting business opportunities; and (iv) it may adversely affect the terms under which suppliers provide goods and services to us. Our indebtedness materially increased following the Wise Acquisition. With increased indebtedness, we are more susceptible to the risks discussed above.

If we are unable to meet our debt service obligations, including our obligations under the May 2014 Notes, the December 2014 Notes, the Senior Secured Notes and the February 2017 Notes, and pay our expenses, we may be forced to reduce or delay business activities and capital expenditures (including, without limitation, our expected investments in BiW/ABS), sell assets, obtain additional debt or equity capital, restructure or refinance all or a portion of our debt before maturity or take other measures. Such measures may materially adversely

 

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affect our business. If these alternative measures are unsuccessful, we could default on our obligations, which could result in the acceleration of our outstanding debt obligations and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Our existing, and any future, variable rate indebtedness subjects us to interest rate risk, which could cause our annual debt service obligations to increase significantly.

A portion of our indebtedness is, and our future indebtedness may be, subject to variable rates of interest, exposing us to interest rate risk. See “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts.” If interest rates increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness would increase, resulting in a reduction of our net income that could be significant, even though the principal amount borrowed would remain the same.

The loss of certain members of our management team may have a material adverse effect on our operating results.

Our success will depend, in part, on the efforts of our senior management and other key employees. These individuals, including our Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, possess sales, marketing, engineering, technical, manufacturing, financial and administrative skills that are critical to the operation of our business. If we lose or suffer an extended interruption in the services of one or more of our senior officers or other key employees, our ability to operate and expand our business, improve our operations, develop new products, and, as a result, our financial condition and results of operations, may be negatively affected. Moreover, the hiring of qualified individuals is highly competitive in our industry, and we may not be able to attract and retain qualified personnel to replace or succeed members of our senior management or other key employees.

If we fail to implement our business strategy, including our productivity improvement initiatives, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

Our future financial performance and success depend in large part on our ability to successfully implement our business strategy, including investing in high-return opportunities in our core markets, focusing on higher-margin, technologically advanced products, differentiating our products, expanding our strategic relationships with customers in selected international regions, fixed-cost containment and cash management, and executing on our manufacturing productivity improvement programs. We cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully implement our business strategy or be able to continue improving our operating results.

Implementation of our business strategy could be affected by a number of factors beyond our control, such as increased competition, legal and regulatory developments, or general economic conditions (including slower or lower than expected growth and customer demand in North America for BiW/ABS aluminium rolled products). Any failure to successfully implement our business strategy could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we may decide to alter or discontinue certain aspects of our business strategy at any time. Although we have undertaken and expect to continue to undertake productivity and manufacturing system and process transformation initiatives to improve performance, we cannot assure you that all of these initiatives will be completed or that any estimated cost savings from such activities will be fully realized. Even when we are able to generate new efficiencies in the short- to medium-term, we may not be able to continue to reduce costs and increase productivity over the long term.

The cyclical and seasonal nature of the metals industry, our end-use markets and our customers’ industries and a general regional or global economic downturn could negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations.

The metals industry is generally cyclical in nature, and these cyclical fluctuations tend to directly correlate with changes in general and local economic conditions. These conditions include the level of economic growth, financing availability, the availability of affordable energy sources, employment levels, interest rates, consumer

 

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confidence and housing demand. Historically, in periods of recession or periods of minimal economic growth, metals companies have often tended to underperform other sectors. In addition, economic downturns in regional and global economies, including in Europe, or a prolonged recession in our principal industry segments, have had a negative impact on our operations in the past and could have a negative impact on our future financial condition or results of operations. Although we continue to seek to diversify our business on a geographic and end-market basis, we cannot assure you that diversification would mitigate the effect of cyclical downturns.

We are particularly sensitive to cycles in the aerospace, defense, automotive, other transportation, building and construction and general engineering end-markets, which are highly cyclical. During recessions or periods of low growth, these industries typically experience major cutbacks in production, resulting in decreased demand for aluminium products. This leads to significant fluctuations in demand and pricing for our products and services. Because our operations are capital intensive and we generally have high fixed costs and may not be able to reduce costs and production capacity on a sufficiently rapid basis, our near-term profitability may be significantly affected by decreased processing volumes. Accordingly, reduced demand and pricing pressures may significantly reduce our profitability and materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

In particular, we derive a significant portion of our revenues from products sold to the aerospace industry, which is highly cyclical and tends to decline in response to overall declines in the general economy. The commercial aerospace industry is historically driven by the demand from commercial airlines for new aircraft. Demand for commercial aircraft is influenced by airline industry profitability, trends in airline passenger traffic, the condition of the United States and global economies and numerous other factors, including the effects of terrorism. A number of major airlines have undergone Chapter 11 bankruptcy or comparable insolvency proceedings and experienced financial strain from volatile fuel prices. The aerospace industry also suffered significantly in the wake of the events of September 11, 2001, resulting in a sharp decrease globally in new commercial aircraft deliveries and order cancellations or deferrals by the major airlines. Despite existing backlogs, continued financial uncertainty in the industry, inadequate liquidity of certain airline companies, production issues and delays in the launch of new aircraft programs at major aircraft manufacturers, stock variations in the supply chain, terrorist acts or the increased threat of terrorism may lead to reduced demand for new aircraft that utilize our products, which could materially adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Further, the demand for our automotive extrusions and rolled products and many of our general engineering and other industrial products is dependent on the production of cars, light trucks, and heavy duty vehicles and trailers. The automotive industry is highly cyclical, as new vehicle demand is dependent on consumer spending and is tied closely to the strength of the overall economy. We note that the demand for luxury vehicles in China has become significant over the past several years and therefore fluctuations in the Chinese economy may adversely affect the demand for our products. Production cuts by manufacturers may adversely affect the demand for our products. Many automotive-related manufacturers and first tier suppliers are burdened with substantial structural costs, including pension, healthcare and labor costs that have resulted in severe financial difficulty, including bankruptcy, for several of them. A worsening of these companies’ financial condition or their bankruptcy could have further serious effects on the conditions of the markets, which directly affects the demand for our products. In addition, the loss of business with respect to, or a lack of commercial success of, one or more particular vehicle models for which we are a significant supplier could have a materially adverse impact on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Customer demand in the aluminium industry is also affected by holiday seasons, weather conditions, economic and other factors beyond our control. Our volumes are impacted by the timing of the holiday seasons in particular, with the lowest volumes typically occurring in August and December and highest volumes occurring in January to June. Our business is also impacted by seasonal slowdowns and upturns in certain of our customers’ industries. Historically, the can industry is strongest in the spring and summer season, whereas the automotive and construction sectors encounter slowdowns in both the third and fourth quarters of the calendar year. Therefore, our quarterly financial results could fluctuate as a result of climatic or other seasonal changes, and a prolonged period of unusually cool summers in different regions in which we conduct our business could have a negative effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

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A higher consumer focus on obesity and other health concerns may lead to a tax upon and/or otherwise reduce customer demand in our can end-market, which could reduce demand for our products and negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Consumers, public health officials and government officials are becoming increasingly concerned about the public health consequences associated with obesity, particularly among young people. In addition, some researchers, health advocates and dietary guidelines are encouraging consumers to reduce consumption of certain types of beverages, especially sugar-sweetened beverages, which include some of the beverages in which our aluminium packaging is used. Increasing public concern about these issues and possible new taxes on and governmental regulations related to these beverages may reduce demand for these beverages, which could adversely affect the demand for our products. Any reduction in the demand for our products could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our production capacity might not be able to meet growing market demand or changing market conditions.

We may be unable to meet market demand due to production capacity constraints or operational challenges. Meeting such demand may require us to make substantial capital investments to repair, maintain, upgrade, and expand our facilities and equipment. Notwithstanding our ongoing plans and investments to increase our capacity, we may not be able to expand our production capacity quickly enough in response to changing market conditions, and there can be no assurance that our production capacity will be able to meet our obligations and the growing market demand for our products. If we are unable to adequately expand our production capacity, we may be unable to take advantage of improved market conditions and increased demand for our products. We may also experience loss of market share, operational difficulties, increased costs, penalties for late delivery, reduction in demand for our products, and our reputation with our customers may be harmed, resulting in loss of business and a negative impact on our financial performance.

The beverage can sheet industry is competitive, and our competitors have greater resources and product and geographic diversity than we do.

The market for beverage can sheet products is competitive. Our competitors have market presence, operating capabilities and financial and other resources that are greater than ours. They also have greater product and geographic diversity than we do. Because of their greater resources and product and geographic diversity, these competitors may have an advantage over us in their abilities to research and develop technology, pursue acquisition, investment and other business opportunities, market and sell their products and services, capitalize on market opportunities, enter new markets and withstand business interruptions or adverse global economic conditions. There are no assurances that we will be able to compete successfully in these circumstances.

In addition, we are subject to competition from non-aluminium sources of packaging, such as plastics and glass. Consumer demand and preferences also impact customer selection of packaging materials. While we believe that the recyclability of aluminium, coupled with increasing consumer focus on resource conservation, may reduce the impact of competition from certain alternative packaging sources, there is no guaranty that such competition will be reduced.

Reductions in demand for our products may be more severe than, and may occur prior to, reductions in demand for our customers’ products.

Customers purchasing our products, such as those in the cyclical aerospace industry, generally require significant lead time in the production of their own products. Therefore, demand for our products may increase prior to demand for our customers’ products. Conversely, demand for our products may decrease as our customers anticipate a downturn in their respective businesses. As demand for our customers’ products begins to soften, our customers could meet the reduced demand for their products using their existing inventory without replenishing the inventory, which would result in a reduction in demand for our products greater than the

 

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reduction in demand for their products. Further, the reduction in demand for our products can be exacerbated if inventory levels held by our customers exceed normal levels and our customers can utilize existing inventory for their own production requirements. This amplified reduction in demand for our products while our customers consume their inventory to meet their business needs (destocking) may adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Our joint venture with UACJ in BiW/ABS products in the United States may not generate the expected returns and we may be unable to execute on our strategy with respect to the joint venture.

We have a joint venture with UACJ Corporation (“UAJC”) to produce automotive BiW/ABS sheet in the Unites States and establish a leadership position in the growing North American BiW/ABS market. In 2016, we expanded the scope of our joint venture agreement to include investment in two additional 100 kt finishing lines, to be funded 51% by Constellium and 49% by Tri-Arrows Aluminum Holdings, a U.S. affiliate of UACJ. We cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully implement the planned expansion or our business strategy with respect to our joint venture with UACJ. Any inability to execute on the expansion or our strategy with respect to the joint venture could materially reduce our expected earnings and could adversely affect our operations overall.

The joint venture’s automotive (CALP) line is currently undergoing an extensive qualification process for original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) products. Any significant delays incurred during this qualification process, which would jeopardize the start of production of OEM customer products, would be detrimental to the financial performance of our joint venture and would negatively impact our North American BiW/ABS strategy and our anticipated return on investments.

In addition, we believe joint ventures generally involve special risks. Whether or not we hold a majority interest or maintain operational control in a joint venture, our partners may have economic or business interests or goals that may be inconsistent with our interests or goals. Further, an important element in the success of any joint venture is a constructive relationship between the members of that joint venture. If there were to be a change in ownership, a change of control, a change in management or management philosophy, a change in business strategy or another event with respect to UACJ or its affiliates who are involved in our joint venture, the joint venture and the relationship between the joint venture members, as well as our financial results and operations, could be materially adversely affected.

We may not be able to successfully develop and implement new technology initiatives and other strategic investments in a timely manner.

We have invested in, and are involved with, a number of technology and process initiatives, including the development of new aluminium-lithium products. Being at the forefront of technological development is important to remain competitive. Several technical aspects of certain of these initiatives are still unproven and/or the eventual commercial outcomes and feasibility cannot be assessed with any certainty. Even if we are successful with these initiatives, we may not be able to bring them to market as planned before our competitors or at all, and the initiatives may end up costing more than expected. As a result, the costs and benefits from our investments in new technologies and the impact on our financial results may vary from present expectations.

In addition, we have undertaken and may continue to undertake growth, streamlining and productivity initiatives to improve performance. We cannot assure you that these initiatives will be completed or that they will have their intended benefits. Capital investments in debottlenecking or other organic growth initiatives may not produce the returns we anticipate. Even if we are able to generate new efficiencies successfully in the short- to medium-term, we may not be able to continue to reduce cost and increase productivity over the long term.

 

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Interruptions in or failures of our information systems, or failure to protect our information systems against cyber-attacks or information security breaches, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

The efficient operation of our business depends on our information technology systems. We rely on our information technology systems to effectively manage our business, data, accounting, financial reporting, communications, supply chain, order entry and fulfillment and other business processes. The failure of our information technology systems to perform as we anticipate could disrupt our business and could result in transaction errors, processing inefficiencies, and the loss of sales and customers, causing our business and results of operations to suffer.

Some of our information systems are nearing obsolescence, in that the software versions they are developed on are no longer fully supported or kept up-to-date by the original vendors. While day-to-day operations are not at risk, major new requirements (e.g., in legal or payroll) might require manual workarounds if the current software versions do not support those new functionalities. Information security risks have generally increased in recent years because of the proliferation of new technologies and the increased sophistication and activities of perpetrators of cyber-attacks. A failure in or breach of our information systems as a result of cyber-attacks or information security breaches could disrupt our business, result in the disclosure or misuse of confidential or proprietary information, damage our reputation, increase our costs or cause losses. As cyber threats continue to evolve, we may be required to expend additional resources to continue to enhance our information security measures or to investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities.

The process of upgrading our information technology infrastructure may disrupt our operations.

We have performed an evaluation of our information technology systems and requirements and have implemented or plan to implement upgrades to our information technology systems that support our business. These upgrades involve replacing legacy systems with state-of-the-art systems, making changes to legacy systems or acquiring new systems with new functionality. There are inherent risks associated with replacing, changing or acquiring new systems, including accurately capturing data and system disruptions. We may experience operational problems with our information systems as a result of system failures, viruses, computer “hackers” or other causes. Any material disruption or slowdown of our systems, including a disruption or slowdown caused by our failure to successfully upgrade our systems could cause information losses, including data related to customer orders. Such a disruption could adversely impact our business, financial condition or results of operations.

A substantial percentage of our workforce is unionized or covered by collective bargaining agreements that may not be successfully renegotiated.

A significant number of our employees are represented by unions or equivalent bodies or are covered by collective bargaining or similar agreements that are subject to periodic renegotiation. Although we believe that we will be able to successfully negotiate new collective bargaining agreements when the current agreements expire, these negotiations may not prove successful, and may result in a significant increase in the cost of labor, or may break down and result in the disruption or cessation of our operations.

As part of our ongoing evaluation of our operations, we may undertake additional restructuring efforts in the future which could in some instances result in significant severance-related costs and other restructuring charges.

We recorded restructuring charges of €5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, €8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 and €12 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Restructuring costs in 2016, 2015, and 2014 were primarily related to corporate and production sites’ restructuring operations. We may pursue additional restructuring activities in the future, which could result in significant severance-related costs, restructuring charges and related costs and expenses, including resulting labor disputes, which could materially adversely affect our profitability and cash flows.

 

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Ongoing uncertainty in or deterioration of the global economy due to political, regulatory or other developments may adversely affect our operating results.

Our headquarters are in the European Union, and we maintain a significant presence in various European markets and the United States through our operating subsidiaries, including significant sales to customers in both Europe and the United States. If global economic and market conditions, or economic, political and financial market conditions in Europe, the United States or other key markets, remain uncertain or deteriorate, our customers may respond by suspending, delaying or reducing their capital expenditures, which may adversely affect our sales, cash flows and results of operations. For example, in June 2016, the United Kingdom held a non-binding advisory referendum in which voters voted for the United Kingdom to exit the European Union (“Brexit”), the outcome of which continues to be under review. In November 2016, the United States elected a new president. These, and other political or geographical events could result in changes in trade policy, taxes, market volatility or currency exchange rate fluctuations, and resulting uncertainty in the economy and markets could cause our customers and potential customers to delay or reduce spending on our products or services. Any of these effects, could negatively impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Our business involves significant activity in Europe, and adverse conditions and disruptions in European economies could have a material adverse effect on our operations or financial performance.

A material portion of our sales are generated by customers located in Europe. The financial markets remain concerned about the ability of certain European countries to finance their deficits and service growing debt burdens amidst difficult economic conditions. This loss of confidence has led to rescue measures by Eurozone countries and the International Monetary Fund. Despite these measures, concerns persist regarding the debt burden of certain Eurozone countries and their ability to meet future financial obligations, the overall stability of the euro and the suitability of the euro as a single currency given the diverse economic and political circumstances in individual Eurozone countries. In addition, the actions required to be taken by those countries as a condition to rescue packages, and by other countries to mitigate similar developments in their economies, have resulted in increased political discord within and among Eurozone countries. The interdependencies among European economies and financial institutions have also exacerbated concern regarding the stability of European financial markets generally. These concerns could lead to the re-introduction of individual currencies in one or more Eurozone countries, or, in more extreme circumstances, the possible dissolution of the euro currency entirely. Should the euro dissolve entirely, the legal and contractual consequences for holders of euro-denominated obligations would be determined by laws in effect at such time. These potential developments, or market perceptions concerning these and related issues, could materially adversely affect the value of the our euro-denominated assets and obligations. In addition, concerns over the effect of this financial crisis on financial institutions in Europe and globally could have a material adverse impact on the capital markets generally. Persistent disruptions in the European financial markets, the overall stability of the euro and the suitability of the euro as a single currency or the failure of a significant European financial institution, could have a material adverse impact on our operations or financial performance.

In addition, the outcome of Brexit as well as upcoming elections in France and Germany in 2017 could have implications on economic conditions globally as a result of changes in policy direction which may in turn influence the economic outlook for the European Union and its key trading partners. There can be no assurance that the actions we have taken or may take in response to global economic conditions more generally may be sufficient to counter any continuation or reoccurrence of the downturn or disruptions. A significant global economic downturn or disruptions in the financial markets would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

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A portion of our revenues is derived from our international operations, which exposes us to certain risks inherent in doing business globally.

We have operations primarily in the United States, Germany, France, Slovakia, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and China and primarily sell our products across Europe, Asia and North America. We also continue to explore opportunities to expand our international operations. Our operations generally are subject to financial, political, economic and business risks in connection with our global operations, including:

 

    changes in international governmental regulations, trade restrictions and laws, including those relating to taxes, employment and repatriation of earnings;

 

    currency exchange rate fluctuations;

 

    tariffs and other trade barriers (including changes as a result of the 2016 U.S. presidential election);

 

    the potential for nationalization of enterprises or government policies favoring local production;

 

    renegotiation or nullification of existing agreements;

 

    interest rate fluctuations;

 

    high rates of inflation;

 

    currency restrictions and limitations on repatriation of profits;

 

    differing protections for intellectual property and enforcement thereof;

 

    divergent environmental laws and regulations; and

 

    political, economic and social instability.

The occurrence of any of these events could cause our costs to rise, limit growth opportunities or have a negative effect on our operations and our ability to plan for future periods. In certain emerging markets, the degree of these risks may be higher due to more volatile economic conditions, less developed and predictable legal and regulatory regimes and increased potential for various types of adverse governmental action.

Regulations regarding carbon dioxide emissions, and unfavorable allocation of rights to emit carbon dioxide or other air emission related issues, as well as other environmental laws and regulations, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Many scientists, legislators and others attribute climate change to increased levels of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, which has led to significant legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Measures to reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions that could directly or indirectly affect us or our suppliers are currently being developed or may be developed in the future. Substantial quantities of greenhouse gases are released as a consequence of our operations. Compliance with regulations governing such emissions tend to become more stringent over time and could lead to a need for us to further reduce such greenhouse gas emissions, to purchase rights to emit from third parties, or to make other changes to our business, all of which could result in significant additional costs or could reduce demand for our products. In addition, we are a significant purchaser of energy. Existing and future regulations relating to the emission of carbon dioxide by our energy suppliers could result in materially increased energy costs for our operations, and we may be unable to pass along these increased energy costs to our customers, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. For example, a revised European emissions trading system or a successor to the Kyoto Protocol under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our fabrication process is subject to regulations that may hinder our ability to manufacture our products. Some of the chemicals we use on our fabrication processes are subject to government regulation, such as “Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemical substances (“REACH”)” in the EU. Under REACH, we are required to register some of our products with the European Chemicals Agency, and this process

 

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could cause significant delays or costs. If we fail to comply with these or similar laws and regulations, we may be required to make significant expenditures to reformulate the chemicals that we use in our products and materials or incur costs to register such chemicals to gain and/or regain compliance, and we may lose customers or revenue as a result. Additionally, we could be subject to significant fines or other civil and criminal penalties should we not achieve such compliance. To the extent that other nations in which we operate also require chemical registration, potential delays similar to those in Europe may delay our entry into these markets. Any failure to obtain or delay in obtaining regulatory approvals for chemical products used in our facilities could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

To service our indebtedness, we will require a significant amount of cash. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our indebtedness and to fund planned capital expenditures and research and development efforts will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future. Although there can be no assurances, we believe that the cash provided by our operations will be sufficient to provide for our cash requirements for the foreseeable future. However, our ability to satisfy our obligations will depend on our future operating performance and financial results, which will be subject, in part, to factors beyond our control, including interest rates and general economic, financial and business conditions. We cannot assure you that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings will be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow to service our debt, we may be required to:

 

    refinance all or a portion of our debt;

 

    obtain additional financing;

 

    sell some of our assets or operations;

 

    reduce or delay capital expenditures and acquisitions;

 

    reduce or delay our research and development efforts; or

 

    revise or delay our strategic plans.

If we are required to take any of these actions, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we cannot assure you that we would be able to take any of these actions, that these actions would enable us to continue to satisfy our capital requirements or that these actions would be permitted under the terms of our various debt instruments.

We could be required to make unexpected contributions to our defined benefit pension plans as a result of adverse changes in interest rates and the capital markets.

Most of our pension obligations relate to funded defined benefit pension plans for our employees in the United States and Switzerland, unfunded pension benefits in France and Germany, and lump sum indemnities payable to our employees in France and Germany upon retirement or termination. Our pension plan assets consist primarily of funds invested in listed stocks and bonds. Our estimates of liabilities and expenses for pensions and other post-retirement benefits incorporate a number of assumptions, including interest rates used to discount future benefits. Our liquidity or shareholders’ equity in a particular period could be materially adversely affected by capital market returns that are less than their assumed long-term rate of return or a decline in the rate used to discount future benefits. If the assets of our pension plans do not achieve assumed investment returns for any period, such deficiency could result in one or more charges against shareholders’ equity for that period. In addition, changing economic conditions, poor pension investment returns or other factors may require us to make unexpected cash contributions to the pension plans in the future, preventing the use of such cash for other purposes.

We also participate in various “multi-employer” pension plans in one of our facilities in the United States administered by labor unions representing some of our employees. Our withdrawal liability for any multi-employer

 

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plan would depend on the extent of the plan’s funding of vested benefits. In the ordinary course of our renegotiation of collective bargaining agreements with labor unions that maintain these plans, we could decide to discontinue participation in a plan, and in that event we could face a withdrawal liability. We could also be treated as withdrawing from participation in one of these plans if the number of our employees participating in these plans is reduced to a certain degree over certain periods of time. Such reductions in the number of our employees participating in these plans could occur as a result of changes in our business operations, such as facility closures or consolidations. Any withdrawal liability could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

We may not be able to adequately protect proprietary rights to our technology.

Our success depends in part upon our proprietary technology and processes. We believe that our intellectual property has significant value and is important to the marketing of our products and maintaining our competitive advantage. Although we attempt to protect our intellectual property rights both in the United States and in foreign countries through a combination of patent, trademark, trade secret and copyright laws, as well as through confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements and other measures, these measures may not be adequate to fully protect our rights. For example, we have a presence in China, which historically has afforded less protection to intellectual property rights than the United States. Our failure to obtain or maintain adequate protection of our intellectual property rights for any reason could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We have applied for patent protection relating to certain existing and proposed products and processes. While we generally apply for patents in those countries where we intend to make, have made, use or sell patented products, we may not accurately predict all of the countries where patent protection will ultimately be desirable. If we fail to timely file a patent application in any such country, we may be precluded from doing so at a later date. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that any of our patent applications will be approved. We also cannot assure you that the patents issued as a result of our foreign patent applications will have the same scope of coverage as our United States patents. The patents we own could be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by others and may not be of sufficient scope or strength to provide us with any meaningful protection or commercial advantage. Further, we cannot assure you that competitors or other third parties will not infringe our patents, or that we will have adequate resources to enforce our patents.

We also rely on unpatented proprietary technology. It is possible that others will independently develop the same or similar technology or otherwise obtain access to our unpatented technology. To protect our trade secrets and other proprietary information, we require employees, consultants, advisors and collaborators to enter into confidentiality agreements. We cannot assure you that these agreements will provide meaningful protection for our trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information in the event of any unauthorized use, misappropriation or disclosure of such trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information. If we are unable to maintain the proprietary nature of our technologies, we could be materially adversely affected.

We rely on our trademarks, trade names and brand names to distinguish our products from the products of our competitors, and have registered or applied to register many of these trademarks. We cannot assure you that our trademark applications will be approved. Third parties may also oppose our trademark applications, or otherwise challenge our use of the trademarks. In the event that our trademarks are successfully challenged, we could be forced to rebrand our products, which could result in loss of brand recognition, and could require us to devote resources to advertising and marketing new brands. Further, we cannot assure you that competitors or other third parties will not infringe our trademarks, or that we will have adequate resources to enforce our trademarks.

We may institute or be named as a defendant in litigation regarding our intellectual property and such litigation may be costly and divert management’s attention and resources.

Any attempts to enforce our intellectual property rights, even if successful, could result in costly and prolonged litigation, divert management’s attention and resources, and materially adversely affect our results of

 

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operations and cash flows. The unauthorized use of our intellectual property may adversely affect our results of operations as our competitors would be able to utilize such property without having had to incur the costs of developing it, thus potentially reducing our relative profitability.

Furthermore, we may be subject to claims that we have infringed the intellectual property rights of another. Even if without merit, such claims could result in costly and prolonged litigation, cause us to cease making, licensing or using products or technologies that incorporate the challenged intellectual property, require us to redesign, reengineer or rebrand our products, if feasible, divert management’s attention and resources, and materially adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows. We may also be required to enter into licensing agreements in order to continue using technology that is important to our business, or we may be unable to obtain license agreements on acceptable terms, either of which could negatively affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Current liabilities under, as well as the cost of compliance with, environmental, health and safety (“EHS”) laws could increase our operating costs and negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Our operations are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where we do business, which govern, among other things, air emissions, wastewater discharges, the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances and wastes, the remediation of contaminated sites, and employee health and safety. At December 31, 2016, we had close-down and environmental restoration costs provisions of €88 million. Future environmental regulations or more aggressive enforcement of existing regulations could impose stricter compliance requirements on us and on the industries in which we operate. Additional pollution control equipment, process changes, or other environmental control measures may be needed at some of our facilities to meet future requirements. If we are unable to comply with these laws and regulations, we could incur substantial costs, including fines and civil or criminal sanctions, or costs associated with upgrades to our facilities or changes in our manufacturing processes in order to achieve and maintain compliance. Additionally, evolving regulatory standards and expectations can result in increased litigation and/or increased costs. There are also no assurances that newly discovered conditions, or new or more aggressive enforcement of applicable environmental requirements, or any failure by counterparties to perform indemnification obligations, will not have a material adverse effect on our business.

Financial responsibility for contaminated property can be imposed on us where current operations have had an environmental impact. Such liability can include the cost of investigating and remediating contaminated soil or ground water, financial assurance, fines and penalties sought by environmental authorities, and damages arising out of personal injury, contaminated property and other toxic tort claims, as well as lost or impaired natural resources. Certain environmental laws impose strict, and in certain circumstances joint and several, liability for certain kinds of matters, such that a person can be held liable without regard to fault for all of the costs of a matter regardless of legality at the time of conduct and even though others were also involved or responsible.

We have accrued, and expect to accrue, costs relating to the above matters that are reasonably expected to be incurred based on available information. However, it is possible that actual costs may differ, perhaps significantly, from the amounts expected or accrued. Similarly, the timing of those expenditures may occur faster than anticipated. These differences could negatively affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Other legal proceedings or investigations, or changes in applicable laws and regulations, could increase our operating costs and negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations.

We may from time to time be involved in, or be the subject of, disputes, proceedings and investigations with respect to a variety of matters, including matters related to personal injury, intellectual property, employees, taxes, contracts, anti-competitive or anti-corruption practices as well as other disputes and proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. It could be costly to address these claims or any investigations involving them, whether meritorious or not, and legal proceedings and investigations could divert management’s attention as well

 

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as operational resources, negatively affecting our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Additionally, as with the environmental laws and regulations, other laws and regulations which govern our business are subject to change at any time. Compliance with changes to existing laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Product liability claims against us could result in significant costs and could materially adversely affect our reputation and our business.

If any of the products that we sell are defective or cause harm to any of our customers, we could be exposed to product liability lawsuits and/or warranty claims. If we were found liable under product liability claims or are obligated under warranty claims, we could be required to pay substantial monetary damages. Even if we successfully defend ourselves against these types of claims, we could still be forced to spend a substantial amount of money in litigation expenses, our management could be required to devote significant time and attention to defending against these claims, and our reputation could suffer, any of which could harm our business.

We may experience or be exposed to unknown or unanticipated issues, expenses, and liabilities as a result of the Wise Acquisition.

As a result of the Wise Acquisition, we may be exposed to unknown or unanticipated costs or liabilities, such as undisclosed liabilities of Wise, including those relating to environmental matters, for which we, as successor owner, may be responsible. Such unknown or unanticipated issues, expenses, and liabilities could have an adverse effect on our business, financial results and cash flows.

Our operations present significant risk of injury or death.

Because of the heavy industrial activities conducted at our facilities, there exists a risk of injury or death to our employees or other visitors, notwithstanding the safety precautions we take. Our operations are subject to regulation by national, state and local agencies responsible for employee health and safety, which has from time to time levied fines against us for certain isolated incidents. While such fines have not been material and we have in place policies to minimize such risks, we may nevertheless be unable to avoid material liabilities for any employee injury or death that may occur in the future, and any such incidents may materially adversely impact our reputation.

The insurance level that we maintain may not fully cover all potential exposures.

We maintain property, casualty and workers’ compensation insurance in accordance with market practice, but such insurance may not fully cover all risks associated with the hazards of our business and is subject to limitations, including deductibles and maximum liabilities covered. We may incur losses beyond the limits, or outside the coverage, of our insurance policies, including, but not limited to, liabilities for breach of contract, environmental compliance or remediation. In addition, from time to time and depending on market conditions, various types of insurance coverage for companies in our industry may not be available on commercially acceptable terms or, in some cases, may not be available at all. In the future, we may not be able to obtain coverage at current levels, and our premiums may increase significantly on coverage that we maintain.

Increases or decreases in income tax rates, changes in income tax laws, additional income tax liabilities due to unfavorable resolution of tax audits and challenges to our tax position could have a material adverse impact on our financial results.

We operate in multiple tax jurisdictions and are filing our tax returns in compliance with the tax laws and regulations of these jurisdictions. Various factors determine our effective tax rate and/or the amount we are required to pay, including changes in or interpretations of tax laws and regulations in any given jurisdiction or global- and EU-based initiatives such as the Action Plan on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development and the EU Anti Tax Avoidance Directive (EU/2016/1164) that

 

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aim, among other things, to address tax avoidance by multinational companies, changes in geographical allocation of income and expense, our ability to use net operating loss and other tax attributes, and our evaluation of our deferred tax assets that requires significant judgment. Such changes to our effective tax rate could materially adversely affect our financial position, liquidity, results of operations and cash flows.

In addition, due to the size and nature of our business, we are subject to ongoing reviews by taxing jurisdictions on various tax matters, including challenges to positions we assert on our income tax and withholding tax returns. We accrue income tax liabilities and tax contingencies based upon our best estimate of the taxes ultimately expected to be paid after considering our knowledge of all relevant facts and circumstances, existing tax laws and regulations, our experience with previous audits and settlements, the status of current tax examinations and how the tax authorities and courts view certain issues. Such amounts are included in income taxes payable, other non-current liabilities or deferred income tax liabilities, as appropriate, and updated over time as more information becomes available or on the basis of the lapse of the statute of limitation. We record additional tax expense or reduce tax expenses in the period in which we determine that the recorded tax liability is less than or in excess of the ultimate assessment we expect. We are currently subject to audit and review in a number of jurisdictions in which we operate, and further audits may commence in the future.

The Company is incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands and on this basis is subject to Dutch tax laws as a Dutch resident taxpayer. We believe that, because of the manner in which we conduct our business, the Company is resident solely in the Netherlands for tax purposes. However, if our tax position were successfully challenged by applicable tax authorities, or if there were changes in the tax laws, tax treaties, or the interpretation or application thereof (which could in certain circumstances have retroactive effect) or in the manner in which we conduct our business, this could materially adversely affect our financial position.

Our historical financial information presented in this report may not be representative of future results and our relatively short history operating as a standalone company may pose some challenges.

Due to inherent uncertainties of our business, the historical financial information does not necessarily indicate what our results of operations, financial position, cash flows or costs and expenses will be in the future as past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future performance. In addition, we have a relatively short history operating as a standalone company which may pose some operational challenges to our management. Our management team has faced and could continue to face operational and organizational challenges and costs related to operating as a standalone company, such as continuing to establish various corporate functions, formulating policies, preparing standalone financial statements and continued integration of the management team. These challenges may divert their attention from running our core business or otherwise materially adversely affect our operating results.

If we do not adequately maintain and continue to evolve our financial reporting and internal controls (which could result in higher operating costs), we may be unable to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud.

We will need to continue to improve existing, and implement new, financial reporting and management systems, procedures and controls to manage our business effectively and support our growth in the future, especially because we lack a long history of operations as a standalone entity. Any delay in the implementation of, or disruption in the transition to, new or enhanced systems, procedures and controls, or the obsolescence of existing financial control systems, could harm our ability to accurately forecast sales demand and record and report financial and management information on a timely and accurate basis.

We could also suffer a loss of confidence in the reliability of our financial statements if our independent registered public accounting firm reports a material weakness in our internal controls, if we do not develop and maintain effective controls and procedures or if we are otherwise unable to deliver timely and reliable financial information. Any loss of confidence in the reliability of our financial statements or other negative reaction to our failure to develop timely or adequate disclosure controls and procedures or internal controls could result in a

 

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decline in the trading price of our ordinary shares. In addition, if we fail to remedy any material weakness, our financial statements may be inaccurate, we may face restricted access to the capital markets and the price of our ordinary shares may be materially adversely affected.

We are a foreign private issuer under the U.S. securities laws within the meaning of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) rules. As a result, we qualify for and rely on exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements and may rely on other exemptions available to us in the future.

As a “foreign private issuer,” as such term is defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), we are permitted to follow our home country practice in lieu of certain corporate governance requirements of the NYSE, including the NYSE requirements that (i) a majority of the board of directors consists of independent directors; (ii) the nominating and corporate governance committee be composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the committee’s purpose and responsibilities; and (iii) the compensation committee be composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the committee’s purpose and responsibilities. Foreign private issuers are also exempt from certain U.S. securities law requirements applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, including the requirement to file quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and to distribute a proxy statement pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) Section 14 in connection with the solicitation of proxies for shareholder meetings.

We rely on the exemptions for foreign private issuers and follow Dutch corporate governance practices in lieu of some of the NYSE corporate governance rules specified above. We currently rely on exemptions from the requirements set out in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) above, but in the future, we may change what home country corporate governance practices we follow, and, accordingly, which exemptions we rely on from the NYSE requirements. So long as we qualify as a foreign private issuer, you may not have the same protections afforded to shareholders of companies that are subject to all of the NYSE corporate governance requirements.

We may lose our foreign private issuer status in the future, which could result in significant additional costs and expenses. If we were to lose our foreign private issuer status, the regulatory and compliance costs to us under U.S. securities laws as a U.S. domestic issuer could be significantly more than costs we incur as a foreign private issuer.

If we were not a foreign private issuer, we would be required to file periodic reports and registration statements on U.S. domestic issuer forms with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including proxy statements pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act. These SEC disclosure requirements are more detailed and extensive than the forms available to a foreign private issuer. Furthermore, if we were not a foreign private issuer, we would be required to meet such filing requirements on a more abbreviated timetable than is applicable to our current filings with the SEC. In addition, our directors, officers and 10% owners would become subject to insider short-swing profit disclosure and recovery rules under Section 16 of the Exchange Act. We could also be required to modify certain of our policies to comply with corporate governance practices associated with U.S. domestic issuers. Such conversion and modifications would involve additional costs.

In addition, we would lose our ability to rely upon exemptions from certain NYSE corporate governance requirements that are available to foreign private issuers. In particular, within six months of losing our foreign private issuer status we would be required to have a majority of independent directors and a nominating/governance committee and a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors, unless other exemptions are available under the NYSE rules. Any of these changes would likely increase our regulatory and compliance costs and expenses, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial results.

We do not comply with all the provisions of the Dutch Corporate Governance Code which could affect your rights as a shareholder.

We are subject to the Dutch Corporate Governance Code, which applies to all Dutch companies listed on a government-recognized stock exchange, whether in the Netherlands or elsewhere, including the NYSE and

 

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Euronext Paris. The Dutch Corporate Governance Code contains principles and best practice provisions for boards of directors, shareholders and general meetings of shareholders, financial reporting, auditors, disclosure, compliance and enforcement standards. The Dutch Corporate Governance Code is based on a “comply or explain” principle. Accordingly, companies are required to disclose in their annual reports, filed in the Netherlands, whether they comply with the provisions of the Dutch Corporate Governance Code and, if they do not comply with those provisions, to give the reasons for such noncompliance. The principles and best practice provisions apply to the board (relating to, among other matters, the board’s role and composition, conflicts of interest and independence requirements, board committees and remuneration), shareholders and the general meeting of shareholders (for example, regarding anti-takeover protection and obligations of a company to provide information to its shareholders), and financial reporting (such as external auditor and internal audit requirements). We have decided not to comply with a number of the provisions of the Dutch Corporate Governance Code because such provisions conflict, in whole or in part, with the corporate governance rules of NYSE and U.S. securities laws that apply to our company whose ordinary shares are traded on the NYSE, or because such provisions do not reflect best practices of global companies listed on the NYSE. This may affect your rights as a shareholder and you may not have the same level of protection as a shareholder in a Dutch company that fully complies with the Dutch Corporate Governance Code. See “Item 16G. Corporate Governance—Dutch Corporate Governance Code.”

The market price of our ordinary shares may fluctuate significantly, and you could lose all or part of your investment.

The market price of our ordinary shares may be influenced by many factors, some of which are beyond our control and could result in significant fluctuations, including: (i) the failure of financial analysts to cover our ordinary shares, changes in financial estimates by analysts or any failure by us to meet or exceed any of these estimates; (ii) actual or anticipated variations in our operating results; (iii) announcements by us or our competitors of significant contracts or acquisitions; (iv) the recruitment or departure of key personnel; (v) regulatory and litigation developments; (vi) developments in our industry; (vii) future sales of our ordinary shares; and (viii) investor perceptions of us and the industries in which we operate.

In addition, the stock market in general has experienced substantial price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of particular companies affected. These broad market and industry factors may materially harm the market price of our ordinary shares, regardless of our operating performance. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of certain companies’ securities, securities class action litigation has been instituted against these companies. If any such litigation is instituted against us, it could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Sales of substantial amounts of our ordinary shares in the public market, or the perception that these sales may occur, could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline.

Sales of substantial amounts of our ordinary shares in the public market, or the perception that these sales may occur, could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline. This could also impair our ability to raise additional capital through the sale of our equity securities. In addition, the sale of our ordinary shares by our officers and directors in the public market, or the perception that such sales may occur, could cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline. Prior to the completion of our IPO, we amended our memorandum and articles of association (the “Amended and Restated Articles of Association”) to provide authorization to issue up to 400,000,000 Class A ordinary shares. Since August 18, 2015, the date of our effective Amended and Restated Articles of Association, our authorized capital amounts to €8,000,000 and is divided into 400,000,000 Class A ordinary shares. A total of 105,581,673 Class A ordinary shares are outstanding as of December 31, 2016. We may issue ordinary shares or other securities from time to time as consideration for, or to finance, future acquisitions and investments or for other capital needs. We cannot predict the size of future issuances of our shares or the effect, if any, that future sales and issuances of shares would have on the market price of our

 

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ordinary shares. If any such acquisition or investment is significant, the number of ordinary shares or the number or aggregate principal amount, as the case may be, of other securities that we may issue may in turn be substantial and may result in additional dilution to our shareholders. We may also grant registration rights covering ordinary shares or other securities that we may issue in connection with any such acquisitions and investments.

Any shareholder acquiring 30% or more of our voting rights may be required to make a mandatory takeover bid or be subject to voting restrictions.

Under Dutch law, if a party directly or indirectly acquires control of a Dutch company, all or part of whose shares are admitted to trading on a regulated market, that party may be required to make a public offer for all other shares of the company (mandatory takeover bid). “Control” is defined as the ability to exercise, whether or not in concert with others, at least 30% of the voting rights at a general meeting of shareholders. Controlling shareholders existing before an offering are generally exempt from this requirement, unless their controlling interest drops below 30% and then increases again to 30% or more. The purpose of this requirement is to protect the interests of minority shareholders. Any shareholder acquiring 30% or more of our voting rights may be limited in its ability to vote on our ordinary shares.

Provisions of our organizational documents and applicable law may impede or discourage a takeover, which could deprive our investors of the opportunity to receive a premium for their ordinary shares or to make changes in our board of directors.

Several provisions of our Amended and Restated Articles of Association and the laws of the Netherlands could make it difficult for our shareholders to change the composition of our board of directors, thereby preventing them from changing the composition of our management. In addition, the same provisions may discourage, delay or prevent a merger, consolidation or acquisition that shareholders may consider favorable. Provisions of our Amended and Restated Articles of Association impose various procedural and other requirements, which could make it more difficult for shareholders to effect certain corporate actions. These anti-takeover provisions could substantially impede the ability of our shareholders to benefit from a change in control and, as a result, may materially adversely affect the market price of our ordinary shares and your ability to realize any potential change of control premium.

Our general meeting of shareholders has empowered our board of directors to issue shares and restrict or exclude preemptive rights on those shares for a period of five years. Accordingly, an issue of new shares may make it more difficult for a shareholder to obtain control over our general meeting of shareholders.

In addition, because certain of our products may have applications in the defense sector, we may be subject to rules and regulations in France and other jurisdictions that could impede or discourage a takeover or other change in control of Constellium or its subsidiaries. In particular, Constellium supplies aluminium alloy products, such as plates, sheets, profiles, tubes and castings, and related services and research and development (“R&D”) activities in connection with aerospace and defense programs in France. As a result, a controlling investment in Constellium or certain of its French subsidiaries, or the purchase of assets constituting a business that produces products or provides services with applications in the defense sector, by a company or individual that is considered to be foreign or non-resident in France may be subject to the French Monetary and Financial Code, which requires prior authorization of the French Ministry of Economy.

The rights of our shareholders may be different from the rights of shareholders governed by the laws of U.S. jurisdictions.

Our corporate affairs are governed by our Amended and Restated Articles of Association and by the laws governing companies incorporated in the Netherlands. The rights of shareholders and the responsibilities of members of our board of directors may be different from the rights and obligations of shareholders in companies

 

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governed by the laws of U.S. jurisdictions. In the performance of its duties, our board of directors is required by Dutch law to consider the interests of our company, its shareholders, its employees and other stakeholders, in all cases with due observation of the principles of reasonableness and fairness. It is possible that some of these parties will have interests that are different from, or in addition to, your interests as a shareholder. See “Item 16G. Corporate Governance—Dutch Corporate Governance Code.”

Although shareholders have the right to approve legal mergers or demergers, Dutch law does not grant appraisal rights to a company’s shareholders who wish to challenge the consideration to be paid upon a domestic legal merger or demerger of a company. In addition, if a third party is liable to a Dutch company, under Dutch law shareholders generally do not have the right to bring an action on behalf of the company or to bring an action on their own behalf to recover damages sustained as a result of a decrease in value, or loss of an increase in value, of their stock. Only in the event that the cause of liability of such third party to the company also constitutes a tortious act directly against such stockholder and the damages sustained are permanent, may that stockholder have an individual right of action against such third party on its own behalf to recover damages. The Dutch Civil Code provides for the possibility to initiate such actions collectively. A foundation or an association whose objective, as stated in its articles of association, is to protect the rights of persons having similar interests, may institute a collective action. The collective action cannot result in an order for payment of monetary damages but may result in a declaratory judgment ( verklaring voor recht ), for example, declaring that a party has acted wrongfully or has breached a fiduciary duty. The foundation or association and the defendant are permitted to reach (often on the basis of such declaratory judgment) a settlement that provides for monetary compensation for damages. A designated Dutch court may declare the settlement agreement binding upon all the injured parties with an opt-out choice for an individual injured party. An individual injured party, within the period set by the court, may also individually institute a civil claim for damages if such injured party is not bound by a collective agreement.

The provisions of Dutch corporate law and our Amended and Restated Articles of Association have the effect of concentrating control over certain corporate decisions and transactions in the hands of our board of directors. As a result, holders of our shares may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in the face of actions by members of the board of directors than if we were incorporated in the United States.

Exchange rate fluctuations may adversely affect the foreign currency value of the ordinary shares and any dividends.

The ordinary shares are quoted in U.S. dollars on the NYSE and in Euros on Euronext Paris. Our financial statements are prepared in Euros. Fluctuations in the exchange rate between Euros and the U.S. dollar will affect, among other matters, the U.S. dollar value and the Euro value of the ordinary shares and of any dividends.

United States civil liabilities may not be enforceable against us.

We are incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands and substantial portions of our assets are located outside the United States. In addition, certain directors, officers and experts named herein reside outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within the United States upon us or such other persons residing outside the United States, or to enforce outside the United States judgments obtained against such persons in U.S. courts in any action, including actions predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws. In addition, it may be difficult for investors to enforce, in original actions brought in courts in jurisdictions located outside the United States, rights predicated upon the U.S. federal securities laws.

There is no treaty between the United States and the Netherlands for the mutual recognition and enforcement of judgments (other than arbitration awards) in civil and commercial matters. Therefore, a final judgment for the payment of money rendered by any federal or state court in the United States based on civil liability, whether or not predicated solely upon the U.S. federal securities laws, would not be enforceable in the

 

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Netherlands unless the underlying claim is re-litigated before a Dutch court. However, under current practice, the courts of the Netherlands may be expected to render a judgment in accordance with the judgment of the relevant U.S. court, provided that such judgment (i) is a final judgment and has been rendered by a court which has established its jurisdiction on the basis of internationally accepted grounds of jurisdictions, (ii) has not been rendered in violation of elementary principles of fair trial, (iii) is not contrary to the public policy of the Netherlands, and (iv) is not incompatible with (a) a prior judgment of a Netherlands court rendered in a dispute between the same parties, or (b) a prior judgment of a foreign court rendered in a dispute between the same parties, concerning the same subject matter and based on the same cause of action, provided that such prior judgment is not capable of being recognized in the Netherlands. It is uncertain whether this practice extends to default judgments as well.

Based on the foregoing, there can be no assurance that U.S. investors will be able to enforce against us or members of our board of directors, officers or certain experts named herein who are residents of the Netherlands or countries other than the United States any judgments obtained in U.S. courts in civil and commercial matters, including judgments under the U.S. federal securities laws.

In addition, there is doubt as to whether a Dutch court would impose civil liability on us, the members of our board of directors, our officers or certain experts named herein in an original action predicated solely upon the U.S. federal securities laws brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in the Netherlands against us or such members, officers or experts, respectively.

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports or publish unfavorable research about our business, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

The trading market for our ordinary shares depends in part on the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us, our business or our industry. We may have limited research coverage by securities and industry analysts. If no significant securities or industry analysts cover our company, the trading price for our shares could be negatively affected. In the event that one or more of the analysts who cover us downgrade our stock, our share price could decline. If one or more of these analysts, or those who currently cover us, ceases to cover us or fails to publish regular reports on us, interest in the purchase of our shares could decrease, which could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline.

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

A foreign corporation will be a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes (a “PFIC”) in any taxable year in which, after taking into account the income and assets of the corporation and certain subsidiaries pursuant to applicable “look-through rules,” either (i) at least 75% of its gross income is “passive income,” or (ii) at least 50% of its assets produce or are held for the production of “passive income.” For this purpose, “passive income” generally includes dividends, interest, royalties and rents and certain other categories of income, subject to certain exceptions. We believe that we will not be a PFIC for the current taxable year and that we have not been a PFIC for prior taxable years and we expect that we will not become a PFIC in the foreseeable future, although there can be no assurance in this regard. The determination of whether we are a PFIC is a fact-intensive determination that includes ascertaining the fair market value (or, in certain circumstances, tax basis) of all of our assets on a quarterly basis and the character of each item of income we earn. This determination is made annually and cannot be completed until the close of a taxable year. It depends upon the portion of our assets (including goodwill) and income characterized as passive under the PFIC rules. Accordingly, it is possible that we may become a PFIC due to changes in our income or asset composition or a decline in the market value of our equity. Because PFIC status is a fact-intensive determination, no assurance can be given that we are not, have not been, or will not become, classified as a PFIC.

 

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If we were to be classified as a PFIC in any taxable year, U.S. Holders (as defined in “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences”) generally would be subject to special tax rules that could result in materially adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences. Further, investors should assume that a “qualified electing fund” election, which, if made, could serve as an alternative to the general PFIC rules and could reduce any adverse consequences to U.S. Holders if we were to be classified as a PFIC, will not be available because we do not intend to provide U.S. Holders with the information needed to make such an election. A mark-to-market election may be available, however, if our ordinary shares are regularly traded. For more information, see “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences—Passive Foreign Investment Company Consequences” and consult your tax advisor concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of acquiring, owning or disposing of our ordinary shares if we are or become classified as a PFIC.

Item 4. Information on the Company

 

A. History and Development of the Company

Constellium Holdco B.V. (formerly known as Omega Holdco B.V.) was incorporated as a Dutch private limited liability company on May 14, 2010. Constellium Holdco B.V. was formed to serve as the holding company for various entities comprising the EAP Business, which Constellium acquired from affiliates of Rio Tinto on January 4, 2011 (the “Acquisition”). On May 21, 2013, Constellium Holdco B.V. was converted into a Dutch public limited liability company and renamed Constellium N.V. Any references to Dutch law and the Amended and Restated Articles of Association are references to Dutch law and the articles of association of the Company as applicable following the conversion. On May 29, 2013, we completed our initial public offering.

The business address (head office) of Constellium N.V. is Tupolevlaan 41-61, 1119 NW Schiphol-Rijk, the Netherlands, and our telephone number is +31 20 654 97 80. The address for our agent for service of process in the United States is Corporation Service Company, 80 State Street, Albany, New York 12207-2543, and its telephone number is (518) 433-4740.

 

B. Business Overview

The Company

Overview

We are a global leader in the design and manufacture of a broad range of innovative specialty rolled and extruded aluminium products, serving primarily the packaging, aerospace and automotive end-markets. We have a strategic footprint of manufacturing facilities located in North America, Europe and China. Our business model is to add value by converting aluminium into semi-fabricated products. We believe that we are the supplier of choice to numerous blue-chip customers for many value-added products with performance-critical applications. Our product portfolio commands higher margins as compared to less differentiated, more commoditized fabricated aluminium products, such as common alloy coils, paintstock, foilstock and soft alloys for construction and distribution.

As of December 31, 2016, we operated 22 production facilities, including a new facility operated by our joint venture with UACJ Corporation in Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA, we had nine administrative and commercial sites, one R&D center in Europe with a hub in the U.S., and one university technology center. The Company had approximately 11,000 employees as of December 31, 2016. In addition, we are building new facilities in Bartow County, Georgia, USA and San Luis Potosí, Mexico, in response to growing demand for automotive structures in North America. We believe our portfolio of flexible and integrated facilities is among the most technologically advanced in the industry. It is our view that our established presence in North America and Europe and our presence in China combined with more than 50 years of manufacturing experience, quality and innovation, strategically position us to be a leading supplier to our global customer base.

 

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We seek to sell to end-markets that have attractive characteristics for aluminium, including (i) higher margin products, (ii) stability through economic cycles, and (iii) favorable growth fundamentals supported by substitution trends in European can sheet and automotive as well as order backlogs in aerospace products. As of 2016, we are a leading European and North American supplier of can body stock, the leading global supplier of aluminium aerospace plates, and believe that we are one of the largest providers of aluminium auto crash management systems globally. Our unique platform has enabled us to develop a stable and diversified customer base and to enjoy long-standing relationships with our largest customers. Our customer base includes market leading firms in packaging, aerospace, and automotive, such as Rexam PLC/Ball Corporation (“Rexam/Ball”), 1 Anheuser-Busch InBev (“AB InBev”), Crown Holdings, Inc., Airbus, Boeing, and several premium automotive original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”), including BMW AG, Daimler AG and Ford Motor Company (“Ford”). Excluding Muscle Shoals, where the customer base has undergone a strategic shift since 2010, the length of our relationships with our most significant customers averages 25 years, and in some cases reaches as many as 40 years, particularly with our packaging and aerospace customers. Generally, we have three to five year terms in contracts with our packaging customers, five-year terms in contracts with our largest aerospace customers, and three to seven year terms in our “life of a car platform/car model” contracts with our automotive customers. We believe that we are a crucial supplier to many of our customers due to our technological and R&D capabilities as well as the long and complex qualification process required for many of our products. Our core products require close collaboration and, in many instances, joint development with our customers. We believe that this integrated collaboration with our customers for high value-added products reduces substitution risk and creates a competitive advantage.

Our business also features relatively countercyclical cash flows. During an economic downturn, lower demand causes our sales volumes to decrease, which results in a corresponding reduction in our inventory levels, a reduction in our working capital requirements and a positive impact on our operating cash flows. Further, we may moderate our capital expenditures. We believe that this helps to drive robust free cash flow across cycles and provides significant downside protection for our liquidity position in the event of a downturn.

For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we shipped approximately 1,470kt, 1,478kt and 1,062kt of finished products, generated revenues of €4,743 million, €5,153 million and €3,666 million, generated net loss of €4 million, net loss of €552 million, net income of €54 million, and generated Adjusted EBITDA of €377 million, €343 million and €275 million, respectively. The financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2016 represented a 1% decrease in shipments, an 8% decrease in revenues and a 10% increase in Adjusted EBITDA from the prior year. Please see the reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Segment Results.”

Our objective is to expand our leading position as a supplier of high value-added, technologically advanced products in which we believe that we have a competitive advantage through the following business strategies:

 

    Continue to target investment in high-return opportunities in our core markets (automotive, aerospace and packaging), with the goal of driving growth and profitability.

 

    Focus on higher-margin, technologically advanced products that facilitate long-term relationships as a crucial supplier to our customers.

 

    Continue to differentiate our products, with the goal of maintaining our leading market positions and remaining a supplier of choice to our customers.

 

    Support our customer base globally.

 

    Deliver superior operational performance through manufacturing excellence.

 

1   Ball completed acquisition of Rexam PLC in June 2016.

 

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Recent Developments

On February 16, 2017, the Company completed a private offering of $650 million in aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes (the “February 2017 Notes”), as set forth in greater detail under “Item 8. Financial Information—B. Significant Changes.” Constellium used the proceeds from the offering of the February 2017 Notes and cash on hand to cause, Wise Metals Group LLC (“Wise Metals Group”) and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, each a subsidiary of the Company, to repurchase or redeem all of the outstanding Wise Senior Secured Notes (as defined below). In connection with the offering of the February 2017 Notes, Wise Metals Group, along with other parties to its revolving credit facility, entered into an amendment to such facility to extend the maturity date, among other changes. See “Item 8. Financial Information—B. Significant Changes” for a complete discussion of these recent developments.

Table: Overview of Operating Segments (as of December 31, 2016)

 

   

Packaging &

Automotive Rolled Products

  

Aerospace

& Transportation

  

Automotive Structures
& Industry

Manufacturing Sites 2  

•       4 (France, Germany, United States)

  

•       6 (France, United States, Switzerland)

  

•       14 (France, Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, North America, China)

Employees (as of December 31, 2016)

 

•       3,388

  

•       3,606

  

•       3,310

Key Products  

•       Can Body Stock

 

•       Can End Stock

 

•       Closure Stock

 

•       Auto Body Sheet 3

 

•       Heat Exchangers

 

•       Specialty reflective sheet (Bright)

  

•       Aerospace plates, sheets and extrusions

 

•       Aerospace wing skins

 

•       Plates for general engineering

 

•       Sheets for transportation applications

  

•       Extruded products including:

 

•       Soft alloys

 

•       Hard alloys

 

•       Large profiles

 

•       Automotive structures based on extruded products

Key Customers  

•        Packaging: AB InBev, Rexam/Ball, Can-Pack, Crown, Amcor, Ardagh Group, Coke

 

•        Automotive: Daimler AG, Audi, Volkswagen, Valeo, PSA Group

  

•        Aerospace: Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, Dassault, Embraer

 

•        Transportation, Industry, Defense and Distribution: Ryerson, ThyssenKrupp, Amari, Champagne Metals

  

•        Automotive: Audi, BMW AG, Daimler AG, Porsche, General Motors, Ford, Benteler, PSA Group, Chrysler, Fiat, JLR

 

•        Rail: Stadler, CAF

 

2   The total of 24 sites represents 22 facilities among which two of them are shared between two operating segments.
3   In this document Auto Body Sheet and Body-in-White are used interchangeably.

 

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Packaging &
Automotive Rolled Products

  

Aerospace
& Transportation

  

Automotive Structures
& Industry

Key Facilities   

•       Neuf-Brisach (France)

 

•       Singen (Germany)

 

•       Muscle Shoals (Alabama, USA)

 

•       Bowling Green (Kentucky, USA) 4

  

•       Ravenswood (West Virginia, USA)

 

•       Issoire (France)

 

•       Sierre (Switzerland)

  

•       Děčín (Czech Republic)

 

•       Singen/Gottmadingen (Germany)

 

•       Van Buren (Michigan, USA)

Our Operating Segments

Our business is organized into three operating segments: (i) Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products, (ii) Aerospace & Transportation, and (iii) Automotive Structures & Industry.

 

Operating
Segment

 

Main Product
Category

  

Description

Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products   Rolled Products    Includes the production of rolled aluminium products in our European and North American facilities. We supply the packaging market with can stock and closure stock for the beverage and food industry, as well as foil stock for the flexible packaging market. In addition, we supply the automotive market with a number of technically sophisticated applications such as automotive body sheet and heat exchangers. We also fabricate sheet and coils for the building and construction markets.
Aerospace & Transportation   Rolled Products    Includes the production of rolled aluminium products (and very limited volumes of extruded products) for the aerospace market, as well as rolled products for transport, industry and defense end-uses. We produce aluminium plate, sheet and fabricated products in our European and North American facilities. Substantially all of these aluminium products are manufactured to specific customer requirements using direct-chill ingot cast technologies that allow us to use and offer a variety of alloys and products.
Automotive Structures & Industry   Extrusions and Structures    Includes the production of technologically advanced structures for the automotive industry including crash-management systems, body structures and side impact beams in Germany, North America and China. In addition, we fabricate hard and soft aluminium alloy extruded profiles in Germany, France, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Our extruded products are targeted at high demand end-uses in the automotive, engineering, building and construction and other transportation markets (rail and shipbuilding).

 

4   Joint venture with UACJ Corporation, 51% owned by Constellium and accounted for under the equity method.

 

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The following charts present our revenues by operating segment and geography for the 12 months ended December 31, 2016:

 

Revenues per operating segment 1

 

Revenues per geographic zone 2

LOGO   LOGO

 

1   Holdings & Corporate not included.
2   Revenue by geographic zone is based on the destination of the shipment.

Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products Operating Segments

In our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products operating segment, we produce and develop customized aluminium sheet and coil solutions. Approximately 85% of operating segment volume for the year ended December 31, 2016 was in packaging rolled products, which primarily include beverage and food can stock as well as closure stock and foil stock. The remaining 15% of operating segment volume for that period was in automotive and specialty and other thin-rolled products, which include technologically advanced products for the automotive and industrial sectors. Our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products operating segment accounted for approximately 52% of revenues and 53% 5 of Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016.

As of December 2016, we are a leading European and North American supplier of can body stock and the leading worldwide supplier of closure stock. We are also a major European player in automotive rolled products for Auto Body Sheet (e.g., closure panels of a car), and heat exchangers. We have a diverse customer base, consisting of many of the world’s largest beverage and food can manufacturers, specialty packaging producers, leading automotive firms and global industrial companies. Our customer base includes Rexam/Ball Corporation, AB InBev, VW Group, Daimler AG, PSA Group, Can-Pack S.A., Crown Holdings, Inc., Alanod GmbH & Co. KG, Ardagh Group S.A., Amcor Ltd. and ThyssenKrupp AG. Our packaging contracts have usually a duration of three to five years. Our automotive contracts are usually valid for the lifetime of a model, which is typically six to seven years.

We have two integrated rolling operations located in Europe’s industrial heartland and one integrated rolling operation in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Neuf-Brisach, our facility on the border of France and Germany, is, in our view, a uniquely integrated aluminium recycling, rolling and finishing facility. Singen, located in Germany, is specialized in high-margin niche applications and has an integrated hot/cold rolling line and high-grade cold mills with special surfaces capabilities that facilitate unique metallurgy and lower production costs. We believe Singen has enhanced our reputation in many product areas, most notably in the area of functional high-gloss surfaces for the automotive, lighting, solar and cosmetic industries, other decorative applications, closure stock, paintstock and foilstock. Muscle Shoals is a highly focused factory mostly dedicated to UBC recycling and can

 

5   The difference between the sum of Adjusted EBITDA for our three segments and the Group Adjusted EBITDA is attributable to amounts for Holdings and Corporate.

 

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stock rolling. With the benefit of our Transform investment program, the plant is expected to be capable of producing high-quality Auto Body Sheet cold coils.

Our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products operating segment has historically been relatively resilient during periods of economic downturn and has had relatively limited exposure to economic cycles and periods of financial instability. According to CRU International Limited (“CRU”), during the 2008-2009 economic crisis, can stock volumes decreased by 10% in 2009 versus 2007 levels as compared to a 24% decline for flat rolled aluminium products volumes in aggregate during the same period in Europe and by 5% in 2009 versus 2006 as compared to a more than 40% decrease for flat rolled aluminium products volumes in North America. This demonstrates that demand for beverage cans tends to be less correlated with general economic cycles. In addition, we believe European can body stock has an attractive long-term growth outlook due to the following trends: (i) end-market growth in beer, soft drinks and energy drinks, (ii) increasing use of cans versus glass in the beer market, (iii) increasing use of aluminium in can body stock in the European market, at the expense of steel, and (iv) increasing consumption in Eastern Europe linked to purchasing power growth. The U.S. can body stock market on the other hand has seen gradual declines in volumes over the last ten years, mostly due to the decline in carbonated soft drinks consumption, but has recently stabilized. Analysts expect that the growth in Aluminium Auto Body Sheet will change the dynamic in the market, with capacity being shifted from can body stock to Auto Body Sheet. As a result, CRU expects that by the latter part of this decade, can stock conversion fees could increase, and even a step change upward may be possible.

The following table summarizes our volume, revenues and Adjusted EBITDA for our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products operating segment for the periods presented:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
(€ in millions, unless otherwise noted)      2016         2015         2014    

Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products:

      

Segment Revenues

     2,482       2,742       1,568  

Segment Shipments (kt)

     1,013       1,035       620  

Segment Revenues (€/ton)

     2,450       2,649       2,529  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(1)

     201       183       118  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(€/ton)

     199       176       190  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA margin

     8     7     8

 

(1) Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure defined under IFRS. Adjusted EBITDA is defined and discussed in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Segment Results.”

Aerospace & Transportation Operating Segment

Our Aerospace & Transportation operating segment has market leadership positions in technologically advanced aluminium and specialty materials products with wide applications across the global aerospace, defense, transportation, and industrial sectors. We offer a wide range of products including plate, sheet, extrusions and precision casting products which allows us to offer tailored solutions to our customers. We seek to differentiate our products and act as a key partner to our customers through our broad product range, advanced R&D capabilities, extensive recycling capabilities and portfolio of plants with an extensive range of capabilities across Europe and North America. In order to reinforce the competitiveness of our metal solutions, we design our processes and alloys with a view to optimizing our customers’ operations and costs. This includes offering services such as customizing alloys to our customers’ processing requirements, processing short lead time orders and providing vendor managed inventories or tolling arrangements. The Aerospace & Transportation operating segment accounted for approximately 27% of our revenues and 27% 6 of Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

6   The difference between the sum of reported segment Adjusted EBITDA and the Group Adjusted EBITDA is related to Holdings and Corporate.

 

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In 2016, six of our manufacturing facilities produce products that were sold via our Aerospace & Transportation operating segment. Our aerospace plate manufacturing facilities in Ravenswood (West Virginia, United States), Issoire (France) and Sierre (Switzerland) offer the full spectrum of plate required by the aerospace industries (alloys, temper, dimensions, pre-machined) and have unique capabilities such as producing some wide and very high gauge plates required for some aerospace programs (civil and commercial).

Downstream aluminium products for the aerospace market require relatively high levels of R&D investment and advanced technological capabilities, and therefore tend to command higher margins compared to more commoditized products. We work in close collaboration with our customers to develop highly engineered solutions to fulfill their specific requirements. For example, we developed Airware ® , a lightweight specialty aluminium-lithium alloy, for our aerospace customers to address increasing demand for lighter and more environmentally friendly aircraft.

Aerospace products are typically subject to long development and supply lead times and the majority of our contracts with our largest aerospace customers have a term of five years or longer, which provides excellent volume and profitability visibility. In addition, demand for our aerospace products typically correlates directly with aircraft backlogs and build rates. As of December 2016, the backlog reported by Airbus and Boeing for commercial aircraft reached 12,589 units on a combined basis, representing approximately 8 to 9 years of production at current build rates.

Additionally, aerospace products are generally subject to long qualification periods. Aerospace production sites are regularly audited by external certification organizations including the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (“NADCAP”) and/or the International Organization for Standardization. NADCAP is a cooperative organization of numerous aerospace OEMs that defines industry-wide manufacturing standards. NADCAP appoints private auditors who grant suppliers like Constellium a NADCAP certification, which customers tend to require. New products or alloys are certified by the OEM that uses the product. Our sites have been qualified by external certification organizations and our products have been qualified by our customers. We are typically able to obtain qualification within 6 months to one year. We believe we are able to obtain such qualifications within that time frame for two main reasons. First, some new product qualifications depend on having older qualifications regarding their alloy, temper or shape which we have already obtained through our long history of working with the main aircraft OEMs. This range of qualifications includes in excess of 100 specifications, some of which we obtained during programs dating back to the 1960s. Second, over the course of the decades that we have been working with the aerospace OEMs, we have invested in a number of capital intensive equipment and R&D programs to be able to qualify to the current industry norms and standards.

The following table summarizes our volume, revenues and Adjusted EBITDA for our Aerospace & Transportation operating segment for the periods presented:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
(€ in millions, unless otherwise noted)      2016         2015         2014    

Aerospace & Transportation:

      

Segment Revenues

     1,279       1,348       1,192  

Segment Shipments (kt)

     243       231       238  

Segment Revenues (€/ton)

     5,263       5,835       5,008  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(1)

     103       103       91  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(€/ton)

     425       445       380  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA margin

     8     8     8

 

(1) Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure defined under IFRS. Adjusted EBITDA is defined and discussed in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Segment Results.”

 

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Automotive Structures & Industry Operating Segment

Our Automotive Structures & Industry operating segment produces (i) technologically advanced structures for the automotive industry including crash management systems, body structures and side impact beams and (ii) soft and hard alloy extrusions for automotive, road, energy and building and large profiles for rail and industrial applications. We complement our products with a comprehensive offering of downstream technology and services, which include pre-machining, surface treatment, R&D and technical support services. Our Automotive Structures & Industry operating segment accounted for approximately 21% of revenues and 27% 7 of Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016.

We believe that we are one of the largest providers of aluminium automotive crash management systems globally and a leading supplier of hard alloys for the automotive market and of large structural profiles for rail, industrial and other transportation markets in Europe. We manufacture automotive structural products for some of the largest European and North American car manufacturers supplying a global market, including Daimler AG, BMW AG, VW Group, Chrysler Group LLC and Ford. We also have a strong presence in soft alloys in France and Germany, with customized solutions for a diversity of end-markets. We are operating a joint venture, Astrex Inc., which is producing automotive extruded profiles in Ontario, Canada, for our North American operations and a joint venture, Engley Automotive Structures Co., Ltd., which is currently producing aluminium crash-management systems in China.

In July 2016, we announced our intention to open a new manufacturing facility in Mexico to produce aluminium automotive structural components. This plant, located in San Luis Potosí, will allow Constellium to respond to increasing demand for lightweight, high-strength aluminium Crash Management Systems and automotive structures for the expanding auto industry in Mexico. We plan to invest approximately $10 million in the 5,000 sq m facility, which may be expanded to 13,000 sq m in the future to adapt to customers’ supply needs. The facility is expected to start production in 2018.

The San Luis Potosí plant will complement our growing footprint in North America for the fast expanding market of automotive structures. Last year, we announced we were building a new manufacturing facility for automotive structures in Bartow County, GA, which is expected to start production later in 2017.

During 2016, we continued the product offering of the new generation of aluminium high-strength alloys for crash management systems and extruded structural parts for automotive structures and chassis components. The new-generation crash management systems combine the properties of the 6xxx aluminium alloy family—formability, corrosion resistance, energy absorption, recyclability—with high-strength mechanical performance.

Fourteen of our manufacturing and engineering facilities, located in Germany, North America, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, France, Switzerland and China, produce products sold in our Automotive Structures & Industry operating segment. We believe our local presence, downstream services and industry leading cycle times help to ensure that we respond to our customer demands in a timely and consistent fashion. Our two integrated remelt and casting centers in Switzerland and the Czech Republic both provide security of metal supply and contribute to our recycling efforts.

 

7   The difference between the sum of reported segment Adjusted EBITDA and the Group Adjusted EBITDA is related to Holdings and Corporate.

 

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The following table summarizes our volume, revenues and Adjusted EBITDA for our Automotive Structures & Industry operating segment for the periods presented:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
(€ in millions, unless otherwise noted)      2016         2015         2014    

Automotive Structures & Industry:

      

Segment Revenues

     993       1,034       875  

Segment Shipments (kt)

     217       212       208  

Segment Revenues (€/ton)

     4,576       4,877       4,207  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(1)

     102       80       73  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(€/ton)

     471       380       351  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA margin

     10     8     8

 

(1) Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure defined under IFRS. Adjusted EBITDA is defined and discussed in “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Segment Results.”

For information on the seasonality of our business, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key Factors Influencing Constellium’s Financial Conditions and Results of Operations—Seasonality.”

Our Industry

Aluminium Sector Value Chain

The global aluminium industry consists of (i) mining companies that produce bauxite, the ore from which aluminium is ultimately derived, (ii) primary aluminium producers that refine bauxite into alumina and smelt alumina into aluminium, (iii) aluminium semi-fabricated products manufacturers, including aluminium casters, extruders and rollers, (iv) aluminium recyclers and remelters and (v) integrated companies that are present across multiple stages of the aluminium production chain.

The price of aluminium, quoted on the LME, is subject to global supply and demand dynamics and moves independently of the costs of many of its inputs. Producers of primary aluminium have limited ability to manage the volatility of aluminium prices and can experience a high degree of volatility in their cash flows and profitability. We do not smelt aluminium, nor do we participate in other upstream activities such as mining or refining bauxite. We recycle aluminium, both for our own use and as a service to our customers.

Rolled and extruded aluminium product prices are based generally on the price of metal plus a conversion fee (i.e., the cost incurred to convert the aluminium into a semi-finished product). The price of aluminium is not a significant driver of our financial performance, in contrast to the more direct relationship of the price of aluminium to the financial performance of primary aluminium producers. Instead, the financial performance of producers of rolled and extruded aluminium products, such as Constellium, is driven by the dynamics in the end-markets that they serve, their relative positioning in those markets and the efficiency of their industrial operations.

There are two main sources of input metal for aluminium rolled or extruded products:

 

    Primary aluminium, which is primarily in the form of standard ingot.

 

    Recycled aluminium, which comes either from scrap from fabrication processes, known as recycled process material, or from recycled end products in their end of life phase, such as used beverage cans.

Whether primary or recycled, the aluminium is then alloyed and cast into shapes such as:

 

    Sheet ingot or rolling slab.

 

    Extrusion billets.

 

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We buy various types of metal, including primary metal from smelters in the form of ingots, rolling slabs or extrusion billets, remelted metal from external casthouses (in addition to our own casthouses) in the form of rolling slabs or extrusion billets, production scrap from our customers, and end of life scrap.

Primary aluminium, sheet ingot and extrusion billets can generally be purchased at prices set on the LME plus a premium that varies by geographic region on delivery, alloying material, form (ingot or molten metal) and purity.

Recycled aluminium is also an important source of input material and is tied to the LME pricing (typically sold at discounts of up to 25%). Aluminium is indefinitely recyclable and recycling it requires only approximately 5% of the energy required to produce primary aluminium. As a result, in regions where aluminium is widely used, manufacturers and customers are active in setting up collection processes in which used beverage cans and other end-of-life aluminium products are collected for remelting at purpose-built plants. Manufacturers may also enter into agreements with customers who return recycled process material and pay to have it re-melted and rolled into the same product again.

Aluminium Rolled Products Overview

Aluminium rolled products, i.e., sheet, plate and foil, are semi-finished products that provide the raw material for the manufacture of finished goods ranging from packaging to automotive body panels. The packaging industry is a major consumer of the majority of sheet and foil for making beverage cans, foil containers and foil wrapping. Sheet is also used extensively in transport for airframes, road and rail vehicles, in marine applications, including offshore platforms, and superstructures and hulls of boats and in building for roofing and siding. Plate is used for airframes, military vehicles and bridges, ships and other large vessels and as tooling plate for the production of plastic products. Foil applications outside packaging include electrical equipment, insulation for buildings and foil for heat exchangers.

Independent aluminium rolled products producers and integrated aluminium companies alike participate in this market. Our rolling process consists of passing aluminium through a hot-rolling mill and then transferring it to a cold-rolling mill, which can gradually reduce the thickness of the metal down to more than 6 mm for plates and to approximately 0.2-6 mm for sheet. We do not produce aluminium foil.

 

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The following chart illustrate expected global demand for aluminium rolled products. The average expected growth between 2016 and 2021 for the flat rolled products market is 3.9% per year.

Projected Aluminium Flat Rolled Products Demand 2016-2021 (in thousand tons)

 

Flat rolled

LOGO
Source: CRU International Limited
Asia Pacific includes Japan, China, India, South Korea, Australia and other Asia Other includes Central and South America, Middle East and Africa

The aluminium rolled products industry is characterized by economies of scale, as significant capital investments are required to achieve and maintain technological capabilities and demanding customer qualification standards. The service and efficiency demands of large customers have encouraged consolidation among suppliers of aluminium rolled products.

The supply of aluminium rolled products has historically been affected by production capacity, alternative technology substitution and trade flows between regions. The demand for aluminium rolled products has historically been affected by economic growth, substitution trends, down-gauging, cyclicality and seasonality.

Aluminium Extrusions Overview

Aluminium extrusion is a technique used to transform aluminium billets into objects with a defined cross-sectional profile for a wide range of uses. In the extrusion process, heated aluminium is forced through a die. Extrusions can be manufactured in many sizes and in almost any shape for which a die can be created. The extrusion process makes the most of aluminium’s unique combination of physical characteristics. Its malleability allows it to be easily machined and cast, and yet aluminium is one-third the density and stiffness of steel so the resulting products offer strength and stability, particularly when alloyed with other metals.

Extruded profiles can be produced in solid or hollow form, while additional complexities can be applied using advanced die designs. After the extrusion process, a variety of options are available to adjust the color, texture and brightness of the aluminium’s finish. This may include aluminium anodizing or painting.

Today, aluminium extrusion is used for a wide range of purposes, including building, transportation and industrial markets. Virtually every type of vehicle contains aluminium extrusions, including cars, boats, bicycles and trains. Home appliances and tools take advantage of aluminium’s excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The

 

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increased focus on green building is also leading contractors and architects to use more extruded aluminium products, as aluminium extrusions are flexible and corrosion-resistant. These diverse applications are possible due to the advantageous attributes of aluminium, from its particular blend of strength and ductility to its conductivity, its non-magnetic properties and its ability to be recycled repeatedly without loss of integrity. All of these capabilities make aluminium extrusions a viable and adaptable solution for a growing number of manufacturing needs.

Our Key End-markets

We have a significant presence in the can sheet and packaging end-markets, which have proved to be relatively stable and recession-resilient and the aerospace end-market, which is driven by global demand trends rather than regional trends. Our automotive products are predominantly used in premium models manufactured by the German and North American OEMs, which are not as dependent on the European economy and continue to benefit from rising demand in developing economies, particularly China. For example, CRU International Limited reports that the consumption of automotive body sheet between 2016 and 2025 will have a growth of 14% per annum in North America, 19% per annum in China and 10% per annum in Europe.

Rigid Packaging

Aluminium beverage cans represented approximately 15% of the total European aluminium flat rolled demand by volume in 2016 and 36% of total U.S. and Canada aluminium flat rolled demand. Aluminium is a preferred material for beverage packaging as it allows drinks to chill faster, can be stacked for transportation and storage more densely than competing formats (such as glass bottles), is highly formable for unique or differentiated branding, and offers the environmental advantage of easy, cost- and energy-efficient recycling. As a result of these benefits, aluminium is displacing glass as the preferred packaging material in certain markets, such as beer. In Europe, aluminium is replacing steel as the standard for beverage cans. Between 2002 and 2016, we believe that aluminium’s penetration of the European can stock market versus tinplate increased from 58% to 85%. In the U.S., we believe aluminium’s penetration has been at 100% for many years. In addition, we are benefitting from increased consumption in Eastern Europe and Mexico and growth in high margin products such as the specialty cans used for energy drinks.

 

Total European Rolled Products Consumption Can Stock (kt)

  

USA and Canada Rolled Products Consumption (kt)

LOGO    LOGO
Source: CRU International, Aluminium Rolled Products Market Outlook November 2016    Source: CRU International Aluminium Products Market Outlook November 2016

 

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LOGO

 

Source: CRU International

  LOGO

In addition to expected growth, demand for can sheet has been highly resilient across economic cycles. Between 2007 and 2009, during the economic crisis, European can body stock volumes decreased by less than 9% as compared to a 24% decline for total European flat rolled products volumes.

According to CRU, the aluminium demand for the can stock market globally is expected to grow by 3% per year between 2016 and 2021.

Aerospace

Demand for aerospace plates is primarily driven by the build rate of aircraft, which we believe will be supported for the foreseeable future by (i) necessary replacement of aging fleets by airline operators, particularly in the United States and Western Europe, (ii) increasing global passenger air traffic (the aerospace industry publication The Airline Monitor estimates that global revenue passenger miles will grow at a compound annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of approximately 4.9% from 2016 to 2022). In 2016, Boeing and Airbus predicted respectively approximately 39,620 and 33,070 new aircraft over the next 20 years across all categories of large commercial aircraft. Boeing estimates that between 2016 and 2035, 38% of sales of new airplanes will be to Asia Pacific, 19% to Europe and 21% to North America. Demand for aluminium aerospace plates is also driven by “light-weighting” (the substitution for lighter metals) to improve fuel efficiency and address increasingly rigorous environmental requirements.

 

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World’s commercial aircraft fleet (thousands)

 

Airplane order backlog (thousands)

LOGO   LOGO
Data source: Boeing 2016 current market outlook   Data source: Boeing & Airbus publicly available information

 

Fleet Development Driven by Passenger Demand and Aging Fleet (units)

LOGO

Data source: Boeing 2016 current market outlook

 

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Automotive

We supply the automotive sector with flat rolled products out of our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products operating segment and extruded and fabricated products out of our Automotive Structures & Industry operating segment.

In our view, the main drivers of automotive sales are overall economic growth, credit availability, consumer prices and consumer confidence. According to CRU, global light vehicle production is expected to grow by approximately 2.9% from 2015 to 2021.

 

Light vehicle production (millions units)

LOGO

Within the automotive sector, the demand for aluminium has been increasing faster than the underlying demand for light vehicles due to recent growth in the use of aluminium products in automotive applications. We believe the main reasons for this are aluminium’s high strength-to-weight ratio in comparison to steel and energy absorption. This “light-weighting” facilitates better fuel economy and improved emissions performance. As a result, manufacturers are seeking additional applications where aluminium can be used in place of steel and an increased number of cars are being manufactured with aluminium panels and crash management systems. We believe that this trend will continue as increasingly stringent EU and U.S. regulations relating to reductions in carbon emissions will force the automotive industry to increase its use of aluminium to “lightweight” vehicles. EU legislation sets mandatory emission reduction targets for new cars. The EU fleet average target of 130g/km by 2015 was phased in between 2012 and 2015. From 2015 onwards, all newly registered cars must comply with the limit value curve. A shorter phase in period will apply to the next target: by 2021, phased in from 2020, the fleet average to be achieved by all new cars is 95 grams of CO 2 per kilometer. 95% of each manufacturer’s new cars will have to comply with the limit value curve in 2020, increasing to 100% in 2021. We expect that EU and U.S. regulations requiring reductions in carbon emissions and fuel efficiency, as well as relatively fluctuating fuel prices, will continue to drive aluminium demand in the automotive industry. Whereas growth in aluminium use in vehicles has historically been driven by increased use of aluminium castings, we anticipate that future growth will be primarily in the kinds of extruded and rolled products that we supply to the OEMs.

 

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According to CRU, the aluminium consumption for the Auto Body market is expected to grow by 16% between 2016 and 2021. 8

 

Aluminium’s Direct Weight Savings and Market Penetration

 

 

LOGO

  

 

LOGO

  
     
     
     
     

Source: EEA Aluminium Penetration in Cars

We believe that Constellium is one of only a limited number of companies that is able to produce the quality and quantity required by car manufacturers for both flat rolled products and automotive structures, and that we are therefore well positioned to take advantage of these market trends.

Our R&D-focused approach led to the development of a number of innovative automotive product solutions; for example, in 2016, Constellium announced it will supply the aluminium front Crash Management System for the new PEUGEOT 3008, including a lower beam for enhanced pedestrian safety. In 2015, Constellium announced an agreement with Ford Motor Co. to supply aluminium structural parts for the all new Ford F-150 pickup truck that extensively uses high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy as a build material. In addition, increasing global demand for sports utility vehicles and increasing demand of aluminium solutions for OEMs high volume series cars are expected to enhance the long-term growth prospects for our automotive products given our strong established relationships with the major car manufacturers.

 

8   Calculated based on North American Auto Body and Europe Auto Body.

 

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2016 Constellium Auto Body Sheet sales by OEM

 

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Managing Our Metal Price Exposure

Our business model is to add value by converting aluminium into semi-fabricated products. It is our policy not to speculate on metal price movements.

For all contracts, we continuously seek to minimize the impact of aluminium price fluctuations in order to protect our net income and cash flows against the LME and regional premiums price variations of aluminium that we buy and sell, with the following methods:

 

    In cases where we are able to align the price and quantity of physical aluminium purchases with that of physical aluminium sales, we do not need to enter into derivative instruments to further mitigate our exposure, regardless of whether the LME portion of the price is fixed or floating.

 

    However, when we are unable to align the price and quantity of physical aluminium purchases with that of physical aluminium sales, we enter into derivative financial instruments to pass through the exposure to financial institutions at the time the price is set.

 

    For a small portion of our volumes, the aluminium is owned by our customers and we bear no aluminium price risk.

We mark-to-market LME derivatives at the period end giving rise to unrealized gains or losses which are classified as “other gains/(losses)—net.” These unrealized gains/losses have no bearing on the underlying performance of the business and are removed when calculating Adjusted EBITDA.

The price of the aluminium that we buy comprises other premiums (or in some cases discounts) on top of the LME price. These premiums relate to specific features of the metal being purchased, such as its location, purity, shape, etc.

The price of these premiums has been historically relatively stable. However, between 2012 and 2014, the price of the geographical premiums (“ECDU” or “ECDP” in Europe, “Midwest” in North America) rose by more than 100%, before collapsing to initial levels. While we have always tried to charge these premiums to our customers, the unexpected dramatic increase in the premiums was not fully passed-through to our customers.

 

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Because there is not a liquid and standardized market dedicated to premiums similar to what the LME is for the “LME price,” the ability to use financial instruments (OTC derivatives) was limited and did not cover the overall need created by the commercial exposure.

Where possible, we have changed sales and purchases contracts to align premium formulas and mitigate premium exposure. We seek to apply the same policy and methods to minimize the impact of geographical premiums price fluctuations that we do for the LME aluminium price variations.

Sales and Marketing

Our sales force is based in Europe (France, Germany, Czech Republic, United Kingdom, Switzerland and Italy), the United States and Asia (Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, and Singapore). We serve our customers either directly or through distributors.

Raw Materials and Supplies

Approximately 75% of our slab demand is produced in our casthouses. In addition, our primary metal supply is secured through long-term contracts with several upstream companies. All of our top 10 suppliers have been long-standing suppliers to our plants (in many cases for more than 10 years) and, in aggregate, accounted for approximately 45% of our total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2016. We typically enter into multi-year contracts with these metal suppliers pursuant to which we purchase various types of metal, including:

 

    Primary metal from smelters or metal traders in the form of ingots, rolling slabs or extrusion billets.

 

    Remelted metal in the form of rolling slabs or extrusion billets from external casthouses, as an addition to our own casthouses.

 

    Production scrap from customers and scrap traders.

 

    End-of-life scrap (e.g., used beverage cans) from customers, collectors and scrap traders.

 

    Specific alloying elements and primary ingots from producers and metal traders.

Our operations use natural gas and electricity, which represent the third largest component of our cost of sales, after metal and labor costs. We purchase part of our natural gas and electricity on a market basis. However, we have secured a large part of our natural gas and electricity pursuant to fixed-price commitments. To reduce the risks associated with our natural gas and electricity requirements, we use financial futures or forward contracts with our suppliers to fix the price of energy costs. Furthermore, in our longer-term sales contracts, we try to include indexation clauses on energy prices.

Our Customers

Our customer base includes some of the largest leading manufacturers in the packaging, aerospace and automotive end-markets. We have a relatively diverse customer base with our 10 largest customers representing approximately 55% of our revenues and approximately 60% of our volumes for year ended December 31, 2016. Excluding Muscle Shoals, where the customer base has undergone a strategic shift since 2010, the length of our relationships with our most significant customers averages 25 years, and in some cases reaches as many as 40 years, particularly with our packaging and aerospace customers. Generally, we have 3 to 5 year terms in contracts with our packaging customers, five-year terms in contracts with our largest aerospace customers, and 3 to 7 year terms in our “life of a car platform/car model” contracts with our automotive customers.

Most of our major packaging, aerospace and automotive customers have multi-year contracts with us (i.e., contracts with terms of three to five years). At the end of 2016, we estimate that approximately 70% of our volumes for 2016 were generated under multi-year contracts, more than 70% were governed by contracts valid

 

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until 2017 and more than 55% were governed by contracts valid until 2018 or later. In addition, more than 35% of our packaging volumes are contracted through 2019. This provides us with significant visibility into our future volumes and earnings.

We see our relationships with our customers as partnerships where we work together to find customized solutions to meet their evolving requirements. In addition, we collaborate with our customers to complete a rigorous process for qualifying our products in each of our end-markets, which requires substantial time and investment and creates high switching costs, resulting in longer-term, mutually beneficial relationships with our customers. For example, in the packaging industry, where qualification happens on a plant-by-plant basis, we are currently one of the exclusively qualified suppliers to several facilities of our customers.

Our product portfolio is predominantly focused on high value-added products, which we believe we are particularly well-suited to developing and manufacturing for our customers. These products tend to require close collaboration with our customers to develop tailored solutions, as well as significant effort and investment to adhere to rigorous qualification procedures, which enables us to foster long-term relationships with our customers. Our products typically command higher margins than more commoditized products, and are supplied to end-markets that we believe have highly attractive characteristics and long-term growth trends.

Our Services

We believe that there are significant opportunities to improve the services and quality that we provide to our customers and to reduce our manufacturing costs by implementing manufacturing excellence initiatives. Manufacturing excellence is a production practice that improves efficiency of operations by identifying and removing tasks and process steps that do not contribute to value creation for the end customer. We continually evaluate debottlenecking opportunities globally through modifications of and investments in existing equipment and processes. We aim to establish best-in-class operations and achieve cost reductions by standardizing manufacturing processes and the associated upstream and downstream production elements where possible, while still allowing the flexibility to respond to local market demands and volatility.

Competition

The worldwide aluminium industry is highly competitive and we expect this dynamic to continue for the foreseeable future. We believe the most important competitive factors in our industry are: product quality, price, timeliness of delivery and customer service, geographic coverage and product innovation. Aluminium competes with other materials such as steel, plastic, composite materials and glass for various applications. Our key competitors in our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products operating segment are Novelis Inc., Norsk Hydro ASA, Alcoa Corporation, Arconic Inc. and Tri-Arrows Aluminum Inc. Our key competitors in our Aerospace & Transportation operating segment are Arconic Inc., Aleris International, Inc., Kaiser Aluminum Corp., Austria Metall AG, and Universal Alloy Corporation. Our key competitors in our Automotive Structures & Industry operating segment are Sapa AB, Sankyo Tateyama, Inc., Eural Gnutti S.p.A., Otto Fuchs KG, Impol Aluminium Corp., Benteler International AG, Whitehall Industries, Step-G, and Metra Aluminum.

Research and Development (R&D)

We believe that our R&D capabilities coupled with our integrated, longstanding customer relationships create a distinctive competitive advantage versus our competition. Our R&D center is based in Voreppe, France and provides services and support to all of our facilities. The R&D center focuses on product and process development, provides technical assistance to our plants and works with our customers to develop new products. In developing new products, we focus on increased performance that aims to lower the total cost of ownership for the end users of our products, for example, by developing materials that decrease maintenance costs of aircraft or increase fuel efficiency in cars. As of December 31, 2016, the R&D center employs 237 employees, including approximately 119 scientists and 118 technicians.

 

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Within the Voreppe facility, we also focus on the development, improvement, and testing of processes used in our plants such as melting, casting, rolling, extruding, finishing and recycling. We also develop and test technologies used by our customers, such as friction stir welding, and provide technological support to our customers.

The key contributors to our success in establishing our R&D capabilities include:

 

    Close interaction with key customers, including through formal partnerships or joint development teams—examples include Strongalex ® , Formalex ® and Surfalex ® , which were developed with automotive customers (mainly Daimler and Audi) and the Fusion bottle, a draw wall ironed technology created in partnership with Rexam/Ball.

 

    Technologically advanced equipment—for example, the breakthrough Airware ® pilot cast house which allowed us to develop Airware ® , a lightweight specialty aluminium-lithium alloy, for our aerospace customers to address increasing demand for lighter and more environmentally sound aircraft.

 

    Long-term partnerships with European universities—for example, RWTH Aachen in Germany and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland generate significant innovation opportunities and foster new ideas.

In 2016, we inaugurated the new Constellium University Technology Center at Brunel University London, a dedicated center of excellence for designing, development and prototyping. In addition, we recently opened a new R&D hub in the United States in Plymouth, Michigan, in order to improve our support to North American customers.

We invested €32 million in R&D in the year ended December 31, 2016, €35 million in R&D in the year ended December 31, 2015, and €38 million in the year ended December 31, 2014.

Trademarks, Patents, Licenses and IT

In connection with the Acquisition, Rio Tinto assigned or licensed to us certain patents, trademarks and other intellectual property rights. In connection with our collaborations with universities such as the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and other third parties, we occasionally obtain royalty-bearing licenses for the use of third-party technologies in the ordinary course of business.

We actively review intellectual property arising from our operations and our R&D activities and, when appropriate, apply for patents in the appropriate jurisdictions. We currently hold approximately 180 active patent families and regularly apply for new ones. While these patents and patent applications are important to the business on an aggregate basis, we do not believe any single patent family or patent application is critical to the business.

We are from time to time involved in opposition and reexamination proceedings that we consider to be part of the ordinary course of our business, in particular at the European Patent Office, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and the State Intellectual Property Office of the People’s Republic of China. We believe that the outcome of existing proceedings would not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Insurance

We have implemented a corporate-wide insurance program consisting of both corporate-wide master policies with worldwide coverage and local policies where required by applicable regulations. Our insurance coverage includes: (i) property damage and business interruption; (ii) general liability including operation, professional, product and environment liability; (iii) aviation product liability; (iv) marine cargo (transport); (v) business travel and personal accident; (vi) construction all risk (EAR/CAR); (vii) automobile liability; (viii) trade credit; and (ix) other specific coverages for executive and special risks.

 

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We believe that our insurance coverage terms and conditions are customary for a business such as Constellium and are sufficient to protect us against catastrophic losses.

We also purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of our directors and officers.

Governmental Regulations and Environmental, Health and Safety Matters

Our operations are subject to a number of federal, state and local regulations relating to the protection of the environment and to workplace health and safety. Our operations involve the use, handling, storage, transportation and disposal of hazardous substances, and accordingly we are subject to extensive federal, state and local laws and regulations governing emissions to air, discharges to water emissions, the generation, storage, transportation, treatment or disposal of hazardous materials or wastes and employee health and safety matters. In addition, prior operations at certain of our properties have resulted in contamination of soil and groundwater which we are required to investigate and remediate pursuant to applicable environmental, health and safety (“EHS”) laws. Environmental compliance at our key facilities is overseen by the Direction Régionale de l’Environnement de l’Aménagement et du Logement in France, the Umweltbundesamt in Germany, the Service de la Protection de l’Environnement du Canton du Valais in Switzerland, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, the Alabama Department of the Environmental Management and the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection in the United States, the Regional Authority of the Usti Region in the Czech Republic, the Slovenká Inšpekcia životného prostredia in Slovakia, and the Environmental Monitoring Agency in China. Violations of EHS laws, and remediation obligations arising under such laws, may result in restrictions being imposed on our operating activities as well as fines, penalties, damages or other costs. Accordingly, we have implemented EHS policies and procedures to protect the environment and ensure compliance with these laws, and incorporate EHS considerations into our planning for new projects. We perform regular risk assessments and EHS reviews. We closely and systematically monitor and manage situations of noncompliance with EHS laws and cooperate with authorities to redress any noncompliance issues. We believe that we have made adequate reserves with respect to our remediation obligations. Nevertheless, new regulations or other unforeseen increases in the number of our noncompliant situations may impose costs on us that may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

Our operations also result in the emission of substantial quantities of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that is regulated under the EU’s Emissions Trading System (“ETS”). Although compliance with ETS to date has not resulted in material costs to our business, compliance with ETS requirements currently being developed for the 2017-2021 period, and increased energy costs due to ETS requirements imposed on our energy suppliers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. We may also be liable for personal injury claims or workers’ compensation claims relating to exposure to hazardous substances. In addition, we are, from time to time, subject to environmental reviews and investigations by relevant governmental authorities.

Directive 2010/75 titled “Industrial Emissions” regulates some of our European activities as recycling or melting/casting. With the revision of the Best Available Technics Reference of Non Ferrous Metals in 2016, which defines associated emissions limits values for these activities, within the next four years, staying in compliance with the law, could require significant expenditures to tune our processes or implement abatement installations.

Additionally, some of the chemicals we use in our fabrication processes are subject to REACH in the EU. Under REACH, we are required to register some of the substances contained in our products with the European Chemicals Agency, and this process could cause significant delays or costs. We are currently compliant with REACH, and expect to stay in compliance, but if the nature of the regulation changes in the future or if substances we use currently in our process, considered as Substances of Very High Concern, fall under need of authorization for use, we may be required to make significant expenditures to reformulate the chemicals that we use in our products and materials or incur costs to register such chemicals to gain and/or regain compliance.

 

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Future noncompliance could also subject us to significant fines or other civil and criminal penalties. Obtaining regulatory approvals for chemical products used in our facilities is an important part of our operations.

We accrue for costs associated with environmental investigations and remedial efforts when it becomes probable that we are liable and the associated costs can be reasonably estimated. The aggregate close down and environmental restoration costs provisions at December 31, 2016 were €88 million. All accrued amounts have been recorded without giving effect to any possible future recoveries. With respect to ongoing environmental compliance costs, including maintenance and monitoring, we expense the costs when incurred.

We have incurred, and in the future will continue to incur, operating expenses related to environmental compliance. As part of the general capital expenditure plan, we expect to incur capital expenditures for other capital projects that may, in addition to improving operations, reduce certain environmental impacts as energy consumption, air emissions, water releases, wastes streams optimization.

Litigation and Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we are party to a variety of claims and legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. The Company is currently not involved, nor has it been involved during the 12-month period immediately prior to the date of this Annual Report, in any governmental, legal or arbitration proceedings which may have or have had a significant effect on the Company’s business, financial position or profitability, and the Company is not aware of any such proceedings which are currently pending or threatened. From time to time, asbestos-related claims are also filed against us, relating to historic asbestos exposure in our production process. We have made reserves for potential occupational disease claims for a total of €4 million as of December 31, 2016. It is not anticipated that any of our currently pending litigation and proceedings will have a material effect on the future results of the Company.

 

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C. Organizational Structure

The following diagram summarizes our corporate legal entity structure as of February 1, 2017, including our significant subsidiaries.

 

LOGO

 

D. Property, Plants and Equipment

At December 31, 2016, we operated 22 production sites serving both global and local customers, including seven major facilities, one R&D center in Europe with a hub in the U.S., and one university technology center. In addition, we are building one new facility in Bartow County, Georgia, USA, and one new facility in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Our top seven sites (Neuf-Brisach, Muscle Shoals, Ravenswood, Issoire, Děčín, Singen and Sierre) make up a total of approximately 1,400,000 square meters. A summary of the seven major facilities is provided below:

 

    The Neuf-Brisach, France facility is an integrated aluminium rolling, finishing and recycling facility in Europe. Our investments in a can body stock slitter and recycling furnace has enabled us to secure long-term can stock contracts. Additionally, our latest investment in a new state-of-the-art automotive finishing line has further strengthened the plant’s position as a significant supplier of aluminium Auto Body Sheet in the automotive market. We invested €165 million in the facility in the two-year period ended December 31, 2016.

 

   

The Muscle Shoals, Alabama facility operates one of the largest and most efficient can reclamation facilities in the world. In addition, the facility utilizes multi-station electromagnetic casting, houses the widest hot line in North America and has the fastest can end stock coating line in the world. Production

 

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capabilities include body stock, tab stock, and end stock. In addition, we will start producing automotive cold coils for body sheet in 2017. We invested €134 million in the facility in the two-year period ended December 31, 2016.

 

    The Ravenswood, West Virginia facility has significant assets for producing aerospace plates and is a recognized supplier to the defense industry. The facility has wide-coil capabilities and stretchers that make it the only facility in the world capable of producing plates of a size needed for the largest commercial aircraft. We invested €80 million in the facility in the two-year period ended December 31, 2016.

 

    The Issoire, France facility is one of the world’s two leading aerospace plate mills based on volumes. A second Airware ® industrial casthouse started operations in 2015 and currently uses recycling capabilities to take back scrap along the entire fabrication chain. Issoire works as an integrated platform with Ravenswood, providing a significant competitive advantage for us as a global supplier to the aerospace industry. We invested €110 million in the facility in the two-year period ended December 31, 2016.

 

    The Děčín, Czech Republic facility is a large extrusion facility, mainly focusing on hard alloy extrusions for automotive and industrial applications, with significant recycling capabilities. It is located near the German border, strategically positioning it to supply the German, Czech and French Tier1s and OEMs. Its integrated casthouse allows it to offer high value-add customized hard alloys to our customers. We invested €24 million in the facility in the two-year period ended December 31, 2016. The investments include a new small lot size casthouse, extrusion line and drawing line that increased production of hard alloys bars by almost 10,000 tons per year, expanding our capabilities to serve the automotive market.

 

    The Singen, Germany rolling plant has industry leading cycle times and high-grade cold mills with special surfaces capabilities to serve automotive and other markets. The extrusion part has one of the largest extrusion presses in the world as well as advanced and highly productive integrated automotive bumper manufacturing lines. A dedicated unit allows the production of crash management applications as well as finished side-impact beams ready for the OEMs assembly lines. We invested €60 million in the facility in the two-year period ended December 31, 2016.

 

    The Sierre, Switzerland facility is dedicated to precision plates for general engineering, aero plates and slabs and is a leading supplier of extruded products for high-speed train railway manufacturers and a wide range of applications. The Sierre facility includes the Steg casthouse that produces automotive, general engineering and aero slabs and the Chippis casthouse that has the capacity to produce non-standard billets for a wide range of extrusions. Its recent qualification as an aerospace plate and slabs plant increases our aerospace production and will help us to support the increased build rates of commercial aircraft OEMs. We invested €28 million in the facility in the two-year period ended December 31, 2016.

Our current production facilities are listed below by operating segment:

 

Operating Segment(1)

 

Location

  

Country

  

Owned/
Leased

Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products

  Biesheim, Neuf-Brisach    France    Owned

Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products

  Singen    Germany    Owned

Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products

  Muscle Shoals, AL    United States    Owned

Aerospace & Transportation

  Ravenswood, WV    United States    Owned

Aerospace & Transportation

  Issoire    France    Owned

Aerospace & Transportation

  Montreuil-Juigné    France    Owned

Aerospace & Transportation

  Ussel    France    Owned

Aerospace & Transportation

  Steg    Switzerland    Owned

Aerospace & Transportation

  Sierre    Switzerland    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Van Buren, MI    United States    Leased

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Changchun, Jilin Province (JV)    China    Leased

 

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Operating Segment(1)

 

Location

  

Country

  

Owned/
Leased

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Děčín    Czech Republic    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Nuits-Saint-Georges    France    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Burg    Germany    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Crailsheim    Germany    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Neckarsulm    Germany    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Gottmadingen    Germany    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Landau/Pfalz    Germany    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Singen    Germany    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Levice    Slovakia    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Chippis    Switzerland    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Sierre    Switzerland    Owned

Automotive Structures & Industry

  Lakeshore, Ontario (JV)(2)    Canada    Leased

 

(1) For our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products operating segment, this table does not include our Joint Venture in Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA, with UACJ Corporation, which is 51% owned by Constellium and accounted for under the equity method. Carquefou facility was divested on February 1, 2016.
(2) Constellium Joint Venture with Can Art.

The production capacity and utilization rate for our main plants are listed below as of December 31, 2016:

 

Plant

   Capacity    Utilization Rate

Neuf-Brisach

   450 kt    90-95%

Muscle Shoals

   500-550 kt    75%

Issoire

   110 kt    90-95%

Ravenswood

   175 kt    90-95%

Děčín

   85 kt    80%

Singen

   290-310 kt    70-75%

Sierre

   70-75 kt    50%

 

Estimates are theoretical output capacity assuming currently operating equipment, current staffing configuration and current product mix.

For information concerning the material plans to construct, expand or improve facilities, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

The following discussion and analysis is based principally on our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 included elsewhere in this Annual Report. The following discussion is to be read in conjunction with Selected Financial Data and our audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

The following discussion and analysis includes forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results to differ

 

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materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to these differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed below and elsewhere in this Annual Report. See in particular “Important Information and Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors.”

Introduction

The following discussion and analysis is provided to supplement the audited consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this Annual Report to help provide an understanding of our financial condition, changes in financial condition, results of our operations, and liquidity. This section is organized as follows:

 

    Company Overview. This section provides a general description of our business.

 

    Our Operating Segments. This section provides a summary of each of our operating segments, including a description of the end markets to which they sell and the industries in which they operate.

 

    Discontinued Operations and Disposals. This section provides a summary of completed and contemplated disposals of businesses.

 

    Key Factors Influencing Constellium’s Financial Condition and Results from Operations. This section provides a description of the factors and trends that may significantly affect our financial condition, results from operations, or liquidity from year to year.

 

    Results of Operations. This section provides a discussion of the results of operations on a historical basis for each of our fiscal periods in the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

    Segment Results. This section provides a discussion of our segment results on a historical basis for each of our fiscal periods in the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

    Liquidity and Capital Resources. This section provides an analysis of our cash flows for each of our fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

    Contractual Obligations. This section provides a discussion of our commitments and expected future payments under each category as of December 31, 2016.

 

    Pension Obligations. This section provides a summary of the post-retirement benefit plans in which our employees across Constellium’s global operations participate.

Company Overview

We are a global leader in the development, manufacture and sale of a broad range of highly engineered, value-added specialty rolled and extruded aluminium products to the packaging, aerospace, automotive, other transportation and industrial end-markets. Our leadership positions include a leading position in European and North American can body stock market, a number one position in the global aerospace plate market and a leading global position in the aluminium automotive structures market. This global leadership is supported by our well-invested facilities in Europe and the United States, as well as more than 50 years of proven ability to deliver manufacturing quality and innovation, a global sales network and pre-eminent R&D capabilities.

As of December 31, 2016, we had approximately 11,000 employees and 22 “state-of-the-art”, integrated production facilities (including our joint-venture with UACJ), nine administrative and commercial sites, one R&D center in Europe with a hub in the U.S., and one university technology center.

Our product portfolio is predominantly focused on high value-added, technologically advanced specialty products that command higher margins than less differentiated aluminium products. This portfolio serves a broad range of end-markets that exhibit attractive growth trends in future periods such as the aerospace and automotive

 

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markets. Our technological advantage and relationship with our customers are driven by our pre-eminent R&D capabilities. We believe that our R&D capabilities are a key attraction for our customers. Many projects are designed to support specific commercial opportunities at the request of our customers and are carried out in partnership with them.

This regular interaction and partnership with our customers also help us maintain our leading market positions. We have long-standing, established relationships with some of the largest companies in the packaging, aerospace, automotive and other transportation industries including Rexam/Ball, Crown, and Amcor, Boeing and Airbus, as well as a number of leading automotive firms. Excluding Muscle Shoals, where the customer base has undergone a strategic shift since 2010, the length of our relationships with our most significant customers averages 25 years, and in some cases as many as 40 years, particularly with our packaging and aerospace customers. Generally, we have three to five-year terms in contracts with our packaging customers, five year terms in contracts with our largest aerospace customers, and three to seven-year terms in our “life of a car platform/car model” contracts with our automotive customers.

A material portion of our slab and billet supply is produced in our own casthouses, using primarily recycled aluminium. Our primary metal supply is secured through long-term contracts with several upstream companies, including affiliates of Rio Tinto.

The table below presents our revenue, net income or loss and Adjusted EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. A reconciliation of net income or loss to Adjusted EBITDA is included in “—Segment Results.”

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
       2016          2015          2014    
     (€ in millions)  

Revenue

     4,743        5,153        3,666  

Net (loss)/income from continuing operations

     (4      (552      54  

Adjusted EBITDA

     377        343        275  

Our Operating Segments

We serve a diverse set of customers across a broad range of end-markets with very different product needs, specifications and requirements. As a result, we have organized our business into the following three segments to better serve our customer base:

Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products Segment

Our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products segment produces and develops customized aluminium sheet and coil solutions. Approximately 85% of segment volume for the year ended December 31, 2016 was in packaging applications, which primarily include beverage and food can stock as well as closure stock and foil stock. Eleven percent of segment volume for that period was in automotive rolled products. Our Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products segment accounted for 52% of revenues and 53% 9 of Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Aerospace & Transportation Segment

Our Aerospace & Transportation segment has market leadership positions in technologically advanced aluminium and specialty materials products with wide applications across the global aerospace, defense, transportation, and industrial sectors. We offer a wide range of products including plate and sheet which allows

 

9   The difference between the sum of reported segment Adjusted EBITDA and the Group Adjusted EBITDA is related to Holdings and Corporate.

 

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us to offer tailored solutions to our customers. We seek to differentiate our products and act as a key partner to our customers through our broad product range, advanced R&D capabilities, extensive recycling capabilities and portfolio of plants with an extensive range of capabilities across Europe and North America. In order to reinforce the competitiveness of our metal solutions, we design our processes and alloys with a view to optimizing our customers’ operations and costs. This includes offering services such as customizing alloys to our customers’ processing requirements, processing short lead time orders and providing vendor managed inventories or tolling arrangements. Aerospace & Transportation accounted for 27% of revenues and 27% 10 of Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Automotive Structures & Industry Segment

Our Automotive Structures & Industry segment produces (i) technologically advanced structures for the automotive industry, including crash management systems, side impact beams and cockpit carriers and (ii) soft and hard alloy extrusions and large extruded profiles for automotive, railroad, energy, building and industrial applications. We complement our products with a comprehensive offering of downstream technology and service activities, which include pre-machining, surface treatment, R&D and technical support services. Our Automotive Structures & Industry segment accounted for 21% of revenues and 27% (10) of Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Discontinued Operations and Disposals

In the first quarter of 2015, we decided to dispose of our plant in Carquefou (France) which was part of our A&T operating segment and it was classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015, accordingly. An €8 million charge was recorded upon the write-down of the related assets to their net realizable value. The sale was completed on February 1, 2016 and no gain was recognized upon disposal.

In the year ended December 31, 2014, the sale of our Tarascon-sur-Ariège (Sabart) plant in France was completed generating a €7 million loss on disposal. This operation did not meet the criteria of discontinued operations in accordance with IFRS and therefore has not been classified or disclosed as such.

Key Factors Influencing Constellium’s Financial Condition and Results from Operations

The Aluminium Industry

We participate in select segments of the aluminium semi-fabricated products industry, including rolled and extruded products. We do not mine bauxite, refine alumina, or smelt primary aluminium as part of our business.

Our industry is cyclical and is affected by global economic conditions, industry competition and product development.

Aluminium is lightweight, has a high strength-to-weight ratio and is resistant to corrosion. It compares favorably to several alternative materials, such as steel, in these respects. Aluminium is also unique in the respect that it recycles repeatedly without any material decline in performance or quality. The recycling of aluminium delivers energy and capital investment savings relative to the cost of producing both primary aluminium and many other competing materials. Due to these qualities, the penetration of aluminium into a wide variety of applications continues to increase. We believe that long-term growth in aluminium consumption generally, and demand for those products we produce specifically, will be supported by factors that include growing populations, purchasing power and increasing focus globally on sustainability and environmental issues. Aluminium is increasingly seen as the material of choice in a number of applications, including packaging, aerospace and automotive.

 

10   The difference between the sum of reported segment Adjusted EBITDA and the Group Adjusted EBITDA is related to Holdings and Corporate.

 

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Aluminium prices are determined by worldwide forces of supply and demand and, as a result they are volatile. The average LME transaction price per ton of primary aluminium in 2016, 2015 and 2014 was €1,452, €1,498 and €1,410, respectively. Average quarterly prices per ton for LME and regional premiums are presented in the tales below:

Average quarterly LME per ton using U.S. dollar prices converted to Euros using the applicable European Central Bank rates:

 

(Euros/ton)    2016      2015      2014  

First Quarter

     1,374        1,600        1,247  

Second Quarter

     1,393        1,600        1,312  

Third Quarter

     1,451        1,431        1,500  

Fourth Quarter

     1,588        1,366        1,573  

Average for the year

     1,452        1,498        1,410  

Average quarterly Midwest Premium per ton using U.S. dollar prices converted to Euros using the applicable European Central Bank rates:

 

(Euros/ton)    2016      2015      2014  

First Quarter

     173        449        301  

Second Quarter

     153        257        302  

Third Quarter

     125        159        338  

Fourth Quarter

     154        163        409  

Average for the year

     151        255        338  

Average quarterly Rotterdam Premium per ton using U.S. dollar prices converted to Euros using the applicable European Central Bank rates:

 

(Euros/ton)    2016      2015      2014  

First Quarter

     133        382        249  

Second Quarter

     117        188        286  

Third Quarter

     107        139        345  

Fourth Quarter

     121        143        399  

Average for the year

     119        211        321  

The financial performance of our operations is dependent on several factors, the most critical of which are as follows:

Economic Conditions and Markets

We are directly impacted by the economic conditions that affect our customers and the markets in which they operate. General economic conditions in the geographic regions in which our customers operate—such as the level of disposable income, the level of inflation, the rate of economic growth, the rate of unemployment, exchange rates and currency devaluation or revaluation—influence consumer confidence and consumer purchasing power. These factors, in turn, influence the demand for our products in terms of total volumes and the price that can be charged. In some cases we are able to mitigate the risk of a downturn in our customers’ businesses by building committed minimum volume thresholds into our commercial contracts. We further seek to mitigate the risk of a downturn by utilizing a temporary workforce for certain operations, which allows us to match our resources with the demand for our services. We are also seeking to purchase transportation and logistics services from third parties, to the extent possible, in order to limit capital expenditure and manage our fixed cost base.

 

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Although the metals industry and our end-markets are cyclical in nature and expose us to related risks, we believe that our portfolio is relatively resistant to these economic cycles in each of our three main end-markets (packaging, aerospace and automotive):

 

    Can packaging is a seasonal market peaking in the summer because of the increased consumption of soft drinks and other beverages like beer during the summer months. It tends not to be highly correlated to the general economic cycle and in addition, we believe European can body stock has an attractive long-term growth outlook due to ongoing trends in (i) end-market growth in beer, soft drinks and energy drinks, (ii) increasing use of cans versus glass in the beer market, and (iii) increasing penetration of aluminium in can body stock at the expense of steel.

 

    We believe that the aerospace industry is currently insulated from the economic cycle through a combination of drivers sustaining its growth. These drivers include increasing passenger traffic and the replacement of the fleet fueled by the age of the planes in service and the need for more efficient planes. These factors have materialized in the form of historically high backlogs for the aircraft manufacturers; the combined order backlog for Boeing and Airbus currently represents approximately 8 to 9 years of manufacturing at current delivery rates.

 

    Although the automotive industry as a whole is a cyclical industry, its demand for aluminium has been increasing in recent years. This has been triggered by the light-weighting demand for new car models, which drives a positive substitution of heavier metals in favor of aluminium.

In addition to the counter-cyclicality of our key end-markets, we believe our cash flows are also largely protected from variations in LME prices due to the fact that we hedge our sales based on their replacement cost, by setting the maturity of our futures on the delivery date to our customers. As a result, when LME prices increase, we have limited additional cash requirements to finance the increased replacement cost of our inventory.

Seasonality

Customer demand in the aluminium industry is cyclical due to a variety of factors, including holiday seasons, weather conditions, economic and other factors beyond our control. Our volumes are impacted by the timing of the holiday seasons in particular, with the lowest volumes typically delivered in August and December and highest volumes delivered in January to June. Our business is also impacted by seasonal slowdowns and upturns in certain of our customers’ industries. Historically, the can industry is strongest in the spring and summer seasons, whereas the automotive and construction sectors encounter slowdowns in both the third and fourth quarters of the calendar year. In response to this seasonality, we seek to scale back and may even temporarily close some operations to reduce our operating costs during these periods.

Volumes

The profitability of our businesses is determined, in part, by the volume of tons processed and sold. Increased production volumes will result in lower per unit costs, while higher sold volumes will result in additional revenues and associated margins.

Product Price and Margin

Our products are typically priced based on three components, (i) LME, (ii) regional premiums and (iii) a conversion margin. We seek to minimize the impact of aluminium price fluctuations by protecting our net income and cash flows against the LME and premium price variations with the following methods:

 

    In cases where we are able to align the price and quantity of physical aluminium purchases with that of physical aluminium sales, we do not need to employ derivative instruments to further mitigate our exposure, regardless of whether the LME portion of the price is fixed or floating.

 

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    However, when we are unable to align the price and quantity of physical aluminium purchases with that of physical aluminium sales, we enter into derivative financial instruments to pass through the exposure to financial institutions at the time the price is set.

For a small portion of our volumes, the aluminium is owned by our customers and we bear no aluminium price risk.

With the exception of the derivative instruments we entered into in connection with the acquisition of Wise and certain derivative instruments entered into in 2016 to hedge the foreign currency risk associated with the cash flows of highly probable forecasted sales, which we have designated for hedge accounting, we do not apply hedge accounting for the derivative instruments and therefore any mark-to-market movements for these instruments are recognized in “other (gains)/losses—net”. Our risk management practices aim to reduce, but do not entirely eliminate, our exposure to changing primary aluminium and regional premium prices. Moreover, while we limit our exposure to unfavorable price changes, we also limit our ability to benefit from favorable price changes.

In addition, our operations require that a significant amount of inventory be kept on hand to meet future production requirements. The value of the base level of inventory is also susceptible to changing primary aluminium prices. In order to reduce these exposures, we focus on reducing inventory levels and offsetting future physical purchases and sales.

We refer to the timing difference between the price of primary aluminium included in our revenues and the price of aluminium impacting our cost of sales as “metal price lag.”

Also included in our results is the impact of differences between changes in the prices of primary and scrap aluminium. As we price our product using the prevailing price of primary aluminium but purchase large amounts of scrap aluminium to manufacture our products, we benefit when primary aluminium price increases exceed scrap price increases. Conversely, when scrap price increases exceed primary aluminium price increases, our results are negatively impacted. The difference between the price of primary aluminium and scrap prices is referred to as the “scrap spread” and is impacted by the effectiveness of our scrap purchasing activities, the supply of scrap available and movements in the terminal commodity markets.

The price we pay for aluminium also includes regional premiums, such as the Rotterdam premium for metal purchased in Europe or the Midwest premium for metal purchased in the United States. The regional premiums which had historically been fairly stable have recently become more volatile. Notably, regional premiums increased significantly in 2013 and 2014, with the Rotterdam premium and the Midwest premium reaching unprecedented levels in the fourth quarter of 2014. During the second half of 2015, both the Rotterdam and Midwest premiums returned to levels seen prior to 2013. Although our business model seeks to minimize the impact of aluminium price fluctuations on our net income and cash flows, we are not always able to pass-through the cost of regional premiums to our customers or adequately hedge the impact of regional premium differentials. We refer to this exposure as “metal premium losses.” See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Our financial results could be adversely affected by the volatility in aluminium prices.”

The conversion margin is the margin we earn over the cost of our metal inputs. We seek to maximize our conversion margins based on the value-added product capabilities we provide and the supply/demand dynamics in the market.

Personnel Costs

Our operations are labor intensive and, as a result, our personnel costs represent 20%, 18% and 20% of our cost of sales, selling and administrative expenses and R&D expenses for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 respectively.

 

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Personnel costs generally increase and decrease proportionately with the expansion, addition or closing of operating facilities. Personnel costs include the salaries, wages and benefits of our employees, as well as costs related to temporary labor. During our seasonal peaks and especially during summer months, we have historically increased our temporary workforce to compensate for staff on vacation and increased volume of activity.

Currency

We are a global company with operations as of December 31, 2016 in France, the United States, Germany, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and China. As a result, our revenue and earnings have exposure to a number of currencies, primarily the U.S. dollar, the Euro and the Swiss Franc. As our presentation currency is the Euro, and the functional currencies of the businesses located outside of the Eurozone are primarily the U.S. dollar and the Swiss franc, the results of the businesses located outside of the Eurozone must be translated each period to Euros. Accordingly, fluctuations in the exchange rate of the functional currencies of our businesses located outside of the Eurozone against the Euro impacts our results of operations. This impact is referred to as the “effect of foreign currency translation” in the “Results of Operations” discussion below. We calculate the effect of foreign currency translation by converting our current period local currency financial information using the prior period foreign currency average exchange rates and comparing these adjusted amounts to our prior period reported results. This calculation may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies and, accordingly, the changes excluding the effect of foreign currency translation are not meant to substitute for changes in recorded amounts presented in conformity with IFRS nor should such amounts be considered in isolation. When discussing the revenue and Adjusted EBITDA of our P&ARP segment for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 2014, we exclude the impact of the Wise Acquisition on year over year changes. As Wise is the only business within our P&ARP segment with a functional currency that is different from our presentation currency, year over year changes that exclude the impact of the Wise Acquisition are not impacted by the effect of foreign currency translation.

Transaction impacts arise when our businesses transact in a currency other than their own functional currency. As a result, we are exposed to foreign exchange risk on payments and receipts in multiple currencies. Where we have multiple-year sale agreements for the sale of fabricated metal products in U.S. dollars, we have entered into derivative contracts to forward sell U.S. dollars to match these future sales. With the exception of certain derivative instruments entered into in 2016 to hedge the foreign currency risk associated with the cash flows of certain highly probable forecasted sales, which we have designated for hedge accounting, hedge accounting is not applied to such ongoing commercial transactions and therefore the mark-to-market impact is recorded in “other gains/(losses)—net.”

Acquisition of Wise

On January 5, 2015, we acquired 100% of Wise, a private aluminium sheet producer located in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, United States of America. As we have a controlling interest in the acquired business, its results of operations have been consolidated as of the date of the acquisition. Given the size of the acquired business relative to our legacy businesses and the timing of the Wise Acquisition, the consolidation of the results of the acquired business have had a significant impact in 2015 on our cash flows and the year over year change in certain key line items of the consolidated statement of income. To the extent our cash flows or the change in an income statement item was significantly impacted by the addition of Wise to our consolidated results in the year ended December 31, 2015, we have indicated this and excluded the associated impact when discussing the results of our analysis of the year over year changes. The results of Wise since its acquisition are reported in our P&ARP segment.

Presentation of Financial Information

The financial information presented in this section is derived from our audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. Our consolidated financial statements have

 

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been prepared in conformity with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, and in conformity with IFRS as endorsed by the EU.

In 2016, we changed the presentation of interest paid in our cash flow statement. Interest paid, which we previously reported as net cash flows from/(used in) financing activity, is now reported in net cash flows from operating activities and comparative amounts for the prior years were reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. See Note 2 – Summary of significant accounting policies to our audited consolidated financial statements as of and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Results of Operations

Description of Key Line Items of the Historical Consolidated Statements of Income

A brief description of the composition of the key line items of our historical consolidated statements of income for continuing operations is set forth below:

 

    Revenue . Revenue represents the income recognized from the delivery of goods to third parties, including the sale of scrap metal and tooling, less discounts, credit notes and taxes levied on sales.

 

    Cost of sales . Cost of sales include the costs of materials directly attributable to the normal operating activities of the business, including raw material and energy costs, personnel costs for those involved in production, depreciation and the maintenance of producing assets, packaging and freight on-board costs, tooling, dies and utility costs.

 

    Selling and administrative expenses . Selling and administrative expenses include depreciation of non-producing assets, amortization, personnel costs of those personnel involved in sales and corporate functions such as finance and IT.

 

    R&D expenses . R&D expenses are costs in relation to bringing new products to market. These expenses include personnel costs and depreciation and maintenance of assets offset by tax credits for research activities, where applicable.

 

    Restructuring costs . Restructuring costs represent expenses incurred in implementing management initiatives for cost-cutting and efficiency improvements, primarily related to severance payments, pension curtailment costs and contract termination costs.

 

    Impairment . Impairment represents asset impairment charges.

 

    Other gains/(losses)—net . Other gains or losses include unusual infrequent or non-recurring items, realized and unrealized gains or losses on derivative instruments and exchange gains or losses on the remeasurement of monetary assets or liabilities.

 

    Finance costs, net . Finance costs, net is comprised mainly of interest expense on borrowings, and the net impact of realized foreign exchange transaction gains or losses recognized on U.S. dollar denominated debt at Euro functional currency entities and realized and unrealized gains or losses recognized on cross currency swaps entered in to in order to hedge this transactional exposure.

 

    Share of (loss)/profit of joint ventures . Results from investments in joint ventures represent Constellium’s share of results of joint ventures accounted for using the equity method.

 

    Income taxes . Income tax represents the aggregate of current and deferred tax expense or benefit. Current tax is the amount of income taxes payable (recoverable) in respect of the taxable profit/(loss) for a year. Deferred tax represents the amounts of income taxes payable/ (recoverable) in future periods in respect of taxable (deductible) temporary differences and unused tax losses.

 

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Results of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2016     2015  
     (€ in millions and as a % of revenues)  
            %            %  

Revenue

     4,743        100     5,153        100

Cost of sales

     (4,227      89     (4,703      91
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit

     516        11     450        9
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Selling and administrative expenses

     (254      5     (245      5

Research and development expenses

     (32      1     (35      1

Restructuring costs

     (5            (8       

Impairment

                  (457      9

Other gains/(losses) net

     21              (131      3
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

     246        5     (426      8

Finance costs, net

     (167      4     (155      3

Share of loss of joint ventures

     (14            (3       
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     65        1     (584      11

Income tax benefit/(expense)

     (69      1     32        1
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net (loss)/income

     (4            (552      11
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Shipment volumes (in kt)

     1,470        n/a       1,478        n/a  

Revenue per ton (€ per ton)

     3,227        n/a       3,486        n/a  

Revenue

Revenue decreased by 8% or €410 million to €4,743 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from €5,153 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. This decrease reflects lower average revenue per ton as well as a slight decrease in shipments.

Sales volumes decreased by 1%, or 8 kt, to 1,470 kt for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to 1,478 kt for the year ended December 31, 2015. This decrease is primarily driven by lower shipment volumes in our P&ARP segment offset by higher year over year shipments in our A&T and AS&I segments.

Average sales prices declined by €259 per ton, or 7%, from €3,486 to €3,227, mainly attributable to the year over year decrease in aluminium market prices, coupled with the drop in regional premium both in Europe and North America.

Our revenue is discussed in more detail in the “—Segment Results” section.

Cost of Sales and Gross Profit

Cost of sales decreased by 10%, or €476 million, to €4,227 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from €4,703 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.

This decrease in cost of sales was driven by the following:

 

    A decrease of €384 million, or 12%, in the total cost of raw material and consumables used primarily reflecting a decrease in the costs per ton as a result of lower LME prices and regional premiums, compared to the prior year.

 

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    A decrease of €83 million, or 15%, in non-labor costs, primarily reflecting operational improvements, particularly at our Muscle Shoals facility, and the impact of non-recurring items related to the acquisition and integration of Wise Metals recognized in the prior year.

 

    A decrease of €28 million in energy expense driven by lower electricity and natural gas prices.

 

    An increase of €15 million in depreciation and amortization driven by increased investment in our production facilities in prior years to support our operations and respond to market demand.

The combination of the effects described above had a positive impact on gross profit over the period. As a result, our gross profit margin as a percentage of revenue increased to 11% in 2016 from 9% in 2015.

Selling and Administrative Expenses

Selling and administrative expenses increased by 4%, or €9 million, to €254 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 from €245 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, driven by a €6 million increase in labor costs mostly due to inflation and €3 million of costs related to changes in the executive management team which incurred in the year ended December 31, 2016.

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development expenses decreased by 9% or €3 million, to €32 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from €35 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Research and development expenses are presented net of €10 million and €9 million of research and development tax credits received in France for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Research and development expenses, excluding tax credits received were €14 million, €18 million, and €10 million for the P&ARP, A&T, and AS&I segments, respectively, in the year ended December 31, 2016.

Restructuring Costs

In the year ended December 31, 2016, restructuring costs amounted to €5 million and were primarily related to a restructuring plan at our Muscle Shoals facility. Restructuring costs amounted to €8 million in the year ended December 31, 2015, and were primarily incurred in connection with restructuring activities at our Valais (Switzerland) and Muscle Shoals operations.

Impairment

Impairment charges of €457 million were recorded in the year ended December 31, 2015. The impairment charges recorded in 2015 are primarily comprised of a €400 million impairment related to Wise within our P&ARP segment and a €49 million impairment related to our operations in Valais, Switzerland within the AS&I and A&T segments.

 

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Other Gains/(Losses), net

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
              2016                        2015           
(€ in millions)              

Realized losses on derivatives

     (62      (93

Unrealized gains/(losses) on derivatives at fair value through profit and loss—net

     71        (20

Unrealized exchange gains/(losses) from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities—net

     3        (3

Loss on Ravenswood OPEB plan amendment

            (5

Wise purchase price adjustment

     20         

Wise acquisition costs

            (5

Loss on disposal and assets classified as held for sale

     (10      (5

Other—net

     (1       
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other gains/(losses), net

     21        (131
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other gains—net were €21 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to Other losses—net of €131 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Realized losses recognized upon the settlement of derivative instruments amounted to €62 million and €93 million in the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Of these, realized losses on LME derivatives were €16 million and €56 million in the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively and realized losses on foreign exchange derivatives were €46 million and €37 million in the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Unrealized gains on derivative instruments amounted to €71 million in the year ended December 31, 2016 and were primarily comprised of €40 million of gains related to foreign exchange derivatives and €31 million of gains related to LME derivatives. Unrealized losses on derivative instruments amounted to €20 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 and were comprised of €10 million of losses related to foreign exchange derivatives and €10 million of losses related to LME derivatives.

In the year ended December 31, 2016 we recognized a €20 million gain related to the finalization of the contractual price adjustment for the acquisition of Wise Metals.

Losses on disposal and assets classified as held-for-sale recognized in the year ended December 31, 2016 primarily related to the write-off of abandoned development projects in the P&ARP segment. Losses on disposal and assets classified as held-for-sale recognized in the year ended December 31, 2015 primarily related to the write-down of assets at our plant in Carquefou, France upon our decision to sell the plant.

Finance Cost-Net

Finance costs—net increased by €12 million, to €167 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from €155 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. This increase is mainly due to additional interest expense on our $425 million Senior Secured Notes, issued in March 2016.

In the year ended December 31, 2016, foreign exchange net losses from the revaluation of the portion of our U.S. dollars-denominated debt held by Euro functional currency entities amounted to €42 million and was offset by gains on derivative instruments entered into to hedge this exposure. In the year ended December 31, 2015, foreign exchange net losses from the revaluation of the portion of our U.S. dollars-denominated debt held by Euro functional currency entities amounted to €48 million and was offset by gains on derivative instruments entered into to hedge this exposure.

 

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Finance costs-net in the year ended December 31, 2016 also included a €4 million net loss on the settlement of debt which was comprised of a €2 million net loss on the early redemption of the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes and the write-off of €2 million of unamortized arrangement fees upon cancellation of our €145 million Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility in March 2016.

Income Tax

Income tax for the year ended December 31, 2016 was an expense of €69 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to an income tax benefit of €32 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Our effective tax rate represented 106% of our income before income tax for the year ended December 31, 2016 and 5% of our loss before tax for the year ended December 31, 2015. This change in our effective tax rate primarily reflects a decrease in the composite statutory tax rate applicable by tax jurisdiction (the “blended tax rate”), from 38% in 2015 to 25 % in 2016 and the impact of significant reconciling items in both years.

Our blended tax rate decreased by approximately 13 percentage points in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015 as a result of changes in the geographical mix of our pre-tax results and primarily reflected a decrease in our pre-tax losses in the United States where the statutory rate is 40%.

The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2016 applies to €65 million of pre-tax income and is significantly higher than our projected blended statutory tax rate primarily as a result of the unfavorable effect of unrecognized tax benefits for losses in jurisdictions where we believe it is more likely than not that we will not be able to utilize those losses.

The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2015 applies to €584 million of pre-tax loss and is significantly lower than our projected blended statutory tax rate primarily as a result of the unfavorable effect of unrecognized tax benefits for losses in jurisdictions where we believe it is more likely than not that we will not be able to utilize those losses.

Net Income / Loss for the Year

As a result of the above factors, we recognized a net loss of €4 million, in the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to a net loss of €552 million in the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

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Results of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2015     2014  
     (€ in millions and as a % of revenues)  
            %            %  

Continuing operations

          

Revenue

     5,153        100     3,666        100

Cost of sales

     (4,703      91     (3,183      87
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit

     450        9     483        13
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Selling and administrative expenses

     (245      5     (200      5

Research and development expenses

     (35      1     (38      1

Restructuring costs

     (8            (12       

Impairment

     (457      9             

Other losses net

     (131      3     (83      2
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

     (426      8     150        4

Finance costs, net

     (155      3     (58      2

Share of loss of joint ventures

     (3            (1       
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

     (584      11     91        2

Income tax benefit/(expense)

     32        1     (37      1
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income/(loss)

     (552      11     54        1
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Shipment volumes (in kt)

     1,478        n/a       1,062        n/a  

Revenue per ton (€ per ton)

     3,486        n/a       3,452        n/a  

Revenue

Revenue from continuing operations increased by 41% or €1,487 million to €5,153 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €3,666 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Wise, which contributed €1,198 million of revenue in the year ended December 31, 2015, and the effect of foreign currency translation, revenue increased €125 million or 3%.

Excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition, our volumes decreased by 3%, or 27 kt, to 1,035 kt for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to shipments of 1,062 kt for the year ended December 31, 2014. This decrease was primarily driven by lower shipment volumes from our P&ARP segment attributable to a decline in volumes of 28 kt or 5%, excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition, over the period. The year over year decline in volumes was offset by a 6% increase in revenue per ton from €3,452 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €3,663 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2015, excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition and the effect of foreign currency translation. This was primarily driven by favorable mix attributable to higher average prices on automotive and aerospace products.

Our revenue is discussed in more detail in the “—Segment Results” section.

Cost of Sales and Gross Profit

Cost of sales increased by 48%, or €1,520 million, to €4,703 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €3,183 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Wise, which contributed €1,219 million of cost of sales in the year ended December 31, 2015, and the effect of foreign currency translation, cost of sales increased by 5%, or €159 million.

 

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Excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition and the effect of foreign currency translation, the increase in cost of sales was driven by the following:

 

    An increase of €140 million, or 7%, in the total cost of raw material and consumables used. Although total shipment volumes declined as explained further in the “Revenue” section above, the raw material and consumables cost per ton increased by 9%, reflective of the impact of metal price lag which changed from a positive impact in 2014 to a negative impact in 2015 (€72 million negative impact on cost of sales over the period) and higher combined LME prices and premium in the earlier part of 2015 and late 2014 over the comparable period in the prior year;

 

    An increase of €38 million, or 7%, in employee benefit expenses in cost of sales driven by an increase in headcount across our businesses to support the continued expansion of our aerospace and automotive production capabilities and €6 million of employee benefit related to manufacturing system and process transformation and start-up and development costs;

 

    An increase of €31 million in depreciation and amortization in cost of sales driven by increased investment in our production facilities in prior years to support our operations and respond to market demand.

The decrease in metal premium losses over the period had a €15 million positive impact on gross profit and further investments in manufacturing system and process transformation related costs at businesses within our A&T segment in 2015 and increased start-up and development costs at businesses within our AS&I and P&ARP segments had an offsetting negative impact on gross profit over the period. Excluding the impact of these items on our gross profit and the impact of metal price lag, and despite the other factors described above, our gross profit margin as a percentage of revenue increased slightly to 14% in the year ended December 31, 2015 from 13% in the year ended December 31, 2014, excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition and the effect of foreign currency translation.

Selling and Administrative Expenses

Selling and administrative expenses increased by 23%, or €45 million, to €245 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 from €200 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Wise, which contributed €19 million in selling and administrative expenses in the year ended December 31, 2015, and the effect of foreign currency translation, the increase was 10%, or €19 million, driven by a €14 million increase in employee benefit expenses included in selling, general, and administrative expenses. The increase in employee related expenses was both attributable to an increase in support functions headcount and external workforce to support future expansion combined with non-recurring costs related to the turnover in executive personnel and increase in share-based compensation plans.

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development expenses decreased by 8% or €3 million, to €35 million in the year ended December 31, 2015, from €38 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. Wise did not contribute research and development expenses in the year ended December 31, 2015. Excluding the impact of €9 million in French research and development tax credits (€9 million in the year ended December 31, 2014), research and development costs were €12 million, €20 million, €9 million, and €3 million at the P&ARP, A&T, AS&I, and Corporate & Holding segments, respectively, in the year ended December 31, 2015.

Restructuring Costs

Restructuring costs decreased by €4 million to €8 million in the year ended December 31, 2015, from €12 million in the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

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Impairment

Impairment charges of €457 million were recorded in the year ended December 31, 2015 while no impairment charges were recorded in the year ended December 31, 2014. The charges recorded during the period were primarily comprised of a €49 million impairment related to our operations in Valais, Switzerland within the AS&I and A&T segments and a €400 million impairment related to Wise within our P&ARP segment. The Valais impairment was triggered by a combination of factors including unfavorable exposure to the strengthening Swiss franc during the period and declining market share in the aerospace market. The Wise impairment was triggered by continued under performance and actual results for the year ended December 31, 2015 showing a much lower financial performance than the initial business plan prepared as part of the Wise Acquisition, and the downgrade of the revised budget and strategic plan, notably after taking into account the commercial conditions of new sale agreements for the can/packaging business.

Other (Losses)/Gains, net

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2015      2014  
(€ in millions)              

Realized losses on derivatives

     (93      (13

Unrealized losses on derivatives at fair value through profit and loss—net

     (20      (53

Unrealized exchange (losses)/gains from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities—net

     (3      1  

Swiss pension plan settlement

            6  

Ravenswood pension plan amendment

     (5      9  

Wise acquisition costs

     (5      (34

Income tax contractual reimbursements

            8  

Loss on disposal and assets classified as held for sale

     (5      (5

Other—net

            (2
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other losses, net

     (131      (83
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other losses—net were €131 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to €83 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Realized losses recognized upon the settlement of derivative instruments increased by €80 million, to €93 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €13 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Of these, realized losses on LME derivatives were €56 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to €3 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The year over year increase in the LME related loss was attributable to the decline in LME prices throughout the year. Realized losses on foreign exchange derivatives increased by €25 million to €37 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 from €12 million in the year ended December 31, 2014 as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar against the Euro.

Unrealized losses on derivatives held at fair value through profit and loss were €20 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to €53 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. Of these, mark-to-market unrealized losses recognized on LME related derivative instruments were €10 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to €12 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The mark-to-market unrealized losses recognized on foreign exchange derivatives, which relate primarily to the exposure on a multiple year sale agreement for products sold in U.S. dollars, which ends in 2016, decreased from €41 million in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €10 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. The year over year change can be attributed to a decrease in the notional value as of the end of 2015 compared to the end of 2014 as we near the end the agreement.

 

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In the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we recognized a €5 million loss and €9 million gain, respectively, associated with amendments made to our Ravenswood pension benefit plans.

The loss on disposal and assets classified as held for sale in the year ended December 31, 2015 primarily related to the write-down of the value of assets at our plant in Carquefou, France upon our decision to sell the plant during the year. The loss recognized in the year ended December 31, 2014 primarily related to the disposal of our Tarascon sur Ariege plant in October 2014.

Finance Costs, net

Finance costs—net increased by €97 million, to €155 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €58 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. Finance costs—net was comprised of finance costs of €226 million and €88 million in the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and finance income of €71 million and €30 million in the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Finance costs, net increased by €138 million to €226 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €88 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Wise, which contributed €61 million (net of the amortization of borrowing costs) of finance costs in the year ended December 31, 2015, finance costs increased by 87%, or €77 million. The increase in finance costs, excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition, was primarily attributable to an increase in interest expense recognized on borrowings, an increase in realized and unrealized exchange losses on financing activities, and the offsetting impact of the absence of exit fees paid and the write-off of unamortized arrangement fees associated with the repayment of the 2013 Term Loan recognized in the year ended December 31, 2014.

Finance income increased by €41 million, to €71 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 from €30 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. There was no finance income contributed by Wise in the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase in finance income was primarily attributable to an increase in realized and unrealized gains on debt derivatives and an increase in realized and unrealized gains on financing activities, which almost fully offset the losses included in finance costs.

Interest expense recognized on borrowings, excluding the interest expense contributed by Wise of €66 million, increased by €51 million to €83 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 from €32 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase is mainly attributable to a full year of interest expense recognized on our Senior Notes issued in May and December 2014.

In the year ended December 31, 2014, we recognized €15 million of exit and arrangement fees related to the repayment of the 2013 Term Loan. No such fees were incurred in the year ended December 31, 2015. Interest expense on our factoring arrangements were stable over the period, being €11 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, and €9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

We recognized a net €48 million loss related to realized and unrealized exchange losses on financing activities in the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to a loss of €27 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. This activity was primarily comprised of foreign exchange transaction losses related to the revaluation of a portion of the Senior Notes denominated in U.S. dollars, which resides at Euro functional currency entities, and was driven by the further strengthening of the U.S. dollar over the period. We have entered into cross currency swaps and rolling foreign exchange forwards in order to offset this exposure to currency rate volatility. Realized and unrealized gains, included in finance income, recognized on the settlement and mark-to-market revaluation of these instruments, of €50 million and €29 million were recognized in the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Income Tax

Income tax for the year ended December 31, 2015 was a benefit of €32 million compared to an income tax expense of €37 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

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Our effective tax rate represented 5% of our loss before income tax for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 41% of our income before tax for the year ended December 31, 2014. This 36 percentage point change in our effective tax rate reflected an increase in composite statutory tax rate applicable by tax jurisdiction (the “blended tax rate”), from 31% in 2014 to 38 % in 2015 and significant reconciling items in both years.

The blended tax rate for the group reflected the mix of profits and losses in the different jurisdictions in which we are operating and notably a higher proportion of profit and losses in higher tax rate jurisdictions, primarily in the United States in the year ended December 31, 2015.

Reconciling items between our blended rate and our actual effective tax rate in 2015 included the following:

 

    Unrecognized deferred tax assets in the amount of €174 million (or unfavorable 30 percentage points) primarily resulted from impairment charges recorded in connection with our Muscle Shoals assets,

 

    Unrecognized deferred tax assets in the amount of €46 million (or unfavorable 8 percentage points) related to losses which are not expected to be recovered,

 

    Derecognition of certain deferred tax assets of one of our Swiss entities for €24 million (or unfavorable 4 percentage points), and

 

    Recognition of deferred tax assets previously unrecognized at one of our United States tax entities for €74 million (or favorable 13 percentage points).

Reconciling items between our blended rate and our actual effective tax rate in 2014, included the following:

 

    Unrecognized deferred tax assets in the amount of €16 million (or unfavorable 18 percentage points) related to losses which are not expected to be recovered,

 

    Derecognition of certain deferred tax assets of one of our Swiss entities for €6 million (or unfavorable 7 percentage points) and

 

    Use of unrecognized deferred tax assets for €16 million (or favorable 18 percentage points) at one of our United States tax entities.

Net Income / Loss for the Year

As a result of the above factors, in the year ended December 31, 2015, we recognized a net loss of €552 million compared to an income of €54 million in the year ended December 31, 2014.

Segment Results

Segment Revenue

The following table sets forth the revenues for our operating segments for the periods presented:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2016     2015     2014  
     (millions of € and as a % of revenue)  

P&ARP

     2,482       52     2,742        53     1,568        43

A&T

     1,279       27     1,348        26     1,192        32

AS&I

     993       21     1,034        20     875        24

Holdings and Corporate

     (11           29        1     31        1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenues from continuing operations

     4,743       100     5,153        100     3,666        100
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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P&ARP . Revenues in our P&ARP segment decreased by 9%, or €260 million, to €2,482 million in the year ended December 31, 2016, from €2,742 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting primarily lower revenue per ton driven by lower metal prices and relatively stable shipments. P&ARP shipments declined slightly by 2%, or 22kt, reflecting lower shipments in Packaging rolled products, primarily as a result of lower foil stock demand, and in Specialty and other thin-rolled products. These decreases were partially offset by a 25 kt, or 28%, increase in Automotive rolled products shipments. Revenue per ton decreased by 8% to €2,450 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2016 from €2,649 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily as a result of decreases in LME and premium prices.

Revenues in our P&ARP segment increased by 75%, or €1,174 million, to €2,742 million in the year ended December 31, 2015, from €1,568 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Wise, which contributed €1,198 million to the segment’s revenue in the year ended December 31, 2015, revenue decreased by €24 million or 2%. Excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition, shipments decreased by 5%, or 28 kt, to 592 kt for the year ended December 31, 2015, from 620 kt for the year ended December 31, 2014, driven by a 35 kt, or 7%, decrease in shipments of our packaging rolled products. The year over year decline in volumes was attributable to lower demand from can stock customers due to challenges and competition experienced in 2015, which was partially offset by automotive rolled product volume growth. A 3% increase in average prices from €2,529 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €2,608 in the year ended December 31, 2015, excluding the impact of the Wise Acquisition, partially offset the impact of the decline in volumes on the segment’s revenue.

A&T . Revenue at our A&T segment decreased by €69 million, or 5% to €1,279 million in the year ended December 31, 2016 from €1,348 million in the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting lower revenue per ton driven by lower metal prices, a shift in a mix, partially offset by higher volumes. A&T shipments increased by 5% or 12kt, primarily as a result of higher shipments in Transportation, industry and other products. Revenue per ton decreased by 10% to €5,263 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2016 from €5,835 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily reflecting lower LME and premium prices.

Revenue at our A&T segment increased by €156 million, or 13% from €1,192 million in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €1,348 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. Excluding the effect of foreign currency translation, the segment’s revenue increased by €39 million, or 3% over the period. Our volumes decreased by 7 kt, or 3% from 238 kt in the year ended December 31, 2014 to 231 kt in the year ended December 31, 2015, driven primarily by a 15 kt decrease in shipments of our transportation, industry, and other rolled products, which can be attributed to softer customer demand in the transportation and industry markets in 2015. This was partially offset by an 8 kt, or 7% increase in aerospace rolled product volume. Excluding the effect of foreign currency translation, revenue per ton increased by 6% from €5,008 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €5,329 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily driven by favorable mix within the aerospace product line.

AS&I . Revenues in our AS&I segment decreased by 4%, or €41 million, to €993 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, from €1,034 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, reflecting lower revenue per ton driven by lower metal price, partially offset by increased volumes and favorable product mix. AS&I shipments increased 3%, or 5kt, reflecting higher shipments in both Other extruded products and Automotive extruded products.

Revenues in our AS&I segment increased by 18%, or €159 million, to €1,034 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €875 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the effect of foreign currency translation, segment revenues increased by 13%, or €112 million, primarily driven by an 11% increase in revenue per ton, from €4,207 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €4,656 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2015. Volumes remained stable, with a slight increase in automotive shipments offset by a decrease in the shipment of other products. The year over year improvement in revenue per ton was attributable to a 21% increase within our automotive product line mainly due to favorable unit spread on sales to automotive customers.

 

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Holdings and Corporate . Revenues in the Holdings and Corporate segment for the year ended December 31, 2016, include a €20 million one-time payment recorded as reduction of revenues related to renegotiation of a contract with one of Wise’s customers, partially offset by metal sales to third parties. Revenues in the Holdings and Corporate segment for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are primarily related to metal sales to third parties.

Adjusted EBITDA

In considering the financial performance of the business, management analyzes the primary financial performance measure of Adjusted EBITDA in all of our business segments. Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure defined by IFRS. We believe the most directly comparable IFRS measure to Adjusted EBITDA is our net income or loss for the relevant period.

We believe Adjusted EBITDA, as defined below, is useful to investors as it illustrates the underlying performance of continuing operations by excluding non-recurring and non-operating items. Similar concepts of adjusted EBITDA are frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in their evaluation of our company and in comparison to other companies, many of which present an adjusted EBITDA-related performance measure when reporting their results.

Our Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) measures the profitability and financial performance of our operating segments based on Adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as income/(loss) from continuing operations before income taxes, results from joint ventures, net finance costs, other expenses and depreciation and amortization as adjusted to exclude restructuring costs and impairment charges, unrealized gains or losses on derivatives and on foreign exchange differences, metal price lag, share-based compensation expense, effects of certain purchase accounting adjustments, start-up and development costs or acquisition, integration and separation costs, certain incremental costs and other exceptional, unusual or generally non-recurring items.

Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool. It is not a measure defined by IFRS and therefore does not purport to be an alternative to operating profit or net income as a measure of operating performance or to cash flows from operating activities as a measure of liquidity.

Adjusted EBITDA is not necessarily comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. As a result, you should not consider these performance measures in isolation from, or as a substitute analysis for, our results of operations.

The following table shows Constellium’s consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2016     2015     2014  
     (millions of € and as a % of revenue)  

P&ARP

     201       8     183       7     118       8

A&T

     103       8     103       8     91       8

AS&I

     102       10     80       8     73       8

Holdings and Corporate

     (29     n.m.       (23     n.m.       (7     n.m.  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Adjusted EBITDA

     377       8     343       7     275       8
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

n.m. not meaningful

Total Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016 was €377 million, which represented a €34 million, or 10% increase compared to €343 million of total Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended

 

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December 31, 2015. This increase mainly reflected the positive impact of improved mix at our AS&I segment and operational improvements in our P&ARP segment, partially offset by increased costs from Holdings and Corporate.

Total Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2015 was €343 million, an increase compared to €275 million of total Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Wise, which contributed €68 million of Adjusted EBITDA in the year ended December 31, 2015, and the effect of foreign currency translation, Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 4% or €10 million over the period to €265 million and represented 7% of revenues in the year ended December 31, 2015. Excluding Holdings and Corporate, this decrease mainly reflects the net positive impact of improved shipment performance and mix at our AS&I segment, favorable product mix at the A&T segment, and lower shipment volumes at P&ARP segment, offset by increased spending during the year to support future growth and operational quality.

The following table presents the primary drivers for changes in Adjusted EBITDA from the year ended December 31, 2015 to the year ended December 31, 2016 for each one of our three segments:

 

     P&ARP      A&T      AS&I  
     (millions of €)  

Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2015

     183        103        80  

Volume

     (10      20        7  

Price and product mix

     (22      (43      21  

Costs

     52        27        (7

Foreign exchange and premium

     (2      (4      2  

Other changes

                   (1
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2016

     201        103        102  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

P&ARP . Adjusted EBITDA at our P&ARP segment was €201 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 which represented a 10% increase from €183 million in the year ended December 31, 2015, mostly attributable to operational improvements, particularly at our Muscle Shoals facility, partially offset by a slight decrease in shipments and some decrease in price and mix. Adjusted EBITDA per metric ton for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased 13% from the prior year to €199 for the reasons noted.

Adjusted EBITDA at our P&ARP segment increased by 55%, or €65 million to €183 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €118 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the acquisition of Wise, which contributed €68 million of Adjusted EBITDA to this segment in the year ended December 31, 2015, Adjusted EBITDA decreased by €3 million or 3%, whereas Adjusted EBITDA per ton increased by 2% from €190 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €194 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2015. Overall, Adjusted EBITDA remained relatively stable. Lower shipment volumes, which had a negative impact of €14 million, were offset by better mix on the sale of higher margin automotive products, which had a positive impact of €8 million, as well as premium loss favorability and better control of production costs and overhead spending.

A&T . Adjusted EBITDA at our A&T segment was €103 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 which was in-line with the prior year as higher volumes and improved costs were offset by a less favorable product mix. Adjusted EBITDA per ton decreased 4% to €425 from €445 in the year ended December 31, 2015.

Adjusted EBITDA at our A&T segment increased by 13%, or €12 million, for the year ended December 31, 2015 to €103 million, compared to €91 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the effect of foreign currency translation, Adjusted EBITDA increased by 4% or €4 million over the period and Adjusted EBITDA per ton increased by 8% from €380 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €411 per ton.

 

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Shipments slightly decreased year over year however our shipments to high-end defense and aerospace customers, which typically carry higher margins due to a higher level of aluminium conversion complexity, increased, contributing to an overall positive price and mix effect of €43 million. Increased spending over the period to enhance our quality performance and optimize cost productivity had an offsetting impact of €31 million on Adjusted EBITDA.

AS&I . Adjusted EBITDA at our AS&I segment was €102 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, a strong increase of 27% from the prior year, reflecting increased volumes, and improved price and mix due to solid end market demand in both our automotive and industry end markets. Adjusted EBITDA per ton increased 24% to €471 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2016 as compared to the prior year.

Adjusted EBITDA at our AS&I segment increased by 10%, or €7 million, in the year ended December 31, 2015 to €80 million, compared to €73 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the effect of foreign currency translation, Adjusted EBITDA increased by 7% or €5 million over the period and Adjusted EBITDA per ton increased by 5% from €351 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2014 to €368 per ton in the year ended December 31, 2015. In the year ended December 31, 2015, higher automotive volumes, mainly driven by growing demand from OEMs in the North American market, contributed to favorable pricing and mix effect. The combined impact of volumes, pricing, and mix had a €28 million positive impact on the year over year Adjusted EBITDA growth. The automotive favorability was partially offset by increased costs incurred during the year ended December 31, 2015 to support our expansion in to the automotive market and increased maintenance and research and development costs over the period to support enhanced future performance.

Holdings and Corporate . Adjusted EBITDA at our Corporate and Holdings segment was a loss of €29 million, for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to losses of €23 million and €7 million in the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The increase in the loss in the year ended December 31, 2016 versus the year ended December 31, 2015 was attributable to additional costs incurred in 2016, in connection with changes in our executive management team.

The increase in the loss from the year ended December 31, 2014 to the year ended December 31, 2015 is primarily attributable to the impact of non-recurring costs incurred in the current period and the reversal of an environmental provision in the year ended December 31, 2014, which, together, represented approximately €7 million of the year over year change. Foreign currency transactional losses at our Swiss corporate entity driven by the strengthening of the Swiss franc against the Euro during the period along with increased employee benefit expense also contributed significantly to the remaining balance of the year over year change.

 

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The following table reconciles our net income or loss for each of the three years in the period ending December 31, 2016 to our Adjusted EBITDA for the years presented:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2016      2015      2014  
(€ in millions)                     

Net (loss) / income

     (4      (552      54  

Net income from discontinued operations

                    

Other expenses

                    

Finance costs, net

     167        155        58  

Income tax expense / (benefit)

     69        (32      37  

Share of loss of joint ventures

     14        3        1  

Metal price lag (a)

     (4      34        (27

Start-up and development costs (b)

     25        21        11  

Manufacturing system and process transformation costs (c)

     5        11        1  

Wise integration and acquisition costs

     2        14        34  

Wise one-time costs (d)

     20        38         

Wise purchase price adjustment (e)

     (20              

Share-based compensation

     6        7        4  

Loss / (Gains) on Ravenswood OPEB plan amendment

            5        (9

Swiss pension plan settlements

                   (6

Income tax contractual reimbursements

                   (8

Depreciation and amortization

     155        140        49  

Impairment (f)

            457         

Restructuring costs

     5        8        12  

Unrealized (gains) / losses on derivatives

     (71      20        53  

Unrealized exchange (gains) / losses from remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities—net

     (3      3        (1

Losses on disposals and assets classified as held for sale

     10        5        5  

Other (g)

     1        6        7  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

     377        343        275  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(a) Metal price lag represents the financial impact of the timing difference between when aluminium prices included within Constellium revenues are established and when aluminium purchase prices included in Cost of sales are established. The Group accounts for inventory using a weighted average price basis and this adjustment aims to remove the effect of volatility in LME prices. The calculation of the Group metal price lag adjustment is based on an internal standardized methodology calculated at each of Constellium manufacturing sites and is calculated as the average value of product recorded in inventory, which approximates the spot price in the market, less the average value transferred out of inventory, which is the weighted average of the metal element of cost of sales, based on the quantity sold in the period.
(b) For the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, new sites start-up costs and business development initiatives include respectively €20 million and €16 million related to BiW/ABS growth projects both in Europe and the United States.
(c) For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, manufacturing system and process transformation costs related to supply chain reorganization mainly in our A&T operating segment.
(d)

For the year ended December 31, 2016, Wise one-time costs related to a one-time payment of €20 million, recorded as a reduction of revenues, in relation to the re-negotiation of payment terms, pass through of Midwest premium amounts and other pricing mechanisms in a contract with one of Wise’s customers. We entered into the re-negotiation of these terms in order to align the terms of this contract, acquired during the acquisition of Wise, with Constellium’s normal business terms. For the year ended December 31, 2015,

 

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  Wise one-time costs related to non-cash step-up in inventory costs on the acquisition of Wise entities (effects of purchase price adjustment for €12 million), to losses incurred on the unwinding of Wise previous hedging policies (€4 million) and to Midwest premium losses (€22 million).
(e) The contractual price adjustment relating to the acquisition of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings was finalized in 2016. We received a cash payment of €21 million and recorded a €20 million net gain.
(f) Includes mainly for the year ended December 31, 2015, an impairment charge of €400 million related to Muscle Shoals intangible assets and property, plant and equipment and €49 million related to Constellium Valais Property, plant and equipment.
(g) For the year ended December 31, 2016, other includes individually immaterial other adjustments offset by €4 million of insurance proceeds.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary sources of cash flow have historically been cash flows from operating activities and funding or borrowings from external parties and related parties.

Based on our current and anticipated levels of operations, and the condition in our markets and industry, we believe that our cash flows from operations, cash on hand, new debt issuances or refinancing of existing debt facilities, and availability under our factoring and revolving credit facilities will enable us to meet our working capital, capital expenditures, debt service and other funding requirements for the foreseeable future. However, our ability to fund working capital needs, debt payments and other obligations depends on our future operating performance and cash flows and many factors outside of our control, including the costs of raw materials, the state of the overall industry and financial and economic conditions and other factors, including those described under the following risk factors within “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors.”

 

    A deterioration in our financial position or a downgrade of our ratings by a credit rating agency could increase our borrowing costs, lead to our inability to access liquidity facilities, and adversely affect our business relationships;

 

    We have substantial leverage and may be unable to obtain sufficient liquidity to operate our business and service our indebtedness;

 

    The terms of our indebtedness contain covenants that restrict our current and future operations, and a failure by us to comply with those covenants may materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition; and

 

    Our results of operations, cash flows and liquidity could be adversely affected if we are unable to execute on our hedging policy, if counterparties to our derivative instruments fail to honor their agreements or if we are unable to purchase derivative instruments.

It is our policy to hedge all highly probable or committed foreign currency operating cash flows. As we have significant third party future receivables denominated in U.S. dollars, we enter into combinations of forward contracts and currency options with financial institutions, selling forward U.S. dollars against Euros. In addition, as discussed in “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Managing our Metal Price Exposure,” when we are unable to align the price and quantity of physical aluminium purchases with that of physical aluminium sales, we enter into derivative financial instruments to pass through the exposure to metal price fluctuations to financial institutions at the time the price is set. As the U.S. dollar appreciates versus the Euro or the LME price for aluminium falls, the derivative contracts entered into with financial institution counterparties have a negative mark-to-market. Our financial institution counterparties may require margin calls should our negative mark-to-market exceed a pre-agreed contractual limit. In order to protect the Company from the potential margin calls for significant market movements, we maintain additional cash or availability under our various borrowing facilities, we enter into derivatives with a large number of financial counterparties and we monitor margin requirements on a daily basis for adverse movements in the U.S. dollar versus the Euro and in aluminium prices. No margins were posted at December 31, 2016 or December 31, 2015.

 

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At December 31, 2016, we had €537 million of total liquidity, comprised of €347 million in cash and cash equivalents, €150 million of undrawn credit facilities under our ABL facilities, €33 million available under our factoring arrangements, and €7 million under a revolving credit facility.

Cash Flows

In 2016, we changed the presentation of interest paid in our cash flow statement. Interest paid, which we previously reported as financing cash flows, is now reported in operating cash flows and comparative numbers for the prior years were reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

The following table summarizes our operating, investing and financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
       2016          2015          2014    
     (€ in millions)  

Net cash Flows from/(used) in:

        

Operating activities

     88        368        173  

Investing activities

     (365      (722      (216

Financing activities

     145        (165      792  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents, excluding the effect of exchange rate changes

     (132      (519      749  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

See note 2.6 of our consolidated financial statements.

Net cash Flows from Operating Activities

Net cash from operating activities in the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased by €280 million to €88 million, from an inflow of €368 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. The year over year decrease in operating cash flows is attributable to changes in working capital including working capital improvements at Wise in 2015, following the acquisition, that were not repeated in 2016 and a €31 million year over year increase in interest paid, partially offset by an €98 million increase in cash flow from operating activities before working capital changes. In the year ended December 31, 2016, cash flows used in working capital amounted to €42 million reflecting an €180 million increase in working capital before factoring, partially offset by €137 million of additional non-recourse factoring in the period. In the year ended December 31, 2015, positive cash flows from working capital amounted to €336 million reflecting stable working capital before factoring and €335 million of additional non-recourse factoring in the period.

Net cash from operating activities increased by €195 million, from an inflow of €173 million in the year ended December 31, 2014, to an inflow of €368 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. The year over year increase in operating cash flows is primarily attributable to a €335 million increase in the amount of receivables factored at the end of the year and the liquidation of the acquired Wise receivables during the year. This inflow was partially offset by the impact of the timing of vendor payments made.

Net Cash Flows used in Investing Activities

Cash flows used in investing activities in the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased by €357 million to €365 million from €722 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The main driver of the difference was the net consideration of €348 million paid in connection with the Wise Acquisition. Capital expenditures of €355 million were stable compared to the prior year. Cash flows used in investing activities in the year ended December 31, 2016 also included €37 million of equity contributions and loans to joint ventures, related to Constellium – UACJ ABS LLC, our joint venture with UACJ.

 

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Cash flows used in investing activities increased by €506 million to €722 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €216 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, mainly driven by the net consideration paid in connection with the Wise Acquisition of €348 million, a €151 million increase in capital expenditures, €71 million of which was contributed by Wise. Cash flows used in investing activities also included €34 million of equity contributions and loans to joint ventures, primarily related to Constellium – UACJ ABS LLC.

For further details on capital expenditures projects, see the “—Historical Capital Expenditures” section below.

Net Cash flows used in Financing Activities

Net cash flows from financing activities in the year ended December 31, 2016 increased by €310 million to €145 million from an outflow of €165 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Net cash provided by financing activities reflected the net impact of €375 million in proceeds from the issuance of the Constellium N.V. Senior Secured Notes in March 2016 and a €148 million outflow relating to the redemption of the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes in the fourth quarter of 2016. The outflow in the year ended December 31, 2016 also included €69 million in repayments made on the Wise ABL Facility and other loans.

Net cash flows from financing activities was an outflow of €165 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to an inflow of €792 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Net cash provided by financing activities in the year ended December 31, 2014 reflected the net impact of €1,153 million in proceeds from the issuance of the Constellium N.V. Senior Notes in May and December and repayment of €331 million in outstanding principal under the Term Loan. In the year ended December 31, 2015, no new debt was issued. The outflow in the year ended December 31, 2015 also included €211 million in repayments made on the Ravenswood ABL Facility and other loans.

Historical Capital Expenditures

The following table provides a breakdown of the historical capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment by segment for the periods indicated:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2016      2015      2014  
     (€ in millions)  

P&ARP

     166        170        74  

A&T

     96        112        71  

AS&I

     84        60        48  

Intersegment and Other

     9        8        6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total from continuing operations

     355        350        199  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Capital expenditures were €355 million in the year ended December 31, 2016, a slight increase from €350 million in the year ended December 31, 2015. Significant capital expenditure projects undertaken during the year ended December 31, 2016 included our Body-in-White investments in Europe and in the U.S., investments in our AS&I segment in response to OEM demand and investments in our new facility in Ontario. A&T segment capital expenditure decreased compared to 2015 mainly reflecting 2015 significant investment in a second Airware casthouse in our Issoire facility and capital investments at our Ravenswood, West Virginia facility, to support improved production capacity and manufacturing efficiency within the A&T segment. P&ARP capital expenditures were stable, including €107 million spent on Body-in-White projects in Europe and the U.S. in 2016 and €82 million in 2015.

The main projects undertaken during the year ended December 31, 2015 included the Body-in-White capacity extension and the conversion of the Muscle Shoals plant acquired in 2015 to an automotive product

 

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production facility within the P&ARP segment, and projects related to the Airware casthouse and capital investments, mainly at our Issoire and Ravenswood, West Virginia facilities, to support improved production capacity and manufacturing efficiency within the A&T segment.

Capital expenditures increased by €151 million, or 76%, to €350 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, from €199 million in the year ended December 31, 2014, as a result of the continuation of existing projects and new projects, including €62 million spent on Body-in-White projects in Europe and the United States and €21 million spent on Airware-related projects which were in progress during 2014. Expenditures related to new projects included €33 million related to production capacity improvements at our A&T facilities and €39 million related to the Muscle Shoals plant conversion project.

As at December 31, 2016 we had €221 million of construction in progress which primarily related to our continued maintenance, modernization and expansion projects at our Muscle Shoals, Neuf Brisach, Issoire, Van Buren, Decin, Ravenswood and Singen facilities.

Our principal capital expenditures are expected to total approximately €1,400 million in the years ended December 31, 2017 to 2021, in the aggregate. We currently expect all of our capital expenditures to be financed with cash on hand, cash flow for operations and external financing.

Covenant Compliance

The indentures governing our outstanding debt securities contain no maintenance covenants but contain customary affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries, to incur indebtedness, sell assets, make investments, engage in acquisitions, mergers or consolidations and make dividends and other restricted payments.

The Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility was terminated on March 30, 2016 in connection with the issuance of the Senior Secured Notes.

The Ravenswood ABL Facility described in “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts—Ravenswood ABL Facility,” contains a financial maintenance covenant that requires Ravenswood to maintain excess availability of the greater of (i) $10 million and (ii) 10% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments. Ravenswood is currently in compliance with this financial maintenance covenant. The Ravenswood ABL Facility also contains customary negative covenants on liens, investments and restricted payments related to Ravenswood.

The Wise ABL Facility requires the maintenance of a fixed charge coverage ratio if the excess availability falls below the greater of 10% of the aggregate revolving loan commitment and $20 million. Wise’s excess availability as of December 31, 2016 was above 10% of the aggregate borrowing base and was greater than $20 million and as such, the Company was not required to comply with the ratio requirement.

The Wise Factoring facility contains customary covenants and the factors’ commitment to purchase the receivables is subject to the maintainance of certain credit rating levels.

We were in compliance with our covenants throughout 2016 and 2015 and as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.

See “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts” for a description of our significant financing arrangements.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of December 31, 2016, we have no significant off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

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Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes our estimated material contractual cash obligations and other commercial commitments at December 31, 2016:

 

            Cash payments due by period  
     Total      Less than
1 year
     1-3 years      3-5 years      After 5
years
 
     (unaudited, € in millions)  

Borrowings (1)

     2,382        54        626        703        999  

Interest (2)

     785        170        284        206        125  

Derivatives relating to currencies and metal

     99        35        29        32        3  

Operating lease obligations (3)

     105        17        13        27        48  

Capital expenditures

     88        86        2                

Finance leases (4)

     71        13        13        23        22  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total (5)

     3,530        375        967        991        1,197  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) Borrowings include our ABL Facilities which are considered short-term in nature and is included in the category “Less than 1 year.” Borrowings include our $650 million Wise Metals Group LLC Senior Secured Notes due 2018 (€617 million at closing rate) which were outstanding at December 31, 2016 but were redeemed in February 2017. Borrowings do not include our $650 million Constellium N.V. Senior Notes due 2025 (€617 million at closing rate) which were issued in February 2017.
(2) Interests under the May 2014 Senior Notes accrue at a rate of 5.750% per annum on the U.S. Dollar Notes and 4.625% per annum on the Euro Notes. Interests under the December 2014 Senior Notes accrue at a rate of 8.00% per annum on the U.S. Dollar Notes and 7.00% on the Euro Notes. Interests under the Wise Metals Group LLC Senior Notes which were redeemed in February 2017 accrue at a rate of 8.750% per annum. Interests under the February 2017 Senior Notes accrue at a rate of 6.625% per annum.
(3) Operating leases relate to buildings, machinery and equipment.
(4) Finance leases primarily relates to a sale-leaseback transaction in the U.S.
(5) Retirement benefit obligations of €735 million are not presented above as the timing of the settlement of this obligation is uncertain.

Environmental Contingencies

Our operations, like those of other basic industries, are subject to federal, state, local and international laws, regulations and ordinances. These laws and regulations (i) govern activities or operations that may have adverse environmental effects, such as discharges to air and water, as well as waste handling and disposal practices and (ii) impose liability for costs of cleaning up, and certain damages resulting from, spills, disposals or other releases or regulated materials. From time to time, our operations have resulted, or may result, in certain noncompliance with applicable requirements under such environmental laws. To date, any such noncompliance with such environmental laws has not had a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.

Pension Obligations

Constellium operates various pension plans for the benefit of its employees across a number of countries. Some of these plans are defined benefit plans and others are defined contribution plans. The largest of these plans are in the United States, Switzerland, Germany and France. Pension benefits are generally based on the employee’s service and highest average eligible compensation before retirement, and are periodically adjusted for cost of living increases, either by practice, collective agreement or statutory requirement.

We also provide health and life insurance benefits to retired employees and in some cases to their beneficiaries and covered dependents. These plans are predominantly in the United States.

 

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Finally, we also participate in various multi-employer pension plans in one of our facilities in the United States.

For the year ended December 31, 2016, the total expense recognized in the income statement in relation to all our pension and post-retirement benefits was €51 million (compared to €48 million for the year ended December 31, 2015). At December 31, 2016, the fair value of the plans assets was €391 million (compared to €362 million as of December 31, 2015). At December 31, 2016, the present value of our obligations of €1,126 million (compared to €1,063 million as of December 31, 2015), resulting in an aggregate plan deficit of €735 million and €701 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Our estimated funding for our funded pension plans and other post-retirement benefit plans is based on actuarial estimates using benefit assumptions for discount rates, rates of compensation increases, and health care cost trend rates. The deficit related to the funded pension plan and the present value of the unfunded obligations as of December 31, 2016 were €330 million and €405 million, respectively. The deficit related to funded pension plan and other benefits and the present value of the unfunded obligations as of December 31, 2015 were €319 million and €382 million, respectively. Estimating when the obligations will require settlement is not practicable and therefore these have not been included in the Contractual Obligations table above.

Contributions to pension and other benefit plans totaled €48 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 (compared to €50 million for the year ended December 31, 2015).

Contributions to our multi-employer plans amounted to approximately €3 million for each of the two years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

Principal Accounting Policies, Critical Accounting Estimates and Key Judgments

Our principal accounting policies are set out in Note 2 to the audited consolidated financial statements, which appear elsewhere in this Annual Report. New standards and interpretations not yet adopted are also disclosed in Note 2.6 to our audited consolidated financial statements.

Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

 

A. Directors and Senior Management

The following table provides information regarding our executive officers and the members of our board of directors as of the date of this Annual Report (ages are given as of December 31, 2016). The business address of each of our executive officers and directors listed below is c/o Constellium, Tupolevlaan 41-61, 1119 NW Schiphol-Rijk, the Netherlands.

 

   

Name

  

Age

  

Position

  

Date of Appointment

    
  Richard B. Evans    69    Chairman    January 5, 2011   
  Jean-Marc Germain    50    Director    June 15, 2016   
  Guy Maugis    63    Director    January 5, 2011   
  Philippe Guillemot    57    Director    May 21, 2013   
  Werner P. Paschke    66    Director    May 21, 2013   
  Michiel Brandjes    62    Director    June 11, 2014   
  Peter F. Hartman    67    Director    June 11, 2014   
  John Ormerod    67    Director    June 11, 2014   
  Lori A. Walker    59    Director    June 11, 2014   
  Martha Brooks    57    Director    June 15, 2016   

Pursuant to a shareholders agreement between the Company and Bpifrance, Mr. Maugis was selected to serve as a director by Bpifrance.

 

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Richard B. Evans . Mr. Evans has served as a director since January 2011 and as our Chairman since December 2012. Mr. Evans is currently an independent director of CGI, an IT consulting and outsourcing company. In 2016, Mr. Evans resigned as a non-Executive Director of Noranda Aluminum Holding Corporation following its successful liquidation through the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. He retired in May 2013 as non-executive Chairman of Resolute Forest Products, a Forest Products company based in Montreal. He retired in April 2009 as an executive director of London-based Rio Tinto plc and Melbourne-based Rio Tinto Ltd., and as Chief Executive Officer of Rio Tinto Alcan Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Rio Tinto. Previously, Mr. Evans was President and Chief Executive Officer of Montreal based Alcan Inc. from March 2006 to October 2007, and led the negotiation of the acquisition of Alcan by Rio Tinto in October 2007. He was Alcan’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer from September 2005 to March 2006. Prior to joining Alcan in 1997, he held various senior management positions with Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Company during his 27 years with that company. Mr. Evans is a past Chairman of the International Aluminum Institute (IAI) and is a past Chairman of the Washington, DC-based U.S. Aluminum Association. He previously served as Co-Chairman of the Environmental and Climate Change Committee of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives and as a member of the Board of USCAP, a Washington, DC-based coalition concerned with climate change.

Jean-Marc Germain . Mr. Germain has served as an executive director since June 2016 and as our Chief Executive Officer since July 2016. Prior to joining Constellium, Jean-Marc Germain was Chief Executive Officer of Algeco Scotsman, a Baltimore-based leading global business services provider focused on modular space and secure portable storages. Previously, Mr. Germain held numerous leadership positions in the aluminium industry including senior executive roles in operations, sales & marketing, financial planning and strategy with Pechiney, Alcan and Novelis. His last position with Novelis from 2008 to 2012 was as President for North American operations. Earlier in his career, he held a number of international positions with Bain & Company and GE Capital. Mr. Germain is a graduate of Ecole Polytechnique in Paris, France and a dual French and American citizen.

Guy Maugis . Mr. Maugis has served as a non-executive director since 2011. Mr. Maugis is advisor of the Board of Robert Bosch GmbH, after being President of Robert Bosch France SAS for 12 years. The French subsidiary covers all the activities of the Bosch Group, a leader in the domains of the Automotive Equipments, Industrial Techniques and Consumer Goods and Building Techniques. He is also President of the French-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Mr. Maugis is a former graduate of Ecole Polytechnique, Engineer of “Corps des Ponts et Chaussées” and worked for several years at the Equipment Ministry. At Pechiney, he managed the flat rolled products factory of Rhenalu Neuf-Brisach. At PPG Industries, he became President of the European Flat Glass activities. With the purchase of PPG Glass Europe by ASAHI Glass, Mr. Maugis assumed the function of Vice-President in charge of the business development and European activities of the automotive branch of the Japanese group.

Philippe Guillemot . Mr. Guillemot has served as a non-executive director since May 2013. He has nearly thirty-five years of experience in Automotive, Energy and the Telecom industry, where he held CEO and COO positions leading many successful transformations. Mr. Guillemot served as Chief Operating Officer of Alcatel-Lucent until a successful turnaround led to Nokia’s full acquisition at the end of 2016. From April 2010 to February 2012, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Europcar Group. From 2010 to 2012, Mr. Guillemot served as a director and audit committee member of Visteon Corp. Mr. Guillemot served as Chairman and CEO of Areva T&D from 2004 to 2010, and as division Vice President at Valeo and then Faurecia from 1998 to 2003. Mr. Guillemot began his career at Michelin, where he held various positions in quality and production at sites in Canada, France and Italy. He was a member of Booz Allen Hamilton’s Automotive Practice from 1991 to 1993 before returning to Michelin to serve as an operations manager, director of Michelin Group’s restructuring in 1995-1996, Group Quality Executive Vice-President, Chief Information Officer and member of the Group Executive Committee. Mr. Guillemot received his undergraduate degree in 1982 from Ecole des Mines in Nancy and received his MBA from Harvard Business School in Cambridge, MA in 1991.

Werner P. Paschke . Mr. Paschke has served as a non-executive director since May 2013. Mr. Paschke is an independent director of Braas Monier Building Group SA, where he chairs the audit committee. In previous years

 

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he has served on the Supervisory Boards of Conergy Aktiengesellschaft, Coperion GmbH, and several smaller companies. Between 2003 and 2006, Mr. Paschke served as Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of Demag Holding in Luxemburg, where he was responsible for actively enhancing the value of seven former Siemens and Mannesmann units. From 1992 to 2003 he worked for Continental AG, since 1994 as ‘Generalbevollmächtigter’ for corporate controlling, plus later accounting. From 1989 to 1992 he served as Chief Financial Officer for General Tire Inc. in Akron, Ohio, USA. From 1973 to 1987 he held different positions at Continental AG in finance, distribution, marketing and controlling. Mr. Paschke studied economics at Universities Hannover, Hamburg and Munster/Westphalia and is a 1993 graduate of the International Senior Management Program at Harvard University.

Michiel Brandjes . Mr. Brandjes has served as a non-executive director since June 2014. He served as Company Secretary and General Counsel Corporate of Royal Dutch Shell plc from 2005 to 2017. Mr. Brandjes formerly served as Company Secretary and General Counsel Corporate of Royal Dutch Petroleum Company. He served for 25 years on numerous legal and non-legal jobs in the Shell Group within the Netherlands and abroad, including as head of the legal department in Singapore and as head of the legal department for North East Asia based in Beijing and Hong Kong. Before he joined Shell, Mr. Brandjes worked at a law firm in Chicago after graduating from law school at the University of Rotterdam and at Berkeley, California. He has published a number of articles on legal and business topics, is a regular speaker on corporate legal and governance topics and serves in a number of advisory and non-executive director positions not related to Shell or Constellium.

Peter F. Hartman . Mr. Hartman has served as a non-executive director since June 2014. He serves as Vice Chairman of Air France KLM since July 2013. He also serves as member of the supervisory boards of Fokker Technologies Group B.V since 2013 (chairman since 2016), Air France KLM S.A. since 2010 (member of the audit committee since July 2016), Royal KPN N.V. since April 2015 (chairman of the remuneration committee) and Texel Airport N.V. since mid-2013 (chairman since January 2014). Previously, Mr. Hartman served as President and CEO of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines from 2007 to 2013, and as member of the supervisory boards of Kenya Airways from 2004 to 2013, Stork B.V. from 2008 to 2013, CAI Compagnia Aerea Italiana S.p.A. from 2009 to January 2014, Delta Lloyd Group N.V. from 2010 to May 2014 and Royal Ten Cate N.V. from July 2013 to February 2016. Mr. Hartman received a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from HTS Amsterdam, Amsterdam and a Master’s degree in Business Economics from Erasmus University, Rotterdam.

John Ormerod . Mr. Ormerod has served as a non-executive director since June 2014. Mr. Ormerod is a chartered accountant and has worked for over 30 years in public accounting firms. He served for 32 years at Arthur Andersen, serving in various client service and management positions, with last positions held from 2001 to 2002 serving as Regional Managing Partner UK and Ireland, and Managing Partner (UK). From 2002 to 2004, he was Practice Senior Partner for London at Deloitte (UK) and was member of the UK executives and Board. Mr. Ormerod is a graduate of Oxford University. Mr. Ormerod currently serves in the following director positions: since 2006, as non-executive director and Chairman of the audit committee of Gemalto N.V., and as member of the compensation committee; since 2008, as non-executive director of ITV plc, and as member of the remuneration and nominations committees, and as Chairman of the audit committee since 2010. Until December 31, 2015, Mr. Ormerod served as a non-executive director of Tribal Group plc., as member of the audit, remuneration and nominations committees and as Chairman of the board. Mr. Ormerod served as non-executive director and Chairman of the audit committee of Computacenter plc., and as member of the remuneration and nominations committees until April 1, 2015. Mr. Ormerod also served as a senior independent director of Misys plc. from 2006 to 2012, and as advisor and Chairman of the audit committee from 2005 to 2012.

Lori A. Walker . Ms. Walker has served as a non-executive director since June 2014. Ms. Walker currently serves as the audit committee chair of Southwire since 2014, and as a member of the audit and compensation committees of Compass Minerals since 2015. In August 2016, Ms. Walker was appointed to the Audit Committee Chair at Compass Minerals. Ms. Walker previously served as Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of The Valspar Corporation from 2008 to 2013, where she led the Finance, IT and Communications teams. Prior

 

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to that position, Ms. Walker served as Valspar’s Vice President, Controller and Treasurer from 2004 to 2008, and as Vice President and Controller from 2001 to 2004. Prior to joining Valspar, Ms. Walker held a number of roles with progressively increasing responsibility at Honeywell Inc. during a 20-year tenure, with her last position there serving as director of Global Financial Risk Management. Ms. Walker holds a Bachelor of Science of Finance from Arizona State University and attended the Executive Institute Program and the Director’s College at Stanford University.

Martha Brooks . Ms. Brooks has served as a non-executive director since June 2016. Ms. Brooks was until her retirement in May 2009, President and Chief Operating Officer of Novelis, Inc, where she held senior positions since 2005. From 2002 to 2005, she served as Corporate Senior Vice President and President and Chief Executive Officer of Alcan Rolled Products, Americas and Asia. Before she joined Alcan, Ms. Brooks served 16 years with Cummins, the global leader in diesel engine and power generation from 1986 to 2002, ultimately running the truck and bus engine business. She is currently a member of the Boards of Directors of Bombardier Inc. and Jabil Circuit Inc. and has previously served as a director of Harley Davidson and International Paper. Ms. Brooks holds a BA in Economics and Political Science and a Master’s in Public and Private Management from Yale University.

The following persons are our officers as of the date of this Annual Report (ages are given as of December 31, 2016):

 

   

Name

  

Age

  

Title

  Jean-Marc Germain    50    Chief Executive Officer
  Peter R. Matt    54    Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
  Paul Warton    55    President, Automotive Structures and Industry business unit
  Ingrid Joerg    47    President, Aerospace and Transportation business unit
  Arnaud Jouron    48    President, Packaging and Automotive Rolled Products business unit
  Philip Ryan Jurkovic    45    Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
  Jack Clark    57    Senior Vice President Manufacturing Excellence and Chief Technical Officer
  Jeremy Leach    54    Vice President and Group General Counsel
  Nicolas Brun    50    Vice President, Communications
  Peter Basten    41    Executive Vice President, Strategy and Business Development

The following paragraphs set forth biographical information regarding our officers:

Peter R. Matt . Mr. Matt has served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Designate since November 2016 and became our Chief Financial Officer on January 1, 2017. Prior to joining Constellium, he spent 30 years in investment banking at First Boston/Credit Suisse where he built leading Metals and Diversified Industrials coverage practices. From 2010-2015, he was the Managing Director and Group Head at First Boston/Credit Suisse responsible for managing the firm’s Global Industrials business in the Americas. Throughout his career, Mr. Matt has worked closely with management teams across a broad range of competencies including business strategy, capital structure, capital allocation, investor communications, treasury and mergers and acquisitions. He is a graduate of Amherst College.

Paul Warton . Mr. Warton has served as President of our Automotive Structures & Industry business unit since January 2011, and previously held the same role at Alcan Engineered Products since November 2009. Mr. Warton joined Alcan Engineered Aluminum Products in November 2009. Following manufacturing, sales and management positions in the automotive and construction industries, he spent 17 years managing aluminium extrusion companies across Europe and in China. He has held the positions of President Sapa Building Systems & President Sapa North Europe Extrusions during the integration process with Alcoa soft alloy extrusions. Mr. Warton served on the Building Board of the European Aluminum Association (EAA) and was Chairman of the EAA Extruders Division. He holds an MBA from London Business School.

 

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Ingrid Joerg . Ms. Joerg has served as President of our Aerospace and Transportation business unit since June 2015. Previously, Ms. Joerg served as Chief Executive Officer of Aleris Rolled Products Europe. Prior to joining Aleris, Ms. Joerg held leadership positions with Alcoa where she was President of its European and Latin American Mill Products business unit, and commercial positions with Amag Austria. Ingrid Joerg received a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Linz, Austria.

Arnaud Jouron . Mr. Jouron has served as President of our Packaging and Automotive Rolled Products business unit since December 2015. Before joining Constellium, he worked for ten years at ArcelorMittal serving as CEO of the Tubular Products Division and as CFO of Long Carbon Europe, and Stainless segments. Prior to ArcelorMittal, Mr. Jouron worked 12 years in various consulting firms, including McKinsey, Arthur D. Little and Bossard. Mr. Jouron is a graduate of France’s Ecole Polytechnique and Ecole Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées.

Philip Ryan Jurkovic . Mr. Jurkovic has served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer since November 2016. Prior to joining Constellium, Mr. Jurkovic was Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of Algeco Scotsman. He started his career as a financial analyst before taking on various HR leadership roles in Europe, Asia and the U.S. with United Technologies and Novelis. Mr. Jurkovic has a BS from Allegheny College and an MBA from Purdue University.

Jack Clark . Mr. Clark has served as our Senior Vice President Manufacturing Excellence and Chief Technical Officer since October 2016. In this role, Mr. Clark is responsible for the technology organization at Constellium and supervises all EHS, Lean Continuous Improvement activities as well as Engineering, Reliability and CAPEX planning and execution. Prior to joining Constellium, Mr. Clark was Senior Vice President and Chief Technical Officer of Novelis. Mr. Clark graduated from Purdue University in Engineering and has more than 30 years of industry experience with Alcoa and Novelis on three continents.

Jeremy Leach . Mr. Leach has served as our Vice President and Group General Counsel and Secretary to the Board of Constellium since January 2011 and previously was Vice President and General Counsel at Alcan Engineered Products. Mr. Leach joined Pechiney in 1991 from the international law firm Richards Butler (now Reed Smith). Prior to becoming General Counsel at Alcan Engineered Products, he was the General Counsel of Alcan Packaging and held various senior legal positions in Rio Tinto, Alcan and Pechiney. He has been admitted in a number of jurisdictions, holds a law degree from Oxford University (MA Jurisprudence) and an MBA from the London Business School.

Nicolas Brun . Mr. Brun has served as our Vice President, Communications since January 2011, and previously held the same role at Alcan Engineered Products since June 2008. From 2005 through June 2008, Mr. Brun served in the roles of Vice President, Communications for Thales Alenia Space and also as Head of Communications for Thales’ Space division. Prior to 2005, Mr. Brun held senior global communications positions as Vice President External Communications with Alcatel, Vice President Communications Framatome ANP/AREVA, and with the Carlson Wagonlit Travel Group. Mr. Brun is currently President of Constellium Neuf-Brisach SAS since January 1, 2015. Mr. Brun attended University of Paris-La Sorbonne and received a degree in economics. He has a master’s degree in corporate communications from Ecole Française des Attachés de Presse and a certificate in marketing management for distribution networks from the Ecole Supérieure de Commerce in Paris.

Peter Basten . Mr. Basten has served as Executive Vice President, Strategy, Business Development, Research & Development since June 2016. He was previously our Vice President Strategy and Business Planning, the Managing Director of Soft Alloys Europe at our Automotive Structures and Industry Business Unit and our Vice President Strategic Planning & Business Development. Mr. Basten joined Alcan in 2005 as the Director of Strategy and Business Planning at Alcan Specialty Sheet, and became Director of Sales and Marketing in 2008, responsible for the aluminium packaging applications markets. Prior to joining Alcan, Mr. Basten worked as a consultant at Monitor Group, a Strategy Consulting firm. His assignments ranged from

 

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developing marketing, corporate, pricing and competitive strategy to M&A and optimizing manufacturing operations. Mr. Basten holds degrees in Applied Physics (Delft University of Technology, Netherlands) and Economics & Corporate Management (ENSPM, France).

 

B. Compensation

Non-Executive Director Compensation

For 2016, each of our non-executive directors was paid an annual retainer of €60,000 and received €2,000 for each meeting of the board of directors they attended in person and €1,000 for each meeting they attended by telephone. In addition, the Chairman of the audit committee received an annual retainer of €15,000, and the Chairman of each of the human resources and remuneration, the environment, health and safety and the nominating/governance committees received an annual retainer of €8,000.

Mr. Evans, as Chairman of the board of directors, was paid an additional €60,000 per year for his services, a position to which he was appointed on December 6, 2012.

In addition, on June 15, 2016, our non-executive directors received a grant of restricted stock units having a grant date fair value equal to $50,000 for the Chairman of the Board and $40,000 for each other non-executive director.

The following table sets forth the remuneration due in respect of our 2016 fiscal year to our non-executive directors:

 

Name

   Annual
Director Fees
     Board/
Committee
Attendance
Fees
     Equity
Awards (1)
     Total  

Richard B. Evans

   128,000      33,000      44,469      205,469  

Michiel Brandjes

   60,000      18,000      35,577      113,577  

Martha Brooks (2)

   30,000      13,000      35,577      78,577  

Philippe Guillemot

   60,000      28,000      35,577      123,577  

Peter F. Hartman

   68,000      23,000      35,577      126,577  

Guy Maugis

   68,000      28,000      35,577      131,577  

John Ormerod

   60,000      32,000      35,577      127,577  

Werner P. Paschke

   75,000      25,000      35,577      135,577  

Lori A. Walker

   60,000      29,000      35,577      124,577  

 

(1) The amount reported in this column represents the grant date fair value of restricted stock unit awards granted on June 15, 2016, computed in accordance with IFRS 2. On June 15, 2016, Mr. Evans was granted 11,062 restricted stock units and all other non-executive directors were granted 8,850 restricted stock units each. Such restricted stock units vest 50% on each anniversary date of the grant date. See Note 28 to the consolidated financial statements. Amounts have been converted to Euros based on an exchange rate of 0.8894 dollars to Euros to reflect the equivalent of $50,000 for the Chairman and $40,000 for each other non-executive director.
(2) Prior to her appointment as a member of the Board on June 15, 2016, Ms. Brooks also received $57,000 as an advisor to the board of directors.

Officer Compensation

The table below sets forth the remuneration paid during our 2016 fiscal year to certain of our executive officers. They include Pierre Vareille, our Chief Executive Officer until July 11, 2016, Jean-Marc Germain, our Chief Executive Officer from July 11, 2016, Didier Fontaine, our Chief Financial Officer until September 8, 2016, Corinne Fornara, our Interim Chief Financial Officer between September 8, 2016 and December 31, 2016, and Peter Matt, our Chief Financial Officer who joined as Chief Financial Officer Designate on November 1,

 

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2016 (and who became our Chief Financial Officer on January 1, 2017), Paul Warton, our President Automotive Structures & Industry, Ingrid Joerg, our President Aerospace & Transportation, and Arnaud Jouron, our President Packaging & Automotive Rolled Products. The remuneration information for our executive officers other than our Chief Executive Officers Pierre Vareille and Jean-Marc Germain is presented on an aggregate basis in the row “Other Executive Officers” in the table below.

 

Name

  Base
Salary Paid
    Bonus
EPA Paid
    Equity
Awards (1)
    Pension (2)     Other
Compensation (3)
    Total (4)  

Pierre Vareille

  459,466     953,471         52,098     252,560     1,717,595  

Jean-Marc Germain (5)

  409,532         2,075,568         80,446     2,565,546  

Other Executive Officers (Didier Fontaine, Corinne Fornara, Peter Matt, Paul Warton, Ingrid Joerg, Arnaud Jouron)

  2,250,943     1,546,357     2,058,356     732,452     650,633     7,238,741  

 

(1) The amount reported in this column represents the grant date fair value of the awards granted in 2016, computed in accordance with IFRS 2. In 2016, Pierre Vareille was not granted any equity awards. Jean-Marc Germain was granted the following restricted stock unit awards in August 2016: (a) a performance-based restricted stock unit award with a target number of shares of 150,000 and a maximum number of 450,000 shares issuable, which award vests on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to continued service and certain market-related performance conditions being satisfied; (b) 100,000 time-based restricted stock units, which vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to continued service; and (c) 100,000 restricted stock units, which vest 50% on the first anniversary of the grant date and 50% on the second anniversary of the grant date, subject, in each case, to continued service. Our other executive officers were granted, in the aggregate, 65,000 time-based restricted stock units, and 220,000 performance-based restricted stock units. The time-based restricted stock units vest 100% after a two- or three-year service period following the grant date and the performance-based restricted stock units vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to continued service and certain market-related performance conditions being satisfied. See Note 28 to the consolidated financial statements for more information.
(2) Pension represents amounts contributed by the Company during the 2016 fiscal year to the French, U.S. and Swiss states as part of the employer overall pension requirements apportioned to the base salary of these individuals.
(3) Other compensation for Mr. Vareille includes imputed payments made in 2016 for lunch allowance, vacation balance payment and for a non-compete agreement. Mr. Vareille will be entitled to €330,256 in 2017 for amounts due under his non-compete agreement and a portion of the unpaid 2016 bonus, and €256,132 in 2018 for the balance of his unpaid 2016 bonus. Other compensation for Mr. Germain includes a car allowance and $84,800 for his service as an advisor to the board of directors prior to his appointment as Chief Executive Officer on July 11, 2016. Other compensation for Mesdames Fornara and Joerg as well as for Messrs. Fontaine, Matt, Warton and Jouron includes the cost to the Company of providing a company car, lunch allowance and tax services during 2016.
(4) Amounts reported in the total reflect proration for individuals who were not employed by the Company for all of 2016.
(5) Prior to his appointment as CEO on July 11, 2016, Mr. Germain acted as advisor to the board of directors and his related fees are included in the table under “Other Compensation.”

The total remuneration paid to our executive officers, including Messrs. Vareille, Germain, Fontaine, Matt and Ms. Fornara during our 2016 fiscal year amounted to €7,387,958, consisting of (i) an aggregate base salary of €3,119,941, (ii) aggregate short-term incentive compensation of €2,499,828, and (iii) aggregate other compensation in an amount equal to €983,639. The total amount contributed to the value of the pensions for such executive officers, including Messr. Vareille, during our 2016 fiscal year was €784,550.

Below is a brief description of the compensation and benefit plans in which our officers participate.

 

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2016 Employee Performance Award Plan

Each of our officers participates in the Employee Performance Award Plan (which we refer to as the “EPA”). The EPA is an annual cash bonus plan intended to provide performance-related award opportunities to employees who contribute substantially to the success of Constellium. Under the EPA, participants are granted opportunities to earn cash bonuses (expressed as a percentage of base salary) based on the level of achievement of certain financial metrics established by our human resources and remuneration committee for the applicable annual performance period, EHS performance objectives approved by our human resources and remuneration committee, and individual and team objectives established by the applicable participant’s supervisor.

The level of awards granted under the EPA is generally determined to be:

 

    70% based on the level of attainment of the applicable financial metrics (which we refer to as the “Financial Performance Award”);

 

    10% based on the level of attainment of EHS performance objectives (which we refer to as the “EHS Performance Award”); and

 

    20% based on the level of attainment of individual and team objectives (which we refer to as the “Individual/Team Performance Award”).

The Financial Performance Award is calculated on a quarterly basis and takes into account two components as defined and reported by the Company’s corporate controller: Adjusted Free Cash Flow/Operating Cash Flow and Adjusted EBITDA. Each of these components accounts for half of the Financial Performance Award (and as such, 35% of the total target award). To promote synergies throughout the Company, the EPA is designed to encourage individual plants, business units, and our corporate division to work closely together to achieve common strategic, operating, and financial goals. Therefore, the Financial Performance Award element of the EPA award is defined, depending on the level of the employee, on one or more financial results of Constellium and/or the applicable business unit and/or the site or operating unit, depending on the individual.

The EHS Performance Award is based on a yearly EHS objective for Constellium and the different entities established at the beginning of each performance period. There will be no payout for the EHS objective in the event of a fatality or type I (major) environmental event for all employees of the operating unit involved, all hierarchical line managers, the BU management and all employees on group level.

The Individual/Team Performance Award objectives are established yearly by the supervisor according to the Company’s performance management process. The performance rating on the two main objectives is used to calculate the EPA rating. The employee agrees with his or her supervisor as to which of the objectives will be used for the bonus calculation and indicated in the performance management system.

Awards are paid (generally subject to continued service through the end of the applicable annual performance period) in the year following the year for which such awards were granted. Each participant has a target award expressed as a percentage of the base salary as of December 31 of the applicable year, reflecting both the responsibilities of the position and the labor markets with which Constellium is competing.

The payout scale defines the performance levels and resulting payouts. The target performance level results in a payout at 100% of the bonus entitlement.

The threshold performance level is typically set at 80% of the target level. If the threshold performance level is not achieved, there is no bonus payout. Between the threshold performance level and the target performance level, the payout increases linearly between 0% and 100%.

The maximum performance target is set at 125% of the target level. This level results in a payout of 150% of the bonus entitlement. The payout between the target performance level and the maximum performance level is defined linearly.

 

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The Financial Performance Award for corporate functions is capped by the highest payout in one of the business units. The plan is applicable to almost 1,300 employees worldwide.

For 2016, payouts for performance under the EPA were determined based on financials or EHS targets for any of: corporate results as a whole; the results of a business unit, operational unit or site; or a combination of these results. The potential financial payout that could have been earned by our employees in 2016 under our EPA plan varied according to the following results:

 

    Financial results . The ratio of Company overall performance results in an average payout at 107% of our financial targets to the blended factors for our business units and/or operational units ranging from 60% to 121%.

 

    EHS results . The EHS potential payout for the same employees in 2016 varied from 0% to 150%.

 

    Individual Achievements . The potential payout in 2016 varied from 0% to 150%.

Constellium N.V. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan

The Company adopted the Constellium N.V. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Constellium 2013 Equity Plan”). The principal purposes of this plan are to focus directors, officers and other employees and consultants on business performance to help create shareholder value, to encourage innovative approaches to the business of the Company and to encourage ownership of our ordinary shares by directors, officers and other employees and consultants. It is also intended to recognize and retain our key employees and high potentials needed to sustain and ensure our future and business competitiveness.

The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan provides for a variety of awards, including “incentive stock options” (within the meaning of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”)) (“ISOs”), nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance units, other stock-based awards or any combination of those awards. The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan provides that awards may be made under the plan for 10 years. We have reserved a total of 7,292,291 ordinary shares for issuance under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances to prevent dilution or enlargement.

Administration

The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan is administered by our human resources and remuneration committee. The board of directors or the human resources and remuneration committee may delegate administration to one or more members of our board of directors. The human resources and remuneration committee has the power to interpret the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan and to adopt rules for the administration, interpretation and application of the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan according to its terms. The human resources and remuneration committee determines the number of our ordinary shares that will be subject to each award granted under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan and may take into account the recommendations of our senior management in determining the award recipients and the terms and conditions of such awards. Subject to certain exceptions as may be required pursuant to Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act, if applicable, our board of directors may at any time and from time to time exercise any and all rights and duties of the human resources and remuneration committee under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan.

Eligibility

Certain directors, officers, employees and consultants are eligible to be granted awards under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan. Our human resources and remuneration committee determines:

 

    which directors, officers, employees and consultants are to be granted awards;

 

    the type of award that is granted;

 

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    the number of our ordinary shares subject to the awards; and

 

    the terms and conditions of such awards, consistent with the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan.

Our human resources and remuneration committee has the discretion, subject to the limitations of the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan and applicable laws, to grant stock options, SARs and rights to acquire restricted stock (except that only our employees may be granted ISOs).

Stock Options

Subject to the terms and provisions of the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan, stock options to purchase our ordinary shares may be granted to eligible individuals at any time and from time to time as determined by our human resources and remuneration committee. Stock options may be granted as ISOs, which are intended to qualify for favorable treatment to the recipient under U.S. federal tax law, or as nonqualified stock options, which do not qualify for this favorable tax treatment. Subject to the limits provided in the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan, our human resources and remuneration committee has the authority to determine the number of stock options granted to each recipient. Each stock option grant is evidenced by a stock option agreement that specifies the stock option exercise price, whether the stock options are intended to be incentive stock options or nonqualified stock options, the duration of the stock options, the number of shares to which the stock options pertain and such additional limitations, terms and conditions as our human resources and remuneration committee may determine.

Our human resources and remuneration committee determines the exercise price for each stock option granted, except that the stock option exercise price may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of an ordinary share on the date of grant. All stock options granted under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan expire no later than 10 years from the date of grant. Stock options are nontransferable except by will or by the laws of descent and distribution or, in the case of nonqualified stock options, as otherwise expressly permitted by our human resources and remuneration committee. The granting of a stock option does not accord the recipient the rights of a shareholder, and such rights accrue only after the exercise of a stock option and the registration of ordinary shares in the recipient’s name.

Stock Appreciation Rights

Our human resources and remuneration committee in its discretion may grant SARs under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan. SARs may be “tandem SARs,” which are granted in conjunction with a stock option, or “free-standing SARs,” which are not granted in conjunction with a stock option. A SAR entitles the holder to receive from us, upon exercise, an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the aggregate fair market value of a specified number of our ordinary shares to which such SAR pertains over the aggregate exercise price for the underlying shares. The exercise price of a free-standing SAR may not be less than 100% of the fair market value of an ordinary share on the date of grant.

A tandem SAR may be granted at the grant date of the related stock option. A tandem SAR may be exercised only at such time or times and to the extent that the related stock option is exercisable and has the same exercise price as the related stock option. A tandem SAR terminates or is forfeited upon the exercise or forfeiture of the related stock option, and the related stock option terminates or is forfeited upon the exercise or forfeiture of the tandem SAR.

Each SAR is evidenced by an award agreement that specifies the exercise price, the number of ordinary shares to which the SAR pertains and such additional limitations, terms and conditions as our human resources and remuneration committee may determine. We may make payment of the amount to which the participant exercising the SARs is entitled by delivering ordinary shares, cash or a combination of stock and cash as set forth in the award agreement relating to the SARs. SARs are not transferable except by will or the laws of descent and distribution or, with respect to SARs that are not granted in “tandem” with a stock option, as expressly permitted by our human resources and remuneration committee.

 

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Restricted Stock

The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan provides for the award of ordinary shares that are subject to forfeiture and restrictions on transferability to the extent permitted by applicable law and as set forth in the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan, the applicable award agreement and as may be otherwise determined by our human resources and remuneration committee. Except for these restrictions and any others imposed by our human resources and remuneration committee to the extent permitted by applicable law, upon the grant of restricted stock, the recipient will have rights of a shareholder with respect to the restricted stock, including the right to vote the restricted stock and to receive all dividends and other distributions paid or made with respect to the restricted stock on such terms as set forth in the applicable award agreement. During the restriction period set by our human resources and remuneration committee, the recipient is prohibited from selling, transferring, pledging, exchanging or otherwise encumbering the restricted stock to the extent permitted by applicable law.

Restricted Stock Units

The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan authorizes our human resources and remuneration committee to grant restricted stock units. Restricted stock units are not ordinary shares and do not entitle the recipient to the rights of a shareholder, although the award agreement may provide for rights with respect to dividend equivalents. The recipient may not sell, transfer, pledge or otherwise encumber restricted stock units granted under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan prior to their vesting. Restricted stock units may be settled in cash, ordinary shares or a combination thereof as provided in the applicable award agreement, in an amount based on the fair market value of an ordinary share on the settlement date.

Performance Units

The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan provides for the award of performance units that are valued by reference to a designated amount of cash or to property other than ordinary shares. The payment of the value of a performance unit is conditioned upon the achievement of performance goals set by our human resources and remuneration committee in granting the performance unit and may be paid in cash, ordinary shares, other property or a combination thereof. Any terms relating to the termination of a participant’s employment will be set forth in the applicable award agreement.

Other Stock-Based Awards

The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan also provides for the award of ordinary shares and other awards that are valued by reference to our ordinary shares, including unrestricted stock, dividend equivalents and convertible debentures.

Performance Goals

The Constellium 2013 Equity Plan provides that performance goals may be established by our remuneration committee in connection with the grant of any award under the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan.

Termination without Cause Following a Change in Control

Upon a termination of employment of a plan participant occurring upon or during the two years immediately following the date of a “change in control” (as defined in the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan) by the Company without “cause” (as defined in the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan), unless otherwise provided in the applicable award agreement, (i) all awards held by such participant will vest in full (in the case of any awards that are subject to performance goals, at target) and be free of restrictions, and (ii) any option or SAR held by the participant as of the date of the change in control that remains outstanding as of the date of such termination of employment may thereafter be exercised until (A) in the case of ISOs, the last date on which such ISOs would

 

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otherwise be exercisable or (B) in the case of nonqualified options and SARs, the later of (x) the last date on which such nonqualified option or SAR would otherwise be exercisable and (y) the earlier of (I) the second anniversary of such change in control and (II) the expiration of the term of such nonqualified option or SAR.

Amendments

Our board of directors or our human resources and remuneration committee may amend, alter or discontinue the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan, but no amendment, alteration or discontinuation will be made that would materially impair the rights of a participant with respect to a previously granted award without such participant’s consent, unless such an amendment is made to comply with applicable law, including, without limitation, Section 409A of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), stock exchange rules or accounting rules. In addition, no such amendment will be made without the approval of the Company’s shareholders to the extent such approval is required by applicable law or the listing standards of the applicable stock exchange.

2016 Awards

In 2016, our human resources and remuneration committee approved performance-based restricted stock unit grants under our Constellium 2013 Equity Plan for certain eligible employees, including our executive officers, that were based on targeted levels of relative total shareholder return (“TSR”). The human resources and remuneration committee establishes goals for the TSR in respect of each performance period and the designated numbers of shares that may be received by a participant based upon the achievement of each goal during the performance period. Each such performance-based stock unit grant vests over a three-year period, subject to continued service and the achievement of performance goals described below.

For each of the three annual performance periods during the three-year vesting period for the performance-based restricted stock units, our TSR is measured relative to the TSR of the following peer group established by our human resources and remuneration committee (and weighted as follows):

 

    33% of the total peer group TSR is based on the TSR of the companies listed in the Dow Jones Industrial Average (“DJIA”).

 

    33% of the total peer group TSR is based on the TSR of four of our competitors: Alcoa Corporation, Allegheny Technologies Incorporated, Carpenter Technology Corporation and Kaiser Aluminum Corporation (which we refer to as our “competitors” and which list of competitors is subject to adjustment as described below).

 

    34% of the total peer group TSR is based on the TSR of four of our main partners: Rio Tinto, Ball, Airbus and Ford (which we refer to as our “partners”).

When calculating the relative TSR, each of the companies listed above as our competitors and our partners is given an equal relative weight of 25%.

The term TSR, as applied to the Company or any company in the peer groups, means the stock price appreciation from the beginning to the end of the applicable performance period, plus dividends and distributions made or declared during the performance period, expressed as a percentage return, and with respect to the DJIA, the variation of the DJIA index from the beginning to the end of the performance period, expressed as a percentage.

For purposes of computing the TSR, the stock price at the beginning of the performance period will be the average closing price of a share of common stock of the Company over the 20 trading days ending on the first day of the applicable performance period and the stock price at the end of the performance period will be the average closing price of an ordinary share over the 20 trading days ending on the last day of the applicable performance period, adjusted for changes in capital structure as set forth in the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan or as determined at the discretion of the human resources and remuneration committee.

 

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The performance-based restricted stock units vest as follows:

 

    If, for a given performance period, the Company’s TSR is below the average of the total peer groups’ TSR, then no performance-based restricted stock units will vest and no shares will be earned by the participant.

 

    If, for a given performance period, the Company’s TSR is equal to the average of the total peer groups’ TSR, then 100% of the annual target number of performance-based restricted stock units will vest and the corresponding number of shares will be earned by the participant, subject always to his or her continued service through the three-year service vesting period.

 

    If, for a given performance period, the Company’s TSR is above the average of the total peer groups’ TSR, then: (1) 100% of the annual target number of performance-based restricted stock units will vest and (2) an amount of additional performance-based restricted stock units equal to twice the excess of the Company’s TSR over the average of the peer groups’ TSR will vest (for example, if the Company’s TSR exceeds the peer groups’ TSR by 3%, an additional 6% of the annual target number of performance-based restricted stock units will vest).

The maximum number of performance-based restricted stock units subject to an award is 300% of the total target number of performance-based restricted stock units, of which up to one-third will be eligible for vesting with respect to attainment of the applicable performance goals during each year of the three-year vesting period.

In 2016, our human resources and remuneration committee also granted time-based restricted stock units to our executive officers that either vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, subject to continued service, or vest in equal installments on the first two anniversaries of the grant date, subject to continued service. Constellium granted several performance-based restricted stock units, including those granted under the same terms and conditions as those set forth above, see “—Performance Goals,” and others without performance conditions with either a three-year vesting or a vesting of 50% per year over a two-year period. See Note 28 to the consolidated financial statements for more information.

Employment and Service Arrangements

We are party to employment or services agreements with each of our officers. In general, we may terminate certain officers’ employment with or services to us for “cause” upon advance written notice, without compensation, for certain acts of the officer. Each officer may terminate his or her employment at any time upon advance written notice to us. In the event that the officer’s employment or service is terminated by us without cause or, in the case of certain executives, by him for “good reason,” the officer is entitled to certain payments as provided by applicable laws or collective bargaining agreements or as otherwise provided under the applicable employment or services agreements. Except for the foregoing, our officers are not entitled to any severance payments upon the termination of their employment or services for any reason.

Under such employment and services agreements, each of our officers has also agreed not to engage or participate in any business activities that compete with us or solicit our employees or customers for (depending on the officer) up to two years after the termination of his employment or services. They have further agreed not to use or disseminate any confidential information concerning us as a result of performing their duties or using our resources during their employment with or services to us.

Contracts with certain of our executive officers are described below.

Employment Agreement with Jean-Marc Germain

The Company and Ravenswood entered into an employment agreement with Jean-Marc Germain, dated April 26, 2016. The employment agreement with Mr. Germain provides for an annual base salary of $950,000, a

 

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target annual bonus of 120% of base salary, and a maximum annual bonus of 180% of base salary. In addition, as described above, Mr. Germain was granted the following equity awards in August 2016 pursuant to his employment agreement: (1) an award of performance-based restricted stock units with a target number of shares of 150,000 and a maximum numbers of shares of 450,000, which will vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant, subject to his continued employment and the achievement of certain performance goals; (2) an award of 100,000 restricted stock units, which represent his ordinary course 2016 long-term equity compensation grant, and which will vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant, subject to his continued employment; and (3) an award of 100,000 restricted stock units, which will vest in equal installments on the first two anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to his continued employment.

If Mr. Germain is terminated by the Company without “cause” or he resigns for “good reason” (each as defined in the employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive, subject to his execution and non-revocation of a general release of claims, cash severance in an amount equal to the product of (1) one (two, if such termination occurs within the 12-month period following a “change in control” (as defined in the employment agreement)) multiplied by (2) the sum of his base salary and target annual bonus, which severance will be payable over the 12-month (24-month, in the case of a termination within the 12-month period following a change in control) period following his termination of employment. The employment agreement also includes a perpetual confidentiality covenant, a perpetual mutual non-disparagement covenant, and 12-month post-termination non-competition and non-solicitation covenants.

Employment Agreement with Peter Matt

The Company entered into an employment term sheet with Peter Matt, dated as of October 26, 2016 pursuant to which he is employed by Ravenswood. The employment term sheet with Mr. Matt provides for an annual base salary of $600,000, a target annual bonus of 90% of base salary, and a maximum annual bonus of 135% of base salary. If Mr. Matt is terminated by the Company without “cause” or he resigns for “good reason” (each as defined in the employment term sheet), he will be entitled to receive, subject to his execution and non-revocation of a general release of claims, (1) cash severance in an amount equal to the sum of his base salary and target annual bonus and (2) six months of continued welfare benefits at the Company’s expense. The employment term sheet also includes a perpetual confidentiality covenant and 12-month post-termination non-competition and non-solicitation covenants. If Mr. Matt’s employment is terminated without “cause,” the Company will also offer Mr. Matt an additional amount equal to 50% of the sum of his base salary, target annual bonus, and vacation pay in consideration for his agreeing to not to compete.

Employment Agreement with Corinne Fornara

The Company amended the original employment term sheet with Corinne Fornara to reflect her new role as Interim Chief Financial Officer starting on September 8, 2016. The amended term sheet with Ms. Fornara provides for an annual base salary of €250,000, a target annual bonus of 40% of her base salary, and a maximum annual bonus of 60% of base salary. If Ms. Fornara is terminated by the Company without “cause,” she will be entitled to receive, subject to her execution and non-revocation of a general release of claims, a cash severance in an amount equal to 9/12 of her annual gross base salary. The amended employment term sheet also includes a perpetual confidentiality covenant and 12 months post-termination noncompetition and non-solicitation covenants. In addition, Ms. Fornara is eligible to receive a cash retention bonus equal to her annual base salary payable on March 1, 2018, if she is still providing services to the Company on such date. If she resigns before the end of the retention period, the retention bonus will be forfeited. If she is terminated by the Company without cause, she will be entitled to a prorated portion of the retention bonus based on the number of days she was employed by the Company during the retention period.

 

C. Board Practices

Our board of directors (the “Board”) currently consists of 10 directors, less than a majority of whom are citizens or residents of the United States. The Board held ten meetings in 2016.

 

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We currently have a one-tier Board consisting of one Executive Director and nine Non-Executive Directors (each, a “Director”). Under Dutch law, the Board is responsible for our policy making and day-to-day management. The Non-Executive Directors supervise and provide guidance to the Executive director. Each Director owes a duty to us to properly perform the duties assigned to him and to act in our corporate interest. Under Dutch law, the corporate interest extends to the interests of all corporate stakeholders, such as shareholders, creditors, employees, customers and suppliers.

The Management and Supervision Act ( Wet bestuur en toezicht ), effective as of January 1, 2013, strived for a balanced composition of management and supervisory boards of “large” companies, such as Constellium, to the effect that at least 30% of the positions on the management and supervisory boards of such companies were held by women and at least 30% by men. There was no legal sanction if the composition of such company’s board is not balanced in accordance with the Act. An appointment contrary to these rules was therefore not null and void. However, in such case, the company had to explain any noncompliance with the 30% criteria in its annual report. The explanation had to include the reasons for noncompliance and the actions the company intended to take in order to comply in the future. These rules expired on January 1, 2016, but may be reintroduced in the future.

Our Articles of Association provide that our shareholders acting at a general meeting (a “General Meeting”) appoint directors upon a binding nomination by the Board. The General Meeting may at all times overrule the binding nature of such nomination by a resolution adopted by a majority of at least two-thirds of the votes cast, provided that such majority represents more than 50% of our issued share capital. If the binding nomination is overruled, the Non-Executive Directors may then make a new nomination. If such a nomination has not been made or has not been made in time, this shall be stated in the notice and the General Meeting shall be free to appoint a director in its discretion. Such a resolution of the General Meeting must be adopted by at least two-thirds of the votes cast, provided that such majority represents more than 50% of our issued share capital.

The Directors may be suspended or dismissed at any time by the General Meeting. A resolution to suspend or dismiss a Director must be adopted by at least two-thirds of the votes cast, provided that such majority represents more than 50% of our issued share capital. If, however, the proposal to suspend or dismiss the Directors is made by the Board, the proposal must be adopted by a simple majority of the votes cast at the General Meeting. The Executive Director can at all times be suspended by the Board.

Director Independence

As a foreign private issuer under the NYSE rules, we are not required to have independent Directors on our Board, except to the extent that our audit committee is required to consist of independent Directors. However, our Board has determined that, under current NYSE listing standards regarding independence (which we are not currently subject to), and taking into account any applicable committee standards, as of December 31, 2016, Messrs. Evans, Brandjes, Guillemot, Hartman, Maugis, Ormerod and Paschke, Ms. Walker and Ms. Brooks are deemed independent directors. Under these standards, Mr. Germain is not deemed independent as he serves as the CEO to the Company.

Committees

Audit Committee

As of December 31, 2016 our audit committee consisted of the following independent directors under the NYSE requirements: Werner Paschke (Chair), Philippe Guillemot, John Ormerod, Lori Walker and Martha Brooks. Our Board has determined that at least one member is an “audit committee financial expert” as defined by the SEC and also meets the additional criteria for independence of audit committee members set forth in Rule 10A-3(b)(1) under the Exchange Act. The audit committee held seven meetings in 2016.

The principal duties and responsibilities of our audit committee are to oversee and monitor the following:

 

    our financial reporting process and internal control system;

 

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    the integrity of our consolidated financial statements;

 

    the independence, qualifications and performance of our independent registered public accounting firm;

 

    the performance of our internal audit function;

 

    our related party transactions; and

 

    our compliance with legal, ethical and regulatory matters.

Human Resources and Remuneration Committee

As of December 31, 2016, our human resources and remuneration committee consisted of four directors: Peter Hartman (Chair), Martha Brooks, Guy Maugis and Richard Evans. The human resources and remuneration committee held six meetings in 2016.

The principal duties of our human resources and remuneration committee are as follows:

 

    to review, evaluate and make recommendations to the full Board regarding our compensation policies and establish performance-based incentives that support our long-term goals, objectives and interests;

 

    to review and approve the departure conditions of our former CEO;

 

    to review and approve the compensation of our new Chief Executive Officer, all employees who report directly to our Chief Executive Officer and other members of our senior management;

 

    to review and approve the departure conditions of employees who reported directly to our CEO and who have left Constellium;

 

    to review and approve compensation structure and level of any new employee who reports directly to our CEO;

 

    to review and make recommendations to the Board with respect to our incentive compensation plans and equity-based compensation plans;

 

    to set and review the compensation of and reimbursement policies for members of the Board;

 

    to provide oversight concerning selection of officers, management succession planning, expense accounts, indemnification and insurance matters, and separation packages; and

 

    to provide regular reports to the Board and take such other actions as are necessary and consistent with our Articles of Association.

Nominating/Governance Committee

As of December 31, 2016, our nominating/governance committee consisted of three directors: Richard Evans (Chair), Michiel Brandjes and John Ormerod. The nominating/governance committee held four meetings in 2016.

The principal duties and responsibilities of the nominating/governance committee are as follows:

 

    to establish criteria for Board and committee membership and recommend to our Board proposed nominees for election to the Board and for membership on committees of our Board; and

 

    to make recommendations to our Board regarding board governance matters and practices.

Environment, Health and Safety Committee

As of December 31, 2016, our environment, health and safety committee consisted of three directors: Guy Maugis (Chair), Philippe Guillemot and Lori Walker. The environment, health and safety committee held two meetings in 2016.

 

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The principal duties and responsibilities of the environment, health and safety committee are to review and monitor the following:

 

    the Company’s policies, practices and programs with respect to the management of EHS affairs, including sustainability;

 

    the adequacy of the Company’s policies, practices and programs for ensuring compliance with EHS laws and regulations; and

 

    any significant EHS litigation and regulatory proceedings in which the Company is or may become involved.

 

D. Employees

As of December 31, 2016, we employed approximately 11,000 active employees of which approximately 85% were engaged in production and maintenance activities and approximately 15% were employed in support functions. Approximately 40% of our employees were employed in France, 18% in Germany, 26% in the United States, 8% in Switzerland, and 8% in Eastern Europe and other regions. We employed approximately 11,000 employees as of December 31, 2016 and as of December 31, 2015.

A vast majority of non-U.S. employees and approximately 49% of U.S. employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements. These agreements are negotiated on site, regionally or on a national level and are of different durations. Except in connection with prior negotiations completed during the fourth quarter of 2011, around our plan to restructure our plant in Ham, France (which has since been disposed of), we have not experienced a prolonged labor stoppage in any of our production facilities in the past 10 years.

We employed 1,500 and 1,377 temporary employees (including fixed term contractors) as of December 31, 2015 and 2016, respectively.

 

E. Share Ownership

Information with respect to share ownership of members of our board of directors and our senior management is included in “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions.”

Management Equity Plan

Following the Acquisition, a management equity plan (the “MEP”) was established effective February 4, 2011, to facilitate investments by our officers and other members of management in Constellium. In connection with the MEP, a German limited partnership, Omega Management GmbH & Co. KG (“Management KG”), was formed.

Management KG was a vehicle which allowed current and former directors, officers and employees of Constellium who invested in the MEP (either directly or indirectly through one or more investment vehicles) (the “MEP Participants”) to hold a limited partnership interest in Management KG that corresponded to a portion of the shares in Constellium held by Management KG. Certain of our executive officers participated in the MEP. In connection with our IPO, the MEP was frozen and no other employees, officers or directors of Constellium were invited to become MEP Participants after 2013.

Following the advisory board resolution of Omega MEP GmbH (“GP GmbH”), the general partner of Management KG, dated November 6, 2015, it was resolved to wind-up the MEP. In connection with the wind-up of the MEP and with effect as of November 10, 2015, 2,410,357 Class A ordinary shares were transferred to the 34 MEP Participants in accordance with their respective share allocations under the MEP.

 

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Management KG no longer holds any shares in Constellium and the limited partnership interests no longer represent an indirect economical interest in Constellium; the Management KG was liquidated as of October 31, 2016.

Equity Incentive Plan

The Company adopted the Constellium 2013 Equity Plan under which certain of our directors, officers, employees, and consultants are eligible to receive equity awards. See “—Constellium N.V. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan” above.

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

 

A. Major Shareholders

The following table sets forth the major shareholders of Constellium N.V. (each person or group of affiliated persons who is known to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of ordinary shares) and the number and percentage of ordinary shares owned by each such shareholder, in each case as of March 20, 2017.

Under the rules of the SEC, a person is deemed to be a “beneficial owner” of a security if that person has or shares “voting power,” which includes the power to vote or to direct the voting of such security, or “investment power,” which includes the power to dispose of or to direct the disposition of such security. A person is also deemed to be a beneficial owner of any securities of which that person has a right to acquire beneficial ownership within 60 days. Under these rules, more than one person may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of such securities as to which such person has voting or investment power.

The beneficial ownership percentages in this table have been calculated on the basis of the total number of Class A ordinary shares.

 

Name of beneficial owner

   Number of Class A
ordinary shares
    Beneficial
ownership
percentage
 

Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations, Bpifrance Participations, BPI-Groupe (bpifrance), EPIC BPI-Groupe

     12,846,969 (1)       12.2

Vaughan Nelson Investment Management, L.P.

     7,499,591 (2)       7.1

David E. Shaw

     6,109,755 (3)       5.8

North Run Advisors, LLC

     6,090,000 (4)       5.8

Barclays PLC

     5,965,806 (5)       5.7

Directors and Senior Management

    

Richard B. Evans

     172,756 (6)         * 

Jean-Marc Germain

     40,000 (7)         * 

Guy Maugis

     1,579 (8)         * 

Philippe Guillemot

     5,987 (9)         * 

Werner P. Paschke

     70,987 (10)         * 

Michiel Brandjes

     12,691 (11)         * 

Peter F. Hartman

     3,804 (12)         * 

John Ormerod

     8,804 (13)         * 

Lori A. Walker

     3,804 (14)         * 

Martha Brooks

     0 (15)         * 

Peter R. Matt

     40,000 (16)         * 

Paul Warton

     262,742 (17)         * 

Ingrid Joerg

     65,000 (18)         * 

Arnaud Jouron

     21,667 (19)         * 

 

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* Represents beneficial ownership of less than 1%.
(1) This information is based on a Schedule 13D/A filed with the SEC on July 25, 2013. Bpifrance Participations (“Bpifrance”) is a wholly owned subsidiary of BPI-Groupe (bpifrance), a French financial institution (“BPI”) jointly owned and controlled by the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations, a French special public entity (établissement special) (“CDC”) and EPIC BPI-Groupe, a French public institution of industrial and commercial nature (“EPIC”). Bpifrance holds directly 12,846,969 ordinary shares and neither BPI, CDC nor EPIC holds any ordinary shares directly. BPI may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of 12,846,969 ordinary shares, indirectly through its sole ownership of Bpifrance. CDC and EPIC may be deemed to be the beneficial owners of 12,846,969 ordinary shares, indirectly through their joint ownership and control of BPI. The principal address for CDC is 56, rue de Lille, 75007 Paris, France and for Bpifrance, BPI and EPIC is 27-31 avenue du Général Leclerc 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
(2) This information is based on a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 14, 2017. Vaughan Nelson Investment Management, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“Vaughan Nelson”), and Vaughan Nelson Investment Management, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“General Partner”), each report that it may be deemed to have sole voting power with respect to 6,782,865 ordinary shares, sole dispositive power with respect to 7,090,365 ordinary shares and shared dispositive power with respect to 409,226 ordinary shares. Both Vaughan Nelson and General Partner disclaim beneficial ownership of the reported shares. The principal address for Vaughan Nelson and the General Partner is 600 Travis Street, Suite 6300, Houston, Texas 77002.
(3) This information is based on a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 14, 2017 by D. E. Shaw & Co., L.P., a limited partnership organized under the laws of the state of Delaware, and David E. Shaw (“Mr. Shaw”), as president and sole shareholder of D. E. Shaw & Co., Inc., which is the general partner of D. E. Shaw & Co., L.P. The Schedule 13G reports that each of D. E. Shaw & Co., L.P. and Mr. Shaw has shared voting power with respect to 6,090,055 ordinary shares and shared dispositive power with respect to 6,109,755 ordinary shares. Mr. Shaw does not own any ordinary shares directly. The Schedule 13G/A reports that Mr. Shaw may be deemed to beneficially own 6,109,755 ordinary shares. David E. Shaw disclaims beneficial ownership of such 6,109,755 shares. The address of the principal business office for each of D. E. Shaw & Co., L.P. and Mr. Shaw is 1166 Avenue of the Americas, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10036.
(4) This information is based on a Schedule 13G/A filed with the SEC on February 10, 2017 on behalf of North Run Advisors, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“North Run”), North Run Capital, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “Investment Manager”), Todd B. Hammer and Thomas B. Ellis. Todd B. Hammer and Thomas B. Ellis are the principals and sole members of North Run. North Run is the general partner of the Investment Manager. The Investment Manager is the investment manager of certain private pooled investment vehicles. North Run, the Investment Manager, Todd B. Hammer and Thomas B. Ellis may be deemed to have shared voting and share dispositive power over 6,090,000 of our ordinary shares. The address of the principal business office of North Run, the Investment Manager, Mr. Hammer and Mr. Ellis is One International Place, Suite 2401, Boston, MA 02110.
(5)

This information is based on a Schedule 13G filed with the SEC on February 14, 2017 by Barclays PLC, a public limited company organized under the laws of England, United Kingdom, Barclays Capital Inc., a Connecticut corporation, and Barclays Bank PLC, a public limited company organized under the laws of England, United Kingdom. Barclays PLC reports that it beneficially owns 5,965,806 ordinary shares, and has sole voting and sole dispositive power over 5,965,806 ordinary shares. Barclays Capital Inc. reports that it beneficially owns 5,195,254 ordinary shares, and has sole voting and sole dispositive power over 5,195,254 ordinary shares. Barclays Bank PLC reports that it beneficially owns 770,552 ordinary shares, and has sole voting and sole dispositive power over 770,552 ordinary shares. The securities being reported on by Barclays PLC, as a parent holding company, are owned, or may be deemed to be beneficially owned, by Barclays Capital Inc., a broker or dealer registered under Section 15 of the Act, Barclays Bank PLC, a non-US banking institution registered with the Financial Conduct Authority authorized by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the United Kingdom. Barclays Capital Inc. and Barclays Bank PLC, are wholly owned

 

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  subsidiaries of Barclays PLC. The address of the principal business office for Barclays PLC, and Barclays Bank PLC is 1 Churchill Place, London, E14 5HP, England. The address of the principal business office for Barclays Capital Inc. is 745 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019. None of Barclays PLC, Barclays Capital Inc. or Barclays Bank PLC was a major shareholder in the Company’s Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2015.
(6) Consists of 170,783 Class A ordinary shares held indirectly by Mr. Evans through the Evans Family Inter Vivos Revocable Trust, and 1,973 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,973 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 5,531 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 5,531 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Mr. Evans’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(7) Consists of 40,000 Class A ordinary shares held directly by Mr. Germain. Excludes 50,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on August 4, 2017, subject to Mr. Germain’s continued service to Constellium, 50,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on August 4, 2018, subject to Mr Germain’s continued service to Constellium, a minimum of 150,000 to a maximum of 450,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that could vest on August 4, 2019, subject to Mr. Germain’s continued employment and achievement of certain performance goals, and 100,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on August 4, 2019, subject to Mr. Germain’s continued service to Constellium through such date.
(8) Consists of 1,579 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,578 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Mr. Maugis’ continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(9) Consists of 4,408 Class A ordinary shares held directly by Mr. Guillemot, and 1,579 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,578 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Mr. Guillemot’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(10) Consists of 69,408 Class A ordinary shares held directly by Mr. Paschke, and 1,579 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,578 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Mr. Paschke’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(11) Consists of 11,112 shares held directly by Mr. Brandjes, and 1,579 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,578 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Mr. Brandjes’ continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(12) Consists of 2,225 Class A ordinary shares held directly by Mr. Hartman, and 1,579 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,578 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Mr. Hartman’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.

 

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(13) Consists of 7,225 Class A ordinary shares held directly by Mr. Ormerod, and 1,579 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,578 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Mr. Ormerod’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(14) Consists of 2,225 Class A ordinary shares held directly by Ms. Walker, and 1,579 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 11, 2016. Excludes 1,578 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 11, 2017, 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Ms. Walker’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(15) No Class A ordinary shares are held directly by Ms. Brooks. Excludes 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017 and 4,425 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018, subject to Ms. Brooks’ continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(16) Consists of 40,000 Class A ordinary shares held directly by Mr. Matt. Excludes 41,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on November 14, 2017, 41,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on November 14, 2018 and 26,666 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on November 14, 2019, subject to Mr. Matt’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(17) Consists of 221,212 Class A ordinary shares transferred to Mr. Warton in connection with the wind-up of the MEP, 3,275 Class A ordinary shares acquired in 2014, 14,921 Class A ordinary shares received in 2015, 6,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on June 15, 2016 and 16,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on March 17, 2017. Excludes 6,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2017, 16,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on March 17, 2018, 6,666 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on June 15, 2018 and 16,666 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on March 17, 2019, subject to Mr. Warton’s continued service to Constellium through such dates.
(18) Consists of 10,000 Class A ordinary shares acquired by Ms. Joerg in 2015, 10,000 Class A ordinary shares acquired in 2016, 25,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on August 4, 2016 and 20,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on March 17, 2017. Excludes 25,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on August 4, 2017, 20,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on March 17, 2018 and 20,000 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on March 17, 2019, subject to Ms. Joerg’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.
(19) Consists of 21,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying restricted stock units that vested on March 17, 2017. Excludes 21,667 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on March 17, 2018 and 21,666 Class A ordinary shares underlying unvested restricted stock units that will vest on March 17, 2019, subject to Mr. Jouron’s continued service to Constellium through the end of the vesting period.

None of our principal shareholders have voting rights different from those of our other shareholders.

Over the last three years, the only significant changes of which we have been notified in the percentage ownership of our shares by our major shareholders described above were that prior to the IPO, immediately following the completion of the purchase of the EAP Business: Apollo Funds held 51% of our Class A ordinary shares, Rio Tinto held 39% of our Class A ordinary shares, and Bpifrance (f/k/a FSI) held 10% of our Class A ordinary shares. As of the date of this Annual Report, Apollo Funds holds 0% of our Class A ordinary shares, Rio

 

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Tinto holds 10 shares of our Class A ordinary shares and Bpifrance holds 12.2% of our class A ordinary shares, respectively. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—A. History and Development of the Company.”

 

B. Related Party Transactions

Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement

The Company, Apollo Omega, Rio Tinto and Bpifrance entered into an amended and restated shareholders agreement on May 29, 2013 (the “Shareholders Agreement”). The Shareholders Agreement terminated with respect to Apollo Omega and Rio Tinto in connection with certain of their respective sales of our ordinary shares described elsewhere in this Annual Report. The Shareholders Agreement provides for, among other things, piggyback registration rights and demand registration rights for Bpifrance for so long as Bpifrance owns any of our ordinary shares.

In addition, the Shareholders Agreement provides that, except as otherwise required by applicable law, Bpifrance will be entitled to designate for binding nomination one director to our board of directors so long as its percentage ownership interest is equal to or greater than 4% or it continues to hold all of the ordinary shares it subscribed for at the closing of the Acquisition (such share number adjusted for the pro rata share issuance). Our directors will be elected by our shareholders acting at a general meeting upon a binding nomination by the board of directors as described in “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—A. Directors and Senior Management.” A shareholder’s percentage ownership interest is derived by dividing (i) the total number of ordinary shares owned by such shareholder and its affiliates by (ii) the total number of outstanding ordinary shares.

The Company has agreed to share financial and other information with Bpifrance to the extent reasonably required to comply with its tax, investor or regulatory obligations and with a view to keeping Bpifrance properly informed about the financial and business affairs of the Company. The Shareholders Agreement contains provisions to the effect that Bpifrance is obliged to treat all information provided to it as confidential, and to comply with all applicable rules and regulations in relation to the use and disclosure of such information.

Management Equity Plan

Investments by our officers and directors in Constellium were facilitated by their participation in Management KG (a German limited partnership), which subscribed for Class A and Class B ordinary shares in Constellium. Following the advisory board resolution of GP GmbH dated November 6, 2015, it was resolved to wind-up the MEP. In connection with the wind-up of the MEP and with effect as of November 10, 2015, 2,410,357 Class A ordinary shares were transferred to the 34 MEP Participants in accordance with their respective share allocations under the MEP. Management KG no longer holds any shares in Constellium and the limited partnership interests no longer represent an indirect economical interest in Constellium; Management KG was liquidated as of October 31, 2016.

Share Sales by Management KG

During November 2013, limited partners of Management KG (other than the limited partners who were former employees of Constellium or who were to imminently become former employees of Constellium) were offered the opportunity to participate in trading plans to be established by Management KG under Rule 10b5-1 promulgated under the Exchange Act (the “MEP Trading Plans”) for the orderly liquidation of shares held in the MEP. The first such plan was established on December 13, 2013 and a total of 30 limited partners elected to participate in such plan, which commenced trading on January 13, 2014. A second such trading plan was established on June 13, 2014 and a total of 33 limited partners elected to participate in such plan, which commenced trading on July 14, 2014. As of December 31, 2015, all Class A ordinary shares have been sold pursuant to the MEP Trading Plans.

 

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C. Interests of Experts and Counsel

Not applicable.

Item 8. Financial Information

 

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

Our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2015 and 2016 are included in this Annual Report at “Item 18. Financial Statements.”

Legal Proceedings

Legal proceedings are disclosed in “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Litigation and Legal Proceedings.”

Dividend Policy

Our board of directors periodically explores the potential adoption of a dividend program; however, no assurances can be made that any future dividends will be paid on the ordinary shares. Any declaration and payment of future dividends to holders of our ordinary shares will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on many factors, including our financial condition, earnings, capital requirements, level of indebtedness, statutory future prospects and contractual restrictions applying to the payment of dividends and other considerations that our board of directors deems relevant. In general, any payment of dividends must be made in accordance with our Amended and Restated Articles of Association and the requirements of Dutch law. Under Dutch law, payment of dividends and other distributions to shareholders may be made only if our shareholders’ equity exceeds the sum of our called up and paid-in share capital plus the reserves required to be maintained by law and by our Amended and Restated Articles of Association.

Generally, we rely on dividends paid to Constellium N.V., or funds otherwise distributed or advanced to Constellium N.V. by its subsidiaries to fund the payment of dividends, if any, to our shareholders. In addition, restrictions contained in the agreements governing our outstanding indebtedness limit our ability to pay dividends on our ordinary shares and limit the ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends to us. Future indebtedness that we may incur may contain similar restrictions.

 

B. Significant Changes

February 2017 Senior Unsecured Notes

On February 16, 2017, the Company completed a private offering of $650 million in aggregate principal amount of Senior Unsecured Notes pursuant to an indenture among the Company, the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee. Interest on the Senior Secured Notes accrues at a rate of 6.625% per annum and is payable semi-annually beginning September 1, 2017. The Senior Unsecured Notes mature on March 1, 2025. See “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts—February 2017 Notes.”

Tender Offer and Redemption of Wise Senior Secured Notes

On February 1, 2017, in connection with the offering of the February 2017 Notes, (i) Wise Metals Group commenced a cash tender offer (the “Tender Offer”) for any and all of the outstanding Wise Senior Secured Notes, and (ii) Wise Metals Group and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation called for redemption of all of the outstanding Wise Senior Secured Notes at a redemption price of 104.375% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest (the “Redemption Price”). Pursuant to the Tender Offer, holders of

 

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approximately $289,757,000 aggregate principal amount of Wise Senior Secured Notes validly tendered (and did not validly withdraw) their Wise Senior Secured Notes at or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on February 14, 2017 (such time and date, as it may be extended, the “Early Tender Deadline”) and received an amount in cash equal to $1,045.60 per $1,000 principal amount of Wise Senior Secured Notes on February 16, 2017 (the “Initial Settlement Date”). The Tender Offer expired on March 1, 2017 with no additional Wise Senior Secured Notes having been tendered.

Concurrently with the issuance of the Notes, Wise Metals Group and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation satisfied and discharged (the “Satisfaction and Discharge”) all Wise Senior Secured Notes not purchased on the Initial Settlement Date pursuant to the Tender Offer by depositing with the trustee for the Wise Senior Secured Notes an amount in cash sufficient to pay the Redemption Price on the redemption date, which occurred on March 3, 2017.

Constellium used the net proceeds from the offering of the February 2017 Notes, together with cash on hand, to fund the Tender Offer and the Satisfaction and Discharge.

Amendment to Wise ABL Facility

On February 7, 2017, in connection with this offering of the Notes, Wise Metals Group, Wise Alloys, Listerhill Total Maintenance Center, LLC, Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, and Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC entered into an amendment to Wise Alloys’ $200 million asset-based revolving credit facility (as amended, the “Wise ABL Facility”) with the lenders from time to time party thereto and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as successor administrative agent, to (i) amend the negative covenants under the Wise ABL Facility to permit Wise Metals Group and its subsidiaries to guarantee debt of Constellium and to grant liens on their assets to secure any such guarantees; (ii) release the guarantees of Listerhill Total Maintenance Center, LLC, Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, and Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC under the Wise ABL Facility; (iii) extend the maturity date of the Wise ABL Facility to September 14, 2020; and (iv) make certain other changes to the negative covenants under the facility. The amendment also reduced the maximum aggregate revolving commitments under the Wise ABL Facility to $170 million. See “Item 10. Additional Information—C. Material Contracts—Wise ABL Facility.”

 

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Item 9. The Offer and Listing

 

A. Offer and Listing Details

Price History of Stock

The table below sets forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low market prices of our shares on the NYSE (source: Bloomberg). Our ordinary shares are also listed on the professional segment of Euronext Paris; however, due to an insufficient volume of trading in our ordinary shares on Euronext Paris, information regarding high and low trading prices is not reported.

 

     NYSE  

Calendar period

   High      Low  

Monthly

     

March 2017 (through March 20)

   $ 8.48      $ 5.60  

February 2017

   $ 8.85      $ 7.35  

January 2017

   $ 7.88      $ 5.90  

2016

     

First quarter

   $ 8.65      $ 3.95  

Second quarter

   $ 6.53      $ 4.02  

Third quarter

   $ 7.91      $ 4.59  

Fourth quarter

   $ 7.31      $ 4.85  

Full year

   $ 8.65      $ 3.95  

2015

     

First quarter

   $ 20.51      $ 16.22  

Second quarter

   $ 19.52      $ 11.65  

Third quarter

   $ 11.75      $ 5.89  

Fourth quarter

   $ 8.86      $ 3.66  

Full year

   $ 20.51      $ 3.66  

2014

     

First quarter

   $ 29.42      $ 21.99  

Second quarter

   $ 32.56      $ 26.64  

 

     NYSE  

Calendar period

   High      Low  

Third quarter

   $ 32.61      $ 23.86  

Fourth quarter

   $ 25.74      $ 15.25  

Full year

   $ 32.61      $ 15.25  

 

B. Plan of Distribution

Not applicable.

 

C. Markets

We began trading on the NYSE on May 23, 2013 and on the professional segment of Euronext Paris on May 27, 2013 through a public offering in the United States. Trading on the NYSE is under the symbol “CSTM.” For more information on our shares see “Item 10. Additional Information—B. Memorandum and Articles of Association.”

 

D. Selling Shareholders

Not applicable.

 

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E. Dilution

Not applicable.

 

F. Expenses of the Issue

Not applicable.

Item 10. Additional Information

 

A. Share Capital

Not applicable.

 

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

The information called for by this Item has been reported previously in our Registration Statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333-211378), filed with the SEC on May 13, 2016, as amended, under the heading “Description of Capital Stock,” and is incorporated by reference into this Annual Report.

 

C. Material Contracts

The following is a summary of each material contract, other than material contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business, to which we are a party, for the two years immediately preceding the date of this Annual Report:

 

    Employment Agreements and Benefit Plans . See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—E. Share Ownership” for a description of the material terms of our employment agreements and benefits plans.

 

    Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement . See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions” for a description of material terms of this contract.

 

    Term Loan, Notes, U.S. Revolving Credit Facilities and the Factoring Agreements . As disclosed below.

 

    Metal Supply Agreement . As disclosed below.

May 2014 Notes

On May 7, 2014, the Company completed a private offering of $400 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.750% Senior Notes due 2024 (the “2024 U.S. Dollar Notes”) and €300 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.625% Senior Notes due 2021 (the “2021 Euro Notes,” and together with the 2024 U.S. Dollar Notes, the “May 2014 Notes”) pursuant to indentures among the Company, the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee. A portion of the net proceeds of the May 2014 Notes were used to repay amounts outstanding under our senior secured term loan B facility, including related transaction fees, expenses, and prepayment premium thereon. We used the remaining net proceeds for general corporate purposes, including to put additional cash on our balance sheet.

Interest on the 2024 U.S. Dollar Notes and 2021 Euro Notes accrues at rates of 5.750% and 4.625% per annum, respectively, and is payable semi-annually beginning November 15, 2014. The 2024 U.S. Dollar Notes mature on May 15, 2024, and the 2021 Euro Notes mature on May 15, 2021.

Prior to May 15, 2019, we may redeem some or all of the 2024 U.S. Dollar Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2024 U.S. Dollar Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the

 

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redemption date plus a “make-whole” premium. On or after May 15, 2019, we may redeem the 2024 U.S. Dollar Notes at redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 102.875% during the 12-month period commencing on May 15, 2019, 101.917% during the 12-month period commencing on May 15, 2020, 100.958% during the 12-month period commencing on May 15, 2021, and par on or after May 15, 2022, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

Prior to May 15, 2017, we may redeem some or all of the 2021 Euro Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2021 Euro Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date plus a “make-whole” premium. On or after May 15, 2017, we may redeem the 2021 Euro Notes at redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 102.313% during the 12-month period commencing on May 15, 2017, 101.156% during the 12-month period commencing on May 15, 2018, and par on or after May 15, 2019, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

In addition, at any time or from time to time prior to May 15, 2017, we may, within 90 days of a qualified equity offering, redeem May 2014 Notes of either series in an aggregate amount equal to up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the May 2014 Notes of the applicable series (after giving effect to any issuance of additional May 2014 Notes of such series) at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof plus a premium (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 5.750% for the 2024 U.S. Dollar Notes and 4.625% for the 2021 Euro Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds of such qualified equity offering, provided that at least 50% of the original aggregate principal amount of May 2014 Notes of the series being redeemed would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption.

Within 30 days of the occurrence of specific kinds of changes of control, the Company is required to make an offer to purchase all outstanding May 2014 Notes at a price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount of the May 2014 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the purchase date.

The May 2014 Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Constellium and are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of its restricted subsidiaries that guarantees the Senior Secured Notes. Each of Constellium’s existing or future restricted subsidiaries (other than receivables subsidiaries) that guarantees certain indebtedness of Constellium or certain indebtedness of any of the guarantors of the May 2014 Notes must also guarantee the May 2014 Notes. None of Wise or its direct or indirect subsidiaries currently guarantees our obligations under the May 2014 Notes, and none will to the extent that such action would violate the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing their existing indebtedness. If such covenant restrictions cease to apply, or if the provision of a guarantee would otherwise no longer violate such restrictive covenants, then Wise and its direct and indirect subsidiaries will provide a guarantee of the May 2014 Notes to the extent required by the indentures governing the May 2014 Notes. Concurrently with the issuance of the February 2017 Notes, Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group, and Wise Alloys became guarantors of the May 2014 Notes.

The indentures governing the May 2014 Notes contain customary terms and conditions, including, among other things, negative covenants limiting our and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur debt, grant liens, enter into sale and lease-back transactions, make investments, loans and advances, make acquisitions, sell assets, pay dividends and other restricted payments, prepay certain debt, merge, consolidate or amalgamate and engage in affiliate transactions.

The indentures governing the May 2014 Notes also contain customary events of default.

December 2014 Notes

On December 19, 2014, the Company completed a private offering of $400 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.00% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “2023 U.S. Dollar Notes”) and €240 million in aggregate principal

 

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amount of 7.00% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “2023 Euro Notes,” and together with the 2023 U.S. Dollar Notes, the “December 2014 Notes”) pursuant to indentures among the Company, the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee. A portion of the net proceeds of the December 2014 Notes were used to finance the Wise Acquisition, including related transaction fees and expenses. We used the remaining net proceeds for general corporate purposes.

Interest on the 2023 U.S. Dollar Notes and 2023 Euro Notes accrues at rates of 8.00% and 7.00% per annum, respectively, and is payable semi-annually beginning July 15, 2015. The 2023 U.S. Dollar Notes and 2023 Euro Notes mature on January 15, 2023.

Prior to January 15, 2018, we may redeem some or all of the 2023 U.S. Dollar Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2023 U.S. Dollar Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date plus a “make-whole” premium. On or after January 15, 2018, we may redeem the 2023 U.S. Dollar Notes at redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 106.000% during the 12-month period commencing on January 15, 2018, 104.000% during the 12-month period commencing on January 15, 2019, 102.000% during the 12-month period commencing on January 15, 2020, and par on or after January 15, 2021, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

Prior to January 15, 2018, we may redeem some or all of the 2023 Euro Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2023 Euro Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date plus a “make-whole” premium. On or after January 15, 2018, we may redeem the 2023 Euro Notes at redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 105.250% during the 12-month period commencing on January 15, 2018, 103.500% during the 12-month period commencing on January 15, 2019, 101.750% during the 12-month period commencing on January 15, 2020, and par on or after January 15, 2021, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

In addition, at any time or from time to time prior to January 15, 2018, we may, within 90 days of a qualified equity offering, redeem December 2014 Notes of either series in an aggregate amount equal to up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the December 2014 Notes of the applicable series (after giving effect to any issuance of additional December 2014 Notes of such series) at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof plus a premium (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 8.00% for the 2023 U.S. Dollar Notes and 7.00% for the 2023 Euro Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds of such qualified equity offering, provided that at least 50% of the original aggregate principal amount of December 2014 Notes of the series being redeemed would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption.

Within 30 days of the occurrence of specific kinds of changes of control, the Company is required to make an offer to purchase all outstanding December 2014 Notes at a price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount of the December 2014 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the purchase date.

The December 2014 Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Constellium and are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of its restricted subsidiaries that guarantees the Senior Secured Notes. Each of Constellium’s existing or future restricted subsidiaries (other than receivables subsidiaries) that guarantees certain indebtedness of Constellium or certain indebtedness of any of the guarantors of the December 2014 Notes must also guarantee the December 2014 Notes. None of Wise or its direct or indirect subsidiaries currently guarantees our obligations under the December 2014 Notes, and none will to the extent that such action would violate the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing their existing indebtedness. If such covenant restrictions cease to apply, or if the provision of a guarantee would otherwise no longer violate such restrictive covenants, then Wise and its direct and indirect subsidiaries will provide a guarantee of the December 2014 Notes to the extent required by the indentures governing the December 2014 Notes. If Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries guarantees certain indebtedness of Constellium N.V. or any of the guarantors of the December 2014 Notes in an amount exceeding €50 million in the aggregate, then

 

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Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC and/or any such direct or indirect subsidiary will guarantee the December 2014 Notes. Concurrently with the issuance of the February 2017 Notes, Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, and Wise Alloys LLC became guarantors of the December 2014 Notes.

The indentures governing the December 2014 Notes contain customary terms and conditions, including, among other things, negative covenants limiting our and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur debt, grant liens, enter into sale and lease-back transactions, make investments, loans and advances, make acquisitions, sell assets, pay dividends and other restricted payments, prepay certain debt, merge, consolidate or amalgamate and engage in affiliate transactions.

The indentures governing the December 2014 Notes also contain customary events of default.

March 2016 Senior Secured Notes

On March 30, 2016, the Company completed a private offering of $425 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 (the “Senior Secured Notes”) pursuant to an indenture among the Company, the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee and collateral agent. The Company invested €100 million of the net proceeds of the offering in Wise. We used the remaining net proceeds for general corporate purposes, including to put additional cash on our balance sheet.

Interest on the Senior Secured Notes accrues at a rate of 7.875% per annum and is payable semi-annually beginning October 1, 2016.

The Senior Secured Notes mature on April 1, 2021. In addition, each holder of Senior Secured Notes will have the right to require the Company to repurchase all or any part of that holder’s Senior Secured Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase, if on the 136th day prior to May 15, 2021 (i.e., the final stated maturity of the 2021 Euro Notes) more than €30 million of the 2021 Euro Notes remain outstanding.

Prior to April 1, 2018, we may redeem some or all of the Senior Secured Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date plus a “make-whole” premium. On or after April 1, 2018, we may redeem the Senior Secured Notes at redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 103.938% during the 12-month period commencing on April 1, 2018, 101.969% during the 12-month period commencing on April 1, 2019, and par on or after April 1, 2020, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

In addition, at any time or from time to time prior to April 1, 2018, we may, within 90 days of a qualified equity offering, redeem Senior Secured Notes in an aggregate amount equal to up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes (after giving effect to any issuance of additional Senior Secured Notes) at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof plus a premium (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 7.875%, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds of such qualified equity offering, provided that at least 50% of the original aggregate principal amount of Senior Secured Notes would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption.

Within 30 days of the occurrence of specific kinds of changes of control, the Company is required to make an offer to purchase all outstanding Senior Secured Notes at a price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the purchase date.

The Senior Secured Notes are senior secured obligations of Constellium and are guaranteed on a senior secured basis by Constellium Holdco II B.V., Constellium Holdco III B.V., Constellium France Holdco S.A.S.,

 

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Constellium Neuf Brisach S.A.S., Constellium Issoire S.A.S., Constellium Finance S.A.S., Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Constellium Germany Holdco GmbH & Co. KG, Constellium Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Constellium Switzerland AG, Constellium US Holdings I, LLC, Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC, Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, and Wise Alloys LLC. In addition, the Company is required to cause (a) existing or future subsidiaries to guarantee the Senior Secured Notes from time to time so as to satisfy the Guarantor Coverage Test (as defined below), and (b) each existing or future subsidiary that directly or indirectly owns the capital stock of a guarantor of the Senior Secured Notes, or guarantees certain indebtedness of Constellium or certain indebtedness of any of the guarantors of the Senior Secured Notes, to guarantee the Senior Secured Notes. None of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or its direct or indirect subsidiaries currently guarantees our obligations under the Senior Secured Notes, and none will to the extent that such action would violate the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing their existing indebtedness. If such covenant restrictions cease to apply, or if the provision of a guarantee would otherwise no longer violate such restrictive covenants, then Wise and its direct and indirect subsidiaries will provide a guarantee of the Senior Secured Notes to the extent required by the indenture governing the Senior Secured Notes. If Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or any of its direct or indirect subsidiaries guarantees certain indebtedness of Constellium N.V. or any of the guarantors of the Senior Secured Notes in an amount exceeding €10 million in the aggregate, then Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC and/or any such direct or indirect subsidiary will guarantee the Senior Secured Notes. Concurrently with the issuance of the February 2017 Notes, Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, and Wise Alloys LLC became guarantors of the Senior Secured Notes.

The “Guarantor Coverage Test” requires, on any one date between and including the date that the Company’s annual financial statements are delivered and the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery, that (a) the EBITDA of the Company and the guarantors of the Senior Secured Notes, taken together, represent not less than 80% of the EBITDA of the Company and its restricted subsidiaries (excluding Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC and its direct and indirect subsidiaries until such time as the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing the indebtedness of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or such subsidiary cease to prohibit Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or such subsidiary from guaranteeing the Senior Secured Notes), taken together, and (b) the consolidated total assets of the Company and the guarantors of the Senior Secured Notes, taken together, represent not less than 80% of the consolidated total assets of the Company and its restricted subsidiaries (excluding Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC and its direct and indirect subsidiaries until such time as the restrictive covenants in the agreements governing the indebtedness of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or such subsidiary cease to prohibit Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or such subsidiary from guaranteeing the Senior Secured Notes), taken together.

The indenture governing the Senior Secured Notes provides for the obligations of the Company and the guarantors with respect to the Senior Secured Notes and the guarantees thereof to be secured by (i) a pledge by Constellium N.V. of its shares in Constellium Holdco II B.V., (ii) a pledge by Constellium Holdco II B.V. of its shares in certain of its subsidiaries, (iii) a pledge by certain other guarantors of their shares in certain of their subsidiaries, (iv) subject to certain exceptions, a pledge of intercompany indebtedness owed to the Company and the guarantors and bank accounts owned by the Company and the guarantors, and (v) subject to certain exceptions, substantially all the assets of each guarantor organized in the U.S. The liens on the collateral securing the Senior Secured Notes and the guarantees thereof are required to be first-priority, provided that (x) the liens on the Ravenswood ABL Priority Collateral (as defined below) securing the Senior Secured Notes and the guarantees thereof are required to be junior in priority to the liens on the Ravenswood ABL Priority Collateral securing the obligations under the Ravenswood ABL Facility, and (y) the liens on certain property of Ravenswood securing the Senior Secured Notes and the guarantees thereof are required to be junior in priority to the liens on such property securing certain obligations of Ravenswood to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. The “Ravenswood ABL Priority Collateral” consists of the following property owned by Ravenswood: (i) accounts and payment intangibles, (ii) inventory, (iii) deposit accounts and any cash, financial assets or other assets in such accounts, (iv) cash and cash equivalents, (v) all general intangibles, chattel paper,

 

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instruments, investment property and books and records pertaining to any of the foregoing, and (vi) all proceeds of the foregoing, in each case subject to certain exceptions.

The indenture governing the Senior Secured Notes contains customary terms and conditions, including, among other things, negative covenants limiting our and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur debt, grant liens, enter into sale and lease-back transactions, make investments (including investments in and guarantees of certain indebtedness of Wise), loans and advances, make acquisitions, sell assets, pay dividends and other restricted payments, prepay certain debt (including the May 2014 Notes and the December 2014 Notes), merge, consolidate or amalgamate and engage in affiliate transactions.

The indenture governing the Senior Secured Notes also contains customary events of default.

February 2017 Notes

On February 16, 2017, the Company completed a private offering of $650 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “February 2017 Notes”) pursuant to an indenture among the Company, the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee. The Company used the net proceeds from the offering, together with cash on hand, to retire all of the outstanding Wise Senior Secured Notes pursuant to the Tender Offer and the Satisfaction and Discharge. See “Item 8. Financial Information—B. Significant Changes—Tender Offer and Redemption of Wise Senior Secured Notes.” The Company will use the remaining net proceeds, if any, for general corporate purposes.

Interest on the February 2017 Notes accrues at rate of 6.625% per annum and is payable semi-annually beginning September 1, 2017. The February 2017 Notes mature on March 1, 2025.

Prior to March 1, 2020, we may redeem some or all of the February 2017 Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the February 2017 Notes redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date plus a “make-whole” premium. On or after March 1, 2020, we may redeem the February 2017 Notes at redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 103.313% during the 12-month period commencing on March 1, 2020, 101.656% during the 12-month period commencing on March 1, 2021, and par on or after March 1, 2022, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date.

In addition, at any time or from time to time prior to March 1, 2020, we may, within 90 days of a qualified equity offering, redeem February 2017 Notes in an aggregate amount equal to up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount thereof (after giving effect to any issuance of additional February 2017 Notes) at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof plus a premium (expressed as a percentage of the principal amount thereof) equal to 6.625%, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon (if any) to the redemption date, with the net cash proceeds of such qualified equity offering, provided that at least 50% of the original aggregate principal amount of February 2017 Notes would remain outstanding immediately after giving effect to such redemption.

Within 30 days of the occurrence of specific kinds of changes of control, the Company is required to make an offer to purchase all outstanding February 2017 Notes at a price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount of the February 2017 Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the purchase date.

The February 2017 Notes are senior unsecured obligations of Constellium and are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of its restricted subsidiaries that guarantees the May 2014 Notes, the December 2014 Notes, and the Senior Secured Notes. Each of Constellium’s existing or future restricted subsidiaries (other than receivables subsidiaries) that guarantees certain indebtedness of Constellium (including the May 2014 Notes, the December 2014 Notes, and the Senior Secured Notes) or certain indebtedness of any of the guarantors of the February 2017 Notes must also guarantee the February 2017 Notes.

 

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The indentures governing the February 2017 Notes contain customary terms and conditions, including, among other things, negative covenants limiting our and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur debt, grant liens, enter into sale and lease-back transactions, make investments, loans and advances, make acquisitions, sell assets, pay dividends and other restricted payments, prepay certain debt, merge, consolidate or amalgamate and engage in affiliate transactions.

The indentures governing the February 2017 Notes also contain customary events of default.

Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility

On May 7, 2014, the Company entered into a new senior unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility”) pursuant to a credit agreement among the Company, as borrower, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as administrative agent. The Company amended the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility on December 5, 2014, February 5, 2015, September 30, 2015, and December 10, 2015 to, among other things, increase the total commitments and extend the maturity date thereunder, permit the consummation of the Wise Acquisition without Wise guaranteeing the obligations thereunder, permit the Wise ABL Facility to remain outstanding in an amount of up to $450 million following the consummation of the Wise Acquisition, and amend certain financial covenants thereunder. As amended, the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility provided for total commitments of up to €145 million, with a maturity date of January 5, 2018.

Interest under the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility was calculated based on the adjusted Euro currency rate plus 2.50% per annum.

In addition to paying interest on outstanding loans under the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility, we were required to pay (a) commitment fees equal to 1.00% per annum times the undrawn portion of the commitments under the facility and (b) utilization fees equal to (i) if the daily average drawn portion of the commitments under the facility (the “Drawn Amount”) was less than 50.0% of the aggregate commitments, 0.25% per annum times the Drawn Amount or (ii) if the Drawn Amount was greater than or equal to 50.0% of the aggregate commitments, 0.50% per annum times the Drawn Amount.

Subject to customary “breakage” costs, borrowings under the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility were permitted to be repaid from time to time without premium or penalty.

Our obligations under the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility were guaranteed by Constellium Holdco II B.V., Constellium France Holdco S.A.S., Constellium Issoire S.A.S., Constellium Neuf Brisach S.A.S., Constellium Finance S.A.S., Constellium Germany Holdco GmbH & Co. KG, Constellium Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Switzerland AG, Constellium US Holdings I, LLC, and Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC. None of Wise or its direct or indirect subsidiaries guaranteed our obligations under the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility.

The Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility contained customary terms and conditions, including, among other things, negative covenants limiting our and our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur debt, grant liens, enter into sale and lease-back transactions, make investments, loans and advances, make acquisitions, sell assets, pay dividends and other restricted payments, prepay certain debt, merge, consolidate or amalgamate and engage in affiliate transactions.

In addition, at any time that loans were (a) borrowed, to the extent that immediately after giving effect to such borrowing, loans in excess of 30% of the total commitments under the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility would be outstanding, or (b) outstanding on the last day of our fiscal quarter, the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility required us to (x) maintain a consolidated total net leverage ratio of no more than (1) in the case of each of the first four fiscal quarters ending after October 1, 2015, 5.00 to 1.00, and (2) in the case of each other fiscal

 

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quarter, 4.50 to 1.00, (y) maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than (1) in the case of each of the first four fiscal quarters ending after October 1, 2015, 2.00 to 1.00, and (2) in the case of each other fiscal quarter, 2.20 to 1.00, and (z) ensure that, taken together, the Company and the guarantors of the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility had (i) assets representing not less than 60% of the consolidated total assets of the Company and its subsidiaries and (ii) EBITDA representing not less than 75% of the consolidated EBITDA of the Company and its subsidiaries (the requirement in the foregoing clause (z), the “Guarantor Coverage Test”). Wise and its subsidiaries were excluded from the calculation of the Guarantor Coverage Test. The Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility also contained customary events of default.

On March 30, 2016, concurrently with the issuance of the Senior Secured Notes, the Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility was terminated.

Ravenswood ABL Facility

On May 25, 2012, Ravenswood entered into a $100 million asset-based revolving credit facility (the “Ravenswood ABL Facility”), with the lenders from time to time party thereto and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent (the “Ravenswood ABL Administrative Agent”) and collateral agent. Ravenswood amended the Ravenswood ABL Facility on October 1, 2013 to, among other things, extend the maturity to October 2018 and reduce pricing. As amended, the Ravenswood ABL Facility has sublimits of $25 million for letters of credit and 10% of the revolving credit facility commitments for swingline loans. The Ravenswood ABL Facility provides Ravenswood a working capital facility for its operations.

Ravenswood’s ability to borrow under the Ravenswood ABL Facility is limited to a borrowing base equal to the sum of (a) 85% of eligible accounts receivable plus (b) up to the lesser of (i) 80% of the lesser of cost or market value of eligible inventory and (ii) 85% of the net orderly liquidation value of eligible inventory minus (c) applicable reserves, and is subject to other conditions, limitations and reserve requirements.

Interest under the Ravenswood ABL Facility is calculated, at Ravenswood’s election, based on either the LIBOR or base rate (as calculated by the Ravenswood ABL Administrative Agent in accordance with the Ravenswood ABL Facility). LIBOR loans accrue interest at a rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 1.50-2.00% per annum (determined based on average quarterly excess availability). Base rate loans accrue interest at the base rate plus a margin of 0.50-1.00% per annum (determined based on average quarterly excess availability). Ravenswood is required to pay a commitment fee on the unused portion of the Ravenswood ABL Facility of 0.25% or 0.375% per annum (determined on a ratio of unutilized revolving credit commitments to available revolving credit commitments).

Subject to customary “breakage” costs with respect to LIBOR loans, borrowings under the Ravenswood ABL Facility may be repaid from time to time without premium or penalty.

Ravenswood’s obligations under the Ravenswood ABL Facility are guaranteed by Constellium U.S. Holdings I, LLC and Constellium Holdco II B.V. (“Holdco II”). Ravenswood’s obligations under the Ravenswood ABL Facility are not guaranteed by the Company, Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or any of its subsidiaries or any of Holdco II’s subsidiaries organized outside of the United States. Ravenswood’s obligations under the Ravenswood ABL Facility are, subject to certain permitted liens, secured on a first priority basis by the Ravenswood ABL Priority Collateral, and on a second priority basis (junior to the liens on such assets securing the Senior Secured Notes) by substantially all other assets of Ravenswood. Ravenswood’s obligations under the Ravenswood ABL Facility are not secured by any assets of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or any of its subsidiaries or the Company or any of its subsidiaries organized outside of the United States. The guarantee by Holdco II of the Ravenswood ABL Facility is unsecured.

The Ravenswood ABL Facility contains customary terms and conditions, including, among other things, negative covenants limiting Ravenswood’s ability to incur debt, grant liens, enter into sale and lease-back

 

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transactions, make investments, loans and advances (including to other Constellium group companies), make acquisitions, sell assets, pay dividends and other restricted payments, prepay certain debt, merge, consolidate or amalgamate and engage in affiliate transactions. The negative covenants contained in the Ravenswood ABL Facility do not apply to Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC or any of its subsidiaries or the Company or any of its subsidiaries organized outside of the United States.

The Ravenswood ABL Facility also contains a minimum availability covenant that requires Ravenswood to maintain excess availability under the Ravenswood ABL Facility of at least the greater of (a) $10 million and (b) 10% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments.

The Ravenswood ABL Facility also contains customary events of default.

European Factoring Agreements

On January 4, 2011, certain of our French subsidiaries (the “French Sellers”) entered into a factoring agreement with GE Factofrance S.A.S., as factor (the “French Factor”), which has been amended from time to time, and has been fully restated on December 3, 2015 (the “French Factoring Agreement”). On December 16, 2010, certain of our German and Swiss subsidiaries (the “German/Swiss Sellers”) entered into factoring agreements with GE Capital Bank AG, as factor (the “German/Swiss Factor”), which have been amended from time to time and have been replaced, respectively, with a factoring agreement entered into on March 26, 2014 and supplemented with a factoring agreement dated May 27, 2016 (the “German/Swiss Factoring Agreements”). On June 26, 2015, our Czech subsidiary (the “Czech Seller,” and together with the German/Swiss Sellers and the French Sellers, the “European Factoring Sellers”) entered into a factoring agreement with GE Capital Bank AG, as factor (the “Czech Factor,” and together with the German/Swiss Factor and the French Factor, the “European Factors”), as amended from time to time (the “Czech Factoring Agreement,” and together with the German/Swiss Factoring Agreements and the French Factoring Agreement, the “European Factoring Agreements”).

On July 20, 2016, the Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel purchased the Equipment Finance and Receivable Finance businesses of GE. Pursuant to this transaction, GE Factofrance S.A.S. was renamed Factofrance and GE Capital Bank AG was renamed Targo Commercial Financing AG. The transaction had no other impact on the European Factoring Agreements.

The European Factoring Agreements provide for the sale by the European Factoring Sellers to the European Factors of receivables originated by the European Factoring Sellers, subject to a maximum financing amount of €235 million available to the French Sellers under the French Factoring Agreement and €150 million available in the aggregate to the German/Swiss Sellers and the Czech Seller under the German/Swiss Factoring Agreements and the Czech Factoring Agreement, respectively. The German/Swiss Factoring Agreements and the Czech Factoring Agreement have a termination date of October 29, 2021, and the French Factoring Agreement has a termination date of December 31, 2018. The funding made available to the European Factoring Sellers by the European Factors is used by the Sellers for general corporate purposes.

The German/Swiss Factoring Agreements and the Czech Factoring Agreement were amended on December 21, 2016 to, among other things, increase the maximum financing amount from €115 million to €150 million, extend the termination date from June 15, 2017 to October 29, 2021, and reduce the fees payable thereunder.

Generally speaking, receivables sold to the European Factors under the European Factoring Agreements are with no recourse to the European Factoring Sellers in the event of a payment default by the relevant customer. The European Factors are entitled to claim the repayment of any amount financed by them in respect of a receivable by withdrawing the financing provided against such assigned receivable or requiring the European Factoring Sellers to repurchase/unwind the purchase of such receivable under certain circumstances, including when (i) the nonpayment of that receivable arises from a dispute between a European Factoring Seller and the

 

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relevant customer or (ii) the receivable proves not to have satisfied the eligibility criteria set forth in the European Factoring Agreements.

The German/Swiss Factoring Agreements and the Czech Factoring Agreement are without recourse to the German/Swiss Sellers and the Czech Seller, respectively, for any credit risk resulting from the inability of a debtor to meet its payment obligations under the receivables sold to the German/Swiss Factor, and the Czech Factor, respectively. Constellium Holdco II B.V. has provided a performance guaranty for the Sellers’ obligations under the European Factoring Agreements.

Subject to some exceptions, the European Factoring Sellers collect the transferred receivables on behalf of the European Factors pursuant to a receivables collection mandate under the European Factoring Agreements. The receivables collection mandate may be terminated upon the occurrence of certain events. In the event that the receivables collection mandate is terminated, the European Factors will be entitled to notify the account debtors of the assignment of receivables and collect directly from the account debtors the assigned receivables.

The European Factoring Agreements contain customary fees, including (i) a financing fee on the outstanding amount financed in respect of the assigned receivables, (ii) a non-utilization fee on the portion of the facilities not utilized by the European Factors and (iii) a factoring fee on all assigned receivables in the case of the German/Swiss Factoring Agreements and sold receivables, which were approved by the French Factor in the case of the French Factoring Agreement. In addition, the European Factoring Sellers incur the cost of maintaining the necessary credit insurance (as stipulated in the European Factoring Agreements) on assigned receivables.

The European Factoring Agreements contain certain affirmative and negative covenants, including relating to the administration and collection of the assigned receivables, the terms of the invoices and the exchange of information, but do not contain restrictive financial covenants. As of and for the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2015, the European Factoring Sellers were in compliance with all applicable covenants under the European Factoring Agreements.

Wise Senior Secured Notes

On December 11, 2013, Wise Metals Group LLC and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation issued $650 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2018 (the “Wise Senior Secured Notes”). Wise used a portion of the proceeds from the offering of the Wise Senior Secured Notes to repay all outstanding indebtedness under a $400 million term loan and a $70 million delayed draw term loan owed to the Employees’ Retirement System of Alabama and the Teachers’ Retirement System of Alabama (collectively, the “RSA”) and to redeem all of the outstanding cumulative-convertible 10% paid-in-kind preferred membership interests in Wise Metals Group LLC held by the RSA.

Interest on the Wise Senior Secured Notes accrues at a rate of 8.75% per annum and is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year. The Wise Senior Secured Notes mature on December 15, 2018.

The Wise Senior Secured Notes are guaranteed by certain of Wise Metals Group LLC’s existing and future 100% owned domestic restricted subsidiaries. The Wise Senior Secured Notes are not guaranteed by the Company or any of its other subsidiaries. The Wise Senior Secured Notes and related guarantees are secured on a first-priority basis, subject to certain exceptions and permitted liens, by a lien on substantially all of the issuers’ and guarantors’ existing and after-acquired material domestic real estate, equipment, stock of subsidiaries, intellectual property and substantially all of the issuers’ and guarantors’ other assets that do not secure the Wise ABL Facility on a first-priority basis, other than the Specified Mill Assets Collateral (as defined below), which have been pledged to secure the Wise Senior Secured Notes and the related guarantees, as well as certain obligations to Rexam under the Rexam Advance Agreement, on a first-priority, equal and ratable basis. The Wise

 

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Senior Secured Notes and related guarantees are secured on a second-priority basis by a lien on all of the issuers’ and guarantors’ domestic assets that consist of Wise ABL Priority Collateral (as defined below).

Prior to June 15, 2016, the Wise Senior Secured Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Wise Senior Secured Notes redeemed plus an applicable make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the redemption date. Prior to June 15, 2016, up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of Wise Senior Secured Notes outstanding may be redeemed with the net proceeds of specified equity offerings at 108.750% of the principal amount of the Wise Senior Secured Notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption.

On or after June 15, 2016, the Wise Senior Secured Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part at redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) of 104.375% for the 12-month period beginning on June 15, 2016, 102.188% for the 12-month period beginning on June 15, 2017, and par on or after June 15, 2018, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption.

In addition, upon certain events constituting a “Change of Control” (as defined in the indenture governing the Wise Senior Secured Notes), the issuers of the Wise Senior Secured Notes must make an offer (a “Senior Secured Notes Offer to Purchase”) to repurchase all outstanding Wise Senior Secured Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of Wise Senior Secured Notes so repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase.

The Wise Senior Secured Notes contain customary covenants including, among other things, limitations and restrictions on Wise’s ability to: incur additional indebtedness; make dividend payments or other restricted payments; create liens; sell assets; sell securities of subsidiaries; agree to payment restrictions affecting Wise’s restricted subsidiaries; designate subsidiaries as unrestricted subsidiaries; enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates; and enter into mergers, consolidations or certain asset sales.

On October 10, 2014, Constellium, on behalf of the issuers of the Wise Senior Secured Notes, solicited consents from the holders of the Wise Senior Secured Notes to certain amendments (the “Proposed Amendments”) to the indenture governing the Wise Senior Secured Notes. The Proposed Amendments provided that the Wise Acquisition would not constitute a “Change of Control.” On October 17, 2014, Constellium obtained the requisite consents to the Proposed Amendments and the issuers and guarantors of the Wise Senior Secured Notes and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee and collateral agent, entered into a supplemental indenture to the indenture governing the Wise Senior Secured Notes. Pursuant to the terms of the supplemental indenture, the Proposed Amendments became operative immediately prior to the effective time of the Wise Acquisition. Accordingly, the issuers of the Wise Senior Secured Notes were not required to make a Senior Secured Notes Offer to Purchase in connection with the Wise Acquisition.

On February 1, 2017, (i) Wise Metals Group LLC commenced the Tender Offer for any and all of the Wise Senior Secured Notes, and (ii) Wise Metals Group LLC and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation called for redemption all of the outstanding Wise Senior Secured Notes. On February 16, 2017, concurrently with the issuance of the Company’s February 2017 Notes and the initial settlement of the Tender Offer, Wise Metals Group LLC and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation satisfied and discharged all Wise Senior Secured Notes not purchased on the Initial Settlement Date pursuant to the Tender Offer.

Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes

On April 16, 2014, Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC (“Wise Intermediate”) and Wise Holdings Finance Corporation issued $150 million in aggregate principal amount of 9.75%/10.50% Senior PIK Toggle Notes due 2019 (the “Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes”) pursuant to an indenture among Wise Intermediate, Wise Holdings Finance Corporation, and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee. Wise used a portion of the proceeds from the offering of the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes to fund payments to the holders of equity

 

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interests in its parent company, Wise Metals Holdings LLC, that elected (i) to have Wise Metals Holdings LLC repurchase their equity interests or (ii) to take a loan from Wise Metals Holdings LLC in proportion to such holders’ ownership in Wise Metals Holdings LLC. Wise used the remainder of such proceeds for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of $22.5 million of outstanding indebtedness under the Wise ABL Facility.

The Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes had a maturity date of June 15, 2019. Interest on the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes was payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year. The issuers were required to pay the first and last interest payments on the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes in cash. For each other interest period, the issuers were required to pay interest in cash unless certain conditions described in the indenture governing the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes were met, in which case the issuers were permitted to pay interest by increasing the principal amount of outstanding notes or by issuing new notes as payment-in-kind interest (“PIK Interest”). Cash interest on the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes accrued at a rate of 9.75% per annum, and PIK Interest accrues at a rate of 10.50% per annum. PIK Interest was paid in kind in respect of the June 2016 interest payment.

The Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes were senior unsecured obligations of the issuers and were not guaranteed by the Company or any of its subsidiaries (including Wise).

Prior to June 15, 2016, the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes were permitted to be redeemed in whole or in part at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes redeemed plus a make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the redemption date. In addition, prior to June 15, 2016, up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes outstanding was permitted to be redeemed with the net proceeds of specified equity offerings at 109.750% of the principal amount of the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption.

On or after June 15, 2016, the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes were permitted to be redeemed in whole or in part at redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) of 104.875% for the 12-month period beginning on June 15, 2016, 102.438% for the 12-month period beginning on June 15, 2017, and par on or after June 15, 2018, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption.

In addition, upon certain events constituting a “Change of Control” (as defined in the indenture governing the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes), the issuers of the Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes were required to offer to repurchase all outstanding Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes so repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase (such offer, a “PIK Notes Change of Control Offer”). On January 7, 2015, in connection with the Wise Acquisition, Constellium made a PIK Notes Change of Control Offer, which expired on February 6, 2015 with no Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes having been tendered for repurchase.

The Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes contained customary covenants including, among other things, limitations and restrictions on Wise’s ability to: incur additional indebtedness; make dividend payments or other restricted payments; create liens; sell assets; sell securities of subsidiaries; agree to payment restrictions affecting certain subsidiaries; enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates; and enter into mergers, consolidations or certain asset sales.

On March 7, 2016, Wilmington Trust, National Association was replaced by Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, as trustee under the indenture governing the Wise Senior PIK Toggles Notes.

On December 5, 2016, Wise Intermediate and Wise Holdings Finance Corporation redeemed all of the outstanding Wise Senior PIK Toggle Notes at a redemption price of 104.875% of the aggregate outstanding principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the redemption date. The Company used cash on hand to pay the redemption price.

 

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Wise ABL Facility

On December 11, 2013, Wise Alloys LLC, as borrower, and Wise Metals Group LLC, Listerhill Total Maintenance Center, LLC (“TMC”), Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, and Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC (“AEM”), as guarantors, entered into an asset-based revolving credit facility (as amended, the “Wise ABL Facility”) with the lenders from time to time party thereto and General Electric Capital Corporation as administrative agent (the “Wise ABL Facility Agent”). As described below, the Wise ABL Facility was subsequently amended in connection with the Wise Acquisition, in connection with the Wise RPA, and in connection with the issuance of the February 2017 Notes.

As amended, the Wise ABL Facility provides for total commitments of $170 million. Wise Alloys LLC has the option to increase the commitments under the Wise ABL Facility from time to time by up to $100 million in the aggregate for all such increases. Any increase of the commitments under the Wise ABL Facility is subject to the commitment of one or more lenders to such increased amount and the satisfaction of certain customary conditions, including the absence of any default under the Wise ABL Facility and, to the extent otherwise required under the Wise ABL Facility at the time of the proposed increase, compliance with the financial covenant (as described below) on an as adjusted basis.

Wise Alloys LLC’s ability to borrow under the Wise ABL Facility is limited to a borrowing base equal to the sum of (a) 85% of net book value of Wise Alloys LLC’s, AEM’s, and TMC’s eligible accounts receivable (other than any accounts receivable from certain foreign account debtors (“Eligible Foreign Account Debtors”)) and other ineligible account debtors (or 90% of the net book value of Wise Alloys LLC’s, AEM’s, and TMC’s eligible accounts receivable from Coke), plus (b) the lesser of (i) 85% of the net book value of Wise Alloys LLC’s, AEM’s, and TMC’s eligible accounts receivable from Eligible Foreign Account Debtors and (ii) $12.5 million, plus (c) the lesser of (i) 75% of the value of Wise Alloys LLC’s eligible raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods inventory and (ii) 85% of the net orderly liquidation value of Wise Alloys LLC’s eligible raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods inventory, plus (d) the lesser of (i) 5% of the value of Wise Alloys LLC’s eligible raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods inventory and (ii) 5% of the net orderly liquidation value of Wise Alloys LLC’s eligible raw materials, work-in-process and finished goods inventory; provided that, in the case of each of clauses (i) and (ii), such amount shall not exceed $10 million, minus (e) the excess, if any, of the aggregate amount of TMC’s and AEM’s eligible accounts receivable included in the borrowing base pursuant to the foregoing clause (a) over $1.5 million (which may, at the Wise ABL Facility Agent’s sole discretion after completion of a collateral audit, be increased to an amount not to exceed $5 million) minus (f) the aggregate amount of reserves, if any, established by the Wise ABL Facility Agent. Wise Alloys LLC’s ability to borrow under the Wise ABL Facility is also subject to other conditions and limitations. As of December 31, 2016, there was $121 million available for borrowings under the Wise ABL Facility (as in effect as of that date).

Interest rates under the Wise ABL Facility are based, at Wise Alloys LLC’s election, on either the LIBOR rate or a base rate, plus a spread that ranges from 1.75% to 2.25% for LIBOR loans and 0.75% to 1.25% for base rate loans. The spread is determined on the basis of a pricing grid that results in a higher spread as Wise Alloys LLC’s average quarterly borrowing availability under the Wise ABL Facility declines, and, in each case, is based upon the borrowing base calculation delivered to the Wise ABL Facility Agent for the last calendar month (or, in certain instances, week) of the immediately preceding fiscal quarter.

Letters of credit under the Wise ABL Facility are subject to a fee payable to the lenders equal to the current margin applicable to LIBOR loans multiplied by the daily balance of the undrawn amount of all outstanding letters of credit, payable in cash monthly in arrears.

Unused commitments under the Wise ABL Facility are subject to an unused commitment fee equal to the aggregate amount of such unused commitments multiplied by a rate equal to 0.375% per annum, payable in cash monthly in arrears, of the average available but unused borrowing capacity under the Wise ABL Facility.

 

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Subject to customary “breakage” costs with respect to LIBOR loans, borrowings under the Wise ABL Facility may be repaid from time to time without premium or penalty.

The obligations of Wise Alloys LLC under the Wise ABL Facility are guaranteed by Constellium Holdco II B.V. and Wise Metals Group LLC. The obligations under the Wise ABL Facility are secured by (i) a first priority (subject to certain specified permitted liens) perfected security interest in all of Wise Alloys LLC and the guarantors’ (other than Constellium Holdco II B.V.) present and future assets and properties consisting of Wise ABL Priority Collateral, (ii) a second priority (subordinate only to the security interest and liens under the Wise Senior Secured Notes and subject to certain specified permitted liens) perfected security interest in all of Wise Alloys LLC and the guarantors’ (other than Constellium Holdco II B.V.) present and future assets and properties, other than Wise ABL Priority Collateral and the Specified Mill Assets Collateral, and (iii) a second priority (subordinate only to the security interest under the Wise Senior Secured Notes and the Rexam Advance Agreement and subject to certain specified permitted liens) perfected security interest in all of Wise Alloys LLC and the guarantors’ (other than Constellium Holdco II B.V.) present and future assets and properties consisting of Specified Mill Assets Collateral. The guarantee of the Wise ABL Facility by Constellium Holdco II B.V. is unsecured.

“Wise ABL Priority Collateral” consists of (i) accounts and payment intangibles, (ii) inventory, (iii) deposit accounts and securities accounts, including all monies, uncertificated securities and other funds held in or on deposit therein (including all cash, marketable securities and other funds held in or on deposit in either of the foregoing), (iv) all investment property, equipment, general intangibles, books and records pertaining to the Wise ABL Priority Collateral, documents, instruments, chattel paper, letter-of-credit rights, supporting obligations related to the foregoing, business interruption insurance, commercial tort claims, and (v) all proceeds of the foregoing, in each case subject to certain exceptions.

“Specified Mill Assets Collateral” consists of the equipment and fixtures of Wise Alloys LLC and the guarantors constituting the three-stand mill located in Muscle Shoals, Alabama which are being financed pursuant to the Rexam Advance Agreement and related assets.

The Wise ABL Facility contains customary terms and conditions, including, among other things, negative covenants limiting Wise Alloys LLC, the guarantors, and their respective restricted subsidiaries’ ability to incur debt, grant liens, make investments, loans and advances, make acquisitions, sell assets, pay dividends and other restricted payments, prepay certain debt, merge, consolidate or amalgamate and engage in affiliate transactions.

The Wise ABL Facility provides that if borrowing availability thereunder drops below a threshold amount equal to the greater of (a) 10% of the aggregate commitments under the Wise ABL Facility and (b) $20 million, Wise Alloys LLC will be required to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.0 to 1.0, calculated on a trailing 12-month basis until such time as borrowing availability has been at least equal to the greater of $20 million and 10% of the aggregate commitments under the Wise ABL Facility for 30 consecutive days.

The Wise ABL Facility also contains customary events of default, including an event of default triggered by certain changes of control. The Wise Acquisition constituted such a change of control.

In connection with the Wise Acquisition, we amended the Wise ABL Facility to, among other things, (i) provide that the consummation of the Wise Acquisition does not constitute an event of default, (ii) remove from the collateral securing the Wise ABL Facility the receivables of a single obligor that will be sold under the Wise RPA (as defined below), (iii) permit transactions between Wise and its subsidiaries on the one hand and Constellium and its subsidiaries on the other, subject to certain conditions, (iv) on the effective date of the Wise RPA, reduce the size of the facility to $200 million, and (v) provide for Constellium Holdco II B.V. to guarantee the obligations thereunder.

On November 4, 2015, in connection with an amendment to the Wise RPA Amendment (as defined below), we amended the Wise ABL Facility to increase the amount of certain receivables permitted to be sold pursuant to receivables factoring arrangements from $300 million to $400 million.

 

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On March 1, 2016, General Electric Capital Corporation resigned as the Wise ABL Facility Agent and was replaced by Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

On February 7, 2017, in connection with the issuance of the February 2017 Notes, we amended the Wise ABL Facility to (i) amend the negative covenants to permit Wise Metals Group LLC and its subsidiaries to guarantee debt of Constellium and its subsidiaries and to grant liens on their assets to secure any such guarantees, (ii) release TMC, AEM, and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation as guarantors of the Wise ABL Facility, (iii) extend the maturity date of the Wise ABL Facility to September 14, 2020, and (iv) make certain other changes to the negative covenants under the Wise ABL Facility. The amendment also reduced the maximum aggregate revolving commitments under the Wise ABL Facility to $170 million.

Wise Factoring Facilities

On March 23, 2015, Wise Alloys LLC entered into a Receivables Purchase Agreement (the “Wise RPA”) with Wise Alloys Funding LLC (the “Wise RPA Seller”) and HSBC Bank USA, National Association (the “Wise RPA Purchaser”), providing for the sale of certain receivables of Wise Alloys LLC to the Wise RPA Purchaser in an amount not to exceed $100 million in the aggregate outstanding at any time. Receivables under the agreement were sold at a discount based on a rate equal to LIBOR plus 0.80-3.50% (based on the credit rating of the account debtor) per annum. Wise Alloys Funding LLC was also required to pay the Wise RPA Purchaser a commitment fee on the unused portion of the commitments under the Wise RPA of 0.40-1.75% (based on the credit rating of the account debtor) per annum. Subject to certain customary exceptions, each purchase under the Wise RPA was made without recourse to the Wise RPA Seller. The Wise RPA Seller has no liability to the Wise RPA Purchaser, and the Wise RPA Purchaser is solely responsible for the account debtor’s failure to pay any purchased receivable when it is due and payable under the terms applicable thereto. Constellium Holdco II B.V. provided a guaranty for the Wise RPA Seller’s performance obligations under the Wise RPA. The Wise RPA was terminated in April 2016.

On March 16, 2016, Wise Alloys LLC (“Wise Alloys”) entered into a Receivables Purchase Agreement (the “New Wise RPA”) with Wise Alloys Funding II LLC (the “New Wise RPA Seller”), Hitachi Capital America Corp. (“Hitachi”), and Greensill Capital Inc., as purchaser agent, providing for the sale of certain receivables of Wise Alloys to Hitachi. The New Wise RPA was amended on June 28, 2016 to increase the aggregate amount of receivables committed to be purchased thereunder, and on November 22, 2016 to join Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch (together with Hitachi, the “New Wise RPA Purchasers”) as a purchaser and further increase the aggregate amount of receivables committed to be purchased thereunder. As amended, the New Wise RPA provides for the sale of receivables to the New Wise RPA Purchasers in an amount not to exceed $325 million in the aggregate outstanding at any time. Receivables under the New Wise RPA are sold at a discount based on a rate equal to a LIBOR rate plus 2.00-2.50% (based on the credit rating of the account debtor) per annum.

Subject to certain customary exceptions, each purchase under the New Wise RPA is made without recourse to the New Wise RPA Seller. The New Wise RPA Seller has no liability to the New Wise RPA Purchasers, and the New Wise RPA Purchasers are solely responsible for the account debtor’s failure to pay any purchased receivable when it is due and payable under the terms applicable thereto. Constellium Holdco II B.V. has provided a guaranty for the New Wise RPA Seller’s and Wise Alloys’ performance obligations under the New Wise RPA.

The New Wise RPA contains customary covenants. The New Wise RPA Purchasers’ obligation to purchase receivables under the New Wise RPA is subject to certain conditions, including without limitation that certain changes of control shall not have occurred, that there shall not have occurred a material adverse change in the business condition, operations or performance of the New Wise RPA Seller, Wise Alloys, or Constellium Holdco II B.V., and that Constellium’s corporate credit rating shall not have been withdrawn by either Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s or downgraded below B- by Standard & Poor’s and B3 by Moody’s.

On January 25, 2017, the New Wise RPA was amended to extend the date on which the New Wise RPA Purchasers’ obligation to purchase receivables under the New Wise RPA will terminate January 24, 2018.

 

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Metal Supply Agreement

In connection with the Acquisition, Constellium Switzerland, a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Constellium N.V., entered into certain agreements dated as of January 4, 2011 with Rio Tinto Alcan Inc. (“Rio Tinto Alcan”), Aluminium Pechiney and Alcan Holdings Switzerland AG (“AHS”), each of which is an affiliate of Rio Tinto, which provide for, among other things, the supply of metal by Rio Tinto affiliates to Constellium Switzerland, the provision of certain technical assistance and other services relating to aluminium-lithium, a covenant by Rio Tinto Alcan to refrain from producing, supplying or selling aluminium-lithium alloys to third parties and certain cost reimbursement obligations of AHS. Constellium has provided a guarantee to Rio Tinto Alcan and Aluminium Pechiney in respect of Constellium Switzerland’s obligations under the supply agreements. Constellium Switzerland and Rio Tinto Alcan have a multi-year supply agreement for the supply of sheet ingot. The agreement provides for certain representations and warranties, audit and inspection rights, on-time shipment requirements and other customary terms and conditions. Each party is required to pay certain penalty or reimbursement amounts in the event it fails or is unable to purchase or supply, as applicable, specified minimum annual quantities of metal.

 

D. Exchange Controls

There are no limits under the laws of the Netherlands or in our Amended and Restated Articles of Association on non-residents of the Netherlands holding or voting our ordinary shares. Currently, there are no exchange controls under the laws of the Netherlands on the conduct of our operations or affecting the remittance of dividends.

French exchange control regulations currently do not limit the amount of payments that we may remit to non-residents of France, subject to any restrictions that may be applicable by reason of embargos or similar measures in force with respect to certain countries and/or persons. Laws and regulations concerning foreign exchange controls do require, however, that all payments or transfers of funds made by a French resident to a non-resident be handled by an accredited intermediary.

 

E. Taxation

Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences

The following discussion describes the material U.S. federal income tax consequences relating to acquiring, owning and disposing of our ordinary shares by a U.S. Holder (as defined below) that holds the ordinary shares as “capital assets” (generally, property held for investment) under the Code. This discussion is based upon existing U.S. federal income tax law, including the Code, U.S. Treasury regulations thereunder, rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject to differing interpretations or change, possibly with retroactive effect. No ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) has been sought with respect to any U.S. federal income tax consequences described below, and there can be no assurance that the IRS or a court will not take a contrary position.

This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to particular investors in light of their individual circumstances, including investors subject to special tax rules (for example, financial institutions, insurance companies, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, broker-dealers, traders in securities that elect mark-to-market treatment, any entity or arrangement treated as a partnership or pass-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes and any investor therein, tax-exempt organizations (including private foundations), individual retirement and other tax-deferred accounts, U.S. expatriates, investors who are not U.S. Holders, U.S. Holders who own (directly, indirectly or constructively) 10% or more of our stock (by vote or value), U.S. Holders that acquire their ordinary shares pursuant to any employee share option or otherwise as compensation, U.S. Holders that hold their ordinary shares as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion, wash sale, constructive sale or other integrated transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes or U.S. Holders that have a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar, all of whom may be subject to tax rules that differ significantly from those summarized below). In addition, this discussion does not discuss any U.S. federal estate, gift or alternative minimum tax consequences, any tax consequences of the

 

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Medicare tax on certain investment income pursuant to the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, any considerations with respect to FATCA (which for this purpose means Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, the Treasury regulations and administrative guidance promulgated thereunder, any intergovernmental agreement entered in connection therewith, and any non-U.S. laws, rules or directives implementing or relating to any of the foregoing), or any state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences. Each U.S. Holder is urged to consult its tax advisor regarding the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. income and other tax considerations of an investment in our ordinary shares.

General

For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of our ordinary shares that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created in, or organized under the law of, the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia, (iii) an estate the income of which is includable in gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust (A) the administration of which is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S. court and which has one or more U.S. persons who have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (B) that has otherwise validly elected to be treated as a U.S. person under the Code.

If an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership or pass-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes is a beneficial owner of our ordinary shares, the tax treatment of an investor therein will generally depend upon the status of such investor, the activities of the entity or arrangement, and certain determinations made at the investor level. Such entities or arrangements, and investors therein, are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding their investment in our ordinary shares.

Passive Foreign Investment Company Consequences

We believe that we will not be a “passive foreign investment company” for U.S. federal income tax purposes (“PFIC”) for the current taxable year and that we have not been a PFIC for prior taxable years and we expect that we will not become a PFIC in the foreseeable future, although there can be no assurance in this regard. A foreign corporation will be a PFIC in any taxable year in which, after taking into account the income and assets of the corporation and certain subsidiaries pursuant to applicable “look-through rules,” either (i) at least 75% of its gross income is “passive income,” or (ii) at least 50% of its assets produce or are held for the production of “passive income.” For this purpose, “passive income” generally includes dividends, interest, royalties and rents and certain other categories of income, subject to certain exceptions. The determination of whether we are a PFIC is a fact-intensive determination that includes ascertaining the fair market value (or, in certain circumstances, tax basis) of all of our assets on a quarterly basis and the character of each item of income we earn. This determination is made annually and cannot be completed until the close of a taxable year. It depends upon the portion of our assets (including goodwill) and income characterized as passive under the PFIC rules, as described above. Accordingly, it is possible that we may become a PFIC due to changes in our income or asset composition or a decline in the market value of our equity. Because PFIC status is a fact-intensive determination, no assurance can be given that we are not, have not been, or will not become, classified as a PFIC.

If we are a PFIC for any taxable year, U.S. Holders generally will be subject to special tax rules that could result in materially adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences. In such event, a U.S. Holder may be subject to U.S. federal income tax at the highest applicable ordinary income tax rates on (i) any “excess distribution” that we make to the U.S. Holder (which generally means any distribution paid during a taxable year to a U.S. Holder that is greater than 125% of the average annual distributions paid in the three preceding taxable years or, if shorter, the U.S. Holder’s holding period for the ordinary shares), or (ii) any gain realized on the disposition of our ordinary shares. In addition, a U.S. Holder may be subject to an interest charge on such tax. Furthermore, the favorable dividend tax rates that may apply to certain U.S. Holders on our dividends will not apply if we are a PFIC during the taxable year in which such dividend was paid, or the preceding taxable year.

 

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As an alternative to the foregoing rules, if we are a PFIC for any taxable year, a U.S. Holder may make a mark-to-market election with respect to our ordinary shares, provided that the ordinary shares are regularly traded. Although no assurances may be given, we expect that our ordinary shares should qualify as being regularly traded. If a U.S. Holder makes a valid mark-to-market election, the U.S. Holder will generally (i) include as ordinary income for each taxable year that we are a PFIC the excess, if any, of the fair market value of our ordinary shares held at the end of the taxable year over the adjusted tax basis of such ordinary shares and (ii) deduct as an ordinary loss the excess, if any, of the adjusted tax basis of the ordinary shares over the fair market value of such ordinary shares held at the end of the taxable year, but only to the extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. The U.S. Holder’s tax basis in the ordinary shares would be adjusted to reflect any income or loss resulting from the mark-to-market election. Gain on the sale or other disposition of our ordinary shares would be treated as ordinary income, and loss on the sale or other disposition of our ordinary shares would be treated as an ordinary loss, but only to the extent of the amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. If a U.S. Holder makes a mark-to-market election in respect of a corporation classified as a PFIC and such corporation ceases to be classified as a PFIC, the holder will not be required to take into account the gain or loss described above during any period that such corporation is not classified as a PFIC. Because a mark-to-market election cannot be made for any lower-tier PFICs that we may own, a U.S. Holder may continue to be subject to the PFIC rules with respect to such U.S. Holder’s indirect interest in any investment held by us that is treated as an equity interest in a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

A “qualified electing fund” election (“QEF election”), in certain limited circumstances, could serve as a further alternative to the foregoing rules with respect to an investment in a PFIC. However, in order for a U.S. Holder to be able to make a QEF election, we would need to provide such U.S. Holder with certain information. Because we do not intend to provide U.S. Holders with the information they would need to make such an election, prospective investors should assume that the QEF election will not be available in respect of an investment in our ordinary shares.

Each U.S. Holder is urged to consult its tax advisor concerning the U.S. federal income tax consequences of acquiring, owning or disposing of our ordinary shares if we are or become classified as a PFIC, including the possibility of making a mark-to-market election.

The remainder of the discussion below assumes that we are not a PFIC, have not been a PFIC and will not become a PFIC in the future.

Distributions

The gross amount of distributions with respect to our ordinary shares (including the amount of any non-U.S. withholding taxes) will be taxable as dividends, to the extent paid out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. Such distributions will be includable in a U.S. Holder’s gross income as ordinary dividend income on the day actually or constructively received by the U.S. Holder. Such dividends will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction allowed to corporations under the Code.

To the extent that the amount of the distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits for a taxable year, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles, the distribution will be treated first as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in our ordinary shares, and to the extent the amount of the distribution exceeds the U.S. Holder’s tax basis, the excess will be taxed as capital gain recognized on a sale or exchange of such ordinary shares. Because we do not expect to determine our earnings and profits in accordance with U.S. federal income tax principles, U.S. Holders should expect that a distribution will generally be reported as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes, even if that distribution would otherwise be treated as a tax-free return of capital or as capital gain under the rules described above.

 

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With respect to noncorporate U.S. Holders, certain dividends received from a “qualified foreign corporation” may be subject to reduced rates of U.S. federal income taxation. A non-U.S. corporation is treated as a qualified foreign corporation with respect to dividends paid by that corporation on shares that are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. We believe our ordinary shares, which are listed on the NYSE, are considered to be readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States, although there can be no assurance that this will continue to be the case in the future. Noncorporate U.S. Holders that do not meet a minimum holding period requirement during which they are not protected from the risk of loss, or that elect to treat the dividend income as “investment income” pursuant to Section 163(d)(4) of the Code, will not be eligible for the reduced rates of taxation regardless of our status as a qualified foreign corporation. In addition, even if the minimum holding period requirement has been met, the rate reduction will not apply to dividends if the recipient of a dividend is obligated to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property. You should consult your own tax advisors regarding the application of these rules given your particular circumstances.

In the event that a U.S. Holder is subject to non-U.S. withholding taxes on dividends paid to such U.S. Holder with respect to our ordinary shares, such U.S. Holder may be eligible, subject to certain conditions and limitations, to claim a foreign tax credit for such non-U.S. withholding taxes against the U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability or alternatively deduct such non-U.S. withholding taxes in computing such U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. Dividends paid to a U.S. Holder with respect to our ordinary shares are expected to generally constitute “foreign source income” and to generally be treated as “passive category income,” for purposes of the foreign tax credit, except that a portion of such dividends may be treated as income from U.S. sources if (i) U.S. persons (as defined in the Code and applicable Treasury regulations) own, directly or indirectly, 50% or more of our ordinary shares (by vote or value) and (ii) we receive more than a de minimis amount of income from U.S. sources. The rules governing the foreign tax credit and ability to deduct such non-U.S. withholding taxes are complex and involve the application of rules that depend upon your particular circumstances. You are urged to consult your own tax advisors regarding the availability of, and any limits or conditions to, the foreign tax credit or deduction under your particular circumstances.

Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition

For U.S. federal income tax purposes, a U.S. Holder generally will recognize taxable gain or loss on any sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of our ordinary shares in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized for our ordinary shares and the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in such ordinary shares. Such gain or loss will generally be capital gain or loss. Capital gains of individuals derived with respect to capital assets held for more than one year generally are eligible for reduced rates of U.S. federal income taxation. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. Any gain or loss recognized by a U.S. Holder will generally be treated as U.S. source gain or loss. You are urged to consult your tax advisors regarding the tax consequences if a non-U.S. tax is imposed on a sale, exchange or other disposition of our ordinary shares, including the availability of the foreign tax credit or deduction under your particular circumstances.

Information Reporting and Backup Withholding

A U.S. Holder with interests in “specified foreign financial assets” (including, among other assets, our ordinary shares, unless such shares were held on such U.S. Holder’s behalf through certain financial institutions) may be required to file an information report with the IRS if the aggregate value of all such assets exceeds certain threshold amounts. You should consult your own tax advisor as to the possible obligation to file such information reports in light of your particular circumstances.

Moreover, information reporting generally will apply to dividends in respect of our ordinary shares and the proceeds from the sale, exchange or other disposition of our ordinary shares, in each case, that are paid to a U.S. Holder within the United States (and in certain cases, outside the United States or through certain U.S. intermediaries), unless the U.S. Holder is an exempt recipient. Backup withholding (currently at a rate of 28%)

 

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may also apply to such payments, unless the U.S. Holder provides a correct taxpayer identification number, certifies as to no loss of exemption from backup withholding by providing a properly completed IRS Form W-9 and otherwise complies with applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules, or otherwise establishes an exemption. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules generally will be allowed as a refund or a credit against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability provided the required information is timely furnished to the IRS. You should consult your tax advisors regarding the application of the U.S. information reporting and backup withholding rules to your particular circumstances.

Material Dutch Tax Consequences

General

The information set out below is a summary of certain material Dutch tax consequences in connection with the acquisition, ownership and transfer of our ordinary shares. This summary does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all the Dutch tax considerations that may be relevant to a particular holder of our ordinary shares. Such holders may be subject to special tax treatment under any applicable law and this summary is not intended to be applicable in respect of all categories of holders of our ordinary shares.

This summary is based on the tax laws of the Netherlands as in effect on January 1, 2017, as well as regulations, rulings and decisions of the Netherlands or of its taxing and other authorities available in printed form on or before such date and now in effect, and as applied and interpreted by Netherlands courts, without prejudice to any amendments introduced at a later date and implemented with or without retroactive effect. All of the foregoing is subject to change, which change could apply retroactively and could affect the continued validity of this summary.

For Dutch tax purposes, a holder of our ordinary shares may include an individual who, or an entity that, does not have the legal title to our ordinary shares, but to whom nevertheless our ordinary shares are attributed either based on such individual or entity holding a beneficial interest in our ordinary shares or based on specific statutory provisions, including statutory provisions pursuant to which our ordinary shares are attributed to an individual who is, or who has directly or indirectly inherited from a person who was, the settlor, grantor or similar originator of a trust, foundation or similar entity that holds our ordinary shares, such as the separated private assets ( afgezonderd particulier vermogen ) provisions of the Dutch Income Tax Act 2001 ( Wet inkomstenbelasting 2001 ) and the Dutch Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956 (S uccessiewet 1956 ).

Because this is a general summary, prospective holders of our ordinary shares should consult their own tax advisors as to the Dutch or other tax consequences of the acquisition, holding and transfer of the ordinary shares including, in particular, the application to their particular situations of the tax considerations discussed below, as well as the application of foreign or other tax laws.

This summary does not describe any tax consequences arising under the laws of any taxing jurisdiction other than the Netherlands in connection with the acquisition, ownership and transfer of our ordinary shares. All references in this summary to the Netherlands and to Netherlands or Dutch law are to the European part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and its law, respectively, only. In addition, any reference hereafter made to a treaty for the avoidance of double taxation concluded by the Netherlands, includes the Tax Arrangement for the Kingdom of the Netherlands ( Belastingregeling voor het Koninkrijk ), the Tax Arrangement the Netherlands - Curacao ( Belastingregeling Nederland - Curaco ), the Tax Arrangement for the country of the Netherlands ( Belastingregeling voor het land Nederland ) and the Tax Arrangement the Netherlands - St. Maarten ( Belastingregeling Nederland - St. Maarten ).

Dividend Withholding Tax

General

Dividends paid on our ordinary shares to a holder of ordinary shares are generally subject to withholding tax of 15% imposed by the Netherlands. Generally, the dividend withholding tax will not be borne by us, but we will

 

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withhold from the gross dividends paid on our ordinary shares. The term “dividends” for this purpose includes, but is not limited to:

 

    distributions in cash or in kind, deemed and constructive distributions and repayments of paid-in capital not recognized for Dutch dividend withholding tax purposes;

 

    liquidation proceeds, proceeds of redemption of shares or, generally, consideration for the repurchase of shares in excess of the average paid-in capital recognized for Dutch dividend withholding tax purposes;

 

    the nominal value of shares issued to a shareholder or an increase of the nominal value of shares, as the case may be, to the extent that it does not appear that a contribution to the capital recognized for Dutch dividend withholding tax purposes was made or will be made; and

 

    partial repayment of paid-in capital, recognized for Dutch dividend withholding tax purposes, if and to the extent that there are net profits ( zuivere winst ), within the meaning of the Dutch Dividend Withholding Tax Act 1965 ( Wet op de dividendbelasting 1965 ), unless the general meeting of shareholders has resolved in advance to make such a repayment and provided that the nominal value of the shares concerned has been reduced by a corresponding amount by way of an amendment of our Amended and Restated Articles of Association.

Holder of Our Ordinary Shares Resident in the Netherlands

A holder of our ordinary shares who is, or who is deemed to be, a resident of the Netherlands can generally credit the withholding tax against his Dutch income tax or Dutch corporate income tax liability and is generally entitled to a refund of dividend withholding taxes exceeding his aggregate Dutch income tax or Dutch corporate income tax liability, provided certain conditions are met, unless such holder of our ordinary shares is not considered to be the beneficial owner of the dividends provided such holder is entitled to the benefits of such double taxation convention.

A holder of our ordinary shares who is the recipient of dividends (the “Recipient”) will not be considered the beneficial owner of the dividends for this purpose if:

 

    as a consequence of a combination of transactions, a person other than the Recipient wholly or partly benefits from the dividends;

 

    whereby such other person retains, directly or indirectly, an interest similar to that in the ordinary shares on which the dividends were paid; and

 

    that other person is entitled to a credit, reduction or refund of dividend withholding tax that is less than that of the Recipient (“Dividend Stripping”).

Holder of Our Ordinary Shares not Resident in the Netherlands

With respect to a holder of our ordinary shares, who is not and is not deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for purposes of Dutch taxation and who is considered to be a resident of a country other than the Netherlands under the provisions of a double taxation convention that the Netherlands has concluded with such country, the following may apply. Such holder of our ordinary shares may, depending on the terms of and subject to compliance with the procedures for claiming benefits under such double taxation convention, be eligible for a full or partial exemption from or a reduction or refund of Dutch dividend withholding tax provided such holder is entitled to the benefits of such double taxation convention.

In addition, an exemption from Dutch dividend withholding tax will generally apply to dividends distributed to certain qualifying entities, provided that the following tests are satisfied:

 

  (i) the entity is a resident of another EU member state or of a designated state that is a party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area (currently Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein), according to the tax laws of such state;

 

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  (ii) the entity at the time of the distribution has an interest in us to which the participation exemption, as meant in article 13 of the Dutch Corporate Income Tax Act 1969 ( Wet op de vennootschapsbelasting 1969), or to which the participation credit, as meant in article 13aa of the Dutch Corporate Income Tax Act 1969, would have been applicable, had such entity been a tax resident of the Netherlands;

 

  (iii) the entity does not perform a function similar to an exempt investment institution ( vrijgestelde beleggingsinstelling ) or fiscal investment institution ( fiscale beleggingsinstelling ), as defined in the Dutch Corporate Income Tax Act 1969; and

 

  (iv) the entity is, in its state of residence, not considered to be resident outside the EU member states or the designated states that are party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area under the terms of a double taxation convention concluded with a third state.

The exemption from Dutch dividend withholding tax is not available if, pursuant to a provision for the prevention of fraud or abuse included in a double taxation treaty between the Netherlands and the country of residence of the non-resident holder of our ordinary shares, such holder would not be entitled to the reduction of tax on dividends provided for by such treaty. Furthermore, the exemption from Dutch dividend withholding tax will only be available to the beneficial owner of the dividend.

Furthermore, certain entities that are resident in (a) another EU member state, (b) a designated state that is a party to the Agreement on the European Economic Area (currently Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) or (c) a designated jurisdiction which has an arrangement for the exchange of tax information with the Netherlands, provided that such entity under (c) holds ordinary shares as portfolio investment (i.e., such ordinary shares are not held with a view to the establishment or maintenance of lasting and direct economic links between such holder of ordinary shares and the Company and such ordinary shares do not allow such holder of ordinary shares to participate effectively in the management or control of the Company) and that are not subject to taxation levied by reference to profits in their state of residence, may be entitled to a refund of Dutch dividend withholding tax, provided:

 

  (i) such entity, had it been a resident in the Netherlands, would not be subject to corporate income tax in the Netherlands;

 

  (ii) such entity can be considered to be the beneficial owner of the dividends;

 

  (iii) such entity does not perform a similar function to that of a fiscal investment institution ( fiscale beleggingsinstelling ) or an exempt investment institution ( vrijgestelde beleggingsinstelling ) as defined in the Dutch Corporate Income Tax Act 1969; and

 

  (iv) certain administrative conditions are met.

Dividend distributions to a U.S. holder of our ordinary shares (with an interest of less than 10% of the voting rights in us) are subject to 15% dividend withholding tax, which is equal to the rate such U.S. holder may be entitled to under the Convention Between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United States for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income, executed in Washington on December 18, 1992, as amended from time to time (the “Netherlands-U.S. Convention”). As such, there is no need to claim a refund of the excess of the amount withheld over the tax treaty rate.

On the basis of article 35 of the Netherlands-U.S. Convention, qualifying U.S. pension trusts are under certain conditions entitled to a full exemption from Dutch dividend withholding tax. Such qualifying exempt U.S. pension trusts must provide us form IB 96 USA, along with a valid certificate, for the application of relief at source from dividend withholding tax. If we receive the required documentation prior to the relevant dividend payment date, then we may apply such relief at source. If a qualifying exempt U.S. pension trust fails to satisfy these requirements prior to the payment of a dividend, then such qualifying exempt pension trust may claim a refund of Dutch withholding tax by filing form IB 96 USA with the Dutch tax authorities. On the basis of article 36 of the Netherlands-U.S. Convention, qualifying exempt U.S. organizations are under certain conditions

 

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entitled to a full exemption from Dutch dividend withholding tax. Such qualifying exempt U.S. organizations are not entitled to claim relief at source, and instead must claim a refund of Dutch withholding tax by filing form IB 95 USA with the Dutch tax authorities.

The concept of Dividend Stripping, described above, may also be applied to determine whether a holder of our ordinary shares may be eligible for a full or partial exemption from, reduction or refund of Dutch dividend withholding tax, as described in the preceding paragraphs.

In general, we will be required to remit all amounts withheld as Dutch dividend withholding tax to the Dutch tax authorities. However, in connection with distributions received by us from our foreign subsidiaries, we are allowed, subject to certain conditions, to reduce the amount of Dutch dividend withholding tax to be remitted to Dutch tax authorities by the lesser of:

 

  (i) 3% of the portion of the distribution paid by us that is subject to Dutch dividend withholding tax; and

 

  (ii) 3% of the dividends and profit distributions, before deduction of non-Dutch withholding taxes, received by us from qualifying foreign subsidiaries in the current calendar year (up to the date of the distribution by us) and the two preceding calendar years, insofar as such dividends and profit distributions have not yet been taken into account for purposes of establishing the above-mentioned deductions.

For purposes of determining the 3% threshold under (i) above, a distribution by us is not taken into account in case the Dutch dividend withholding tax withheld in respect thereof may be fully refunded, unless the recipient of such distribution is a qualifying entity that is not subject to corporate income tax.

Although this reduction reduces the amount of Dutch dividend withholding tax that we are required to pay to the Dutch tax authorities, it does not reduce the amount of tax that we are required to withhold from dividends.

Tax on Income and Capital Gains

General

The description of taxation set out in this section of this Annual Report is not intended for any holder of our ordinary shares, who:

 

  (i) is an individual and for whom the income or capital gains derived from the ordinary shares are attributable to employment activities the income from which is taxable in the Netherlands;

 

  (ii) is an entity that is a resident or deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands and that is, in whole or in part, not subject to or exempt from Netherlands corporate income tax;

 

  (iii) is an entity that has an interest in us to which the participation exemption ( deelnemingsvrijstelling ) or the participation credit ( deelnemingsverrekening ) is applicable as set out in the Dutch Corporate Income Tax Act 1969;

 

  (iv) is a fiscal investment institution ( fiscale beleggingsinstelling ) or an exempt investment institution ( vrijgestelde beleggingsinstelling ) as defined in the Dutch Corporate Income Tax Act 1969; or

 

  (v) has a substantial interest ( aanmerkelijk belang ) or a deemed substantial interest as defined in the Dutch Income Tax Act 2001 in us.

Generally a holder of our ordinary shares will have a substantial interest in us in the meaning of paragraph (v) above if he holds, alone or together with his partner (a statutorily defined term), whether directly or indirectly, the ownership of, or certain other rights over shares representing 5% or more of our total issued and outstanding capital (or the issued and outstanding capital of any class of our shares), or rights to acquire shares, whether or not already issued, which represent at any time 5% or more of our total issued and outstanding capital (or the issued and outstanding capital of any class of our shares) or the ownership of certain profit participating

 

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certificates that relate to 5% or more of the annual profit and/or to 5% or more of the liquidation proceeds of us. A holder of our ordinary shares will also have a substantial interest in us if one of certain relatives of that holder or of his partner (a statutorily defined term) has a substantial interest in us.

If a holder of our ordinary shares does not have a substantial interest, a deemed substantial interest will be present if (part of) a substantial interest has been disposed of, or is deemed to have been disposed of, without recognizing taxable gain.

Residents of the Netherlands

Individuals

An individual who is resident or deemed to be resident in the Netherlands (a “Dutch Resident Individual”) and who holds our ordinary shares will be subject to Netherlands income tax on income and/or capital gains derived from our ordinary shares at the progressive rate (up to 52%; rate for 2017) if:

 

  (i) the holder derives profits from an enterprise or deemed enterprise, whether as an entrepreneur ( ondernemer ) or pursuant to a co-entitlement to the net worth of such enterprise (other than as an entrepreneur or a shareholder), to which enterprise the ordinary shares are attributable; or

 

  (ii) the holder derives income or capital gains from the ordinary shares that are taxable as benefits from “miscellaneous activities” ( resultaat uit overige werkzaamheden , as defined in the Dutch Income Tax Act 2001), which include the performance of activities with respect to the ordinary shares that exceed regular, active portfolio management ( normaal, actief vermogensbeheer ) and also include benefits resulting from a lucrative interest ( lucratief belang ).

If conditions (i) and (ii) above do not apply, any holder of our ordinary shares who is a Dutch Resident Individual will be subject to Netherlands income tax on a deemed return regardless of the actual income and/or capital gains derived from our ordinary shares. This deemed return has been set for 2017 at a variable return between 2.87% and 5.39% (depending on the amount of such holder’s net investment assets for the year) of the individual’s yield basis ( rendementsgrondslag ) insofar as this exceeds a certain threshold ( heffingsvrijvermogen ). The individual’s yield basis is determined as the fair market value of certain qualifying assets (including, as the case may be, the ordinary shares) held by the Dutch Resident Individual less the fair market value of certain qualifying liabilities, both determined on January 1 of the relevant year. The deemed return between 2.87% and 5.39% will be taxed at a rate of 30% (rate for 2017). Following 2017, the deemed return will be adjusted annually. However, at the request of the Netherlands Parliament, the Netherlands Ministry of Finance is also reviewing whether the taxation of income from savings and investments can be based on the actual income and/or gains realized in respect of investment assets (including, as the case may be, the ordinary shares) instead of a deemed return.

Entities

An entity that is resident or deemed to be resident in the Netherlands (a “Dutch Resident Entity”) will generally be subject to Netherlands corporate income tax with respect to income and capital gains derived from the ordinary shares. The Netherlands corporate income tax rate is 20% for the first €200,000 of the taxable amount, and 25% for the excess of the taxable amount over €200,000 (rates applicable for 2017).

Non-Residents of the Netherlands

A person who is neither a Dutch Resident Individual nor Dutch Resident Entity (a “Non-Dutch Resident”) and who holds our ordinary shares is generally not subject to Netherlands income tax or corporate income tax (other than dividend withholding tax described above) on income and capital gains derived from the ordinary shares, provided that:

 

  (i)

such Non-Dutch Resident does not derive profits from an enterprise or deemed enterprise, whether as an entrepreneur ( ondernemer ) or pursuant to a co-entitlement to the net worth of such enterprise (other

 

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  than as an entrepreneur or a shareholder) which enterprise is, in whole or in part, carried on through a permanent establishment or a permanent representative in the Netherlands and to which enterprise or part of an enterprise, as the case may be, the ordinary shares are attributable or deemed attributable;

 

  (ii) in the case of a Non-Dutch Resident who is an individual, such individual does not derive income or capital gains from the Shares that are taxable as benefits from “miscellaneous activities” ( resultaat uit overige werkzaamheden , as defined in the Dutch Income Tax Act 2001) performed or deemed to be performed in the Netherlands, which include the performance of activities with respect to the ordinary shares that exceed regular, active portfolio management ( normaal , actief vermogensbeheer ) and also include benefits resulting from a lucrative interest ( luctratief belang ); and

 

  (iii) such Non-Dutch Resident is neither entitled to a share in the profits of an enterprise nor co-entitled to the net worth of such enterprise effectively managed in the Netherlands, other than by way of the holding of securities or, in the case of an individual, through an employment contract, to which enterprise the ordinary shares or payments in respect of the ordinary shares are attributable.

Gift and Inheritance Taxes

Dutch Residents

Generally, gift taxes ( schenkbelasting ) and inheritance taxes ( erfbelasting ) may arise in the Netherlands with respect to a transfer of our ordinary shares by way of a gift by or on the death of a holder of our ordinary shares who is resident or deemed to be resident in the Netherlands for the purpose of the Netherlands Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956 at the time of the gift or his/her death.

Non-Dutch Residents

No Netherlands gift or inheritance taxes will be levied on the transfer of our ordinary shares by way of gift by or on the death of a holder of our ordinary shares, who is neither a resident nor deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purpose of the relevant provisions, unless:

 

  (i) the transfer is construed as an inheritance or bequest or as a gift made by or on behalf of a person who, at the time of the gift or death, is or is deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands for the purpose of the relevant provisions; or

 

  (ii) such holder dies while being a resident or deemed resident of the Netherlands within 180 days after the date of a gift of the ordinary shares.

For purposes of the Dutch Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956, an individual who is of Dutch nationality will be deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands if he has been a resident in the Netherlands at any time during the 10 years preceding the date of the gift or his death.

For purposes of Netherlands gift tax, an individual will, irrespective of his nationality, be deemed to be resident of the Netherlands if he has been a resident in the Netherlands at any time during the 12 months preceding the date of the gift. The same 12-month rule may apply to entities that have transferred their seat of residence out of the Netherlands.

Applicable tax treaties may override such deemed residency. For purposes of the Dutch Gift and Inheritance Tax Act 1956, a gift made under a condition precedent is deemed to be made at the time the condition precedent is fulfilled and is subject to gift tax if the donor is or is deemed to be a resident of the Netherlands at that time.

Value-Added Tax

No Netherlands value-added tax will be payable by a holder of our ordinary shares in consideration for the offer of our ordinary shares (other than value-added taxes on fees payable in respect of services not exempt from Netherlands value added tax).

 

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Other Taxes or Duties

No Netherlands registration tax, custom duty, stamp duty or any other similar tax or duty, other than court fees, will be payable in the Netherlands by a holder of our ordinary shares in respect of or in connection with the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the ordinary shares.

Residence

A holder of our ordinary shares will not become or be deemed to become a resident of the Netherlands solely by reason of holding these ordinary shares.

 

F. Dividends and Paying Agents

Not applicable.

 

G. Statement of Experts

Not applicable.

 

H. Documents on Display

You may read and copy any reports or other information that we file at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, the SEC maintains an Internet website that contains reports and other information about issuers, like us, that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is www.sec.gov.

We also make available on our website, free of charge, our annual reports on Form 20-F and the text of our reports on Form 6-K, including any amendments to these reports, as well as certain other SEC filings, as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. Our website address is www.constellium.com. The information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference in this document.

 

I. Subsidiary Information

Not applicable.

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Refer to the information set forth under the Notes to the consolidated financial statements at “Item 18. Financial Statements”:

 

    Note 2—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—Financial Instruments; and

 

    Note 23—Financial Risk Management.

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

Not applicable.

 

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PART II

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

None.

Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

 

A. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders

None.

 

B. Use of Proceeds

None.

Item 15. Controls and Procedures

 

A. Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our Chief Executive Officer and principal financial officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Form 20-F, have concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

 

B. Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

The management of the Company, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, Rule 13a-15(f).

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and as endorsed by the European Union (EU).

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

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

 

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Constellium’s management has assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016 based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and, based on such criteria, Constellium’s management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2016, the Company´s internal control over financial reporting is effective.

 

C. Attestation report of the registered public accounting firm.

The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.

 

D. Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

During the period covered by this report, we have not made any change to our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert

Our board of directors has determined that the members of our audit committee, Messrs. Paschke, Guillemot, Ormerod and Mmes. Walker and Brooks satisfy the “independence” requirements set forth in Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. Our board of directors has also determined that each of Messrs. Paschke and Ormerod and Ms. Walker is an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in Item 16A of Form 20-F under the Exchange Act.

Item 16B. Code of Ethics

We have adopted a Worldwide Code of Employee and Business Conduct that applies to all our employees, officers and directors, including our principal executive, principal financial and principal accounting officers. Our Worldwide Code of Employee and Business Conduct addresses, among other things, competition and fair dealing, conflicts of interest, financial integrity, government relations, confidentiality and corporate opportunity requirements and the process for reporting violations of the Worldwide Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, employee misconduct, conflicts of interest or other violations. Our Worldwide Code of Employee and Business Conduct is intended to meet the definition of “code of ethics” under Item 16B of Form 20-F under the Exchange Act.

A copy of our Worldwide Code of Employee and Business Conduct is available on our website at www.constellium.com. Any amendments to the Worldwide Code of Employee and Business Conduct, or any waivers of its requirements, will be disclosed on our website.

Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit has served as our independent registered public accounting firm for each of the fiscal years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2016.

 

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The following table sets out the aggregate fees for professional services and other services rendered to us by PricewaterhouseCoopers in the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, and breaks down these amounts by category of service:

 

     For the year ended December 31,  
     2016      2015  
     (€ in thousands)  

Audit fees

     6,227        6,540  

Audit-related fees

     168        305  

Tax fees

     845        828  

All other fees*

     3        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

                 7,243                    7,676  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

* Including out-of-pocket expenses amounting to €617,000 and €566,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Audit Fees

Audit fees consist of fees related to the annual audit of our consolidated financial statements, the audit of the statutory financial statements of our subsidiaries, other audit or interim review services provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.

Audit-Related Fees

Audit-related fees consist of fees rendered for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the company’s financial statements, or that are traditionally performed by the independent auditor, and include consultations concerning financial accounting and reporting standards; advice and assistance in connection with local statutory accounting requirements and due diligence related to acquisitions or disposals.

Tax Fees

Tax fees relate to tax compliance, including the preparation of tax returns, tax advice, including assistance with tax audits, and tax services regarding statutory, regulatory or administrative developments.

Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

The advance approval of the audit committee or members thereof, to whom approval authority has been delegated, is required for all audit and non-audit services provided by our auditors.

Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

None.

Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

None.

Item 16F. Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

None.

 

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Item 16G. Corporate Governance

Dutch Corporate Governance Code

We are a public company and list our Class A Ordinary shares on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and on the Euronext Paris, regulated markets and are subject to the Dutch Corporate Governance Code (the “Dutch Code”). The Dutch Code, as amended, became effective on January 1, 2009, and applies to all Dutch companies listed on a government-recognized stock exchange, whether in the Netherlands or elsewhere. For the complete Dutch Code please click on this link: http://www.mccg.nl/information-in-english.

On December 8, 2016, the Monitoring Committee Corporate Governance Code published a new Dutch Corporate Governance Code (the “New Dutch Code”). The New Dutch Code applies to any financial year starting on or after January 1, 2017. Where the New Dutch Code requires changes to rules, regulations or procedures, a company will be deemed compliant with the New Dutch Code if those changes are implemented no later than December 31, 2017. The Monitoring Committee recommends that the key aspects of a company’s corporate governance structure and compliance with the New Dutch Code will be discussed at the 2018 annual general meeting.

The Dutch Code is based on a “comply or explain” principle. Accordingly, companies are required to disclose in their annual report filed in the Netherlands whether or not they are complying with the various rules of the Dutch Code that are addressed to the board of directors or, if any, the supervisory board of the company and, if they do not apply those provisions, to give the reasons for such non-application. The Dutch Code contains principles and best practice provisions for managing boards, supervisory boards, shareholders and general meetings of shareholders, financial reporting, auditors, disclosure, compliance and enforcement standards.

We acknowledge the importance of good corporate governance. The board of directors agrees with the general approach and with the majority of the provisions of the Dutch Code. However, considering our interests and the interests of our stakeholders, we do not apply a limited number of best practice provisions either because such provisions conflict with or are inconsistent with the corporate governance rules of the NYSE and U.S. securities laws that apply to us, or because such provisions do not reflect best practices of global companies listed on the NYSE.

The best practice provisions of the Dutch Code that we do not comply with include the following:

 

    Remuneration (Principles II.2, III.7 and associated best practice provisions).

We believe that our remuneration policy helps to focus directors, officers and other employees and consultants on business performance that creates shareholder value, to encourage innovative approaches to the business of the Company and to encourage ownership of our shares by directors, officers and other employees and consultants. Aspects of our remuneration policy deviate from the Dutch Code to comply with applicable NYSE and SEC rules. For example, the Dutch Code recommends against providing equity awards as part of the compensation of a Non-Executive Director. However, the Company deviates from this recommendation and grants equity to its Non-Executive Directors.

 

    Conflicts of interest and related party transactions (Principles II.3, III.6 and associated best practice provisions).

We have a policy on conflicts of interests and related party transactions. The policy provides that the determination of whether a conflict of interest exists will be made in accordance with Dutch law and on a case-by-case basis. We believe that it is not in the interest of the Company to provide for deemed conflicts of interests.

 

    The chairman of the board may not also be or have been an executive board member (best practice provisions III.4.2 and III.8.1).

Mr. Evans has served as our Chairman since December 2012. Mr. Evans also served as our interim chief executive officer from December 2011 until the appointment of our former CEO Mr. Pierre Vareille in March 2012. We believe the deviation from the Dutch Code is justified considering the short interim period during which Mr. Evans acted as executive board member.

 

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    The vice-chairman of the board shall deputize for the chairman when the occasion arises. By way of addition to best practice provision III.1.7, the vice-chairman shall act as contact for individual board members concerning the functioning of the chairman of the board (best practice provision III.4.4).

We comply with certain corporate governance requirements of the NYSE in lieu of the Dutch Code. Under the corporate governance requirements of the NYSE, we are not required to appoint a vice-chairman. If the chairman of our board of directors is absent, the directors that are present will elect a non-executive board member to chair the meeting.

 

    The terms of reference of the board shall contain rules on dealing with conflicts of interest and potential conflicts of interest between board members and the external auditor on the one hand and the company on the other. The terms of reference shall also stipulate which transactions require the approval of the non-executive board members. The company shall draw up regulations governing ownership of and transactions in securities by board members, other than securities issued by their “own” company (best practice provision III.6.5).

The Company believes that board members should not be further limited by internal regulations beyond the rules and restrictions under applicable securities laws.

 

    Independence (Principle III.2 and associated best practice provisions).

We deviate from the Dutch Code’s independence definition for Directors either because such provisions conflict with or are inconsistent with the corporate governance rules of the NYSE and U.S. securities laws that apply to us, and because such provisions do not reflect best practices of global companies listed on the NYSE.

 

    The majority of the members of the board of directors shall be non-executive directors and are independent within the meaning of best practice provision III.2.2 (best practice provision III.8.4).

Seven non-executive members of our board are independent. It is our view that given the nature of our business and the practice in our industry and considering our shareholder structure, it is justified that only seven non-executive directors are independent. We deviate from the Dutch Code’s independence definition for board members because such provisions conflict with or are inconsistent with the corporate governance rules of the NYSE and U.S. securities laws that apply to us, and because such provisions do not reflect best practices of global companies listed on the NYSE. As an example, under NYSE rules, 9 of our current 10 directors are independent. We may need to further deviate from the Dutch Code’s independence definition for board members when looking for the most suitable candidates. For example, a current board member or future board candidate may have particular knowledge of, or experience in, the downstream aluminium rolled and extruded products and related businesses, but may not meet the definition of independence in the Dutch Code. As such background is very important to the efficacy of our board of directors in managing a highly technical business, and because our industry has relatively few participants, our board may decide to nominate candidates for appointment who do not fully comply with the criteria as listed under best practice provision III.2.2 of the Dutch Code.

 

    The company shall formulate an “outline policy on bilateral contacts,” as described in the Dutch Code, with the shareholders and publish this policy on its website (best practice provision IV.3.13).

We will not formulate an “outline policy on bilateral contacts” with the shareholders. We do and will comply with applicable NYSE and SEC rules and the relevant provisions of applicable law with respect to contacts with our shareholders. We believe that all contacts with our shareholders should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

 

    A person may be appointed as non-executive member of the board for a maximum of three 4-year terms (best practice provisions III.3.5).

On June 15, 2016 Mr. Brandjes, Mr. Guillemot, Mr. Ormerod and Ms. Walker were each re-appointed as Non-Executive Directors for a period of one year. Ms. Brooks was newly appointed for a period of one year.

 

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Mr. Hartman was re-appointed as Non-Executive Director for a period of two years as the Board believes that it is preferable that the Chairmen of the Board’s Committees serve for a period of two years following an election.

Mr. Evans was re-appointed as Non-Executive Director for a period of three years. The Board believes that it is preferable that the Chairman of the Board serve for a period of three years following an election.

This deviation gives the shareholders the opportunity to vote on re-appointments for terms under four years. Since we are a relatively recent public company of only four years, the maximum of three four-year terms is not an issue at this point.

 

    Pursuant to best practice provision III.3.6. the non-executive board members shall draw up a retirement schedule in order to avoid, as far as possible, a situation in which many non-executive board members retire at the same time. The retirement schedule shall be made generally available and shall be posted on the company’s website.

As we are a relatively recent public company and many of our non-executive board members are (re)appointed for one year and recently elected, we currently do not have a retirement schedule.

 

    Pursuant to best practice provision IV.1.1, a general meeting of shareholders is empowered to cancel binding nominations of candidates for the board, and to dismiss members of the board by a simple majority of votes of those in attendance, although the company may require a quorum of at least one-third of the voting rights outstanding. If such quorum is not represented, but a majority of those in attendance vote in favor of the proposal, a second meeting may be convened in the future and its vote will be binding, even without a one-third quorum. Our Amended and Restated Articles of Association currently provide that a general meeting of shareholders may at all times overrule a binding nomination by a resolution adopted by at least a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, if such majority represents more than half of the issued share capital. Although this constitutes a deviation from provision IV.1.1 of the Dutch Code, we hold the view that these provisions will enhance the continuity of our management and policies.

 

    Best practice provision IV.3.1 recommends that we should enable the shareholders to follow in real time all meetings with analysts, investors and press conferences. We believe that enabling shareholders to follow in real time all the meetings with analysts, presentations to analysts, presentations to investors as referred to in best practice provision IV.3.1 of the Dutch Code would create an excessive burden on our resources. We will ensure that analyst presentations are posted on our website after meetings with analysts. In addition, we hold quarterly earnings calls where we report our financial results to which all our investors are invited to attend via web conference.

The NYSE requires that we disclose to investors any significant ways in which our corporate governance practices differ from those followed by U.S. domestic companies under NYSE requirements.

Among these differences, shareholder approval is required by the NYSE prior to the issuance of ordinary stock:

 

    to a director, officer or substantial security holder of the company (or their affiliates or entities in which they have a substantial interest) in excess of one percent of either the number of shares of ordinary stock or the voting power outstanding before the issuance, with certain exceptions;

 

    that will have voting power equal to or in excess of 20 percent of either the voting power or the number of shares outstanding before the issuance, with certain exceptions; or

 

    that will result in a change of control of the issuer.

Under Dutch rules, shareholders can delegate this approval to the board of directors at the annual shareholders meeting. In the past, our shareholders have delegated this approval power to our Board at our annual meeting.

 

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In some situations, NYSE rules are more stringent, and in others the Dutch rules are. Other significant differences include:

 

    NYSE rules require shareholder approval for changes to equity compensation plans, but under Dutch rules, shareholder approval is only required for changes to equity compensation plans for members of the board of directors;

 

    Under Dutch corporate governance rules the audit and human resources and remuneration committees may not be chaired by the Chairman of the Board;

 

    Under Dutch rules, auditors must be appointed by the general meeting of shareholders. NYSE rules require only that they be appointed by the audit committee;

 

    Both NYSE and Dutch rules require that a majority of the board of directors be independent, but the definition of independence under each set of rules is not identical. For example, Dutch rules require a longer “look-back” period for former directors; and

 

    The Dutch rules permit deviation from the rules if the deviations are explained in accordance with the rules. The NYSE rules do not allow such deviations.

Item 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure

Not applicable.

 

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PART III

Item 17. Financial Statements

Parent Company Condensed Financial Information is included herein in Note 31 to the consolidated financial statements.

Item 18. Financial Statements

The audited consolidated financial statements as required under Item 18 are attached hereto starting on page F-1 of this Annual Report. The audit report of PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit, an independent registered public accounting firm, is included herein preceding the audited consolidated financial statements.

Item 19. Exhibits

The following exhibits are filed as part of this Annual Report:

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report:

 

  3.1    Amended and Restated Articles of Association of Constellium N.V. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of Constellium N.V.’s Amendment No. 3 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 21, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
  3.2    Deed of Conversion-Constellium N.V. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of Constellium N.V.’s Amendment No. 4 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 21, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
  3.3    Amendment to the Articles of Association of Constellium N.V. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.1    Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of March 25, 2013, among Constellium Holdco B.V., as the Dutch Borrower, Constellium France S.A.S., as the French Borrower, the new Term Lenders party thereto, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as the Existing Administrative Agent, and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as the successor Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
  4.2    Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of July 31, 2013, among Constellium N.V., as the Dutch Borrower, Constellium France S.A.S., as the French Borrower, the lenders party thereto, and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on October 23, 2013, File No. 333-191863)
  4.3    ABL Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2012, among Constellium Holdco II B.V., Constellium U.S. Holdings I, LLC, Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC, as borrower, the lenders from time to time party hereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
  4.4    First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of January 7, 2013, among Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC, as borrower, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent and collateral agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.5    Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of March 25, 2013, among Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC, as borrower, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent and collateral agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
  4.6    Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2013, among Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC, as borrower, the lenders party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on October 23, 2013, File No. 333-191863)
  4.7    Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated May 7, 2014, among Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC, as borrower, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent and collateral agent, and the lenders party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.8    Credit Agreement, dated as of May 7, 2014, among Constellium N.V., as Borrower, the lenders party thereto, and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)

 

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  4.9    First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated December 5, 2014, among Constellium N.V., the lenders party thereto, and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.10    Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated February 5, 2015, among Constellium N.V., the lenders party thereto, and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.11    Third Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated September 30, 2015, among Constellium N.V., the lenders party thereto, and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.12    Fourth Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated December 10, 2015, among Constellium N.V., the lenders party thereto, and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.13    Indenture, dated as of May 7, 2014, between Constellium N.V., the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, providing for the issuance of the 5.750% Senior Notes due 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.14    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 31, 2015, among Constellium Neuf Brisach and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.15 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.15    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Constellium Holdco III B.V., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.16 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.16    Third Supplemental Indenture (5.750% Senior Notes due 2024), dated as of February 16, 2017, among Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys LLC, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee**
  4.17    Indenture, dated as of May 7, 2014, between Constellium N.V., the guarantors party thereto, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as Principal Paying Agent, and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as Registrar and Transfer Agent, providing for the issuance of the 4.625% Senior Notes due 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.18    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 31, 2015, among Constellium Neuf Brisach, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as Principal Paying Agent, and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as Registrar and Transfer Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.18 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.19    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Constellium Holdco III B.V., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as Principal Paying Agent, and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as Registrar and Transfer Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.19 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.20    Third Supplemental Indenture (4.625% Senior Notes due 2021), dated as of February 16, 2017, among Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys LLC, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee**

 

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  4.21    Indenture, dated as of December 19, 2014, between Constellium N.V., the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, providing for the issuance of the 8.00% Senior Notes due 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.22    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 31, 2015, among Constellium Neuf Brisach, Constellium N.V., and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.21 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.23    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Constellium Holdco III B.V., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.22 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.24    Supplemental Indenture (8.00% Senior Notes due 2023), dated as of February 16, 2017, among Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys LLC, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee**
  4.25    Indenture, dated as of December 19, 2014, between Constellium N.V., the guarantors party thereto, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as Principal Paying Agent, and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as Registrar and Transfer Agent, providing for the issuance of the 7.00% Senior Notes due 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.26    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 31, 2015, among Constellium Neuf Brisach, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as Principal Paying Agent, and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as Registrar and Transfer Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.24 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.27    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Constellium Holdco III B.V., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as Principal Paying Agent, and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as Registrar and Transfer Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.25 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.28    Supplemental Indenture (7.00% Senior Notes due 2023), dated as of February 16, 2017, among Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys LLC, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee**
  4.29    Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Constellium N.V., the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, providing for the issuance of the 7.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.26 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.30    Supplemental Indenture (7.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2021), dated as of February 16, 2017, among Engineered Products International S.A.S., Constellium W S.A.S., Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys LLC, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee**
  4.31    Parity Lien Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Constellium N.V., the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.27 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)

 

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  4.32    Indenture, dated as of December 11, 2013, among Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, the guarantors party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee and Collateral Agent, providing for the issuance of the 8 3/4% Senior Secured Notes due 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.14 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.33    First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2014, among Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, the guarantors party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.29 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.34    Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of June 4, 2014, among WAC I, LLC, Wise Metals Group LLC, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.30 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.35    Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of October 17, 2014, among Wise Metals Group LLC, Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, the guarantors party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.31 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.36    Credit Agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013, among Wise Alloys LLC, as Borrower, the credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation, as Administrative Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.15 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.37    Waiver and Amendment No. 1 to Credit Agreement, dated as of March 4, 2014, among Wise Alloys LLC, as Borrower, the credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation, as Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.33 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.38    Consent and Amendment No. 2 to Credit Agreement, dated as of June 30, 2014, among Wise Alloys LLC, as Borrower, the credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation, as Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.34 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.39    Amendment No. 3 to Credit Agreement, dated as of November 26, 2014, by and among Wise Alloys LLC, the other credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation, as Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.16 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.40    Consent and Amendment No. 4 to Credit Agreement, dated as of December 23, 2014, by and among Wise Alloys LLC, the other credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation, as Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.17 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.41    Amendment No. 5 to Credit Agreement, dated as of March 23, 2015, among Wise Alloys LLC, the credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation, as Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.37 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.42    Amendment No. 6 to Credit Agreement, dated as of November 4, 2015, by and among Wise Alloys LLC, as Borrower, the other credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and General Electric Capital Corporation, as Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
  4.43    Amendment No. 7 to Credit Agreement, dated as of February 7, 2017, by and among Wise Alloys LLC, as Borrower, the other credit parties party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as successor Agent**

 

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  4.44    Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2014, among Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC, Wise Holdings Finance Corporation, and Wilmington Trust National Association, as Trustee, providing for the issuance of the 9     3 4 % / 10    1 2 % Senior PIK Toggle Notes due 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.18 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
  4.45    Indenture, dated as of February 16, 2017, among Constellium N.V., the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, providing for the issuance of the 6.625% Senior Notes due 2025**
10.1    Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement, dated May 29, 2013, among Constellium N.V. and the other signatories thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.2    2016 Employee Performance Award Plan**
10.3    Employment Letter by and between Constellium Switzerland AG and Pierre Vareille, dated August 30, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.4    Employment Letter by and between Constellium France Holdco SAS and Didier Fontaine, dated May 11, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.5    Amended and Restated Factoring Agreement between Alcan Rhenalu S.A.S. as French Seller, Alcan Aerospace S.A.S. as French Seller, Alcan Softal S.A.S. as French Seller, Alcan France Extrusions S.A.S. as French Seller, Alcan Aviatube S.A.S. as French Seller, Omega Holdco II B.V. as Parent Company, Engineered Products Switzerland A.G. as Sellers’ Agent and GE Factofrance S.N.C. as Factor, dated January 4, 2011, as amended as of November 8, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on December 10, 2013, File No. 333-192680)
10.6    Amendment and Consent Letter No 10 between GE Factofrance S.A.S. as Factor and Constellium Switzerland AG, Constellium Holdco II B.V., Constellium France S.A.S., Constellium Extrusions France S.A.S. and Constellium Aviatube S.A.S. as French Sellers, dated February 3, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7.1 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on January 27, 2014, File No. 333-193583)
10.7    Amendment and Restatement Agreement among Constellium Issoire, as Seller, Constellium Neuf Brisach, as Seller, Constellium Extrusions France, as Seller, Constellium Holdco II B.V., as Parent Company, Constellium Switzerland A.G., as Sellers agent, and GE Factofrance SAS, as Factor, dated December 3, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
10.8    Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Alcan Aluminium Valais S.A., dated December 16, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.9    Country Specific Amendment Agreement (Switzerland) to the Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Alcan Aluminium Valais S.A., dated December 16, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.10    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Valais AG (formerly: Alcan Aluminium Valais AG), dated November 12, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9.1 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on December 10, 2013, File No. 333-192680)
10.10.1    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Valais S.A. Sierre, dated May 27, 2016**
10.10.2    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between TARGO Commercial Finance AG (f/k/a GE Capital Bank AG) and Constellium Valais S.A., dated December 21, 2016**

 

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10.11    Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Alcan Aluminium-Presswerke GmbH, dated December 16, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.11.1    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH (formerly Alcan Aluminium-Presswerke GmbH), dated November 12, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10.1 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on December 10, 2013, File No. 333-192680)
10.11.2    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, dated May 27, 2016**
10.11.3    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between TARGO Commercial Finance AG (f/k/a GE Capital Bank AG) and Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, dated December 21, 2016**
10.12    Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, dated May 27, 2016**
10.12.1    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between TARGO Commercial Finance AG and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, dated December 21, 2016**
10.13    Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Alcan Singen GmbH, dated December 16, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.13.1    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Singen GmbH (formerly: Alcan Singen GmbH), dated November 12, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10.1 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on December 10, 2013, File No. 333-192680)
10.14    Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Singen GmbH, dated March 26, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
10.14.1    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Singen GmbH, dated May 27, 2016**
10.14.2    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between TARGO Commercial Finance AG (f/k/a GE Capital Bank AG) and Constellium Singen GmbH, dated December 21, 2016**
10.15    Factoring Agreement between GE Capital Bank AG and Constellium Extrusions Děčín S.R.O., dated June 26, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
10.15.1    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between GE Capital AG and Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o., dated May 27, 2016**
10.15.2    Amendment Agreement to a Factoring Agreement between TARGO Commercial Finance AG (f/k/a GE Capital Bank AG) and Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o., dated December 21, 2016**
10.17    Metal Supply Agreement between Engineered Products Switzerland AG and Rio Tinto Alcan Inc. for the supply of sheet ingot in Europe, dated January 4, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 of Constellium N.V.’s Amendment No. 3 to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.18    Constellium N.V. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on May 13, 2013, File No. 333-188556)
10.19    Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the Constellium N.V. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 of Constellium N.V.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed on January 27, 2014, File No. 333-193583)

 

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10.20    Unit Purchase Agreement between Constellium N.V., Wise Metals Holdings LLC and Silver Knot, LCC, dated October 3, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 6-K furnished on October 3, 2014)
10.21    Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 23, 2015, between Wise Alloys Funding LLC, as Seller, Wise Alloys LLC, as Servicer, and HSBC Bank USA, National Association, as Purchaser (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 24, 2015)
10.22    First Amendment to Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 27, 2015, between Wise Alloys Funding LLC, as Seller, Wise Alloys LLC, as Servicer, and HSBC Bank USA, National Association, as Purchaser (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 of Constellium N.V.’s Form 20-F furnished on April 18, 2016, File No. 001-35931)
10.23    Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated November 22, 2016, among Wise Alloys LLC, as Servicer, Wise Alloys Funding II LLC, as Seller, Hitachi Capital America Corp., as Purchaser, Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch, as Purchaser, and Greensill Capital Inc., as Purchaser Agent**
10.24    Second Omnibus Amendment, dated as of January 25, 2017, among Wise Alloys LLC, as Servicer, Wise Alloys Funding II LLC, as Seller, Hitachi Capital America Corp., as Purchaser, Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch, as Purchaser, and Greensill Capital Inc., as Purchaser Agent**
10.25    Employment Agreement of Jean-Marc Germain, dated as of April 25, 2016**
10.26    Employment Agreement of Peter R. Matt, dated as of October 26, 2016**
10.27    Employment Agreement of Corinne Fornara, dated as of September 1, 2016**
12.1    Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, dated as of March 21, 2017**
12.2    Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, dated as of March 21, 2017**
13.1    Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, dated as of March 21, 2017**
13.2    Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, dated as of March 21, 2017**
15.1    Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm**
21.1    List of subsidiaries**

 

** Filed herein.
+ Confidential treatment granted as to certain portions, which portions have been provided separately to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

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SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.

 

CONSTELLIUM N.V.
By:  

/s/ Jean-Marc Germain

  Name:   Jean-Marc Germain
  Title:   Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 21, 2017


Table of Contents

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Constellium N.V. Audited Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     F-2  

Consolidated Income Statement

     F-3  

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income / (Loss)

     F-4  

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

     F-5  

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

     F-6  

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

     F-7  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-8  

 

F-1


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Constellium N.V.:

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income / (loss), changes in equity and cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Constellium N.V. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

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

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

Neuilly-sur-Seine, France

March 9, 2017

PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit

/s/ Cédric Le Gal

Cédric Le Gal

Partner

 

F-2


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
    Year ended
December 31,
2015
    Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Revenue

   3      4,743       5,153       3,666  

Cost of sales

        (4,227     (4,703     (3,183
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit

        516       450       483  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Selling and administrative expenses

        (254     (245     (200

Research and development expenses

        (32     (35     (38

Restructuring costs

   3      (5     (8     (12

Impairment

   15      —         (457     —    

Other gains / (losses) - net

   7      21       (131     (83
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income / (Loss) from operations

        246       (426     150  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Finance costs - net

   9      (167     (155     (58

Share of loss of joint-ventures

   17      (14     (3     (1
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income / (Loss) before income tax

        65       (584     91  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax (expense) / benefit

   10      (69     32       (37
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net (Loss) / Income

        (4     (552     54  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net (Loss) / Income attributable to:

         

Equity holders of Constellium

        (4     (554     51  

Non-controlling interests

        —         2       3  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net (Loss) / Income

        (4     (552     54  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings per share attributable to the equity holders of Constellium

 

(in Euros per share)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
    Year ended
December 31,
2015
    Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Basic

   11      (0.04     (5.27     0.48  

Diluted

   11      (0.04     (5.27     0.48  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-3


Table of Contents

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME / (LOSS)

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
    Year ended
December 31,
2015
    Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Net (Loss)/ Income

     (4     (552     54  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income / (loss)

      

Items not to be reclassified subsequently to the consolidated income statement

      

Remeasurement of post-employment benefit obligations

     (20     (7     (137

Income tax on remeasurement of post-employment benefit obligations

     2       20       14  

Cash flow hedge (A)

         (9     9  

Income tax on cash flow hedge

         3       (3

Items to be reclassified subsequently to the consolidated income statement

      

Cash flow hedge (B)

     (27            

Income tax on cash flow hedge

     9              

Currency translation differences

     6       34       (13
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other comprehensive (loss) / income

     (30     41       (130
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive loss

     (34     (511     (76
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Attributable to:

      

Equity holders of Constellium

     (34     (513     (80

Non-controlling interests

           2       4  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive loss

     (34     (511     (76
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A) Relates to foreign currency hedging of the estimated U.S. Dollar Wise acquisition price

 

(B) Relates to foreign currency hedging of certain forecasted sales in U.S. Dollar

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes      At
December 31,
2016
    At
December 31,
2015
 

Assets

       

Current assets

       

Cash and cash equivalents

     12        347       472  

Trade receivables and other

     13        355       365  

Inventories

     14        591       542  

Other financial assets

     21        117       70  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 
        1,410       1,449  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-current assets

       

Property, plant and equipment

     15        1,477       1,255  

Goodwill

     16        457       443  

Intangible assets

     16        79       78  

Investments accounted for under equity method

     17        16       30  

Deferred income tax assets

     18        252       270  

Trade receivables and other

     13        47       53  

Other financial assets

     21        49       37  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 
        2,377       2,166  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Assets classified as held for sale

     29              13  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Assets

        3,787       3,628  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities

       

Current liabilities

       

Trade payables and other

     19        839       867  

Borrowings

     20        107       169  

Other financial liabilities

     21        34       107  

Income tax payable

        13       6  

Provisions

     24        42       44  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 
        1,035       1,193  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

       

Trade payables and other

     19        59       54  

Borrowings

     20        2,361       2,064  

Other financial liabilities

     21        30       14  

Pension and other post-employment benefit obligations

     23        735       701  

Provisions

     24        107       119  

Deferred income tax liabilities

     18        30       10  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 
        3,322       2,962  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities classified as held for sale

     29              13  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

        4,357       4,168  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity

       

Share capital

     25        2       2  

Share premium

     25        162       162  

Retained deficit and other reserves

        (743     (715
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity attributable to equity holders of Constellium

        (579     (551

Non-controlling interests

        9       11  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Equity

        (570     (540
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Equity and Liabilities

        3,787       3,628  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

 

(in millions of Euros)

  Share
capital
    Share
premium
    Re-
measurement
    Cash
flow
hedges
    Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
    Other
reserves
    Retained
losses
    Total
Equity
holders of
Constellium
    Non-
controlling
interests
    Total
equity
 

At January 1, 2016

    2       162       (133           6       11       (599     (551     11       (540
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net (loss) / Income

                                        (4     (4           (4

Other comprehensive (loss) / income

                (18     (18     6                   (30           (30
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income / (loss)

                (18     (18     6             (4     (34           (34
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Transactions with Equity holders

                   

Share-based compensation

                                  6             6             6  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Transactions with non-controlling interests

                                                    (2     (2
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2016

    2       162       (151     (18     12       17       (603     (579     9       (570
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(in millions of Euros)

  Share
capital
    Share
premium
    Re-
measurement
    Cash
flow
hedges
    Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
    Other
reserves
    Retained
losses
    Total
Equity
holders of
Constellium
    Non-
controlling
interests
    Total
equity
 

At January 1, 2015

    2       162       (146     6       (28     6       (45     (43     6       (37
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net (loss) / Income

                                        (554     (554     2       (552

Other comprehensive income / (loss)

                13       (6     34                   41             41  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income / (loss)

                13       (6     34             (554     (513     2       (511
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Transactions with Equity holders

                   

Share-based compensation

                                  5             5             5  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Transactions with non-controlling interests

                                                    3       3  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2015

    2       162       (133           6       11       (599     (551     11       (540
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(in millions of Euros)

  Share
capital
    Share
premium
    Re-
measurement
    Cash
flow
hedges
    Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
    Other
reserves
    Retained
losses
    Total
Equity
holders of
Constellium
    Non-
controlling
interests
    Total
equity
 

At January 1, 2014

    2       162       (23           (14     1       (96     32       4       36  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net (loss) / Income

                                        51       51       3       54  

Other comprehensive income / (loss)

                (123     6       (14                 (131     1       (130
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income / (loss)

                (123     6       (14           51       (80     4       (76
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Transactions with Equity holders

                   

Share-based compensation

                                  4             4             4  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

MEP Shares changes

                                  1             1             1  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Transactions with non-controlling interests

                                                    (2     (2
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2014

    2       162       (146     6       (28     6       (45     (43     6       (37
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
    Year ended
December 31,
2015
    Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Net (loss)/ income

        (4     (552     54  

Adjustments

         

Depreciation and amortization

   15      155       140       49  

Finance costs – net

   9      167       155       58  

Income tax expense / (benefit)

   10      69       (32     37  

Share of loss of joint-ventures

   17      14       3        

Unrealized (gains) / losses on derivatives – net and from remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities – net

   7      (74     23       52  

Losses on disposal and assets classified as held for sale

   7      10       5       5  

Impairment

              457        

Other – net

        (14     5       5  

Interest paid

        (174     (143     (39

Income tax paid

        (14     (9     (27

Change in Trade working Capital

         

Inventories

        (42     149       (95

Trade receivables

        28       343       (48

Margin calls

              1       11  

Trade payables

        (18     (161     170  

Change in provisions and pension obligations

        (5     (20     (26

Other working capital

        (10     4       (33
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows from operating activities

        88       368       173  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

   3      (355     (350     (199

Acquisition of subsidiaries net of cash acquired

   7      21       (348      

Proceeds from disposals net of cash

        (5     4       (2

Equity contribution and loan to joint-ventures

        (37     (34     (21

Other investing activities

        11       6       6  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows used in investing activities

        (365     (722     (216
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Proceeds from issuance of Senior Notes

   20      375             1,153  

Repayment of Senior Notes / term loan

   20      (148           (331

(Repayments) / Proceeds from revolving Credit Facility and other loans

   20      (69     (211     13  

Payment of deferred financing costs and exit costs

   20      (19     (2     (27

Withholding tax reimbursed

                    20  

Transactions with non-controlling interests

        (2     3       (2

Other financing activities

        8       45       (34
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flows from / (used in) financing activities

        145       (165     792  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

        (132     (519     749  

Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period

        472       991       236  

Cash and cash equivalents classified as held for sale – beginning of period

   29      4              

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

        3       4       6  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents – end of period

   12      347       476       991  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less: cash and cash equivalents classified as held for sale

   29            (4      

Cash and cash equivalents as reported in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

   12      347       472       991  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Notes to the consolidated financial statements

NOTE 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

Constellium is a global leader in the design and manufacture of a broad range of innovative specialty rolled and extruded aluminum products, serving primarily the packaging, aerospace and automotive end-markets. The Group has a strategic footprint of manufacturing facilities located in the United States, Europe and China, operates 21 production facilities, 9 administrative and commercial sites and one world-class technology center. It has more than 11,000 employees.

Constellium is a public company with limited liability. The business address (head office) of Constellium N.V. is Tupolevlaan 41-61, 1119 NW Schiphol-Rijk, the Netherlands.

Unless the context indicates otherwise, when we refer to “we”, “our”, “us”, “Constellium”, the “Group” and the “Company” in this document, we are referring to Constellium N.V. and its subsidiaries.

NOTE 2 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

2.1. Statement of compliance

The consolidated financial statements of Constellium N.V. and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and as endorsed by the European Union (EU). The Group’s application of IFRS results in no difference between IFRS as issued by the IASB and IFRS as endorsed by the EU (http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/accounting/ias/index_en.htm).

The consolidated financial statements have been authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on March 8, 2017.

2.2. Application of new and revised IFRS

The following new standards and amendments apply to the Group for the first time in 2016.

 

    Annual improvements to IFRSs 2012-2014 cycle

 

    Amendments to IAS 1, ‘Disclosure Initiative’

 

    Amendments to IFRS 11, ‘Accounting for Acquisitions of Interests in Joint Operations’

 

    Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38, ‘Clarification of Acceptable Methods of Depreciation and Amortization’

 

    Amendments to IFRS 10 and IAS 28, ‘Sale or contribution of assets between an investor and its associate or joint venture’

They do not have any significant impact on the annual consolidated financial statements of the Group.

2.3. New standards and interpretations not yet mandatorily applicable

The Group has not applied the following new, revised and amended standards and interpretations that have been issued but are not yet effective and which could affect the Group’s future consolidated financial statements.

The impact of the following standards and interpretations on the Group’s results and financial situation is currently being evaluated.

IFRS 15, ‘Revenue from contracts with customers’ and its clarifications deal with revenue recognition and establishes principles for reporting information to users of financial statements about the nature, amount, timing

 

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and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from an entity’s contracts with customers. Revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of a good or service and thus has the ability to direct the use and obtain the benefits from the good or service. The standard replaces IAS 18, ‘Revenue’ and IAS 11, ‘Construction contracts and related interpretations’. The clarifications provide guidance on identifying performance obligations, the principal versus agent assessment, accounting for licenses of intellectual property, and transition to the new revenue standard.

The standard and its clarifications will be effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.

IFRS 16, ‘Leases’ deals with principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosures of leases. The standard provides an accounting model, requiring lessee to recognize assets and liabilities for all leases unless the lease term is 12 months or less or the underlying asset has a low value. The lessor accounting approach remains unchanged. Management is currently evaluating the impact of the standard on our consolidated financial position and results of operations. The Group expects that the adoption will result in an increase to non-current assets and non-current liabilities as a result of substantially all operating leases existing as of the adoption date being capitalized along with the associated obligations.

The standard will replace IAS 17, ‘Lease’ and will be effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019.

IFRS 9, ‘Financial instruments’, addresses the classification, measurement and recognition of financial assets and financial liabilities. It will replace the guidance in IAS 39, ‘Financial instruments’ that relates to the classification and measurement of financial instruments.

Modifications introduced by IFRS 9 relate primarily to:

 

    Classification and measurement of financial assets. The basis of classification depends on the entity’s business model and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset.

 

    Impairment of receivables, now based on the expected credit loss model.

 

    Hedge accounting.

The standard will be effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.

Amendments to IAS 7, ‘Disclosure Initiative’

The amendments to IAS 7, ‘Statement of Cash Flows’ are part of the IASB’s Disclosure Initiative and require an entity to provide disclosures that enable users of financial statements to evaluate changes in liabilities arising from financing activities, including both changes arising from cash flows and non-cash changes.

The amendments to IAS 7 will be effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017.

IFRIC 22: ‘Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration’

This interpretation indicates how to determine the date of the transaction when applying the standard on foreign currency transactions, IAS 21. The Interpretation applies where an entity either pays or receives consideration in advance for foreign currency-denominated contracts.

The date of the transaction determines the exchange rate to be used on initial recognition of the related asset, expense or income.

The Interpretation provides guidance for when a single payment/receipt is made, as well as for situations where multiple payments/receipts are made. It states that the date of the transaction, for the purpose of determining the

 

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exchange rate to use on initial recognition of the related item, should be the date on which an entity initially recognizes the non-monetary asset or liability arising from the advance consideration. If there are multiple payments or receipts in advance of recognizing the related item, the entity should determine the date of the transaction for each payment or receipt.

The amendment is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018.

The following amendments are not expected to have any impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

Amendments to IAS 12, ‘Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised Losses’

The amendments clarify that an entity needs to consider whether tax law restricts the sources of taxable profits against which it may make deductions on the reversal of that deductible difference. Furthermore, the amendments provide guidance on how an entity should determine future taxable profits and explains in which circumstances taxable profit may include the recovery of some assets for more than their carrying amount.

These amendments will be effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017.

Amendments to IFRS 2, ‘Classification and Measurement of Share-Based Payment Transactions’

The amendments clarify the measurement basis for cash-settled, share-based payments and the accounting for modifications that change an award from cash-settled to equity-settled. They also introduce an exception to the principles in IFRS 2 that will require an award to be treated as if it was wholly equity-settled, where an employer is obliged to withhold an amount for the employee’s tax obligation associated with a share-based payment and pay that amount to the tax authority.

These amendments will be effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018.

Annual improvements 2014-2016

The latest annual improvements clarify:

 

    IFRS 1, ‘First time adoption of IFRS’: Retirement of short-term exemptions

The amendments deletes short-term exemptions covering transition provisions of IFRS 7 ‘Financial Instruments – Disclosures’, IAS 19 ‘Employee Benefits’, and IFRS 10 ‘Consolidated Financial Statements’. These transition provisions were available to entities for passed reporting periods and are therefore no longer applicable.

 

    IFRS 12, ‘Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities’: Clarifying the scope

The amendment clarifies that the disclosures requirement of IFRS 12 are applicable to interest in entities classified as held for sale except for summarized financial information. Previously, it was unclear whether all other IFRS 12 requirements were applicable for these interests.

 

    IAS 28, ‘Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures’: Clarifying measurement of investments

IAS 28 allows venture capital organizations, mutual funds, unit trusts and similar entities to elect measuring their investments in associates or joint ventures at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL). The Board clarified that this election should be made separately for each associate or joint venture at initial recognition.

These improvements will be effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017 for IFRS 12 and January 1, 2018 for IFRS 1 and IAS 28.

 

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2.4. Basis of preparation

In accordance with IAS 1, ‘Presentation of Financial Statements’, the Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared on the assumption that Constellium is a going concern and will continue in operation for the foreseeable future.

The financial position of the Group, its cash flows, liquidity position and borrowing facilities are described in the financial statements respectively in NOTE 12 – Cash and Cash Equivalents, NOTE 20 – Borrowings and NOTE 22 – Financial Risk Management.

The Group’s forecast and projections, taking account of reasonably possible changes in trading performance, including an assessment of the current macroeconomic environment, indicate that the Group should be able to operate within the level of its current facilities and related covenants.

Accordingly the Group continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements. Management considers that this assumption is not invalidated by Constellium’s negative equity as at December 31, 2016. This assessment was confirmed by the Board of Directors on March 8, 2017.

2.5 Presentation of the operating performance of each operating segment and of the Group

In accordance with IFRS 8, ‘Operating Segments’, operating segments are based upon product lines, markets and industries served, and are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision-maker (“CODM”). The CODM, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer.

Constellium’s CODM measures the profitability and financial performance of its operating segments based on Adjusted EBITDA as it illustrates the underlying performance of continuing operations by excluding non-recurring and non-operating items. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as income / (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes, results from joint ventures, net finance costs, other expenses and depreciation and amortization as adjusted to exclude restructuring costs, impairment charges, unrealized gains or losses on derivatives and on foreign exchange differences, metal price lag, share-based compensation expense, effects of certain purchase accounting adjustments, start-up and development costs or acquisition, integration and separation costs, certain incremental costs and other exceptional, unusual or generally non-recurring items.

2.6. Principles governing the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements

Basis of consolidation

These consolidated financial statements include all the assets, liabilities, equity, revenues, expenses and cash flows of the entities and businesses controlled by Constellium. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated.

Subsidiaries are entities over which the Group has control. The Group controls an entity when the Group has power over the investee, is exposed to, or has rights to variable returns from its involvement in the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity.

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are deconsolidated from the date that control ceases.

Investments over which the Group has significant influence or joint control are accounted for under the equity method. The investments are initially recorded at cost. Subsequently they are increased or decreased by the Group’s share in the profit or loss, or by other movements reflected directly in the equity of the entity.

 

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Business combination

The Group applies the acquisition method to account for business combinations.

The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary is the fair value of the assets transferred, the liabilities assumed and the equity interests issued by the Group. The consideration transferred includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. The amount of non-controlling interests is determined for each business combination and is either based on the fair value (full goodwill method) or the present ownership instruments’ proportionate share in the recognized amounts of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets, resulting in recognition of only the share of goodwill attributable to equity holders of the parent (partial goodwill method).

Goodwill is initially measured as the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount of non-controlling interest over the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If this consideration is lower than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognized as a gain in Other gains / (losses) - net in the Consolidated Income Statement.

At the acquisition date, the Group recognizes the identifiable acquired assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities (identifiable net assets) of the subsidiaries on the basis of fair value at the acquisition date. Recognized assets and liabilities may be adjusted during a maximum of 12 months from the acquisition date, depending on new information obtained about the facts and circumstances existing at the acquisition date.

Significant assumptions used in determining allocation of fair value include the following valuation techniques: the cost approach, the income approach and the market approach which are determined based on cash flow projections and related discount rates, industry indices, market prices regarding replacement cost and comparable market transactions.

Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred and included in Other gains / (losses) - net in the Consolidated Income Statement.

Cash-generating units

The reporting units (which generally correspond to an industrial site), the lowest level of the Group’s internal reporting, have been identified as its cash-generating units.

Goodwill

Goodwill arising from a business combination is carried at cost as established at the date of the business combination less accumulated impairment losses, if any.

Goodwill is allocated and monitored at the operating segments level which are the groups of cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. The operating segments represent the lowest level within the Group at which the goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes.

Gains and losses on the disposal of a cash-generating unit include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the cash-generating unit sold.

Impairment of goodwill

A group of cash-generating units to which goodwill is allocated is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the group of units may be impaired.

 

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The net carrying value of a group of cash-generating units is compared to its recoverable amount, which is the higher of the value in use and the fair value less cost of disposal.

Value in use calculations use cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management and covering usually a 5-year period. Cash flows beyond this period are estimated using a perpetual long-term growth rate for the subsequent years.

The value in use is the sum of discounted cash flows over the projected period and the terminal value. Discount rates are determined based on the weighted-average cost of capital of each operating segment.

The fair value is the price that would be received for the group of cash-generating units, in an orderly transaction, from a market participant. This value is estimated on the basis of available and relevant market data or a discounted cash flow model reflecting market participant assumptions.

An impairment loss for goodwill is recognized for the amount by which the group of units carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount.

Any impairment loss for goodwill is allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the group of cash-generating units and then, to the other assets of the group of units pro rata on the basis of the carrying amount of each asset in the group of units.

Any impairment loss is recognized in the line Impairment in the Consolidated Income Statement. An impairment loss recognized for goodwill cannot be reversed in subsequent periods.

Non-current assets (and disposal groups) classified as held for sale & Discontinued operations

IFRS 5 ‘Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations’ defines a discontinued operation as a component of an entity that (i) generates cash flows that are largely independent from cash flows generated by other components, (ii) is classified as held for sale or has been disposed of, and (iii) represents a separate major line of business or geographic areas of operations.

Assets and liabilities are classified as held for sale when their carrying amount will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. This condition is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable and the non-current asset (or disposal group) is available for immediate sale in its present condition.

Assets and liabilities are stated at the lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell if their carrying amount is to be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use.

Assets and liabilities held for sale are presented in separate line items in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position of the period during which the decision to sell is made.

The results of discontinued operations are shown separately in the Consolidated Income Statement and Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.

Foreign currency transactions and foreign operations

Functional currency

Items included in the consolidated financial statements of each of the entities and businesses of Constellium are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which each of them operates (their functional currency).

 

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Foreign currency transactions

Transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are recorded in the functional currency at the exchange rate in effect at the date of the transaction. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement, except when deferred in other comprehensive income as qualifying cash flow hedges and qualifying net investment hedges.

Foreign exchange gains and losses that relate to borrowings and cash and cash equivalents are presented within Finance costs – net.

Realized foreign exchange gains and losses that relate to commercial transactions are presented in Cost of sales.

All other foreign exchange gains and losses, including those that relate to foreign currency derivatives hedging commercial transactions, are presented within Other gains/ (losses) – net.

Foreign operations: presentation currency and foreign currency translation

In the preparation of the consolidated financial statements, the year-end balances of assets, liabilities and components of equity of Constellium’s entities and businesses are translated from their functional currencies into Euros, the presentation currency of the Group, at their respective year-end exchange rates; and the revenues, expenses and cash flows of Constellium’s entities and businesses are translated from their functional currencies into Euros using average exchange rates for the period.

The net differences arising from exchange rate translation are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income / (Loss).

The following table summarizes the main exchange rates used for the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Group:

 

            Year ended
December 31, 2016
     Year ended
December 31, 2015
     Year ended
December 31, 2014
 

Foreign exchange rate for 1 Euro

          Average
rate
     Closing
rate
     Average
rate
     Closing
rate
     Average
rate
     Closing
rate
 

U.S. Dollars

     USD        1.1063        1.0541        1.1089        1.0887        1.3264        1.2141  

Swiss Francs

     CHF        1.0901        1.0739        1.0669        1.0835        1.2146        1.2024  

Czech Koruna

     CZK        27.0342        27.0210        27.2762        27.0226        27.5352        27.7348  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Revenue recognition

Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable.

Revenue from product sales, net of trade discounts, allowances and volume-based incentives, is recognized once delivery has occurred, and provided persuasive evidence that the following criteria are met:

 

  - The significant risks and rewards of ownership of the product have been transferred to the buyer;

 

  - Neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usually associated with ownership, nor effective control over the goods sold, has been retained by Constellium;

 

  - The amount of revenue can be measured reliably;

 

  - It is probable that the economic benefits associated with the sale will flow to Constellium; and

 

  - The costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the sale can be measured reliably.

 

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The Group also enters into tolling agreements whereby clients provide the metal which the Group will then manufacture for them. In these circumstances, revenue is recognized when services are provided at the date of redelivery of the manufactured metal.

Amounts billed to customers in respect of shipping and handling are classified as revenue when the Group is responsible for carriage, insurance and freight. All shipping and handling costs incurred by the Group are recognized in Cost of sales.

Deferred tooling revenue and related costs

Certain automotive long term contracts include the design and manufacture of customized parts. To manufacture such parts, certain specialized or customized tooling is required. In accordance with IAS 11 ‘Construction Contracts’, the Group accounts for the tooling revenue and related costs provided by third party manufacturers on the basis of percentage of completion of the contract.

Research and development costs

Costs incurred on development projects are recognized as intangible assets when the following criteria are met:

 

  - It is technically feasible to complete the intangible asset so that it will be available for use;

 

  - Management intends to complete and use the intangible asset;

 

  - There is an ability to use the intangible asset;

 

  - It can be demonstrated how the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits;

 

  - Adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and use or sell the intangible asset are available; and

 

  - The expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development can be reliably measured.

Development expenditures which do not meet these criteria are expensed as incurred. Development costs previously recognized as expenses are not recognized as an asset in a subsequent period.

Other gains / (losses) - net

Other gains / (losses) - net include: (i) realized and unrealized gains and losses on derivatives contracted for commercial purposes and accounted for at fair value through profit or loss and (ii) unrealized exchange gains and losses from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities.

Other gains / (losses) - net separately identifies other unusual, infrequent or non-recurring items. Such items are those that in management’s judgment need to be disclosed by virtue of their size, nature or incidence. In determining whether an event or transaction is specific, management considers quantitative as well as qualitative factors such as the frequency or predictability of occurrence.

Interest income and expense

Interest income is recorded using the effective interest rate method on loans receivables and on the interest bearing components of cash and cash equivalents.

Interest expense on short and long-term financing is recorded at the relevant rates on the various borrowing agreements.

Borrowing costs (including interests) incurred for the construction of any qualifying asset are capitalized during the period of time required to complete and prepare the asset for its intended use.

 

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Share-based payment arrangements

Equity-settled share-based payments to employees and Board members providing similar services are measured at the fair value of the equity instruments at the grant date.

The fair value determined at the grant date is expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on Group’s estimate of equity instruments that will eventually vest, with a corresponding increase in equity. At the end of each reporting year, the Group revises its estimate of the number of equity instruments expected to vest.

Property, plant and equipment

Recognition and measurement

Property, plant and equipment acquired by the Company are recorded at cost, which comprises the purchase price (including import duties and non-refundable purchase taxes), any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management and the estimated close down and restoration costs associated with the asset. Borrowing costs (including interests) directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of a Property, plant and equipment are included in the cost. Subsequent to the initial recognition, Property, plant and equipment are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment, if any. Costs are capitalized into construction work in progress until such projects are completed and the assets are available for use.

Subsequent costs

Enhancements and replacements are capitalized as additions to Property, plant and equipment only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with them will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured with reliability. Ongoing regular maintenance costs related to Property, plant and equipment are expensed as incurred.

Depreciation

Land is not depreciated. Property, plant and equipment are depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the related assets using the straight-line method as follows:

 

  - Buildings 10 – 50 years;

 

  - Machinery and equipment 3 – 40 years; and

 

  - Vehicles 5 – 8 years.

Intangible assets

Recognition and measurement

Technology and Customer relationships acquired in a business combination are recognized at fair value at the acquisition date. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortization and impairment losses. The useful lives of the Group intangible assets are assessed to be finite.

Amortization

Intangible assets are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the related assets using the straight-line method as follows:

 

  - Technology 20 years;

 

  - Customer relationships 25 years; and

 

  - Software 3 – 5 years.

 

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Impairment of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment if there is any indication that the carrying amount of the asset (or cash-generating unit to which it belongs) may not be recoverable. The recoverable amount is based on the higher of fair value less cost of disposal (market value) and value in use (determined using estimates of discounted future net cash flows of the asset or group of assets to which it belongs).

Any impairment loss is recognized in the line Impairment in the Consolidated Income Statement.

Financial instruments

(i) Financial assets

Financial assets are classified either: (a) at fair value through profit or loss, or as (b) loans and receivables. The classification depends on the purpose for which the financial assets were acquired. Management determines the classification of Constellium’s financial assets at initial recognition.

 

  (a) At fair value through profit or loss: These are financial assets held for trading. A financial asset is classified in this category if it is acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the short term. Derivatives are categorized as held for trading except when they are designated as hedging instruments in a hedging relationship that qualifies for hedge accounting in accordance with IAS 39, ‘Financial instruments’. Financial assets carried at fair value through profit or loss are initially recognized at fair value and transaction costs are expensed in the Consolidated Income Statement.

 

  (b) Loans and receivables: These are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. They are classified as current or non-current assets based on their maturity date. Loans and receivables are comprised of trade receivables and other and non-current and current loans receivable in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Loans and receivables are carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method, less any impairment.

(ii) Financial liabilities

Borrowings and other financial liabilities (excluding derivative liabilities) are recognized initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred and directly attributable to the issuance of the liability. These financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Any difference between the amounts originally received (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement using the effective interest rate method.

(iii) Derivative financial instruments

Derivatives are initially recognized at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently re-measured to their fair value at the end of each reporting period. The accounting for subsequent changes in fair value depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument, and if so, the nature of the item being hedged.

For derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting, changes in the fair value are recognized immediately in profit or loss and are included in ‘Other gains / (losses) - net’.

For derivative instruments that are designated for hedge accounting, the group documents at the inception of the hedging transaction the relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge transaction. The group also documents its assessment, both at hedge inception and on an ongoing basis, of whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions have been and will continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of hedged items.

 

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The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognized in Other Comprehensive Income and accumulated in reserves in equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognized immediately in the Consolidated Income Statement within ‘Other gains / (losses) - net’.

Amounts accumulated in equity are reclassified to the Consolidated Income Statement when the hedged item affects the Consolidated Income Statement. The gain or loss relating to the effective portion of derivative instruments hedging forecasted cash-flows under customer agreements is recognized in ‘Revenue’. When the forecasted transaction that is hedged results in the recognition of a non-financial asset, the gains and losses previously deferred in equity are reclassified from equity and included in the initial measurement of the cost of the asset. The deferred amounts would ultimately be recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement upon the sale, depreciation or impairment of the asset.

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold or terminated, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognized when the forecasted transaction is ultimately recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement. When a forecasted transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was recognized in equity is immediately reclassified to the Consolidated Income Statement.

(iv) Fair value

Fair value is 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. Where available, relevant market prices are used to determine fair values. The Group periodically estimates the impact of credit risk on its derivatives instruments aggregated by counterparties and takes it into account when estimating the fair value of its derivatives.

Credit Value Adjustments are calculated for asset derivatives based on Constellium counterparties credit risk. Debit Value Adjustments are calculated for credit derivatives based on Constellium own credit risk.

The fair value method used is based on historical probability of default, provided by leading rating agencies.

(v) Offsetting financial instruments

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Leases

Constellium as the lessee

Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Various buildings, machinery and equipment are leased from third parties under operating lease agreements. Under operating leases, lease payments are recognized as rent expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease agreement, and are included in Cost of sales or Selling and administrative expenses, depending on the nature of the leased assets.

Leases of property, plant and equipment under which the Group has substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Various buildings and equipment are leased from third parties under finance lease agreements. Under such finance leases, the asset financed is recognized in Property, plant and equipment and the financing is recognized as a financial liability, in Borrowings.

 

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Constellium as the lessor

Certain land, buildings, machinery and equipment are leased to third parties under finance lease agreements. At lease inception, the net book value of the related assets is removed from Property, plant and equipment and a Finance lease receivable is recorded at the lower of the fair value and the aggregate future cash payments to be received from the lessee computed at an interest rate implicit in the lease. As the Finance lease receivable from the lessee is due, interest income is recognized.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value, primarily on a weighted-average cost basis.

Weighted-average costs for raw materials, stores, work in progress and finished goods are calculated using the costs experienced in the current period based on normal operating capacity (and include the purchase price of materials, freight, duties and customs, the costs of production, which includes labor costs, materials and other expenses, which are directly attributable to the production process and production overheads).

Trade account receivables

Recognition and measurement

Trade account receivables are recognized initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less impairment.

Impairment

An impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due. Indicators of impairment would include financial difficulties of the debtor, likelihood of the debtor’s insolvency, late payments, default or a significant deterioration in creditworthiness. The amount of the provision is the difference between the assets’ carrying value and the present value of the estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. The expense (income) related to the increase (decrease) of the impairment is recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement. When a trade receivable is deemed uncollectible, it is written off against the impairment account. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited in Other gains / (losses) in the Consolidated Income Statement.

Factoring arrangements

In non-recourse factoring arrangements, under which the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the receivables, the receivables are derecognized from the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. When trade account receivables are sold with limited recourse, and substantially all the risks and rewards associated with these receivables are not transferred, receivables are not derecognized. Inflows and outflows from factoring agreements under which the Group does not derecognize receivables are presented on a net basis as cash flows from financing activities. Arrangements in which the Group derecognizes receivables result in changes in trade receivables which are reflected as cash flows from operating activities.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are comprised of cash in bank accounts and on hand, short-term deposits held on call with banks and other short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and which are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value, less bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand, provided there is an offset right.

 

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Share capital

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new ordinary shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

Trade payables

Trade payables are initially recorded at fair value and classified as current liabilities if payment is due in one year or less.

Provisions

Provisions are recorded for the best estimate of expenditures required to settle liabilities of uncertain timing or amount when management determines that a legal or constructive obligation exists as a result of past events, it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, and such amounts can be reasonably estimated. Provisions are measured at the present value of the expected expenditures to be required to settle the obligation.

The ultimate cost to settle such liabilities is uncertain, and cost estimates can vary in response to many factors. The settlement of these liabilities could materially differ from recorded amounts. In addition, the expected timing of expenditure can also change. As a result, there could be significant adjustments to provisions, which could result in additional charges or recoveries affecting future financial results.

Types of liabilities for which the Group establishes provisions include:

Close down and restoration costs

Estimated close down and restoration costs are accounted for in the year when the legal or constructive obligation arising from the related disturbance occurs and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation. These costs are based on the net present value of estimated future costs. Provisions for close down and restoration costs do not include any additional obligations which are expected to arise from future disturbance. The costs are estimated on the basis of a closure plan including feasibility and engineering studies, are updated annually during the life of the operation to reflect known developments (e.g. revisions to cost estimates and to the estimated lives of operations) and are subject to formal review at regular intervals each year.

The initial closure provision together with subsequent movements in the provisions for close down and restoration costs, including those resulting from new disturbance, updated cost estimates, changes to the estimated lives of operations and revisions to discount rates are capitalized within Property, plant and equipment. These costs are then depreciated over the remaining useful lives of the related assets. The amortization or unwinding of the discount applied in establishing the net present value of the provisions is charged to the Consolidated Income Statement as a financing cost.

Environmental remediation costs

Environmental remediation costs are accounted for based on the estimated present value of the costs of the Group’s environmental clean-up obligations. Movements in the environmental clean-up provisions are presented as an operating cost within Cost of sales. Remediation procedures may commence soon after the time at which the disturbance, remediation process and estimated remediation costs become known, and can continue for many years depending on the nature of the disturbance and the technical remediation.

Restructuring costs

Provisions for restructuring are recorded when Constellium’s management is demonstrably committed to the restructuring plan and where such liabilities can be reasonably estimated. The Group recognizes liabilities that

 

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primarily include one-time termination benefits, or severance, and contract termination costs, primarily related to equipment and facility lease obligations. These amounts are based on the remaining amounts due under various contractual agreements, and are periodically adjusted for any anticipated or unanticipated events or changes in circumstances that would reduce or increase these obligations.

Legal, tax and other potential claims

Provisions for legal claims are made when it is probable that liabilities will be incurred and when such liabilities can be reasonably estimated. For asserted claims and assessments, liabilities are recorded when an unfavorable outcome of a matter is deemed to be probable and the loss is reasonably estimable. Management determines the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome based on many factors such as the nature of the matter, available defenses and case strategy, progress of the matter, views and opinions of legal counsel and other advisors, applicability and success of appeals, process and outcomes of similar historical matters, amongst others. Once an unfavorable outcome is considered probable, management weights the probability of possible outcomes and the most reasonable loss is recorded. Legal matters are reviewed on a regular basis to determine if there have been changes in management’s judgment regarding the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome or the estimate of a potential loss. Depending on their nature, these costs may be charged to Cost of sales or Other gains/ (losses)–net in the Consolidated Income Statement. Included in other potential claims are provisions for product warranties and guarantees to settle the net present value portion of any settlement costs for potential future legal actions, claims and other assertions that may be brought by Constellium’s customers or the end-users of products. Provisions for product warranty and guarantees are charged to Cost of sales in the Consolidated Income Statement. When any legal action, claim or assertion related to product warranty or guarantee is settled, the net settlement amount incurred is charged against the provision established in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. The outstanding provision is reviewed periodically for adequacy and reasonableness by Constellium management.

Management establishes tax reserves and accrues interest thereon, if deemed appropriate, in expectation that certain tax return positions may be challenged and that the Group might not succeed in defending such positions, despite management’s belief that the positions taken were fully supportable.

Pension, other post-employment plans and other long-term employee benefits

For defined contribution plans, the contribution paid in respect of service rendered over the service period is recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement. This expense is included in Cost of sales, Selling and administrative expenses or Research and development expenses, depending on its nature.

For defined benefit plans, the retirement benefit obligation recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position represents the present value of the defined benefit as reduced by the fair value of plan assets. The effects of changes in actuarial assumptions and experience adjustments are presented in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income / (Loss).

The amount charged to the Consolidated Income Statement in respect of these plans (including the service costs and the effect of any curtailment or settlement, net of interest costs) is included within the Income / (loss) from operations.

The defined benefit obligations are assessed using the projected unit credit method. The most significant assumption is the discount rate.

Other post-employment benefit plans mainly relate to health and life insurance benefits to retired employees and in some cases to their beneficiaries and covered dependents. Eligibility for coverage is dependent upon certain age and service criteria. These benefit plans are unfunded and are accounted for as defined benefit obligations, as described above.

 

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Other long term employee benefits mainly include jubilees and other long-term disability benefits. For these plans, actuarial gains and losses arising in the year are recognized immediately in the Consolidated Income Statement.

Taxation

The current Income tax (expense) / benefit is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position date in the countries where the Company and its subsidiaries operate and generate taxable income.

The Group is subject to income taxes in the Netherlands, France, United States and numerous other jurisdictions. Certain of Constellium’s businesses may be included in consolidated tax returns within the Company. In certain circumstances, these businesses may be jointly and severally liable with the entity filing the consolidated return, for additional taxes that may be assessed.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. This approach also requires the recognition of deferred income tax assets for operating loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards.

The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates and laws is recognized as tax income / (loss) in the year when the rate change is substantively enacted. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates that are expected to apply in the year when the asset is realized or the liability is settled, based on the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the date of the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Deferred income tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized.

Presentation of financial statements

The consolidated financial statements are presented in millions of Euros, except Earnings per share in Euros. Certain reclassifications may have been made to prior year amounts to conform to current year presentation or with IFRS requirements.

Interest paid previously presented in Cash flows from / (used in) financing activities have been reclassified in Cash flows from / (used in) operating activities for respectively €174 million, €143 million and €39 million for years ended December 31, 2016, December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. The change in presentation will provide more relevant information about the effects of transactions on the Group cash flows and will make them more comparable with their peers.

2.7. Judgments in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

Many of the amounts included in the consolidated financial statements involve the use of judgment and/or estimation. These judgments and estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of the relevant facts and circumstances, giving consideration to previous experience. However, actual results may differ from the amounts included in the consolidated financial statements. Key sources of estimation uncertainty that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year include the items presented below.

Impairment tests for goodwill, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment

The determination of fair value and value in use of cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units depends on a number of assumptions, in particular market data, estimated future cash flows and discount rates.

 

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These assumptions are subject to risk and uncertainty. Any material changes in these assumptions could result in a significant change in a cash-generating units’ recoverable value or in a goodwill impairment. Details of the key assumptions applied are set out in NOTE 16 – Intangible assets (including goodwill) and in NOTE 15 – Property, plant and equipment.

Pension, other post-employment benefits and other long-term employee benefits

The present value of the defined benefit obligations depends on a number of factors that are determined on an actuarial basis using a number of assumptions. The assumptions used in determining the defined benefit obligations and net pension costs include discount rates and rates of future compensation increase.

Any material changes in these assumptions could result in a significant change in employee benefit expenses recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement, actuarial gains and losses recognized in Equity and prepaid and accrued benefits. Details of the key assumptions applied are set out in NOTE 23 – Pensions and other post-employment benefit obligations.

Taxes

Significant judgment is sometimes required in determining the accrual for income taxes as there are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business. The Group recognizes liabilities based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were recorded, such differences will impact the current and deferred income tax provisions, results of operations and possibly cash flows in the year in which such determination is made.

Management judgment is required to determine the extent to which deferred tax assets can be recognized. In assessing the recognition of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be utilized. The deferred tax assets will be ultimately utilized to the extent that sufficient taxable profits will be available in the periods in which the temporary differences become deductible. This assessment is conducted through a detailed review of deferred tax assets by jurisdiction and takes into account the scheduled reversals of taxable and deductible temporary differences, past, current and expected future performance deriving from the budget, the business plan and tax planning strategies. Deferred tax assets are not recognized in the jurisdictions where it is less likely than not that sufficient taxable profits will be available against which the deductible temporary differences can be utilized.

Provisions

Provisions have been recorded for: (a) close-down and restoration costs; (b) environmental remediation and monitoring costs; (c) restructuring programs; (d) legal and other potential claims including provisions for product income tax risks, warranty and guarantees, at amounts which represent management’s best estimates of the expenditure required to settle the obligation at the date of the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Expectations are revised each year until the actual liability is settled, with any difference accounted for in the year in which the revision is made. Main assumptions used are described in NOTE 24 – Provisions.

Purchase Accounting

Business combinations are recorded in accordance with IFRS 3, ‘Business Combination’ using the acquisition method. Under this method, upon the initial consolidation of an entity over which the Group has acquired exclusive control, the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed are recognized at their fair value at the acquisition date.

Therefore, through a number of different techniques, the Group identified what it believes is the fair value of the assets and liabilities at the acquisition date. These valuations include a number of assumptions, estimations and

 

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judgments. Quantitative and qualitative information is further disclosed in NOTE 16 – Intangible assets (including Goodwill).

Significant assumptions which were used in determining allocation of fair value included the following valuation techniques: the cost approach, the income approach and the market approach which were determined based on cash flow projections and related discount rates, industry indices, market prices regarding replacement cost and comparable market transactions. While the Company believes that the estimates and assumptions underlying the valuation methodologies were reasonable, different assumptions could have resulted in different fair values.

NOTE 3 - OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION

Management has defined Constellium’s operating segments based upon product lines, markets and industries it serves, and prepares and reports operating segment information to Constellium’s chief operating decision maker (CODM) (see NOTE 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies) on that basis. Group’s operating segments are described below:

Packaging and Automotive Rolled Products (P&ARP)

P&ARP produces thin-gauge rolled products for customers in the beverage and closures, automotive, Body in White (BiW), Automotive Body Sheet (ABS), customized industrial sheet solutions and high-quality bright surface product markets. P&ARP operates three facilities in three countries and has 3,388 employees as at December 31, 2016.

Aerospace and Transportation (A&T)

A&T focuses on thick-gauge rolled high value-added products for customers in the aerospace, marine, automotive and mass-transportation markets and engineering industries. A&T operates six facilities in three countries and has 3,606 employees as at December 31, 2016.

Automotive Structures and Industry (AS&I)

AS&I focuses on specialty products and supplies a variety of hard and soft alloy extruded products, including technically advanced products, to the automotive, industrial, energy, electrical and building industries, and to manufacturers of mass transport vehicles and shipbuilders. AS&I operates fourteen facilities in eight countries and has 3,310 employees as at December 31, 2016.

Holdings & Corporate

Holdings & Corporate include the net cost of Constellium’s head office and corporate support functions.

Intersegment elimination

Intersegment trading is conducted on an arm’s length basis and reflects market prices.

The accounting principles used to prepare the Company’s operating segment information are the same as those used to prepare Group’s consolidated financial statements.

 

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3.1 Segment Revenue

 

     Year ended December 31, 2016     Year ended December 31, 2015      Year ended December 31, 2014  

(in millions of Euros)

   Segment
revenue
    Inter
segment
elimination
    External
revenue
    Segment
revenue
     Inter
segment
elimination
    External
revenue
     Segment
revenue
     Inter
segment
elimination
    External
revenue
 

P&ARP

     2,498       (16     2,482       2,748        (6     2,742        1,576        (8     1,568  

A&T

     1,302       (23     1,279       1,355        (7     1,348        1,197        (5     1,192  

AS&I

     1,002       (9     993       1,047        (13     1,034        921        (46     875  

Holdings & Corporate (A)

     (11           (11     29              29        31              31  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

     4,791       (48     4,743       5,179        (26     5,153        3,725        (59     3,666  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A) For the year ended December 31, 2016, Holdings & Corporate segment includes a €20 million one-time payment related to the re-negotiation of a contract with one of Wise’s customers offset by revenues from metal supply to third parties. For the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, it includes revenues from metal supply to third parties.

 

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3.2 Segment adjusted EBITDA and reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

P&ARP

        201        183        118  

A&T

        103        103        91  

AS&I

        102        80        73  

Holdings & Corporate

        (29      (23      (7
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

        377        343        275  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Metal price lag (A)

        4        (34      27  

Start-up and development costs (B)

        (25      (21      (11

Manufacturing system and process transformation costs (C)

        (5      (11      (1

Wise integration and acquisition costs

        (2      (14      (34

Wise one-time costs (D)

        (20      (38       

Wise purchase price adjustment (E)

   7      20                

Share based compensation

   28      (6      (7      (4

(Loss) / Gain on Ravenswood OPEB plan amendment

               (5      9  

Swiss pension plan settlements

                      6  

Income tax contractual reimbursements

                      8  

Depreciation and amortization

   15, 16      (155      (140      (49

Impairment

   15             (457       

Restructuring costs

        (5      (8      (12

Unrealized gains / (losses) on derivatives

   7      71        (20      (53

Unrealized exchange gains / (losses) from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities – net

   7      3        (3      1  

Losses on disposals and assets classified as held for sale

        (10      (5      (5

Other (F)

        (1      (6      (7
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income / (loss) from operations

        246        (426      150  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance costs – net

   9      (167      (155      (58

Share of loss of joint-ventures

        (14      (3      (1
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income / (Loss) before income tax

        65        (584      91  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income tax (expense) / benefit

   10      (69      32        (37
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net (loss) / income

        (4      (552      54  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Metal price lag represents the financial impact of the timing difference between when aluminum prices included within Constellium revenues are established and when aluminum purchase prices included in Cost of sales are established. The Group accounts for inventory using a weighted average price basis and this adjustment aims to remove the effect of volatility in LME prices. The calculation of the Group metal price lag adjustment is based on an internal standardized methodology calculated at each of Constellium manufacturing sites and is calculated as the average value of product recorded in inventory, which approximates the spot price in the market, less the average value transferred out of inventory, which is the weighted average of the metal element of cost of sales, based on the quantity sold in the period.
(B) For the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, new sites start-up costs and business development initiatives include respectively €20 million and €16 million related to BiW/ABS growth projects both in Europe and the U.S.

 

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(C) For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, manufacturing system and process transformation costs related to supply chain reorganization mainly in our A&T operating segment.
(D) For the year ended December 31, 2016, Wise one-time costs related to a one-time payment of €20 million, recorded as a reduction of revenues, in relation to the re-negotiation of payment terms, pass through of Midwest premium amounts and other pricing mechanisms in a contract with one of Wise’s customers. We entered into the re-negotiation of these terms in order to align the terms of this contract, acquired during the acquisition of Wise, with Constellium’s normal business terms. For the year ended December 31, 2015, Wise one-time costs related to non-cash step-up in inventory costs on the acquisition of Wise entities (effects of purchase price adjustment for €12 million), to losses incurred on the unwinding of Wise previous hedging policies (€4 million) and to Midwest premium losses (€22 million).
(E) The contractual price adjustment relating to the acquisition of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings was finalized in 2016. We received a cash payment of €21 million and recorded €20 million gain net of costs.
(F) For the year ended December 31, 2016, other includes individually immaterial other adjustments offset by €4 million of insurance proceeds.

3.3 Revenue by product lines

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Packaging rolled products

     2,003        2,205        1,160  

Automotive rolled products

     319        275        225  

Specialty and other thin-rolled products

     160        262        183  

Aerospace rolled products

     819        861        667  

Transportation, Industry and other rolled products

     460        487        525  

Automotive extruded products

     537        544        413  

Other extruded products

     456        490        462  

Other

     (11      29        31  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Revenue

     4,743        5,153        3,666  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

3.4 Segment capital expenditures

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

P&ARP

     (166      (170      (74

A&T

     (96      (112      (71

AS&I

     (84      (60      (48

Holdings & Corporate

     (9      (8      (6
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Capital expenditures – Property, plant and equipment

     (355      (350      (199
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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3.5 Segment assets

Segment assets are comprised of total assets of Constellium by segment, less deferred income tax assets, other financial assets (including cash and cash equivalents) and assets classified as held for sale.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

P&ARP

     1,652        1,535  

A&T

     768        706  

AS&I

     390        315  

Holdings & Corporate

     212        210  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segment Assets

     3,022        2,766  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Unallocated:

     

Deferred income tax assets

     252        270  

Other financial assets

     513        579  

Assets classified as held for sale

     —          13  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Assets

     3,787        3,628  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

3.6 Information about major customers

Revenue arising from the P&ARP segment for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 is comprised respectively of €1,220 million and €1,318 million from sales to the Group’s two largest customers. No other single customer contributed 10% or more to the Group’s revenue for 2016 and 2015.

Revenue arising from the P&ARP segment for the year ended December 31, 2014 is comprised of €406 million from sales to the Group’s largest customer. No other single customer contributed 10% or more to the Group’s revenue for 2014.

NOTE 4 - INFORMATION BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA

Revenue is reported based on destination of shipments:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

France

     493      564        533  

Germany

     1,042      1,112        1,035  

United Kingdom

     203      243        336  

Switzerland

     86      72        85  

Other Europe

     798      849        755  

United States

     1,511      1,677        524  

Canada

     68      91        51  

Asia and Other Pacific

     292      266        174  

All Other

     250      279        173  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     4,743      5,153        3,666  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Property, plant and equipment are reported based on the physical location of the assets:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

United States

     729        660  

France

     543        433  

Germany

     134        118  

Switzerland

            1  

Czech Republic

     45        32  

Other

     26        11  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     1,477        1,255  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

NOTE 5 - EXPENSES BY NATURE

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Raw materials and consumables used

        (2,792      (3,176      (2,087

Employee benefit expenses

   6      (897      (887      (697

Energy costs

        (140      (168      (152

Sub-contractors

        (108      (86      (104

Freight out costs

        (128      (130      (79

Professional Fees

        (85      (75      (64

Operating lease expenses

        (27      (29      (25

Depreciation and amortization

   15, 16      (155      (140      (49

Impairment

   15             (457       

Other operating expenses

        (186      (300      (176

Other gains / (losses) - net

   7      21        (131      (83
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Operating expenses

        (4,497      (5,579      (3,516
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

NOTE 6 - EMPLOYEE BENEFIT EXPENSES

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Wages and salaries

        (841 )      (836      (650

Pension costs - defined benefit plans

   23      (33 )      (31      (26

Other post-employment benefits

   23      (17 )      (15      (17

Share-based compensation

   28      (6 )      (5      (4
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Employee benefit expenses

        (897 )      (887      (697
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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NOTE 7 - OTHER GAINS / (LOSSES) – NET

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Realized losses on derivatives

     (62      (93      (13

Unrealized gains / (losses) on derivatives at fair value through Profit and Loss – net (A)

     71        (20      (53

Unrealized exchange gains / (losses) from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities – net

     3        (3      1  

Wise purchase price adjustment (B)

     20                

Wise acquisition costs

            (5      (34

Swiss pension plan settlements

                   6  

(Loss) / gain on Ravenswood OPEB plan amendment

            (5      9  

Losses on disposal and assets classified as held for sale

     (10      (5      (5

Income tax contractual reimbursements

                   8  

Other

     (1             (2
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Other gains / (losses) – net

     21        (131      (83
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Related to unrealized gains or losses on derivatives entered into with the purpose of mitigating exposure to volatility in foreign currency and commodity price (See NOTE 22 – Financial risk Management).

 

(B) The contractual price adjustment relating to the acquisition of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings was finalized in 2016. We received a cash payment of €21 million and recorded €20 million gain net of costs.

The cash received is presented in net cash flows used in investing activities (acquisition of subsidiaries net of cash acquired) in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.

NOTE 8 - CURRENCY GAINS / (LOSSES)

Currency gains and losses, which are included in Income / (Loss) from operations are as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Included in Cost of sales

        4        13        11  

Included in Other gains / (losses) – net

        (3      (50      (52
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

        1        (37      (41
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Realized exchange losses on foreign currency derivatives – net

   22      (46      (37      (12

Unrealized gains / (losses) on foreign currency derivatives – net

   22      40        (10      (41

Exchanges gains / (losses) from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities – net

        7        10        12  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

        1        (37      (41
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

See NOTE 21 - Financial Instruments and NOTE 22 - Financial Risk Management for further information regarding the Company’s foreign currency derivatives and hedging activities.

 

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Foreign currency translation reserve

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
 

Foreign currency translation reserve at January 1

     6        (28

Effect of currency translation differences – net

     6        34  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Foreign currency translation reserve at December 31

     12        6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

NOTE 9 - FINANCE COSTS – NET

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Interest received

     5        1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance Income

     5        1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Interest expense on borrowings paid or payable (A)

     (171      (149      (32

Expenses on factoring arrangements paid or payable

     (12      (11      (9

Net loss on settlement of debt (B)

     (4             (15

Realized and unrealized gains on debt derivatives at fair value (C)

     45        50        29  

Realized and unrealized exchange losses on financing activities - net (C)

     (42      (48      (27

Other finance expense

     1        (6      (7

Capitalized borrowing costs (D)

     11        8        2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance expense

     (172      (156      (59
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance costs – net

     (167      (155      (58
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Group incurred (i) €104 million of interest related to Constellium N.V. Senior Notes; (ii) €64 million of interest related to the Muscle Shoals’ Senior Notes and (iii) €3 million of interest expense and fees related to the Muscle Shoals and Ravenswood Revolving Credit Facilities (ABLs).

For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Group incurred (i) €81 million of interest related to Constellium N.V. Senior Notes; (ii) €64 million of interest related to the Muscle Shoals’ Senior Notes and (iii) €4 million of interest expense related to the Ravenswood Revolving Credit Facility (ABL).

For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Group incurred (i) €23 million of interest related to Constellium N.V. 2014 Senior Notes; (ii) €7 million of interest related to Constellium N.V. term loan and (iii) €2 million of interest expense and fees mainly related to Ravenswood Revolving Credit Facility (ABL).

 

(B) For the year ended December 31, 2016, net loss on settlement of debt includes (i) €2 million unamortized arrangement fees following the Unsecured Credit Facility cancellation in March 2016 and (ii) €2 million loss relating to Muscle Shoals PIK Toggle Notes redemption (see NOTE 20 – Borrowings).

In 2014, Constellium N.V. issued Senior Notes and repaid the 2013 term loan. Arrangement fees of the 2013 term loan which were not amortized were fully recognized as financial expenses during this period. For the year ended December 31, 2014, arrangement and exit fees amounted respectively to €9 million and €6 million.

 

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(C) The Group hedges the dollar exposure relating to the principal of its Constellium N.V. U.S. Dollar Senior Notes, which has not been used to finance U. S. Dollar functional currency entities. Changes in the fair value of these hedging derivatives are recognized within Finance costs-net in the Consolidated Income Statement and offset the unrealized results related to Constellium N.V. U.S. Dollar Senior Notes revaluation (see NOTE 22 - Financial Risk Management).

 

(D) Borrowing interests directly attributable to the construction of assets are capitalized. The capitalization rate used for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 is 7%.

NOTE 10 - INCOME TAX

The current and deferred components of income tax are as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Current tax expense

     (19      (21      (34

Deferred tax (expense) / benefit

     (50      53        (3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Income tax (expense) / benefit

     (69      32        (37
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Using a composite statutory income tax rate applicable by tax jurisdictions, the income tax can be reconciled as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
    Year ended
December 31,
2015
    Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Income / (Loss) before income tax

     65       (584     91  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Composite statutory income tax rate applicable by tax jurisdiction

     24.9     38.2     31.0
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax (expense) /benefit calculated at composite statutory tax rate applicable by tax jurisdictions

     (16     223       (28

Tax effect of:

      

Changes in recognized and unrecognized deferred tax assets (A)

     (45     (177     (3

Change in tax rate (B)

     (6            

Other (C)

     (2     (14     (6
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax (expense) / benefit

     (69     32       (37
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Effective income tax rate

     106     5     41
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A) Change in recognized and unrecognized deferred tax assets mainly relates to unrecognized tax losses carried forward for the year ended December 31, 2016 and to impairment of long term assets of one of our main entities for the year ended December 31, 2015 (See NOTE 18 - Deferred income taxes).

 

(B) For the year ended December 31, 2016, change in tax rate relates to French income tax rate decrease from 34.43% to 28.92% starting 2020, enacted by the 2016 Financial Tax Bill.

 

(C) Other includes non-deductible items and certain contractual reimbursements in 2014.

Our composite statutory income tax rate of 24.9% in the year ended December 31, 2016, 38.2% in the year ended December 31, 2015 and 31.0% in the year ended December 31, 2014 resulted from the statutory tax rates (i) in the United States of 40 % in 2016 and in 2015, 43% in 2014, (ii) in France of 34.43% in 2016, 38.0% in 2015 and 2014, (iii) in Germany of 29% in 2016, 2015 and 2014, (iv) in the Netherlands of 25%, stable for the last three years and (v) in Czech Republic of 19%, stable for the last three years.

 

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The variation in our composite tax rate is mainly impacted by the geographical mix of our pre-tax results.

The 13.3% decrease in our composite tax rate from 2015 to 2016 mostly results from the decrease in pre-tax losses in the United States and the 7.2% increase in our composite tax rate from 2014 to 2015 resulted from the change in the weight of profits or losses in higher tax rate jurisdictions in particular France and the United States compared to the weight of profits in lower tax rate jurisdictions most notably in Czech Republic.

NOTE 11 - EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Earnings attributable to equity holders of the parent used to calculate basic and diluted earnings per share

     (4      (554      51  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Number of shares attributable to equity holders of Constellium

 

(number of shares)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares used to calculate basic earnings per share

     105,500,327        105,097,442        104,639,342  

Effect of other dilutive potential ordinary shares (A)

                   687,530  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Weighted average number of ordinary shares used to calculate diluted earnings per share

     105,500,327        105,097,442        105,326,872  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) For the years ended December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were respectively 411,902 and 510,721 potential ordinary shares that could have a dilutive impact but were considered antidilutive due to negative earnings.

For the year ended December 31, 2014, potential dilutive new ordinary shares to be issued are part of Share based compensation plans (see NOTE 28 – Share-Based compensation). There were no instrument excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their effect was antidilutive.

Earnings per share attributable to the equity holders of Constellium

 

(in Euro per share)

   Year Ended
December 31,
2016
     Year Ended
December 31,
2015
     Year Ended
December 31,
2014
 

Basic

     (0.04      (5.27      0.48  

Diluted

     (0.04      (5.27      0.48  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

NOTE 12 - CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Cash in bank and on hand

     347        472  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Cash and cash equivalents

     347        472  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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At December 31, 2016, cash in bank and on hand includes a total of €7 million held by subsidiaries that operate in countries where capital control restrictions prevent the balances from being immediately available for general use by the other entities within the Group (€12 million at December 31, 2015).

NOTE 13 - TRADE RECEIVABLES AND OTHER

Trade receivables and other are comprised of the following:

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Non-current      Current      Non-current      Current  

Trade receivables – gross

            238               267  

Impairment

            (3             (3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Trade receivables – net

            235               264  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance lease receivables

     12        6        18        6  

Deferred financing costs – net of amounts amortized

                   1        2  

Deferred tooling related costs

     11               7         

Current income tax receivables

            52               39  

Other taxes

            39               35  

Restricted cash (A)

     9               11         

Prepaid expenses

     6        9        10        9  

Other

     9        14        6        10  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Other receivables

     47        120        53        101  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Trade receivables and Other

     47        355        53        365  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Restricted cash relates to a pledge given to the State of West Virginia as a guarantee for certain workers’ compensation obligations for which the company is self-insured.

13.1 Aging

The aging of total trade receivables – net is as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Not past due

     217        243  

1 – 30 days past due

     14        18  

31 – 60 days past due

     3        2  

61 – 90 days past due

     1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Trade receivables – net

     235        264  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Impairment allowance

The Group periodically reviews its customers’ account aging, credit worthiness, payment histories and balance trends in order to evaluate trade account receivables for impairment. Management also considers whether changes in general economic conditions and in the industries in which the Group operates in particular, are likely to impact the ability of the Group’s customers to remain within agreed payment terms or to pay their account balances in full.

Revisions to the impairment allowance arising from changes in estimates are included as either additional allowance or recoveries. An allowance was reversed for €0.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 (€0.5 million allowance recognized during the year ended December 31, 2015).

 

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None of the other amounts included in Other receivables was deemed to be impaired.

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the carrying value of each class of receivable shown above. The Group does not hold any collateral from its customers or debtors as security.

13.2 Currency concentration

The composition of the carrying amounts of total Trade receivables – net by currency is shown in Euro equivalents as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Euro

     101        83  

U.S. Dollar

     115        162  

Swiss franc

     3        6  

Other currencies

     16        13  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total trade receivables – net

     235        264  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

13.3 Factoring arrangements

The Group factored specific account receivables in France by entering into factoring agreements with a third party for a maximum capacity of €235 million. This agreement matures December 31, 2018.

The Group factored specific account receivables in Germany, Switzerland and Czech Republic by entering into factoring agreements with a third party for a maximum capacity of €115 million. These facilities were amended on December 21, 2016 to increase the maximum capacity to €150 million and extend the maturity to October 29, 2021.

In December 2015, Constellium Automotive USA entered into a factoring agreement which provides for the sale of specific account receivables up to a maximum capacity of $25 million. On December 13, 2016, the factoring agreement was amended to extend the maturity to December 12, 2017.

On March 16, 2016, Muscle Shoals entered into a new factoring agreement which provides the sale of specific account receivables up to a maximum capacity of $100 million. The facility was amended on June 28, 2016 to increase its capacity to $250 million and further amended on November 22, 2016 to $325 million.

Under the Group’s factoring agreements, most of the account receivables are sold without recourse. Where the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the receivables, the receivables are de-recognized from the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Some remaining receivables do not qualify for derecognition under IAS 39, ‘Financial instruments: Recognition and Measurement’, as the Group retains substantially all the associated risks and rewards.

Under the agreements, as at December 31, 2016, the total carrying amount of the original assets factored is €681 million (December 31, 2015: €529 million) of which:

 

    €566 million (December 31, 2015: €429 million) derecognized from the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as the Group transferred substantially all of the associated risks and rewards to the factor;

 

    €115 million (December 31, 2015: €100 million) recognized on the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.

 

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At December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there was respectively less than €1 million and no amount due to the factor relating to trade account receivables sold.

Covenants

At December 31, 2016, the factoring arrangements contain certain affirmative and negative covenants, including some relating to the administration and collection of the assigned receivables, the terms of the invoices and the exchange of information, but do not contain restrictive financial covenants.

The commitment of the factor to buy receivables under the Muscle Shoals factoring agreement is subject to certain credit ratings being maintained.

The Group was in compliance with all applicable covenants at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

13.4 Finance lease receivables

The Company is the lessor for certain finance leases with third parties for certain of its property, plant and equipment located in Sierre, Switzerland. The following table shows the reconciliation of the Group’s gross investments in the leases to the net investment in the leases at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

     Year ended December 31, 2016      Year ended December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Gross
investment
in the lease
     Unearned
interest
income
    Net
investment
in the lease
     Gross
investment
in the lease
     Unearned
interest
income
    Net
investment
in the lease
 

Less than 1 year

     7        (1     6        7        (1     6  

Between 1 and 5 years

     12              12        19        (1     18  

More than 5 years

                                       
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Finance lease receivables

     19        (1     18        26        (2     24  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

NOTE 14 - INVENTORIES

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Finished goods

     149        148  

Work in progress

     299        265  

Raw materials

     94        91  

Stores and supplies

     69        59  

Adjustments (A)

     (20      (21
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total inventories

     591        542  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Includes Net realizable value and slow moving adjustments.

Constellium records inventories at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Any increase / (decrease) in the net realizable value adjustment on inventories is included in Cost of sales in the Consolidated Income Statement.

 

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NOTE 15 - PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Land and
Property
Rights
    Buildings     Machinery
and
Equipment
    Construction
Work in
Progress
    Other     Total  

Net balance at January 1, 2016

     21       158       773       296       7       1,255  

Additions

           6       56       297       3       362  

Disposals

                 (6     (5           (11

Depreciation expense

     (4     (13     (120           (7     (144

Transfer during the period

     1       55       309       (370     5        

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     1       3       8       3             15  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2016

     19       209       1,020       221       8       1,477  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost

     27       324       1,581       228       27       2,187  

Less accumulated depreciation and impairment

     (8     (115     (561     (7     (19     (710
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2016

     19       209       1,020       221       8       1,477  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Land and
Property
Rights
    Buildings     Machinery
and
Equipment
    Construction
Work in
Progress
    Other     Total  

Net balance at January 1, 2015

     1       61       383       183       5       633  

Property, plant and equipment acquired through business combination

     22       129       438       65       3       657  

Additions

           6       36       340       3       385  

Disposals

                 (1                 (1

Depreciation expense

     (4     (15     (103           (5     (127

Impairment

           (79     (276     (15     (1     (371

Transfer during the period

           43       244       (289     2        

Reclassified as assets held for sale

           (1     (3                 (4

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     2       14       55       12             83  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2015

     21       158       773       296       7       1,255  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost

     25       258       1,207       310       24       1,824  

Less accumulated depreciation and impairment

     (4     (100     (434     (14     (17     (569
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2015

     21       158       773       296       7       1,255  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Building, machinery and equipment includes the following amounts where the Group is a lessee under a finance lease:

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Gross
value
     Accumulated
depreciation
    Net      Gross
value
     Accumulated
depreciation
    Net  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Buildings under finance lease

     31        (3     28        28        (2     26  

Machinery and equipment under finance lease

     50        (21     29        34        (13     21  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

     81        (24     57        62        (15     47  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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The future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable finance leases are as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Less than 1 year

     13        10  

1 to 5 years

     36        36  

More than 5 years

     22        21  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     71        67  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The present value of future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable finance leases are as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Less than 1 year

     10        7  

1 to 5 years

     35        31  

More than 5 years

     15        15  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     60        53  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Depreciation expense and impairment losses

Total depreciation expense and impairment losses relating to Property, plant and equipment and Intangible assets are presented in the Consolidated Income Statement as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Cost of sales

     (147      (132      (42

Selling and administrative expenses

     (8      (8      (7

Impairment

            (452       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     (155      (592      (49
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The amount of contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant and equipment is disclosed in NOTE 26 - Commitments.

Impairment tests for property, plant and equipment and intangibles assets

No triggering events were identified as at December 31, 2016 regarding our cash-generating units.

Certain triggering events were identified as at December 31, 2015 for certain cash-generating units. In accordance with the accounting policies described in NOTE 2.6 of the Consolidated Financial Statements, these cash-generating units were tested for impairment.

For the Muscle Shoals cash-generating unit, the following triggering events were identified as at December 31, 2015:

 

  - Continuing under performance and actual 2015 Muscle Shoals results showing a much lower financial performance than the initial business plan prepared as part of the Wise acquisition, and

 

  - Revised budget and strategic plan for Muscle Shoals downgraded, notably after taking into account new sale agreements commercial conditions for the can/packaging business.

 

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Its value in use was determined based on projected cash flows expected to be generated by the can/packaging business at Muscle Shoals. These cash flow forecasts were prepared by the Group Management and reviewed by the Board of Directors. The discount rate applied to cash flows projections was 11% and cash flows beyond the projection period were extrapolated using a 0% growth rate. The value in use calculation led to a recoverable value being €400 million lower than the carrying value.

Management determined that the fair value less cost of disposal of Muscle Shoals cash-generating unit did not exceed the value in use.

Accordingly, an impairment charge of €400 million was recorded as at December 31, 2015, reducing the Muscle shoals’ cash- generating unit intangible assets and property, plant and equipment.

For the Constellium Valais cash-generating units, certain triggering events were identified in 2015 (cash-generating unit Valais - AS&I operating segment: operational reorganization and industrial restructuring and cash-generating unit Valais - A&T operating segment: expected adverse change in key sale agreements).

Based on the recoverable value approached from both a value in use and a fair value models, the carrying value of the Property, plant and equipment was fully impaired as at December 31, 2015. The related impairment charge totaled €49 million.

 

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NOTE 16 - INTANGIBLE ASSETS (INCLUDING GOODWILL)

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Goodwill      Technology     Computer
Software
    Customer
relationships
    Work in
Progress
    Other      Total
intangible
assets

(excluding
goodwill)
 

Net balance at January 1, 2016

     443        28       23       18       7       2        78  

Additions

                  1             4              5  

Amortization expense

            (1     (9     (1                  (11

Transfer during the period

                  2             (2             

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     14        1       4       1             1        7  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2016

     457        28       21       18       9       3        79  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cost

     457        91       52       43       9       3        198  

Less accumulated amortization and impairment

            (63     (31     (25                  (119
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2016

     457        28       21       18       9       3        79  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Goodwill      Technology     Computer
Software
    Customer
relationships
    Work in
Progress
    Other      Total
intangible
assets

(excluding
goodwill)
 

Net balance at January 1, 2015

     11              11             4       2        17  

Intangible assets acquired through business combination and resulting goodwill

     395        84       9       37                    130  

Additions

                  1             6              7  

Amortization expense

            (5     (6     (2                  (13

Impairment

            (60           (21                  (81

Transfer during the period

                  3             (3             

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     37        9       5       4                    18  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2015

     443        28       23       18       7       2        78  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cost

     443        92       41       41       7       2        183  

Less accumulated amortization and impairment

            (64     (18     (23                  (105
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net balance at December 31, 2015

     443        28       23       18       7       2        78  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Acquisition of Wise Entities

On January 5, 2015, Constellium acquired 100% of Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC (“Wise” or “Muscle Shoals”), a private aluminum sheet producer located in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, United States of America. The total consideration, paid in cash, was €370 million. With the acquisition, Constellium has access to 450,000 metric tons (kt) of hot mill capacity from the widest strip mill in North America, reinforcing its position on the can market and positioning Constellium to continue to grow in the North American BiW/ABS market.

 

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In accordance with IFRS 3, ‘Business Combination’, Constellium has recognized the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, measured at fair value at the acquisition date.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   January 5,
2015
 

Intangible assets

     130  

Property, plant and equipment

     657  

Trade receivables and other

     165  

Inventories

     227  

Other financial assets

     4  

Cash and cash equivalents

     22  
  

 

 

 

Total assets acquired

     1,205  
  

 

 

 

Borrowings

     (997

Trade payables and other

     (155

Deferred tax liabilities

     (15

Pension and other post-employment benefit obligations

     (8

Other financial liabilities

     (2

Provisions and contingent liabilities

     (53
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities assumed

     (1,230
  

 

 

 

Net liabilities assumed

     (25
  

 

 

 

Goodwill

     395  
  

 

 

 

Total cash consideration

     370  
  

 

 

 

The valuation resulted in the recognition of intangible assets such as Customer relationships and Technology. Property, plant and equipment, Inventories, Provisions and Borrowings have been remeasured at fair value. The resulting €395 million goodwill is mainly supported by the growing automotive markets (BiW/ABS) in North America. Goodwill is amortized for tax purposes.

Considering the industries served, its major customers and product lines, Muscle Shoals and its related assets and liabilities are included in Packaging and Automotive Rolled Products (P&ARP) operating segment.

Impairment tests for goodwill

Goodwill in the amount of €457 million has been allocated to the Group’s operating segment Packaging and Automotive Rolled Products (“P&ARP”) for €450 million, Aerospace and Transportation (“A&T”) for €5 million and Automotive Structures and Industry (“AS&I”) for €2 million.

At December 31, 2016, the recoverable amount of the A&T and AS&I operating segments has been determined based on value in use calculations and significantly exceeded their carrying value. No reasonable change in the assumptions retained could lead to a potential impairment charge.

For the P&ARP operating segment, the recoverable value (determined on the basis of fair value less costs of disposal) was estimated by applying a discounted cash flow model and market participant’s assumptions and has been classified as a level 3 measurement under the fair value hierarchy provided by IFRS 13.

The projected future cash flows are based on the 2017-2025 medium and long term business plan approved by the management and reviewed by the Board of Directors. They include the significant capital expenditures for the Automotive Body Sheet (up to 2020) and the related returns. Considering the significant level of future capital expenditure needed to address the Automotive Body Sheet market and the related Automotive Body Sheet cash inflows ramping-up from 2018/2019 to reach a normative level in 2023/2024, cash flows were projected over a 9

 

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year period. The terminal value assumes a normative cash flow and a long term growth rate ranging from 0% to 2%. The discount rates applied to cash flows projections range between 11% and 12%. It was concluded that the carrying value (€1,254 million) did not exceed the recoverable value (€1,504 million) as at December 31, 2016. Accordingly, the impairment test carried out at the P&ARP operating segment level did not lead to a goodwill impairment.

The key assumptions used in the determination of the fair value less costs of disposal for the P&ARP operating segment are the discount rates, the perpetual growth rates used to extrapolate cash-flows beyond the forecast period and the forecasted shipments for Automotive Body Sheet, products and related revenues. They have been determined considering what market participants would assume in estimating fair value.

 

  - Discount rates used represent the current market assessment of the risks specific to the P&ARP operating segment taking into consideration the time value of money and the risks associated with the underlying assets.

 

  - The growth rates used to extrapolate cash-flows beyond the forecast period were developed internally and are consistent with external sources of information.

 

  - Expected shipments and related revenues were determined based on estimates of future supply and demand for Automotive Body Sheet products. These estimates were developed internally based on our industry knowledge and our analysis of available market data regarding expected future demand and industry capacity.

Sensitivity analysis: the calculation of the recoverable value of the P&ARP operating segment is most sensitive to the following assumptions:

 

  - Discount rate : an increase in the discount rate by 1.5% would result in the recoverable value equaling the carrying value;

 

  - Perpetual growth rate : a decrease in the perpetual growth rate by 4.5 % would result in the recoverable value equaling the carrying value; or

 

  - BIW/ABS shipments: 40% lower shipments in the BIW/ABS US business would result in the recoverable value equaling the carrying value.

NOTE 17 - INVESTMENTS ACCOUNTED FOR UNDER EQUITY METHOD

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

At January 1

     30        21  

Group share in loss

     (14      (3

Additions

            9  

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

            3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

At December 31

     16        30  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

     Group share of joint venture’s net assets      Group share of joint
venture’s profit / (loss)
 

(In millions of Euro)

   % interest     At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
     At
December 31,
2016
    At
December 31,
2015
 

Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC (A)

     51.00     15        29        (14     (3

Rhenaroll S.A. (B)

     49.85     1        1               
    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investments in joint ventures

       16        30        (14     (3
    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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Constellium- UACJ ABS LLC and Rhenaroll S.A. are private companies with no quoted market prices available for their shares.

 

(A) Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC, joint-venture in which Constellium holds a 51% interest, was created during the fourth quarter of 2014. This joint-venture operates a facility located in Bowling Green, Kentucky and supplies BiW/ABS aluminum sheet to the North American automotive industry. The joint venture started its operations during 2016.

 

(B) The Group also holds a 49.85% interest in a joint-venture named Rhenaroll S.A. (located in Biesheim, France), specialized in the chrome-plating, grinding and repairing of rolling mills’ rolls and rollers. Revenue amounts to €3 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 respectively. The entity’s net income was immaterial both in 2016 and 2015.

Both investments accounted for under equity method equal to the Group’s share of net assets and are included in P&ARP segment assets.

Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC financial statements

The information presented hereafter reflects the amounts included in the financial statements of the relevant entity in accordance with Group accounting principles and not the Company’s share of those amounts.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Current assets

     

Cash and cash equivalents

     6        2  

Trade receivables and other

     7         

Inventories

     28        2  

Non-current assets

     

Property, plant and equipment

     189        134  

Intangible assets

     1         
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Assets

     231        138  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Current liabilities

     

Trade payables and other

     26        19  

Borrowings

     129        49  

Non-current liabilities

     

Borrowings

     46        14  

Equity

     

Share capital

     66        64  

Retained deficit and other reserves

     (36      (8
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Equity and Liabilities

     231        138  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
 

Revenue

     15         

Cost of sales

     (28       

Selling and administrative expenses

     (8      (5
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (21      (5
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Finance costs

     (6       
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net Loss

     (27      (5
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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The transactions during the year and year-end balances between Group companies which are fully consolidated and Constellium UACJ ABS LLC are shown as below in Group’s Consolidated income statement and Consolidated statement of financial position.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Trades receivables and other - current

     10        1  

Other financial assets – current

     66        25  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Assets

     76        26  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
 

Revenue

     13         

Fees and recharges (A)

     3        2  

Finance income

     4        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Income

     20        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Fees and recharges are presented in Cost of sales or Selling and administrative expenses depending on their nature.

Guarantees and commitments given to Constellium UACJ ABS LLC by the Group are:

 

(in millions of euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Financial guarantees

     15        17  

Supplier guarantees

     19        21  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Guarantees

     34        38  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

NOTE 18 - DEFERRED INCOME TAXES

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Deferred income tax assets

     252        270  

Deferred income tax liabilities

     (30      (10
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net Deferred income tax assets

     222        260  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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The following tables show the changes in net deferred income tax assets / (liabilities) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
January 1,
2016
    Acquisitions /
Disposals
     Recognized in      Changes in
foreign currency
exchange rates
    Other     At
December 31,
2016
 
                  Profit
or loss
    OCI                     

Long-term assets

     (27            (59            (4           (90

Inventories

     4              3                    (1     6  

Pensions

     193              (11     2        4             188  

Derivative valuation

     27              (21     9              (2     13  

Tax losses carried forward

     40              38              1             79  

Other (A)

     23                           1       2       26  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total deferred tax assets / (liabilities)

     260              (50     11        2       (1     222  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A) Mainly non-deductible provisions.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
January 1,
2015
     Acquisitions/
Disposals
    Recognized
in
     Changes in
foreign currency
exchange rates
    Other     At
December 31,
2015
 
                  Profit
or loss
    OCI                     

Long-term assets

     3              (25            (4     (1     (27

Inventories

     5        (18     18              (1           4  

Pensions

     96              70       20        6       1       193  

Derivative valuation

     21        (1     4       3                    27  

Tax losses carried forward

     12              27              1             40  

Other (A)

     55        4       (41            6       (1     23  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total deferred tax assets / (liabilities)

     192        (15     53       23        8       (1     260  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A) Mainly non-deductible provisions.

Based on the expected taxable income of the entities, the Group believes that it is more likely than not that a total of €1,345 million (€1,160 million at December 31, 2015) of unused tax losses and deductible temporary differences will not be used. Consequently, net deferred tax assets have not been recognized. The related tax impact of €428 million (€369 million at December 31, 2015) is attributable to the following:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Expiring in 2017 to 2020

     (13      (6

Expiring in 2021 and after limited

     (132      (96

Unlimited

     (19      (18
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Tax losses

     (164      (120
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Long-term assets (A)

     (193      (178

Pensions

     (25      (23

Other

     (46      (48
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deductible temporary differences

     (264      (249
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     (428      (369
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Of which €186 million relating to Muscle Shoals assets.

 

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Substantially all of the tax losses not expected to be used reside in the Netherlands, the United States and in Switzerland.

The holding companies in the Netherlands have been generating tax losses over the past six years, and these holding companies are not expected to generate sufficient qualifying taxable profits in the foreseeable future to utilize these tax losses before they expire in the years from 2020 to 2025.

The tax losses not expected to be utilized in the United States relate to one of our main operating entities. Although this entity is expected to be profitable in the medium or long term, considering notably the anticipated development of the BiW/ABS business, it bears significant non-cash depreciation and financial interests that will continue generating tax losses in the coming years. Accordingly, it is uncertain whether the entity will be able to use, at its level given the absence of an overall U.S. tax group, these tax losses before they expire. Consequently, the related deferred tax assets have not been recognized.

The tax losses not expected to be utilized in Switzerland relate to losses generated by one of our Swiss entities most of them expiring in the years from 2019 to 2023. Following an operational reorganization and industrial restructuring in 2015, this Swiss entity is not expected to generate sufficient taxable profits over the next coming years to utilize these losses before they expire.

As at December 31, 2016 and 2015, most of the unrecognized deferred tax assets on deductible temporary differences on long-term assets and other differences relate to the U.S. and Swiss entities discussed above. A joint assessment has been performed on the recoverability of the deferred tax assets on deductible temporary differences and tax losses for these two entities. In line with the assessments, the related deferred tax assets on long term assets and on other differences have not been recognized.

NOTE 19 - TRADE PAYABLES AND OTHER

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Non-current      Current      Non-current      Current  

Trade payables

            627               657  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Fixed assets payables

            33               42  

Employees’ entitlements

            141               130  

Deferred revenue

     40        14        38        13  

Taxes payable other than income tax

            17               16  

Other payables

     19        7        16        9  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other

     59        212        54        210  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Trade payables and other

     59        839        54        867  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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NOTE 20 - BORROWINGS

20.1 Analysis by nature

 

(in millions of Euros)

  December 31, 2016     December 31,
2015
 
    Redemption
Value
    Nominal
rate
    Effective
rate
    Face
Value
    (Arrangement
fees) / step-up
    Accrued
interests
    Carrying
value
    Carrying
value
 

Secured ABL

               

Ravenswood (due 2018)

    $48       Floating       3.08     46                   46       23  

Muscle Shoals (due 2018)

          Floating                                     99  

Senior Secured Notes

               

Constellium N.V. ( A )

(Issued March 2016, due 2021)

  $ 425       7.88     8.94     403       (10     8       401        

Muscle Shoals

(Issued December 2013 due 2018)

  $ 650       8.75     7.45     617       16       2       635       622  

Senior Unsecured Notes

               

Constellium N.V.

(Issued May 2014, due 2024)

  $ 400       5.75     6.26     379       (5     3       377       365  

Constellium N.V.

(Issued May 2014, due 2021)

  300       4.63     5.16     300       (4     2       298       297  

Constellium N.V.

(Issued December 2014, due 2023)

  $ 400       8.00     8.61     379       (6     14       387       375  

Constellium N.V.

(Issued December 2014, due 2023)

  240       7.00     7.54     240       (4     8       244       244  

Senior Unsecured PIK Toggle Notes (B)

Muscle Shoals

                                              145  

Other loans (including Finance leases)

          80                 80       63  
       

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Borrowings

          2,444       (13     37       2,468       2,233  
       

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Of which non-current

                2,361       2,064  

Of which current

                107       169  

 

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Constellium N.V. Senior Notes are guaranteed by certain subsidiaries. Muscle Shoals Senior Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed jointly and severally by certain Muscle Shoals’ subsidiaries.

 

(A) On March 30, 2016, Constellium N.V. issued a $425 million principal amount of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2021. A portion of the net proceeds was used for general corporate purposes, including investments in Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC and its subsidiaries and the Company’s joint venture with UACJ Corporation, capital expenditures and research and development efforts. Deferred arrangement fees amounted to €12 million on issuance date.

 

(B) On December 5, 2016, the $158 million principal amount of the Senior PIK Toggle Notes was redeemed. The redemption price was 104.875% of the aggregate outstanding principal amount, excluding accrued and unpaid interests.

20.2 Movements in borrowings

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

At January 1

     2,233        1,252  

Borrowings assumed through business combination (A)

            997  

Net Proceeds from issuance of Senior Notes (B)

     375         

Repayments of PIK Toggle notes (C)

     (148       

(Repayments)/Proceeds from U.S. Revolving Credit Facility and other loans (D)

     (69      (211

Deferred arrangement fees

     (12       

Movement in interests accrued or capitalized (E)

     15        20  

Movement in other financial debts (F)

     2        3  

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     72        172  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

At December 31

     2,468        2,233  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Represents the fair value of Muscle Shoals borrowings at January 5, 2015.

 

(B) The proceeds from the Senior notes issued on March 30, 2016 represented €375 million, converted at the issuance date exchange rate EUR/USD=1.1324.

 

(C) The redemption of PIK Toggle notes on December 5, 2016 represented €148 million, converted at the redemption date exchange rate EUR/USD=1.0702.

 

(D) Mainly include repayments of Muscle Shoals ABL Facility.

 

(E) In December 2015, Muscle Shoals elected to pay the June 2016 coupon interest in-kind. The $8 million in-kind interest was added to the principal amount outstanding and increase it to $158 million.

 

(F) Other financial debts mainly include the finance lease rent payments offset by new financial leases contracted during the year.

 

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20.3 Currency concentration

The composition of the carrying amounts of total borrowings in Euro equivalents is denominated in the currencies shown below:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

U.S. Dollar

     1,887        1,661  

Euro

     575        568  

Other currencies

     6        4  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total borrowings

     2,468        2,233  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Covenants

The Group was in compliance with all applicable debt covenants at and for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

Constellium N.V. Senior Notes

The indentures for our outstanding Senior notes contain customary terms and conditions, including amongst other things, limitation on incurring or guaranteeing additional indebtedness, on paying dividends, on making other restricted payments, on creating restriction on dividend and other payments to us from certain of our subsidiaries, on incurring certain liens, on selling assets and subsidiary stock, and on merging.

Ravenswood ABL Facility

This facility contains a minimum availability covenant that requires Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC to maintain excess availability of at least the greater of (a) $10 million and (b) 10% of the aggregate revolving loan commitments. It also contains customary events of default.

Muscle Shoals ABL Facility

This facility contains a fixed charge coverage ratio covenant. Evaluation of compliance is only required if Muscle Shoals’s excess availability falls below the greater of (a) $20 million and (b) 10% of the aggregate revolving loan commitment. It also contains customary affirmative and negative covenants, but no maintenance covenants. Substantially all the assets of Muscle Shoals are pledged as collateral for Muscle Shoals financial arrangements including factoring facility.

 

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NOTE 21 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

21.1 Financial assets and liabilities by categories

 

          At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    Loans and
receivables
     At Fair
Value
through
Profit
and loss
     At Fair
Value
through
OCI
     Total      Loans and
receivables
     At Fair
Value
through
Profit
and loss
     Total  

Cash and cash equivalents

   12      347                      347        472             472  

Trade receivables and finance lease receivables

   13      253                      253        288             288  

Other financial assets

        66        100               166        25        82        107  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial assets

        666        100               766        785        82        867  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
          At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes    At
amortized
cost
     At Fair
Value
through
Profit
and loss
     At Fair
Value
through
OCI
     Total      At
amortized
cost
     At Fair
Value
through
Profit
and loss
     Total  

Trade payables and fixed assets payables

   19      660                  660        699             699  

Borrowings

   20      2,468                  2,468        2,233             2,233  

Other financial liabilities

             37        27        64             121        121  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities

        3,128        37        27        3,192        2,932        121        3,053  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Non-current      Current      Total      Non-current      Current      Total  

Derivatives

     49        51        100        37        45        82  

Aluminum future contract

            6        6        1        3        4  

Energy future contract

            4        4                       

Other future contract

                                         

Currency derivatives contracts

     2        11        13        2        27        29  

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

     47        30        77        34        15        49  

Loans (A)

            66        66               25        25  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other financial assets

     49        117        166        37        70        107  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Derivatives

     30        34        64        14        107        121  

Aluminum future contract

     4        5        9        5        20        25  

Energy future contract

                                 4        4  

Other future contract

            2        2               6        6  

Currency derivatives contracts

     26        27        53        9        74        83  

Cross Currency Basis Swaps

                                 3        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other financial liabilities

     30        34        64        14        107        121  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Corresponds to a loan facility to Constellium UACJ ABS LLC.

21.2 Fair values

All derivatives are presented at fair value in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.

 

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The carrying value of the Group’s borrowings at maturity is the redemption value.

The fair value of Constellium N.V. Senior Notes issued in May 2014, December 2014 and March 2016 account for respectively 95%, 103% and 108% of the nominal value and amount respectively to €646 million, €640 million and €434 million at December 31, 2016.

The fair value of Muscle Shoals Senior Secured Notes accounts for 104% of the nominal value and amount to €641 million at December 31, 2016.

The fair values of other financial assets and liabilities approximate their carrying values, as a result of their liquidity or short maturity.

21.3 Valuation hierarchy

The following table provides an analysis of derivatives measured at fair value, grouped into levels based on the degree to which the fair value is observable:

 

    Level 1 valuation is based on quoted price (unadjusted) in active markets for identical financial instruments, it includes aluminum futures that are traded on the LME;

 

    Level 2 valuation is based on inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the assets or liabilities, either directly (i.e. prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices), it includes foreign exchange derivatives;

 

    Level 3 valuation is based on inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total      Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Other financial assets - derivatives

     6        94               100        2        80               82  

Other financial liabilities - derivatives

     7        57               64        30        91               121  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

There was no transfer into or out of Level 3 during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

NOTE 22 - FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

The Group’s financial risk management strategy focuses on minimizing the cash flow impacts of volatility in foreign currency exchange rates, metal prices and interest rates, while maintaining the financial flexibility the Group requires in order to successfully execute the Group’s business strategies.

Due to Constellium’s capital structure and the nature of its operations, the Group is exposed to the following financial risks: (i) market risk (including foreign exchange risk, commodity price risk and interest rate risk); (ii) credit risk and (iii) liquidity and capital management risk.

22.1 Market risk

(i) Foreign exchange risk

Net assets, earnings and cash flows are influenced by multiple currencies due to the geographic diversity of sales and the countries in which the Group operates.

Constellium is exposed to foreign exchange risk in the following areas:

 

    Transaction exposures, which include

 

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      Commercial transactions related to forecasted sales and purchases and on-balance sheet receivables/payables resulting from such transactions.

 

      Financing transactions, related to external and internal net debt

 

    Translation exposures, which relate to net investments in foreign entities which are converted in Euros in the consolidated financial statements.

Commercial transactions exposures

The Group policy is to hedge committed and highly probable forecasted foreign currency operational transactions. The Group uses foreign exchange forwards and foreign exchange swaps for this purpose.

The following tables outline the nominal value (in millions of Euros) of derivatives for Constellium’s most significant foreign exchange exposures as at December 31, 2016.

 

Forward derivatives sales

   Maturity
Period
     Less than
1 year
     Over
1 year
 

USD/EUR

     2017-2022        413        457  

EUR/CHF

     2017-2021        48        14  

Other currencies

     2017-2019        17        2  
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

        478        473  
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

Forward derivatives purchases

   Maturity
Period
     Less than
1 year
     Over
1 year
 

USD/EUR

     2017-2021        329        26  

EUR/CHF

     2017-2021        84        31  

CZK/EUR

     2017-2018        53        52  

Other currencies

     2017                
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

        466        109  
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

In 2016, the Group agreed with a major customer for the sale of fabricated metal products in U.S. Dollars to be supplied from a Euro functional currency entity. In line with its hedging policy, the Group entered into significant foreign exchange derivatives which match related highly probable future conversion sales by selling U.S. Dollars against Euros. The Group designated these derivatives for hedge accounting for a total nominal amount of €504 million with maturity 2017-2022.

For hedges that do not qualify for hedge accounting, any mark-to-market movements are recognized in Other gains / (losses) – net.

 

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The table below details foreign currency derivatives impacts in Consolidated Income Statement and Statement of Comprehensive Income/(Loss):

 

(In millions of Euros)

   Notes    Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
 

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting

        

Included in Other gains / (losses) – net

        

Realized gains / (losses) on foreign currency derivatives – net

   8      (46      (37

Unrealized gains / (losses) on foreign currency derivatives – net (A)

   8      40        (10

Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting

        

Included in Other Comprehensive Income / (Loss)

        

Unrealized gains / (losses) on foreign currency derivatives – net (B)

        (27       
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) The offsetting gains / (losses) related to the forecasted sales are not yet visible because the sales are not yet recorded in the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(B) As at December 31, 2016, the fair value is fully accounted in Other Comprehensive Income as the hedged sales are spread over 2017 to 2022.

Financing transaction exposures

When the Group enters into intercompany loans and deposits, the financing is generally provided in the functional currency of the subsidiary. The foreign currency exposure of the Group’s external funding and liquid assets is systematically hedged either naturally through external foreign currency loans and deposits or through cross currency basis swaps and simple foreign currency swaps.

The notional of the cross currency basis swaps amounted to €746 million at December 31, 2016.

The table below details foreign currency derivatives impacts in Consolidated Income Statement:

 

(In millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
 

Derivatives

     

Included in Finance Costs – net

     

Realized gain / (loss) on foreign currency derivatives – net

     15        32  

Unrealized gain / (loss) on foreign currency derivatives – net

     30        18  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     45        50  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

In accordance with the Group policy, the net foreign exchange result related to financing activities is expected to be balanced at any time, provided the Group does not enter into specific transactions.

Cross currency swaps and liquidity swaps settled during the period are presented in ‘Other financing activities’ in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.

 

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Foreign exchange sensitivity on commercial and financing transactions exposures

The largest exposures of the Group are related to the Euro/Dollar exchange rate. The table below summarizes the impact on profit and Equity (before tax effect) of a 10 % strengthening of the US Dollar versus the Euro for non US Dollar functional currency entities.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Effect on
profit
before tax
     Effect on
pretax equity
 

Trade receivables

     4         

Trade payables

     (1       

Derivatives on commercial transaction (A)

     (1      (61
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Commercial transaction exposure

     2        (61
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash in Bank and intercompany loans

     35         

Borrowings

     (130       

Derivatives on financing transaction

     95         
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Financing transaction exposure

             
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     2        (61
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) The impacts on pretax equity relate to derivatives hedging future sales spread from 2017 to 2022 which are designated as cash flow hedges.

The amounts shown in the table above may not be indicative of future results since the balances of financial assets and liabilities may change.

Translation exposures

Foreign exchange impacts related to the translation in Euro of net investments in foreign subsidiaries, and related revenues and expenses are not hedged as the Group operates in these various countries on permanent basis.

Foreign exchange sensitivity

The exposure relates to foreign currency translation of net investments in foreign subsidiaries and arises mainly from operations conducted by US Dollar functional currency subsidiaries.

The table below summarizes the impact on profit and Equity (before tax effect) of a 10 % strengthening of the US Dollar versus the Euro (on average rate for profit before tax and closing rate for pretax equity ) for US Dollar functional currency entities.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Effect on
profit
before tax
     Effect on
pretax equity
 

10% strengthening US Dollar/Euro

     (8      33  

The amounts shown in the table above may not be indicative of future results since the balances of financial assets and liabilities may change.

Margin Calls

Our financial counterparties may require margin call should our mark-to-market exceed a pre-agreed contractual limit. In order to protect from the potential margin calls for significant market movements, the Group ensures

 

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that financial counterparts hedging the transactional exposure are also hedging the foreign currency loan and deposit exposure. Further, The Group holds a significant liquidity buffer in cash or in availability under its various borrowing facilities, enters into derivatives with a large number of financial counterparties and monitors margin requirements on a daily basis. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the margin requirement related to foreign exchange hedges was nil and the Group was not exposed to material margin call risk.

(ii) Commodity price risk

The Group is subject to the effects of market fluctuations in the price of aluminum, which is the Group’s primary metal input and a significant component of its output. The Group is also exposed to silver, copper and natural gas but in a less significant way.

The Group strategy is to protect the Group’s margin on future conversion and fabrication activities by aligning the price and quantity of physical aluminum purchases with that of physical aluminum sales. When the Group is unable to do so, it enters into derivative financial instruments to pass through the exposure to metal price fluctuations to financial institutions at the time the price is set. Therefore, the Group purchases fixed price aluminum forwards to offset the exposure of LME volatility on its fixed price sales agreements for the supply of metal.

As at December 31, 2016, the nominal amount of commodity derivatives are as follows:

 

(In millions of Euros)

   Maturity    Less than
1 year
     Over
1 year
 

Aluminium

   2017-2021      116        42  

Premiums

   2017-2021      5        12  

Copper

   2017      3         

Silver

   2017-2018      7         

Natural gas

   2017      20         
     

 

 

    

 

 

 

The value of the contracts will fluctuate due to changes in market prices but is intended to help protect the Group’s margin on future conversion and fabrication activities. At December 31, 2016, these contracts are directly entered with external counterparties.

The Group does not apply hedge accounting and therefore any mark-to-market movements are recognized in Other gains / (losses) – net.

 

(In millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
 

Derivatives

     

Included in Other gains / (losses) – net

     

Realized gains / (losses) on commodity derivatives – net

     (16      (56

Unrealized gains / (losses) on commodity derivatives – net

     31        (10
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Commodity price sensitivity: risks associated with derivatives

The net impact on earnings and equity of a 10% increase or decrease in the market price of aluminum, based on the aluminum derivatives held by the Group at December 31, 2016 (before tax effect), with all other variables held constant was estimated to €15 million gains or losses (€23 million at December 31, 2015). The balances of such financial instruments may change in future periods however, and therefore the amounts shown may not be indicative of future results.

 

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Margin Calls

As the LME price for aluminum falls, the derivative contracts entered into with financial institution counterparties have a negative mark-to-market. The Group’s financial institution counterparties may require margin calls should the negative mark-to-market exceed a pre-agreed contractual limit. In order to protect from the potential margin calls for significant market movements, the Group enters into derivatives with a large number of financial counterparties and monitors margin requirements on a daily basis for adverse movements in aluminum prices. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the margin requirement related to aluminum or any other commodity hedges was nil and the Group was not exposed to material margin call risk.

(iii) Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk refers to the risk that the value of financial instruments held by the Group and that are subject to variable rates will fluctuate, or the cash flows associated with such instruments will be impacted due to changes in market interest rates. The Group’s interest rate risk arises principally from borrowings. Borrowings issued at variable rates expose the Group to cash flow interest rate risk which is partially offset by cash and cash equivalents deposits (including short-term investments) earning interest at variable interest rates. Borrowings issued at fixed rates expose the Group to fair value interest rate risk. (See NOTE 21 - Financial Instruments)

Interest rate sensitivity: risks associated with variable-rate financial instruments

The impact on Income/Loss before income tax for the period of a 50 basis point increase or decrease in the LIBOR or EURIBOR interest rates, based on the variable rate financial instruments held by the Group at December 31, 2016, with all other variables held constant, was estimated to be less than €1 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. However, the balances of such financial instruments may not remain constant in future periods, and therefore the amounts shown may not be indicative of future results. At December 31, 2016, 95% of Group’s borrowings were at fixed rate.

22.2 Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will not meet its obligations under a financial instrument or customer contract, leading to a financial loss. The Group is exposed to credit risk with financial institutions and other parties as a result of cash-in-bank, cash deposits, mark-to-market on derivative transactions and customer trade receivables arising from Constellium’s operating activities. The maximum exposure to credit risk for the year ended December 31, 2016 is the carrying value of each class of financial asset as described in NOTE 21 - Financial Instruments. The Group does not generally hold any collateral as security.

Credit risk related to transactions with financial institutions

Credit risk with financial institutions is managed by the Group’s Treasury department in accordance with a Board approved policy. Constellium management is not aware of any significant risks associated with financial institutions as a result of cash and cash equivalents deposits (including short-term investments) and financial derivative transactions.

 

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The number of financial counterparties is tabulated below showing our exposure to the counterparty by rating type (Parent company ratings from Moody’s Investor Services):

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  
     Number of
financial
counterparties (A)
     Exposure
(in millions
of Euros)
     Number of
financial
counterparties (A)
     Exposure
(in millions
of Euros)
 

Rated Aa or better

     3        13        2        12  

Rated A

     9        369        8        465  

Rated Baa

     3        16        4        9  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     15        398        14        486  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Financial Counterparties for which the Group’s exposure is below €250 thousand have been excluded from the analysis.

Credit risks related to customer trade receivables

The Group has a diverse customer base geographically and by industry. The responsibility for customer credit risk management rests with Constellium management. Payment terms vary and are set in accordance with practices in the different geographies and end-markets served. Credit limits are typically established based on internal or external rating criteria, which take into account such factors as the financial condition of the customers, their credit history and the risk associated with their industry segment. Trade receivables are actively monitored and managed, at the business unit or site level. Business units report credit exposure information to Constellium management on a regular basis. Over 92% of the Group’s trade account receivables are insured by insurance companies rated A3 or better, or sold to a factor on a non-recourse basis. In situations where collection risk is considered to be above acceptable levels, risk is mitigated through the use of advance payments, bank guarantees or letters of credit. Historically, we have a very low level of customer default as a result of long history of dealing with our customer base and an active credit monitoring function.

See NOTE 13 - Trade Receivables and other for the aging of trade receivables.

22.3 Liquidity and capital risk management

Group’s capital structure includes shareholder’s equity, borrowings and various third-party financing arrangements (such as credit facilities and factoring arrangements). Constellium’s total capital is defined as total equity plus net debt. Net debt includes borrowings due to third parties less cash and cash equivalents.

Constellium’s overriding objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the business as a going concern, to maximize returns for its owners and to maintain an optimal capital structure in order to minimize the weighted cost of capital.

All activities around cash funding, borrowings and financial instruments are centralized within Constellium’s Treasury department. Direct external funding or transactions with banks at the operating entity level are generally not permitted, and exceptions must be approved by Constellium’s Treasury department.

The liquidity requirements of the overall Company are funded by drawing on available credit facilities, while the internal management of liquidity is optimized by means of cash pooling agreements and/or intercompany loans and deposits between the Company’s operating entities and central Treasury.

The Group has two secured asset-based variable rate revolving credit facilities in Ravenswood and Muscle Shoals for respectively $100 million and $200 million. The borrowing base as at December 31, 2016 amounts to $80 million for Ravenswood and $128 million for Muscle Shoals. Considering the used facility, the Group had €150 million outstanding availability under these U.S. asset based revolving credit facilities at December 31, 2016.

 

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In addition to the cash in bank (See NOTE 12 – Cash and Cash equivalents), the Group had access to €190 million undrawn facilities at December 31, 2016 (including the €150 million described above).

The tables below show undiscounted contractual values by relevant maturity groupings based on the remaining period from December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 to the contractual maturity date.

 

            At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

          Less than
1 year
     Between
1 and 5 years
     Over
5 years
     Less than
1 year
     Between
1 and 5 years
     Over
5 years
 

Financial assets:

                    

Cross currency basis swaps

        32        82               15        35         

Net cash flows from derivative assets related to currencies and commodities

        22        3                              
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

        54        85               15        35         
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
            At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Notes      Less than
1 year
     Between
1 and 5 years
     Over 5
years
     Less than
1 year
     Between
1 and 5 years
     Over
5 years
 

Financial liabilities:

                    

Borrowings (A)

        54        1,329        999        122        742        1,275  

Interests

        170        490        125        140        463        196  

Cross currency basis swaps

                             2                

Net cash flows from derivatives liabilities related to currencies and commodities

        35        63        3        109        15         

Trade payables and other (excluding deferred revenue)

     19        825        19               854        16         
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

        1,084        1,901        1,127        1,227        1,236        1,471  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Borrowings include the U.S. Revolving Credit Facilities which are considered short-term in nature and are included in the category “Less than 1 year” and undiscounted forecasted interests and exclude finance leases.

On February 16, 2017, the Group issued a $650 million senior unsecured notes due 2025, with interest rate 6.625%. The net proceeds were used to repurchase Muscle Shoals 8.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2018. (See Note 32 – Subsequent events). These transactions are not reflected in the table above as they were completed subsequently to December 31, 2016.

NOTE 23 - PENSIONS AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS

The Group operates a number of pensions, other post-employment benefits and other long-term employee benefit plans. Some of these plans are defined contribution plans and some are defined benefit plans, with assets held in separate trustee-administered funds. Benefits paid through pension trusts are sufficiently funded to ensure the payment of benefits to retirees when they become due.

Actuarial valuations are reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements as described in NOTE 2.6 – Principles governing the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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23.1 Description of the plans

Pension plans

Constellium’s pension obligations are in the U.S., Switzerland, Germany and France. Pension benefits are generally based on the employee’s service and highest average eligible compensation before retirement and are periodically adjusted for cost of living increases, either by company practice, collective agreement or statutory requirement. U.S. and Swiss benefit plans are funded through long-term employee benefit funds.

Other post-employment benefits (OPEB)

The Group provides health care and life insurance benefits to retired employees and in some cases to their beneficiaries and covered dependents, mainly in the U.S. Eligibility for coverage depends on certain age and service criteria. These benefit plans are unfunded.

Other long-term employee benefits

Other long term employee benefits mainly include jubilees in France, Germany and Switzerland and other long-term disability benefits in the U.S. These benefit plans are unfunded.

23.2 Description of risks

Our estimates of liabilities and expenses for pensions and other post-employment benefits incorporate a number of assumptions, including discount rate, longevity estimate and inflation rate. The defined benefit obligations expose the Group to a number of risks, including longevity, inflation, interest rate, medical cost inflation, investment performance, and change in law governing the employee benefit obligations. These risks are mitigated when possible by applying an investment strategy for the funded schemes which aims to minimize the long-term costs. This is achieved by investing in a diversified selection of asset classes, which aims to reduce the volatility of returns and also achieves a level of matching with the underlying liabilities.

Investment performance risk

Our pension plan assets consist primarily of funds invested in listed stocks and bonds.

The present value of funded defined benefit obligations is calculated using a discount rate determined by reference to high quality corporate bond yields. If the return on plan asset is below this rate, it will increase the plan deficit.

Interest rate risk

A decrease in the discount rate will increase the defined benefit obligation. At December 31, 2016, impacts of the change on the defined benefit obligation of a 0.50% increase / decrease in the discount rates are calculated by using a proxy based on the duration of each scheme:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   0.50% increase in
discount rates
     0.50% decrease in
discount rates
 

France

     (9      10  

Germany

     (9      10  

Switzerland

     (23      27  

United States

     (32      35  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total sensitivity on Defined Benefit Obligations

     (73      82  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Longevity risk

The present value of the defined benefit obligation is calculated by reference to the best estimate of the mortality of plan participants. An increase in the life expectancy of the plan participants will increase the plan’s liability.

23.3 Actuarial assumptions

Our estimates of liabilities and expenses for pensions and other post-employment benefits incorporate a number of assumptions, including discount rate, longevity estimate and inflation rate. The principal actuarial assumptions used as at the balance sheet closing date were as follows:

 

     At December 31, 2016    At December 31, 2015
     Rate of increase
in salaries
   Rate of
increase
in pensions
    Discount rate    Rate of increase
in salaries
   Rate of
increase
in pensions
    Discount rate

Switzerland

   1.65%          0.60%    1.75%          0.80%

U.S.

   3.80%             3.80%         

Hourly pension

            4.30%-4.35%             4.55%

Salaried pension

            4.45%             4.70%

OPEB (A)

            4.20%-4.60%             4.35%-4.85%

Other benefits

            4.05%-4.20%             4.25%-4.45%

France

   1.50%-1.75%      2.00      1.75%-2.25%      2.00  

Retirements

            1.60%             2.35%

Other benefits

            1.30%             1.95%

Germany

   2.75%      1.70   1.65%    2.75%      1.80   2.40%
  

 

  

 

 

   

 

  

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

(A) The other main financial assumptions used for the OPEB (healthcare plans, which are predominantly in the U.S.) were:

 

  - Medical trend rate: pre 65: 6.70% starting in 2017 decreasing gradually to 4.50% until 2024 and stable onwards and post 65: 5.80% starting in 2017 decreasing gradually to 4.50% until 2024 and stable onwards, and

 

  - Claims costs are based on individual company experience.

For both pension and healthcare plans, the post-employment mortality assumptions allow for future improvements in life expectancy.

23.4 Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

 

     At December 31, 2016     At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Pension
Benefits
    Other
Benefits
     Total     Pension
Benefits
    Other
Benefits
     Total  

Present value of funded obligation

     721              721       681              681  

Fair value of plan assets

     (391            (391     (362            (362
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deficit of funded plans

     330              330       319              319  

Present value of unfunded obligation

     132       273        405       121       261        382  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net liability arising from defined benefit obligation

     462       273        735       440       261        701  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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23.5 Movement in net defined benefit obligations

 

     At December 31, 2016  
     Defined benefit obligations     Plan
Assets
    Net
defined
benefit
liability
 

(In millions of Euros)

   Pension
benefits
    Other
benefits
    Total      

At January 1, 2016

     802       261       1,063       (362     701  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Included in the Consolidated Income Statement

          

Current service cost

     20       6       26             26  

Interest cost / (income)

     21       10       31       (10     21  

Immediate recognition of losses arising over the period

           1       1             1  

Past service cost

           1       1             1  

Administration expenses

                       2       2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Included in the Statement of Comprehensive Income / (Loss)

          

Remeasurements due to:

          

- actual return less interest on plan assets

                       (14     (14

- changes in financial assumptions

     28       6       34             34  

- changes in demographic assumptions

     2       (3     (1           (1

- experience (gains)/losses

     1       (4     (3           (3

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     12       8       20       (8     12  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Included in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

          

Benefits paid

     (37     (17     (54     32       (22

Contributions by the Group

                       (26     (26

Contributions by the plan participants

     4       1       5       (5      
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other

          

Transfer

           3       3             3  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2016

     853       273       1,126       (391     735  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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     At December 31, 2015  
     Defined benefit obligations     Plan
Assets
    Net defined
benefit
liability
 

(In millions of Euros)

   Pension
benefits
    Other
benefits
    Total      

At January 1, 2015

     742       245       987       (330     657  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Included in the Consolidated Income Statement

          

Current service cost

     19       6       25             25  

Interest cost / (income)

     20       10       30       (10     20  

Past service cost

           2       2             2  

Immediate recognition of gains arising over the period

           (1     (1           (1

Administration expenses

                       2       2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Included in the Statement of Comprehensive Income / (Loss)

          

Remeasurements due to:

          

- actual return less interest on plan assets

                       39       39  

- changes in financial assumptions

     (21     (10     (31           (31

- changes in demographic assumptions

     (7     (4     (11           (11

- experience (gains)/losses

     (2     2                    

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     55       27       82       (39     43  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Included in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

          

Benefits paid

     (34     (18     (52     30       (22

Contributions by the Group

                       (28     (28

Contributions by the plan participants

     5             5       (5      
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other

          

Net defined liability assumed through business combination

     27       2       29       (21     8  

Defined Benefit Obligation reclassified as liability held for sale

     (2           (2           (2
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2015

     802       261       1,063       (362     701  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

23.6 Net defined benefit obligations by country

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Defined
benefit
obligations
     Plan
assets
    Net
defined
benefit
liability
     Defined
benefit
obligations
     Plan
assets
    Net defined
benefit
liability
 

France

     144              144        132              132  

Germany

     147        (1     146        137        (1     136  

Switzerland

     284        (181     103        265        (169     96  

United States

     550        (209     341        529        (192     337  

Other countries

     1              1                      
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

     1,126        (391     735        1,063        (362     701  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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23.7 Plan asset categories

 

     At December 31, 2016      At December 31, 2015  

(in millions of Euros)

   Quoted in
an active
market
     Unquoted in
an active
market
     Total      Quoted in
an active
market
     Unquoted in
an active
market
     Total  

Cash & cash equivalents

     4               4        3               3  

Equities

     158               158        144               144  

Bonds

     82        96        178        81        89        170  

Property

     10        31        41        10        29        39  

Other

     5        5        10        4        2        6  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total fair value of plan assets

     259        132        391        242        120        362  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

23.8 Cash flows

Expected contributions to pension and other benefits amount respectively to €27 million and €20 million for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Benefits payments expected to be paid either by pension funds or directly by the Company to beneficiaries over the next years are as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Estimated
benefits
payments
 

Year ended December 31,

  

2017

     56  

2018

     56  

2019

     57  

2020

     58  

2021

     61  

2022 to 2026

     313  
  

 

 

 

At December 31, 2016, the weighted-average maturity of the defined benefit obligations was 13.2 years (2015: 13.3 years).

23.9 OPEB amendments

During the third quarter of 2012, the Group implemented certain plan amendments that had the effect of reducing benefits of the participants in the Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood Retiree Medical and Life Insurance Plan. In February 2013, five Constellium retirees and the United Steelworkers union filed a class action lawsuit against Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC in a federal district court in West Virginia, alleging that Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC improperly modified retiree health benefits.

The Group believes that these claims are unfounded, and that Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC had a legal and contractual right to make the applicable modification.

 

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NOTE 24 - PROVISIONS

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Close down and
environmental
restoration
costs
    Restructuring
costs
    Legal claims
and other
costs
    Total  

At January 1, 2016

     88       8       67       163  

Allowance

           6       7       13  

Amounts used

     (2     (5     (4     (11

Unused amounts reversed

     (1     (1     (14     (16

Unwinding of discounts

     1                   1  

Reclassified to Pension liabilities

           (3           (3

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     2                   2  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2016

     88       5       56       149  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Current

     3       3       36       42  

Non-Current

     85       2       20       107  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total provisions

     88       5       56       149  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Close down and
environmental
restoration
costs
    Restructuring
costs
    Legal claims
and other
costs
    Total  

At January 1, 2015

     47       10       53       110  

Provisions assumed through business combination

     40             13       53  

Additional provisions

           7       15       22  

Amounts used

     (4     (8     (8     (20

Unused amounts reversed

     (2     (1     (8     (11

Unwinding of discounts

     2                   2  

Effects of changes in foreign exchange rates

     5             2       7  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2015

     88       8       67       163  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Current

     3       3       38       44  

Non-Current

     85       5       29       119  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total provisions

     88       8       67       163  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Close down, environmental and restoration costs

The Group records provisions for the estimated present value of the costs of its environmental clean-up obligations and close down and restoration efforts based on the net present value of estimated future costs of the dismantling and demolition of infrastructure and the removal of residual material of disturbed areas, using an average discount rate of 0.87%. A change in the discount rate of 0.5% would impact the provision by €3 million.

It is expected that these provisions will be settled over the next 40 years depending on the nature of the disturbance and the technical remediation plans.

Restructuring costs

The Group records provisions for restructuring costs when management has a detailed formal plan, is demonstrably committed to its execution and can reasonably estimate the associated liabilities. The related expenses are presented as Restructuring costs in the Consolidated Income Statement.

 

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Legal claims and other costs

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Maintenance and customer related provisions (A)

     14        15  

Litigation (B)

     35        43  

Disease claims (C)

     4        5  

Other

     3        4  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total provisions for legal claims and other costs

     56        67  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) These provisions include €3 million in 2016 (€4 million in 2015) related to general equipment maintenance, mainly linked to the Group leases. These provisions also include €7 million in 2016 (€6 million in 2015) related to product warranties and guarantees and €4 million in 2016 (€5 million in 2015) related to late delivery penalties. These provisions are expected to be utilized over the next five years.

 

(B) The Group is involved in litigation and other proceedings, such as civil, commercial and tax proceedings, incidental to normal operations. It is not anticipated that the resolution of such litigation and proceedings will have a material effect on the future results, financial position, or cash flows of the Group.

 

(C) Since the early 1990s, certain activities of the Group’s businesses have been subject to claims and lawsuits in France relating to occupational diseases resulting from alleged asbestos exposure, such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. It is not uncommon for the investigation and resolution of such claims to go on over many years as the latency period for acquiring such diseases is typically between 25 and 40 years. For any such claim, it is up to the social security authorities in each jurisdiction to determine if a claim qualifies as an occupational illness claim. If so determined, the Group must settle the case or defend its position in court. At December 31, 2016, 11 cases in which gross negligence is alleged (“ faute inexcusable ”) remain outstanding (15 at December 31, 2015), the average amount per claim being less than €0.1 million. The average settlement amount per claim in 2016 and 2015 was €0.1 million. It is not anticipated that the resolution of such litigation and proceedings will have a material effect on the future results from continuing operations, financial position, or cash flows of the Group.

NOTE 25 - SHARE CAPITAL

At December 31, 2016, authorized share capital amounts to €8 million and is divided into 400,000,000 Class A ordinary shares, each with a nominal value of €0.02. All shares, except for the ones held by Constellium N.V., have the right to one vote.

 

            In millions of Euros  
     Number of
shares
     Share
capital
     Share
premium
 

At January 1, 2016

     105,476,899        2        162  

New shares issued (A)

     104,774                
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

At December 31, 2016 (B)

     105,581,673        2        162  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(A) Constellium N.V. issued and granted 87,300 Class A ordinary shares to certain employees and 17,474 Class A ordinary shares to its Boards members (see Note 28 – Share-based Compensation).

 

(B) Constellium N.V. holds 31,394 Class A ordinary shares at December 31, 2016.

 

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NOTE 26 - COMMITMENTS

Non-cancellable operating leases commitments

The Group leases various buildings, machinery, and equipment under operating lease agreements. Total rent expense was €27 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 (€29 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 and €25 million for the year ended December 31, 2014).

The future aggregate minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Less than 1 year

     17        14  

1 to 5 years

     40        25  

More than 5 years

     48        21  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total non-cancellable operating leases minimum payments

     105        60  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Capital expenditures commitments

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Computer Software

     3        1  

Property, plant and equipment

     85        102  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total capital expenditure commitments

     88        103  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As at December 31, 2016, the Company has no other significant commitments.

NOTE 27 - RELATED PARTIES

Subsidiaries and affiliates

A list of the principal companies controlled by the Group is presented in NOTE 30 – Subsidiaries and operating segments. Transactions between the fully consolidated companies are eliminated when preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Investments accounted for under the equity method are the only related parties identified by the Group during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. Transactions with these related parties are described in NOTE 17 – Investments accounted for under equity method.

Key management remuneration

The Group’s key management comprises the Board members and the Executive committee members effectively present during 2016.

Executive committee members are those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the entity, directly reporting to the CEO.

The costs reported below are the compensation and benefits for the key management:

  - Short term employee benefits include their base salary plus bonus.

 

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  - Directors’ fees include annual director fees, Board and committees’ attendance fees.

 

  - Share-based payments include the portion of the IFRS 2 expense.

 

  - Post-employment benefits mainly include pension costs.

 

  - Termination benefits include departure costs.

As a result, the aggregate compensation for the Group’s key management is comprised of the following:

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Short term employee benefits

     10        8        7  

Directors’ fees

     1        1        1  

Share-based payments

     2        2        3  

Post-employments benefits

            1        1  

Termination benefits

     1        1        1  

Employer social contribution

     2        1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     16        14        14  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

NOTE 28 - SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

Description of the plans

Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units (equity-settled)

In 2015 and 2016, the Company granted Performance-Based restricted stock units (PBRSU) to selected employees. These Performance-Based RSU will vest after two or three years from the grant date if the following two conditions are simultaneously met:

 

  - A vesting condition under which the selected managers must be continuously employed by the Company through the end of vesting period.

 

  - A performance condition, depending on the Total Stockholder Return (TSR) performance of Constellium share over a measurement period compared to the TSR of a specified group of peer companies. Performance shares will ultimately vest, depending on the TSR performance at each anniversary date, based on vesting multiplier in a range from 0 to 3.

The following table lists the inputs to the models used for the Performance-Based RSU granted during the year ended December 31, 2016:

 

Fair value at grant date (in Euros)

   [6.76 – 9.86]

Share price at grant date (in Euros)

   [4.46 – 5.61]

Dividend yield

  

Expected volatility

   [69% – 71%]

Risk-free interest rate (U.S. government bond yield)

   [0.76% – 1.27%]

Model used

   Monte Carlo

The PBRSU granted in November 2015 achieved a TSR performance of 118% at its first anniversary, which represents 47,229 potential additional shares that could vest in November 2018 subject to the continued employment of the beneficiaries.

 

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Restricted Stock Units Award Agreements (equity-settled)

The Company grants Restricted Stock Units (RSU) to a certain number of employees subject to the beneficiaries remaining continuously employed within the Group from the grant date through the end of the vesting period. Vesting period is over two or three years depending on the grant date.

In 2016, the Company also granted 150,000 RSU which vest in equal installments on the first two anniversaries of the grant date, subject to their continued employment.

The fair value of RSU awarded under the plans described above is the quoted market price at grant date.

Equity Awards Plans (equity-settled)

Company Board members were granted annually an award of RSU since 2012. These RSU vest in equal installments on the first two anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to their continued service.

The fair value of RSU awarded under the Equity Awards Plan is the quoted market price at grant date.

Free share plan (equity-settled)

In 2013, a free share plan was granted to all employees in the U.S., France, Germany, Switzerland and the Czech Republic. Under this plan, each eligible employee was granted an award of 25 RSU that vested and were settled in Class A ordinary shares on the second anniversary of our initial public offering, subject to the applicable employee remaining employed by the Company or its subsidiaries through that date.

The plan vested in May 2015 and accordingly 185,285 shares were issued and granted to our employees.

Co-investment Plan (equity-settled)

In March 2014, some selected managers who took the opportunity to invest part of their bonus into ordinary shares were granted Performance-Based RSU in an amount equal to a specified multiple of ordinary shares invested as part of this plan.

The potential rights associated to each of the 71,490 ordinary shares invested as part of this plan were evaluated using the Monte Carlo method and amounted to €56.50 per share at grant date.

The outstanding rights at December 31, 2016 will vest in May 2017, subject to their continued employment and to the Company share price exceeding the market share price at grant date.

Expense recognized during the year

In accordance with IFRS 2, share based compensation is recognized as expense over the vesting period. The estimate of this expense is based upon the fair value of a Class A potential ordinary share at the grant date. The total expense related to the potential ordinary shares for the year ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 amounted to €6 million, €5 million and €4 million respectively.

 

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Movement of potential shares

The following table illustrates the number and weighted-average fair value of, and movements in, shares during the year (excluding co-investment plan):

 

     Performance-Based RSU      Restricted Stock Units      Equity Award Plans      Free share plan  
     Potential
Shares
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
per Share
     Potential
Shares
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
per Share
     Potential
Shares
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
per Share
     Potential
Shares
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
per Share
 

At January 1, 2015

                  493,412     14.44        17,636     17.00        192,800     10.60  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Granted (A)

     1,023,000     7.76        245,500     15.14        29,202     11.20               

Vested

                  (363,842   13.00        (8,816   11.30        (185,295   10.60  

Forfeited

     (16,000   7.10        (105,570   16.79        (3,157   11.20        (7,505   10.60  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2015

     1,007,000     7.77        269,500     16.10        34,865     14.11               
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Granted (A)

     1,292,000     7.56        340,300     5.40        81,858     4.02               

Over performance (B)

     47,229     7.10                                         

Vested

                  (87,300   19.75        (21,842   15.84               

Forfeited (C)

     (279,394   8.71        (43,000   16.40                            
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

At December 31, 2016

     2,066,835     7.50        479,500     7.82        94,881     5.01               
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A) For Performance-Based RSU, the number of potential shares granted is presented using a vesting multiplier of 1.

 

(B) When the achievement of TSR performance exceeds the vesting multiplier of 1, the additional potential share are presented as over performance shares.

 

(C) For potential shares related to Performance-Based RSU, 214,728 were forfeited following the departure of certain beneficiaries and 64,666 were forfeited in relation to the non-fulfilment of performance conditions.

NOTE 29 - DISPOSALS, ASSETS CLASSIFIED AS HELD FOR SALE

On February 1, 2016, the Group completed the disposal of its plant in Carquefou (France) which was part of its A&T operating segment and was classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015. The disposal gain is nil in 2016. The plant generated revenue of €11 million in 2015.

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2015
 

Property, plant and equipment

     4  

Inventories

     1  

Trade receivables and other

     4  

Cash and cash equivalents

     4  
  

 

 

 

Assets classified as held for sale

     13  
  

 

 

 

Pensions and other post-employment benefit obligations

     2  

Trade payables and other

     3  

Provisions

     8  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities classified as held for sale

     13  
  

 

 

 

 

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NOTE 30 - SUBSIDIARIES AND OPERATING SEGMENTS

The following Group’s affiliates are legal entities included in the consolidated financial statements of the Group at December 31, 2016.

 

Entity

  

Country

   %
Group
Interest
    Consolidation
Method
 

Cross Operating Segment

       

Constellium Singen GmbH (AS&I and P&ARP)

   Germany      100     Full  

Constellium Valais S.A. (AS&I and A&T)

   Switzerland      100     Full  

AS&I

       

Constellium Automotive USA, LLC

   U.S.      100     Full  

Constellium Engley (Changchun) Automotive Structures Co Ltd.

   China      54     Full  

Constellium Extrusions Decin S.r.o.

   Czech Republic      100     Full  

Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH

   Germany      100     Full  

Constellium Extrusions France S.A.S.

   France      100     Full  

Constellium Extrusions Levice S.r.o.

   Slovakia      100     Full  

Constellium Automotive Mexico, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

   Mexico      100     Full  

Constellium Automotive Mexico Trading, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

   Mexico      100     Full  

Astrex Inc

   Canada      50     Full  

A&T

       

Constellium Issoire

   France      100     Full  

Constellium Montreuil Juigné

   France      100     Full  

Constellium China

   China      100     Full  

Constellium Italy S.p.A

   Italy      100     Full  

Constellium Japan KK

   Japan      100     Full  

Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC

   U.S.      100     Full  

Constellium South East Asia

   Singapore      100     Full  

Constellium Ussel S.A.S.

   France      100     Full  

P&ARP

       

Constellium Deutschland GmbH

   Germany      100     Full  

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH KG

   Germany      100     Full  

Constellium Property and Equipment Company, LLC

   U.S.      100     Full  

Constellium Neuf Brisach

   France      100     Full  

Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC

   U.S.      100     Full  

Wise Holdings Finance Corporation

   U.S.      100     Full  

Wise Metals Group

   U.S.      100     Full  

Wise Alloys, LLC

   U.S.      100     Full  

Wise Alloys Finance Corporation

   U.S.      100     Full  

Wise Alloys Funding II LLC

   U.S.      100     Full  

Constellium Metal Procurement LLC

   U.S.      100     Full  

Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC

   U.S.      51     Equity  

Rhenaroll

   France      50     Equity  

 

F-70


Table of Contents

Entity

  

Country

   %
Group
Interest
    Consolidation
Method

Holdings & Corporate

       

C-TEC Constellium Technology Center

   France      100   Full

Constellium Finance S.A.S.

   France      100   Full

Constellium France III

   France      100   Full

Constellium France Holdco S.A.S.

   France      100   Full

Constellium Germany Holdco GmbH & Co. KG

   Germany      100   Full

Constellium Germany Holdco Verwaltungs GmbH

   Germany      100   Full

Constellium Holdco II B.V.

   Netherlands      100   Full

Constellium Holdco III B.V.

   Netherlands      100   Full

Constellium Paris S.A.S

   France      100   Full

Constellium UK Limited

   United Kingdom      100   Full

Constellium U.S. Holdings I, LLC

   U.S.      100   Full

Constellium U.S. Holdings II, LLC

   U.S.      100   Full

Constellium Switzerland AG

   Switzerland      100   Full

Constellium W S.A.S.

   France      100   Full

Engineered Products International S.A.S.

   France      100   Full
  

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

F-71


Table of Contents

NOTE 31 - PARENT COMPANY

Statement of Financial Position of Constellium N.V. (parent company only)

 

(in millions of Euros)

   At
December 31,
2016
     At
December 31,
2015
 

Assets

     

Current assets

     

Cash and cash equivalents

             

Trade receivables and other

     233        48  

Other financial assets

     33        29  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     266        77  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-current assets

     

Property, plant and equipment

             

Financial assets

     1,508        1,275  

Investments in subsidiaries

     111        105  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     1,619        1,380  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Assets

     1,885        1,457  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities

     

Current liabilities

     

Trade payables and other

     3        4  

Other financial liabilities

     35        25  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     38        29  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

     

Borrowings

     1,673        1,254  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     1,673        1,254  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

     1,711        1,283  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Equity

     

Share capital

     2        2  

Share premium

     171        171  

Accumulated retained earnings

     (11      (11

Other reserves

     18        12  

Net (loss) for the year

     (6       
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Equity

     174        174  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Equity and Liabilities

     1,885        1,457  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

F-72


Table of Contents

Statement of Comprehensive Income / (Loss) of Constellium N.V. (parent company only)

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Revenue

     1               1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit

     1               1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Selling and administrative expenses

     (8      (7      (7
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss from recurring operations

     (7      (7      (6
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other income

            1         

Other expenses

            (3      (18
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (7      (9      (24
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Financial result - net

     1        9        2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss before income tax

     (6             (22

Income tax

                    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss

     (6             (22
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income

                    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total comprehensive (loss) / income

     (6             (22
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

F-73


Table of Contents

Statement of Cash Flows of Constellium N.V. (parent company only)

 

(in millions of Euros)

   Year ended
December 31,
2016
     Year ended
December 31,
2015
     Year ended
December 31,
2014
 

Net loss

     (6             (22

Adjustments

        

Finance costs – net

     (1      (9      (2

Dividend received

                   19  

Interest paid

     (95      (61      (21

Interest received

     103        74        27  

Changes in working capital:

        

Trade receivables and other

            26        (23

Other financial liabilities

            (1      (2

Trade payables and other

     (1      (44      40  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash flows (used in) / from operating activities

            (15      16  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Current account with subsidiary (for cash pooling)

     (186      17        108  

Loans granted to subsidiary and related parties

     (375             (1,153

Repayment of loans granted to subsidiary and related parties

     181               97  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash flows (used in) / from investing activities

     (380      17        (948
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net Proceeds from issuance of Senior Notes

     375               1,153  

Payment of deferred financing costs

     (12      (2      (27

Repayment of term loan

                   (197

Realized foreign exchange gains / (losses)

     17                

Other

                   1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash flows from / (used in) financing activities

     380        (2      930  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

                   (2

Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period

                   2  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

                    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents – end of period

                    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Basis of preparation

The parent company only financial information of Constellium N.V., presented above, is prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and as endorsed by the European Union. Accounting policies adopted in the preparation of this condensed parent company only financial information are the same as those adopted in the consolidated financial statements and described in Note 2 – Summary of significant accounting policies, except that the cost method has been used to account for investments in subsidiaries.

As at December 31, 2016, there were no material contingencies at Constellium N.V.

 

F-74


Table of Contents

A description of Constellium N.V.’s parent company only borrowings and related maturity dates is provided in NOTE 20 – Borrowings.

Non-current financial assets represent loans to Constellium Holdco II B.V. and Constellium France Holdco and current other financial assets represent related interest receivables.

Other financial liabilities represent interest payable on borrowings.

Constellium N.V. received cash dividends from its subsidiary Constellium Holdco II B.V. in the amount of €19.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2014. The dividends received in cash for the year ended December 31, 2014 were declared for the year ended December 31, 2013 and, accordingly were recorded as income for the year ended December 31, 2013.

NOTE 32 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In January 2017, the Muscle Shoals $325 million factoring facility has been amended to extend maturity to January 24, 2018.

On February 16, 2017, the Group issued a $650 million Senior unsecured notes due 2025, with interest rate 6.625%.

The net proceeds were used to repurchase Muscle Shoals 8.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2018.

In connection with the offering, the Muscle Shoals ABL facility has been amended to $170 million and the maturity extended to September 14, 2020.

 

F-75

Exhibit 4.16

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of February 16, 2017, among ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS, CONSTELLIUM W, WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC, WISE METALS GROUP LLC AND WISE ALLOYS LLC (the “New Guarantor”), each of which is a subsidiary of CONSTELLIUM N.V., (or its successor), a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of The Netherlands and with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Issuer”) and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee under the indenture referred to below (the “Trustee”).

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS the Issuer and the existing Guarantors have heretofore executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as of May 7, 2014, providing initially for the issuance of $400,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Issuer’s 5.750% Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Securities”);

WHEREAS Section 4.11 of the Indenture provides that under certain circumstances the Issuer is required to cause the New Guarantors to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the New Guarantors shall unconditionally guarantee all the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture pursuant to a Guarantee on the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the New Guarantors are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Guarantor, the Issuer and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:

1. Defined Terms . As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “Holders” in this Guarantee shall refer to the term “Holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf of and for the benefit of such Holders. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

2. Agreement to Guarantee . The New Guarantors hereby agree, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors (if any), to unconditionally guarantee the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article 10 of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.

3. Notices . All notices or other communications to the New Guarantors shall be given as provided in Section 11.03 of the Indenture.


4. Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture . Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.

5. Governing Law . THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

6. Trustee Makes No Representation . The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

7. Counterparts . The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.

8. Effect of Headings . The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM W
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE METALS GROUP LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE ALLOYS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Rina E. Teran
Title:   Vice President and Secretary

 

[Third Supplemental Indenture – May 2014 USD Notes – Signature Page]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Jacqueline Bartnick
Title:   Director
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Annie Jaghatspanyan
Title:   Vice President

 

[ Third Supplemental Indenture – May 2014 USD Notes – Signature Page ]

Exhibit 4.20

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of February 16, 2017, among ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS, CONSTELLIUM W, WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC, WISE METALS GROUP LLC AND WISE ALLOYS LLC (the “New Guarantor”), each of which is a subsidiary of CONSTELLIUM N.V., (or its successor), a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of The Netherlands and with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Issuer”) and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee under the indenture referred to below (the “Trustee”), DEUTCHE BANK AG, LONDON BRANCH, as principal paying agent under the indenture referred to below (the “Principal Paying Agent”) and DEUTSCHE BANK LUXEMBOURG S.A., as registrar and transfer agent under the indenture referred to below (the “Registrar and Transfer Agent”).

W I T N E S S E T H :

WHEREAS the Issuer and the existing Guarantors have heretofore executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as of May 7, 2014, providing initially for the issuance of € 300,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Issuer’s 4.625% Senior Notes due 2021 (the “Securities”);

WHEREAS Section 4.11 of the Indenture provides that under certain circumstances the Issuer is required to cause the New Guarantors to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the New Guarantors shall unconditionally guarantee all the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture pursuant to a Guarantee on the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the New Guarantors are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Guarantor, the Issuer and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:

1. Defined Terms . As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “Holders” in this Guarantee shall refer to the term “Holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf of and for the benefit of such Holders. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

2. Agreement to Guarantee . The New Guarantors hereby agree, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors (if any), to unconditionally guarantee the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article 10 of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.

 

-1-


3. Notices . All notices or other communications to the New Guarantors shall be given as provided in Section 11.03 of the Indenture.

4. Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture . Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.

5. Governing Law . THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

6. Trustee Makes No Representation . The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

7. Counterparts . The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.

8. Effect of Headings . The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.

 

-2-


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM W
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE METALS GROUP LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE ALLOYS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Rina E. Teran
Title:   Vice President and Secretary

 

[ Supplemental Indenture – May 2014 EUR Notes – Signature Page ]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Jacqueline Bartnick
Title:   Director
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Annie Jaghatspanyan
Title:   Vice President
DEUTSCHE BANK A.G., LONDON BRANCH
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
DEUTSCHE BANK LUXEMBOURG S.A.
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  

 

[ Third Supplemental Indenture – May 2014 EUR Notes – Signature Page ]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
DEUTSCHE BANK A.G., LONDON BRANCH
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:   LOGO
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:   LOGO
DEUTSCHE BANK LUXEMBOURG S.A.
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:   LOGO
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:   LOGO

 

[ Third Supplemental Indenture – May 2014 EUR Notes – Signature Page ]

Exhibit 4.24

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of February 16, 2017, among ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS, CONSTELLIUM W, WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC, WISE METALS GROUP LLC AND WISE ALLOYS LLC (together, the “New Guarantors”), each of which is a subsidiary of CONSTELLIUM N.V., (or its successor), a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of The Netherlands and with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Issuer”) and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee under the indenture referred to below (the “Trustee”).

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS the Issuer and the existing Guarantors have heretofore executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as of December 19, 2014, providing initially for the issuance of $400,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Issuer’s 8.00% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “Securities”);

WHEREAS Section 4.11 of the Indenture provides that under certain circumstances the Issuer is required to cause the New Guarantors to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the New Guarantors shall unconditionally guarantee all the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture pursuant to a Guarantee on the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the New Guarantors are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Guarantor, the Issuer and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:

1. Defined Terms . As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “Holders” in this Guarantee shall refer to the term “Holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf of and for the benefit of such Holders. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

2. Agreement to Guarantee . The New Guarantors hereby agree, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors (if any), to unconditionally guarantee the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article 10 of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.

3. Notices . All notices or other communications to the New Guarantors shall be given as provided in Section 11.03 of the Indenture.


4. Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture . Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.

5. Governing Law . THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

6. Trustee Makes No Representation . The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

7. Counterparts . The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.

8. Effect of Headings . The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.

 

-2-


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM W
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE METALS GROUP LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE ALLOYS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Rina E. Teran
Title:   Vice President and Secretary

 

[ Supplemental Indenture – Dec 2014 USD Notes – Signature Page ]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Jacqueline Bartnick
Title:   Director
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Annie Jaghatspanyan
Title:   Vice President

 

[ Third Supplemental Indenture – Dec 2014 USD Notes – Signature Page ]

Exhibit 4.28

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of February 16, 2017, among ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS, CONSTELLIUM W, WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC, WISE METALS GROUP LLC AND WISE ALLOYS LLC (the “New Guarantors”), each of which is a subsidiary of CONSTELLIUM N.V., (or its successor), a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of The Netherlands and with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Issuer”) and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee under the indenture referred to below (the “Trustee”).

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS the Issuer and the existing Guarantors have heretofore executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as of December 19, 2014, providing initially for the issuance of €240,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Issuer’s 7.00% Senior Notes due 2023 (the “Securities”);

WHEREAS Section 4.11 of the Indenture provides that under certain circumstances the Issuer is required to cause the New Guarantors to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the New Guarantors shall unconditionally guarantee all the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture pursuant to a Guarantee on the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the New Guarantors are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Guarantor, the Issuer and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:

1. Defined Terms . As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “Holders” in this Guarantee shall refer to the term “Holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf of and for the benefit of such Holders. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

2. Agreement to Guarantee . The New Guarantors hereby agree, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors (if any), to unconditionally guarantee the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article 10 of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.

3. Notices . All notices or other communications to the New Guarantors shall be given as provided in Section 11.03 of the Indenture.


4. Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture . Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.

5. Governing Law . THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

6. Trustee Makes No Representation . The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

7. Counterparts . The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.

8. Effect of Headings . The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.

 

-2-


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM W
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE METALS GROUP LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE ALLOYS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Rina E. Teran
Title:   Vice President and Secretary

 

[ Supplemental Indenture – Dec 2014 EUR Notes – Signature Page ]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Jacqueline Bartnick
Title:   Director
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Annie Jaghatspanyan
Title:   Vice President
DEUTSCHE BANK A.G., LONDON BRANCH
By:  
 

 

Name:  

Title:

 
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
DEUTSCHE BANK LUXEMBOURG S.A.
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  

 

[ Third Supplemental Indenture – Dec 2014 EUR Notes – Signature Page ]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
By:  
 

 

Name:  
Title:  
DEUTSCHE BANK A.G., LONDON BRANCH
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:   LOGO
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:  

LOGO

DEUTSCHE BANK LUXEMBOURG S.A.
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:   LOGO
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
Title:   LOGO

 

[ Third Supplemental Indenture – Dec 2014 EUR Notes – Signature Page ]

Exhibit 4.30

FIRST SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

FIRST SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of February 16, 2017, among ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS, CONSTELLIUM W, WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC, WISE METALS GROUP LLC AND WISE ALLOYS LLC (together, the “New Guarantor”), each of which is a subsidiary of CONSTELLIUM N.V., (or its successor), a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands and with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Issuer”) and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee under the indenture referred to below (the “Trustee”).

W I T N E S S E T H :

WHEREAS the Issuer and the existing Guarantors have heretofore executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as of March 30, 2016, providing initially for the issuance of $425,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Issuer’s 7.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 (the “Securities”);

WHEREAS Section 4.11 of the Indenture provides that under certain circumstances the Issuer is required to cause the New Guarantors to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the New Guarantors shall unconditionally guarantee all the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture pursuant to a Guarantee on the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the New Guarantors are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Guarantor, the Issuer and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:

1. Defined Terms . As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “Holders” in this Guarantee shall refer to the term “Holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf of and for the benefit of such Holders. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

2. Agreement to Guarantee . The New Guarantors hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors (if any), to unconditionally guarantee the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article 10 of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.


3. Notices . All notices or other communications to the New Guarantors shall be given as provided in Section 12.03 of the Indenture.

4. Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture . Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.

5. Governing Law . THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

6. Trustee Makes No Representation . The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

7. Counterparts . The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.

8. Effect of Headings . The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.

 

-2-


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL SAS
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM W
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE METALS GROUP LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Yves Monette
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
WISE ALLOYS LLC
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Rina E. Teran
Title:   Vice President and Secretary

 

[ Supplemental Indenture – March 2016 USD Notes – Signature Page ]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By: Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Jacqueline Bartnick
Title:   Director
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   Annie Jaghatspanyan
Title:   Vice President

 

[ First Supplemental Indenture – March 2016 USD Notes – Signature Page ]

Exhibit 4.43

EXECUTION VERSION

AMENDMENT NO. 7

TO CREDIT AGREEMENT

This AMENDMENT NO. 7 TO CREDIT AGREEMENT (this “ Amendment ”), dated as of February 7, 2017, by and among Wise Alloys LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “ Borrower ”), the other Credit Parties signatory hereto, the Departing Credit Parties (as defined below), Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (“ Wells Fargo ”), as Agent (as successor to General Electric Company, successor by merger to General Electric Capital Corporation) (“ Agent ”), the Departing Lenders (as defined below) and the Lenders signatory hereto, amends that certain Credit Agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013 (as amended and otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, the “ Credit Agreement ”), by and among the Borrower, the other Credit Parties party thereto, Agent, and the Lenders from time to time party thereto. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Credit Agreement.

WHEREAS, the Borrower has requested that Agent and the Lenders agree to make certain amendments to the Credit Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Lenders party hereto and Agent have so agreed, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises set forth above, the terms and conditions contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto hereby agree to enter into this Amendment.

1. Amendments to Credit Agreement . Subject to the satisfaction of the conditions precedent set forth in Section 3 of this Amendment, the Credit Agreement (including certain Schedules and Exhibits thereto) is hereby amended as set forth in Exhibit A hereto. In Exhibit A hereto, deletions of text are indicated by struck-through text, and insertions of text are indicated by bold double-underlined text.

2. Closing Fees . In connection with this Amendment, subject to the occurrence of the Effective Date (as defined below), the Borrower shall pay closing fees (the “ Closing Fees ”) to the Agent for the ratable benefit of the Lenders in an aggregate amount equal to 0.25% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitments (after giving effect to the Assignments (as defined below), the Prepayment (as defined below) and this Amendment, including any notification pursuant to the fourth sentence of Section 5). Once paid, the Closing Fees shall be fully earned and non-refundable under all circumstances. The Closing Fees will be paid in immediately available funds and shall not be subject to reduction by way of setoff or counterclaim.

3. Effective Date; Conditions Precedent to Amendments . The amendments set forth in Section 1 shall become effective as of the date (the “ Effective Date ”) on which the following conditions precedent have been satisfied, which is expected to occur on or around February 15, 2017:

(a) all of the outstanding Senior Notes shall have been, or substantially contemporaneously with the Effective Date shall be, (i) delivered to the Indenture Trustee for cancellation, and/or (ii) satisfied and discharged pursuant to arrangements reasonably satisfactory to the Agent (the documents giving effect to such delivery for cancellation and/or such satisfaction and discharge, collectively, the “ Wise Secured Note Redemption Documents ”);


(b) the Trustee under and as defined in that certain Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Parent, the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, pursuant to which the $425 million aggregate principal amount of Parent’s 7.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 (the “ Constellium Secured Notes ”) were issued, shall have become, or substantially contemporaneously with the Effective Date shall become, party to, and to bind the holders of such Notes to, the Intercreditor Agreement pursuant to the Lien Sharing and Priority Confirmation Joinder (the “Joinder”) to the Intercreditor Agreement executed and delivered by the Trustee on behalf of the holders of the Constellium Secured Notes and acknowledged and agreed by the Agent;

(c) substantially contemporaneously with the Effective Date, Parent shall have issued at least $500 million of senior notes on substantially the terms set forth in the preliminary offering memorandum dated February 1, 2017;

(d) the Prepayment (if any) shall have been funded pursuant to Section 5 of this Amendment;

(e) the Borrower shall have paid all fees, expenses and other amounts due and payable by the Borrower on or prior to the Effective Date, including without limitation, the Closing Fees and those fees described in the Fee Letter (as defined in the Credit Agreement as amended hereby);

(f) the Agent shall have received, in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent:

(i) counterparts of (A) this Amendment executed and delivered by duly authorized officers of the Borrower, each other Credit Party, the Lenders (including the Departing Lenders) and Agent, (B) the consent and reaffirmation agreement, substantially in the form of Exhibit B attached hereto, executed and delivered by Constellium Holdco II, B.V., and (C) the Joinder executed and delivered by the Trustee and acknowledged and agreed by Wells Fargo;

(ii) executed copies of the Departing Credit Party Release Documents (as defined below);

(iii) a certificate of a Responsible Officer of the Borrower, certifying as to the satisfaction of the conditions in Section 3(a)-(f) hereof, identifying the Effective Date, and attaching copies of the Wise Secured Note Redemption Documents;

(iv) a certificate from a secretary or assistant secretary of the Borrower certifying as to and attaching (a) its certificate of formation and all amendments thereto, certified by the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware as of a recent date, (b) its operating agreement and all amendments thereto, (c) resolutions and (d) the incumbency and signatures of the officers or representatives executing this Amendment and the other Loan Documents;

(v) a certificate of good standing of the Borrower from the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, dated as of a recent date;

(vi) a favorable written opinion of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, as counsel for the Borrower and the other Credit Parties; and

(vii) the results of a search of the UCC filings (or equivalent filings) made with respect to the Borrower and Holdings, each in the state of Delaware, together with copies of the financing statements (or similar documents) disclosed by such search.

 

2


4. Authorization of Agent; Release of Departing Credit Parties . Subject to the satisfaction of the conditions precedent set forth in Section 3 of this Amendment, the Lenders hereby irrevocably authorize the Agent to, and the Agent hereby agrees to (i) upon the Effective Date, release each of Listerhill Total Maintenance Center LLC, Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC, and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation (collectively, the “ Departing Credit Parties ”) from its guaranty of the Obligations and from its Liens held by the Agent, (ii) execute and deliver or file such agreements, documents and instruments and terminate any Control Agreements and such other Loan Documents (collectively, the “ Departing Credit Party Release Documents ”) executed by the Departing Credit Parties as may be reasonably requested by the Borrower or the Agent to evidence the Lien and guaranty releases described in this Section 4 , and to perform other actions reasonably necessary to release the Liens and guaranties and (iii) execute and deliver the Joinder and such other agreements, documents and instruments necessary to cause the Trustee, on behalf of the holders of the Constellium Secured Notes, to become party to, and to bind such holders to, the Intercreditor Agreement, in the case of each of the foregoing clauses (i)-(iii), in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent.

5. Departing Lenders . As set forth in Schedule 1.1(a) of Exhibit A hereto, certain Lenders have agreed that they shall no longer constitute Lenders under the Credit Agreement as of the Effective Date (each, a “ Departing Lender ”) after giving effect to the Assignments, pursuant to this Amendment and the Assignments and the Prepayment described in this paragraph. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Credit Agreement, on the Effective Date the Borrower shall prepay (the “ Prepayment ”), on a non-pro rata basis, all of the outstanding Loans of such Departing Lender, together with accrued and unpaid interest and fees, which have not been assigned to other Lenders pursuant to an Assignment and Assumption (an “ Assignment ”) executed and delivered by the applicable Departing Lender, another Lender (or Lenders) and Agent, effecting, as of and subject to the Effective Date, an assignment by such Departing Lender, and purchase and assumption by such Lender or Lenders, of all or a portion of such Departing Lender’s rights, interests and commitments under the Credit Agreement. Upon the occurrence of the Effective Date and the effectiveness of the Assignments and the Prepayment, each Departing Lender shall cease to be a Lender under the Credit Agreement, no Departing Lender shall have a Revolving Loan Commitment (and the Aggregate Revolving Commitments shall be reduced by the amount of such Departing Lender’s Revolving Loan Commitments that have not been assigned pursuant to the Assignments), and no Departing Lender shall have any further rights, duties or obligations under the Credit Agreement, except for such rights which expressly survive such Departing Lenders’ assignment or prepayment in full, including without limitation, their rights to be indemnified and receive other protections as provided in Section 8.20(c) of the Credit Agreement. Prior to the Effective Date, any Departing Lender may, in its sole discretion, notify the Agent and the Borrower in writing that it no longer desires to be a Departing Lender, at which time it shall no longer thereupon be a Departing Lender for purposes of this Amendment. The Agent shall distribute to the Borrower and the Lenders a revised Schedule 1.1(a) on the Effective Date, giving effect to any Assignments, the Prepayment, and any such notification by Departing Lenders.

6. Miscellaneous .

(a) Headings . The various headings of this Amendment are inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Amendment or any provisions hereof.

 

3


(b) Counterparts . This Amendment may be executed by the parties hereto in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original and all of which together shall be deemed to be one and the same instrument. Delivery of an executed counterpart of a signature page to this Amendment by facsimile or other electronic transmission shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart thereof.

(c) Interpretation . No provision of this Amendment shall be construed against or interpreted to the disadvantage of any party hereto by any court or other governmental or judicial authority by reason of such party’s having or being deemed to have structured, drafted or dictated such provision.

(d) Representations and Warranties . Each Credit Party hereby represents and warrants that, as of the date hereof and as of the Effective Date:

(i) this Amendment and the Credit Agreement, as amended hereby, constitute the legal, valid and binding obligation of such Credit Party, enforceable against it in accordance with their respective terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditor’s rights generally or by equitable principles relating to enforceability;

(ii) its execution, delivery and performance of this Amendment and its performance of the Credit Agreement, as amended hereby, have been duly authorized by all necessary action, and do not and will not: (1) contravene the terms of its Organizational Documents, (2) conflict with or result in any material breach or contravention of, or result in the creation of any Lien (other than Permitted Liens) under, any document evidencing any material Contractual Obligation to which it is a party or any order, injunction, writ or decree of any Governmental Authority to which it or its Property is subject, or (3) violate any Requirement of Law in any material respect; and

(iii) after giving effect to this Amendment, (1) no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and (2) each representation and warranty of such Credit Party contained in the Credit Agreement and in each other Loan Document to which it is a party is true and correct in all material respects (without duplication of any materiality qualifier contained therein), except to the extent that such representation or warranty expressly relates to an earlier date (in which event such representation or warranty is true and correct in all material respects (without duplication of any materiality qualifier contained therein) as of such earlier date).

(e) Ratification . Each Credit Party hereby (i) ratifies and reaffirms all of its payment and performance obligations, contingent or otherwise, under each of the Credit Agreement and each other Loan Document to which it is a party, (ii) ratifies and reaffirms the grant of liens or security interests over its property pursuant to the Loan Documents and confirms that such liens and security interests continue to secure the Obligations, (iii) agrees that such ratification and reaffirmation is not a condition to the continued effectiveness of the Loan Documents, and (iv) agrees that neither such ratification and reaffirmation, nor Agent’s nor any Lender’s solicitation of such ratification and reaffirmation, constitutes a course of dealing giving rise to any obligation or condition requiring a similar or any other ratification or reaffirmation from each party to the Credit Agreement with respect to any amendment, consent or waiver with respect to the Credit Agreement or other Loan Documents.

(f) Governing Law . THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK SHALL GOVERN ALL MATTERS ARISING OUT OF, IN CONNECTION WITH, OR RELATING TO, THIS AMENDMENT.

 

4


(g) Effect . Upon the occurrence of the Effective Date, each reference in the Credit Agreement to “this Agreement,” “hereunder,” “hereof” or words of like import shall mean and be a reference to the Credit Agreement, as amended hereby, and each reference in the other Loan Documents to the Credit Agreement, “thereunder,” “thereof,” or words of like import shall mean and be a reference to the Credit Agreement, as amended hereby. Except as expressly provided in this Amendment, all of the terms, conditions and provisions of the Credit Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall remain the same. This Amendment shall constitute a Loan Document for purposes of the Credit Agreement.

(h) No Other Waiver . Except as specifically set forth in this Amendment, the execution, delivery and effectiveness of this Amendment shall not (a) limit, impair, constitute a waiver by, or otherwise affect any right, power or remedy of, Agent or any Lender under the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Document, (b) constitute a waiver of any provision in the Credit Agreement or any other Loan Document or of any Default or Event of Default that may have occurred and be continuing or (c) alter, modify, amend or in any way affect any of the terms, conditions, obligations, covenants or agreements contained in the Credit Agreement or in any of the other Loan Documents, all of which are ratified and affirmed in all respects and shall continue in full force and effect.

(i) Agent’s Expenses . The Borrower hereby agrees to promptly reimburse Agent for all of the reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses, including, without limitation, attorneys’ and paralegals’ fees, it has heretofore or hereafter incurred or incurs in connection with the preparation, negotiation and execution of this Amendment.

[SIGNATURE PAGES FOLLOW]

 

5


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Amendment as of the day and year first above written.

 

WISE ALLOYS LLC , as the Borrower
By:  

/s/ RINA E. TERAN

Name:   RINA E. TERAN
Title:   VP & Secretary
WISE METALS GROUP LLC , as a Credit
Party
By:  

/s/ YVES MONETTE

Name:   YVES MONETTE
Title:   CFO
WISE ALLOYS FINANCE CORPORATION , as a Departing Credit Party
By:  

/s/ YVES MONETTE

Name:   YVES MONETTE
Title:   CFO
LISTERHILL TOTAL MAINTENANCE CENTER LLC , as a Departing Credit Party
By:  

/s/ RINA E. TERAN

Name:   RINA E. TERAN
Title:   VP & SECRETARY
ALABAMA ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICES, LLC , as a Departing Credit Party
By:  

/s/ RINA E. TERAN

Name:   RINA E. TERAN
Title:   VP & SECRETARY

 

Signature Page to Amendment No.7

(Wise Alloys LLC)


WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION , as Agent, Swingline Lender

and a Lender

By:  

/s/ HERBERT C. KORN

Name:   HERBERT C. KORN
Title:   Duly Authorized Signatory

 

Signature Page to Amendment No.7

(Wise Alloys LLC)


BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. , as a Lender
By:  

/s/ Kenneth B. Butler

Name:   Kenneth B. Butler
Title:   Senior Vice President

 

Signature Page to Amendment No.7

(Wise Alloys LLC)


EVERBANK , as a Departing Lender
By:  

/s/ Christopher J. Norrito

Name:   Christopher J. Norrito
Title:   Credit Lender

 

Signature Page to Amendment No.7

(Wise Alloys LLC)


REGIONS BANK , as a Departing Lender
By:  

/s/ Elizabeth L. Waller

Name:   Elizabeth L. Waller
Title:   SVP

 

Signature Page to Amendment No.7

(Wise Alloys LLC)


EXHIBIT A

Amended Credit Agreement

Attached.


CONFORMED COPY

Amendment No. 1, dated as of March 4, 2014

Amendment No. 2, dated as of June 30, 2014

Amendment No. 3, dated as of November 26, 2014

Amendment No. 4, dated as of December 23, 2014

Amendment No. 5, dated as of March 23, 2015

Amendment No. 6, dated as of November 4, 2015

Resignation and Agency Substitution Agreement, dated as of March 1, 2016

Amendment No. 7, dated as of February 7, 2017

FINAL VERSION

CREDIT AGREEMENT

Dated as of December 11, 2013

by and among

WISE ALLOYS LLC,

as the Borrower,

THE OTHER PERSONS PARTY HERETO THAT ARE

DESIGNATED AS CREDIT PARTIES,

WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

(as successor to GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY, successor by merger to

GENERAL ELECTRIC CAPITAL CORPORATION),

for itself, as a Lender and Swingline Lender and as Administrative Agent for all Lenders,

THE OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS PARTY HERETO,

as Lenders

and

BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., as Syndication Agent

and

REGIONS BANK, as Documentation Agent

****************************************

WELLS FARGO SECURITIES, LLC,

as Sole Lead Arranger

and

WELLS FARGO SECURITIES, LLC and

MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED,

as Joint Bookrunners


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

ARTICLE I. THE CREDITS

     1  

1.1

  Amounts and Terms of Commitments      1  

1.2

  Evidence of Loans; Notes      8  

1.3

  Interest      8  

1.4

  Loan Accounts      9  

1.5

  Procedure for Revolving Credit Borrowing      10  

1.6

  Conversion and Continuation Elections      11  

1.7

  Prepayments and Reductions in Revolving Loan Commitments.      12  

1.8

  Fees      13  

1.9

  Payments by the Borrower      14  

1.10

  Payments by the Lenders to Agent; Settlement      14 15  

1.11

  Eligible Accounts      17 18  

1.12

  Eligible Inventory      21  

ARTICLE II. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

     23  

2.1

  Conditions of Initial Loans      23  

2.2

  Conditions to All Borrowings      24  

ARTICLE III. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

     23 25  

3.1

  Corporate Existence and Power      23 25  

3.2

  Corporate Authorization; No Contravention      24 25  

3.3

  Governmental Authorization      24 25  

3.4

  Binding Effect      24 26  

3.5

  Litigation      24 26  

3.6

  No Default      25 26  

3.7

  ERISA Compliance      25 26  

3.8

  Use of Proceeds; Margin Regulations      25 27  

3.9

  Ownership of Property; Liens      25 27  

3.10

  Taxes      27  

3.11

  Financial Condition      26 27  

3.12

  Environmental Matters      27 28  

3.13

  Regulated Entities      27 29  

3.14

  Labor Relations      29  

3.15

  Intellectual Property      28 29  

3.16

  Brokers’ Fees; Transaction Fees      28 30  

3.17

  Insurance      28 30  

3.18

  Ventures, Subsidiaries and Affiliates; Outstanding Stock      30  

3.19

  Jurisdiction of Organization; Chief Executive Office      29 30  

3.20

  Locations of Inventory, Equipment and Books and Records      29 30  

3.21

  Deposit Accounts and Other Accounts      29 31  

3.22

  Government Contracts      29 31  

3.23

  Customer and Trade Relations      29 31  

3.24

  Bonding      31  

3.25

  Other Debt Documents      31  

3.26

  Full Disclosure      30 31  


3.27

 

Foreign Assets Control Regulations and Anti-Money Laundering

     30 31  

3.28

 

Patriot Act

     30 32  

3.29

 

Related Transactions

     30 32  

3.30

 

Solvency

     32  

ARTICLE IV. AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

     31 32  

4.1

 

Financial Statements

     31 32  

4.2

 

Certificates; Other Information

     32 33  

4.3

 

Notices

     34 36  

4.4

 

Preservation of Corporate Existence, Etc.

     35 37  

4.5

 

Maintenance of Property

     36 38  

4.6

 

Insurance

     36 38  

4.7

 

Payment of Obligations

     37 39  

4.8

 

Compliance with Laws

     37 39  

4.9

 

Inspection of Property and Books and Records; Appraisals

     37 39  

4.10

 

Use of Proceeds

     38 40  

4.11

 

Cash Management Systems

     38 40  

4.12

 

Access Agreements

     38 41  

4.13

 

Further Assurances

     39 41  

4.14

 

Environmental Matters

     41 44  

ARTICLE V. NEGATIVE COVENANTS

     42 45  

5.1

 

Limitation on Liens

     42 45  

5.2

 

Disposition of Assets

     43 47  

5.3

 

Consolidations and Mergers

     44 47  

5.4

 

Acquisitions; Loans and Investments

     44 48  

5.5

 

Limitation on Indebtedness

     46 49  

5.6

 

Transactions with Affiliates

     46 50  

5.7

 

Margin Stock; Use of Proceeds

     47 52  

5.8

 

Contingent Obligations

     47 52  

5.9

 

Compliance with ERISA

     48 53  

5.10

 

Restricted Payments

     48 53  

5.11

 

Change in Business

     50 55  

5.12

 

Change in Structure

     50 55  

5.13

 

Changes in Accounting, Name or Jurisdiction of Organization

     50 56  

5.14

 

Amendments to Material Contracts and Other Debt Documents

     50 56  

5.15

 

No Negative Pledges

     51 56  

5.16

 

OFAC; Patriot Act

     51 57  

5.17

 

Sale-Leasebacks

     51 57  

5.18

 

Hazardous Materials

     51 57  

5.19

 

Prepayments of Other Indebtedness

     51 57  

5.20

 

Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio

     52 57  

ARTICLE VI. EVENTS OF DEFAULT

     52 58  

6.1

 

Events of Default

     52 58  

6.2

 

Remedies

     54 61  

6.3

 

Rights Not Exclusive

     55 61  

6.4

 

Cash Collateral for Letters of Credit

     55 61  

 

ii


ARTICLE VII. THE AGENT

     55 61  

7.1

  Appointment and Duties      55 61  

7.2

  Binding Effect      56 62  

7.3

  Use of Discretion      56 63  

7.4

  Delegation of Rights and Duties      57 63  

7.5

  Reliance and Liability      57 63  

7.6

  Agent Individually      59 65  

7.7

  Lender Credit Decision      59 65  

7.8

  Expenses; Indemnities; Withholding      60 66  

7.9

  Resignation of Agent or L/C Issuer      61 67  

7.10

  Release of Collateral or Guarantors      61 68  

7.11

  Additional Secured Parties      62 68  

7.12

  Documentation Agent and Syndication Agent      62 68  

ARTICLE VIII. MISCELLANEOUS

     63 69  

8.1

  Amendments and Waivers      63 69  

8.2

  Notices      65 71  

8.3

  Electronic Transmissions      66 72  

8.4

  No Waiver; Cumulative Remedies      67 73  

8.5

  Costs and Expenses      67 73  

8.6

  Indemnity      67 74  

8.7

  Marshaling; Payments Set Aside      68 75  

8.8

  Successors and Assigns      69 75  

8.9

  Assignments and Participations; Binding Effect      69 75  

8.10

  Non-Public Information; Confidentiality      72 79  

8.11

  Set-off; Sharing of Payments      74 81  

8.12

  Counterparts; Facsimile Signature      75 81  

8.13

  Severability      75 81  

8.14

  Captions      75 82  

8.15

  Independence of Provisions      75 82  

8.16

  Interpretation      75 82  

8.17

  No Third Parties Benefited      75 82  

8.18

  Governing Law and Jurisdiction      76 82  

8.19

  Waiver of Jury Trial      76 83  

8.20

  Entire Agreement; Release; Survival      76 83  

8.21

  Patriot Act      77 84  

8.22

  Replacement of Lender      77 84  

8.23

  Joint and Several      78 84  

8.24

  Creditor-Debtor Relationship      78 84  

8.25

  Actions in Concert      78 85  

8.26

  Keepwell      78 85  

ARTICLE IX. TAXES, YIELD PROTECTION AND ILLEGALITY

     79 85  

9.1

  Taxes      79 85  

9.2

  Illegality      81 88  

9.3

  Increased Costs and Reduction of Return      82 88  

9.4

  Funding Losses      83 90  

 

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9.5

  Inability to Determine Rates      84 90  

9.6

  Reserves on LIBOR Rate Loans      84 91  

9.7

  Certificates of Lenders      84 91  

ARTICLE X. DEFINITIONS

     84 91  

10.1

  Defined Terms      84 91  

10.2

  Other Interpretive Provisions      111 122  

10.3

  Accounting Terms and Principles      112 123  

10.4

  Payments      112 124  

 

iv


SCHEDULES

 

Schedule 1.1(a)      Revolving Loan Commitments
Schedule 1.1(b)      Existing Letters of Credit
Schedule 3.5      Litigation
Schedule 3.7      ERISA
Schedule 3.8      Closing Date Sources and Uses; Funds Flow Memorandum
Schedule 3.9      Ownership of Property; Liens
Schedule 3.11(a)      Historical Financial Statements
Schedule 3.11(b)      Pro Forma Capitalization
Schedule 3.11(e)      Projections
Schedule 3.12      Environmental
Schedule 3.14      Labor Relations
Schedule 3.15      Intellectual Property
Schedule 3.18      Ventures, Subsidiaries and Affiliates; Outstanding Stock
Schedule 3.19      Jurisdiction of Organization; Chief Executive Office
Schedule 3.20      Locations of Inventory, Equipment and Books and Records
Schedule 3.21      Deposit Accounts and Other Accounts
Schedule 3.22      Government Contracts
Schedule 3.24      Bonding
Schedule 5.1      Liens
Schedule 5.4      Investments
Schedule 5.5      Indebtedness
Schedule 5.8      Contingent Obligations

EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit 1.1(b)      Form of L/C Request
Exhibit 1.1(c)      Form of Swing Loan Request
Exhibit 1.2(a)      Form of Revolving Note
Exhibit 1.2(b)      Form of Swingline Note
Exhibit 1.5      Form of Notice of Borrowing
Exhibit 1.6      Form of Notice of Conversion/Continuation
Exhibit 2.1      Closing Checklist
Exhibit 4.2(b)      Form of Compliance Certificate
Exhibit 4.2(c)      Form of Borrowing Base Certificate
Exhibit 8.9(c)      Form of Assignment

 

v


CREDIT AGREEMENT

This CREDIT AGREEMENT (including all exhibits and schedules hereto, as the same may be amended, modified and/or restated from time to time, this “ Agreement ”) is entered into as of December 11, 2013 by and among Wise Alloys LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “ Borrower ”), the other Persons party hereto that are designated as a “Credit Party”, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (in its individual capacity, “ Wells Fargo ”), as successor to General Electric Company, successor by merger to General Electric Capital Corporation, a Delaware corporation, as Agent for the several financial institutions from time to time party to this Agreement (collectively, the “ Lenders ” and individually each a “ Lender ”) and for itself as a Lender (including as Swingline Lender), and such Lenders.

W I T N E S S E T H:

WHEREAS, the Borrower has requested, and the Lenders have agreed to make available to the Borrower, a revolving credit facility (including a letter of credit subfacility) upon and subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement to (a) refinance a portion of the Indebtedness of the Borrower under the Existing Revolving Credit Agreement, (b) provide for working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes of the Borrower and (c) fund certain fees and expenses associated with the funding of the Loans and the other Related Transactions;

WHEREAS, the Borrower desires to secure all of its Obligations under the Loan Documents by granting to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, a security interest in and lien upon substantially all of its Property; and

WHEREAS, Wise Metals Group LLC, a Delaware limited liability company that directly owns all of the Stock and Stock Equivalents of the Borrower (“ Holdings ”), is willing to guaranty all of the Obligations and to pledge to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, all of the Stock and Stock Equivalents of the Borrower and substantially all of its other Property to secure the Obligations; and .

WHEREAS, subject to the terms hereof, each Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings (other than the Borrower) is willing to guarantee all of the Obligations of the Borrower and to grant to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, a security interest in and lien upon substantially all of its Property.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, provisions and covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

ARTICLE I.

THE CREDITS

1.1 Amounts and Terms of Commitments .

(a) The Revolving Credit .

(i) Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and in reliance upon the representations and warranties of the Credit Parties contained herein, each Lender, severally and not jointly, agrees to make Loans to the Borrower (each such Loan and

 

1


each Incremental Revolving Loan, a “ Revolving Loan ”) from time to time on any Business Day during the period from the Closing Date through the Final Availability Date, in an aggregate amount not to exceed at any time outstanding the amount set forth opposite such Lender’s name in Schedule 1.1(a) (such amount as the same may be reduced or increased from time to time in accordance with this Agreement, being referred to herein as such Lender’s “ Revolving Loan Commitment ”); provided , however , that, after giving effect to any Borrowing of Revolving Loans, the aggregate principal amount of all outstanding Revolving Loans shall not exceed the Maximum Revolving Loan Balance. Subject to the other terms and conditions hereof, amounts borrowed under this Section 1.1(a) may be repaid and reborrowed from time to time. The “ Maximum Revolving Loan Balance ” from time to time will be the lesser of:

(x) the Borrowing Base in effect from time to time, and

(y) the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment then in effect, less those Reserves imposed by Agent in its Permitted Discretion;

less , in either case, the sum of (1) the aggregate amount of Letter of Credit Obligations plus (2) the aggregate principal amount of outstanding Swing Loans.

(ii) If at any time the then outstanding principal balance of Revolving Loans exceeds the Maximum Revolving Loan Balance, then the Borrower shall immediately prepay outstanding Revolving Loans and Swing Loans and then cash collateralize outstanding Letters of Credit in an amount sufficient to eliminate such excess in accordance herewith and in a manner satisfactory to the L/C Issuers.

(iii) If the Borrower requests that Lenders make, or permit to remain outstanding, Revolving Loans in excess of the Borrowing Base (less the sum of (x) the aggregate amount of Letter of Credit Obligations plus (y) the aggregate principal amount of outstanding Swing Loans) (any such excess Revolving Loan is herein referred to as an “ Overadvance ”), Agent may, in its sole discretion, elect to make, or permit to remain outstanding such Overadvance; provided , however , that Agent may not cause Lenders to make, or grant the Borrower permission to have remain outstanding, (A) aggregate Revolving Loans in excess of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment less the sum of outstanding Swing Loans plus the aggregate amount of Letter of Credit Obligations or (B) an Overadvance in an aggregate amount in excess of 10% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment. The Borrower shall not permit, and shall prepay the outstanding Revolving Loans and Swing Loans and then cash collateralize Letters of Credit so as to prevent, any Overadvance from remaining outstanding for more than ninety (90) consecutive days during any one hundred eighty (180) consecutive day period. If an Overadvance is made, or permitted to remain outstanding, pursuant to the preceding sentence, then all Lenders shall be bound to make, or permit to remain outstanding, such Overadvance based upon their Commitment Percentage of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, regardless of whether the conditions to lending set forth in Section 2.2 have been met. Furthermore, Required Lenders may prospectively revoke Agent’s ability to make or permit Overadvances by written notice to Agent. All Overadvances shall constitute Base Rate Loans and shall bear interest at the Base Rate plus the Applicable Margin for Revolving Loans and the default rate under Section 1.3(c) .

(iv) The Borrower shall repay to the Lenders in full on the date specified in clause (a)  of the definition of “Revolving Termination Date” the aggregate principal amount of the Revolving Loans and Swing Loans outstanding on the Revolving Termination Date.

 

2


(b) Letters of Credit .

(i) Conditions . On the terms and subject to the conditions contained herein, the Borrower may request that one or more L/C Issuers Issue, in accordance with such L/C Issuers’ usual and customary business practices and for the account of the Borrower, Letters of Credit (denominated in Dollars) from time to time on any Business Day during the period from the Closing Date through the earlier of (x) the Final Availability Date and (y) seven (7) days prior to the date specified in clause (a)  of the definition of Revolving Termination Date; provided , however , that no L/C Issuer shall Issue any Letter of Credit upon the occurrence of any of the following or, if after giving effect to such Issuance:

(A) (i) Availability would be less than zero or (ii) the Letter of Credit Obligations for all Letters of Credit would exceed $25,000,000 (the “ L/C Sublimit ”);

(B) the expiration date of such Letter of Credit (i) is not a Business Day, (ii) is more than one year after the date of Issuance thereof or (iii) is later than seven (7) days prior to the date specified in clause (a)  of the definition of Revolving Termination Date; provided , however , that any Letter of Credit with a term not exceeding one year may provide for its renewal for additional periods not exceeding one year as long as (x) each of the Borrower and such L/C Issuer have the option to prevent such renewal before the expiration of such term or any such period and (y) neither such L/C Issuer nor the Borrower shall permit any such renewal to extend such expiration date beyond the date set forth in clause (iii)  above; or

(C) (i) any fee due in connection with, and on or prior to, such Issuance has not been paid, (ii) such Letter of Credit is requested to be Issued in a form that is not acceptable to such L/C Issuer or (iii) such L/C Issuer shall not have received, each in form and substance reasonably acceptable to it and duly executed by the Borrower, the documents that such L/C Issuer generally uses in the Ordinary Course of Business for the Issuance of letters of credit of the type of such Letter of Credit (collectively, the “ L/C Reimbursement Agreement ”).

For each Issuance, the applicable L/C Issuer may, but shall not be required to, determine that, or take notice whether, the conditions precedent set forth in Section 2.2 have been satisfied or waived in connection with the Issuance of any Letter of Credit; provided , however , that no Letter of Credit shall be Issued during the period starting on the first Business Day after the receipt by such L/C Issuer of notice from Agent or the Required Lenders that any condition precedent contained in Section 2.2 is not satisfied and ending on the date all such conditions are satisfied or duly waived.

Notwithstanding anything else to the contrary herein, if any Lender is a Non-Funding Lender or Impacted Lender, no L/C Issuer shall be obligated to Issue any Letter of Credit unless (w) the Non-Funding Lender or Impacted Lender has been replaced in accordance with Section 8.9 or 8.22 , (x) the Letter of Credit Obligations of such Non-Funding Lender or Impacted Lender have been cash collateralized, (y) the Revolving Loan Commitments of the other Lenders have been increased by an amount sufficient to satisfy Agent that all future Letter of Credit Obligations will be covered by all Lenders that are not Non-Funding Lenders or Impacted Lenders, or (z) the Letter of Credit Obligations of such Non-Funding Lender or Impacted Lender have been reallocated to other Lenders in a manner consistent with Section 1.10(e)(ii) .

 

3


(ii) Notice of Issuance . The Borrower shall give the relevant L/C Issuer and Agent a notice of any requested Issuance of any Letter of Credit, which shall be effective only if received by such L/C Issuer and Agent not later than 2:00 p.m. on the third Business Day prior to the date of such requested Issuance. Such notice shall be made in a writing or Electronic Transmission substantially in the form of Exhibit 1.1(b) duly completed or in any other written form acceptable to such L/C Issuer (each, an “ L/C Request ”).

(iii) Reporting Obligations of L/C Issuers . Each L/C Issuer agrees to provide Agent, in form and substance satisfactory to Agent, each of the following on the following dates: (A) (i) on or prior to any Issuance of any Letter of Credit by such L/C Issuer, (ii) immediately after any drawing under any such Letter of Credit or (iii) immediately after any payment (or failure to pay when due) by the Borrower of any related L/C Reimbursement Obligation, notice thereof, which shall contain a reasonably detailed description of such Issuance, drawing or payment, and Agent shall provide copies of such notices to each Lender reasonably promptly after receipt thereof; (B) upon the request of Agent (or any Lender through Agent), copies of any Letter of Credit Issued by such L/C Issuer and any related L/C Reimbursement Agreement and such other documents and information as may reasonably be requested by Agent; and (C) on the first Business Day of each calendar week, a schedule of the Letters of Credit Issued by such L/C Issuer, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Agent, setting forth the Letter of Credit Obligations for such Letters of Credit outstanding on the last Business Day of the previous calendar week.

(iv) Acquisition of Participations . Upon any Issuance of a Letter of Credit in accordance with the terms of this Agreement resulting in any increase in the Letter of Credit Obligations, each Lender shall be deemed to have acquired, without recourse or warranty, an undivided interest and participation in such Letter of Credit and the related Letter of Credit Obligations in an amount equal to its Commitment Percentage of such Letter of Credit Obligations.

(v) Reimbursement Obligations of the Borrower . The Borrower agrees to pay to the L/C Issuer of any Letter of Credit, or to Agent for the benefit of such L/C Issuer, each L/C Reimbursement Obligation owing with respect to such Letter of Credit no later than the first Business Day after the Borrower receives notice from such L/C Issuer or from Agent that payment has been made under such Letter of Credit or that such L/C Reimbursement Obligation is otherwise due (the “ L/C Reimbursement Date ”) with interest thereon computed as set forth in clause (A)  below. In the event that any L/C Reimbursement Obligation is not repaid by the Borrower as provided in this clause (v) (or any such payment by the Borrower is rescinded or set aside for any reason), such L/C Issuer shall promptly notify Agent of such failure (and, upon receipt of such notice, Agent shall notify each Lender) and, irrespective of whether such notice is given, such L/C Reimbursement Obligation shall be payable on demand by the Borrower with interest thereon computed (A) from the date on which such L/C Reimbursement Obligation arose to the L/C Reimbursement Date, at the interest rate applicable during such period to Revolving Loans that are Base Rate Loans and (B) thereafter, until payment in full, at the interest rate applicable during such period to past due Revolving Loans that are Base Rate Loans.

 

4


(vi) Reimbursement Obligations of the Revolving Credit Lenders .

(1) Upon receipt of the notice described in clause (v) above from Agent, each Lender shall pay to Agent for the account of such L/C Issuer its Commitment Percentage of such Letter of Credit Obligations (as such amount may be increased pursuant to Section 1.10(e)(ii)).

(2) By making any payment described in clause (1)  above (other than during the continuation of an Event of Default under Section 6.1(f) or 6.1(g) ), such Lender shall be deemed to have made a Revolving Loan to the Borrower, which, upon receipt thereof by Agent for the benefit of such L/C Issuer, the Borrower shall be deemed to have used in whole to repay such L/C Reimbursement Obligation. Any such payment that is not deemed a Revolving Loan shall be deemed a funding by such Lender of its participation in the applicable Letter of Credit and the Letter of Credit Obligation in respect of the related L/C Reimbursement Obligations. Such participation shall not otherwise be required to be funded. Following receipt by any L/C Issuer of any payment from any Lender pursuant to this clause (vi)  with respect to any portion of any L/C Reimbursement Obligation, such L/C Issuer shall promptly pay to Agent, for the benefit of such Lender, all amounts received by such L/C Issuer (or to the extent such amounts shall have been received by Agent for the benefit of such L/C Issuer, Agent shall promptly pay to such Lender all amounts received by Agent for the benefit of such L/C Issuer) with respect to such portion.

(vii) Obligations Absolute . The obligations of the Borrower and the Lenders pursuant to clauses (iv) , (v) and (vi)  above shall be absolute, unconditional and irrevocable and performed strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement irrespective of (A) (i) the invalidity or unenforceability of any term or provision in any Letter of Credit, any document transferring or purporting to transfer a Letter of Credit, any Loan Document (including the sufficiency of any such instrument), or any modification to any provision of any of the foregoing, (ii) any document presented under a Letter of Credit being forged, fraudulent, invalid, insufficient or inaccurate in any respect or failing to comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit or (iii) any loss or delay, including in the transmission of any document, (B) the existence of any setoff, claim, abatement, recoupment, defense or other right that any Person (including any Credit Party) may have against the beneficiary of any Letter of Credit or any other Person, whether in connection with any Loan Document or any other Contractual Obligation or transaction, or the existence of any other withholding, abatement or reduction, (C) in the case of the obligations of any Lender, (i) the failure of any condition precedent set forth in Section 2.2 to be satisfied (each of which conditions precedent the Lenders hereby irrevocably waive) or (ii) any adverse change in the condition (financial or otherwise) of any Credit Party and (D) any other act or omission to act or delay of any kind of Agent, any Lender or any other Person or any other event or circumstance whatsoever, whether or not similar to any of the foregoing, that might, but for the provisions of this clause (vii) , constitute a legal or equitable discharge of any obligation of the Borrower or any Lender hereunder. No provision hereof shall be deemed to waive or limit the Borrower’s right to seek repayment of any payment of any L/C Reimbursement Obligations from the L/C Issuer under the terms of the applicable L/C Reimbursement Agreement or applicable law. Nothing herein shall excuse any L/C Issuer for liability to the extent such liability has resulted primarily from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of such L/C Issuer under the terms of the applicable L/C Reimbursement Agreement, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a final non-appealable judgment or order.

(c) Swing Loans .

(i) Availability . Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and in reliance upon the representations and warranties of the Credit Parties

 

5


contained herein, the Swingline Lender may, in its sole discretion, make Loans (each a “ Swing Loan ”) available to the Borrower under the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment from time to time on any Business Day during the period from the Closing Date through the Final Availability Date in an aggregate principal amount at any time outstanding not to exceed its Swingline Commitment; provided , however , that the Swingline Lender may not make any Swing Loan (x) to the extent that after giving effect to such Swing Loan, the aggregate principal amount of all Revolving Loans would exceed the Maximum Revolving Loan Balance and (y) during the period commencing on the first Business Day after it receives notice from Agent or the Required Lenders that one or more of the conditions precedent contained in Section 2.2 are not satisfied and ending when such conditions are satisfied or duly waived. In connection with the making of any Swing Loan, the Swingline Lender may but shall not be required to determine that, or take notice whether, the conditions precedent set forth in Section 2.2 have been satisfied or waived. Each Swing Loan shall be a Base Rate Loan and must be repaid as provided herein, but in any event must be repaid in full on the Revolving Termination Date. Within the limits set forth in the first sentence of this clause (i) , amounts of Swing Loans repaid may be reborrowed under this clause (i) .

(ii) Borrowing Procedures . In order to request a Swing Loan, the Borrower shall give to Agent a notice to be received not later than 2:00 p.m. on the day of the proposed Borrowing, which shall be made in a writing or in an Electronic Transmission substantially in the form of Exhibit 1.1(c) or in a writing in any other form acceptable to Agent duly completed (a “ Swingline Request ”). In addition, if any Notice of Borrowing of Revolving Loans requests a Borrowing of Base Rate Loans, the Swingline Lender may, notwithstanding anything else to the contrary herein, make a Swing Loan to the Borrower in an aggregate amount not to exceed such proposed Borrowing, and the aggregate amount of the corresponding proposed Borrowing shall be reduced accordingly by the principal amount of such Swing Loan. Agent shall promptly notify the Swingline Lender of the details of the requested Swing Loan. Upon receipt of such notice and subject to the terms of this Agreement, the Swingline Lender may make a Swing Loan available to the Borrower by making the proceeds thereof available to Agent and, in turn, Agent shall make such proceeds available to the Borrower on the date set forth in the relevant Swingline Request or Notice of Borrowing.

(iii) Refinancing Swing Loans .

(1) The Swingline Lender may at any time (and shall, no less frequently than once each week) forward a demand to Agent (which Agent shall, upon receipt, forward to each Lender) that each Lender pay to Agent, for the account of the Swingline Lender, such Lender’s Commitment Percentage of the outstanding Swing Loans (as such amount may be increased pursuant to Section 1.10(e)(ii) ).

(2) Each Lender shall pay the amount owing by it to Agent for the account of the Swingline Lender on the Business Day following receipt of the notice or demand therefor. Payments received by Agent after 1:00 p.m. may, in Agent’s discretion, be deemed to be received on the next Business Day. Upon receipt by Agent of such payment (other than during the continuation of any Event of Default under Section 6.1(f) or 6.1(g) ), such Lender shall be deemed to have made a Revolving Loan to the Borrower, which, upon receipt of such payment by the Swingline Lender from Agent, the Borrower shall be deemed to have used in whole to refinance such Swing Loan. In addition, regardless of whether any such demand is made, upon the occurrence of any Event of Default under Section 6.1(f) or 6.1(g) , each Lender shall be deemed to have acquired, without recourse or warranty, an undivided interest and participation in each Swing Loan in an amount equal to such Lender’s Commitment Percentage

 

6


of such Swing Loan. If any payment made by any Lender as a result of any such demand is not deemed a Revolving Loan, such payment shall be deemed a funding by such Lender of such participation. Such participation shall not be otherwise required to be funded. Upon receipt by the Swingline Lender of any payment from any Lender pursuant to this clause (iii)  with respect to any portion of any Swing Loan, the Swingline Lender shall promptly pay over to such Lender all payments of principal (to the extent received after such payment by such Lender) and interest (to the extent accrued with respect to periods after such payment) on account of such Swing Loan received by the Swingline Lender with respect to such portion.

(iv) Obligation to Fund Absolute . Each Lender’s obligations pursuant to clause (iii)  above shall be absolute, unconditional and irrevocable and shall be performed strictly in accordance with the terms of this Agreement under any and all circumstances whatsoever, including (A) the existence of any setoff, claim, abatement, recoupment, defense or other right that such Lender, any Affiliate thereof or any other Person may have against the Swingline Lender, Agent, any other Lender or L/C Issuer or any other Person, (B) the failure of any condition precedent set forth in Section 2.2 to be satisfied or the failure of the Borrower to deliver a Notice of Borrowing (each of which requirements the Lenders hereby irrevocably waive) and (C) any adverse change in the condition (financial or otherwise) of any Credit Party.

(d) Incremental Revolving Loan Commitments .

(i) Requests . The Borrower may, by written notice to Agent, request increases in the Revolving Loan Commitments (each, an “ Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment ” and the loans thereunder, “ Incremental Revolving Loans ”) in Dollars in an aggregate amount not to exceed $100,000,000 for all such Incremental Revolving Loan Commitments; provided that no commitment of any Lender shall be increased without the consent of such Lender. Such notice shall set forth (A) the amount of the Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment being requested (which shall be in a minimum amount of $10,000,000 and multiples of $1,000,000 in excess thereof) and (B) the date (an “ Incremental Effective Date ”) on which such Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment is requested to become effective (which, unless otherwise agreed by Agent, shall not be less than ten (10) Business Days nor more than sixty (60) days after the date of such notice). The Borrower will first seek Incremental Revolving Credit Commitments from existing Lenders as set forth below (each of which shall be entitled to agree or decline to participate in its sole discretion). Upon delivery of the applicable Incremental Revolving Credit Commitment request, the requested Incremental Revolving Credit Commitment shall be offered to all Lenders pro rata according to the Commitment Percentage held by each Lender. If any Lender does not accept the offered Incremental Revolving Credit Commitment in its entirety on a pro rata basis within five (5) Business Days of such offer, that portion of the Incremental Revolving Credit Commitment not accepted by the any such Lender shall be offered to the other Lenders on a non-pro rata basis. If such other Lenders do not accept the offered Incremental Revolving Credit Commitment in its entirety on a non-pro rata basis within two (2) Business Days after such offer, such remaining portion of the Incremental Revolving Credit Commitment may be offered by the Borrower to any other banks, financial institutions and other institutional lenders reasonably acceptable to Agent and each L/C Issuer that is a Lender.

(ii) Conditions . No Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment shall become effective under this Section 1.1(d) unless, (x) if any Real Estate constitutes Collateral for the Obligations, Credit Parties shall have delivered all flood information, due diligence, documentation and evidence of coverage as any Lender shall have reasonably requested and shall

 

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comply with the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, as amended, in a manner reasonably satisfactory to each Lender, and (y)  after giving effect to such Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment, the Incremental Revolving Loans to be made thereunder (assuming that the entire amount of such Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment is funded), and the application of the proceeds therefrom, (A) no Default or Event of Default shall exist, (B) if a Trigger Event has occurred and is continuing, the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, on a pro forma basis for the twelve-month period ending as of the last day of the most recent month for which financial statements have been or were required to be delivered under Section 4.1 , is not less than the Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio required under Section 5.20 and (C) Agent shall have received a certificate of a Responsible Officer of the Borrower certifying as to the foregoing.

(iii) Terms . Any Incremental Revolving Loans shall be on the same terms (as amended from time to time) (including all-in pricing (other than closing fees) and maturity date) as, and pursuant to documentation applicable to, the initial Revolving Loans.

(iv) Required Amendments . Each of the parties hereto hereby agrees that, upon the effectiveness of any Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment, this Agreement shall be amended to the extent (but only to the extent) necessary to reflect the existence of such Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment and the Incremental Revolving Loans evidenced thereby, and any joinder agreement or amendment may without the consent of the other Lenders effect such amendments to this Agreement and the other Loan Documents as may be necessary or appropriate, in the reasonable opinion of Agent and the Borrower, to effectuate the provisions of this Section 1.1(d) , and, for the avoidance of doubt, this Section 1.1(d) shall supersede any provisions in Section 8.1 . From and after each Incremental Effective Date, the Incremental Revolving Loans and Revolving Loan Commitment established pursuant to this Section 1.1(d) shall constitute Loans and Revolving Loan Commitments under, and shall be entitled to all the benefits afforded by, this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, and shall, without limiting the foregoing, benefit equally and ratably from the guarantees and security interests created by the applicable Collateral Documents. The Credit Parties shall take any actions reasonably required by Agent to ensure and/or demonstrate that the Liens and security interests granted by the applicable Collateral Documents continue to be perfected under the UCC or otherwise after giving effect to the establishment of any such new Incremental Revolving Loans and Incremental Revolving Credit Commitment, including, without limitation, compliance with Section 4.13(c) .

1.2 Evidence of Loans; Notes .

(a) The Revolving Loans made by each Lender are evidenced by this Agreement and, if requested by such Lender, a Revolving Note payable to such Lender in an amount equal to such Lender’s Revolving Loan Commitment.

(b) Swing Loans made by the Swingline Lender are evidenced by this Agreement and, if requested by the Swingline Lender, a Swingline Note in an amount equal to the Swingline Commitment.

1.3 Interest .

(a) Subject to Sections 1.3(c) and 1.3(d) , each Loan shall bear interest on the outstanding principal amount thereof from the date when made at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR or the Base Rate, as the case may be, plus the Applicable Margin; provided that Swing Loans may not be LIBOR Rate Loans. Each determination of an interest rate by Agent shall be conclusive and binding on the Borrower and the Lenders in the absence of manifest error. All

 

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computations of fees and interest (other than interest accruing on Base Rate Loans) payable under this Agreement shall be made on the basis of a 360-day year and actual days elapsed. All computations of interest accruing on Base Rate Loans payable under this Agreement shall be made on the basis of a 365-day year (366 days in the case of a leap year) and actual days elapsed. Interest and fees shall accrue during each period during which interest or such fees are computed from the first day thereof to the last day thereof.

(b) Interest on each Loan shall be paid in arrears on each Interest Payment Date. Interest shall also be paid on the date of any payment or prepayment of Revolving Loans on the Revolving Termination Date.

(c) At the election of Agent or the Required Lenders while any Event of Default exists (or automatically while any Event of Default under Section 6.1(a) , 6.1(f) or 6.1(g) exists), the Borrower shall pay interest (after as well as before entry of judgment thereon to the extent permitted by law) on the Loans from and after the date of occurrence of such Event of Default, at a rate per annum which is determined by adding two percent (2.0%) per annum to the Applicable Margin then in effect for such Loans (plus LIBOR or the Base Rate, as the case may be). All such interest shall be payable on demand of Agent or the Required Lenders.

(d) Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, the obligations of the Borrower hereunder shall be subject to the limitation that payments of interest shall not be required, for any period for which interest is computed hereunder, to the extent (but only to the extent) that contracting for or receiving such payment by the respective Lender would be contrary to the provisions of any law applicable to such Lender limiting the highest rate of interest which may be lawfully contracted for, charged or received by such Lender, and in such event the Borrower shall pay such Lender interest at the highest rate permitted by applicable law (“ Maximum Lawful Rate ”); provided , however , that if at any time thereafter the rate of interest payable hereunder is less than the Maximum Lawful Rate, the Borrower shall continue to pay interest hereunder at the Maximum Lawful Rate until such time as the total interest received by Agent, on behalf of Lenders, is equal to the total interest that would have been received had the interest payable hereunder been (but for the operation of this paragraph) the interest rate payable since the Closing Date as otherwise provided in this Agreement.

1.4 Loan Accounts .

(a) Agent, on behalf of the Lenders, shall record on its books and records the amount of each Loan made, the interest rate applicable, all payments of principal and interest thereon and the principal balance thereof from time to time outstanding. Agent shall deliver to the Borrower on a monthly basis a loan statement setting forth such record for the immediately preceding calendar month. Such record shall, absent manifest error, be conclusive evidence of the amount of the Loans made by the Lenders to the Borrower and the interest and payments thereon. Any failure to so record or any error in doing so, or any failure to deliver such loan statement shall not, however, limit or otherwise affect the obligation of the Borrower hereunder (and under any Note) to pay any amount owing with respect to the Loans or provide the basis for any claim against Agent.

(b) Agent, acting as a non-fiduciary agent of the Borrower solely for tax purposes and solely with respect to the actions described in this Section 1.4(b) , shall establish and maintain at its address referred to in Section 8.2 (or at such other address as Agent may notify the Borrower) (A) a record of ownership (the “ Register ”) in which Agent agrees to register by book entry the interests (including any rights to receive payment hereunder) of Agent,

 

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each Lender and each L/C Issuer in the Revolving Loans, Swing Loans, L/C Reimbursement Obligations, and Letter of Credit Obligations, each of their obligations under this Agreement to participate in each Loan, Letter of Credit, Letter of Credit Obligations, and L/C Reimbursement Obligations, and any assignment of any such interest, obligation or right and (B) accounts in the Register in accordance with its usual practice in which it shall record (1) the names and addresses of the Lenders and the L/C Issuers (and each change thereto pursuant to Sections 8.9 and 8.22 ), (2) the Revolving Loan Commitment of each Lender, (3) the amount of each Loan and each funding of any participation described in clause (A)  above, and for LIBOR Rate Loans, the Interest Period applicable thereto, (4) the amount of any principal or interest due and payable or paid, (5) the amount of the L/C Reimbursement Obligations due and payable or paid in respect of Letters of Credit and (6) any other payment received by Agent from the Borrower or other Credit Party and its application to the Obligations.

(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, the Loans (including any Notes evidencing such Loans and the corresponding obligations to participate in Letter of Credit Obligations and Swing Loans) and the L/C Reimbursement Obligations are registered obligations, the right, title and interest of the Lenders and the L/C Issuers and their assignees in and to such Loans or L/C Reimbursement Obligations, as the case may be, shall be transferable only upon notation of such transfer in the Register and no assignment thereof shall be effective until recorded therein. This Section 1.4 and Section 8.9 shall be construed so that the Loans and L/C Reimbursement Obligations are at all times maintained in “registered form” within the meaning of Sections 163(f), 871(h)(2) and 881(c)(2) of the Code.

(d) The Credit Parties, Agent, the Lenders and the L/C Issuers shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Register as a Lender or L/C Issuer, as applicable, for all purposes of this Agreement. Information contained in the Register with respect to any Lender or any L/C Issuer shall be available for access by the Borrower, Agent, such Lender or such L/C Issuer during normal business hours and from time to time upon at least one Business Day’s prior notice. No Lender or L/C Issuer shall, in such capacity, have access to or be otherwise permitted to review any information in the Register other than information with respect to such Lender or L/C Issuer unless otherwise agreed by Agent.

1.5 Procedure for Revolving Credit Borrowing .

(a) Each Borrowing of a Revolving Loan shall be made upon the Borrower’s irrevocable (subject to Section 9.5 ) written notice delivered to Agent substantially in the form of a Notice of Borrowing or in a writing in any other form acceptable to Agent, which notice must be received by Agent prior to 2:00 p.m. (i) on the date which is three (3) Business Days prior to the requested Borrowing date in the case of each LIBOR Rate Loan and (ii) on the same Business Day as the requested Borrowing date of each Base Rate Loan. Such Notice of Borrowing shall specify:

(i) the amount of the Borrowing (which shall be in an aggregate minimum principal amount of $100,000);

(ii) the requested Borrowing date, which shall be a Business Day;

(iii) whether the Borrowing is to be comprised of LIBOR Rate Loans or Base Rate Loans; and

(iv) if the Borrowing is to be comprised of LIBOR Rate Loans, the Interest Period applicable to such Loans.

 

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(b) Upon receipt of a Notice of Borrowing, Agent will promptly notify each Lender of such Notice of Borrowing and of the amount of such Lender’s Commitment Percentage of the Borrowing.

(c) Unless Agent is otherwise directed in writing by the Borrower, the proceeds of each requested Borrowing after the Closing Date will be made available to the Borrower by Agent by wire transfer of such amount to the Borrower pursuant to the wire transfer instructions specified on the signature page hereto.

1.6 Conversion and Continuation Elections .

(a) The Borrower shall have the option to (i) request that any Revolving Loan be made as a LIBOR Rate Loan, (ii) convert at any time all or any part of outstanding Loans (other than Swing Loans) from Base Rate Loans to LIBOR Rate Loans, (iii) convert any LIBOR Rate Loan to a Base Rate Loan, subject to Section 9.4 if such conversion is made prior to the expiration of the Interest Period applicable thereto, or (iv) continue all or any portion of any Loan as a LIBOR Rate Loan upon the expiration of the applicable Interest Period. Any Loan or group of Loans having the same proposed Interest Period to be made or continued as, or converted into, a LIBOR Rate Loan must be in a minimum amount of $1,000,000. Any such election must be made by Borrower by 2:00 p.m. on the third Business Day prior to (1) the date of any proposed Revolving Loan which is to bear interest at LIBOR, (2) the end of each Interest Period with respect to any LIBOR Rate Loans to be continued as such, or (3) the date on which the Borrower wishes to convert any Base Rate Loan to a LIBOR Rate Loan for an Interest Period designated by the Borrower in such election. If no election is received with respect to a LIBOR Rate Loan by 2:00 p.m. on the third Business Day prior to the end of the Interest Period with respect thereto, that LIBOR Rate Loan shall be converted to a Base Rate Loan at the end of its Interest Period. The Borrower must make such election by notice to Agent in writing, including, at Borrower’s option, by Electronic Transmission. In the case of any conversion or continuation, such election must be made pursuant to a written notice (a “ Notice of Conversion/Continuation ”) substantially in the form of Exhibit 1.6 or in a writing in any other form acceptable to Agent. No Loan shall be made, converted into or continued as a LIBOR Rate Loan, if the conditions to Loans and Letters of Credit in Section 2.2 are not met at the time of such proposed conversion or continuation and Agent or Required Lenders have determined not to make or continue any Loan as a LIBOR Rate Loan as a result thereof.

(b) Upon receipt of a Notice of Conversion/Continuation, Agent will promptly notify each Lender thereof. In addition, Agent will, with reasonable promptness, notify the Borrower and the Lenders of each determination of LIBOR; provided that any failure to do so shall not relieve the Borrower of any liability hereunder or provide the basis for any claim against Agent. All conversions and continuations shall be made pro rata according to the respective outstanding principal amounts of the Loans held by each Lender with respect to which the notice was given.

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision contained in this Agreement, after giving effect to any Borrowing, or to any continuation or conversion of any Loans, there shall not be more than nine (9) different Interest Periods in effect.

 

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1.7 Prepayments and Reductions in Revolving Loan Commitments .

(a) Prepayments Generally . The Borrower may, at any time, prepay the Loans in whole or in part, in each instance, without penalty or premium except as provided in Section 9.4 . Subject to Section 1.9(c) , any prepayments shall be applied first to prepay outstanding Swing Loans , second to prepay outstanding Revolving Loans without permanent reduction of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment and third to cash collateralize Letters of Credit in an amount determined in accordance with Section 6.4 . To the extent permitted by the foregoing sentence, amounts prepaid shall be applied first to any Base Rate Loans then outstanding and then to outstanding LIBOR Rate Loans with the shortest Interest Periods remaining.

(b) Reductions in Revolving Loan Commitments . The Borrower may at any time upon at least two (2) Business Days’ (or such shorter period as is acceptable to Agent) prior written notice by the Borrower to Agent permanently reduce the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment; provided that such reductions shall be in an amount greater than or equal to $5,000,000. All reductions of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment shall be allocated pro rata among all Lenders with a Revolving Loan Commitment. A permanent reduction of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment shall not require a corresponding pro rata reduction in the L/C Sublimit or the Swingline Commitment; provided that the L/C Sublimit and/or the Swingline Commitment, as applicable, shall be permanently reduced by the amount thereof in excess of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment.

(c) Notices . Notice of prepayment or commitment reduction pursuant to clauses (a)  and (b) above shall not thereafter be revocable by the Borrower and Agent will promptly notify each Lender thereof and of such Lender’s Commitment Percentage of such prepayment or reduction. The payment amount specified in a notice of prepayment or reduction shall be due and payable on the date specified therein. Together with each prepayment under this Section 1.7 , the Borrower shall pay any amounts required pursuant to Section 9.4 .

(d) Application of Funds during a Dominion Period . During the continuance of a Dominion Period prior to the occurrence of an Event of Default, all funds on deposit in accounts required to be subject to “springing” Control Agreements pursuant to Section 4.11 and transferred to or at the direction of Agent following delivery of an “Access Termination Notice” (or similar notice) thereunder, shall be applied to the Loans in the same manner as proceeds of prepayments described in clause (a)  of this Section 1.7 .

(e) Reallocation of Obligations . On the effective date of any reduction in Revolving Loan Commitments contemplated in the definition of “ Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment ”, (i) each Lender not reducing its Revolving Loan Commitment shall make available to Agent such amounts in immediately available funds as Agent shall determine, for the benefit of the other Lenders, as being required in order to cause, after giving effect to such reduction and the use of such amounts to make payments to such other Lenders, each Lender’s portion of the outstanding Revolving Loans of all the Lenders to equal its revised Commitment Percentage of such outstanding Revolving Loans, and Agent shall make such other adjustments among the Lenders with respect to the Revolving Loans then outstanding and amounts of principal, interest, Unused Commitment Fees and other amounts paid or payable with respect thereto as shall be necessary, as determined by Agent, in order to effect such reallocation and (ii) the Borrower shall be deemed to have repaid and reborrowed all outstanding Revolving Loans as of the date of any such reduction in Revolving Loan Commitments (with such reborrowing to consist of Base Rate Loans or LIBOR Rate Loans, with related Interest Periods (if applicable),

 

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specified in a notice delivered by the Borrower, in accordance with the requirements of Section 1.5(a) ). The deemed payments made pursuant to clause (ii)  of the immediately preceding sentence shall be accompanied by payment of all accrued interest on the amount prepaid and, in respect of each LIBOR Rate Loan, shall be subject to reimbursement by the Borrower pursuant to the provisions of Section 9.4 if the deemed payment occurs other than on the last day of the related Interest Periods.

1.8 Fees .

(a) Fees . The Borrower shall pay to Agent, for Agent’s own account, fees in the amounts and at the times set forth (i)  in a letter agreement between the Borrower and Agent dated of even date herewith (as amended from time to time, the “ 2013 Fee Letter”) and (ii) in a letter agreement between the Borrower and Agent dated on or around the Amendment No. 7 Effective Date (as amended from time to time, and together with the 2013 Fee Letter, collectively, the “ Fee Letter ”).

(b) Unused Commitment Fee . The Borrower shall pay to Agent a fee (the “ Unused Commitment Fee ”) for the account of each Lender in an amount equal to:

(i) the average daily amount of the Revolving Loan Commitment of such Lender during the preceding calendar month, less

(ii) the sum of (x) the average daily balance of all Revolving Loans held by such Lender plus (y) the average daily amount of Letter of Credit Obligations held by such Lender, plus (z) in the case of the Swingline Lender, the average daily balance of all outstanding Swing Loans, in each case, during the preceding calendar month; provided that in no event shall the amount computed pursuant to clauses (i)  and (ii) be less than zero, multiplied by

(iii) 0.375% per annum.

The Unused Commitment Fee paid by the Borrower will be equal to the sum of all of the fees due to the Lenders, subject to Section 1.10(e)(vi) . The Unused Commitment Fee shall be payable monthly in arrears on the first day of each calendar month following the date hereof. The Unused Commitment Fee provided in this Section 1.8(b) shall accrue at all times from and after the execution and delivery of this Agreement. For purposes of this Section 1.8(b) , the Revolving Loan Commitment of any Non-Funding Lender shall be deemed to be zero.

(c) Letter of Credit Fee . The Borrower agrees to pay to Agent for the ratable benefit of the Lenders, as compensation to such Lenders for Letter of Credit Obligations incurred hereunder, (i) without duplication of costs and expenses otherwise payable to Agent or Lenders hereunder or fees otherwise paid by the Borrower, all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by Agent or any Lender on account of such Letter of Credit Obligations, and (ii) for each calendar month during which any Letter of Credit Obligation shall remain outstanding, a fee (the “ Letter of Credit Fee ”) in an amount equal to the product of the daily undrawn face amount of all Letters of Credit Issued, guaranteed or supported by risk participation agreements multiplied by a per annum rate equal to the Applicable Margin with respect to Revolving Loans which are LIBOR Rate Loans; provided , however , at Agent’s or Required Lenders’ option, while an Event of Default exists (or automatically while an Event of Default under Section 6.1(a) , 6.1(f) or 6.1(g) exists), such rate shall be increased by two percent (2.00%) per annum. Such fee shall be paid to Agent for the benefit of the Lenders in arrears, on the first day of each calendar month and on the date on which all L/C Reimbursement Obligations have been

 

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discharged. In addition, the Borrower shall pay to Agent, any L/C Issuer or any prospective L/C Issuer, as appropriate, on demand, such L/C Issuer’s or prospective L/C Issuer’s customary fees at then prevailing rates, without duplication of fees otherwise payable hereunder (including all per annum fees), charges and expenses of such L/C Issuer or prospective L/C Issuer in respect of the application for, and the Issuance, negotiation, acceptance, amendment, transfer and payment of, each Letter of Credit or otherwise payable pursuant to the application and related documentation under which such Letter of Credit is Issued.

1.9 Payments by the Borrower .

(a) All payments (including prepayments) to be made by each Credit Party on account of principal, interest, fees and other amounts required hereunder shall be made without setoff, recoupment, counterclaim or deduction of any kind, shall, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, be made to Agent (for the ratable account of the Persons entitled thereto) at the address for payment specified in the signature page hereof in relation to Agent (or such other address as Agent may from time to time specify in accordance with Section 8.2 ), including payments utilizing the ACH system, and shall be made in Dollars and by wire transfer or ACH transfer in immediately available funds (which shall be the exclusive means of payment hereunder), no later than 1:00 p.m. on the date due. Any payment which is received by Agent later than 1:00 p.m. may, in Agent’s discretion, be deemed to have been received on the immediately succeeding Business Day and any applicable interest or fee shall continue to accrue. The Borrower and each other Credit Party hereby irrevocably waives the right to direct the application during the continuance of an Event of Default of any and all payments in respect of any Obligation and any proceeds of Collateral. The Borrower hereby authorizes Agent and each Lender to make a Revolving Loan (which shall be a Base Rate Loan and which may be a Swing Loan) to pay (i) interest, principal (including Swing Loans), L/C Reimbursement Obligations, agent fees, Unused Commitment Fees and Letter of Credit Fees, in each instance, on the date due, or (ii) after five (5) days’ prior notice to the Borrower, other fees, costs or expenses payable by the Borrower or any other Credit Parties hereunder or under the other Loan Documents.

(b) Subject to the provisions set forth in the definition of “Interest Period” herein, if any payment hereunder shall be stated to be due on a day other than a Business Day, such payment shall be made on the next succeeding Business Day, and such extension of time shall in such case be included in the computation of interest or fees, as the case may be.

(c) Subject to the terms of the Intercreditor Agreement, during the continuance of an Event of Default, Agent may, and upon the direction of Required Lenders, shall, apply any and all payments received by Agent in respect of any Obligation in accordance with clauses first through sixth below. Notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, all payments made by Credit Parties to Agent after any or all of the Obligations have been accelerated (so long as such acceleration has not been rescinded), including proceeds of Collateral, shall be applied as follows:

first , to payment of costs, expenses and indemnification, including Attorney Costs, of Agent payable or reimbursable by the Credit Parties under the Loan Documents;

second , to payment of costs, expenses and indemnification, including Attorney Costs, of Lenders payable or reimbursable by the Borrower under this Agreement;

 

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third , to payment of all accrued unpaid interest on the Obligations and fees owed to Agent, Lenders and L/C Issuers;

fourth , to (i) payment of principal of the Obligations, including, without limitation, L/C Reimbursement Obligations then due and payable; provided , however , that, this clause (i)  shall not include any Bank Product Obligations or Obligations under any Secured Rate Contract, (ii) payment of any Obligations under any Secured Rate Contract (solely to the extent of any Reserve with respect to such Secured Rate Contract) and (iii) cash collateralization of unmatured L/C Reimbursement Obligations to the extent not then due and payable);

fifth , to payment of any other amounts owing constituting Obligations; and

sixth , any remainder shall be for the account of and paid to whoever may be lawfully entitled thereto.

In carrying out the foregoing, (i) amounts received shall be applied in the numerical order provided until exhausted prior to the application to the next succeeding category, (ii) each of the Lenders or other Persons entitled to payment shall receive an amount equal to its pro rata share of amounts available to be applied pursuant to clauses third, fourth and fifth above and (iii) no payments by a Guarantor and no proceeds of Collateral of a Guarantor shall be applied to Excluded Rate Contract Obligations of such Guarantor.

1.10 Payments by the Lenders to Agent; Settlement .

(a) Agent may, on behalf of Lenders, disburse funds to the Borrower for Loans requested. Each Lender shall reimburse Agent on demand for all funds disbursed on its behalf by Agent, or if Agent so requests, each Lender will remit to Agent its Commitment Percentage of any Loan before Agent disburses same to the Borrower. If Agent elects to require that each Lender make funds available to Agent prior to disbursement by Agent to the Borrower, Agent shall advise each Lender by telephone or fax of the amount of such Lender’s Commitment Percentage of the Loan requested by the Borrower no later than the Business Day prior to (or, in the case of same-day Borrowings, on) the scheduled Borrowing date applicable thereto, and each such Lender shall pay Agent such Lender’s Commitment Percentage of such requested Loan, in same day funds, by wire transfer to Agent’s account, as set forth on Agent’s signature page hereto, no later than 1:00 p.m. on such scheduled Borrowing date. Nothing in this Section 1.10(a) or elsewhere in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, including the remaining provisions of Section 1.10 , shall be deemed to require Agent to advance funds on behalf of any Lender or to relieve any Lender from its obligation to fulfill its Revolving Loan Commitment hereunder or to prejudice any rights that Agent, any Lender or the Borrower may have against any Lender as a result of any default by such Lender hereunder.

(b) At least once each calendar week or more frequently at Agent’s election (each, a “ Settlement Date ”), Agent shall advise each Lender by telephone or fax of the amount of such Lender’s Commitment Percentage of principal, interest and fees paid for the benefit of Lenders with respect to each applicable Loan. Agent shall pay to each Lender such Lender’s Commitment Percentage (except as otherwise provided in Section 1.1(b)(vi) , Section 1.10(e) and Section 8.9(g) ) of principal, interest and fees paid by the Borrower since the previous Settlement Date for the benefit of such Lender on the Loans held by it. Such payments shall be made by wire transfer to such Lender not later than 2:00 p.m. on the next Business Day following each Settlement Date.

 

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(c) Availability of Lender’s Commitment Percentage . Agent may assume that each Lender will make its Commitment Percentage of each Revolving Loan available to Agent on each Borrowing date. If such Commitment Percentage is not, in fact, paid to Agent by such Lender when due, Agent will be entitled to recover such amount on demand from such Lender without setoff, counterclaim or deduction of any kind. If any Lender fails to pay the amount of its Commitment Percentage forthwith upon Agent’s demand, Agent shall promptly notify the Borrower and the Borrower shall immediately repay such amount to Agent. Nothing in this Section 1.10(c) shall be deemed to require Agent to advance funds on behalf of any Lender or to relieve any Lender from its obligation to fulfill its Revolving Loan Commitment hereunder or to prejudice any rights that the Borrower may have against any Lender as a result of any default by such Lender hereunder. Without limiting the provisions of Section 1.10(b) , to the extent that Agent advances funds to the Borrower on behalf of any Lender and is not reimbursed therefor on the same Business Day as such advance is made, Agent shall be entitled to retain for its account all interest accrued on such advance from the date such advance was made until reimbursed by the applicable Lender.

(d) Return of Payments .

(i) If Agent pays an amount to a Lender under this Agreement in the belief or expectation that a related payment has been or will be received by Agent from the Borrower and such related payment is not received by Agent, then Agent will be entitled to recover such amount from such Lender on demand without setoff, counterclaim or deduction of any kind.

(ii) If Agent reasonably determines at any time that any amount received by Agent under this Agreement or any other Loan Document must be returned to any Credit Party or paid to any other Person pursuant to any insolvency law or otherwise, then, notwithstanding any other term or condition of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, Agent will not be required to distribute any portion thereof to any Lender. In addition, each Lender will repay to Agent on demand any portion of such amount that Agent has distributed to such Lender, together with interest at such rate, if any, as Agent is required to pay to the Borrower or such other Person, without setoff, counterclaim or deduction of any kind, and Agent will be entitled to set-off against future distributions to such Lender any such amounts (with interest) that are not repaid on demand.

(e) Non-Funding Lenders; Procedures .

(i) Responsibility . The failure of any Non-Funding Lender to make any Revolving Loan, Letter of Credit Obligation or any payment required by it, or to make any payment required by it under any Loan Document, or to fund any purchase of any participation to be made or funded by it (including, without limitation, with respect to any Swing Loan) on the date specified therefor shall not relieve any other Lender of its obligations to make such loan, fund the purchase of any such participation, or make any other such required payment on such date, and neither Agent nor, other than as expressly set forth herein, any other Lender shall be responsible for the failure of any Non-Funding Lender to make a loan, fund the purchase of a participation or make any other required payment under any Loan Document.

 

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(ii) Reallocation . If any Lender is a Non-Funding Lender, all or a portion of such Non-Funding Lender’s Letter of Credit Obligations (unless such Lender is the L/C Issuer that Issued such Letter of Credit) and reimbursement obligations with respect to Swing Loans shall, at Agent’s election at any time or upon any L/C Issuer’s or Swingline Lender’s, as applicable, written request delivered to Agent (whether before or after the occurrence of any Default or Event of Default), be reallocated to and assumed by the Lenders that are not Non-Funding Lenders or Impacted Lenders pro rata in accordance with their Commitment Percentages of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment (calculated as if the Non-Funding Lender’s Commitment Percentage was reduced to zero and each other Lender’s (other than any other Non-Funding Lender’s or Impacted Lender’s) Commitment Percentage had been increased proportionately); provided that no Lender shall be reallocated any such amounts or be required to fund any amounts that would cause the sum of its outstanding Revolving Loans, outstanding Letter of Credit Obligations, amounts of its participations in Swing Loans and its pro rata share of unparticipated amounts in Swing Loans to exceed its Revolving Loan Commitment.

(iii) Voting Rights . Notwithstanding anything set forth herein to the contrary, including Section 8.1 , a Non-Funding Lender shall not have any voting or consent rights under or with respect to any Loan Document or constitute a “Lender” (or be, or have its Loans and Revolving Loan Commitment, included in the determination of “Required Lenders”, “Supermajority Lenders” or “Lenders directly affected” pursuant to Section 8.1 ) for any voting or consent rights under or with respect to any Loan Document, provided that (A) the Revolving Loan Commitment of a Non-Funding Lender may not be increased, extended or reinstated, (B) the principal of a Non-Funding Lender’s Loans may not be reduced or forgiven, and (C) the interest rate applicable to Obligations owing to a Non-Funding Lender may not be reduced in such a manner that by its terms affects such Non-Funding Lender more adversely than other Lenders, in each case without the consent of such Non-Funding Lender. Moreover, for the purposes of determining Required Lenders, Supermajority Lenders, the Loans, Letter of Credit Obligations, and Revolving Loan Commitments held by Non-Funding Lenders shall be excluded from the total Loans and Revolving Loan Commitments outstanding.

(iv) Borrower Payments to a Non-Funding Lender . Agent shall be authorized to use all payments received by Agent for the benefit of any Non-Funding Lender pursuant to this Agreement to pay in full the Aggregate Excess Funding Amount to the appropriate Secured Parties. Following such payment in full of the Aggregate Excess Funding Amount, Agent shall be entitled to hold such funds as cash collateral in a non-interest bearing account up to an amount equal to such Non-Funding Lender’s unfunded Revolving Loan Commitment and to use such amount to pay such Non-Funding Lender’s funding obligations hereunder until the occurrence of the Facility Termination Date. Upon any such unfunded obligations owing by a Non-Funding Lender becoming due and payable, Agent shall be authorized to use such cash collateral to make such payment on behalf of such Non-Funding Lender. With respect to such Non-Funding Lender’s failure to fund Revolving Loans or purchase participations in Letters of Credit or Letter of Credit Obligations, any amounts applied by Agent to satisfy such funding shortfalls shall be deemed to constitute a Revolving Loan or amount of the participation required to be funded and, if necessary to effectuate the foregoing, the other Lenders shall be deemed to have sold, and such Non-Funding Lender shall be deemed to have purchased, Revolving Loans or Letter of Credit participation interests from the other Lenders until such time as the aggregate amount of the Revolving Loans and participations in Letters of Credit and Letter of Credit Obligations are held by the Lenders in accordance with their Commitment Percentages of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment. Any amounts owing by a Non-Funding Lender to Agent which are not paid when due shall accrue interest at

 

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the interest rate applicable during such period to Revolving Loans that are Base Rate Loans. In the event that Agent is holding cash collateral of a Non-Funding Lender that cures pursuant to clause (v)  below or ceases to be a Non-Funding Lender pursuant to the definition of Non-Funding Lender, Agent shall return the unused portion of such cash collateral to such Lender. The “ Aggregate Excess Funding Amount ” of a Non-Funding Lender shall be the aggregate amount of (A) all unpaid obligations owing by such Lender to Agent, L/C Issuers, Swingline Lender, and other Lenders under the Loan Documents, including such Lender’s pro rata share of all Revolving Loans, Letter of Credit Obligations and Swing Loans, plus , without duplication, (B) all amounts of such Non-Funding Lender’s Letter of Credit Obligations and reimbursement obligations with respect to Swing Loans reallocated to other Lenders pursuant to Section 1.10(e)(ii) .

(v) Cure . A Lender may cure its status as a Non-Funding Lender under clause (a)  of the definition of Non-Funding Lender if such Lender (A) fully pays to Agent, on behalf of the applicable Secured Parties, the Aggregate Excess Funding Amount, plus all interest due thereon and (B) timely funds the next Revolving Loan required to be funded by such Lender or makes the next reimbursement required to be made by such Lender. Any such cure shall not relieve any Lender from liability for breaching its contractual obligations hereunder.

(vi) Fees . A Lender that is a Non-Funding Lender pursuant to clause (a) of the definition of Non-Funding Lender shall not earn and shall not be entitled to receive, and the Borrower shall not be required to pay, such Lender’s portion of the Unused Commitment Fee during the time such Lender is a Non-Funding Lender pursuant to clause (a)  of the definition thereof. In the event that any reallocation of Letter of Credit Obligations occurs pursuant to Section 1.10(e)(ii) , during the period of time that such reallocation remains in effect, the Letter of Credit Fee payable with respect to such reallocated portion shall be payable to (A) all Lenders based on their pro rata share of such reallocation or (B) to the L/C Issuer for any remaining portion not reallocated to any other Lenders.

(f) Procedures . Agent is hereby authorized by each Credit Party and each other Secured Party to establish procedures (and to amend such procedures from time to time) to facilitate administration and servicing of the Loans and other matters incidental thereto. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Agent is hereby authorized to establish procedures to make available or deliver, or to accept, notices, documents and similar items on, by posting to or submitting and/or completion on, E-Systems.

1.11 Eligible Accounts . All of the Accounts owned by the Borrower , Listerhill and AEMS and properly reflected as “Eligible Accounts” in the most recent Borrowing Base Certificate delivered by the Borrower to Agent shall be “Eligible Accounts” for purposes of this Agreement, except any Account to which any of the exclusionary criteria set forth below applies. Agent shall have the right to establish, modify or eliminate Reserves against Eligible Accounts from time to time in its Permitted Discretion upon three (3) days prior notice to the Borrower; provided , however , that for purposes of determining the Maximum Revolving Loan Amount (other than for purposes of Section 1.1(a)(iv) , with which the Borrower shall be afforded three (3) days to comply in such circumstances) the establishment, modification or elimination of any Reserve shall be deemed effective immediately upon such notice. In addition, Agent reserves the right, at any time and from time to time after the Closing Date, to adjust any of the applicable criteria and to establish new criteria with respect to Eligible Accounts, in its Permitted Discretion, subject to the approval of Supermajority Lenders in the case of adjustments or new criteria which have the effect of making more credit available; provided that any adjustments or establishment of new criteria that has the effect of making less credit available shall be based on

 

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either (i) an event, condition or other circumstance arising after the Closing Date or (ii) an event, condition or other circumstance existing on the Closing Date to the extent Agent was not given written notice thereof by the Borrower prior to the Closing Date. Eligible Accounts shall not include the following Accounts of the Borrower , Listerhill and AEMS :

(a) Accounts – Past Due . Accounts that are not paid within the earlier of sixty (60) days following its due date or ninety (90) days following its original invoice date;

(b) Cross Aged Accounts . Accounts that are the obligations of an Account Debtor if fifty percent (50%) or more of the Dollar amount of all Accounts owing by that Account Debtor are ineligible under the other criteria set forth in this Section 1.11 ;

(c) Foreign Accounts . Accounts that are the obligations of an Account Debtor located in a foreign country other than Canada unless (i) payment thereof is assured by a letter of credit assigned and delivered to Agent, satisfactory to Agent as to form, amount and Issuer or (ii) such Account is an Eligible Foreign Account;

(d) Government Accounts . Accounts that are the obligation of an Account Debtor that is the United States government or a political subdivision thereof, or any state, county or municipality or department, agency or instrumentality thereof unless Agent, in its sole discretion, has agreed to the contrary in writing, or the applicable Credit Party has complied with respect to such obligation with the Federal Assignment of Claims Act of 1940, or any applicable state, county or municipal law restricting the assignment thereof with respect to such obligation;

(e) Contra Accounts . Accounts to the extent the Borrower or any Subsidiary of Holdings is liable for goods sold or services rendered by, or other amounts owing to, the applicable Account Debtor to the Borrower or any Subsidiary of Holdings, but only to the extent of the potential offset; provided that, if the related Account Debtor with respect to any such Account has entered into a no-offset agreement that Agent has approved in writing in its sole discretion, such Account shall not be included as an Eligible Account pursuant to this clause solely to the extent such Account Debtor has any right of setoff after giving effect to such no off-set agreement;

(f) Chargebacks/Partial Payments/Disputed . Any Account to the extent that any defense, counterclaim, setoff or dispute is asserted as to such Account;

(g) Inter-Company/Affiliate Accounts . Accounts that arise from a sale to any employee or Affiliate of any Credit Party (other than Accounts as to which the related Account Debtor is Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC) ;

(h) Credit Risk . Accounts that are otherwise determined to be unacceptable by Agent based on credit or collateral considerations in its Permitted Discretion, upon the delivery of prior written notice of such determination to the Borrower;

(i) Unbilled . Accounts with respect to which an invoice, reasonably acceptable to Agent in form and substance, has not been sent to the applicable Account Debtor;

 

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(j) Defaulted Accounts; Bankruptcy . Accounts where:

(i) the Account Debtor obligated upon such Account suspends business, makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors or fails to pay its debts generally as they come due; or

(ii) a petition is filed by or against any Account Debtor obligated upon such Account under any bankruptcy law or any other federal, state or foreign (including any provincial) receivership, insolvency relief or other law or laws for the relief of debtors;

(k) Progress Billing . Accounts (i) as to which the Borrower , Listerhill or AEMS, as applicable, is not able to bring suit or otherwise enforce its remedies against the Account Debtor through judicial process, or (ii) if the Account represents a progress billing consisting of an invoice for goods sold or used or services rendered pursuant to a contract under which the Account Debtor’s obligation to pay that invoice is subject to completion of further performance by any Subsidiary of Holdings under such contract or is subject to the equitable lien of a surety bond issuer;

(l) Bill and Hold . Accounts that arise with respect to goods that are sold on a bill-and-hold basis;

(m) C.O.D. . Accounts that arise with respect to goods that are sold on a cash-on-delivery basis;

(n) Credit Limit . Accounts to the extent such Account exceeds any credit limit established by Agent, in its Permitted Discretion, following prior notice of such limit by Agent to the Borrower;

(o) Non-Acceptable Alternative Currency . Accounts that are payable in any currency other than United States Dollars;

(p) Other Liens Against Receivables . Accounts that are subject to any right, claim, Lien or other interest of any other Person, other than Liens in favor of Agent securing the Obligations and Liens permitted by Sections 5.1(c) , (f) and , (p) , and (s) ;

(q) Conditional Sale . Accounts that arise with respect to goods that are placed on consignment, guaranteed sale or other terms by reason of which the payment by the Account Debtor is conditional;

(r) Judgments, Notes or Chattel Paper . Accounts that are evidenced by a judgment, Instrument or Chattel Paper;

(s) Not Bona Fide . Accounts that are not true and correct statements of bona fide indebtedness incurred in the amount of such Account for merchandise sold to or services rendered and accepted by the applicable Account Debtor;

(t) Ordinary Course; Sales of Equipment or Bulk Sales . Accounts that do not arise from the sale of goods or the performance of services by the Borrower , Listerhill or AEMS, as applicable, in the Ordinary Course of Business, including, without limitation, sales of Equipment and bulk sales;

 

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(u) Not Perfected . Accounts as to which Agent’s Lien thereon, on behalf of itself and the other Secured Parties, is not a first priority perfected Lien;

(v) AB Receivables . On and after the AB Receivables Financing Effective Date, AB Receivables; or

(w) Material Contracts Event . So long as a Material Contracts Event has occurred and is continuing with respect to any Material Contract, all Accounts associated with such Material Contract.

1.12 Eligible Inventory . All of the Inventory owned by the Borrower located in the United States consisting of finished goods (including coil sheet inventory) held for resale in the Ordinary Course of Business of the Borrower (including scrap metal, ingot, rich dross and reclaimed scrap ingot) for such finished goods and work-in-process for such finished goods and properly reflected as “Eligible Inventory” in the most recent Borrowing Base Certificate delivered by the Borrower to Agent shall be “Eligible Inventory” for purposes of this Agreement, except any Inventory to which any of the exclusionary criteria set forth below or in the component definitions herein applies. Agent shall have the right to establish, modify, or eliminate Reserves against Eligible Inventory from time to time in its Permitted Discretion upon three (3) days prior notice to the Borrower; provided , however , that for purposes of determining the Maximum Revolving Loan Amount (other than for purposes of Section 1.1(a)(iv) , with which the Borrower shall be afforded three (3) days to comply in such circumstances) the establishment, modification or elimination of any Reserve shall be deemed effective immediately upon such notice. In addition, Agent reserves the right, at any time and from time to time after the Closing Date, to adjust any of the applicable criteria and to establish new criteria with respect to Eligible Inventory in its Permitted Discretion, subject to the approval of Supermajority Lenders in the case of adjustments or new criteria which have the effect of making more credit available; provided that any adjustments or establishment of new criteria that has the effect of making less credit available shall be based on either (i) an event, condition or other circumstance arising after the Closing Date or (ii) an event, condition or other circumstance existing on the Closing Date to the extent Agent was not given written notice thereof by the Borrower prior to the Closing Date. Eligible Inventory shall not include the following Inventory of the Borrower:

(a) Excess/Obsolete . Inventory that is unsalable, but solely to the extent the book value of such Inventory exceeds its scrap value;

(b) Locations < $100K . Inventory is located at any site if the aggregate book value of Inventory at any such location is less than $100,000;

(c) Consignment . Inventory that is placed on consignment;

(d) Off-Site . Inventory that (i) is not located on premises owned, leased or rented by a Credit Party and set forth in Schedule 3.21 , (ii) is stored at a leased location unless (x) a reasonably satisfactory landlord waiver has been delivered to Agent, or (y) Reserves reasonably satisfactory to Agent have been established with respect thereto, (iii) is stored with a bailee or warehouseman unless (x) a reasonably satisfactory, acknowledged bailee letter has been received by Agent with respect thereto or (y) Reserves reasonably satisfactory to Agent have been established with respect thereto, or (iv) is located at an owned location subject to a mortgage in favor of a lender other than Agent, the Senior Noteholders holders of the Constellium Secured Notes (or their representative), or Rexam, unless a reasonably satisfactory mortgagee waiver has been delivered to Agent; provided that, until the date that is thirty (30) days after the Closing Date, Inventory shall not be excluded from Eligible Inventory pursuant to (ii), (iii) or (iv) of this clause;

 

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(e) In-Transit . Inventory that is in transit, except for Eligible In-Transit Inventory and Inventory in transit between domestic locations of Credit Parties as to which Agent’s Liens have been perfected at origin and destination;

(f) Customized . Inventory subject to any licensing, trademark, trade name or copyright agreements with any third parties which would require any consent of any third party for the sale or disposition of that Inventory (which consent has not been obtained) or the payment of any monies to any third party upon such sale or other disposition (to the extent of such monies);

(g) Packing/Shipping Materials . Inventory that consists of packing or shipping materials, or manufacturing supplies;

(h) Tooling . Inventory that consists of tooling or replacement parts;

(i) Display . Inventory that consists of display items;

(j) Returns . Inventory that consists of goods which have been returned by the buyer; provided that, Inventory shall not be excluded from Eligible Inventory pursuant to this clause if such Inventory has been inspected and re-valued by the Borrower upon return and is able to be resold or reused in the Ordinary Course of Business;

(k) Hazardous Materials . Inventory that consists of Hazardous Materials or goods that can be transported or sold only with licenses that are not readily available;

(l) Un-insured . Inventory that is not covered by casualty insurance reasonably acceptable to Agent;

(m) Other Liens . Inventory that is subject to Liens other than Permitted Liens described in Sections 5.1(b) , (c) , (d)   (f) and , (p ), and (s )  or rights of any other Person (including the rights of a purchaser that has made progress payments and the rights of a surety that has issued a bond to assure a the Borrower’s performance with respect to that Inventory);

(n) Unperfected . Inventory that is not subject to a first priority Lien in favor of Agent on behalf of itself and the Secured Parties, except for Liens described in Section 5.1(d) (subject to Reserves);

(o) Negotiable Bill of Sale . Inventory that is covered by a negotiable document of title, unless such document has been delivered to Agent with all necessary endorsements, free and clear of all Liens except Liens in favor of Agent, on behalf of itself and the Secured Parties;

(p) Not Ordinary Course . Inventory (other than raw materials) that is not of a type held for sale in the Ordinary Course of Business of the Borrower;

 

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(q) Material Contracts Event . So long as a Material Contracts Event has occurred and is continuing with respect to any Material Contract, all Inventory associated with such Material Contract; or

(r) Other Inventory . Inventory Agent otherwise deems to be ineligible in its Permitted Discretion.

ARTICLE II.

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

2.1 Conditions of Initial Loans . The obligation of each Lender to make its initial Loans and of each L/C Issuer to Issue, or cause to be Issued, the initial Letters of Credit hereunder is subject to satisfaction of the following conditions in a manner satisfactory to Agent:

(a) Loan Documents . Agent shall have received on or before the Closing Date all of the agreements, documents, instruments and other items set forth on the closing checklist attached hereto as Exhibit 2.1 , each in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Agent;

(b) Availability . After giving effect to the consummation of the Related Transactions, including the payment of all costs and expenses in connection therewith (or creation of a reserve therefor) and the funding of the initial Loans and any Issuance of the initial Letters of Credit on the Closing Date, Availability shall be not less than $65,000,000;

(c) Issuance of Senior Notes . Holdings and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, collectively, shall have received not less than $650,000,000 in gross cash proceeds from the issuance of the Senior Notes on terms and conditions reasonably acceptable to Agent;

(d) Repayment of Prior Lender Obligations; Existing Letters of Credit . (i) Agent shall have received a fully executed pay-off letter reasonably satisfactory to Agent confirming that all obligations owing by any Credit Party to each Prior Lender will be repaid in full (A) from the proceeds of the initial Loans in the case of the lenders under the Existing Revolving Credit Agreement, together with the proceeds of the issuance of the Senior Notes and (B) from the proceeds of the issuance of the Senior Notes, in the case of the Existing Term Loan Credit Agreement, and all Liens upon any of the Property of the Credit Parties or any of their Subsidiaries in favor of the Prior Lenders shall be terminated by the Prior Lenders immediately upon such payments; and (ii) all letters of credit issued or guaranteed by any Prior Lender shall be continued and constitute Existing Letters of Credit hereunder;

(e) Redemption of Preferred Equity . Agent shall have received evidence satisfactory to it that the outstanding 10% paid-in-kind preferred, non-convertible membership interests of Holdings was redeemed with the proceeds of the issuance of the Senior Notes;

(f) Approvals . Agent shall have received (i) satisfactory evidence that the Credit Parties have obtained all required consents and approvals of all Persons including all requisite Governmental Authorities, to the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents and the consummation of the other Related Transactions or (ii) an officer’s certificate in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Agent affirming that no such consents or approvals are required;

 

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(g) Payment of Fees . The Borrower shall have paid the fees required to be paid on the Closing Date in the respective amounts specified in Section 1.8 (including the fees specified in the 2013 Fee Letter), and shall have reimbursed Agent for all fees, costs and expenses of closing presented as of the Closing Date;

(h) Absence of Litigation . There shall not exist any action, suit, investigation, litigation or proceeding pending in or before any Governmental Authority that challenges the Related Transactions or the credit facilities to be provided hereunder;

(i) Material Adverse Effect . Since December 31, 2012, there shall not have occurred any Material Adverse Effect; and

(j) Patriot Act . Agent and each Lender shall have received, at least five (5) Business Days prior to the Closing Date (or such later date as Agent or such Lender may agree in its reasonable discretion), all documentation and other information required by regulatory authorities under applicable “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations, including the Patriot Act.

2.2 Conditions to All Borrowings . Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, no Lender or L/C Issuer shall be obligated to fund any Loan or incur any Letter of Credit Obligation, if, as of the date thereof:

(a) any representation or warranty by any Credit Party or Holdco II contained herein or in any other Loan Document is untrue or incorrect in any material respect (without duplication of any materiality qualifier contained therein) as of such date, except to the extent that such representation or warranty expressly relates to an earlier date (in which event such representation and warranty was untrue or incorrect in any material respect (without duplication of any materiality qualifier contained therein) as of such earlier date) and the Required Lenders have determined not to make such Loan or incur such Letter of Credit Obligation as a result of the fact that such warranty or representation is untrue or incorrect;

(b) any Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would result after giving effect to any Loan (or the incurrence of any Letter of Credit Obligation), and Agent or Required Lenders shall have determined not to make any Loan or incur any Letter of Credit Obligation as a result thereof; or

(c) after giving effect to any Loan (or the incurrence of any Letter of Credit Obligations), the aggregate outstanding amount of the Revolving Loans would exceed the Maximum Revolving Loan Balance (except as provided in Section 1.1(a) ).

The request by the Borrower and acceptance by the Borrower of the proceeds of any Loan or the incurrence of any Letter of Credit Obligations shall be deemed to constitute, as of the date thereof, (i) a representation and warranty by the Borrower that the conditions in this Section 2.2 have been satisfied and (ii) a reaffirmation by each Credit Party of the granting and continuance of Agent’s Liens, on behalf of itself and the Secured Parties, pursuant to the Collateral Documents.

 

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ARTICLE III.

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

The Credit Parties, jointly and severally, represent and warrant to Agent and each Lender that the following are, and after giving effect to the Related Transactions will be, true, correct and complete:

3.1 Corporate Existence and Power . Each Credit Party and each of its Restricted Subsidiaries:

(a) is a corporation, limited liability company or limited partnership, as applicable, duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, organization or formation, as applicable;

(b) has the power and authority and all governmental licenses, authorizations, Permits, consents and approvals (i) to own its assets and to carry on its business, except for any failure to have any such governmental licenses, authorizations, Permits, consents or approvals which could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect and (ii) to execute, deliver, and perform its obligations under, the Loan Documents and the Other Debt Documents to which it is a party;

(c) is duly qualified as a foreign corporation, limited liability company or limited partnership, as applicable, and licensed and in good standing, under the laws of each jurisdiction where its ownership, lease or operation of Property or the conduct of its business requires such qualification or license; and

(d) is in compliance with all Requirements of Law;

except, in each case referred to in clause (c)  or clause (d) , to the extent that the failure to do so would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

3.2 Corporate Authorization; No Contravention . The execution, delivery and performance by each of the Credit Parties of this Agreement, and by each Credit Party and each of its Restricted Subsidiaries of any other Loan Document and Other Debt Document to which such Person is party, have been duly authorized by all necessary action, and do not and will not:

(a) contravene the terms of any of that Person’s Organization Documents;

(b) conflict with or result in any material breach or contravention of, or result in the creation of any Lien under, any document evidencing any material Contractual Obligation to which such Person is a party or any order, injunction, writ or decree of any Governmental Authority to which such Person or its Property is subject; or

(c) violate any Requirement of Law in any material respect.

3.3 Governmental Authorization . No approval, consent, exemption, authorization, or other action by, or notice to, or filing with, any Governmental Authority is necessary or required in connection with the execution, delivery or performance by, or enforcement against, any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party of this Agreement, any other Loan Document or Other Debt Document except (a) for recordings and filings in connection with the

 

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Liens granted to Agent under the Collateral Documents, (b) those obtained or made on or prior to the Closing Date and (c) in the case of any Other Debt Document, those which, if not obtained or made, would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

3.4 Binding Effect . This Agreement and each other Loan Document and Other Debt Document to which any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party is a party constitute the legal, valid and binding obligations of each such Person which is a party thereto, enforceable against such Person in accordance with their respective terms, except as enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, or similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally or by equitable principles relating to enforceability.

3.5 Litigation . Except as specifically disclosed in Schedule 3.5 , there are no actions, suits, proceedings, claims or disputes pending, or to the knowledge of the Credit Parties, threatened or contemplated, at law, in equity, in arbitration or before any Governmental Authority, against any Credit Party, any Subsidiary of any Credit Party or any of their respective Properties which:

(a) purport to affect or pertain to this Agreement, any other Loan Document, any Other Debt Document, or any of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby; or

(b) would reasonably be expected to result in monetary judgment(s) or relief, or seek an injunction or other equitable relief, in each case, which would, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

No injunction, writ, temporary restraining order or any order of any nature has been issued by any court or other Governmental Authority purporting to enjoin or restrain the execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any Other Debt Document, or directing that the transactions provided for herein or therein not be consummated as herein or therein provided. As of the Closing Date, no Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party is the subject of an audit or, to the knowledge of the Credit Parties, any review or investigation by any Governmental Authority (excluding the IRS and other taxing authorities) concerning the violation or possible violation of any Requirement of Law.

3.6 No Default . No Default or Event of Default exists or would result from the incurring of any Obligations by any Credit Party or the grant or perfection of Agent’s Liens on the Collateral or the consummation of the Related Transactions. No Credit Party and no Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party is in default under or with respect to any Contractual Obligation in any respect which, individually or together with all such defaults, would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

3.7 ERISA Compliance . Schedule 3.7 sets forth, as of the Closing Date, a complete and correct list of, and that separately identifies, (a) all Title IV Plans, (b) all Multiemployer Plans and (c) all material Benefit Plans. Each Benefit Plan, and each trust thereunder, intended to qualify for tax exempt status under Section 401 or 501 of the Code or other Requirements of Law so qualifies. Except for those that would not, in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, (x) each Benefit Plan is in compliance with applicable provisions of ERISA, the Code and other Requirements of Law, (y) there are no existing or pending (or to the knowledge of the Credit Parties, threatened) claims (other than routine claims for benefits in the normal course), sanctions, actions, lawsuits or other proceedings or

 

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investigation involving any Benefit Plan to which any Credit Party incurs or otherwise has or could have an obligation or any Liability and (z) no ERISA Event is reasonably expected to occur. On the Closing Date, no ERISA Event has occurred in connection with which obligations and liabilities (contingent or otherwise) remain outstanding.

3.8 Use of Proceeds; Margin Regulations . No Credit Party and no Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party is engaged in the business of purchasing or selling Margin Stock or extending credit for the purpose of purchasing or carrying Margin Stock. Schedule 3.8 contains a description of the Credit Parties’ sources and uses of funds on the Closing Date, including Loans and Letters of Credit made or Issued on the Closing Date and a funds flow memorandum detailing how funds from each source are to be transferred to particular uses.

3.9 Ownership of Property; Liens . As of the Closing Date, the Real Estate listed in Schedule 3.9 constitutes all of the Real Estate of each Credit Party and Restricted Subsidiaries. Each of the Credit Parties and Restricted Subsidiaries has good record and marketable title in fee simple to, or valid leasehold interests in, all Real Estate, and good and valid title to all owned personal property and valid leasehold interests in all leased personal property, in each instance, necessary or used in the ordinary conduct of their respective businesses. As of the Closing Date, none of the Real Estate of any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party is subject to any Liens other than Permitted Liens. As of the Closing Date, Schedule 3.9 also describes any purchase options, rights of first refusal or other similar contractual rights pertaining to any Real Estate. As of the Closing Date, all material permits required to have been issued or appropriate to enable the Real Estate to be lawfully occupied and used for all of the purposes for which it is currently occupied and used have been lawfully issued and are in full force and effect.

3.10 Taxes . All federal, state, local and foreign income and franchise and other material Tax returns, reports and statements (collectively, the “ Tax Returns ”) required to be filed by any Tax Affiliate have been filed with the appropriate Governmental Authorities, all such Tax Returns are true and correct in all material respects, and all Taxes reflected therein or otherwise due and payable have been paid prior to the date on which any Liability may be added thereto for non-payment thereof except for those contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings diligently conducted and for which adequate reserves are maintained on the books of the appropriate Tax Affiliate in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards . As of the Closing Date, no Tax Return is under audit or examination by any Governmental Authority, and no notice of any audit or examination or any assertion of any claim for Taxes has been given or made by any Governmental Authority. Proper and accurate amounts have been withheld by each Tax Affiliate from their respective employees for all periods in full and complete compliance with the Tax, social security and unemployment withholding provisions of applicable Requirements of Law and such withholdings have been timely paid to the respective Governmental Authorities. No Tax Affiliate has participated in a “reportable transaction” within the meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.6011-4(b) or has been a member of an affiliated, combined or unitary group other than the group of which a Tax Affiliate is the common parent.

3.11 Financial Condition .

(a) Each of (i) the audited consolidated balance sheet of Holdings and its Subsidiaries, dated December 31, 2012 and the related audited consolidated statements of income or operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the Fiscal Year ended on that date and (ii) the unaudited interim consolidated balance sheet of Holdings and its Subsidiaries, dated September 30, 2013 and the related unaudited consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the nine (9)  fiscal months then ended, in each case, as attached hereto as Schedule 3.11(a) :

(x) were prepared in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards consistently applied throughout the respective periods covered thereby, except as otherwise expressly noted therein, subject to, in the case of the unaudited interim financial statements, normal year-end adjustments and the lack of footnote disclosures; and

(y) present fairly in all material respects the consolidated financial condition of Holdings and its Subsidiaries as of the dates thereof and results of operations for the periods covered thereby.

 

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(b) The pro forma capitalization of Holdings and its Subsidiaries as of September 30, 2013, delivered on the Closing Date and attached hereto as Schedule 3.11(b) was prepared by Holdings giving pro forma effect to the funding of the initial Loans hereunder and the other Related Transactions, was based on the unaudited consolidated and consolidating balance sheets of Holdings and its Subsidiaries dated September 30, 2013, and was prepared in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards , with only such adjustments thereto as would be required in a manner consistent with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards .

(c) Since December 31, 2012, there has been no Material Adverse Effect.

(d) The Credit Parties and their Restricted Subsidiaries have no Indebtedness other than Indebtedness permitted pursuant to Section 5.5 and have no Contingent Obligations other than Contingent Obligations permitted pursuant to Section 5.8 .

(e) All financial performance projections delivered to Agent, including the financial performance projections delivered on the Closing Date and attached hereto as Schedule 3.11(e) , represent the Borrower’s best good faith estimate of future financial performance and are based on assumptions believed by the Borrower to be fair and reasonable in light of current market conditions, it being acknowledged and agreed by Agent and Lenders that projections as to future events are not to be viewed as facts and that the actual results during the period or periods covered by such projections may differ from the projected results.

3.12 Environmental Matters . Except as set forth in Schedule 3.12 , and except where any failures to comply would not reasonably be expected to result in, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect, (a) the operations of each Credit Party and each Subsidiary of each Credit Party are and have been in compliance with all applicable Environmental Laws, including obtaining, maintaining and complying with all Permits required by any applicable Environmental Law, (b) no Credit Party and no Subsidiary of any Credit Party is party to, and no Credit Party and no Subsidiary of any Credit Party and no Real Estate currently (or to the knowledge of the Credit Parties previously) owned, leased, subleased, operated or otherwise occupied by or for any such Person is subject to or the subject of, any Contractual Obligation or any pending (or, to the knowledge of the Credit Parties, threatened) order, action, investigation, suit, proceeding, audit, claim, demand, dispute or notice of violation or of potential liability or similar notice relating in any manner to any Environmental Laws, (c) no Lien in favor of any Governmental Authority securing, in whole or in part, Environmental Liabilities has attached to any Property of any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party and, to the knowledge of the Credit Parties, no facts, circumstances or conditions exist that could reasonably be expected to result in any such Lien attaching to any such Property, (d) no

 

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Credit Party and no Subsidiary of any Credit Party has caused or suffered to occur a Release of Hazardous Materials at, to or from any Real Estate, (e) all Real Estate currently (or to the knowledge of the Credit Parties previously) owned, leased, subleased, operated or otherwise occupied by or for any such Credit Party and each Subsidiary of each Credit Party is free of contamination by any Hazardous Materials, and (f) no Credit Party and no Subsidiary of any Credit Party (i) is or has been engaged in, or has permitted any current or former tenant to engage in, operations in violation of any Environmental Law or (ii) knows of any facts, circumstances or conditions reasonably constituting notice of a violation of any Environmental Law, including receipt of any information request or notice of potential responsibility under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act or similar Environmental Laws. Each Credit Party has made available to Agent copies of all existing environmental reports, reviews and audits and all documents pertaining to actual or potential Environmental Liabilities, in each case to the extent such reports, reviews, audits and documents are in their possession, custody, control or otherwise available to the Credit Parties.

3.13 Regulated Entities . No Credit Party, no Person controlling any Credit Party, nor any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party, is (a) an “investment company” within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940 or (b) subject to regulation under the Federal Power Act, the Interstate Commerce Act, any state public utilities code, or any other federal or state statute, rule or regulation limiting its ability to incur Indebtedness, pledge its assets or perform its Obligations under the Loan Documents.

3.14 Labor Relations . There are no strikes, work stoppages, slowdowns or lockouts existing, pending (or, to the knowledge of any Credit Party, threatened) against or involving any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party, except for those that would not, in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Except as set forth in Schedule 3.14 , as of the Closing Date, (a) there is no collective bargaining or similar agreement with any union, labor organization, works council or similar representative covering any employee of any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party, (b) no petition for certification or election of any such representative is existing or pending with respect to any employee of any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party and (c) no such representative has sought certification or recognition with respect to any employee of any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party.

3.15 Intellectual Property . As of the most recent delivery date of financial statements pursuant to Section 4.1(a) , 4.1(b) or 4.1(c) , Schedule 3.15 (together with any items separately identified from time to time pursuant to clause (ii)  of Section 4.2(b) ) sets forth a true and complete list of the following Intellectual Property each Credit Party owns, licenses or otherwise has the right to use: (i) Intellectual Property that is registered or subject to applications for registration, (ii) Internet Domain Names and (iii) material Intellectual Property and material Software, separately identifying that owned and licensed to such Credit Party and including for each of the foregoing items (1) the owner, (2) the title, (3) the jurisdiction in which such item has been registered or otherwise arises or in which an application for registration has been filed, (4) as applicable, the registration or application number and registration or application date and (5) any IP Licenses or other rights (including franchises) granted by such Credit Party with respect thereto. Each Credit Party and each Restricted Subsidiary of each Credit Party owns, or is licensed to use, all Intellectual Property necessary to conduct its business as currently conducted except for such Intellectual Property the failure of which to own or license would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect. To the knowledge of the Credit Parties, (a) the conduct and operations of the businesses of each Credit Party and each Restricted Subsidiary of each Credit Party does not infringe,

 

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misappropriate, dilute, violate or otherwise impair any Intellectual Property owned by any other Person and (b) no other Person has contested any right, title or interest of any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party in, or relating to, any Intellectual Property, other than, in each case, as cannot reasonably be expected to affect the Loan Documents and the transactions contemplated therein and would not, in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

3.16 Brokers’ Fees; Transaction Fees . Except for fees payable to Agent and Lenders and fees payable in connection with the issuance of the Senior Notes, none of the Credit Parties or any of their respective Subsidiaries has any obligation to any Person in respect of any finder’s, broker’s or investment banker’s fee in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby.

3.17 Insurance . Each of the Credit Parties and Restricted Subsidiaries and their respective Properties are insured with financially sound and reputable insurance companies which are not Affiliates of the Borrower, in such amounts, with such deductibles and covering such risks as are customarily carried by companies engaged in similar businesses of the same size and character as the business of the Credit Parties and, to the extent relevant, owning similar Properties in localities where such Person operates. A true and complete listing of such insurance policies maintained as of the Closing Date, including issuers, coverages and deductibles has been provided to Agent.

3.18 Ventures, Subsidiaries and Affiliates; Outstanding Stock . Except as set forth in Schedule 3.18 , as of the Closing Date, no Credit Party and no Subsidiary of any Credit Party (a) has any Subsidiaries, or (b) is engaged in any joint venture or partnership with any other Person, or is an Affiliate of any other Person. All issued and outstanding Stock and Stock Equivalents of each of the Credit Parties and their Restricted Subsidiaries are duly authorized and validly issued, fully paid, non-assessable, and free and clear of all Liens other than, with respect to the Stock and Stock Equivalents of the Borrower and Restricted Subsidiaries of the Borrower, those in favor of Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, and the Indenture Trustee and Rexam. All such securities were issued in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws concerning the issuance of securities. All of the issued and outstanding Stock of each Credit Party (other than Holdings), each Subsidiary of each Credit Party and, as of the Closing Date, Holdings is owned by each of the Persons and in the amounts set forth in Schedule 3.18 . Except as set forth in Schedule 3.18 , there are no pre-emptive or other outstanding rights to purchase, options, warrants or similar rights or agreements pursuant to which any Credit Party may be required to issue, sell, repurchase or redeem any of its Stock or Stock Equivalents or any Stock or Stock Equivalents of its Subsidiaries. Set forth in Schedule 3.18 is a true and complete organizational chart of Holdings and all of its Subsidiaries, which the Credit Parties shall update upon notice to Agent promptly following the incorporation, organization or formation of any Subsidiary and promptly following the completion of any Permitted Acquisition.

3.19 Jurisdiction of Organization; Chief Executive Office . Schedule 3.19 lists each Credit Party’s jurisdiction of organization, legal name and organizational identification number, if any, and the location of such Credit Party’s chief executive office or sole place of business, in each case as of the date hereof, and such Schedule 3.19 also lists all jurisdictions of organization and legal names of such Credit Party for the five (5) years preceding the Closing Date.

3.20 Locations of Inventory, Equipment and Books and Records . Each Credit Party’s inventory and equipment (other than inventory or equipment in transit) and books and records

 

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concerning the Collateral are kept at the locations listed in Schedule 3.20 (which Schedule 3.20 shall be promptly updated by the Credit Parties upon notice to Agent as permanent Collateral locations change).

3.21 Deposit Accounts and Other Accounts . Schedule 3.21 lists all banks and other financial institutions at which any Credit Party maintains deposit or other accounts as of the Closing Date, and such Schedule correctly identifies the name, address and any other relevant contact information reasonably requested by Agent with respect to each depository, the name in which the account is held, a description of the purpose of the account, and the complete account number therefor.

3.22 Government Contracts . Except as set forth in Schedule 3.22 , as of the Closing Date, no Credit Party is a party to any contract or agreement with any Governmental Authority and no Credit Party’s Accounts are subject to the Federal Assignment of Claims Act (31 U.S.C. Section 3727) or any similar state or local law.

3.23 Customer and Trade Relations . As of the Closing Date, there exists no actual or, to the knowledge of the Credit Parties, threatened termination or cancellation of, or any material adverse modification or change in (a) the business relationship of any Credit Party with any customer or group of customers whose purchases during the preceding twelve (12) calendar months caused them to be ranked among the ten (10) largest customers of such Credit Party or (b) the business relationship of any Credit Party with any supplier essential to its operations.

3.24 Bonding . Except as set forth in Schedule 3.24 , as of the Closing Date, no Credit Party is a party to or bound by any surety bond agreement, indemnification agreement therefor or bonding requirement with respect to products or services sold by it.

3.25 Other Debt Documents . As of the Closing Date, the Borrower has delivered to Agent a complete and correct copy of the Senior Notes Documents and the Rexam Documents (including, in each case, all schedules, exhibits, amendments, supplements, modifications, assignments and all other documents delivered pursuant thereto or in connection therewith). All Obligations, including the L/C Reimbursement Obligations, (x) constitute “Permitted Indebtedness” under and as defined in the Senior Notes Documents and (y) constitute Indebtedness entitled to the benefits of the Intercreditor Agreement.

3.26 Full Disclosure . None of the representations or warranties made by any Credit Party or any of their Subsidiaries in the Loan Documents as of the date such representations and warranties are made or deemed made, and none of the statements contained in each exhibit, report, statement or certificate furnished by or on behalf of any Credit Party or any of their Subsidiaries in connection with the Loan Documents (including the offering and disclosure materials, if any, delivered by or on behalf of any Credit Party to Agent or the Lenders prior to the Closing Date), contains any untrue statement of a material fact or omits any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements made therein, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading as of the time when made or delivered.

3.27 Foreign Assets Control Regulations and Anti-Money Laundering . Each Credit Party and each Restricted Subsidiary of each Credit Party is in compliance in all material respects with all U.S. economic sanctions laws, executive orders and implementing regulations as promulgated by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“ OFAC ”), and all applicable anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing provisions of the Bank Secrecy Act and all regulations issued pursuant to it. No Credit Party and no Restricted

 

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Subsidiary or Affiliate of a Credit Party (i) is a Person designated by the U.S. government on the list of the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (the “ SDN List” ) with which a U.S. Person cannot deal with or otherwise engage in business transactions, (ii) is a Person who is otherwise the target of U.S. economic sanctions laws such that a U.S. Person cannot deal or otherwise engage in business transactions with such Person or (iii) is controlled by (including without limitation by virtue of such person being a director or owning voting shares or interests), or acts, directly or indirectly, for or on behalf of, any person or entity on the SDN List or a foreign government that is the target of U.S. economic sanctions prohibitions such that the entry into, or performance under, this Agreement or any other Loan Document would be prohibited under U.S. law.

3.28 Patriot Act . The Credit Parties, each of their Restricted Subsidiaries and each of their Affiliates are in compliance with (a) the Trading with the Enemy Act, and each of the foreign assets control regulations of the United States Treasury Department and any other enabling legislation or executive order relating thereto, (b) the Patriot Act and (c) other federal or state laws relating to “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations. No part of the proceeds of any Loan will be used directly or indirectly for any payments to any government official or employee, political party, official of a political party, candidate for political office, or anyone else acting in an official capacity, in order to obtain, retain or direct business or obtain any improper advantage, in violation of the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977.

3.29 Related Transactions . As of the Closing Date, all of the Related Transactions have been or, simultaneously with the funding of the initial Loans hereunder and the application of the proceeds thereof, will have been consummated.

3.30 Solvency . Both before and after giving effect to (a) the Loans made and Letters of Credit Issued on or prior to the date this representation and warranty is made or remade, (b) the disbursement of the proceeds of such Loans to or as directed by the Borrower, (c) the consummation of the Related Transactions and (d) the payment and accrual of all transaction costs in connection with the foregoing, the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, are Solvent.

ARTICLE IV.

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS

Each Credit Party covenants and agrees that, until the Facility Termination Date:

4.1 Financial Statements . Each Credit Party shall maintain, and shall cause each of its Subsidiaries to maintain, a system of accounting established and administered in accordance with sound business practices to permit the preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards (provided that monthly no financial statements shall not be required to have include any “management’s discussion and analysis” or guarantor/non-guarantor footnote disclosures and disclosure, and monthly and quarterly financial statements are subject to normal year-end adjustments). The Borrower shall deliver to Agent and each Lender by Electronic Transmission and in detail reasonably satisfactory to Agent and the Required Lenders:

(a) as soon as available, but not later than ninety (90) 120 days after the end of each Fiscal Year, a copy of the audited consolidated and consolidating balance sheets of Holdings and each of its Restricted Subsidiaries as at the end of such Fiscal Year and the related

 

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consolidated and consolidating statements of income or operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for such Fiscal Year, setting forth in each case in comparative form the figures for the previous Fiscal Year (provided that such financial statements shall not be required to include any “management’s discussion and analysis”) or guarantor/non-guarantor footnote disclosure , and accompanied by the report of any “Big Four” or other nationally-recognized independent certified public accounting firm reasonably acceptable to Agent which report shall (i) contain an unqualified opinion, stating that such consolidated financial statements present fairly in all material respects the financial position for the periods indicated in conformity with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards applied on a basis consistent with prior years and (ii) not include any explanatory paragraph expressing substantial doubt as to going concern status;

(b) as soon as available, but not later than forty-five sixty-five ( 45 65 ) days after the end of each Fiscal Quarter (including the last of the first three Fiscal Quarter of each Fiscal Year), a copy of the unaudited consolidated and consolidating balance sheets of Holdings and each of its Restricted Subsidiaries, and the related consolidated and consolidating statements of income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows as of the end of such Fiscal Quarter and for the portion of the Fiscal Year then ended (provided that such financial statements shall not be required to include any “management’s discussion and analysis” or footnote disclosure) , each of which shall be complete and correct and fairly present, in all material respects, in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards , the financial position and the results of operations of Holdings and its Subsidiaries, subject to normal year-end adjustments and absence of footnote disclosures; and

(c) as soon as available, but not later than thirty (30) days after the end of each fiscal month of each year (other than the last fiscal month of each Fiscal Quarter) during which a Monthly Reporting Period, or any part thereof, had been continuing , a copy of the unaudited consolidated and consolidating balance sheets of Holdings and each of its Restricted Subsidiaries, and the related consolidated and consolidating statements of income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows as of the end of such fiscal month and for the portion of the Fiscal Year then ended (provided that such financial statements shall not be required to include any “management’s discussion and analysis” or footnote disclosure) , each of which shall be complete and correct and fairly present, in all material respects, in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards , the financial position and the results of operations of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, subject to normal year-end adjustments and absence of footnote disclosures.

4.2 Certificates; Other Information . The Borrower shall furnish to Agent and each Lender by Electronic Transmission:

(a) together with each delivery of financial statements pursuant to Sections 4.1(a) and 4.1(b) , a report setting forth in comparative form the corresponding figures for the corresponding periods of the previous Fiscal Year and the corresponding figures from the most recent projections for the current Fiscal Year delivered pursuant to Section 4.2(lk) and discussing the reasons for any significant variations (provided that such report shall not be required to include any “management’s discussion and analysis” or footnote disclosure) ;

(b) concurrently with the delivery of the financial statements referred to in Sections 4.1(a) , 4.1(b) and 4.1(c) , (i) a fully and properly completed certificate in the form of Exhibit 4.2(b) (a “ Compliance Certificate ”), certified on behalf of the Borrower by a Responsible Officer of Holdings and (ii) a list of any items described in clause (i) , (ii) or (iii)  of the first sentence of Section 3.15 that are neither listed on Schedule 3.15 nor previously identified pursuant to this clause (b)(ii) ;

 

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(c) promptly after the same are sent, copies of all financial statements and reports which any Credit Party sends to its shareholders or other equity holders, as applicable, generally and promptly after the same are filed, copies of all financial statements and regular, periodic or special reports which such Person may make to, or file with, the Securities and Exchange Commission or any successor or similar Governmental Authority;

(d) (i) as soon as available and in any event within twenty (20) days after the end of each calendar month (or, during any Weekly Reporting Period, within three (3) Business Days after the end of each calendar week), a Borrowing Base Certificate, certified on behalf of the Borrower by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower, setting forth the Borrowing Base of the Borrower as at the end of the most-recently ended calendar month or week, as applicable; and (ii) prior to the AB Receivables Financing Effective Date, during any AB No-Offset Period, to the extent not already provided under the preceding clause (i), as soon as available and in any event within three (3) Business Days after the end of each calendar week, a Borrowing Base Certificate, certified on behalf of the Borrower by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower, solely setting forth the Eligible Accounts as to which the related Account Debtor is Anheuser-Busch and that are included in the Borrowing Base as at the end of the most-recently ended calendar week;

(e) within twenty (20) days after the end of each calendar month, a summary of Inventory by location and type with a supporting perpetual Inventory report, in each case accompanied by such supporting detail and documentation as shall be requested by Agent in its reasonable discretion;

(f) within twenty (20) days after the end of each calendar month, a detailed aging of Accounts, accompanied by such supporting detail and documentation as shall be requested by Agent in its reasonable discretion;

(g) within twenty (20) days after the end of each calendar month, a detailed aging of accounts payable accompanied by such supporting detail and documentation as shall be requested by Agent in its reasonable discretion;

(h) concurrently with the delivery of the Borrowing Base Certificate (together with a copy of all or any part of such delivery requested by any Lender in writing after the Closing Date), collateral reports, including all additions and reductions (cash and non-cash) with respect to Accounts of the Credit Parties in each case accompanied by such supporting detail and documentation as shall be requested by Agent in its Permitted Discretion each of which shall be prepared by the Borrower as of the last day of the immediately preceding week or calendar month, as applicable;

(i) at the time of delivery of each of the monthly financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 4.1(c) , a reconciliation of the following, in each case, accompanied by such supporting detail and documentation as shall be requested by Agent in its reasonable discretion;

(i) the most recent Borrowing Base Certificate, general ledger and month-end accounts receivable aging of the Borrower to the Borrower’s general ledger and monthly financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 4.1(c) ;

 

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(ii) the perpetual inventory by location to the Borrower’s most recent Borrowing Base Certificate, general ledger and monthly financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 4.1(c) ;

(iii) the accounts payable aging to the Borrower’s general ledger and monthly financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 4.1(c) ; and

(iv) the outstanding Loans as set forth in the monthly loan account statement provided by Agent to the Borrower’s general ledger and monthly financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 4.1(c) ;

(j) at the time of delivery of each of the monthly, quarterly or annual financial statements delivered pursuant to Section 4.1 , (i) a listing of government contracts of the Borrower subject to the Federal Assignment of Claims Act of 1940 or any similar state or municipal law; and (ii) a list of any applications for the registration of any Patent, Trademark or Copyright filed by any Credit Party with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the United States Copyright Office or any similar office or agency in each case entered into or filed in the prior Fiscal Quarter;

(k) as soon as available and in any event no later than thirty (30) days prior to the last day of the Fiscal Year of the Borrower, projections of the Credit Parties and their Restricted Subsidiaries’ consolidated and consolidating financial performance for the next Fiscal Year on a month-by-month basis and for each Fiscal Year thereafter through the 2018 2020 Fiscal Year on a year-by-year basis;

(l) promptly upon receipt thereof, copies of any reports submitted by Holdings’ certified public accountants in connection with each annual, interim or special audit or review of any type of the financial statements or internal control systems of any Credit Party made by such accountants;

(m) promptly after the same are delivered, copies of any reports, notices or other information required to be delivered to the Senior Noteholders pursuant to the Senior Notes Indenture;

(m)   (n) commencing with the calendar week ending December 13, 2014 and ending with (and including) the calendar week ending March 7, 2015, by no later than the second (2 nd ) Business Day of each calendar week, cash flow projections of the Credit Parties for the 13-week period commencing on the first day of such calendar week, in form reasonably satisfactory to Agent; and

(n)   (o) promptly, such additional business, financial, collateral, corporate affairs, perfection certificates and other information as Agent may from time to time reasonably request . ; and

(o) not later than sixty-five (65) days after the end of each Fiscal Quarter (excluding the last Fiscal Quarter of each Fiscal Year), and not later than one hundred twenty (120) days after the end of each Fiscal Year, in the Agent’s discretion, written notice of a teleconference with the Lenders, which teleconference shall be held during such period.

 

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4.3 Notices . The Borrower shall notify promptly Agent and each Lender of each of the following (and in no event later than three (3) Business Days after a Responsible Officer of any Credit Party becomes aware thereof):

(a) the occurrence or existence of any Default or Event of Default;

(b) any breach or non-performance of, or any default under, any Contractual Obligation of any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party, or any violation of, or non-compliance with, any Requirement of Law, which would reasonably be expected to result, either individually or in the aggregate, in a Material Adverse Effect, including a description of such breach, non-performance, default, violation or non-compliance and the steps, if any, such Person has taken, is taking or proposes to take in respect thereof;

(c) any dispute, litigation, investigation, proceeding or suspension which may exist at any time between any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party and any Governmental Authority which would reasonably be expected to result, either individually or in the aggregate, in a Material Adverse Effect;

(d) the commencement of, or any material development in, any litigation or proceeding affecting any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party or its respective property, (i) in which the amount of damages claimed is $2,500,000 or more, (ii) in which injunctive or similar relief is sought and which, if adversely determined, would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, or (iii) in which the relief sought is an injunction or other stay of the performance of this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any Other Debt Document;

(e) (i) the receipt by any Credit Party of any notice of violation of or potential liability or similar notice under Environmental Law, (ii)(A) unpermitted Releases, (B) the existence of any condition that could reasonably be expected to result in violations of or Liabilities under, any Environmental Law or (C) the commencement of, or any material change to, any action, investigation, suit, proceeding, audit, claim, demand, dispute alleging a violation of or Liability under any Environmental Law which in the case of clauses (A), (B) and (C) above, in the aggregate for all such clauses, would reasonably be expected to result in Material Environmental Liabilities, (iii) the receipt by any Credit Party of notification that any Property of any Credit Party is subject to any Lien in favor of any Governmental Authority securing, in whole or in part, Environmental Liabilities and (iv) any proposed acquisition or lease of Real Estate, if such acquisition or lease would have a reasonable likelihood of resulting in Material Environmental Liabilities;

(f) (i) on or prior to any filing by any ERISA Affiliate of any notice of any reportable event under Section 4043 of ERISA, or intent to terminate any Title IV Plan, a copy of such notice (ii) promptly, and in any event within ten (10) days, after any officer of any ERISA Affiliate knows or has reason to know that a request for a minimum funding waiver under Section 412 of the Code has been filed with respect to any Title IV Plan or Multiemployer Plan, a notice describing such waiver request and any action that any ERISA Affiliate proposes to take with respect thereto, together with a copy of any notice filed with the PBGC or the IRS pertaining thereto, and (iii) promptly, and in any event within ten (10) days after any officer of any ERISA Affiliate knows or has reason to know that an ERISA Event will or has occurred, a notice describing such ERISA Event, and any action that any ERISA Affiliate proposes to take with respect thereto, together with a copy of any notices received from or filed with the PBGC, IRS, Multiemployer Plan or other Benefit Plan pertaining thereto;

 

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(g) any Material Adverse Effect subsequent to the date of the most recent audited financial statements delivered to Agent and Lenders pursuant to this Agreement;

(h) any material change in accounting policies or financial reporting practices by any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party;

(i) any labor controversy resulting in or threatening to result in any strike, work stoppage, boycott, shutdown or other labor disruption against or involving any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party if the same would reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect;

(j) the creation, establishment or acquisition of any Subsidiary;

(k) if any Credit Party acquires any Margin Stock; and

(l) the termination of, amendment to, or any default or alleged breach under, any Other Debt Document or Material Contract.

Each notice pursuant to this Section 4.3 shall be in electronic form accompanied by a statement by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower setting forth details of the occurrence referred to therein, and stating what action the Borrower or other Person proposes to take with respect thereto and at what time. Each notice under Section 4.3(a) shall describe with particularity any and all clauses or provisions of this Agreement or other Loan Document that have been breached or violated. Each notice under Section 4.3(l) shall include a copy of the related amendment, termination agreement, termination notice, notice of breach, or other related documentation.

4.4 Preservation of Corporate Existence, Etc . Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to:

(a) preserve and maintain in full force and effect its organizational existence and good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation, organization or formation, as applicable, except as permitted by Section 5.3 ;

(b) preserve and maintain in full force and effect all rights, privileges, qualifications, permits, licenses and franchises necessary in the normal conduct of its business except as permitted by Sections 5.2 and 5.3 and except as would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect;

(c) preserve or renew all of its registered Trademarks, the non-preservation of which would reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect;

(d) conduct its business and affairs without infringement of or interference with any Intellectual Property of any other Person in any respect and shall comply in all respects with the terms of its IP Licenses except, in each case, as would not be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect; and

(e) transact business only in the name of itself or, with respect to each Credit Party other than Holdings, another Restricted Subsidiary (and, in any event, not in the name of any Unrestricted Subsidiary).

 

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4.5 Maintenance of Property . Each Credit Party shall maintain, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to maintain, and preserve all its Property which is used or useful in its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted and shall make all necessary repairs thereto and renewals and replacements thereof except where the failure to do so would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

4.6 Insurance .

(a) Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, (i) maintain or cause to be maintained in full force and effect all policies of insurance of any kind with respect to the Property and businesses of the Credit Parties and such Restricted Subsidiaries (including policies of life, fire, theft, product liability, public liability, Flood Insurance, property damage, other casualty, employee fidelity, workers’ compensation, business interruption and employee health and welfare insurance) with financially sound and reputable insurance companies or associations (in each case that are not Affiliates of Holdings) of a nature and providing such coverage as is sufficient and as is customarily carried by businesses of the size and character of the business of the Credit Parties and (ii) cause all such insurance relating to any Property or business of any Credit Party to name Agent as additional insured or lenders loss payee, as agent for the Lenders, as appropriate. All policies of insurance on real and personal Property of the Credit Parties will contain an endorsement, in form and substance acceptable to Agent, showing loss payable to Agent (Form CP 1218 or equivalent and naming Agent as lenders loss payee as agent for the Lenders) and extra expense and business interruption endorsements. Such endorsement, or an independent instrument furnished to Agent, will provide that the insurance companies will give Agent at least 30 days’ prior written notice before any such policy or policies of insurance shall be altered or canceled and that no act or default of the Credit Parties or any other Person shall affect the right of Agent to recover under such policy or policies of insurance in case of loss or damage. Each Credit Party shall direct all present and future insurers under its “All Risk” policies of property insurance to pay all proceeds payable thereunder directly to Agent. Subject to the terms of the Intercreditor Agreement, if any insurance proceeds are paid by check, draft or other instrument payable to any Credit Party and Agent jointly, Agent may endorse such Credit Party’s name thereon and do such other things as Agent may deem advisable to reduce the same to cash. Agent reserves the right at any time, upon review of each Credit Party’s risk profile, to reasonably require additional forms and limits of insurance. Notwithstanding the requirement in clause (i) above, All Flood Insurance shall not be required for (x) on Real Estate not located in a Special Flood Hazard Area, or (y) Real Estate located in a Special Flood Hazard Area in a community that does not participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. (including all related diligence, documentation and coverage) shall comply with the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, as amended, or otherwise shall be reasonably satisfactory to all Lenders.

(b) Unless the Credit Parties provide Agent with evidence of the insurance coverage required by this Agreement (including, without limitation, Flood Insurance), Agent may purchase insurance (including, without limitation, Flood Insurance) at the Credit Parties’ expense to protect Agent’s and Lenders’ interests in the Credit Parties’ and their Restricted Subsidiaries’ properties with ten (10) days’ prior notice to the Credit Parties; provided that, at any time within the 30 days prior to the date on which any of the Credit Parties’ existing insurance coverage is scheduled to lapse, Agent may purchase such insurance to replace the applicable existing

 

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insurance so scheduled to lapse so long as it informs the Credit Parties of such purchase promptly thereafter. This insurance may, but need not, protect the Credit Parties’ and their Restricted Subsidiaries’ interests. The coverage that Agent purchases may not pay any claim that any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party makes or any claim that is made against such Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with said Property. The Credit Parties may later cancel any insurance purchased by Agent, but only after providing Agent with evidence that there has been obtained insurance as required by this Agreement. If Agent purchases insurance, the Credit Parties will be responsible for the costs of that insurance, including interest and any other charges Agent may impose in connection with the placement of insurance, until the effective date of the cancellation or expiration of the insurance. The costs of the insurance shall be added to the Obligations. The costs of the insurance may be more than the cost of insurance the Credit Parties may be able to obtain on their own.

4.7 Payment of Obligations . Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, pay, discharge and perform as the same shall become due and payable or required to be performed:

(a) all Tax liabilities, assessments and governmental charges or levies upon it or its Property, unless the same are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings diligently prosecuted which stay the filing or enforcement of any Lien and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards are being maintained by such Person;

(b) all lawful claims which, if unpaid, would by law become a Lien upon its Property unless the same are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings diligently prosecuted which stay the imposition or enforcement of any Lien and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards are being maintained by such Person;

(c) the performance of all obligations under any Contractual Obligation to such Credit Party or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries is bound, or to which it or any of its Property is subject, including the Other Debt Documents, except where the failure to perform would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect; and

(d) payments to the extent necessary to avoid the imposition of a Lien with respect to, or the involuntary termination of any underfunded Benefit Plan.

4.8 Compliance with Laws . Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, comply with all Requirements of Law of any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over it or its business, except where the failure to comply would not reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

4.9 Inspection of Property and Books and Records; Appraisals .

(a) Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, with respect to each owned, leased, or controlled property, during normal business hours and upon reasonable advance notice (unless an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, in which event no notice shall be required and Agent shall have access at any and all times): (a) provide access to such property to Agent and any of its Related

 

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Persons, as frequently as Agent determines to be appropriate; and (b) permit Agent and any of its Related Persons to conduct field examinations, audit, inspect and make extracts and copies (or take originals if reasonably necessary) from all of such Credit Party’s books and records, and evaluate and make physical verifications of the Inventory and other Collateral in any manner and through any medium that Agent considers advisable, in each instance, at the Credit Parties’ expense; provided that, (i) during and prior to the 2015 Fiscal Year, the Credit Parties shall only be obligated to reimburse Agent for the expenses of two (2) such field examinations, audits and inspections per Fiscal Year, unless (x) Availability is or has been less than the greater of $25,000,000 and 12.5% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment during such Fiscal Year or (y) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and (ii) after the 2015 Fiscal Year, unless an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Credit Parties shall only be obligated to reimburse Agent for the expenses of one (1) such field examination, audit and inspection per Fiscal Year (or, if Availability is less than the greater of $50,000,000 and 25% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment in any Fiscal Year, for two (2) such field examinations, audits and inspections for such Fiscal Year). Any Lender may accompany Agent or its Related Persons in connection with any inspection at such Lender’s expense.

(b) Upon Agent’s request from time to time, the Credit Parties shall permit and enable Agent to obtain appraisals in form and substance and from appraisers reasonably satisfactory to Agent stating (i) the then Net Orderly Liquidation Value, or such other value as determined by Agent, of all or any portion of the Inventory of the Borrower and (ii) the fair market value, or such other value as determined by Agent (for example, replacement cost for purposes of Flood Insurance), of any Real Estate of any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party, including any appraisal required to comply with FIRREA; provided that, notwithstanding any provision herein to the contrary, (i) during and prior to the 2015 Fiscal Year, the Credit Parties shall only be obligated to reimburse Agent for the expenses of such appraisals occurring two (2) times per Fiscal Year, unless (x) Availability is or has been less than the greater of $25,000,000 and 12.5% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment or (y) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and (ii) after the 2015 Fiscal Year, unless an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Credit Parties shall only be obligated to reimburse Agent for the expenses of one (1) such appraisal per Fiscal Year (or, if Availability is less than the greater of $50,000,000 and 25% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment in any Fiscal Year, for two (2) such appraisals for such Fiscal Year).

4.10 Use of Proceeds . The Borrower shall use the proceeds of the Loans solely as follows: (a)  on the Closing Date, to refinance a portion of the Indebtedness of the Borrower under the Existing Revolving Credit Agreement, (b) to pay costs and expenses of the Related Transactions and costs and expenses required to be paid pursuant to Section 2.1 and (c) for working capital, capital expenditures and general corporate purposes not in contravention of any Requirement of Law and not in violation of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents.

4.11 Cash Management Systems . Within three (3) Business Days following the Closing Date (or such later date as Agent may agree to in its sole discretion), each Credit Party shall enter into, and cause each depository, securities intermediary or commodities intermediary to enter into, Control Agreements providing for “springing” cash dominion with respect to each deposit, securities, commodity or similar account maintained by such Person (other than (a) any payroll account so long as such payroll account is a zero balance account, (b) petty cash accounts, amounts on deposit in which do not exceed $250,000 in the aggregate at any one time, (c) zero balance disbursement accounts, (d) withholding tax and fiduciary accounts and (e) any Credit Party’s primary concentration account) as of and after the Closing Date. In addition, at Agent’s request, Credit Parties will enter into Control Agreements providing for springing cash

 

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dominion over disbursement accounts as of and after the Closing Date, except as set forth in the preceding sentence. With respect to accounts subject to “springing” Control Agreements, Agent shall not deliver to the relevant depository, securities intermediary or commodities intermediary a notice or other instruction which provides for exclusive control over such account by Agent unless a Dominion Period is continuing. The Credit Parties shall cause all payments received by them each day to be deposited into deposit accounts within one (1) Business Day following receipt. The Credit Parties shall not maintain cash on deposit in disbursement accounts in excess of outstanding checks and wire transfers payable from such accounts and amounts necessary to meet minimum balance requirements.

4.12 Access Agreements . Each Credit Party shall use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a landlord agreement or bailee or mortgagee waivers, as applicable, from the lessor of each leased property, bailee in possession of any Collateral or mortgagee of any owned property with respect to each location where any Collateral having a fair market value in excess of $250,000 is stored or located, which agreement shall be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to Agent.

4.13 Further Assurances .

(a) Each Credit Party shall ensure that all written information, exhibits and reports furnished to Agent or the Lenders do not and will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact and do not and will not omit to state any material fact or any fact necessary to make the statements contained therein not misleading in light of the circumstances in which made, and will promptly disclose to Agent and the Lenders and correct any defect or error that may be discovered therein or in any Loan Document or in the execution, acknowledgement or recordation thereof; provided that, with respect to projected financial information, each Credit Party covenants only to ensure that such information will be prepared in good faith based on assumptions believed to be reasonable at the time prepared.

(b) Promptly upon request by Agent, the Credit Parties shall (and, subject to the limitations set forth herein and in the Collateral Documents, shall cause each of their Restricted Subsidiaries to) take such additional actions and execute such documents as Agent may reasonably require from time to time in order (i) to carry out more effectively the purposes of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, (ii) to subject to the Liens created by any of the Collateral Documents any of the Properties, rights or interests covered by any of the Collateral Documents, (iii) to perfect and maintain the validity, effectiveness and priority of any of the Collateral Documents and the Liens intended to be created thereby, and (iv) to better assure, convey, grant, assign, transfer, preserve, protect and confirm to the Secured Parties the rights granted or now or hereafter intended to be granted to the Secured Parties under any Loan Document. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing and except as otherwise approved in writing by Required Lenders, the Credit Parties shall cause (i) each of their Restricted Subsidiaries (other than Excluded Subsidiaries and AB Receivables Subsidiaries), promptly after formation or acquisition thereof, that incur Contingent Obligations to support any Indebtedness of any Constellium Entity, promptly after incurring such Contingent Obligations, to guaranty the Obligations, (ii) each such Restricted Subsidiary (other than Excluded Subsidiaries and AB Receivables Subsidiaries that grants Liens to support any Indebtedness of any Constellium Entity (including, without limitation, to secure Contingent Obligations of such Restricted Subsidiary that support such Indebtedness ) to grant to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, a security interest in, subject to the limitations set forth herein and in the Collateral Documents, all of such Subsidiary’s Property to secure such guaranty the Obligations promptly after granting such Liens and (iii) Holdco II to guaranty the Obligations. Furthermore and except as otherwise

 

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approved in writing by Required Lenders, each Credit Party shall pledge, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than Excluded Subsidiaries and AB Receivables Subsidiaries) that incurs Contingent Obligations or grants Liens to support any Indebtedness of any Constellium Entity to pledge, all of the Stock and Stock Equivalents of each of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than Excluded Subsidiaries and AB Receivables Subsidiaries) and sixty-six percent (66%) of the outstanding voting Stock and Stock Equivalents and one hundred percent (100%) of outstanding non-voting Stock and Stock Equivalents of each Excluded Subsidiary directly owned by a Credit Party, in each instance, to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, to secure the Obligations, promptly after formation or acquisition of such Subsidiary. The Credit Parties shall deliver, or cause to be delivered, to Agent, appropriate resolutions, secretary certificates, certified Organizational Documents and, if requested by Agent, legal opinions relating to the matters described in this Section 4.13 (which opinions shall be in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Agent and, to the extent applicable, substantially similar to the opinions delivered on the Closing Date), in each instance with respect to each Credit Party formed or acquired after the Closing Date. In connection with each pledge of Stock and Stock Equivalents, the Credit Parties shall deliver, or cause to be delivered, to Agent, irrevocable proxies and stock powers and/or assignments, as applicable, duly executed in blank.

(c) In furtherance of the foregoing, the Credit Parties shall, (i) within 120 days following the Closing Date (or such later date as Agent may agree to in its sole discretion) with respect to any Specified Real Estate owned by the Credit Parties as of the Closing Date and (ii) upon the acquisition of any Specified Real Estate (and in any event within thirty (30) days following such acquisition) following the Closing Date, notify Agent in writing of the acquisition of such Specified Real Estate and, within 120 days after the acquisition of such Specified Real Estate (or such later date as Agent may agree to in its sole discretion), in the case of each of clauses (i)  and (ii) , grant to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, a Mortgage on any such Specified Real Estate (each, a “ Mortgage Property ”) and shall deliver such other documentation and opinions, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Agent, in connection with the grant of such Mortgage as Agent shall determine are reasonably necessary to protect Agent’s Lien therein (collectively, the “ Mortgage Supporting Documentation ”), including the following:

(i) Mortgages . Fully executed counterparts of the Mortgage with respect to such Mortgage Property, together with evidence that counterparts of such Mortgage have been delivered to any title insurance company as shall be retained by the Credit Parties (the “ Title Company ”) for recording in all places to the extent necessary, or in the determination of Agent, reasonably desirable, to effectively create a valid and enforceable Lien on such Mortgage in favor of Agent for its benefit and the benefit of the other Secured Parties (provided that in jurisdictions that impose mortgage recording taxes, such Mortgage shall not secure indebtedness in an amount exceeding 100% of the fair market value of such Mortgaged Property, as reasonably determined, in good faith, by the Credit Parties);

(ii) Insurance . Policies or certificates of insurance covering such Mortgaged Property, for the benefit of Agent and the other Secured Parties, as additional insured and loss payee and mortgagee, and shall otherwise bear endorsements of the character determined by Agent to be reasonably necessary in the applicable circumstances and, within forty-five (45) days after written notice from Agent to the Credit Parties that any Mortgaged Property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area prior to the placement of any Mortgage on any Specified Real Estate , the Credit Parties shall satisfy the Flood Insurance requirements of Section 4.6(a) ; , including by delivering all flood information, due diligence, documentation and evidence of coverage as any Lender shall have reasonably requested, and shall comply with the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, as amended, in each case in a manner reasonably satisfactory to all Lenders;

 

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(iii) Opinions of Counsel . Customary and favorable opinions addressed to Agent and the Lenders, of (x) local counsel in the jurisdiction where such Mortgaged Property is located regarding the enforceability and perfection of the Mortgage and, in cases where the applicable Grantor is organized in the jurisdiction where such Mortgaged Property is located, regarding the valid existence, due authorization, execution and delivery the related Mortgage, and (y) except in instances where such items are addressed in the opinion from local counsel, counsel for the Grantors regarding valid existence, due authorization, execution and delivery of such Mortgage, in each case, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Agent;

(iv) Title Insurance . With respect to the related Mortgage, a fully paid American Land Title Association Lender’s Extended Coverage policy of title insurance (or commitment to issue such a policy having the effect of a policy of title insurance) insuring (or committing to insure) the Lien of such Mortgage as a valid and enforceable first priority Lien on such Mortgaged Property, in an amount not less than 100% of the fair market value of such Mortgaged Property as reasonably determined, in good faith, by the Credit Parties (such policies collectively, the “ Mortgage Policy ”) issued by such Title Company, which reasonably assures Agent that such Mortgage is a valid and enforceable Lien on such Mortgaged Property, free and clear of all defects and encumbrances subject only to the Liens permitted under Section 5.1(p) or Section 5.1(s) ;

(v) Survey . An American Land Title Association/American Congress on Surveying and Mapping form survey of such Mortgaged Property (and all improvements thereon) (A) which has been prepared by a surveyor or engineer duly registered and licensed to perform surveys in the jurisdiction where such Mortgaged Property is located, (B) which is dated (or redated) to a date not earlier than 120 days prior to the delivery thereof, (C) which is certified by the surveyor (in a manner determined by Agent to be reasonably acceptable) to Agent, the Secured Parties and the Title Company, (D) which is in compliance, in all respects, with the minimum detail requirements of the American Land Title Association as such requirements are in effect on the date of preparation of such survey, (E) which is sufficient for the title company to remove all standard survey exceptions from the title insurance policy (or commitment) relating to such Mortgaged Property and issue the endorsements of the type required by clause (D)  above, and (F) for which necessary fees (if applicable) have been paid;

(vi) Appraisals . If requested by Agent, a FIRREA-compliant appraisal with respect to such Mortgaged Property;

(vii) Fixture Filings . Proper fixture filings under the applicable UCC on Form UCC-1 for filing under the applicable UCC in the appropriate jurisdiction in which such Mortgaged Property located, desirable to perfect the security interests in fixtures purported to be created by the related Mortgage in favor of Agent for its benefit and the benefit of the Secured Parties;

(viii) Mortgaged Properties Indemnification . With respect to such Mortgaged Property, such affidavits, certificates, instruments of indemnification and other items (including a so-called “gap” indemnification) as shall be reasonably required to induce the Title Company to issue the Mortgage Policies and endorsements contemplated above; and

(ix) Collateral Fees and Expenses . Evidence of payment by the Credit Parties of all Mortgage Policy premiums, search and examination charges, mortgage filing and recording taxes, fees, charges, costs and expenses required for the recording of the applicable Mortgage, fixture filings and issuance of the Mortgage Policies referred to above.

 

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(d) To the extent reasonably necessary to maintain the continuing priority of the Lien of any existing Mortgages as security for the Obligations in connection with the incurrence of an Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment, as determined by Agent in its reasonable discretion, the Credit Parties shall, within thirty (30) days of such funding or incurrence (or such later date as agreed by Agent in its sole discretion), (i) enter into and deliver to Agent, at the direction and in the reasonable discretion of Agent, a mortgage modification or new Mortgage in proper form for recording in the relevant jurisdiction and in a form reasonably satisfactory to Agent, (ii) cause to be delivered to Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties an endorsement to the Mortgage Policy, date down(s) or other evidence reasonably satisfactory to Agent insuring that the priority of the Lien of the Mortgages as security for the Obligations has not changed and confirming and/or insuring that since the issuance of the Mortgage Policy there has been no change in the condition of title and there are no intervening liens or encumbrances which may then or thereafter take priority over the Lien of the Mortgages other than as permitted under Section 5.1(p ) or Section 5.1(s) and (iii) deliver, at the request of Agent, to Agent and/or all other relevant third parties, all other items reasonably necessary to maintain the continuing priority of the Lien of the Mortgages as security for the Obligations.

(e) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, no AB Receivables Subsidiary shall be required to (i) guaranty the Obligations or (ii) grant to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, a security interest in, any of such AB Receivables Subsidiary’s Property. Furthermore, no Restricted Subsidiary shall be required to pledge to Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, any Stock or Stock Equivalents of any AB Receivables Subsidiary. Agent and the Secured Parties agree to release all Liens over any AB Receivables in connection with their transfer to an AB Receivables Subsidiary or their sale, transfer or pledge under any AB Qualified Receivables Financing permitted to be entered into pursuant to the Loan Documents, and will execute any documents and prepare and make any filings reasonably requested by the Borrower (at the sole cost and expense of the Borrower), and in form and substance approved by Agent in its reasonable discretion, as may be necessary to evidence such release.

4.14 Environmental Matters . Each Credit Party shall, and shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, comply with, and maintain its Real Estate, whether owned, leased, subleased or otherwise operated or occupied, in compliance with, all applicable Environmental Laws (including by implementing any Remedial Action necessary to achieve such compliance) or that is required by orders and directives of any Governmental Authority except where the failure to comply would not reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, result in a Material Adverse Effect. Without limiting the foregoing, if an Event of Default is continuing or if Agent at any time has a reasonable basis to believe that there exist violations of Environmental Laws by any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary Subsidiaries of any Credit Party or that there exist any Environmental Liabilities, then each Credit Party shall, promptly upon receipt of request from Agent, cause the performance of, and allow Agent and its Related Persons access to such Real Estate for the purpose of conducting, such environmental audits and assessments, including subsurface sampling of soil and groundwater, and cause the preparation of such reports, in each case as Agent may from time to time reasonably request. Such audits, assessments and reports, to the extent not conducted by Agent or any of its Related Persons, shall be conducted and prepared by reputable environmental consulting firms reasonably acceptable to Agent and shall be in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Agent.

 

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4.15 OFAC; Patriot Act . Each Credit Party shall comply, and each Credit Party shall cause each of its Restricted Subsidiaries to comply, in all material respects, with all laws, regulations and executive orders referred to in Sections 3.27 and 3.28 .

ARTICLE V.

NEGATIVE COVENANTS

Each Credit Party covenants and agrees that, until the Facility Termination Date:

5.1 Limitation on Liens . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, make, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Lien upon or with respect to any part of its Property, whether now owned or hereafter acquired, other than the following (“ Permitted Liens ”):

(a) any Lien existing on the Property of a Credit Party or a Restricted Subsidiary of a Credit Party on the Closing Date and set forth in Schedule 5.1 securing Indebtedness outstanding on such date and permitted by Section 5.5(c) , including replacement Liens on the Property currently subject to such Liens securing Indebtedness permitted by Section 5.5(c) ;

(b) any Lien created under any Loan Document;

(c) Liens for Taxes (i) which are not past due or remain payable without penalty, or (ii) the non-payment of which is permitted by Section 4.7 ;

(d) carriers’, warehousemen’s, mechanics’, landlords’, materialmen’s, repairmen’s or other similar Liens arising in the Ordinary Course of Business which are not delinquent for more than ninety (90) days or remain payable without penalty or which are being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings diligently prosecuted, which proceedings have the effect of preventing the forfeiture or sale of the Property subject thereto and for which adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards are being maintained;

(e) Liens (other than any Lien imposed by ERISA) consisting of pledges or deposits required in the Ordinary Course of Business in connection with workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance and other social security legislation or to secure the performance of tenders, statutory obligations, surety, stay, customs and appeals bonds, bids, leases, governmental contract, trade contracts, performance and return of money bonds and other similar obligations (exclusive of obligations for the payment of borrowed money) or to secure liability to insurance carriers;

(f) Liens consisting of judgment or judicial attachment liens with respect to judgments the existence of which do not constitute an Event of Default;

(g) easements, rights-of-way, zoning and other restrictions, minor defects or other irregularities in title, and other similar encumbrances incurred in the Ordinary Course of Business which, either individually or in the aggregate, are not substantial in amount, and which do not in any case materially detract from the value of the Property subject thereto or interfere in any material respect with the ordinary conduct of the businesses of any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party;

 

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(h) Liens on any Property acquired or held by any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party securing Indebtedness incurred or assumed for the purpose of financing (or refinancing) all or any part of the cost of acquiring or installing such Property and permitted under Section 5.5(d) ; provided that (i) any such Lien attaches to such Property concurrently with or within twenty (20) days after the acquisition thereof, (ii) such Lien attaches solely to the Property so acquired in such transaction and the proceeds thereof, and (iii) the principal amount of the debt secured thereby does not exceed 100% of the cost of such Property;

(i) Liens securing Capital Lease Obligations permitted under Section 5.5(d) ;

(j) any interest or title of a lessor or sublessor under any lease permitted by this Agreement;

(k) Liens arising from the filing of precautionary uniform commercial code financing statements with respect to any lease permitted by this Agreement;

(l) non-exclusive licenses and sublicenses granted by a Credit Party and leases or subleases (by a Credit Party as lessor or sublessor) to third parties in the Ordinary Course of Business not interfering with the business of the Credit Parties or any of their Restricted Subsidiaries;

(m) Liens in favor of collecting banks arising by operation of law under Section 4-210 of the UCC or, with respect to collecting banks located in the State of New York, under Section 4-208 of the UCC;

(n) Liens (including the right of setoff) in favor of a bank or other depository institution arising as a matter of law encumbering deposits;

(o) Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities arising as a matter of law which secure payment of customs duties in connection with the importation of goods in the Ordinary Course of Business;

(p) Liens securing Indebtedness under the Senior Notes Documents to the extent such Indebtedness is permitted hereunder and under the Intercreditor Agreement;

(q) Liens on the Specified Mill Assets securing Indebtedness under the Rexam Financing Documents to the extent such Indebtedness is permitted hereunder and under the Intercreditor Agreement; and

(r) Liens on AB Receivables in connection with AB Qualified Receivables Financings permitted hereunder . ;

(s) Liens securing Contingent Obligations permitted pursuant to Section 5.8(k); provided, that to the extent such Liens encumber any ABL Priority Collateral, such Liens shall be subordinated to the Liens securing the Obligations and created under the Loan Documents pursuant to the Intercreditor Agreement or another intercreditor agreement having substantially the same subordination terms as the Intercreditor Agreement and otherwise in a customary form reasonably acceptable to the Agent; and

 

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(t) Liens on assets of the Borrower (other than ABL Priority Collateral) not otherwise permitted above so long as the aggregate principal amount of the Indebtedness and other obligations subject to such Liens does not at any time exceed $20,000,000.

5.2 Disposition of Assets . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, sell, assign, lease, convey, transfer or otherwise dispose of (whether in one or a series of transactions) any Property (including the Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party, whether in a public or a private offering or otherwise, and accounts and notes receivable, with or without recourse) or enter into any agreement to do any of the foregoing, except:

(a) dispositions in the Ordinary Course of Business of Inventory or worn-out or surplus Equipment;

(b) dispositions (other than of (x) the Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party or (y) any Accounts or Inventory of any Credit Party) not otherwise permitted hereunder which are made for fair market value and either (A) satisfy each of the following criteria: (i) at the time of any such disposition, no Event of Default shall exist or shall result therefrom, (ii) the sales price from any such disposition shall be paid in cash (and/or, solely with respect to the dispositions of the Stock (or all, or substantially all, of the assets) of any Unrestricted Subsidiary, Stock of the related purchaser) and (iii) subject to the Intercreditor Agreement and except with respect to dispositions of the Stock (or all, or substantially all, of the assets) of any Unrestricted Subsidiary to the extent of any consideration received consisting of Stock of the related purchaser, the Net Proceeds of any such disposition shall be applied to the Loans or (B) constitute dispositions for which the aggregate book value of the Property subject to such dispositions does not collectively exceed $5,000,000 during the term of this Agreement;

(c) (i) dispositions of Cash Equivalents in the Ordinary Course of Business made to a Person that is not an Affiliate of any Credit Party and (ii) conversions of Cash Equivalents into cash or other Cash Equivalents;

(d) transactions permitted under Section 5.1(l) ;

(e) leases of Equipment or Real Estate to joint ventures (which may be partially owned by a Credit Party) that enter into purchase agreements with a Credit Party to purchase such Credit Party’s products, in each case, in the Ordinary Course of Business, on arm’s length terms and in compliance with Section 5.6(a) ; and

(f) dispositions of AB Receivables pursuant to an AB Qualified Receivables Financing . ; and

(g) any merger, consolidation, conveyance, transfer, lease or other disposition of the Stock of, or undertaken by, Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC, Listerhill Total Maintenance Center, LLC, or Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, so long as the assets attributable to such entities do not have a book value or fair market value in an aggregate amount in excess of $4 million measured at the time of each such disposition.

5.3 Consolidations and Mergers . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to merge, consolidate with or into, or convey,

 

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transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (whether in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or substantially all of its assets (whether now owned or hereafter acquired) to or in favor of any Person, except, upon not less than five (5) Business Days prior written notice to Agent, (i) to consummate a Permitted Acquisition, (ii) to merge with, or dissolve or liquidate into, into any Credit Party, (iii) with respect to any Excluded Subsidiary of any Credit Party, to merge with, or dissolve or liquidate into, any other Excluded Subsidiary of any Credit Party and, (iv) with respect to any AB Receivables Subsidiary, the sale of all or substantially all of the AB Receivables of such AB Receivables Subsidiary in one or more transactions pursuant to any AB Qualified Receivables Financing , and (v) any merger, consolidation, conveyance, transfer, lease or other disposition of the Stock of, or undertaken by, Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC, Listerhill Total Maintenance Center, LLC, or Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, so long as the assets attributable to such entities do not have a book value or fair market value in an aggregate amount in excess of $4 million measured at the time of each such disposition ; provided , however , that (x) in the case of any merger, consolidation, conveyance, dissolution or liquidation involving the Borrower, the Borrower shall be the surviving Person, (y) in the case of any merger, consolidation, conveyance, dissolution or liquidation involving any other Credit Party, a Credit Party shall be the surviving Person and (z) no prior written notice to Agent shall be required pursuant to this Section 5.3 for the sale described in clause (iv) above or any transaction described in clause (v) above .

5.4 Acquisitions; Loans and Investments . No Credit Party shall and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to (i) purchase or acquire, or make any commitment to purchase or acquire any Stock or Stock Equivalents, or any obligations or other securities of, or any interest in, any Person, including the establishment or creation of a Subsidiary, (ii) make or commit to make any Acquisitions, or any other acquisition of all or substantially all of the assets of another Person, or of any business or division of any Person, including without limitation, by way of merger, consolidation or other combination or (iii) make or purchase, or commit to make or purchase, any advance, loan, extension of credit or capital contribution to or any other investment in, any Person including the Borrower, any Affiliate of the Borrower or any Subsidiary of Holdings (the items described in clauses (i) , (ii) and (iii) are referred to as “ Investments ”), except for:

(a) Investments in cash and Cash Equivalents;

(b) Investments consisting of (i) extensions of credit or capital contributions by Holdings to or in any Credit Party or to or in any Constellium Entity , (ii) extensions of credit or capital contributions by any Credit Party (other than Holdings) to or in any other then existing Credit Party (other than Holdings) or to or in any Constellium Entity ; provided, that (A) if any Credit Party or Constellium Entity executes and delivers to any other Credit Party a note (collectively, the “ Intercompany Notes ”) to evidence any Investments described in the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii) that Intercompany Note shall be pledged and delivered to Agent pursuant to the Guaranty and Security Agreement as additional collateral security for the Obligations; (B) each Credit Party shall accurately record all intercompany transactions on its books and records; and (C) at the time any such intercompany loan or advance is made by the Borrower to any other Credit Party and after giving effect thereto, the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, shall be Solvent, and (iii) extensions of credit or capital contributions by an Excluded Subsidiary of any Credit Party to or in another Excluded Subsidiary of any Credit Party;

 

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(c) Investments received as the non-cash portion of consideration received in connection with transactions permitted pursuant to Section 5.2(b) ;

(d) Investments acquired in connection with the settlement of delinquent Accounts in the Ordinary Course of Business or in connection with the bankruptcy or reorganization of suppliers or customers;

(e) Investments existing on the Closing Date and set forth in Schedule 5.4 ;

(f) loans or advances to employees of Credit Parties for travel, entertainment and relocation expenses and other ordinary business purposes in the Ordinary Course of Business not to exceed $3,000,000 in the aggregate outstanding at any time;

(g) non-cash loans or advances made by any Credit Party to employees of Credit Parties that are simultaneously used by such Persons to purchase Stock or Stock Equivalents of the direct or indirect parent of such Credit Party;

(h) Investments in Wise Recycling LLC and any of its Subsidiaries in an amount not to exceed $2,000,000 in the aggregate outstanding at any time;

(i) Investments comprised of Contingent Obligations permitted by Section 5.8 ;

(j) Permitted Acquisitions;

(k) reasonable and customary Investments (including, to the extent reasonable and customary, capital contributions, intercompany debt or other extensions of credit) in any AB Receivables Subsidiary in connection with any AB Qualified Receivables Financing; and

(l) other Investments in an amount not to exceed $25,000,000 in aggregate during the term of this Agreement, so long as, after giving effect to any such Investment, either (x) Availability is not less than the greater of (i) $70,000,000 and (ii) 20% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment at such time or (y) Availability is not less than the greater of (i) $50,000,000 and (ii) 15% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment at such time and, in the case of this clause (y) , the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, calculated on a pro forma basis for the twelve month period ending as of the last day of the most recently ended fiscal month for which financial statements have been or were required to be delivered under Section 4.1 , is not less than 1.00 to 1.00.

(l) other Investments, provided that, both before and after giving effect to such Investment, no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and, after giving effect to any such Investment, the Payment Conditions shall have been satisfied.

5.5 Limitation on Indebtedness . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, create, incur, assume, permit to exist, or otherwise become or remain directly or indirectly liable with respect to, any Indebtedness, except:

(a) the Obligations;

 

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(b) Indebtedness consisting of Contingent Obligations permitted pursuant to Section 5.8 ;

(c) Indebtedness existing on the Closing Date and set forth in Schedule 5.5 including Permitted Refinancings thereof;

(d) Indebtedness not to exceed $ 75,000,000 100,000,000 in the aggregate at any time outstanding, consisting of Capital Lease Obligations or secured by Liens permitted by Section 5.1(h) and Permitted Refinancings thereof;

(e) unsecured intercompany Indebtedness permitted pursuant to Section 5.4(b) and unsecured intercompany Indebtedness owed by any Credit Party or Restricted Subsidiary thereof to any Constellium Entity ;

(f) unsecured Subordinated Indebtedness;

(g) Indebtedness of the Borrower to Rexam evidenced by or arising under the Rexam Financing Documents; provided that the aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness shall not exceed $25,000,000, less the aggregate amount of all repayments, repurchases, redemptions, rebates or credits, whether option or mandatory, in respect thereof, plus interest thereon (whether or not capitalized) at the rate provided in the Rexam Financing Documents and any Permitted Refinancing thereof;

(h) Indebtedness of Holdings and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation to the Senior Noteholders evidenced by or arising under the Senior Notes Documents and any Permitted Refinancing thereof; provided that the aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness shall not at any time exceed $650,000,000;

(i) other unsecured Indebtedness owing to Persons that are not Affiliates of the Credit Parties not exceeding $100,000,000 in the aggregate at any time outstanding; and

(j) Indebtedness incurred under any AB Qualified Receivables Financing; provided that, the aggregate principal amount at any time outstanding pursuant to this clause (j)  shall not exceed $400,000,000.

5.6 Transactions with Affiliates . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, enter into any transaction with any Affiliate of Holdings or of any such Restricted Subsidiary unless the following conditions are met:

(a) the transaction or series of transactions must be on terms which are not materially less favorable to Holdings or the Restricted Subsidiary, taken as a whole, as would be available in a comparable transaction with an unrelated third party; and

(b) if the transaction or series of transactions involves:

(i) aggregate payments of $10,000,000 or more, then the transaction or series of transactions must be approved by Holdings’ board of directors, including the approval of a majority of directors who are disinterested in the transaction or transactions being approved, or

(ii) aggregate payments of $20,000,000 or more, then Holdings or the Restricted Subsidiary must receive an opinion issued by an independent accounting, appraisal or investment banking firm of national standing stating that such transaction or series of transactions is fair to Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary from a financial point of view;

 

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provided that, this Section 5.6 shall not apply to:

(1) any employment, compensation or severance arrangement or transactions relating to benefit plans or similar arrangements, in each case, entered into in the Ordinary Course of Business, with any employee, contractor, consultant, director or officer of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary approved by Holdings’ board of directors;

(2) payment of reasonable and customary fees, benefits and reimbursements of expenses (pursuant to indemnity arrangements or otherwise) of officers, directors, employees, contractors or consultants of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

(3) loans and advances (or cancellations of loans or advances) to employees, consultants, directors and officers of Holdings or any Subsidiary in the Ordinary Course of Business for bona fide business purposes of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries otherwise permitted pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and applicable law;

(4) (x) Investments that are permitted by Section 5.4 , (y) Subordinated Indebtedness that is permitted by Section 5.5(f) and (z) Restricted Payments that are permitted by Section 5.10 ;

(5) issuances of Stock or Stock Equivalents (other than Disqualified Stock) of Holdings;

(6) any transaction between or among (x) one or more Credit Parties or (y) , Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Credit Parties , Constellium Entities, or joint ventures of any of the foregoing ;

(7) transactions with customers, clients, suppliers, joint ventures, joint venture partners, partnerships, partners or purchasers or sellers of goods or services so long as the terms of any such transactions meet the requirements of clause (a) of the first paragraph of this covenant;

(8) transactions in which Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, as the case may be, (x) obtains a letter from an accounting, appraisal or investment banking firm of national standing stating that such transaction is fair to Holdings or the relevant Restricted Subsidiary from a financial point of view or stating that the terms are not materially less favorable to Holdings or the relevant Restricted Subsidiary than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary with an unrelated Person and (y) such letter is delivered to Agent prior to the consummation of any such transactions; or

(9) any transactions in connection with any AB Qualified Receivables Financing permitted hereunder.

 

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Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, if any Credit Party or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries enters into any transaction with any Affiliate of any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary that involves payments or receipts in excess of $20,000,000 in the aggregate, the terms of such transaction must be disclosed in writing in advance to Agent; provided that, no such disclosure to Agent shall be required if such transaction satisfies the condition set forth in clause ( 6) or ( 8) of the proviso to this Section 5.6 .

5.7 Margin Stock; Use of Proceeds . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, use any portion of the Loan proceeds, directly or indirectly, to purchase or carry Margin Stock or repay or otherwise refinance Indebtedness of any Credit Party or others incurred to purchase or carry Margin Stock, or otherwise in any manner which is in contravention of any Requirement of Law or in violation of this Agreement.

5.8 Contingent Obligations . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Contingent Obligations except in respect of the Obligations and except:

(a) endorsements for collection or deposit in the Ordinary Course of Business;

(b) Rate Contracts entered into in the Ordinary Course of Business for bona fide hedging purposes and not for speculation;

(c) Contingent Obligations of the Credit Parties and their Restricted Subsidiaries existing as of the Closing Date and listed in Schedule 5.8 , including extension and renewals thereof which do not increase the amount of such Contingent Obligations or impose materially more restrictive or adverse terms on the Credit Parties or their Subsidiaries as compared to the terms of the Contingent Obligation being renewed or extended;

(d) Contingent Obligations arising under indemnity agreements to title insurers to cause such title insurers to issue to Agent title insurance policies;

(e) Contingent Obligations arising with respect to (i) customary indemnification obligations and obligations in respect of purchase price adjustments and earnouts in favor of sellers in connection with Permitted Acquisitions and (ii) customary indemnification obligations in favor of purchasers in connection with dispositions permitted under Section 5.2(b) ;

(f) Contingent Obligations arising under Letters of Credit;

(g) Contingent Obligations arising under guaranties made in the Ordinary Course of Business of obligations of any Credit Party, which obligations are otherwise permitted hereunder; provided that if such obligation is subordinated to the Obligations, such guaranty shall be subordinated to the same extent;

 

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(h) Contingent Obligations arising under surety and appeal bonds, performance bonds and other obligations of like nature, in each case, in the Ordinary Course of Business;

(i) Contingent Obligations of any Credit Party arising under any guaranties of Indebtedness permitted pursuant to Section 5.5(h) ;

(j) Contingent Obligations in respect of any AB Qualified Receivables Financing; and

(k) Contingent Obligations arising under guaranties of Indebtedness of any Constellium Entity; provided that at the time any such guaranty is given, no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing; and

(l)   (k) other Contingent Obligations not exceeding $1,000,000 in the aggregate at any time outstanding.

5.9 Compliance with ERISA . No ERISA Affiliate shall cause or suffer to exist (a) any event that could reasonably be expected to result in the imposition of a Lien on any asset of a Credit Party or a Restricted Subsidiary of a Credit Party with respect to any Title IV Plan or Multiemployer Plan or (b) any other ERISA Event, that would, in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect. No Credit Party shall cause or suffer to exist any event that could reasonably be expected to result in the imposition of a Lien with respect to any Benefit Plan.

5.10 Restricted Payments .

No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, (i) declare or make any dividend payment or other distribution of assets, properties, cash, rights, obligations or securities on account of any Stock or Stock Equivalent, (ii) purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire for value any Stock or Stock Equivalent now or hereafter outstanding, (iii) make any payment (whether by dividend, distribution, loan or otherwise) of management, consulting or other fees or expenses for management or similar services, including payments to officers and directors, or (iv) make any payment or prepayment of principal of, premium, if any, interest, fees, redemption, exchange, purchase, retirement, defeasance, sinking fund or similar payment with respect to, Subordinated Indebtedness (the items described in clauses (i) , (ii) , (iii) and (iv) above are referred to as “ Restricted Payments ”); except that any Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of the Borrower may declare and pay dividends to the Borrower or any Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of the Borrower, and except that:

(a) (i) Wise Alloys Finance Corporation may make distributions to the Borrower of the proceeds of the issuance of the Senior Notes on the Closing Date received by it and the Borrower may subsequently distribute such proceeds to Holdings and (ii) Holdings may redeem its outstanding 10% paid-in-kind preferred, non-convertible membership interests with the proceeds of the issuance of the Senior Notes on the Closing Date received by it and distributed to it by the Wise Alloys Finance Corporation or the Borrower pursuant to clause (i) ;

(b) Holdings may declare and make dividend payments or other distributions payable solely in its Stock or Stock Equivalents;

(c) so long as no Default or Event of Default exists or would arise as a result of such Restricted Payment, the Borrower or any other Credit Party may make

 

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distributions to Holdings which are immediately used by Holdings to redeem from officers, directors and employees Stock and Stock Equivalents in an aggregate amount not to exceed $2,000,000 in any Fiscal Year or $5,000,000 during the term of this Agreement;

(d) in the event the Credit Parties file a consolidated, combined, unitary or similar type income Tax return with Holdings, the Credit Parties may make distributions to Holdings to permit Holdings to pay federal and state income Taxes then due and payable, franchise Taxes and other similar licensing expenses incurred in the Ordinary Course of Business provided, that the amount of such distribution shall not be greater than the amount of such Taxes or expenses that would have been due and payable by the Credit Parties had the Credit Parties not filed a consolidated, combined, unitary or similar type return with Holdings;

(e) the Credit Parties may pay, as and when due and payable, (i) non-accelerated mandatory payments in respect of Subordinated Indebtedness and (ii) regularly scheduled interest payments in respect of intercompany Subordinated Indebtedness permitted pursuant to Section 5.5, in each case, solely to the extent permitted under the subordination terms with respect thereto;

(f) so long as Holdings is treated as a pass-through or disregarded entity for federal and state income tax purposes, each Credit Party that is treated as a pass-through or disregarded entity for federal and state income tax purposes may make distributions to Holdings, and Holdings may make tax distributions to its members (collectively, “ Tax Distributions ”), provided and only to the extent each of the following shall have been satisfied:

(i) Tax Distributions may be made quarterly provided:

(1) such Tax Distributions are made to the members of Holdings on a pro rata basis in proportion to their respective percentage interests in Holdings’ (except as otherwise required below);

(2) the aggregate amount of such Tax Distributions does not exceed, quarterly, an amount equal to, Holdings’ good faith estimate of the Applicable Tax (as hereinafter defined) with respect to such taxable year, less the amount paid, if any, with respect to prior quarters of such taxable year; and

(ii) additional Tax Distributions may be made annually after the end of Holdings’ taxable year, to the extent necessary so that the sum of the amounts so distributed pursuant to this clause (ii)  and the amounts distributed pursuant to clause (i) equals the minimum aggregate amount (the “ Applicable Tax ”) that must be distributed to provide each member with an amount that equals the product of: (1) the sum of all items of taxable income or gain allocated to such member and attributable to such Credit Party for such taxable year less all items of deduction, loss and the loss equivalent of tax credits allocated to such member (or, to the extent applicable, its predecessors in interest) for such taxable year and all prior taxable years to the extent not previously offset by taxable income or gain allocated to such member (or, to the extent applicable, its predecessors in interest) and (2) a percentage equal to [(100%-B) x A] + B, where “A” is the highest marginal federal income tax rate applicable to a corporation or individual (as appropriate) for such preceding taxable year and “B,” with respect to each member, is the highest marginal state income tax rate applicable to members for such preceding taxable year;

 

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provided , however :

(1) if the amount distributed to members pursuant to clause (i)  for the taxable year exceeds the Applicable Tax for such taxable year (including where the amounts included in taxable income of Holdings for such taxable year are decreased as result of an audit, amended return or otherwise), then, if the amount of such excess exceeds $100,000, it shall be an Event of Default if Holdings and such Credit Party do not promptly receive a refund of (or a capital contribution in the amount of) such excess; provided if the amount of such excess is equal to or is less than $100,000, such excess shall be credited against the next Tax Distributions permitted to be made with respect to subsequent taxable years;

(2) Tax Distributions may only be made for the taxable period commencing on the Closing Date and ending on December 31, 2013 and each taxable year thereafter; and

(3) no later than five (5) Business Days prior to making any Tax Distribution, such Credit Party shall have delivered to Agent a certificate duly executed and completed by a financial officer of such Credit Party stating the amount of the Tax Distribution and containing a schedule, in reasonable detail, setting forth the calculation thereof;

(g) if, both before and after giving effect thereto, no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Credit Parties and their Restricted Subsidiaries may make (i) other Restricted Payments in an amount not to exceed $7,500,000 in any Fiscal Year and (ii) additional Restricted Payments in excess of $7,500,000 if, both before and after giving effect to such additional Restricted Payments under this clause (ii) , (x) Availability is not less than the greater of $50,000,000 and 25% of the Aggregate Revolving Commitment at such time and (y) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, calculated on a pro forma basis (including after giving effect to any such additional Restricted Payments) for the twelve month period ending as of the last day of the most recently ended fiscal month for which financial statements have been or were required to be delivered under Section 4.1 , is not less than 1.10 to 1.00; and the Payment Conditions shall have been satisfied; and

(h) the Credit Parties and their Restricted Subsidiaries may make other Restricted Payments of the type described in clause (iv) of the definition thereof using solely the direct proceeds of any cash contribution or loan to any Credit Party, directly or indirectly, from Parent or any of its Subsidiaries (other than Holdings and its Subsidiaries).

5.11 Change in Business . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, engage in any line of business other than (x) lines of business substantially similar to those lines of business carried on by it on the Closing Date, (y) the “body-in-white” business and (z) other businesses reasonably complementary to the foregoing or reasonable extensions, developments or expansions thereof.

5.12 Change in Structure . Except as expressly permitted under Section 5.3 , no Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, make any material changes in its equity capital structure, issue any Stock or Stock Equivalents or amend any of its Organization Documents in any material respect and, in each case, in any respect adverse to Agent or Lenders.

 

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5.13 Changes in Accounting, Name or Jurisdiction of Organization . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall suffer or permit any of its Subsidiaries to, (i) make any significant change in accounting treatment or reporting practices, except as required by GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards , (ii) change the Fiscal Year or method for determining Fiscal Quarters of such Credit Party or of any consolidated Subsidiary of such Credit Party, (iii) to the extent such Subsidiary is a Restricted Subsidiary, change its name as it appears in official filings in its jurisdiction of organization or (iv) to the extent such Subsidiary is a Restricted Subsidiary, change its jurisdiction of organization, in the case of clauses (iii)  and (iv) , without at least twenty (20) days’ prior written notice to Agent and the acknowledgement of Agent that all actions required by Agent, including those to continue the perfection of its Liens, have been completed or will be completed.

5.14 Amendments to Material Contracts and Other Debt Documents.

(a) [Intentionally Omitted]

(b) No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries directly or indirectly to, change or amend the terms of any (i) Other Debt Document, except to the extent permitted by the Intercreditor Agreement or (ii) any other Subordinated Indebtedness, if, in the case of this clause (ii) , the effect of such change or amendment is to: (A) increase the interest rate on such Subordinated Indebtedness; (B) shorten the dates upon which payments of principal or interest are due on such Subordinated Indebtedness; (C) add or change in a manner adverse to the Credit Parties any event of default or add or make more restrictive any covenant with respect to such Subordinated Indebtedness; (D) change in a manner adverse to the Credit Parties the prepayment provisions of such Subordinated Indebtedness; (E) change the subordination provisions thereof (or the subordination terms of any guaranty thereof); or (F) change or amend any other term if such change or amendment would materially increase the obligations of the Credit Parties or confer additional material rights on the holder of such Indebtedness in a manner adverse to the Credit Parties, Agent or Lenders.

5.15 No Negative Pledges .

No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create or otherwise cause or suffer to exist or become effective any consensual encumbrance of any kind on the ability of any Credit Party or Restricted Subsidiary to pay dividends or make any other distribution on any of such Credit Party’s or Subsidiary’s Stock or Stock Equivalents to any Credit Party or to pay fees, including management fees, to any Credit Party or make other payments and distributions to any Credit Party, other than pursuant to (i) the Senior Notes Documents or (ii) any AB Receivables Financing. No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, enter into, assume or become subject to any Contractual Obligation prohibiting or otherwise restricting the existence of any Lien upon any of its assets in favor of Agent, whether now owned or hereafter acquired except in connection with any document or instrument governing (i) Liens permitted pursuant to Section 5.1(h) , 5.1(i) , 5.1(p) or , 5.1(r) or 5.1(s) provided that any such restriction contained therein relates only to the asset or assets subject to such permitted Liens , the Constellium Secured Notes Documents, or the Other Debt Documents or (ii) intercompany Subordinated Indebtedness permitted pursuant to Section 5.5 .

 

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5.16 OFAC; Patriot Act . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to use any part of the proceeds of any Loan or Letter of Credit for any purpose which would cause any party hereto to be in violation of any laws, regulations or executive orders referred to in Section 3.27 or 3.28 .

5.17 Sale-Leasebacks . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, engage in a sale leaseback, synthetic lease or similar transaction involving any of its assets, except for any such transactions for which the aggregate book value of all assets subject to such transactions, when combined with the book value of all assets financed with Indebtedness permitted under Section 5.5(d) , does not exceed $ 75,000,000 100,000,000 in the aggregate.

5.18 Hazardous Materials . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, cause or suffer to exist any Release of any Hazardous Material at, to or from any Real Estate that would violate any Environmental Law, form the basis for any Environmental Liabilities or otherwise adversely affect the value or marketability of any Real Estate (whether or not owned by any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party), except as would not reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

5.19 Prepayments of Other Indebtedness . No Credit Party shall, directly or indirectly, voluntarily purchase, redeem, defease or prepay any principal of, premium, if any, interest or other amount payable in respect of any Indebtedness (other than Subordinated Indebtedness) prior to its scheduled maturity, other than (a) the Obligations, (b) Indebtedness secured by a Permitted Lien if the asset securing such Indebtedness has been sold or otherwise disposed of in a transaction permitted hereunder, (c) a Permitted Refinancing of Indebtedness permitted under Section 5.5(c) , (d) , (g) or (h) , (d) prepayments of other Indebtedness (excluding Subordinated Indebtedness) so long as the amounts prepaid do not exceed $1,000,000 in the aggregate, (f) prepayment of intercompany Indebtedness to Credit Parties, and (f) prepayment of Indebtedness permitted under Section 5.5(h) using solely the direct proceeds of any cash contribution or loan to any Credit Party, directly or indirectly, from Parent or any of its Subsidiaries (other than Holdings and its Subsidiaries), so long as, both before and after giving effect to such prepayment, no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, and (g) any other prepayments of Indebtedness (other than Subordinated Indebtedness), so long as, both before and after giving effect to such prepayment, (i) no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, and (ii)  Availability is not less than the greater of $50,000,000 and 25% of the Aggregate Revolving Commitment and (iii) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, calculated on a pro forma basis (including after giving effect to any such additional prepayment) for the twelve month period ending as of the last day of the most recently ended fiscal month for which financial statements have been or were required to be delivered under Section 4.1 , is not less than 1.10 to 1.00. the Payment Conditions shall have been satisfied.

5.20 Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio . If a Trigger Event has occurred and is continuing, such Credit Party shall not permit the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for the twelve month period ending as of the last day of the most recently ended fiscal month for which financial statements have been or were required to be delivered pursuant to Section 4.1 to be less than 1.00 to 1.00.

 

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ARTICLE VI.

EVENTS OF DEFAULT

6.1 Events of Default . Any of the following shall constitute an “Event of Default”:

(a) Non-Payment . Holdco II or any Credit Party fails (i) to pay when and as required to be paid herein, any amount of principal of, or interest on, any Loan, including after maturity of the Loans, or to pay any L/C Reimbursement Obligation or (ii) to pay within three (3) Business Days after the same shall become due, any fee or any other amount payable hereunder or pursuant to any other Loan Document;

(b) Representation or Warranty . (i) Any representation, warranty or certification by or on behalf of Holdco II, any Credit Party or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries made or deemed made herein, in any other Loan Document, or which is contained in any certificate, document or financial or other statement by any such Person, or their respective Responsible Officers, furnished at any time under this Agreement, or in or under any other Loan Document, shall prove to have been incorrect in any material respect (without duplication of other materiality qualifiers contained therein) on or as of the date made or deemed made or (ii) any information contained in any Borrowing Base Certificate is untrue or incorrect in any respect (other than (A) inadvertent, immaterial errors not exceeding $500,000 in the aggregate in any Borrowing Base Certificate, (B) errors understating the Borrowing Base and (C) errors occurring when Availability continues to exceed $40,000,000 after giving effect to the correction of such errors);

(c) Specific Defaults . Any Credit Party fails to perform or observe any term, covenant or agreement contained in (i) any of Section 4.2(a) , 4.2(b) , 4.2(d) , 4.3(a) , 4.9 , 4.10 , 4.11 or 8.10(b) or Article V , (ii)  Section 4.1 or (iii)  Section 4.6 and, in the case of clauses (ii)  and (iii) , such default shall continue unremedied for a period of five (5) days (in the case of clause (ii) ) or fifteen (15) days (in the case of clause (iii) ) after the earlier to occur of (x) the date upon which a Responsible Officer of any Credit Party becomes aware of such failure and (y) the date upon which written notice thereof is given to the Borrower by Agent or the Required Lenders;

(d) Other Defaults . Holdco II or any Credit Party or Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party fails to perform or observe any other term, covenant or agreement contained in this Agreement or any other Loan Document, and such default shall continue unremedied for a period of thirty (30) days after the earlier to occur of (i) the date upon which a Responsible Officer of any Credit Party becomes aware of such default and (ii) the date upon which written notice thereof is given to the Borrower by Agent or the Required Lenders;

(e) Cross-Default . Any Credit Party or , any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party or any Constellium Entity obligated on Indebtedness that is both guaranteed by, and secured by any assets or property of, any Credit Party or Restricted Subsidiary of a Credit Party (i) fails to make any payment in respect of any (x) any Indebtedness or Contingent Obligation under any Other Debt Document or (y) any Indebtedness (other than the Obligations and Indebtedness under any Other Debt Documents) or Contingent Obligation (other than the Obligations or Contingent Obligations under any Other Debt Document) having an aggregate principal amount (including undrawn committed or available amounts and including amounts owing to all creditors under any combined or syndicated credit arrangement) of more than $ 25,000,000 50,000,000 when due (whether by scheduled maturity, required prepayment, acceleration, demand, or otherwise) and such failure continues after the applicable grace or

 

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notice period, if any, specified in the document relating thereto on the date of such failure; or (ii) fails to perform or observe any other condition or covenant, or any other event shall occur or condition exist, under any agreement or instrument relating to any such Indebtedness or Contingent Obligation (other than Contingent Obligations owing by one Credit Party with respect to the obligations of another Credit Party permitted hereunder or earnouts permitted hereunder) described in clause (i)  above, if the effect of such failure, event or condition is to cause, or to permit the holder or holders of such Indebtedness or beneficiary or beneficiaries of such Indebtedness (or a trustee or agent on behalf of such holder or holders or beneficiary or beneficiaries) to cause such Indebtedness to be declared to be due and payable prior to its stated maturity (without regard to any subordination terms with respect thereto), or such Contingent Obligation to become payable or cash collateral in respect thereof to be demanded;

(f) Insolvency; Voluntary Proceedings . The Borrower and its Subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, cease or fail, to be Solvent, or any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party: (i) generally fails to pay, or admits in writing its inability to pay, its debts as they become due, subject to applicable grace periods, if any, whether at stated maturity or otherwise; (ii) except as expressly permitted under Section 5.3 , voluntarily ceases to conduct its business in the ordinary course; (iii) commences any Insolvency Proceeding with respect to itself; or (iv) takes any action to effectuate or authorize any of the foregoing;

(g) Involuntary Proceedings . (i) Any involuntary Insolvency Proceeding is commenced or filed against any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party, or any writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process, is issued or levied against any such Person’s Properties with a value in excess of $5,000,000 individually or in the aggregate and any such proceeding or petition shall not be dismissed, or such writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process shall not be released, vacated or fully bonded within sixty (60) days after commencement, filing or levy; (ii) any Credit Party or Subsidiary of any Credit Party admits the material allegations of a petition against it in any Insolvency Proceeding, or an order for relief (or similar order under non-U.S. law) is ordered in any Insolvency Proceeding; or (iii) any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party acquiesces in the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, conservator, liquidator, mortgagee in possession (or agent therefor), or other similar Person for itself or a substantial portion of its Property or business;

(h) Monetary Judgments . One or more judgments, non-interlocutory orders, decrees or arbitration awards shall be entered against any one or more of the Credit Parties or any of their respective Restricted Subsidiaries involving in the aggregate a liability of $25,000,000 or more (excluding amounts covered by insurance to the extent the relevant independent third party insurer has not denied coverage therefor), and the same shall remain unsatisfied, unvacated and unstayed pending appeal for a period of thirty (30) days after the entry thereof;

(i) Non-Monetary Judgments . One or more non-monetary judgments, orders or decrees shall be rendered against any one or more of the Credit Parties or any of their respective Restricted Subsidiaries which has or would reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect, and there shall be any period of ten (10) consecutive days during which a stay of enforcement of such judgment or order, by reason of a pending appeal or otherwise, shall not be in effect;

(j) Collateral . Any material provision of any Loan Document shall for any reason cease to be valid and binding on or enforceable against Holdco II, any Credit Party or

 

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any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party party thereto or Holdco II, any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party shall so state in writing or bring an action to limit its obligations or liabilities thereunder; or any Collateral Document shall for any reason (other than pursuant to the terms thereof) cease to create a valid security interest in the Collateral purported to be covered thereby or such security interest shall for any reason (other than the failure of Agent to take any action within its control where Agent had received express written notice in a timely manner of the facts and circumstances necessitating such action) cease to be a perfected and first priority security interest subject only to Permitted Liens;

(k) Ownership . (i) Parent becomes aware (by way of a report or any other filing pursuant to Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act, proxy, vote, written notice or otherwise) of the acquisition by any Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), including any group acting for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of securities (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5(b)(1) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), in a single transaction or in a related series of transactions, by way of merger, consolidation or other business combination or purchase of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), of more than 50% of the aggregate ordinary voting power represented by the issued and outstanding Stock and Stock Equivalents of Parent; provided , however , that any entity that conducts no material activities other than holding Stock and Stock Equivalents of Parent or any direct or indirect parent of Parent and has no other material assets or liabilities other than such Stock and Stock Equivalents will not be considered a “Person or group” for purposes of this clause (i) , (ii) Parent ceases to own, directly or indirectly, one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Stock and Stock Equivalents of Holdco II; (iii) Holdco II ceases to own, directly or indirectly, one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Stock and Stock Equivalents of Holdings; (iv) Holdings ceases to own one hundred percent (100%) of the issued and outstanding Stock and Stock Equivalents of the Borrower, in the case of clause (iv)  only, free and clear of all Liens, rights, options, warrants or other similar agreements or understandings, other than Liens in favor of Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties and Liens permitted under Section 5.1 (p) ; or (v) “Change of Control” (as defined in any Other Debt Document) shall occur after the consummation of the Constellium Acquisition;

(l) Invalidity of Subordination Provisions . The provisions of the Intercreditor Agreement or any agreement or instrument governing any Subordinated Indebtedness shall for any reason be revoked or invalidated, or otherwise cease to be in full force and effect, or any Person shall contest in any manner the validity or enforceability thereof or deny that it has any further liability or obligation thereunder, or the Obligations, for any reason shall not have the priority contemplated by this Agreement, the Intercreditor Agreement or such agreement or instrument governing any Subordinated Indebtedness;

(m) AB Receivables Facility . The AB Receivables Financing Effective Date shall not have occurred by March 31, 2015; or

(n) Availability after Material Contract Event . A Material Contracts Event occurs and, at all times during the seven (7) consecutive Business Day period following such occurrence, (i) such Material Contracts Event is continuing and (ii) Availability (calculated after giving effect to any reduction in the Borrowing Base pursuant to Sections 1.11(w) and 1.12(q) ) shall be less than the greater of $50,000,000 and 25% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment.

 

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6.2 Remedies . Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default, Agent may, and shall at the request of the Required Lenders:

(a) declare all or any portion of the Revolving Loan Commitment of each Lender to make Loans or of the L/C Issuer to Issue Letters of Credit to be suspended or terminated, whereupon all or such portion of such Revolving Loan Commitment shall forthwith be suspended or terminated;

(b) declare all or any portion of the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding Loans, all interest accrued and unpaid thereon, and all other amounts owing or payable hereunder or under any other Loan Document to be immediately due and payable; without presentment, demand, protest or other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived by each Credit Party; and/or

(c) exercise on behalf of itself and the Lenders all rights and remedies available to it and the Lenders under the Loan Documents or applicable law;

provided, however, that upon the occurrence of any event specified in Section 6.1(f) or 6.1(g) above (in the case of clause (i)  of Section 6.1(g) upon the expiration of the sixty (60) day period mentioned therein), the obligation of each Lender to make Loans and the obligation of the L/C Issuer to Issue Letters of Credit shall automatically terminate and the unpaid principal amount of all outstanding Loans and all interest and other amounts as aforesaid shall automatically become due and payable without further act of Agent, any Lender or the L/C Issuer.

6.3 Rights Not Exclusive . The rights provided for in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents are cumulative and are not exclusive of any other rights, powers, privileges or remedies provided by law or in equity, or under any other instrument, document or agreement now existing or hereafter arising.

6.4 Cash Collateral for Letters of Credit . If an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, this Agreement (or the Revolving Loan Commitment) shall be terminated for any reason or if otherwise required by the terms hereof, Agent may, and upon request of Required Lenders, shall, demand (which demand shall be deemed to have been delivered automatically upon any acceleration of the Loans and other obligations hereunder pursuant to Section 6.2 ), and the Borrower shall thereupon deliver to Agent, to be held for the benefit of the L/C Issuer, Agent and the Lenders entitled thereto, an amount of cash equal to 105% of the amount of L/C Reimbursement Obligations as additional collateral security for Obligations. Agent may at any time apply any or all of such cash and cash collateral to the payment of any or all of the Credit Parties’ Obligations. The remaining balance of the cash collateral will be returned to the Borrower when all Letters of Credit have been terminated or discharged, all Revolving Loan Commitments have been terminated and all Obligations have been paid in full in cash.

ARTICLE VII.

THE AGENT

7.1 Appointment and Duties .

(a) Appointment of Agent . Each Lender and each L/C Issuer hereby appoints Wells Fargo (together with any successor Agent pursuant to Section 7.9 ) as Agent hereunder and authorizes Agent to (i) execute and deliver the Loan Documents and accept delivery thereof on its behalf from any Credit Party, (ii) take such action on its behalf and to exercise all rights, powers and remedies and perform the duties as are expressly delegated to

 

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Agent under such Loan Documents and (iii) exercise such powers as are incidental thereto. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Lender acknowledges that it has received a copy of the Intercreditor Agreement, consents to and authorizes Agent’s execution and delivery thereof on behalf of such Lender and agrees to be bound by the terms and provisions thereof.

(b) Duties as Collateral and Disbursing Agent . Without limiting the generality of clause (a)  above, Agent shall have the sole and exclusive right and authority (to the exclusion of the Lenders and L/C Issuers), and is hereby authorized, to (i) act as the disbursing and collecting agent for the Lenders and the L/C Issuers with respect to all payments and collections arising in connection with the Loan Documents (including in any proceeding described in Section 6.1(f) or (g)  or any other bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding), and each Person making any payment in connection with any Loan Document to any Secured Party is hereby authorized to make such payment to Agent, (ii) file and prove claims and file other documents necessary or desirable to allow the claims of the Secured Parties with respect to any Obligation in any proceeding described in Section 6.1(f) or (g)  or any other bankruptcy, insolvency or similar proceeding (but not to vote, consent or otherwise act on behalf of such Person), (iii) act as collateral agent for each Secured Party for purposes of the perfection of all Liens created by such agreements and all other purposes stated therein, (iv) manage, supervise and otherwise deal with the Collateral, (v) take such other action as is necessary or desirable to maintain the perfection and priority of the Liens created or purported to be created by the Loan Documents, (vi) except as may be otherwise specified in any Loan Document, exercise all remedies given to Agent and the other Secured Parties with respect to the Collateral, whether under the Loan Documents, applicable Requirements of Law or otherwise and (vii) execute any amendment, consent or waiver under the Loan Documents on behalf of any Lender that has consented in writing to such amendment, consent or waiver; provided, however, that Agent hereby appoints, authorizes and directs each Lender and L/C Issuer to act as collateral sub-agent for Agent, the Lenders and the L/C Issuers for purposes of the perfection of Liens with respect to any deposit account maintained by a Credit Party with, and cash and Cash Equivalents held by, such Lender or L/C Issuer, and may further authorize and direct the Lenders and the L/C Issuers to take further actions as collateral sub-agents for purposes of enforcing such Liens or otherwise to transfer the Collateral subject thereto to Agent, and each Lender and L/C Issuer hereby agrees to take such further actions to the extent, and only to the extent, so authorized and directed.

(c) Limited Duties . Under the Loan Documents, Agent (i) is acting solely on behalf of the Secured Parties (except to the limited extent provided in Section 1.4(b) with respect to the Register), with duties that are entirely administrative in nature, notwithstanding the use of the defined term “Agent”, the terms “agent”, “Agent” and “collateral agent” and similar terms in any Loan Document to refer to Agent, which terms are used for title purposes only, (ii) is not assuming any obligation under any Loan Document other than as expressly set forth therein or any role as agent, fiduciary or trustee of or for any Lender, L/C Issuer or any other Person and (iii) shall have no implied functions, responsibilities, duties, obligations or other liabilities under any Loan Document, and each Secured Party, by accepting the benefits of the Loan Documents, hereby waives and agrees not to assert any claim against Agent based on the roles, duties and legal relationships expressly disclaimed in clauses (i)  through (iii) above.

7.2 Binding Effect . Each Secured Party, by accepting the benefits of the Loan Documents, agrees that (i) any action taken by Agent or the Required Lenders (or, if expressly required hereby, a greater proportion of the Lenders) in accordance with the provisions of the Loan Documents, (ii) any action taken by Agent in reliance upon the instructions of Required Lenders (or, where so required, such greater proportion) and (iii) the exercise by Agent or the

 

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Required Lenders (or, where so required, such greater proportion) of the powers set forth herein or therein, together with such other powers as are incidental thereto, shall be authorized and binding upon all of the Secured Parties.

7.3 Use of Discretion .

(a) Agent shall not have any duty to take any discretionary action or exercise any discretionary powers, except discretionary rights and powers expressly contemplated hereby or by the other Loan Documents that Agent is required to exercise as directed in writing by the Required Lenders (or such other number or percentage of the Lenders as shall be expressly provided for herein or in the other Loan Documents); provided, that Agent shall not be required to take any action that, in its opinion or the opinion of its counsel, may expose Agent to liability or that is contrary to any Loan Document or applicable Requirement of Law.

(b) Agent shall not, except as expressly set forth herein and in the other Loan Documents, have any duty to disclose, and shall not be liable for the failure to disclose, any information relating to any Credit Party or its Affiliates that is communicated to or obtained by Agent or any of its Affiliates in any capacity.

(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein or in any other Loan Document, the authority to enforce rights and remedies hereunder and under the other Loan Documents against the Credit Parties or any of them shall be vested exclusively in, and all actions and proceedings at law in connection with such enforcement shall be instituted and maintained exclusively by, Agent in accordance with the Loan Documents for the benefit of all the Lenders and the L/C Issuer; provided that the foregoing shall not prohibit (i) Agent from exercising on its own behalf the rights and remedies that inure to its benefit (solely in its capacity as Agent) hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, (ii) each of the L/C Issuer and the Swingline Lender from exercising the rights and remedies that inure to its benefit (solely in its capacity as L/C Issuer or Swingline Lender, as the case may be) hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, (iii) any Lender from exercising setoff rights in accordance with Section 8.11 or (iv) any Lender from filing proofs of claim or appearing and filing pleadings on its own behalf during the pendency of a proceeding relative to any Credit Party under any bankruptcy or other debtor relief law; and provided further that if at any time there is no Person acting as Agent hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, then (A) the Required Lenders shall have the rights otherwise ascribed to Agent pursuant to Section 6.2 and (B) in addition to the matters set forth in clauses (ii) , (iii) and (iv) of the preceding proviso and subject to Section 8.11 , any Lender may, with the consent of the Required Lenders, enforce any rights and remedies available to it and as authorized by the Required Lenders.

7.4 Delegation of Rights and Duties . Agent may, upon any term or condition it specifies, delegate or exercise any of its rights, powers and remedies under, and delegate or perform any of its duties or any other action with respect to, any Loan Document by or through any trustee, co-agent, employee, attorney-in-fact and any other Person (including any Secured Party). Any such Person shall benefit from this Article VII to the extent provided by Agent.

7.5 Reliance and Liability .

(a) Agent may, without incurring any liability hereunder, (i) treat the payee of any Note as its holder until such Note has been assigned in accordance with Section 8.9 , (ii) rely on the Register to the extent set forth in Section 1.4 , (iii) consult with any of its Related Persons and, whether or not selected by it, any other advisors, accountants and other experts

 

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(including advisors to, and accountants and experts engaged by, any Credit Party) and (iv) rely and act upon any document and information (including those transmitted by Electronic Transmission) and any telephone message or conversation, in each case believed by it to be genuine and transmitted, signed or otherwise authenticated by the appropriate parties.

(b) None of Agent and its Related Persons shall be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken by any of them under or in connection with any Loan Document, and each Secured Party, Holdings, the Borrower and each other Credit Party hereby waive and shall not assert (and each of Holdings and the Borrower shall cause each other Credit Party to waive and agree not to assert) any right, claim or cause of action based thereon, except to the extent of liabilities resulting primarily from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Agent or, as the case may be, such Related Person (each as determined in a final, non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction) in connection with the duties expressly set forth herein. Without limiting the foregoing, Agent:

(i) shall not be responsible or otherwise incur liability for any action or omission taken in reliance upon the instructions of the Required Lenders or for the actions or omissions of any of its Related Persons selected with reasonable care (other than employees, officers and directors of Agent, when acting on behalf of Agent);

(ii) shall not be responsible to any Lender, L/C Issuer or other Person for the due execution, legality, validity, enforceability, effectiveness, genuineness, sufficiency or value of, or the attachment, perfection or priority of any Lien created or purported to be created under or in connection with, any Loan Document;

(iii) makes no warranty or representation, and shall not be responsible, to any Lender, L/C Issuer or other Person for any statement, document, information, representation or warranty made or furnished by or on behalf of any Credit Party or any Related Person of any Credit Party in connection with any Loan Document or any transaction contemplated therein or any other document or information with respect to any Credit Party, whether or not transmitted or (except for documents expressly required under any Loan Document to be transmitted to the Lenders) omitted to be transmitted by Agent, including as to completeness, accuracy, scope or adequacy thereof, or for the scope, nature or results of any due diligence performed by Agent in connection with the Loan Documents; and

(iv) shall not have any duty to ascertain or to inquire as to the performance or observance of any provision of any Loan Document, whether any condition set forth in any Loan Document is satisfied or waived, as to the financial condition of any Credit Party or as to the existence or continuation or possible occurrence or continuation of any Default or Event of Default and shall not be deemed to have notice or knowledge of such occurrence or continuation unless it has received a notice from the Borrower, any Lender or L/C Issuer describing such Default or Event of Default clearly labeled “notice of default” (in which case Agent shall promptly give notice of such receipt to all Lenders);

and, for each of the items set forth in clauses (i)  through (iv) above, each Lender, L/C Issuer, Holdings, the Borrower and each other Credit Party hereby waives and agrees not to assert any right, claim or cause of action it might have against Agent based thereon.

(c) Each Lender and L/C Issuer (i) acknowledges that it has performed and will continue to perform its own diligence and has made and will continue to make its own independent investigation of the operations, financial conditions and affairs of the Credit Parties

 

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and (ii) agrees that is shall not rely on any audit or other report provided by Agent or its Related Persons (each, an “ Agent Report ”). Each Lender and L/C Issuer further acknowledges that any Agent Report (i) is provided to the Lenders and L/C Issuers solely as a courtesy, without consideration, and based upon the understanding that such Lender or L/C Issuer will not rely on such Agent Report, (ii) was prepared by Agent or its Related Persons based upon information provided by the Credit Parties solely for Agent’s own internal use, (iii) may not be complete and may not reflect all information and findings obtained by Agent or its Related Persons regarding the operations and condition of the Credit Parties. Neither Agent nor any of its Related Persons makes any representations or warranties of any kind with respect to (i) any existing or proposed financing, (ii) the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in any Agent Report or in any related documentation, (iii) the scope or adequacy of Agent’s and its Related Persons’ due diligence, or the presence or absence of any errors or omissions contained in any Agent Report or in any related documentation, and (iv) any work performed by Agent or Agent’s Related Persons in connection with or using any Agent Report or any related documentation.

(d) Neither Agent nor any of its Related Persons shall have any duties or obligations in connection with or as a result of any Lender or L/C Issuer receiving a copy of any Agent Report. Without limiting the generality of the forgoing, neither Agent nor any of its Related Persons shall have any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any Agent Report, or the appropriateness of any Agent Report for any Lender’s or L/C Issuer’s purposes, and shall have no duty or responsibility to correct or update any Agent Report or disclose to any Lender or L/C Issuer any other information not embodied in any Agent Report, including any supplemental information obtained after the date of any Agent Report. Each Lender and L/C Issuer releases, and agrees that it will not assert, any claim against Agent or its Related Persons that in any way relates to any Agent Report or arises out of any Lender or L/C Issuer having access to any Agent Report or any discussion of its contents, and agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Agent and its Related Persons from all claims, liabilities and expenses relating to a breach by any Lender or L/C Issuer arising out of such Lender’s or L/C Issuer’s access to any Agent Report or any discussion of its contents.

7.6 Agent Individually . Agent and its Affiliates may make loans and other extensions of credit to, acquire Stock and Stock Equivalents of, engage in any kind of business with, any Credit Party or Affiliate thereof as though it were not acting as Agent and may receive separate fees and other payments therefor. To the extent Agent or any of its Affiliates makes any Loan or otherwise becomes a Lender hereunder, it shall have and may exercise the same rights and powers hereunder and shall be subject to the same obligations and liabilities as any other Lender and the terms “Lender”, “Required Lender”, “Supermajority Lenders” and any similar terms shall, except where otherwise expressly provided in any Loan Document, include, without limitation, Agent or such Affiliate, as the case may be, in its individual capacity as Lender, as one of the Required Lenders or as one of the Supermajority Lenders, respectively.

7.7 Lender Credit Decision .

(a) Each Lender and each L/C Issuer acknowledges that it shall, independently and without reliance upon Agent, any Lender or L/C Issuer or any of their Related Persons or upon any document (including any offering and disclosure materials in connection with the syndication of the Loans) solely or in part because such document was transmitted by Agent or any of its Related Persons, conduct its own independent investigation of the financial condition and affairs of each Credit Party and make and continue to make its own credit decisions in connection with entering into, and taking or not taking any action under, any Loan Document or with respect to any transaction contemplated in any Loan Document, in each case

 

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based on such documents and information as it shall deem appropriate. Except for documents expressly required by any Loan Document to be transmitted by Agent to the Lenders or L/C Issuers, Agent shall not have any duty or responsibility to provide any Lender or L/C Issuer with any credit or other information concerning the business, prospects, operations, Property, financial and other condition or creditworthiness of any Credit Party or any Affiliate of any Credit Party that may come in to the possession of Agent or any of its Related Persons.

(b) If any Lender or L/C Issuer has elected to abstain from receiving MNPI concerning the Credit Parties or their Affiliates, such Lender or L/C Issuer acknowledges that, notwithstanding such election, Agent and/or the Credit Parties will, from time to time, make available syndicate-information (which may contain MNPI) as required by the terms of, or in the course of administering the Loans to the credit contact(s) identified for receipt of such information on the Lender’s administrative questionnaire who are able to receive and use all syndicate-level information (which may contain MNPI) in accordance with such Lender’s compliance policies and contractual obligations and applicable law, including federal and state securities laws; provided, that if such contact is not so identified in such questionnaire, the relevant Lender or L/C Issuer hereby agrees to promptly (and in any event within one (1) Business Day) provide such a contact to Agent and the Credit Parties upon request therefor by Agent or the Credit Parties. Notwithstanding such Lender’s or L/C Issuer’s election to abstain from receiving MNPI, such Lender or L/C Issuer acknowledges that if such Lender or L/C Issuer chooses to communicate with Agent, it assumes the risk of receiving MNPI concerning the Credit Parties or their Affiliates.

7.8 Expenses; Indemnities; Withholding .

(a) Each Lender agrees to reimburse Agent and each of its Related Persons (to the extent not reimbursed by any Credit Party) promptly upon demand, severally and ratably, for any costs and expenses (including fees, charges and disbursements of financial, legal and other advisors and Other Taxes paid in the name of, or on behalf of, any Credit Party) that may be incurred by Agent or any of its Related Persons in connection with the preparation, syndication, execution, delivery, administration, modification, consent, waiver or enforcement of, or the taking of any other action (whether through negotiations, through any work-out, bankruptcy, restructuring or other legal or other proceeding (including, without limitation, preparation for and/or response to any subpoena or request for document production relating thereto) or otherwise) in respect of, or legal advice with respect to its rights or responsibilities under, any Loan Document.

(b) Each Lender further agrees to indemnify Agent, each L/C Issuer and Related Persons (to the extent not reimbursed by any Credit Party), severally and ratably, from and against Liabilities (including, to the extent not indemnified pursuant to Section 7.8(c) , Taxes, interests and penalties imposed for not properly withholding or backup withholding on payments made to or for the account of any Lender) that may be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against Agent, any L/C Issuer or any of their respective Related Persons in any matter relating to or arising out of, in connection with or as a result of any Loan Document, any Other Debt Document or any other act, event or transaction related, contemplated in or attendant to any such document, or, in each case, any action taken or omitted to be taken by Agent, any L/C Issuer or any of their respective Related Persons under or with respect to any of the foregoing; provided , however , that Lenders shall be liable and indemnify Agent and its Related Persons only for Liabilities incurred by the Agent while acting as or for Agent in its capacity as such; provided further , that no Lender shall be liable to Agent, any L/C Issuer or any of their respective Related Persons to the extent such liability has resulted primarily from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Person, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a final non-appealable judgment or order.

 

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(c) To the extent required by any Requirement of Law, Agent may withhold from any payment to any Lender under a Loan Document an amount equal to any applicable withholding Tax (including withholding Taxes imposed under Chapters 3 and 4 of Subtitle A of the Code). If the IRS or any other Governmental Authority asserts a claim that Agent did not properly withhold Tax from amounts paid to or for the account of any Lender (because the appropriate certification form was not delivered, was not properly executed, or fails to establish an exemption from, or reduction of, withholding Tax with respect to a particular type of payment, or because such Lender failed to notify Agent or any other Person of a change in circumstances which rendered the exemption from, or reduction of, withholding Tax ineffective, failed to maintain a Participant Register or for any other reason), or Agent reasonably determines that it was required to withhold Taxes from a prior payment but failed to do so, such Lender shall promptly indemnify Agent fully for all amounts paid, directly or indirectly, by Agent as Tax or otherwise, including penalties and interest, and together with all expenses incurred by Agent, including legal expenses, allocated internal costs and out-of-pocket expenses. Agent may offset against any payment to any Lender under a Loan Document, any applicable withholding Tax that was required to be withheld from any prior payment to such Lender but which was not so withheld, as well as any other amounts for which Agent is entitled to indemnification from such Lender under this Section 7.8(c) .

7.9 Resignation of Agent or L/C Issuer .

(a) Agent may resign at any time by delivering notice of such resignation to the Lenders and the Borrower, effective on the date set forth in such notice or, if no such date is set forth therein, upon the date such notice shall be effective in accordance with the terms of this Section 7.9 . If Agent delivers any such notice, the Required Lenders shall have the right to appoint a successor Agent. If, after 30 days after the date of retiring Agent’s notice of resignation, no successor Agent has been appointed by the Required Lenders that has accepted such appointment, then the retiring Agent may, on behalf of the Lenders, appoint a successor Agent from among the Lenders. Each appointment under this clause (a)  shall be subject to the prior consent of the Borrower, which may not be unreasonably withheld but shall not be required during the continuance of an Event of Default.

(b) Effective immediately upon its resignation, (i) the retiring Agent shall be discharged from its duties and obligations under the Loan Documents, (ii) the Lenders shall assume and perform all of the duties of Agent until a successor Agent shall have accepted a valid appointment hereunder, (iii) the retiring Agent and its Related Persons shall no longer have the benefit of any provision of any Loan Document other than with respect to any actions taken or omitted to be taken while such retiring Agent was, or because such Agent had been, validly acting as Agent under the Loan Documents and (iv) subject to its rights under Section 7.3 , the retiring Agent shall take such action as may be reasonably necessary to assign to the successor Agent its rights as Agent under the Loan Documents. Effective immediately upon its acceptance of a valid appointment as Agent, a successor Agent shall succeed to, and become vested with, all the rights, powers, privileges and duties of the retiring Agent under the Loan Documents.

(c) Any L/C Issuer may refuse to Issue a Letter of Credit in its sole discretion.

 

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7.10 Release of Collateral or Guarantors . Each Lender and L/C Issuer hereby consents to the release and hereby directs Agent to release (or, in the case of clause (b)(ii) below, release or subordinate) the following:

(a) any Subsidiary of the Borrower from its guaranty of any Obligation if all of the Stock and Stock Equivalents of such Subsidiary owned by any Credit Party are sold or transferred in a transaction permitted under the Loan Documents (including pursuant to a waiver or consent); and

(b) any Lien held by Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties against (i) any Collateral that is sold, transferred, conveyed or otherwise disposed of by a Credit Party in a transaction permitted by the Loan Documents (including pursuant to a waiver or consent), (ii) any Property subject to a Lien permitted hereunder in reliance upon Section 5.1(h) or 5.1(i) and (iii) all of the Collateral and all Credit Parties, upon the occurrence of the Facility Termination Date.

Each Lender and L/C Issuer hereby directs Agent, and Agent hereby agrees, upon receipt of at least five (5) Business Days’ advance notice from the Borrower, to execute and deliver or file such documents and to perform other actions reasonably necessary to release the guaranties and Liens when and as directed in this Section 7.10 .

7.11 Additional Secured Parties . The benefit of the provisions of the Loan Documents directly relating to the Collateral or any Lien granted thereunder shall extend to and be available to any Secured Party that is not a Lender or L/C Issuer party hereto as long as, by accepting such benefits, such Secured Party agrees, as among Agent and all other Secured Parties, that such Secured Party is bound by (and, if requested by Agent, shall confirm such agreement in a writing in form and substance acceptable to Agent) this Article VII and Sections 8.3 , 8.9 , 8.10 , 8.11 , 8.17 , 8.24 and 9.1 (and, solely with respect to L/C Issuers, Section 1.1(b) ) and the decisions and actions of Agent and the Required Lenders (or, where expressly required by the terms of this Agreement, a greater proportion of the Lenders or other parties hereto as required herein) to the same extent a Lender is bound; provided, however, that, notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) such Secured Party shall be bound by Section 7.8 only to the extent of Liabilities, costs and expenses with respect to or otherwise relating to the Collateral held for the benefit of such Secured Party, in which case the obligations of such Secured Party thereunder shall not be limited by any concept of pro rata share or similar concept, (b) each of Agent, the Lenders and the L/C Issuers party hereto shall be entitled to act at its sole discretion, without regard to the interest of such Secured Party, regardless of whether any Obligation to such Secured Party thereafter remains outstanding, is deprived of the benefit of the Collateral, becomes unsecured or is otherwise affected or put in jeopardy thereby, and without any duty or liability to such Secured Party or any such Obligation and (c) except as otherwise set forth herein, such Secured Party shall not have any right to be notified of, consent to, direct, require or be heard with respect to, any action taken or omitted in respect of the Collateral or under any Loan Document.

7.12 Documentation Agent and Syndication Agent . Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary contained elsewhere in this Agreement or in any other Loan Document, the Documentation Agent and Syndication Agent shall not have any duties or responsibilities, nor shall the Documentation Agent and Syndication Agent have or be deemed to have any fiduciary relationship with any Lender, and no implied covenants, functions, responsibilities, duties, obligations or liabilities shall be read into this Agreement or any other Loan Document or otherwise exist against the Documentation Agent and Syndication Agent. At any time that any Lender serving (or whose Affiliate is serving) as Documentation Agent and/or Syndication Agent

 

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shall have transferred to any other Person (other than any Affiliates) all of its interests in the Loans and the Revolving Loan Commitment, such Lender (or an Affiliate of such Lender acting as Documentation Agent or Syndication Agent) shall be deemed to have concurrently resigned as such Documentation Agent and/or Syndication Agent.

ARTICLE VIII.

MISCELLANEOUS

8.1 Amendments and Waivers .

(a) Subject to the provisions of Section 8.1(f) , no amendment or waiver of any provision of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, and no consent with respect to any departure by any Credit Party therefrom, shall be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by Agent, the Required Lenders (or by Agent with the consent of the Required Lenders), and the Borrower, and then such waiver shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given; provided, however, that no such waiver, amendment, or consent shall, unless in writing and signed by all the Lenders directly affected thereby (or by Agent with the consent of all the Lenders directly affected thereby), in addition to Agent and the Required Lenders (or by Agent with the consent of the Required Lenders) and the Borrower, do any of the following:

(i) increase or extend the Revolving Loan Commitment of any Lender (or reinstate any Revolving Loan Commitment terminated pursuant to Section 6.2(a) );

(ii) postpone or delay any date fixed for, or reduce or waive, any scheduled installment of principal or any payment of interest, fees or other amounts (other than principal) due to the Lenders (or any of them) or L/C Issuer hereunder or under any other Loan Document;

(iii) reduce the principal of, or the rate of interest specified herein or the amount of interest payable in cash specified herein on any Loan, or of any fees or other amounts payable hereunder or under any other Loan Document, including L/C Reimbursement Obligations;

(iv) amend or modify Section 1.9(c) ;

(v) change the percentage of the Revolving Loan Commitment or of the aggregate unpaid principal amount of the Loans which shall be required for the Lenders or any of them to take any action hereunder;

(vi) amend this Section 8.1 (other than Section 8.1(c) ) or, subject to the terms of this Agreement, the definition of Required Lenders, the definition of Supermajority Lenders or any provision providing for consent or other action by all Lenders;

(vii) discharge any Credit Party from its respective payment Obligations under the Loan Documents (other than in connection with a Permitted Disposition), or release all or substantially all of the Collateral, except as otherwise may be provided in this Agreement or the other Loan Documents; or

(viii) add any new tranche of commitments hereunder;

it being agreed that all Lenders shall be deemed to be directly affected by an amendment or waiver of the type described in the preceding clauses (v) , (vi) , (vii) and (viii) .

 

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(b) No amendment, waiver or consent shall, unless in writing and signed by Agent, the Swingline Lender or the L/C Issuer, as the case may be, in addition to the Required Lenders, Supermajority Lenders or all Lenders directly affected thereby, as the case may be (or by Agent with the consent of the Required Lenders, Supermajority Lenders or all the Lenders directly affected thereby, as the case may be), affect the rights or duties of Agent, the Swingline Lender or the L/C Issuer, as applicable, under this Agreement or any other Loan Document. No amendment, modification or waiver of this Agreement or any Loan Document altering the ratable treatment of Obligations arising under Secured Rate Contracts resulting in such Obligations being junior in right of payment to principal on the Loans or resulting in Obligations owing to any Secured Swap Provider becoming unsecured (other than releases of Liens permitted in accordance with the terms hereof), in each case in a manner adverse to any Secured Swap Provider, shall be effective without the written consent of such Secured Swap Provider or, in the case of a Secured Rate Contract provided or arranged by Wells Fargo or an Affiliate of Wells Fargo, Wells Fargo. No amendment, modification or waiver of this Agreement or any Loan Document resulting in Bank Product Obligations owing to any Lender or its Affiliate becoming unsecured (other than releases of Liens permitted in accordance with the terms hereof) shall be effective without the written consent of such Lender or Affiliate or, in the case of a Secured Bank Product provided or arranged by Wells Fargo or an Affiliate of Wells Fargo, Wells Fargo.

(c) No amendment or waiver shall, unless signed by Agent and all Lenders (or by Agent with the consent of all Lenders): (i) amend or waive compliance with the conditions precedent to the obligations of Lenders to make any Revolving Loan (or of L/C Issuer to Issue any Letter of Credit) in Section 2.2 ; (ii) amend or waive non-compliance with any provision of Section 1.1(a)(iii) ; or (iii) waive any Default or Event of Default for the purpose of satisfying the conditions precedent to the obligations of Lenders to make any Revolving Loan (or of any L/C Issuer to Issue any Letter of Credit) in Section 2.2 . No amendment or waiver shall, unless signed by Agent and all Lenders (or by Agent with the consent of all Lenders), (x) amend or waive this Section 8.1(c) or the definitions of the terms used in this Section 8.1(c) insofar as the definitions affect the substance of this Section 8.1(c) ; or (y) change the definition of (i) the term Required Lenders or Supermajority Lenders, (ii) the percentage of Lenders which shall be required for Lenders to take any action hereunder or (iii) change any specific right of Required Lenders or Supermajority Lenders to grant or withhold consent or take or omit to take any action hereunder. No amendment or waiver shall, unless signed by Agent and the Supermajority Lenders (or by Agent with the consent of the Supermajority Lenders), amend or modify the definitions of Eligible Accounts, Eligible Inventory or Borrowing Base, including any increase in the percentage advance rates in the definition of Borrowing Base, in a manner which would increase the availability of credit under the Revolving Loan.

(d) Notwithstanding anything set forth herein to the contrary, a Non-Funding Lender shall not have any voting or consent rights under or with respect to any Loan Document or constitute a “Lender” (or be, or have its Loans and Revolving Loan Commitment, included in the determination of “Required Lenders”, “Supermajority Lenders” or “Lenders directly affected” pursuant to this Section 8.1 ) for any voting or consent rights under or with respect to any Loan Document, except that a Non-Funding Lender shall be treated as an “affected Lender” for purposes of Section 8.1(a)(i) and 8.1(a)(iii) solely with respect to an increase in such Non-Funding Lender’s Revolving Loan Commitment, a reduction of the principal amount owed to such Non-Funding Lender or, unless such Non-Funding Lender is treated the same as the other Lenders holding Loans of the same type, a

 

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reduction in the interest rates applicable to the Loans held by such Non-Funding Lender. Moreover, for the purposes of determining Required Lenders, Supermajority Lenders, the Loans and Revolving Loan Commitment held by Non-Funding Lenders shall be excluded from the total Loans and Revolving Loan Commitment outstanding.

(e) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 9.1 , (i) the Borrower may amend Schedules 3.18 and 3.20 upon notice to Agent, (ii) Agent may amend Schedule 1.1 to reflect Incremental Revolving Loan Commitments and Sales entered into pursuant to Section 8.9 , and (iii) Agent and the Borrower may amend or modify this Agreement and any other Loan Document to (1) cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency therein, (2) grant a new Lien for the benefit of the Secured Parties, extend an existing Lien over additional Property for the benefit of the Secured Parties or join additional Persons as Credit Parties, and (3) extend Incremental Revolving Loan Commitments to this Agreement pursuant to Section 1.1(c) and to permit the extensions of credit from time to time outstanding thereunder and the accrued interest and fees in respect thereof to share ratably in the benefits of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents with the Revolving Loans and the accrued interest and fees in respect thereof and to include appropriately the Lenders holding such credit facilities in any determination of the Required Lenders or Supermajority Lenders; provided that no Accounts or Inventory of such Person shall be included as Eligible Accounts or Eligible Inventory until a field examination (and, if required by Agent, an Inventory appraisal) with respect thereto has been completed to the satisfaction of Agent, including the establishment of Reserves required in Agent’s Permitted Discretion.

(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if any Real Estate constitutes Collateral for the Obligations, no modification of a Loan Document shall add, increase (including pursuant to Section 1.1(d) hereof), renew or extend any loan, commitment or line of credit hereunder unless the Credit Parties shall have delivered all flood information, due diligence, documentation and evidence of coverage as any Lender shall have reasonably requested and shall comply with the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, as amended, in each case in a manner reasonably satisfactory to all Lenders.

8.2 Notices .

(a) Addresses . All notices and other communications required or expressly authorized to be made by this Agreement shall be given in writing, unless otherwise expressly specified herein, and (i) addressed to the address set forth on the applicable signature page hereto, (ii) posted to SyndTrak® (to the extent such system is available and set up by or at the direction of Agent prior to posting) in an appropriate location by uploading such notice, demand, request, direction or other communication to www.syndtrak.com or using such other means of posting to SyndTrak® as may be available and reasonably acceptable to Agent prior to such posting, (iii) posted to any other E-System approved by or set up by or at the direction of Agent or (iv) addressed to such other address as shall be notified in writing (A) in the case of the Borrower, Agent and the Swingline Lender, to the other parties hereto and (B) in the case of all other parties, to the Borrower and Agent. Transmissions made by electronic mail or E-Fax to Agent shall be effective only (x) for notices where such transmission is specifically authorized by this Agreement, (y) if such transmission is delivered in compliance with procedures of Agent applicable at the time and previously communicated to the Borrower, and (z) if receipt of such transmission is acknowledged by Agent.

(b) Effectiveness . (i) All communications described in clause (a)  above and all other notices, demands, requests and other communications made in connection with this

 

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Agreement shall be effective and be deemed to have been received (i) if delivered by hand, upon personal delivery, (ii) if delivered by overnight courier service, one (1) Business Day after delivery to such courier service, (iii) if delivered by mail, three (3) Business Days after deposit in the mail, (iv) if delivered by facsimile (other than to post to an E-System pursuant to clause (a)(ii) or (a)(iii) above), upon sender’s receipt of confirmation of proper transmission, and (v) if delivered by posting to any E-System, on the later of the Business Day of such posting and the Business Day access to such posting is given to the recipient thereof in accordance with the standard procedures applicable to such E-System; provided, however, that no communications to Agent pursuant to Article I shall be effective until received by Agent.

(ii) The posting, completion and/or submission by any Credit Party of any communication pursuant to an E-System shall constitute a representation and warranty by the Credit Parties that any representation, warranty, certification or other similar statement required by the Loan Documents to be provided, given or made by a Credit Party in connection with any such communication is true, correct and complete except as expressly noted in such communication or E-System.

(c) Each Lender shall notify Agent in writing of any changes in the address to which notices to such Lender should be directed, of addresses of its Lending Office, of payment instructions in respect of all payments to be made to it hereunder and of such other administrative information as Agent shall reasonably request.

8.3 Electronic Transmissions .

(a) Authorization . Subject to the provisions of Section 8.2(a) , each of Agent, Lenders, each Credit Party and each of their Related Persons, is authorized (but not required) to transmit, post or otherwise make or communicate, in its sole discretion, Electronic Transmissions in connection with any Loan Document and the transactions contemplated therein. Each Credit Party and each Secured Party hereto acknowledges and agrees that the use of Electronic Transmissions is not necessarily secure and that there are risks associated with such use, including risks of interception, disclosure and abuse and each indicates it assumes and accepts such risks by hereby authorizing the transmission of Electronic Transmissions.

(b) Signatures . Subject to the provisions of Section 8.2(a) , (i)(A) no posting to any E-System shall be denied legal effect merely because it is made electronically, (B) each E-Signature on any such posting shall be deemed sufficient to satisfy any requirement for a “signature” and (C) each such posting shall be deemed sufficient to satisfy any requirement for a “writing”, in each case including pursuant to any Loan Document, any applicable provision of any UCC, the federal Uniform Electronic Transactions Act, the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act and any substantive or procedural Requirement of Law governing such subject matter, (ii) each such posting that is not readily capable of bearing either a signature or a reproduction of a signature may be signed, and shall be deemed signed, by attaching to, or logically associating with such posting, an E-Signature, upon which Agent, each Secured Party and each Credit Party may rely and assume the authenticity thereof, (iii) each such posting containing a signature, a reproduction of a signature or an E-Signature shall, for all intents and purposes, have the same effect and weight as a signed paper original and (iv) each party hereto or beneficiary hereto agrees not to contest the validity or enforceability of any posting on any E-System or E-Signature on any such posting under the provisions of any applicable Requirement of Law requiring certain documents to be in writing or signed; provided, however, that nothing herein shall limit such party’s or beneficiary’s right to contest whether any posting to any E-System or E-Signature has been altered after transmission.

 

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(c) Separate Agreements . All uses of an E-System shall be governed by and subject to, in addition to Section 8.2 and this Section 8.3 , the separate terms, conditions and privacy policy posted or referenced in such E-System (or such terms, conditions and privacy policy as may be updated from time to time, including on such E-System) and related Contractual Obligations executed by Agent and Credit Parties in connection with the use of such E-System.

(d) LIMITATION OF LIABILITY . ALL E-SYSTEMS AND ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONS SHALL BE PROVIDED “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE”. NONE OF AGENT, ANY LENDER OR ANY OF THEIR RELATED PERSONS WARRANTS THE ACCURACY, ADEQUACY OR COMPLETENESS OF ANY E-SYSTEMS OR ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION AND DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS THEREIN. NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND IS MADE BY AGENT, ANY LENDER OR ANY OF THEIR RELATED PERSONS IN CONNECTION WITH ANY E-SYSTEMS OR ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD-PARTY RIGHTS OR FREEDOM FROM VIRUSES OR OTHER CODE DEFECTS. Each of the Borrower, each other Credit Party executing this Agreement and each Secured Party agrees that Agent has no responsibility for maintaining or providing any equipment, software, services or any testing required in connection with any Electronic Transmission or otherwise required for any E-System.

8.4 No Waiver; Cumulative Remedies . No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising, on the part of Agent or any Lender, any right, remedy, power or privilege hereunder, shall operate as a waiver thereof; nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right, remedy, power or privilege hereunder preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, remedy, power or privilege. No course of dealing between any Credit Party, any Affiliate of any Credit Party, Agent or any Lender shall be effective to amend, modify or discharge any provision of this Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents.

8.5 Costs and Expenses . Any action taken by any Credit Party under or with respect to any Loan Document, even if required under any Loan Document or at the request of Agent or Required Lenders, shall be at the expense of such Credit Party, and neither Agent nor any other Secured Party shall be required under any Loan Document to reimburse any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party therefor except as expressly provided therein. In addition, the Borrower agrees to pay or reimburse upon demand (a) Agent for all reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by it or any of its Related Persons, in connection with the investigation, development, preparation, negotiation, syndication, execution, interpretation or administration of, any modification of any term of or termination of, any Loan Document, any commitment or proposal letter therefor, any other document prepared in connection therewith or the consummation and administration of any transaction contemplated therein, in each case including Attorney Costs of Agent, the cost of environmental audits, insurance reviews, Collateral audits and appraisals, background checks and similar expenses, (b) Agent for all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by it or any of its Related Persons in connection with internal audit reviews, field examinations and Collateral examinations (which shall be reimbursed, in addition to the out-of-pocket costs and expenses of such examiners, at the per diem rate per individual charged by Agent for its examiners), (c) each of Agent, its Related Persons, Lenders and L/C Issuer for all reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection

 

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with (i) any refinancing or restructuring of the credit arrangements provided hereunder, (ii) the enforcement or preservation of any right or remedy under any Loan Document, any Obligation, with respect to the Collateral or any other related right or remedy or (iii) the commencement, defense, conduct of, intervention in, or the taking of any other action (including, without limitation, preparation for and/or response to any subpoena or request for document production relating thereto) with respect to, any proceeding (including any bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding) related to any Credit Party, any Subsidiary of any Credit Party, Loan Document, Obligation or Related Transaction, including Attorney Costs and (d) reasonable fees and disbursements of Attorney Costs of one law firm on behalf of all Lenders (other than Agent) incurred in connection with any of the matters referred to in clause (c)  above.

8.6 Indemnity .

(a) Each Credit Party agrees to indemnify, hold harmless and defend Agent, each Lender, each L/C Issuer and Related Persons (each such Person being an “ Indemnitee ”) from and against all Liabilities (including brokerage commissions, fees and other compensation) that may be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against any such Indemnitee in any matter relating to or arising out of, in connection with or as a result of (i) any Loan Document, any Obligation (or the repayment thereof), any Letter of Credit, the use or intended use of the proceeds of any Loan or the use of any Letter of Credit or any securities filing of, or with respect to, any Credit Party, (ii) any commitment letter, proposal letter or term sheet with any Person or any Contractual Obligation, arrangement or understanding with any broker, finder or consultant, in each case entered into by or on behalf of any Credit Party or any Affiliate of any of them in connection with any of the foregoing and any Contractual Obligation entered into in connection with any E-Systems or other Electronic Transmissions, (iii) any actual or prospective investigation, litigation or other proceeding, whether or not brought by any such Indemnitee or any of its Related Persons, any holders of securities or creditors (and including attorneys’ fees in any case), whether or not any such Indemnitee, Related Person, holder or creditor is a party thereto, and whether or not based on any securities or commercial law or regulation or any other Requirement of Law or theory thereof, including common law, equity, contract, tort or otherwise, (iv) any Loan or Letter of Credit or the use or proposed use of the proceeds therefrom (including any refusal by any L/C Issuer to honor a demand for payment under a Letter of Credit if the documents presented in connection with such demand do not strictly comply with the terms of such Letter of Credit), or (v) any other act, event or transaction related, contemplated in or attendant to any of the foregoing (collectively, the “ Indemnified Matters ”); provided, however, that no Credit Party shall have any liability under this Section 8.6 to any Indemnitee with respect to any Indemnified Matter, and no Indemnitee shall have any liability with respect to any Indemnified Matter other than (to the extent otherwise liable), to the extent such liability has resulted primarily from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Indemnitee, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a final non-appealable judgment or order. Furthermore, each of the Borrower and each other Credit Party executing this Agreement waives and agrees not to assert against any Indemnitee, and shall cause each other Credit Party to waive and not assert against any Indemnitee, any right of contribution with respect to any Liabilities that may be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against any Related Person. This Section 8.6(a) shall not apply with respect to Taxes other than any Taxes that represent Liabilities arising from any non-Tax claim.

(b) Without limiting the foregoing, “Indemnified Matters” includes all Environmental Liabilities, including those arising from, or otherwise involving, any Property of any Credit Party or any Related Person of any Credit Party or any actual, alleged or prospective damage to Property or natural resources or harm or injury alleged to have resulted from any

 

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Release of Hazardous Materials on, upon or into such Property or natural resource or any Property on or contiguous to any Real Estate of any Credit Party or any Related Person of any Credit Party, whether or not, with respect to any such Environmental Liabilities, any Indemnitee is a mortgagee pursuant to any leasehold mortgage, a mortgagee in possession, the successor-in-interest to any Credit Party or any Related Person of any Credit Party or the owner, lessee or operator of any Property of any Related Person through any foreclosure action, in each case except to the extent such Environmental Liabilities (i) are incurred solely following foreclosure by Agent or following Agent or any Lender having become the successor-in-interest to any Credit Party or any Related Person of any Credit Party and (ii) are attributable solely to acts of such Indemnitee.

8.7 Marshaling; Payments Set Aside . No Secured Party shall be under any obligation to marshal any Property in favor of any Credit Party or any other Person or against or in payment of any Obligation. To the extent that any Secured Party receives a payment from the Borrower, from any other Credit Party, from the proceeds of the Collateral, from the exercise of its rights of setoff, any enforcement action or otherwise, and such payment is subsequently, in whole or in part, invalidated, declared to be fraudulent or preferential, set aside or required to be repaid to a trustee, receiver or any other party, then to the extent of such recovery, the obligation or part thereof originally intended to be satisfied, and all Liens, rights and remedies therefor, shall be revived and continued in full force and effect as if such payment had not occurred.

8.8 Successors and Assigns . The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns; provided that any assignment by any Lender shall be subject to the provisions of Section 8.9 , and provided further that the Borrower or other Credit Party may not assign or transfer any of its rights or obligations under this Agreement or any other Loan Document without the prior written consent of Agent and each Lender.

8.9 Assignments and Participations; Binding Effect .

(a) Binding Effect . This Agreement shall become effective when it shall have been executed by Holdings, the Borrower, the other Credit Parties signatory hereto and Agent and when Agent shall have been notified by each Lender that such Lender has executed it. Thereafter, it shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of, but only to the benefit of, Holdings, the Borrower, the other Credit Parties hereto (in each case except for Article VII ), Agent, each Lender and each L/C Issuer receiving the benefits of the Loan Documents and, to the extent provided in Section 7.11 , each other Secured Party and, in each case, their respective successors and permitted assigns. Except as expressly provided in any Loan Document (including in Section 7.9 ), none of Holdings, the Borrower, any other Credit Party, any L/C Issuer or Agent shall have the right to assign any rights or obligations hereunder or any interest herein.

(b) Right to Assign . Each Lender may sell, transfer, negotiate or assign (a “ Sale ”) all or a portion of its rights and obligations hereunder (including all or a portion of its Revolving Loan Commitment and its rights and obligations with respect to Loans and Letters of Credit) to any of the following, unless the designated assignee constitutes a direct or indirect business competitor of the Borrower engaged in the production or manufacturing of rolled flat-rolled aluminum aluminium products for sale to the beverage can or automotive industry: (i) any existing Lender (other than a Non-Funding Lender or Impacted Lender); (ii) any Affiliate or Approved Fund of any existing Lender (other than a Non-Funding Lender or Impacted Lender); or (iii) any other Person acceptable (which acceptance shall not be unreasonably withheld or

 

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delayed) to Agent and, with respect to Sales of Revolving Loan Commitments, each L/C Issuer that is a Lender and, as long as no Event of Default is continuing, the Borrower (which acceptances shall be deemed to have been given unless an objection is delivered to Agent within five (5) Business Days after notice of a proposed sale is delivered to the Borrower) (each an “ Eligible Assignee ”); provided, however, that:

(A) such Sales must be ratable among the obligations owing to and owed by such Lender with respect to the Revolving Loans;

(B) for each Loan, the aggregate outstanding principal amount (determined as of the effective date of the applicable Assignment) of the Loans, Revolving Loan Commitment and Letter of Credit Obligations subject to any such Sale shall be in a minimum amount of $5,000,000, unless such Sale is made to an existing Lender or an Affiliate or Approved Fund of any existing Lender, is of the assignor’s (together with its Affiliates and Approved Funds) entire interest in such facility or is made with the prior consent of the Borrower (to the extent required) and Agent;

(C) such Sales shall be effective only upon the acknowledgement in writing of such Sale by Agent;

(D) interest accrued, prior to and through the date of any such Sale may not be assigned; and

(E) such Sales by Lenders who are Non-Funding Lenders due to clause (a)  of the definition of Non-Funding Lender shall be subject to Agent’s prior written consent in all instances, unless in connection with such Sale, such Non-Funding Lender cures, or causes the cure of, its Non-Funding Lender status as contemplated in Section 1.10(e)(v) .

Agent’s refusal to accept a Sale to a Credit Party, a Senior Noteholder, Rexam, a holder of Subordinated Debt or an Affiliate of any of the foregoing, or to any Person that would be a Non-Funding Lender or an Impacted Lender, or the imposition of conditions or limitations (including limitations on voting) upon Sales to such Persons, shall not be deemed to be unreasonable.

(c) Procedure . The parties to each Sale made in reliance on clause (b)  above (and excluding those described in clause (e) , (f) or (g)  below) shall execute and deliver to Agent an assignment agreement (an “ Assignment ”) entered into by a Lender, as assignor, and any Person, as assignee, pursuant to the terms and provisions of this Section 8.9 (with the consent of any party whose consent is required by this Section 8.9 ), accepted by Agent, substantially in the form of Exhibit 8.9(c) or any other form approved by Agent via an electronic settlement system designated by Agent (or, if previously agreed with Agent, via a manual execution and delivery of the Assignment) evidencing such Sale, together with any existing Note subject to such Sale (or any affidavit of loss therefor acceptable to Agent), any Tax forms required to be delivered pursuant to Section 9.1 and payment of an assignment fee in the amount of $3,500 to Agent, unless waived or reduced by Agent; provided, that (i) if a Sale by a Lender is made to an Affiliate or an Approved Fund of such assigning Lender, then no assignment fee shall be due in connection with such Sale, and (ii) if a Sale by a Lender is made to an assignee that is not an Affiliate or Approved Fund of such assignor Lender, and concurrently to one or more Affiliates or Approved Funds of such Assignee, then only one assignment fee of $3,500 shall be due in connection with such Sale (unless waived or reduced by Agent). Upon receipt of all the foregoing, and conditioned upon such receipt and, if such Assignment is made in

 

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accordance with clause (iii)  of Section 8.9(b) , upon Agent (and the Borrower, if applicable) consenting to such Assignment, from and after the effective date specified in such Assignment, Agent shall record or cause to be recorded in the Register the information contained in such Assignment.

(d) Effectiveness . Subject to the recording of an Assignment by Agent in the Register pursuant to Section 1.4(b) , (i) the assignee thereunder shall become a party hereto and, to the extent that rights and obligations under the Loan Documents have been assigned to such assignee pursuant to such Assignment, shall have the rights and obligations of a Lender, (ii) any applicable Note shall be transferred to such assignee through such entry and (iii) the assignor thereunder shall, to the extent that rights and obligations under this Agreement have been assigned by it pursuant to such Assignment, relinquish its rights (except for the occurrence of the Facility Termination Date) and be released from its obligations under the Loan Documents, other than those relating to events or circumstances occurring prior to such assignment (and, in the case of an Assignment covering all or the remaining portion of an assigning Lender’s rights and obligations under the Loan Documents, such Lender shall cease to be a party hereto).

(e) Grant of Security Interests . In addition to the other rights provided in this Section 8.9 , each Lender may grant a security interest in, or otherwise assign as collateral, any of its rights under this Agreement, whether now owned or hereafter acquired (including rights to payments of principal or interest on the Loans), to (A) any federal reserve bank (pursuant to Regulation A of the Federal Reserve Board), without notice to Agent or (B) any holder of, or trustee for the benefit of the holders of, such Lender’s Indebtedness or equity securities, by notice to Agent; provided, however, that no such holder or trustee, whether because of such grant or assignment or any foreclosure thereon (unless such foreclosure is made through an assignment in accordance with clause (b) above), shall be entitled to any rights of such Lender hereunder and no such Lender shall be relieved of any of its obligations hereunder.

(f) Participants and Grant of Option to Fund to SPVs . In addition to the other rights provided in this Section 8.9 , each Lender may, (x) with notice to Agent, grant to an SPV the option to make all or any part of any Loan that such Lender would otherwise be required to make hereunder (and the exercise of such option by such SPV and the making of Loans pursuant thereto shall satisfy the obligation of such Lender to make such Loans hereunder) and such SPV may assign to such Lender the right to receive payment with respect to any Obligation and (y) without notice to or consent from Agent or the Borrower, sell participations to one or more Persons in or to all or a portion of its rights and obligations under the Loan Documents (including all its rights and obligations with respect to the Revolving Loans and Letters of Credit); provided, however, that, whether as a result of any term of any Loan Document or of such grant or participation, (i) no such SPV or participant shall have a commitment, or be deemed to have made an offer to commit, to make Loans hereunder, and, except as provided in the applicable option agreement, none shall be liable for any obligation of such Lender hereunder, (ii) such Lender’s rights and obligations, and the rights and obligations of the Credit Parties and the Secured Parties towards such Lender, under any Loan Document shall remain unchanged and each other party hereto shall continue to deal solely with such Lender, which shall remain the holder of the Obligations in the Register, except that (A) each such participant and SPV shall be entitled to the benefit of Article X , but, with respect to Section 9.1 , only to the extent such participant or SPV delivers the Tax forms such Lender is required to collect pursuant to Section 9.1(g) and then only to the extent of any amount to which such Lender would be entitled in the absence of any such grant or participation except to the extent such entitlement to receive a greater amount results from any change in, or in the

 

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interpretation of, any Requirement of Law that occurs after the date such grant or participation is made and (B) each such SPV may receive other payments that would otherwise be made to such Lender with respect to Loans funded by such SPV to the extent provided in the applicable option agreement and set forth in a notice provided to Agent by such SPV and such Lender, provided, however, that in no case (including pursuant to clause (A)  or (B) above) shall an SPV granted an option pursuant to this clause (f)  or participant have the right to enforce any of the terms of any Loan Document, and (iii) the consent of such SPV or participant shall not be required (either directly, as a restraint on such Lender’s ability to consent hereunder or otherwise) for any amendments, waivers or consents with respect to any Loan Document or to exercise or refrain from exercising any powers or rights such Lender may have under or in respect of the Loan Documents (including the right to enforce or direct enforcement of the Obligations), except for those described in clauses (ii)  and (iii) of Section 8.1(a) with respect to amounts, or dates fixed for payment of amounts, to which such participant or SPV would otherwise be entitled and, in the case of participants, except for those described in clause (vi)  of Section 8.1(a) .

(g) Assignments to Affiliate SPVs . In addition to the other rights provided elsewhere in this Section 8.9 , each Lender that is an Affiliate of the Agent may, with notice to Agent in such form as shall be acceptable to the Agent (but without the consent of any Person and without compliance with any limitation or procedure specified in subsection 8.9(b) or 8.9(c) ), sell, transfer, negotiate or assign all or any portion of its rights, title or interests hereunder with respect to any Revolving Loans (including any interest accrued or to accrue thereon) to an SPV that is an Affiliate of such Lender, and such SPV may thereafter, with notice to Agent, assign such Loan to any other SPV that is an Affiliate of such Lender or re-assign all or a portion of its interests in any Revolving Loans to the Lender holding the related Revolving Loan Commitment; provided , however , that, whether as a result of any term of any Loan Document or of such Sale, no such SPV shall have a commitment, or be deemed to have made an offer to commit, to make Revolving Loans hereunder, and none shall be liable for any obligation of such Lender hereunder. In the case of any Sale pursuant to this clause (g) , any assignee SPV shall have all the rights of a Lender hereunder, including the rights described in Section 7.3(c) and the right to receive all payments with respect to the assigned Obligations. Each such SPV shall be entitled to the benefit of Section 9.1 only to the extent such SPV delivers the tax forms the assigning Lender is required to collect pursuant to Section 9.1(f) .

(h) No party hereto shall institute (and the Borrower and Holdings shall cause each other Credit Party not to institute) against any SPV that funds or purchases any Obligation pursuant to clauses (f)  or (g) any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, liquidation or similar proceeding, prior to the date that is one year and one day after the payment in full of all outstanding commercial paper of such SPV; provided, however, that each Lender having designated an SPV as such agrees to indemnify each Indemnitee against any Liability that may be incurred by, or asserted against, such Indemnitee as a result of failing to institute such proceeding (including a failure to be reimbursed by such SPV for any such Liability). The agreement in the preceding sentence shall survive the occurrence of the Facility Termination Date. In addition, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 8.9 , any SPV may disclose on a confidential basis any non-public information relating to its Loans to any rating agency rating the obligations of such SPV. For the avoidance of doubt, an SPV that is a trust formed by or at the direction of a Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender, as depositor, shall be deemed to be an Affiliate of such Lender. Each Lender that sells a participation shall, acting solely for this purpose as a non-fiduciary agent of the Borrower, maintain a register on which it enters the name and address of each participant and the principal amounts (and stated interest) of each participant’s interest in the Loans or other obligations under the Loan Documents (the

 

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Participant Register ”); provided that no Lender shall have any obligation to disclose all or any portion of the Participant Register (including the identity of any participant or any information relating to a participant’s interest in any commitments, loans, letters of credit or its other obligations under any Loan Document) to any Person other than Agent except to the extent that such disclosure is necessary to establish that such commitment, loan, letter of credit or other obligation is in registered form under Section 5f.103-1(c) of the United States Treasury Regulations. The entries in the Participant Register shall be conclusive absent manifest error, and such Lender shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Participant Register as the owner of such participation for all purposes of this Agreement notwithstanding any notice to the contrary. For the avoidance of doubt, Agent shall have no responsibility for maintaining a Participant Register.

8.10 Non-Public Information; Confidentiality .

(a) Non-Public Information . Each of Agent, each Lender and L/C Issuer acknowledges and agrees that it may receive material non-public information (“ MNPI ”) hereunder concerning the Credit Parties and their Affiliates and agrees to use such information in compliance with all relevant policies, procedures and applicable Requirements of Laws (including United States federal and state security laws and regulations).

(b) Confidential Information . Each Lender, each L/C Issuer and Agent agree to use all reasonable efforts to maintain, in accordance with its customary practices, the confidentiality of information obtained by it pursuant to any Loan Document and designated in writing by any Credit Party as confidential, except that such information may be disclosed (i) with the Borrower’s consent, (ii) to Related Persons of such Lender, L/C Issuer or Agent, as the case may be, or to any Person that any L/C Issuer causes to Issue Letters of Credit hereunder, that are advised of the confidential nature of such information and are instructed to keep such information confidential in accordance with the terms hereof, (iii) to the extent such information presently is or hereafter becomes (A) publicly available other than as a result of a breach of this Section 8.10 or (B) available to such Lender, L/C Issuer or Agent or any of their Related Persons, as the case may be, from a source (other than any Credit Party) not known by them to be subject to disclosure restrictions, (iv) to the extent disclosure is required by applicable Requirements of Law or other legal process or requested or demanded by any Governmental Authority, (v) to the extent necessary or customary for inclusion in league table measurements, (vi) (A) to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners or any similar organization, any examiner or any nationally recognized rating agency or (B) otherwise to the extent consisting of general portfolio information that does not identify Credit Parties, (vii) to current or prospective assignees, SPVs (including the investors or prospective investors therein) or participants, direct or contractual counterparties to any Secured Rate Contracts and to their respective Related Persons, in each case to the extent such assignees, investors, participants, counterparties or Related Persons agree to be bound by provisions substantially similar to the provisions of this Section 8.10 (and such Person may disclose information to their respective Related Persons in accordance with clause (ii)  above), (viii) to any other party hereto, and (ix) in connection with the exercise or enforcement of any right or remedy under any Loan Document, in connection with any litigation or other proceeding to which such Lender, L/C Issuer or Agent or any of their Related Persons is a party or bound, or to the extent necessary to respond to public statements or disclosures by Credit Parties or their Related Persons referring to a Lender, L/C Issuer or Agent or any of their Related Persons. In the event of any conflict between the terms of this Section 8.10 and those of any other Contractual Obligation entered into with any Credit Party (whether or not a Loan Document), the terms of this Section 8.10 shall govern.

 

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(c) Tombstones; League Tables . Each Credit Party consents to the publication by Agent or any Lender of any press releases, tombstones, advertising or other promotional materials (including, without limitation, via any Electronic Transmission) relating to the financing transactions contemplated by this Agreement using such Credit Party’s name, product photographs, logo or trademark. Agent or such Lender shall provide a draft of any such press release, advertising or other material to the Borrower for review and comment prior to the publication thereof; provided further publication of such information shall not require additional review. Each Lender hereby consents to the disclosure by Agent, Lead Arranger and Bookrunners of information necessary or customary for inclusion in league table measurements.

(d) Press Release and Related Matters . No Credit Party shall, and no Credit Party shall permit any of its Affiliates to, issue any press release or other public disclosure (other than any document filed with any Governmental Authority relating to a public offering of securities of any Credit Party) using the name, logo or otherwise referring to Wells Fargo or of any of its Affiliates, the Loan Documents or any transaction contemplated herein or therein to which Wells Fargo or any of its affiliates is party without the prior written consent of Wells Fargo or such Affiliate except to the extent required to do so under applicable Requirements of Law and then, only after consulting with Wells Fargo.

(e) Distribution of Materials to Lenders and L/C Issuers . The Credit Parties acknowledge and agree that the Loan Documents and all reports, notices, communications and other information or materials provided or delivered by, or on behalf of, the Credit Parties hereunder (collectively, the “ Borrower Materials ”) may be disseminated by, or on behalf of, Agent, and made available, to the Lenders and the L/C Issuers by posting such Borrower Materials on an E-System. The Credit Parties authorize Agent to download copies of their logos from its website and post copies thereof on an E-System.

(f) Material Non-Public Information . The Credit Parties hereby agree that if either they, any parent company or any Subsidiary of the Credit Parties has publicly traded equity or debt securities in the U.S., they shall (and shall cause such parent company or Subsidiary, as the case may be, to) (i) identify in writing, and (ii) to the extent reasonably practicable, clearly and conspicuously mark such Borrower Materials that contain only information that is publicly available or that is not material for purposes of U.S. federal and state securities laws as “PUBLIC”. The Credit Parties agree that by identifying such Borrower Materials as “PUBLIC” or publicly filing such Borrower Materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission, then Agent, the Lenders and the L/C Issuers shall be entitled to treat such Borrower Materials as not containing any MNPI for purposes of U.S. federal and state securities laws. The Credit Parties further represent, warrant, acknowledge and agree that the following documents and materials shall be deemed to be PUBLIC, whether or not so marked, and do not contain any MNPI: (A) the Loan Documents, including the schedules and exhibits attached thereto, and (B) administrative materials of a customary nature prepared by the Credit Parties or Agent (including, Notices of Borrowing, Notices of Conversion/Continuation, L/C Requests, Swingline requests and any similar requests or notices posted on or through an E-System). Before distribution of any Borrower Materials, the Credit Parties agree to execute and deliver to Agent a letter authorizing distribution of the evaluation materials to prospective Lenders and their employees willing to receive MNPI, and a separate letter authorizing distribution of evaluation materials that do not contain MNPI and represent that no MNPI is contained therein.

 

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8.11 Set-off; Sharing of Payments .

(a) Right of Setoff . Each of Agent, each Lender, each L/C Issuer and each Affiliate (including each branch office thereof) of any of them is hereby authorized, without notice or demand (each of which is hereby waived by each Credit Party), at any time and from time to time during the continuance of any Event of Default and to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Requirements of Law, to set off and apply any and all deposits (whether general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held and other Indebtedness, claims or other obligations at any time owing by Agent, such Lender, such L/C Issuer or any of their respective Affiliates to or for the credit or the account of the Borrower or any other Credit Party against any Obligation of any Credit Party now or hereafter existing, whether or not any demand was made under any Loan Document with respect to such Obligation and even though such Obligation may be unmatured. No Lender or L/C Issuer shall exercise any such right of setoff without the prior consent of Agent or Required Lenders. Each of Agent, each Lender and each L/C Issuer agrees promptly to notify the Borrower and Agent after any such setoff and application made by such Lender or its Affiliates; provided, however, that the failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity of such setoff and application. The rights under this Section 8.11 are in addition to any other rights and remedies (including other rights of setoff) that Agent, the Lenders, the L/C Issuer, their Affiliates and the other Secured Parties, may have.

(b) Sharing of Payments, Etc . If any Lender, directly or through an Affiliate or branch office thereof, obtains any payment of any Obligation of any Credit Party (whether voluntary, involuntary or through the exercise of any right of setoff or the receipt of any Collateral or “proceeds” (as defined under the applicable UCC) of Collateral) other than pursuant to Section 8.9 or Article IX and such payment exceeds the amount such Lender would have been entitled to receive if all payments had gone to, and been distributed by, Agent in accordance with the provisions of the Loan Documents, such Lender shall purchase for cash from other Lenders such participations in their Obligations as necessary for such Lender to share such excess payment with such Lenders to ensure such payment is applied as though it had been received by Agent and applied in accordance with this Agreement (or, if such application would then be at the discretion of the Borrower, applied to repay the Obligations in accordance herewith); provided, however, that (i) if such payment is rescinded or otherwise recovered from such Lender or L/C Issuer in whole or in part, such purchase shall be rescinded and the purchase price therefor shall be returned to such Lender or L/C Issuer without interest and (ii) such Lender shall, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Requirements of Law, be able to exercise all its rights of payment (including the right of setoff) with respect to such participation as fully as if such Lender were the direct creditor of the applicable Credit Party in the amount of such participation. If a Non-Funding Lender receives any such payment as described in the previous sentence, such Lender shall turn over such payments to Agent in an amount that would satisfy the cash collateral requirements set forth in Section 1.10(e) .

8.12 Counterparts; Facsimile Signature . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties in separate counterparts, each of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same agreement. Signature pages may be detached from multiple separate counterparts and attached to a single counterpart. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Agreement by facsimile transmission or Electronic Transmission shall be as effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart hereof.

8.13 Severability . The illegality or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement or any instrument or agreement required hereunder shall not in any way affect or impair the legality or enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement or any instrument or agreement required hereunder.

 

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8.14 Captions . The captions and headings of this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the interpretation of this Agreement.

8.15 Independence of Provisions . The parties hereto acknowledge that this Agreement and the other Loan Documents may use several different limitations, tests or measurements to regulate the same or similar matters, and that such limitations, tests and measurements are cumulative and must each be performed, except as expressly stated to the contrary in this Agreement.

8.16 Interpretation . This Agreement is the result of negotiations among and has been reviewed by counsel to Credit Parties, Agent, each Lender and other parties hereto, and is the product of all parties hereto. Accordingly, this Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall not be construed against the Lenders or Agent merely because of Agent’s or Lenders’ involvement in the preparation of such documents and agreements. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each of the parties hereto has had the advice of counsel with respect to Sections 8.18 and 8.19 .

8.17 No Third Parties Benefited . This Agreement is made and entered into for the sole protection and legal benefit of the Borrower, the Lenders, the L/C Issuers party hereto, Agent and, subject to the provisions of Section 7.11 , each other Secured Party, and their permitted successors and assigns, and no other Person shall be a direct or indirect legal beneficiary of, or have any direct or indirect cause of action or claim in connection with, this Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents. Neither Agent nor any Lender shall have any obligation to any Person not a party to this Agreement or the other Loan Documents.

8.18 Governing Law and Jurisdiction .

(a) Governing Law . The laws of the State of New York shall govern all matters arising out of, in connection with or relating to this Agreement, including, without limitation, its validity, interpretation, construction, performance and enforcement (including, without limitation, any claims sounding in contract or tort law arising out of the subject matter hereof and any determinations with respect to post-judgment interest).

(b) Submission to Jurisdiction . Any legal action or proceeding with respect to any Loan Document shall be brought exclusively in the courts of the State of New York located in the City of New York, Borough of Manhattan, or of the United States of America for the Southern District of New York and, by execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Borrower and each other Credit Party executing this Agreement hereby accepts for itself and in respect of its Property, generally and unconditionally, the jurisdiction of the aforesaid courts. Each party hereto (and, to the extent set forth in any other Loan Document, each other Credit Party) hereby irrevocably waives any objection, including any objection to the laying of venue or based on the grounds of forum non conveniens, that such party may now or hereafter have to the bringing of any such action or proceeding in such jurisdictions.

(c) Service of Process . Each Credit Party hereby irrevocably waives personal service of any and all legal process, summons, notices and other documents and other service of process of any kind and consents to such service in any suit, action or proceeding brought in the United States of America with respect to or otherwise arising out of or in connection with any Loan Document by any means permitted by applicable Requirements of

 

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Law, including by the mailing thereof (by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid) to the address of the Borrower specified herein (and shall be effective when such mailing shall be effective, as provided therein). Each Credit Party agrees that a final judgment in any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.

(d) Non-Exclusive Jurisdiction . Nothing contained in this Section 8.18 shall affect the right of Agent or any Lender to serve process in any other manner permitted by applicable Requirements of Law or commence legal proceedings or otherwise proceed against any Credit Party in any other jurisdiction.

8.19 Waiver of Jury Trial . EACH PARTY HERETO, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, WAIVES ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION, SUIT, OR PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF, IN CONNECTION WITH OR RELATING TO, THIS AGREEMENT, THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS AND ANY OTHER TRANSACTION CONTEMPLATED HEREBY AND THEREBY. THIS WAIVER APPLIES TO ANY ACTION, SUIT OR PROCEEDING WHETHER SOUNDING IN TORT, CONTRACT OR OTHERWISE.

8.20 Entire Agreement; Release; Survival .

(a) THE LOAN DOCUMENTS EMBODY THE ENTIRE AGREEMENT OF THE PARTIES AND SUPERSEDE ALL PRIOR AGREEMENTS AND UNDERSTANDINGS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT MATTER THEREOF AND ANY PRIOR LETTER OF INTEREST, COMMITMENT LETTER, CONFIDENTIALITY AND SIMILAR AGREEMENTS INVOLVING ANY CREDIT PARTY AND ANY LENDER OR ANY L/C ISSUER OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE AFFILIATES RELATING TO A FINANCING OF SUBSTANTIALLY SIMILAR FORM, PURPOSE OR EFFECT OTHER THAN THE FEE LETTER. IN THE EVENT OF ANY CONFLICT BETWEEN THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT AND ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT, THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT SHALL GOVERN (UNLESS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY STATED IN SUCH OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT OR SUCH TERMS OF SUCH OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS ARE NECESSARY TO COMPLY WITH APPLICABLE REQUIREMENTS OF LAW, IN WHICH CASE SUCH TERMS SHALL GOVERN TO THE EXTENT NECESSARY TO COMPLY THEREWITH).

(b) Execution of this Agreement by the Credit Parties constitutes a full, complete and irrevocable release of any and all claims which each Credit Party may have at law or in equity in respect of all prior discussions and understandings, oral or written, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents. In no event shall any Indemnitee be liable on any theory of liability for any special, indirect, consequential or punitive damages (including any loss of profits, business or anticipated savings). Each of the Borrower and each other Credit Party signatory hereto hereby waives, releases and agrees (and shall cause each other Credit Party to waive, release and agree) not to sue upon any such claim for any special, indirect, consequential or punitive damages, whether or not accrued and whether or not known or suspected to exist in its favor.

(c) (i) Any indemnification or other protection provided to any Indemnitee pursuant to this Section 8.20 , Sections 8.5 (Costs and Expenses) and 8.6 (Indemnity) and Article VII (Agent) and Article IX (Taxes, Yield Protection and Illegality) and (ii) the provisions of Section 8.1 of the Guaranty and Security Agreement, in each case, shall (x) survive the

 

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occurrence of the Facility Termination Date (y) with respect to clause (i)  above, inure to the benefit of any Person that at any time held a right thereunder (as an Indemnitee or otherwise) and, thereafter, its successors and permitted assigns.

8.21 Patriot Act . Each Lender that is subject to the Patriot Act hereby notifies the Credit Parties that pursuant to the requirements of the Patriot Act, it is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each Credit Party, which information includes the name and address of each Credit Party and other information that will allow such Lender to identify each Credit Party in accordance with the Patriot Act.

8.22 Replacement of Lender . Within forty-five days after: (i) receipt by the Borrower of written notice and demand from any Lender that is not Agent or an Affiliate of Agent (an “ Affected Lender ”) for payment of additional costs as provided in Sections 9.1 , 9.3 and/or 9.6 ; or (ii) any failure by any Lender (other than Agent or an Affiliate of Agent) to consent to a requested amendment, waiver or modification to any Loan Document in which Required Lenders have already consented to such amendment, waiver or modification but the consent of each Lender (or each Lender directly affected thereby, as applicable) is required with respect thereto, the Borrower may, at its option, notify Agent and such Affected Lender (or such non-consenting Lender) of the Borrower’s intention to obtain, at the Borrower’s expense, a replacement Lender (“ Replacement Lender ”) for such Affected Lender (or such non-consenting Lender), which Replacement Lender shall be reasonably satisfactory to Agent. In the event the Borrower obtains a Replacement Lender within forty-five (45) days following notice of its intention to do so, the Affected Lender (or such non-consenting Lender) shall sell and assign its Loans and Revolving Loan Commitment to such Replacement Lender, at par, provided that the Borrower has reimbursed such Affected Lender for its increased costs for which it is entitled to reimbursement under this Agreement through the date of such sale and assignment. In the event that a replaced Lender does not execute an Assignment pursuant to Section 8.9 within five (5) Business Days after receipt by such replaced Lender of notice of replacement pursuant to this Section 8.22 and presentation to such replaced Lender of an Assignment evidencing an assignment pursuant to this Section 9.22 , the Borrower shall be entitled (but not obligated) to execute such an Assignment on behalf of such replaced Lender, and any such Assignment so executed by the Borrower, the Replacement Lender and Agent, shall be effective for purposes of this Section 8.22 and Section 8.9 . Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to a Lender that is a Non-Funding Lender or an Impacted Lender, Agent may, but shall not be obligated to, obtain a Replacement Lender and execute an Assignment on behalf of such Non-Funding Lender or Impacted Lender at any time with three (3) Business Days’ prior notice to such Lender (unless notice is not practicable under the circumstances) and cause such Lender’s Loans and Commitments to be sold and assigned, in whole or in part, at par. Upon any such assignment and payment and compliance with the other provisions of Section 8.9 , such replaced Lender shall no longer constitute a “Lender” for purposes hereof; provided, any rights of such replaced Lender to indemnification hereunder shall survive.

8.23 Joint and Several . The obligations of the Credit Parties hereunder and under the other Loan Documents are joint and several.

8.24 Creditor-Debtor Relationship . The relationship between Agent, each Lender and the L/C Issuer, on the one hand, and the Credit Parties, on the other hand, is solely that of creditor and debtor. No Secured Party has any fiduciary relationship or duty to any Credit Party arising out of or in connection with, and there is no agency, tenancy or joint venture relationship between the Secured Parties and the Credit Parties by virtue of, any Loan Document or any transaction contemplated therein.

 

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8.25 Actions in Concert . Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, each Lender hereby agrees with each other Lender that no Lender shall take any action to protect or enforce its rights against any Credit Party arising out of this Agreement or any other Loan Document (including exercising any rights of setoff) without first obtaining the prior written consent of Agent or Required Lenders, it being the intent of Lenders that any such action to protect or enforce rights under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents shall be taken in concert and at the direction or with the consent of Agent or Required Lenders.

8.26 Keepwell . Each Qualified ECP Guarantor hereby jointly and severally absolutely, unconditionally and irrevocably undertakes to provide such funds or other support as may be needed from time to time by each other Credit Party to honor all of its obligations under the Guaranty and Security Agreement in respect of Swap Obligations under any Secured Rate Contract (provided, however, that each Qualified ECP Guarantor shall only be liable under this Section 9.26 for the maximum amount of such liability that can be hereby incurred without rendering its obligations under this Section 8.26 , or otherwise under the Guaranty and Security Agreement, voidable under applicable Requirements of Law relating to fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer, and not for any greater amount). The obligations of each Qualified ECP Guarantor under this Section 8.26 shall remain in full force and effect until the guarantees in respect of Swap Obligations under each Secured Rate Contract have been discharged, or otherwise released or terminated in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. Each Qualified ECP Guarantor intends that this Section 8.26 constitute, and this Section 8.26 shall be deemed to constitute, a “keepwell, support, or other agreement” for the benefit of each other Credit Party for all purposes of Section 1a(18)(A)(v)(II) of the Commodity Exchange Act.

ARTICLE IX.

TAXES, YIELD PROTECTION AND ILLEGALITY

9.1 Taxes .

(a) Except as required by a Requirement of Law, each payment by any Credit Party under any Loan Document shall be made free and clear of all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, duties, deductions, withholdings (including backup withholding), assessments, fees or other charges imposed by any Governmental Authority, including any interest, additions to tax, penalties or other Liabilities) with respect thereto (collectively, “ Taxes ”).

(b) If any Taxes shall be required by any Requirement of Law to be deducted from or in respect of any amount payable under any Loan Document to any Secured Party (i) if such Tax is an Indemnified Tax, such amount payable shall be increased as necessary to ensure that, after all required deductions for Indemnified Taxes are made (including deductions applicable to any increases to any amount under this Section 9.1 ), such Secured Party receives the amount it would have received had no such deductions been made, (ii) the relevant Credit Party shall make such deductions, (iii) the relevant Credit Party shall timely pay the full amount deducted to the relevant Governmental Authority in accordance with applicable Requirements of Law and (iv) within thirty (30) days after such payment is made, the relevant Credit Party shall deliver to Agent an original or certified copy of a receipt evidencing such payment or other evidence of payment reasonably satisfactory to Agent.

 

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(c) In addition, the Borrower agrees to pay, and authorize Agent to pay in their name, any stamp, documentary, excise or property Tax, charges or similar levies imposed by any applicable Requirement of Law or Governmental Authority and all Liabilities with respect thereto (including by reason of any delay in payment thereof), in each case arising from the execution, delivery or registration of, or otherwise with respect to, any Loan Document or any transaction contemplated therein (collectively, “ Other Taxes ”). The Swingline Lender may, without any need for notice, demand or consent from the Borrower, by making funds available to Agent in the amount equal to any such payment, make a Swing Loan to the Borrower in such amount, the proceeds of which shall be used by Agent in whole to make such payment. Within thirty (30) days after the date of any payment of Other Taxes by any Credit Party, the Borrower shall furnish to Agent, at its address referred to in Section 8.2 , the original or a certified copy of a receipt evidencing payment thereof or other evidence of payment reasonably satisfactory to Agent.

(d) The Credit Parties hereby acknowledge and agree that (i) neither Wells Fargo nor any Affiliate of Wells Fargo has provided any Tax advice to any Tax Affiliate in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby or any other matters and (ii) the Credit Parties have received appropriate Tax advice to the extent necessary to confirm that the structure of any transaction contemplated by the Credit Parties in connection with this Agreement complies in all material respects with applicable federal, state and foreign Tax laws.

(e) The Borrower shall reimburse and indemnify, within thirty (30) days after receipt of demand therefor (with copy to Agent), each Secured Party for all Indemnified Taxes (including any Indemnified Taxes imposed by any jurisdiction on amounts payable under this Section 9.1 ) paid or payable by such Secured Party and any Liabilities arising therefrom or with respect thereto, whether or not such Indemnified Taxes were correctly or legally asserted. A certificate of the Secured Party (or of Agent on behalf of such Secured Party) claiming any compensation under this Section 9.1 , setting forth the amounts to be paid thereunder and delivered to the Borrower with copy to Agent, shall be conclusive, binding and final for all purposes, absent manifest error. In determining such amount, Agent and such Secured Party may use any reasonable averaging and attribution methods.

(f) Any Lender claiming any additional amounts payable pursuant to this Section 9.1 shall use its reasonable efforts (consistent with its internal policies and Requirements of Law) to change the jurisdiction of its Lending Office if such a change would reduce any such additional amounts (or any similar amount that may thereafter accrue) and would not, in the sole determination of such Lender, be otherwise disadvantageous to such Lender.

(g) (i) Each Non-U.S. Lender Party that, at any of the following times, is entitled to an exemption from United States withholding Tax or, after a change in any Requirement of Law, is subject to such withholding Tax at a reduced rate under an applicable Tax treaty, shall (w) on or prior to the date such Non-U.S. Lender Party becomes a “Non-U.S. Lender Party” hereunder, (x) on or prior to the date on which any such form or certification expires or becomes obsolete, (y) after the occurrence of any event requiring a change in the most recent form or certification previously delivered by it pursuant to this clause (i)  and (z) from time to time if requested by the Borrower or Agent (or, in the case of a participant or SPV, the relevant Lender), provide Agent and the Borrower (or, in the case of a participant or SPV, the relevant Lender) with two completed originals of one of the following, as applicable: (A) Forms

 

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W-8ECI (claiming exemption from U.S. withholding Tax because the income is effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business), W-8BEN (claiming exemption from, or a reduction of, U.S. withholding Tax under an income Tax treaty) and/or W-8IMY (together with appropriate forms, certifications and supporting statements) or any successor forms, (B) in the case of a Non-U.S. Lender Party claiming exemption under Sections 871(h) or 881(c) of the Code, Form W-8BEN (claiming exemption from U.S. withholding Tax under the portfolio interest exemption) or any successor form and a certificate in form and substance acceptable to Agent that such Non-U.S. Lender Party is not (1) a “bank” within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(A) of the Code, (2) a “10 percent shareholder” of the Borrower within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(B) of the Code or (3) a “controlled foreign corporation” described in Section 881(c)(3)(C) of the Code or (C) any other applicable document prescribed by the IRS certifying as to the entitlement of such Non-U.S. Lender Party to such exemption from United States withholding Tax or reduced rate with respect to all payments to be made to such Non-U.S. Lender Party under the Loan Documents. Unless the Borrower and Agent have received forms or other documents satisfactory to them indicating that payments under any Loan Document to or for a Non-U.S. Lender Party are not subject to United States withholding Tax or are subject to such Tax at a rate reduced by an applicable Tax treaty, the Credit Parties and Agent shall withhold amounts required to be withheld by applicable Requirements of Law from such payments at the applicable statutory rate.

(ii) Each U.S. Lender Party shall (A) on or prior to the date such U.S. Lender Party becomes a “U.S. Lender Party” hereunder, (B) on or prior to the date on which any such form or certification expires or becomes obsolete, (C) after the occurrence of any event requiring a change in the most recent form or certification previously delivered by it pursuant to this clause (g)  and (D) from time to time if requested by the Borrower or Agent (or, in the case of a participant or SPV, the relevant Lender), provide Agent and the Borrower (or, in the case of a participant or SPV, the relevant Lender) with two completed originals of Form W-9 (certifying that such U.S. Lender Party is entitled to an exemption from U.S. backup withholding Tax) or any successor form.

(iii) Each Lender having sold a participation in any of its Obligations or identified an SPV as such to Agent shall collect from such participant or SPV the documents described in this clause (g)  and provide them to Agent.

(iv) If a payment made to a Non-U.S. Lender Party would be subject to United States federal withholding Tax imposed by FATCA if such Non-U.S. Lender Party fails to comply with the applicable reporting requirements of FATCA, such Non-U.S. Lender Party shall deliver to Agent and Borrower any documentation under any Requirement of Law or reasonably requested by Agent or Borrower sufficient for Agent or Borrower to comply with their obligations under FATCA and to determine that such Non-U.S. Lender has complied with its obligations under FATCA or to determine the amount to deduct and withhold from such payment. Solely for the purposes of this clause (iv), “FATCA” shall include any amendments made to FATCA after the date of this Agreement.

(h) If any Secured Party determines, in its sole discretion exercised in good faith, that it has received a refund of any Indemnified Taxes as to which it has been indemnified pursuant to this Section 9.1 (including by the payment of additional amounts pursuant to Section 9.1(b) ), it shall pay to the relevant Credit Party an amount equal to such refund (but only to the extent of indemnity payments made under this Section 9.1 with respect to the Taxes giving rise to such refund), net of all out-of-pocket expenses (including Taxes) of such Secured Party and without interest (other than any interest paid by the relevant Governmental Authority with

 

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respect to such refund). Such Credit Party, upon the request of such Secured Party, shall repay to such Secured Party the amount paid over pursuant to this Section 9.1(h) (plus any penalties, interest or other charges imposed by the relevant Governmental Authority) in the event that such Secured Party is required to repay such refund to such Governmental Authority. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 9.1(h) , in no event shall the Secured Party be required to pay any amount to a Credit Party pursuant to this Section 9.1(h) the payment of which would place the Secured Party in a less favorable net after-Tax position than the Secured Party would have been in if the Tax subject to indemnification and giving rise to such refund had not been deducted, withheld or otherwise imposed and the indemnification payments or additional amounts with respect to such Tax had never been paid. This Section 9.1(h) shall not be construed to require any Secured Party to make available its Tax returns (or any other information relating to its Taxes that it deems confidential) to the Credit Party or any other Person.

9.2 Illegality . If after the date hereof any Lender shall determine that the introduction of any Requirement of Law, or any change in any Requirement of Law or in the interpretation or administration thereof, has made it unlawful, or that any central bank or other Governmental Authority has asserted that it is unlawful, for any Lender or its Lending Office to make LIBOR Rate Loans, then, on notice thereof by such Lender to the Borrower through Agent, the obligation of that Lender to make LIBOR Rate Loans shall be suspended until such Lender shall have notified Agent and the Borrower that the circumstances giving rise to such determination no longer exists.

(a) Subject to clause (c)  below, if any Lender shall determine that it is unlawful to maintain any LIBOR Rate Loan, the Borrower shall prepay in full all LIBOR Rate Loans of such Lender then outstanding, together with interest accrued thereon, either on the last day of the Interest Period thereof if such Lender may lawfully continue to maintain such LIBOR Rate Loans to such day, or immediately, if such Lender may not lawfully continue to maintain such LIBOR Rate Loans, together with any amounts required to be paid in connection therewith pursuant to Section 9.4 .

(b) If the obligation of any Lender to make or maintain LIBOR Rate Loans has been terminated, the Borrower may elect, by giving notice to such Lender through Agent that all Loans which would otherwise be made by any such Lender as LIBOR Rate Loans shall be instead Base Rate Loans.

(c) Before giving any notice to Agent pursuant to this Section 9.2 , the affected Lender shall designate a different Lending Office with respect to its LIBOR Rate Loans if such designation will avoid the need for giving such notice or making such demand and will not, in the judgment of the Lender, be illegal or otherwise disadvantageous to the Lender.

9.3 Increased Costs and Reduction of Return .

(a) If any Lender or L/C Issuer shall determine that, due to either (i) the introduction of, or any change in, or in the interpretation of, any Requirement of Law or (ii) the compliance with any guideline or request from any central bank or other Governmental Authority (whether or not having the force of law), in the case of either clause (i)  or (ii) subsequent to the date hereof, (x) there shall be any increase in the cost to such Lender or L/C Issuer of agreeing to make or making, funding or maintaining any LIBOR Rate Loans or of Issuing or maintaining any Letter of Credit or (y) the Lender or L/C Issuer shall be subject to any Taxes (other than (A) Indemnified Taxes, (B) Taxes described in clauses (b) through (d) of the definition of

 

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Excluded Taxes and (C) Connection Income Taxes) on its loans, loan principal, letters of credit, commitments, or other obligations, or its deposits, reserves, other liabilities or capital attributable thereto, then the Borrower shall be liable for, and shall from time to time, within thirty (30) days of demand therefor by such Lender or L/C Issuer (with a copy of such demand to Agent), pay to Agent for the account of such Lender or L/C Issuer, additional amounts as are sufficient to compensate such Lender or L/C Issuer for such increased costs or such Taxes; provided, that the Borrower shall not be required to compensate any Lender or L/C Issuer pursuant to this Section 9.3(a) for any increased costs incurred more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender or L/C Issuer notifies the Borrower, in writing of the increased costs and of such Lender’s or L/C Issuer’s intention to claim compensation thereof; provided, further, that if the circumstance giving rise to such increased costs is retroactive, then the 180-day period referred to above shall be extended to include the period of retroactive effect thereof.

(b) If any Lender or L/C Issuer shall have determined that:

(i) the introduction of any Capital Adequacy Regulation;

(ii) any change in any Capital Adequacy Regulation;

(iii) any change in the interpretation or administration of any Capital Adequacy Regulation by any central bank or other Governmental Authority charged with the interpretation or administration thereof; or

(iv) compliance by such Lender or L/C Issuer (or its Lending Office) or any entity controlling the Lender or L/C Issuer, with any Capital Adequacy Regulation;

affects the amount of capital required or expected to be maintained by such Lender or L/C Issuer or any entity controlling such Lender or L/C Issuer and (taking into consideration such Lender’s or such entities’ policies with respect to capital adequacy and such Lender’s or L/C Issuer’s desired return on capital) determines that the amount of such capital is increased as a consequence of its Revolving Loan Commitment, loans, credits or obligations under this Agreement, then, within thirty (30) days of demand of such Lender or L/C Issuer (with a copy to Agent), the Borrower shall pay to such Lender or L/C Issuer, from time to time as specified by such Lender or L/C Issuer, additional amounts sufficient to compensate such Lender or L/C Issuer (or the entity controlling the Lender or L/C Issuer) for such increase; provided, that the Borrower shall not be required to compensate any Lender or L/C Issuer pursuant to this Section 9.3(b) for any amounts incurred more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender or L/C Issuer notifies the Borrower, in writing of the amounts and of such Lender’s or L/C Issuer’s intention to claim compensation thereof; provided, further, that if the event giving rise to such increase is retroactive, then the 180-day period referred to above shall be extended to include the period of retroactive effect thereof.

(c) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, (i) the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and all requests, rules, guidelines or directives thereunder or issued in connection therewith and (ii) all requests, rules, guidelines or directives promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any successor or similar authority) or the United States of America or foreign regulatory authorities, in each case in respect of this clause (ii) pursuant to Basel III, shall, in each case, be deemed to be a change in a Requirement of Law under Section 9.3(a) above and/or a change in Capital Adequacy Regulation under Section 9.3(b) above, as applicable, regardless of the date enacted, adopted or issued.

 

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9.4 Funding Losses . The Borrower agrees to reimburse each Lender and to hold each Lender harmless from any loss or expense which such Lender may sustain or incur as a consequence of:

(a) the failure of the Borrower to make any payment or mandatory prepayment of principal of any LIBOR Rate Loan (including payments made after any acceleration thereof);

(b) the failure of the Borrower to borrow, continue or convert a Loan after it has given (or is deemed to have given) a Notice of Borrowing or a Notice of Conversion/Continuation;

(c) the failure of the Borrower to make any prepayment after it has given a notice in accordance with Section 1.7 ;

(d) the prepayment (including pursuant to Section 1.7 or any required assignment under Section 8.22 ) of a LIBOR Rate Loan on a day which is not the last day of the Interest Period with respect thereto; or

(e) the conversion pursuant to Section 1.6 of any LIBOR Rate Loan to a Base Rate Loan on a day that is not the last day of the applicable Interest Period;

including any such loss or expense arising from the liquidation or reemployment of funds obtained by it to maintain its LIBOR Rate Loans hereunder or from fees payable to terminate the deposits from which such funds were obtained; provided that, with respect to the expenses described in clauses (d)  and (e) above, such Lender shall have notified Agent of any such expense within two (2) Business Days of the date on which such expense was incurred. Solely for purposes of calculating amounts payable by the Borrower to the Lenders under this Section 9.4 and under Section 9.3(a) : each LIBOR Rate Loan made by a Lender (and each related reserve, special deposit or similar requirement) shall be conclusively deemed to have been funded at the LIBOR used in determining the interest rate for such LIBOR Rate Loan by a matching deposit or other borrowing in the interbank Eurodollar market for a comparable amount and for a comparable period, whether or not such LIBOR Rate Loan is in fact so funded.

9.5 Inability to Determine Rates . If Agent shall have determined in good faith that for any reason adequate and reasonable means do not exist for ascertaining the LIBOR for any requested Interest Period with respect to a proposed LIBOR Rate Loan or that the LIBOR applicable pursuant to Section 1.3(a) for any requested Interest Period with respect to a proposed LIBOR Rate Loan does not adequately and fairly reflect the cost to the Lenders of funding or maintaining such Loan, Agent will forthwith give notice of such determination to the Borrower and each Lender. Thereafter, the obligation of the Lenders to make or maintain LIBOR Rate Loans hereunder shall be suspended until Agent revokes such notice in writing. Upon receipt of such notice, the Borrower may revoke any Notice of Borrowing or Notice of Conversion/Continuation then submitted by it. If the Borrower does not revoke such notice, the Lenders shall make, convert or continue the Loans, as proposed by the Borrower, in the amount specified in the applicable notice submitted by the Borrower, but such Loans shall be made, converted or continued as Base Rate Loans.

 

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9.6 Reserves on LIBOR Rate Loans . The Borrower shall pay to each Lender, as long as such Lender shall be required under regulations of the Federal Reserve Board to maintain reserves with respect to liabilities or assets consisting of or including Eurocurrency funds or deposits (currently known as “Eurocurrency liabilities”), additional costs on the unpaid principal amount of each LIBOR Rate Loan equal to actual costs of such reserves allocated to such Loan by such Lender (as determined by such Lender in good faith, which determination shall be conclusive absent manifest error), payable on each date on which interest is payable on such Loan provided the Borrower shall have received at least fifteen (15) days’ prior written notice (with a copy to Agent) of such additional interest from the Lender. If a Lender fails to give notice fifteen (15) days prior to the relevant Interest Payment Date, such additional interest shall be payable fifteen (15) days from receipt of such notice.

9.7 Certificates of Lenders . Any Lender claiming reimbursement or compensation pursuant to this Article X shall deliver to the Borrower (with a copy to Agent) a certificate setting forth in reasonable detail the amount payable to such Lender hereunder and such certificate shall be conclusive and binding on the Borrower in the absence of manifest error.

ARTICLE X.

DEFINITIONS

10.1 Defined Terms . The following terms are defined in the Sections or Sections referenced opposite such terms:

 

“Affected Lender”    8.22
“Agent Report”    7.5(c)
“Aggregate Excess Funding Amount”    1.10(e)
“Agreement”    Preamble
“Applicable Tax”    5.10(e)
“Assignment”    8.9(c)
“Borrower”    Preamble
“Borrower Materials”    8.10(e)
“Compliance Certificate”    4.2(b)
“EBITDA”    Exhibit 4.2(b)
“Eligible Accounts”    1.11
“Eligible Assignee”    8.9
“Eligible Inventory”    1.12
“Event of Default”    6.1
“Fee Letter”    1.8(a)
“Fixed Charges”    Exhibit 4.2(b)
“Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio”    Exhibit 4.2(b)
“Holdings”    Recitals
“Incremental Effective Date”    1.1(d)(i)
“Incremental Revolving Loan”    1.1(d)(i)
“Incremental Revolving Loan Commitment”    1.1(d)(i)
“Indemnified Matters”    8.6
“Indemnitees”    8.6
“Investments”    5.4
“L/C Reimbursement Agreement”    1.1(b)
“L/C Reimbursement Date”    1.1(b)
“L/C Request”    1.1(b)
“L/C Sublimit”    1.1(b)

 

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“Lender”    Preamble
“Letter of Credit Fee”    1.8(c)
“Maximum Revolving Loan Balance”    1.1(a)
“Maximum Lawful Rate”    1.3(d)
“MNPI”    8.10(a)
“Mortgage Policy”    4.13(c)(iv)
“Mortgage Supporting Documentation”    4.13(c)
“Mortgaged Property”    4.13(c)
“Notice of Conversion/Continuation”    1.6(a)
“OFAC”    3.28
“Other Taxes”    10.1(c)
“Overadvance”    1.1(a)
“Participant Register”    8.9(h)
“Permitted Liens”    5.1
“Register”    1.4(b)
“Restricted Payments”    5.10
“Replacement Lender”    8.22
“Revolving Loan”    1.1(a)
“Revolving Loan Commitment”    1.1(a)
“Sale”    8.9(b)
“SDN List”    3.27
“Settlement Date”    1.10(b)
“Swing Loan”    1.1(c)
“Swingline Request”    1.1(c)
“Tax Distributions”    5.10(e)
“Tax Returns”    3.10
“Taxes”    9.1(a)
“Title Policy”    4.13(c)(i)
“Unfinanced Capital Expenditures”    Exhibit 4.2(b)
“Unused Commitment Fee”    1.8(b)
“Wells Fargo”    Preamble

In addition to the terms defined elsewhere in this Agreement, the following terms have the following meanings:

AB Receivables ” means, collectively, Accounts for which the related Account Debtor is Anheuser-Busch and/or its Affiliates; provided that, solely for purposes of Sections 5.1(r) , 5.2(f) and 5.3 , “AB Receivables” shall include related assets that are customarily transferred in or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions or factoring transactions involving accounts receivable.

AB Qualified Receivables Financing ” means any AB Receivables Financing that meets the following conditions: (a) the Borrower shall have determined in good faith that such AB Receivables Financing (including financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions) is in the aggregate economically fair and reasonable to the Borrower or, as the case may be, the Subsidiary in question; (b) all sales of AB Receivables are made at fair market value; (c) the financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions thereof shall be market terms (as determined in good faith by the Borrower) and may include AB Standard Undertakings, (d) if requested by Agent, the lender or purchaser in connection with such AB Qualified Receivables Financing shall have entered into an intercreditor agreement with Agent, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Agent, relating to payments received in respect of

 

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AB Receivables and (e) payments received in respect of AB Receivables that constitute Collateral shall be deposited in accounts and otherwise handled in a manner reasonably acceptable to Agent.

AB Receivables ” means, collectively, Accounts for which the related Account Debtor is Anheuser-Busch and/or its Affiliates (other than Envases y Tapas Modelo, S. de R.L. de C.V.).

AB Receivables Financing ” means any transaction or series of transactions that may be entered into by any of Holdings or its Subsidiaries pursuant to which Holdings or such Subsidiary may sell, convey or otherwise transfer to any other Person, or may grant a security interest in, any AB Receivables (whether now existing or arising in the future) of such Subsidiary, including, without limitation, all collateral securing such AB Receivables, all contracts and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such AB Receivables, proceeds of such AB Receivables and other assets, in each case, which are customarily transferred in or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions or factoring transactions involving accounts receivable.

AB Receivables Financing Effective Date ” means the effective date of an AB Qualified Receivables Financing, pursuant to which the Credit Parties shall have sold, conveyed, or otherwise transferred all existing AB Receivables of the Credit Parties that are (i) not scheduled to be paid within ten (10) days following the invoice date therefor and (ii) permitted to be included in such AB Qualified Receivables Financing pursuant to the terms thereof to one or more AB Receivables Subsidiaries and/or any other Person on terms and conditions reasonably acceptable to Agent (including providing prior written notice to Agent of the effectiveness thereof and, if requested by Agent, requiring any lender or purchaser in connection with such AB Qualified Receivables Financing to enter into an intercreditor agreement with Agent relating to payments received in respect of AB Receivables).

AB Receivables Subsidiary ” means a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings (or another Person formed for the purposes of engaging in AB Qualified Receivables Financing with the Borrower in which Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings makes an Investment and to which Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings transfers AB Receivables) which engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing or sale of AB Receivables of Holdings and its Subsidiaries, all proceeds thereof and all rights (contractual or other), collateral and other assets relating thereto, and any business or activities incidental or related to such business, and which is designated by the Borrower as an AB Receivables Subsidiary and:

(a) no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which (i) is guaranteed by Holdings or any other Subsidiary of Holdings (excluding guarantees of obligations (other than the principal of and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to AB Standard Undertakings), (ii) is recourse to or obligates Holdings or any other Subsidiary of Holdings in any way other than pursuant to AB Standard Undertakings, or (iii) subjects any property or asset of Holdings or any other Subsidiary of Holdings, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to AB Standard Undertakings;

(b) with which neither Holdings nor any other Subsidiary of Holdings has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding other than on terms which the Borrower reasonably believes to be no less favorable to Holdings or such Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not Affiliates of the Borrower; and

(c) to which neither Holdings nor any other Subsidiary of Holdings has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entity’s financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results.

 

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AB Standard Undertakings ” means representations, warranties, covenants, indemnities and guarantees of performance entered into by Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings that are determined by Holdings in good faith to be customary for an AB Receivables Financing, including, without limitation, those relating to the servicing of assets of a Subsidiary.

“ABL Priority Collateral” has the meaning given to such term in the Intercreditor Agreement.

Account ” means, as at any date of determination, all “accounts” (as such term is defined in the UCC) of the Credit Parties, including, without limitation, the unpaid portion of the obligation of a customer of a Credit Party in respect of Inventory purchased by and shipped to such customer and/or the rendition of services by a Credit Party, as stated on the respective invoice of a Credit Party, net of any credits, rebates or offsets owed to such customer.

Account Debtor ” means the customer of a Credit Party who is obligated on or under an Account.

Acquisition ” means any transaction or series of related transactions for the purpose of or resulting, directly or indirectly, in (a) the acquisition of all or substantially all of the assets of a Person, or of any business or division of a Person, (b) the acquisition of in excess of fifty percent (50%) of the Stock and Stock Equivalents of any Person or otherwise causing any Person to become a Subsidiary of the Borrower, or (c) a merger or consolidation or any other combination with another Person.

Advance Agreement ” means the Advance Extension Agreement, dated as of August 21, 2012, between the Borrower and Rexam, as amended by the Amendment to Advance Extension Agreement dated as of December 11, 2013 and as may be further amended, restated, supplemented, otherwise modified, extended, renewed, replaced from time to time in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Intercreditor Agreement.

AEMS ” means Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

Affiliate ” means, with respect to any Person, each officer, director, general partner or joint-venturer of such Person and any other Person that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such Person; provided, however, that no Secured Party shall be an Affiliate of any Credit Party or of any Subsidiary of any Credit Party solely by reason of the provisions of the Loan Documents. For purposes of this definition, “control” means the possession of either (a) the power to vote, or the beneficial ownership of, 10% or more of the voting Stock of such Person (either directly or through the ownership of Stock Equivalents) or (b) the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.

 

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Agent ” means Wells Fargo in its capacity as administrative agent for the Lenders hereunder, and any successor administrative agent.

Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment ” means the combined Revolving Loan Commitments of the Lenders, which shall be (a) prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, (x) $400,000,000 from and including December 8, 2014 through but excluding March 6, 2015 and (i) $320,000,000 from and including March 6, 2015 through but excluding April 1, 2015 and , (b) on and after the Commitment Step-Down Date, $200,000,000 and (c) on and after the Amendment No. 7 Effective Date, $[            ] 1 , in each case, as such amount may be reduced from time to time pursuant to this Agreement or increased as a result of Incremental Revolving Loan Commitments.

Amendment No. 4 Effective Date ” means December 23, 2014.

“Amendment No. 7” means the Amendment No. 7 to this Agreement, dated as of February [2], 2017, by and among the Borrower, the other Credit Parties signatory thereto, the Administrative Agent and the Lenders signatory thereto.

“Amendment No. 7 Effective Date” means the date on which all conditions set forth in Section [3] of Amendment No. 7 shall have been satisfied.

Anheuser-Busch ” means Anheuser-Busch, LLC and its successors and assigns.

Anheuser Busch Agreement ” means the Aluminum Can Sheet Supply Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2012, between the Borrower and Anheuser-Busch, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified, renewed or replaced from time to time.

“Applicable Accounting Standards” means (i) when used with reference to any date on or after the Amendment Effective Date, or any fiscal or calendar period ending on or after March 31, 2017, IFRS, and (ii) when used with reference to any other date or fiscal period, GAAP.

Applicable Margin ” means:

(a) for the period commencing on the Closing Date until Agent’s receipt of the first Borrowing Base Certificate after completion of the first full Fiscal Quarter following the Closing Date: (i) with respect to Base Rate Loans, one percent (1%) per annum and (ii) with respect to LIBOR Rate Loans, two percent (2%) per annum; and

(b) thereafter, the Applicable Margin shall equal the applicable LIBOR margin or Base Rate margin in effect from time to time determined as set forth below based upon the Average Excess Availability for the immediately preceding Fiscal Quarter pursuant to the appropriate column under the table below:

 

Average Excess Availability

   LIBOR Margin     Base Rate Margin  

Less than or equal to $40,000,000

     2.25     1.25

Greater than $ 40,000,000 but less than or equal to $70,000,000

     2.00     1.00

Greater than $ 70,000,000

     1.75     0.75

 

1 TBD as a result of Regions’ exit.

 

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The Applicable Margin shall be adjusted from time to time upon delivery to Agent of the Borrowing Base Certificate for the last calendar month or, at any time required to be delivered weekly, the last calendar week of the most recently-ended Fiscal Quarter, accompanied by a written calculation of the Average Excess Availability for the such Fiscal Quarter certified by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower. If such calculation indicates that the Applicable Margin shall increase or decrease, then, on the first day of the first calendar month after the date of delivery of such Borrowing Base Certificate and written calculation, the Applicable Margin shall be adjusted in accordance therewith; provided , however , that if (x) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or (y) the Borrower shall fail to deliver a Borrowing Base Certificate for the last calendar month or week, as applicable, of any Fiscal Quarter by the date required pursuant to Section 4.2 , then, at Agent’s election, effective as of the date of which the applicable Event of Default occurs or as of the first day of the calendar month following the end of applicable Fiscal Quarter, as the case may be, and continuing through the date, if any, on which such Event of Default ceases to exist or the first date of the calendar month following the date on which the Borrowing Base Certificate and such written calculation for the applicable calendar month or week are delivered, as the case may be, the Applicable Margin shall be conclusively presumed to equal the highest Applicable Margin specified in the pricing table set forth above.

In the event that any Borrowing Base Certificate delivered pursuant to Section 4.2 is inaccurate, and such inaccuracy, if corrected, would have led to the imposition of a higher Applicable Margin for any period than the Applicable Margin applied for that period, then (i) the Borrower shall immediately deliver to Agent a corrected Borrowing Base Certificate for that period, (ii) the Applicable Margin shall be determined based on the corrected Borrowing Base Certificate for that period, and (iii) the Borrower shall immediately pay to Agent (for the account of the Lenders that hold the Revolving Loan Commitments and Loans at the time such payment is received, regardless of whether those Lenders held the Revolving Loan Commitments and Loans during the relevant period) the accrued additional interest owing as a result of such increased Applicable Margin for that period. This paragraph shall not limit the rights of Agent or the Lenders with respect to Section 1.3(c) and Article VI hereof, and shall survive the termination of this Agreement until the payment in full in cash of the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the Loans.

Approved Fund ” means, with respect to any Lender, any Person (other than a natural Person) that (a) (i) is or will be engaged in making, purchasing, holding or otherwise investing in commercial loans and similar extensions of credit in the Ordinary Course of Business or (ii) temporarily warehouses loans for any Lender or any Person described in clause (i)  above and (b) is advised or managed by (i) such Lender, (ii) any Affiliate of such Lender or (iii) any Person (other than an individual) or any Affiliate of any Person (other than an individual) that administers or manages such Lender.

Attorney Costs ” means and includes all reasonable fees and disbursements of any law firm or other external counsel.

 

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Availability ” means, as of any date of determination, the amount by which (a) the Maximum Revolving Loan Balance exceeds (b) the aggregate outstanding principal balance of Revolving Loans.

Average Excess Availability ” means, with respect to any Fiscal Quarter, an amount equal to the average daily balance of the average daily Availability during such Fiscal Quarter.

Bank Products Obligations ” of the Credit Parties means any and all obligations of the Credit Parties, whether absolute or contingent and howsoever and whensoever created, arising, evidenced or acquired (including all renewals, extensions and modifications thereof and substitutions therefor) in connection with Secured Bank Products.

Bank Products ” means each and any of the following bank services provided to any Credit Party by any Lender or any of its Affiliates: (a) credit cards for commercial customers (including, without limitation, “commercial credit cards” and purchasing cards), (b) stored value cards, (c) merchant processing services, (d) treasury management services (including, without limitation, controlled disbursement, automated clearinghouse transactions, return items, overdrafts, e-payables, foreign currency exchange and interstate depository network services), and (e) Lease Financing.

Bankruptcy Code ” means the Federal Bankruptcy Reform Act of 1978.

Base Rate ” means, for any day, a rate per annum equal to the highest of (a) the rate last quoted by The Wall Street Journal as the “Prime Rate” in the United States or, if The Wall Street Journal ceases to quote such rate, the highest per annum interest rate published by the Federal Reserve Board in Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15 (519) (Selected Interest Rates) as the “bank prime loan” rate or, if such rate is no longer quoted therein, any similar rate quoted therein (as determined by Agent) or any similar release by the Federal Reserve Board (as determined by Agent), (b) the sum of 0.50% per annum and the Federal Funds Rate, and (c) the sum of (x) LIBOR calculated for each such day based on an Interest Period of one month determined two (2) Business Days prior to such day, plus (y) 1.00% per annum. Any change in the Base Rate due to a change in any of the foregoing shall be effective on the effective date of such change in the Federal Funds Rate or LIBOR for an Interest Period of one month.

Base Rate Loan ” means a Loan that bears interest based on the Base Rate.

Benefit Plan ” means any employee benefit plan as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA (whether governed by the laws of the United States or otherwise) to which any Credit Party incurs or otherwise has any obligation or liability, contingent or otherwise.

Borrowing ” means a borrowing hereunder consisting of Loans made to or for the benefit of the Borrower on the same day by the Lenders pursuant to Article I .

Borrowing Base ” means, as of any date of determination by Agent, from time to time, an amount equal to the sum at such time of:

(a) an amount equal to (i) 85% of the net book value of Eligible Accounts (other than Eligible Foreign Accounts) at such time (or, in the case of Eligible Accounts as to which the related Account Debtor is (a)  Coca-Cola or, prior to the AB Receivables Financing Effective Date, Anheuser-Busch, 90% of the net book value of such Eligible Accounts at such time or (b) Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC, the lesser of (x) 85% of the net book value of such

 

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Eligible Accounts at such time and (y) $5,000,000 ), plus (ii) the lesser of (x) 85% of the net book value of Eligible Foreign Accounts at such time and (y) $12,500,000 , minus (iii) the Listerhill/AEMS Excess A/R Amount ; plus

(b) the lesser of (i) 75% of the net book value of Eligible Inventory at such time valued at the lower of cost or market on a first-in, first-out basis and (ii) 85% of the net book value of Eligible Inventory at such time valued at the lower of cost or market on a first-in, first-out basis, multiplied by the NOLV Factor; plus

(b)   (c) the least lesser of (i) 5 75 % of the net book value of Eligible Inventory at such time valued at the lower of cost or market on a first-in, first-out basis , and (ii) 5 85 % of the net book value of Eligible Inventory at such time valued at the lower of cost or market on a first-in, first-out basis, multiplied by the NOLV Factor and (iii) $10,000,000 ,

in each case, less Reserves established by Agent at such time in its Permitted Discretion.

Borrowing Base Certificate ” means a certificate of the Borrower in substantially the form of Exhibit 11.1(b) hereto, duly completed as of each date and at such times required under Section 4.2(d) .

Business Day ” means any day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or a day on which banks are required or authorized to close in New York City and, when determined in connection with notices and determinations in respect of LIBOR or any LIBOR Rate Loan or any funding, conversion, continuation, Interest Period or payment of any LIBOR Rate Loan, that is also a day on which dealings in Dollar deposits are carried on in the London interbank market.

Capital Adequacy Regulation ” means any guideline, request or directive of any central bank or other Governmental Authority, or any other law, rule or regulation, whether or not having the force of law, in each case, regarding capital adequacy of any Lender or of any corporation controlling a Lender.

Capital Lease ” means, with respect to any Person, any lease of, or other arrangement conveying the right to use, any Property by such Person as lessee that has been or should be accounted for as a capital lease on a balance sheet of such Person prepared in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards .

Capital Lease Obligations ” means, at any time, with respect to any Capital Lease, any lease entered into as part of any sale leaseback transaction of any Person or any synthetic lease, the amount of all obligations of such Person that is (or that would be, if such synthetic lease or other lease were accounted for as a Capital Lease) capitalized on a balance sheet of such Person prepared in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards .

Cash Equivalents ” means (a) any readily-marketable securities (i) issued by, or directly, unconditionally and fully guarantied or insured by the United States federal government or (ii) issued by any agency of the United States federal government the obligations of which are fully backed by the full faith and credit of the United States federal government, (b) any readily-marketable direct obligations issued by any other agency of the United States federal government, any state of the United States or any political subdivision of any such state or any public instrumentality thereof, in each case having a rating of at least “A-1” from S&P or at least “P-1” from Moody’s, (c) any commercial paper rated at least “ A-1 ” by S&P or “ P-1 ” by Moody’s and issued by any Person organized under the laws of any state of the United States,

 

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(d) any Dollar-denominated time deposit, insured certificate of deposit, overnight bank deposit or bankers’ acceptance issued or accepted by (i) any Lender or (ii) any commercial bank that is (A) organized under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia, (B) “adequately capitalized” (as defined in the regulations of its primary federal banking regulators) and (C) has Tier 1 capital (as defined in such regulations) in excess of $250,000,000 and (e) shares of any United States money market fund that (i) has substantially all of its assets invested continuously in the types of investments referred to in clause (a) , (b) , (c) or (d)  above with maturities as set forth in the proviso below, (ii) has net assets in excess of $500,000,000 and (iii) has obtained from either S&P or Moody’s the highest rating obtainable for money market funds in the United States; provided, however, that the maturities of all obligations specified in any of clauses (a) , (b) , (c) or (d)  above shall not exceed 365 days.

Closing Date ” means December 11, 2013.

Coca-Cola ” means Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Sales and Services Company LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and its successors and assigns.

Coca-Cola Agreement ” means the Aluminum Can Stock Tolling Agreement, dated as of December 23, 2009, between the Borrower and Coca-Cola, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified, renewed or replaced from time to time.

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

Collateral ” means all Property and interests in Property and proceeds thereof now owned or hereafter acquired by any Credit Party, any of their respective Restricted Subsidiaries and any other Person who has granted a Lien to Agent, in or upon which a Lien is granted or purported to be granted or now or hereafter exists in favor of any Lender or Agent for the benefit of Agent, Lenders and other Secured Parties, whether under this Agreement or under any other documents executed by any such Persons and delivered to Agent.

Collateral Documents ” means, collectively, the Guaranty and Security Agreement, the Mortgages, each Control Agreement, and all other security agreements, pledge agreements, patent and trademark security agreements, lease assignments, guaranties and other similar agreements, and all amendments, restatements, modifications or supplements thereof or thereto, by or between any one or more of any Credit Party, any of their respective Restricted Subsidiaries or any other Person pledging or granting a lien on Collateral or guaranteeing the payment and performance of the Obligations, and any Lender or Agent for the benefit of Agent, the Lenders and other Secured Parties now or hereafter delivered to the Lenders or Agent pursuant to or in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby, and all financing statements (or comparable documents now or hereafter filed in accordance with the UCC or comparable law) against any such Person as debtor in favor of any Lender or Agent for the benefit of Agent, the Lenders and the other Secured Parties, as secured party, as any of the foregoing may be amended, restated and/or modified from time to time.

Commitment Percentage ” means, as to any Lender, the percentage equivalent of such Lender’s Revolving Loan Commitment divided by the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment; provided that following acceleration of the Loans, such term means, as to any Lender, the percentage equivalent of the principal amount of the Loans held by such Lender, divided by the aggregate principal amount of the Loans held by all Lenders.

 

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Commitment Step-Down Date ” means the earlier of (i) the AB Receivables Financing Effective Date and (ii) April 1, 2015.

Connection Income Taxes ” means Other Connection Taxes that are imposed on or measured by net income (however denominated) or that are franchise Taxes or branch profit Taxes.

Constellium Acquisition ” has the meaning set forth in Amendment No. 4 to this Agreement, dated as of the Amendment No. 4 Effective Date.

“Constellium Entities” means, collectively, Parent and its Subsidiaries other than Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries.

“Constellium Secured Notes” means the 7.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2021 issued by Parent pursuant the Constellium Secured Notes Indenture.

“Constellium Secured Notes Documents” means the Constellium Secured Notes Indenture, the Constellium Secured Notes, the “Security Documents” (as defined in the Constellium Secured Notes Indenture) and all other agreements, documents and instruments executed and/or delivered by Parent or any of its Subsidiaries in connection therewith or related thereto.

“Constellium Secured Notes Indenture” means that certain Indenture, dated as of March 30, 2016, among Parent, the guarantors party thereto, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee, as amended, restated, supplemented, otherwise modified, extended, renewed, replaced from time to time in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Intercreditor Agreement.

Contingent Obligation ” means, as to any Person, any direct or indirect liability, contingent or otherwise, of that Person: (a) with respect to any Indebtedness, lease, dividend or other obligation of another Person if the primary purpose or intent of the Person incurring such liability, or the primary effect thereof, is to provide assurance to the obligee of such liability that such liability will be paid or discharged, or that any agreements relating thereto will be complied with, or that the holders of such liability will be protected (in whole or in part) against loss with respect thereto; (b) with respect to any letter of credit issued for the account of that Person or as to which that Person is otherwise liable for reimbursement of drawings; (c) under any Rate Contracts; (d) to make take-or-pay or similar payments if required regardless of nonperformance by any other party or parties to an agreement; or (e) for the obligations of another Person through any agreement to purchase, repurchase or otherwise acquire such obligation or any Property constituting security therefor, to provide funds for the payment or discharge of such obligation or to maintain the solvency, financial condition or any balance sheet item or level of income of another Person. The amount of any Contingent Obligation shall be equal to the amount of the obligation so guarantied or otherwise supported or, if not a fixed and determined amount, the maximum amount so guarantied or supported.

Contractual Obligations ” means, as to any Person, any provision of any security (whether in the nature of Stock, Stock Equivalents or otherwise) issued by such Person or of any agreement, undertaking, contract, indenture, mortgage, deed of trust or other instrument, document or agreement (other than a Loan Document) to which such Person is a party or by which it or any of its Property is bound or to which any of its Property is subject.

 

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Control Agreement ” means, with respect to any deposit account, securities account, commodity account, securities entitlement or commodity contract, an agreement, in form and substance satisfactory to Agent, among Agent, the financial institution or other Person at which such account is maintained or with which such entitlement or contract is carried and the Credit Party maintaining such account or owning such entitlement or contract, effective to grant “control” (within the meaning of Articles 8 and 9 under the applicable UCC) over such account to Agent.

Conversion Date ” means any date on which the Borrower converts a Base Rate Loan to a LIBOR Rate Loan or a LIBOR Rate Loan to a Base Rate Loan.

Copyrights ” means all rights, title and interests (and all related IP Ancillary Rights) arising under any Requirement of Law in or relating to copyrights and all mask work, database and design rights, whether or not registered or published, all registrations and recordations thereof and all applications in connection therewith.

Credit Parties ” means Holdings, the Borrower and each other Person (i) which executes a guaranty of the Obligations, (ii) which grants a Lien on all or substantially all of its assets to secure payment of the Obligations and (iii) all of the Stock of which is pledged to Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties.

Crown ” means Crown Holdings, Inc., a Pennsylvania corporation, and its successors and assigns.

Default ” means any event or circumstance that, with the passing of time or the giving of notice or both, would (if not cured or otherwise remedied during such time) become an Event of Default.

Disqualified Stock ” means any Stock or Stock Equivalent which, by its terms (or by the terms of any security or other Stock into which it is convertible or for which it is exchangeable), or upon the happening of any event or condition, (a) matures or is mandatorily redeemable, pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise, or is redeemable at the option of the holder thereof, in whole or in part, on or prior to the date that is ninety-one (91) days following the final maturity date of the Senior Notes (excluding any provisions requiring redemption upon a “change of control” or similar event; provided that such “change of control” or similar event results in the prior payment in full in cash of the Obligations (other than contingent indemnification obligations to the extent no claim giving rise thereto has been asserted), the termination of all commitments to lend hereunder and the termination of this Agreement) Revolving Termination Date , (b) is convertible into or exchangeable for (i) debt securities or (ii) any Stock or Stock Equivalents referred to in clause (a)  above, in each case, at any time on or prior to the date that is ninety-one (91) days following the final maturity date of the Senior Notes Revolving Termination Date , or (c) is entitled to receive scheduled dividends or distributions in cash prior to the time that the Obligations (other than contingent indemnification obligations to the extent no claim giving rise thereto has been asserted) are paid in full in cash.

Disposition ” means (a) the sale, lease, conveyance or other disposition of Property, other than sales or other dispositions expressly permitted under Sections 5.2(a) , 5.2(c) and 5.2(d) , and (b) the sale or transfer by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Stock or Stock Equivalent issued by any Restricted Subsidiary and held by such transferor Person.

 

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Dollars ”, “ dollars ” and “ $ ” each mean the lawful money of the United States of America.

Dominion Period ” means any period (i) commencing on the date on which (x) an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or (y) Availability as of any date is less than (A) at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $40,000,000 and (B) on and after the Commitment Step-Down Date, the greater of $25,000,000 and 12.5% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment and (ii) ending on the first subsequent date on which (x) no Event of Default exists and (y) Availability shall have been at least equal to (A) at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $40,000,000 and (B) on and after the Commitment Step-Down Date, the greater of $25,000,000 and 12.5% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment, in either case, for a period of 30 consecutive calendar days; provided that, to the extent any Dominion Period is in effect prior to the Constellium Acquisition, such existing Dominion Period shall be deemed to have terminated immediately prior to the consummation of the Constellium Acquisition.

Electronic Transmission ” means each document, instruction, authorization, file, information and any other communication transmitted, posted or otherwise made or communicated by e-mail or E-Fax, or otherwise to or from an E-System.

Eligible Foreign Account ” means an Account of the Borrower , Listerhill or AEMS with respect to which an Eligible Foreign Account Debtor is the Account Debtor and that would constitute an Eligible Account but for clause (c)  of Section 1.11 (without giving effect to clause (ii) thereof), so long as such Account satisfies each of the following criteria: (i) such Account is at all times billed and payable in Dollars, (ii) all payments in respect of such Account are made by such Eligible Foreign Account Debtor to the Borrower , Listerhill or AEMS, as applicable, in the United States or to an account located in the United States that is subject to a Control Agreement and (iii) such Account is subject to a first priority valid and perfected security interest of Agent in the United States; provided that the Borrower , Listerhill or AEMS, as applicable, shall, promptly upon request of Agent, execute and deliver, or cause to be executed and delivered to Agent such agreements, documents and instruments as may be required by Agent to perfect the security interest of Agent in such Account in accordance with the applicable laws of the jurisdiction of formation of such Eligible Account Debtor and take, or cause to be taken, such other and further actions as Agent may request to enable Agent, as secured party with respect thereto, to collect such Account under the applicable laws of such jurisdiction of formation.

Eligible Foreign Account Debtors ” means Persons designated by Agent as “Eligible Foreign Account Debtors” from time to time in its Permitted Discretion, which Persons shall initially be (i) the foreign Affiliates of Coca-Cola, (ii) the foreign Affiliates of Rexam and (iii) the foreign Affiliates of Crown (including NAFCEL). For purposes of clarity, Agent may from time to time in its Permitted Discretion remove such designation with respect to any Person that was previously designated as an “Eligible Foreign Account Debtor,” after which time such Person shall no longer constitute an “Eligible Foreign Account Debtor” (unless Agent subsequently redesignates such Person as an “Eligible Foreign Account Debtor” in its Permitted Discretion).

Eligible In-Transit Inventory ” means all raw materials and finished goods Inventory owned by a Credit Party, which Inventory is in transit in the United States and (a) has been paid for by such Credit Party, (b) is fully insured, (c) is subject to a first priority perfected security interest in and lien upon such goods in favor of Agent (except for any possessory lien upon such

 

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goods in the possession of a freight carrier or shipping company securing only the freight charges for the transportation of such goods) and (d) is evidenced or deliverable pursuant to Documents that have been delivered to Agent.

Environmental Laws ” means all Requirements of Law and Permits imposing liability or standards of conduct for or relating to the regulation and protection of human health, safety, the workplace, the environment and natural resources, and including public notification requirements and environmental transfer of ownership, notification or approval statutes.

Environmental Liabilities ” means all Liabilities (including costs of Remedial Actions, natural resource damages and costs and expenses of investigation and feasibility studies, including the cost of environmental consultants and the cost of attorney’s fees) that may be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party as a result of, or related to, any claim, suit, action, investigation, proceeding or demand by any Person, whether based in contract, tort, implied or express warranty, strict liability, criminal or civil statute or common law or otherwise, arising under any Environmental Law or in connection with any environmental, health or safety condition or with any Release and resulting from the ownership, lease, sublease or other operation or occupation of property by any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party, whether on, prior or after the date hereof.

Equipment ” means all “equipment,” as such term is defined in the UCC, now owned or hereafter acquired by any Credit Party, wherever located.

ERISA ” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.

ERISA Affiliate ” means, collectively, any Credit Party and any Person under common control or treated as a single employer with, any Credit Party, within the meaning of Section 414(b), (c), (m) or (o) of the Code.

ERISA Event ” means any of the following: (a) a reportable event described in Section 4043(b) of ERISA (or, unless the 30-day notice requirement has been duly waived under the applicable regulations, Section 4043(c) of ERISA) with respect to a Title IV Plan; (b) the withdrawal of any ERISA Affiliate from a Title IV Plan subject to Section 4063 of ERISA during a plan year in which it was a substantial employer, as defined in Section 4001(a)(2) of ERISA; (c) the complete or partial withdrawal of any ERISA Affiliate from any Multiemployer Plan; (d) with respect to any Multiemployer Plan, the filing of a notice of reorganization, insolvency or termination (or treatment of a plan amendment as termination) under Section 4041A of ERISA; (e) the filing of a notice of intent to terminate a Title IV Plan (or treatment of a plan amendment as termination) under Section 4041 of ERISA; (f) the institution of proceedings to terminate a Title IV Plan or Multiemployer Plan by the PBGC; (g) the failure to make any required contribution to any Title IV Plan or Multiemployer Plan when due; (h) the imposition of a Lien under Section 412 or 430(k) of the Code or Section 303 or 4068 of ERISA on any property (or rights to property, whether real or personal) of any ERISA Affiliate; (i) the failure of a Benefit Plan or any trust thereunder intended to qualify for tax exempt status under Section 401 or 501 of the Code or other Requirements of Law to qualify thereunder; (j) a Title IV plan is in “at risk” status within the meaning of Code Section 430(i); (k) a Multiemployer Plan is in “endangered status” or “critical status” within the meaning of Section 432(b) of the Code; and (l) any other event or condition that might reasonably be expected to constitute grounds under Section 4042 of ERISA for the termination of, or the appointment of a trustee to administer, any Title IV Plan or Multiemployer Plan or for the imposition of any material liability upon any ERISA Affiliate under Title IV of ERISA other than for PBGC premiums due but not delinquent.

 

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Event of Loss ” means, with respect to any Property, any of the following: (a) any loss, destruction or damage of such Property; or (b) any condemnation, seizure or taking, by exercise of the power of eminent domain or otherwise, of such Property, or confiscation of such Property or the requisition of the use of such Property.

Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission promulgated thereunder.

Excluded Equity Issuance ” means an issuance of Stock or Stock Equivalents (other than Disqualified Stock) by a Credit Party.

Excluded Rate Contract Obligation ” means, with respect to any Guarantor, any guarantee of any Swap Obligations under a Secured Rate Contract if, and only to the extent that and for so long as, all or a portion of the guarantee of such Guarantor of, or the grant by such Guarantor of a security interest to secure, such Swap Obligation under a Secured Rate Contract (or any guarantee thereof) is or becomes illegal under the Commodity Exchange Act or any rule, regulation or order of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (or the application or official interpretation of any thereof) by virtue of such Guarantor’s failure for any reason to constitute an “eligible contract participant” as defined in the Commodity Exchange Act at the time the guarantee of such Guarantor or the grant of such security interest becomes effective with respect to such Swap Obligation under a Secured Rate Contract. If a Swap Obligation under a Secured Rate Contract arises under a master agreement governing more than one swap, such exclusion shall apply only to the portion of such Swap Obligation under a Secured Rate Contract that is attributable to swaps for which such guarantee or security interest is or becomes illegal.

Excluded Subsidiary ” means (a) any Subsidiary that is a controlled foreign corporation (as defined in the Code, a “ CFC ”), (b) any Subsidiary of a CFC, (c) any Subsidiary substantially all of whose assets consist (directly or indirectly through its Subsidiaries) of Stock in one or more CFCs.

Excluded Tax ” means with respect to any Secured Party: (a) Taxes measured by net income (including branch profit Taxes) and franchise Taxes imposed in lieu of net income Taxes, in each case (i) imposed on any Secured Party as a result of being organized under the laws of, or having its principal office or, in the case of any Lender, its applicable lending office located in, the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (or any political subdivision thereof) or (ii) that are Other Connection Taxes; (b) withholding Taxes to the extent that the obligation to withhold amounts existed on the date that such Person became a Secured Party under this Agreement in the capacity under which such Person makes a claim under Section 9.1(b) or designates a new Lending Office, except in each case to the extent such Person is a direct or indirect assignee (other than pursuant to Section 8.22 ) of any other Secured Party that was entitled, at the time the assignment to such Person became effective, to receive additional amounts under Section 9.1(b) ; (c) Taxes that are directly attributable to the failure (other than as a result of a change in any Requirement of Law) by any Secured Party to deliver the documentation required to be delivered pursuant to Section 9.1(g) ; and (d) any United States federal withholding Taxes imposed under FATCA.

 

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Existing Letters of Credit ” means those Letters of Credit issued and outstanding as of the Closing Date and set forth on Schedule 1.1(b) .

Existing Revolving Credit Agreement ” means the Second Amended and Restated Loan Agreement dated as of November 16, 2010, by and among the Borrower, Holdings and certain other Subsidiaries of Holdings, the financial institutions party thereto as lenders and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified prior to the Closing Date.

Existing Term Loan Credit Agreement ” means the Credit and Security Agreement dated as of November 16, 2010, by and among the Borrower, Holdings and certain other Subsidiaries of Holdings, The Employees’ Retirement System of Alabama, The Teachers’ Retirement System of Alabama and the other financial institutions from time to time party thereto as lenders, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified prior to the Closing Date.

E-Fax ” means any system used to receive or transmit faxes electronically.

E-Signature ” means the process of attaching to or logically associating with an Electronic Transmission an electronic symbol, encryption, digital signature or process (including the name or an abbreviation of the name of the party transmitting the Electronic Transmission) with the intent to sign, authenticate or accept such Electronic Transmission.

E-System ” means any electronic system approved by Agent, including SyndTrak®, IntraLinks® and ClearPar® and any other Internet or extranet-based site, whether such electronic system is owned, operated or hosted by Agent, any of its Related Persons or any other Person, providing for access to data protected by passcodes or other security system.

Facility Termination Date ” means the date on which (A) the Revolving Loan Commitments have terminated, (B) all Loans, all L/C Reimbursement Obligations and all other Obligations under the Loan Documents, all Bank Product Obligations and all Obligations arising under Secured Rate Contracts, that Agent has theretofore been notified in writing by the holder of such Obligation are then due and payable, have been paid in full in cash, (C) there shall have been deposited cash collateral with respect to all contingent Obligations (or, as an alternative to cash collateral in the case of any Letter of Credit Obligation, Agent shall have received of a back-up letter of credit issued by an issuer acceptable to Agent), in amounts (or, in the case of Letter of Credit Obligations, in an amount equal to 105% of such amount) and on terms and conditions and with parties satisfactory to Agent and each Indemnitee that is, or may be, owed such Obligations (excluding contingent Obligations (other than L/C Reimbursement Obligations) as to which no claim has been asserted) and (D) to the extent requested by Agent, Agent and the Secured Parties shall have received liability releases from the Credit Parties each in form and substance acceptable to Agent.

FATCA ” means Sections 1471, 1472, 1473 and 1474 of the Code, as of the date of this Agreement (or any amended or successor version that is substantively comparable and not materially more onerous to comply with), current or future United States Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder and published guidance with respect thereto, and any agreements entered into pursuant to Section 1471(b)(1) of the Code.

 

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Federal Flood Insurance ” means federally backed Flood Insurance available under the National Flood Insurance Program to owners of real property improvements located in Special Flood Hazard Areas in a community participating in the National Flood Insurance Program.

Federal Funds Rate ” means, for any period, a fluctuating interest rate per annum equal for each day during such period to the weighted average of the rates on overnight federal funds transactions with members of the Federal Reserve System arranged by federal funds brokers, as determined by Agent in a commercially reasonable manner.

Federal Reserve Board ” means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, or any entity succeeding to any of its principal functions.

FEMA ” means the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that administers the National Flood Insurance Program.

Final Availability Date ” means the earlier of the Revolving Termination Date and one (1) Business Day prior to the date specified in clause (a)  of the definition of Revolving Termination Date.

FIRREA ” means the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989.

Fiscal Quarter ” means any of the quarterly accounting periods of Holdings ending on March, June, September and December of each year.

Fiscal Year ” means any of the annual accounting periods of Holdings ending on December 31 of each year.

Flood Insurance ” means, for any Real Estate located in a Special Flood Hazard Area, Federal Flood Insurance or private insurance reasonably satisfactory to Agent, in either case, that (a) meets the requirements set forth by FEMA in its Mandatory Purchase of Flood Insurance Guidelines , (b) shall include a deductible not to exceed $50,000 and (c) shall have a coverage amount equal to the lesser of (i) the “replacement cost value” of the buildings and any personal property Collateral located on the Real Estate as determined under the National Flood Insurance Program or (ii) the maximum policy limits set under the National Flood Insurance Program.

GAAP ” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, as in effect from time to time, set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, in the statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (or agencies with similar functions and comparable stature and authority within the accounting profession) that are applicable to the circumstances as of the date of determination. Subject to Section 10.3 , all references to “GAAP” shall be to GAAP applied consistently with the principles used in the preparation of the financial statements described in Section 3.11(a) .

Governmental Authority ” means any nation, sovereign or government, any state or other political subdivision thereof, any agency, authority or instrumentality thereof and any entity or authority exercising executive, legislative, taxing, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to government, including any central bank, stock exchange, regulatory body, arbitrator, public sector entity, supra-national entity (including the European Union and the European Central Bank) and any self-regulatory organization (including the National Association of Insurance Commissioners).

 

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Guarantor ” means Holdings, Holdco II , each Restricted Subsidiary (other than the Borrower) and each other Person that has guaranteed any Obligations.

Guaranty and Security Agreement ” means that certain Guaranty and Security Agreement, dated as of even date herewith, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Agent and the Borrower, made by the Credit Parties in favor of Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, as the same may be amended, restated and/or modified from time to time.

Hazardous Material ” means any substance, material or waste that is classified, regulated or otherwise characterized under any Environmental Law as hazardous, toxic, a contaminant or a pollutant or by other words of similar meaning or regulatory effect, including, without limitation, petroleum or any fraction thereof, asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls and radioactive substances.

Holdco II ” means Constellium Holdco II B.V., a private limited liability company organized under the laws of Netherlands.

Holdco II Guaranty ” means that certain Guaranty, dated as of the date of the consummation of the Constellium Acquisition, by Holdco II in favor of Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented and/or otherwise modified from time to time.

“IFRS” means the body of pronouncements issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), including International Financial Reporting Standards and interpretations approved by the IASB, International Accounting Standards and Standing Interpretations Committee interpretations approved by the predecessor International Accounting Standards Committee and adapted for use in the European Union.

Impacted Lender ” means any Lender that fails to provide Agent, within three (3) Business Days following Agent’s written request, satisfactory assurance that such Lender will not become a Non-Funding Lender.

Indebtedness ” of any Person means, without duplication: (a) all indebtedness for borrowed money; (b) all obligations issued, undertaken or assumed as the deferred purchase price of Property or services (other than trade payables entered into in the Ordinary Course of Business); (c) the face amount of all letters of credit issued for the account of such Person and without duplication, all drafts drawn thereunder and all reimbursement or payment obligations with respect to letters of credit, surety bonds and other similar instruments issued by such Person; (d) all obligations evidenced by notes, bonds, debentures or similar instruments, including obligations so evidenced incurred in connection with the acquisition of Property, assets or businesses; (e) all indebtedness created or arising under any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, or incurred as financing, in either case with respect to Property acquired by such Person (even though the rights and remedies of the seller or lender under such agreement in the event of default are limited to repossession or sale of such Property); (f) all Capital Lease Obligations; (g) the principal balance outstanding under any synthetic lease, off-balance sheet loan or similar off balance sheet financing product; (h) all obligations of such Person, whether or not contingent, in respect of Disqualified Stock, valued at, in the case of redeemable preferred Stock, the greater of the voluntary liquidation preference and the involuntary liquidation

 

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preference of such Stock plus accrued and unpaid dividends; (i) all indebtedness referred to in clauses (a)  through (h) above secured by (or for which the holder of such Indebtedness has an existing right, contingent or otherwise, to be secured by) any Lien upon or in Property (including accounts and contracts rights) owned by such Person, even though such Person has not assumed or become liable for the payment of such indebtedness; and (j) all Contingent Obligations described in clause (a)  of the definition thereof in respect of indebtedness or obligations of others of the kinds referred to in clauses (a)  through (i) above.

Indemnified Tax ” means (a) any Tax other than an Excluded Tax and (b) to the extent not otherwise described in clause (a) , Other Taxes.

Insolvency Proceeding ” means (a) any case, action or proceeding before any court or other Governmental Authority relating to bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, liquidation, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or relief of debtors, or (b) any general assignment for the benefit of creditors, composition, marshaling of assets for creditors, or other, similar arrangement in respect of its creditors generally or any substantial portion of its creditors; in each case in (a) and (b) above, undertaken under U.S. federal, state or foreign law, including the Bankruptcy Code.

Intellectual Property ” means all rights, title and interests in or relating to intellectual property and industrial property arising under any Requirement of Law and all IP Ancillary Rights relating thereto, including all Copyrights, Patents, Software, Trademarks, Internet Domain Names, Trade Secrets and IP Licenses.

Intercreditor Agreement ” means the Intercreditor Agreement dated as of the Closing Date, among Agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Noteholder Collateral Agent, and Rexam, and acknowledged and agreed to by the Credit Parties, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

Interest Payment Date ” means, (a) with respect to any LIBOR Rate Loan (other than a LIBOR Rate Loan having an Interest Period of six (6) months), the last day of each Interest Period applicable to such Loan, (b) with respect to any LIBOR Rate Loan having an Interest Period of six (6) months, the last day of each three (3) month interval and, without duplication, the last day of such Interest Period, and (c) with respect to Base Rate Loans (including Swing Loans) the first day of each month.

Interest Period ” means, with respect to any LIBOR Rate Loan, the period commencing on the Business Day such Loan is disbursed or continued or on the Conversion Date on which a Base Rate Loan is converted to the LIBOR Rate Loan and ending on the date one, two, three or six months thereafter, as selected by the Borrower in its Notice of Borrowing or Notice of Conversion/Continuation; provided that:

(a) if any Interest Period pertaining to a LIBOR Rate Loan would otherwise end on a day which is not a Business Day, that Interest Period shall be extended to the next succeeding Business Day unless the result of such extension would be to carry such Interest Period into another calendar month, in which event such Interest Period shall end on the immediately preceding Business Day;

(b) any Interest Period pertaining to a LIBOR Rate Loan that begins on the last Business Day of a calendar month (or on a day for which there is no numerically corresponding day in the calendar month at the end of such Interest Period) shall end on the last Business Day of the calendar month at the end of such Interest Period; and

(c) no Interest Period shall extend beyond the Revolving Termination Date.

 

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Internet Domain Name ” means all right, title and interest (and all related IP Ancillary Rights) arising under any Requirement of Law in or relating to internet domain names.

Inventory ” means all of the “inventory” (as such term is defined in the UCC) of the Borrower, including, but not limited to, all merchandise, raw materials, parts, supplies, work-in-process and finished goods intended for sale, together with all the containers, packing, packaging, shipping and similar materials related thereto, and including such inventory as is temporarily out of a Borrower’s custody or possession, including inventory on the premises of others and items in transit.

IP Ancillary Rights ” means, with respect to any Intellectual Property, as applicable, all foreign counterparts to, and all divisionals, reversions, continuations, continuations-in-part, reissues, reexaminations, renewals and extensions of, such Intellectual Property and all income, royalties, proceeds and Liabilities at any time due or payable or asserted under or with respect to any of the foregoing or otherwise with respect to such Intellectual Property, including all rights to sue or recover at law or in equity for any past, present or future infringement, misappropriation, dilution, violation or other impairment thereof, and, in each case, all rights to obtain any other IP Ancillary Right.

IP License ” means all Contractual Obligations (and all related IP Ancillary Rights), whether written or oral, granting any right, title and interest in or relating to any Intellectual Property.

IRS ” means the Internal Revenue Service of the United States and any successor thereto.

Issue ” means, with respect to any Letter of Credit, to issue, extend the expiration date of, renew (including by failure to object to any automatic renewal on the last day such objection is permitted), increase the face amount of, or reduce or eliminate any scheduled decrease in the face amount of, such Letter of Credit, or to cause any Person to do any of the foregoing. The terms “Issued”, “Issuance” and “Issuer” have correlative meanings.

L/C Issuer ” means any Lender or an Affiliate thereof or a bank or other legally authorized Person, in each case, reasonably acceptable to Agent, in such Person’s capacity as an Issuer of Letters of Credit hereunder.

L/C Reimbursement Obligation ” means, for any Letter of Credit, the obligation of the Borrower to the L/C Issuer thereof or to Agent, as and when matured, to pay all amounts drawn under such Letter of Credit.

Lease Financing ” means (i) a lease of specific Equipment and (ii) a secured financing transaction secured by specific Equipment, whether that transaction is called a lease or a loan, entered into by any Credit Party with any Lender or any of its Affiliates.

 

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Lender ” means each Lender with a Revolving Loan Commitment (or if the Revolving Loan Commitments have terminated, who hold Revolving Loans or participations in Swing Loans or Letter of Credit Obligations).

Lending Office ” means, with respect to any Lender, the office or offices of such Lender specified as its “Lending Office” beneath its name on the applicable signature page hereto, or such other office or offices of such Lender as it may from time to time notify the Borrower and Agent.

Letter of Credit ” means documentary or standby letters of credit Issued for the account of the Borrower by L/C Issuers, and bankers’ acceptances issued by the Borrower, for which Agent and Lenders have incurred Letter of Credit Obligations. Each Existing Letter of Credit shall be deemed to constitute a Letter of Credit Issued hereunder on the Closing Date for all purposes of the Loan Documents.

Letter of Credit Obligations ” means all outstanding obligations incurred by Agent and Lenders at the request of the Borrower, whether direct or indirect, contingent or otherwise, due or not due, in connection with the Issuance of Letters of Credit by L/C Issuers or the purchase of a participation as set forth in Section 1.1(b) with respect to any Letter of Credit. The amount of such Letter of Credit Obligations shall equal the maximum amount that may be payable by Agent and Lenders thereupon or pursuant thereto.

Liabilities ” means all claims, actions, suits, judgments, damages, losses, liability, obligations, responsibilities, fines, penalties, sanctions, costs, fees, Taxes, commissions, charges, disbursements and expenses (including, without limitation, those incurred upon any appeal or in connection with the preparation for and/or response to any subpoena or request for document production relating thereto), in each case of any kind or nature (including interest accrued thereon or as a result thereto and fees, charges and disbursements of financial, legal and other advisors and consultants), whether joint or several, whether or not indirect, contingent, consequential, actual, punitive, treble or otherwise.

LIBOR ” means, for each Interest Period, the greater of (a) zero percent (0.00%) and (b) the offered rate per annum for deposits of Dollars for the applicable Interest Period that appears on Reuters Screen LIBOR 01 Page as of 11:00 A.M. (London, England time) two (2) Business Days prior to the first day in such Interest Period. If no such offered rate exists, such rate for clause (b) of the foregoing sentence will be the rate of interest per annum, as determined by Agent at which deposits of Dollars in immediately available funds are offered at 11:00 A.M. (London, England time) two (2) Business Days prior to the first day in such Interest Period by major financial institutions reasonably satisfactory to Agent in the London interbank market for such Interest Period for the applicable principal amount on such date of determination.

LIBOR Rate Loan ” means a Loan that bears interest based on LIBOR.

Lien ” means any mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, hypothecation, assignment, charge, deposit arrangement, encumbrance, easement, lien (statutory or otherwise), security interest or other security arrangement and any other preference, priority or preferential arrangement of any kind or nature whatsoever, including those created by, arising under or evidenced by any conditional sale contract or other title retention agreement, the interest of a lessor under a Capital Lease and any synthetic or other financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing.

 

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Listerhill ” means Listerhill Total Maintenance Center LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

Listerhill/AEMS Excess A/R Amount ” means, as of any date of determination by Agent, an amount equal to the excess, if any, of (i) the aggregate amount contributed to the Borrowing Base pursuant to clause (a)  of the definition thereof from the Eligible Accounts of Listerhill and AEMS (without giving effect to clause (a)(iii) of the definition of “Borrowing Base”) over (ii) $1,500,000; provided , however , that the amount specified in clause (ii)  may be increased to an amount not to exceed $5,000,000 in Agent’s sole discretion upon satisfactory completion of a collateral audit and such other due diligence with respect to Listerhill and AEMS as Agent may determine advisable.

Loan ” means any loan made or deemed made by any Lender hereunder.

Loan Documents ” means this Agreement, the Notes, the Fee Letter, the Collateral Documents, the Holdco II Guaranty, the Intercreditor Agreement, the Master Agreement for Standby Letters of Credit, the Master Agreement for Documentary Letters of Credit and all documents delivered to Agent and/or any Lender in connection with any of the foregoing, excluding, in any event, Secured Hedging Agreements.

Margin Stock ” means “margin stock” as such term is defined in Regulation T, U or X of the Federal Reserve Board.

Material Adverse Effect ” means an effect that results in or causes, or could reasonably be expected to result in or cause, a material adverse change in any of (a) the condition (financial or otherwise) or prospects of any Credit Party or business, performance, operations or Property of the Credit Parties and their Subsidiaries taken as a whole; (b) the ability of any Credit Party, any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party or any other Person (other than Agent or Lenders) to perform its obligations under any Loan Document; or (c) the validity or enforceability of any Loan Document or the rights and remedies of Agent, the Lenders and the other Secured Parties under any Loan Document.

Material Contracts ” means, collectively, the Anheuser-Busch Agreement, the Coca-Cola Agreement and the Rexam Supply Agreement.

Material Contracts Event ” means, with respect to any Material Contract, the occurrence of any of the following events: (a) any material default or breach by the Borrower under such Material Contract or (b) the termination of such Material Contract for any reason. For purposes of clarity, the occurrence of each material default or breach by the Borrower under a Material Contract shall constitute a “Material Contracts Event,” regardless of whether a material default or breach under such Material Contract has already occurred and/or the circumstances giving rise to such Material Contracts Event shall be continuing.

Material Environmental Liabilities ” means Environmental Liabilities exceeding $5,000,000 in the aggregate.

“Metal Price Lag” means, with respect to a Person, the financial impact of the timing difference between when aluminium prices included within revenues of such Person are established and when aluminium purchase prices included in cost of sales are established, calculated as the average value of product recorded in inventory less the average value transferred out of inventory.

 

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“Monthly Reporting Period” means any period commencing on the date on which Availability is less than $40,000,000 and ending on the first subsequent date, if any, on which Availability is greater than or equal to $40,000,000 for a period of thirty (30) consecutive days.

Moody’s ” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.

Mortgage ” means any deed of trust, leasehold deed of trust, mortgage, leasehold mortgage, deed to secure debt, leasehold deed to secure debt or other document creating a Lien on Real Estate or any interest in Real Estate.

Multiemployer Plan ” means any multiemployer plan, as defined in Section 3(37) or 4001(a)(3) of ERISA, as to which any ERISA Affiliate incurs or otherwise has any obligation or liability, contingent or otherwise.

NAFCEL ” means National Factory for Can Ends Ltd., a limited liability company formed under the laws of Saudi Arabia.

National Flood Insurance Program ” means the program created by the U.S. Congress pursuant to the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 and the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, as revised by the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994, that mandates the purchase of flood insurance to cover real property improvements located in Special Flood Hazard Areas in participating communities and provides protection to property owners through a federal insurance program.

Net Issuance Proceeds ” means, in respect of any issuance of equity or incurrence of Indebtedness, cash proceeds (including cash proceeds as and when received in respect of non-cash proceeds received or receivable in connection with such issuance), net of underwriting discounts and reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses paid or incurred in connection therewith in favor of any Person not an Affiliate of the Borrower.

Net Orderly Liquidation Value ” means the cash proceeds of Inventory which could be obtained in an orderly liquidation (net of all liquidation expenses, costs of sale, operating expenses and retrieval and related costs), as determined pursuant to the most recent third-party appraisal of such Inventory delivered to Agent by an appraiser reasonably acceptable to Agent.

Net Proceeds ” means proceeds in cash, checks or other cash equivalent financial instruments (including Cash Equivalents) as and when received by the Person making a Disposition, as well as insurance proceeds and condemnation and similar awards received on account of an Event of Loss, net of: (a) in the event of a Disposition (i) the direct costs relating to such Disposition excluding amounts payable to the Borrower or any Affiliate of the Borrower, (ii) sale, use or other transaction Taxes paid or payable as a result thereof, and (iii) amounts required to be applied to repay principal, interest and prepayment premiums and penalties on Indebtedness secured by a Lien on the asset which is the subject of such Disposition and (b) in the event of an Event of Loss, (i) so long as no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, all money actually applied to repair or reconstruct the damaged Property or Property affected by the condemnation or taking, (ii) all of the costs and expenses reasonably incurred in connection with the collection of such proceeds, award or other payments, and (iii) any amounts retained by or paid to parties having superior rights to such proceeds, awards or other payments.

 

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NOLV Factor ” means, as of the date of the appraisal of Inventory most recently received by Agent, the quotient of the Net Orderly Liquidation Value of Inventory divided by the book value of Inventory, expressed as a percentage. The NOLV Factor will be increased or reduced promptly upon receipt by Agent of each updated appraisal.

Non-Funding Lender ” means any Lender that has (a) failed to fund any payments required to be made by it under the Loan Documents within two (2) Business Days after any such payment is due (excluding expense and similar reimbursements that are subject to good faith disputes), (b) given written notice (and Agent has not received a revocation in writing), to the Borrower, Agent, any Lender, or the L/C Issuer or has otherwise publicly announced (and Agent has not received notice of a public retraction) that such Lender believes it will fail to fund payments or purchases of participations required to be funded by it under the Loan Documents or one or more other syndicated credit facilities, (c) failed to fund, and not cured, loans, participations, advances, or reimbursement obligations under one or more other syndicated credit facilities, unless subject to a good faith dispute, or (d) (i) become subject to a voluntary or involuntary case under the Bankruptcy Code or any similar bankruptcy laws, (ii) a custodian, conservator, receiver or similar official appointed for it or any substantial part of such Person’s assets, or (iii) made a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, been liquidated, or otherwise been adjudicated as, or determined by any Governmental Authority having regulatory authority over such Person or its assets to be, insolvent or bankrupt, and for this clause (d) , Agent has determined that such Lender is reasonably likely to fail to fund any payments required to be made by it under the Loan Documents.

Non-U.S. Lender Party ” means each of Agent, each Lender, each L/C Issuer, each SPV and each participant, in each case that is not a United States person as defined in Section 7701(a)(30) of the Code.

Note ” means any Revolving Note or Swingline Note and “Notes” means all such Notes.

Notice of Borrowing ” means a notice given by the Borrower to Agent pursuant to Section 1.5 , in substantially the form of Exhibit 1.5(a) hereto.

Obligations ” means (a) all Loans, and other Indebtedness, advances, debts, liabilities, obligations, covenants and duties owing by any Credit Party to any Lender, Agent, any L/C Issuer, any Secured Swap Provider or any other Person required to be indemnified, that arises under any Loan Document or any Secured Rate Contract, whether or not for the payment of money, whether arising by reason of an extension of credit, loan, guaranty, indemnification or in any other manner, whether direct or indirect (including those acquired by assignment), absolute or contingent, due or to become due, now existing or hereafter arising and however acquired and (b) all Bank Product Obligations; provided , that Obligations of any Guarantor shall not include any Excluded Rate Contract Obligations solely of such Guarantor.

Ordinary Course of Business ” means, in respect of any transaction involving any Person, the ordinary course of such Person’s business, as conducted by any such Person in accordance with past practice and undertaken by such Person in good faith and not for purposes of evading any covenant or restriction in any Loan Document.

 

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Organization Documents ” means, (a) for any corporation, the certificate or articles of incorporation, the bylaws, any certificate of determination or instrument relating to the rights of preferred shareholders of such corporation and any shareholder rights agreement, (b) for any partnership, the partnership agreement and, if applicable, certificate of limited partnership, (c) for any limited liability company, the operating agreement and articles or certificate of formation or (d) any other document setting forth the manner of election or duties of the officers, directors, managers or other similar persons, or the designation, amount or relative rights, limitations and preference of the Stock of a Person.

Other Connection Taxes ” means, with respect to any Secured Party, Taxes imposed as a result of a present or former connection between such Secured Party and the jurisdiction imposing such Tax, other than any such connection arising solely from the Secured Party having executed, delivered, become a party to, performed its obligations or received a payment under, received or perfected as a security interest under, engaged in any other transaction pursuant to or enforced any Loan Document, or sold or assigned an interest in any Loan or Loan Document.

Other Debt Documents ” means, collectively, the Rexam Financing Documents and the Senior Notes Documents.

Parent ” means Constellium N.V., a public company with limited liability existing under the laws of Netherlands.

Patents ” means all rights, title and interests (and all related IP Ancillary Rights) arising under any Requirement of Law in or relating to letters patent and applications therefor.

Patriot Act ” means the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, P.L. 107-56.

“Payment Conditions” means, with respect to and after giving effect to any proposed Payment Event, either:

(i) (a) Availability is not less than the greater of (1) $20,000,000 and (2) 17.5% of the lesser of (x)   the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment and (y) the Borrowing Base and (b) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, calculated with respect to Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries on a pro forma basis (including after giving effect to any such Payment Event) for the twelve month period ending as of the last day of the most recently ended fiscal month for which financial statements have been or were required to be delivered under Section 4.1, is not less than 1.00 to 1.00, or

(ii) Availability is not less than the greater of (a) $30,000,000 and (b) 25% of the lesser of (1)   the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment and (2) the Borrowing Base.

“Payment Event” means any Investment permitted pursuant to Section 5.4(l), any Restricted Payment permitted pursuant to Section 5.10(g)(ii), or any prepayment of Indebtedness permitted pursuant to Section 5.19.

PBGC ” means the United States Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or any successor thereto.

 

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Permits ” means, with respect to any Person, any permit, approval, authorization, license, registration, certificate, concession, grant, franchise, variance or permission from, and any other Contractual Obligations with, any Governmental Authority, in each case whether or not having the force of law and applicable to or binding upon such Person or any of its property or to which such Person or any of its property is subject.

Permitted Acquisition ” means any Acquisition by (i) a Credit Party or a Restricted Subsidiary of a Credit Party of substantially all of the assets of a Target, which assets are located in the United States or (ii) a Credit Party or a Restricted Subsidiary of a Credit Party of 100% of the Stock and Stock Equivalents of a Target organized under the laws of any State in the United States or the District of Columbia, in each case, to the extent that each of the following conditions shall have been satisfied:

(a) the Borrower shall have delivered to Agent at least five (5) days prior to the consummation thereof (or such shorter period as Agent may accept):

(i) (x) notice of such Acquisition setting forth in reasonable detail the terms and conditions of such Acquisition, (y) pro forma financial statements of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries after giving effect to the consummation of such Acquisition and the incurrence or assumption of any Indebtedness in connection therewith and (z) to the extent available, a due diligence package, in each case, prior to closing of such Acquisition;

(ii) a certificate of a Responsible Officer of the Borrower demonstrating on a pro forma basis after giving effect to the consummation of such Acquisition that either (x) Availability as of the date of the consummation of the Acquisition will be not less than the greater of (A) $56,250,000 (or, at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $90,000,000) and (B) 30% of the Aggregate Revolving Commitment as of such date or (y) Availability as of the date of the consummation of the Acquisition will be not less than the greater of (A) $31,250,000 (or, at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $50,000,000) and (B) 15% of the Aggregate Revolving Commitment as of such date and, in the case of this clause (y) , the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, calculated with respect to the Holdings and to Restricted Subsidiaries on a pro forma basis for the twelve month period ending as of the last day of the most recent Fiscal Quarter preceding the date on which the Acquisition will be consummated for which financial statements have been delivered, will be greater than 1.05 to 1.00; and

(iii) to the extent available, such other information agreements, instruments and other documents as Agent reasonably shall request;

(b) the Borrower shall have delivered to Agent (i) as soon as available, executed counterparts of the respective agreements, documents or instruments pursuant to which such Acquisition is to be consummated (including, without limitation, any related management, non-compete, employment, option or other material agreements), any schedules to such agreements, documents or instruments and all other material ancillary agreements, instruments and documents to be executed or delivered in connection therewith, (ii) to the extent required under the related acquisition agreement, all consents and approvals from applicable Governmental Authorities and other Persons and (iii) if required by Agent, environmental assessments reasonably satisfactory to Agent;

 

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(c) such Acquisition shall not be hostile and shall have been approved by the board of directors (or other similar body) and/or the stockholders or other equityholders of the Target;

(d) without limiting the conditions set forth in Section 2.2 if such Acquisition is being financed with the proceeds of Loans, no Default or Event of Default shall then exist or would exist after giving effect thereto or, with respect to an Acquisition being financed solely with Net Issuance Proceeds of an Excluded Equity Issuance by Holdings, no Default or Event of Default exists as of, or would exist if such Acquisition were consummated on, the date of signing of the acquisition agreement; and

(e) the Target has EBITDA, subject to pro forma adjustments acceptable to Agent, for the most recent four quarters prior to the acquisition date for which financial statements are available, greater than zero.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, no Accounts or Inventory acquired by a Credit Party in a Permitted Acquisition shall be included as Eligible Accounts or Eligible Inventory until a field examination (and, if required by Agent, an Inventory appraisal) with respect thereto has been completed to the satisfaction of Agent, including the establishment of Reserves required in Agent’s Permitted Discretion; provided that field examinations and appraisals in connection with Permitted Acquisitions shall not count against the limited number of field examinations or appraisals for which expense reimbursement may be sought.

Permitted Discretion ” means a determination made in good faith and in the exercise of reasonable (from the perspective of a secured asset-based lender) business judgment.

Permitted Investors ” means (i) David D’Addario, (ii) members of Mr. D’Addario’s immediate family, (iii) corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies or other entities which are owned or controlled by Mr. D’Addario or members of his immediate family and (iv) trusts created by Mr. D’Addario or members of his immediately family for the benefit of Mr. D’Addario or members of his immediately family.

Permitted Refinancing ” means Indebtedness constituting a refinancing or extension of Indebtedness permitted under Section 5.5(c) , (d) , (g) and (h) , that (a) has an aggregate outstanding principal amount not greater than the aggregate principal amount of the Indebtedness being refinanced or extended, (b) has a Weighted Average Life to Maturity (measured as of the date of such refinancing or extension) and maturity no shorter than that of the Indebtedness being refinanced or extended, (c) is not entered into as part of a sale leaseback transaction, (d) is not secured by a Lien on any assets other than the collateral securing the Indebtedness being refinanced or extended, (e) the obligors of which are the same as the obligors of the Indebtedness being refinanced or extended, (f) is otherwise on terms no less favorable to the Credit Parties and their Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, than those of the Indebtedness being refinanced or extended and (g) with respect to Indebtedness constituting a refinancing or extension of Indebtedness permitted under Section 5.5(g) or 5.5(h) , is permitted under the Intercreditor Agreement.

Person ” means any individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust and a public benefit corporation), joint stock company, estate, association, firm, enterprise, trust, limited liability company, unincorporated association, joint venture and any other entity or Governmental Authority.

 

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Prior Indebtedness ” means Indebtedness arising under (i) the Existing Revolving Credit Agreement and (ii) the Existing Term Loan Credit Agreement.

Prior Lender ” means each of (i) Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent under the Existing Revolving Credit Agreement and (ii) The Employees’ Retirement System of Alabama and The Teachers’ Retirement System of Alabama, as lenders under the Existing Term Loan Credit Agreement.

Property ” means any interest in any kind of property or asset, whether real, personal or mixed, and whether tangible or intangible.

Qualified ECP Guarantor ” means, in respect of any Swap Obligation under a Secured Rate Contract, each Credit Party that has total assets exceeding $10,000,000 at the time the relevant guarantee or grant of the relevant security interest becomes effective with respect to such Swap Obligation under a Secured Rate Contract or such other person as constitutes an “eligible contract participant” under the Commodity Exchange Act and can cause another person to qualify as an “eligible contract participant” at such time by entering into a keepwell under Section 1a(18)(A)(v)(II) of the Commodity Exchange Act.

Rate Contracts ” means swap agreements (as such term is defined in Section 101 of the Bankruptcy Code) and any other agreements or arrangements designed to provide protection against fluctuations in interest or currency exchange rates.

Real Estate ” means any real property owned, leased, subleased or otherwise operated or occupied by any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party.

Related Persons ” means, with respect to any Person, each Affiliate of such Person and each director, officer, employee, agent, trustee, representative, attorney, accountant and each insurance, environmental, legal, financial and other advisor (including those retained in connection with the satisfaction or attempted satisfaction of any condition set forth in Article II ) and other consultants and agents of or to such Person or any of its Affiliates.

Related Transactions ” means the issuance of the Senior Notes, the refinancing of the Prior Indebtedness and the redemption of the outstanding 10% paid-in-kind preferred, non-convertible membership interests of Holdings with the proceeds thereof and, in the case of the refinancing of the Existing Revolving Credit Agreement, the proceeds of the initial Loans hereunder, the execution and delivery of all Other Debt Documents and the payment of all fees, costs and expenses in connection with each of the foregoing.

Releases ” means any release, threatened release, spill, emission, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, escape, injection, deposit, disposal, discharge, dispersal, dumping, leaching or migration of Hazardous Material into or through the environment.

Remedial Action ” means all actions required to (a) clean up, remove, treat or in any other way address any Hazardous Material in the indoor or outdoor environment, (b) prevent or minimize any Release so that a Hazardous Material does not migrate or endanger or threaten to endanger public health or welfare or the indoor or outdoor environment or (c) perform pre remedial studies and investigations and post-remedial monitoring and care with respect to any Hazardous Material.

 

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Required Lenders ” means, at any time, (a) Lenders then holding more than fifty percent (50%) of the sum of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitments then in effect, or (b) if the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitments have terminated, Lenders then holding more than fifty percent (50%) of the sum of the aggregate outstanding amount of Revolving Loans, outstanding Letter of Credit Obligations, amounts of participations in Swing Loans and the principal amount of unparticipated portions of Swing Loans; provided , that so long as there are two (2) or more Lenders that are not Affiliates, Required Lenders shall consist of Lenders that satisfy the foregoing clauses and consist of at least two (2) Lenders that are not Affiliates.

Requirement of Law ” means, with respect to any Person, the common law and any federal, state, local, foreign, multinational or international laws, statutes, codes, treaties, standards, rules and regulations, guidelines, ordinances, orders, judgments, writs, injunctions, decrees (including administrative or judicial precedents or authorities) and the interpretation or administration thereof by, and other determinations, directives, requirements or requests of, any Governmental Authority, in each case whether or not having the force of law and that are applicable to or binding upon such Person or any of its Property or to which such Person or any of its Property is subject. For the avoidance of doubt, the term “Requirement of Law” shall include FATCA and any intergovernmental agreements with respect thereto between the United States and another jurisdiction.

Reserves ” means, with respect to the Borrowing Base (a) reserves established by Agent from time to time against Eligible Accounts pursuant to Section 1.11 and Eligible Inventory pursuant to Section 1.12 , and (b) such other reserves against Eligible Accounts, Eligible Inventory or Availability that Agent may, in its Permitted Discretion, establish from time to time. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Reserves established to ensure the payment of accrued interest expenses or Indebtedness shall be deemed to be an exercise of Agent’s Permitted Discretion.

Responsible Officer ” means the chief executive officer or the president of the Borrower or any other officer having substantially the same authority and responsibility; or, with respect to compliance with financial covenants or delivery of financial information, the chief financial officer or the treasurer of the Borrower or any other officer having substantially the same authority and responsibility.

Restricted Subsidiaries ” means, collectively, all Subsidiaries of Holdings other than the Unrestricted Subsidiaries.

Revolving Note ” means a promissory note of the Borrower payable to a Lender in substantially the form of Exhibit 1.2(a) hereto, evidencing Indebtedness of the Borrower under the Revolving Loan Commitment of such Lender.

Revolving Termination Date ” means the earlier to occur of: (a) September 14, 2018 2020 and (b) the date on which the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment shall terminate in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

Rexam ” means Rexam Beverage Can Company, a Delaware corporation, and its successors and assigns.

Rexam Financing Documents ” means, collectively, the Advance Agreement, the “Security Agreement” (as defined in the Advance Agreement) and all other agreements, documents and instruments executed and/or delivered by any Credit Party or any of their respective Affiliates in connection therewith or related thereto.

 

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Rexam Supply Agreement ” means the Aluminum Can Sheet Supply Agreement, dated as of August 21, 2013, between the Borrower and Rexam, as amended, restated, supplemented, otherwise modified, extended, renewed, replaced from time to time.

S&P ” means Standard & Poor’s Rating Services.

Secured Party ” means Agent, each Lender, each L/C Issuer, each other Indemnitee and each other holder of any Obligation of a Credit Party, including each Secured Swap Provider.

Secured Bank Product ” means any Bank Product which (i) has been provided or arranged by Wells Fargo or an Affiliate of Wells Fargo or (ii) Agent has acknowledged in writing constitutes a “Secured Bank Product” hereunder.

Secured Rate Contract ” means any Rate Contract between the Borrower and the counterparty thereto, which (i) has been provided or arranged by Wells Fargo or an Affiliate of Wells Fargo, or (ii) Agent has acknowledged in writing constitutes a “Secured Rate Contract” hereunder.

Secured Swap Provider ” means (i) a Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender (or a Person who was a Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender at the time of execution and delivery of a Rate Contract) who has entered into a Secured Rate Contract with the Borrower, or (ii) a Person with whom the Borrower has entered into a Secured Rate Contract provided or arranged by Wells Fargo or an Affiliate of Wells Fargo, and any assignee thereof.

Senior Noteholders ” means each “Holder” under and as defined in the Senior Notes Indenture.

Senior Notes ” means the senior secured notes co-issued by Holdings and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation pursuant to the Indenture.

Senior Notes Documents ” means, collectively, the Senior Notes Indenture, the Senior Notes, the “Security Documents” (as defined in the Senior Notes Indenture) and all other agreements, documents and instruments executed and/or delivered by any Credit Party or any of their respective Affiliates in connection therewith or related thereto.

Senior Notes Indenture ” means the Indenture dated as of December 11, 2013, among Holdings, certain Subsidiaries of Holdings and the Indenture Trustee , as amended, restated, supplemented, otherwise modified, extended, renewed, replaced from time to time in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Intercreditor Agreement .

Software ” means (a) all computer programs, including source code and object code versions, (b) all data, databases and compilations of data, whether machine readable or otherwise, and (c) all documentation, training materials and configurations related to any of the foregoing.

Solvent ” means, with respect to any Person as of any date of determination, that, as of such date, (a) the value of the assets of such Person (both at fair value and present fair saleable value) is greater than the total amount of liabilities (including contingent and unliquidated

 

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liabilities) of such Person, (b) such Person is able to pay all liabilities of such Person as such liabilities mature and (c) such Person does not have unreasonably small capital. In computing the amount of contingent or unliquidated liabilities at any time, such liabilities shall be computed at the amount that, in light of all the facts and circumstances existing at such time, represents the amount that can reasonably be expected to become an actual or matured liability.

Special Flood Hazard Area ” means an area that FEMA’s current flood maps indicate has at least a one percent (1%) chance of a flood equal to or exceeding the base flood elevation (a 100-year flood) in any given year.

Specified Mill Assets ” means the equipment and fixtures of the Borrower and the other Credit Parties constituting the three-stand mill located in Muscle Shoal, Alabama, and such other assets related thereto that do not constitute “Revolving Credit Priority Collateral” under and as defined in the Intercreditor Agreement.

Specified Real Estate ” means any fee-owned real property of a Credit Party with a value in excess of $2,000,000.

SPV ” means any special purpose funding vehicle identified as such in a writing by any Lender to Agent.

Stock ” means all shares of capital stock (whether denominated as common stock or preferred stock), equity interests, beneficial, partnership or membership interests, joint venture interests, participations or other ownership or profit interests in or equivalents (regardless of how designated) of or in a Person (other than an individual), whether voting or non-voting.

Stock Equivalents ” means all securities convertible into or exchangeable for Stock or any other Stock Equivalent and all warrants, options or other rights to purchase, subscribe for or otherwise acquire any Stock or any other Stock Equivalent, whether or not presently convertible, exchangeable or exercisable.

Subordinated Indebtedness ” means Indebtedness of any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Credit Party which is subordinated to the Obligations as to right and time of payment and as to other rights and remedies thereunder and having such other terms as are, in each case, reasonably satisfactory to Agent; provided that, without limiting the foregoing, intercompany Indebtedness of any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary to Parent or any of its Subsidiaries (other than any Credit Party or any Restricted Subsidiary) shall not constitute “Subordinated Indebtedness” unless (i) the maturity date of such Indebtedness occurs after the date set forth in clause (a)  of the definition of “Revolving Termination Date,” (ii) the interest rate applicable to such Indebtedness is no greater than 8% and (iii) no principal installments or other amortization of principal shall be required in respect of such Indebtedness prior to the maturity date.

Subsidiary ” means, with respect to any Person, any corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability company, association or other entity, the management of which is, directly or indirectly, controlled by, or of which an aggregate of more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting Stock is, at the time, owned or controlled directly or indirectly by, such Person or one or more Subsidiaries of such Person.

Supermajority Lenders ” means, at any time, (a) Lenders then holding more than 66 2/3% of the sum of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitments then in effect, or (b) if the

 

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Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitments have terminated, Lenders then holding more than 66 2/3% of the sum of the aggregate outstanding amount of Revolving Loans, outstanding Letter of Credit Obligations, amounts of participations in Swing Loans and the principal amount of unparticipated portions of Swing Loans; provided , that so long as there are two (2) or more Lenders that are not Affiliates, Supermajority Lenders shall consist of Lenders that satisfy the foregoing clauses and consist of at least two (2) Lenders that are not Affiliates.

Swap Obligation ” means, with respect to any Guarantor, any obligation to pay or perform under any agreement, contract or transaction that constitutes a “swap” within the meaning of section 1a(47) of the Commodity Exchange Act.

Swingline Commitment ” means $30,000,000.

Swingline Lender ” means, each in its capacity as Swingline Lender hereunder, Wells Fargo or, upon the resignation of Wells Fargo as Agent hereunder, any Lender (or Affiliate or Approved Fund of any Lender) that agrees, with the approval of Agent (or, if there is no such successor Agent, the Required Lenders) and the Borrower, to act as the Swingline Lender hereunder.

Swingline Note ” means a promissory note of the Borrower payable to the Swingline Lender, in substantially the form of Exhibit 1.2(b) hereto, evidencing the Indebtedness of the Borrower to the Swingline Lender resulting from the Swing Loans made to the Borrower by the Swingline Lender.

Target ” means any Person or business unit or asset group of any Person acquired or proposed to be acquired in an Acquisition.

Tax Affiliate ” means, (a) the Borrower and its Subsidiaries, (b) each other Credit Party and (c) any Affiliate of the Borrower with which the Borrower files or is eligible to file consolidated, combined or unitary Tax returns.

Title IV Plan ” means a pension plan subject to Title IV of ERISA, other than a Multiemployer Plan, to which any ERISA Affiliate incurs or otherwise has any obligation or liability, contingent or otherwise.

Trade Secrets ” means all right, title and interest (and all related IP Ancillary Rights) arising under any Requirement of Law in or relating to trade secrets.

Trademark ” means all rights, title and interests (and all related IP Ancillary Rights) arising under any Requirement of Law in or relating to trademarks, trade names, corporate names, company names, business names, fictitious business names, trade styles, service marks, logos and other source or business identifiers and, in each case, all goodwill associated therewith, all registrations and recordations thereof and all applications in connection therewith.

Trigger Event ” means any time that Availability shall be less than (a) at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $32,000,000 and (b) on and after the Commitment Step-Down Date, the greater of $20,000,000 and 10% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment at such time. Upon the occurrence of a Trigger Event, such Trigger Event shall be deemed to be continuing until the date that is the first date on which at all times during the preceding thirty (30) consecutive days, Availability shall have been at least equal to (i) at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $32,000,000 and (ii) on and after the Commitment Step-Down

 

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Date, the greater of $20,000,000 and 10% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent any Trigger Event is in effect prior to the Constellium Acquisition, such existing Trigger Event shall be deemed to have terminated immediately prior to the consummation of the Constellium Acquisition.

UCC ” means the Uniform Commercial Code of any applicable jurisdiction and, if the applicable jurisdiction shall not have any Uniform Commercial Code, the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect from time to time in the State of New York.

United States ” and “U.S.” each means the United States of America.

Unrestricted Subsidiaries ” means, collectively, Wise Recycling, LLC, a Maryland limited liability company, and its Subsidiaries.

U.S. Lender Party ” means each of Agent, each Lender, each L/C Issuer, each SPV and each participant, in each case that is a United States person as defined in Section 7701(a)(30) of the Code.

Weekly Reporting Period ” means any period commencing on the date on which Availability is less than the greater of $20,000,000 (or, at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $32,000,000) and 10% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment and ending on the first subsequent date, if any, on which Availability is greater than or equal to the greater of $20,000,000 (or, at any time prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date, $32,000,000) and 10% of the Aggregate Revolving Loan Commitment for a period of thirty (30) consecutive days.

Weighted Average Life to Maturity ” means, when applied to any Indebtedness at any date, the number of years obtained by dividing: (a) the sum of the products obtained by multiplying (i) the amount of each then remaining installment or other required payments of principal, including payment at final maturity, in respect thereof, by (ii) the number of years (calculated to the nearest one-twelfth) that will elapse between such date and the making of such payment by (b) the then outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness; provided that for purposes of determining the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of any Indebtedness that is being modified, refinanced, refunded, renewed, replaced or extended, the effects of any prepayments made on such Indebtedness prior to the date of the applicable extension shall be disregarded.

Wholly-Owned Subsidiary ” of a Person means any Subsidiary of such Person, all of the Stock and Stock Equivalents of which (other than directors’ qualifying shares required by law) are owned by such Person, either directly or through one or more Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries of such Person.

10.2 Other Interpretive Provisions .

(a) Defined Terms . Unless otherwise specified herein or therein, all terms defined in this Agreement or in any other Loan Document shall have the defined meanings when used in any certificate or other document made or delivered pursuant hereto. The meanings of defined terms shall be equally applicable to the singular and plural forms of the defined terms. Terms (including uncapitalized terms) not otherwise defined herein and that are defined in the UCC shall have the meanings therein described.

 

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(b) The Agreement . The words “hereof”, “herein”, “hereunder” and words of similar import when used in this Agreement or any other Loan Document shall refer to this Agreement or such other Loan Document as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement or such other Loan Document; and subsection, section, schedule and exhibit references are to this Agreement or such other Loan Documents unless otherwise specified.

(c) Certain Common Terms . The term “documents” includes any and all instruments, documents, agreements, certificates, indentures, notices and other writings, however evidenced. The term “including” is not limiting and means “including without limitation.”

(d) Performance; Time . Whenever any performance obligation hereunder or under any other Loan Document (other than a payment obligation) shall be stated to be due or required to be satisfied on a day other than a Business Day, such performance shall be made or satisfied on the next succeeding Business Day. For the avoidance of doubt, the initial payments of interest and fees relating to the Obligations (other than amounts due on the Closing Date) shall be due and paid on the first day of the first month or quarter, as applicable, following the entry of the Obligations onto the operations systems of Agent, but in no event later than the first day of the second month or quarter, as applicable, following the Closing Date. In the computation of periods of time from a specified date to a later specified date, the word “from” means “from and including”; the words “to” and “until” each mean “to but excluding”, and the word “through” means “to and including.” All references to the time of day shall be a reference to New York time. If any provision of this Agreement or any other Loan Document refers to any action taken or to be taken by any Person, or which such Person is prohibited from taking, such provision shall be interpreted to encompass any and all means, direct or indirect, of taking, or not taking, such action.

(e) Contracts . Unless otherwise expressly provided herein or in any other Loan Document, references to agreements and other contractual instruments, including this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, shall be deemed to include all subsequent amendments, thereto, restatements and substitutions thereof and other modifications and supplements thereto which are in effect from time to time, but only to the extent such amendments and other modifications are not prohibited by the terms of any Loan Document.

(f) Laws . References to any statute or regulation may be made by using either the common or public name thereof or a specific cite reference and, except as otherwise provided with respect to FATCA, are to be construed as including all statutory and regulatory provisions related thereto or consolidating, amending, replacing, supplementing or interpreting the statute or regulation.

10.3 Accounting Terms and Principles . All accounting determinations required to be made pursuant hereto shall, unless expressly otherwise provided herein, be made in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards . No change in the accounting principles used in the preparation of any financial statement hereafter adopted by Holdings shall be given effect for purposes of measuring compliance with any provision of Article V or VI unless the Borrower, Agent and the Required Lenders agree to modify such provisions to reflect such changes in GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards and, unless such provisions are modified, all financial statements, Compliance Certificates and similar documents provided hereunder shall be provided together with a reconciliation between the calculations and amounts set forth therein before and after giving effect to such change in GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards . Notwithstanding any other provision contained herein, all terms of an accounting or financial nature used herein shall be construed, and all computations of amounts and ratios referred to in

 

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Article V and Article VI shall be made, without giving effect to any election under Accounting Standards Codification 825-10 (or any other Financial Accounting Standard having a similar result or effect) to value any Indebtedness or other Liabilities of any Credit Party or any Subsidiary of any Credit Party at “fair value.” A breach of a financial covenant contained in Article VI shall be deemed to have occurred as of any date of determination by Agent or as of the last day of any specified measurement period, regardless of when the financial statements reflecting such breach are delivered to Agent.

10.4 Payments . Agent may set up standards and procedures to determine or redetermine the equivalent in Dollars of any amount expressed in any currency other than Dollars and otherwise may, but shall not be obligated to, rely on any determination made by any Credit Party or any L/C Issuer. Any such determination or redetermination by Agent shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes, absent manifest error. No determination or redetermination by any Secured Party or any Credit Party and no other currency conversion shall change or release any obligation of any Credit Party or of any Secured Party (other than Agent and its Related Persons) under any Loan Document, each of which agrees to pay separately for any shortfall remaining after any conversion and payment of the amount as converted. Agent may round up or down, and may set up appropriate mechanisms to round up or down, any amount hereunder to nearest higher or lower amounts and may determine reasonable de minimis payment thresholds.

[Signature Pages Follow]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed and delivered by their duly authorized officers as of the day and year first above written.

 

WISE ALLOYS LLC , as the Borrower
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:  

 

FEIN:  

 

Address for notices:

 

 

 

Attn:  

 

Facsimile:  

 

Address for wire transfers:

 

 

 

 

[Signature Page to Credit Agreement]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed and delivered by their duly authorized officers as of the day and year first above written.

 

WISE METALS GROUP LLC , as Holdings
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:  

 

FEIN:  

 

WISE ALLOYS FINANCE CORPORATION , as a Credit Party
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:  

 

FEIN:  

 

LISTERHILL TOTAL MAINTENANCE CENTER LLC, as a Credit Party
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:  

 

FEIN:  

 

ALABAMA ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICES, LLC, as a Credit Party
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:  

 

FEIN:   

 

[Signature Page to Credit Agreement]


WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
as Administrative Agent, as Swingline Lender, and as a Lender
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:   Duly Authorized Signatory
Address for notices:

 

 

 

Attn:  

 

Facsimile:  

 

Lending office:

 

 

 

 

[Signature Page to Credit Agreement]


BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.
as a Lender
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:  

 

Address for notices:

 

 

 

Attn:  

 

Facsimile:  

 

Lending office:

 

 

 

[OTHER LENDERS]
as a Lender
By:  

 

Name:  

 

Title:  

 

Address for notices:

 

 

 

Attn:  

 

Facsimile:  

 

Lending office:

 

 

 

 

[Signature Page to Credit Agreement]


Schedule 1.1(a)

 

Revolving Loan Commitments Prior to the Commitment Step-Down Date  
     From and including
December 8, 2014
through but excluding
March 6, 2015
     From and including March 6,
2015 through but excluding
April 1, 2015
 

General Electric Capital Corporation

   $ 125,000,000      $ 70,000,000  

GE Capital Bank

   $ 100,000,000      $ 100,000,000  

GE Asset Based Master Note

   $ 50,000,000      $ 50,000,000  

Bank of America, N.A.

   $ 62,500,000      $ 50,000,000  

Regions Bank

   $ 43,750,000      $ 35,000,000  

HVB Capital Credit LLC

   $ 18,750,000      $ 15,000,000  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

TOTAL

   $ 400,000,000      $ 320,000,000  

 

Revolving Loan Commitments On and After the Commitment Step-Down Date and

Prior to the Amendment No. 7 Effective Date

 

 

Wells Fargo Bank, National Association

   $ 100,000,000  

Bank of America, N.A.

   $ 50,000,000  

Regions Bank

   $ 35,000,000  

Everbank

   $ 15,000,000  
  

 

 

 

TOTAL

   $ 200,000,000  
  

 

 

 

 

Revolving Loan Commitments On and After the Amendment No. 7 Effective Date 2  

Wells Fargo Bank, National Association

   $ 120,000,000  

Bank of America, N.A.

   $ 50,000,000  
  

 

 

 

TOTAL

   $ 170,000,000  

 

2   Schedule updated as of the Effective Date after giving effect to the Assignment and the Prepayment.


EXHIBIT 4.2(b)

FORM OF COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE

WISE ALLOYS LLC

Date:             , 201    

This Compliance Certificate (this “ Certificate ”) is delivered by Wise Alloys LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “ Borrower ”), pursuant to Section 4.2(b) of the Credit Agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013 (as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “ Credit Agreement ”), among the Borrower, each other “Credit Party” party thereto, the Lenders and the L/C Issuers party thereto and General Electric Capital Corporation, as administrative agent for the Lenders and the L/C Issuers (in such capacity, “ Agent ”). Capitalized terms used herein but not otherwise defined herein shall have the respective meanings ascribed to such terms in the Credit Agreement.

The officer executing this Certificate is a Responsible Officer of the Borrower and, as such, is duly authorized to execute and deliver this Certificate on behalf of the Borrower. By executing this Certificate, such officer hereby certifies to Agent, Lenders and L/C Issuer, on behalf of the Borrower, that:

(a) the financial statements delivered with this Certificate in accordance with Section 4.1[a][b][c] of the Credit Agreement fairly present, in all material respects, in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards the financial position and the results of operations of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries as of the dates of and for the periods covered by such financial statements [ (subject to normal year-end adjustments and the absence of footnote disclosure )] and, in the case of financial statements delivered with this Certificate in accordance with Section 4.1(b) or (c), normal year-end adjustments) ;

(b) to the best of such officer’s knowledge, no Default or Event of Default exists[, except as specified on the written attachment hereto];

(c) Exhibit A hereto is a correct calculation of the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio; and

(d) Exhibit B hereto is a correct calculation of the amount of the “Indebtedness” described in clause (3) of the definition of “Permitted Indebtedness” in the Senior Notes Indenture. All of the Obligations, including, without limitation, all Bank Product Obligations and all obligations under any Secured Rate Contract, constitute “Permitted Indebtedness” under the Senior Notes Indenture; and

(e) since the Closing Date and except as disclosed in prior Compliance Certificates delivered to Agent, no Credit Party and no Subsidiary of any Credit Party has:

(i) changed its legal name, identity, jurisdiction of incorporation, organization or formation or organizational structure or formed or acquired any Subsidiary except as follows:                     ;


(ii) acquired the assets of, or merged or consolidated with or into, any Person, except as follows:                     ; or

(iii) changed its address or otherwise relocated, acquired fee simple title to any real property or entered into any real property leases, except as follows:                     .

[signature page follows]

 

2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Borrower has caused this Certificate to be executed by one of its Responsible Officers as of the date first written above.

 

WISE ALLOYS LLC

 

By:  

 

Its:  

 

Note: Unless otherwise specified, all financial covenants are calculated for Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards and all calculations are without duplication.

 

3


SCHEDULE I

Calculation of Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio

for the period commencing             and ending             (the “ Measurement Period ”) 1 4

 

EBITDA for such Measurement Period (as calculated on Schedule II)

   =
   $            

Fixed Charges :

  
Interest expense paid or required to be paid in cash (including (x) all commissions, discounts, fees and other charges in connection with letters of credit and similar instruments, (y) net amounts paid or payable and/or received or receivable under permitted Rate Contracts in respect of interest rates and (z) interest payments in respect of intercompany Subordinated Indebtedness ; in the case of interest on Indebtedness of Persons which are not Credit Parties or Subsidiaries of Credit Parties, and interest on Indebtedness owed to the Constellium Entities, interest expense shall be included in Fixed Charges solely to the extent actually paid in cash by the Credit Parties during such Measurement Period ) for Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, net of interest income, for such Measurement Period    $            
Plus (without duplication):   

Scheduled principal payments of Indebtedness owing by Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries as principal obligors during such Measurement Period

   $            

Solely for purposes of determining compliance with the condition set forth in clause (ii)  of Section 5.19(g) , prepayments of principal of Indebtedness owing by Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries as principal obligors during such Measurement Period

   $            

Taxes on or measured by income paid or payable in cash during such Measurement Period

   $            

Restricted Payments paid in cash (excluding dividends from any Restricted Subsidiary to Holdings or any other Restricted Subsidiary but, in any event, including any principal payments in respect of any intercompany Subordinated Indebtedness) during such Measurement Period

   $            

 

1 4   Insert the dates representing the trailing twelve month period ending as of the last day of the month ending immediately prior to the date on which this Certificate is delivered.


EXHIBIT A

 

Earnouts payable in cash during such Measurement Period

      $            

Unfinanced Capital Expenditures for such Measurement Period (as calculated on Schedule II)

      $            
   =    $            

Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio:

     

EBITDA divided by Fixed Charges

     
   =   

 

5


EXHIBIT A

SCHEDULE II

 

A. EBITDA   
Net income (or loss) of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis determined in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards for such Measurement Period, but excluding: (a) the income (or loss) of any joint venture or other Person which is not a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings, except to the extent of the amount of dividends or other distributions actually paid to Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in cash by such Person for such period; (b) the undistributed earnings of any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings if the payment of dividends or similar distributions by such Restricted Subsidiary is not permitted by operation of the terms of its Organization Documents or of any agreement or Requirement of Law applicable to such Restricted Subsidiary for such period; (c) the income (or loss) of any Person accrued prior to the date it becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings or is merged into or consolidated with Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries or that Person’s assets are acquired by Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period; (d) any net gain from the collection of life insurance proceeds for such period; (e) any aggregate net gain, but not any aggregate net loss, from the sale, exchange, transfer or other disposition of Property or assets not in the Ordinary Course of Business of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, and related tax effects in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards for such period; and (f) any other extraordinary gains or losses of Holdings or its Restricted Subsidiaries, and related tax effects in accordance with GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards , for such period    $            

Plus:  without duplication, to the extent deducted in (or excluded from) the calculation of net income (or loss) for such period:

  

Depreciation or amortization

  
   $            

Interest expense (net of interest income)

   $            

Taxes on or measured by income

   $            

All non-cash losses or expenses (or minus non-cash income or gain), including, without limitation, any non-cash loss or expense (or income or gain) due to the impact of last-in-first out accounting (“LIFO”) Metal Price Lag , application of FAS No. 106 IAS 19 regarding post-retirement benefits, FAS No. 133 IAS 39 regarding hedging activity, FAS No. 142 IAS 36 regarding impairment of goodwill, FAS No. 150 IAS 39 regarding accounting for financial instruments with debt and equity characteristics and IFRS 2 regarding non-cash expenses deducted as a result of any grant of Stock or Stock Equivalents to employees, officers or director, but excluding any non-cash loss or expense (a) that is an accrual of a reserve for a cash expenditure or payment to be made, or anticipated to be made, in a future period or (b) relating to a write-down, write off or reserve with respect to Accounts and Inventory

   $            

 

6


EXHIBIT A

 

Fees and expenses paid to Agent, Lenders and/or the Senior Noteholders in connection with the Loan Documents or Senior Notes Documents, respectively

      $            
   =    $            

 

7


EXHIBIT A

 

B. Unfinanced Capital Expenditures      
An amount equal to the greater of (1) zero and (2) the following amount:      

The aggregate of all expenditures and other obligations of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries which should be capitalized under GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards , other than that portion of capital expenditures financed under Capital Leases or with the proceeds of other long term Indebtedness or financed with the proceeds of Loans, advances or capital contributions from the Constellium Entities , including Indebtedness under the Rexam Financing Documents (but excluding Indebtedness under the Credit Agreement), incurred substantially concurrently with such expenditure, for such Measurement Period

     
      $            

Plus (without duplication):

     

(a) The Net Proceeds from Dispositions to the extent reinvested or committed to be reinvested in Property useful in the business of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, (b) expenditures financed with cash proceeds from Excluded Equity Issuances, (c) insurance proceeds and condemnation awards received on account of any Event of Loss to the extent any such amounts are actually applied to replace, repair or reconstruct the damaged Property or Property affected by the commendation or taking in connection with such Event of Loss and (d) the portion of the purchase price of a Target in a Permitted Acquisition that constitutes a capital expenditure under GAAP the Applicable Accounting Standards for such Measurement Period

     
      $

Minus:

     

The aggregate amount of cash contributions made, directly or indirectly, by Parent and its Subsidiaries (other than Holdings and its Subsidiaries) in any Credit Party during such Measurement Period

      $
   =    $

 

8


EXHIBIT B

Calculation of Indebtedness as “Permitted Indebtedness”

under and as defined in the Senior Notes Indenture

 

9


Consent and Reaffirmation

Constellium HoldCo II B.V. (the “ Guarantor ”) hereby acknowledges receipt of a copy of the foregoing Amendment No. 7 dated as of the date hereof (the “ Amendment ”) by and among Wise Alloys LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “ Borrower ”), the other Credit Parties signatory thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Agent (as successor to General Electric Company, successor by merger to Capital Corporation) (“ Agent ”), and the Lenders signatory thereto, amending that certain Credit Agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013 (as amended and otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, the “ Credit Agreement ”), by and among the Borrower, the other Credit Parties party thereto, Agent, and the Lenders from time to time party thereto. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Credit Agreement. The Guarantor hereby (1) ratifies and reaffirms all of its payment and performance obligations, contingent or otherwise, under that certain Guaranty, dated as of January 5, 2015 (the “ Guaranty ”) by the Guarantor in favor of the Agent, (2) agrees that neither such ratification and reaffirmation, nor the Agent’s or any Lender’s solicitation of such ratification and reaffirmation, constitutes a course of dealing giving rise to any obligation or condition requiring a similar or any other ratification or reaffirmation from the Guarantor with respect to any subsequent modifications to the Credit Agreement or the other Loan Documents, (3) agrees that none of the terms and conditions of the Amendment shall limit or diminish its payment and performance obligations, contingent or otherwise, under the Guaranty and (4) agrees that the Guaranty remains in full force and effect and is hereby reaffirmed, ratified and confirmed. All references to the Credit Agreement contained in the Guaranty shall be a reference to the Credit Agreement as so modified by the Amendment and as the same may from time to time hereafter be amended, modified or restated.

Dated: February 16, 2017

[Signature Page Follows]


CONSTELLIUM HOLDCO II, B.V. , as Guarantor
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

Name:   Mark Kirkland
Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory

 

[Signature Page to Consent and Reaffirmation – Wise ABL Amendment]

Exhibit 4.45

CONSTELLIUM N.V.

and

certain Guarantors from time to time parties hereto

$650,000,000 6.625% Senior Notes due 2025

 

 

INDENTURE

Dated as of February 16, 2017

 

 

DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS,

as Trustee


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

ARTICLE 1 DEFINITIONS

   1

SECTION 1.01

   Definitions    1

SECTION 1.02

   Other Definitions    34

SECTION 1.03

   [Reserved]    36

SECTION 1.04

   Rules of Construction    36

SECTION 1.05

   Acts of Holders    37

ARTICLE 2 THE SECURITIES

   38

SECTION 2.01

   Amount of Securities    38

SECTION 2.02

   Form and Dating    39

SECTION 2.03

   Execution and Authentication    40

SECTION 2.04

   Registrar and Paying Agent    40

SECTION 2.05

   Paying Agent to Hold Money in Trust    41

SECTION 2.06

   Holder Lists    41

SECTION 2.07

   Transfer and Exchange    41

SECTION 2.08

   Replacement Securities    42

SECTION 2.09

   Outstanding Securities    42

SECTION 2.10

   Temporary Securities    43

SECTION 2.11

   Cancellation    43

SECTION 2.12

   Defaulted Interest    43

SECTION 2.13

   CUSIP Numbers, ISINs, etc    43

SECTION 2.14

   Calculation of Principal Amount of Securities    44

SECTION 2.15

   Additional Amounts    44

ARTICLE 3 REDEMPTION

   47

SECTION 3.01

   Redemption    47

SECTION 3.02

   Applicability of Article    47

SECTION 3.03

   Notices to Trustee    47

SECTION 3.04

   Selection of Securities to Be Redeemed    47

SECTION 3.05

   Notice of Optional Redemption    47

SECTION 3.06

   Effect of Notice of Redemption    48

SECTION 3.07

   Deposit of Redemption Price    49

SECTION 3.08

   Securities Redeemed in Part    49

ARTICLE 4 COVENANTS

   49

SECTION 4.01

   Payment of Securities    49

SECTION 4.02

   Reports and Other Information    49

SECTION 4.03

   Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock    51

SECTION 4.04

   Limitation on Restricted Payments    58

 

i


SECTION 4.05

   Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Subsidiaries    64

SECTION 4.06

   Asset Sales    66

SECTION 4.07

   Transactions with Affiliates    69

SECTION 4.08

   Change of Control    72

SECTION 4.09

   Compliance Certificate    74

SECTION 4.10

   [Reserved]    74

SECTION 4.11

   Future Guarantors    74

SECTION 4.12

   Liens    75

SECTION 4.13

   Maintenance of Office or Agency    75

SECTION 4.14

   Termination and Suspension of Certain Covenants    75

ARTICLE 5 SUCCESSOR COMPANY

   77

SECTION 5.01

   When Issuer May Merge or Transfer Assets    77

ARTICLE 6 DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES

   79

SECTION 6.01

   Events of Default    79

SECTION 6.02

   Acceleration    81

SECTION 6.03

   Other Remedies    82

SECTION 6.04

   Waiver of Past Defaults    82

SECTION 6.05

   Control by Majority    82

SECTION 6.06

   Limitation on Suits    82

SECTION 6.07

   Rights of the Holders to Receive Payment    83

SECTION 6.08

   Collection Suit by Trustee    83

SECTION 6.09

   Trustee May File Proofs of Claim    83

SECTION 6.10

   Priorities    83

SECTION 6.11

   Undertaking for Costs    84

SECTION 6.12

   Waiver of Stay or Extension Laws    84

ARTICLE 7 TRUSTEE

   84

SECTION 7.01

   Duties of Trustee    84

SECTION 7.02

   Rights of Trustee    85

SECTION 7.03

   Individual Rights of Trustee    88

SECTION 7.04

   Trustee’s Disclaimer    88

SECTION 7.05

   Notice of Defaults    88

SECTION 7.06

   Affiliate Subordination Agreement    88

SECTION 7.07

   Compensation and Indemnity    88

SECTION 7.08

   Replacement of Trustee    90

SECTION 7.09

   Successor Trustee by Merger    90

ARTICLE 8 DISCHARGE OF INDENTURE; DEFEASANCE

   91

SECTION 8.01

   Discharge of Liability on Securities; Defeasance    91

SECTION 8.02

   Conditions to Defeasance    92

 

ii


SECTION 8.03

   Application of Trust Money    93

SECTION 8.04

   Repayment to Issuer    93

SECTION 8.05

   Indemnity for U.S. Government Obligations    94

SECTION 8.06

   Reinstatement    94

ARTICLE 9 AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS

   94

SECTION 9.01

   Without Consent of the Holders    94

SECTION 9.02

   With Consent of the Holders    95

SECTION 9.03

   [Reserved]    96

SECTION 9.04

   Revocation and Effect of Consents and Waivers    96

SECTION 9.05

   Notation on or Exchange of Securities    97

SECTION 9.06

   Trustee to Sign Amendments    97

SECTION 9.07

   Payment for Consent    97

SECTION 9.08

   Additional Voting Terms; Calculation of Principal Amount    97

ARTICLE 10 GUARANTEES

   98

SECTION 10.01

   Guarantees    98

SECTION 10.02

   Limitation on Liability    100

SECTION 10.03

   Automatic Termination of Guarantees    105

SECTION 10.04

   Successors and Assigns    106

SECTION 10.05

   No Waiver    106

SECTION 10.06

   Modification    106

SECTION 10.07

   Execution of Supplemental Indenture for Future Guarantors    106

SECTION 10.08

   Non-Impairment    107

ARTICLE 11 MISCELLANEOUS

   107

SECTION 11.01

   Ranking    107

SECTION 11.02

   [Reserved]    107

SECTION 11.03

   Notices    107

SECTION 11.04

   [Reserved]    108

SECTION 11.05

   Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent    108

SECTION 11.06

   Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion    109

SECTION 11.07

   When Securities Disregarded    109

SECTION 11.08

   Rules by Trustee, Paying Agent and Registrar    109

SECTION 11.09

   Legal Holidays    109

SECTION 11.10

   GOVERNING LAW    110

SECTION 11.11

   Consent to Jurisdiction and Service    110

SECTION 11.12

   Currency Indemnity    110

SECTION 11.13

   No Recourse Against Others    111

SECTION 11.14

   Successors    111

SECTION 11.15

   USA PATRIOT Act    111

SECTION 11.16

   Multiple Originals    111

 

iii


SECTION 11.17

   Table of Contents; Headings    111

SECTION 11.18

   Indenture Controls    111

SECTION 11.19

   Severability    111

 

Appendix A       Provisions Relating to Original Securities and Add-On Securities

EXHIBIT INDEX

  
Exhibit A       Form of Original Security
Exhibit B       Form of Supplemental Indenture

 

iv


INDENTURE dated as of February 16, 2017 among CONSTELLIUM N.V., a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (together with its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to as the “Issuer”), the GUARANTORS (as defined herein) and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee (the “Trustee”).

Each party agrees as follows for the benefit of the other parties and for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of (a) $650,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the Issuer’s 6.625% Senior Notes due 2025 issued on the date hereof (the “Original Securities”) and (b) any additional Securities that may be issued after the date hereof in the form of Exhibit A (the “Add-On Securities” (all such securities in clauses (a) and (b) being referred to collectively as the “Securities”). Subject to the conditions and compliance with the covenants set forth herein, the Issuer may issue an unlimited aggregate principal amount of Add-On Securities without the consent of Holders.

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01 Definitions .

“2017 Transactions” means (i) the issuance of the Original Securities, (ii) the redemption of the 8.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2018 of Wise Metals Group LLC and Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, (iii) the granting of guarantees for the Existing Notes and security interests with respect to the Existing Secured Notes, in each case by Subsidiaries of the Issuer in connection with the issuance of the Original Securities, (iv) the amendment or replacement of the Wise ABL Facility in connection with the issuance of the Original Securities, and (v) the payment of fees and expenses and premium in connection with any of the foregoing.

“ABL Facility” means any asset-based lending facility (including, without limitation, the Ravenswood ABL Facility and the Wise ABL Facility), in each case, as amended, supplemented, modified, extended, restructured, renewed, refinanced, restated, replaced or refunded in whole or in part from time to time.

“ABL Obligors” means the borrower or borrowers and guarantors under any ABL Facility.

“Acquired Indebtedness” means, with respect to any specified Person:

(1) Indebtedness, Preferred Stock or Disqualified Stock of any other Person existing at the time such other Person is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into or became a Restricted Subsidiary of such specified Person, and

(2) Indebtedness, Preferred Stock or Disqualified Stock secured by a Lien encumbering any asset acquired by such specified Person.

 

1


“Affiliate” of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such specified Person. For purposes of this definition, “control” (including, with correlative meanings, the terms “controlling,” “controlled by” and “under common control with”), as used with respect to any Person, means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by agreement or otherwise.

“Applicable Premium” means, with respect to any Security on any applicable redemption date, the greater of the following, as calculated by the Issuer:

(1) 1% of the then outstanding principal amount of the Security; and

(2) the excess of:

(a) the present value at such redemption date of (i) the redemption price of the Security, at March 1, 2020 (such redemption price being set forth in Paragraph 5 of the Security plus (ii) all required interest payments due on the Security through March 1, 2020 (excluding accrued but unpaid interest), computed using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate as of such redemption date plus 50 basis points; over

(b) the then outstanding principal amount of such Security.

“Asset Sale” means:

(1) the sale, conveyance, transfer or other disposition (whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions) of property or assets (including by way of a Sale/Leaseback Transaction) outside the ordinary course of business of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer (each referred to in this definition as a “disposition”) or

(2) the issuance or sale of Equity Interests (other than directors’ qualifying shares and shares issued to foreign nationals or other third parties to the extent required by applicable law) of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than to the Issuer or another Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer) (whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions),

in each case other than:

(a) a disposition of Cash Equivalents or Investment Grade Securities or damaged, obsolete or worn out property or equipment in the ordinary course of business;

(b) transactions permitted pursuant to Section 5.01 or any disposition that constitutes a Change of Control;

(c) any Restricted Payment or Permitted Investment that is permitted to be made, and is made, under Section 4.04;

 

2


(d) any disposition of assets or issuance or sale of Equity Interests of any Restricted Subsidiary, which assets or Equity Interests so disposed or issued have an aggregate Fair Market Value of less than €10.0 million;

(e) any disposition of property or assets, or the issuance of securities, by a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer to the Issuer or by the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer to a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer;

(f) any exchange of assets (including a combination of assets and Cash Equivalents) for assets related to a Similar Business of comparable or greater market value or usefulness to the business of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries as a whole, as determined in good faith by the Issuer;

(g) foreclosure or any similar action with respect to any property or any other assets of the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries;

(h) any sale of Equity Interests in, or Indebtedness or other securities of, an Unrestricted Subsidiary;

(i) the lease, assignment or sublease of any real or personal property in the ordinary course of business;

(j) any sale of inventory or other assets in the ordinary course of business, or which are no longer useful or necessary in the operation of the business of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries;

(k) any grant in the ordinary course of business of any license of patents, trademarks, know-how or any other intellectual property;

(l) an issuance of Capital Stock pursuant to an equity incentive or compensation plan approved by the Board of Directors of the Issuer;

(m) dispositions in connection with Permitted Liens;

(n) any financing transaction with respect to property built or acquired by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary after the Issue Date, including any Sale/Leaseback Transaction or asset securitization permitted by this Indenture;

(o) any disposition of Capital Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to an agreement or other obligation with or to a Person (other than the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary) from whom such Restricted Subsidiary was acquired or from whom such Restricted Subsidiary acquired its business and assets (having been newly formed in connection with such acquisition), made as part of such acquisition and in each case comprising all or a portion of the consideration in respect of such sale or acquisition;

(p) any surrender or waiver of contract rights or the settlement, release, recovery on or surrender of contract, tort or other claims of any kind;

 

3


(q) a transfer of accounts receivable and related assets of the type specified in the definition of “Receivables Financing” (or a fractional undivided interest therein) by a Receivables Subsidiary or any Restricted Subsidiary (w) under the Factoring Facilities, (x) in a Qualified Receivables Financing, (y) under any other factoring on arm’s-length terms or (z) in the ordinary course of business;

(r) the sale of any property in a Sale/Leaseback Transaction within six months of the acquisition of such property; and

(s) dispositions of receivables in connection with the compromise, settlement or collection thereof in the ordinary course of business or in bankruptcy or similar proceedings and exclusive of factoring or similar arrangements.

“Bank Credit Facilities” means Credit Facilities providing for term loan or revolving credit indebtedness that constitutes Bank Indebtedness.

“Bank Indebtedness” means any and all amounts payable under or in respect of any Credit Facilities provided by bank or other institutional lenders (excluding Credit Facilities providing for publicly offered or privately placed capital markets indebtedness), as amended, restated, supplemented, waived, replaced, restructured, repaid, refunded, refinanced or otherwise modified from time to time (including after termination of the Bank Credit Facilities), including principal, premium (if any), interest (including interest accruing on or after the filing of any petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization relating to the Issuer whether or not a claim for post-filing interest is allowed in such proceedings), fees, charges, expenses, reimbursement obligations, guarantees and all other amounts payable thereunder or in respect thereof.

“Board of Directors” means, as to any Person, the board of directors or managers, as applicable, of such Person (or, if such Person is a partnership, the board of directors or other governing body of the general partner of such Person) or any duly authorized committee thereof.

“Borrowing Base” means, as of any date, an amount equal to:

(1) 85% of the face amount of accounts receivable owned by the ABL Obligors as of the end of the most recent fiscal quarter preceding such date; plus

(2) the lesser of (i) 80% of the lower of cost or market and (ii) 85% of net orderly liquidation value, in each case, of inventory owned by the ABL Obligors as of the end of the most recent fiscal quarter preceding such date.

“Business Day” means a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which banking institutions are authorized or required by law to close in New York City, London or Amsterdam.

“Capital Stock” means:

(1) in the case of a corporation, corporate stock or shares;

 

4


(2) in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other equivalents (however designated) of corporate stock;

(3) in the case of a partnership or limited liability company, partnership or membership interests (whether general or limited); and

(4) any other interest or participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of, or distributions of assets of, the issuing Person.

“Capitalized Lease Obligation” means, at the time any determination thereof is to be made, the amount of the liability in respect of a capital lease that would at such time be required to be capitalized and reflected as a liability on a balance sheet (excluding the footnotes thereto) in accordance with IFRS.

“Cash Equivalents” means:

(1) All cash, including without limitation U.S. dollars, pounds sterling, euros, Swiss franc, the national currency of any country that is a member of the European Union as of the Issue Date or such other currencies held by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary from time to time in the ordinary course of business;

(2) Securities and other readily marketable obligations issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the U.S. government or any country that is a member of the European Union as of the Issue Date or Switzerland, or any agency or instrumentality thereof in each case maturing not more than two years from the date of acquisition;

(3) certificates of deposit, time deposits and Eurodollar time deposits with maturities of one year or less from the date of acquisition, bankers’ acceptances, in each case with maturities not exceeding one year and overnight bank deposits, in each case with any commercial bank having capital and surplus in excess of $250.0 million;

(4) repurchase obligations for underlying securities of the types described in clauses (2) and (3) above entered into with any financial institution meeting the qualifications specified in clause (3) above;

(5) commercial paper issued by a corporation (other than an Affiliate of the Issuer) rated at least “A-2” or the equivalent thereof by Moody’s or S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized ratings agency) and in each case maturing within one year after the date of acquisition;

(6) readily marketable direct obligations issued by any state of the United States of America or any political subdivision thereof having an Investment Grade Rating in each case with maturities not exceeding two years from the date of acquisition;

(7) Indebtedness issued by Persons with a rating of “A” or higher from S&P or “A-2” or higher from Moody’s in each case with maturities not exceeding two years from the date of acquisition;

 

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(8) investment funds investing at least 95% of their assets in securities of the types described in clauses (1) through (7) above;

(9) investments with average maturities of 12 months or less from the date of acquisition in mutual funds rated AA- (or the equivalent thereof) or better by S&P or Aaa3 (or the equivalent thereof) or better by Moody’s; and

(10) marketable short-term money market and similar highly liquid funds either (i) having assets in excess of $250.0 million or (ii) having a rating of at least A-2 or P-2 from either S&P or Moody’s (or, if at any time neither S&P nor Moody’s shall be rating such obligations, an equivalent rating from another nationally recognized rating service).

“Change of Control” means the occurrence of any of the following events:

(1) the sale, lease or transfer, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all the assets of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to a Person; or

(2) the Issuer becomes aware (by way of a report or any other filing pursuant to Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act, proxy, vote, written notice or otherwise) of the acquisition by any Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), including any group acting for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of securities (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5(b)(1) under the Exchange Act), in a single transaction or in a related series of transactions, by way of merger, consolidation or other business combination or purchase of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), of more than 50% of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of the Issuer; provided , however , that any entity (including the Issuer upon a sale of all or substantially all of its assets to a Subsidiary in a transaction permitted under this Indenture, if at such time the Issuer meets the requirements of this proviso) that conducts no material activities other than holding Equity Interests of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer and has no other material assets or liabilities other than such Equity Interests will not be considered a “Person or group” for purposes of this clause (2).

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

“Consolidated Interest Expense” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum, without duplication, of:

(1) consolidated interest expense of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, to the extent such expense was deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income (including amortization of original issue discount, noncash interest payments, the interest component of Capitalized Lease Obligations, and net payments and receipts (if any) pursuant to interest rate Hedging Obligations (but excluding unrealized mark-to-market gains and losses attributable to such Hedging Obligations, amortization of deferred financing fees and expensing of any bridge or other financing fees), and excluding interest expense attributable to the Factoring Facilities or any Qualified Receivables Financing or other factoring arrangements (to the extent accounted for as interest expense under IFRS), amortization of deferred financing fees, debt issuance costs, commissions, fees and expenses and expensing of any bridge commitment or other financing fees); plus

 

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(2) consolidated capitalized interest of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, whether paid or accrued; plus

(3) Preferred Stock dividends paid in cash in respect of Disqualified Stock of the Issuer held by persons other than the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary; plus

(4) Commissions based on draws, discounts and yield (but excluding other fees and charges, including commitment fees) Incurred in connection with any Receivables Financing which are payable to Persons other than the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries; minus

(5) interest income for such period.

For purposes of this definition, interest on a Capitalized Lease Obligation shall be deemed to accrue at an interest rate reasonably determined by a responsible financial or accounting officer of the Issuer to be the rate of interest implicit in such Capitalized Lease Obligation in accordance with IFRS.

“Consolidated Net Debt Ratio” means, with respect to any Person at any date, the ratio of (i) Consolidated Total Indebtedness of such Person, less 100% of the unrestricted cash and Cash Equivalents that would be stated on the balance sheet of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries as of such date, to (ii) EBITDA of such Person for the four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding such date. The second sentence of the first paragraph of the definition of “Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio” and paragraphs 2, 3, and 4 thereof shall apply to the calculation of Consolidated Net Debt Ratio, and such calculation shall give pro forma effect to the application of the proceeds of any Indebtedness that is incurred on the calculation date (with any proceeds that are initially to be held as cash or Cash Equivalents being deemed to have been applied as of the calculation date).

“Consolidated Net Income” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the aggregate of the Net Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, on a consolidated basis; provided , however , that:

(1) any net after-tax extraordinary, nonrecurring or unusual gains or losses or income, expenses or charges (less all fees and expenses relating thereto), including, without limitation, any (i) severance, relocation or other restructuring expenses, any expenses related to any reconstruction, decommissioning, recommissioning or reconfiguration of fixed assets for alternate uses and fees, expenses or charges relating to new product lines, plant shutdown costs, curtailments or modifications to pension and post-retirement employee benefits plans, excess pension charges, acquisition integration costs, facilities opening costs, project start-up costs, business optimization costs, signing, retention or completion bonuses and (ii) any fees, expenses or charges related to any Equity Offering, Permitted Investment, acquisition, disposition, receivables financing, recapitalization or issuance, repayment, incurrence, refinancing, amendment or modification of Indebtedness permitted to be Incurred by this Indenture (in each case, whether or not successful), in each case, shall be excluded;

 

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(2) any increase in amortization or depreciation or any non-cash charges, in each case resulting from purchase accounting in connection with any acquisition that is consummated after the Issue Date shall be excluded;

(3) the Net Income for such period shall not include the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles during such period;

(4) any net after-tax income or loss from disposed, abandoned, transferred, closed or discontinued operations and any net after-tax gains or losses on disposal of disposed, abandoned, transferred, closed or discontinued operations shall be excluded;

(5) any net after-tax gains or losses (less all fees and expenses or charges relating thereto) attributable to business dispositions or asset dispositions other than in the ordinary course of business (as determined in good faith by the Issuer) shall be excluded;

(6) any net after-tax gains or losses (less all fees and expenses or charges relating thereto) attributable to the early extinguishment of Indebtedness or Hedging Obligations or other derivative instruments shall be excluded;

(7) the Net Income for such period of any Person that is not a Subsidiary of such Person, or is an Unrestricted Subsidiary, or that is accounted for by the equity method of accounting, shall be included only to the extent of the amount of dividends or distributions or other payments paid in cash (or to the extent converted into cash) to the referent Person or a Restricted Subsidiary thereof in respect of such period;

(8) solely for the purpose of determining the amount available for Restricted Payments under clause (1) of the definition of Cumulative Credit, the Net Income for such period of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than any Guarantor) shall be excluded to the extent that the declaration or payment of dividends or similar distributions by such Restricted Subsidiary of its Net Income is not at the date of determination permitted without any prior governmental approval (which has not been obtained) or, directly or indirectly, by the operation of the terms of its charter or any agreement, instrument, judgment, decree, order, statute, rule or governmental regulation applicable to that Restricted Subsidiary or its stockholders, unless such restrictions with respect to the payment of dividends or similar distributions have been legally waived; provided that the Consolidated Net Income of such Person shall be increased by the amount of dividends or other distributions or other payments actually paid in cash (or converted into cash) by any such Restricted Subsidiary to such Person, to the extent not already included therein;

(9) any non-cash impairment charges or asset write-offs resulting from the application of IFRS and the amortization of intangibles arising pursuant to IFRS shall be excluded;

(10) any non-cash expense realized or resulting from stock option plans, employee benefit plans or post-employment benefit plans, grants and sales of stock, stock appreciation or similar rights, stock options or other rights of such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries shall be excluded;

 

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(11) any (a) severance or relocation costs or expenses, (b) one-time non-cash compensation charges, (c) the costs and expenses related to employment of terminated employees, (d) costs or expenses realized in connection with, resulting from or in anticipation of the 2017 Transactions or (e) costs or expenses realized in connection with or resulting from stock appreciation or similar rights, stock options or other rights existing on the Issue Date of officers, directors and employees, in each case of such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, shall be excluded;

(12) accruals and reserves that are established or adjusted in accordance with IFRS or changes as a result of the adoption or modification of accounting policies shall be excluded;

(13) (a)(i) the non-cash portion of “straight-line” rent expense shall be excluded and (ii) the cash portion of “straight-line” rent expense which exceeds the amount expensed in respect of such rent expense shall be included and (b) non-cash gains, losses, income and expenses resulting from fair value accounting shall be excluded;

(14) unrealized gains and losses relating to hedging transactions and mark-to-market of Indebtedness denominated in foreign currencies shall be excluded;

(15) solely for the purpose of calculating Restricted Payments, the difference, if positive, of the Consolidated Taxes of the Issuer calculated in accordance with IFRS and the actual Consolidated Taxes paid in cash by the Issuer during any Reference Period shall be included;

(16) non-cash charges for deferred tax asset valuation allowances shall be excluded;

(17) an adjustment (which may be a negative number) shall be made to the extent that Net Income was calculated on an average cost basis with respect to inventory, in order to reflect the additional Net Income (or the reduction to Net Income) which would have been recognized using an approximation of last in first out inventory accounting; and

(18) any loss on sale of receivables and related assets in a Factoring Facility or other Qualified Receivables Financing shall be excluded.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, for the purpose of Section 4.04 only, there shall be excluded from Consolidated Net Income any dividends, repayments of loans or advances or other transfers of assets from Unrestricted Subsidiaries of the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer to the extent such dividends, repayments or transfers increase the amount of Restricted Payments permitted under clauses (5) and (6) of the definition of “Cumulative Credit.”

 

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“Consolidated Non-cash Charges” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the aggregate depreciation, amortization, accretion and other non-cash expenses of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries reducing Consolidated Net Income of such Person for such period on a consolidated basis and otherwise determined in accordance with IFRS, but excluding any such charge which consists of or requires an accrual of, or cash reserve for, anticipated cash charges for any future period.

“Consolidated Secured Indebtedness” means, with respect to any Person, as of any date of determination, the aggregate principal amount of consolidated funded Indebtedness for borrowed money of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries outstanding on such date that is secured by a Lien (other than any Indebtedness under the Factoring Facilities, any ABL Facility incurred pursuant to clause (b)(i) of Section 4.03, any Qualified Receivables Financing, the PBGC Obligations and any Capitalized Lease Obligations).

“Consolidated Secured Net Debt Ratio” means, with respect to any Person at any date, the ratio of (i) Consolidated Secured Indebtedness of such Person, less 100% of the unrestricted cash and Cash Equivalents that would be stated on the balance sheet of such Person as of such date to (ii) EBITDA of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for the four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding such date. The second sentence of the first paragraph of the definition of “Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio” and paragraphs 2, 3, and 4 thereof shall apply to the calculation of the Consolidated Secured Net Debt Ratio, and such calculation shall give pro forma effect to the application of the proceeds of any Indebtedness that is incurred on the calculation date (with any proceeds that are initially to be held as cash or Cash Equivalents being deemed to have been applied as of the calculation date).

“Consolidated Taxes” means provision for taxes based on income, profits or capital, including, without limitation, state, franchise and similar taxes.

“Consolidated Total Indebtedness” means, with respect to any Person, as of any date of determination, the aggregate principal amount of consolidated funded Indebtedness for borrowed money of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries outstanding on such date (other than any Indebtedness under the Factoring Facilities, any Qualified Receivables Financing, the PBGC Obligations and any Capitalized Lease Obligations).

“Contingent Obligations” means, with respect to any Person, any obligation of such Person guaranteeing any leases, dividends or other obligations that do not constitute Indebtedness (“primary obligations”) of any other Person (the “primary obligor”) in any manner, whether directly or indirectly, including, without limitation, any obligation of such Person, whether or not contingent:

(1) to purchase any such primary obligation or any property constituting direct or indirect security therefor,

(2) to advance or supply funds:

(a) for the purchase or payment of any such primary obligation; or

(b) to maintain working capital or equity capital of the primary obligor or otherwise to maintain the net worth or solvency of the primary obligor; or

 

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(3) to purchase property, securities or services primarily for the purpose of assuring the owner of any such primary obligation of the ability of the primary obligor to make payment of such primary obligation against loss in respect thereof.

“Credit Facilities” means (i) the Existing Secured Notes; and (ii) whether or not the Credit Facilities referred to in clause (i) remain outstanding, if designated by the Issuer to be included in the definition of “Credit Facilities,” one or more (A) debt facilities or commercial paper facilities, providing for revolving credit loans, term loans, receivables financing (including through the sale of receivables to lenders or to special purpose entities formed to borrow from lenders against such receivables) or letters of credit, (B) debt securities, indentures or other forms of debt financing (including convertible or exchangeable debt instruments or bank guarantees or bankers’ acceptances), or (C) instruments or agreements evidencing any other Indebtedness, in each case, with the same or different borrowers or issuers and, in each case, as amended, supplemented, modified, extended, restructured, renewed, refinanced, restated, replaced or refunded in whole or in part from time to time.

“Cumulative Credit” means the sum of (without duplication):

(1) 50% of the Consolidated Net Income of the Issuer for the period (taken as one accounting period, the “Reference Period”) from January 1, 2017 to the end of the Issuer’s most recently ended fiscal quarter for which internal financial statements are available at the time of such Restricted Payment (or, in the case such Consolidated Net Income for such period is a deficit, minus 100% of such deficit), plus

(2) 100% of the aggregate net proceeds, including cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by the Issuer) of property other than cash, received by the Issuer after the Issue Date (other than net proceeds to the extent such net proceeds have been used to Incur Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(xx) from the issue or sale of Equity Interests of the Issuer (excluding Refunding Capital Stock, Designated Preferred Stock, Excluded Contributions or Disqualified Stock, including Equity Interests issued upon conversion of Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or upon exercise of warrants or options (other than an issuance or sale to a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer or an employee stock ownership plan or trust established by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries), plus

(3) 100% of the aggregate amount of contributions to the capital of the Issuer received in cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by the Issuer) of property other than cash after the Issue Date (other than Excluded Contributions, Refunding Capital Stock, Designated Preferred Stock, contributions to the extent such contributions have been used to Incur Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 4.03(b)(xx), plus

(4) 100% of the principal amount of any Indebtedness, or the liquidation preference or maximum fixed repurchase price, as the case may be, of any Disqualified Stock of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary thereof issued after the Issue Date (other than Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock issued to a Restricted Subsidiary) which has been converted into or exchanged for Equity Interests in the Issuer (other than Disqualified Stock) or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer (provided that, in the case of any parent, such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock is retired or extinguished), plus

 

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(5) 100% of the aggregate amount received by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary in cash and the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by the Issuer) of property other than cash received by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary from:

(a) the sale or other disposition (other than to the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer) of Restricted Investments made by the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries and from repurchases and redemptions of such Restricted Investments from the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries by any Person (other than the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries) and from repayments of loans or advances (including the release of any guarantee that constituted a Restricted Investment when made) that constituted Restricted Investments (other than in each case to the extent that the Restricted Investment was made pursuant to clause (vii) or (x) of Section 4.04(b)),

(b) the sale (other than to the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer) of the Capital Stock of an Unrestricted Subsidiary, or

(c) a distribution or dividend from an Unrestricted Subsidiary, plus

(6) in the event any Unrestricted Subsidiary of the Issuer has been redesignated as a Restricted Subsidiary or has been merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys its assets to, or is liquidated into, the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary, the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by the Issuer) of the Investment of the Issuer in such Unrestricted Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation, combination or transfer (or of the assets transferred or conveyed, as applicable), after taking into account any Indebtedness associated with the Unrestricted Subsidiary so designated or combined or any Indebtedness associated with the assets so transferred or conveyed (other than in each case to the extent that the designation of such Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary was made pursuant to clause (vii) or (x) of Section 4.04(b) or constituted a Permitted Investment).

“Default” means any event which is, or after notice or passage of time or both would be, an Event of Default.

“Designated Non-cash Consideration” means the Fair Market Value of non-cash consideration received by the Issuer or one of its Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with an Asset Sale that is so designated as Designated Non-cash Consideration pursuant to an Officer’s Certificate, setting forth the basis of such valuation, less the amount of Cash Equivalents received in connection with a subsequent sale of or collection on such Designated Non-cash Consideration.

“Designated Preferred Stock” means Preferred Stock of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer (other than Disqualified Stock), that is issued for cash (other than to the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries or an employee stock ownership plan or trust established by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries) and is so designated as Designated Preferred Stock, pursuant to an Officer’s Certificate, on the issuance date thereof.

 

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“Disqualified Stock” means, with respect to any Person, any Capital Stock of such Person which, by its terms (or by the terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is redeemable or exchangeable), or upon the happening of any event:

(1) matures or is mandatorily redeemable, pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise (other than as a result of a change of control or asset sale; provided that the relevant asset sale or change of control provisions, taken as a whole, are not materially more disadvantageous to the Holders of the Securities than is customary in comparable transactions (as determined in good faith by the Issuer)),

(2) is convertible or exchangeable for Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of such Person, or

(3) is redeemable at the option of the holder thereof, in whole or in part (other than as a result of a change of control or asset sale; provided that the relevant asset sale or change of control provisions, taken as a whole, are not materially more disadvantageous to the Holders of the Securities than is customary in comparable transactions (as determined in good faith by the Issuer)),

in each case prior to 91 days after (x) the maturity date of the Securities or (y) the date the Securities are no longer outstanding; provided , however , that only the portion of Capital Stock which so matures or is mandatorily redeemable, is so convertible or exchangeable or is so redeemable at the option of the holder thereof prior to such date shall be deemed to be Disqualified Stock; provided , further , however , that if such Capital Stock is issued to any employee or to any plan for the benefit of employees of the Issuer or its Subsidiaries or by any such plan to such employees, such Capital Stock shall not constitute Disqualified Stock solely because it may be required to be repurchased by the Issuer in order to satisfy applicable statutory or regulatory obligations or as a result of such employee’s termination, death or disability; provided , further , that any class of Capital Stock of such Person that by its terms authorizes such Person to satisfy its obligations thereunder by delivery of Capital Stock that is not Disqualified Stock shall not be deemed to be Disqualified Stock.

“EBITDA” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the Consolidated Net Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period plus, without duplication, to the extent the same was deducted in calculating Consolidated Net Income:

(1) Consolidated Taxes; plus

(2) Consolidated Interest Expense; plus

(3) Consolidated Non-cash Charges; plus

(4) business optimization expenses and other restructuring charges or expenses (which, for the avoidance of doubt, shall include, without limitation, the effect of inventory optimization programs, plant closures, facility consolidations, retention, severance, systems establishment costs, contract termination costs, future lease commitments and excess pension charges); provided that the aggregate amount of business optimization expenses and other restructuring charges or expenses added pursuant to this clause (4) shall not exceed the greater of (i) €20.0 million and (ii) 10% of EBITDA for such period;

 

 

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less, without duplication,

(5) non-cash items increasing Consolidated Net Income for such period (excluding the recognition of deferred revenue or any items which represent the reversal of any accrual of, or cash reserve for, anticipated cash charges in any prior period and any items for which cash was received in a prior period).

“Equity Interests” means Capital Stock and all warrants, options or other rights to acquire Capital Stock (but excluding any debt security that is convertible into, or exchangeable for, Capital Stock).

“Equity Offering” means any public or private sale after the Issue Date of common stock or Preferred Stock of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer, as applicable (other than Disqualified Stock), other than:

(1) public offerings with respect to the Issuer’s or such direct or indirect parent’s common stock registered on Form F-8 or F-4; and

(2) any such public or private sale that constitutes an Excluded Contribution.

“Euros” and “€” each mean the single currency of the Member States of the European Union participating in the third stage of the economic and monetary union pursuant to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, as amended or supplemented from time to time.

“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder.

“Exchange Rate” means, as of any day, the rate at which the relevant currency may be exchanged into Euros or U.S. Dollars, as applicable, at approximately 11:00 a.m., New York City time, on such date on the Bloomberg Key Cross Currency Rates Page (or any successor page) for the relevant currency. In the event that such rate does not appear on any Bloomberg Key Cross Currency Rates Page (or any successor page), the Exchange Rate shall be determined by the Issuer in good faith.

“Excluded Contributions” means the Cash Equivalents or other assets (valued at their Fair Market Value as determined in good faith by the Issuer) received by the Issuer after the Issue Date from:

(1) contributions to its common equity capital, and

(2) the sale (other than to a Subsidiary of the Issuer or to any Subsidiary management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or agreement) of Capital Stock (other than Disqualified Stock and Designated Preferred Stock) of the Issuer, in each case designated as Excluded Contributions pursuant to an Officer’s Certificate executed by an Officer of the Issuer on or promptly after the date such capital contributions are made or the date such Capital Stock is sold, as the case may be.

 

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“Existing Note Guarantees” means guarantees of any of the Existing Notes.

“Existing Notes” means, collectively, those certain (i) 8.00% Senior Notes due 2023, issued pursuant to an indenture dated December 19, 2014 between Constellium N.V., as issuer, certain guarantors thereunder and Deutsche Bank Trustee Company Americas, as trustee, (ii) 7.00% Senior Notes due 2023, issued pursuant to an indenture dated December 19, 2014 between Constellium N.V., as issuer, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as principal paying agent and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as registrar and transfer agent, (iii) 4.625% Senior Notes due 2021, issued pursuant to an indenture dated May 7, 2014 between Constellium N.V., as issuer, certain guarantors thereunder, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch, as principal paying agent, and Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as registrar and transfer agent, (iv) 5.750% Senior Notes due 2024 issued pursuant to an indenture dated May 7, 2014 between Constellium N.V., as issuer, certain guarantors thereunder and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee, and (v) the Existing Secured Notes, in the case of each of the foregoing clauses (i) through (v), to the extent outstanding on the Issue Date.

“Existing Secured Notes” means the 7.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2021, issued pursuant to an indenture dated March 30, 2016 between Constellium N.V., as issuer, certain guarantors thereunder and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee, to the extent outstanding on the Issue Date.

“Factoring Facilities” means the receivables purchase facilities granted to certain Subsidiaries of the Issuer pursuant to (a) the agreement dated as of December 3, 2015 between GE Factofrance S.A.S. as purchaser, Constellium Issoire S.A.S., Constellium Neuf Brisach S.A.S. and Constellium Extrusions France as sellers, Constellium Holdco II B.V. and Constellium Switzerland AG, (b) the agreement dated as of March 26, 2014 between GE Capital Bank AG as purchaser and Constellium Singen GmbH as seller, (c) the agreement dated as of December 16, 2010 between GE Capital Bank AG as purchaser and Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH as seller, (d) the agreement dated as of December 16, 2010 between GE Capital Bank AG as purchaser and Constellium Valais AG as seller and (e) the agreement dated as of June 26, 2015 between GE Capital Bank AG as purchaser and Constellium Extrusions Decin S.R.O. as seller, in each case, as such agreement may be amended, restated, supplemented, waived, replaced (whether or not upon termination, and whether with the original parties or otherwise), restructured, or otherwise modified from time to time.

“Fair Market Value” means, with respect to any asset or property, the price which could be negotiated in an arm’s-length, free market transaction, for cash, between a willing seller and a willing and able buyer, neither of whom is under undue pressure or compulsion to complete the transaction.

“Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the ratio of EBITDA of such Person for such period to the Fixed Charges of such Person for such period. In the event that the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries Incurs, repays, repurchases, retires, extinguishes, defeases, discharges or redeems any Indebtedness (other than

 

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in the case of revolving credit borrowings or revolving advances under any receivables financing, in which case interest expense shall be computed based upon the average daily balance of such Indebtedness during the applicable period unless such Indebtedness has been permanently repaid and has not been replaced) or issues, repurchases or redeems Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock subsequent to the commencement of the period for which the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is being calculated but on or prior to the event for which the calculation of the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio is made (the “Calculation Date”), then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect to such Incurrence, repayment, repurchase or redemption of Indebtedness, or such issuance, repurchase, retirement, extinguishment, defeasance, discharge or redemption of Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period.

For purposes of making the computation referred to above, Investments, acquisitions, dispositions, mergers, amalgamations, consolidations and discontinued operations (as determined in accordance with IFRS), in each case with respect to an operating unit of a business, and any operational changes that the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries has determined to make and/or made during the four-quarter reference period or subsequent to such reference period and on or prior to or simultaneously with the Calculation Date (each, for purposes of this definition, a “pro forma event”) shall be calculated on a pro forma basis assuming that all such Investments, acquisitions, dispositions, mergers, amalgamations, consolidations, discontinued operations and operational changes (and the change of any associated fixed charge obligations and the change in EBITDA resulting therefrom) had occurred on the first day of the four-quarter reference period. If since the beginning of such period any Person that subsequently became a Restricted Subsidiary or was merged with or into the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary since the beginning of such period shall have made any Investment, acquisition, disposition, merger, amalgamation, consolidation, discontinued operation or operational change, in each case with respect to an operating unit of a business, that would have required adjustment pursuant to this definition, then the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio shall be calculated giving pro forma effect thereto for such period as if such Investment, acquisition, disposition, discontinued operation, merger, amalgamation, consolidation or operational change had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period.

For purposes of this definition, whenever pro forma effect is to be given to any pro forma event, the pro forma calculations shall be made in good faith by a responsible financial or accounting officer of the Issuer. Any such pro forma calculation may include adjustments appropriate, in the reasonable good faith determination of the Issuer, to reflect (1) operating expense reductions and other operating improvements or synergies reasonably expected to result from the applicable pro forma event, and (2) all adjustments of the nature used in connection with the calculation of “Adjusted EBITDA” as set forth in “Summary Historical Financial Information” in the Offering Memorandum to the extent such adjustments, without duplication, continue to be applicable to such four-quarter period.

If any Indebtedness bears a floating rate of interest and is being given pro forma effect, the interest on such Indebtedness shall be calculated as if the rate in effect on the Calculation Date had been the applicable rate for the entire period (taking into account any Hedging Obligations applicable to such Indebtedness if such Hedging Obligation has a remaining term in excess of 12 months). Interest on a Capitalized Lease Obligation shall be deemed to accrue at an interest rate reasonably determined by a responsible financial or

 

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accounting officer of the Issuer to be the rate of interest implicit in such Capitalized Lease Obligation in accordance with IFRS. For purposes of making the computation referred to above, interest on any Indebtedness under a revolving credit facility computed on a pro forma basis shall be computed based upon the average daily balance of such Indebtedness during the applicable period. Interest on Indebtedness that may optionally be determined at an interest rate based upon a factor of a prime or similar rate, a eurocurrency interbank offered rate, or other rate, shall be deemed to have been based upon the rate actually chosen, or, if none, then based upon such optional rate chosen as the Issuer may designate.

“Fixed Charges” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum, without duplication, of:

(1) Consolidated Interest Expense of such Person for such period, and

(2) all cash dividend payments (excluding items eliminated in consolidation) on any series of Preferred Stock or Disqualified Stock of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries.

“Foreign Subsidiary” means a Restricted Subsidiary not organized or existing under the laws of the United States of America or any state or territory thereof or the District of Columbia.

“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such other entity as have been approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession.

“Guarantee” means any guarantee of the obligations of the Issuer under this Indenture and the Securities by any Person in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture.

“guarantee” means a guarantee (other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business), direct or indirect, in any manner (including, without limitation, letters of credit and reimbursement agreements in respect thereof), of all or any part of any Indebtedness or other obligations. The amount of any guarantee shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the stated or determinable amount of the related primary obligation, or portion thereof, in respect of which such guarantee is made or, if not stated or determinable, the maximum reasonably anticipated liability in respect thereof as determined in good faith by the Issuer. The term “guarantee” as a verb has a corresponding meaning.

“Guarantor” means any Person that Incurs a Guarantee; provided that upon the release or discharge of such Person from its Guarantee in accordance with this Indenture, such Person ceases to be a Guarantor under this Indenture.

 

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“Hedging Obligations” means, with respect to any Person, the obligations of such Person under:

(1) currency exchange, interest rate or commodity Swap Agreements, currency exchange, interest rate or commodity cap agreements and currency exchange, interest rate or commodity collar agreements; and

(2) other agreements or arrangements designed to protect such Person against fluctuations in currency exchange, interest rates or commodity prices.

“Holder” means the Person in whose name a Security is registered.

“IFRS” means International Financial Reporting Standards promulgated from time to time by the International Accounting Standards Board (or any successor board or agency, together the “IASB”) and as adopted by the European Union and statements and pronouncements of the IASB or in such other statements by such other entity as have been approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession, which are in effect from time to time (other than with respect to Capitalized Lease Obligations), it being understood that, for purposes of this Indenture, all references to codified accounting standards specifically named in this Indenture shall be deemed to include any successor, replacement, amended or updated accounting standard under IFRS; provided that, at any time after adoption of GAAP by the Issuer (or the relevant reporting entity) for its financial statements and reports for all financial reporting purposes, the Issuer (or the relevant reporting entity) may irrevocably elect to apply GAAP for all purposes of this Indenture, and, upon any such election, references in this Indenture to IFRS shall be construed to mean GAAP as in effect on the date of such election and thereafter from time to time; provided that (1) all financial statements and reports required to be provided after such election pursuant to this Indenture shall be prepared on the basis of GAAP, (2) from and after such election, all ratios, computations, calculations and other determinations based on IFRS contained in this Indenture shall be computed in conformity with GAAP (other than with respect to Capitalized Lease Obligations) with retroactive effect being given thereto assuming that such election had been made on the Issue Date, (3) such election shall not have the effect of rendering invalid any payment or Investment made prior to the date of such election pursuant to Section 4.04 or any Incurrence of Indebtedness or Liens Incurred prior to the date of such election pursuant to Section 4.03 (or any other action conditioned on the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries having been able to Incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness) or Section 4.12 if such payment, Investment, Incurrence or other action was valid under this Indenture on the date made, Incurred or taken, as the case may be and (4) all accounting terms and references in this Indenture to accounting standards shall be deemed to be references to the most comparable terms or standards under GAAP. The Issuer shall give written notice of any election to the Trustee and the Holders of the Securities within 15 days of such election. For the avoidance of doubt, (i) solely making an election (without any other action) referred to in this definition will not be treated as an Incurrence of Indebtedness or Liens, and (ii) nothing herein shall prevent the Issuer, any Restricted Subsidiary or reporting entity from adopting or changing its functional or reporting currency in accordance with IFRS, or GAAP, as applicable; provided that such adoption or change shall not have the effect of rendering invalid any payment or Investment made prior to the date of such election pursuant to the covenant described under Section 4.04 or any Incurrence of Indebtedness or Liens Incurred prior to the date of such adoption or change pursuant to Section 4.03 or Section 4.12 (or any other action conditioned on the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries having been able to Incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness) if such payment, Investment, Incurrence or other action was valid under this Indenture on the date made, Incurred or taken, as the case may be.

 

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“Incur” means issue, assume, guarantee, incur or otherwise become liable for; provided , however , that any Indebtedness or Capital Stock of a Person existing at the time such Person becomes a Subsidiary (whether by merger, amalgamation, consolidation, acquisition or otherwise) shall be deemed to be Incurred by such Person at the time it becomes a Subsidiary.

“Indebtedness” means, with respect to any Person (without duplication):

(1) the principal and premium (if any) of any indebtedness of such Person, whether or not contingent, (a) in respect of borrowed money, (b) evidenced by bonds, notes, debentures or similar instruments (except any such obligation issued in the ordinary course of business with a maturity date of no more than six months in a transaction intended to extend payment terms of trade payables or similar obligations to trade creditors incurred in the ordinary course of business) or letters of credit or bankers’ acceptances (or, without duplication, reimbursement agreements in respect thereof), (c) representing the deferred and unpaid purchase price of any property (except (i) any such balance that constitutes a trade payable or similar obligation to a trade creditor, in each case Incurred in the ordinary course of business, (ii) any earn-out obligations until such obligation becomes a liability on the balance sheet of such Person in accordance with IFRS and (iii) liabilities Incurred in the ordinary course of business), (d) in respect of Capitalized Lease Obligations, or (e) representing any Hedging Obligations, if and to the extent that any of the foregoing indebtedness would appear as a liability on a balance sheet (excluding the footnotes thereto) of such Person prepared in accordance with IFRS;

(2) to the extent not otherwise included, any obligation of such Person to be liable for, or to pay, as obligor, guarantor or otherwise, the Indebtedness of another Person (other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business); and

(3) to the extent not otherwise included, Indebtedness of another Person secured by a Lien on any asset owned by such Person (whether or not such Indebtedness is assumed by such Person); provided , however , that the amount of such Indebtedness will be the lesser of: (a) the Fair Market Value of such asset at such date of determination, and (b) the amount of such Indebtedness of such other Person;

provided , however , that notwithstanding the foregoing, Indebtedness shall be deemed not to include (1) Contingent Obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business and not in respect of borrowed money; (2) deferred or prepaid revenues; (3) purchase price holdbacks in respect of a portion of the purchase price of an asset to satisfy warranty or other unperformed obligations of the respective seller; or (4) obligations under or in respect of Factoring Facilities or Qualified Receivables Financings.

Notwithstanding anything in this Indenture to the contrary, Indebtedness shall not include, and shall be calculated without giving effect to, the effects of International Accounting Standards No. 39 and related interpretations to the extent such effects would otherwise increase or decrease an amount of Indebtedness for any purpose under this Indenture as a result of accounting for any embedded derivatives created by the terms of such Indebtedness; and any such amounts that would have constituted Indebtedness under this Indenture but for the application of this sentence shall not be deemed an Incurrence of Indebtedness under this Indenture.

 

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“Indenture” means this Indenture as amended or supplemented from time to time.

“Independent Financial Advisor” means an accounting, appraisal or investment banking firm or consultant, in each case of nationally recognized standing, that is, in the good faith determination of the Issuer, qualified to perform the task for which it has been engaged.

“Investment Grade Rating” means a rating equal to or higher than Baa3 (or the equivalent) by Moody’s and BBB- (or the equivalent) by S&P, or an equivalent rating by any other Rating Agency.

“Investment Grade Securities” means:

(1) securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the U.S. government or any agency or instrumentality thereof (other than Cash Equivalents),

(2) securities that have a rating equal to or higher than Baa3 (or equivalent) by Moody’s or BBB- (or equivalent) by S&P, or an equivalent rating by any other Rating Agency, but excluding any debt securities or loans or advances between and among the Issuer and its Subsidiaries,

(3) investments in any fund that invests exclusively in investments of the type described in clauses (1) and (2) which fund may also hold immaterial amounts of cash pending investment and/or distribution, and

(4) corresponding instruments in countries other than the United States customarily utilized for high quality investments and in each case with maturities not exceeding two years from the date of acquisition.

“Investments” means, with respect to any Person, all investments by such Person in other Persons (including Affiliates) in the form of loans (including guarantees), advances or capital contributions (excluding accounts receivable, trade credit and advances to customers and commission, travel and similar advances to officers, employees and consultants made in the ordinary course of business), purchases or other acquisitions for consideration of Indebtedness, Equity Interests or other securities issued by any other Person and investments that are required by IFRS to be classified on the balance sheet of the Issuer in the same manner as the other investments included in this definition to the extent such transactions involve the transfer of cash or other property. For purposes of the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary” and Section 4.04:

(1) “Investments” shall include the portion (proportionate to the Issuer’s equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the Fair Market Value of the net assets of a Subsidiary of the Issuer at the time that such Subsidiary is designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary; provided , however , that upon a redesignation of such Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary, the Issuer shall be deemed to continue to have a permanent Investment in an Unrestricted Subsidiary equal to an amount (if positive) equal to:

(a) the Issuer’s Investment in such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation less

 

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(b) the portion (proportionate to the Issuer’s equity interest in such Subsidiary) of the Fair Market Value of the net assets of such Subsidiary at the time of such redesignation; and

(2) any property transferred to or from an Unrestricted Subsidiary shall be valued at its Fair Market Value at the time of such transfer, in each case as determined in good faith by the Issuer.

“Issue Date” means the date on which the Securities are originally issued.

“Issuer” means the party named as such in the Preamble to this Indenture until a successor replaces it and, thereafter, means the successor.

“Lien” means, with respect to any asset, any mortgage, lien, pledge, charge, security interest or encumbrance of any kind in respect of such asset, whether or not filed, recorded or otherwise perfected under applicable law (including any conditional sale or other title retention agreement, any lease in the nature thereof, any option or other agreement to give a security interest in and any filing of or agreement to give any financing statement under the Uniform Commercial Code (or equivalent statutes) of any jurisdiction); provided that in no event shall an operating lease or an option or an agreement to sell be deemed to constitute a Lien.

“Moody’s” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or any successor to the rating agency business thereof.

“Net Income” means, with respect to any Person, the net income (loss) of such Person, determined in accordance with IFRS and before any reduction in respect of Preferred Stock dividends.

“Net Proceeds” means the aggregate cash proceeds received by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of any Asset Sale (including, without limitation, any cash received in respect of or upon the sale or other disposition of any Designated Non-cash Consideration received in any Asset Sale and any cash payments received by way of deferred payment of principal pursuant to a note or installment receivable or otherwise, but only as and when received, but excluding the assumption by the acquiring Person of Indebtedness relating to the disposed assets or other consideration received in any other non-cash form), net of the direct costs relating to such Asset Sale and the sale or disposition of such Designated Non-cash Consideration (including, without limitation, legal, accounting and investment banking fees, and brokerage and sales commissions), and any relocation expenses Incurred as a result thereof, taxes paid or payable as a result thereof (after taking into account any available tax credits or deductions and any tax sharing arrangements related thereto), amounts required to be applied to the repayment of principal, premium (if any) and interest on Indebtedness required (other than pursuant to Section 4.06(b)) to be paid as a result of such transaction, and any deduction of appropriate amounts to be provided by the Issuer as a reserve in accordance with IFRS against any liabilities associated with the asset disposed of in such transaction and retained by the Issuer after such sale or other disposition thereof, including, without limitation, pension and other post-employment benefit liabilities and liabilities related to environmental matters or against any indemnification obligations associated with such transaction.

 

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“New Deed of Trust” has the meaning assigned to such term in the Settlement Agreement, dated January 26, 2001, between Ravenswood (f/k/a Pechiney Rolled Products, LLC) and the PBGC.

“Obligations” means any principal, interest, penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements (including, without limitation, reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances), damages and other liabilities payable under the documentation governing any Indebtedness; provided that Obligations with respect to the Securities shall not include fees or indemnifications in favor of the Trustee and other third parties other than the Holders of the Securities.

“Offering Memorandum” means the offering memorandum relating to the offering of the Original Securities dated February 2, 2017.

“Officer” means the chairman of the board, chief executive officer, chief financial officer, president, any executive vice president, senior vice president or vice president, managing director ( bestuurder ), authorized signatory who has been granted a power of attorney ( gevolmachtigde ), the treasurer or the secretary of the Issuer or its Subsidiary, as applicable.

“Officer’s Certificate” means a certificate signed on behalf of the Issuer or its Subsidiary (as applicable) by an Officer that meets the requirements set forth in this Indenture.

“Opinion of Counsel” means a written opinion from legal counsel who is reasonably acceptable to the Trustee. The counsel may be an employee of or counsel to the Issuer or any Subsidiary so long as such employee or counsel is admitted to practice in the State of New York.

“Pari Passu Indebtedness” means:

(1) with respect to the Issuer, any Indebtedness which ranks pari passu in right of payment to the Securities; and

(2) with respect to any Guarantor, any Indebtedness which ranks pari passu in right of payment to such Guarantor’s Guarantee.

“PBGC” means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.

“PBGC Obligations” means all existing and future obligations, including all “Obligations” (as defined under the New Deed of Trust), secured under the New Deed of Trust.

“Permitted Investments” means:

(1) any Investment in the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary;

(2) any Investment in Cash Equivalents or Investment Grade Securities;

(3) any Investment by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer in a Person if as a result of such Investment (a) such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer, or (b) such Person, in one transaction or a series of related transactions, is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys all or substantially all of its assets to, or is liquidated into, the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer;

 

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(4) any Investment in securities or other assets not constituting Cash Equivalents and received in connection with an Asset Sale made pursuant to the provisions of Section 4.06 or any other disposition of assets not constituting an Asset Sale;

(5) any Investment existing on, or made pursuant to binding commitments existing on, the Issue Date or an Investment consisting of any extension, modification or renewal of any Investment existing on the Issue Date; provided that the amount of any such Investment may only be increased as required by the terms of such Investment as in existence on the Issue Date;

(6) advances to directors, officers or employees, taken together with all other advances made pursuant to this clause (6), not to exceed €15.0 million at any one time outstanding;

(7) any Investment acquired by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (a) in exchange for any other Investment or accounts receivable held by the Issuer or any such Restricted Subsidiary in connection with or as a result of a bankruptcy, workout, reorganization or recapitalization of the issuer of such other Investment or accounts receivable, (b) as a result of a foreclosure by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries with respect to any secured Investment or other transfer of title with respect to any secured Investment in default, or (c) as a result of the settlement, compromise or resolution of litigation, arbitration or other disputes with Persons who are not Affiliates;

(8) Hedging Obligations permitted under Section 4.03(b)(xi);

(9) additional Investments by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries having an aggregate Fair Market Value, taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (9) that are at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of (x) €130.0 million and (y) 5.5% of Total Assets at the time of such Investment (with the Fair Market Value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value); provided , however , that if any Investment made pursuant to this clause (9) is made in any Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer at the date of the making of such Investment and such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer after such date, such Investment shall thereafter be deemed to have been made pursuant to clause (1) above if permitted thereby, and shall, in such case, cease to have been made pursuant to this clause (9) for so long as such Person continues to be a Restricted Subsidiary;

(10) loans and advances to officers, directors and employees for business-related travel expenses, moving expenses and other similar expenses, in each case Incurred in the ordinary course of business or to fund such Person’s purchase of Equity Interests of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer;

 

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(11) Investments the payment for which consists of Equity Interests of the Issuer (other than Disqualified Stock) or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer, as applicable; provided , however , that the issue of such Equity Interests will not increase the amount available for Restricted Payments under clause (2) of the definition of “Cumulative Credit”;

(12) any transaction to the extent it constitutes an Investment that is permitted by and made in accordance with the provisions of Section 4.07(b) (except transactions described in clauses (ii), (vi), and (viii)(B) of such Section);

(13) Investments consisting of the licensing or contribution of intellectual property pursuant to joint marketing arrangements with other Persons;

(14) guarantees issued in accordance with Sections 4.03 and 4.11;

(15) Investments consisting of or to finance purchases and acquisitions of inventory, supplies, materials, services or equipment or purchases of contract rights or licenses or leases of intellectual property, in each case in the ordinary course of business;

(16) (i) any Investment in a Receivables Subsidiary or any Investment by a Receivables Subsidiary in any other Person in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing, including Investments of funds held in accounts permitted or required by the arrangements governing such Qualified Receivables Financing or any related Indebtedness; provided , however , that any Investment in a Receivables Subsidiary is in the form of a Purchase Money Note, contribution of additional receivables or an equity interest and (ii) any other Investment in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing or Factoring Facility;

(17) any Investment in an entity or purchase of a business or assets in each case owned (or previously owned) by a customer of a Restricted Subsidiary as a condition or in connection with such customer (or any member of such customer’s group) contracting with a Restricted Subsidiary, in each case in the ordinary course of business;

(18) Investments of a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer acquired after the Issue Date or of an entity merged into, amalgamated with, or consolidated with the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer in a transaction that is not prohibited by Section 5.01 after the Issue Date to the extent that such Investments were not made in contemplation of such acquisition, merger, amalgamation or consolidation and were in existence on the date of such acquisition, merger, amalgamation or consolidation;

(19) any Investment in any Subsidiary (including any Unrestricted Subsidiary) or joint venture in connection with intercompany cash management arrangements or related activities arising in the ordinary course of business;

(20) Investments in Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC (f/k/a Quiver Ventures, LLC) in an amount not to exceed €80.0 million at any time outstanding; and

(21) guarantees by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of operating leases or of other obligations that do not constitute Indebtedness, in each case, entered into in the ordinary course of business.

 

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“Permitted Liens” means, with respect to any Person:

(1) pledges or deposits by such Person under workmen’s compensation laws, unemployment insurance laws or similar legislation, or good faith deposits in connection with bids, tenders, contracts (other than for the payment of Indebtedness) or leases to which such Person is a party, or deposits to secure public or statutory obligations of such Person or deposits of cash or U.S. government bonds to secure surety or appeal bonds to which such Person is a party, or deposits as security for contested taxes or import duties or for the payment of rent, in each case Incurred in the ordinary course of business;

(2) Liens imposed by law, such as carriers’, warehousemen’s and mechanics’ Liens, in each case for sums not yet due or being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings or other Liens arising out of judgments or awards against such Person with respect to which such Person shall then be proceeding with an appeal or other proceedings for review;

(3) Liens for taxes, assessments or other governmental charges not yet due or which are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings;

(4) Liens in favor of issuers of performance and surety bonds or bid bonds or with respect to other regulatory requirements or letters of credit issued pursuant to the request of and for the account of such Person in the ordinary course of its business;

(5) minor survey exceptions, minor encumbrances, easements or reservations of, or rights of others for, licenses, rights-of-way, sewers, electric lines, telegraph and telephone lines and other similar purposes, or zoning or other restrictions as to the use of real properties or Liens incidental to the conduct of the business of such Person or to the ownership of its properties which were not Incurred in connection with Indebtedness and which do not in the aggregate materially adversely affect the value of said properties or materially impair their use in the operation of the business of such Person;

(6) Liens securing Indebtedness permitted to be Incurred pursuant to clause (v) of Section 4.03(b) ( provided that such Lien extends only to the property and/or Capital Stock, the purchase, lease, construction or improvement of which is financed thereby and any income or profits therefrom);

(7) Liens existing on the Issue Date (other than Liens that secure the Credit Facilities or any ABL Facility existing on the Issue Date);

(8) Liens on assets, property or shares of stock of a Person in existence at the time such Person becomes a Subsidiary; provided , however , that such Liens are not created or Incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other Person becoming such a Subsidiary; provided, further , however , that such Liens may not extend to any other property owned by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer;

(9) Liens on assets or property at the time the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer acquired the assets or property, including any acquisition by means of a merger, amalgamation or consolidation with or into the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer; provided , however , that such Liens are not created or Incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition; provided further , however , that the Liens may not extend to any other property owned by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer;

 

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(10) Liens on assets of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor securing Indebtedness of such Restricted Subsidiary permitted to be Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03, other than Indebtedness owed to another Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor;

(11) Liens securing Hedging Obligations not incurred in violation of this Indenture;

(12) Liens on specific items of inventory or other goods and proceeds of any Person securing such Person’s obligations in respect of bankers’ acceptances issued or created for the account of such Person to facilitate the purchase, shipment or storage of such inventory or other goods;

(13) leases and subleases of real property which do not materially interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries;

(14) Liens arising from Uniform Commercial Code financing statement filings regarding operating leases entered into by the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business;

(15) Liens in favor of the Issuer or any Guarantor;

(16) Liens on accounts receivable and related assets of the type specified in the definition of “Receivables Financing” Incurred in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing and Factoring Facilities;

(17) deposits made in the ordinary course of business to secure liability to insurance carriers;

(18) Liens on the Equity Interests of Unrestricted Subsidiaries;

(19) grants of software and other technology licenses in the ordinary course of business;

(20) Liens to secure any refinancing, refunding, extension, renewal or replacement (or successive refinancings, refundings, extensions, renewals or replacements) as a whole, or in part, of any Indebtedness secured by any Lien referred to in the foregoing clauses (6), (7), (8) and (9); provided , however , that (x) such new Lien shall be limited to all or part of the same property that secured the original Lien (plus improvements on such property), and (y) the Indebtedness secured by such Lien at such time is not increased to any amount greater than the sum of (A) the outstanding principal amount or, if greater, committed amount of the Indebtedness described under clauses (6), (7), (8) and (9) at the time the original Lien became a Permitted Lien under this Indenture, and (B) an amount necessary to pay any fees and expenses, including premiums, related to such refinancing, refunding, extension, renewal or replacement;

 

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(21) Liens on equipment of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary granted in the ordinary course of business to the Issuer’s or such Restricted Subsidiary’s client at which such equipment is located;

(22) judgment and attachment Liens not giving rise to an Event of Default and notices of lis pendens and associated rights related to litigation being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves have been made;

(23) Liens arising out of conditional sale, title retention, consignment or similar arrangements for the sale of goods entered into in the ordinary course of business;

(24) Liens incurred to secure cash management services or to implement cash pooling arrangements in the ordinary course of business;

(25) Liens arising by virtue of any statutory or common law provisions or under the general banking terms and conditions relating to banker’s liens, rights of set-off or similar rights and remedies as to deposit accounts or other funds maintained with a depository or financial institution;

(26) any interest or title of a lessor under any Capitalized Lease Obligations;

(27) any encumbrance or restriction (including put and call arrangements) with respect to Capital Stock of any joint venture or similar arrangement pursuant to any joint venture or similar agreement;

(28) Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities arising as a matter of law to secure payment of customs duties in connection with the importation of goods;

(29) Liens solely on any cash earnest money deposits made by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with any letter of intent or purchase agreement in respect of any Investment permitted hereunder;

(30) Liens on securities that are the subject of repurchase agreements constituting Cash Equivalents;

(31) Liens on equity interests of a joint venture securing Indebtedness of such joint venture;

(32) Liens securing Indebtedness and other Obligations Incurred pursuant to clauses (i) or (ii) of Section 4.03(b) (other than Indebtedness Incurred pursuant to clause (ii) of such paragraph if such Indebtedness is required to be unsecured pursuant to the proviso to sub-clause (B) thereof);

(33) Liens securing obligations which obligations do not exceed, at the time of incurrence thereof, the greater of (i) €100.0 million and (ii) 4.5% of Total Assets; and

 

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(34) Liens securing obligations in respect of letters of credit or bank guarantees issued in the ordinary course of business, which letters of credit or bank guarantees do not secure debt for borrowed money.

“Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, government or any agency or political subdivision thereof or any other entity.

“Preferred Stock” means any Equity Interest with preferential right of payment of dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up.

“Purchase Money Note” means a promissory note of a Receivables Subsidiary evidencing a line of credit, which may be irrevocable, from the Issuer or any Subsidiary of the Issuer to a Receivables Subsidiary in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing, which note is intended to finance that portion of the purchase price that is not paid by cash or a contribution of equity.

“Qualified Receivables Financing” means (1) the Receivables Financing pursuant to the Factoring Facilities (including any increase in the amount thereof); and (2) any Receivables Financing that meets the following conditions:

(1) the Issuer shall have determined in good faith that such Receivables Financing (including financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions) is in the aggregate economically fair and reasonable to the Issuer or, as the case may be, the Subsidiary in question;

(2) all sales of accounts receivable and related assets are made at Fair Market Value; and

(3) the financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions thereof shall be market terms (as determined in good faith by the Issuer) and may include Standard Undertakings and provided that in the case of Receivables Financings under clause (2), such Receivables Financings shall have no greater recourse in any material respect to the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries than the recourse to the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries in the Factoring Facilities.

“Rating Agency” means (1) each of Moody’s and S&P and (2) if Moody’s or S&P ceases to rate the Securities for reasons outside of the Issuer’s control, a “nationally recognized statistical rating organization” within the meaning of Section 3(a)(62) under the Exchange Act selected by the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer as a replacement agency for Moody’s or S&P, as the case may be.

“Ravenswood” means Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC.

“Ravenswood ABL Facility” means the ABL Credit Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2012, among Constellium Holdco II B.V., Constellium U.S. Holdings I, LLC, Ravenswood, as borrower, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as administrative agent and collateral agent, as amended by the First Amendment dated as of January 7, 2013, the Second Amendment dated as of March 20, 2013, the Third Amendment

 

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dated as of October 1, 2013, and the Fourth Amendment dated as of May 7, 2014, and as may be further amended, restated, supplemented, waived, replaced (whether or not upon termination, and whether with the original lenders or otherwise), restructured, repaid, refunded, refinanced or otherwise modified from time to time, including any agreement extending the maturity thereof, refinancing, replacing or otherwise restructuring all or any portion of the Indebtedness under such agreement or agreements or any successor or replacement agreement or agreements or increasing the amount loaned or issued thereunder or altering the maturity thereof.

“Receivables Fees” means distributions or payments made directly or by means of discounts with respect to any participation interests issued or sold in connection with, and all other fees paid to a Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary in connection with, any Receivables Financing.

“Receivables Financing” means any transaction or series of transactions that may be entered into by any of the Issuer’s Subsidiaries pursuant to which such Subsidiary may sell, convey or otherwise transfer to any other Person, or may grant a security interest in, any accounts receivable (whether now existing or arising in the future) of such Subsidiary, and any assets related thereto including, without limitation, all collateral securing such accounts receivable, all contracts and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such accounts receivable, proceeds of such accounts receivable and other assets, in each case, which are customarily transferred in or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions or factoring transactions involving accounts receivable.

“Receivables Repurchase Obligation” means any obligation of a seller of receivables in a Qualified Receivables Financing to repurchase receivables arising as a result of a breach of a representation, warranty or covenant or otherwise, including as a result of a receivable or portion thereof becoming subject to any asserted defense, dispute, off-set or counterclaim of any kind as a result of any action taken by, any failure to take any action by or any other event relating to the seller.

“Receivables Subsidiary” means a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer (or another Person formed for the purposes of engaging in Qualified Receivables Financing with the Issuer in which the Issuer or any Subsidiary of the Issuer makes an Investment and to which the Issuer or any Subsidiary of the Issuer transfers accounts receivable and related assets) which engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing of accounts receivable of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries, all proceeds thereof and all rights (contractual or other), collateral and other assets relating thereto, and any business or activities incidental or related to such business, and which is designated by the Issuer as a Receivables Subsidiary and:

(1) no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which (i) is guaranteed by the Issuer or any other Subsidiary of the Issuer (excluding guarantees of obligations (other than the principal of and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to Standard Undertakings), (ii) is recourse to or obligates the Issuer or any other Subsidiary of the Issuer in any way other than pursuant to Standard Undertakings, or (iii) subjects any property or asset of the Issuer or any other Subsidiary of the Issuer, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to Standard Undertakings;

 

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(2) with which neither the Issuer nor any other Subsidiary of the Issuer has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding other than on terms which the Issuer reasonably believes to be no less favorable to the Issuer or such Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not Affiliates of the Issuer; and

(3) to which neither the Issuer nor any other Subsidiary of the Issuer has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entity’s financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results.

“Representative” means the trustee, agent or representative (if any) for an issue of Indebtedness; provided that if, and for so long as, such Indebtedness lacks such a Representative, then the Representative for such Indebtedness shall at all times constitute the holder or holders of a majority in outstanding principal amount of obligations under such Indebtedness.

“Responsible Officer of the Trustee” means:

(1) any officer within the corporate trust department of the Trustee, including any vice president, assistant vice president, assistant secretary, assistant treasurer, trust officer or any other officer of the Trustee who customarily performs functions similar to those performed by the Persons who at the time shall be such officers, respectively, or to whom any corporate trust matter is referred because of such Person’s knowledge of and familiarity with the particular subject; and

(2) who shall have direct responsibility for the administration of this Indenture.

“Restricted Investment” means an Investment other than a Permitted Investment.

“Restricted Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person, any Subsidiary of such Person other than an Unrestricted Subsidiary of such Person. Unless otherwise indicated in this Indenture, all references to Restricted Subsidiaries shall mean Restricted Subsidiaries of the Issuer.

“Sale/Leaseback Transaction” means an arrangement relating to property now owned or hereafter acquired by the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary whereby the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary transfers such property to a Person and the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary leases it from such Person, other than leases between the Issuer and a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer or between Restricted Subsidiaries of the Issuer.

“S&P” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Group or any successor to the rating agency business thereof.

“SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

“Secured Indebtedness” means any Indebtedness secured by a Lien.

 

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“Securities” has the meaning given such term in the Preamble to this Indenture.

“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder.

“Significant Subsidiary” means any Restricted Subsidiary that would be a “Significant Subsidiary” of the Issuer within the meaning of Rule 1-02 under Regulation S-X promulgated by the SEC.

“Similar Business” means a business, the majority of whose revenues are derived from the activities of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries as of the Issue Date or any business or activity that is reasonably similar or complementary thereto or a reasonable extension, development or expansion thereof or ancillary thereto.

“Standard Undertakings” means representations, warranties, covenants, indemnities and guarantees of performance entered into by the Issuer or any Subsidiary of the Issuer that are determined by the Issuer in good faith to be customary in a Receivables Financing, including, without limitation, those relating to the servicing of assets of a Subsidiary, it being understood that any Receivables Repurchase Obligation shall be deemed to be a Standard Undertaking.

“Stated Maturity” means, with respect to any security, the date specified in such security as the fixed date on which the final payment of principal of such security is due and payable, including pursuant to any mandatory redemption provision (but excluding any provision providing for the repurchase of such security at the option of the holder thereof upon the happening of any contingency beyond the control of the issuer unless such contingency has occurred).

“Subordinated Indebtedness” means (a) with respect to the Issuer, any Indebtedness of the Issuer which is by its terms subordinated in right of payment to the Securities, and (b) with respect to any Guarantor, any Indebtedness of such Guarantor which is by its terms subordinated in right of payment to its Guarantee.

“Subsidiary” means, with respect to any Person, (1) any corporation, association or other business entity (other than a partnership, joint venture or limited liability company) of which more than 50% of the total voting power of shares of Capital Stock entitled (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors, managers or trustees thereof is at the time of determination owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof, and (2) any partnership, joint venture or limited liability company of which (x) more than 50% of the capital accounts, distribution rights, total equity and voting interests or general and limited partnership interests, as applicable, are owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof, whether in the form of membership, general, special or limited partnership interests or otherwise, and (y) such Person or any Subsidiary of such Person is a controlling general partner or otherwise controls such entity.

 

 

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“Swap Agreement” means any agreement with respect to any swap, forward, future or derivative transaction or option or similar agreement involving, or settled by reference to, one or more rates, currencies, commodities, equity or debt instruments or securities, or economic, financial or pricing indices or measures of economic, financial or pricing risk or value or any similar transaction or any combination of these transactions; provided that no phantom stock or similar plan providing for payments only on account of services provided by current or former directors, officers, employees or consultants of the Issuer or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries shall be a Swap Agreement.

“Taxes” means all present and future taxes, levies, imposts, deductions, charges, duties, and withholdings and any similar governmental charges (including interest and penalties with respect thereto) by any government or taxing authority.

“Total Assets” means, as of any date of determination, the total consolidated assets of the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries, as shown on the most recent balance sheet of the Issuer, and determined as of the time of the occurrence of any event giving rise to the requirement to determine Total Assets and after giving pro forma effect to the occurrence of such event and all other acquisitions or dispositions of a Person, business or assets that have been completed or are subject to a definitive agreement from the date of such balance sheet to the date of such event giving rise to the requirement to determine Total Assets.

“Treasury Rate” means, as of any redemption date of the Securities, the yield to maturity as of the earlier of (a) such redemption date or (b) the date on which the Securities are defeased or satisfied and discharged, of the most recently issued U.S. Treasury securities with a constant maturity (as compiled and published in the most recent Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15 (519) (“Statistical Release”) that has become publicly available at least two Business Days prior to such earlier date (or, if such Statistical Release is no longer published, any publicly available source of similar market data)) most nearly equal to the period from the redemption date to March 1, 2020; provided , however , that if the period from such redemption date to March 1, 2020 is less than one year, the weekly average yield on actually traded U. S. Treasury securities adjusted to a constant maturity of one year will be used. Any such Treasury Rate shall be obtained by the Issuer.

“Trustee” means the party named as such in this Indenture until a successor replaces it and, thereafter, means the successor.

“Uniform Commercial Code” means the New York Uniform Commercial Code as in effect from time to time.

“Unrestricted Subsidiary” means:

(1) any Subsidiary of the Issuer that at the time of determination shall be designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary by the Board of Directors of such Person in the manner provided below;

(2) any Subsidiary of an Unrestricted Subsidiary; and

(3) Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC (f/k/a Quiver Ventures, LLC) and Constellium Engley (Changchun) Automotive Structures Co. Ltd.

 

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The Board of Directors of the Issuer may designate any Subsidiary of the Issuer (including any newly acquired or newly formed Subsidiary of the Issuer) to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary unless such Subsidiary or any of its Subsidiaries owns any Equity Interests or Indebtedness of, or owns or holds any Lien on any property of, the Issuer or any other Subsidiary of the Issuer that is not a Subsidiary of the Subsidiary to be so designated; provided , however , that the Subsidiary to be so designated and its Subsidiaries do not at the time of designation have and do not thereafter Incur any Indebtedness pursuant to which the lender has recourse to any of the assets of the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; provided, further, however, that either:

(a) the Subsidiary to be so designated has total consolidated assets of $1,000 or less; or

(b) if such Subsidiary has consolidated assets greater than $1,000, then such designation would be permitted under Section 4.04.

The Board of Directors of the Issuer may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary; provided , however , that immediately after giving effect to such designation:

(x) (1) the Issuer could Incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in Section 4.03(a) or (2) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries would be equal to or greater than such ratio for the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries immediately prior to such designation, in each case on a pro forma basis taking into account such designation, and

(y) no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.

Any such designation by the Board of Directors of the Issuer shall be evidenced to the Trustee by promptly filing with the Trustee a copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors of the Issuer giving effect to such designation and an Officer’s Certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing provisions.

“U.S. Dollars” and “$” each mean the lawful currency of the United States of America.

“U.S. Government Obligations” means securities that are:

(1) direct obligations of the United States of America for the timely payment of which its full faith and credit is pledged, or

(2) obligations of a Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States of America, the timely payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the United States of America, which, in each case, are not callable or redeemable at the option of the issuer thereof, and shall also include a depository receipt issued by a bank (as defined in Section 3(a)(2) of the Securities Act) as custodian with respect to any such U.S. Government Obligations or a specific payment of principal of or interest on any such U.S. Government Obligations held by such custodian for the account of the holder of such

 

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depository receipt; provided that (except as required by law) such custodian is not authorized to make any deduction from the amount payable to the holder of such depository receipt from any amount received by the custodian in respect of the U.S. Government Obligations or the specific payment of principal of or interest on the U.S. Government Obligations evidenced by such depository receipt.

“Voting Stock” of any Person as of any date means the Capital Stock of such Person that is at the time entitled to vote in the election of the Board of Directors of such Person.

“Weighted Average Life to Maturity” means, when applied to any Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock, as the case may be, at any date, the quotient obtained by dividing (1) the sum of the products of the number of years from the date of determination to the date of each successive scheduled principal payment of such Indebtedness or redemption or similar payment with respect to such Disqualified Stock multiplied by the amount of such payment, by (2) the sum of all such payments.

“Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary” is any Wholly Owned Subsidiary that is a Restricted Subsidiary.

“Wholly Owned Subsidiary” of any Person means a Subsidiary of such Person 100% of the outstanding Capital Stock or other ownership interests of which (other than directors’ qualifying shares or shares required to be held by Foreign Subsidiaries) shall at the time be owned by such Person or by one or more Wholly Owned Subsidiaries of such Person.

“Wise ABL Facility” means that certain Credit Agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013, by and among Wise Alloys, LLC, the other credit parties party thereto, the Lenders party thereto from time to time and General Electric Capital Corporation, as agent, as amended, restated, supplemented, waived, replaced (whether or not upon termination, and whether with the original lenders or otherwise), restructured, repaid, refunded, refinanced or otherwise modified from time to time, including any agreement extending the maturity thereof, refinancing, replacing or otherwise restructuring all or any portion of the Indebtedness under such agreement or agreements or any successor or replacement agreement or agreements or increasing the amount loaned or issued thereunder or altering the maturity thereof.

SECTION 1.02 Other Definitions .

 

Term

   Defined
in Section

“Add-On Securities”

   Preamble

“Additional Amounts”

   2.15(b)

“Affiliate Transaction”

   4.07(a)

“Applicable Law”

   11.15

“Asset Sale Offer”

   4.06(b)

“Auditors’ Determination”

   10.02(b)(vi)

“Bankruptcy Law”

   6.01

“Change of Control Offer”

   4.08(b)

“covenant defeasance option”

   8.01

“Covenant Suspension Event”

   4.14(a)

 

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“Custodian”    6.01
“Definitive Security”    Appendix A
“Depository”    Appendix A
“DPTA”    10.02(b)(ii)
“Event of Default”    6.01
“Excess Proceeds”    4.06(b)
“French Guarantor”    10.02(c)(i)
“German Guarantor”    10.02(b)(i)
“Global Securities”    Appendix A
“Global Securities Legend”    Appendix A
“GmbH”    10.02(b)(i)
“GmbHG”    10.02(b)(iii)
“GmbH & Co. KG”    10.02(b)(i)
“Guaranteed Obligations”    10.01(a)
“HGB”    10.02(b)(i)
“IAI”    Appendix A
“Initial Purchasers”    Appendix A
“legal defeasance option”    8.01
“Management Determination”    10.02(b)(v)
“Maximum Guaranteed Amount”    10.02(c)(i)
“Note Register”    2.04(a)
“Notice of Default”    6.01
“Offer Period”    4.06(d)
“Original Securities”    Preamble
“Payor”    2.15
“Principal Paying Agent”    2.04
“protected purchaser”    2.08
“QIB”    Appendix A
“Refinancing Indebtedness”    4.03(b)(xv)
“Refunding Capital Stock”    4.04(b)(ii)
“Registrar”    2.04(a)
“Regulation S”    Appendix A
“Regulation S Securities”    Appendix A
“Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction”    2.15
“Restricted Global Securities”    Appendix A
“Restricted Payments”    4.04(a)
“Restricted Period”    Appendix A
“Restricted Securities Legend”    Appendix A
“Retired Capital Stock”    4.04(b)(ii)(A)
“Reversion Date”    4.14(b)
“Rule 501”    Appendix A
“Rule 144A”    Appendix A
“Rule 144A Securities”    Appendix A
“Securities Custodian”    Appendix A
“Successor Company”    5.01(a)(i)
“Successor Guarantor”    5.01(b)(i)
“Suspended Covenants”    4.14(a)
“Suspension Period”    4.14(b)

 

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“Swiss Agreement”       2.15
“Swiss Guarantor”       10.02(d)(i)
“Transfer”       5.01
“Transfer Agent”       2.04(a)
“Transfer Restricted Securities”       Appendix A
“Trustee’s Request”       10.02(b)(vi)
“Withholding Tax”       10.02(d)(ii)
“Written Order”       2.03
“Unrestricted Definitive Security”    Appendix A
“Unrestricted Global Security”       Appendix A

SECTION 1.03 [Reserved] .

SECTION 1.04 Rules of Construction . Unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) a term has the meaning assigned to it;

(b) an accounting term not otherwise defined has the meaning assigned to it in accordance with IFRS;

(c) “or” is not exclusive;

(d) “including” means including without limitation;

(e) words in the singular include the plural and words in the plural include the singular;

(f) unsecured Indebtedness shall not be deemed to be subordinate or junior to Secured Indebtedness merely by virtue of its nature as unsecured Indebtedness;

(g) the principal amount of any non-interest bearing or other discount security at any date shall be the principal amount thereof that would be shown on a balance sheet of the Issuer dated such date prepared in accordance with IFRS;

(h) the principal amount of any Preferred Stock shall be (i) the maximum liquidation value of such Preferred Stock or (ii) the maximum mandatory redemption or mandatory repurchase price with respect to such Preferred Stock, whichever is greater;

(i) unless otherwise specified herein, all accounting terms used herein shall be interpreted, all accounting determinations hereunder shall be made, and all financial statements required to be delivered hereunder shall be prepared in accordance with IFRS;

(j) for purposes of determining compliance with any Euro-denominated restriction or basket limitation under Sections 4.03, 4.04, 4.06 and 4.12 hereof (including any defined terms referenced and utilized in such sections), as of any time of determination, any such basket limitation shall be deemed to be the greater of (i) the applicable Euro-denominated amount set forth in this Indenture and (ii) the amount of Euro obtained by multiplying the applicable Euro-denominated amount set forth in this Indenture by 1.08 (which was the dollar-to-Euro Exchange Rate as of January 31, 2017) and then multiplying the result by a number equal to the amount of Euros into which 1 U.S. Dollar may be converted using the Exchange Rate in effect at the time of determination; and

 

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(k) for purposes of determining compliance with Sections 4.03, 4.04, 4.06 and 4.12 hereof, utilized amounts under any such covenant or basket shall be tracked in Euro irrespective of what currency is actually used to make the Incurrence. When an Incurrence is made in a currency other than Euro, the amount of Euro for purposes of the applicable covenant(s) shall be calculated based on the relevant currency Exchange Rate in effect on the date such Incurrence was made, provided that if Indebtedness is Incurred to refinance other Indebtedness denominated in a currency other than Euros, and such refinancing would cause the applicable Euro-denominated restriction to be exceeded if calculated at the relevant currency Exchange Rate in effect on the date of such refinancing, such Euro-denominated restriction shall be deemed not to have been exceeded so long as the principal amount of such refinancing Indebtedness does not exceed the principal amount of such Indebtedness being refinanced.

SECTION 1.05 Acts of Holders .

(a) Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided by this Indenture to be given or taken by Holders may be embodied in and evidenced by one or more instruments of substantially similar tenor signed by such Holders in person or by an agent duly appointed in writing. Except as herein otherwise expressly provided, such action shall become effective when such instrument or instruments or record or both are delivered to the Trustee and, where it is hereby expressly required, to the Issuer. Proof of execution of any such instrument or of a writing appointing any such agent, or the holding by any Person of a Security, shall be sufficient for any purpose of this Indenture and (subject to Section 7.01) conclusive in favor of the Trustee and the Issuer, if made in the manner provided in this Section 1.05.

(b) The fact and date of the execution by any Person of any such instrument or writing may be proved by the affidavit of a witness of such execution or by the certificate of any notary public or other officer authorized by law to take acknowledgments of deeds, certifying that the individual signing such instrument or writing acknowledged to him the execution thereof. Where such execution is by or on behalf of any legal entity other than an individual, such certificate or affidavit shall also constitute proof of the authority of the Person executing the same. The fact and date of the execution of any such instrument or writing, or the authority of the Person executing the same, may also be proved in any other manner that the Trustee deems sufficient.

(c) The ownership of Securities shall be proved by the Note Register.

(d) Any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action by the Holder of any Security shall bind every future Holder of the same Security and the Holder of every Security issued upon the registration of transfer thereof or in exchange therefor or in lieu thereof, in respect of any action taken, suffered or omitted by the Trustee or the Issuer in reliance thereon, whether or not notation of such action is made upon such Security.

 

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(e) The Issuer may set a record date for purposes of determining the identity of Holders entitled to give any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or take any other act, or to vote or consent to any action by vote or consent authorized or permitted to be given or taken by Holders. Unless otherwise specified, if not set by the Issuer prior to the first solicitation of a Holder made by any Person in respect of any such action, or in the case of any such vote, prior to such vote, any such record date shall be the later of 30 days prior to the first solicitation of such consent or the date of the most recent list of Holders furnished to the Trustee prior to such solicitation.

(f) Without limiting the foregoing, a Holder entitled to take any action hereunder with regard to any particular Security may do so with regard to all or any part of the principal amount of such Security or by one or more duly appointed agents, each of which may do so pursuant to such appointment with regard to all or any part of such principal amount. Any notice given or action taken by a Holder or its agents with regard to different parts of such principal amount pursuant to this paragraph shall have the same effect as if given or taken by separate Holders of each such different part.

(g) Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, a Holder, including DTC that is the Holder of a Global Security, may make, give or take, by a proxy or proxies duly appointed in writing, any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided in this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders, and DTC that is the Holder of a Global Security may provide its proxy or proxies to the beneficial owners of interests in any such Global Security through such depositary’s standing instructions and customary practices.

(h) The Issuer may fix a record date for the purpose of determining the Persons who are beneficial owners of interests in any Global Security held by DTC entitled under the procedures of such depositary to make, give or take, by a proxy or proxies duly appointed in writing, any request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action provided in this Indenture to be made, given or taken by Holders. If such a record date is fixed, the Holders on such record date or their duly appointed proxy or proxies, and only such Persons, shall be entitled to make, give or take such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action, whether or not such Holders remain Holders after such record date. No such request, demand, authorization, direction, notice, consent, waiver or other action shall be valid or effective if made, given or taken more than 90 days after such record date.

ARTICLE 2

THE SECURITIES

SECTION 2.01 Amount of Securities . The aggregate principal amount of Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture on the Issue Date is $650,000,000.

In addition, the Issuer may from time to time after the Issue Date issue Add-On Securities under this Indenture in an unlimited principal amount, so long as (i) the Incurrence of the Indebtedness represented by such Add-On Securities is at such time permitted by Section 4.03 and (ii) such Add-On Securities are issued in compliance with the other applicable

 

38


provisions of this Indenture. With respect to any Add-On Securities issued after the Issue Date (except for Securities authenticated and delivered upon registration of, transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Securities pursuant to Section 2.07, 2.08, 2.09, 2.10, 3.06, 4.08(c) or the Appendix), there shall be (a) established in or pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors and (b) (i) set forth or determined in the manner provided in an Officer’s Certificate or (ii) established in one or more indentures supplemental hereto, prior to the issuance of such Add-On Securities:

(1) the aggregate principal amount of such Add-On Securities which may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture,

(2) the issue price and issuance date of such Add-On Securities, including the date from which interest on such Add-On Securities shall accrue; and

(3) if applicable, that such Add-On Securities shall be issuable in whole or in part in the form of one or more Global Securities and, in such case, the respective depositaries for such Global Securities, the form of any legend or legends which shall be borne by such Global Securities in addition to or in lieu of those set forth in Exhibit A hereto and any circumstances in addition to or in lieu of those set forth in Section 2.2 of Appendix A in which any such Global Security may be exchanged in whole or in part for Add-On Securities registered, or any transfer of such Global Security in whole or in part may be registered, in the name or names of Persons other than the depositary for such Global Security or a nominee thereof.

If any of the terms of any Add-On Securities are established by action taken pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors, a copy of an appropriate record of such action shall be certified by the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary of the Issuer and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Officer’s Certificate or the indenture supplemental hereto setting forth the terms of the Add-On Securities.

The Securities, including any Add-On Securities, shall be treated as a single series for all purposes under this Indenture, including, without limitation, waivers, amendments, redemptions and offers to purchase; provided that any Add-On Securities that are not fungible with the Original Securities for U.S. Federal income tax purposes shall have a separate CUSIP, ISIN or other identifying number from such Original Securities. Unless the context otherwise requires, for all purposes of this Indenture, references to the Securities include any Add-On Securities actually issued.

SECTION 2.02 Form and Dating . Provisions relating to the Original Securities and the Add-On Securities are set forth in the Appendix, which is hereby incorporated in and expressly made a part of this Indenture. The (i) Original Securities and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication and (ii) any Add-On Securities (if issued as Transfer Restricted Securities) and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication shall each be substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto, which is hereby incorporated in and expressly made a part of this Indenture. Any Add-On Securities issued other than as Transfer Restricted Securities and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication shall each be substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto, which is hereby incorporated in and expressly made a part of this Indenture. The Securities may have notations, legends or endorsements required by law, stock exchange rule, agreements to which the Issuer or any Guarantor is subject, if any, or usage (provided that any such notation, legend or endorsement is in a form acceptable to the Issuer). Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication. The Securities shall be issuable only in registered form without interest coupons and in denominations of $250,000 and any integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.

 

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SECTION 2.03 Execution and Authentication . The Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery upon a written order of the Issuer (a “Written Order”) in the form of an Officer’s Certificate (a) Original Securities for original issue on the date hereof in an aggregate principal amount of $650,000,000, consisting of $650,000,000 in initial aggregate principal amount of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2025 and (b) subject to the terms of this Indenture, Add-On Securities in an aggregate principal amount to be determined at the time of issuance and specified therein. Such order shall specify the amount of the Securities to be authenticated and the date on which the original issue of Securities is to be authenticated. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Indenture or the Appendix, any issuance of Securities after the Issue Date shall be in a principal amount of at least $250,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess of $250,000. One Officer shall sign the Securities for the Issuer by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature.

If an Officer whose signature is on a Security no longer holds that office at the time the Trustee authenticates the Security, the Security shall be valid nevertheless.

A Security shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee manually signs the certificate of authentication on the Security. The signature shall be conclusive evidence that the Security has been authenticated under this Indenture.

The Trustee may appoint one or more authenticating agents reasonably acceptable to the Issuer to authenticate the Securities. Any such appointment shall be evidenced by an instrument signed by a Responsible Officer of the Trustee, a copy of which shall be furnished to the Issuer. Unless limited by the terms of such appointment, an authenticating agent may authenticate Securities whenever the Trustee may do so. Each reference in this Indenture to authentication by the Trustee includes authentication by such agent. An authenticating agent has the same rights as any Registrar, paying agent or agent for service of notices and demands.

SECTION 2.04 Registrar and Paying Agent . (a) The Issuer shall maintain (i) an office or agency where Securities may be presented for registration of transfer or for exchange (the “Registrar”), (ii) a transfer agent (“Transfer Agent”), and (ii) an office or agency where Securities may be presented for payment (the “Principal Paying Agent”). The Registrar shall keep a register of the Securities and of their transfer and exchange (the “Note Register”). The Issuer may have one or more co-registrars and one or more additional paying agents. The term “Registrar” includes any co-registrars. The Principal Paying Agent will be a paying agent hereunder. The Issuer initially appoints the Trustee as Registrar, Transfer Agent, Principal Paying Agent and the Securities Custodian with respect to the Global Securities.

(b) The Issuer may enter into an appropriate agency agreement with any Registrar, Transfer Agent, or paying agent not a party to this Indenture. The agreement shall implement the provisions of this Indenture that relate to such agent. The Issuer shall notify the Trustee of the name and address of any such agent. If the Issuer fails to maintain a Registrar, Transfer Agent, or paying agent, the Trustee shall act as such and shall be entitled to appropriate compensation therefor pursuant to Section 7.07. The Issuer or any of its domestically organized Wholly Owned Subsidiaries may act as paying agent, Registrar, or Transfer Agent.

 

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(c) The Issuer may remove any Registrar, Transfer Agent, or paying agent upon written notice to such Registrar, Transfer Agent, or paying agent and to the Trustee; provided , however , that no such removal shall become effective until (i) if applicable, acceptance of an appointment by a successor as evidenced by an appropriate agreement entered into by the Issuer and such successor Registrar, Transfer Agent, or paying agent, as the case may be, and delivered to the Trustee or (ii) notification to the Trustee that the Trustee shall serve as Registrar, Transfer Agent, or paying agent until the appointment of a successor in accordance with clause (i) above. The Registrar, Transfer Agent, or paying agent may resign at any time upon written notice to the Issuer and the Trustee.

SECTION 2.05 Paying Agent to Hold Money in Trust . On each due date of the principal of and interest on any Security, the Issuer shall deposit with each paying agent (or if the Issuer or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary is acting as paying agent, segregate and hold in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto) a sum sufficient to pay such principal and interest when so becoming due. The Issuer shall require each paying agent (other than the Trustee) to agree in writing that a paying agent shall hold in trust for the benefit of Holders or the Trustee all money held by a paying agent for the payment of principal of and interest on the Securities, and shall notify the Trustee of any default by the Issuer in making any such payment. If the Issuer or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of the Issuer acts as paying agent, it shall segregate the money held by it as paying agent and hold it in trust for the benefit of the Persons entitled thereto. The Issuer at any time may require a paying agent to pay all money held by it to the Trustee and to account for any funds disbursed by such paying agent. Upon complying with this Section, a paying agent shall have no further liability for the money delivered to the Trustee.

SECTION 2.06 Holder Lists . The Trustee shall preserve in as current a form as is reasonably practicable the most recent list available to it of the names and addresses of Holders. If the Trustee is not the Registrar, the Issuer shall furnish, or cause the Registrar to furnish, to the Trustee, in writing at least five Business Days before each interest payment date and at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, a list in such form and as of such date as the Trustee may reasonably require of the names and addresses of Holders.

SECTION 2.07 Transfer and Exchange . The Securities shall be issued in registered form and shall be transferable only upon the surrender of a Security for registration of transfer and in compliance with the Appendix. When a Security is presented to the Registrar and Transfer Agent with a request to register a transfer, the Registrar shall register the transfer as requested if its requirements therefor are met. When Securities are presented to the Registrar and Transfer Agent with a request to exchange them for an equal principal amount of Securities of other denominations, the Registrar and Transfer Agent shall make the exchange as requested if the same requirements are met. To permit registration of transfers and exchanges, the Issuer shall execute and the Trustee shall, upon receipt of a Written Order, authenticate Securities at the Registrar’s request. The Issuer may require payment of a sum sufficient to pay all taxes, assessments or other governmental charges in connection with any transfer or exchange pursuant to this Section. The Issuer shall not be required to make, and the Registrar and Transfer Agent need not register, transfers or exchanges of Securities selected for redemption (except, in the case of Securities to be redeemed in part, the portion thereof not to be redeemed) or of any Securities for a period of 15 days before a selection of Securities to be redeemed.

 

 

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Prior to the due presentation for registration of transfer of any Security, the Issuer, the Guarantors, the Trustee, the paying agent and the Registrar may deem and treat the Person in whose name a Security is registered as the absolute owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of and interest, if any, on such Security and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security is overdue, and none of the Issuer, any Guarantor, the Trustee, the paying agent or the Registrar shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

Any Holder of a beneficial interest in a Global Security shall, by acceptance of such beneficial interest, agree that transfers of beneficial interests in such Global Security may be effected only through a book-entry system maintained by (a) the Holder of such Global Security (or its agent) or (b) any Holder of a beneficial interest in such Global Security, and that ownership of a beneficial interest in such Global Security shall be required to be reflected in a book entry.

All Securities issued upon any transfer or exchange pursuant to the terms of this Indenture shall evidence the same debt and shall be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as the Securities surrendered upon such transfer or exchange.

SECTION 2.08 Replacement Securities . If a mutilated Security is surrendered to the Registrar or if the Holder of a Security claims that the Security has been lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken, the Issuer shall issue and the Trustee shall, upon receipt of a Written Order, authenticate a replacement Security if the requirements of Section 8-405 of the Uniform Commercial Code are met, such that the Holder (a) satisfies the Issuer or the Trustee within a reasonable time after such Holder has notice of such loss, destruction or wrongful taking and the Registrar does not register a transfer prior to receiving such notification, (b) makes such request to the Issuer or the Trustee prior to the Security being acquired by a protected purchaser as defined in Section 8-303 of the Uniform Commercial Code (a “protected purchaser”) and (c) satisfies any other reasonable requirements of the Trustee. If required by the Trustee or the Issuer, such Holder shall furnish an indemnity bond sufficient in the judgment of the Trustee or the Issuer to protect the Issuer, the Trustee, a paying agent and the Registrar from any loss that any of them may suffer if a Security is replaced. The Issuer and the Trustee may charge the Holder for their expenses in replacing a Security (including without limitation, attorneys’ fees and disbursements in replacing such Security). In the event any such mutilated, lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken Security has become or is about to become due and payable, the Issuer in its discretion may pay such Security instead of issuing a new Security in replacement thereof.

Every replacement Security is an additional obligation of the Issuer.

The provisions of this Section 2.08 are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all other rights and remedies with respect to the replacement or payment of mutilated, lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken Securities.

SECTION 2.09 Outstanding Securities . Securities outstanding at any time are all Securities authenticated by the Trustee except for those canceled by it, those delivered to it for cancellation and those described in this Section as not outstanding. Subject to Section 11.07, a Security does not cease to be outstanding because the Issuer or an Affiliate of the Issuer holds the Security.

 

 

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If a Security is replaced pursuant to Section 2.08 (other than a mutilated Security surrendered for replacement), it ceases to be outstanding unless the Trustee and the Issuer receive proof satisfactory to them that the replaced Security is held by a protected purchaser. A mutilated Security ceases to be outstanding upon surrender of such Security and replacement thereof pursuant to Section 2.08.

If a paying agent segregates and holds in trust, in accordance with this Indenture, on a redemption date or maturity date money sufficient to pay all principal and interest payable on that date with respect to the Securities (or portions thereof) to be redeemed or maturing, as the case may be, and no paying agent is prohibited from paying such money to the Holders on that date pursuant to the terms of this Indenture, then on and after that date such Securities (or portions thereof) cease to be outstanding and interest on them ceases to accrue.

SECTION 2.10 Temporary Securities . In the event that Definitive Securities are to be issued under the terms of this Indenture, until such Definitive Securities are ready for delivery, the Issuer may prepare and the Trustee shall authenticate temporary Securities. Temporary Securities shall be substantially in the form of Definitive Securities but may have variations that the Issuer considers appropriate for temporary Securities. Without unreasonable delay, the Issuer shall prepare and the Trustee shall, upon receipt of a Written Order, authenticate Definitive Securities and make them available for delivery in exchange for temporary Securities upon surrender of such temporary Securities at the office or agency of the Issuer, without charge to the Holder. Until such exchange, temporary Securities shall be entitled to the same rights, benefits and privileges as Definitive Securities.

SECTION 2.11 Cancellation . The Issuer at any time may deliver Securities to the Trustee for cancellation. The Registrar and the paying agent shall forward to the Trustee any Securities surrendered to them for registration of transfer, exchange or payment. The Trustee and no one else shall cancel all Securities surrendered for registration of transfer, exchange, payment or cancellation and shall dispose of canceled Securities in accordance with its customary procedures. The Issuer may not issue new Securities to replace Securities it has redeemed, paid or delivered to the Trustee for cancellation. The Trustee shall not authenticate Securities in place of canceled Securities other than pursuant to the terms of this Indenture.

SECTION 2.12 Defaulted Interest . If the Issuer defaults in a payment of interest on the Securities, the Issuer shall pay the defaulted interest then borne by the Securities (plus interest on such defaulted interest to the extent lawful) in any lawful manner. The Issuer may pay the defaulted interest to the Persons who are Holders on a subsequent special record date. The Issuer shall fix or cause to be fixed any such special record date and payment date and shall promptly mail or cause to be mailed to each affected Holder a notice that states the special record date, the payment date and the amount of defaulted interest to be paid.

SECTION 2.13 CUSIP Numbers, ISINs, etc. The Issuer in issuing the Securities may use CUSIP numbers, ISINs and “Common Code” numbers (if then generally in use) and, if so, the Trustee shall use CUSIP numbers, ISINs and “Common Code” numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to Holders; provided , however , that any such notice may state that no representation is made as to the correctness of such numbers, either as printed on the

 

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Securities or as contained in any notice of a redemption that reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers printed on the Securities and that any such redemption shall not be affected by any defect in or omission of such numbers. The Issuer shall advise the Trustee of any change in the CUSIP numbers, ISINs and “Common Code” numbers.

SECTION 2.14 Calculation of Principal Amount of Securities . The aggregate principal amount of the Securities, at any date of determination, shall be the principal amount of the Securities outstanding at such date of determination. With respect to any matter requiring consent, waiver, approval or other action of the Holders of a specified percentage of the principal amount of all the Securities, such percentage shall be calculated, on the relevant date of determination, by dividing (a) the principal amount, as of such date of determination, of Securities, the Holders of which have so consented, by (b) the aggregate principal amount, as of such date of determination, of the Securities then outstanding, in each case, as determined in accordance with the preceding sentence, Section 2.09 and Section 11.07 of this Indenture. Any such calculation made pursuant to this Section 2.14 shall be made by the Issuer and delivered to the Trustee pursuant to an Officer’s Certificate.

SECTION 2.15 Additional Amounts . All payments made by or on behalf of the Issuer or any Guarantor or any successor in interest to any of the foregoing (each, a “Payor”) on or with respect to the Securities or any Guarantee shall be made without withholding or deduction for, or on account of, any Taxes unless such withholding or deduction is required by law. If any deduction or withholding for, or on account of, any Taxes imposed or levied by or on behalf of:

(a) any jurisdiction from or through which payment on the Securities or any Guarantee is made or any political subdivision or governmental authority thereof or therein having the power to tax (including the jurisdiction of any paying agent); or

(b) any other jurisdiction in which a Payor that actually makes a payment on the Securities or its Guarantee is organized or otherwise considered to be engaged in business or resident for tax purposes, or any political subdivision or governmental authority thereof or therein having the power to tax

(each of clause (a) and (b), a “Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction”), shall at any time be required by law to be made from any payments made with respect to the Securities or any Guarantee, including payments of principal, redemption price, interest or premium, if any, the Payor shall pay (together with such payments) such additional amounts (the “Additional Amounts”) as may be necessary in order that the net amounts received in respect of such payments, after such withholding or deduction (including any such deduction or withholding from such Additional Amounts), shall not be less than the amounts that would have been received in respect of such payments on the Securities or the Guarantees in the absence of such withholding or deduction; provided, however, that no such Additional Amounts shall be payable for or on account of:

(1) any Taxes that would not have been so imposed or levied but for the existence of any present or former connection between the holder (or between a fiduciary, settlor, beneficiary, partner, member or shareholder of, or possessor of power over, the holder, if such holder is an estate, nominee, trust, partnership, limited liability company or corporation) and the Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction (including being a citizen or resident or national of, or carrying on a business or maintaining a permanent establishment in, or being physically present in, the Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction) but excluding, in each case, any connection arising solely from the acquisition, ownership or holding of such Securities or the receipt of any payment in respect thereof;

 

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(2) any Taxes that would not have been so imposed or levied if the holder had complied with a reasonable request in writing of the Payor (such request being made at a time that would enable such holder acting reasonably to comply with that request) to make a declaration of nonresidence or any other claim or filing or satisfy any certification, information or reporting requirement for exemption from, or reduction in the rate of, withholding to which it is entitled (provided that such declaration of nonresidence or other claim, filing or requirement is required by the applicable law, treaty, regulation or administrative practice of the Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction as a precondition to exemption from the requirement to deduct or withhold all or a part of any such Taxes) but only to the extent such holder is legally entitled to provide such certification or documentation;

(3) any Taxes that are payable otherwise than by withholding or deduction from a payment on the Securities or any Guarantee;

(4) any estate, inheritance, gift, sales, excise, transfer, personal property or similar Taxes;

(5) any Taxes imposed in connection with a Security presented for payment by or on behalf of a Holder who would have been able to avoid such Tax by presenting the relevant Security to another paying agent in a member state of the European Union;

(6) any Taxes payable under Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, as of the date of the Offering Memorandum (or any amended or successor version that is substantively comparable and not materially more onerous to comply with), any current or future regulations or official interpretations thereof and any agreements (including any intergovernmental agreements) entered into pursuant thereto;

(7) any Taxes if the holder is a fiduciary or partnership or Person other than the sole beneficial owner of such payment and the Taxes that would otherwise give rise to such Additional Amounts would not have been imposed on such payment had the holder been the beneficiary, partner or sole beneficial owner, as the case may be, of such Security (but only if there is no material cost or expense associated with transferring such Security to such beneficiary, partner or sole beneficial owner and no restriction on such transfer that is outside the control of such beneficiary, partner or sole beneficial owner);

(8) any Taxes imposed on a payment in respect of the Securities required to be made pursuant to laws enacted by Switzerland providing for the taxation of payments according to principles similar to those laid down in the draft legislation of the Swiss Federal Council of 17 December 2014 altering the debtor-based Swiss federal withholding tax system to a paying-agent system where a Person other than the Issuer has to withhold tax on any interest payments or securing of interest payments; or

(9) any combination of the above.

 

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Such Additional Amounts shall also not be payable (x) if the payment could have been made without such deduction or withholding if the relevant Security had been presented for payment (where presentation is required) within 30 days after the relevant payment was first made available for payment to the holder or (y) to the extent where, had the beneficial owner of the relevant Security been the Holder of such Security, such beneficial owner would not have been entitled to payment of Additional Amounts by reason of any of clauses (1) to (9) inclusive above.

The Payor shall (i) make any required withholding or deduction and (ii) remit the full amount deducted or withheld to the relevant taxing authority of the Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction in accordance with applicable law. Upon request, the Payor shall use all reasonable efforts to obtain certified copies of tax receipts evidencing the payment of any Taxes so deducted or withheld from each relevant taxing authority of each Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction imposing such Taxes and shall provide such certified copies to the Trustee. If, notwithstanding the efforts of such Payor to obtain such receipts, the same are not obtainable, such Payor shall provide the Trustee with other reasonable evidence of payment. Such receipts or other evidence received by the Trustee shall be made available by the Trustee to Holders on request.

If any Payor shall be obligated to pay Additional Amounts under or with respect to any payment made on the Securities or any Guarantee, at least 30 days prior to the date of such payment, the Payor shall deliver to the Trustee and the paying agent an Officer’s Certificate stating the fact that Additional Amounts shall be payable and the amount so payable and such other information necessary to enable the paying agent to pay Additional Amounts on the relevant payment date (unless such obligation to pay Additional Amounts arises less than 45 days prior to the relevant payment date, in which case the Payor shall deliver such Officer’s Certificate and such other information as promptly as practicable thereafter).

Wherever in this Indenture, the Securities or any Guarantee there is mentioned, in any context:

(1) the payment of principal;

(2) redemption prices or purchase prices in connection with a redemption or purchase of Securities;

(3) interest; or

(4) any other amount payable on or with respect to any of the Securities or any Guarantee;

such reference shall be deemed to include payment of Additional Amounts as described under this heading to the extent that, in such context, Additional Amounts are, were or would be payable in respect thereof.

The Payor shall pay any present or future stamp, court or documentary Taxes, or any other excise, property or similar Taxes that arise in any Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction from the execution, delivery, issuance, initial resale, registration or enforcement of any Securities, Guarantee, Indenture or any other document or instrument in relation thereto (other than a transfer of the Securities occurring after the initial resale). The foregoing obligations shall

 

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survive any termination, defeasance or discharge of this Indenture and shall apply mutatis mutandis to any jurisdiction in which any successor to a Payor is organized or otherwise considered to be engaged in business or resident for Tax purposes, or any political subdivision or taxing authority or agency thereof or therein.

ARTICLE 3

REDEMPTION

SECTION 3.01 Redemption . The Securities may be redeemed, in whole, or from time to time in part, subject to the conditions and at the redemption prices set forth in Paragraph 5 of the form of Securities set forth in Exhibit A hereto, which is hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this Indenture, together with accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.

SECTION 3.02 Applicability of Article . Redemption of Securities at the election of the Issuer or otherwise, as permitted or required by any provision of this Indenture, shall be made in accordance with such provision and this Article.

SECTION 3.03 Notices to Trustee . If the Issuer elects to redeem Securities pursuant to the optional redemption provisions of Paragraph 5 of the Security, it shall notify the Trustee in writing of (i) the Section of this Indenture pursuant to which the redemption shall occur, (ii) the redemption date, (iii) the principal amount of Securities to be redeemed and (iv) the redemption price. The Issuer shall give notice to the Trustee provided for in this paragraph at least 30 days but not more than 60 days before a redemption date if the redemption is pursuant to Paragraph 5 of the Security, unless a shorter period is acceptable to the Trustee. Such notice shall be accompanied by an Officer’s Certificate and Opinion of Counsel from the Issuer to the effect that such redemption will comply with the conditions herein. If fewer than all the Securities are to be redeemed, the record date relating to such redemption shall be selected by the Issuer and given to the Trustee, which record date shall be not fewer than 15 days after the date of notice to the Trustee. Any such notice may be canceled at any time prior to notice of such redemption being mailed to any Holder and shall thereby be void and of no effect.

SECTION 3.04 Selection of Securities to Be Redeemed . In the case of any redemption of less than all of the Securities, selection of Securities for redemption will be made by the Registrar pro rata, by lot or such other manner in the case of Global Securities, as may be required by the applicable procedures of DTC; provided that no Securities of $250,000 or less shall be redeemed in part. If any Security is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption relating to such Security shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed. The Registrar shall make the selection from outstanding Securities not previously called for redemption. The Registrar may select for redemption portions of the principal of Securities that have denominations larger than $250,000. Securities and portions of them the Trustee selects shall be in amounts of $250,000 or any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof. Provisions of this Indenture that apply to Securities called for redemption also apply to portions of Securities called for redemption. The Registrar shall notify the Issuer promptly of the Securities or portions of Securities to be redeemed.

SECTION 3.05 Notice of Optional Redemption . (a) At least 30 days but not more than 60 days before a redemption date pursuant to Paragraph 5 of the Security, the Issuer shall mail or cause to be electronically delivered or mailed by first-class mail a notice of redemption to each Holder whose Securities are to be redeemed.

 

 

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Any such notice shall identify the Securities to be redeemed and shall state:

(i) the redemption date;

(ii) the redemption price and the amount of accrued interest to the redemption date;

(iii) the name and address of the paying agent;

(iv) that Securities called for redemption must be surrendered to the paying agent to collect the redemption price, plus accrued interest;

(v) if fewer than all the outstanding Securities are to be redeemed, the certificate numbers and principal amounts of the particular Securities to be redeemed, the aggregate principal amount of Securities to be redeemed and the aggregate principal amount of Securities to be outstanding after such partial redemption;

(vi) that, unless the Issuer defaults in making such redemption payment or the paying agent is prohibited from making such payment pursuant to the terms of this Indenture, interest on Securities (or portion thereof) called for redemption ceases to accrue on and after the redemption date;

(vii) the CUSIP number, ISIN and/or “Common Code” number, if any, printed on the Securities being redeemed; and

(viii) that no representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP number or ISIN and/or “Common Code” number, if any, listed in such notice or printed on the Securities.

(b) At the Issuer’s written request, the Trustee shall give the notice of redemption in the Issuer’s name and at the Issuer’s expense. In such event, the Issuer shall provide the Trustee with the information required by this Section at least five Business Days prior to the date such notice is to be provided to Holders and such notice may not be canceled.

SECTION 3.06 Effect of Notice of Redemption . Once notice of redemption is mailed in accordance with Section 3.05, Securities called for redemption become due and payable on the redemption date and at the redemption price stated in the notice, except as provided in paragraph 5 of the Securities. Upon surrender to the paying agent, such Securities shall be paid at the redemption price stated in the notice, plus accrued interest, to, but not including, the redemption date; provided , however , that if the redemption date is after a regular record date and on or prior to the interest payment date, the accrued interest shall be payable to the Holder of the redeemed Securities registered on the relevant record date. Failure to give notice or any defect in the notice to any Holder shall not affect the validity of the notice to any other Holder.

 

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SECTION 3.07 Deposit of Redemption Price . With respect to any Securities, prior to 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on the redemption date, the Issuer shall deposit with the paying agent (or, if the Issuer or a Wholly Owned Subsidiary is the paying agent, shall segregate and hold in trust) money sufficient to pay the redemption price of and accrued interest on all Securities or portions thereof to be redeemed on that date other than Securities or portions of Securities called for redemption that have been delivered by the Issuer to the Trustee for cancellation. On and after the redemption date, interest shall cease to accrue on Securities or portions thereof called for redemption so long as the Issuer has deposited with the paying agent funds sufficient to pay the principal of, plus accrued and unpaid interest on, the Securities to be redeemed, unless the paying agent is prohibited from making such payment pursuant to the terms of this Indenture.

SECTION 3.08 Securities Redeemed in Part . Upon surrender of a Security that is redeemed in part, the Issuer shall execute and the Trustee shall, upon receipt of a Written Order, authenticate for the Holder (at the Issuer’s expense) a new Security equal in principal amount to the unredeemed portion of the Security surrendered.

ARTICLE 4

COVENANTS

SECTION 4.01 Payment of Securities . The Issuer shall pay the principal of and interest on the Securities on the dates and in the manner provided in the Securities and in this Indenture. An installment of principal of or interest shall be considered paid on the date due if on such date the Trustee or the paying agent holds as of 11:00 a.m. New York City time money sufficient to pay all principal and interest then due and the Trustee or the paying agent, as the case may be, is not prohibited from paying such money to the Holders on that date pursuant to the terms of this Indenture.

The Issuer shall pay interest on overdue principal at the rate specified therefor in the Securities, and it shall pay interest on overdue installments of interest at the same rate borne by the Securities to the extent lawful.

SECTION 4.02 Reports and Other Information .

(a) So long as any Securities are outstanding and whether or not the Issuer is subject to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the Issuer shall furnish to the Trustee: (i) within 65 days after the end of each of the first three fiscal quarters in each fiscal year, quarterly reports containing unaudited financial statements (including a balance sheet and statement of income, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flow) for and as of the end of such fiscal quarter and year to date period (with comparable financial statements for the corresponding fiscal quarter and year to date period of the immediately preceding fiscal year); (ii) within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year, an annual report that includes all information that would be required to be filed with the SEC on Form 20-F (or any successor form); and (iii) at or prior to such times as would be required to be filed or furnished to the SEC as a “foreign private issuer” subject to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, all such other reports and information that the Issuer would have been required to file or furnish pursuant thereto; provided , however , that to the extent that the Issuer ceases to qualify as a “foreign private issuer”

 

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within the meaning of the Exchange Act, whether or not the Issuer is then subject to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the Issuer shall either file or furnish with the SEC (as a “voluntary filer” if the Issuer is not then subject to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act) or furnish to the Trustee, so long as any Securities are outstanding, within 30 days of the respective dates on which the Issuer would be required to file such documents with the SEC if it was required to file such documents under the Exchange Act, all reports and other information that would be required to be filed with (or furnished to) the SEC pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as, in the Issuer’s sole discretion, either a “foreign private issuer” or a U.S. domestic registrant.

(b) In addition, if required by the rules and regulations of the SEC, the Issuer shall electronically file or furnish, as the case may be, a copy of all such information and reports with the SEC for public availability within the time periods specified above. In addition, for so long as any Securities remain outstanding, the Issuer shall furnish to the Holders and prospective investors identified by a Holder, upon their request, the information required to be delivered pursuant to Rule 144A(d)(4) under the Securities Act.

(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Issuer shall be deemed to have furnished such reports referred to in the first paragraph of this Section 4.02 to the Trustee and the Holders of Securities if the Issuer has filed or furnished such reports with the SEC and such reports are publicly available on the SEC’s website; provided, however, that the Trustee shall have no obligation whatsoever to determine whether or not such information, documents or reports have been so filed or furnished. Delivery of such reports, information and documents to the Trustee pursuant to this covenant is for informational purposes only and the Trustee’s receipt of such shall not constitute constructive notice of any information contained therein or determinable from information contained therein, including the Issuer’s compliance with any of its covenants under this Indenture (as to which the Trustee is entitled to rely exclusively on Officer’s Certificates).

(d) So long as any Securities are outstanding, the Issuer shall also: (1) not later than 10 Business Days after furnishing to the Trustee the annual and quarterly reports required by clauses (i) and (ii) of Section 4.02(a), hold a publicly accessible conference call to discuss such reports and the results of operations for the relevant reporting period (including a question and answer portion of the call); and (2) issue a press release to an internationally recognized wire service no fewer than three Business Days prior to the date of the conference call required by the foregoing clause (1) of this paragraph, announcing the time and date of such conference call and either including all information necessary to access the call or directing Holders of the Securities, prospective investors, broker dealers and securities analysts to contact the appropriate person at the Issuer to obtain such information.

At any time that any of the Issuer’s Subsidiaries that are Significant Subsidiaries are Unrestricted Subsidiaries, then the quarterly and annual financial information required by the first paragraph of this Section 4.02 shall include a reasonably detailed presentation, either on the face of the financial statements or in the footnotes thereto or in the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” of the financial condition and results of

 

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operations of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries separate from the financial condition and results of operations of the Unrestricted Subsidiaries of the Issuer, provided that the Issuer will not be required to provide such separate information to the extent such Unrestricted Subsidiaries are the subject of a confidential filing of a registration statement with the SEC.

Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Issuer will not be deemed to have failed to comply with any of its agreements pursuant to this Section 4.02 for purposes of Section 6.01(d) until 30 days after the date any report hereunder is required to be filed with the SEC (or otherwise made available to Holders or the Trustee) pursuant to this Section 4.02.

In the event that the rules and regulations of the SEC permit the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer to report at such parent entity’s level on a consolidated basis, the Issuer may satisfy its obligations under this Section 4.02 by furnishing financial information and reports relating to such parent; provided that the same is accompanied by consolidating information that explains in reasonable detail the differences between the information relating to such direct or indirect parent and any of its Subsidiaries other than the Issuer and its Subsidiaries, on the one hand, and the information relating to the Issuer, the Guarantors and the other Subsidiaries of the Issuer on a stand-alone basis, on the other hand.

SECTION 4.03 Limitation on Incurrence of Indebtedness and Issuance of Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock . (a) (i) The Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, Incur any Indebtedness (including Acquired Indebtedness) or issue any shares of Disqualified Stock; and (ii) the Issuer shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than a Guarantor) to issue any shares of Preferred Stock; provided , however , that the Issuer and any Restricted Subsidiary may Incur Indebtedness (including Acquired Indebtedness) or issue shares of Disqualified Stock and any Restricted Subsidiary may issue shares of Preferred Stock, in each case if the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of the Issuer for the most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date on which such additional Indebtedness is Incurred or such Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock is issued would have been at least 2.00 to 1.00 determined on a pro forma basis (including a pro forma application of the net proceeds therefrom), as if the additional Indebtedness had been Incurred, or the Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock had been issued, as the case may be, and the application of proceeds therefrom had occurred at the beginning of such four-quarter period; provided , however , that Indebtedness (including Acquired Indebtedness), Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock that may be incurred or issued, as applicable, by all Subsidiaries other than Guarantors pursuant to this paragraph may not, at the time Incurred, exceed the greater of (i) €165.0 million and (ii) 7.0% of Total Assets at such time.

(b) The limitations set forth in Section 4.03(a) shall not apply to any of the following:

(i) the Incurrence by Constellium Holdco II B.V. or any Guarantor organized under the laws of the United States of Indebtedness under one or more ABL Facilities, in an aggregate principal amount that at the time of incurrence does not exceed the greater of (x) $300.0 million and (y) the then applicable Borrowing Base, plus the amount necessary to pay any fees and expenses, including premiums, related in connection with any refinancing, refunding, extension, renewal or replacement of Indebtedness under the ABL Facility;

 

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(ii) the Incurrence by the Issuer or any Guarantor of (A) Indebtedness under Credit Facilities in an aggregate principal amount that at the time of Incurrence does not exceed the greater of (a) €780.0 million plus the amount necessary to pay any fees and expenses, including premiums, in connection with any refinancing, refunding, extension, renewal or replacement of Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (b)(ii)(A)(a) and (b) an aggregate principal amount that does not cause the Consolidated Secured Net Debt Ratio of the Issuer to exceed 1.50 to 1.00 as of the time of Incurrence ( provided that solely for the purpose of determining compliance with this covenant, any Indebtedness that is Incurred and outstanding or proposed to be Incurred pursuant to this clause (b)(ii)(A)(b) (in the case of unsecured Indebtedness, to the extent such unsecured Indebtedness has not been reclassified as being Incurred pursuant to another clause of this covenant in accordance with this Indenture), will be deemed to be Secured Indebtedness for purposes of calculating the Consolidated Secured Net Debt Ratio) and (B) Indebtedness under Credit Facilities incurred to refinance, refund, extend, renew or replace Indebtedness Incurred and outstanding pursuant to clause (b)(ii)(A)(b); provided, however that (x) any such Indebtedness that is Incurred pursuant to this clause (B) satisfies the requirements of sub-clauses (1) through (4) of clause (xv) of this Section 4.03(b) and (y) if the Indebtedness being refinanced thereby is unsecured, such Indebtedness that is Incurred pursuant to this clause (B) is also unsecured;

(iii) the Incurrence by the Issuer and the Guarantors of Indebtedness represented by (A) the Existing Notes (other than the Existing Secured Notes) and the Existing Note Guarantees (other than the guarantees of the Existing Secured Notes) and (ii) the Original Securities and the Guarantees;

(iv) Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock existing and/or committed to on the Issue Date (other than Indebtedness described in clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of this Section 4.03(b));

(v) Indebtedness (including Capitalized Lease Obligations) Incurred by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, Disqualified Stock issued by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries and Preferred Stock issued by any Restricted Subsidiaries of the Issuer to finance (whether prior to or within 270 days after) the purchase, lease, construction, repair, replacement or improvement of property (real or personal) (whether through the direct purchase of property or the Capital Stock of any Person owning such property); provided that the aggregate amount of Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock Incurred pursuant to this clause (v) of this Section 4.03(b), together with any Refinancing Indebtedness (as defined below) Incurred with respect to such Indebtedness pursuant to clause (xv) of this Section 4.03(b), shall not exceed the greater of (A) €165.0 million and (B) 7.0% of Total Assets as of the date of any Incurrence pursuant to this clause (v);

 

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(vi) Indebtedness Incurred by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries constituting reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit and bank guarantees issued in the ordinary course of business, including without limitation letters of credit in respect of workers’ compensation claims, health, disability or other benefits to employees or former employees or their families or property, casualty or liability insurance or self-insurance, and letters of credit in connection with the maintenance of, or pursuant to the requirements of, environmental or other permits or licenses from governmental authorities, or other Indebtedness with respect to reimbursement type obligations regarding workers’ compensation claims;

(vii) Indebtedness arising from agreements of the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary providing for indemnification, adjustment of purchase price or similar obligations, in each case, Incurred in connection with an acquisition or disposition of any business, assets or a Subsidiary of the Issuer in accordance with the terms of this Indenture, other than guarantees of Indebtedness Incurred by any Person acquiring all or any portion of such business, assets or Subsidiary for the purpose of financing such acquisition;

(viii) Indebtedness (other than Secured Indebtedness) of the Issuer to a Restricted Subsidiary; provided that, except in respect of intercompany current liabilities incurred in the ordinary course of business in connection with the cash management operations of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries, any such Indebtedness owed to a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor shall be subordinated in right of payment to the obligations of the Issuer under the Securities; provided, further, that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event which results in any such Restricted Subsidiary ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such Indebtedness (except to the Issuer or another Restricted Subsidiary) shall be deemed, in each case, to be an Incurrence of such Indebtedness;

(ix) shares of Preferred Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary issued to the Issuer or another Restricted Subsidiary; provided that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event which results in any Restricted Subsidiary that holds such shares of Preferred Stock of another Restricted Subsidiary ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such shares of Preferred Stock (except to the Issuer or another Restricted Subsidiary) shall be deemed, in each case, to be an issuance of shares of Preferred Stock;

(x) Indebtedness (other than Secured Indebtedness) of a Restricted Subsidiary to the Issuer or another Restricted Subsidiary; provided that, except in respect of intercompany current liabilities incurred in the ordinary course of business in connection with the cash management operations of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries, if a Guarantor incurs such Indebtedness to a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor, such Indebtedness shall be subordinated in right of payment to the Guarantee of such Guarantor; provided, further, that any subsequent issuance or transfer of any Capital Stock or any other event which

 

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results in any Restricted Subsidiary holding such Indebtedness ceasing to be a Restricted Subsidiary or any other subsequent transfer of any such Indebtedness (except to the Issuer or another Restricted Subsidiary) shall be deemed, in each case, to be an Incurrence of such Indebtedness;

(xi) Hedging Obligations that are not incurred for speculative purposes and are either: (A) for the purpose of fixing or hedging interest rate risk with respect to any Indebtedness that is permitted by the terms of this Indenture to be outstanding; (B) for the purpose of fixing or hedging currency exchange rate risk with respect to any currency exchanges; (C) for the purpose of fixing or hedging commodity price risk with respect to any commodity purchases or sales or (D) for any combination of the foregoing;

(xii) obligations (including reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit and bank guarantees) in respect of performance, bid, appeal and surety bonds and completion guarantees provided by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business or consistent with past practice or industry practice;

(xiii) Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer and Preferred Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer not otherwise permitted hereunder in an aggregate principal amount or liquidation preference, which when aggregated with the principal amount or liquidation preference of all other Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock then outstanding and Incurred pursuant to this clause (xiii), does not exceed the greater of (A) €130.0 million and (B) 5.5% of Total Assets at the time of Incurrence (it being understood that any Indebtedness Incurred under this clause (xiii) shall cease to be deemed Incurred or outstanding for purposes of this clause (xiii) but shall be deemed Incurred for purposes of Section 4.03(a) from and after the first date on which the Issuer, or the Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, could have Incurred such Indebtedness under Section 4.03(a) without reliance upon this clause (xiii));

(xiv) any guarantee by (x) the Issuer or a Guarantor of Indebtedness or other obligations of the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, or (y) Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor of Indebtedness or other obligations of another Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor, in each case so long as the Incurrence of such Indebtedness Incurred by the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary is permitted under the terms of this Indenture; provided that if such Indebtedness is by its express terms subordinated in right of payment to the Securities or the Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, any such guarantee of such Guarantor with respect to such Indebtedness shall be subordinated in right of payment to such Guarantor’s Guarantee with respect to the Securities substantially to the same extent as such Indebtedness is subordinated to the Securities or the Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable;

 

 

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(xv) the Incurrence by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock of a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer which serves to refund, refinance or defease any Indebtedness Incurred or committed or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock issued as permitted under Section 4.03(a) and clauses (iii), (iv), (v), this clause (xv), (xvi), (xx), (xxiv) and (xxv) of this Section 4.03(b) or any Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock Incurred to so refund, refinance or defease such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, including any Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock Incurred to pay premiums (including tender premiums), expenses, defeasance costs and fees in connection therewith (subject to the following proviso, “Refinancing Indebtedness”); provided , however , that such Refinancing Indebtedness:

(1) has a Weighted Average Life to Maturity at the time such Refinancing Indebtedness is Incurred which is not less than the shorter of (x) the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock being refunded, refinanced or defeased and (y) the Weighted Average Life to Maturity that would result if all payments of principal on the Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock and Preferred Stock being refunded, refinanced or defeased that were due on or after the date that is one year following the maturity date of any Securities then outstanding were instead due on such date;

(2) has a Stated Maturity which is not earlier than the earlier of (x) the Stated Maturity of the Indebtedness being refunded, refinanced or defeased or (y) 91 days following the maturity date of the Securities;

(3) to the extent such Refinancing Indebtedness refinances (a) Indebtedness subordinated to the Securities or the Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, such Refinancing Indebtedness is subordinated to the Securities or the Guarantee of such Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, or (b) Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock, such Refinancing Indebtedness is Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock;

(4) is Incurred in an aggregate amount (or if issued with original issue discount, an aggregate issue price) that is equal to or less than the aggregate amount (or if issued with original issue discount, the aggregate accreted value) then outstanding of the Indebtedness being refinanced plus premium, expenses, costs and fees Incurred in connection with such refinancing;

(5) shall not include (x) Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer that is not a Guarantor that refinances Indebtedness of the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary that is a Guarantor, or (y) Indebtedness of the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary that refinances Indebtedness of an Unrestricted Subsidiary; and

(6) in the case of any Refinancing Indebtedness Incurred to refinance Indebtedness outstanding under clause (v) of this Section 4.03(b), shall be deemed to have been Incurred and to be outstanding under such clause (v) of this Section 4.03(b), and not this clause (xv) for purposes of determining amounts outstanding under such clause (v) of this Section 4.03(b);

 

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(xvi) Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock of (x) the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries Incurred to finance an acquisition or (y) Persons that are acquired by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries or merged or amalgamated with or into the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in accordance with the terms of this Indenture; provided , however , that after giving effect to such acquisition, merger or amalgamation, either:

(1) (A) the Issuer would be permitted to Incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in the first sentence of Section 4.03(a) or (B) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio would be equal to or greater than immediately prior to such acquisition, merger, consolidation or amalgamation; or

(2) such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock

(A) is unsecured Subordinated Indebtedness with subordination terms no more favorable to the Holders thereof than subordination terms that are customarily obtained in connection with “high-yield” senior subordinated note issuances at the time of Incurrence ( provided that, in the case of any such Subordinated Indebtedness incurred by a Foreign Subsidiary, such subordination terms will be customary for “high-yield” senior subordinated note issuances by issuers resident in the jurisdiction of formation or organization of such Foreign Subsidiary, including, without limitation, provisions for the automatic release of guarantees upon the release of the Guarantees);

(B) is not Incurred while a Default exists and no Default shall result therefrom; and

(C) does not mature (and is not mandatorily redeemable in the case of Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock) and does not require any payment of principal prior to the final scheduled maturity of the Securities;

(xvii) Indebtedness Incurred under (A) the Factoring Facilities and (B) any other Qualified Receivables Financing;

(xviii) Indebtedness arising from the honoring by a bank or other financial institution of a check, draft or similar instrument drawn against insufficient funds in the ordinary course of business or other cash management services in the ordinary course of business; provided that such Indebtedness is extinguished within ten Business Days of its Incurrence;

(xix) Indebtedness of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary supported by a letter of credit or bank guarantee issued pursuant to the Credit Facilities, in a principal amount not in excess of the stated amount of such letter of credit or bank guarantee;

 

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(xx) Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary not otherwise permitted hereunder in an aggregate principal amount or liquidation preference, together with the aggregate principal amount or liquidation preference of any Refinancing Indebtedness Incurred with respect to such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock pursuant to clause (xv) above, not exceeding at any time outstanding 100% of the net cash proceeds received by the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries since immediately after the Issue Date from the issue or sale of Equity Interests of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent entity of the Issuer (which proceeds are contributed to the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary) or cash contributed to the capital of the Issuer (in each case other than proceeds of Disqualified Stock or sales of Equity Interests to, or contributions received from, the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries), as determined in accordance with clauses (B) and (C) of the definition of Cumulative Credit, to the extent such net cash proceeds or cash have not been applied pursuant to such clauses to make Restricted Payments or to make other Investments, payments or exchanges pursuant to Section 4.04(b) of this Indenture or to make Permitted Investments (other than Permitted Investments specified in clauses (1) and (3) of the definition thereof);

(xxi) Indebtedness of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary consisting of (x) the financing of insurance premiums or (y) take-or-pay obligations contained in supply arrangements, in each case, in the ordinary course of business;

(xxii) Indebtedness arising as a result of implementing composite accounting or other cash pooling arrangements involving solely the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries or solely among Restricted Subsidiaries and entered into in the ordinary course of business;

(xxiii) Indebtedness issued by the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary to current or former officers, directors and employees thereof or any direct or indirect parent thereof, or their respective estates, spouses or former spouses, in each case to finance the purchase or redemption of Equity Interests of the Issuer or any of its direct or indirect parent companies to the extent permitted under Section 4.04(b)(iv);

(xxiv) Indebtedness of Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Guarantors; provided , however , that the aggregate principal amount of Indebtedness Incurred under this clause (xxiv), when taken together with the aggregate principal amount of Refinancing Indebtedness outstanding pursuant to clause (xv) above that was Incurred to refinance Indebtedness Incurred under this clause (xxiv), does not exceed the greater of (A) €130.0 million and (B) 5.5% of Total Assets at the time of Incurrence;

 

 

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(xxv) Indebtedness incurred on behalf of, or representing guarantees of Indebtedness of, joint ventures of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary not in excess (when taken together with the aggregate principal amount of Refinancing Indebtedness outstanding pursuant to clause (xv) above that was Incurred to refinance Indebtedness Incurred under this clause (xxv)), at any one time outstanding, of the greater of (A) €65.0 million and (B) 3.0% of Total Assets at the time that such Indebtedness is incurred; and

(xxvi) Indebtedness representing deferred compensation or stock-based compensation to employees of the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries.

For purposes of determining compliance with this Section 4.03, in the event that an item of Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock meets the criteria of more than one of the categories of permitted Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock described in clauses (i) through (xxvi) above or is entitled to be Incurred pursuant to Section 4.03(a), the Issuer shall, in its sole discretion, classify or reclassify, or later divide, classify or reclassify, such item of Indebtedness in any manner that complies with this Section 4.03; provided that all Indebtedness outstanding under the ABL Facilities and the Existing Secured Notes on the Issue Date will be deemed to have been Incurred on such date in reliance on clause (i) and clause (ii), respectively, of this Section 4.03(b) and the Issuer shall not be permitted to reclassify all or any portion of such Indebtedness. The Issuer will also be entitled to treat a portion of any Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock as having been Incurred under Section 4.03(a) and thereafter the remainder of such Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock as having been Incurred under this Section 4.03(b).Accrual of interest, the accretion of accreted value, the payment of interest in the form of additional Indebtedness with the same terms, the payment of dividends on Preferred Stock in the form of additional shares of Preferred Stock of the same class, accretion of original issue discount or liquidation preference and increases in the amount of Indebtedness outstanding solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies shall not be deemed to be an Incurrence of Indebtedness, Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock for purposes of this Section 4.03. Guarantees of, or obligations in respect of letters of credit relating to, Indebtedness which is otherwise included in the determination of a particular amount of Indebtedness shall not be included in the determination of such amount of Indebtedness; provided that the Incurrence of the Indebtedness represented by such guarantee or letter of credit, as the case may be, was in compliance with this Section 4.03.

SECTION 4.04 Limitation on Restricted Payments . (a) The Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly:

(i) declare or pay any dividend or make any distribution on account of the Issuer’s or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries’ Equity Interests, including any payment made in connection with any merger, amalgamation or consolidation involving the Issuer (other than (A) dividends or distributions by the Issuer payable solely in Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of the Issuer; or (B) dividends or distributions by a Restricted Subsidiary so long as, in the case of any dividend or distribution payable on or in respect of any class or series of securities issued by a Restricted Subsidiary other than a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary, the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary receives at least its pro rata share of such dividend or distribution in accordance with its Equity Interests in such class or series of securities);

 

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(ii) purchase or otherwise acquire or retire for value any Equity Interests of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer;

(iii) make any principal payment on, or redeem, repurchase, defease or otherwise acquire or retire for value, in each case prior to any scheduled repayment or scheduled maturity, any Subordinated Indebtedness of the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than the payment, redemption, repurchase, defeasance, acquisition or retirement of (A) Subordinated Indebtedness in anticipation of satisfying a sinking fund obligation, principal installment or final maturity, in each case due within one year of the date of such payment, redemption, repurchase, defeasance, acquisition or retirement and (B) Indebtedness permitted under clauses (viii) and (x) of Section 4.03(b)); or

(iv) make any Restricted Investment

(all such payments and other actions set forth in clauses (i) through (iv) above being collectively referred to as “Restricted Payments”), unless, as of the time of such Restricted Payment:

(1) no Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would occur as a consequence thereof;

(2) immediately after giving effect to such transaction on a pro forma basis, the Issuer could Incur $1.00 of additional Indebtedness under Section 4.03(a); and

(3) such Restricted Payment, together with the aggregate amount of all other Restricted Payments made by the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries after the Issue Date (and not returned or rescinded) (including Restricted Payments permitted by clauses (i) and (viii)(b) of Section 4.04(b), but excluding all other Restricted Payments permitted by Section 4.04(b)), is less than an amount equal to the Cumulative Credit.

(b) The provisions of Section 4.04(a) shall not prohibit:

(i) the payment of any dividend or distribution within 60 days after the date of declaration thereof, if at the date of declaration such payment would have complied with the provisions of this Indenture;

(ii) (A) the redemption, repurchase, retirement or other acquisition of any Equity Interests (“Retired Capital Stock”) of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer or Subordinated Indebtedness of the Issuer, any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer or any Guarantor in exchange for, or out of the proceeds of, the substantially concurrent sale of, Equity Interests of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer or contributions to the equity capital of the Issuer (other than any Disqualified Stock or any Equity Interests sold to a Subsidiary of the Issuer or to an employee stock ownership plan or any trust established by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries) (collectively, including any such contributions, “Refunding Capital Stock”); and

 

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(B) the declaration and payment of dividends on the Retired Capital Stock out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (other than to a Subsidiary of the Issuer or to an employee stock ownership plan or any trust established by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries) of Refunding Capital Stock; and if immediately prior to the retirement of Retired Capital Stock, the declaration and payment of dividends thereon was permitted under Section 4.04(b)(vi) and not made pursuant to this Section 4.04(b)(ii)(B), the declaration and payment of dividends on the Refunding Capital Stock (other than Refunding Capital Stock the proceeds of which were used to redeem, repurchase, retire or otherwise acquire any Equity Interests of any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer) in an aggregate amount per year no greater than the aggregate amount of dividends per annum that were declarable and payable on such Retired Capital Stock immediately prior to such retirement;

(iii) the redemption, repurchase, defeasance or other acquisition or retirement of Subordinated Indebtedness of the Issuer or any Guarantor made by exchange for, or out of the proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (or as promptly as practicable after giving any requisite notice to the holders of such Subordinated Indebtedness) of, new Indebtedness of the Issuer or a Guarantor which is Incurred in accordance with Section 4.03 so long as

(A) the principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable) of such new Indebtedness does not exceed the principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable), plus any accrued and unpaid interest of the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired for value (plus the amount of any premium required to be paid under the terms of the instrument governing the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired plus any tender premiums, defeasance costs or other fees and expenses incurred in connection therewith),

(B) such Indebtedness is subordinated to the Securities or the related Guarantee, as the case may be, at least to the same extent as such Subordinated Indebtedness so purchased, exchanged, redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired for value,

(C) such Indebtedness has a final scheduled maturity date equal to or later than the earlier of (x) the final scheduled maturity date of the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, acquired or retired or (y) 91 days following the maturity date of the Securities, and

(D) such Indebtedness has a Weighted Average Life to Maturity at the time Incurred which is not less than the shorter of (x) the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Subordinated Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired and (y) the Weighted Average Life to Maturity that would result if all payments of principal on the Indebtedness being so redeemed, repurchased, defeased, acquired or retired that were due on or after the date one year following the maturity date of any Securities then outstanding, in each case were instead due on such date one year following the maturity date of such Securities;

 

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(iv) the repurchase, retirement or other acquisition (or dividends to any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer to finance any such repurchase, retirement or other acquisition) for value of Equity Interests of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer held by any future, present or former employee, director or consultant of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer or any Subsidiary of the Issuer pursuant to any management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or other agreement or arrangement; provided , however , that the aggregate amounts paid under this clause (iv) do not exceed €15.0 million in any calendar year (with unused amounts in any calendar year being permitted to be carried over for the two succeeding calendar years); provided, further, however , that such amount in any calendar year may be increased by an amount not to exceed:

(A) the cash proceeds received by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries from the sale of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer (to the extent contributed to the Issuer) to members of management, directors or consultants of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer that occurs after the Issue Date (provided that the amount of such cash proceeds utilized for any such repurchase, retirement, other acquisition or dividend shall not increase the amount available for Restricted Payments under Section 4.04(a)(3)); plus

(B) the cash proceeds of key man life insurance policies received by the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer (to the extent contributed to the Issuer) or the Issuer’s Restricted Subsidiaries after the Issue Date; less

(C) the amount of any Restricted Payments previously made pursuant to Section 4.04(b)(iv)(A) and Section 4.04(b)(iv)(B)

provided that the Issuer may elect to apply all or any portion of the aggregate increase contemplated by clauses (A) and (B) above in any calendar year;

(v) the declaration and payment of dividends or distributions to holders of any class or series of Disqualified Stock of the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries issued or incurred in accordance with Section 4.03;

(vi) (a) the declaration and payment of dividends or distributions to holders of any class or series of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) issued after the Issue Date, (b) a Restricted Payment to any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer, the proceeds of which will be used to fund the payment of dividends to holders of any class or series of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) of any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer issued after the Issue Date and (c) the declaration and payment of dividends on Refunding Capital Stock that is Preferred Stock in excess of the dividends declarable and payable thereon pursuant to Section 4.04(b)(ii); provided , however , that, (x) for the most recently ended four full fiscal quarters for which internal financial statements are available immediately preceding the date of issuance of

 

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such Designated Preferred Stock or Refunding Capital Stock, after giving effect to such issuance (and the payment of dividends or distributions) on a pro forma basis, the Issuer would have had a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of at least 2.00 to 1.00 and (y) the aggregate amount of dividends declared and paid pursuant to subclauses (a) and (b) of this clause (vi) does not exceed the net cash proceeds actually received by the Issuer from any such sale of Designated Preferred Stock (other than Disqualified Stock) issued after the Issue Date;

(vii) Investments in Unrestricted Subsidiaries and joint ventures having an aggregate Fair Market Value, taken together with all other Investments made pursuant to this clause (vii) that are at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of (a) €65.0 million and (b) 2.5% of Total Assets at the time of such Investment (with the Fair Market Value of each Investment being measured at the time made and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value); provided that the amount of Investments deemed to have been made pursuant to this clause (vii) at any time shall be reduced by the Fair Market Value of the proceeds received by the Issuer and/or the Restricted Subsidiaries from the subsequent sale, disposition or other transfer of such Investments without giving effect to subsequent changes in value;

(viii) the payment of dividends on the Issuer’s common stock in an aggregate amount per calendar year not to exceed the sum of (a) €20.0 million, plus (b) 6.0% of the net proceeds received after the Issue Date (including, without limitation, contributions to the Issuer with the proceeds of sales of common stock of any direct or indirect parent) by the Issuer from any public offering of common stock of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer;

(ix) Restricted Payments that are made with Excluded Contributions;

(x) (a) Restricted Payments pursuant to clauses (i), (ii) and (iii) of Section 4.04(a) hereof after the Issue Date and (b) Restricted Payments pursuant to clause (iv) of Section 4.04(a) hereof at any time outstanding in an aggregate amount pursuant to this clause (x) not to exceed €100.0 million;

(xi) the distribution, as a dividend or otherwise, of shares of Capital Stock of, or Indebtedness owed to the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer by, Unrestricted Subsidiaries;

(xii) the payment of dividends or other distributions to any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer in amounts required for such parent to pay federal, state or local income taxes (or other applicable political subdivision, as the case may be) imposed directly on such parent to the extent such income taxes are attributable to the income of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries (including, without limitation, by virtue of such parent being the common parent of a consolidated or combined tax group of which the Issuer and/or its Subsidiaries are members);

(xiii) repurchases of Equity Interests deemed to occur upon exercise of stock options or warrants if such Equity Interests represent a portion of the exercise price of such options or warrants;

 

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(xiv) purchases of receivables pursuant to a Receivables Repurchase Obligation in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing and the payment or distribution of Receivables Fees;

(xv) payments of cash, or dividends, distributions or advances by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary to allow the payment of cash in lieu of the issuance of fractional shares upon the exercise of options or warrants or upon the conversion or exchange of Capital Stock of any such Person;

(xvi) the repurchase, redemption or other acquisition or retirement for value of any Subordinated Indebtedness pursuant to the provisions similar to those described under Sections 4.06 and 4.08; provided that all Securities tendered in connection with a Change of Control Offer or Asset Sale Offer, as applicable, have been repurchased, redeemed or acquired for value;

(xvii) payments or distributions to dissenting stockholders pursuant to applicable law or in connection with a consolidation, amalgamation, merger or transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, that complies with Article 5 of this Indenture; provided that as a result of such consolidation, amalgamation, merger or transfer of assets, the Issuer shall have made a Change of Control Offer (if required by this Indenture) and that all Securities tendered in connection with such Change of Control Offer have been repurchased, redeemed or acquired for value; (xviii) other Restricted Payments; provided that Restricted Payments may only be made pursuant to this clause

(xviii) at such time as the Consolidated Net Debt Ratio of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries, on a pro forma basis after giving effect to such Restricted Payments, is less than 2.00 to 1.00; and

(xix) the payment of any Restricted Payment, if applicable:

(A) in amounts required for any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer, if applicable, (i) to pay fees and expenses (including franchise or similar taxes) required to maintain its corporate existence and its status as a public company, customary salary, bonus and other benefits payable to, and indemnities provided on behalf of, officers and employees of any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer, if applicable, and general corporate overhead expenses of any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer, if applicable, in each case to the extent such fees and expenses are attributable to the ownership or operation of the Issuer, if applicable, and its Subsidiaries and (ii) to pay tax liabilities incurred as a result of transactions that occurred prior to the Issue Date;

(B) in amounts required for any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer, if applicable, to pay interest and/or principal on Indebtedness the proceeds of which have been contributed to the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries and that has been guaranteed by, or is otherwise considered Indebtedness of, the Issuer Incurred in accordance with Section 4.03; and

 

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(C) in amounts required for any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer to pay fees and expenses, other than to Affiliates of the Issuer, related to any unsuccessful equity or debt offering of such parent.

provided , however , that at the time of, and after giving effect to, any Restricted Payment permitted under clauses (vi), (vii), (x), (xi) and (xviii) of this Section 4.04(b), no Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would occur as a consequence thereof.

(c) The amount of any Restricted Payment (other than cash) will be the Fair Market Value on the date of the Restricted Payment of the asset(s) or securities proposed to be transferred or issued by the Issuer or such Subsidiary, as the case may be, pursuant to the Restricted Payment. Except as otherwise provided herein, the Fair Market Value of any assets or securities that are required to be valued by this Section 4.04 will be determined in good faith by the Issuer.

(d) As of the Issue Date, all of the Issuer’s Subsidiaries shall be Restricted Subsidiaries other than Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC (f/k/a Quiver Ventures, LLC) and Constellium Engley (Changchun) Automotive Structures Co Ltd. The Issuer shall not permit any Unrestricted Subsidiary to become a Restricted Subsidiary except pursuant to the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary.” For purposes of designating any Restricted Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary, all outstanding Investments by the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries (except to the extent repaid) in the Subsidiary so designated shall be deemed to be Restricted Payments in an amount determined as set forth in the last sentence of the definition of “Investments.” Such designation shall only be permitted if a Restricted Payment in such amount would be permitted at such time and if such Subsidiary otherwise meets the definition of an Unrestricted Subsidiary.

SECTION 4.05 Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Subsidiaries . The Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create or otherwise cause or suffer to exist or become effective any consensual encumbrance or consensual restriction on the ability of any Restricted Subsidiary to pay dividends or make any other distributions to the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (a) on its Capital Stock, or (b) with respect to any other interest or participation in, or measured by, its profits; except in each case for such encumbrances or restrictions existing under or by reason of:

(a) contractual encumbrances or restrictions in effect on the Issue Date, including pursuant to the ABL Facilities, the Constellium Existing Notes and the related documentation in effect on the Issue Date and in each case, any similar contractual encumbrances effected by any amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings of such agreements or instruments;

(b) this Indenture, the Securities and the Guarantees;

(c) applicable law or any applicable rule, regulation or order;

 

 

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(d) any agreement or other instrument of a Person acquired by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary which was in existence at the time of such acquisition (but not created in contemplation thereof or to provide all or any portion of the funds or credit support utilized to consummate such acquisition), which encumbrance or restriction is not applicable to any Person, or the properties or assets of any Person, other than the Person or its Subsidiaries, or the property or assets of the Person or its Subsidiaries, so acquired;

(e) contracts or agreements for the sale of assets, including any restriction with respect to a Restricted Subsidiary imposed pursuant to an agreement entered into for the sale or disposition of the Capital Stock or assets of such Restricted Subsidiary;

(f) Secured Indebtedness otherwise permitted to be Incurred pursuant to Sections 4.03 and 4.12 that limit the right of the debtor to dispose of the assets securing such Indebtedness;

(g) restrictions on cash or other deposits or net worth imposed by customers under contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business;

(h) customary provisions in joint venture agreements and other similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business;

(i) purchase money obligations and Capitalized Lease Obligations for property acquired or leased in the ordinary course of business that impose restrictions on the property so acquired or leased;

(j) customary provisions contained in leases, licenses and other similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business that impose restrictions on the property subject to such lease;

(k) any encumbrance or restriction effected in connection with (A) a Factoring Facility (provided that such encumbrance or restriction (i) exists on the date hereof or (ii) is in the good faith determination of the Issuer (x) necessary or advisable to effect such Receivables Financing and applies only to the relevant Subsidiaries to which such Receivables Financing is made available or (y) not materially more burdensome than the encumbrances and restrictions under the Factoring Facilities in effect on the date hereof) or (B) a Qualified Receivables Financing; provided, however, that in the case of this clause (B), such encumbrances or restrictions (i) apply only to a Receivables Subsidiary or (ii) are in the good faith determination of the Issuer (x) necessary or advisable to effect such Qualified Receivables Financing and applicable only to the relevant Subsidiaries to which such Receivables Financing is made available or (y) not materially more burdensome than the encumbrances and restrictions under the Factoring Facilities in effect on the date hereof;

(l) (A) other Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock of the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, or (B) Preferred Stock of any Restricted Subsidiary, in each case that is Incurred subsequent to the Issue Date pursuant to Section 4.03;

(m) any Restricted Investment not prohibited by Section 4.04 and any Permitted Investment;

(n) [Reserved]; or

 

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(o) any encumbrances or restrictions of the type referred to in clauses (a) and (b) above imposed by any amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings of the contracts, instruments or obligations referred to in clauses (a) through (m) above; provided that such amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings are, in the good faith judgment of the Issuer, no more restrictive with respect to such encumbrances and other restrictions than those contained in the encumbrances or other restrictions prior to such amendment, modification, restatement, renewal, increase, supplement, refunding, replacement or refinancing.

For purposes of determining compliance with this Section 4.05, (i) the priority of any Preferred Stock in receiving dividends or liquidating distributions prior to dividends or liquidating distributions being paid on common stock shall not be deemed a restriction on the ability to make distributions on Capital Stock and (ii) the subordination of loans or advances made to the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer to other Indebtedness Incurred by the Issuer or any such Restricted Subsidiary shall not be deemed a restriction on the ability to make loans or advances.

SECTION 4.06 Asset Sales . (a) The Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, cause or make an Asset Sale, unless (x) the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, as the case may be, receives consideration at the time of such Asset Sale at least equal to the Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by the Issuer) of the assets sold or otherwise disposed of, and (y) at least 75% of the consideration therefor received by the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, is in the form of cash or Cash Equivalents; provided that the amount of:

(i) any liabilities (as shown on the Issuer’s or such Restricted Subsidiary’s most recent balance sheet or in the notes thereto) of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer (other than liabilities that are by their terms subordinated to the Securities or any Guarantee) that are assumed by the transferee of any such assets,

(ii) any notes or other obligations or other securities or assets received by the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer from such transferee that are converted by the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer into cash within 180 days of the receipt thereof (to the extent of the cash received), and

(iii) any Designated Non-cash Consideration received by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in such Asset Sale having an aggregate Fair Market Value (as determined in good faith by the Issuer), taken together with all other Designated Non-cash Consideration received pursuant to this clause (iii) that is at that time outstanding, not to exceed the greater of (A) 2.0% of Total Assets and (B) €50.0 million at the time of the receipt of such Designated Non-cash Consideration (with the Fair Market Value of each item of Designated Non-cash Consideration being measured at the time received and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value)

shall be deemed to be Cash Equivalents for the purposes of this Section 4.06(a).

 

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(b) Within 15 months after the Issuer’s or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer’s receipt of the Net Proceeds of any Asset Sale, the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer may apply the Net Proceeds from such Asset Sale, at its option:

(i) to repay Indebtedness constituting Credit Facilities or Secured Indebtedness (and, if the Indebtedness repaid is revolving credit indebtedness, to correspondingly reduce commitments with respect thereto), Pari Passu Indebtedness ( provided that if the Issuer or any Guarantor shall so reduce Obligations under Pari Passu Indebtedness (other than Credit Facilities or Secured Indebtedness), the Issuer shall make an offer to all Holders of the Securities to equally and ratably reduce a pro rata principal amount of the Securities through a repurchase offer (in accordance with the procedures set forth below for an Asset Sale Offer) at a purchase price equal to or greater than (in the Issuer’s sole discretion) 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any) or Indebtedness of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor, in each case other than Indebtedness owed to the Issuer or an Affiliate of the Issuer,

(ii) to make an investment in any one or more businesses (provided that if such investment is in the form of the acquisition of Capital Stock of a Person, such acquisition results in such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer), assets, or property or capital expenditures, in each case used or useful in a Similar Business, or

(iii) to make an investment in any one or more businesses (provided that if such investment is in the form of the acquisition of Capital Stock of a Person, such acquisition results in such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer), properties or assets that replace the properties and assets that are the subject of such Asset Sale.

In the case of Sections 4.06(b)(ii) and (iii), a binding commitment shall be treated as a permitted application of the Net Proceeds from the date of such commitment; provided that in the event such binding commitment is later canceled or terminated for any reason before such Net Proceeds are so applied, the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary enters into another binding commitment within nine months of such cancellation or termination of the prior binding commitment; provided , further that the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary may only enter into such a commitment under the foregoing provision one time with respect to each Asset Sale.

Pending the final application of any such Net Proceeds, the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer may temporarily reduce Indebtedness under a revolving credit facility, if any, or otherwise invest such Net Proceeds in any manner not otherwise prohibited by this Indenture. Any Net Proceeds from any Asset Sale that are not applied as provided and within the time period set forth in the first sentence of this Section 4.06(b) (it being understood that any portion of such Net Proceeds used to make an offer to purchase Securities, as described in clause (i) of this Section 4.06(b), shall be deemed to have been invested per Section 4.06(b), whether or not such offer is accepted) shall be deemed to constitute “Excess Proceeds.” When the aggregate amount of Excess Proceeds exceeds €15.0 million, the Issuer shall make an offer to all Holders of Securities (and, at the option of the Issuer, to holders of any Pari Passu

 

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Indebtedness) (an “Asset Sale Offer”) to purchase the maximum aggregate principal amount of the Securities (and such other Pari Passu Indebtedness, on a pro rata basis), that may be purchased out of the Excess Proceeds at an offer price in cash in an amount equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof (or, in the event such Pari Passu Indebtedness was issued with significant original issue discount, 100% of the accreted value thereof), plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any (or, in respect of such Pari Passu Indebtedness, such lesser price, if any, as may be provided for by the terms of such Pari Passu Indebtedness), to the date fixed for the closing of such offer, in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Indenture. The Issuer shall commence an Asset Sale Offer with respect to Excess Proceeds within 10 Business Days after the date that Excess Proceeds exceeds €15.0 million by electronically delivering or mailing the notice required pursuant to the terms of Section 4.06(f), with a copy to the Trustee and the paying agent. To the extent that the aggregate amount of the Securities (and such Pari Passu Indebtedness) tendered pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer is less than the Excess Proceeds, the Issuer may use any remaining Excess Proceeds for general corporate purposes. If the aggregate principal amount of the Securities (and such Pari Passu Indebtedness) surrendered by Holders of such Securities (and holders of such Pari Passu Indebtedness) thereof exceeds the amount of Excess Proceeds, the Registrar shall select the Securities to be purchased in the manner described in Section 4.06(e). Upon completion of any such Asset Sale Offer, the amount of Excess Proceeds shall be reset at zero.

(c) To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the provisions of this Indenture, the Issuer shall comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and shall not be deemed to have breached its obligations described in this Indenture by virtue thereof.

(d) Not later than the date upon which written notice of an Asset Sale Offer is delivered to the Trustee as provided above, the Issuer shall deliver to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate as to (i) the amount of the Excess Proceeds, (ii) the allocation of the Net Proceeds from the Asset Sales pursuant to which such Asset Sale Offer is being made and (iii) the compliance of such allocation with the provisions of Section 4.06(b). On such date, the Issuer shall also irrevocably deposit with the Trustee or with a paying agent (or, if the Issuer or a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary is acting as the paying agent, segregate and hold in trust) an amount equal to the Excess Proceeds to be invested in Cash Equivalents, as directed in writing by the Issuer, and to be held for payment in accordance with the provisions of this Section 4.06. Upon the expiration of the period for which the Asset Sale Offer remains open (the “Offer Period”), the Issuer shall deliver to the Trustee for cancellation the Securities or portions thereof that have been properly tendered to and are to be accepted by the Issuer. The Trustee (or the paying agent, if not the Trustee) shall, on the date of purchase, mail or deliver payment to each tendering Holder in the amount of the purchase price. In the event that the Excess Proceeds delivered by the Issuer to the Trustee are greater than the purchase price of the Securities tendered, the Trustee shall deliver the excess to the Issuer immediately after the expiration of the Offer Period for application in accordance with Section 4.06.

(e) Holders electing to have a Security purchased shall be required to surrender the Security, with an appropriate form duly completed, to the Issuer at the address specified in the notice at least three Business Days prior to the purchase date. Holders shall be entitled to withdraw their election if the Trustee or the Issuer receives

 

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not later than one Business Day prior to the purchase date, a facsimile transmission or letter setting forth the name of the Holder, the principal amount of the Security which was delivered by the Holder for purchase and a statement that such Holder is withdrawing his election to have such Security purchased. If at the end of the Offer Period more Securities (and such Pari Passu Indebtedness) are tendered pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer than the Issuer is required to purchase, selection of such Securities for purchase shall be made by the Registrar pro rata, by lot or such other manner in the case of Global Securities, as may be required by the applicable procedures of DTC; provided that no Securities of $250,000 or less shall be purchased in part. Selection of such Pari Passu Indebtedness shall be made pursuant to the terms of such Pari Passu Indebtedness.

(f) Notices of an Asset Sale Offer shall be electronically delivered or mailed by first class mail, postage prepaid by the Issuer, at least 30 but not more than 60 days before the purchase date to each Holder of Securities at such Holder’s registered address. If any Security is to be purchased in part only, any notice of purchase that relates to such Security shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof that has been or is to be purchased.

(g) The provisions under this Indenture relating to the Issuer’s obligation to make an Asset Sale Offer may be waived or modified with the written consent of Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities.

SECTION 4.07 Transactions with Affiliates . (a) The Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, make any payment to, or sell, lease, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets to, or purchase any property or assets from, or enter into or make or amend any transaction or series of transactions, contract, agreement, understanding, loan, advance or guarantee with, or for the benefit of, any Affiliate of the Issuer (each of the foregoing, an “Affiliate Transaction”) involving aggregate consideration in excess of €10.0 million, unless:

(i) such Affiliate Transaction is on terms that are not materially less favorable to the Issuer or the relevant Restricted Subsidiary than those that could have been obtained in a comparable transaction by the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary with an unrelated Person;

(ii) with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate consideration in excess of €25.0 million (excluding any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions substantially limited to the sale of inventory), the Issuer delivers to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate certifying that such Affiliate Transaction complies with clause (i) above;

(iii) with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate consideration in excess of €50.0 million (excluding any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions substantially limited to the sale of inventory), the Issuer delivers to the Trustee a resolution adopted in good faith by the majority of the Board of Directors of the Issuer, approving such Affiliate Transaction and set forth in an Officer’s Certificate certifying that such Affiliate Transaction complies with clause (i) above.

 

 

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(b) The provisions of Section 4.07(a) shall not apply to the following:

(i) transactions between or among the Issuer and/or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (or an entity that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction) and any merger, consolidation or amalgamation of the Issuer and any direct parent of the Issuer; provided that at the time of such merger, consolidation or amalgamation such parent shall have no material liabilities and no material assets other than cash, Cash Equivalents and the Capital Stock of the Issuer and such merger, consolidation or amalgamation is otherwise in compliance with the terms of this Indenture and effected for a bona fide business purpose;

(ii) Restricted Payments permitted by Section 4.04 and Permitted Investments;

(iii) the payment of reasonable and customary fees and reimbursement of expenses paid to, and indemnity provided on behalf of, officers, directors, employees or consultants of the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer;

(iv) transactions in which the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, as the case may be, delivered to the Trustee a letter from an Independent Financial Advisor stating that such transaction is fair to the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary from a financial point of view or meets the requirements of clause (i) of Section 4.07(a);

(v) payments or loans (or cancellation of loans) to directors, officers, employees or consultants which are approved by a majority of the Board of Directors of the Issuer in good faith;

(vi) any agreement as in effect as of the Issue Date or any amendment thereto (so long as any such agreement together with all amendments thereto, taken as a whole, is not more disadvantageous to the Holders of the Securities in any material respect than the original agreement as in effect on the Issue Date) or any transaction contemplated thereby as determined in good faith by the Issuer;

(vii) the existence of, or the performance by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of its obligations under the terms of, any stockholders agreement (including any registration rights agreement or purchase agreement related thereto) to which it is a party as of the Issue Date and any transaction, agreement or arrangement in effect on the Issue Date and described in the Offering Memorandum (or the documents incorporated by reference therein) and, in each case, any amendment thereto or similar transactions, agreements or arrangements which it may enter into thereafter; provided , however , that the existence of, or the performance by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of its obligations under, any future amendment to any such existing transaction,

 

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agreement or arrangement or under any similar transaction, agreement or arrangement entered into after the Issue Date shall only be permitted by this clause (vii) to the extent that the terms of any such existing transaction, agreement or arrangement together with all amendments thereto, taken as a whole, or new transaction, agreement or arrangement are not otherwise more disadvantageous to the Holders of the Securities in any material respect than the original transaction, agreement or arrangement as in effect on the Issue Date;

(viii) (A) transactions with customers, clients, suppliers or purchasers or sellers of goods or services, or transactions otherwise relating to the purchase or sale of goods or services, in each case in the ordinary course of business and otherwise in compliance with the terms of this Indenture, which are fair to the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries in the reasonable determination of the Issuer, or are on terms at least as favorable as might reasonably have been obtained at such time from an unaffiliated party or (B) transactions with joint ventures or Unrestricted Subsidiaries entered into in the ordinary course of business;

(ix) any transaction effected as part of a Factoring Facility or a Qualified Receivables Financing;

(x) the issuance of Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of the Issuer to any Person;

(xi) the issuances of securities or other payments, loans (or cancellation of loans), awards or grants in cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to, or the funding of, employment arrangements, stock option and stock ownership plans or similar employee benefit plans approved by the Board of Directors of the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent of the Issuer or of a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer, as appropriate, in good faith;

(xii) transactions permitted by, and complying with, Sections 4.06 and/or 5.01;

(xiii) transactions between the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries and any Person, a director of which is also a director of the Issuer; provided , however , that such director abstains from voting as a director of the Issuer or such direct or indirect parent, as the case may be, on any matter involving such other Person;

(xiv) pledges of Equity Interests of Unrestricted Subsidiaries;

(xv) the provision to Unrestricted Subsidiaries of cash management, accounting and other overhead services in the ordinary course of business undertaken in good faith and not for the purpose of circumventing any covenant set forth in this Indenture;

(xvi) any employment agreements entered into by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business, and any termination of employment agreements and payments in connection therewith at the net present value of future payments;

 

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(xvii) intercompany transactions undertaken in good faith for the purpose of improving the consolidated tax efficiency of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries and not for the purpose of circumventing any covenant set forth in this Indenture;

(xviii) the entering into of any tax sharing agreement or arrangement providing for, and the making of, any payments permitted by Section 4.04(b)(xii);

(xix) (A) payments made to the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries by Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC (f/k/a Quiver Ventures, LLC) in connection with tax sharing arrangements and (B) any repayments or reimbursements by the Issuer or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC (f/k/a Quiver Ventures, LLC) to the extent that amounts paid thereby pursuant to clause (A) are in excess of the ultimate tax liability attributable thereto, in each case consistent with past practice of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries for other consolidated groups; and

(xx) any agreements or arrangements between a third party and an Affiliate of the Issuer that are acquired or assumed by the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with an acquisition or merger of such third party (or assets of such third party) by or with the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary; provided that (A) such acquisition or merger is permitted under this Indenture and (B) such agreements or arrangements are not entered into in contemplation of such acquisition or merger or otherwise for the purpose of avoiding the restrictions imposed by this section.

SECTION 4.08 Change of Control . (a) Upon a Change of Control, each Holder shall have the right to require the Issuer to repurchase all or any part of such Holder’s Securities at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), in accordance with the terms contemplated in this Section 4.08; provided , however , that notwithstanding the occurrence of a Change of Control, the Issuer shall not be obligated to purchase any Securities pursuant to this Section 4.08 in the event that it has exercised its right to redeem such Securities in accordance with Article 3 of this Indenture.

(b) Within 30 days following any Change of Control, except to the extent that the Issuer has exercised its right to redeem the Securities in accordance with Article 3 of this Indenture, the Issuer shall electronically deliver or mail a notice (a “Change of Control Offer”) to each Holder with a copy to the Trustee and paying agent stating:

(i) that a Change of Control has occurred and that such Holder has the right to require the Issuer to repurchase such Holder’s Securities at a repurchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of the Holders of record on a record date to receive interest on the relevant interest payment date);

 

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(ii) the repurchase date (which shall be no earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date such notice is electronically delivered or mailed, except that such notice may provide that, if the Change of Control does not occur on the repurchase date so designated, then the repurchase date may be delayed until such time as the applicable Change of Control shall occur);

(iii) the instructions determined by the Issuer, consistent with this Section 4.08, that a Holder must follow in order to have its Securities purchased; and

(iv) if such notice is electronically delivered or mailed prior to the occurrence of a Change of Control pursuant to a definitive agreement for the Change of Control, that such offer is conditioned on the occurrence of such Change of Control.

(c) Holders electing to have a Security purchased shall be required to surrender the Security, with an appropriate form duly completed, to the Issuer at the address specified in the notice at least three Business Days prior to the purchase date. The Holders shall be entitled to withdraw their election if the Trustee or the Issuer receives not later than one Business Day prior to the purchase date a facsimile transmission or letter setting forth the name of the Holder, the principal amount of the Security which was delivered for purchase by the Holder and a statement that such Holder is withdrawing his election to have such Security purchased. Holders whose Securities are purchased only in part shall be issued new Securities equal in principal amount to the unpurchased portion of the Securities surrendered.

(d) On the purchase date, all Securities purchased by the Issuer under this Section 4.08 shall be delivered to the Trustee for cancellation, and the Issuer shall pay the purchase price plus accrued and unpaid interest to the Holders entitled thereto.

(e) For the avoidance of doubt, a Change of Control Offer may be made in advance of a Change of Control, and be conditional upon such Change of Control, if a definitive agreement is in place in respect of the Change of Control at the time of making of the Change of Control Offer.

(f) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 4.08, the Issuer shall not be required to make a Change of Control Offer upon a Change of Control if a third party makes the Change of Control Offer in the manner, at the times and otherwise in compliance with the requirements set forth in this Section 4.08 applicable to a Change of Control Offer made by the Issuer and purchases all Securities validly tendered and not withdrawn under such Change of Control Offer.

(g) If Holders of not less than 90% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Securities validly tender and do not withdraw such Securities in a Change of Control Offer and the Issuer, or any third party making a Change of Control Offer in lieu of the Issuer as described above, purchases all of the Securities validly tendered and not withdrawn by such Holders, the Issuer or such third party will have the right, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice, given not more than 30 days following such purchase pursuant to the Change of Control Offer described above, to repurchase all Securities that remain outstanding following such purchase at a price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest to but excluding the date of repurchase.

 

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(h) Securities repurchased by the Issuer pursuant to a Change of Control Offer will have the status of Securities issued but not outstanding or will be retired and canceled at the option of the Issuer. Securities purchased by a third party pursuant to the preceding clause (f) will have the status of Securities issued and outstanding.

(i) At the time the Issuer delivers Securities to the Trustee which are to be accepted for purchase, the Issuer shall also deliver an Officer’s Certificate stating that such Securities are to be accepted by the Issuer pursuant to and in accordance with the terms of this Section 4.08. A Security shall be deemed to have been accepted for purchase at the time the Trustee, directly or through an agent, mails or delivers payment therefor to the surrendering Holder.

(j) Prior to any Change of Control Offer, the Issuer shall deliver to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate stating that all conditions precedent contained herein to the right of the Issuer to make such offer have been complied with.

(k) To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the provisions of this Section 4.08, the Issuer shall comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and shall not be deemed to have breached its obligations under this Section 4.08 by virtue thereof.

(l) The provisions under this Indenture relating to the Issuer’s obligation to make an offer to repurchase Securities as a result of a Change of Control may be waived or modified with the written consent of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities.

SECTION 4.09 Compliance Certificate . The Issuer shall deliver to the Trustee within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Issuer, beginning with the fiscal year ending on December 31, 2017, an Officer’s Certificate stating that in the course of the performance by the signers of their duties as Officers of the Issuer they would normally have knowledge of any Default and whether or not the signers know of any Default that occurred during such period. If they do, the certificate shall describe the Default, its status and what action the Issuer is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto.

SECTION 4.10 [Reserved] .

SECTION 4.11 Future Guarantors . The Issuer shall cause each Restricted Subsidiary (unless such Subsidiary is a Receivables Subsidiary) that guarantees any Indebtedness under any series of the Existing Notes or any Credit Facilities of the Issuer or any of the Guarantors, on the Issue Date or at any time thereafter, to execute and deliver to the Trustee, within 45 days of the date thereof, a supplemental indenture substantially in the form of Exhibit B pursuant to which such Subsidiary shall guarantee the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and this Indenture.

 

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SECTION 4.12 Liens . (a) The Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, create, Incur or suffer to exist any Lien on any asset or property of the Issuer or such Restricted Subsidiary securing Indebtedness unless the Securities are equally and ratably secured with (or on a senior basis to, in the case of obligations subordinated in right of payment to the Securities) the obligations so secured until such time as such obligations are no longer secured by a Lien.

(b) Section 4.12(a) shall not require the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer to secure the Securities if the Lien is a Permitted Lien. Any Lien that is granted to secure the Securities or such Guarantee under Section 4.12(a) shall be automatically released and discharged at the same time as the release of the Lien that gave rise to the obligation to secure the Securities or such Guarantee.

SECTION 4.13 Maintenance of Office or Agency . (a) The Issuer shall maintain an office or agency (which may be an office of the Trustee or an Affiliate of the Trustee or Registrar) where Securities may be surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange and where notices and demands to or upon the Issuer in respect of the Securities and this Indenture may be served. The Issuer shall give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency. If at any time the Issuer shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee with the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at the corporate trust office of the Trustee as set forth in Section 11.03.

(b) The Issuer may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where the Securities may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes and may from time to time rescind such designations; provided , however , that no such designation or rescission shall in any manner relieve the Issuer of its obligation to maintain an office or agency for such purposes. The Issuer shall give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change in the location of any such other office or agency.

(c) The Issuer hereby designates the corporate trust office of the Trustee or its Agent as such office or agency of the Issuer in accordance with Section 2.04.

SECTION 4.14 Termination and Suspension of Certain Covenants . (a) If on any date following the Issue Date (i) the Securities have Investment Grade Ratings from both Rating Agencies, and the Issuer has delivered an Officer’s Certificate of such Investment Grade Ratings to the Trustee, and (ii) no Default has occurred and is continuing under this Indenture (the occurrence of the events described in the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii) being collectively referred to as a “Covenant Suspension Event”), then, beginning on such date, the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries will not be subject to Section 4.03 hereof, Section 4.04 hereof, Section 4.05 hereof, Section 4.06 hereof, Section 4.07 hereof, Section 4.08 hereof, Section 4.11 hereof, clause (iv) of Section 5.01(a) hereof, Section 5.01(b) hereof and the penultimate paragraph of Section 5.01 hereof (collectively, the “Suspended Covenants”).

(b) In the event that the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries are not subject to the Suspended Covenants under this Indenture for any period of time as a result of the foregoing, and on any subsequent date (the “Reversion Date”) one or both of the Rating Agencies withdraw their Investment Grade Rating or downgrade the rating assigned to

 

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the Securities below an Investment Grade Rating, then the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries shall thereafter again be subject to the Suspended Covenants with respect to future events. The period of time between the Covenant Suspension Event and the Reversion Date is referred to herein as the “Suspension Period”.

(c) Notwithstanding that the Suspended Covenants may be reinstated, no Default will be deemed to have occurred as a result of a failure to comply with the Suspended Covenants during the Suspension Period. During any Suspension Period, the Issuer may not designate any Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary unless the Issuer would have been permitted to designate such Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary if a Suspension Period had not been in effect for any period, and such designation shall be deemed to have created a Restricted Payment pursuant to Section 4.04 following the Reversion Date.

(d) On the Reversion Date, all Indebtedness Incurred, or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock issued, during the Suspension Period will be classified to have been Incurred or issued pursuant to Section 4.03(a) or one of the clauses set forth in Section 4.03(b) (in each case, to the extent such Indebtedness would be permitted to be Incurred thereunder as of the Reversion Date and after giving effect to Indebtedness Incurred prior to the Suspension Period and outstanding on the Reversion Date). To the extent such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock would not be so permitted to be Incurred or issued pursuant to Section 4.03(a) or Section 4.03(b), such Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock or Preferred Stock will be deemed to have been outstanding on the Issue Date, so that it is classified as permitted under Section 4.03(b)(iv). For purposes of Section 4.11, all Indebtedness Incurred during the Suspension Period and outstanding on the Reversion Date by any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor will be deemed to have been Incurred on the Reversion Date. Calculations made after the Reversion Date of the amount available to be made as Restricted Payments under Section 4.04 will be made as though Section 4.04 had been in effect since the Issue Date and throughout the Suspension Period. Accordingly, Restricted Payments made during the Suspension Period will reduce the amount available to be made as Restricted Payments under Section 4.04(a) and the items specified in clauses (1) through (6) of the definition of “Cumulative Credit” will increase the amount available to be made as Restricted Payments under the first paragraph thereof. For purposes of determining compliance with Section 4.06 on the Reversion Date, the Net Proceeds from all Asset Sales not applied in accordance with the covenant will be deemed to be reset to zero.

(e) In addition, in the event that the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries are not subject to the Suspended Covenants under this Indenture for any period as a result of the foregoing, and on any subsequent date the Issuer or any of its Affiliates enters into an agreement to effect a transaction that would result in a Change of Control and one or more of the Rating Agencies indicate that if consummated, such transaction (alone or together with any related recapitalization or refinancing transactions) would cause such Rating Agency to withdraw its Investment Grade Rating or downgrade the ratings assigned to the Securities below an Investment Grade Rating, then the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries will thereafter again be subject to Section 4.08 hereof until the occurrence, if any, of another Covenant Suspension Event, or the termination of such agreement, or the withdrawal by such Rating Agency of such indication, whichever occurs earliest.

 

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ARTICLE 5

SUCCESSOR COMPANY

SECTION 5.01 When Issuer May Merge or Transfer Assets . (a) The Issuer shall not, directly or indirectly, consolidate, amalgamate or merge with or into or wind up or convert into (whether or not the Issuer is the surviving Person), or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more related transactions, to any Person unless:

(i) the Issuer is the surviving Person or the Person formed by or surviving any such consolidation, amalgamation, merger, winding up or conversion (if other than the Issuer) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition shall have been made is a corporation, partnership or limited liability company organized or other Person existing under the laws of any country in the European Union as of the Issue Date, of Switzerland, or of the United States, any state thereof, the District of Columbia, or any territory thereof (the Issuer or such Person, as the case may be, being herein called the “Successor Company”); provided that in the case where the surviving Person is not a corporation or limited liability company (or equivalent of a corporation or limited liability company in any permitted jurisdiction listed in this clause (i)), a co-obligor of the Securities is a corporation;

(ii) the Successor Company (if other than the Issuer) expressly assumes all the obligations of the Issuer under this Indenture and the Securities pursuant to supplemental indentures or other documents or instruments;

(iii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction (and treating any Indebtedness which becomes an obligation of the Successor Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries as a result of such transaction as having been Incurred by the Successor Company or such Restricted Subsidiary at the time of such transaction) no Default shall have occurred and be continuing;

(iv) immediately after giving pro forma effect to such transaction, as if such transaction had occurred at the beginning of the applicable four-quarter period (and treating any Indebtedness which becomes an obligation of the Successor Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries as a result of such transaction as having been Incurred by the Successor Company or such Restricted Subsidiary at the time of such transaction), either

(A) the Successor Company would be permitted to Incur at least $1.00 of additional Indebtedness pursuant to the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio test set forth in Section 4.03(a); or

(B) the Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio for the Successor Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries would be equal to or greater than such ratio for the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries immediately prior to such transaction;

 

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(v) if the Successor Company is not the Issuer, each Guarantor, unless it is the other party to the transactions described above, shall have by supplemental indenture confirmed that its Guarantee shall apply to such Person’s obligations under this Indenture and the Securities; and

(vi) the Successor Company (if other than the Issuer) shall have delivered to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, amalgamation, merger or transfer and such supplemental indentures (if any) comply with this Indenture.

The Successor Company (if other than the Issuer) shall succeed to, and be substituted for, the Issuer under this Indenture and the Securities, and in such event the Issuer will automatically be released and discharged from its obligations under this Indenture and the Securities. Notwithstanding the foregoing clauses (iii) and (iv) of this Section 5.01(a), (A) any Restricted Subsidiary may merge, consolidate or amalgamate with or transfer all or part of its properties and assets to the Issuer or to another Restricted Subsidiary, and (B) the Issuer may merge, consolidate or amalgamate with an Affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating the Issuer in any country in the European Union as of the Issue Date, Switzerland, a state of the United States, the District of Columbia or any territory of the United States, so long as the amount of Indebtedness of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries is not increased thereby. This Article 5 will not apply to a sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of assets between or among the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries.

(b) Subject to the provisions of Section 10.03 (which govern the release of a Guarantee upon the sale or disposition of a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer that is a Guarantor), no Guarantor shall, and the Issuer shall not permit any Guarantor to, consolidate, amalgamate or merge with or into or wind up into (whether or not such Guarantor is the surviving Person), or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets in one or more related transactions to, any Person unless:

(i) either (A) such Guarantor is the surviving Person or the Person formed by or surviving any such consolidation, amalgamation or merger (if other than such Guarantor) or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition shall have been made is a corporation, partnership or limited liability company or other Person organized or existing under the laws of any country in the European Union as of the Issue Date, of Switzerland, or of the United States, any state thereof, the District of Columbia, or any territory thereof (such Guarantor or such Person, as the case may be, being herein called the “Successor Guarantor” ) and the Successor Guarantor (if other than such Guarantor) expressly assumes all the obligations of such Guarantor under this Indenture and such Security, such Guarantor’s Guarantee pursuant to a supplemental indenture or other documents or instruments, or (B) such sale or disposition or consolidation, amalgamation or merger is not in violation of Section 4.06; and

 

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(ii) in the case of clause (i)(A) above, the Successor Guarantor (if other than such Guarantor) shall have delivered or caused to be delivered to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that such consolidation, amalgamation, merger or transfer and such supplemental indenture (if any) comply with this Indenture.

Except as otherwise provided in this Indenture, the Successor Guarantor (if other than such Guarantor) will succeed to, and be substituted for, such Guarantor under this Indenture and such Guarantor’s Guarantee, and such Guarantor will automatically be released and discharged from its obligations under this Indenture and such Guarantor’s Guarantee. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (1) a Guarantor may merge, amalgamate or consolidate with an Affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating such Guarantor in any country in the European Union as of the Issue Date, Switzerland, the United States, or a state of the United States, the District of Columbia or any territory of the United States so long as the amount of Indebtedness of the Guarantor is not increased thereby and (2) a Guarantor may merge, amalgamate or consolidate with another Guarantor or the Issuer.

In addition, notwithstanding the foregoing, any Guarantor may consolidate, amalgamate or merge with or into or wind up into, or sell, assign, transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of its properties or assets (collectively, a “Transfer”) to (x) the Issuer or any Guarantor or (y) any Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer that is not a Guarantor; provided that at the time of each such Transfer pursuant to clause (y) the aggregate amount of all such Transfers since the Issue Date shall not exceed 5.0% of the consolidated assets of the Issuer and the Guarantors as shown on the most recent available balance sheet of the Issuer and the Restricted Subsidiaries after giving effect to each such Transfer and including all Transfers occurring from and after the Issue Date.

ARTICLE 6

DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES

SECTION 6.01 Events of Default . An “Event of Default” with respect to the Securities occurs if:

(a) there is a default in any payment of interest (including any Additional Amounts) on any Security, when the same becomes due and payable, and such default continues for a period of 30 days;

(b) there is a default in the payment of principal or premium, if any, of any Security, when due at its Stated Maturity, upon optional redemption, upon required repurchase, upon declaration or otherwise;

(c) the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary fails to comply with its obligations under Section 5.01;

(d) the Issuer or any Restricted Subsidiary fails to comply with any of its agreements in the Securities or this Indenture (other than those referred to in clause (a), (b) or (c) above) and such failure continues for 60 days after the notice specified below;

 

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(e) the Issuer or any Significant Subsidiary fails to pay any Indebtedness (other than Indebtedness owing to the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary) within any applicable grace period after final maturity or the acceleration of any such Indebtedness by the holders thereof because of a default, in each case, if the total amount of such Indebtedness unpaid or accelerated exceeds €50.0 million or its foreign currency equivalent;

(f) the Issuer or any Significant Subsidiary pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law:

(i) commences a voluntary case;

(ii) consents to the entry of an order for relief against it in an involuntary case;

(iii) consents to the appointment of a Custodian of it or for any substantial part of its property; or

(iv) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors or takes any comparable action under any foreign laws relating to insolvency;

(g) a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that:

(i) is for relief against the Issuer or any Significant Subsidiary in an involuntary case;

(ii) appoints a Custodian of the Issuer or any Significant Subsidiary or for any substantial part of its property; or

(iii) orders the winding up or liquidation of the Issuer or any Significant Subsidiary;

or any similar relief is granted under any foreign laws and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60 days;

(h) the Issuer or any Significant Subsidiary fails to pay final judgments aggregating in excess of €50.0 million or its foreign currency equivalent (net of any amounts which are covered by enforceable insurance policies issued by solvent carriers), which judgments are not discharged, waived or stayed for a period of 60 days following the entry thereof; or

(i) any Guarantee of a Significant Subsidiary with respect to the Securities ceases to be in full force and effect (except as contemplated by the terms thereof) or any Guarantor that qualifies as a Significant Subsidiary denies or disaffirms its obligations under this Indenture or any Guarantee with respect to the Securities and such Default continues for 10 days.

 

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The foregoing shall constitute Events of Default whatever the reason for any such Event of Default and whether it is voluntary or involuntary or is effected by operation of law or pursuant to any judgment, decree or order of any court or any order, rule or regulation of any administrative or governmental body.

The term “Bankruptcy Law” means Title 11, United States Code, or any similar federal or state law or similar applicable law of any jurisdiction for the relief of debtors. The term “Custodian” means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator, custodian or similar official under any Bankruptcy Law.

A Default under clause (d) above shall not constitute an Event of Default until the Trustee or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Securities notify the Issuer of the Default and the Issuer does not cure such Default within the time specified in clause (d) above after receipt of such notice. Such notice must specify the Default, demand that it be remedied and state that such notice is a “Notice of Default.” The Issuer shall deliver to the Trustee, within thirty (30) days after the occurrence thereof, written notice in the form of an Officer’s Certificate of any event which is, or with the giving of notice or the lapse of time or both would become, an Event of Default, its status and what action the Issuer is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto.

SECTION 6.02 Acceleration . If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) with respect to the Issuer) occurs with respect to the Securities and is continuing, the Trustee or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of Securities, by notice to the Issuer may declare the principal of, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on all the Securities to be due and payable; provided , however , that so long as any Bank Indebtedness remains outstanding, no such acceleration shall be effective until the earlier of (i) five (5) Business Days after the giving of written notice to the Issuer and the Representative under the Bank Credit Facilities and (ii) the day on which any Bank Indebtedness is accelerated. Upon such a declaration, such principal, premium, if any, and interest shall be due and payable immediately. If an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) with respect to the Issuer occurs, the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on all the Securities shall become and be immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of the Trustee or any Holders. The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Securities by notice to the Trustee may rescind any such acceleration and its consequences.

In the event of any Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(e), such Event of Default and all consequences thereof (excluding, however, any resulting payment default) shall be annulled, waived and rescinded, automatically and without any action by the Trustee or the Holders of the Securities, if within 20 days after such Event of Default arose the Issuer delivers an Officer’s Certificate to the Trustee stating that (x) the Indebtedness or guarantee that is the basis for such Event of Default has been discharged or (y) the holders thereof have rescinded or waived the acceleration, notice or action (as the case may be) giving rise to such Event of Default or (z) the default that is the basis for such Event of Default has been cured, it being understood that in no event shall an acceleration of the principal amount of the Securities as described above be annulled, waived or rescinded upon the happening of any such events.

 

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SECTION 6.03 Other Remedies . If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may pursue any available remedy at law or in equity to collect the payment of principal of or interest on the Securities or to enforce the performance of any provision of the Securities or this Indenture.

The Trustee may maintain a proceeding even if it does not possess any of the Securities or does not produce any of them in the proceeding. A delay or omission by the Trustee or any Holder in exercising any right or remedy accruing upon an Event of Default shall not impair the right or remedy or constitute a waiver of or acquiescence in the Event of Default. No remedy is exclusive of any other remedy. To the extent required by law, all available remedies are cumulative.

SECTION 6.04 Waiver of Past Defaults . Provided the Securities are not then due and payable by reason of a declaration of acceleration, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Securities by written notice to the Trustee may waive an existing Default or Event of Default and its consequences except (a) a Default in the payment of the principal of or interest on a Security, (b) a Default arising from the failure to redeem or purchase any Security when required pursuant to the terms of this Indenture or (c) a Default in respect of a provision that under Section 9.02 cannot be amended without the consent of each Holder affected. When a Default is waived, it is deemed cured and the Issuer, the Trustee and the Holders will be restored to their former positions and rights under this Indenture, but no such waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other Default or impair any consequent right.

SECTION 6.05 Control by Majority . The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Securities may direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or of exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee. However, the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or this Indenture or, subject to Section 7.01, is unduly prejudicial to the rights of any other Holder or that would involve the Trustee in personal or financial liability. Prior to taking any action under this Indenture, the Trustee shall be entitled to indemnification and security satisfactory to it in its sole discretion against all losses and expenses caused by taking or not taking such action.

SECTION 6.06 Limitation on Suits . (a) Except to enforce the right to receive payment of principal, premium (if any) or interest when due, no Holder may pursue any remedy with respect to this Indenture or the Securities unless:

(i) the Holder gives to the Trustee written notice stating that an Event of Default is continuing;

(ii) the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the outstanding Securities make a written request to the Trustee to pursue the remedy;

(iii) such Holder or Holders offer to the Trustee reasonable security and indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense;

(iv) the Trustee does not comply with the request within 60 days after receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity; and

 

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(v) the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities do not give the Trustee a direction inconsistent with the request during such 60-day period.

(b) A Holder may not use this Indenture to prejudice the rights of another Holder or to obtain a preference or priority over another Holder.

SECTION 6.07 Rights of the Holders to Receive Payment . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture, the legal right of any Holder to receive payment of principal and of interest on the Securities held by such Holder, on or after the respective due dates expressed or provided for in the Securities, or to bring suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after such respective dates, shall not be impaired or affected without the consent of such Holder.

SECTION 6.08 Collection Suit by Trustee . If an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(a) or (b) occurs and is continuing with respect to Securities, the Trustee may recover judgment in its own name and as trustee of an express trust against the Issuer or any other obligor on the Securities for the whole amount then due and owing (together with interest on overdue principal and (to the extent lawful) on any unpaid interest at the rate provided for in such Securities) and the amounts provided for in Section 7.07.

SECTION 6.09 Trustee May File Proofs of Claim . The Trustee may file such proofs of claim and other papers or documents as may be necessary or advisable in order to have the claims of the Trustee (including any claim for reasonable compensation, expenses disbursements and advances of the Trustee (including counsel, accountants, experts or such other professionals as the Trustee deems necessary, advisable or appropriate)) and the Holders of the Securities then outstanding allowed in any judicial proceedings relative to the Issuer or any Guarantor, its creditors or its property, shall be entitled to participate as a member, voting or otherwise, of any official committee of creditors appointed in such matters and, unless prohibited by law or applicable regulations, may vote on behalf of the Holders in any election of a trustee in bankruptcy or other Person performing similar functions, and any Custodian in any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make payments to the Trustee and, in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due it for the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and its counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 7.07.

SECTION 6.10 Priorities . If the Trustee collects any money or property pursuant to this Article 6, it shall pay out the money or property in the following order:

FIRST: to the Trustee (in all of its roles and capacities) for amounts due under Section 7.07;

SECOND: to the Holders for amounts due and unpaid on the Securities for principal, premium, if any, and interest, ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and payable on the Securities for principal and interest, respectively; and

THIRD: to the Issuer.

 

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The Trustee may fix a record date and payment date for any payment to the Holders pursuant to this Section. At least 15 days before such record date, the Trustee shall mail to each Holder and the Issuer a notice that states the record date, the payment date and amount to be paid.

SECTION 6.11 Undertaking for Costs . In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture or in any suit against the Trustee for any action taken or omitted by it as Trustee, a court in its discretion may require the filing by any party litigant in the suit of an undertaking to pay the costs of the suit, and the court in its discretion may assess reasonable costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, against any party litigant in the suit, having due regard to the merits and good faith of the claims or defenses made by the party litigant. This Section does not apply to a suit by the Trustee, a suit by a Holder pursuant to Section 6.07 or a suit by Holders of more than 10% in principal amount of the outstanding Securities.

SECTION 6.12 Waiver of Stay or Extension Laws . Neither the Issuer nor any Guarantor (to the extent it may lawfully do so) shall at any time insist upon, or plead, or in any manner whatsoever claim or take the benefit or advantage of, any stay or extension law wherever enacted, now or at any time hereafter in force, which may affect the covenants or the performance of this Indenture; and the Issuer and each Guarantor (to the extent that it may lawfully do so) hereby expressly waives all benefit or advantage of any such law, and shall not hinder, delay or impede the execution of any power herein granted to the Trustee, but shall suffer and permit the execution of every such power as though no such law had been enacted.

ARTICLE 7

TRUSTEE

SECTION 7.01 Duties of Trustee . (a) If an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Trustee shall exercise the rights and powers vested in it by this Indenture and use the same degree of care and skill in their exercise as a prudent person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such person’s own affairs.

(b) Except during the continuance of an Event of Default:

(i) the Trustee undertakes to perform such duties and only such duties as are specifically set forth in this Indenture and no implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Indenture against the Trustee (it being agreed that the permissive right of the Trustee to do things enumerated in this Indenture shall not be construed as a duty); and

(ii) in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to the Trustee and conforming to the requirements of this Indenture. The Trustee shall be under no duty to make any investigation as to any statement contained in any such instance, but may accept the same as conclusive evidence of the truth and accuracy of such statement or the correctness of such opinions. However, in the case of certificates or opinions required by any provision hereof to be provided to it, the Trustee shall examine the certificates and opinions to determine whether or not they conform to the form required by this Indenture.

 

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(c) The Trustee may not be relieved from liability for its own grossly negligent action, its own grossly negligent failure to act or its own willful misconduct, except that:

(i) this paragraph does not limit the effect of paragraph (b) of this Section 7.01;

(ii) the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a Responsible Officer of the Trustee unless it is proved that the Trustee was grossly negligent in ascertaining the pertinent facts;

(iii) the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in accordance with a direction received by it pursuant to Section 6.05; and

(iv) no provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise Incur financial or personal liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers.

(d) Every provision of this Indenture that in any way relates to the Trustee is subject to paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of this Section.

(e) The Trustee shall not be liable for interest on any money received by it except as the Trustee may agree in writing with the Issuer.

(f) Money held in trust by the Trustee need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law.

(g) Every provision of this Indenture relating to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of this Section.

SECTION 7.02 Rights of Trustee . (a) The Trustee may conclusively rely on any document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper person. The Trustee need not investigate any fact, calculation or matter stated in the document.

(b) Before the Trustee acts or refrains from acting, it may require an Officer’s Certificate or an Opinion of Counsel or both. The Trustee shall not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in reliance on the Officer’s Certificate or Opinion of Counsel.

(c) The Trustee may act through agents and shall not be responsible for the misconduct or gross negligence of any agent appointed with due care.

 

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(d) The Trustee shall not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith which it believes to be authorized or within its rights or powers; provided , however , that the Trustee’s conduct does not constitute willful misconduct or gross negligence.

(e) The Trustee may consult with counsel of its own selection and the advice or opinion of counsel with respect to legal matters relating to this Indenture and the Securities shall be full and complete authorization and protection from liability in respect of any action taken, omitted or suffered by it hereunder in good faith and in accordance with the advice or opinion of such counsel.

(f) The Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, order, approval, bond, debenture, note or other paper or document unless requested in writing to do so by the Holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Securities at the time outstanding, but the Trustee, in its discretion, may make such further inquiry or investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit, and, if the Trustee shall determine to make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine the books, records and premises of the Issuer, personally or by agent or attorney, at the expense of the Issuer and shall Incur no liability of any kind by reason of such inquiry or investigation.

(g) The Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders pursuant to this Indenture, unless such Holders shall have offered to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against the costs, expenses (including reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses) and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such request or direction.

(h) The rights, privileges, protections, immunities and benefits given to the Trustee, including its right to be indemnified, are extended to, and shall be enforceable by, the Trustee in each of its roles and capacities hereunder, and each agent, custodian and other Person appointed or employed to act hereunder.

(i) The Trustee shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted by it in good faith at the direction of the Holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Securities as to the time, method and place of conducting any proceedings for any remedy available to the Trustee or the exercising of any power conferred by this Indenture.

(j) Any action taken, or omitted to be taken, by the Trustee in good faith pursuant to this Indenture upon the request or authority or consent of any Person who, at the time of making such request or giving such authority or consent, is the Holder of any Security shall be conclusive and binding upon future Holders of Securities and upon Securities executed and delivered in exchange therefor or in place thereof.

(k) Unless otherwise specifically provided in this Indenture, any demand, request, direction or notice from the Issuer shall be sufficient if signed by an Officer of the Issuer.

 

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(l) The Trustee shall not be charged with knowledge or deemed with notice of any Default of Event of Default with respect to the Securities unless either (A) a Responsible Officer of the Trustee assigned to the Corporate Trust department of the Trustee (or any successor division or department of the Trustee) shall have actual knowledge of such Default or Event of Default or (B) written notice of such Default or Event of Default shall have been given to the Trustee at its Corporate Trust Office by the Issuer or any other obligor on the Securities or by any Holder of the Securities, such notice specifically identifying this Indenture and the Securities. For purposes of determining the Trustee’s responsibility and liability hereunder, whenever reference is made in this Indenture to a Default or Event of Default, such reference shall be construed to refer only to such Default or Event of Default for which the Trustee is deemed to have notice pursuant to this Section 7.02(l).

(m) The Trustee may request that the Issuer deliver an Officer’s Certificate setting forth the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officer’s Certificate may be signed by any person authorized to sign an Officer’s Certificate, including any person specified as so authorized in any such certificate previously delivered and not superseded.

(n) The permissive rights of the Trustee enumerated herein shall not be construed as duties.

(o) In respect of this Indenture, the Trustee shall not have any duty or obligation to verify or confirm that the Person sending instructions, directions, reports, notices or other communications or information by electronic transmission is, in fact, a Person authorized to give such instructions, directions, reports, notices or other communications or information on behalf of the party purporting to send such electronic transmission; and the Trustee shall not have any liability for any losses, liabilities, costs or expenses incurred or sustained by any party as a result of such reliance upon or compliance with such instructions, directions, reports, notices or other communications or information. Each other party agrees to assume all risks arising out of the use of electronic methods to submit instructions, directions, reports, notices or other communications or information to the Trustee, including without limitation the risk of the Trustee acting on unauthorized instructions, notices, reports or other communications or information, and the risk of interception and misuse by third parties.

(p) In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for any special, indirect, punitive or consequential loss or damage of any kind whatsoever (including, but not limited to, loss of profit) irrespective of whether the Trustee has been advised of the likelihood of such loss or damage and regardless of the form of action.

(q) The Trustee shall have no obligation or duty to ensure compliance with the securities laws of any country or state except to request such certificates or other documents required to be obtained by the Trustee or any Registrar hereunder in connection with any exchange or transfer pursuant to the terms hereof.

(r) The Trustee shall not incur any liability for not performing any act or fulfilling any duty, obligation or responsibility hereunder by reason of any occurrence beyond the control of the Trustee (including but not limited to any act or provision of any present or future law or regulation or governmental authority, any act of God or war, civil unrest, local or national disturbance or disaster, any act of terrorism, or the unavailability of the Federal Reserve Bank wire or facsimile or other wire or communication facility).

 

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SECTION 7.03 Individual Rights of Trustee . The Trustee in its individual or any other capacity may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and may otherwise deal with the Issuer or their Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee. Any paying agent or Registrar may do the same with like rights.

SECTION 7.04 Trustee’s Disclaimer . The Trustee shall not be responsible for and makes no representation as to the validity or adequacy of this Indenture, any Guarantee or the Securities, it shall not be accountable for the Issuer’s use of the proceeds from the Securities, and it shall not be responsible for any statement of the Issuer or any Guarantor in this Indenture or in any document issued in connection with the sale of the Securities or in the Securities other than the Trustee’s certificate of authentication. The Trustee shall not be charged with knowledge of any Default or Event of Default under Sections 6.01(c), (d), (e), (f), (g), (h), or (i) or of the identity of any Significant Subsidiary unless either (a) a Responsible Officer of the Trustee shall have actual knowledge thereof or (b) the Trustee shall have received written notice thereof in accordance with Section 11.03 hereof from the Issuer, any Guarantor or any Holder. In accepting the trust hereby created, the Trustee acts solely as Trustee for the Holders of the Securities and not in its individual capacity and all persons, including without limitation the Holders of Securities and the Issuer having any claim against the Trustee arising from this Indenture shall look only to the funds and accounts held by the Trustee hereunder for payment except as otherwise provided herein.

SECTION 7.05 Notice of Defaults . If a Default occurs and is continuing and if it is actually known to a Responsible Officer of the Trustee, the Trustee shall electronically deliver or mail to each Holder of the Securities notice of the Default within the earlier of 90 days after it occurs or 30 days after it is actually known to a Responsible Officer of the Trustee or written notice of it is received by the Trustee. Except in the case of a Default in the payment of principal of, premium (if any) or interest on any Security, the Trustee may withhold the notice if and so long as a Responsible Officer of the Trustee in good faith determines that withholding the notice is in the interests of the Holders of the Securities.

SECTION 7.06 Affiliate Subordination Agreement . By its acceptance of the Securities issued hereunder, each Holder hereby authorizes and directs the Trustee to, and upon the request of the Company the Trustee shall, enter into and perform an affiliate subordination agreement on behalf of the Holders, on terms substantially similar (as conclusively determined by an Officer’s Certificate delivered to the Trustee) to that certain Affiliate Subordination Agreement, dated as of May 7, 2014, among the subordinated lenders and subordinated borrowers party thereto, Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as administrative agent, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as trustee.

SECTION 7.07 Compensation and Indemnity .

(a) The Issuer shall pay to the Trustee from time to time reasonable compensation for its services. The Trustee’s compensation shall not be limited by any law on compensation of a trustee of an express trust.

 

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(b) The Issuer shall reimburse the Trustee upon request for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred or made by it, including costs of collection, in addition to the compensation for its services. Such expenses shall include the reasonable compensation and expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee’s agents, counsel, accountants and experts. The Issuer shall indemnify the Trustee against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage or expense (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by or in connection with the acceptance or administration of this trust and the performance of its duties hereunder, including the costs and expenses of enforcing this Indenture or Guarantee against the Issuer or a Guarantor (including this Section 7.07) and defending itself against or investigating any claim (whether asserted by the Issuer, any Guarantor, any Holder or any other Person). The obligation to indemnify and pay such amounts shall survive the payment in full or defeasance of the Securities or the removal or resignation of the Trustee. The Trustee shall notify the Issuer of any claim for which it may seek indemnity promptly upon obtaining actual knowledge thereof; provided , however , that any failure so to notify the Issuer shall not relieve the Issuer of its indemnity obligations hereunder. The Issuer shall defend the claim and the indemnified party shall provide reasonable cooperation at the Issuer’s expense in the defense. Such indemnified parties may have separate counsel and the Issuer shall pay the fees and expenses of such counsel; provided , however , that the Issuer shall not be required to pay such fees and expenses if it assumes such indemnified parties’ defense and, in such indemnified parties’ reasonable judgment, there is no conflict of interest between the Issuer and such parties in connection with such defense. The Issuer need not reimburse any expense or indemnify against any loss, liability or expense incurred by an indemnified party through such party’s own willful misconduct, gross negligence or bad faith, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in a final, non-appealable ruling.

(c) To secure the Issuer’s payment obligations in this Section, the Trustee shall have a Lien prior to the Securities on all money or property held or collected by the Trustee other than money or property held in trust to pay principal of and interest on particular Securities.

(d) The Issuer’s payment obligations pursuant to this Section shall survive the satisfaction or discharge of this Indenture, any rejection or termination of this Indenture under any bankruptcy law or the resignation or removal of the Trustee. Without prejudice to any other rights available to the Trustee under applicable law, when the Trustee incurs expenses after the occurrence of a Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) with respect to the Issuer, the expenses are intended to constitute expenses of administration under the Bankruptcy Law.

(e) No provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise Incur any financial liability in the performance of any of its duties hereunder, or in the exercise of any of its rights or powers, if repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity or security against such risk or liability is not assured to its satisfaction.

 

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SECTION 7.08 Replacement of Trustee . (a) The Trustee may resign at any time by so notifying the Issuer. The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities may remove the Trustee by so notifying the Trustee and may appoint a successor Trustee. The Issuer shall remove the Trustee if:

(i) [reserved];

(ii) the Trustee is adjudged bankrupt or insolvent;

(iii) a receiver or other public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or

(iv) the Trustee otherwise becomes incapable of acting.

(b) If the Trustee resigns, is removed by the Issuer or by the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities and such Holders do not reasonably promptly appoint a successor Trustee, or if a vacancy exists in the office of Trustee for any reason (the Trustee in such event being referred to herein as the retiring Trustee), the Issuer shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee.

(c) A successor Trustee shall deliver a written acceptance of its appointment to the retiring Trustee and to the Issuer. Thereupon the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective, and the successor Trustee shall have all the rights, powers and duties of the Trustee under this Indenture. The successor Trustee shall mail a notice of its succession to the Holders. The retiring Trustee shall promptly transfer all property held by it as Trustee to the successor Trustee, subject to the Lien provided for in Section 7.07.

(d) If a successor Trustee does not take office within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the retiring Trustee or the Holders of 10% in principal amount of the Securities may petition at the expense of the Issuer any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.

(e) [Reserved].

(f) Notwithstanding the replacement of the Trustee pursuant to this Section 7.08, the Issuer’s obligations under Section 7.07 shall continue for the benefit of the retiring Trustee.

SECTION 7.09 Successor Trustee by Merger . If the Trustee consolidates with, merges or converts into, or transfers all or substantially all its corporate trust business or assets to, another corporation or banking association, the resulting, surviving or transferee corporation without any further act shall be the successor Trustee.

In case at the time such successor or successors by merger, conversion or consolidation to the Trustee shall succeed to the trusts created by this Indenture any of the Securities shall have been authenticated but not delivered, any such successor to the Trustee may adopt the certificate of authentication of any predecessor trustee, and deliver such Securities so authenticated; and in case at that time any of the Securities shall not have been authenticated, any successor to the Trustee may authenticate such Securities either in the name of any predecessor hereunder or in the name of the successor to the Trustee; and in all such cases such certificates shall have the full force which it is anywhere in the Securities or in this Indenture provided that the certificate of the Trustee shall have.

 

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ARTICLE 8

DISCHARGE OF INDENTURE; DEFEASANCE

SECTION 8.01 Discharge of Liability on Securities; Defeasance . This Indenture shall be discharged and shall cease to be of further effect (except as to surviving rights of registration of transfer or exchange of Securities, as expressly provided for in this Indenture) as to all outstanding Securities when:

(a) either (i) all the Securities theretofore authenticated and delivered (other than Securities pursuant to Section 2.08 which have been replaced or paid and Securities for whose payment money has theretofore been deposited in trust or segregated and held in trust by the Issuer and thereafter repaid to the Issuer or discharged from such trust) have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation or (ii) all of the Securities (A) have become due and payable, (B) will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year or (C) if redeemable at the option of the Issuer, are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Issuer, and the Issuer has irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee or its designee money, U.S. Government Obligations or a combination thereof in an amount sufficient in the written opinion of an Independent Financial Advisor delivered to the Trustee (which opinion shall only be required if U.S. Government Obligations have been so deposited) to pay and discharge the entire Indebtedness on the Securities not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation, for principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Securities to the date of deposit together with irrevocable written instructions from the Issuer directing the Trustee to apply such funds to the payment thereof at maturity or redemption, as the case may be;

(b) the Issuer and/or the Guarantors have paid all other sums payable under this Indenture; and

(c) the Issuer has delivered to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that all conditions precedent under this Indenture relating to the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture have been complied with.

Subject to Sections 8.01(c) and 8.02, the Issuer at any time may terminate (i) all of its obligations under the Securities and this Indenture (with respect to such Securities) (“legal defeasance option”) or (ii) its obligations under Sections 4.02, 4.03, 4.04, 4.05, 4.06, 4.07, 4.08, 4.09, 4.11 and 4.12 for the benefit of the Securities and the operation of Section 5.01 and Sections 6.01(c), 6.01(d), 6.01(e), 6.01(f) (with respect to Significant Subsidiaries of the Issuer only), 6.01(g) (with respect to Significant Subsidiaries of the Issuer only), 6.01(h) and 6.01(i) (“covenant defeasance option”) for the benefit of the Holders of the Securities. The Issuer may exercise its legal defeasance option notwithstanding its prior exercise of its covenant defeasance option. In the event that the Issuer exercises its legal defeasance option or its covenant defeasance option with respect to the Securities, the obligations of each Guarantor under its Guarantee of such Securities shall be terminated simultaneously with the termination of the obligations terminated pursuant to such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance.

 

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If the Issuer exercises its legal defeasance option, payment of the Securities so defeased may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default. If the Issuer exercises its covenant defeasance option, payment of the Securities so defeased may not be accelerated because of an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(c), 6.01(d), 6.01(e), 6.01(f), 6.01(g), 6.01(h) or 6.01(i) or because of the failure of the Issuer to comply with Section 5.01.

Upon satisfaction of the conditions set forth herein and upon request and at the expense of the Issuer, the Trustee shall acknowledge in writing the discharge of those obligations that the Issuer terminates.

(d) Notwithstanding clauses (i) and (ii) above, the Issuer’s obligations in Sections 2.04, 2.05, 2.06, 2.07, 2.08, 2.09, 7.07, 7.08 and in this Article 8 shall survive until the Securities have been paid in full. Thereafter, the Issuer’s obligations in Sections 7.07, 8.05 and 8.06 shall survive such satisfaction and discharge.

SECTION 8.02 Conditions to Defeasance . (a) The Issuer may exercise its legal defeasance option or its covenant defeasance option, in each case, with respect to the Securities only if:

(i) the Issuer irrevocably deposits in trust with the Trustee or its designee money, U.S. Government Obligations or a combination thereof sufficient, in the case any U.S. Government Obligations are deposited, in the opinion of an Independent Financial Advisor, for the payment of principal of and premium (if any) and interest on the Securities when due at maturity or redemption, as the case may be, including interest thereon to maturity or such redemption date;

(ii) the Issuer delivers to the Trustee a certificate from an Independent Financial Advisor expressing their opinion that the payments of principal and interest when due and without reinvestment on the deposited U.S. Government Obligations plus any deposited money without investment will provide cash at such times and in such amounts as will be sufficient to pay principal, premium, if any, and interest when due on all the Securities to maturity or redemption, as the case may be;

(iii) 123 days pass after the deposit is made and during the 123-day period no Default specified in Section 6.01(f) or (g) with respect to the Issuer occurs which is continuing at the end of the period;

(iv) the deposit does not constitute a default under any other agreement binding on the Issuer;

(v) in the case of the legal defeasance option, the Issuer shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel stating that (1) the Issuer has received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling, or (2) since the date of this Indenture there has been a change in the

 

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applicable U.S. Federal income tax law, in either case to the effect that, and based thereon such Opinion of Counsel shall confirm that, the beneficial owners will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. Federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and will be subject to U.S. Federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred;

(vi) such exercise does not impair the right of any Holder to receive payment of principal, premium, if any, and interest on such Holder’s Securities on or after the due dates therefore or to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment on or with respect to such Holder’s Securities;

(vii) in the case of the covenant defeasance option, the Issuer shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that the Holders will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. Federal income tax purposes as a result of such deposit and defeasance and will be subject to Federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such deposit and defeasance had not occurred; and

(viii) the Issuer delivers to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent to the defeasance and discharge of the Securities to be so defeased and discharged as contemplated by this Article 8 have been complied with.

(b) Before or after a deposit, the Issuer may make arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the redemption of such Securities at a future date in accordance with Article 3.

SECTION 8.03 Application of Trust Money . The Trustee shall hold in trust money or U.S. Government Obligations (including proceeds thereof) deposited with it pursuant to this Article 8. It shall apply the deposited money and the money from U.S. Government Obligations through each paying agent and in accordance with this Indenture to the payment of principal of and interest on the Securities so discharged or defeased.

SECTION 8.04 Repayment to Issuer . Each of the Trustee and each paying agent shall promptly turn over to the Issuer upon request any money or U.S. Government Obligations held by it as provided in this Article which, in the written opinion of an Independent Financial Advisor delivered to the Trustee (which delivery shall only be required if U.S. Government Obligations have been so deposited), are in excess of the amount thereof which would then be required to be deposited to effect an equivalent discharge or defeasance in accordance with this Article 8.

Subject to any applicable abandoned property law, the Trustee and each paying agent shall pay to the Issuer upon written request any money held by them for the payment of principal or interest that remains unclaimed for two years, and, thereafter, Holders entitled to the money must look to the Issuer for payment as general creditors, and the Trustee and each paying agent shall have no further liability with respect to such monies.

 

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SECTION 8.05 Indemnity for U.S. Government Obligations . The Issuer shall pay and shall indemnify the Trustee against any tax, fee or other charge imposed on or assessed against deposited U.S. Government Obligations or the principal and interest received on such U.S. Government Obligations.

SECTION 8.06 Reinstatement . If the Trustee or any paying agent is unable to apply any money or U.S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article 8 by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting such application, the Issuer’s obligations under this Indenture and the Securities so discharged or defeased shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had occurred pursuant to this Article 8 until such time as the Trustee or any paying agent is permitted to apply all such money or U.S. Government Obligations in accordance with this Article 8; provided , however , that, if the Issuer has made any payment of principal of or interest on, any such Securities because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuer shall be subrogated to the rights of the Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or U.S. Government Obligations held by the Trustee or any paying agent.

ARTICLE 9

AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS

SECTION 9.01 Without Consent of the Holders . The Issuer and the Trustee may amend this Indenture and the Securities without notice to or consent of any Holder:

(i) to cure any ambiguity, omission, mistake, defect or inconsistency;

(ii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor Company of the obligations of the Issuer under this Indenture and the Securities;

(iii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor Guarantor of the obligations of a Guarantor under this Indenture and the applicable Guarantee;

(iv) to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities ( provided that the uncertificated Securities are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code);

(v) to add a Guarantee with respect to the Securities;

(vi) to make any change that would provide additional rights or benefits to the Holders or that does not adversely affect the legal rights of any such Holder under this Indenture;

(vii) to make changes relating to the transfer and legending of the Securities;

(viii) to secure the Securities;

 

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(ix) to add to the covenants of the Issuer for the benefit of the Holders or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Issuer or any Guarantor;

(x) to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any Holder in any material respect;

(xi) to effect any provision of this Indenture;

(xii) to provide for the issuance of Add-On Securities, which shall have terms substantially identical in all material respects to the Original Securities, and which shall be treated, together with any outstanding Original Securities, as a single issue of securities;

(xiii) to evidence and provide for the acceptance and appointment under this Indenture of a successor Trustee hereunder pursuant to the requirements hereof;

(xiv) to conform and evidence the release, termination and discharge of any Guarantee or Lien securing the Securities when such release, termination or discharge is permitted by this Indenture; and

(xv) to conform the text of this Indenture, the Guarantees or the Securities to any provision of the “Description of the Notes” contained in the Offering Memorandum to the extent such provision in the “Description of the Notes” contained in the Offering Memorandum was intended to be a verbatim recitation of a provision of this Indenture, the Guarantees or the Securities.

After an amendment under this Section 9.01 becomes effective, the Issuer shall deliver electronically or mail to the Holders a notice briefly describing such amendment. The failure to give such notice to all Holders, or any defect therein, shall not impair or affect the validity of an amendment under this Section 9.01.

SECTION 9.02 With Consent of the Holders . The Issuer and the Trustee may amend this Indenture and the Securities with respect to the Securities with the written consent of the Holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the Securities then outstanding (including consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange for the Securities). However, without the consent of each Holder of an outstanding Security affected, an amendment may not:

(i) reduce the amount of Securities whose Holders must consent to an amendment,

(ii) reduce the rate of or extend the time for payment of interest on any Security,

(iii) reduce the principal of or change the Stated Maturity of any Security,

 

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(iv) reduce the premium payable upon the redemption of any Security or change the time at which any Security may be redeemed in accordance with Article 3,

(v) make any Security payable in money other than that stated in such Security,

(vi) expressly subordinate the Securities or any Guarantee to any other Indebtedness of the Issuer or any Guarantor,

(vii) impair the legal right of any Holder to receive payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest on such Holder’s Securities on or after the due dates therefor or to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment on or with respect to such Holder’s Securities,

(viii) make any change in Section 6.04 or 6.07 or the second sentence of this Section 9.02, or

(ix) except as expressly permitted by this Indenture, modify the Guarantee of any Significant Subsidiary, or the Guarantee of one or more Restricted Subsidiaries that collectively would, at the time of such amendment, represent a Significant Subsidiary in any manner adverse to the Holders.

It shall not be necessary for the consent of the Holders under this Section 9.02 to approve the particular form of any proposed amendment, but it shall be sufficient if such consent approves the substance thereof.

After an amendment under this Section 9.02 becomes effective, the Issuer is required to deliver electronically or mail to the Holders a notice briefly describing such amendment. The failure to give such notice to all Holders, or any defect therein, shall not impair or affect the validity of an amendment under this Section 9.02.

For the avoidance of doubt, no amendment to, or deletion of any of the covenants described in Article 4 (other than Section 4.01) or Article 5 shall be deemed to impair or affect any legal rights of Holders of the Securities to receive payment of principal of, or premium, if any, or interest on, the Securities on or after the due dates therefor.

SECTION 9.03 [Reserved] .

SECTION 9.04 Revocation and Effect of Consents and Waivers . (a) A consent to an amendment or a waiver by a Holder of a Security shall bind the Holder and every subsequent Holder of that Security or portion of the Security that evidences the same debt as the consenting Holder’s Security, even if notation of the consent or waiver is not made on the Security. However, any such Holder or subsequent Holder may revoke the consent or waiver as to such Holder’s Security or portion of the Security if the Trustee receives the notice of revocation before the date on which the Trustee receives an Officer’s Certificate from the Issuer certifying that the requisite principal amount of Securities have consented. After an amendment or waiver becomes effective, it shall bind every Holder. An amendment or waiver becomes effective upon the (i) receipt by the Issuer or the Trustee of consents by the Holders of the requisite principal amount of securities, (ii) satisfaction of conditions to effectiveness as set forth in this Indenture and any indenture supplemental hereto containing such amendment or waiver and (iii) execution of such amendment or waiver (or supplemental indenture) by the Issuer and the Trustee.

 

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(b) The Issuer may, but shall not be obligated to, fix a record date for the purpose of determining the Holders entitled to give their consent or take any other action described above or required or permitted to be taken pursuant to this Indenture. If a record date is fixed, then notwithstanding the immediately preceding paragraph, those Persons who were Holders at such record date (or their duly designated proxies), and only those Persons, shall be entitled to give such consent or to revoke any consent previously given or to take any such action, whether or not such Persons continue to be Holders after such record date. No such consent shall be valid or effective for more than 120 days after such record date.

SECTION 9.05 Notation on or Exchange of Securities . If an amendment, supplement or waiver changes the terms of a Security, the Issuer may require the Holder of the Security to deliver it to the Trustee. The Trustee may place an appropriate notation on the Security regarding the changed terms and return it to the Holder. Alternatively, if the Issuer so determines, the Issuer in exchange for the Security shall issue and the Trustee shall, upon receipt of a Written Order, authenticate a new Security that reflects the changed terms. Failure to make the appropriate notation or to issue a new Security shall not affect the validity of such amendment, supplement or waiver.

SECTION 9.06 Trustee to Sign Amendments . The Trustee shall sign any amendment, supplement or waiver authorized pursuant to this Article 9 if the amendment does not adversely affect the rights, duties, liabilities or immunities of the Trustee. If it does, the Trustee may but need not sign it. In signing such amendment, the Trustee shall be entitled to receive indemnity reasonably satisfactory to it and shall be provided with, and (subject to Section 7.01) shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Officer’s Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel (notwithstanding that no Opinion of Counsel is required in the case of the addition of a Guarantor) stating that such amendment, supplement or waiver is authorized or permitted by this Indenture and that such amendment, supplement or waiver is the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Issuer and the Guarantors, enforceable against them in accordance with its terms, subject to customary exceptions, and complies with the provisions hereof (including Section 9.03).

SECTION 9.07 Payment for Consent . Neither the Issuer nor any Affiliate of the Issuer shall, directly or indirectly, pay or cause to be paid any consideration, whether by way of interest, fee or otherwise, to any Holder for or as an inducement to any consent, waiver or amendment of any of the terms or provisions of this Indenture or the Securities unless such consideration is offered to be paid to all Holders that so consent, waive or agree to amend in the time frame set forth in solicitation documents relating to such consent, waiver or agreement.

SECTION 9.08 Additional Voting Terms; Calculation of Principal Amount . Except as otherwise set forth herein, all Securities issued under this Indenture shall vote and consent separately on all matters as to which any of such Securities may vote. Determinations as to whether Holders of the requisite aggregate principal amount of Securities have concurred in any direction, waiver or consent shall be made in accordance with this Article 9 and Section 2.14.

 

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ARTICLE 10

GUARANTEES

SECTION 10.01 Guarantees . (a) Each Guarantor hereby jointly and severally, irrevocably and unconditionally guarantees on a senior unsecured basis, as a primary obligor and not merely as a surety, to each Holder and to the Trustee and its successors and assigns (i) the full and punctual payment when due, whether at Stated Maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, of all Obligations of the Issuer under this Indenture (including obligations to the Trustee) and the Securities, whether for payment of principal of, premium, if any or interest on or in respect of the Securities and all other monetary obligations of the Issuer under this Indenture and the Securities and (ii) the full and punctual performance within applicable grace periods of all other obligations of the Issuer whether for fees, expenses, indemnification or otherwise under this Indenture and the Securities (all the foregoing being hereinafter collectively called the “Guaranteed Obligations”). Each Guarantor further agrees that the Guaranteed Obligations may be extended or renewed, in whole or in part, without notice or further assent from each such Guarantor, and that each such Guarantor shall remain bound under this Article 10 notwithstanding any extension or renewal of any Guaranteed Obligation.

(b) Each Guarantor waives presentation to, demand of payment from and protest to the Issuer of any of the Guaranteed Obligations and also waives notice of protest for nonpayment. Each Guarantor waives notice of any default under the Securities or the Guaranteed Obligations. The obligations of each Guarantor hereunder shall not be affected by (i) the failure of any Holder or the Trustee to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any right or remedy against the Issuer or any other Person under this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement or otherwise; (ii) any extension or renewal of this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement; (iii) any rescission, waiver, amendment or modification of any of the terms or provisions of this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement; (iv) the release of any security held by any Holder or the Trustee for the Guaranteed Obligations or any Guarantor; (v) the failure of any Holder or Trustee to exercise any right or remedy against any other guarantor of the Guaranteed Obligations; or (vi) any change in the ownership of such Guarantor, except as provided in Section 10.03.

(c) Each Guarantor hereby waives any right to which it may be entitled to have its obligations hereunder divided among the Guarantors, such that such Guarantor’s obligations would be less than the full amount claimed. Each Guarantor hereby waives any right to which it may be entitled to have the assets of the Issuer first be used and depleted as payment of the Issuer’s or such Guarantor’s obligations hereunder prior to any amounts being claimed from or paid by such Guarantor hereunder. Each Guarantor hereby waives any right to which it may be entitled to require that the Issuer be sued prior to an action being initiated against such Guarantor.

(d) Each Guarantor further agrees that its Guarantee herein constitutes a guarantee of payment, performance and compliance when due (and not a guarantee of collection) and waives any right to require that any resort be had by any Holder or the Trustee to any security held for payment of the Guaranteed Obligations.

 

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(e) The Guarantee of each Guarantor is, to the extent and in the manner set forth in this Article 10, equal in right of payment to all existing and future Pari Passu Indebtedness and senior in right of payment to all existing and future Subordinated Indebtedness of the Issuer and is made subject to such provisions of this Indenture.

(f) Except as expressly set forth in Sections 8.01, 10.02 and 10.06, the obligations of each Guarantor hereunder shall not be subject to any reduction, limitation, impairment or termination for any reason, including any claim of waiver, release, surrender, alteration or compromise, and shall not be subject to any defense of setoff, counterclaim, recoupment or termination whatsoever or by reason of the invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of the Guaranteed Obligations or otherwise. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the obligations of each Guarantor herein shall not be discharged or impaired or otherwise affected by the failure of any Holder or the Trustee to assert any claim or demand or to enforce any remedy under this Indenture, the Securities or any other agreement, by any waiver or modification of any thereof, by any default, failure or delay, willful or otherwise, in the performance of the obligations, or by any other act or thing or omission or delay to do any other act or thing which may or might in any manner or to any extent vary the risk of any Guarantor or would otherwise operate as a discharge of any Guarantor as a matter of law or equity.

(g) Each Guarantor agrees that its Guarantee shall be a continuing guarantee and shall remain in full force and effect until payment in full of all the Guaranteed Obligations, subject to the other terms of this Indenture. Each Guarantor further agrees that its Guarantee herein shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, if at any time payment, or any part thereof, of principal of or interest on any Guaranteed Obligation is rescinded or must otherwise be restored by any Holder or the Trustee upon the bankruptcy or reorganization of the Issuer or otherwise.

(h) In furtherance of the foregoing and not in limitation of any other right which any Holder or the Trustee has at law or in equity against any Guarantor by virtue hereof, upon the failure of the Issuer to pay the principal of or interest on any Guaranteed Obligation when and as the same shall become due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, or to perform or comply with any other Guaranteed Obligation, each Guarantor hereby promises to and shall, upon receipt of written demand by the Trustee, forthwith pay, or cause to be paid, in cash, to the Holders or the Trustee an amount equal to the sum of (i) the unpaid principal amount of such Guaranteed Obligations, (ii) accrued and unpaid interest on such Guaranteed Obligations (but only to the extent not prohibited by applicable law) and (iii) all other monetary obligations of the Issuer to the Holders and the Trustee.

(i) Each Guarantor agrees that it shall not be entitled to any right of subrogation in relation to the Holders in respect of any Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereby until payment in full of all Guaranteed Obligations. Each Guarantor further agrees that, as between it, on the one hand, and the Holders and the Trustee, on the other hand, (i) the maturity of the Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereby may be

 

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accelerated as provided in Article 6 for the purposes of any Guarantee herein, notwithstanding any stay, injunction or other prohibition preventing such acceleration in respect of the Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereby, and (ii) in the event of any declaration of acceleration of such Guaranteed Obligations as provided in Article 6, such Guaranteed Obligations (whether or not due and payable) shall forthwith become due and payable by such Guarantor for the purposes of this Section 10.01.

(j) Each Guarantor also agrees to pay any and all costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by the Trustee or any Holder in enforcing any rights under this Section 10.01.

(k) [Reserved].

(l) To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law but subject to the limitations set out in Section 10.02 below, each Guarantor waives any defense based on or arising out of any defense of the Issuer or any other Guarantor or the unenforceability of the Guaranteed Obligations or any part thereof from any cause, or the cessation from any cause of the liability of the Issuer or any other Guarantor, other than the payment in full in cash of all the Guaranteed Obligations. Subject to the limitations set out in Section 10.02 below, the Trustee (acting at the direction of the Holders pursuant to Section 6.05) may, in accordance with the terms of this Indenture, compromise or adjust any part of the Guaranteed Obligations, make any other accommodation with the Issuer or any Guarantor or exercise any other right or remedy available to it against the Issuer or any other Guarantor, without affecting or impairing in any way the liability of any Guarantor hereunder except to the extent the Guaranteed Obligations have been paid in full in cash. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, each Guarantor waives any defense arising out of any such election even though such election operates, pursuant to applicable law, to impair or to extinguish any right of reimbursement or subrogation or other right or remedy of such Guarantor against the Issuer or any other Guarantor, as the case may be.

SECTION 10.02 Limitation on Liability . (a) Any term or provision of this Indenture to the contrary notwithstanding, the maximum aggregate amount of the Guaranteed Obligations guaranteed hereunder by any Guarantor shall not exceed the maximum amount that can be hereby guaranteed without (i) rendering this Indenture, as it relates to such Guarantor, voidable under applicable law relating to fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer or similar laws affecting the rights of creditors generally or (ii) resulting in any breach of corporate benefit, financial assistance, fraudulent preference, thin capitalization laws, retention of title claims, capital maintenance rules, general statutory limitations, or the laws or regulations (or analogous restrictions) of any applicable jurisdiction or any similar principles which may limit the ability of any Foreign Subsidiary to provide a Guarantee or may require that the Guarantee be limited by an amount or scope or otherwise. Each Guarantor, and by its acceptance of Securities, each Holder, hereby confirms that it is the intention of all such parties that the Guarantee of such Guarantor not constitute a fraudulent conveyance for purposes of Bankruptcy Law, the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act, the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act or any similar federal or state law to the extent applicable to any Guarantee.

 

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(b) (i) To the extent that any Guarantee is granted by a German entity (a “German Guarantor”) incorporated as a limited liability company ( Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung ) (“GmbH”) or a limited partnership ( Kommanditgesellschaft ) (“KG”) with a GmbH as sole general partner (“GmbH & Co. KG”) and that such Guarantee secures liabilities other than the own liabilities of the relevant German Guarantor or any of its subsidiaries, the enforcement of the Guarantee will be limited to such amount (I) as is required to ensure that the amount of the German Guarantor’s net assets (or the net assets of its general partner if the German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co. KG), calculated as the sum of the balance sheet positions shown under section 266 subsection (2) (A), (B), (C) and (D) of the German Commercial Code ( Handelsgesetzbuch ) (“HGB”) less the sum of the amounts shown under balance sheet positions shown under section 266 (3) (B), (C), (D) and (E) HGB and any amounts not available for distribution to its shareholders in accordance with section 268 sub-section (8) HGB, does not fall below the amount of its registered share capital ( Stammkapital ); or (II) where the amount of the German Guarantor’s net assets (or the net assets of its general partner if the German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co. KG) already is below the amount of its registered share capital, as is required as to ensure that such amount is not further reduced.

(ii) The limits in clauses (I) and (II) of Section 10.02(b)(i) will not apply (A) to the extent that the Guarantee of the relevant German Guarantor relates to any amount of the proceeds of the Securities to the extent on-lent to the relevant German Guarantor plus any accrued and unpaid interest and costs and fees in respect of or attributable to that on-lending (and such amounts are not repaid); (B) if following the first date upon which the relevant German Guarantor is called upon to make payment in respect of its Guarantee, the relevant German Guarantor (or its general partner if the relevant German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co. KG) does not provide financial statements in accordance with Section 10.02(b)(iv) and (v) below; (C) if the relevant German Guarantor (or, if the German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co. KG, its general partner) (as dominated entity) is party to a domination and/or profit and loss transfer agreement ( Beherrschungs- und/oder Gewinnabführungsvertrag ) (a “DPTA”), unless the Guarantor’s claim for absorption of losses pursuant to section 302 German Stock Corporation Act ( Aktiengesetz ) is or cannot be expected to be fully recoverable (unless a higher or supreme court has found by way of a final judgment that the requirement of a fully recoverable counterclaim is not applicable if a DPTA is in place); or (D) if and to the extent the German Guarantor holds on the date of enforcement of the Guarantee made herein a fully recoverable indemnity claim or claim for refund ( vollwertiger Gegenleistungs- oder Rückgewähranspruch ) against its shareholder.

(iii) If, following a legislative amendment of, or the rendering of a final judgment by the German Federal Court of Justice ( Bundesgerichtshof ) with respect to, section 30 et seqq. German Limited Liability Companies Act ( Gesetz betreffend die Gesellschaften mit beschrankter Haftung ) (“GmbHG”) after the date of this Indenture, the German Guarantor submits reasonably satisfactory evidence that the exception referred to in clause (C) of Section 10.02(b)(ii) above is no longer required to protect the management of the German Guarantor from personal liability under sections 30 et seqq. and 43 GmbHG, such clause (C) shall no longer apply.

 

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(iv) For the purpose of the calculation of the net assets of a German Guarantor, the following balance sheet items shall be adjusted as follows: (A) the amount of any increase of the German Guarantor’s or its general partner’s registered share capital after the date of this Indenture, to the extent that it is not fully paid up, shall be deducted from the German Guarantor’s or its general partner’s registered share capital; (B) loans provided to the German Guarantor or its general partner by any member of the group shall be disregarded if and to the extent those loans are subordinated or are considered subordinated pursuant to section 39 para. 1 no. 5 and/or para. 2 of the German Insolvency Code ( Insolvenzordnung ); and (C) loans or other liabilities incurred in violation of the provisions of this Indenture shall be disregarded.

(v) For the purpose of the calculation of the net assets, the relevant German Guarantor will deliver (within 15 Business Days following the first date upon which the relevant German Guarantor is called upon to make payment in respect of its Guarantee) to the Trustee a notification stating to which extent the amount payable in respect of its Guarantee shall be limited in accordance with clauses (b)(i)(I) and (b)(i)(II) of this Section 10.02 above and taking into account the adjustments in clause (b)(iv) of this Section 10.02 above, such notification to be supported by interim financial statements ( Stichtagsbilanz ) showing the balance sheet positions mentioned in clause (b)(i)(I) above as of the relevant date (the “Management Determination”).

(vi) Following the Trustee’s receipt of the Management Determination, upon the Trustee’s request (acting at the direction of the Holders pursuant to Section 6.05 hereof) (the “Trustee’s Request”), the relevant German Guarantor (or its general partner if the relevant German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co. KG) will deliver (within 25 Business Days following receipt of the Trustee’s Request) to the Trustee an up-to-date balance sheet drawn-up by a firm of auditors of international standing and repute together with a determination of the net assets. Such balance sheet and determination of net assets shall be prepared in accordance with accounting principles pursuant to the HGB and be based on the same principles that were applied when establishing the previous year’s balance sheet. The determination by the auditors (as set forth above, the “Auditors’ Determination”) pertaining to the relevant German Guarantor or, in the case of a GmbH & Co. KG, its general partner shall have been prepared as of the first date upon which the relevant German Guarantor is called upon to make payment in respect of its Guarantee.

(vii) The Trustee (acting at the direction of the Holders pursuant to Section 6.05) shall be entitled to demand payment under the Guarantee in an amount which would, in accordance with the Management Determination or, if applicable and taking into account any previous enforcement in accordance with the Management Determination, the Auditors’ Determination, not cause the German Guarantor’s net assets (or if the German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co.

 

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KG, its general partner’s net assets) to be reduced below zero or further reduced if already below zero. If and to the extent the net assets as determined by the Auditors’ Determination are lower than the amount enforced in accordance with the Management Determination, the Trustee shall release to the relevant German Guarantor (or if the German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co. KG, to its general partner) such exceeding enforcement proceeds. The Trustee may (acting at the direction of the Holders pursuant to Section 6.05) withhold any amount received pursuant to an enforcement of this Guarantee until final determination of the amount of the net assets pursuant to the Auditors’ Determination.

(viii) In a situation where the relevant German Guarantor does not have sufficient net assets to maintain its registered share capital the relevant German Guarantor shall within three months after a written request by the Trustee (acting at the direction of the Holders pursuant to Section 6.05), to the extent commercially justifiable, dispose of all assets which are not necessary for its business ( nicht betriebsnotwendig ) on market terms where the relevant assets are shown in the balance sheet of the relevant German Guarantor with a book value which is significantly lower than the market value of such assets. After the expiry of such three-month period the German Guarantor shall, within three Business Days, notify the Trustee of the amount of the net proceeds from the sale and submit a statement with a new calculation of the amount of the net assets of the German Guarantor (or if the German Guarantor is a GmbH & Co. KG, of its general partner) taking into account such proceeds. Such calculation shall, upon the Trustee’s request (acting at the direction of the Holders pursuant to Section 6.05), be confirmed by one of the auditors of the German Guarantor within a period of 15 Business Days following the request.

(c) (i) Subject to clause (v) below and notwithstanding any contrary indication in this Indenture, in relation to a Guarantor organized under the laws of France (a “French Guarantor”), its Guarantee shall be limited to the payment obligations of the Issuer up to an amount equal to the aggregate of all outstanding amounts under the Securities and this Indenture to the extent (i) directly or indirectly on-lent to such French Guarantor and/or its Subsidiaries or (ii) used to refinance any indebtedness previously directly or indirectly on-lent to such French Guarantor and/or its Subsidiaries and in all cases to the extent of the amounts so on-lent remaining due by such French Guarantor and/or its Subsidiaries from time to time (the “Maximum Guaranteed Amount”); it being specified that any payment made by such French Guarantor under this Article 10 in respect of the obligations of the Issuer shall reduce pro tanto the outstanding amount of the intercompany loans (if any) due by such French Guarantor to the Issuer. For the avoidance of doubt, any payment made by a French Guarantor under this clause (B) shall reduce the Maximum Guaranteed Amount by the amount paid.

(ii) It is acknowledged that, notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Indenture, no French Guarantor is acting jointly and severally with the other Guarantors and no French Guarantor shall therefore be considered as “ co-débiteurs solidaires ” within the meaning of article 1216 of the French Code civil with the other Guarantors as to its Guarantee.

 

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(iii) For the purpose of Section 10.02(c)(i) above “Subsidiary” means, in relation to any company, any other company which is controlled by it within the meaning of article L.233-3 of the French Code de commerce.

(iv) For the avoidance of doubt, the limitations set out in Section 10.02(c)(i) and Section 10.02(c)(ii) above with respect to the payment obligation of any French Guarantor under the Guarantee shall apply mutatis mutandis with respect to any other indemnity, guarantee or any other undertaking of any French Guarantor contained in this Indenture having the same or a similar effect. Any payment made by a French Guarantor under any such indemnity, guarantee or undertaking shall reduce the Maximum Guaranteed Amount by the amount paid.

(v) Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, no French Guarantor shall grant a Guarantee covering any Indebtedness which would result in such French Guarantor not complying with French financial assistance rules as set out in article L. 225-216 of the French Code de Commerce or any other law or regulations having the same effect, as interpreted by French courts and/or would constitute a misuse of corporate assets within the meaning of articles L. 241-3, L. 242-6 or L. 244-1 of the French Code de Commerce or any other law or regulations having the same effect, as interpreted by French courts.

(d) (i) Notwithstanding any contrary indication in this Indenture, in relation to a Guarantor organized under the laws of Switzerland (a “Swiss Guarantor”), its Guarantee and any other indemnity, security or other benefit, as well as any other undertaking contained in this Indenture having the same or a similar effect, such as, but not limited to, the waiver of set-off or subrogation rights or the subordination of intra-group claims, under this Indenture and the Securities for, or with respect to, obligations of any other obligor (other than the direct or indirect Subsidiaries of such Swiss Guarantor) shall not exceed at any time the amount of such Swiss Guarantor’s freely disposable equity in accordance with then applicable Swiss law, presently being the total shareholder equity less the total of (A) the aggregate share capital, (B) statutory reserves (including reserves for own shares and revaluations as well as agio) and (C) any freely disposable equity that has to be blocked for any loans granted by such Swiss Guarantor to a direct or indirect subsidiary of any parent company of such Swiss Guarantor, other than a direct or indirect subsidiary of the Swiss Guarantor. The amount of equity freely disposable shall be determined on the basis of an audited annual or interim balance sheet of the relevant Swiss Guarantor. This limitation shall only apply to the extent it is a requirement under applicable law at the time the respective Swiss Guarantor is required to perform. Such limitation shall not free the respective Swiss Guarantor from its obligations in excess of the freely disposable equity, but merely postpone the performance date therefor until such times as performance is again permitted notwithstanding such limitation.

(ii) If so required under applicable law (including double tax treaties) at the time it is required to make a payment under this Indenture, each Swiss Guarantor: (A) may deduct the withholding tax due under the Swiss Federal Act on the Withholding Tax (the “Withholding Tax”) at the rate of 35 per cent (or such other rate as is in force at that time) from any payment deemed to be a

 

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constructive dividend; (B) may pay the Withholding Tax to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration; and (C) shall notify and provide evidence to the Trustee that the Withholding Tax has been paid to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration. The respective Swiss Guarantor shall as soon as possible after the deduction of the Withholding Tax ensure that any Person which is, as a result of a payment under this Indenture, entitled to a full or partial refund of the Withholding Tax, is in a position to apply for such refund under any applicable law (including double tax treaties) and, in case it has received any refund of the Withholding Tax, pay such refund to the Trustee for the benefit of the Holders upon receipt thereof.

(iii) Each Swiss Guarantor shall, and any shareholder of such Swiss Guarantor being a party hereto shall procure that such Swiss Guarantor will, take and cause to be taken all and any other action, including without limitation, (A) preparation of an up-to-date audited balance sheet of such Swiss Guarantor, (B) the passing of any shareholders’ resolutions to approve any payment or other performance under this Indenture or the Securities and (C) the obtaining of any confirmations (including confirmations by the respective Swiss Guarantor’s auditors) which may be required as a matter of Swiss mandatory law in force at the time the respective Swiss Guarantor is required to make a payment or perform other obligations under this Indenture or the Securities in order to allow a prompt payment as well as the performance of other obligations under this Indenture or the Securities with a minimum of limitations.

(iv) If the enforcement of obligations of a Swiss Guarantor would be limited due to the effects referred to in this clause, the Swiss Guarantor affected shall further, to the extent permitted by applicable law and Swiss accounting standards, write up any of its assets that are shown in its balance sheet with a book value that is significantly lower than the market value of the assets.

SECTION 10.03 Automatic Termination of Guarantees . A Guarantee as to any Guarantor shall automatically terminate and be of no further force or effect and such Guarantor shall automatically be deemed to be released from all obligations under this Article 10 upon:

(i) (A) the sale, disposition or other transfer (including through merger or consolidation) of (x) the Capital Stock of the applicable Guarantor to a Person who is not (either before or after giving effect to the transaction) the Issuer or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Issuer, following which the applicable Guarantor is no longer a Restricted Subsidiary or (y) all or substantially all of the assets of such Guarantor, in each case, if such sale, disposition or other transfer is not prohibited by this Indenture,

(B) the Issuer designating such Guarantor to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary in accordance with the provisions set forth under Section 4.04 and the definition of “Unrestricted Subsidiary,”

(C) in the case of any Restricted Subsidiary that after the Issue Date is required to guarantee the Securities pursuant to Section 4.11, the release or discharge of the guarantee by such Restricted Subsidiary of the Indebtedness of the Issuer or any Guarantor, as the case may be, or the repayment of the Indebtedness or Disqualified Stock, in each case, which resulted in the obligation to guarantee the Securities, or

 

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(D) the Issuer’s exercise of its defeasance option under Article 8, or if the Issuer’s obligations under this Indenture are discharged in accordance with the terms of this Indenture.

In connection with the termination of any Guarantee pursuant to this Section 10.03, the Trustee shall execute and deliver to the Issuer and any Guarantor, at the Issuer or such Guarantor’s expense, all documents that the Issuer or such Guarantor shall reasonably request to evidence such termination; provided, however, that the Trustee shall be entitled to receive an Officer’s Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel regarding such release before executing and delivering such documents.

SECTION 10.04 Successors and Assigns . This Article 10 shall be binding upon each Guarantor and its successors and assigns and shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of the Trustee and the Holders and, in the event of any transfer or assignment of rights by any Holder or the Trustee, the rights and privileges conferred upon that party in this Indenture and in the Securities shall automatically extend to and be vested in such transferee or assignee, all subject to the terms and conditions of this Indenture.

SECTION 10.05 No Waiver . Neither a failure nor a delay on the part of either the Trustee or the Holders in exercising any right, power or privilege under this Article 10 shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall a single or partial exercise thereof preclude any other or further exercise of any right, power or privilege. The rights, remedies and benefits of the Trustee and the Holders herein expressly specified are cumulative and not exclusive of any other rights, remedies or benefits which either may have under this Article 10 at law, in equity, by statute or otherwise.

SECTION 10.06 Modification . No modification, amendment or waiver of any provision of this Article 10, nor the consent to any departure by any Guarantor therefrom, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the Trustee (acting in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Indenture), and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the purpose for which given. No notice to or demand on any Guarantor in any case shall entitle such Guarantor to any other or further notice or demand in the same, similar or other circumstances.

SECTION 10.07 Execution of Supplemental Indenture for Future Guarantors . Each Subsidiary and other Person which is required to become a Guarantor pursuant to Section 4.11 shall promptly execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture in the form of Exhibit B hereto pursuant to which such Subsidiary or other Person shall become a Guarantor under this Article 10 and shall guarantee the Guaranteed Obligations. Concurrently with the execution and delivery of such supplemental indenture, the Issuer shall deliver to the Trustee an Officer’s Certificate to the effect that such supplemental indenture has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by such Subsidiary or other Person and that, subject to the application of bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance or transfer and other similar laws relating to creditors’ rights generally and to the principles of equity, whether considered in a proceeding at law or in equity, the Guarantee of such Guarantor is a valid and binding obligation of such Guarantor, enforceable against such Guarantor in accordance with its terms.

 

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SECTION 10.08 Non-Impairment . The failure to endorse a Guarantee on any Security shall not affect or impair the validity thereof.

ARTICLE 11

MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 11.01 Ranking . The indebtedness evidenced by the Securities will be unsecured senior Indebtedness of the Issuer, equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior Indebtedness of the Issuer and senior in right of payment to all existing and future Subordinated Indebtedness of the Issuer. The indebtedness evidenced by the Guarantees will be unsecured senior Indebtedness of the applicable Guarantor, equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior Indebtedness of such Guarantor and senior in right of payment to all existing and future Subordinated Indebtedness of such Guarantor.

SECTION 11.02 [Reserved] .

SECTION 11.03 Notices . (a) Any notice or communication required or permitted hereunder shall be in writing and in English and delivered in person, via facsimile or mailed by first-class mail or electronic mail with portable document format attached, addressed as follows:

if to the Issuer or a Guarantor:

Constellium N.V.

Tupolevlaan 41-61

1119 NW Schiphol-Rijk

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Attn: Mark Kirkland

Fax: +31 20 654 97 96

Email: mark.kirkland@constellium.com

With a copy to

Constellium

Washington Plaza – 40/44, rue Washington

75008 Paris, France

Attn: Jeremy Leach

Tel: +33 1 73 01 46 51

Email: jeremy.leach@constellium.com

Constellium Switzerland AG

Max Högger-Strasse 6

8048 Zürich, Switzerland

Attn: Mark Kirkland, Group Treasurer

Tel: +41 44 438 6642

Email: mark.kirkland@constellium.com

And

 

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Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz

51 West 52 nd Street

New York, NY 10019

Attn: Joshua A. Feltman

Tel: (212) 403-1109

Fax: (212) 403-2109

Email: jafeltman@wlrk.com

if to the Trustee:

Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas

Trust & Agency Services

60 Wall Street, 16th Floor

Mail Stop: NYC60-1630

New York, New York 10005

Attn: Corporates Team Deal Manager – Constellium N.V.

Fax: 732-578-4635

With a copy to:

Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas

c/o Deutsche Bank National Trust Company

Trust & Agency Services

100 Plaza One, Mailstop JCY03-0699

Jersey City, New Jersey 07311

Attn: Corporates Team Deal Manager – Constellium N.V.

Fax: 732-578-4635

The Issuer or the Trustee by notice to the other may designate additional or different addresses for subsequent notices or communications.

(b) Any notice or communication mailed to a Holder shall be mailed, first class mail, to the Holder at the Holder’s address as it appears on the registration books of the Registrar and shall be sufficiently given if so mailed within the time prescribed.

(c) Failure to mail a notice or communication to a Holder or any defect in it shall not affect its sufficiency with respect to other Holders. If a notice or communication is mailed in the manner provided above, it is duly given, whether or not the addressee receives it, except that notices to the Trustee are effective only if received.

SECTION 11.04 [Reserved] .

SECTION 11.05 Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent . Upon any request or application by the Issuer to the Trustee to take or refrain from taking any action under this Indenture (including, for the avoidance of doubt, a request pursuant to Section 7.06 ), the Issuer shall furnish to the Trustee at the request of the Trustee:

 

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(a) an Officer’s Certificate in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent, if any, provided for in this Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with; and

(b) an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that, in the opinion of such counsel, all such conditions precedent have been complied with.

SECTION 11.06 Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion . Each certificate or opinion with respect to compliance with a covenant or condition provided for in this Indenture (other than pursuant to Section 4.09) shall include:

(a) a statement that the individual making such certificate or opinion has read such covenant or condition;

(b) a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;

(c) a statement that, in the opinion of such individual, he has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable him to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such covenant or condition has been complied with; and

(d) a statement as to whether or not, in the opinion of such individual, such covenant or condition has been complied with; provided , however , that with respect to matters of fact an Opinion of Counsel may rely on an Officer’s Certificate or certificates of public officials.

SECTION 11.07 When Securities Disregarded . In determining whether the Holders of the required principal amount of Securities have concurred in any direction, waiver or consent, Securities owned by the Issuer, any Guarantor or by any Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with the Issuer or any Guarantor shall be disregarded and deemed not to be outstanding, except that, for the purpose of determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying on any such direction, waiver or consent, only Securities which a Responsible Officer of the Trustee actually knows are so owned shall be so disregarded. Subject to the foregoing, only Securities outstanding at the time shall be considered in any such determination.

SECTION 11.08 Rules by Trustee, Paying Agent and Registrar . The Trustee may make reasonable rules for action by or a meeting of the Holders. The Registrar and a paying agent may make reasonable rules for their functions.

SECTION 11.09 Legal Holidays . If a payment date is not a Business Day, payment shall be made on the next succeeding day that is a Business Day, and no interest shall accrue on any amount that would have been otherwise payable on such payment date if it were a Business Day for the intervening period. If a regular record date is not a Business Day, the record date shall not be affected.

 

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SECTION 11.10 GOVERNING LAW . THIS INDENTURE, THE SECURITIES AND THE GUARANTEES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

SECTION 11.11 Consent to Jurisdiction and Service . In relation to any legal action or proceedings arising out of or in connection with this Indenture, the Securities and the Guarantees, the Trustee (in the case of clauses (a) and (b) below only), the Issuer and each Guarantor that is organized under laws other than the United States or a state thereof (a) irrevocably submits to the jurisdiction of the federal and state courts in the Borough of Manhattan in the City, County and State of New York, United States, (b) consents that any such action or proceeding may be brought in such courts and waives any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the venue of any such action or proceeding in any such court or that such action or proceeding was brought in an inconvenient court and agree not to plead or claim the same, (c) designates and appoints Constellium U.S. Holdings I, LLC, 830 Third Avenue, 9th floor, New York, NY 10022 as its authorized agent upon which process may be served in any such action or proceeding that may be instituted in any such court and (d) agrees that service of any process, summons, notice or document by U.S. registered mail addressed to such agent for service of process, with written notice of said service to such Person at the address of the agent for service of process set forth in clause (c) of this Section 11.11 shall be effective service of process for any such action or proceeding brought in any such court. Each of the Issuer, the Guarantors, the Trustee, paying agent, Registrar, and Transfer Agent hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Indenture, the Securities or the transactions contemplated hereby.

SECTION 11.12 Currency Indemnity . The U.S. Dollar is the sole currency of account and payment for all sums payable by the Issuer or any Guarantor under or in connection with the Securities, including damages. Any amount with respect to the Securities or the Guarantees thereof received or recovered in a currency other than U.S. Dollars, whether as a result of, or the enforcement of, a judgment or order of a court of any jurisdiction, in the winding-up or dissolution of the Issuer or any Guarantor or otherwise by any Holder or by the Trustee, in respect of any sum expressed to be due to it from the Issuer or any Guarantor will only constitute a discharge to the Issuer or any Guarantor to the extent of the U.S. Dollar amount that the recipient is able to purchase with the amount so received or recovered in such other currency on the date of such receipt or recovery (or, if it is not practicable to make such purchase on such date, on the first date on which it is practicable to do so).

If that U.S. Dollar amount is less than the U.S. Dollar amount expressed to be due to the recipient or the Trustee under the Securities, the Issuer and each Guarantor will indemnify such recipient and/or the Trustee against any loss sustained by it as a result. In any event, the Issuer and each Guarantor will indemnify the recipient against the cost of making any such purchase. For the purposes of this Section 11.12, it shall be prima facie evidence of the matter stated therein, for the Holder of a Security or the Trustee to certify in a manner satisfactory to the Issuer (indicating the sources of information used) the loss it incurred in making any such purchase. These indemnities constitute a separate and independent obligation from the Issuer’s and each Guarantor’s other obligations, shall give rise to a separate and independent cause of action, shall apply irrespective of any waiver granted by any Holder of a Security or the Trustee (other than a waiver of the indemnities set out herein) and will continue in full force and effect despite any

 

110


other judgment, order, claim or proof for a liquidated amount in respect of any sum due under any Security or to the Trustee. For the purposes of this Section 11.12, it shall be sufficient for the Trustee or the Holder, as applicable, to certify (indicating the sources of information used) that it would have suffered a loss had the actual purchase of U.S. Dollars been made with the amount so received in that other currency on the date of receipt or recovery (or, if a purchase of U.S. Dollars on such date had not been practicable due to current market conditions generally, on the first date on which it would have been practicable, it being required that the need for a change of date be certified in the manner mentioned above).

SECTION 11.13 No Recourse Against Others . No director, officer, employee, manager or incorporator of, or holder of any Equity Interests in, the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent corporation, as such, shall have any liability for any obligations of the Issuer under the Securities or this Indenture or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each Holder of Securities by accepting a Security waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Securities.

SECTION 11.14 Successors . All agreements of the Issuer and each Guarantor in this Indenture and the Securities shall bind its successors. All agreements of the Trustee in this Indenture shall bind its successors.

SECTION 11.15 USA PATRIOT Act . In order to comply with the laws, rules, regulations and executive orders in effect from time to time applicable to banking institutions, including, without limitation, those relating to the funding of terrorist activities and money laundering, including Section 326 of the USA PATRIOT Act of the United States (“Applicable Law”), the Trustee and agents are required to obtain, verify, record and update certain information relating to individuals and entities which maintain a business relationship with the Trustee and agents. Accordingly, each of the parties agree to provide to the Trustee and agents, upon their request from time to time such identifying information and documentation as may be available for such party in order to enable the Trustee and agents to comply with Applicable Law.

SECTION 11.16 Multiple Originals . The parties may sign any number of copies of this Indenture by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement. One signed copy is enough to prove this Indenture.

SECTION 11.17 Table of Contents; Headings . The table of contents, cross-reference sheet and headings of the Articles and Sections of this Indenture have been inserted for convenience of reference only, are not intended to be considered a part hereof and shall not modify or restrict any of the terms or provisions hereof.

SECTION 11.18 Indenture Controls . If and to the extent that any provision of the Securities limits, qualifies or conflicts with a provision of this Indenture, such provision of this Indenture shall control.

SECTION 11.19 Severability . In case any provision in this Indenture shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and such provision shall be ineffective only to the extent of such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability.

 

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[ Signature Pages Follow ]

 

112


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first written above.

 

CONSTELLIUM N.V.
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM HOLDCO II B.V.
with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM HOLDCO III B.V.
with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

 

Name:

Title:

 

Mark Kirkland

Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory

CONSTELLIUM US HOLDINGS I, LLC
By:  

/s/ Rina E. Teran

  Name:   Rina E. Teran
  Title:   Vice President and Secretary

CONSTELLIUM ROLLED PRODUCTS RAVENSWOOD, LLC

By:  

/s/ Rina E. Teran

  Name:   Rina E. Teran
  Title:   Vice President and Secretary

 

[I NDENTURE ]


CONSTELLIUM FRANCE HOLDCO S.A.S.
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM ISSOIRE S.A.S.
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM FINANCE S.A.S.
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM NEUF BRISACH S.A.S.
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
ENGINEERED PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL S.A.S.
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory

 

[I NDENTURE ]


CONSTELLIUM W
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM SINGEN GMBH
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM GERMANY HOLDCO GMBH & CO. KG
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
CONSTELLIUM ROLLED PRODUCTS SINGEN GMBH & CO. KG
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory

 

[I NDENTURE ]


CONSTELLIUM SWITZERLAND AG
By:  

/s/ Mark Kirkland

  Name:   Mark Kirkland
  Title:   Group Treasurer and Authorized Signatory
WISE METALS GROUP LLC
By:  

/s/ Rina E. Teran

  Name:   Rina E. Teran
  Title:   Vice President and Secretary
WISE ALLOYS LLC
By:  

/s/ Rina E. Teran

  Name:   Rina E. Teran
  Title:   Vice President and Secretary
WISE METALS INTERMEDIATE HOLDINGS LLC
By:  

/s/ Rina E. Teran

  Name:   Rina E. Teran
  Title:   Vice President and Secretary

 

[I NDENTURE ]


DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as Trustee
By: DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY
By:  

/s/ Jacqueline Bartnick

  Name:   Jacqueline Bartnick
  Title:   Director
By:  

/s/ Annie Jaghatspanyan

  Name:   Annie Jaghatspanyan
  Title:   Vice President

 

[I NDENTURE ]


APPENDIX A

PROVISIONS RELATING TO ORIGINAL SECURITIES AND ADD-ON SECURITIES

1. Definitions .

1.1. Definitions .

For the purposes of this Appendix A the following terms shall have the meanings indicated below:

“Definitive Security” means a certificated Security (bearing the Restricted Securities Legend if the transfer of such Security is restricted by applicable law) that does not include the Global Securities Legend.

“Depository” means The Depository Trust Company, its nominees and their respective successors.

“Global Securities Legend” means the legend set forth under that caption in the applicable Exhibit to this Indenture.

“IAI” means an institutional “accredited investor” as described in Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act.

“Initial Purchasers” means Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., BNP Paribas, Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Goldman, Sachs & Co., HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., Natixis Securities Americas LLC, SG Americas Securities, LLC, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC and such other initial purchasers listed on Schedule A to the Purchase Agreement entered into in connection with the offer and sale of the Securities.

“QIB” means a “qualified institutional buyer” as defined in Rule 144A.

“Regulation S” means Regulation S under the Securities Act.

“Regulation S Securities” means all Securities offered and sold outside the United States in reliance on Regulation S.

“Restricted Period,” with respect to any Securities, means the period of 40 consecutive days beginning on and including the later of (a) the day on which such Securities are first offered to persons other than distributors (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) in reliance on Regulation S, notice of which day shall be promptly given by the Issuer to the Trustee, and (b) the Issue Date, and with respect to any Add-On Securities that are Transfer Restricted Securities, it means the comparable period of 40 consecutive days.

“Restricted Securities Legend” means the legend set forth in Section 2.2(f)(i) herein.

“Rule 501” means Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act.

“Rule 144A” means Rule 144A under the Securities Act.

 

Appendix A - 1


“Rule 144A Securities” means all Securities offered and sold to QIBs in reliance on Rule 144A.

“Securities Custodian” means the custodian with respect to a Global Security (as appointed by the Depository) or any successor person thereto, who shall initially be the Trustee.

“Transfer Restricted Securities” means Definitive Securities and any other Securities that bear or are required to bear or are subject to the Restricted Securities Legend.

“Unrestricted Definitive Security” means Definitive Securities and any other Securities that are not required to bear, or are not subject to, the Restricted Securities Legend.

“Unrestricted Global Security” means a Global Security which is not a Restricted Global Security.

1.2. Other Definitions .

      

Term :

   Defined in Section:

 Global Securities

   2.1(b)

 Regulation S Global Securities

   2.1(b)

 Rule 144A Global Securities

       2.1(b)(i)

2. The Securities .

2.1. Form and Dating; Global Securities .

(a) The Original Securities issued on the date hereof will be (i) offered and sold by the Issuer pursuant to the Purchase Agreement and (ii) resold, initially only to (1) QIBs in reliance on Rule 144A and (2) Persons other than U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S) in reliance on Regulation S. Such Original Securities may thereafter be transferred to, among others, QIBs, purchasers in reliance on Regulation S and, except as set forth below, IAIs in accordance with Rule 501. Add-On Securities offered after the date hereof may be offered and sold by the Issuer from time to time pursuant to one or more purchase agreements in accordance with applicable law.

(b) Global Securities . (i) Rule 144A Securities initially shall be represented by one or more Securities in definitive, fully registered, global form without interest coupons (collectively, the “Rule 144A Global Securities”).

Regulation S Securities initially shall be represented by one or more Securities in fully registered, global form without interest coupons (collectively, the “Regulation S Global Securities”), which shall be registered in the name of the Depository or the nominee of the Depository for the accounts of designated agents holding on behalf of Euroclear System or Clearstream Banking S.A.

The provisions of the “Operating Procedures of the Euroclear System” and “Terms and Conditions Governing Use of Euroclear” and the “General Terms and Conditions of Clearstream Banking” and “Customer Handbook” of Clearstream Banking S.A. shall be applicable to transfers of beneficial interests in the Regulation S Global Securities that are held by participants through Euroclear System or Clearstream Banking S.A.

 

Appendix A - 2


The term “Global Securities” means the Rule 144A Global Securities and the Regulation S Global Securities. The Global Securities shall bear the Global Security Legend. The Global Securities initially shall (i) be registered in the name of the Depository or the nominee of such Depository, in each case for credit to an account of an Agent Member, (ii) be delivered to the Trustee as custodian for such Depository and (iii) bear the Restricted Securities Legend.

Members of, or direct or indirect participants in, the Depository shall have no rights under this Indenture with respect to any Global Security held on their behalf by the Depository, or the Trustee as its custodian, or under the Global Securities. The Depository may be treated by the Issuer, the Trustee and any agent of the Issuer or the Trustee as the absolute owner of the Global Securities for all purposes whatsoever. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall prevent the Issuer, the Trustee or any agent of the Issuer or the Trustee from giving effect to any written certification, proxy or other authorization furnished by the Depository, or impair, as between the Depository and its Agent Members, the operation of customary practices governing the exercise of the rights of a Holder of any Security.

(ii) Transfers of Global Securities shall be limited to transfer in whole, but not in part, to the Depository, its successors or their respective nominees. Interests of beneficial owners in the Global Securities may be transferred or exchanged for Definitive Securities only in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository and the provisions of Section 2.2. In addition, a Global Security shall be exchangeable for Definitive Securities if (x) the Depository (1) notifies the Issuer that it is unwilling or unable to continue as depository for such Global Security and the Issuer thereupon fails to appoint a successor depository or (2) has ceased to be a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act or (y) there shall have occurred and be continuing an Event of Default with respect to such Global Security; provided that in no event shall the Regulation S Global Securities be exchanged by the Issuer for Definitive Securities prior to (x) the expiration of the Restricted Period and (y) the receipt by the Registrar of any certificates required pursuant to Rule 903(b)(3)(ii)(B) under the Securities Act. In all cases, Definitive Securities delivered in exchange for any Global Security or beneficial interests therein shall be registered in the names, and issued in any approved denominations, requested by or on behalf of the Depository in accordance with its customary procedures.

(iii) In connection with the transfer of a Global Security as an entirety to beneficial owners pursuant to subsection (i) of this Section 2.1(b), such Global Security shall be deemed to be surrendered to the Trustee for cancellation, and the Issuer shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and make available for delivery, to each beneficial owner identified by the Depository in writing in exchange for its beneficial interest in such Global Security, an equal aggregate principal amount of Definitive Securities of authorized denominations.

 

Appendix A - 3


(iv) Any Transfer Restricted Security delivered in exchange for an interest in a Global Security pursuant to Section 2.2 shall, except as otherwise provided in Section 2.2, bear the Restricted Securities Legend.

(v) Notwithstanding the foregoing, through the Restricted Period, a beneficial interest in such Regulation S Global Security may be held only through Euroclear System or Clearstream Banking S.A. unless delivery is made in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 2.2.

(vi) The Holder of any Global Security may grant proxies and otherwise authorize any Person, including Agent Members and Persons that may hold interests through Agent Members, to take any action which a Holder is entitled to take under this Indenture or the Securities.

2.2. Transfer and Exchange .

(a) Transfer and Exchange of Global Securities . A Global Security may not be transferred as a whole except as set forth in Section 2.1(b). Global Securities will not be exchanged by the Issuer for Definitive Securities except under the circumstances described in Section 2.1(b)(ii). Global Securities also may be exchanged or replaced, in whole or in part, as provided in Sections 2.08 and 2.10 of this Indenture. Beneficial interests in a Global Security may be transferred and exchanged as provided in Section 2.2(b) or 2.2(g).

(b) Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in Global Securities . The transfer and exchange of beneficial interests in the Global Securities shall be effected through the Depository, in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture and the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository. Beneficial interests in Transfer Restricted Securities which are Global Securities (“Restricted Global Securities”) shall be subject to restrictions on transfer comparable to those set forth herein to the extent required by the Securities Act. Beneficial interests in Global Securities shall be transferred or exchanged only for beneficial interests in Global Securities. Transfers and exchanges of beneficial interests in the Global Securities also shall require compliance with either subparagraph (i) or (ii) below, as applicable, as well as one or more of the other following subparagraphs, as applicable:

(i) Transfer of Beneficial Interests in the Same Global Security . Beneficial interests in any Restricted Global Security may be transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in the same Restricted Global Security in accordance with the transfer restrictions set forth in the Restricted Securities Legend; provided , however , that prior to the expiration of the Restricted Period, transfers of beneficial interests in a Regulation S Global Security may not be made to a U.S. Person or for the account or benefit of a U.S. Person (other than an Initial Purchaser). A beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security may be transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security. No written orders or instructions shall be required to be delivered to the Registrar to effect the transfers described in this Section 2.2(b)(i).

(ii) All Other Transfers and Exchanges of Beneficial Interests in Global Securities . In connection with all transfers and exchanges of beneficial interests in any Global Security that is not subject to Section 2.2(b)(i), the transferor of such beneficial

 

Appendix A - 4


interest must deliver to the Registrar (1) a written order from an Agent Member given to the Depository in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository directing the Depository to credit or cause to be credited a beneficial interest in another Global Security in an amount equal to the beneficial interest to be transferred or exchanged and (2) instructions given in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository containing information regarding the Agent Member account to be credited with such increase. Upon satisfaction of all of the requirements for transfer or exchange of beneficial interests in Global Securities contained in this Indenture and the Securities or otherwise applicable under the Securities Act, the Trustee shall adjust the principal amount of the relevant Global Security pursuant to Section 2.2(g).

(iii) Transfer of Beneficial Interests to Another Restricted Global Security . A beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security may be transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Restricted Global Security if the transfer complies with the requirements of Section 2.2(b)(ii) above and the Registrar receives the following:

(A) if the transferee will take delivery in the form of a beneficial interest in a Rule 144A Global Security, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Security; and

(B) if the transferee will take delivery in the form of a beneficial interest in a Regulation S Global Security, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Security.

(iv) Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in a Restricted Global Security for Beneficial Interests in an Unrestricted Global Security . A beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security may be exchanged by any holder thereof for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security if the exchange or transfer complies with the requirements of Section 2.2(b)(ii) above and the Registrar receives the following:

(A) if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security proposes to exchange such beneficial interest for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Security; or

(B) if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security proposes to transfer such beneficial interest to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security, a certificate from such holder in the form attached to the applicable Security,

and, in each such case, if the Issuer or the Registrar so requests or if the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository so require, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Registrar to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the

 

Appendix A - 5


Restricted Securities Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act. If any such transfer or exchange is effected pursuant to this subparagraph (iv) at a time when an Unrestricted Global Security has not yet been issued, the Issuer shall issue and, upon receipt of an written order of the Issuer in the form of an Officer’s Certificate in accordance with Section 2.01, the Trustee shall, upon receipt of a Written Order, authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Securities in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of beneficial interests transferred or exchanged pursuant to this subparagraph (iv).

(v) Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in an Unrestricted Global Security for Beneficial Interests in a Restricted Global Security . Beneficial interests in an Unrestricted Global Security cannot be exchanged for, or transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of, a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security.

(c) Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in Global Securities for Definitive Securities . A beneficial interest in a Global Security may not be exchanged for a Definitive Security except under the circumstances described in Section 2.1(b)(ii). A beneficial interest in a Global Security may not be transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a Definitive Security except under the circumstances described in Section 2.1(b)(ii). In any case, beneficial interests in Global Securities shall be transferred or exchanged only for Definitive Securities.

(d) Transfer and Exchange of Definitive Securities for Beneficial Interests in Global Securities . Transfers and exchanges of beneficial interests in the Global Securities also shall require compliance with either subparagraph (i), (ii) or (ii) below, as applicable:

(i) Transfer Restricted Securities to Beneficial Interests in Restricted Global Securities . If any Holder of a Transfer Restricted Security proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security or to transfer such Transfer Restricted Security to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security, then, upon receipt by the Registrar of the following documentation:

(A) if the Holder of such Transfer Restricted Security proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security;

(B) if such Transfer Restricted Security is being transferred to a Qualified Institutional Buyer in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security;

(C) if such Transfer Restricted Security is being transferred to a Non U.S. Person in an offshore transaction in accordance with Rule 903 or Rule 904 under the Securities Act, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security;

 

Appendix A - 6


(D) if such Transfer Restricted Security is being transferred pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security;

(E) if such Transfer Restricted Security is being transferred to an Institutional Accredited Investor in reliance on an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act other than those listed in subparagraphs (B) through (D) above, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security, including the certifications, certificates and Opinion of Counsel, if applicable; or

(F) if such Transfer Restricted Security is being transferred to the Issuer or a Subsidiary thereof, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security;

the Trustee shall cancel the Transfer Restricted Security, and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of the appropriate Restricted Global Security.

(ii) Transfer Restricted Securities to Beneficial Interests in Unrestricted Global Securities . A Holder of a Transfer Restricted Security that is a Definitive Security may exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security or transfer such Transfer Restricted Security to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security only if the Registrar receives the following:

(A) the Holder of such Transfer Restricted Security proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security; or

(B) if the Holder of such Transfer Restricted Securities proposes to transfer such Transfer Restricted Security to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security,

and, in each such case, if the Issuer or the Registrar so requests or if the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository so require, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Registrar to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Restricted Securities Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act. Upon satisfaction of the conditions of this subparagraph (ii), the Trustee shall cancel the Transfer Restricted Securities and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of the Unrestricted Global Security. If any such transfer or exchange is effected pursuant to this subparagraph (ii) at a time when an Unrestricted Global Security has not yet been issued, the Issuer shall issue and, upon receipt of a Written Order of the Issuer in the form of an Officer’s Certificate, the Trustee shall authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Securities in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of Transfer Restricted Securities transferred or exchanged pursuant to this subparagraph (ii).

 

 

Appendix A - 7


(iii) Unrestricted Definitive Securities to Beneficial Interests in Unrestricted Global Securities . A Holder of an Unrestricted Definitive Security may exchange such Unrestricted Definitive Security for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security or transfer such Unrestricted Definitive Security to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Security at any time. Upon receipt of a request for such an exchange or transfer, the Trustee shall cancel the applicable Unrestricted Definitive Security and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of one of the Unrestricted Global Securities. If any such transfer or exchange is effected pursuant to this subparagraph (iii) at a time when an Unrestricted Global Security has not yet been issued, the Issuer shall issue and, upon receipt of a Written Order of the Issuer in the form of an Officer’s Certificate, the Trustee shall authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Securities in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of Unrestricted Definitive Securities transferred or exchanged pursuant to this subparagraph (iii).

(iv) Unrestricted Definitive Securities to Beneficial Interests in Restricted Global Securities . An Unrestricted Definitive Security cannot be exchanged for, or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of, a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Security.

(e) Transfer and Exchange of Definitive Securities for Definitive Securities . Upon request by a Holder of Definitive Securities and such Holder’s compliance with the provisions of this Section 2.2(e), the Registrar shall register the transfer or exchange of Definitive Securities. Prior to such registration of transfer or exchange, the requesting Holder shall present or surrender to the Registrar the Definitive Securities duly endorsed or accompanied by a written instruction of transfer in form satisfactory to the Registrar duly executed by such Holder or by its attorney, duly authorized in writing. In addition, the requesting Holder shall provide any additional certifications, documents and information, as applicable, required pursuant to the following provisions of this Section 2.2(e).

(i) Transfer Restricted Securities to Transfer Restricted Securities . A Transfer Restricted Security may be transferred to and registered in the name of a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a Transfer Restricted Security if the Registrar receives the following:

(A) if the transfer will be made pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Security;

(B) if the transfer will be made pursuant to Rule 903 or Rule 904 under the Securities Act, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Security;

(C) if the transfer will be made pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act, a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Security;

 

Appendix A - 8


(D) if the transfer will be made to an IAI in reliance on an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act other than those listed in subparagraphs (A) through (D) above, a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Security; and

(E) if such transfer will be made to the Issuer or a Subsidiary thereof, a certificate in the form attached to the applicable Security.

(ii) Transfer Restricted Securities to Unrestricted Definitive Securities . Any Transfer Restricted Security may be exchanged by the Holder thereof for an Unrestricted Definitive Security or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Security if the Registrar receives the following:

(A) if the Holder of such Transfer Restricted Security proposes to exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for an Unrestricted Definitive Security, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security; or

(B) if the Holder of such Transfer Restricted Security proposes to transfer such Securities to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Security, a certificate from such Holder in the form attached to the applicable Security,

and, in each such case, if the Registrar so requests, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Issuer to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Restricted Securities Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.

(iii) Unrestricted Definitive Securities to Unrestricted Definitive Securities . A Holder of an Unrestricted Definitive Security may transfer such Unrestricted Definitive Securities to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Security at any time. Upon receipt of a request to register such a transfer, the Registrar shall register the Unrestricted Definitive Securities pursuant to the instructions from the Holder thereof.

Unrestricted Definitive Securities to Transfer Restricted Securities . An Unrestricted Definitive Security cannot be exchanged for, or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of, a Transfer Restricted Security.

At such time as all beneficial interests in a particular Global Security have been exchanged for Definitive Securities or a particular Global Security has been redeemed, repurchased or canceled in whole and not in part, each such Global Security shall be returned to or retained and canceled by the Trustee in accordance with Section 2.11 of this Indenture. At any time prior to such cancellation, if any beneficial interest in a Global Security is exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Security or for Definitive Securities, the principal amount of Securities represented by such Global Security shall be reduced accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Security by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such reduction; and if the beneficial interest is being exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Security, such other Global Security shall be increased accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Security by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such increase.

 

Appendix A - 9


(f) Legend .

(i) Except as permitted by the following paragraph (ii), (iii) or (iv), each Security certificate evidencing the Global Securities and the Definitive Securities (and all Securities issued in exchange therefor or in substitution thereof) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form (each defined term in the legend being defined as such for purposes of the legend only):

“THIS NOTE HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), AND THIS NOTE MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD, PLEDGED OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT OR IN ACCORDANCE WITH AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT (SUBJECT TO THE DELIVERY OF SUCH EVIDENCE, IF ANY, REQUIRED UNDER THE INDENTURE PURSUANT TO WHICH THIS NOTE IS ISSUED) AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION. EACH PURCHASER OF THE SECURITY EVIDENCED HEREBY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE SELLER MAY BE RELYING ON THE EXEMPTION FROM THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 5 OF THE SECURITIES ACT PROVIDED BY RULE 144A THEREUNDER OR ANOTHER EXEMPTION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT. THE HOLDER OF THE SECURITY EVIDENCED HEREBY AGREES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE ISSUER THAT (A) SUCH SECURITY MAY BE RESOLD, PLEDGED OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED ONLY (1)(a) TO A PERSON WHO THE SELLER REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER (AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT) IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 144A, (b) IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 144 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (c) OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES TO A FOREIGN PERSON IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 904 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OR (d) IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANOTHER EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT (AND BASED UPON AN OPINION OF COUNSEL IF THE ISSUER SO REQUESTS), SUBJECT TO THE RECEIPT BY THE REGISTRAR OF A CERTIFICATION OF THE TRANSFEROR AND AN OPINION OF COUNSEL TO THE EFFECT THAT SUCH TRANSFER IS IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE SECURITIES ACT, (2) TO THE ISSUER OR (3) PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND, IN EACH CASE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER APPLICABLE JURISDICTION AND (B) THE HOLDER WILL AND EACH SUBSEQUENT HOLDER IS REQUIRED TO NOTIFY ANY PURCHASER FROM IT OF THE SECURITY EVIDENCED HEREBY OF THE RESALE RESTRICTION SET FORTH IN (A) ABOVE.”

Each Definitive Security shall bear the following additional legends:

 

Appendix A - 10


“IN CONNECTION WITH ANY TRANSFER, THE HOLDER WILL DELIVER TO THE REGISTRAR SUCH CERTIFICATES AND OTHER INFORMATION AS SUCH REGISTRAR MAY REASONABLY REQUIRE TO CONFIRM THAT THE

TRANSFER COMPLIES WITH THE FOREGOING RESTRICTIONS.” “THIS SECURITY (OR ITS PREDECESSOR) WAS ORIGINALLY ISSUED IN A TRANSACTION ORIGINALLY EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), AND MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO, OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OR BENEFIT OF, ANY U.S. PERSON EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN AVAILABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT AND ALL APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS. TERMS USED ABOVE HAVE THE MEANINGS GIVEN TO THEM IN REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.”

(ii) Upon any sale or transfer of a Transfer Restricted Security that is a Definitive Security, the Registrar shall permit the Holder thereof to exchange such Transfer Restricted Security for a Definitive Security that does not bear the legends set forth above and rescind any restriction on the transfer of such Transfer Restricted Security if the Holder certifies in writing to the Registrar that its request for such exchange was made in reliance on Rule 144 (such certification to be in the form set forth on the reverse of the Security).

(iii) Upon a sale or transfer after the expiration of the Restricted Period of any Security acquired pursuant to Regulation S, all requirements that such Security bear the Restricted Securities Legend shall cease to apply and the requirements requiring any such Security be issued in global form shall continue to apply.

(iv) Any Add-On Securities sold in a registered offering shall not be required to bear the Restricted Securities Legend.

(g) Cancellation or Adjustment of Global Security . At such time as all beneficial interests in a particular Global Security have been exchanged for Definitive Securities or a particular Global Security has been redeemed, repurchased or canceled in whole and not in part, each such Global Security shall be returned to or retained and canceled by the Trustee in accordance with Section 2.11 of this Indenture. At any time prior to such cancellation, if any beneficial interest in a Global Security is exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Security or for Definitive Securities, the principal amount of Securities represented by such Global Security shall be reduced accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Security by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such reduction; and if the beneficial interest is being exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Security, such other Global Security shall be increased accordingly and an endorsement shall be made on such Global Security by the Trustee or by the Depository at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such increase.

 

 

Appendix A - 11


(h) Obligations with Respect to Transfers and Exchanges of Securities .

(i) To permit registrations of transfers and exchanges, the Issuer shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate, Definitive Securities and Global Securities at the Registrar’s request.

(ii) No service charge shall be made for any registration of transfer or exchange, but the Issuer may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any transfer tax, assessments, or similar governmental charge payable in connection therewith (other than any such transfer taxes, assessments or similar governmental charge payable upon exchanges pursuant to Sections 3.06, 4.06, 4.08 and 9.05 of this Indenture).

(iii) Prior to the due presentation for registration of transfer of any Security, the Issuer, the Trustee, a paying agent or the Registrar may deem and treat the person in whose name a Security is registered as the absolute owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of and interest on such Security and for all other purposes whatsoever, whether or not such Security is overdue, and none of the Issuer, the Trustee, the paying agent or the Registrar shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

(iv) All Securities issued upon any transfer or exchange pursuant to the terms of this Indenture shall evidence the same debt and shall be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as the Securities surrendered upon such transfer or exchange.

(i) No Obligation of the Trustee .

(i) None of the Trustee, Registrar or paying agent shall have any responsibility or obligation to any beneficial owner of a Global Security, a member of, or a participant in the Depository or any other Person with respect to the accuracy of the records of the Depository or its nominee or of any participant or member thereof, with respect to any ownership interest in the Securities or with respect to the delivery to any participant, member, beneficial owner or other Person (other than the Depository) of any notice (including any notice of redemption or repurchase) or the payment of any amount, under or with respect to such Securities. All notices and communications to be given to the Holders and all payments to be made to the Holders under the Securities shall be given or made only to the registered Holders (which shall be the Depository or its nominee in the case of a Global Security). The rights of beneficial owners in any Global Security shall be exercised only through the Depository subject to the applicable rules and procedures of the Depository. The Trustee, Registrar or paying agent may rely and shall be fully protected in relying upon information furnished by the Depository with respect to its members, participants and any beneficial owners.

(ii) None of the Trustee, Registrar or paying agent shall have any obligation or duty to monitor, determine or inquire as to compliance with any restrictions on transfer imposed under this Indenture or under applicable law with respect to any transfer of any interest in any Security (including any transfers between or among Depository participants, members or beneficial owners in any Global Security) other than to require delivery of such certificates and other documentation or evidence as are expressly required by, and to do so if and when expressly required by, the terms of this Indenture, and to examine the same to determine substantial compliance as to form with the express requirements hereof.

 

Appendix A - 12


EXHIBIT A

[FORM OF FACE OF ORIGINAL OR ADD-ON SECURITY]

[Global Securities Legend]

UNLESS THIS CERTIFICATE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY, A NEW YORK CORPORATION (“DTC”), TO THE ISSUER OR ITS AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY CERTIFICATE ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER NAME AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO., OR TO SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS IS REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL INASMUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.

TRANSFERS OF THIS GLOBAL SECURITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS IN WHOLE, BUT NOT IN PART, TO DTC, TO NOMINEES OF DTC OR TO A SUCCESSOR THEREOF OR SUCH SUCCESSOR’S NOMINEE AND TRANSFERS OF PORTIONS OF THIS GLOBAL SECURITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO TRANSFERS MADE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RESTRICTIONS SET FORTH IN THE INDENTURE REFERRED TO ON THE REVERSE HEREOF.

[Restricted Securities Legend]

“THIS NOTE HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), AND THIS NOTE MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD, PLEDGED OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT OR IN ACCORDANCE WITH AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT (SUBJECT TO THE DELIVERY OF SUCH EVIDENCE, IF ANY, REQUIRED UNDER THE INDENTURE PURSUANT TO WHICH THIS NOTE IS ISSUED) AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION. EACH PURCHASER OF THE SECURITY EVIDENCED HEREBY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE SELLER MAY BE RELYING ON THE EXEMPTION FROM THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 5 OF THE SECURITIES ACT PROVIDED BY RULE 144A THEREUNDER OR ANOTHER EXEMPTION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT. THE HOLDER OF THE SECURITY EVIDENCED HEREBY AGREES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE ISSUER THAT (A) SUCH SECURITY MAY BE RESOLD, PLEDGED OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED ONLY (1)(a) TO A PERSON WHO THE SELLER REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER (AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT) IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 144A, (b) IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 144 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (c) OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES TO A FOREIGN PERSON IN A TRANSACTION MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF RULE 904 UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OR (d) IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANOTHER EXEMPTION FROM THE

 

Exhibit A - 1


REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT (AND BASED UPON AN OPINION OF COUNSEL IF THE ISSUER SO REQUESTS), SUBJECT TO THE RECEIPT BY THE REGISTRAR OF A CERTIFICATION OF THE TRANSFEROR AND AN OPINION OF COUNSEL TO THE EFFECT THAT SUCH TRANSFER IS IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE SECURITIES ACT, (2) TO THE ISSUER OR (3) PURSUANT TO AN EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND, IN EACH CASE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OF THE UNITED STATES OR ANY OTHER APPLICABLE JURISDICTION AND (B) THE HOLDER WILL AND EACH SUBSEQUENT HOLDER IS REQUIRED TO NOTIFY ANY PURCHASER FROM IT OF THE SECURITY EVIDENCED HEREBY OF THE RESALE RESTRICTION SET FORTH IN (A) ABOVE.

Each Definitive Security shall bear the following additional legends:

IN CONNECTION WITH ANY TRANSFER, THE HOLDER WILL DELIVER TO THE REGISTRAR SUCH CERTIFICATES AND OTHER INFORMATION AS SUCH REGISTRAR MAY REASONABLY REQUIRE TO CONFIRM THAT THE TRANSFER COMPLIES WITH THE FOREGOING RESTRICTIONS.

THIS SECURITY (OR ITS PREDECESSOR) WAS ORIGINALLY ISSUED IN A TRANSACTION ORIGINALLY EXEMPT FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), AND MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO, OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OR BENEFIT OF, ANY U.S. PERSON EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN AVAILABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT AND ALL APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS. TERMS USED ABOVE HAVE THE MEANINGS GIVEN TO THEM IN REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.

 

Exhibit A - 2


[FORM OF ORIGINAL SECURITY]

 

No.   $             

6.625% Senior Note due 2025

CUSIP No.

ISIN No.   

Constellium N.V., a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, promises to pay to             , or registered assigns, the principal sum [of            Dollars] [listed on the Schedule of Increases or Decreases in Global Security attached hereto] 1 on March 1, 2025.

Interest Payment Dates: March 1 and September 1

Record Dates: February 15 and August 15

Additional provisions of this Security are set forth on the other side of this Security.

 

1   Use the Schedule of Increases and Decreases language if Security is in Global Form.

 

 

Exhibit A - 3


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this instrument to be duly executed.

 

CONSTELLIUM N.V.
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:

Dated:

 

Exhibit A - 4


TRUSTEE’S CERTIFICATE OF

AUTHENTICATION

DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS,

as Trustee, certifies that this is

one of the Securities

referred to in the Indenture.

 

By:   Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:    

 

  Authorized Signatory

 

*/    If the Security is to be issued in global form, add the Global Securities
   Legend and the attachment from Exhibit A captioned “TO BE
   ATTACHED TO GLOBAL SECURITIES - SCHEDULE OF
   INCREASES OR DECREASES IN GLOBAL SECURITY”.

 

Exhibit A - 5


EXHIBIT A

[FORM OF REVERSE SIDE OF ORIGINAL SECURITY]

6.625% Senior Note due 2025

 

1. Interest

CONSTELLIUM N.V., a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (together with its successors and assigns under the Indenture hereinafter referred to as the “Issuer”), promises to pay interest on the principal amount of this Security semiannually in arrears on each March 1 and September 1 commencing on September 1, 2017. Interest on the Securities will accrue from the Issue Date or the most recent date to which interest has been paid or provided for until the principal hereof is due. Interest shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.

Interest on the Securities will accrue at a rate of 6.625% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears.

“Issue Date” means the date on which the Securities are originally issued.

 

2. Method of Payment

The Issuer shall pay interest on the Securities (except defaulted interest) to the Persons who are registered Holders at the close of business on the February 15 or August 15 immediately preceding the interest payment date even if Securities are canceled after the record date and on or before the interest payment date (whether or not a Business Day). Holders must surrender Securities to the paying agent to collect principal payments. The Issuer shall pay principal, premium, if any, and interest in money of the United States of America that at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts. Payments in respect of the Securities represented by a Global Security (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by The Depository Trust Company or any successor depositary. The Issuer shall make all payments in respect of a certificated Security (including principal, premium, if any, and interest), at the office of the paying agent, except that, at the option of the Issuer, payment of interest may be made by mailing a check to the registered address of each Holder thereof; provided , however , that payments on the Securities may also be made, in the case of a Holder of at least $1,000,000 aggregate principal amount of Securities, by wire transfer to a U.S. dollar account maintained by the payee with a bank in the United States if such Holder elects payment by wire transfer by giving written notice to the Trustee or paying agent to such effect designating such account no later than 30 days immediately preceding the relevant due date for payment (or such other date as the Trustee may accept in its discretion).

3. Paying Agent and Registrar

Initially, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (the “Trustee”), will act as Principal Paying Agent and Registrar. The Issuer may appoint and change any paying agent or Registrar without notice. The Issuer or any of its domestically incorporated Wholly Owned Subsidiaries may act as paying agent or Registrar.

 

Exhibit A - 6


4. Indenture

The Issuer issued the Securities under an Indenture dated as of February 16, 2017 (the “Indenture”), among the Issuer, the Guarantors party thereto (the “Guarantors”) and the Trustee. The terms of the Securities include those stated in the Indenture. Terms defined in the Indenture and not defined herein have the meanings ascribed thereto in the Indenture. The Securities are subject to all terms and provisions of the Indenture, and the Holders (as defined in the Indenture) are referred to the Indenture for a statement of such terms and provisions.

The Securities are senior unsecured obligations of the Issuer. This Security is one of the Original Securities referred to in the Indenture. The Securities include the Original Securities and any issued Add-On Securities. The Original Securities and any Add-On Securities are treated as a single series of securities under the Indenture. The Indenture imposes certain limitations on the ability of the Issuer and its Restricted Subsidiaries to, among other things, make certain Investments and other Restricted Payments, pay dividends and other distributions, incur Indebtedness, enter into consensual restrictions upon the payment of certain dividends and distributions by such Restricted Subsidiaries, issue or sell shares of Capital Stock of the Issuer and such Restricted Subsidiaries, enter into or permit certain transactions with Affiliates, create or incur Liens and make Asset Sales. The Indenture also imposes limitations on the ability of the Issuer and each Guarantor to consolidate or merge with or into any other Person or convey, transfer or lease all or substantially all of its property.

To guarantee the due and punctual payment of the principal and interest on the Securities and all other amounts payable by the Issuer under the Indenture and the Securities when and as the same shall be due and payable, whether at maturity, by acceleration or otherwise, according to the terms of the Securities and the Indenture, the Guarantors have, jointly and severally, unconditionally guaranteed the Guaranteed Obligations on a senior unsecured basis pursuant to the terms of the Indenture.

 

5. Optional Redemption

Except as set forth in the following two paragraphs, the Securities shall not be redeemable at the option of the Issuer prior to March 1, 2020. On or after March 1, 2020, the Securities shall be redeemable at the option of the Issuer, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice delivered electronically or by first-class mail to each Holder’s registered address, at the following redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of the Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), if redeemed during the twelve-month period commencing on March 1 of the years set forth below:

 

Year

   Redemption Price  

2020

     103.313

2021

     101.656

2022 and thereafter

     100.000

 

Exhibit A - 7


In addition, prior to March 1, 2020, the Issuer may redeem the Securities at its option, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice electronically delivered or mailed by first-class mail to each Holder’s registered address, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Securities redeemed plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the applicable redemption date (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

Notwithstanding the foregoing, at any time and from time to time prior to March 1, 2020, the Issuer may redeem Securities in an aggregate amount equal to up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Securities (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Add-On Securities), with an amount equal to the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings by the Issuer, at a redemption price (expressed as a percentage of principal amount thereof) of 106.625%, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date); provided , however , that at least 50% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Securities (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Add-On Securities) must remain outstanding after each such redemption; and provided, further, that such redemption shall occur within 90 days after the date on which any such Equity Offering is consummated upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice electronically delivered or mailed to each Holder of Securities being redeemed and otherwise in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Indenture. Any redemption or notice of any redemption may, at the Issuer’s discretion, be subject to one or more conditions precedent, including, but not limited to, completion of the related Equity Offering, other debt or equity financing, acquisition or other corporate transaction or event, and, at the Issuer’s discretion, the redemption date may be delayed until such time as any or all of such conditions have been satisfied. In addition, the Issuer may provide in any notice of redemption that payment of the redemption price and the performance of its obligations with respect to such redemption may be performed by another person; provided , however , that the Issuer will remain obligated to pay the redemption price and perform its obligations with respect to such redemption in the event such other person fails to do so and all conditions to such redemption, if any, are satisfied. Notice of any redemption in respect of an Equity Offering may be given prior to completion thereof.

If an optional redemption date is on or after an interest record date and on or before the related interest payment date, the accrued and unpaid interest, if any, will be paid to the Person in whose name the Security is registered at the close of business on such record date.

 

6. Redemption for Taxation Reasons .

The Issuer may redeem the Securities, at its option, in whole, but not in part, at any time upon giving not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior notice to Holders (which notice shall be irrevocable) at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Securities, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to (but not including) the date fixed for redemption of such series (a “Tax Redemption Date”) (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date) and all Additional Amounts (as defined in Section 2.15 of the Indenture), if any, then due or that will become due on the Tax Redemption Date as a result of the redemption or otherwise, if the Issuer determines in good faith that, as a result of:

 

Exhibit A - 8


(a) any change in, or amendment to, the law or treaties (or any regulations, protocols or rulings promulgated thereunder) of a Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction (as defined in Section 2.15 of the Indenture) affecting taxation; or

(b) any change in official position regarding the application, administration or interpretation of such laws, treaties, regulations, protocols or rulings (including a holding, judgment or order by a government agency or court of competent jurisdiction)

(each of the foregoing in clauses (a) and (b), a “Change in Tax Law”), any Payor (as defined in Section 2.15 of the Indenture), with respect to the Securities or a Guarantee is, or on the next date on which any amount would be payable in respect of the Securities would be, required to pay any Additional Amounts, and such obligation cannot be avoided by taking reasonable measures available to such Payor (including the appointment of a new paying agent or, where such payment would be reasonable, the payment through another Payor); provided that no Payor shall be required to take any measures that in the Issuer’s good faith determination would result in the imposition on such person of any legal or regulatory burden (other than any such burden that is de minimis to the Issuer) or the incurrence by such person of additional costs (other than any such costs that are de minimis to the Issuer) or would otherwise result in any adverse consequences to such person (other than any such adverse consequences that are de minimis).

In the case of any Payor, the Change in Tax Law must be announced and become effective on or after the date of the Offering Memorandum (or if the applicable Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction becomes a Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction on a date after the date of the Offering Memorandum, then such later date). Notwithstanding the foregoing, no such notice of redemption will be given earlier than 90 days prior to the earliest date on which the Payor would be obligated to make such payment of Additional Amounts. Prior to the publication, mailing or delivery of any notice of redemption of the Securities pursuant to the foregoing, the Issuer will deliver to the Trustee and the paying agent (a) an Officer’s Certificate stating that it is entitled to effect such redemption and setting forth a statement of facts showing that the conditions precedent to its right so to redeem have been satisfied and (b) an opinion of an independent tax counsel of recognized standing to the effect that the Payor would be obligated to pay Additional Amounts as a result of a Change in Tax Law. The Trustee will accept such Officer’s Certificate and opinion as sufficient evidence of the satisfaction of the conditions precedent described above, in which event it will be conclusive and binding on the Holders of the Securities.

The foregoing provisions will apply mutatis mutandis to any successor to a Payor. The foregoing provisions will survive any termination, defeasance or discharge of the Indenture.

 

7. Sinking Fund

The Securities are not subject to any sinking fund.

 

Exhibit A - 9


8. Notice of Redemption

Notice of redemption will be electronically delivered or mailed by first-class mail at least 30 days but not more than 60 days before the redemption date to each Holder of Securities to be redeemed at his, her or its registered address. Securities in denominations larger than $250,000 may be redeemed in part but only in whole multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof. If money sufficient to pay the redemption price of and accrued and unpaid interest on all Securities (or portions thereof) to be redeemed on the redemption date is deposited with a paying agent on or before the redemption date and certain other conditions are satisfied, on and after such date interest ceases to accrue on such Securities (or such portions thereof) called for redemption.

 

9. Repurchase of Securities at the Option of the
  Holders upon Change of Control and Asset Sales

Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each Holder shall have the right, subject to certain conditions specified in the Indenture, to cause the Issuer to repurchase all or any part of such Holder’s Securities at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of the Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), as provided in, and subject to the terms of, the Indenture.

In accordance with Section 4.06 of the Indenture, the Issuer will be required to offer to purchase Securities upon the occurrence of certain events.

 

10. Ranking

The Securities and the Guarantees are senior unsecured obligations of the Issuer and the Guarantors and will be of equal ranking with all present and future senior unsecured indebtedness.

 

11. Denominations; Transfer; Exchange

The Securities are in registered form, without coupons, in denominations of $250,000 and any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof. A Holder shall register the transfer of or exchange of Securities in accordance with the Indenture. Upon any registration of transfer or exchange, the Registrar may require a Holder, among other things, to furnish appropriate endorsements or transfer documents and to pay any taxes required by law or permitted by the Indenture. The Registrar need not register the transfer of or exchange any Securities selected for redemption (except, in the case of a Security to be redeemed in part, the portion of the Security not to be redeemed) or to transfer or exchange any Securities for a period of 15 days prior to a selection of Securities to be redeemed.

 

12. Persons Deemed Owners

The registered Holder of this Security shall be treated as the owner of it for all purposes.

 

13. Unclaimed Money

If money for the payment of principal or interest remains unclaimed for two years, the Trustee and a paying agent shall pay the money back to the Issuer at their written request unless an abandoned property law designates another Person. After any such payment, the Holders entitled to the money must look to the Issuer for payment as general creditors and the Trustee and a paying agent shall have no further liability with respect to such monies.

 

Exhibit A - 10


14. Discharge and Defeasance

Subject to certain conditions, the Issuer at any time may terminate some of or all of its obligations under the Securities and the Indenture if the Issuer deposits with the Trustee money or U.S. Government Obligations for the payment of principal and interest on the Securities to redemption or maturity, as the case may be.

 

15. Amendment; Waiver

Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, (i) the Indenture or the Securities may be amended with the written consent of the Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Securities and (ii) any past default or compliance with any provisions may be waived with the written consent of the Holders of at least a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Securities. Subject to certain exceptions set forth in the Indenture, without the consent of any Holder, the Issuer and the Trustee may amend the Indenture or the Securities (i) to cure any ambiguity, omission, mistake, defect or inconsistency; (ii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor Company of the obligations of the Issuer under the Indenture and the Securities; (iii) to provide for the assumption by a Successor Guarantor of the obligations of a Guarantor under the Indenture and its Guarantee; (iv) to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities (provided that the uncertificated Securities are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code, or in a manner such that the uncertificated Securities are described in Section 163(f)(2)(B) of the Code); (v) to add additional Guarantees with respect to the Securities; (vi) to make any change that would provide additional rights or benefits to the Holders or that does not adversely affect the legal rights of the Holders; (vii) to make changes relating to the transfer and legending of the Securities; (viii) to secure the Securities; (ix) to add to the covenants of the Issuer for the benefit of the Holders or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Issuer or any Guarantor; (x) to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any Holder in any material respect; (xi) to effect any provision of the Indenture; (xii) to provide for the issuance of the Add-On Securities, as defined in the Indenture; (xiii) to evidence and provide for the acceptance and appointment under the Indenture of a successor Trustee thereunder pursuant to the requirements thereof; or (xiv) to conform the text of the Indenture, Guarantees or Securities to any provision of the section entitled “Description of the Notes” in the Offering Memorandum.

 

16. Defaults and Remedies

If an Event of Default occurs (other than an Event of Default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the Issuer) and is continuing, the Trustee or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the outstanding Securities, in each case, by notice to the Issuer, may declare the principal of, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on all the Securities to be due and payable provided , however , that so long as any Bank Indebtedness remains outstanding, no such acceleration shall be effective until the earlier of (1) five Business Days after the giving of written notice to the Issuer and the Representative under the Credit Facilities and (2) the day on which any Bank Indebtedness is accelerated. Upon such a declaration, such principal, premium, if any, and interest will be due and payable immediately. If an Event of Default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of

 

Exhibit A - 11


the Issuer occurs, the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on all the Securities shall become immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of the Trustee or any Holders. Under certain circumstances, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Securities may rescind any such acceleration with respect to the Securities and its consequences.

If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers under the Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders unless such Holders have offered to the Trustee reasonable indemnity or security satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense and certain other conditions are complied with. Except to enforce the right to receive payment of principal, premium (if any) or interest when due, no Holder may pursue any remedy with respect to the Indenture or the Securities unless (i) such Holder has previously given the Trustee notice that an Event of Default is continuing, (ii) the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the outstanding Securities have requested the Trustee in writing to pursue the remedy, (iii) such Holders have offered the Trustee reasonable security or indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense, (iv) the Trustee has not complied with such request within 60 days after the receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity and (v) the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Securities have not given the Trustee a direction inconsistent with such request within such 60-day period. Subject to certain restrictions, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Securities are given the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or of exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee. The Trustee, however, may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with law or the Indenture or that the Trustee determines is unduly prejudicial to the rights of any other Holder or that would involve the Trustee in personal or financial liability. Prior to taking any action under the Indenture at the instruction of Holders in respect of an Event of Default, the Trustee shall be entitled to indemnification or security satisfactory to it in its sole discretion against all losses and expenses caused by taking or not taking such action.

 

17. Trustee Dealings with the Issuer

The Trustee under the Indenture, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and may otherwise deal with and collect obligations owed to it by the Issuer or its Affiliates and may otherwise deal with the Issuer or its Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee.

 

18. No Recourse Against Others

No director, officer, employee, manager, incorporator or holder of any Equity Interests (as defined in the Indenture) in the Issuer or any direct or indirect parent corporation, as such, shall have any liability for any obligations of the Issuer under the Securities, the Indenture or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each Holder of Securities by accepting a Security waives and releases all such liability.

 

Exhibit A - 12


19. Authentication

This Security shall not be valid until an authorized signatory of the Trustee (or an authenticating agent) manually signs the certificate of authentication on the other side of this Security.

 

20. Abbreviations

Customary abbreviations may be used in the name of a Holder or an assignee, such as TEN COM (=tenants in common), TEN ENT (=tenants by the entireties), JT TEN (=joint tenants with rights of survivorship and not as tenants in common), CUST (=custodian), and U/G/M/A (=Uniform Gift to Minors Act).

 

21. Governing Law

THIS SECURITY SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

 

22. CUSIP Numbers; ISINs

The Issuer has caused CUSIP numbers and ISINs to be printed on the Securities and has directed the Trustee to use CUSIP numbers and ISINs in notices of redemption as a convenience to the Holders. No representation is made as to the accuracy of such numbers either as printed on the Securities or as contained in any notice of redemption and reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers placed thereon.

The Issuer will furnish to any Holder of Securities upon written request and without charge to the Holder a copy of the Indenture which has in it the text of this Security.

 

Exhibit A - 13


ASSIGNMENT FORM

To assign this Security, fill in the form below:

I or we assign and transfer this Security to:

 

 

(Print or type assignee’s name, address and zip code)

 

 

(Insert assignee’s soc. sec. or tax I.D. No.)

and irrevocably appoint                     agent to transfer this Security on the books of the Issuer. The agent may substitute another to act for him.

 

 

Date:  

 

      Your Signature:  

 

 

 

Sign exactly as your name appears on the other side of this Security.

 

Signature Guarantee:    
Date:                                                                                                                 

 

Signature must be guaranteed by a participant in a recognized signature guaranty medallion program or other signature guarantor program reasonably acceptable to the Trustee     Signature of Signature Guarantee

 

Exhibit A - 14


CERTIFICATE TO BE DELIVERED UPON EXCHANGE OR

REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER RESTRICTED SECURITIES

This certificate relates to $            principal amount of Securities held in (check applicable space)             book-entry or             definitive form by the undersigned.

The undersigned (check one box below):

 

has requested the Trustee by written order to deliver in exchange for its beneficial interest in the Global Security held by the Depository a Security or Securities in definitive, registered form of authorized denominations and an aggregate principal amount equal to its beneficial interest in such Global Security (or the portion thereof indicated above);

 

has requested the Trustee by written order to exchange or register the transfer of a Security or Securities.

In connection with any transfer of any of the Securities evidenced by this certificate occurring prior to the expiration of the period referred to in Rule 144(k) under the Securities Act, the undersigned confirms that such Securities are being transferred in accordance with its terms:

CHECK ONE BOX BELOW

(1) ☐ to the Issuer; or

(2) ☐ to the Registrar for registration in the name of the Holder, without transfer; or

(3) ☐ pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933; or

(4) ☐ inside the United States to a “qualified institutional buyer” (as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933) that purchases for its own account or for the account of a qualified institutional buyer to whom notice is given that such transfer is being made in reliance on Rule 144A, in each case pursuant to and in compliance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933; or

(5) ☐ outside the United States in an offshore transaction within the meaning of Regulation S under the Securities Act in compliance with Rule 904 under the Securities Act of 1933 and such Security shall be held immediately after the transfer through Euroclear or Clearstream until the expiration of the Restricted Period (as defined in the Indenture); or

(6) ☐ to an institutional “accredited investor” (as defined in Rule 501(a)(1), (2), (3) or (7) under the Securities Act of 1933) that has furnished to the Trustee a signed letter containing certain representations and agreements; or

(7) ☐ pursuant to another available exemption from registration provided by Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933.

 

Exhibit A - 15


Unless one of the boxes is checked, the Trustee will refuse to register any of the Securities evidenced by this certificate in the name of any Person other than the registered Holder thereof; provided , however , that if box (5), (6) or (7) is checked, the Issuer or the Trustee may require, prior to registering any such transfer of the Securities, such legal opinions, certifications and other information as the Issuer or the Trustee have reasonably requested to confirm that such transfer is being made pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933.

 

Date:  

 

     Your Signature:  

 

 

Signature Guarantee:    
Date:                                                                                                                 

 

Signature must be guaranteed by a participant in a recognized signature guaranty medallion program or other signature guarantor program reasonably acceptable to the Trustee     Signature of Signature Guarantee

 

Exhibit A - 16


TO BE COMPLETED BY PURCHASER IF (4) ABOVE IS CHECKED.

The undersigned represents and warrants that it is purchasing this Security for its own account or an account with respect to which it exercises sole investment discretion and that it and any such account is a “qualified institutional buyer” within the meaning of Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, and is aware that the sale to it is being made in reliance on Rule 144A and acknowledges that it has received such information regarding the Issuer as the undersigned has requested pursuant to Rule 144A or has determined not to request such information and that it is aware that the transferor is relying upon the undersigned’s foregoing representations in order to claim the exemption from registration provided by Rule 144A.

 

Dated:  

 

   

 

      NOTICE: To be executed by an executive officer

 

Exhibit A - 17


[TO BE ATTACHED TO GLOBAL SECURITIES]

SCHEDULE OF INCREASES OR DECREASES IN GLOBAL SECURITY

The initial principal amount of this Global Security is $            . The following increases or decreases in this Global Security have been made:

 

Date of Exchange    Amount of decrease in    Amount of increase in    Principal amount of this    Signature of authorized
   Principal Amount of this    Principal Amount of this    Global Security following    signatory of Trustee or
   Global Security    Global Security    such decrease or increase    Securities Custodian

 

Exhibit A - 18


OPTION OF HOLDER TO ELECT PURCHASE

If you want to elect to have this Security purchased by the Issuer pursuant to Section 4.06 (Asset Sale) or 4.08 (Change of Control) of the Indenture, check the box:

Asset Sale                                           Change of Control

If you want to elect to have only part of this Security purchased by the Issuer pursuant to Section 4.06 (Asset Sale) or 4.08 (Change of Control) of the Indenture, state the amount ($250,000 or any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof):

$

 

Date:  

 

     Your Signature:  

 

        

(Sign exactly as your name appears on the other side of this Security)

Signature Guarantee:                                                                                                                

Signature must be guaranteed by a participant in a recognized signature

guaranty medallion program or other signature guarantor program

reasonably acceptable to the Trustee

 

Exhibit A - 19


[FORM OF NOTATION OF GUARANTEE]

For value received, each Guarantor (which term includes any successor Person under the Indenture) has, jointly and severally, unconditionally guaranteed, to the extent set forth in the Indenture and subject to the provisions in the Indenture dated as of February 16, 2017 (the “Indenture”) among CONSTELLIUM N.V., a public company with limited liability (naamloze vennootschap) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Issuer”), the Guarantors party thereto and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee (the “Trustee”), (a) (i) the full and punctual payment when due, whether at Stated Maturity, by acceleration, by redemption or otherwise, of all Obligations of the Issuer under the Indenture (including obligations to the Trustee) and the Securities, whether for payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on or in respect of the Securities and all other monetary obligations of the Issuer under this Indenture and the Securities and (ii) the full and punctual performance within applicable grace periods of all other obligations of the Issuer whether for fees, expenses, indemnification or otherwise under this Indenture and the Securities and (b) in case of any extension of time of payment or renewal of any Securities or any of such other obligations, that the same will be promptly paid in full when due or performed in accordance with the terms of the extension or renewal, whether at stated maturity, by acceleration or otherwise. The obligations of the Guarantors to the Holders and to the Trustee pursuant to the Guarantee and the Indenture are expressly set forth in Article 10 of the Indenture (subject to the limitations set forth in Section 10.02) and reference is hereby made to the Indenture for the precise terms of the Guarantee.

Capitalized terms used but not defined herein have the meanings given to them in the Indenture.

 

Exhibit A - 20


EXHIBIT B

[FORM OF SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE]

SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of [ ], among [GUARANTOR] (the “New Guarantor”), a subsidiary of CONSTELLIUM N.V., (or its successor), a public company with limited liability ( naamloze vennootschap ) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands with its corporate seat in Amsterdam, the Netherlands (the “Issuer”) and DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as trustee under the indenture referred to below (the “Trustee”).

W I T N E S S E T H :

WHEREAS the Issuer and the existing Guarantors have heretofore executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as of February 16, 2017, providing initially for the issuance of $650,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the Issuer’s 6.625% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “Securities”);

WHEREAS Section 4.11 of the Indenture provides that under certain circumstances the Issuer is required to cause the New Guarantor to execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the New Guarantor shall unconditionally guarantee all the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture pursuant to a Guarantee on the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the New Guarantor are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Guarantor and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:

1. Defined Terms . As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined, except that the term “Holders” in this Guarantee shall refer to the term “Holders” as defined in the Indenture and the Trustee acting on behalf of and for the benefit of such Holders. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

2. Agreement to Guarantee . The New Guarantor hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors (if any), to unconditionally guarantee the Issuer’s Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article 10 of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.

3. Notices . All notices or other communications to the New Guarantor shall be given as provided in Section 11.03 of the Indenture.

 

Exhibit B - 1


4. Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture . Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.

5. Governing Law . THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO PRINCIPLES OF CONFLICTS OF LAW.

6. Trustee Makes No Representation . The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.

7. Counterparts . The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture by manual, facsimile, pdf or other electronically transmitted signature. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.

8. Effect of Headings . The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.

 

Exhibit B - 2


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

[NEW GUARANTOR]
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:
DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS
By:   Deutsche Bank National Trust Company
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:

 

Exhibit B - 3

Exhibit 10.2

Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

CONSTELLIUM

Short Term Incentive plan

Employee Performance

Award (EPA)

Plan Description

All Constellium Employees

with a level as from Engineers /

Professionals (28 and above)

January 2016


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

General

 

Introduction to Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan   

The Employee Performance Award (EPA) plan is a Short Term Incentive (STI) plan which rewards the achievement of:

 

•    (i) Financial Performance,

 

•    (ii) Safety performance (EHS) and

 

•    (iii) Individual Objectives.

 

It is designed to provide a performance-related reward to employees who contribute substantially to the success of Constellium.

 

The EPA plan comprises three elements:

 

Financial Objectives :

   70% weight

Safety Objective :

   10% weight

Two Individual Objectives :

   20% weight

 

  

The quarterly Financial Objectives and the yearly Safety Objective are defined and approved by the Remuneration Committee of the Board (RemCo) at the beginning of each performance period.

 

The two yearly Individual Objectives are set and evaluated by the supervisor as part of the Performance Management process.

 

There will be no EPA payout in a Business Unit or the Constellium Group in case the EBITDA of that Business Unit or the Constellium Group would be negative.

 

The pay out on Group level cannot be higher than the highest pay out in one of the Business Units.

 

2


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

Description of the Plan

 

Participation   

The EPA plan is designed for Constellium employees in positions Engineers / professionals and above (grade 28 and above).

 

Period of Participation   

Employees who join the EPA scheme in the course of the year are entitled to an award pro-rated for the numbers of months of participation.

 

If an employee resigns or is terminated for cause in the course of the performance period, he/she is losing the entitlement to a pay out as a result of the EPA plan. To be entitled to the payout the employee should still be on payroll at the end of the performance period and not be in notice period .

 

If an employee is terminated without cause, he/she is entitled to the performance award taking into account the time worked during the performance period and a fair evaluation of the two Individual Objectives.

 

In any circumstances, periods of garden leave do not create an entitlement to an EPA award, unless local regulation stipulates otherwise.

 

Control   

The Remuneration Committee of the board has full and exclusive power to interpret the EPA plan rules and to make, amend, and rescind the rules and regulations for its administration. This Remuneration Committee has the authority to approve resulting pay outs of the EPA plan. The EPA bonus pay outs, even if they are of regular nature, do not create any type of acquainted right on behalf of the employee.

 

Performance Period   

The financial metrics are set and measured on a quarterly basis, the yearly ones on a yearly basis, i.e. from January 1 st till December 31 st .

The pay out of the award takes place after the Remuneration Committee has approved the results of the plan for a given year which is normally happening end march of the calendar year following the end of the performance period.

 

Target Award   

Each entitled employee has a target award expressed as a percentage of the base salary at December 31 st of the bonus year, reflecting both the responsibilities of the position and the labor markets Constellium is competing with.

 

In case the target award of the employee has changed in the course of the year, the target awards for the respective periods will be used to calculate the full yearly pay out.

 

In case the employee changed position in the course of the year with a changing perimeter (group, BU and/or OU), the award will be calculated pro rata temporis the time spent in the respective positions, except if the change has occurred for a month or less before year end.

 

3


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

Performance Award Components

 

4


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

Financial Performance Award   

The Financial Performance Award is calculated on a quarterly basis and takes into account two components as defined and reported by Corporate Controlling:

 

•    The Adjusted Free Cash Flow/Operating Cash Flow

 

•    The Adjusted EBITDA

 

The Financial Performance Award accounts for 70% of the total target award being 35% for each component.

 

At the end of each quarter, an evaluation of the financial objectives is made. In case one or both thresholds have been passed, the employee vests the right on the resulting pay out at the end of the year when he/she is still employed at that moment of time (see comments page 3 period of participation).

 

Each quarter is evaluated on its own merits. No carryover of over delivered results or catch up in the quarter(s) following a substandard performance is allowed.

 

Appendix 1: Definitions of the components.

Parental Concept   

In order to promote synergies throughout the company, the EPA plan is designed to encourage individual plants, business units and corporate to work closely together to achieve common strategic, operating and financial goals. Therefore, the Financial Performance Award element of the EPA is defined - depending on the level of the employee - on one or more financial results of Constellium Corporate, the BU and the site, operating unit or product/market unit.

 

The EPA grid in appendix 2 defines the relative weight for each level in the organization. The functions (finance, HR, IT, purchasing) or “shared services” (maintenance, EHS...), which operate on a site where multiple BU’s are represented, are rewarded based on the results of the BU which manages the central services on the site – P&ARP for Singen and A&T for Valais.

 

Appendix 2 : 2016 Parental grid

 

For clarity reasons, the parental grid is applied for each business and operating unit. Each employee receives a letter which confirms the perimeter on which his/her bonus will be calculated.

EHS Objective    The yearly EHS objective for Constellium and the different entities is established at the beginning of each performance period. There will be no payout for the EHS objective in case of a fatality or type I (major) environmental event for all employees of the operating unit involved, all hierarchical line managers, the BU management and all employees on group level.
Individual/Team Award (ITA)    Individual/Team objectives are established yearly by the supervisor according to the performance management process. The performance rating on the two main objectives is used to calculate the EPA rating. The employee agrees with his/her supervisor which of the objectives will be used for the bonus calculation and indicates them as such in the performance management system.

 

5


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

Payout Mechanism

 

Payout scale   

The payout scale defines the performance levels and their resulting pay outs.

 

The target performance level in terms of Cash Flow/EBITDA results in a payout at 100% of the bonus entitlement.

 

The Cash Flow/EBITDA threshold level is in principle 80% of the target level. Below this point, there is no bonus payout. Between this point and the target performance level, the payout increases linearly between 0% and 100%

 

The maximum Cash Flow/EBITDA performance target is in principle 125% of the target level. This level results in principle in a payout of 150% of the bonus entitlement (for any 1% above 100% the additional payout is 2% up to 150%). The payout between the target performance level and the maximum performance level is defined linearly.

 

In case there is a reduced span between the minimum and maximum value of the targets, intelligence will be applied to reset the values and make them both challenging and rewarding.

 

The financial component pay out for the Corporate functions is capped by the highest pay out in one of the Business Units.

 

The Cash Flow and EBITDA results are considered as independent performance parameters, each with a relative weight of 35% and evaluated on its own merits.

 

Restructuring costs are below the line, as far as they are properly documented and in compliance with IFRS definitions.

 

For entities reporting in a currency other than the Euro, actual Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Cash Flow will be restated at budget FX rates.

 

There will be no EPA payout in a Business Unit in case the EBITDA of that unit would be negative.

 

Payout approval    The proposals for EPA bonus pay outs need to be approved by the line management – two levels up and the HR function up to VP HR. The final approval is done by the Rem Com.

Illustrative Award Calculation

The Total Award is the sum of the quarterly Cash Flow / EBITDA ratings (70%), the EHS rating (10%) and the Individual Objective results (20%) as follows:

 

Total Award= target bonus x ((Cash Flow/EBITDA ratings x 70%) + (EHS rating x 10%) + (Ind Obj rating x 20%))

 

6


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

Appendix 1    2016 EPA – FINANCIAL DEFINITIONS

The financial targets are defined as tracked and reported by Corporate Controlling on a monthly, quarterly and yearly basis.

 

EBITDA   

•    Quarterly EBITDA targets based on 2016 budget at budget FX rates

 

•    Excluding the effect of the Moving Average cost of metal and the internal CSAG & FX/LME Hedging fees

 

•    Excluding below the line items, validated by Corporate Finance

FCF

  

The Free Cash Flow targets are defined as follows :

 

•    The Operational Cash Flow for all EPA entitled employees on site level, except site management of Sierre, Singen, Issoire, NH, Decin and Ravenswood (site director, finance and HR)

 

•    The Adjusted Free Cash Flow for the EPA entitled employees on group and BU management level and the finance and HR directors of the sites mentioned above

 

   Free Cash Flow definition
  

Adjusted EBITDA (exc MA/EPSAG)

Add back : non-cash items

Change in Trade Working Capital

Capex (cash)

  

Operational Cash Flow – target for all employees on site level except site management big sites

Net changes in Operating WCR

Net changes in Non-Operating WCR

Net changes on deferred revenues

Taxes paid

Cash out on provisions (other than pension and restructuring)

Cash out on pensions

Cash out on restructuring

Net changes in margin calls

Adjusted Free Cash Flow – target for group, BU management and site management big sites

Financing

Proceeds from disposal of assets

Free Cash Flow

 

Change in Trade

 

Working Capital

  

•    Change in trade receivables, payables and inventory

 

•    Neutral to any financing, factoring or letter of credit arrangements

 

7


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

Appendix 2 - Parental concept for the financial award

2016 EPA PARENTAL GRID

 

EPA Participants :

   Financial Performance Award  
   Group
Adj. FCF/ Adj.
EBITDA
    BU
Adj. FCF/ Adj.
EBITDA
    BU OCF/EBITDA     PU / MU / Sites
OCF / EBITDA
 

Executive Committee / Constellium Group employees (including C-Tech)

     70      

Site Management (site including site Director, finance and HR) of 6 big sites

     15     20       35

BU Management and functional team members working on BU level

     35     35    

OU / MU / Sites Operational and functional positions

     15       20     35

This grid may suffer exceptions on request of BU Presidents that need the approval of the VP HR

 

8


Constellium Employees Performance Award (EPA) Plan

 

 

Signed :

For agreement :

 

         

Date

  

Signature

    

CFO

 

        

LOGO

 

  

BU President

  

A&T

PARP    

ASI

        

VP HR

 

         LOGO   

CEO

 

         LOGO   

 

9

Exhibit 10.10.1

Execution Version

Dated 27 May 2016

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Valais S.A. Sierre,

3960 Sierre,

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 16 December 2010)

 

 


Execution Version

 

This Amendment Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is dated 27 May 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) GE CAPITAL BANK AG , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as GE CAPITAL ”); and

 

(2) Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre , a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9. (hereafter referred to as the “ Originator ”).

GE CAPITAL and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the “ Parties ”.

WHEREAS:

 

(1) GE CAPITAL as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 16 December 2010, pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to GE CAPITAL (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

 

(2) GE CAPITAL has entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619, on 16 December 2010 and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg under register number HRB 540034, on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014) and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o., a company incorporated and existing under the laws of the Czech Republic, with its registered office at Ùsteckà 751/37, Děčin V-Rozbělesy, 405 02 Děčin, Czech Republic, identification number 183 80 654, registered in the Commercial Register maintained by the Regional Court in Ùsti nad Labem under file number C 301, on 26 June 2015.

 

(3) On 26 June 2015, GE CAPITAL has entered into Amendment Agreements with the Originator, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Singen GmbH and Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o. to set a total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the Factoring Agreement and the respective other factoring agreements.

 

(4) GE CAPITAL will enter into a factoring agreement on or about the date hereof with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

 

(5) In the context of the factoring agreement to be entered into between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, the Parties have agreed to amend the Factoring Agreement with respect to the Maximum Commitment (as defined in the Factoring Agreement).


Execution Version

 

GE CAPITAL and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.

 

1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2. Amendment to the Factoring Agreement

Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 4 ( Maximum Commitment ) shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

“GE CAPITAL will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 115.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifteen million Euro) and the Maximum Commitment for Constellium Extrusions Déćin s.r.o. may not exceed 15.000.000,00 EUR (fifteen million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

 

3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or GE CAPITAL, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.


Execution Version

 

4. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

4.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

4.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


Execution Version

 

SIGNATORIES

 

GE CAPITAL BANK AG
  LOGO      LOGO
 

 

    

 

Signed by:   Philipp Schiemann      Michael Homischer
Title:   Team Leader Large Clients      Deputy Team Leader Large Clients
Constellium Valais S.A. Sierre     
 

LOGO

    
 

 

    

 

Signed by:

  MARK KIRKLAND     

Title:

 

GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORIZED SIGNATORY

    

Exhibit 10.10.2

Dated 21/12/16

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre

3960 Sierre

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 16 December 2010)

 

 


This Amendment Agreement (the Agreement ) is dated      November 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) TARGO Commercial Finance AG (previously GE Capital Bank AG) , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as TARGOCF ); and

 

(2) Constellium Vaiais S.A., Sierre , a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9. (hereafter referred to as the Originator ).

TARGOCF and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the Parties .

WHEREAS:

 

(1) TARGOCF as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 16 December 2010 (as amended and/or restated from time to time), pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to TARGOCF (the “Factoring Agreement” ).

 

(2) TARGOCF has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, registered in the commercial register (Handelsregister) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg under register number HRB 540034, on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014) and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619 on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o., a company incorporated and existing under the laws of the Czech Republic, with its registered office at Ústecká 751/37, Děčin V-Rozbělesy, 405 02 Děčin, Czech Republic, identification number 183 80 654, registered in the Commercial Register maintained by the Regional Court in Ústi nad Labem under file number C 301, on 26 June 2015, and has also entered into a factoring agreement on 27 May 2016 with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

TARGOCF and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.


1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2. Amendments to the Factoring Agreement

a) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 3. a), b) and d) shall be amended and read as follows:

 

  3. Interest; Fees; Commission:

a) Interest Rate (see Clause 4.1): 3 months EURIBOR + 1.20 % p.a., paid monthly and calculated on the last Business Day of each month for the following month.

If the 3 months EURIBOR is 0% or below 0%, the Interest Rate is 1.20 % p.a.

Interest is stated exclusive of applicable VAT.

b) Unused Facility Fee: 0.5% p.a. of the amount of the available but unused amount of the Settlement Account .

d) Factoring Commission and Administration Fee (see Clauses 4.1 and 8.3): 0.095% calculated on the volume of the Receivables .

b) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 4. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

 

  4. Maximum Commitment :

“TARGOCF will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between TARGOCF and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 150.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifty million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

c) Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) clause 6. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

6. Termination Date : 29 October 2021


In all other respects the provisions of the Factoring Agreement shall remain unaffected.

 

3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or TARGOCF, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.

 

4. Effective Date

This Agreement shall become effective immediately once it is executed by the Parties.

 

5. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

5.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

5.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


SIGNATORIES

 

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

   
 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

 

Signed by:

  LOGO     LOGO
Title:   LOGO     LOGO

Constellium Valais S.A. Sierre

   
 

/s/ MARK KIRKLAND

   

 

Signed by:   MARK KIRKLAND    
Title:   GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORISED SIGNATORY    

Exhibit 10.11.2

Execution Version

Dated 27 May 2016

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH

Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, Germany

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 16 December 2010)

 

 


Execution Version

 

This Amendment Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is dated 27 May 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) GE CAPITAL BANK AG , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as “ GE CAPITAL ”); and

 

(2) Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH , Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, Germany, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619 (hereafter referred to as the “ Originator ”).

GE CAPITAL and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the “ Parties ”.

WHEREAS:

 

(1) GE CAPITAL as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 16 December 2010, pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to GE CAPITAL (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

 

(2) GE CAPITAL has entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg under register number HRB 540034, on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014) and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre, a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9., on 16 December 2010 and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Decín s.r.o., a company incorporated and existing under the laws of the Czech Republic, with its registered office at Ústecká 751/37, Děčín V-Rozbēlesy, 405 02 Děčín, Czech Republic, identification number 183 80 654, registered in the Commercial Register maintained by the Regional Court in Ústí nad Labem under file number C 301, on 26 June 2015.

 

(3) On 26 June 2015, GE CAPITAL has entered into Amendment Agreements with the Originator, Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A. and Constellium Extrusions Decín s.r.o. to set a total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the Factoring Agreement and the respective other factoring agreements.

 

(4) GE CAPITAL will enter into a factoring agreement on or about the date hereof with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

 

(5) In the context of the factoring agreement to be entered into between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, the Parties have agreed to amend the Factoring Agreement with respect to the Maximum Commitment (as defined in the Factoring Agreement).


Execution Version

 

GE CAPITAL and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.

 

1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2. Amendment to the Factoring Agreement

Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions) clause 4 ( Maximum Commitment ) shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

“GE CAPITAL will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 115.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifteen million Euro) and the Maximum Commitment for Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. may not exceed 15.000.000,00 EUR (fifteen million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).” ”

 

3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or GE CAPITAL, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.


Execution Version

 

4. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

4.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement ad all obligations arising out of or connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

4.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


Execution Version

 

SIGNATORIES

 

GE CAPITAL BANK AG

  LOGO     LOGO
 

 

   

 

Signed by:

  Philipp Schiemann     Michael Hornischer

Title:

  Team Leader Large Clients     Deputy Team Leader Large Clients
Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH    
  LOGO    
 

 

   

 

Signed by:   MARK KIRKLAND    
Title:   GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORIZED SIGNATORY    

Exhibit 10.11.3

Dated 21/12/16

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH

Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, Germany

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 16 December 2010)

 

 


This Amendment Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is dated      November 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) TARGO Commercial Finance AG (previously GE Capital Bank AG ) , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as “ TARGOCF ”); and

 

(2) Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH , Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, Germany, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619 (hereafter referred to as the “ Originator ”).

TARGOCF and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the “ Parties ”.

WHEREAS:

 

(1) TARGOCF as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 16 December 2010 (as amended and/or restated from time to time), pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to TARGOCF (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

 

(2) TARGOCF has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Alusingen- Platz 1, 78224 Singen, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg under register number HRB 540034, on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014) and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre, a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH- 626.3.000.048-9., on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o., a company incorporated and existing under the laws of the Czech Republic, with its registered office at Ústecká 751/37, Děčin V-Rozbělesy, 405 02 Děčin, Czech Republic, identification number 183 80 654, registered in the Commercial Register maintained by the Regional Court in Ústi nad Labem under file number C 301, on 26 June 2015, and has also entered into a factoring agreement on 27 May 2016 with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

TARGOCF and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.


1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2 . Amendments to the Factoring Agreement

a) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 3. a), b) and d) shall be amended and read as follows:

 

  3. Interest; Fees; Commission:

a) Interest Rate (see Clause 4.1): 3 months EURIBOR + 1.20 % p.a., paid monthly and calculated on the last Business Day of each month for the following month.

If the 3 months EURIBOR is 0% or below 0%, the Interest Rate is 1.20 % p.a.

Interest is stated exclusive of applicable VAT.

b) Unused Facility Fee: 0.5% p.a. of the amount of the available but unused amount of the Settlement Account .

d) Factoring Commission and Administration Fee (see Clauses 4.1 and 8.3): 0.095% calculated on the volume of the Receivables .

b) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 4. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

 

  4. Maximum Commitment:

“TARGOCF will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between TARGOCF and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 150.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifty million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

c) Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) clause 6. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

6. Termination Date: 29 October 2021


In all other respects the provisions of the Factoring Agreement shall remain unaffected.

 

3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or TARGOCF, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.

 

4. Effective Date

This Agreement shall become effective immediately once it is executed by the Parties.

 

5. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

5.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

5.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


SIGNATORIES

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

 

 

LOGO

 

    

LOGO

 

Signed by:  

LOGO

    

LOGO

Title:  

LOGO

     LOGO

Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH

 

  

/s/ MARK KIRKLAND

    

 

Signed by:    MARK KIRKLAND     
Title:    GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORISED SIGNATORY     

Exhibit 10.12

 

 

27 MAY 2016

GE CAPITAL BANK AG

HEINRICH-VON-BRENTANO-STRASSE 2,55130 MAINZ, GERMANY

(“GE CAPITAL”)

AND

CONSTELLIUM ROLLED PRODUCTS SINGEN GMBH & CO. KG

ALUSINGEN-PLATZ 1, 78224 SINGEN, GERMANY

(“ORIGINATOR” / (“KUNDE”)

 

 

FACTORING AGREEMENT / FACTORINGVERTRAG

(“AGREEMENT) / (“VERTRAG”)

 

 

 

1


TABLE OF CONTENT

 

I.

 

Clauses

A.

 

Purchase of Receivables

1.

 

Purpose of this Agreement

2.

 

Receivables Purchase Agreement, Offer Letter

3.

 

Obligation to Purchase

4.

 

Purchase Price, Due Date, Reserves, Factoring Commission, Financing Commission per Invoice

5.

 

Guarantee of Dilution Risk, Obligations of the ORIGINATOR regarding Receivables

6.

 

Bad Debt Coverage of GE CAPITAL

7.

 

Debtor Limit, Discretionary Debtor Limit

8.

 

Non-Purchased Receivables, Set-Off Right, Administration Fee

B.

 

Assignment and Security

9.

 

Assignment of Receivables , Legal Cause

10.

 

Cheques, Direct Debit, Bills of Exchange

11.

 

Liens and Ancillary Rights, Insurance Claims

C.

 

Factoring Procedure

12.

 

Full-Service, Inter-Credit®, Smart-Service

13.

 

Disclosed Procedure/Undisclosed Procedure

14.

 

Change of Procedure by Partial Termination

15.

 

Quarterly Account Statement , Tacit Ratification, Time Limit for Objections

16.

 

Collection Procedure

D.

 

General Obligations

17.

 

Negative Pledge

18.

 

Increased Fiduciary Duty and Duty of Care

19.

 

Information Undertaking

20.

 

External Audit Declaration of Consent

21.

 

Arrangements in Debtor Agreements

E.

 

Other Terms

22.

 

Set-Off, Settlement, Reimbursement Claims

23.

 

Changes in Financing Commission per Invoice / Total Financing Commission

24.

 

Fees and Expenses

INHALTSVERZEICHNIS

 

I.

 

Klausein

A.

 

Forderungskauf

1.

 

Zweck dieses Vertrages

2.

 

Forderungskaufvertrag, Forderungsanzeige

3.

 

Ankaufspflicht

4.

 

Kaufpreis, Fälligkeit, Einbehalte, Factoringgebühr, Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis

5.

 

Veritätsgarantie, Pflichten des KUNDEN in Bezug auf die Forderungen

6.

 

Delkrederehaftung von GE CAPITAL

7.

 

Abnehmerlimit , Abnehmerlimitselbstvergabe

8.

 

Nicht angekaufte Forderungen , Verrechnungsbefugnis, Verwaltungsgebühr

B.

 

Abtretung und Sicherungsrechte

9.

 

Abtretung der Forderungen , Rechtsgrund

10.

 

Schecks, Lastschriften, Wechsel

11.

 

Sicherungs- und Nebenrechte, Versicherungsansprüche

C.

 

Factoring-Verfahren

12.

 

Full-Service, Inter-Credit®, Smart-Service

13.

 

Offenes Verfahren/Stilles Verfahren

14.

 

Verfahrenswechsel durch Teilkündigung

15.

 

Quartalsabschluss, Genehmigung durch Schweigen, Frist für Einwendungen

16.

 

Inkassoverfahren

D.

 

Allgemeine Vertragspflichten

17.

 

Keine anderweitigen Verfügungen

18.

 

Erhöhte Treue- und Schutzpflicht

19.

 

Informationserteilung

20.

 

Außenprüfung, Einwilligungserklärung

21.

 

Vertragsgestaltung gegenüber Abnehmern

E.

 

Sonstige Regelungen

22.

 

Aufrechnung, Verrechnung, Rückvergütungsansprüche

23.

 

Änderungen der Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis / Gesamtfinonzierungsgebühr

24.

 

Entgelte und Auslagen

 

 

2


25.

 

Assignability of Claims against GE CAPITAL

26.

 

Commencement Date , Expiration Date , Termination

27.

 

Further Elements of this Agreement

28.

 

Governing Law, Jurisdiction

29.

 

Severability Clause

F.

 

Definitions

II.

 

Schedules

 

Schedule 1

  

(Terms and Conditions)

 

Schedule la

  

( Excluded Debtors )

 

Schedule 1b

  

(Approved Jurisdictions)

 

Schedule 2

  

Declaration of Consent

 

Schedule 3

  

Condition Precedents

III.

 

Annexes

 

Annex 1

  

Transfer of French Receivables

 

Annex 2

  

Form of Offer Letter

 

Annex 3

  

Trade Credit Insurance Agreement

 

Annex 4

  

Assignment Agreement on Trade Insurance

 

Annex 5

  

Account Pledge Agreement

Note: Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in part F (Definitions).

 

A. PURCHASE OF RECEIVABLES
1. PURPOSE OF THIS AGREEMENT

1.1 This Agreement shall be the basis for receivables purchase agreements entered into by the ORIGINATOR as seller and GE CAPITAL as purchaser of the relevant Receivable .

 

1.2 Any amounts paid as purchase price for the Receivables purchased by GE CAPITAL shall enable the ORIGINATOR to primarily satisfy its obligations vis-à-vis its suppliers.

25.

 

Abtretbarkeit der Ansprüche gegen GE CAPITAL

26.

 

Vertragsbeginn, Vertragablaufdatum , Kündigung

27.

 

Weitere Bestandteile des Vertrages

28.

 

Maßgebliches Recht, Gerichtsstand

29.

 

Salvatorische Klausel

F.

 

Definitionen

II.

 

Anhänge

 

Anhang 1

  

(Konditionen)

 

Anhang 1a

  

( Ausgenommene Abnehmer )

 

Anhang 1b

  

(Anerkannte Rechtsordnungen)

 

Anhang 2

  

Einwilligungserklärung

 

Anhang 3

  

Aufschiebende Bedingungen

III.

 

Anlagen

 

Anlage 1

  

Übertragung französischer Forderungen

 

Anlage 2

  

Formular für Forderungsanzeigen

 

Anlage 3

  

Warenkreditversicherungvertrag

 

Anlage 4

  

Warenkreditversicherungsabtretungsvertrag

 

Anlage 5

  

Kontoverpfändungsvertrag

Hinweis: Kursiv gedruckte Begriffe haben die in diesem Vertrag näher erläuterte besondere Bedeutung, die sich aus Teil F (Definitionen) ergibt.
A. FORDERUNGSKAUF
1. ZWECK DIESES VERTRAGES
1.1 Dieser Vertrag schafft die Grundlage für Forderungskaufverträge, die zwischen dem KUNDEN als Verkäufer und GE CAPITAL als Käufer der jeweiligen Forderung eingegangen werden.
1.2 Alle Beträge, die als Kaufpreis für die von GE CAPITAL gekauften Forderungen bezahlt werden, sollen den KUNDEN in die Lage versetzen, vorrangig seine Lieferantenverbindlichkeiten erfüllen zu können.
 

 

3


1.3 To the extent that GE CAPITAL does not purchase certain Receivables of the ORIGINATOR, such Receivables shall be assigned to GE CAPITAL subject to clause 9.3 in order to secure claims of GE CAPITAL against the ORIGINATOR resulting from the business relationship and shall be collected by GE CAPITAL.

  

1.3 Soweit GE CAPITAL bestimmte Forderungen des KUNDEN nicht kauft, sind diese vorbehaltlich Ziffer 9.3 zur Sicherung von Ansprüchen von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN abzutreten, die aus der Geschäftsbeziehung herrühren und von GE CAPITAL eingezogen werden.

2. RECEIVABLES PURCHASE AGREEMENT, OFFER LETTER    2. FORDERUNGSKAUFVERTRAG, FORDERUNGSANZEIGE
2.1 The ORIGINATOR hereby offers to sell all of its Receivables to GE CAPITAL.    2.1 Hierdurch bietet der KUNDE seine sämtlichen Forderungen GE CAPITAL zum Kauf an.
The ORIGINATOR repeats each offer in respect of each individual Receivable by sending an Offer Letter to GE CAPITAL in the form substantially set out in Annex 2 ( Form of Offer Letter ).    Der KUNDE wiederholt jedes Angebot in Bezug auf jede einzelne Forderung durch Übersendung einer Forderungsanzeige an GE CAPITAL die im Wesentlichen der Form der Anlage 2 ( Formular für Forderungsanzeigen ) entspricht.
2.2    2.2
(a) German law Receivables :    (a) Forderungen , die deutschem Recht unterliegen:
Each relevant receivables purchase agreement shall be concluded by GE CAPITAL’S acceptance of the ORIGINATOR’S offer.    Der jeweilige Forderungskaufvertrag kommt dadurch zustande, dass GE CAPITAL das Kaufangebot des KUNDEN annimmt.
Acceptance occurs by booking the relevant Receivable on the Factoring Account . provided that the ORIGINATOR does not need to receive a notice of such book entry.    Die Annahme erfolgt durch Buchung der jeweiligen Forderung auf dem Factoringkonto , ohne dass dem Kunden eine Buchungsmitteilung zugehen muss.
(b) French law Receivables :    (b) Forderungen , die französischem Recht unterliegen:
Notwithstanding the provisions set out in this clause 2 (Receivables Purchase Agreement Offer Letter ) with respect to the Receivables governed by German law, title to the Receivables governed by French law shall be transferred to GE CAPITAL in accordance with the provisions set out in Annex 1 (Transfer of French Receivables ).    Ungeachtet der in dieser Ziffer 2 (Forderungskaufvertrag, Forderungsanzeige ) enthaltenen Bestimmungen im Hinblick auf die Forderungen , die dem deutschen Recht unterliegen, wird die Berechtigung für die Forderungen , die dem französischen Recht unterliegen, gemäß den Bestimmungen in Anlage 1 (Übertragung französischer Forderungen ) an GE CAPITAL übertragen.

 

4


(c) English law Receivables :    (c) Forderungen , die englischem Recht unterliegen:
Notwithstanding the provisions set out in clause 2 (Receivables Purchase Agreement Offer Letter) with respect to the Receivables governed by German law, title to the Receivables governed by English law shall be transferred to GE CAPITAL in accordance with this clause 2.2 (c):    Ungeachtet der in dieser Ziffer 2 (Forderungskaufvertrag, Forderungsanzeige ) enthaltenen Bestimmungen im Hinblick auf die Forderungen , die deutschen Recht unterliegen, wird die Berechtigung für die Forderungen , die dem englischen Recht unterliegen, gemäß den Bestimmungen dieser Ziffer 2.2 (c) an GE CAPITAL übertragen:
The ORIGINATOR will by the process of offer and acceptance set out in this Agreement sell and otherwise assign, transfer and convey to GE CAPITAL, and GE CAPITAL shall purchase and otherwise acquire, all of the ORIGINATOR’S present and future right title and interest in, to the Receivables which are governed by English law.    Der KUNDE wird gemäß dem in diesem Vertrag beschriebenen Prozess des Angebots und der Annahme all seine gegenwärtigen und zukünftigen Rechte, Berechtigungen und Interessen an den Forderungen , die englischem Recht unterliegen, entweder an GE CAPITAL verkaufen oder aber abtreten, übertragen oder übereignen und GE CAPITAL wird diese kaufen oder anders erwerben.
This clause 2.2 (c) shall be governed by English law.    Diese Klausel 2.2 (c) unterliegt englischem Recht.
(d) Swiss law Receivables :    (d) Forderungen , die dem Recht der Schweiz unterliegen:
GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR agree that both the transfer of title to such Receivables and the assignment of such Receivables which are governed by Swiss law, shall be effected in the way as set out in this clause 2 (Receivables Purchase Agreement Offer Letter ), but shall be governed by Swiss law.    GE CAPITAL und der KUNDE vereinbaren, dass die Rechtsübertragung und die Abtretung von Forderungen , die dem Schweizer Recht unterliegen, in einer Weise erfolgen, wie diese Ziffer 2 (Forderungskaufvertrag. Forderungsanzeige ) es bestimmt: sie unterliegen aber dem Recht der Schweiz.
2.3 The ORIGINATOR is entitled and obliged to send an Offer Letter to GE CAPITAL within 10 Business Days after having dispatched the invoice to the relevant Debtor and the Receivable becoming Eligible.    2.3 Der KUNDE ist berechtigt und verpflichtet innerhalb von 10 Geschäftstagen nachdem er die Rechnung an den jeweiligen Abnehmer abgesandt hat und die Forderung einwandfrei geworden ist, eine Forderungsanzeige an GE CAPITAL zu übersenden.

 

5


The ORIGINATOR shall provide GE CAPITAL with separate Offer Letters for each jurisdiction governing the respective Receivables and additionally with a separate Offer Letter for each currency in which a Receivable for each particular jurisdiction may be denominated, or an Offer Letter consolidating several jurisdictions, provided such consolidated Offer Letter will clearly state and differentiate the different Receivables under the several jurisdictions.    Der KUNDE stellt GE CAPITAL separate Forderungsanzeigen für jede für die jeweilige Forderung maßgebliche Jurisdiktion und außerdem separate Forderungsanzeigen für jede Währung, in der eine Forderung für jede einzelne Jurisdiktion lautet oder eine Forderungsanzeige , die verschiedene Jurisdiktionen abdeckt, zur Verfügung, vorausgesetzt dass eine solche konsolidierte Forderungsanzeige die Forderungen eindeutig angibt und zwischen den verschiedenen Forderungen unter den einzelnen Jurisdiktionen unterscheidet.
2.4 The ORIGINATOR is obliged to submit the Offer Letter by data transfer in accordance with Factoring-Satzaufbau or online data entry in Factorlink .   

2.4 Der KUNDE ist verpflichtet die Forderungsanzeige durch

Datenübertragung gemäß FactoringSatzaufbau oder durch Online-Dateneingabe in Factorlink vorzunehmen.

In addition, the ORIGINATOR is obliged to send to GE CAPITAL a submission form, together with the relevant copies - preferably in the form of a pdf-file or in similar format - of invoices, credit notes and debit notes.    Zusätzlich ist der KUNDE verpflichtet, GE CAPITAL ein Formular zusammen mit den jeweiligen Kopien von Rechnungen, Gutschriften und Belastungsanzeigen - vorzugsweise im PDF oder einem ähnlichen Format - zu übersenden.
GE CAPITAL hereby waives its rights to receive copies of invoices, debit notes and credit notes in hard copy form from the ORIGINATOR, but may revoke such waiver in writing at any time. The ORIGINATOR hereby undertakes to keep and store all invoices, debit notes and credit notes in accordance with applicable laws and regulations and agrees to submit such invoices, debit notes and credit notes to GE CAPITAL in due course upon request.    GE CAPITAL verzichtet hiermit auf sein Recht Kopien von Rechnungen, Belastungsund Gutschriftanzeigen in gedrucktem Format vom KUNDEN zu erhalten, kann diesen Verzicht jedoch jederzeit schriftlich widerrufen. Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich hiermit alle Rechnungen. Belastungs- und Gutschriftanzeigen gemäß den geltenden Vorschriften aufzuheben und aufzubewahren und ist damit einverstanden, diese Rechnungen. Belastungs- und Gutschriftanzeigen GE CAPITAL zu gegebener Zeit auf Anfrage zur Verfügung zu stellen.
3. OBLIGATION TO PURCHASE    3. ANKAUFSPFLICHT
3.1 GE CAPITAL shall accept the ORIGINATOR’S offer to sell a Receivable if the relevant Receivable fulfils the following requirements:    3.1 GE CAPITAL verpflichtet sich, das Verkaufsangebot des KUNDEN anzunehmen, wenn die jeweilige Forderung folgenden Anforderungen entspricht:
(a) the Offer Letter is correct and complete and was dispatched by the ORIGINATOR within the time line set out in clause 2.3; and    (a) die Forderungsanzeige ist richtig und vollständig und wurde rechtzeitig im Sinne von Ziffer 2.3 vom KUNDEN versandt; und

 

6


(b) the relevant Receivable is Eligible , and    (b) die jeweilige Forderung besteht einwandfrei ; und
(c) the Debtor has been granted a payment term not exceeding 90 days after the relevant invoice date and, for the avoidance of doubt, the remaining outstanding payment term does not exceed 90 days; and    (c) dem Abnehmer wurde ein Zahlungsziel eingeräumt, welches nicht mehr als 90 Tage nach dem jeweiligen Rechnungsdatum liegt und, um Zweifel auszuschließen, das ausstehende Zahlungsziel ist nicht länger als 90 Tage; und
(d) the relevant Receivable is not a claim against an Affiliated Company , and    (d) es handelt sich nicht um eine Forderung gegen ein Nahestehendes Unternehmen ; und
(e) the relevant Receivable is within the scope of the Debtor Limit . To the extent that this requirement is only partially fulfilled, GE CAPITAL shall purchase the relevant part of the Receivable , and    (e) die jeweilige Forderung liegt im Rahmen des Abnehmerlimits . Soweit dies nur teilweise der Fall ist soll GE CAPITAL diesen Teil der jeweiligen Forderung ankaufen; und
(f) the sum of the amount of the relevant Receivable and all other purchased and unpaid Receivables against the relevant Debtor or debtor credit unit - within the meaning of § 19 of the German Banking Act - does not exceed 30% of all purchased and unpaid Receivables of the ORIGINATOR against all of his Debtors ; and    (f) die Summe der Beträge aus der jeweiligen Forderung und allen sonstigen gekauften und unbezahlten Forderungen gegen den jeweiligen Abnehmer bzw, die Abnehmerkrediteinheit - im Sinne des § 19 Kreditwesengesetz - überschreitet nicht 30% aller gekauften und unbezahlten Forderungen des KUNDEN gegen alle seine Abnehmer , und
(g) each Receivable shall be governed by German law or by Swiss, French or English law. The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL may agree upon the ORIGINATOR’S request and GE CAPITAL’s written confirmation to include Receivables governed by any other law. (i) subject to credit approval by GE CAPITAL, and (ii) subject to confirmation by a legal opinion of a reputable local law firm of the validity and enforceability vis-à-vis third parties of the purchase and assignment of the relevant Receivables , (iii) conclusion of a country specific supplement for such jurisdiction, and (iv) provided that no approval will be given    (g) jede Forderung unterliegt dem deutschen Recht oder dem Schweizer, französischen oder englischen Recht Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL können auf Anfrage des KUNDEN und nach schriftlicher Bestätigung seitens GE CAPITAL vereinbaren, Forderungen , die einem anderen Recht unterliegen, (i) vorbehaltlich der Kreditzusage durch GE CAPITAL, und (ii) vorbehaltlich einer Bestätigung der Gültigkeit und Durchsetzbarkeit gegenüber Dritten des Kaufs und der Abtretung der jeweiligen Forderung durch ein Rechtsgutachten einer renommierten lokalen Anwaltskanzlei, (iii) vorbehaltlich des Abschlusses einer

 

7


when the total outstanding amount of Receivables concerned by such law is less than 1,000,000 (one million) Euro); and    länderspezifischen Ergänzung für die Jurisdiktion, und (iv) unter der Voraussetzung, dass keine Zusage gegeben wird, wenn der gesamte ausstehende Betrag der Forderungen , der ein solches Recht betrifft, weniger als 1.000.000 (eine Million) Euro beträgt; und
(h) the payment of the purchase price in respect of the purchased Receivable will not result in an excess of the Maximum Commitment ; and    (h) die Bezahlung des Kaufpreises in Bezug auf die gekaufte Forderung wird das Höchstobligo nicht überschreiten; und
(i) each Receivable shall result from the sale of products and related provision of services in the ordinary course of the ORIGINATOR’s business; and    (i) jede Forderung stammt aus dem Verkauf von Produkten und damit verbundenen Dienstleistungen im gewöhnlichen Geschäftsgang des KUNDEN; und
(j) each Receivable shall be denominated in Euro, US Dollar, GBP or Swiss Franc The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL may agree to include Receivables denominated in any other currency, subject to prior approval by GE CAPITAL; and    (j) jede Forderung ist in Euro, US Dollar, GBP oder Schweizer Franken. Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL können, nach vorheriger Einwilligung durch GE CAPITAL, zusätzlich jede andere Währung vereinbaren; und
(k) no Receivable shall arise from the context of contracts, where payment, even after unconditional acceptance, is subject to verifying the performance of an obligation by the ORIGINATOR; and    (k) keine Forderung stammt aus Verträgen, bei denen eine Zahlung, auch nach unbedingter Akzeptanz, der Überprüfung der Erfüllung einer Verpflichtung durch den KUNDEN unterliegt; und
(l) except for the Receivables deriving from contractual relationships with Debtors that include tolling and/or pseudo tolling ( Materialbeistellung ) transactions (such Receivables being subject to the application of clause 22.5 ( Reimbursement Claims )), no Receivable shall be subject to a right of setoff or counterclaim that has been exercised by the relevant Debtor .   

(l) mit Ausnahme von Forderungen , die sich aus vertraglichen Beziehungen mit Abnehmem , eingeschlossen

Materialbeistellungstransaktionen (solche Forderungen unterliegen der Anwendung der Ziffer 22.5 ( Rückvergütungsansprüche )), ergeben, sind keine Forderungen Gegenstand einer Abtretung oder eines Gegenanspruchs, die/der durch den jeweiligen Abnehmer ausgeübt wurde.

3.2 GE CAPITAL shall become obliged to purchase a Receivable if a Receivable that was initially not purchased subsequently fulfils the requirements set out in clause 3.1.    3.2 GE CAPITAL wird ankaufspflichtig, wenn eine Forderung , die zunächst nicht gekauft wird, später den Anforderungen der Ziffer 3.1 entspricht.
3.3 GE CAPITAL will cease to be obliged to purchase any Receivable if based on the    3.3 Die Ankaufspflicht von GE CAPITAL entfällt, wenn GE CAPITAL aufgrund von

 

8


facts available to it, GE CAPITAL substantiates that it has reason to believe that the ORIGINATOR does not comply with its obligations vis-à-vis Retaining Suppliers or that Retaining Suppliers revoke the authorisation of the ORIGINATOR to collect Receivables . GE CAPITAL shall inform the ORIGINATOR of such suspension of the obligation to purchase Receivables in due course, and if possible, consult with the ORIGINATOR in advance.    Tatsachen, die GE CAPITAL vorliegen, belegt dass GE CAPITAL Grund zur Annahme hat dass der KUNDE seinen Zahlungsverpflichtungen gegenüber Vorbehaltslieferanten nicht nachkommt oder Vorbehaltslieferanten die Berechtigung des KUNDEN zum Forderungseinzug widerrufen. GE CAPITAL informiert den KUNDEN vom Wegfall der Verpflichtung zum Kauf von Forderungen in angemessener Zeit und unterrichtet den KUNDEN, wenn möglich, im Voraus.
3.4 GE CAPITAL is entitled but not obliged to purchase Receivables which do not fulfil the requirements set out in clause 3.1. In relation to Receivables existing on the Commencement Date , GE CAPITAL will only exercise such right in respect of Receivables which have not been due for more than 60 days.    3.4 GE CAPITAL ist berechtigt jedoch nicht verpflichtet Forderungen anzukaufen, die den Anforderungen der Ziffer 3.1 nicht entsprechen. Für Forderungen , die zu Vertragsbeginn bestehen, wird GE CAPITAL von diesem Recht nur im Hinblick auf solche Forderungen Gebrauch machen, die nicht länger als 60 Tage fällig sind.
3.5 GE CAPITAL will, upon receipt of the relevant Offer Letter , book all Receivables which have not been purchased to the Special Account . Such Receivables shall remain offered for sale.    3.5 GE CAPITAL bucht Forderungen , die nicht angekauft wurden, nach Zugang der jeweiligen Forderungsanzeige auf dem Sonderkonto . Solche Forderungen bleiben weiterhin zum Kauf angeboten.
3.6 The ORIGINATOR’S offer expires only after a period of 10 Business Days set by the ORIGINATOR for GE CAPITAL’S acceptance of such offer has lapsed to no avail.    3.6 Das Kaufangebot des KUNDEN erlischt erst nach erfolglosem Ablauf einer vom KUNDEN gesetzten Frist von 10 Geschäftstagen , in der GE CAPITAL das Kaufangebot annehmen kann.
4. PURCHASE PRICE, DUE DATE, RESERVES, FACTORING COMMISSION, FINANCING COMMISSION PER INVOICE    4. KAUFPREIS, FÄLLIGKEIT, EINBEHALTE, FACTORINGGEBÜHR, FINANZIERUNGSGEBÜHR AUF EINZELRECHNUNGSBASIS
4.1 The purchase price for each purchased Receivable shall be equal to its Nominal Amount , reduced by deductions relating to the relevant Receivable (such as discounts) that were granted to the relevant Debtor by the ORIGINATOR, less the Factoring Commission and the Financing Commission per Invoice .   

4.1 Der Kaufpreis für jede angekaufte Forderung entspricht ihrem Nominalbetrag , gemindert um Abzüge auf die jeweiligen Forderungen (z.B. Nachlässe), die dem jeweiligen Abnehmer durch den KUNDEN gewährt werden, abzüglich der Factoringgebühr und der Finanzierungsgebühr auf

Einzelrechnungsbasis .

 

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In the Bad Debt Case , the purchase price is reduced by the VAT amount included in the Receivable which the ORIGINATOR must claim from the tax authorities (see clause 6.4), at the time the legal prerequisites allowing a recovery of such VAT amounts are fulfilled. GE CAPITAL undertakes to provide the ORIGINATOR with all information and documents necessary for claiming such VAT amounts from tax authorities.    Der Kaufpreis mindert sich im Delkrederefall um die in der Forderung enthaltene Umsatzsteuer, die der KUNDE in dem Zeitpunkt von den Finanzämtern zurückfordern muss (siehe Ziffer 6.4), in dem die rechtlichen Voraussetzungen für die Rückforderung der Umsatzsteuer vorliegen. GE CAPITAL verpflichtet sich, dem KUNDEN alle Informationen und Dokumente zur Verfügung zu stellen, die für die Rückforderung dieser Umsatzsteuerbeträge von den Finanzämtern erforderlich sind.
The purchase price (excluding the Purchase Price Reserve and subject to the settlement of the Total Financing Commission ) shall fall due when the Receivable is purchased. The Total Financing Commission is paid in advance on each Funding Date for each relevant Adjusted Expected Funding Period per Invoice starting on that date and is subject to applicable VAT and cannot be altered for that relevant Adjusted Expected Funding Period per Invoice after the Funding Date on which it has started.    Der Kaufpreis wird bis auf den Kaufpreiseinbehalt und vorbehaltlich der Abrechnung der Gesamtfinanzierungsgebühr mit dem Forderungskauffällig. Die Gesamtfinanzierungsgebuhr wird zuzüglich Umsatzsteuern vorab an jedem Finanzierungstag für jede Angepasste Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis bezahlt, die an dem Tag beginnt und kann für die jeweilige Angepasste Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis nach dem Finanzierungstag , an dem sie begonnen hat, nicht mehr verändert werden.
Any payments in respect of the purchase price and any charges are made by book entry by GE CAPITAL on the Settlement Account .   

Sämtliche Zahlungen in Bezug auf den Kaufpreis und alle Gebühren erfolgen durch Buchung auf dem

Kundenabrechnungskonto durch GE CAPITAL

4.2 The Purchase Price Reserve shall fall due for payment by GE CAPITAL to the ORIGINATOR if and when    4.2 Der Kaufpreiseinbehalt wird zur Zahlung von GE CAPITAL an den KUNDEN fällig, wenn
(i) the Debtor has fully paid the relevant Receivable to GE CAPITAL, but in the Inter-Credit ®- Factoring procedure, only after the Reconciliation Process , or    (i) der Abnehmer die jeweilige Forderung an GE CAPITAL bezahlt hat; im Rahmen des Inter-Credit ®- Factoring jedoch nur nach dem Stülpvorgang , oder
(ii) it falls due as a Bad Debt Amount (see clause 6.3).    (ii) wenn der Delkrederebetrag fällig ist (siehe Ziffer 6.3).
If the Debtor makes deductions which are less than the Purchase Price Reserve for the relevant Receivable, the Purchase Price Reserve (reduced by such deductions) will    Wenn der Abnehmer Abzüge vomimmt, die weniger als den Kaufpreiseinbehalt für die jeweilige Forderung ausmachen, wird der Kaufpreiseinbehalt (reduziert um die Abzüge)

 

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be credited to the Settlement Account . If the deductions exceed the Purchase Price Reserve , the Settlement Account will be debited accordingly.    dem Kundenabrechnungskonto gutgeschrieben. Wenn die Abzüge den Kauifpreiseinbehalt übersteigen, wird das Kundenabrechnungskonto entsprechend belastet.
4.3 GE CAPITAL shall be entitled to increase the Purchase Price Reserve beyond the agreed amount if and to the extent that GE CAPITAL based on the facts available to it, substantiates that it has reason to believe that    4.3 GE CAPITAL ist berechtigt, den Kaufjpreiseinbehalt über die vereinbarte Höhe hinaus anzuheben, wenn und soweit für GE CAPITAL Tatsachen vorliegen, welche die Annahme rechtfertigen, dass
(a) the ORIGINATOR will not comply with material obligations vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL, in particular because the ORIGINATOR has suffered a financial collapse or such an event is imminent or    (a) der KUNDE wesentlichen Verpflichtungen gegenüber GE CAPITAL nicht nachkommen wird, insbesondere weil er in Vermögensverfall geraten ist oder ein solcher droht, oder
(b) the Purchase Price Reserve is not sufficient to adequately cover invoice reductions by Debtors and credit notes of the ORIGINATOR, whereas for purposes of this clause 4.3 (b) such increase shall be based on the Dilution Rate .    (b) der Kaufpreiseinbehalt nicht ausreicht, um die vom Abnehmer vorgenommenen Kürzungen und Gutschriften des KUNDEN zu decken, wobei die Kürzung zu Zwecken dieser Ziffer 4.3 auf der Dilutionsrate basiert.
GE CAPITAL shall inform the ORIGINATOR of such increase of Purchase Price Reserve in due course, and if possible, consult with the ORIGINATOR in advance.    GE CAPITAL informiert den KUNDEN von der Erhöhung des Kaufpreiseinbehalts in angemessener Zeit, und berät sich wenn möglich mit dem KUNDEN im Voraus.
4.4 In the event of a Notification of Dispute , GE CAPITAL shall, until this matter is settled, be entitled to set aside a Special Purchase Price Reserve and to debit the Settlement Account accordingly.    4.4 Im Falle einer Reklamationsanzeige ist GE CAPITAL, solange diese Angelegenheit nicht geklärt ist, berechtigt, einen Sonderkaufpreiseinbehalt zu bilden und damit das Kundenabrechnungskonto zu belasten.
GE CAPITAL will credit the Special Purchase Price Reserve to the Settlement Account again if and to the extent that it has been established by final and non-appealable judgement or the Debtor has acknowledged, or the ORIGINATOR has provided evidence, that the relevant Receivable is Eligible . If and to the extent that it is established by final and non-appealable judgement that the relevant Receivable is not Eligible , GE CAPITAL will exercise its rights pursuant to clause 5.1    GE CAPITAL wird den Sonderkaufpreiseinbehalt dem Kundenabrechnungskonto wieder gutschreiben, wenn und soweit rechtskräftig festgestellt oder vom Abnehmer anerkannt oder vom KUNDEN nachgewiesen wird, dass die Forderung einwandfrei ist. Wenn und soweit rechtskräftig festgestellt ist, dass die jeweilige Forderung nicht einwandfrei ist, kann GE CAPITAL die Rechte gemäß Ziffer 5.1 geltend machen und die Forderungen in

 

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and will cancel such Receivable as uncollectible from the books in the relevant amount    der jeweiligen Höhe als uneinbringlich ausbuchen.
4.5 To the extent that GE CAPITAL is liable for VAT contained in the relevant Receivable because the ORIGINATOR did not pay, or did not fully pay VAT when due, GE CAPITAL may pay an amount equal to such liability to the tax authorities.    4.5 Soweit GE CAPITAL für die in der jeweiligen Forderung enthaltene Umsatzsteuer haftet, weil der KUNDE sie bei Fälligkeit nicht oder nicht vollständig entrichtet hat, kann GE CAPITAL einen seiner Haftung entsprechenden Betrag an das Finanzamt abführen.
Such payment shall be deemed to be a payment in respect of the purchase price for the relevant Receivable by GE CAPITAL to the ORIGINATOR.    Dies wird als Zahlung der jeweiligen Forderung von GE CAPITAL an den KUNDEN auf den Kaufpreis behandelt.
If such a liability is imminent, GE CAPITAL is entitled to establish a reserve in such amount until the matter of liability has been resolved.    Droht eine solche Haftung, so kann GE CAPITAL bis zur Klärung der Haftungsfrage die entsprechenden Beträge einbehalten.
If GE CAPITAL already paid the relevant part of the purchase price in accordance with clause 4.1, the ORIGINATOR undertakes to repay the amount payable by GE CAPITAL to the tax authorities/the respective reserve to GE CAPITAL GE CAPITAL is entitled to debit the Settlement Account accordingly.    Sofern GE CAPITAL den jeweiligen Teil des Kaufpreises gemäß Ziffer 4.1 bereits bezahlt hat, übernimmt der KUNDE die Rückzahlung des durch GE CAPITAL an die Finanzbehörden zu zahlenden Betrages / des jeweiligen Einbehalts an GE CAPITAL GE CAPITAL ist berechtigt das Kundenabrechnungskonto entsprechend zu belasten.
The ORIGINATOR is obliged, upon reasonable request and in respect of each Receivable , to inform GE CAPITAL about the following:    Der KUNDE ist verpflichtet, GE CAPITAL auf vernünftige Anforderung und bezogen auf die einzelnen Forderungen , zu informieren über:
(a) all overdue VAT liabilities,    (a) alle rückständigen Umsatzsteuerverpflichtungen,
(b) all VAT filings,    (b) alle Umsatzsteueranmeldungen,
(c) all payments in respect of VAT.    (c) alle Zahlungen auf die Umsatzsteuer.
5. GUARANTEE OF DILUTION RISK, OBLIGATIONS OF THE ORIGINATOR REGARDING RECEIVABLES    5. VERITÄTSGARANTIE, PFLICHTEN DES KUNDEN IN BEZUG AUF DIE FORDERUNGEN
5.1 The ORIGINATOR warrants (by way of an independent guarantee) ( sichert zu ) that each purchased Receivable is and will    5.1 Der KUNDE sichert (im Wege eines selbstständigen Garantieversprechens) zu, dass die gekaufte Forderung einwandfrei ist

 

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continue to be Eligible until it is fully collected by GE CAPITAL (Guarantee of Dilution Risk) and that each Receivable has been originated and monitored in accordance with the Credit and Collection Policies established by the ORIGINATOR.    und bis zum vollständigen Einzug durch GE CAPITAL einwandfrei bleibt (Veritätsgarantie) und dass jede Forderung im Einklang mit den Gutschrift- und Einzugsregeln ( Credit and Collection Policies ) des KUNDEN entstand.
In the event of a breach of such guarantee, GE CAPITAL may require the reinstatement of the contractually stipulated condition (cure). If this is not possible or unreasonable, or a deadline set for such reinstatement has lapsed unsuccessfully, GE CAPITAL may reduce the purchase price, rescind from the receivable purchase and/or, in the event of negligence or wilful misconduct on the part of the ORIGINATOR, claim indemnification for damages.    Bei einem Verstoß gegen diese Garantie kann GE CAPITAL die Herstellung des vertragsgemäßen Zustandes (Nacherfüllung) verlangen. 1st dies nicht möglich oder nicht zumutbar oder ist eine hierzu gesetzte angemessene Frist erfolglos abgelaufen, so kann GE CAPITAL den Kaufpreis mindern, vom Forderungskauf zurücktreten und/oder, wenn dem KUNDEN Fahrlässigkeit oder Vorsatz zur Last gelegt werden kann, Schadensersatz verlangen.
5.2 If a Debtor claims that the relevant Receivable is not Eligible , the ORIGINATOR must inform GE CAPITAL by sending a Notification of Dispute without undue delay. The ORIGINATOR is further obliged to clarify the matter and, following clarification, to issue a credit note, where applicable.    5.2 Macht ein Abnehmer geltend, dass die jeweilige Forderung nicht einwandfrei ist, so muss der KUNDE GE CAPITAL unverzüglich durch eine Reklamationsanzeige unterrichten. Der KUNDE ist weiter verpflichtet, die Angelegenheit unverzüglich aufzuklären und nach Klärung dem Abnehmer ggf. eine Gutschrift zu erteilen.
5.3 The ORIGINATOR must forward to GE CAPITAL all payments received by it from Debtors without undue delay.    5.3 Der KUNDE ist verpflichtet, alle bei ihm eingehenden Zahlungen der Abnehmer unverzüglich an GE CAPITAL weiterzuleiten.
6. BAD DEBT COVERAGE OF GE CAPITAL    6. DELKREDEREHAFTUNG VON GE CAPITAL
6.1 GE CAPITAL assumes the Bad Debt Coverage for each purchased Receivable , to the extent that such purchased Receivable is Eligible .    6.1 GE CAPITAL übernimmt für jede gekaufte Forderung , soweit diese einwandfrei ist, die Delkrederehaftung .
6.2 The Bad Debt Case occurs if the Debtor    6.2 Der Delkrederefall tritt ein. wenn der Abnehmer
(a) fails to pay a Receivable within 120 days after its due date without disputing its obligation to pay prior to or after the expiry of such period (unless the dispute has been retracted, accepted by GE Capital or adjudicated to be unjustified); or    (a) nicht innerhalb von 120 Tagen nach Fälligkeit der Forderung zahlt, ohne vor oder nach Ablauf der Frist seine Zahlungsverpflichtung zu bestreiten (soweit nicht das Bestreiten der Zahlungsverpflichtung aufgegeben, von GE Capital akzeptiert oder gerichtlich als unbegründet festgestellt wurde), oder
(b) is Unable to Pay .    (b) zahlungsunfähig ist.

 

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6.3 The Bad Debt Amount is settled promptly after the occurrence of the Bad Debt Case , but not before the expiration of a 120-day-period after the due date of the Receivable .    6.3 Die Abrechnung des Delkrederebetrages erfolgt nach Eintritt des Delkrederefalls , jedoch nicht vor Ablauf von 120 Tagen nach Fälligkeit der Forderung .
6.4 If the ORIGINATOR already paid VAT for the relevant Receivable and the tax authorities legitimately refuse to refund/offset such VAT, GE CAPITAL is obliged to pay that part of the purchase price as well (see clause 4.1, paragraph 2).    6.4 Wenn der KUNDE die Umsatzsteuer für die jeweilige Forderung bereits entrichtet hat und das Finanzamt berechtigterweise deren Rückerstattung/Verrechnung ablehnen sollte, ist GE CAPITAL auch insoweit zur Leistung verpflichtet (siehe Ziffer 4.1, Absatz 2).
7. DEBTOR LIMIT, DISCRETIONARY DEBTOR LIMIT    7. ABNEHMERLIMIT, ABNEHMERLIMITSELBSTVERGABE
7.1 At the ORIGINATOR’s request, GE CAPITAL sets Debtor Limits at its reasonable discretion on the basis of the relevant Debtor’s creditworthiness and reliability following the amount of credit limit set out for each Debtor by the relevant credit insurance.    7.1 Auf Anforderung des KUNDEN bestimmt GE CAPITAL Abnehmerlimits nach billigem Ermessen auf Grundlage der jeweiligen Bonität und Zuverlässigkeit des jeweiligen Abnehmers in Höhe des Kreditlimits, welches für jeden Abnehmer vom jeweiligen Kreditversicherer festgelegt ist.
GE CAPITAL is – on the basis of the relevant Debtor’s creditworthiness and reliability considering the amount of credit limit set out for each Debtor by the relevant credit insurance – entitled to modify (including cancellation) Debtor Limits at any time. GE CAPITAL will inform the ORIGINATOR on any deviation from the limits set by the relevant credit insurance. Such modification neither applies to purchased Receivables nor to Receivables for which the ORIGINATOR has already provided the consideration ( Gegenleistung ) to its Debtor before having received the modification notice and where such consideration cannot be reclaimed by the ORIGINATOR from the relevant Debtor .”    GE CAPITAL ist - basierend auf der Bonität und Zuverlässigkeit des Abnehmers in Anbetracht der Höhe des Kreditlimits, das für jeden Abnehmer vom jeweiligen Kreditversicherer festgelegt wird - jederzeit zu Änderungen (einschließlich Streichungen) des Abnehmerlimits berechtigt. GE CAPITAL setzt den KUNDEN über jede Abweichung der vom jeweiligen Kreditversicherer festgelegten Limits in Kenntnis. Eine solche Änderung gilt jedoch weder für bereits gekaufte Forderungen noch für Forderungen , für die der KUNDE schon vor der Änderungsmitteilung die Gegenleistung an seinen Abnehmer erbracht hat und die nicht mehr durch den KUNDEN vom jeweiligen Abnehmer zurückgefordert werden kann.
7.2 Until revocation of such right by GE CAPITAL, the ORIGINATOR is entitled to set a Discretionary Debtor Limit .    7.2 Bis zum Widerruf durch GE CAPITAL hat der KUNDE das Recht zur Abnehmerlimitselbstvergabe .

 

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Any Discretionary Debtor Limit becomes effective unless GE CAPITAL objects to it without undue delay.    Die Abnehmerlimitselbstvergobe wird wirksam, wenn GE CAPITAL ihr nicht unverzüglich widerspricht.

The ORIGINATOR determines the amount of any Discretionary Debtor Limit , which is limited, however, to an amount equal to the maximum amount for Discretionary Debtor Limits pursuant to schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions), in accordance with the following provisions:

  

Im Rahmen der Abnehmerlimitselbstvergabe setzt der KUNDE die Höhe des Abnehmerlimits , maximal jedoch den Höchstbetrag für Abnehmerlimitselbstvergaben gemäß Anhang 1 (Konditionen), unter Beachtung des Folgenden fest:

(a) If the ORIGINATOR delivered goods to a Debtor at least twice within the preceding 12-month-period and the Debtor duly paid for such goods within 60 days after the relevant due date, the ORIGINATOR may set a Debtor Limit for such Debtor of up to 150% of the sum of all unpaid Receivables owed from such Debtor to the ORIGINATOR at a particular point in time during the aforementioned 12-month-period.    (a) Wenn ein Abnehmer innerhalb der letzten 12 Monate mindestens zweimal Ware vom KUNDEN bezogen und diese spätestens 60 Tage nach dem jeweiligen Fälligkeitsdatum ordnungsgemäß bezahlt hat, kann der KUNDE für diesen Abnehmer ein Abnehmerlimit von bis zu 150% aller offenen Forderungen des KUNDEN gegen diesen Abnehmer zu einem bestimmten Zeitpunkt innerhalb des 12-Monats-Zeitraums festlegen.
(b) In all other cases, the amount of the Debtor Limit must be justifiable beyond doubt by information (not older than 12 months) provided by a commercial inquiry agency or a bank    (b) In allen anderen Fällen muss die Höhe des Abnehmerlimits durch eine Auskunft (nicht älter als 12 Monate) einer Berufsauskunftei oder Bank zweifelsfrei gerechtfertigt sein.
7.3 At GE CAPITAL’S request, the ORIGINATOR must provide information about the satisfaction of the requirements set out in clause 7.2 (a) or 7.2 (b), as the case may be, in respect of the Discretionary Debtor Limit and submit the relevant documents.    7.3 Auf Anforderung von GE CAPITAL hat der KUNDE über die Erfüllung seiner Verpflichtungen gemäß Ziffer 7.2 (a) oder 7.2 (b) in Bezug auf die Abnehmerlimitselbstvergabe Auskunft zu erteilen und die zugehörigen Unterlagen vorzulegen.
7.4 GE CAPITAL may always replace any Discretionary Debtor Limits with Debtor Limits set by it.    7.4 GE CAPITAL hat jederzeit das Recht, Abnehmerlimitselbstvergaben durch eigene Abnehmerlimit -Festsetzungen zu ersetzen.
7.5 The amount of the fee charged by GE CAPITAL to establish a Debtor Limit is set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions). Discretionary Debtor Limits are free of charge.    7.5 Für die Einräumung eines Abnehmerlimits berechnet GE CAPITAL eine Gebühr, deren Höhe in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) geregelt ist. Abnehmerlimitselbstvergaben sind gebührenfrei.

 

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8. NON-PURCHASED RECEIVABLES , SET-OFF RIGHT, ADMINISTRATION FEE   

8. NICHT ANGEKAUFTE FORDERUNGEN ,

VERRECHNUNGSBEFUGNIS,

VERWALTUNGSGEBÜHR

8.1 Upon revocation of the Undisclosed Procedure in accordance with clause 13, GE CAPITAL may also collect Receivables , which have not been purchased. To the extent that the relevant authorisation does not arise from clause 9, the ORIGINATOR hereby authorises GE CAPITAL to collect such Receivables.    8.1 Mit Widerruf des Stillen Verfahrens gemäß Ziffer 13 kann GE Capital auch die nicht angekauften Forderungen einziehen. Soweit sich die Befugnis dazu nicht aus Ziffer 9 ergibt, erteilt der KUNDE GE CAPITAL hiermit eine entsprechende Einziehungsermächtigung.
8.2 Any payments made by Debtors in respect of such Receivables shall be credited to the Settlement Account , but in the Inter-Credit®-Factoring only after the Reconciliation Process .    8.2 Die Zahlungen der Abnehmer dafür werden dem Kundenabrechnungskonto gutgeschrieben, jedoch im Falle des Inter-Credit®-Factoring nur nach dem Stülpvorgang.
Clause 4.5 shall apply mutatis mutandis to any VAT amount which is contained in the relevant Receivables.    Ziffer 4.5 gilt sinngemäß für eine Umsatzsteuer, die in den jeweiligen Forderungen enthalten ist.
GE CAPITAL is entitled to set off the proceeds from the collection of Receivables , which have not been purchased against its claims vis-à-vis the ORIGINATOR. To the extent that such counter-claims do not arise from the balance of the Settlement Account , the proceeds will be made available to the ORIGINATOR as part of the credit balance on the Settlement Account . The rights of Retaining Suppliers shall not be affected thereby.    GE CAPITAL ist zur Aufrechnung der Einnahmen aus der Einziehung von Forderungen , die nicht gekauft wurden, gegen ihre Ansprüche gegenüber dem KUNDEN berechtigt Soweit solche Gegenansprüche nicht aus einem Saldo des Kundenabrechnungskontos hergeleitet werden, wird der Erlös dem KUNDEN als Teil des Guthabens des Kundenabrechnungskontos zur Verfügung gestellt. Die Rechte der Vorbehaltslieferanten sollen hiervon nicht berührt werden.
8.3 GE CAPITAL shall receive an Administration Fee as set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) for the administration of Receivables , which have not been purchased. The Administration Fee shall fall due when the relevant Receivable is booked to the Special Account and will be charged to the Settlement Account.    8.3 GE CAPITAL erhält für die Verwaltung der Forderungen , die nicht gekauft werden, eine Verwaltungsgebüh r gemäß Anhang 1 (Konditionen). Die Verwaltungsgebühr wird mit Buchung der jeweiligen Forderung auf dem Sonderkonto fällig und dem Kundenabrechnungskonto belastet.

 

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B. ASSIGNMENT AND SECURITY    B. ABTRETUNG UND SICHERUNGSRECHTE
9. ASSIGNMENT OF RECEIVABLES , LEGAL CAUSE    9. ABTRETUNG DER FORDERUNGEN , RECHTSGRUND
9.1 The ORIGINATOR hereby assigns any and all Receivables to GE CAPITAL GE CAPITAL hereby accepts such assignment.    9.1 Der KUNDE tritt hiermit alle Forderungen an GE CAPITAL ab. GE CAPITAL nimmt diese Abtretung hiermit an.
9.2 The legal cause for the assignment of each purchased Receivable is the relevant receivables purchase agreement.    9.2 Der Rechtsgrund für die Abtretung angekaufter Forderungen ist der jeweilige Forderungskaufvertrag.
The assignment of Receivables , which have not been purchased and the proceeds resulting from the collection of any Receivables , which have not been purchased shall secure any and all existing and future claims which GE CAPITAL may have against the ORIGINATOR in connection with their overall business relationship.    Die Abtretung der nicht angekauften Forderungen und die Erlöse aus dem Einzug nicht angekaufter Forderungen dienen der Sicherung aller gegenwärtig bestehenden und zukünftig entstehenden Ansprüche von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN aus der Geschäftsbeziehung mit ihm insgesamt.
For each Receivable that has already been assigned to GE CAPITAL at the time of booking the relevant Receivable on the Factoring Account (as set out in clause 2.2), the legal cause for such assignment shall be replaced by the relevant receivables purchase agreement upon crediting of the cash portion of the purchase price (purchase of the relevant Receivable as opposed to assignment for security purposes).    Für jede Forderung , die im Zeitpunkt ihrer Verbuchung auf dem Factoringkonto (wie in Ziffer 2.2 festgelegt) bereits abgetreten war, wird der Rechtsgrund für eine solche Abtretung durch den jeweiligen Forderungskaufvertrag, unter Anrechnung des Baranteils auf den Kaufpreis, ersetzt (Kauf der jeweiligen Forderung statt Abtretung zu Sicherungszwecken).
9.3 In respect of Receivables which have not been purchased, the following provisions shall apply:    9.3 Im Hinblick auf nicht angekaufte Forderungen gilt das Folgende:
The assignment shall not include Receivables that the ORIGINATOR assigned or will assign to Retaining Suppliers in connection with an extended retention of title arrangement (partial in rem waiver of rights). If and to the extent that the extended retention of title subsequently ceases to exist, the assignment of the relevant Receivable shall become valid and effective.    Die Abtretung bezieht sich nicht auf Forderungen , welche der KUNDE an seine Vorbehaltslieferanten im Zusammenhang mit einer Vereinbarung eines verlängerten Eigentumsvorbehalts abgetreten hat oder abtreten wird (dingliche Teilverzichtsklausel). Falls und soweit der verlängerte Eigentumsvorbehalt zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt entfällt, wird die Abtretung der jeweiligen Forderung gültig und wirksam.

 

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Clause 11.3 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the limitation of the claim to demand security and the obligation to release security.    Ziffer 11.3 gilt sinngemäß für die Beschränkung des Anspruchs, Sicherheiten zu verlangen und die Verpflichtung, Sicherheiten freizugeben.
9.4 To the extent that the assignment pursuant to clause 9.1 does not result in the valid and unchallengeable ownership of GE CAPITAL in a purchased Receivable , the following provision shall apply: Subject to the condition precedent of entering into a respective receivables purchase agreement, the ORIGINATOR hereby assigns the relevant Receivable to GE CAPITAL and GE CAPITAL hereby accepts such assignment.    9.4 Soweit die Abtretung gemäß Ziffer 9.1 nicht zu einer gültigen und unanfechtbaren Inhaberschaft von GE CAPITAL an der angekauften Forderung führt, soll die folgende Bestimmung gelten: Vorbehaltlich der aufschiebenden Bedingung des Abschlusses eines Forderungskaufvertrages tritt der KUNDE hiermit die jeweilige Forderung an GE CAPITAL ab und GE CAPITAL nimmt die Abtretung hiermit an.
10. CHEQUES, DIRECT DEBIT, BILLS OF EXCHANGE    10. SCHECKS, LASTSCHRIFTEN, WECHSEL
10.1 If the ORIGINATOR receives payments in respect of Receivables in any other form (in particular by way of bill of exchange or cheque), GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR hereby agree that title to such instruments will transfer to GE CAPITAL as soon as the ORIGINATOR acquires title. Furthermore, the ORIGINATOR hereby assigns to GE CAPITAL any and all rights arising from such instruments. GE CAPITAL hereby accepts such assignments.    10.1 Gehen Zahlungen auf Forderungen in anderer Form (insbesondere in Form von Wechseln oder Schecks) bei dem KUNDEN ein, sind sich GE CAPITAL und der KUNDE darüber einig, dass das Eigentum an diesen Papieren auf GE CAPITAL übergeht, sobald es der KUNDE erwirbt. Der Kunde tritt ferner alle ihm aus den Papieren zustehenden Rechte an GE CAPITAL ab. GE CAPITAL nimmt die Abtretung hiermit an.
The delivery of any cheques and bills of exchange, which may at any time be in the ORIGINATOR’s possession, to GE CAPITAL is replaced by the ORIGINATOR keeping such instruments in gratuitous custody for GE CAPITAL. If the ORIGINATOR does not acquire direct possession, it hereby assigns to GE CAPITAL its claim for restitution against third parties. GE CAPITAL hereby accepts such assignments.    Die Übergabe der Schecks und Wechsel, die in den unmittelbaren Besitz des KUNDEN gelangen, werden dadurch ersetzt, dass GE CAPITAL und der KUNDE hiermit einen unentgeltlichen Verwahrungsvertrag vereinbaren. Für den Fall, dass der KUNDE nicht unmittelbarer Besitzer wird, tritt er bereits jetzt seinen Herausgabeanspruch gegen Dritte an GE CAPITAL ab. GE CAPITAL nimmt diese Abtretung hiermit an.
10.2 The ORIGINATOR shall deliver and - to the extent necessary - endorse the instruments and any documents relating thereto to GE CAPITAL without undue delay. Until delivery to GE CAPITAL the ORIGINATOR must take all steps that are necessary to preserve the rights resulting from such instruments.    10.2 Der KUNDE wird die Papiere – soweit erforderlich – mit seinem Indossament versehen und die dazugehörigen Unterlagen unverzüglich GE CAPITAL abliefern. Der KUNDE hat bis zur Herausgabe an GE CAPITAL alle Maßnahmen, die zum Erhalt der Rechte aus den Papieren erforderlich sind, zu ergreifen.

 

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The ORIGINATOR hereby authorises GE CAPITAL to sign bills of exchange on behalf of the ORIGINATOR as drawer and to endorse bills of exchange and cheques in the ORIGINATOR’s name.    Der KUNDE bevollmächtigt GE CAPITAL hiermit, Wechsel in Vertretung des KUNDEN zu unterzeichnen und Wechsel und Schecks im Namen des KUNDEN zu indossieren.
10.3 GE CAPITAL shall be entitled but not obliged to credit directly, but subject to their respective cashing, any equivalent amounts of cheques, debit entries and bills of exchange. If the relevant instruments are not irrevocably cashed, the underlying Receivable shall be treated as if it had originally not been paid.    10.3 GE CAPITAL ist berechtigt, jedoch nicht verpflichtet, Schecks, Lastschriften und Wechsel vorbehaltlich ihrer Einlösung sofort gutzuschreiben. Werden die maßgeblichen Papiere nicht unwiderruflich eingelöst, so sind die zugrundeliegenden Forderungen so zu behandeln, als ob sie ursprünglich nicht bezahlt wurden.
11. LIENS AND ANCILLARY RIGHTS, INSURANCE CLAIMS    11. SICHERUNGS- UND NEBENRECHTE; VERSICHERUNGSANSPRÜCHE
11.1 The ORIGINATOR hereby transfers to GE CAPITAL, who accepts such transfer, any and all rights and claims (other than the Receivable itself) arising under or in connection with the relevant contract with the Debtor , including:    11.1 Der KUNDE überträgt hiermit an die dies annehmende GE CAPITAL alle Rechte und Ansprüche, die dem KUNDEN (außer der Forderung selbst) aus oder im Zusammenhang mit dem jeweiligen Vertrag mit dem Abnehmer zustehen, insbesondere:
(a) all ownership and inchoate rights in the underlying assets with respect to assigned Receivables that the ORIGINATOR may have or acquire, which are particularly set out in invoices relating to assigned Receivables , provided that the ORIGINATOR shall continue to be entitled to resell such assets to the Debtor .    (a) alle Eigentums- und Anwartschaftsrechte in Bezug auf die abgetretenen Forderungen , die dem KUNDEN zustehen oder die er erwirbt und die teilweise in Rechnungen, bezogen auf die abgetretenen Forderungen , festgelegt sind, wobei der KUNDE zur Weiterveräußerung der jeweiligen (Vermögens-)Gegenstände an den Abnehmer berechtigt bleibt.
(b) any and all claims for delivery of such assets, in particular in the event of an unwinding of the contract, as well as the right to rescind the contract.    (b) alle Ansprüche auf Lieferung dieser (Vermögens-)Gegenstände, insbesondere im Falle der Rückabwicklung des Vertrages sowie das Recht, vom Vertrag zurückzutreten.
(c) in the event of a sale by consignment, any claims against the carrier and the right of pursuit.    (c) im Falle des Versendungskaufes, die Ansprüche gegen den Transporteur und das Verfolgungsrecht.
(d) all rights of the ORIGINATOR arising from an extended retention of title arrangement within the meaning of clause 21 (d), in particular, the claim of the Debtor resulting from the resale of the relevant assets.    (d) alle Rechte des KUNDEN, die infolge eines verlängerten Eigentumsvorbehalts gemäß Ziffer 21 (d) entstehen, insbesondere den Anspruch des Abnehmers aus dem Wiederverkauf der jeweiligen (Vermögens-)Gegenstände.

 

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(e) the ORIGINATOR’s right to request the insolvency administrator to exercise its rights in an insolvency of the Debtor.    (e) das Recht des KUNDEN im Falle einer Insolvenz des Abnehmers , den Insolvenzverwalter zur Ausübung seiner Rechte aufzufordem.
To the extent that such transfer is subject to specific additional requirements, the ORIGINATOR undertakes to comply with any such requirements in the required form.    Soweit die Übertragung von besonderen Voraussetzungen abhängig ist, verpflichtet sich der KUNDE, sie in der erforderlichen Weise vorzunehmen.
To the extent that the ORIGINATOR holds or reacquires direct possession of such assets, the ORIGINATOR shall keep such assets for GE CAPITAL in gratuitous custody and separate from any other goods and waives any claims for reimbursement of expenses.    Soweit der KUNDE noch oder wieder unmittelbarer Besitzer solcher (Vermögens-)Gegenstände ist, verwahrt er diese für GE CAPITAL unentgeltlich und getrennt von anderen Waren und verzichtet auf Aufwendungsersatzansprüche.
11.2 The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL agree that GE CAPITAL acquires a lien and a retention right with respect to the securities and chattels, of which it may have or acquire possession in the course of business with the ORIGINATOR.    11.2 Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL sind sich darüber einig, dass GE CAPITAL ein Pfand-sowie ein Zurückbehaltungsrecht in Bezug auf die Sicherheiten und Sachen zustehen, welche GE CAPITAL im Rahmen der Geschäftsbeziehung mit dem KUNDEN erworben hat oder erwirbt.
GE CAPITAL also acquires a lien and a retention right with respect to any claims arising from the business relationship (e.g. credit balances) that the ORIGINATOR has or will acquire against GE CAPITAL.    GE CAPITAL erwirbt auch ein Pfandrecht und ein Zurückbehaltungsrecht im Hinblick auf die Ansprüche aus der Geschäftsverbindung (z.B. Kontoguthaben), die der KUNDE gegen GE CAPITAL erworben hat oder erwerben wird.
Such liens and the retention right shall secure all existing, future and contingent claims of GE CAPITAL against the ORIGINATOR arising from the business relationship.    Das Pfandrecht sowie das Zurückbehaltungsrecht dienen der Sicherung aller bestehenden, künftigen und bedingten Ansprüche, die GE CAPITAL aus der Geschäftsverbindung gegen den KUNDEN zustehen.
If GE CAPITAL acquires control over monies or other assets under the condition that they may only be used for a certain purpose. GE CAPITAL’s lien does not extend to such assets and in this case. GE CAPITAL shall not have a retention right.    Wenn GE CAPITAL die Herrschaft über Gelder oder andere Werte erwirbt, die nur für einen bestimmten Zweck verwendet werden sollen, wird sich das Pfandrecht von GE CAPITAL nicht auf solche Werte erstrecken und in einem solchen Fall soll GE CAPITAL auch kein Zurückbehaltungsrecht zustehen.

 

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11.3 If the realisable value of all security interests not only temporarily exceeds the total amount of all claims arising from the business relationship (Cover Limit), GE CAPITAL shall, at the ORIGINATOR’s request, release security interests in the discretion of GE CAPITAL in the amount exceeding the Cover Limit.    11.3 Wenn der realisierbare Wert aller Sicherheiten den Gesamtbetrag aller Ansprüche (Deckungsgrenze) nicht nur vorübergehend übersteigt, hat GE CAPITAL auf Verlangen des KUNDEN Sicherheiten nach Wahl von GE CAPITAL freizugeben, und zwar in Höhe des die Deckungsgrenze übersteigenden Betrages.
When selecting the security interests to be released. GE CAPITAL will consider the legitimate interests of the ORIGINATOR and any third party that provided security for the ORIGINATOR’s obligations.    GE CAPITAL wird bei der Auswahl der freizugebenden Sicherheiten auf die berechtigten Interessen des KUNDEN und eines dritten Sicherungsgebers, der für die Verbindlichkeiten des KUNDEN Sicherheiten bestellt hat, Rücksicht nehmen.
11.4 GE CAPITAL will only enforce the security interests if the ORIGINATOR is in payment default and a grace period of at least two weeks set by GE CAPITAL before the commencement of enforcement actions has expired to no avail.    11.4 GE CAPITAL wird ihr gestellte Sicherheiten nur verwerten, wenn der KUNDE sich in Zahlungsverzug befindet und eine von GE CAPITAL vor dem Beginn der Zwangsvollstreckung gesetzte Nachfrist von mindestens zwei Wochen fruchtlos abgelaufen ist.
The Receivables assigned for security purposes are enforced by collection in the Undisclosed Procedure and the net proceeds resulting from such enforcement are set off against the ORIGINATOR’s obligations owed to GE CAPITAL.    Die Verwertung der zur Sicherheit abgetretenen Forderungen erfolgt durch deren Einzug im Stillen Verfahren und Verrechnung der Reinerlöse aus dem Einzug mit den Verbindlichkeiten des KUNDEN gegenüber GE CAPITAL.
GE CAPITAL will credit the net enforcement proceeds to the Settlement Account .    GE CAPITAL wird den Reinerlös aus der Verwertung dem Kundenabrechnungskonto gutschreiben.
11.5 If facts emerge which indicate that the payment of a purchased Receivable by the Debtor may be at risk, the ORIGINATOR must, upon request by and at the expense of GE CAPITAL, take back the relevant goods.    11.5 Der KUNDE muss auf Weisung und auf Kosten von GE CAPITAL die betreffende Ware zurücknehmen, wenn Tatsachen bekannt werden, die eine Bezahlung einer gekauften Forderung durch den Abnehmer als gefährdet erscheinen lassen.
GE CAPITAL may also take possession of the goods or store such goods at a third party’s premises.    GE CAPITAL kann die Ware auch in Besitz nehmen oder bei einem Dritten einlagern.
GE CAPITAL’s Bad Debt Coverage , if applicable, shall remain unaffected thereby.    Die Delkrederehaftung von GE CAPITAL soll, sofern einschlägig, hiervon unberührt bleiben.

 

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The realisation of returned goods shall be for the benefit and at the expense of GE CAPITAL who will also determine the method of enforcement.    Die Verwertung der zurückgenommenen Ware erfolgt zu Gunsten und auf Kosten von GE CAPITAL, die auch die Art und Weise der Verwertung bestimmt.
11.6 The ORIGINATOR shall use its best efforts to support GE CAPITAL without remuneration in enforcing and realising all security interests, rights and claims.    11.6 Der KUNDE hat sich unentgeltlich nach besten Kräften zu bemühen, GE CAPITAL bei der Durchsetzung und Verwertung sämtlicher Sicherheiten, Rechte und Ansprüche zu unterstützen.
11.7 The ORIGINATOR undertakes to structure its credit insurances in such a way that in each year the maximum annual indemnification amount under the relevant credit insurance is sufficient to cover the applicable credit limit of the top five Debtors of the ORIGINATOR in respect of this Agreement .    11.7 Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, seine Kreditversicherungen so zu strukturieren, dass in jedem Jahr der maximale jährliche Entschädigungsbetrag der jeweiligen Kreditversicherung zur Deckung des maßgeblichen Kreditlimits der Top-Five- Abnehmer des KUNDEN im Hinblick auf diesen Vertrag ausreicht.
Any changes to the terms of the insurance policies and any changes to the insurance companies require prior approval by GE CAPITAL, and such approval may not be unreasonably withheld.    Alle Änderungen der Versicherungsbedingungen und alle Wechsel der Versicherungsuntemehmen bedürfen der vorherigen Einwilligung von GE CAPITAL, die nicht unbillig verweigert werden darf.
The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL shall enter into an additional agreement with respect to the assignment of claims under trade credit insurances, as set out in Annex 3 (Trade Credit Insurance Agreement), and will enter into specific trade credit insurance assignment agreements, for each trade credit insurer ( Warenkreditversicherer ) substantially in the form set out in Annex 4 (Assignment Agreements on Trade Credit Insurance) hereto.    Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL schließen einen zusätzlichen Vertrag über die Abtretung von Ansprüchen aus den Warenkreditversicherungen ab, wie sie in Anlage 3 (Warenkreditversicherungsvertrag) festgelegt sind, und werden spezielle Warenkreditversicherungsabtretungsverträge für jeden Warenkreditversicherer abschließen, die im Wesentlichen denen im Anhang 4 (Warenkreditversicherungsabtretungsvertrag) entsprechen.
The ORIGINATOR undertakes to notify each trade credit insurer ( Warenkreditversicherer ) of the assignment pursuant to this clause in substantially the form as set out in Annex 4 (Assignment Agreements on Trade Credit Insurance).    Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, jeden Warenkreditversicherer von der Abtretung gemäß dieser Ziffer in der Form, die im Wesentlichen der in Anlage 4 festgelegten Form (Warenkreditversicherungsabtretungsvertrag) entspricht, zu unterrichten.

 

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C. FACTORING PROCEDURE    C. FACTORING-VERFAHREN
12. FULL-SERVICE, INTER-CREDIT®, SMART-SERVICE    12. FULL-SERVICE, INTER-CREDIT®, SMART-SERVICE
12.1 Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) sets out whether the accounts receivable bookkeeping and dunning procedure follow the rules of Full-Service-Factoring, Inter-Credit®-Factoring or Smart-Service-Factoring .    12.1 Aus Anhang 1 (Konditionen) ist ersichtlich, ob die Debitorenbuchhaltung und das Mahnwesen nach Maßgabe des Full-Service-Factoring , des Inter-Credit ®- Factoring oder des Smart-Service-Factoring erfolgt.
12.2 The following rules apply to the bookkeeping:    12.2 Für die Buchhaltung gilt:
In all instances, the ORIGINATOR transfers the data relating to Receivables , such as invoices, credit notes, debit notes and Notifications of Dispute by submitting the relevant documents and/or through Factoring-Satzaufbau and/or by manually entering data of invoices/credit notes online in Factorlink .    In allen Fällen übermittelt der KUNDE die Daten zu den Forderungen , wie Rechnungen, Gutschriften, Lastschriften und Reklamationsanzeigen durch Übersendung der entsprechenden Unterlagen und/oder Factoring-Satzaufbau und/oder durch manuelle Rech-nungs/Gutschriftserfassung online in Factorlink .
In the Full-Service-Factoring und Smart-Service-Factoring procedures, the Debtors’ payments are booked directly by GE CAPITAL to the Debtors’ Accounts .    Im Full-Service-Factoring und Smart-Service-Factoring erfolgt die Buchung von Zahlungen der Abnehmer direkt durch GE CAPITAL auf den Debitorenkonten .
In the lnter-Credit®-Factoring procedure, the Debtors ’ payments shall be booked by GE CAPITAL to the Incoming Payment Settlement Account . Any accounting documents that GE CAPITAL may have shall be delivered to the ORIGINATOR who books the payments on the debits side and relates them to the relevant invoices. At least once a week, the ORIGINATOR shall send its complete Open Items File to GE CAPITAL through Factoring-Satzaufbau . Upon receipt of such data, GE CAPITAL will perform a Reconciliation Process and will adjust all other Accounts kept in connection with the factoring arrangement.    Beim Inter-Credit®-Factoring werden die Zahlungen der Abnehmer von GE CAPITAL auf dem Zahlungseingangsverrechnungskonto gebucht. Die GE CAPITAL verfügbaren Buchungsunterlagen werden dem KUNDEN überlassen, der die Zahlungen debitorisch bucht und den jeweiligen Rechnungen zuordnet. Mindestens einmal pro Woche übermittelt der KUNDE seine gesamte Offene Posten Datei durch Factoring-Satzaufbau an GE CAPITAL GE CAPITAL wird nach Erhalt dieser Daten einen Stülpvorgang vornehmen und auch alle übrigen im Factoring geführten Konten ausgleichen.

 

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In the Inter-Credit®-Factoring procedure, the ORIGINATOR must keep the accounts receivable books in such a manner that arrears of postings are avoided and that the Open Items File is correct and up-to-date on a daily basis.    Beim lnter-Credit®-Factoring muss der KUNDE die Forderungsbücher in einer Weise führen, dass Buchungsrückstände vermieden werden und die Offene Posten Datei richtig und tagesaktuell ist.
12.3 The following rules apply to the dunning procedure:    12.3 Für das Mahnwesen gilt:
If the Debtor fails to pay the relevant Receivable on the due date, 3 dunning runs in cycles of 14 days will generally be performed. If the relevant Receivable is not completely discharged within a period of 60 days after its due date, GE CAPITAL may initiate the Collection Procedure in accordance with and subject to clause 16.    Zahlt der Abnehmer bei Fälligkeit der jeweiligen Forderung nicht, so erfolgen regelmäßig 3 Mahnläufe im 14-Tage- Rythmus. Ist die jeweilige Forderung 60 Tage nach Fälligkeit der Forderung noch nicht vollständig ausgeglichen, wird GE CAPITAL das Inkassoverfahren gemäß und in Übereinstimmung mit Ziffer 16 einleiten.
In the Full-Service-Factoring procedure, GE CAPITAL performs the dunning procedure, in the Smart-Service-Factoring and the Inter-Credit ® -Factoring procedures, the ORIGINATOR performs the dunning procedure.    Im Full-Service-Factoring mahnt GE CAPITAL, im Smart-Service-Factoring und im Inter- Credit ® -Factoring mahnt der KUNDE.

In the Inter-Credit ® -Factoring and Smart- Service-Factoring procedures, the ORIGINATOR must perform the dunning procedure in such a manner that arrears of reminders are avoided.

   Im Inter-Credit ® -Factoring und Smart- Service-Factoring muss der KUNDE das Mahnverfahren in einer Art und Weise ausführen, dass Mahnrückstände vermieden werden.
13. DISCLOSED PROCEDURE / UNDISCLOSED PROCEDURE    13. OFFENES VERFAHREN / STILLES VERFAHREN
13.1 Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) sets out whether the Disclosed Procedure or the Undisclosed Procedure applies.    13.1 Aus Anhang 1 (Konditionen) ist ersichtlich, ob das Offene Verfahren oder das Stille Verfahren angewandt wird.
13.2 In the Disclosed Procedure , the ORIGINATOR will inform its Debtors at the Commencement Date about the factoring procedure and the assignment of Receivables to GE CAPITAL in writing and in the appropriate manner (letter of notification).    13.2 Im Offenen Verfahren wird der KUNDE seine Abnehmer bei Vertragsbeginn schriftlich in geeigneter Form (Notifikationsbrief) über das Factoringverfahren und die Abtretung der Forderungen an GE CAPITAL unterrichten.
Furthermore, the ORIGINATOR will attach to its invoices a clearly visible note of assignment in accordance with schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Außerdem wird der KUNDE auf seinen Rechnungen den Abtretungsvermerk gemäß Anhang 1 (Konditionen) anbringen.

 

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GE CAPITAL is also entitled to inform the Debtors about the factoring arrangement and the assignment and to verify the relevant Receivables with the Debtors .     GE CAPITAL ist auch berechtigt, die Abnehmer über das Factoringverhältnis und die Abtretung zu unterrichten, sowie die jeweiligen Faderungen bei den Abnehmern zu verifizieren.
To the extent that the parties agree on Pledged Accounts , clause 13.3 shall apply mutatis mutandis .     Soweit die Einrichtung von Verpfändeten Bankkonten vereinbart ist gilt für diese Ziffer 13.3 entsprechend.
13.3 In the Undisclosed Procedure and until termination pursuant to clause 14, the ORIGINATOR is entitled to collect and administer Receivables in its name and on its behalf within the boundaries of the Credit and Collection Policies (by way of a collection authority ( Einzugsermächtigung )) and to perform all related functions with reasonable care, skill and diligence with the standard of care of a prudent merchant ( Sorgfalt eines ordentlichen Kaufmanns ). The ORIGINATOR shall accept Debtors’ payments by cashless transactions, if possible, and only into the Pledged Accounts .     13.3 Im Stillen Verfahren und bis zur Kündigung gemäß Ziffer 14 ist der KUNDE verpflichtet, Forderungen im eigenen Namen und im eigenen Auftrag innerhalb der Grenzen der Gutschrift - und Einzugsregeln ( Credit and Collection Policies ) (durch Einzugsermächtigung) einzuziehen und zu verwalten und alle damit zusammenhängenden Aufgaben mit angemessener Vorsicht, Fertigkeit und Sorgfalt, die denen eines ordentlichen Kaufmanns entsprechen müssen, zu erfüllen. Der KUNDE akzeptiert Zahlungen der Abnehmer möglichst im bargeldlosen Zahlungsverkehr und ausschließlich über die Verpfändeten Bankkonten
(a) All invoices and any other relevant correspondence of the ORIGINATOR vis-à- vis its Debtors shall only specify the Pledged Accounts as the ORIGINATOR’s bank account details. Any Debtors that may have been informed otherwise will be advised accordingly by the ORIGINATOR without undue delay.     (a) Alle Rechnungen und jeder andere relevante Schriftverkehr des KUNDEN gegenüber seinen Abnehmern dürfen als Bankverbindung ausschließlich die Verpfändeten Bankkonten enthalten. Abnehmer , die anders informiert sein könnten, wird der KUNDE unverzüglich entsprechend unterrichten.
(b) The ORIGINATOR undertakes to reset all balances on the Pledged Accounts prior to the Commencement Date .     (b) Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, alle Salden der Verpfändeten Bankkonten vor Vertragsbeginn auf Null zu stellen.
(c) To secure in particular the claim arising from clause 5, and to secure any and all other present and future claims of GE CAPITAL against the ORIGINATOR arising from the business relationship, the ORIGINATOR shall pledge to GE CAPITAL by way of a separate agreement all claims arising from the Pledged Accounts to receive any existing or future balances (credits) to which the ORIGINATOR may be     (c) Zur Sicherung, insbesondere des Anspruchs gemäß Ziffer 5 und zur Sicherung aller übrigen gegenwärtigen und künftigen Ansprüche von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN aus der Geschäftsbeziehung, verpfändet der KUNDE gemäß separater Vereinbarung seine Ansprüche aus den Verpfändeten Bankkonten auf Auszahlung aller gegenwärtigen und künftigen Überschüsse, die dem KUNDEN bei

 

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entitled in connection with settlements under the relevant current account relationship, as well as any claims arising from the giro contract to receive daily balances standing to the credit on the Pledged Accounts which may arise between the settlements of accounts and all claims to credit entries with respect to any amount received (Account list in Section 8 of schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions)).     Saldoziehung aus dem in laufender Rechnung (Kontokorrent) geführten Konto/Konten zustehen, sowie auch die Ansprüche aus dem Girovertrag auf fortlaufende Auszahlung des sich zwischen den Rechnungsabschlüssen ergebenden Tagesguthabens sowie alle Ansprüche auf Gutschriften an GE CAPITAL (Kontenliste in Ziffer 8 des Anhangs 1 (Konditionen)).
(d) The parties hereby agree on the following collection arrangement: GE CAPITAL is - in particular prior to the occurrence of an enforcement event - entitled to solely collect the amounts standing to the credit of the Pledged Accounts . The ORIGINATOR may only demand payment to GE CAPITAL.     (d) Hiermit wird folgende Einziehungsvereinbarung getroffen: GE CAPITAL ist, insbesondere vor dem Eintritt der Verwertung, allein zur Einziehung, aller Betröge der Verpfändeten Bankkonten berechtigt. Der Kunde darf Zahlung nur an GE CAPITAL verlangen.
(e) The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL agree that the Pledged Accounts are held by the ORIGINATOR as trustee for GE CAPITAL in its own name, but for the sole purpose of creating a security interest for GE CAPITAL (trust arrangement). The amounts received and standing to the credit of the Pledged Accounts shall serve the sole purpose of being transferred to GE CAPITAL. The ORIGINATOR undertakes not to dispose of any credit balance on the Pledged Accounts in any other way and not to charge or debit the Pledged Accounts . If any payments from Debtors are received on any account other than the Pledged Accounts , the ORIGINATOR hereby undertakes to transfer such amounts directly to GE CAPITAL or to a Pledged Account .     (e) Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL sind sich darüber einig, dass die Verpfändeten Bankkonten vom KUNDEN als Treuhänder für GE CAPITAL im eigenen Namen aber lediglich zu Sicherungszwecken im Interesse von GE CAPITAL geführt werden (Treuhandvereinbarung). Die Gelder auf den Verpfändeten Bankkonten dienen nur dem Zweck ihrer Weiterleitung an GE CAPITAL Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, jede andere Verfügung über Ansprüche aus Guthaben zu unterlassen und keine Belastungen der Verpfändeten Bankkonten vorzunehmen. Sollten Zahlungen von Abnehmern auf anderen als den Verpfändeten Bankkonten eingehen, verpflichtet sich der KUNDE, diese direkt an GE CAPITAL oder auf ein Verpfändetes Bankkonto weiterzuleiten.
13.4     13.4
(a) The ORIGINATOR undertakes to notify each credit institution that keeps any of the Pledged Accounts of the pledge and the trust arrangement to release such credit institution vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL from the Banking Secrecy with respect to the Pledged Accounts and to use its reasonable efforts to provide a declaration from any such credit institution to GE CAPITAL     (a) Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, jedem Kreditinstitut bei dem ein Verpfändetes Bankkonto geführt wird, die Verpfändung und die Treuhandvereinbarung anzuzeigen, es vom Bankgeheimnis gegenüber GE CAPITAL in Bezug auf die Verpfändeten Bankkonten zu befreien und angemessene Anstrengungen anzuwenden, die Erklärung des Kreditinstituts gegenüber GE CAPITAL pursuant to which the relevant credit institution:

 

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    beizubringen, wonach das jeweilige Kreditinstitut:
- acknowledges the pledge including the collection arrangement and undertakes not to allow any disposals deviating from the collection arrangement.     - die Verpfändung einschließlich der Einziehungsvereinbarung anerkennt und sich verpflichtet, davon abweichende Verfügungen nicht zuzulassen,
- waives any retention and set-off rights that it may have with respect to the Pledged Accounts , abandons or subordinates to GE CAPITAL’s pledge any pledge it may have and agrees not to credit any payments allotted to the Pledged Accounts to any other accounts; provided that the charging of the Pledged Accounts with customary fees, costs, reverse bookings and conditional bookings may be stipulated,     - bezüglich der Verpfändeten Bankkonten auf etwa ihm zustehende Zurückbehaltungs- und Aufrechnungsrechte verzichtet, ein etwa bestehendes eigenes Pfandrecht aufgibt oder nachrangig stellt und für Verpfändete Bankkonten bestimmte Zahlungen nicht anderen Konten gutschreibt; die Belastung mit üblichen Gebühren, Kosten, Rückbuchungen und bedingten Buchungen können Vorbehalten bleiben.
- undertakes to keep GE CAPITAL continuously informed about the Pledged Accounts by delivery of account statements and, on request, by delivery of the relevant receipts, and to allow GE CAPITAL to obtain information by retrieving digital data.     - GE CAPITAL durch Kontoauszüge und auf Anforderung auch durch die zugehörigen Belege über die Verpfändeten Bankkonten fortlaufend unterrichtet und GE CAPITAL die Möglichkeit einräumt, sich durch Abrufen digitaler Daten zu informieren.
(b) The ORIGINATOR warrants by way of an independent guarantee that following performance of clause 13.4 (a) no third party rights exist with respect to the pledged rights and claims other than a subordinated pledge in favour of the account bank(s) pursuant to their general terms and conditions and except for pledges in favour of account bank(s) with respect to claims arising from and relating to: (a) cancellation and correction entries, (b) reversals of reserved bookings (e.g. check or direct debit) and unintentional payments, and (c) fees and other account charges or fees in the context of normal business, provided, however, that such claims as set out in (a) - (c) above arise in connection with the relevant Pledged Account and do not derive from a different relationship between the ORIGINATOR and the account bank, if applicable.     (b) Der KUNDE garantiert im Wege eines selbstständigen Garantieversprechens, dass nach Erfüllung von Ziffer 13.4 (a) keine Rechte Dritter an den verpfändeten Rechten und Ansprüchen bestehen, mit der Ausnahme eines etwaigen nachrangigen AGB-Pfandrechts der kontoführenden Bank und mit Ausnahme eines etwaigen Pfandrechts der kontoführenden Bank, im Hinblick auf Ansprüche, die entstehen aus und sich beziehen auf: (a) Stornierungs- und Korrektureinträge, (b) Rückbelastungen vorbehaltener Buchungen (z.B. Scheck oder Lastschrift) und unbeabsichtigte Zahlungen, und (c) Gebühren und andere Kontogebühren und Gebühren im ordentlichen Geschäftsverkehr, vorausgesetzt jedoch, dass diese in (a) - (c) aufgeführten Ansprüche im Zusammenhang mit dem jeweiligen Verpfändeten Bankkonto entstehen und, falls zutreffend, nicht aus einer anderen Beziehung zwischen dem

 

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     KUNDEN und der kontoführenden Bank herrühren.
(c) The ORIGINATOR undertakes to inform GE CAPITAL immediately if any third party asserts any such right.      (c) Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, umgehend GE CAPITAL zu verständigen, wenn Dritte solche Rechte geltend machen.
(d) The ORIGINATOR authorises GE CAPITAL to notify the relevant credit institution of the pledge and to receive the declaration referred to in clause 13.4 (a) above, on behalf of the ORIGINATOR.      (d) GE CAPITAL ist bevollmächtigt, die Verpfändung gegenüber dem jeweiligen Kreditinstitut anzuzeigen und die Erklärung gemäß Ziffer 13.4 (a) auch im Namen des KUNDEN vorzunehmen.
13.5 GE CAPITAL is entitled to conduct regular balance acknowledgement procedures with Debtors .      13.5 GE Capital ist berechtigt, regelmäßig Saldenbestätigungsverfahren mit den Abnehmern durchzuführen.
GE CAPITAL will send an account statement setting out the Receivables which, to GE CAPITAL’s knowledge, are unsettled at the relevant date, including the account balance resulting therefrom, accompanied with a request to the relevant Debtor to confirm the balance set out therein to be accurate and the relevant Receivables to be Eligible.      GE CAPITAL verschickt einen Kontoauszug über die nach ihrer Kenntnis zum Stichtag offenen Forderungen einschließlich des sich daraus ergebenden Saldos, verbunden mit der Aufforderung an den jeweiligen Abnehmer , diesen Saldo als zutreffend und die Forderung als einwandfrei zu bestätigen.
For the duration of the Undisclosed Procedure , the request to confirm the account balances is made in the name of the ORIGINATOR by an auditor appointed by GE CAPITAL as trustee for GE CAPITAL. The ORIGINATOR will grant a relevant power of attorney to the trustee for submission to the Debtor . The trustee will inform GE CAPITAL comprehensively about the results of the balance acknowledgement procedure.      Für die Dauer des Stillen Verfahrens erfolgt regelmäßig die Aufforderung zur Saldenbestätigung unter dem Namen des KUNDEN durch einen von GE CAPITAL benannten Prüfer als Treuhänder für GE CAPITAL Der KUNDE stellt dem Treuhänder eine entsprechende Vollmacht zur Vorlage beim Abnehmer aus. Der Treuhänder informiert GE CAPITAL umfassend über die Ergebnisse des Saldenbestätigungsverfahrens.
14. CHANGE OF PROCEDURE BY PARTIAL TERMINATION      14. VERFAHRENSWECHSEL DURCH TEILKÜNDIGUNG
14.1 GE CAPITAL is only entitled to an extraordinary partial termination in writing of the Inter-Credit ® - Factoring and/or the Undisclosed Procedure without observation of a termination period, if the conditions of clause 26.2 are fulfilled.      14.1 GE CAPITAL hat ohne Einhaltung einer Kündigungsfrist nur das Recht zu einer außerordentlichen Kündigung des Inter- Credit ® -Factorings und/oder des Stillen Verfahrens, die der Schriftform entsprechen muss, wenn die Bedingungen der Ziffer 26.2 erfüllt sind.

 

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14.2 Upon effectiveness of a partial termination of the Inter-Credit ® -Factoring , the Agreement shall continue as Full-Service-Factoring , upon partial termination of the Undisclosed Procedure as Disclosed Procedure , respectively.    14.2 Mit Wirksamwerden einer Teilkündigung des Inter-Credit ® -Factoring setzt sich der Vertrag als Full-Service-Factoring , bzw. bei Teilkündigung des Stillen Verfahrens , als Offenes Verfahren fort.
14.3 Upon receipt of a partial termination pursuant to clause 14.1, the ORIGINATOR is entitled to terminate the Agreement by giving 5 Business Days ’ notice prior to the date on which the partial termination takes effect.    14.3 Nach dem Zugang einer Teilkündigung nach Ziffer 14.1 hat der KUNDE das Recht, den Vertrag mit einer Frist von mindestens 5 Geschäftstagen vor dem Zeitpunkt, auf den gekündigt ist, zu kündigen.
14.4 The ORIGINATOR may approach GE CAPITAL with a request not to disclose the assignment notwithstanding a termination of the Undisclosed Procedure if and as long as the claims owed to GE CAPITAL arising from the business relationship with the ORIGINATOR are unappealably satisfied ( erfüllt ).    14.4 Der KUNDE hat das Recht, GE CAPITAL darum zu ersuchen, ungeachtet der Kündigung des Stillen Verfahrens die Abtretung nicht offenzulegen, wenn und solange die GE CAPITAL zustehenden Ansprüche, die aus der Geschäftsbeziehung mit dem KUNDEN herrühren, unanfechtbar erfüllt sind.
14.5 GE CAPITAL is entitled to terminate the Smart-Service-Factoring by written notice, applying clause 14.1 mutatis mutandis . Upon effectiveness of a partial termination, the Agreement shall continue as Full-Service-Factoring ; clause 14.3 shall also apply mutatis mutandis .    14.5 GE CAPITAL kann das Smart-Service-Factoring schriftlich kündigen; Ziffer 14.1 gilt entsprechend. Mit dem Wirksamwerden einer Teilkündigung setzt sich der Vertrag als Full-Service-Factoring fort; Ziffer 14.3 gilt ebenfalls entsprechend.
15. QUARTERLY ACCOUNT STATEMENT, TACIT RATIFICATION, TIME LIMIT FOR OBJECTIONS    15. QUARTALSABSCHLUSS, GENEHMIGUNG DURCH SCHWEIGEN, FRIST FÜR EINWENDUNGEN
15.1 GE CAPITAL shall, within 10 days following the end of each calendar quarter, send the Quarterly Account Statement to the ORIGINATOR.    15.1 GE CAPITAL übersendet dem KUNDEN innerhalb von 10 Tagen nach Abschluss eines jeden Quartals den Quartalsabschluss .
15.2 The ORIGINATOR must raise any objections concerning the incorrectness or incompleteness of a Quarterly Account Statement no later than 6 weeks following receipt thereof; if such objections are made in writing, dispatch thereof during the 6-week-period shall suffice.    15.2 Der KUNDE hat Einwendungen wegen Unrichtigkeit oder Unvollständigkeit eines Quartalsabschlusses spätestens vor Ablauf von 6 Wochen nach dessen Zugang zu erheben; macht er seine Einwendungen schriftlich geltend, genügt die Absendung innerhalb der 6-Wochen-Frist.
Failure to make objections in due time will be considered an approval of the Quarterly    Das Unterlassen rechtzeitiger Einwendungen gilt als Genehmigung des

 

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Account Statement . When issuing the Quarterly Account Statement , GE CAPITAL will expressly refer the ORIGINATOR to this consequence.    Quartalsabschlusses . Auf diese Folge wird GE CAPITAL bei Erteilung des Quartalsabschlusses besonders hingewiesen.
The ORIGINATOR is also entitled to request correction of the Quarterly Account Statement after the expiry of the 6-week-period, but must prove in that instance that its Account was either unlawfully ( unrechtmäßig ) debited or not credited.    Der KUNDE kann auch nach Ablauf der 6-Wochen-Frist eine Berichtigung des Quartalsabschlusses verlangen, muss dann aber beweisen, dass sein Konto unrechtmäßig belastet oder eine ihm zustehende Gutschrift nicht erteilt wurde.
15.3 To the extent that GE CAPITAL has a repayment claim against the ORIGINATOR, GE CAPITAL may reverse incorrect credit entries on all Accounts of the ORIGINATOR by way of a debit entry prior to the issue of the next Quarterly Account Statement (reverse entry); in this case, the ORIGINATOR may not object to the debit entry on the grounds of having already disposed of an amount equivalent to the credit entry.    15.3 Soweit GE CAPITAL ein Rückzahlungsanspruch gegen den KUNDEN zusteht, kann GE CAPITAL fehlerhafte Gutschriften auf allen Konten des KUNDEN durch eine Belastungsbuchung vor dem nächsten Quartalsabschluss rückgängig machen (Stomobuchung); der KUNDE kann in diesem Fall gegen die Belastungsbuchung nicht einwenden, dass er in Höhe der Gutschrift bereits verfügt hat.
If GE CAPITAL discovers an incorrect credit entry only after a Quarterly Account Statement has been issued and if GE CAPITAL has a repayment claim against the ORIGINATOR, it will make a correction entry in the amount of such claim.    Stellt GE CAPITAL eine fehlerhafte Gutschrift erst nach einem Quartalsabschluss fest und steht ihr ein Rückzahlungsanspruch gegen den KUNDEN zu, so wird sie in Höhe dieses Anspruchs eine Berichtigungsbuchung durchführen.
If the ORIGINATOR objects to the correction entry, GE CAPITAL will re-credit the Account with the amount in dispute and pursue its repayment claim separately.    Erhebt der KUNDE gegen die Berichtigungsbuchung Einwendungen, so wird GE CAPITAL den Betrag dem Konto wieder gutschreiben und ihren Rückzahlungsanspruch gesondert verfolgen.
GE CAPITAL will immediately notify the ORIGINATOR of any reverse entries and correction entries made by it. With respect to the calculation of the Financing Commission per Invoice and the Total Financing Commission , the entries will take retroactive effect to the day on which the incorrect entry was made.    Über Storno- und Berichtigungsbuchungen wird GE CAPITAL den KUNDEN unverzüglich unterrichten. Die Buchungen nimmt GE CAPITAL hinsichtlich der Berechnung der Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis und der Gesamtfinanzierungsgebühr rückwirkend zu dem Tag vor, an dem die fehlerhafte Buchung durchgeführt wurde.

 

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16. COLLECTION PROCEDURE    16. INKASSOVERFAHREN
16.1 If any Receivables remain unsettled after the third dunning letter, GE CAPITAL will initiate the Collection Procedure .    16.1 Wenn Forderungen nach der dritten Mahnung noch offen sind, so leitet GE CAPITAL das Inkassoverfahren ein.
16.2 GE CAPITAL shall inform the ORIGINATOR about any developments in the Collection Procedure if necessary, and shall, in the event of any disputes raised by the Debtor , give the ORIGINATOR the opportunity to provide comments thereon and introduce such comments in the procedure. GE CAPITAL shall enter into settlement agreements concerning the Eligibility of any Receivable or Receivables which have not been purchased only with the consent of the ORIGINATOR.    16.2 GE CAPITAL wird den KUNDEN über den Verlauf des Inkassoverfahrens bei Bedarf unterrichten und bei Reklamationen des Abnehmers Gelegenheit zur Stellungnahme geben und diese in das Verfahren einführen. Vergleiche, die nicht angekaufte Forderungen oder die Einwandfreiheit der Forderung betreffen, wird GE CAPITAL nur im Einverständnis mit dem KUNDEN abschließen.
Considering the above, the ORIGINATOR acknowledges that the results of a legal proceeding between GE CAPITAL and the Debtor are also binding between GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR.    Unter Berücksichtigung des Vorstehenden erkennt der KUNDE an, dass die Ergebnisse eines Rechtsstreits zwischen GE CAPITAL und dem Abnehmer auch im Verhältnis zwischen GE CAPITAL und KUNDE bindend sind.
16.3 GE CAPITAL shall bear the collection costs for purchased and Eligible Receivables , all other costs shall be borne by the ORIGINATOR.    16.3 Die Inkassokosten für gekaufte und einwandfreie Forderungen trägt GE CAPITAL, im Übrigen trägt sie der KUNDE.
All collection costs are initially debited to the Settlement Account . When the Bad Debt Amount is provided, GE CAPITAL shall reimburse such amount for the relevant Receivable .    Die Inkassokosten werden zunächst dem Kundenabrechnungskonto belastet. Bei Leistung des Delkrederebetrags erfolgt in Bezug auf die betreffende Forderung eine entsprechende Erstattung.
GE CAPITAL is entitled to claim an advance in justifiable instances.    In begründeten Fällen ist GE CAPITAL berechtigt, einen Vorschuss zu verlangen.
16.4 GE CAPITAL is entitled but shall not be obliged to claim default interest from the Debtor . At the ORIGINATOR’s request, GE CAPITAL shall assign such claims against the Debtor to the ORIGINATOR.    16.4 Zur Geltendmachung von Verzugszinsen gegen den Abnehmer ist GE CAPITAL berechtigt, jedoch nicht verpflichtet. Auf Anforderung des KUNDEN tritt GE CAPITAL diese Ansprüche gegen den Abnehmer an den KUNDEN ab.
16.5 The ORIGINATOR is obliged to provide GE CAPITAL with documentation necessary for the Collection Procedure and make all relevant disclosures at the latest on the 60th day after the due date of the relevant    16.5 Der Kunde ist verpflichtet, GE CAPITAL bis spätestens zum 60. Tag nach Fälligkeit der betreffenden Forderung alle für das Inkassoverfahren erforderlichen Informationen zu übergeben und während

 

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Receivable and shall continue to provide such information immediately upon request during the procedure.    des Verfahrens auf Anfrage unverzüglich alle erforderlichen Informationen zu erteilen.
If the ORIGINATOR fails to submit the necessary information in due time, GE CAPITAL may, after having set a reasonable period to provide information, withdraw from the receivables purchase agreement relating to the relevant Receivable .    Kommt der KUNDE seiner Verpflichtung zur Erteilung der erforderlichen Informationen nicht nach, so kann GE CAPITAL, wenn sie zuvor erfolglos eine angemessene Frist zur Informationserteilung bestimmt hat, vom Forderungskaufvertrag über die betroffene Forderung zurücktreten.
GE CAPITAL declares the withdrawal by rebooking the Receivables from the Factoring Account to the Special Account , provided that the ORIGINATOR does not need to receive a notice of such book entry.    Der Rücktritt erfolgt durch Umbuchung der Forderungen vom Factoringkonto auf das Sonderkonto , ohne dass dem KUNDEN eine gesonderte Buchungsmitteilung zur Verfügung gestellt werden muss.
D. GENERAL OBLIGAT1ONS    D. ALLGEMEINE VERTRAGSPFLICHTEN
17. NEGATIVE PLEDGE    17. KEINE ANDERWEITIGEN VERFÜGUNGEN
The ORIGINATOR shall not undertake any action or make any declaration intended to create any third party rights in respect of the assigned Receivables and ancillary rights, in particular:    Der KUNDE hat alle Rechtsgeschäfte zu unterlassen, die darauf gerichtet sind, Dritten in Bezug auf die abgetretenen Forderungen und Nebenrechte Befugnisse irgendwelcher Art einzuräumen, insbesondere:

(a)    security assignments of Receivables ;

  

(a)    Sicherungszessionen der Forderungen ;

(b)    collection authorisations of any kind in relation to the Receivables .

  

(b)    Einziehungsberechtigungen jeglicher Art in Bezug auf die Forderungen .

18. INCREASED FIDUCIARY DUTY AND DUTY OF CARE    18. ERHÖHTE TREUE UND SCHUTZPFLICHT
In the Undisclosed Procedure , Inter-Credit ® -Factoring and Smart-Service-Factoring procedure, the ORIGINATOR has an increased fiduciary duty and to comply with the duty of care of a prudent merchant ( Sorgfalt eines ordentlichen Kaufmanns ), and must exercise such duties in such a manner that GE CAPITAL is in no worse position than if GE CAPITAL had performed the relevant task itself, or the assignment had been disclosed, as the case may be.    Bei Stillen Verfahren , dem Inter-Credit ® -Factoring und beim Smart-Service-Factoring hat der KUNDE eine erhöhte Treuepflicht und die Sorgfaltspflicht eines ordentlichen Kaufmanns zu beachten und er muss diesen Pflichten in einer Weise nachkommen, dass GE CAPITAL nicht schlechter steht, als wenn GE CAPITAL die jeweilige Aufgabe selbst ausgeführt hätte oder die Abtretung offengelegt worden wäre.

 

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19. INFORMATION UNDERTAKING    19. INFORMATIONSERTEILUNG
19.1 The ORIGINATOR must, at GE CAPITAL’s request, deliver to GE CAPITAL all records that document the Receivables offered for purchase, such as bills of delivery, contracts, order confirmations etc.    19.1 Der KUNDE wird auf Verlangen von GE CAPITAL, Unterlagen, welche die zum Kauf angebotenen Forderungen belegen, wie Lieferscheine, Verträge, Auftragsbestätigungen etc., an GE CAPITAL aushändigen.
19.2 The ORIGINATOR shall inform GE CAPITAL without undue delay of any circumstances relating to the ORIGINATOR’s enterprise which could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the ORIGINATOR or its business or financial condition or on its ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement .    19.2 Der KUNDE ist verpflichtet GE CAPITAL unverzüglich über alle Umstände des Unternehmens des KUNDEN zu unterrichten, die vernünftigerweise erhebliche nachteilige Auswirkungen auf den KUNDEN oder sein Geschäft oder seine finanzielle Situation oder seine Fähigkeit zur Erfüllung seiner Verpflichtungen aus diesem Vertrag erwarten lassen.
The ORIGINATOR shall submit to GE CAPITAL:    Der KUNDE übermittelt GE CAPITAL:

(a)    financial information, consisting of:

  

(a)    Finanzinformationen, bestehend aus:

(i)     unaudited and unreviewed quarterly balance sheet and related income statement of the ORIGINATOR (on a reporting unit level);

  

(i)     ungeprüften quartalsmäßigen Bilanzaufstellungen und dazugehörigen Gewinn- und Verlustrechnungen des KUNDEN (auf Berichtseinheitsebene);

(ii)    annual, and to the extent required by applicable laws, audited balance sheet and related income statement of the ORIGINATOR;

  

(ii)    jährlichen, und soweit vom anwendbaren Gesetz vorgeschrieben, geprüften Bilanzen und dazugehörigen Gewinn-und Verlustrechnungen des KUNDEN;

(iii)  monthly account payable ledger and, if applicable, monthly tolling report, including but not limited to Tolling/Pseudo Tolling Reimbursement Claims (actual balance at the end of each month);

  

(iii)  monatlichen Listen hinsichtlich offener Posten von Kreditoren und, falls zutreffend, monatlichen Beistellungsberichten, einschließlich aber nicht beschränkt auf Rückvergütungsansprüche aus Materialbeistellung (aktuelle Bilanz am Ende jeden Monats);

(iv)   monthly VAT Information

  

(iv)   monatliche Umsatzsteuerinformationen

(b)    any intended changes with respect to the rights of representation, the shareholding, the constitutional documents and intended changes with respect to Affiliated Companies , to the extent that such changes are relevant

  

(b)    jede beobsichtigte Veränderung in Bezug auf die Vertretungsverhältnisse. den Gesellschafterbestand, den Gesellschaftsvertrag und jede beabsichtigte Veränderung in Bezug auf Nahestehende Unternehmen , sofem

 

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  for the performance of this Agreement ;        diese Veränderungen für die Erfüllung dieses Vertrages wesentlich sind;
(c)   any financing arrangements with any other financial institutions including security agreements, provided such financing (i) exceeds EUR 10,000,000, or (ii) is secured by any kind of security or by a sale of receivables,     (c)    bei anderen Kreditinstituten bestehende Finanzierungsvereinbarungen, einschlieBlich Sicherungsabreden, vorausgesetzt, eine solche Finanzierung (i) übersteigt EUR 10.000.000 oder (ii) ist durch irgend ein Sicherungsmittel oder durch den Verkauf von Forderungen abgesichert,
(d)   any restriction of the authorisation to resell retained goods and/or collect Receivables , if and to the extent the ORIGINATOR is or should be aware – considering the duty of care of a prudent merchant ( Sorgfalt eines ordentlichen Kaufmanns ) – of such restriction,     (d)    Einschränkungen von Ermächtigungen zur WeiterveräuBerung der Vorbehaltsware und/oder zum Einzug der Forderungen , wenn und soweit dem KUNDEN, unter Beachtung der Pflichten und der Sorgfalt eines ordentlichen Kaufmanns, eine solche Einschränkung bewusst ist oder bewusst war,
(e)   any substantial deterioration in the ORIGINATOR’s general financial and business condition.     (e)    jede wesentliche Verschlechterung der allgemeinen Vermögens- und Geschäftssituation des KUNDEN.
19.3 The ORIGINATOR is obliged to inform GE CAPITAL of any circumstances of which it may become aware concerning the risk of a Debtor of being Unable to Pay except if the ORIGINATOR is legally prevented from such disclosure and the ORIGINATOR’s non-compliance with applicable confidentiality agreements will expose the ORIGINATOR to damage claims by its respective Debtor(s) .     19.3 Der KUNDE ist verpflichtet, GE CAPITAL über alle ihm bekannt werdenden Umstände, welche das Risiko der Zahlungsunfähigkeit eines Abnehmers betreffen, zu unterrichten, es sei denn, dem KUNDEN ist eine solche Offenlegung gesetzlich untersagt und durch die Nichtbeachtung ihn betreffender Vertraulichkeitsvereinbarungen wird der KUNDE Schadensersatzansprüchen seiner jeweiligen Abnehmer ausgesetzt.
19.4 The ORIGINATOR is obliged to provide GE CAPITAL with all information and documents necessary for GE CAPITAL to perform its obligations under the Anti-Money-Laundering Act and to inform GE CAPITAL without undue delay of any relevant changes during the course of the business relationship.     19.4 Der KUNDE ist verpflichtet, GE CAPITAL alle notwendigen Informationen und Unterlagen zur Verfügung zu stellen, damit GE CAPITAL seine Verpflichtungen nach dem Geldwäschegesetz erfüllen kann und GE CAPITAL unverzüglich über wesentliche Änderungen im Laufe der Geschäftsbeziehung zu informieren.
19.5 The ORIGINATOR undertakes to provide GE CAPITAL with all relevant information pursuant to this clause 19 (Information Undertaking) which is to be     19.5 Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, GE CAPITAL die monatlich/quartalsweise zur Verfügung zu stellenden Informationen innerhalb von 45 (fünfundvièrzig) Tagen

 

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provided on a monthly/quarterly basis within 45 (forty-five) days after the end of the respective month/calendar quarter, and information which is to be provided annually within 150 (one-hundred-and-fifty) days after the end of the ORIGINATOR’s financial year.     nach Ablauf des jeweiligen Monats/Kalenderquartals entsprechend dieser Ziffer 19 (Informationserteilung) zur Verfügung zu stellen, und die jährlich zur Verfügung zu stellenden Informationen innerhalb von 150 (einhundertfünfzig) Tagen nach Ablauf des Geschäftsjahres des KUNDEN zur Verfügung zu stellen.
If in the case of any unforeseeable event or under any exceptional circumstances reasonably evidenced by the ORIGINATOR, the ORIGINATOR should not be able to deliver the annual reports within 150 (one-hundred and fifty) days after the end of the financial year, a further cure period shall be mutually agreed between the ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL.     Sollte es wegen eines nicht vorhersehbaren Ereignisses oder unter außergewöhnlichen Umständen, die vom KUNDEN vernünftig bewiesen werden, dem KUNDEN nicht möglich sein, die jährlichen Berichte innerhalb von 150 (einhundertfünfzig) Tagen nach Ablauf des Geschäftsjahres zur Verfügung zu stellen, werden sich der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL auf eine zusätzliche Heilungsfrist einigen.
20.   EXTERNAL AUDIT, DECLARATION OF CONSENT     20.    AUSSENPRÜFUNG, EINWILLIGUNGSERKLÄRUNG
GE CAPITAL is entitled to perform an external audit at the ORIGINATOR’s business premises at any time during customary business hours, at least twice per year, whereas GE CAPITAL shall give the ORIGINATOR at least two weeks prior written notice regarding such regular audits, notwithstanding GE CAPITAL’s right to perform additional audits without prior notice in case GE CAPITAL has reason to believe that observance of such notice period will adversely affect the interest of GE CAPITAL.     GE CAPITAL ist zu den üblichen Geschäftszeiten in den Geschäftsräumen des KUNDEN mindestens zweimal pro Jahr zur Durchführung einer regulären Außenprüfung berechtigt, wobei GE CAPITAL dem KUNDEN eine solche Prüfung mindestens zwei Wochen vorher schriftlich ankündigt, unbeschadet GE CAPITAL’s Recht, zusätzliche Prüfungen ohne vorherige Ankündigung durchzuführen, wenn GE CAPITAL Grund zur Annahme hat, dass eine solche Ankündigung die Interessen von GE CAPITAL nachteilig beeinflussen wird.
GE CAPITAL is entitled to review and make copies of all books, records and other documents of the ORIGINATOR relating to the factoring arrangement and its performance. The ORIGINATOR is obliged to support GE CAPITAL and provide comprehensive information.     GE CAPITAL ist berechtigt, alle das Factoringverhältnis betreffenden Bücher, Schriften und sonstigen Unterlagen des KUNDEN einzusehen und sich Ablichtungen hiervon anzufertigen. Der KUNDE hat GE CAPITAL hierbei zu unterstützen und umfassend Auskunft zu erteilen.
GE CAPITAL’s right to receive information shall also include the right to receive information from the tax advisor, auditor or any other person who keeps the accounts     Dieses Informationsrecht von GE CAPITAL erstreckt sich auch darauf, diesbezügliche Auskünfte von dem Steuerberater, Wirtschaftsprüfer oder jeder anderen

 

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or prepares, establishes or audits the annual report for the ORIGINATOR. The ORIGINATOR hereby releases such persons vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL from their professional duty of confidentiality.     Person, die die Buchhaltung führt oder die Bilanz vorbereitet, erstellt oder prüft, einzuholen. Der KUNDE befreit diese Personen gegenüber GE CAPITAL hiermit von ihrer Schweigepflicht.
The right of GE CAPITAL to collect, process and utilise data and the release from its obligations under the Banking Secrecy is set out in schedule 2 (Declaration of Consent), and is granted within the boundaries of this Agreement and applicable data protection rules. Furthermore, GE CAPITAL agrees to treat such information GE CAPITAL has received and which is subject to confidentiality agreements between the ORIGINATOR and third parties, also confidential.     Das Recht von GE CAPITAL, Daten zu erheben, zu verarbeiten und zu nutzen und die Befreiung vom Bankgeheimnis sind in Anhang 2 (Einverständniserklärung) festgelegt und werden innerhalb der Grenzen dieses Vertrages und der anwendbaren Datenschutzregeln gewährt. Ferner akzeptiert GE CAPITAL, solche Informationen, die GE CAPITAL erhalten hat und die Gegenstand von Vertraulichkeitsvereinbarungen zwischen dem KUNDEN und Dritten sind, ebenfalls vertraulich zu behandeln.
21.   ARRANGEMENTS IN DEBTOR AGREEMENTS     21.    VERTRAGSGESTALTUNG GEGENÜBER ABNEHMERN
The ORIGINATOR shall use Reasonable Efforts and shall provide GE CAPITAL with reasonable evidence that its agreements with any Debtors , in particular its standard business conditions applicable to its agreements with any other Debtor , contain the following terms:     Der KUNDE wird sich angemessen bemühen und weist gegenüber GE CAPITAL nach, dass jeder Vertrag von GE CAPITAL mit seinen Abnehmern , insbesondere seine auf Verträge mit allen anderen Abnehmern anwendbaren Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen, Folgendes regeln:
(a)   Standard business conditions of any Debtor which are in conflict with the ORIGINATOR’s standard business conditions shall have no effect.     (a)    Die Geltung von Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen des Abnehmers , die den Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen des KUNDEN widersprechen, wird ausgeschlossen.
(b)   The standard business conditions of the ORIGINATOR provide for a right to assign Receivables against the relevant Debtor to a third party and in case of customer contracts, such right is not expressly excluded.     (b)    Die Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen des KUNDEN beinhalten ein Recht zur Abtretung von Forderungen gegen den jeweiligen Abnehmer an einen Dritten und Kundenverträge dürfen ein solches Recht nicht ausdrücklich ausschließen.
(c)   The business relationship between the Debtor and the ORIGINATOR shall be governed by German law and in case of customer contracts, any other laws under which Receivables are assignable pursuant to this Agreement ; the place of     (c)    Für die Geschäftsbeziehung zwischen dem Abnehmer und dem KUNDEN gilt deutsches Recht und, bei Kundenverträgen, gilt jedes andere Recht, nach dem die Forderungen entsprechend dieses Vertrages abtretbar

 

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  jurisdiction shall be at the registered seat of the ORIGINATOR, and in case of customer contracts, either at the registered seat of the ORIGINATOR or at the registered seat of the relevant Debtor.        sind; der Gerichtsstand ist der Sitz des KUNDEN und, bei Kundenverträgen, entweder der Sitz des KUNDEN oder der Sitz des jeweiligen Abnehmers.
(d)   The standard business conditions shall include, and the ORIGINATOR shall use Reasonable Efforts to implement into customer agreements, all customary and permissible security arrangements, in particular retention of title arrangements, including any forms of extension and augmentation of such retention of title arrangements.     (d)    Die Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen müssen alle branchenüblichen und zulässigen Sicherungsabreden, insbesondere den Eigentumsvorbehalt mit seinen Erweiterungs- und Verlängerungs-formen enthalten, und der KUNDE wird sich angemessen bemühen , diese Bedingungen in Kundenverträge aufzunehmen.
(e)   The standard business conditions shall exclude any set-off or retention rights of Debtors , unless such rights are undisputed or declared final by and unappealable judgement.     (e)    Die Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen schließen alle Aufrechnungs- oder Zurückbehaltungsrechte der Abnehmer aus, es sei denn, diese Rechte sind unbestritten oder rechtskräftig festgestellt worden.
(f)   The standard business conditions shall provide for a right to accelerate all Receivables against the relevant Debtor , if such Debtor is in payment default with any Receivable .     (f)    Die Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen sehen ein Recht zur vorzeitigen Fälligstellung aller Forderungen gegen den jeweiligen Abnehmer vor, wenn dieser Abnehmer mit einer Forderung in Zahlungsverzug gerät.
(g)   The standard business conditions shall provide that the Debtor shall bear all fees, costs and expenses incurred in connection with any legal proceedings successfully instituted against it outside of Germany.     (g)    Die Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen sehen vor, dass der Abnehmer alle Gebühren, Kosten und Auslagen trägt, die im Zusammenhang mit einer erfolgreich eingeleiteten Rechtsverfolgung gegen ihn außerhalb Deutschlands anfallen.
Reasonable Efforts ” as used in this clause 21 means:     sich angemessen bemühen ” gemäß Ziffer 21 bedeutet:
(i)   with respect to the ORIGINATOR’S standard business conditions that the ORIGINATOR will implement outstanding aspects in the course of the next revision of the ORIGINATOR’S standard business conditions, and     (i)    im Hinblick auf die Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen des KUNDEN, dass der KUNDE die offenen Punkte im Zuge der Neugestaltung seiner Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen umsetzen wird, und
(ii)   with respect to existing agreements with     (ii)    im Hinblick auf bestehende Verträge mit

 

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  Debtors that the ORIGINATOR will use reasonable efforts to implement the requested provisions at the next renegotiation of existing supply agreements.        Abnehmern , dass der KUNDE sich zur Umsetzung der geforderten Bestimmungen bei der nächsten Wiederverhandlung existierender Lieferverträge angemessen bemühen wird,
in each case unless the ORIGINATOR is aware and has GE CAPITAL informed that such request will have a material adverse effect on the ORIGINATOR’s business relationship and the commercial conditions with such Debtor . The ORIGINATOR will liaise with GE CAPITAL prior to the revision of its standard business conditions with respect to agreeing on the priority of implementing any outstanding aspects.     in jedem Fall, soweit dem KUNDEN bewusst ist und er GE CAPITAL darüber informiert hat, dass dieses Begehren eine erhebliche nachteilige Wirkung auf die Geschäftsbeziehung des KUNDEN und die kaufmännischen Vertragsbedingungen mit dem Abnehmer hat. Der KUNDE wird vor der Überarbeitung seiner Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen im Hinblick auf eine Einigung bezüglich der Dringlichkeit der Umsetzung der offenen Punkte mit GE CAPITAL in Verbindung treten.
E. OTHER TERMS     E. SONSTIGE REGELUNGEN
22.  

SET-OFF, SETTLEMENT,

REIMBURSEMENT CLAIMS

    22.   

AUFRECHNUNG, VERRECHNUNG,

RÜCKVERGÜTUNGSANSPRÜCHE

22.1 All claims of GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR against each other arising from any legal relationship may be set off against each other by GE CAPITAL     22.1 Sämtliche wechselseitigen Ansprüche zwischen GE CAPITAL und dem KUNDEN, gleich aus welchem Rechtsverhältnis, dürfen durch GE CAPITAL gegeneinander aufgerechnet werden.
22.2 Following the cancellation of a Debtor Limit , GE CAPITAL may, in relation to the ORIGINATOR, set off payments received from the relevant Debtor against Receivables purchased from such Debtor (irrespective of the Debtor’s appropriation of payment) provided that the application shall not affect the rights of any Retaining Supplier . The same shall apply mutatis mutandis to credit notes issued to a Debtor and enforcement proceeds, if any.     22.2 Zahlungen eines Abnehmers , die nach Streichung eines für diesen festgesetzten Abnehmerlimits eingehen, darf GE CAPITAL im Verhältnis zum KUNDEN (unabhängig von der Zahlungszweckbestimmung des Abnehmers ) auf gekaufte Forderungen gegen denselben Abnehmer aufrechnen, vorausgesetzt, dass durch die Aufrechnung die Rechte von Vorbehaltslieferanten nicht beeinträchtigt werden. Falls einschlägig, soll dasselbe entsprechend für die an einen Abnehmer ausgegebenen Gutschriften sowie für die Verwertung gelten.
22.3 Unless expressly agreed otherwise, all claims and receivables of GE CAPITAL against the ORIGINATOR arising from this Agreement fall due with immediate effect.     22.3 Sofern nicht ausdrücklich anders vereinbart, sind alle Ansprüche und Forderungen von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN aus diesem Vertrag sofort fällig.

 

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22.4 The ORIGINATOR may only set off its claims against claims of GE CAPITAL if the ORIGINATOR’s claims are undisputed or have been confirmed by an unappealable court decision.    22.4 Der KUNDE kann gegen Ansprüche von GE CAPITAL nur aufrechnen, wenn seine Forderungen unbestritten oder rechtskräftig festgestellt sind.
22.5 The ORIGINATOR shall keep GE CAPITAL continuously informed about agreements with Debtors from which Reimbursement Claims may arise. Such agreements do not affect the Eligibility of Receivables if the Reimbursement Claims have been secured in accordance with the following terms:    22.5 Der KUNDE unterrichtet GE CAPITAL fortlaufend über Vereinbarungen mit den Abnehmern , aus denen sich Rückvergütungsansprüche ergeben können. Diese Vereinbarungen haben keinen Einfluss auf die Einwandfreiheit der Forderungen , wenn die Rückvergütungsansprüche gemäß den folgenden Regelungen gesichert sind:
GE CAPITAL is entitled to establish a reserve or (at its choice) demand security deposits from the ORIGINATOR in the anticipated amount of the Reimbursement Claims . The ORIGINATOR is entitled to provide a security deposit in order to discharge a reserve at any time. When determining the anticipated amount of the Reimbursement Claims , future Reimbursement Claims shall also be considered. These are claims that are certain or likely to arise in the future, but which amount and/or time of origination is still uncertain. To the extent that the determination of such claims depends on future events (e.g. development of sales), the amount shall be determined by way of estimate, in the absence of other indicators on the basis of historical data.    GE CAPITAL ist berechtigt, einen Einbehalt oder (nach ihrer Wahl) Sicherheitsleistung vom KUNDEN in der erwarteten Höhe der Rückvergütungsansprüche zu verlangen. Der KUNDE ist jederzeit berechtigt, den Einbehalt durch eine Sicherheitsleistung abzulösen. Bei der Ermittlung der zu erwartenden Höhe der Rückvergütungsansprüche sind künftige Rückvergütungsansprüche ebenfalls zu berücksichtigen. Dies sind Ansprüche, die mit Sicherheit oder mit Wahrscheinlichkeit in der Zukunft entstehen, bei denen aber der Betrag und/oder der Zeitpunkt der Entstehung noch ungewiss sind. Soweit die Bestimmung solcher Ansprüche von zukünftigen Ereignissen abhängt (z.B. Umsatzentwicklung), wird der Betrag im Wege der Schätzung ermittelt, in Ermangelung anderer Indikatoren, werden sie auf der Grundlage historischer Daten ermittelt.
GE CAPITAL determines the amount of Reimbursement Claims considering all circumstances in its reasonable discretion on a monthly basis, by the end of each month at the latest.    GE CAPITAL bestimmt die Höhe der Rückvergütungsansprüche auf monatlicher Basis, spätestens bis zum Ende eines jeden Monats, unter Berücksichtigung aller Umstände nach billigem Ermessen.
Immediately after the end of each month, the ORIGINATOR shall demonstrate the anticipated amount of Reimbursement Claims in a testable manner.    Unmittelbar nach dem Ende eines jeden Monats zeigt der KUNDE den erwarteten Betrag der Rückvergütungsansprüche in nachvollziehbarer Weise an.

 

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The reserve is established by debiting the Settlement Account and crediting the Reserve Account by the relevant amount. If the anticipated amount of the Reimbursement Claims is reduced, the Reserve Account will be debited by such reduction and a respective credit will be booked on the Settlement Account .    Der Einbehalt wird durch Abbuchung auf dem Kundenabrechnungskonto und Gutschrift auf dem Rückstellungskonto um den jeweiligen Betrag vorgenommen. Mindert sich die voraussichtliche Höhe der Rückvergütungsansprüche , wird das Rückstellungskonto in Höhe dieser Minderung belastet und eine entsprechende Gutschrift auf dem Kundenabrechnungskonto gebucht.
Security deposits will be provided by payment by the ORIGINATOR to GE CAPITAL, whereby the amount is credited to the Reserve Account and any dissolution is debited on the Reserve Account and credited on the Settlement Account .    Die Sicherheitsleistungen werden GE CAPITAL durch Zahlung des KUNDEN zur Verfügung gestellt, wobei der Betrag dem Rückstellungskonto gutgeschrieben wird und die Auflösung zu Lasten des Rückstellungskontos und zu Gunsten des Kundenabrechnungskontos erfolgt.
The reserve and the security deposit shall primarily secure GE CAPITAL against set-offs or settlements by Debtors with Reimbursement Claims . To the extent that such claims are legally and validly raised, GE CAPITAL is entitled to receive the relevant amounts like Debtors’ payments.    Der Einbehalt und die Sicherheitsleistung dienen in erster Linie der Sicherung von GE CAPITAL gegen Aufrechnungen/Verrechnungen oder Zurückbehaltungsrechte der Abnehmer mit Rückvergütungsansprüchen . Soweit solche Ansprüche rechtmäßig geltend gemacht werden, ist GE CAPITAL berechtigt, die entsprechenden Beträge, wie Zahlungen der Abnehmer zu erhalten.
In addition, the reserve and the security deposit shall secure any and all existing and future claims which GE CAPITAL may have against the ORIGINATOR in connection with their business relationship.    Darüber hinaus dienen der Einbehalt- und die Sicherheitsleistung der Sicherung aller bestehenden und künftigen Ansprüche von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN im Zusammenhang mit ihrer Geschäftsbeziehung.
Clause 22.5 shall apply mutatis mutandis for Tolling/Pseudo Tolling Reimbursement Claims .    Ziffer 22.5 gilt sinngemäß für Rückvergütungsansprüche aus Materialbei-stellungen .

23.    CHANGES IN THE FINANCING COMMISSION PER INVOICE / TOTAL FINANCING COMMISSION

  

23.    ÄNDERUNG DER FINANZIERUNGSGEBÖHR AUF EINZELRECHNUNGSBASIS / GESAMT- FINANZIERUNGSGEBÖHR

The applicable Financing Commission per Invoice/Total Financing Commission and any changes to the Financing Commission per Invoice/Total Financing Commission during the term of this Agreement are set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Die anwendbare Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis/ Gesamtfinamierungsgebühr und Änderungen der Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis/ Gesamtfinanzierungsgebühr während der Laufzeit dieses Vertrages sind in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) geregelt.

 

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Payments of Debtors are settled at the current market rate.    Zahlung der Abnehmer werden zum aktuellen Marktkurs abgerechnet.
24. FEES AND EXPENSES    24. ENTGELTE UNO AUSLAGEN
The amount of fees is set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Die Höhe der Gebühren ist in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) festgelegt.
If a service provided by GE CAPITAL is required by law or secondary contractual obligation, or is provided in GE CAPITAL’s own interest, such service will be free of charge, unless the charging of fees is legally permitted and occurs in accordance with the relevant statutory provision.    Wenn eine Leistung, die GE CAPITAL von Gesetzes wegen oder aufgrund vertraglicher Nebenpflicht oder im eigenen Interesse anbietet, ist diese Leistung gebührenfrei, es sei denn die Gebührenerhebung ist rechtlich zulässig und geschieht in Übereinstimmung mit den maßgeblichen gesetzlichen Bestimmungen.
The ORIGINATOR will bear all customary account keeping and payment transaction fees, as well as any expenses that may be incurred by GE CAPITAL acting upon its instructions or in its presumed interest.    Der KUNDE trägt alle gewöhnlichen Kontoführungsgebühren und Gebühren für die Zahlungstransaktion sowie die Kosten, die GE CAPITAL dadurch entstehen, dass sie nach seinen Anweisungen oder in seinem mutmaßlichen Interesse handelt.
The ORIGINATOR undertakes to reimburse GE CAPITAL from all costs and expenses (including legal fees) incurred by GE CAPITAL in connection with the formalities required to be carried out for the enforceability of the transfers of Receivables being made pursuant to the Agreement .    Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich gegenüber GE CAPITAL zur Erstattung aller Kosten und Ausgaben (einschließlich Anwaltskosten), die GE CAPITAL im Zusammengang mit den Formalitäten entstehen, die zur Durchsetzbarkeit der Forderungsübertragungen gemäß dem Vertrag anfallen.
25. ASSIGNABILITY OF CLAIMS AGAINST GE CAPITAL    25. ABTRETBARKEIT DER ANSPRÜCHE GEGEN GE CAPITAL
Any claims that the ORIGINATOR may have against GE CAPITAL may only be assigned to third parties with the consent of GE CAPITAL.    Alle Ansprüche, die dem KUNDEN gegen GE CAPITAL zustehen, können nur mit Einwilligung von GE CAPITAL abgetreten werden.
GE CAPITAL may decline its consent for good cause; such cause will be assumed in particular if GE CAPITAL has reason to believe that the intended assignment would be disadvantageous to suppliers of the ORIGINATOR.    GE CAPITAL kann die Zustimmung aus wichtigem Grund verweigern; ein solcher liegt insbesondere dann vor, wenn die beabsichtigte Abtretung Anlass zu der Annahme bietet, dass sie für die Lieferanten des KUNDEN nachteilig ist.

 

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26. COMMENCEMENT DATE, EXPIRATION DATE, TERMINATION    26. VERTRAGSBEGINN, VERTRAGSABLAUFDATUM, KÜNDIGUNG
26.1 The Commencement Date and the Expiration Date of this Agreement are set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    26.1 Der Vertragsbeginn und das Vertragsablaufdatum sind in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) festgelegt.
Unless this Agreement is terminated with three months’ notice prior to its scheduled Expiration Date , it shall be extended by another year. The same shall apply to any subsequent periods.    Wird der Vertrag nicht drei Monate vor dem Vertragsablaufdatum gekündigt, verlängert er sich um ein weiteres Jahr. Entsprechendes gilt für die Folgeperioden.
26.2 Each party may terminate the Agreement for good cause without observing any notice period. Good cause is shown if, considering all circumstances of the individual case and weighing the interests of both parties, the terminating party cannot reasonably be expected to continue the contractual relationship until the end of the notice period in accordance with clause 26.1.    26.2 Jeder Vertragspartner kann den Vertrag aus wichtigem Grund ohne Einhaltung einer Kündigungsfrist kündigen. Ein wichtiger Grund liegt vor, wenn dem kündigenden Teil unter Berücksichtigung aller Umstände des Einzelfalls und unter Abwägung der beiderseitigen Interessen die Fortsetzung des Vertragsverhältnisses nicht bis zum Ablauf der Kündigungsfrist gemäß Ziffer 26.1 zugemutet werden kann.
If the good cause results from a breach of an obligation in this Agreement , unless the breach of a contractual obligation is based on fraud, termination shall only be permitted after expiry of a reasonable period of time set for remedy to no avail, or after a dissuasion has proved to be unsuccessful, unless this proviso can be dispensed with because of the particularities of the individual case.    Besteht der wichtige Grund in der Verletzung einer Pflicht aus dem Vertrag , ausgenommen die Vertragsverletzung beruht auf Betrug, ist die Kündigung erst nach erfolglosem Ablauf einer zur Abhilfe bestimmten angemessenen Frist oder nach erfolgloser Abmahnung zulässig, es sei denn, dies ist wegen der Besonderheiten des Einzelfalls entbehrlich.
GE CAPITAL is in particular entitled to terminate for good cause    Für GE CAPITAL liegt ein wichtiger Grund für eine Kündigung insbesondere vor,
(a) if the ORIGINATOR is in substantial breach of clause 5 (for the avoidance of doubt notwithstanding the ORIGINATOR’s rights under clause 26.2, sub-clause 2 above), 12, 13, 18 or 19, or    (a) wenn der KUNDE wesentlich gegen Ziffern 5 (um Zweifel auszuräumen, unbeschadet der Rechte des KUNDEN nach Ziffer 26.2, Absatz 2 oben), 12, 13, 18 oder 19 verstößt, oder
(b) if the ORIGINATOR made incorrect statements about its financial condition that were of fundamental significance for GE CAPITAL’s decision about risk relevant    (b) wenn der KUNDE unrichtige Angaben über seine Vermögensverhältnisse gemacht hat die für eine Entscheidung von GE CAPITAL über mit Risiken verbundene

 

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operations, in particular, but not limited to, with respect to GE CAPITAL’s credit decision ( Kreditentscheidung ), or    Geschäfte von erheblicher Bedeutung waren, insbesondere im Hinblick auf GE CAPITAL’s Kreditentscheidung, aber nicht beschränkt hierauf, oder
(c) if a substantial deterioration in the ORIGINATOR’s financial condition or of the value of a security interest occurs or threatens to occur which would jeopardize the fulfilment of an obligation vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL, even if security provided therefore is realised, or    (c) wenn eine wesentliche Verschlechterung der Vermögensverhältnisse des KUNDEN oder der Werthaltigkeit einer Sicherheit eintritt oder einzutreten droht und dadurch die Erfüllung einer Verbindlichkeit gegenüber GE CAPITAL – auch unter Verwertung einer hierfür bestehenden Sicherheit – gefährdet ist, oder
(d) if the ORIGINATOR fails to comply within a reasonable time period set by GE CAPITAL with its obligation to create security pursuant to this Agreement or any other agreement pertaining to the factoring transaction.    (d) wenn der KUNDE seiner Verpflichtung zur Bestellung von Sicherheiten aufgrund dieses Vertrages oder sonstigen die Factoringtransaktion betreffenden Vereinbarung nicht innerhalb der von GE CAPITAL gesetzten angemessenen Frist nachkommt.
Statutory termination rights for good cause shall remain unaffected.    Gesetzliche Kündigungsrechte aus wichtigem Grund bleiben unberührt
26.4 Any termination notice must be made in writing.    26.4 Die Kündigung bedarf der Schriftform.
26.5 Upon termination of this Agreement , all purchase offers, which have not yet been accepted, shall expire. All pending transactions shall be unwound in accordance with this Agreement .    26.5 Mit Beendigung des Vertrages erlöschen alle bis zu diesem Zeitpunkt noch nicht angenommenen Kaufangebote. Die noch schwebenden Geschäfte werden nach Maßgabe dieses Vertrages abgewickelt
GE CAPITAL will, after satisfaction of all of its claims arising from the business relationship with the ORIGINATOR, reassign to the ORIGINATOR all outstanding Receivables , which have not been purchased.    GE CAPITAL wird nach Erfüllung aller Ansprüche, die ihr aus der Geschäftsbeziehung mit dem KUNDEN zustehen, die noch nicht eingezogenen und nicht angekauften Forderungen an den KUNDEN zurückabtreten.
27. FURTHER ELEMENTS OF THIS AGREEMENT    27. WEITERE BESTANDTEILE DES VERTRAGES
The following schedules form an integral part of this Agreement :    Die folgenden Anhänge sind Bestandteile des Vertrages :
(a) Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions)    (a) Anhang 1 (Konditionen)
In the event of any discrepancies between schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) and this Agreement , the provisions of schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) shall prevail.    Bei Abweichungen zwischen Anhang 1 (Konditionen) und diesem Vertrag , gehen die in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) getroffenen Regelungen vor.

 

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(b) Schedule la (Excluded Debtors )    (b) Anhang 1a (Ausgenommene Abnehmer )
(c) Schedule 1b (Approved Jurisdictions)    (c) Anhang 1b (Anerkannte Rechtsordnungen)
(d) Schedule 2 (Declaration of Consent)    (d) Anhang 2 (Einwilligungserklärung)
Pursuant to which the ORIGINATOR consents to the collection, processing and utilisation of data by GE CAPITAL, the transfer of data to GE CAPITAL, the transfer of rights (including the relevant documentation) arising from this Agreement to a third party and the release of the tax authorities from their professional duty of confidentiality.    Wonach der KUNDE in die Erhebung, Verarbeitung und Nutzung von Daten durch GE CAPITAL, die Übertragung von Rechten (einschließlich der zugehörigen Dokumentation) aus diesem Vertrag an Dritte und in die Befreiung der Finanzämter von der Schweigepflicht einwilligt.
(e) Schedule 3 (Conditions Precedent)    (e) Anhang 3 (Auszahlungsvoraussetzungen)
(f) Annex 1 Transfer of French Receivables    (f) Anlage 1 Übertragung französischer Forderungen
(g) Annex 2 Form of Offer Letter    (g) Anlage 2 Formular für Forderungsanzeigen
(h) Annex 3 Trade Credit Insurance Agreement    (h) Anlage 3 Warenkreditversicherungsvertrag
(i) Annex 4 Assignment Agreement on Trade Insurance    (i) Anlage 4 Warenkreditversicherungs-abtretungsvertrag
(j) Annex 5 Account Pledge Agreement    (j) Anlage 5 Kontoverpfändungsvertrag
28. GOVERNING LAW, JURISDICTION    28. MASSGEBLICHES RECHT, GERICHTSSTAND
28.1 Except for as stated otherwise in section 2.2 of this Agreement , this Agreement shall be governed by German law.    28.1 Soweit in Ziffer 2.2. dieses Vertrages nicht Gegenteiliges geregelt ist, unterliegt dieser Vertrag deutschem Recht.
28.2 Without prejudice to Clause 28.1, the courts in Mainz shall have jurisdiction.    28.2 Gerichtsstand ist Mainz, wenn sich nicht aus Ziffer 28.1 etwas Gegenteiliges ergibt.

 

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29. SEVERABILITY CLAUSE    29. SALVATORISCHE KLAUSEL
If any provisions of this Agreement or the schedules thereto are or become invalid in full or in part, the validity of the remaining provisions will not be affected thereby. The invalid provision shall be replaced by such provision which is valid and effective and comes closest to the economic intention of the parties. The same principles shall apply if this Agreement contains a gap.    Sollten Bestimmungen in diesem Vertrag oder seinen Anlagen ganz oder teilweise unwirksam sein oder werden, so wird die Wirksamkeit der übrigen Bestimmungen hiervon nicht berührt. An die Stelle der unwirksamen Bestimmungen tritt diejenige Regelung, die dem beabsichtigten wirtschaftlichen Zweck der Vertragspartner in rechtswirksamer Weise am nächsten kommt. Nach diesem Grundsatz sind auch etwaige Lücken in diesem Vertrag zu schließen .
If any in rem transfers (assignments of Receivables or inchoate rights and transfers of movable assets) should be or become ineffective, GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR are obliged to treat each other as if the relevant transfers were effective. They are further obliged to perform the relevant in rem transfer without undue delay, observing any requirements which until that time may not have been observed.    Soweit dingliche Übertragungen (Abtretungen von Forderungen oder Anwartschaften, sowie Übereignungen beweglicher Sachen) unwirksam sein oder werden sollten, sind GE CAPITAL und der KUNDE verpflichtet, die Geschäfte untereinander so zu behandeln, als sei das Geschäft wirksam. Sie sind weiter verpflichtet, das dingliche Geschäft unverzüglich unter Berücksichtigung etwa bis dahin außer Acht gelassener Anforderungen zu vollziehen.
F. DEFINITIONS    F. DEFINITIONEN
Accounts: The accounts maintained in the factoring procedure: Factoring Account, Incoming Payment Settlement Account, Purchase Price Reserve Account, Reserve Account, Settlement Account, Special Account, Special Settlement Account, Special Purchase Price Reserve Account .    Konten: Die im Factoringverfahren geführten Konten: Factoringkonto, Zahlungseingangsverrechnungskonto Kaufpreiseinbehaltskonto, Rückstellungskonto, Kundenabrechnungskonto, Sonderkonto, Sonderverrechnungskonto, Sonderkaufpreiseinbehaltskonto.
Actual Average Funding Period is calculated for each batch of Receivables contained in each transmission of Financing Commission Calculation Data as the weighted average of all Actual Funding Periods per Invoice of all Receivables contained in the relevant previous transmission of Financing Commission Calculation Data.    Die Tatsächliche Durchschnittliche Finanzierungsperiode wird für jede Gruppe von Forderungen berechnet, die in jeder Übermittlung der Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr enthalten ist, als der gewichtete Durchschnitt aller Tatsächlichen Finanzierungsperioden auf Einzelrechnungsbasis für alle Forderungen , die in der jeweiligen vorherigen Übermittlung der Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr enthalten sind.

 

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Actual Funding Period per Invoice is the actual number of calendar days from (and including) the Funding Date to (and excluding) the day communicated by the ORIGINATOR (to be tested and confirmed from time to time by way of samples taken by GE CAPITAL) of actual repayment of each Receivable in the Financing Commission Calculation Data .    Die Tatsächliche Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis ist die tatsächliche Anzahl von Kalendertagen vom Finanzierungstag (einschließlich) bis (ausschließlich) zu dem Tag, der jeweils vom KUNDEN (dies wird von Zeit zu Zeit stichprobenartig von GE CAPITAL überprüft) als derjenige Tag in den Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr mitgeteilt wird, an dem die Forderung tatsächlich zurückbezahlt wird.
Adjustment: is the difference between the Actual Average Funding Period and the Average Expected Funding Period for a batch of Receivables contained in a transmission of Financing Commission Calculation Data .    Anpassung: Ist für jede Gruppe von Forderunge n die Differenz zwischen der Tatsächlichen Durchschnittlichen Finanzierungsperiode und der Durchschnittlichen Erwarteten Finanzierungsperiode .
Adjusted Expected Funding Period per Invoice for the first drawdown under this Agreement is the Expected Funding Period per Invoice . For subsequent drawdowns the Adjusted Expected Funding Period per Invoice is equal to the Expected Funding Period per Invoice plus the Adjustment calculated for the relevant previous batch of Receivables sold. The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL agree that the Adjusted Expected Funding Period per Invoice shall, for the purposes of the calculation of the Financing Commission per Invoice , never be smaller than 10 calendar days.    Die Angepasste Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis für die erste Ziehung unter diesem Vertrag ist die Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis . Für alle weiteren Ziehungen ist die Angepasste Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis gleich der Erwarteten Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis plus die für die jeweilige vorherige verkaufte Gruppe von Forderungen berechnete Anpassung. Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL sind sich einig, dass die Angepasste Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbas is für die Zwecke der Berechnung der Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis niemals kleiner als 10 Kalendertage sein soll.
Administration Fee: The percentage rate of the Nominal Amount set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Verwaltungsgebühr: Der Prozentsatz des in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) festgelegten Nominalbetrages .
Affiliated Company: A company which holds a participation in the ORIGINATOR or in which the ORIGINATOR or a shareholder of the ORIGINATOR holds a participation in or whose representatives are completely or partially identical with those of the ORIGINATOR. The form of participation is irrelevant; an indirect participation is sufficient.    Nahestehendes Unternehmen: Ein Unternehmen, das eine Beteiligung am KUNDEN hält oder an dem der KUNDE oder ein Gesellschafter des KUNDEN eine Beteiligung unterhält oder dessen Vertreter ganz oder teilweise identisch mit denen des KUNDEN sind. Die Form der Beteiligung ist unerheblich; eine mittelbare Beteiligung ist ausreichend.

 

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Average Expected Funding Period: Is the weighted average of Expected Funding Periods per Invoice for all invoices in the Financing Commission Calculation Data .    Durchschnittliche Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode: Ist der Durchschnitt aller Erwarteten Finanzierungsperioden auf Einzelrechnungsbasis für alle Rechnungen in den jeweiligen Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr.
Bad Debt Amount: Amount corresponding to the purchase price for the relevant Receivable , but reduced by the VAT amount contained in the Receivable . Any payments made in respect of the purchase price are offset. The balance shall be credited or debited, as the case may be, to the Settlement Account .    Delkrederebetrag: Entspricht dem Kaufpreis der jeweiligen Forderung , jedoch vermindert um einen Betrag in Höhe der in der Forderung enthaltenen Umsatzsteuer. Bereits auf den Kaufpreis erbrachte Leistungen sind zu verrechnen. Der Differenzbetrag ist dem Kundenabrechnungskonto gutzuschreiben bzw. zu belasten.
Bad Debt Case: Occurrence of an event referred to in clause 6.2.    Delkrederefall: Eintritt eines der in Ziffer 6.2 beschriebenen Ereignisse.
Bad Debt Coverage: Obligation of GE CAPITAL to pay the Bad Debt Amount in the Bad Debt Case .    Delkrederehaftung: Die Verpflichtung von GE CAPITAL, im Delkrederefall den Delkrederebetrag zu zahlen.
Business Days: All calendar days except for Saturdays, Sundays and any public holidays and bank holidays applicable at the registered seat of the ORIGINATOR or GE CAPITAL.    Geschäftstage: Alle Kalendertage mit Ausnahme von Samstagen, Sonntagen und am Sitz des KUNDEN oder von GE CAPITAL gültigen gesetzlichen Feiertagen und Bank- Feiertagen.
Collection Procedure: Procedure instigated to collect Receivables , including legal dunning procedures by external counsel, judicial court proceedings and foreclosure proceedings until the final settlement of the proceeding.    Inkassoverfahren: Verfahren zur Beitreibung einer Forderung , durch anwaltliches Mahnverfahren, gerichtliches Erkenntnisverfahren und Vollstreckungsverfahren bis zur Beendigung des Verfahrens.
Commencement Date: The commencement date referred to in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Vertragsbeginn: Der in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) genannte Vertragsbeginn.
Credit and Collection Policies: Means the ORIGINATOR’s credit and collection policies currently in force on the date hereof which may only be amended or changed with GE CAPITAL’s prior written consent, except for only minor editorial amendments and changes.    Gutschrift- und Einzugsregeln: die Gutschrift- und Einzugsregeln des KUNDEN in der derzeit gültigen Fassung, die, mit Ausnahme von geringfügigen redaktionellen Ergänzungen oder Änderungen, nur mit vorheriger schriftlicher Einwilligung von GE CAPITAL ergänzt oder geändert werden können.

 

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Debtor Limit: The maximum amount available to fund purchases of Receivables against a Debtor . The extent of its utilization is equal to the sum of all purchased and outstanding Receivables . Bills of exchange and cheques are considered as a settlement of a Receivable when irrevocably cashed. Debtor Limits are established pursuant to clause 7.    Abnehmerlimit: Der Höchstbetrag, der für den Ankauf von Forderungen gegen einen Abnehmer zur Verfügung steht. Der Umfang seiner Ausnutzung entspricht der Summe aller gekauften und vom Abnehmer noch nicht bezahlten Forderungen . Wechsel und Schecks werden mit endgültiger Einlösung als Erfüllung der Forderung berücksichtigt. Die Festsetzung von Abnehmerlimiten ergibt sich aus Ziffer 7.
Debtors: All present and future counterparties of the ORIGINATOR to contracts pursuant to which the ORIGINATOR owes the delivery of goods and/or the rendering of services for which the relevant counterparty owes payment, provided that the debtors excluded from the Agreement are set out in schedule la (Excluded Debtors).    Abnehmer: Alle bestehenden und zukünftigen Vertragspartner des KUNDEN in Verträgen, in denen der KUNDE die Warenlieferung und/oder die Erbringung von Dienstleistungen schuldet, für welche der Vertragspartner eine Leistung in Geld schuldet, ausgenommen der von diesem Vertrag ausgenommenen Abnehmer, die in Anhang 1a (Ausgenommene Abnehmer) aufgeführt sind.
Debtors’ Accounts: Accounts administrated by GE CAPITAL, which show the ORIGINATOR’s Receivables against the Debtors that were assigned to GE CAPITAL.    Debitorenkonten: Von GE CAPITAL geführte Konten, auf die die vom KUNDEN an GE CAPITAL abgetretenen Forderungen gebucht werden.
Dilution Rate: The Dilution Rate considers the average dilution depending on the performance of the purchased Receivables and considers specific risks (i.e. set-off (without double counting with the Special Purchase Price Reserve ), and other dilutions but for the avoidance of doubt not debtor risk), whereas a given event shall be taken into account only once, and only with respect to a given reserve and means as of any date of determination, the greater of:    Dilution Rate: Die Dilution Rate berücksichtigt die durchschnittliche Verwässerung abhängig von der Leistungsfähigkeit der gekauften Forderungen und berücksichtigt spezielle Risiken (z.B. Aufrechnung (ohne Doppelberechnung mit dem Sonderkaufpreiseinbehalt ), und andere Verwässerungen, jedoch, um Missverständnissen vorzubeugen, kein Abnehmer- /Delkredererisiko), wobei jeder Anlass nur einmalig berücksichtigt wird, und nur im Hinblick auf einen einzigen Einbehalt, und bedeutet der zum jeweils entscheidenden Zeitpunkt größere Betrag von
(x) 10% and    (x) 10% und
(y) (a) two times the average dilution reduction of 12 months as of such date of determination, plus (b) 5%.    (y) (a) zweimal den durchschnittlichen Dilution Abschlag der letzten 12 Monate vor dem Berechnungstag, plus (b) 5%.

 

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Disclosed Procedure: Factoring procedure in which the assignment of Receivables is disclosed to the Debtors .    Offenes Verfahren: Factoringverfahren, bei dem die Abtretung der Forderungen gegenüber den Abnehmern angezeigt wird.
Discretionary Debtor Limit: Debtor Limit established and modified by declaration of the ORIGINATOR vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL in accordance with clause 7.2 and within the extent set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Abnehmerlimitselbstvergabe: Festsetzung und Änderung der Abnehmerlimite durch Erklärung des KUNDEN gegenüber GE CAPITAL nach Ziffer 7.2 und innerhalb der Grenzen, die sich aus Anhang 1 (Konditionen) ergeben.
Eligible: Means in respect of any Receivable that, as applicable:    Einwandfrei: Bedeutet im Hinblick auf eine Forderung , dass, soweit anwendbar:
(a) each Receivable exists as set out in the Offer Letter , is free from any objections and defenses, is assignable (including, for the avoidance of doubt, Receivables which are assignable pursuant to sec. 354a of the German Commercial Code (HGB)) and is not subject to any third party rights that may be asserted against GE CAPITAL and that the respective invoice has been received by the Debtor .    (a) jede Forderung wie aus der Forderungsanzeige ersichtlich, besteht, frei ist von jeglichen Einwendungen und Einreden, abtretbar (zur Vermeidung von Missverständnissen, einschließlich Forderungen , die gemäß § 354a Handelsgesetzbuch (HGB) abtretbar sind) und nicht mit Rechten Dritter, die gegen GE CAPITAL geltend gemacht werden können, belastet ist und dass die entsprechende Rechnung dem Abnehmer zugegangen ist.
(b) each Receivable shall be fully capable of transfer without the requirements of any consents from the Debtors or third parties, or when a consent is required (such as in case of a prohibition or restriction of assignment which would prevent the legal transfer of the Receivable if the consent would not be obtained), each such consent must have been obtained to the satisfaction of GE CAPITAL on or prior to the date on which the relevant Receivable is intended to be transferred (failing to receive such letters of consent, the relevant Receivables shall not be eligible for purchase); and    (b) jede Forderung ohne Einwilligung der Abnehmer oder Dritter übertragbar sein soll, oder, wenn eine Einwilligung notwendig ist (wie im Fall eines Verbots oder einer Einschränkung der Abtretung, die die rechtliche Übertragung der Forderung verhindern würde, wenn die Einwilligung nicht erlangt werden würde), muss die Einwilligung zur Zufriedenheit von GE CAPITAL erlangt worden sein zu oder vor dem Zeitpunkt, in dem die Übertragung der jeweiligen Forderung beabsichtigt ist (werden die Einwilligungsschreiben nicht erhalten, sind die jeweiligen Forderungen nicht einwandfrei ); und
(c) each Receivable shall constitute legally valid, binding and enforceable obligations of the relevant Debtor ; and    (c) jede Forderung rechtlich gültige, bindende und durchsetzbare Verpflichtungen des jeweiligen Abnehmers begründet; und

 

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(d) each Receivable shall be free from any security interests, rights of third parties or adverse claims, or as the case may be, such security interests, rights of third parties or adverse claims will have (i) been waived to the satisfaction of GE CAPITAL prior to the transfer of the relevant Receivable or (ii) released due to payment to the relevant supplier upon delivery of supplies, provided that in respect of the Receivables governed by German law standard extended retention of title clauses which contain an authorization of the ORIGINATOR to collect the relevant Receivable shall be permitted; and    (d) jede Forderung frei ist von Sicherungsrechten, Rechten Dritter oder nachteiligen Ansprüchen, oder auf diese Sicherungsrechte, Rechte Dritter oder nachteiligen Ansprüche gegebenenfalls zur Zufriedenheit von GE CAPITAL (i) vor der Übertragung der jeweiligen Forderung verzichtet öder (ii) sie wegen Zahlung an den jeweiligen Lieferanten nach Lieferung der Güter freigegeben wurden, vorausgesetzt, dass im Hinblick auf die dem deutschen Recht unterliegenden Forderungen übliche Klauseln zum (verlängerten) Eigentumsvorbehalt, die eine Ermächtigung des KUNDEN zur Einziehung der jeweiligen Forderung beinhalten, erlaubt werden; und
(e) no Receivable shall arise from a contract of which the performance has been wholly or partly subcontracted under French law n°75-1334 of 31 December 1975, or any similar applicable law or regulation granting to the subcontractor a direct claim on a Debtor for the payment owed to it by the ORIGINATOR under the subcontract, save if, to the reasonable satisfaction of GE CAPITAL, bank guarantees (to guarantee payments to the relevant subcontractors) or other relevant arrangements have been implemented in advance in accordance with the above laws and regulations so as to avert the exercise of any such direct claim; and    (e) keine Forderung aus einem Vertrag entsteht, aus dem die Erfüllung ganz oder teilweise unter dem französischem Gesetz Nr. 75-1334 vom 31. Dezember 1975 an einen Subuntemehmer weitergegeben wurde, oder ein anderes ähnliches anwendbares Gesetz oder eine Regelung, welche dem Subuntemehmer einen direkten Anspruch gegen einen Abnehmer für die Zahlung, die der KUNDE unter dem Subuntemehmervertrag schuldet, es sei denn dass Bankgarantien (zur Garantie der Zahlungen an den jeweiligen Subuntemehmer) oder andere relevante Vereinbarungen, jeweils zur vernünftigen Zufriedenheit von GE CAPITAL, im Voraus und im Einklang mit den o.g. Gesetzen und Regelungen umgesetzt wurden, um die Geltendmachung eines solchen direkten Anspruchs abzuwenden.
(f) is not subject to a current account agreement ( kontokorrentgebundene Forderung ) within the meaning of sec. 355 of the German Commercial Code (HGB).    (f) sie keine kontokorrentgebundene Forderung im Sinne von § 355 Handelsgesetzbuch (HGB) ist.
Expected Funding Period per Invoice is the expected number of calendar days from (and including) the relevant Funding Date to (and excluding) the relevant due date of a Receivable or, if different, such other day on which the repayment of each Receivable    Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis ist die erwartete Anzahl von Kalendertagen von dem jeweiligen Finanzierungstag (einschließlich) bis zum (aber ausschließlich des) jeweiligen Fälligkeitsdatum(s) einer Forderung oder,

 

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included in the Financing Commission Calculation Data is expected by the ORIGINATOR.    sofern davon abweichend, dem Tag an dem die Bezahlung der jeweiligen Forderung in den Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr vom KUNDEN erwartet wird.
Expiration Date: The expiration date referred to in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Vertragsablaufdatum: Das Vertragsablaufdatum, auf das in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) Bezug genommen wird.
Factoring Account: Account on which the purchased Receivables are booked in their aggregate amount.    Factoringkonto: Konto , auf dem die angekauften Forderungen in Höhe ihres vollen Wertes gebucht werden.
Factoring Commission: The percentage rate of the Nominal Amoun t set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Factoringgebühr : Der Prozentsatz des in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) festgelegten Nominalbetrages .
Factoring-Satzaufbau: GE CAPITAL’s requirements for information to be provided by the ORIGINATOR in electronic form about invoices, credit notes, payments or open items.    Factoring Satzaufbau: Vorgaben von GE CAPITAL für vom KUNDEN in elektronischer Form zu erteilende Informationen über Rechnungen, Gutschriften, Zahlungen oder offene Posten.
Factorlink: Software for the performance of the factoring procedure.    Factorlink: Software für die Durchführung des Factoringverfahrens.
Financing Commission Assessment Base per Invoice: Is the amount drawn by the ORIGINATOR from the Settlement Account on each Funding Date by invoice, calculated on the basis of each of the Receivables included in the most recent Financing Commission Calculation Data .    Finanzierungsgebühr Berechnungsgrund-lage auf Einzelrechnungsbasis: Ist der Betrag, der vom KUNDEN vom Kundenabrechnungskonto an dem jeweiligen Finanzierungstag auf Einzelrechnungsbasis abgebucht wird und der sich auf Grundlage der Forderungen berechnet, die in der jeweils jüngsten Übermittlung von Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr enthalten waren.
Financing Commission Calculation Data: Means a list of Receivables setting out on a Receivable -by- Receivable basis (a) the name of the relevant Debtor , (b) the amount of the relevant related invoice, (c) the Receivable related invoice date, (d) the Receivable due date, (e) the Expected Funding Period per Invoice as well as (f) the Actual Funding Period per Invoice in respect of the batch of Receivables sold during the relevant previous Adjusted Expected    Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr: Bezeichnet eine Liste von Forderungen in der auf Einzelrechnungsbasis (a) der Name des jeweiligen Abnehmers , (b) der Betrag der jeweiligen Rechnung, (c) das Rechnungsdatum, (d) das Fälligkeitsdatum der Forderung , (e) die Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis , sowie, (f) die jeweilige Tatsächliche Finanzierungsperiode auf

 

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Funding Period per Invoice . The Financing Commission Calculation Data is provided by the ORIGINATOR two Business Days prior to each relevant Funding Date .    Einzelrechnungsbasis , bezogen auf die in der jeweils zurückliegenden Angepassten Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis verkauften Forderungen . Die Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr werden vom KUNDEN jeweils vorab zwei Geschäftstage vor dem jeweiligen Finanzierungstag übermittelt.
Financing Commission per Invoice is calculated upfront for the relevant next following Adjusted Expected Funding Period per Invoice on a Receivable- by -Receivable basis by applying the Financing Commission Rate to the Financing Commission Assessment Base per Invoice . The Financing Commission Rate is calculated as follows on the basis of an interest rate calculation in accordance with the international method, i.e. act/360 interest days per year:    Die Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis wird jeweils vorab für die jeweils folgende Angepasste Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis auf Einzelrechnungsbasis dergestalt berechnet, dass der Finanzierungsgebührensatz auf die Finanzierungsgebühren Berechnungsgrundlage auf Einzelrechnungsbasis angewendet wird. Der Finanzierungsgebührensatz errechnet sich wie folgt auf Grundlage einer Zinssatzberechnung in Übereinstimmung mit der internationalen Berechnungsmethode, d.h. act/360 Tage p.a.:
FCPI = FCABI x FCR x (AEPI /360)    FCPI = FCABI x FCR x (AEPI /360)
FCPI is the Financing Commission per Invoice ,    FCPI bezeichnet die Finanzierungsgebühr auf Einzelrechnungsbasis ,
FCABI is the Financing Commission Assessment Base per Invoice ,    FCABI bezeichnet die Finanzierungsgebühr Berechnungsgrundlage auf Einzelrechnungsbasis ,
FCR is the Finance Commission Rate ; and    FCR bezeichnet den Finanzierungsgebührensatz ; und
AEPI is the Adjusted Expected Funding Period per Invoice .    AEPI bezeichnet die Angepasste Erwartete Finanzierungsperiode auf Einzelrechnungsbasis .
Financing Commission Rate: The percentage rate p.a. (per annum) set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions), consisting of the sum of the percentage rates of the Financing Commission Reference Rate and the margin.    Finanzierungsgebührensatz: Der aus Anhang 1 ersichtliche Prozentsatz p.a. (per annum), bestehend aus der Summe der Prozentsätze des Referenzfinanzierungsgebührensatzes und der Marge.

 

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Financing Commission Reference Rate: Is the EURIBOR (Euro Interbank Offered Rate), provided that the applicable term and the details of the continuing adjustment of the EURIBOR are set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions). The actual rate of the EURIBOR is published, inter alia , on the internet site of the German Federal Bank.    Referenzfínanzierungsgebührensatz: Ist der EURIBOR (Euro Interbank Offered Rate), unter der Maßgabe, dass die anwendbare Laufzeitbezugsgröße und die Einzelheiten der fortlaufenden Anpassung des EURIBOR in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) näher festgelegt sind. Die tatsächliche Höhe des EURIBOR ist unter anderem auf der Internetseite der Deutschen Bundesbank veröffentlicht.
Funding Date: The date when available funds are drawn by the ORIGINATOR from the Settlement Account .    Finanzierungstag ist der Tag, an dem verfügbare Mittel durch den KUNDEN vom Kundenabrechnungskonto abgebucht werden.
Full-Service-Factoring: Factoring procedure in which the accounts receivable bookkeeping and dunning procedure are performed by GE CAPITAL.    Full-Service-Factoring: Factoringverfahren, bei dem die Debitorenbuchhaltung und das Mahnwesen durch GE CAPITAL erledigt werden.
Incoming Payment Settlement Account: Account on which in the Inter-Credit ® -Factoring incoming payments are booked by interim posting until the Reconciliation Process has been performed, see clause 12.2.    Zahlungseingangsverrechnungskonto: Konto , auf dem beim Inter-Credit ® -Factoring Zahlungseingänge bis zum Stülpvorgang zwischengebucht werden, siehe Ziffer 12.2.
Inter-Credit ® -Factoring: Factoring procedure in which the accounts receivable bookkeeping and dunning procedure are performed by the ORIGINATOR as trustee for GE CAPITAL.    Inter-Credit ® -Factoring: Factoringverfahren, bei dem die Debitorenbuchhaltung und das Mahnwesen durch den KUNDEN als Treuhänder für GE CAPITAL erledigt werden.
Maximum Commitment: The amount which the Utilization may not exceed. The amount of the Maximum Commitment is set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Höchstobligo: Der Betrag, welcher die Inanspruchnahme nicht übersteigen darf. Der Betrag des Höchtsobligos ergibt sich aus Anhang 1 (Konditionen).
Nominal Amount: The final amount set out in the invoice for the relevant Receivable , including VAT.    Nominalbetrag: Der in der Rechnung ausgewiesene Endbetrag für die Forderung einschließlich Umsatzsteueranteil.
Notification of Dispute: Notification by the ORIGINATOR or the Debtor to GE CAPITAL that the Debtor claims that the Receivable is not Eligible .    Reklamationsanzeige: Anzeige des KUNDEN oder des Abnehmers an GE CAPITAL, dass der Abnehmer geltend macht, die Forderung sei nicht einwandfrei .
Offer Letter: Notification of a certain Receivable by the ORIGINATOR to GE    Forderungsanzeige: Anzeige einer bestimmten Forderung an GE CAPITAL

 

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CAPITAL Several notifications of Receivables can be combined in one Offer Letter .    durch den KUNDEN. Es können mehrere Anzeigen von Forderungen in einer Forderungsanzeige erfolgen.
Open Items File: List of all Receivables which are existing and unpaid at the time when the list is compiled.    Offene Posten Datei: Aufstellung sämtlicher zum Zeitpunkt der Erstellung der Aufstellung bestehenden unbezahlten Forderungen .
Pledged Accounts: The bank accounts referred to as Pledged Accounts in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).    Verpfändete Bankkonten: Die in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) als Verpfändete Bankkonten bezeichneten Bankkonten.
Purchase Price Reserve: Amount corresponding to the percentage rate set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) of the Nominal Amount .    Kaufpreiseinbehalt: Betrag, der dem Prozentsatz des Nominalbetrags wie in Anhang 1 (Konditionen) entspricht.
Purchase Price Reserve Account: Account on which the Purchase Price Reserve is booked (see clause 4.1 and 4.3).    Kaufpreiseinbehaltskonto: Konto , auf dem der Kaufpreiseinbehalt gebucht wird (siehe Ziffern 4.1 und 4.3).
Quarterly Account Statement: Written summary of the balances of all Accounts as of the end of each calendar quarter.    Quartalsabschluss: Schriftliche Übersicht über die Stände aller Konten zum Ende eines jeden Quartals.
Receivables: All existing and future payment receivables arising under agreements for the delivery of goods and/or the rendering of services by the ORIGINATOR vis-à-vis its Debtors .    Forderungen: Alle gegenwärtig bestehenden und künftig entstehenden Forderungen auf Zahlung aus Verträgen über Warenlieferungen und/oder die Erbringung von Dienstleistungen durch den KUNDEN gegenüber seinen Abnehmern .
Reconciliation Process: Reconciliation of GE CAPITAL’s Open Items File with the Open Items File provided by the ORIGINATOR.    Stülpvorgang: Abgleich der Offene Posten Datei von GE CAPITAL an die Offene Posten Datei des KUNDEN.
Reimbursement Claims: Claims of Debtors vis-à-vis the ORIGINATOR, which do not result in a direct reduction of individual Receivables , in particular claims based on a relevant period and/or the volume of sales (bonuses etc.), and claims arising from certain operations/events (marketing contributions, anniversary bonuses etc.).    Rückvergütungsansprüche: Ansprüche des Abnehmers gegenüber dem KUNDEN, die nicht eine direkte Minderung einzelner Forderungen zur Folge haben, insbesondere Ansprüche auf der Grundlage eines bestimmten Zeitraumes und/oder des Verkaufsvolumens (Boni, etc.), und Ansprüche aus bestimmten Tätigkeiten/Events (Werbekostenzuschüsse, Jubiläumsboni, etc.).
Reserve Account: Account showing the anticipated amount of Reimbursement Claims (see clause 22.5).   

Rückstellungskonto: Konto , auf dem die

voraussichtliche Höhe der Rückvergütungsansprüche aufgenommen wird (siehe Ziffer 22.5).

 

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Retaining Supplier: Each supplier of the ORIGINATOR who has stipulated an extended retention of title arrangement (assignment of the receivables resulting from the resale of the goods) with the ORIGINATOR.    Vorbehaltslieferant: Jeder Lieferant des KUNDEN, der mit dem KUNDEN wegen seiner Lieferungen einen verlängerten Eigentumsvorbehalt (Abtretung der aus der Weiterveräußerung resultierenden Forderung) vereinbart hat.
Settlement Account: Account on which all claims of the ORIGINATOR vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL (e.g. purchase price payments for purchased Receivables , including Purchase Price Reserves that have been released, Debtor’s payments in respect of Receivables which have not been purchased) and claims of GE CAPITAL against the ORIGINATOR (e.g. commission claims, claims for reimbursement based on performance defaults) as well as disbursements to the ORIGINATOR are booked and offset against each other.    Kundenabrechnungskonto: Konto , auf dem alle Ansprüche des KUNDEN gegenüber GE CAPITAL (z.B. Kaufpreiszahlungen für angekaufte Forderungen einschließlich freigewordener Kaufpreiseinbehalte , Zahlungen von Abnehmern auf nicht angekaufte Forderungen ) und von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN (z.B. Gebührenansprüche, Rückforderungsansprüche wegen Leistungsstörungen) sowie Auszahlungen an den KUNDEN gebucht und miteinander verrechnet werden.
Smart-Service-Factoring: Factoring procedure in which the accounts receivable bookkeeping is performed by GE CAPITAL and the dunning procedure is performed by the ORIGINATOR as trustee for GE CAPITAL.    Smart-Service-Factoring: Factoringverfahren, bei dem die Debitorenbuchhaltung durch GE CAPITAL und das Mahnwesen durch den KUNDEN als Treuhänder für GE CAPITAL durchgeführt werden.
Special Purchase Price Reserve: Reserve established as the result of a Notification of Dispute which shall not exceed, however, the part of the purchase price that was previously credited.    Sonderkaufpreiseinbehalt: Geldbetrag, der aufgrund der Reklamationsanzeige einbehalten wird, höchstens jedoch in der Höhe des zuvor gutgeschriebenen Kaufpreisanteils.
Special Purchase Price Reserve Account: Account on which Special Purchase Price Reserves resulting from Notifications of Disputes are booked, see clause 4.4.    Sonderkaufpreiseinbehaltskonto: Konto , auf dem durch Reklamationsanzeigen ausgelöste Sonderkaufpreiseinbehalte gebucht werden, siehe Ziffer 4.4.
Special Account: Account on which the Receivables which have not been purchased are booked.    Sonderkonto: Konto , auf dem die nicht angekauften Forderungen gebucht werden.
Special Settlement Account: Technical offset account to the Special Account .    Sonderverrechnungskonto: Technisches Gegenkonto zum Sonderkonto .
Tolling/Pseudo Tolling Reimbursement Claims: Claims of Debtors vis-à-vis the    Rückvergütungsansprüche aus Materialbeistellung: Ansprüche der

 

55


ORIGINATOR which do not result in a direct reduction of individual Receivables , and which result out of tolling/pseudo tolling transactions ( Materialbeistellung ) between the ORIGINATOR and the respective Debtor .    Abnehmer gegen den KUNDEN, die nicht zu einer Minderung einzelner Forderungen führen, und die aus Materialbeistellungen zwischen dem KUNDEN und dem jeweiligen Abnehmer herrühren.
Total Financing Commission is calculated as the sum of Financing Commissions per Invoice for all invoices included in a relevant transmission of Financing Commission Data .    Die Gesamtfinanzierungsgebühr errechnet sich als die Summe aller Finanzierungsgebühren auf Einzelrechnungsbasis für alle Forderungen der jeweils mitgeteilten Berechnungsdaten zur Ermittlung der Finanzierungsgebühr .
Unable to Pay: Means with respect to a Debtor that such Debtor is unable to pay its debts as and when they fall due. Inability to Pay is generally presumed if the Debtor generally ceases to make payments.    Zahlungsunfähig: Bedeutet im Hinblick auf einen Abnehmer , dass der Abnehmer nicht in der Lage ist, seine fälligen Zahlungspflichten zu erfüllen. Zahlungsunfähigkeit ist in der Regel anzunehmen, wenn der Abnehmer seine Zahlungen eingestellt hat.
Undisclosed Procedure: Factoring procedure in which the assignment of Receivables is not initially, but only upon termination of the Undisclosed Procedure or in the Collection Procedure , disclosed.    Stilles Verfahren: Factoringverfahren, bei dem die Abtretung der Forderungen zunächst nicht, sondern erst nach Beendigung des Stillen Verfahrens oder im Inkassoverfahren offengelegt wird.
Utilization: Sum of the balances on all Accounts held for the ORIGINATOR in accordance with the Agreement .    Inanspruchnahme: Summe aller Salden von Konten , die für den KUNDEN aufgrund des Vertrages geführt werden.
VAT Information: All information as specified in clause 4.5, sub-clause 5.    Umsatzsteuerinformationen: alle in Ziffer 4.5, Absatz 5, genauer beschriebenen Informationen.

 

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SIGNATURES     UNTERSCHRIFTEN
GE CAPITAL BANK AG    
  LOGO     LOGO
 

 

   

 

Signed by:   Philipp Schiemann     Hemp
Title:   Team Leader Large Clients     Team Leader Underwriting
Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG    
  LOGO    
 

 

   

 

Signed by:   MARK KIRKLAND    
Title:   GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORIZED SIGNATORY    

 

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SCHEDULE 1 (TERMS AND CONDITIONS)    ANHANG 1 (KONDITIONEN)

1. Receivables:

   1. Forderungen:
Receivables for payment of compensation from contracts regarding sales of products and provision of services against all Debtors whose office location is in Germany, and all Debtors whose office location is in a jurisdiction which is listed in Schedule 1b (Approved Jurisdictions) or any other jurisdiction approved by GE CAPITAL with the exception of receivables against debtors listed in Schedule 1a (Excluded Debtors).    Forderungen auf Zahlung der Vergütung aus Verträgen über Warenverkäufe und die Erbringung von Dienstleistungen gegen alle Abnehmer, die ihren Sitz in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland haben, sowie alle Abnehmer, die ihren Sitz in einer der in Anhang 1b (Anerkannte Rechtsordnungen) aufgeführten Rechtsordnungen oder einer anderen von GE CAPITAL anerkannten Rechtsordnung haben, mit Ausnahme von Forderungen gegen Abnehmer, die in Anhang 1a (Ausgenommene Abnehmer) aufgeführt sind.
2. Purchase Price Reserve: The higher of (i) 10% or (ii) the sum of 5% and the average Dilution Rate as observed over the last three months.    2.  Kaufpreiseinbehalt: Der jeweils höhere Betrag von entweder (i) 10% oder (ii) der Summe von 5% und der durchschnittlichen Dilution Rate der letzten drei Monate.
3. Financing Commission Reference Rate; Fees; Commission:    3. Finanzierungsgebührensatz; andere Gebühren; Provision:
a)  Financing Commission Reference Rate (see Clause 4.1): 3 month EURIBOR + 1,95%, paid monthly and calculated on the last Business Day of each month for the following month.    a) Referenzfinanzierungsgebührensatz (siehe Ziffer 4.1): 3 Monate EURIBOR + 1,95%, Zahlung monatlich und Berechnung am letzten Geschäftstag jeden Monats für den Folgemonat.
b) Unused Facility Fee: 1% per annum of the amount of the available but unused amount of the Settlement Account.    b) Bereitstellungsgebühr: 1% pro Jahr des verfügbaren aber nicht in Anspruch genommenen Betrages auf dem Kundenabrechnungskonto.
c) Audit Fees: EUR 3,000 per audit and a maximum audit fee of EUR 6,000 per year.    c) Außenprüfungsgebühren : EUR 3.000 pro Außenprüfung und maximal EUR 6.000 pro Jahr.
d) Factoring Commission and Administration Fee (see Clauses 4.1 and 8.3): 0,15% + 0,01% bad debt cost calculated on the volume of the Receivables.    d) Factoring - und Verwaltungsgebühr (siehe Ziffer 4.1 und 8.3): 0,15% + 0,01% Delkrederekosten, berechnet nach dem Volumen der Forderungen.
e) Maximum amount for Discretionary Debtor Limit (see Clause 7):    e) Höchstbetrag für Abnehmerlimitselbstvergabe (siehe Ziffer 7):

 

 

58


Domestic/Export 10,000 EUR    Im Inland/im Ausland 10.000 EUR
Limit fees for each Debtor and for each contractual year:    Limitgebühren für jeden Abnehmer und für jedes Vertragsjahr:
1. domestic 30 EUR/40 USD/40 CHF/25 GBP    1. Im Inland 30 EUR/40 USD/40 CHF/25 GBP
2. export 60 EUR/80 USD/80 CHF/50 GBP    2. Im Ausland 60 EUR/80 USD/80 CHF/50 GBP
f) The ORIGINATOR shall bear all costs, fees and expenses charged by any credit institution with respect to payments made by any Debtors and which have been charged to any Pledged Accounts or to GE CAPITAL.    f) Der KUNDE trägt alle Kosten, Gebühren und Auslagen die von einem Kreditinstitut im Hinblick auf die von Abnehmern geleisteten Zahlungen erhoben werden und die einem Verpfändeten Bankkonto oder GE CAPITAL berechnet werden.
Whereas a “domestic Debtor ” shall be a Debtor domiciled in the same jurisdiction as the ORIGINATOR, and whereas the limit fee’s currency shall be the main currency in which the majority of the respective Debtor’s Receivables are denominated.    Wonach ein „inländischer Abnehmer ” ein Abnehmer mit Sitz am Ort der gleichen Rechtswahl wie der KUNDE ist, und wonach die Währung für die Limitgebühr die Hauptwährung ist, auf welche die Mehrheit der Forderungen des jeweiligen Abnehmers lautet.
The ORIGINATOR shall bear all costs, fees and expenses for keeping the Pledged Accounts and for the transfer of any moneys.    Der KUNDE trägt alle Kosten, Gebühren und Auslagen zur Unterhaltung der Verpfändeten Bankkonten und für die Überweisung von Geldern.
Aforementioned Financing Commission Rate, fees and commissions are stated excluding the legal value added tax (VAT).    Der vorstehende Finanzierungsgebührensatz und andere Gebühren und Provisionen verstehen sich zuzüglich der gesetzlichen Umsatzsteuer.
4. Maximum Commitment : GE CAPITAL will set a maximum limit for each Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A and Constellium Extrusions Dĕčín s.r.o. provided that the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A.    4. Höchstobligo: GE CAPITAL wird eine Obergrenze festlegen für die Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A und Constellium Extrusions Dĕčín s.r.o., unter der Maßgabe, dass das gesamte Höchstobligo der jeweiligen Factoringverträge zwischen GE CAPITAL und Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH,Constellium Valais S.A. und Constellium Extrusions Dĕčín s.r.o.

 

59


and Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. amounts to 115.000.000,00 EUR (one hundred fifteen million Euro) and the Maximum Commitment for Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. may not exceed 15.000.000,00 EUR (fifteen million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).    115.000.000,00 EUR (einhundert fünfzehn Millionen Euro) beträgt und das maximale Höchstobligo für Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o 15.000.000,00 EUR (fünfzehn Millionen Euro) nicht übersteigen darf. Auf Antrag des jeweiligen Kunden kann das jeweilige Höchstobligo geändert werden.
5. Commencement Date:    5. Vertragsbeginn:
This Agreement will become effective on the date on which all conditions precedent as stated in Schedule 3 are (i) fulfilled and/or (ii) waived to the satisfaction of GE CAPITAL. GE CAPITAL will confirm vis-à-vis the ORIGINATOR the fulfilment or waiver of the conditions precedent and the commencement of this Agreement (Condition Precedent).    Dieser Vertrag wird wirksam an dem Tag, an dem sämtliche in Anhana 3 enthaltenen Bedingungen zur Zufriedenheit von GE CAPITAL erfüllt sind und/oder GE CAPITAL auf die Bedingung verzichtet. GE CAPITAL wird gegenüber dem KUNDEN die Erfüllung der und/oder den Verzicht auf die Bedingungen und den Beginn dieses Vertrags bestätigen (aufschiebende Bedingung).
6. Termination Date:    6. Vertragsablaufdatum:
4 June 2017    4. Juni 2017
7.   The ORIGINATOR and/or GE CAPITAL reserve the right to retain payments of the purchase price in respect of Receivables against single Debtors or debtor credit units - in terms of § 19 of the German Banking Act ( Kreditwesengesetz ) - as long as they show a greater concentration than 30% of the amount of all purchased and still unsettled Receivables of the ORIGINATOR against all its Debtors.    7. Der KUNDE und/oder GE CAPITAL behalten sich das Recht vor, Kaufpreiszahlungen für Forderungen gegen einzelne Abnehmer bzw. Abnehmerkrediteinheiten – im Sinne von § 19 Kreditwesengesetz – solange zurückzuhalten, soweit sie mehr als 30% aller gekauften und noch offenen Forderungen des KUNDEN gegen alle seine Abnehmer ausmachen.
8. Pledged Accounts:    8. Verpfändete Bankkonten:
In accordance with section 13.3 (c) of the Agreement, the ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL agree that the ORIGINATOR shall pledge the following accounts in favour of GE CAPITAL by entering into an agreement on the date hereof, in substantially the form as set out in Annex 5 (Account Pledge Agreement) for the accounts:    In Übereinstimmung mit Ziffer 13.3 (c) des Vertrages vereinbaren der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL, dass der KUNDE die folgenden Konten zugunsten von GE CAPITAL verpfändet, indem zum entsprechenden Zeitpunkt ein Vertrag über die Konten geschlossen wird, der im Wesentlichen der in Anlage 5 (Kontoverpfändungsvertrag) festgelegten Form entspricht:

 

60


Account Bank

Kontoführende Bank

 

Swift

 

IBAN

 

Currency

Währung

     
Deutsche Bank AG   DEUTDE6F692   DE28 692700 3800 750794 00   EUR

 

All ORIGINATOR’s accounts for incoming payments relating to Receivables : The ORIGINATOR will provide GE CAPITAL without delay with a chart containing all necessary details.    Alle Konten des KUNDEN für Zahlungseingänge im Hinblick auf die Forderungen : Der KUNDE wird GE CAPITAL eine Aufstellung mit allen erforderlichen Daten unverzüglich zukommen lassen.
9.   Factoring-Procedure: Undisclosed Inter-Credit®-Factoring    9. Factoring-Verfahren: Stilles Inter-Creditf®-Factoring.
10. Note of assignment (In the Disclosed Procedure ) : “We have assigned our receivables to GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, pursuant to an ongoing factoring arrangement, respectively authorized GE Capital Bank AG to collect receivables on our behalf. Payments must be made by way of wire transfer to the following account: number: 300111800, bank sort code: 550 305 00, BIC: HRBKDE51, IBAN: DE12 5503 0500 0300 1118 00 or by cheque directly to GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von- Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany.”    10. Abtretungsvermerk (Im Offenen Verfahrenh ): „Wir haben unsere Forderungen im Rahmen eines laufenden Factoringverfahrens an GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von- Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Deutschland abgetreten bzw. GE Capital Bank AG zum Forderungseinzug ermächtigt. Zahlungen sind zu leisten per Überweisung auf das Konto: Kontonummer: 300111800, Bankleitzahl: 550 305 00, BIC: HRBKDE51, IBAN: DE12 5503 0500 0300 1118 00 oder per Scheck direkt an GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Deutschland.
11. Binding Version: This Agreement and their respective schedules and annexes as well as any country specific supplement (if any) shall be executed in the German and the English language; both versions, the German as well as the English language versions shall be binding versions. In the event of any discrepancies between the German version and the English version, the German version shall prevail.    11. Verbindliche Fassung: Dieser Vertrag und die entsprechenden Anhänge und Anlagen sowie Iänderspezifische Zusätze (sofem zutreffend) werden in der deutschen und der englischen Sprache vollzogen; beide Fassungen, die deutschen als auch die englischen Sprachversionen, stellen verbindliche Fassungen dar. Im Falle von Abweichungen zwischen der deutschen Fassung und der englischen Fassung, ist die deutsche Fassung maßgeblich.

 

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SCHEDULE 1a: ( Excluded Debtors )    ANHANG 1a: ( Ausgenommene Abnehmer )
a) General:    a) Allgemein
All Affiliated Companies are Excluded Debtors .    Alle Nahestehenden Unternehmen sind Ausgenommene Abnehmer .
All Debtors against which the ORIGINATOR may have any claims which are not subject to the Approved Jurisdictions as set forth in Schedule 1b, shall be Excluded Debtors .    Alle Abnehmer , gegen die der KUNDE Ansprüche haben kann und die nicht den in Anhang 1b festgelegten anerkannten Rechtsordnungen unterliegen, sind Ausgenommene Abnehmer .

All Debtors which prepay their claims and all Debtors which pay their debt on delivery ( Prepayment Debtors ), shall be Excluded Debtors . A list of all Prepayment Debtors is contained in sub-clause b) below. The Parties agree that the list of Prepayment Debtors may be amended and expanded from time to time at the ORIGINATOR’s request, subject to GE CAPITAL’s approval, which may not be unreasonably withheld.

   Alle Abnehmer , die ihre Ansprüche im Voraus bezahlen und alle Abnehmer die ihre Schulden bei Lieferung bezahlen ( Vorauszahlende Abnehmer ), sind Ausgenommene Abnehmer . Eine Liste der Vorauszahlenden Abnehmer ist in Unterpunkt b) enthalten. Die Parteien vereinbaren, dass die Liste der Vorauszahlenden Abnehmer auf Verlangen des KUNDEN und unter der Voraussetzung der Zustimmung von GE CAPITAL, die nicht willkürlich vorenthalten werden darf, von Zeit zu Zeit geändert und erweitert werden kann.
b) In particular:    b) Insbesondere:
Prepayment Debtors :    Vorauszahlende Abnehmer :
Currently none, but subject to sub-clause a) above.    Derzeit keine; vorbehaltlich Unterpunkt a) (siehe oben).
c) In particular:    c) Insbesondere:

PTK UF Ltd., Mishina Str., Bld. 26, 127083 Moskau, Russia

Skoda JS A.S., Orlik 266, 31606 Plzen, Czech Republic

 

62


SCHEDULE 1b: (Approved Jurisdictions)

  

ANHANG 1b: (Anerkannte

Rechtsordnungen)

AT: Austria

   AT: Österreich

AU: Australia

   AU: Australien

BE: Belgium

   BE: Belgien

BG: Bulgaria

   BG: Bulgarien

BR: Brazil

   BR: Brasilien

CA: Canada

   CA: Kanada

CH: Switzerland

   CH: Schweiz

CN: China

   CN: China

CY: Cyprus

   CY: Zypem

CZ: Czech Republic

   CZ: Tschechische Republik

DE: Germany

   DE: Deutschland

DK: Denmark

   DK: Dänemark

EE: Estonia

   EE: Estland

ES: Spain

   ES: Spanien

Fl: Finland

   Fl: Finnland

FR: France

   FR: Frankreich

GB: Great Britain

   GB: Groß-Britannien

GR: Greece

   GR: Griechenland

HR: Croatia

   HR: Kroatien

HU: Hungary

   HU: Ungarn

IE: Ireland

   IE: Irland

IL: Israel

   IL: Israel

IN: India

   IN: Indien

IS: Island

   IS: Island

IT: Italy

   IT: Italien

JP: Japan

   JP: Japan

LT: Lithuania

   LT: Littauen

LU: Luxemburg

   LU: Luxemburg

LV: Latvia

   LV: Lettland

MT: Malta

   MT: Malta

MX: Mexico

   MX: Mexiko

MY: Malaysia

   MY: Malaysia

NL: The Netherlands

   NL: Niederlande

NO: Norway

   NO: Norwegen

PL: Poland

   PL: Polen

PT: Portugal

   PT: Portugal

RO: Romania

   RO: Rumänien

SE: Sweden

   SE: Schweden

SG: Singapore

   SG: Singapur

Sl: Slovenia

   Sl: Slovenien

SK: Slovakia

   SK: Slowakei

SM: San Marino

   SM: San Marino

TH: Thailand

   TH: Thailand

TN: Tunisia

   TN: Tunesien

TR: Turkey

   TR: Türkei

TW: Taiwan

   TW: Taiwan

 

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UA: Ukraine

   UA: Ukraine

US: United States of America

   US: Vereinigte Staaten von Amerika

ZA: South Africa

   ZA: Südafrika

 

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SCHEDULE 2 – DECLARATION OF CONSENT    ANHANG 2 – EINWILLIGUNGSERKLÄRUNG
Declaration of consent for the collection, processing and usage of data and the confidentiality obligations of tax authorities    Einwilligungserklärung zur Erhebung, Verarbeitung und Nutzung von Daten und der Schweigepflicht der Finanzämter
I. Collection, processing and usage of data by the GE Capital Bank AG    I. Erhebung, Verarbeitung und Nutzung von Daten durch die GE Capital Bank AG
1. GE Capital Bank AG collects, processes and uses data in connection with the preparation, execution and implementation of the factoring agreement with respect to    1. GE Capital Bank AG erhebt, verarbeitet und nutzt im Rahmen der Vorbereitung des Abschlusses und der Durchführung des Factoringvertrages Daten zu
– name and address of Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG,    – Name und Anschrift von Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG,
– information provided in the annual financial statements,    – Informationen, die aus einem Jahresabschluss ersichtlich sind,
– accounts receivable of the ORIGINATOR against its debtors (creditor, debtor, subject, amount, credit worthiness of the ORIGINATOR, legal existence of the accounts receivable, potential security interests of other creditors),    – Forderungen des KUNDEN gegen seine Abnehmer (Gläubiger, Schuldner, Forderungsgegenstand, Forderungshöhe, Bonität des Abnehmers, Verität der Forderung, etwaige Sicherungsrechte anderer Gläubiger,
– debtor limits and their respective utilisation,    – Abnehmerlimite und deren Ausnutzung,
– balances on accounts maintained in accordance with the factoring agreement,    – Kontostände der gemäß Factoringvertrag geführten Konten,
– hereinafter referred to as “Data”, but in each case only in accordance with the factoring agreement.    – nachstehend als „Daten” bezeichnet, aber in jedem Fall nur im Zusammenhang mit dem Factoringvertrag
2. The ORIGINATOR authorises and consents to the transfer of data by GE Capital Bank AG to affiliated companies and/or service providers and the processing (including transfer) and using of such Data by the relevant companies if and to the extent that this is necessary for the following purposes:    2. Der KUNDE erklärt sich damit einverstanden, dass GE Capital Bank AG die Daten an verbundene Unternehmen und/oder Dienstleistungsunternehmen übermittelt und dass diese ihrerseits die Daten verarbeiten (einschließlich Übermittlung) und nutzen, wenn und soweit dies zu folgenden Zwecken erfolgt:
– Compliance by GE Capital Bank AG with its obligations under the factoring agreement, including the processing of    – Erfüllung von der GE Capital Bank AG nach dem Factoringvertrag obliegenden Aufgaben einschließlich der Verarbeitung

 

65


Data for such purposes in data processing centers.    der Daten zu diesen Zwecken in Rechenzentren,
– Compliance with reporting obligations resulting from statutory or internal regulations applicable to GE Capital Bank AG and/or its affiliated companies, including reporting obligations vis-à-vis committees or control functions of the relevant affiliated companies inside or outside of the European Economic Area.    – Erfüllung von durch Rechtsvorschriften oder konzernintern angeordneten Berichts- pflichten, die der GE Capital Bank AG und/oder verbundenen Unternehmen obliegen, einschließlich von Berichtspflichten gegenüber Gremien und Kontrollorganen der Verbundenen Unternehmen innerhalb und außerhalb des europäischen Wirtschaftsraumes,
– Evaluation and reporting within the General Electric group as well as market- and statistical analyses.    – Auswertungen und Berichterstattung innerhalb des General Electric Konzerns, sowie Marktanalysen und statistische Analysen,
– Feeding of Data into an information system which is only accessible to members of the General Electric group, and from which GE Capital Bank AG may retrieve Data (which were not transferred by it for its business purposes.    – Einstellung der Daten in ein ausschließlich für Unternehmen des General Electric Konzerns nutzbares lnformationssystem, aus dem auch die GE Capital Bank AG für ihre Geschäftszwecke auch von ihr nicht übermittelte Daten abrufen kann.
3. The ORIGINATOR furthermore consents to the transfer of Data by GE Capital Bank AG to credit- or financial institutions and to the processing of the transferred Data (incl. transfer and usage of such data) by such institutions if and to the extent that this transfer occurs in connection with a transfer or pledge of the factoring agreement, rights or claims resulting from the factoring agreement or purchased receivables for the purposes of refinancing GE Capital Bank AG or in connection with the administration or collection of receivables.    3. Der KUNDE erklärt sich weiterhin damit einverstanden, dass die GE Capital Bank AG Daten an andere Kreditinstitute oder Finanzinstitute übermittelt, und dass diese ihrerseits die Daten verarbeiten (einschließlich Übermittlung und Nutzung), wenn und soweit diese Übertragung im Zusammenhang mit einer Übertragung oder Verpfändung des Factoringvertrages oder von Rechten oder Forderungen aus dem Factoringvertrag oder angekauften Forderungen für Zwecke der Refinanzierung der GE Capital Bank AG oder im Zusammenhang mit der Verwaltung oder Einziehung von Forderungen geschieht.
In this context, the ORIGINATOR releases GE Capital Bank AG from any legal restrictions with respect to the collection, processing and usage of Data.    In diesem Zusammenhang befreit der KUNDE die GE Capital Bank AG von gesetzlichen Beschränkungen zur Erhebung, Verarbeitung und Nutzung von Daten.

 

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II. Transfer of Data to GE Capital Bank AG    II. Übermittlung von Daten an die GE Capital Bank AG
The ORIGINATOR releases all financial institutions with which it cooperates from the banking secrecy and any other legal restrictions with respect to the transfer of data, to the extent that GE Capital Bank AG requests information from the relevant financial institution which is relevant for the compliance with the obligations under the factoring agreement. This includes information with respect to:    Der KUNDE befreit alle mit ihm zusammenarbeitenden Finanzinstitute vom Bankgeheimnis und anderweitig durch Rechtsvorschriften begründeten Einschränkungen der Datenübermittlung, soweit die GE Capital Bank AG bei dem jeweiligen Finanzinstitut Anfragen stellt, die für die Erfüllung des Factoringvertrages von Bedeutung sind. Dies betrifft Informationen betreffend:

•      Security interests of the relevant financial institution with respect to receivables of the ORIGINATOR, including ancillary rights, and other movable current assets.

  

•      Sicherungsrechte des Finanzinstituts an Forderungen des KUNDEN einschließlich Nebenrechten und an sonstigem beweglichen Umlaufvermögen.

•      Payments received with respect to receivables assigned to GE Capital Bank AG and any other information relating such receivables.

  

•      Zahlungseingänge auf Forderungen, die der GE Capital Bank AG abgetreten sind und etwaige sonstige Informationen in Bezug auf solche Forderungen.

•      Information available to the relevant financial institution regarding the creditworthiness of the ORIGINATOR.

  

•      Bei dem Finanzinstitut vorhandene Informationen über die Bonität des KUNDEN.

The ORIGINATOR consents to GE Capital Bank AG treating these Data in accordance with item. I. above.    Der KUNDE erklärt sich damit einverstanden, dass die GE Capital Bank AG solche Daten nach Maßgabe von Ziffer I. behandelt.
III. Release of tax authorities from confidentiality obligations    III. Befreiung der Finanzämter von der Schweigepflicht
The ORIGINATOR hereby releases the tax authorities which may be involved from their relevant confidentiality obligations with respect to VAT payable by the ORIGINATOR and undertakes to repeat such release directly vis-à-vis the relevant tax authorities in the appropriate form.    Der KUNDE entbindet hiermit die befassten Finanzämter in Bezug auf die vom 32 KUNDEN zu entrichtende Umsatzsteuer von der Schweigepflicht und verpflichtet sich, diese Entbindungserklärung direkt gegenüber den Finanzämtern in geeigneter Form zu wiederholen.

 

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SCHEDULE 3 - Condition Precedents    ANHANG 3 - Aufschiebende Bedingungen
The Commencement Date can only occur upon fulfilment of the following condition precedents:    Der Vertragsbeginn ist aufschiebend bedingt durch den Eintritt der folgenden Bedingungen:

 

CP

  

Document

  

Required Form

   I. Corporate Documents   
(1)    Specimen Signatures with scanned identity cards of all signatories    PDF, Original to follow
(2)    Excerpt from the commercial register (dated less than 2 weeks prior to signing)    PDF
(3)    Powers of Attorney (if someone else than the company’s authorized representatives will be signing the documents)    If applicable PDF, Original to follow
(4)    Spin-Off and Acquisition Agreement, signed by all parties, as well as balance sheets for the ORIGINATOR and Constellium Singen GmbH    PDF
   II. AR Financing Facilities Documents   
(5)    Customary information reasonably satisfactory to GE CAPITAL on the existing relevant receivables to be purchased    PDF
(6)    This Agreement , signed by all parties    PDF, Original to follow
(7)    Amendment Agreement regarding reimbursement claims and Amendment Agreement regarding counter claims, in each case signed by all parties    PDF, Original to follow
(8)    Completeness Confirmation of Negative Confirmations issued by the ORIGINATOR    PDF, Original to follow
(9)    Amendment Agreement to the factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH regarding the inclusion of the ORIGINATOR into the EUR 115,000,000 facilities, signed by all parties.    PDF, Original to follow
(10)    Amendment Agreement to the factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH regarding the inclusion of the ORIGINATOR into the EUR 115,000,000 facilities, signed by all parties.    PDF, Original to follow
(11)    Amendment Agreement to the factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A. regarding the inclusion of the ORIGINATOR into the EUR 115,000,000 facilities, signed by all parties.    PDF, Original to follow

 

68


(12)    Amendment Agreement to the factoring Agreement with Constellium Decín s.r.o. regarding the inclusion of the ORIGINATOR into the EUR 115,000,000 facilities, signed by all parties.    PDF, Original to follow
(13)    Performance Guarantee provided by Constellium Holdco II B.V.    PDF, Original to follow
   III. Credit Insurance   
(14)    Receipt of credit insurance policies    PDF
(15)    Standard credit insurance information, evidencing that in each year, the maximum annual indemnification amount under the relevant credit insurance is sufficient to cover the applicable credit limit of the top five debtors    PDF
(16)    Trade Credit Insurance Agreement, signed by all parties    PDF, Original to follow
(17)    Trade Credit Insurance Assignment Agreement, signed by all parties    PDF, Original to follow
   IV. Collection Accounts   
(18)    Account Pledge Agreement including notification to and confirmation by account-holding bank, in each case signed by all parties    PDF, Original to follow
   V. Receivables   
(19)    Statement re Reimbursement Claims, e.g. current status of bonuses granted, etc.    PDF
(20)    Statement re Tolling/Pseudo Tolling Reimbursement Claims    PDF
   VI. Miscellaneous   
(21)    Auditor Agreement (sec. 13.5 of the Agreement) including letter to auditor; signed by all parties    PDF, Original to follow
   VII. Negative pledge confirmations (corresponding reassignments if necessary) of all financing banks and investors   
(22)    Negative pledge confirmation from all banks with a business relationship to the ORIGINATOR    PDF, Original to follow

 

69


Annex 1/Anlage 1

Transfer of French Receivables

FRENCH PROVISIONS

Reference is made to a factoring agreement to be dated [***] May 2016 and entered into between Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG and GE CAPITAL (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

Capitalised terms defined in the Factoring Agreement have, unless expressly defined in this Agreement, the same meaning in this Agreement.

The following clauses of the Factoring Agreement shall be amended/replaced and shall read as follows:

1. AMENDMENTS TO THE FACTORING AGREEMENT

(a) The parties agree to amend Clause 2.2 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by following paragraphs 2.2.1 to 2.2.5:

“2.2.1 For the purpose of effecting the transfer of the French Receivables pursuant to the Factoring Agreement, GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR shall follow the steps and procedure described below.

2.2.2 Transfer mode

On each Transfer Date , the transfer of French Receivables from the ORIGINATOR to GE CAPITAL shall be performed by way of a transfer document ( acte de cession de créances professionnelles ) complying with articles L. 313-23 et seq . and articles R. 313-15 et seq . of the French Monetary and Financial Code ( Code Monétaire et Financier ) and in the form set out in Schedule 1 (a “ French Transfer Document ”).

The statutory guarantee provided for under article L. 313-24 al 2 of the French Monetary and Financial Code ( Code Monétaire et Financier ) shall not apply. As a result, the seller shall not be held liable ( garant solidaire ) of the payment of any assigned Receivable .

2.2.3 Procedure

The ORIGINATOR shall offer to sell French Receivables on each Transfer Date by sending the original of a duly signed French Transfer Document in the form set out in Schedule [1]. The Computer File is attached to each French Transfer Document. The Computer File attached to this French Transfer Document shall allow the identification and individualization of the said French Receivables .

By no later than [6] p.m. on the Transfer Date , GE CAPITAL shall sign and insert the date on the French Transfer Document. The signed and dated French Transfer Document shall constitute the acceptance of GE CAPITAL to purchase the French Receivables offered pursuant to the offer to sell.

 

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2.2.4 Legal consequences

The French Receivables together with any ancillary right attached thereto, shall be transferred to GE CAPITAL and such transfer shall be, as matter of French law:

 

(a) valid between GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR ;

 

(b) enforceable against the corresponding French Debtors ; and

 

(c) enforceable against third parties,

without any other formality, and irrespective of the law governing the French Receivables and the law of the jurisdiction where the corresponding French Debtors are resident, in accordance with articles L. 313-23 et seq. and articles R. 313-15 et seq . of the French Monetary and Financial Code ( Code Monétaire et Financier ) as of the date affixed on the relevant French Transfer Document, on which the relevant French Transfer Document is signed by GE CAPITAL provided however that:

(i) the corresponding Debtors and provided may validly discharge their respective debts under the corresponding Receivables by making payment to the relevant ORIGINATOR until a notice of transfer in the form of Schedule [2] is served to them; and

(ii) the corresponding Debtors may assert all defences (including set-off) arising prior to a notice of transfer referred to in sub-clause (i) above is served on them.

2.2.5 Governing law

This Clause 2.2 shall be governed by French law.”

(b) The parties agree to amend Clause 3 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by inserting the following Clause 3.2. (the remaining paragraphs of Clause 3 being redenominated accordingly):

“3.2 On each Transfer Date , GE CAPITAL shall accept to purchase all the French Receivables set out in an ORIGINATOR’s offer to sell, it being provided that the ORIGINATOR shall have identified in each offer to sell those of the Receivables which fulfill the following criteria (the “ French Eligible Receivables ”) and those which does not fulfill those criteria (the “ French Non Eligible Receivables ”):

 

(i) the Offer Letter is correct and complete and was dispatched by the ORIGINATOR within the time line set out in clause 2.3 of the Factoring Agreement;

 

(ii) the relevant French Receivable is Eligible ;

 

(iii) the French Debtor has been granted a payment term not exceeding 60 days after the relevant invoice date;

 

(iv) the relevant French Receivable is not a claim against an Affiliated Company ;

 

(v) the relevant French Receivable is within the scope of the Debtor Limit ;

 

(vi) the sum of the amount of the relevant Receivable and all other purchased and unpaid French Receivables against the relevant French Debtor or debtor credit unit – within the meaning of § 19 of the German Banking Act – does not exceed 30% of all purchased and unpaid French Receivables of the ORIGINATOR against all of his French Debtors ;

 

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(vii) the payment of the purchase price in respect of the purchased Receivable will not result in an excess of the Maximum Commitment ;

 

(viii) the legal relationship from which such French Receivables arise is governed by French law.

 

(ix) the contracts pursuant to which such French Receivables arises do not contain a confidentiality clause or a clause banning the transfer of such French Receivables or requesting the approval of the parties of the purchaser of such French Receivables ;

 

(x) such French Receivable is a valid obligation enforceable against the French Debtor ;

 

(xi) the payment of such French Receivable in full is (subject to any contractual set-off and right of counterclaim) legally enforceable against the Debtor to whom the invoice is addressed to;

 

(xii) the transfer by the ORIGINATOR to GE CAPITAL of such French Receivable , GE CAPITAL’s ownership of such French Receivable and the transfer to GE CAPITAL of information about a French Debtor is not made in violation of:

 

    the contract pursuant to which such French Receivable arises or any other agreement to which the ORIGINATOR is a party to an extent that would have a material adverse effect on the legal transferability or collectability of, or the legal title of GE CAPITAL to such French Receivable ; or

 

    any applicable laws;

 

(xiii) the principal outstanding amount of such French Receivable , as notified in the relevant invoice, is the amount due in respect of that French Receivable under the relevant contract;

 

(xiv) all sums due from or obligations owed by the ORIGINATOR to the French Debtor hove been paid or performed and the ORIGINATOR does not have any other obligations towards the French Debtor which, in either case, would give the French Debtor such right to reduce the amount payable for the French Receivable ;

 

(xv) the correct name and address of the French Debtor and any required purchase order number appear on each invoice or credit note, on any documents evidencing the French Receivable as required and on the invoice;

 

(xvi) the contracts pursuant to which such French Receivable arises have not been entered into with suppliers of the ORIGINATOR; and

 

(xvii) the contracts pursuant to which such French Receivables arise have not been entered into with a public sector company.”

 

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(c) The parties agree to amend Clause 4 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by inserting the following Clause 4.2 (the remaining paragraphs of Clause 4 being redenominated accordingly):

“4.2 On each Transfer Date , the purchase price for the French Receivables purchased on that date shall be equal to the aggregate Nominal Amount of the French Eligible Receivables purchased on that date, reduced by deductions relating to the relevant French Eligible Receivable (such as discounts) that were granted to the relevant French Debtor by the ORIGINATOR, and deducting the Factoring Commission and the Total Financing Commission .

If a French Non Eligible Receivable becomes a French Eligible Receivable after its Transfer Date because of a modification of the applicable Debtor Limit or otherwise, GE CAPITAL shall then pay to the ORIGINATOR an additional purchase price equal to the aggregate Nominal Amount of such French Receivable that have become Eligible after the Transfer Date , reduced by deductions relating to the relevant French Receivables (such as discounts) that were granted to the relevant French Debtor by the ORIGINATOR, and deducting the Factoring Commission and the Total Financing Commission .

In the Bad Debt Case , the purchase price is reduced by the VAT amount included in the Receivable which the ORIGINATOR must claim from the tax authorities (see clause 6.4), at the time the legal prerequisites allowing a recovery of such VAT amounts are fulfilled. GE CAPITAL undertakes to provide the ORIGINATOR with all information and documents necessary for claiming such VAT amounts from tax authorities.

The purchase price regarding the French Receivables purchased on any given Transfer Date (excluding the Purchase Price Reserve and subject to the settlement of the Total Financing Commission ) shall fall due when such French Receivables are purchased. The Total Financing Commission will be charged monthly in arrears.

Any payments in respect of the purchase price and any charges are made by book entry by GE CAPITAL on the Settlement Account .”

(d) The parties agree to supplement Clause 19 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by adding the following paragraphs 19.5 to 19.7:

“19.5 The ORIGINATOR, after having offered to sell the French Receivables to GE CAPITAL, undertakes not to cancel or vary any of the following with respect to such French Receivable ;

 

    any contract pursuant to which a French Receivable arises; or

 

    any related rights; or

 

    any payment terms or settlement discounts;

without GE CAPITAL’s written consent;

19.6 The ORIGINATOR undertakes to make sure that every contract pursuant to which a French Receivable arises shall only be entered into in the ordinary course of its trading activities as disclosed to GE CAPITAL;”

 

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(e) The parties agree to supplement Clause 2 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by adding the following paragraph 2.5:

“2.5 The ORIGINATOR represents and warrants that the receivables identified in the Offer Letter as being French Eligible Receivables, comply with the eligibility criteria set out in Clause 3.2 of the Factoring Agreement.”

(f) The parties agree to supplement Clause 4.1 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by the following paragraph 4.6:

“4.6 The purchase price for each purchased French Receivable shall be deemed to be inclusive of any value added tax ( VAT ) (if any) and GE CAPITAL shall not be required to increase the purchase price for such VAT.”

(g) The parties agree to replace Clause 6 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by inserting the following paragraph 6.3 (the remaining paragraphs of Clause 6 being redenominated acçordingly):

“6.3 Bad Debt Case means, for the French Receivables , that the relevant Debtor :

(a) fails to pay a Receivable within 120 days after its due date without disputing its obligation to pay prior to or after the expiry of such period; or

(b) is in situation of état de cessation des paiements or is subject to bankruptcy proceedings ( sauvegarde, redressement or liquidation judiciaire ) or amicable reorganisation ( conciliation or mandat ad hoc ) or is in a situation or is subject to a procedure similar to those referred to above.”

(h) The parties agree to supplement Clause 6 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by inserting the following paragraph 6.6:

“6.6 GE CAPITAL hereby grants power of attorney and appoints the ORIGINATOR to act as its agent, in its name and behalf, pursuant to the terms of a mandate ( mandat ) which the ORIGINATOR hereby accepts to collect and recover from the relevant tax administration, VAT which has already been paid or accounted for in respect of assigned French Receivables which have become uncollectible.”

(i) The parties agree to supplement Clause 6 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by adding the following paragraph 6.7:

“6.7 The ORIGINATOR shall take such steps and do all things as may be necessary or appropriate for the recovery and/or reimbursement from the relevant tax administration of the amount of VAT which has already been paid or accounted for in respect of assigned French Receivables which have become uncollectible and are eligible for such recovery and/or reimbursement from the relevant tax administration.

Furthermore, the ORIGINATOR, acting as servicer of the assigned French Receivables shall transfer to GE CAPITAL the amount of VAT bad debt relief corresponding to the said assigned French Receivables that shall be recovered from, or refunded by, the relevant tax administration.”

 

74


(j) The parties agree that Clause 8.1 of the Factoring Agreement shall not apply to the French Receivables .

(k) The parties agree to amend Clause 11.1(b) of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the French Receivables by the following paragraph 11.1(b):

“(b) any and all claims for delivery of such assets, in particular in the event of an unwinding of the contract, as well as the right to rescind the contract including, for the French Receivables, any retention of title right over the goods delivered by the ORIGINATOR under such contract”

(l) The parties agree to amend Clause 13 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by inserting the following paragraph 13.2 (the remaining paragraphs of Clause 13 being redenominated accordingly):

“13.2 In the Disclosed Procedure for the French Receivables, GE CAPITAL (i) will notify the French Debtors of each Transfer Date by delivering a notice of transfer in the form of Schedule 2 and, (ii) may request any or all French Debtors to accept the assignment of French Receivables owing by them in accordance with article L313-29 of the French Monetary and Financial Code.

In addition, the ORIGINATOR will indicate on its invoices a clearly visible note of assignment.”

(m) The parties agree to supplement Clause 21 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the French Receivables by inserting the following paragraph 21 (h):

“(h) Notwithstanding paragraph (c) above, the transfer of the French Receivables made in accordance with Clause 2 shall be governed by French law and the competent court of Paris have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute in relation with such assignment.”

(n) The parties agree to supplement Clause 24 of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by adding the following paragraph:

“All amounts expressed to be payable by the ORIGINATOR (including without limitation the Factoring Commission ) shall be deemed to be exclusive of VAT (if any). If VAT is chargeable on such amounts, the amounts payable by the ORIGINATOR shall be increased by the amount of such VAT.”

(o) The parties agree to amend or supplement Section F (Definitions) of the Factoring Agreement in respect of the assignment of French Receivables by adding the following definitions:

Computer File: Electronic file containing all the relevant information (including all the information set out in Clause 3.1) for the purpose of identifying and individualizing (including, inter alia , the name and details of the French Debtor , the invoice number, the invoice issue date and the due date) the French Receivables which are owned by the ORIGINATOR as at the relevant Transfer Date.

Debtors: All present and future counterparties of the ORIGINATOR to contracts (including the French Debtors ) pursuant to which the ORIGINATOR owes the delivery of goods

 

75


and/or the rendering of services for which the relevant counterparty owes payment, provided that the Debtors included in the Factoring Agreement are set out in schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions).

French Debtor: Any Debtor of a French Receivable .

French Receivable: Any Receivable which is governed by French law and owed by a French Debtor , together with the related rights listed in clause 11.1 of this agreement.

Transfer Date: the date on which the ORIGINATOR sends an Offer Letter to GE CAPITAL, in accordance with clause 2.3 of this agreement.

Receivables: All existing and future payment receivables arising under agreements for the delivery of goods and/or the rendering of services by the ORIGINATOR vis-à-vis its Debtors (including the French Receivables ).

Any and all other provisions of the Factoring Agreement shall apply and shall remain unaffected hereby.

 

76


SCHEDULE 1 to Annex 1

FORM OF FRENCH TRANSFER DOCUMENT

ACTE DE CESSION DE CREANCES PROFESSIONNELLES

régi par les dispositions des Articles L 313-23 à L. 313-34 du Code monétaire et financier

 

1. CÉDANT

[•], une société [•], dont le siège social est situé à v, immatriculée au [•] de [•] sous le numéro [•], représenté par                 , dûment habilité aux fins des présentes, (le Cédant),

 

2. CESSIONNAIRE

GE CAPITAL BANK AG. une société [•] de droit [•], dont le siège social est situé [•], immatriculée au [•] sous le numéro [•], représenté par [nom], [titre], dûment habilité aux fins des présentes (le Cessionnaire),

 

3. DATE

Date de signature et de remise de l’acte au Cessionnaire : le [date à compléter par le Cessionnaire ]

 

4. CESSION DE CRÉANCES

Le Cédant cède au Cessionnaire les Créances désignées au paragraphe 5 sans garantie ni recours quelconques autres que l’existence des Créances et des garanties et accessoires qui s’y attachent et ceux prévus dans le Contrat d’Affacturage (Factoring Agreement ) (le Contrat) en date du [•], selon les modalités et obligations décrites dans ledit Contrat. La cession desdites créances intervient avec jouissance à la date du présent acte de cession de créances (l’Acte de Cession de Créance).

 

5. RÉANCES CÉDÉES

Les créances cédées (les Créances) correspondent à un ensemble de [nombre de Créances à compléter] créances (y compris leurs accessoires) répondant à la définition de French Receivables dont le montant total en principal restant dû est de [à complèter] et qui sont l’ensembles des créances dont la liste figuresur les fichiers informatiques intitulés [à compléter] remis avec le présent Acte de Cession de Créance.

 

77


6. PRIX DE CESSION

[Le prix de cession total des Créances visées à l’Article 5 est de € [ montant ] et est payable conformément à l’Article 4 ( Purchase Price. Due Date, Reserves, Factoring Commission, Total Financing Commission) du Contrat]

 

7. GENERAL

La présente cession de créances est soumise aux dispositions des Articles L. 313-23 et suivants du Code monétaire et financier.

Les termes en langue anglaise figurant aux présentes ont le sens qui leur est donné dans le Contrat.

Le présent acte de cession de créances et le(s) fichier(s) informatique(s) susvisés sont établis en un seul exemplaire original, lequel est remis au Cessionnaire.

[•]

Cédant

Représenté par :

Nom :

Titre : [•]

Le :                     

GE CAPITAL BANK AG,

Cessionnaire

représentée par :

Nom :

Titre :

 

78


Translation for information purposes only

FRENCH TRANSFER DOCUMENT

governed by the provisions of Articles L 313-23 to L 313-34 of the French Code monétaire et financier

 

1. THE SELLER

[ Nome of the Seller ] [ type of company ] , having its registered office at [•]. registered with the [•], under the number [•], represented by [•], duly authorised for the purpose hereof (the Seller ).

 

2. THE PURCHASER

GE CAPITAL BANK AG [ type of company ], having its registered office at [•], registered with the [•], under the number [•], represented by [•]. duly authorised for the purpose hereof (the Purchaser ).

 

3. DATE

The date of delivery of the Transfer Document to the Purchaser:                          [ Date to be affixed by the Purchaser ].

 

4. TRANSFER OF RECEIVABLES

The Seller transfers to the Purchaser the receivables ( Receivables ) referred to in paragraph 5 without warranty or recourse other than those provided for the existence of the Receivables and the security and ancillary rights attached thereto in accordance with the provisions of the Factoring Agreement (the Agreement ) dated [•], in accordance with the terms and conditions described in such Agreement. The transfer of the Receivables occurs on the date of this transfer document.

 

5. TRANSFERRED RECEIVABLES

The transferred receivables (the Receivables ) correspond to [number of Receivables] (including their ancillary rights) being defined as French Receivables, having an outstanding amount of [ to be inserted ] and that constitute all the Receivables named [to be inserted ] in the computer file delivered with this transfer document.

PURCHASE PRICE

[the total purchase price of the Receivables provided for in Article 5 is [ amount ] and is payable in accordance with Clause 4 (Purchase Price, Due Date, Reserves. Factoring Commission. Total Financing Commission) of the Agreement.

 

6. GENERAL

Capitalised terms and expressions used herein in English shall, unless the context requires otherwise, have the meaning ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

79


 

[NAME OF SELLER]

by:
Name:
Title:
Date:

 

[NAME OF PURCHASER]

by:
Name:
Title:
Date:

 

80


SCHEDULE 2 to Annex 1

FORM OF NOTIFICATION LETTER

NOTIFICATION AU DEBITEUR D’UNE CREANCE CEDEE EN APPLICATION DES ARTICLES

L313-23 A L313-34 DU

CODE MONETAIRE ET FINANCIER

[Lieu], le [Date]

Lettre recommandée avec occusé de réception

Monsieur,

Notification au débiteur d’une aréance cédée en application des articles L313-23 à L313-34 du Code monétaire

et financier.

Nous nous référons au Contrat d’Affacturage ( Factoring Agreement ) en date du [•] 2010 conclu entre [•] en

qualité de Cédant ( Seller ) et GE CAPITAL BANK AG en qualité de Cessionnaire (Purchaser) (le Contrat) et à l’Acte de Cession de Créances Professionnelles en date du [•] portant cession par la société [•] en notre faveur.

Dans les conditions prévues par les articles L313-23 à L313-34 du Code monétaire et financier [•] nous a cede les créances suivantes dont vous ètes débiteurs envers elle :

 

Designation du

débfoeur cédé

  

Désignation du

contrat donnant

naissance à la

créance cédée

  

Monta

nt ou

évalua

tion du

monta

nt de

la

créanc

e

cédée

    

Lieu de paiement

prévu

    

Echéan

ce

 

                 [ •]

   [ •]              [•]        [ •]        [•]  

Conformément aux dispositions de l’article L313-28 du Code monétaire et financier, nous vous demandons de cesser, à compter de la présente notification, tout paiement au titre de ces créances à la société [•]. En conséquence, à compter de la présente notification le règlement desdites créances devra être effectué par virement bancaire sur le compte suivant:

 

81


Nom du bénéficiaire : [•];

Banque : [•];

Swift :[•];

Numéro de compte : [•];

IBAN : [•].

Par ailleurs, conformément à l’article R. 313-16 du Code monétaire et financier, nous vous demandons de faire figurer sur toute facture présente ou future relative à toute Créance qui ne serait pas en notre possession les mentions obligatoires suivantes : “ La créance relative à la présente facture a été cédée à GE Capital Bank AG dans le cadre des articles L. 313-23 à L. 313-34 du Code monétaire et financier. Le paiement doit être effectué par virement au compte n° [lnsérer références IBAN du numéro de compte] chez [Insérer nom de la banque teneuse de compte] .

Fait à [ •]

le                                      

[ •]

Par:                                                  

Nom: [ name ]

 

82


Translation for information purposes only

FORM OF LETTER OF NOTIFICATION

NOTIFICATION TO THE FRENCH DEBTOR OF THE TRANSFER OF RECEIVABLES IN

ACCORDANCE TO ARTICLE

313623 TO 313-34 OF THE FRENCH MONETARY AND FINANCIAL CODE

[place], [date]

Registered letter with recorded delivery

Dear Sirs,

Notification to the French Debtor of the transfer of French Receivables in accordance to Article 313-23 to 313- 34 of the French Monetary and Financial Code

We refer to a Factoring Agreement dated [•] 2010 entered into between [•] as Seller and GE CAPITAL BANK as

Purchaser (the Agreement) and to the French Transfer Document dated [•], under which transfer of receivables has been made to our benefit.

In accordance with article L.313-23 to L.313-34 of the French Monetary and Financial Code, [•] has transferred to us the following receivables in respect of which you are the debtor:

 

Transferred

Debtor

  

Contract under which

the transferred

receivable arise

   Amount or valuation
of the transferred
receivable
   Contemplat
ed place of
payment
   Maturity
date
[ •]    [ •]    [•]    [•]    [•]

In accordance with the provisions of article L.313-28 of the French Monetary and Financial Code, we hereby instruct you to stop making payment of any sum due under the receivables to [•]. As from the date of receipt of this notice, we also instruct you to make payment of such sum due by your company under the receivables by direct debit bank transfer to the credit of the following bank account:

Name of the beneficiary:

Account Bank:

Swift:

Account number:

 

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IBAN:

Moreover, pursuant to Article R. 313-16 of the French Monetary and Financial Code, we hereby request you that all present and future invoice(s) not in our possession relating to the Receivables include the following compulsory mention: “ The receivable arising out of the present invoice has been assigned to GE Capital Bank AG pursuant to Articles L. 313-23 à L. 313-34 of the French Monetary and Financial Code. Payment must be made by wire transfer to the following account No. [Insert IBAN references] with [Insert name of bank account].

Done in [•]

On                                                          

[ •]

By:                                                          

Name:                                                      

 

84


ANLAGE 2

FORMULAR FÜR FORDERUNGSANZEIGEN

A. German

 

GE Capital Bank AG       Kundennummer:            001 /
Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2                                              
55130 Mainz       Kunde:     
                                                                    
            
          
Währung:              EURO           
            

EINREICHUNGSFORMULAR ZUM FACTORINGVERTRAG Wir bestätigen hiermit, dass die mit der heutigen Datenübertragung durch Factoring-Satzaufbau oder Eingabe in Foctorlink

◾ angezeigten Forderungen bestehen, abtretbar und frei von jeglichen Einwendungen, Einreden und Rechten Dritter sind, die gegen GE Capital geltend gemacht werden können und die über die Forderungen ausgestellten Rechnungen den Abnehmern zugegangen sind und

◾ die übermittelten Rechnungen und Gutschriften die unten aufgeführten Gesamtbeträge haben:

 

Anzahl

  

Belegart

  

Währung

  

Betrag

   Rechnungen    EUR   
   Gutschriften    EUR   

 

 

Ort, Datum

    

 

Stempel und rechtsverbindliche Unterschrift

Nur für interne Vermerke der GE Capital Bank AGI

 

85


Joumol-Nr.        

 

Korrekturen:

 

  

 

Gebucht:

       

•    Fehler in Abstimmsumme

 

                                                        
     

•    Sonstiges

                   Datum

Abstimmsumme:     

               

                                                     

                Handzeichen

 

86


ANNEX 2

FORM OF OFFER LETTER

B. English

 

GE Capital Bank AG      
Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2      
55130 Mainz    ORIGINATOR    001/
   number:   
   ORIGINATOR:   
Currency:         EURO      

Offer Letter to the Factoring Agreement We hereby acknowledge that, in respect of today’s data transmission via Factoring-Satzaufbau or data entry in Factorlink,

• the notified Receivables exist, are assignable and free of any objections and defenses and third party rights, which can be asserted against GE CAPITAL Further, the debtors have received invoices for the relevant receivables and

• the transmitted invoices and credit notes sum up to the below stated total amount:

 

Number

  

Invoices / Credit Notes

  

Currency

    
   Invoices total    EUR   
   Credit Notes total    EUR   

We hereby acknowledge and repeat precautionary the assignment and the purchase offer for the notified Receivables.

We will upon your request at any time submit Receivables records (in particular invoices, credit notes, debit notes, orders, order confirmations and bills of delivery) relating to this offer letter without undue delay.

For internal notes of GE Capital Bank AGI

 

87


Journal-No.        

Corrections:

 

   Booked:
       

•    Mistakes in

    Reconciliation Amount

 

  

                                             

                    Date

     

•    Other

  
           

Reconciliation         

Amount :

               

                                             

                Signature

                

 

Place, Date                   

 

Stamp and legally binding signature

 

88


ANNEX 3

TRADE CREDIT INSURANCE AGREEMENT

Supplement Agreement

to a Factoring Agreement

between

GE Capital Bank AG,

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2,

55130 Mainz, Germany

hereinafter referred to as “GE Capital”

and

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG,

Alusingen-Platz 1,

78224 Singen, Germany

hereinafter referred to as “Originator”

The Originator has entered into a trade credit insurance agreement insurance policy no. 939093 with Atradius Credit Insurance N.V., a company established and existing under the laws of the Netherlands, with its registered office at David Ricardostraat 1, 1006 JS Amsterdam, the Netherlands, acting through Atradius Credit Insurance N.V., with its registered office at Opladener Strasse 14, 50679 Köln, Deutschland, registered with the commercial register (Handelsregister) of the local court (Amtsgericht) of Köln, with registration number HRB 53815. As a part of this agreement certain credit limits are assigned to the Originator’s customers from time to time.

GE Capital will use these limits as a basis for the allocation of the Debtor Limits pursuant to section 7 of the Factoring Agreement. GE Capital, however, reserves the right to modify the Debtor Limits higher or lower than set by the credit insurer’s granted limits within the boundaries of the Factoring Agreement. Within the limit set out by GE Capital, GE Capital assumes the Bad Debt Coverage (Delkrederehaftung) pursuant to section 6 of the Factoring Agreement.

GE Capital must be informed without undue delay (unverzüglich) about any granting, changes and cancellations of limits of which the Originator is aware of by way of electronic transfer (i.e. the Originator shall provide GE Capital via email with scanned copies of the granted/changed/cancelled limits, as applicable).

The Originator undertakes to pay the remuneration (fees, costs, etc.) when due to the credit insurer in accordance with the insurance policy.

The Originator hereby undertakes to assign to GE Capital the payment claims against the credit insurer in accordance with a separate assignment agreement and to request the credit insurer to approve the terms of such assignment. Furthermore, the Originator shall request the

 

89


credit insurer to accept that GE Capital shall conduct the collection procedure upon revocation of the Undisclosed Procedure. The relevant declarations are to be provided to GE Capital as soon as they have been received from the relevant credit insurance provider.

This Agreement shall be governed by German law. The courts in Mainz shall have jurisdiction.

Mainz,                                     

GE CAPITAL BANK AG

 

                                                                                          

Signed by:

Title:

Děčin,                                 

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG

 

                                                                                          

Signed by:

Title:

 

90


ANLAGE 3

WARENKREDITVERSICHERUNGSVERTRAG

Nachtrag

zu einem Factoringvertrag

zwischen

GE Capital Bank AG,

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2,

55130 Mainz, Deutschland

nachstehend “GE Capital” genannt

und

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG,

Alusingen-Platz 1,

75224 Singen

nachstehend “Kunde” genannt

Der Kunde hat mit Atradius Credit Insurance N.V ., eine Gesellschaft, gegründet und bestehend unter dem Recht des Königreichs der Niederlande, mit Geschäftssitz in David Ricardostraat 1, 1006 JS Amsterdam, Niederlande, diese handelnd durch Atradius Credit Insurance N.V . , mit Geschäftssitz in Opladener Strasse 14, 50679 Köln, Deutschland, registriert im Handelsregister des Amtsgerichts in Köln unter der Nummer HRB 53815 einen Warenkreditversicherungsvertrag (Versicherungsschein-Nr. 939093 abgeschlossen. Im Rahmen dieses Vertrages wurden gelegentlich Limite auf die Abnehmer des Kunden gezeichnet.

GE Capital wird diese Limite als Grundlage für die Vergabe von Abnehmerlimiten gemäß Ziffer 7 des Factoringvertrags verwenden. GE Capital behält sich jedoch das Recht vor, die Abnehmerlimite höher oder auch niedriger als die vom Kreditversicherer vergebenen Limite festzusetzen. Im Rahmen der von ihr festgesetzten Limite übernimmt GE Capital die Delkrederehaftung gemäß Ziffer 6 des Factoringvertrages.

GE Capital ist über alle Limiteinräumungen, -veränderungen und -streichungen, die dem Kunden bekannt sind, durch elektronische Datenübermittlung zu unterrichten (Beispiel: Der Kunde stellt GE Capital eingescannte Kopien über Limiteinräumungen, -Veränderungen und—Streichungen per Email zur Verfügung).

Der Kunde verpflichtet sich, Entgelte (Gebühren, Kosten, etc.) gemäß dem Versicherungsschein zu entrichten, wenn sie beim Kreditversicherer fällig werden.

Der Kunde verpflichtet sich hiermit, die Auszahlungsansprüche gegenüber dem Kreditversicherer gemäß gesonderter Abtretungserklärung an GE Capital abzutreten und die Zustimmung des Kreditversicherers zur Abtretung einzuholen. Des Weiteren wird der Kunde den Kreditversicherer dazu auffordern, seine Einwilligung zur Durchführung des Inkassoverfahrens im Stillen Verfahren bis auf Widerruf zu erteilen. Die entsprechenden

 

91


Erklärungen sind, sobald sie vom jeweiligen Kreditversicherer empfangen wurden, GE Capital zur Verfügung zu stellen.

Diese Vereinbarung unterliegt deutschem Recht. Gerichtsstand ist Mainz.

Mainz,                                 

GE Capital Bank AG

 

                                                                                      

Name:

Position:

Singen,                                 

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG

 

                                                                                      

Name:

Position:

 

92


ANNEX 4

TRANSLATION: This English translation is for your convenience only and shall not be binding. In the event of a discrepancy between the German version and the English translation, the German version shall prevail.

AGREEMENT ON ASSIGNMENT OF CLAIMS FROM TRADE CREDIT

INSURANCE

We, the company

Constellium Rolled Products GmbH & Co. KG

Alusingen Platz 1

78224 Singen, Deutschland

hereby, assign any and all existing and future claims against

Atradius Kreditversicherung

Ndl. der Atradius Credit Insurance N.V.

Opladener Str. 14

50585 Köln

arising under the Trade Credit Insurance

Insurance Policy No. 939093

to

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2

55130 Mainz

Simultaneously, the Trade Credit Insurer is authorized to pass decisions of limits directly to GE Capital Bank AG and to include GE Capital Bank AG as co-insured party ( Mitversicherte ) under the Trade Credit Insurance.

GE Capital Bank AG and the Trade Credit Insurer are authorized to mutually exchange any necessary information.

Singen,

 

 

Company’s stamp/Signatures

Hereby we accept the assignment:

Mainz,

GE Capital Bank AG

 

93


NOTIFICATION OF ASSIGNMENT TO TRADE CREDIT INSURER

 

Atradius Kreditversicherung    Philipp Schiemann
Ndl. der Atradius Credit Insurance N.V.    Teamleader large Clients

Opladener Str. 14

50585 Köln

  

Factoring

 

   T +49(0) 6131 4647 235
   M +49(0) 172 2701754
   F +49(0) 6131 809 839
   E philipp.schiemann@ge.com
   XX. Monat Jahr

Abtretungserklörung der Fa. Constellium Rolled Products GmbH & Co. KG

Vers.-Scheln-Nr.: 939093

Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,

die oben genannte Firma hat ihre gegen die Atradius Kreditversicherung, Ndl. der Atradius Credit Insurance N.V. zustehenden, gegenwärtigen und zukünftigen Ansprüche aus der Kreditversicherung gemäß Versicherungsschein Nr. 939093 an uns, die

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2

55130 Mainz

abgetreten (siehe Anlage).

Wir bitten Sie, uns Ihre Zustimmung bezüglich der vorgenannten Abtretung schriftlich zu bestätigen. Im Falle Ihrer Zustimmung bitten wir Sie, alle Zahlungen aus den Ansprüchen auf das

 

Konto Nr.

   300 112 363

BLZ:

   550 305 00

SWIFT:

   CPLADE55

IBAN:

   DE40 5503 0500 0300 1123 63

bei der GE Capital Bank AG, Mainz zu veranlassen.

Wir bitten Sie weiterhin um Berücksichtigung folgender Punkte:

 

  1. Bitte nehmen Sie die Klausel .Versicherungsschutz für verkaufte Forderungen* - und damit die GE Capital Bank AG, Mainz als Mitversicherter - mit in den Vertrag auf.

 

  2. Bezüglich des Forderungseinzugs bitten wir Sie um Aufnahme der GE Capital Bank AG als zusätzlich anerkannte Inkassostelle.

 

94


  3. Der Protracted Default gilt grundsätzlich als vereinbart- sofern dieser nicht schon Bestandteil des Vertrags ist.

 

  4. Die Selbstbeteiligung wird grundsätzlich auf 10 % reduziert.

Für Ihre Bemühungen bedanken wir uns im Voraus und verbleiben

mit freundlichen Grüßen

GE Capital Bank AG

Anlagen

 

95


ANLAGE 4

VEREINBARUNG

zwischen

GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2, 55130 Mainz

- nachfolgend “GE CAPITAL” genannt -

und

Constellium Rolled Products GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen

- nachfolgend “KUNDE” genannt -

Der KUNDE tritt hiermit die ihm zustehenden, gegenwärtigen und zukünftigen Ansprüche aus dem Kreditversicherungsvertrag 939093 mit der

Atradlus Kreditversicherung, Ndl. der Atradius Credit Insurance N.V.,

Opladener Str. 14, 50585 Köln

- nachfolgend “KREDITVERSICHERER” genannt -

Versicherungsschein-Nr.:

an GE CAPITAL ab, GE CAPITAL nimmt die Abtretung an.

Gleichzeitig ermächtigt der KUNDE den KREDITVERSICHERER, Limitentscheidungen direkt an GE CAPITAL weiterzugeben und diese als Mitversicherte in den Kreditversicherungsvertrag aufzunehmen. GE CAPITAL und der KREDITVERSICHERER sind berechtigt, wechselseitig notwendige Informationen auszutauschen.

 

Singen, den     Mainz, den
Constellium Rolled Products GmbH & Co. KG     GE Capital Bank AG

GE CAPITAL Stand 01/2016

 

96


Execution Version

ANNEX 5

ACCOUNT PLEDGE AGREEMENT

Account Pledge and Trust Agreement

the “ Agreement

between

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

-hereinafter referred to as “GE CAPITAL”-

as Trustor and Pledgee

and

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG

Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany

-hereinafter referred to as “ORIGINATOR”

as Trustee and Pledgor

1. Pledged Account, Obligation to Transfer

1.1 GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR have entered into a Factoring Agreement under which GE CAPITAL acquires accounts receivables from the ORIGINATOR owed by its debtors, thus GE CAPITAL is entitled to debtors’ payments.

1.2 The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL hereby agree that the ORIGINATOR’s following bank account shall be the Pledged Account as defined in the Factoring Agreement:

IBAN.: DE28 692700 3800 750794 00

Account Bank: Deutsche Bank AG

BIC: DEUTDE6F692

1.3 The ORIGINATOR is obliged vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL to forward to GE CAPITAL without undue delay all incoming payments to the Pledged Account as well as all payments otherwise received from debtors.

 

97


2. Pledge

2.1 To secure any and all of GE CAPITAL’s present and future claims against the ORIGINATOR pursuant to section 1.3 and arising out of the Factoring Agreement, in particular from clause 5 of the Factoring Agreement, and its performance, and to secure any and all other present and future claims of GE CAPITAL against the ORIGINATOR arising from the business relationship, the ORIGINATOR hereby pledges any and all of its rights to payment of any and all future credits (surplus) relating to the Pledged Account, which the ORIGINATOR is entitled to, regarding balances from current accounts ( Kontokorrent ) of the Pledged Account as well as the rights to the daily balance resulting from the current account agreement related to current payouts between balancing of accounts, including the right to transfer any credits standing to the account of the Pledged Account and the right to credit the received amounts (altogether “Claims on Credit and from Credit” ) to GE CAPITAL. GE CAPITAL hereby accepts such pledge.

3. Collection Authority ( Einziehungsermächtigung )

3.1 The ORIGINATOR is solely entitled to claim performance in favor to GE CAPITAL.

3.2 GE CAPITAL is solely entitled to collect all Claims on Credit and from Credit – especially even those prior to the maturity of the pledge (Pfandreife) (the “ Collection Authority ”).

3.3 GE CAPITAL undertakes vis-à-vis the ORIGINATOR to pay out to the ORIGINATOR, to the extent permitted by law, any amount paid into the Pledged Account which have been made towards any receivables which have verifiably not been assigned or transferred to GE CAPITAL under or in connection with the Factoring Agreement.

4. Trust Arrangement and waiver from the confidentiality obligation

4.1 The ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL agree that the Pledged Account is held by the ORIGINATOR as a trustee on its own behalf but only for the sole purpose of providing security for GE CAPITAL (the “ Trust Arrangement ”).

The funds and assets paid to the Pledged Account shall be transferred to GE CAPITAL only. The ORIGINATOR is obliged to refrain from disposing of any amounts standing to the credit of the Pledged Account and not to otherwise charge the Pledged Account. If any of the ORIGINATOR’s debtors pay to any account other than the Pledged Account, the ORIGINATOR agrees to forward these payments to GE CAPITAL or to the Pledged Account without undue delay.

4.2 The ORIGINATOR hereby releases the account bank vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL from any confidentiality obligations with respect to the Pledged Account.

5. Notification, Receipt and Subordination / Waiver

5.1 The ORIGINATOR agrees vis-à-vis GE CAPITAL to notify the account bank of the pledge, the Collection Authority ( Einziehungsermächtigung ), the Trust Arrangement and the waiver from the confidentiality obligations (Notification).

 

98


5.2 Furthermore, the ORIGINATOR undertakes to provide GE CAPITAL with the account bank’s acknowledgement whereupon the account bank:

(a) confirms the receipt of the Notification; and explains that it

(b) has not been provided with any other notifications of pledges and that the account bank has no knowledge of other third party rights with respect to the Pledged Account ;

(c) subordinates any of its statutory pledges to pledges created pursuant to this Agreement – except for the following claims as set out under section 5.3 below – and unconditionally and irrevocably waives any retention and set-off rights that it may have with respect to the ORIGINATOR’s receivables due from the Pledged Account as well as to other pledged account deductions (the “Subordination / Waiver” );

(d) issues bank statements to both the ORIGINATOR and GE CAPITAL in accordance with the ORIGINATOR’s order to issue bank statements and related data / documents in paper or digital form;

(e) acknowledges that the ORIGINATOR is only entitled to request payments for Claims on Credit and from Credit to GE CAPITAL and that only GE CAPITAL is entitled to collect the Claims on Credit and from Credit – also prior to the maturity of the pledge.

5.3 The Subordination / Waiver shall not apply with respect to claims arising from and relating to:

(a) cancellation and correction entries;

(b) reversals of reserved bookings (e.g. check or direct debit) and unintentional payments;

(c) fees and other account charges or fees in the context of normal business;

provided, however, that such claims as set out in these sections 5.3 (a) – (c) above arise in connection with the Pledged Account and do not derive from a different relationship between the ORIGINATOR and the account bank.

5.4 GE CAPITAL hereby declares vis-à-vis the account bank (contract for the benefit of third parties—§ 328 of the German Civil Code) that the Trust Arrangement between GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR does not affect the account bank’s subordinated pledge and that GE CAPITAL is jointly and severally liable in addition to the ORIGINATOR for all claims, arising from the issues mentioned in 5.3.

6 ORIGINATOR’s guarantee

6.1 The ORIGINATOR represents and warrants that there are no rights of third parties related to the pledged claims and rights, except for the pledges pursuant to the account bank’s standard terms and conditions ( AGB Pfandrechte ).

6.2 It’s the ORIGINATOR’s duty to promptly notify GE CAPITAL in case of third parties claiming such rights.

7. Authorization

7.1 The ORIGINATOR authorizes GE CAPITAL to notify the account bank of the pledge and to receive any declarations from the account bank. GE CAPITAL and the ORIGINATOR agree to inform each other about any declarations received from the account bank without undue delay (the “ Authorization ”).

 

99


7.2 The ORIGINATOR’s obligation as set out in section 5 above remains unaffected by this precautionary issued Authorization.

8. Other Regulations

8.1 This Agreement and a security interest of GE CAPITAL, constituted after or due to this Agreement shall be valid and will not be released until all secured debt has been paid in full under the appropriate conditions.

8.2 If any provisions of this Agreement are or become unlawful, invalid or infeasible, the lawfulness / validity or feasibility of the remaining provisions will not be affected thereby.

8.3 This Agreement shall be governed by German law.

8.4 This Agreement shall be executed in the German and the English language; both versions, the German as well as the English language versions shall be binding versions. The German version shall prevail in case of any discrepancy between the German and the English version.

SIGNATURES

ACCOUNT PLEDGE AGREEMENT

 

Singen, 27 May 2016       Mainz, 27 May 2016_
         
Constellium Rolled Products Singen       GE Capital Bank AG
GmbH & Co. KG      

 

100


SCHEDULE 1 to Annex 5 – NOTICE OF PLEDGE

From : Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany

To: Deutsche Bank AG, August-Ruf-Straße 8, 78224 Singen, Germany

Pledge of Accounts between Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany and GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von-Brentano-Steaße 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

Account-IBAN: DE28 692700 3800 750794 00, BIC: DEUTDE6F692

- hereinafter referred to as “Pledged Account”

Dear [●],

We hereby notify you of the fact that by agreement dated 27 May 2016 we pledged any and all present and future claims to payment of any and all present and future credits (surplus), which we are entitled to, regarding balances from current accounts (Kontokorrent), as well as the rights to the daily balance resulting from the current account agreement related to current payouts between balancing of accounts, including the right to transfer any credits standing to the account and the right to credit the received amounts (altogether “ Claims on Credit and from Credit ”) to GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany.

Notwithstanding of the statutory scheme, GE Capital Bank AG is exclusively entitled to collect all Claims in Credit and from Credit – especially prior to the maturity of the pledge (Pfandreife). We are only entitled to demand performance to GE Capital Bank AG.

Furthermore we release you vis-à-vis GE Capital Bank AG from any confidentiality obligation, especially from the banking secrecy, with respect to the Pledged Account. We hereby instruct you to send to GE Capital Bank AG duplicates of bank statements or copies of the bank statements and, on request, the corresponding data / supporting documents in paper or digital form. We also agree that GE Capital Bank AG receives an electronic authorization information (elektronische Auskunftsberechtigung) related to the Pledged Account.

Kindly confirm to GE Capital Bank AG that you have not received any other notification of a pledge relating to the Pledged Account and that you do not have any knowledge of any third parties rights relating to the Pledged Account.

Furthermore, kindly subordinate your pledges to the pledge granted to GE Capital Bank AG and waive any retention and set-off rights that you may have with respect to the Pledged Account as well as any other deductions from the Pledged Account (the “ Subordination / Waiver ”)

The Subordination / Waiver does not apply to claims arising from or in connection with cancellation and correction bookings, reversals of reserved bookings (e.g. check or direct debit) and unintentional payment as well as fees and other account charges or fees in the ordinary course of business, provided that the relevant facts exclusively concerns the Pledged Account and are not due to any other relation between you and us.

 

101


We keep the Pledged Account as a trustee for GE Capital Bank AG. The trust arrangement between GE Capital Bank AG and us does not affect your subordinated pledge to be remained unaffected. The payments received to the Pledged Account only serve the purpose to be transferred to GE Capital Bank AG.

The pledge of the account shall terminate as soon as GE Capital Bank AG will have notified you of a respective release.

Furthermore, we inform you that GE Capital Bank AG has assumed the joint and several liability (by virtue of a contract for the benefit of third parties – § 328 of the German Civil Code) for your rights against us arising from or in connection with the cancellation and correction bookings, reversals of reserved bookings and unintentional payments as well as fees and other account charges or fees in the ordinary course of business, provided that the relevant facts concern exclusively the Pledged Account and is not due to any other relation between you and us.

We ask you to acknowledge the receipt of this notice and that you agree with the above regulations by sending the confirmation legally valid signed by you to GE Capital Bank AG.

Kind regards,

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG

 

102


SCHEDULE TO THE NOTICE OF PLEDGE

[ on the letterhead of Account Bank ]

To

GE Capital Bank AG (“GE CAPITAL”)

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2

55130 Mainz, Germany

Notification of account pledge re Account-IBAN. DE28 692700 3800 750794 00, BIC DEUTDE6F692 , Account Holder: Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1,78224 Singen, Germany

Dear Madam or Sir,

We refer to the notice dated 27 May 2016 of Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany and confirm the receipt of the notification of the pledge.

We hereby acknowledge,

 

a) that we have not received any other notification of pledge and that we don’t know about any third party rights in respect to this account;

 

b) that we subordinate all our pledges to the pledge created in favor of GE CAPITAL and unconditionally and irrevocably (but subject to the restrictions in the next following paragraph) waive any of our retention and set-off rights that we may have with respect to the pledged account as well as other deductions from the pledged account (Subordination /Waiver).

The Subordination / Waiver shall not apply with respect to all claims even if not due or conditional arising from and relating to cancellation and correction entries, reversals of reserved bookings (e.g. check or direct debit) and unintentional payments, fees and other account charges or fees in the context of normal business, provided that such claims arise in connection with the pledged account and do not derive from a different relationship between us and the pledgor.

We have taken notice of the fact that GE CAPITAL has taken over the joint and several liability (§ 328 / German Civil Code) for our claims against the ORIGINATOR arising from and relating to cancellation and correction entries, reversals of reserved bookings and unintentional payments, fees and other account charges or fees in the context of normal business, provided that, however, that such claims arise in connection with the pledged account and do not derive from a different relationship between us and the ORIGINATOR;

 

103


c) to consider that the pledgor is solely entitled to claim performance in favor of GE CAPITAL and that GE CAPITAL is entitled particularly to collect the Claims on Credit and from Credit - especially even prior to the maturity of the pledge (Pfandreife). We will respect the Collection Authority (Einziehungsermächtigung) by GE Capital Bank AG especially prior to maturity of the pledge, even in the case of bankruptcy or any revocation of the ORIGINATOR; and

 

d) that we on the instruction of the ORIGINATOR send duplicates of bank statements or copies of bank statements and – on request – the corresponding data / supporting documents in paper or digital form, to the extent available to us, to GE CAPITAL and that GE CAPITAL receives an electronic authorization of information for the pledged account.

The pledge of the account shall be terminated if GE CAPITAL has shown us the release of the lien.

Kind regards

Deutsche Bank AG

 

104


ANLAGE 5

KONTOVERPFÄNDUNGSVERTRAG

Kontenverpfändungs- und Treuhandvertrag

zwischen

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2, 55130 Mainz, Deutschland

– nachstehend “GE CAPITAL” genannt –

als Treugeber und Pfandgläubiger

und

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG

Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Deutschland

– nachstehend “KUNDE” genannt –

als Treuhänder und Verpfänder

1. Verpfändetes Bankkonto; Weiterleitungspfticht

1.1 GE CAPITAL und der KUNDE haben einen Factoringvertrag geschlossen, aufgrund dessen GE CAPITAL Forderungen des KUNDEN gegen seine Abnehmer erwirbt und somit die Abnehmerzahlungen GE CAPITAL zustehen.

1.2 Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL vereinbaren hierdurch, dass folgendes Bankkonto des KUNDEN Verpfändetes Bankkonto im Sinne des Factoringvertrages ist:

IBAN.: DE28 692700 3800 750794 00

Kreditinstitut: Deutsche Bank AG

BIC: DEUTDE6F692

1.3 Der KUNDE ist gegenüber GE CAPITAL verpflichtet, alle auf dem Verpfändeten Bankkonto eingehenden Zahlungen sowie sonst bei ihm eingehende Abnehmerzahlungen unverzüglich an GE CAPITAL weiterzuleiten.

2. Verpfändung

Zur Sicherung aller gegenwärtigen und zukünftigen Ansprüche von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN gemäß Ziffer 1.3 und aus dem Factoringvertrag, insbesondere gemäß Ziffer 5 des Factoringvertrages, und seiner Durchführung und zur Sicherung aller gegenwärtige und zukünftigen Ansprüche von GE CAPITAL gegen den KUNDEN aus der Geschäftsbeziehung, verpfändet der KUNDE hierdurch seine sämtlichen gegenwärtigen und zukünftigen Ansprüche aus dem Verpfändeten Bankkonto auf Auszahlung aller

 

105


gegenwärtigen und künftigen Überschüsse (Guthaben), die dem KUNDEN bei Saldoziehung aus dem in laufender Rechnung (Kontokorrent) geführten Verpfändeten Bankkonto zustehen, sowie aus dem das Verpfändete Bankkonto betreffenden Girovertrag auf fortlaufende Auszahlung des sich zwischen den Rechnungsabschlüssen ergebenden Tagesguthabens unter Einschiuss des Rechts, über diese Guthaben durch Überweisungsaufträge zu verfügen und des Anspruchs auf Gutschrift der eingehenden Beträge (zusammen: Ansprüche auf Gutschrift und aus Guthaben) an GE CAPITAL. GE CAPITAL nimmt diese Verpfändung hierdurch an.

3. Einziehungsvereinbarung

3.1 Der KUNDE ist nur berechtigt, Leistung an GE CAPITAL zu verlangen.

3.2 GE CAPITAL ist -insbesondere auch vor Pfandreife- allein zur Einziehung der Ansprüche auf Gutschrift und aus Guthaben berechtigt.

3.3 GE CAPITAL verpflichtet sich gegenüber dem KUNDEN, soweit dies gesetzlich zulässig ist, alle Beträge an die KUNDEN auszuzahlen, die in die Verpfändeten Bankkonten gezahlt wurden und die auf eine Forderung geleistet wurden, die nachweisbar nicht an GE CAPITAL in Zusammenhang mit dem Factoringvertrag abgetreten oder übertragen wurden.

4. Treuhandvereinbarung und Befreiung von der Verschwiegenheitsverpflichtung

4.1 Der KUNDE und GE CAPITAL sind sich darüber einig, dass das Verpfändete Bankkonto vom KUNDEN als Treuhänder in eigenem Namen aber nur für den alleinigen Zweck der Sicherheitenbestellung für GE CAPITAL geführt wird (Treuhandvereinbarung). Die eingehenden Gelder und Guthaben auf dem Verpfändeten Bankkonto dienen nur dem Zweck ihrer Weiterleitung an GE CAPITAL. Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, jede andere Verfügung über Ansprüche aus Guthaben zu unterlassen und keine Belastungen des Verpfändeten Bankkontos vorzunehmen. Sollten Abnehmerzahlungen auf anderen als dem Verpfändeten Bankkonto eingehen, verpflichtet sich der KUNDE, diese unverzüglich an GE CAPITAL oder auf ein Verpfändetes Bankkonto weiterzuleiten.

4.2 Der KUNDE befreit hierdurch das Kreditinstitut gegenüber GE CAPITAL von allen Verschwiegenheitsverpflichtungen in Bezug auf das Verpfändete Bankkonto.

5. Anzeige, Empfangsbestätigung und Rangrücktritt/Verzicht

5.1 Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich gegenüber GE CAPITAL, dem Kreditinstitut die Verpfändung, die Einziehungsvereinbarung, die Treuhandvereinbarung und die Befreiung von der Verschwiegenheitsverpflichtung anzuzeigen (Anzeige).

5.2 Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich gegenüber GE CAPITAL des Weiteren, eine Erklärung des Kreditinstitutes beizubringen, wonach das Kreditinstitut:

(a) den Empfang der Anzeige bestätigt und erklärt, dass

(b) bisher keine anderweitige Verpfändungsanzeige erhalten hat und ihm auch sonst Rechte Dritter in Bezug auf das Verpfändete Bankkonto nicht bekannt sind,

 

106


(c) mit alien ihm zustehenden Pfandrechten außer in den Fällen nachstehender Ziffer 5.3 während der Verpfändung hinter die Rechte von GE CAPITAL aufgrund dieser Verpfändungsvereinbarung zurücktritt und gegen über GE CAPITAL unbedingt und unwiderruflich auf die Geltendmachung der Rechte zur Aufrechnung mit und zur Zurückbehaltung gegenüber dem Verpfänder zustehenden Forderungen aus dem verpfändeten Konto sowie auf sonstige Absetzungen vom verpfändeten Konto veizichtet (Rangrücktritt/Verzicht).

(d) die Kontoauszüge dem KUNDEN und GE CAPITAL aufgrund des seitens des KUNDEN insoweit erteilten Auftrages, Kopien der Kontoauszüge und der dazugehörigen Daten/Belege in Papier - oder digitaler Form zu überlassen.

(e) anerkennt, dass der KUNDE nur berechtigt ist, Zahlung für Ansprüche auf Gutschrift und aus Guthaben an GE CAPITAL zu verlangen und dass nur GE CAPITAL zur Einziehung von Ansprüchen auf Gutschrift und aus Guthaben – auch für solche vor Pfandreife – berechtigt ist.

5.3 Der Rangrücktritt/Verzicht gilt nicht für folgende Ansprüche aus und im Zusammenhang mit:

(a) Storno- und Berichtigungsbuchungen;

(b) Rükbelastungen von Vorbehaltsbuchungen (z. B. aus Scheck oder Lastschrifteinzügen) und Fehlüberweisungen; und

(c) Gebühren und andere Kontobelastungen oder Gebühren im Rahmen des normalen Geschäftsverkehrs.

Für die Anwendung der Punkte 5.3 (a) – (c) ist jedoch Voraussetzung, dass der Sachverhalt ausschließlich das Verpfändete Bankkonto betrifft und nicht aus einer anderen Beziehung zwischen dem KUNDEN und dem Kreditinstitut herrührt.

GE CAPITAL erklärt hiermit gegenüber dem Kreditinstitut (Vertrag zugunsten Dritter – § 328 BGB), dass das Treuhandverhältnis zwischen GE CAPITAL und dem KUNDEN das nachrangige Pfandrecht des Kreditinstitutes unberührt lässt und dass GE CAPITAL für Ansprüche des Kreditinstituts, die ausschließlich aus den in 5.3 genannten Sachverhalten entstehen, neben dem KUNDEN die gesamtschuldnerische Haftung übernimmt.

6. Garantie des KUNDEN

6.1 Der KUNDE garantiert, dass keine Rechte Dritter an den verpfändeten Ansprüchen und Rechten bestehen, mit Ausnahmen solcher Pfandrechte, die gemäß standardisierter Allgemeiner Geschäftsbedingungen von Banken existieren (AGB-Pfandrechte).

6.2 Der KUNDE verpflichtet sich, GE CAPITAL umgehend zu verständigen, wenn Dritte solche Rechte geltend machen.

7. Vollmacht

Der KUNDE bevollmächtigt GE CAPITAL, die Verpfändung gegenüber dem Kreditinstitut anzuzeigen und die Erklärungen des Kreditinstitutes auch im Namen des KUNDEN entgegenzunehmen.

Die Verpflichtung des KUNDEN gemäß Ziffer 5 bleibt von dieser vorsorglich erteilten Vollmacht unberührt.

 

107


8. Sonstige Bestimmungen

8.1 Dieser Verpfändungsvertrag und ein nach oder infolge dieses Vertrages begründetes Sicherungsrecht von GE CAPITAL bleiben gültig und werden nicht aufgehoben, bis jegliche besicherte Verbindlichkeit in vollem Umfang gemäß den entsprechenden Bedingungen beglichen worden ist.

8.2 Sollte eine der Bestimmungen dieser Vereinbarung rechtswidrig, ungültig oder undurchführbar sein oder werden, hat dies keinen Einfluss auf die Rechtmäßigkeit/Rechtsgültigkeit oder Durchsetzbarkeit der übrigen Bestimmungen dieser Vereinbarung.

8.3 Diese Vereinbarung unterliegt dem Recht der Bundesrepublik Deutschland.

8.4 Dieser Vertrag soll in deutscher und englischer Sprache vollzogen werden; beide Fassungen, sowohl die deutsche als auch die englische Fassung sind bindend. Im Falle einer Diskrepanz zwischen der deutschen und der englischen Fassung, ist die deutsche Fassung vorrangig.

 

108


UNTERSCHRIFTEN

KONTOVERPFÄNDUNGSVERTRAG

 

Singen, den 27. Mai 2016     Mainz, den 27. Mai 2016
       
Constellium Rolled Products Singen     GE Capital Bank AG
GmbH & Co. KG    

 

109


ANLAGE 1 zur Anlage 5 – KONTOVERPFÄNDUNGSANZEIGE

Von : Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Deutschland

An : Deutsche Bank AG, August-Ruf-Straße 8, 78224 Singen, Germany

Kontenverpfändung zwischen Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Deutschland und GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2, 55130 Mainz, Deutschland

Konto: IBAN: DE28692700380075079400, BIC: DEUTDE6F692

- nachstehend VERPFÄNDETES BANKKONTO genannt

Sehr geehrter/ geehrte [•],

hiermit zeigen wir Ihnen an, dass wir unsere sämtlichen gegenwärtigen und zukünftigen Ansprüche auf Auszahlung aller gegenwärtigen und künftigen Überschüsse (Guthaben), die uns bei Saldoziehung aus dem in laufender Rechnung (Kontokorrent) geführten o. g. Konto zustehen, sowie auch die Ansprüche aus dem Girovertrag auf fortlaufende Auszahlung des sich zwischen den Rechnungsabschlüssen ergebenden Tagesguthabens unter Einschluss des Rechts, über diese Guthaben durch Überweisungsaufträge zu verfügen und des Anspruchs auf Gutschrift der eingehenden Beträge (zusammen: Ansprüche auf Gutschrift und aus Guthaben) mit Vereinbarung vom 27. Mai 2016 an die GE Capital Bank AG, Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2, 55130 Mainz, (nachfolgend “GE CAPITAL” genannt) verprfändet haben.

Abweichend von der gesetzlichen Regelung ist GE CAPITAL jederzeit -insbesondere auch vor Pfandreife- allein zur Einziehung aller Ansprüche auf Gutschrift und aus Guthaben berechtigt. Wir können nur Leistung an GE CAPITAL verlangen.

Ferner entbinden wir Sie gegenüber GE CAPITAL im Hinblick auf das VERPFÄNDETE BANKKONTO von allen Verschwiegenheitsverpflichtungen, insbesondere vom Bankgeheimnis. Wir beauftragen Sie hiermit, GE CAPITAL Duplikatskontoauszüge bzw. Kopien der Kontoauszüge zuzusenden und auf Anforderung auch die dazugehörigen Daten/Buchungsbelege in Papier- oder digitaler Form zu übersenden. Des Weiteren sind wir damit einverstanden, dass GE CAPITAL eine elektronische Auskunftsberechtigung über das VERPFÄNDETE BANKKONTO erhält.

Wir bitten Sie, gegenüber GE CAPITAL zu bestätigen, dass Sie bisher keine anderweitige Verpfändungsanzeige erhalten haben und Ihnen auch sonst Rechte Dritter in Bezug auf das VERPFÄNDETE BANKKONTO nicht bekannt sind.

Des Weiteren bitten wir Sie, mit allen Ihnen zustehenden Pfandrechten hinter das zu Gunsten von GE Capital bestellte Pfandrecht zurückzutreten und gegenüber GE CAPITAL auf die Geltendmachung der Rechte zur Aufrechnung mit und zur Zurückbehaltung gegenüber uns zustehenden Forderungen aus dem VERPFÄNDETEN BANKKONTO sowie auf sonstige Absetzungen vom verpfändeten Konto zu verzichten (Rangrücktritt/Verzicht).

 

110


Der Rangrücktritt/Verzicht gilt nicht für Ansprüche aus und im Zusammenhang mit Storno-und Berichtigungsbuchungen, Rückbelastungen von Vorbehaltsbuchungen (z. B. aus Scheck oder Lastschrifteinzügen) und Fehlüberweisungen sowie Gebühren und anderen Kontobelastungen oder Gebühren im Rahmen des normalen Geschäftsverkehrs, unter der Voraussetzung, dass der diesbezügliche Sachverhalt ausschließlich das VERPFÄNDETE BANKKONTO betrifft und nicht aus einer anderen Beziehung zwischen Ihnen und uns herrührt.

Wir führen das VERPFÄNDETE BANKKONTO als Treuhänder für GE CAPITAL. Das Treuhandverhältnis zwischen GE CAPITAL und uns lässt Ihr nachrangiges Pfandrecht unberührt Die auf dem VERPFÄNDETEN BANKKONTO eingehenden Zahlungen dienen nur dem Zweck ihrer Weiterleitung an GE CAPITAL.

Die Kontoverpfändung erlischt, sobald Ihnen GE CAPITAL die Freigabe des Pfandrechts angezeigt hat.

Weiterhin dürfen wir Sie darüber informieren, dass GE CAPITAL die gesamtschuldnerische Haftung für Ihre Ansprüche gegen uns aus und im Zusammenhang mit Storno- und Berichtigungsbuchungen, Rückbelastungen von Vorbehaltsbuchungen und Fehlüberweisungen sowie Gebühren und andere Kontobelastungen oder Gebühren im Rahmen des normalen Geschäftsverkehrs übernommen hat (als Vertrag zugunsten Dritter - § 328 BGB), jedoch unter der Voraussetzung, dass der Sachverhalt ausschließlich das VERPFÄNDETE BANKKONTO betrifft und nicht aus einer anderen Beziehung zwischen uns und Ihnen herrührt.

Wir bitten Sie, den Eingang dieser Verpfändungsanzeige und Ihr Einverständnis mit den vorstehenden Regelungen durch Übersendung des von Ihnen rechtsgültig unterzeichneten Bestätigungsschreibens gegenüber GE CAPITAL zu erklären.

Mit freundlichen Grüßen

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG

 

111


ANLAGE ZUR VERPFÄNDUNGSANZEIGE

[ on the letterhead of Account Bank ]

An

GE Capital Bank AG (nachstehend “GE CAPITAL” genannt)

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Straße 2

55130 Mainz

Kontenverpfändungsanzeige zum Konto: IBAN DE28692700380075079400, BIC DEUTDE6F692, Kontoinhaber: Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 778224 Singen, Deutschland

Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,

wir beziehen uns auf das Schreiben vom 27. Mai 2016 unseres Kunden Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, Alusingen Platz 1, 778224 Singen, Deutschland und bestätigen Ihnen hiermit, den Empfang der Verpfändungsanzeige.

Wir erklären hiermit,

 

  a) dass wir bisher keine anderweitige Verpfändungsanzeige erhalten haben und uns auch sonstige Rechte Dritter in Bezug auf dieses Konto nicht bekannt sind;

 

  b) dass wir mit allen uns zustehenden Pfandrechten hinter das zu Gunsten GE CAPITAL bestellte Pfandrecht zurücktreten und gegenüber GE CAPITAL unbedingt und unwiderruflich (aber vorbehaltlich der im nachstehenden Absatz enthaltenen Einschränkungen) auf die Geltendmachung unserer Rechte zur Aufrechnung mit und zur Zurückbehaltung gegenüber dem Verpfänder zustehenden Forderungen aus dem verpfändeten Konto sowie auf sonstige Absetzungen vom verpfändeten Konto verzichten (Rangrücktritt/Verzicht).

Der Rangrücktritt/Verzicht gilt nicht für sämtliche Ansprüche auch soweit nicht fällig oder bedingt aus und im Zusammenhang mit Storno- und Berichtigungsbuchungen, Rückbelastungen von Vorbehaltsbuchungen (z. B. aus Scheck oder Lastschrifteinzügen) und Fehlüberweisungen sowie Gebühren und anderen Kontobelastungen oder Gebühren im Rahmen des normalen Geschäftsverkehrs, unter der Voraussetzung, dass der diesbezügliche Sachverhalt ausschließlich das verpfändete Bankkonto betrifft und nicht aus einer anderen Beziehung zwischen uns und dem Verpfänder herrührt.

 

- 1 -


Wir haben zur Kenntnis genommen, das GE CAPITAL die gesamtschuldnerische Haftung (§328 BGB) für unsere Ansprüche gegen den Kunden aus und im Zusammenhang mit Storno- und Berichtigungsbuchungen, Rückbelastungen von Vorbehaltsbuchungen und Fehlüberweisungen sowie Gebühren und andere Kontobelastungen oder Gebühren im Rahmen des normalen Geschäftsverkehrs übernommen hat, jedoch unter der Voraussetzung, dass der Sachverhalt ausschließlich das VERPFÄNDETE BANKKONTO betrifft und nicht aus einer anderen Beziehung zwischen uns und dem Kunden herrührt;

 

  c) zu beachten, dass der Verpfänder nur berechtigt ist, Leistung an GE CAPITAL zu verlangen und GE CAPITAL -insbesondere auch vor Pfandreife- allein zur Einziehung der Ansprüche auf Gutschrift und aus Guthaben berechtigt ist. Wir werden die Vereinbarung der Einziehung durch GE Capital insbesondere vor Pfandreife auch im Fall einer Insolvenz oder eines Widerrufs des Kunden beachten; und

 

  d) dass wir GE CAPITAL gemäß Auftrag des Verpfänders Duplikatskontoauszüge bzw. Kopien der Kontoauszüge und auf Anforderung auch die dazugehörigen Daten/Buchungsbelege in Papier- oder digitaler Form, soweit bei uns vorhanden, übersenden und dass GE CAPITAL eine elektronische Auskunftsberechtigung über das verpfändete Konto erhält.

Die Kontoverpfändung erlischt, sobald uns GE Capital die Freigabe des Pfandrechts angezeigt hat.

Mit freundlichen Grüßen

Deutsche Bank AG

 

- 2 -

Exhibit 10.12.1

Dated 21/12/16

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2,55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG,

Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 27 May 2016)

 

 


This Amendment Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is dated      November 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) TARGO Commercial Finance AG ( previously GE Capital Bank AG ), Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as TARGOCF ”); and

 

(2) C ONSTELLIUM ROLLED PRODUCTS SINGEN GMBH & CO. KG , registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany (hereafter referred to as the “ Originator ”).

TARGOCF and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the “ Parties ”.

WHEREAS:

 

(1) TARGOCF as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 27 May 2016 (as amended and/or restated from time to time), pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to TARGOCF (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

 

(2) TARGOCF has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619, on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A.., Sierre, a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9., on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg under register number HRB 540034, on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014), and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o., a company incorporated and existing under the laws of the Czech Republic, with its registered office at Ústecká 751/37, Děčin V-Rozbělesy, 405 02 Děčin, Czech Republic, identification number 183 80 654, registered in the Commercial Register maintained by the Regional Court in Ústi nad Labem under file number C 301, on 26 June 2015.

TARGOCF and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.


1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2. Amendments to the Factoring Agreement

a) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 3. a), b) and d) shall be amended and read as follows:

 

  3. Financing Commission Reference Rate ; Fees; Commission:

a) Financing Commission Reference Rate (see Clause 4.1) : 3 months EURIBOR + 1.20 % p.a., paid monthly and calculated on the last Business Day of each month for the following month.

If the 3 months EURIBOR is 0% or below 0%, the Interest Rate is 1.20 % p.a.

Interest is stated exclusive of applicable VAT.

b) Unused Facility Fee: 0.5% p.a. of the amount of the available but unused amount of the Settlement Account .

d) Factoring Commission and Administration Fee (see Clauses 4.1 and 8.3): 0.095% calculated on the volume of the Receivables .

b) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 4. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

4. Maximum Commitment :

“TARGOCF will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between TARGOCF and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 150.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifty million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

c) Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) clause 6. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

6. T ermination Date : 29 October 2021


In all other respects the provisions of the Factoring Agreement shall remain unaffected.

 

3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or TARGOCF, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.

 

4. Effective Date

This Agreement shall become effective immediately once it is executed by the Parties.

 

5. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

5.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

5.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


SIGNATORIES

 

TARGO Commercial Finance AG
 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

 

Signed by:

  LOGO    

LOGO

Title:

  LOGO    

LOGO

Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG
 

/s/ MARK KIRKLAND

   

 

Signed by:

  MARK KIRKLAND    

Title:

  GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORISED SIGNATORY    

Exhibit 10.14.1

Execution Version

Dated 27 May 2016

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Singen GmbH

Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 16 December 2010,

amended and restated on 26 March 2014)

 

 


Execution Version

 

This Amendment Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is dated 27 May 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) GE CAPITAL BANK AG , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as “ GE CAPITAL ”); and

 

(2) CONSTELLIUM SINGEN GMBH , registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg, with registration number HRB 540034, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany, (hereafter referred to as the “ Originator ”).

GE CAPITAL and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the “ Parties ”.

WHEREAS:

 

(1) GE CAPITAL as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014), pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to GE CAPITAL (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

 

(2) GE CAPITAL has entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619, on 16 December 2010 and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre, a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9., on 16 December 2010 and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o., a company incorporated and existing under the laws of the Czech Republic, with its registered office at Ústecká 751/37, Děčin V-Rozbělesy, 405 02 Děčin, Czech Republic, identification number 183 80 654, registered in the Commercial Register maintained by the Regional Court in Ústi nad Labem under file number C 301, on 26 June 2015.

 

(3) On 26 June 2015, GE CAPITAL has entered into Amendment Agreements with the Originator, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A. and Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o. to set a total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the Factoring Agreement and the respective other factoring agreements.

 

(4) GE CAPITAL will enter into a factoring agreement on or about the date hereof with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

 

(5) In the context of the factoring agreement to be entered into between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, the Parties have agreed to amend the Factoring Agreement with respect to the Maximum Commitment (as defined in the Factoring Agreement).


Execution Version

 

GE CAPITAL and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.

 

1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2. Amendment to the Factoring Agreement

Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions) clause 4 ( Maximum Commitment ) shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

“GE CAPITAL will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 115.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifteen million Euro) and the Maximum Commitment for Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o. may not exceed 15.000.000,00 EUR (fifteen million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

 

3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or GE CAPITAL, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other


Execution Version

 

exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.

 

4. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

4.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

4.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


Execution Version

 

SIGNATORIES

 

GE CAPITAL BANK AG
   LOGO       LOGO
  

 

     

 

Signed by:    Philipp Schiemann       Michael Homischer
Title:    Team Leader Large Clients       Deputy Team Leader Large Clients
Constellium Singen GmbH      
   LOGO      
  

 

     

 

Signed by:    MARK KIRKLAND      
Title:    GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORIZED SIGNATORY      

Exhibit 10.14.2

Dated 21/12/16

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Singen GmbH

Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 16 December 2010,

amended and restated on 26 March 2014)

 

 


This Amendment Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is dated      November 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) TARGO Commercial Finance AG (previously GE Capital Bank AG) , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as TARGOCF ”); and

 

(2) CONSTELLIUM SINGEN GMBH , registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg, with registration number HRB 540034, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany, (hereafter referred to as the “ Originator ”).

TARGOCF and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the “ Parties ”.

WHEREAS:

 

(1) TARGOCF as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 28 March 2014), pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to TARGOCF (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

 

(2) TARGOCF has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619, on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre, a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9., on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o., a company incorporated and existing under the laws of the Czech Republic, with its registered office at Ústecká 751/37, Děčin V-Rozbělesy, 405 02 Děčin, Czech Republic, identification number 183 80 654, registered in the Commercial Register maintained by the Regional Court in Ústi nad Labem under file number C 301, on 26 June 2015, and has also entered into a factoring agreement on 27 May 2016 with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

TARGOCF and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.


1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2. Amendments to the Factoring Agreement

a) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 3. a), b) and d) shall be amended and read as follows:

 

  3. Financing Commission Reference Rate ; Fees; Commission:

 

  a) Financing Commission Reference Rate (see Clause 4.1) : 3 months EURIBOR + 1.20 % p.a., paid monthly and calculated on the last Business Day of each month for the following month.

If the 3 months EURIBOR is 0% or below 0%, the Interest Rate is 1.20 % p.a.

Interest is stated exclusive of applicable VAT.

 

  b) Unused Facility Fee: 0.5% p.a. of the amount of the available but unused amount of the Settlement Account .

 

  d) Factoring Commission and Administration Fee (see Clauses 4.1 and 8.3): 0.095% calculated on the volume of the Receivables .

b) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 4. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

 

  4. Maximum Commitment :

“TARGOCF will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between TARGOCF and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 150.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifty million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

c) Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) clause 6. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

6. Termination Date: 29 October 2021


In all other respects the provisions of the Factoring Agreement shall remain unaffected.

 

3 . PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or TARGOCF, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.

 

4. Effective Date

This Agreement shall become effective immediately once it is executed by the Parties.

 

5. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

5.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

5.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


SIGNATORIES

 

TARGO Commercial Finance AG      
 

LOGO

 

     

LOGO

 

Signed by:   LOGO       LOGO
Title:   LOGO       LOGO
Constellium Singen GmbH      
 

/s/ MARK KIRKLAND

     

 

Signed by:   MARK KIRKLAND      
Title:   GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORISED SIGNATORY      

Exhibit 10.15.1

Execution Version

Dated 27 May 2016

GE Capital Bank AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constellium Extrusions Decín s.r.o.,

Ústecká 751/37, 405 02 Decín V – Rozbelesy, Czech Republic,

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 26 June 2015)

 

 


Execution Version

This Amendment Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is dated 27 May 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) GE CAPITAL BANK AG , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as “ GE CAPITAL ”); and

 

(2) Constellium Extrusions Decín s.r.o. , Ústecká 751/37, 405 02 Decín V – Rozbelesy, Czech Republic (hereafter referred to as the “ Originator ”).

GE CAPITAL and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the “ Parties ”.

WHEREAS:

 

(1) GE CAPITAL as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 26 June 2015, pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to GE CAPITAL (the “ Factoring Agreement ”).

 

(2) GE CAPITAL has entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailshelm, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619, on 16 December 2010 and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre, a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3960 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9., on 16 December 2010 and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg under register number HRB 540034, on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014).

 

(3) On 26 June 2015, GE CAPITAL has entered into Amendment Agreements with the Originator, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A. and Constellium Singen GmbH to set a total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the Factoring Agreement and the respective other factoring agreements.

 

(4) GE CAPITAL will enter into a factoring agreement on or about the date hereof with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

 

(5) In the context of the factoring agreement to be entered into between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, the Parties have agreed to amend the Factoring Agreement with respect to the Maximum Commitment (as defined in the Factoring Agreement).


Execution Version

 

GE CAPITAL and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.

 

1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.

 

2. Amendment to the Factoring Agreement

Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions) clause 4 ( Maximum Commitment ) shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

“GE CAPITAL will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between GE CAPITAL and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 115.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifteen million Euro) and the Maximum Commitment for Constellium Extrusions Děčín s.r.o. may not exceed 15.000.000,00 EUR (fifteen million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

 

3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or GE CAPITAL, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.


Execution Version

 

4. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

4.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

4.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


Execution Version

 

SIGNATORIES

 

GE CAPITAL BANK AG    
  LOGO     LOGO
 

 

   

 

Signed by:   Philipp Schiemann     Michael Hornischer
Title:   Team Leader Large Clients     Deputy Team Leader Large Clients
Constellium Extrusions Decín s.r.o.    
  LOGO    
 

 

   

 

Signed by:   MARK KIRKLAND    
Title:   GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORIZED SIGNATORY    

Exhibit 10.15.2

Dated 21/12/16

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2,55130 Mainz, Germany

and

Constelllum Extrusions Decfn s.r.o.,

Ústecká 751/37, 405 02 Decín V – Rozbelesy, Czech Republic,

 

 

AMENDEMENT AGREEMENT

to a Factoring Agreement (dated 26 June 2015)

 

 


This Amendment Agreement (the “Agreement” ) is dated      November 2016, and entered into between

 

(1) TARGO Commercial Finance AG (previously GE Capital Bank AG) , Heinrich-von-Brentano-Str. 2, 55130 Mainz, Germany, (hereafter referred to as “ TARGOCF ”); and

 

(2) Constellium Extrusions Decfn s.r.o ., Ústecká 751/37, 405 02 Decfn V – Rozbelesy, Czech Republic (hereafter referred to as the “Originator” ).

TARGOCF and the Originator are hereafter referred to as the Parties .

WHEREAS:

 

(1) TARGOCF as purchaser and the Originator as seller entered into a factoring agreement on 26 June 2015 (as amended and/or restated from time to time), pursuant to which the Originator sells certain receivables to TARGOCF (the Factoring Agreement ).

 

(2) TARGOCF has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Bildstraße 4, 74564 Crailsheim, registered in the commercial register ( Handeisregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Ulm under register number HRB 670619, on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Valais S.A., Sierre, a société anonyme incorporated under the laws of Switzerland with registered address at 3980 Sierre, registered under number CH-626.3.000.048-9., on 16 December 2010, and has also entered into a factoring agreement with Constellium Singen GmbH, a limited liability company, with registered office at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, registered in the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg under register number HRB 540034, on 16 December 2010 (amended and restated on 26 March 2014), and has also entered into a factoring agreement on 27 May 2016 with Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, registered with the commercial register ( Handelsregister ) of the local court ( Amtsgericht ) of Freiburg i.Br., with registration number HRA 704399, having its registered seat at Alusingen-Platz 1, 78224 Singen, Germany.

TARGOCF and the Originator have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order to amend the Factoring Agreement in accordance with this Agreement.

 

1. Definitions

Terms in italics have the meaning ascribed to them in the Factoring Agreement, unless otherwise defined herein.


2. Amendments to the Factoring Agreement

a) Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) clause 3. a), b) and d) shall be amended and read as follows:

 

  3. Financing Commission Reference Rate; Fees; Commission:

a) Financing Commission Reference Rate (see Clause 4.1); 3 months EURIBOR + 1.20 % p.a., paid monthly and calculated on the last Business Day of each month for the following month.

If the 3 months EURIBOR is 0% or below 0%, the Interest Rate is 1.20 % p.a.

Interest is stated exclusive of applicable VAT.

b) Unused Facility Fee: 0.5% p.a. of the amount of the available but unused amount of the Settlement Account .

d) Factoring Commission and Administration Fee (see Clauses 4.1 and 8.3): 0.095% calculated on the volume of the Receivables.

b) Schedule 1 ( Terms and Conditions ) clause 4. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

 

  4. Maximum Commitment :

“TARGOCF will set a maximum limit for each of Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A, Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o., Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG, whereby the total aggregate Maximum Commitment under the respective factoring agreements between TARGOCF and Constellium Singen GmbH, Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH, Constellium Valais S.A., Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. and Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG amounts to 150.000.000.00 EUR (one hundred fifty million Euro) and the Maximum Commitment for Constellium Extrusions Děčin s.r.o. may not exceed 15.000.000,00 EUR (fifteen million Euro). The respective Maximum Commitment can be changed upon request of the respective originator(s).”

c) Schedule 1 (Terms and Conditions) clause 6. shall be amended in whole and read as follows:

 

  6. Termination Date : 29 October 2021

In all other respects the provisions of the Factoring Agreement shall remain unaffected.


3. PARTIAL INVALIDITY; WAIVER

 

3.1 Invalidity

If any provision of this Agreement should be or become invalid or unenforceable in whole or in part, this shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed replaced by that provision which best meets the intent and the economic purpose of the void or unenforceable provision.

 

3.2 Waiver

No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of the Originator or TARGOCF, any right or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any right or remedy prevent any further or other exercise thereof or the exercise of any right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided hereunder are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.

 

4. Effective Date

This Agreement shall become effective immediately once it is executed by the Parties.

 

5. APPLICABLE LAW; JURISDICTION

 

5.1 Applicable Law

This Agreement and all obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany.

 

5.2 German Courts

The courts of Mainz have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or the consequences of its nullity).


SIGNATORIES

TARGO Commercial Finance AG

 

 

LOGO

 

   

LOGO

 

Signed by:

 

LOGO

   

LOGO

Title:

 

LOGO

   

LOGO

Constellium Extrusions Decfn s.r.o.

 

 

/s/ MARK KIRKLAND

   

 

Signed by:

  MARK KIRKLAND    

Title:

  GROUP TREASURER & AUTHORISED SIGNATORY    

Exhibit 10.23

EXECUTION COPY

AMENDED AND RESTATED RECEIVABLES PURCHASE AGREEMENT

This AMENDED AND RESTATED RECEIVABLES PURCHASE AGREEMENT (as it may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time, this “ Agreement ”) is made as of November 22, 2016 among Wise Alloys Funding II LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, in its capacity as seller hereunder (“ Seller ”), Wise Alloys LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, in its capacity as servicer hereunder (“ Servicer ”), Hitachi Capital America Corp. (“ HCA ”), in its capacity as a purchaser hereunder (together with its successors and permitted assigns, in such capacity a “ Purchaser ”), Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch (“ Intesa ”), in its capacity as a purchaser hereunder (together with its successors and permitted assigns in such capacity, a “ Purchaser ” and, together with HCA, as a Purchaser hereunder, collectively, the “ Purchasers ”), HCA, in its capacity as purchaser representative hereunder (together with its successors and permitted assigns in such capacity, the “ Purchaser Representative ”) and Greensill Capital Inc., a Delaware corporation, in its capacity as purchaser agent hereunder (the “ Purchaser Agent ”).

RECITALS

WHEREAS, Seller has purchased certain accounts receivable related to each account debtor listed on Schedule 1 hereto (each an “ Account Debtor ” and, collectively, the “ Account Debtors ”) and is the legal and beneficial owner of Receivables (as hereinafter defined) payable by each such Account Debtor; and

WHEREAS, Seller desires to sell certain Receivables to each Purchaser, and each Purchaser is willing to purchase from Seller such Receivables, in which case the terms set forth herein shall apply to such purchase and sale.

WHEREAS, Seller, Servicer, HCA, and the Purchaser Agent have previously entered into the Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 16, 2016, as amended by the First Omnibus Amendment, dated as of June 28, 2016 (such agreement, as amended, supplemented, or otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, the “ Original Agreement ”).

WHEREAS, the parties hereto wish to amend and restate the Original Agreement in its entirety.

THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. DEFINITIONS. Certain capitalized terms used in this Agreement shall have the meanings given to those terms in Exhibit A attached hereto and thereby incorporated herein.

2. SALE AND PURCHASE.

(a) Sale . Commencing on the date hereof and ending on the Purchase Termination Date, Seller may from time to time make an offer to sell to a Purchaser a 100% interest in certain Proposed Receivables by submitting to the Purchasers and the Purchaser Representative a request substantially in the form of Exhibit B hereto by 2:00 p.m., (New York City time), at least three Business Days prior to any purchase hereunder (a “ Purchase Request ”), and each Purchaser agrees, subject to the requirements for purchase and all of the terms and conditions therefor set forth herein (including the conditions precedent set forth in Section 2(c) ), to purchase from Seller the related Proposed Receivables identified in such Purchase Request. The Seller shall have the right to select which Purchaser to offer certain specific Proposed Receivables on any applicable


Purchase Date; provided , however , that (i) that the applicable Purchase Request which has been delivered to all Purchasers shall identify which specific Proposed Receivables are being offered to each Purchaser, respectively, on such date, (ii) when determining which Proposed Receivables to offer to a Purchaser, the Seller shall not use selection procedures which could be reasonably expected to materially and adversely affect any Purchaser when compared to the Proposed Receivables offered to any other Purchaser and (iii) the Seller shall offer individual Proposed Receivables to each Purchaser on a substantially ratable basis (based on the Commitments of each such Purchaser, respectively). Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, and for the avoidance of doubt, any Proposed Receivable offered to a Purchaser shall be 100% of such Proposed Receivable and the Purchasers will not be sharing ratable portions of any individual Purchased Receivables. Subject to the satisfaction of the conditions precedent set forth in Section 2(c) hereof, with respect to any Proposed Receivable on any Purchase Date, the applicable Purchaser to whom such Proposed Receivable is being offered on such date shall and hereby does purchase from Seller, and Seller shall and hereby does sell to such Purchaser, without representation, warranty, covenant or recourse except as expressly provided herein, all of Seller’s right, title and interest in such Proposed Receivable and all Related Rights with respect thereto as of the applicable Purchase Date (all such Proposed Receivables together with such Related Rights, once sold to and purchased by a Purchaser hereunder, being referred to, collectively, as the “ Purchased Receivables ”). The Seller shall not request and no Purchaser shall be required to fund more than two (2) purchases per week, to take place on the Monday and Thursday of each week (or, if any such day is not a Business Day, on the immediately following Business Day). No single request for purchase hereunder shall be for an amount less than $250,000. Each Purchaser’s obligation hereunder shall be several, such that the failure of any Purchaser to make a payment in connection with any Proposed Receivables offered to it on any Purchase Date hereunder shall not relieve any other Purchaser of its obligation hereunder to make payment in connection with any other Proposed Receivables offer to such other Purchaser on such date; it being understood that no Purchaser shall be responsible for the obligations of any other Purchaser. If a Purchaser fails its obligation to purchase any Proposed Receivable offered to it hereunder on any Purchase Date, the Seller may offer such Proposed Receivables to the other Purchaser, and if so offered, such other Purchaser shall be obligated to fund such Proposed Receivables, subject to all conditions to funding in paragraph (c)  below and otherwise herein being satisfied at such time; it being understood that no Purchaser shall be obligated or committed to fund any purchases hereunder if, after giving effect thereto, the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amount funded by such Purchaser shall exceed its Commitment at such time.

(b) Term . This Agreement shall continue in effect until the Purchase Termination Date, provided that either Purchaser shall have the right to terminate this Agreement solely with respect to such Purchaser at any time (i) upon ten (10) days’ prior written notice to Seller and the Purchaser Representative in the event that such Purchaser is legally prohibited under applicable law or any rule or regulation applicable to such Purchaser from being a party to this Agreement or consummating the transactions contemplated hereunder, (ii) as provided in Section  5 below, or (iii) as provided in paragraphs (b) , (c) and (d)  of Section  7 below; provided further , that Seller shall have the rights to terminate this Agreement as provided in the last sentence of Section 7(d) below. Termination shall not affect the rights and obligations of the parties with respect to Purchased Receivables sold hereunder prior to the Purchase Termination Date or are expressed to survive termination hereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, so long as no Termination Event or Unmatured Termination Event has occurred and is continuing, Seller may provide a written request to each Purchaser and the Purchaser Representative no less than 90 days prior to the then existing Purchase Termination Date of its desire to extend the then

 

2


current Purchase Termination Date and each Purchaser shall notify Seller within 60 days of the then existing Purchase Termination Date whether such Purchaser has elected and agreed (in its sole discretion) to extend such Purchase Termination Date, solely with respect to itself, for a period not longer than an additional term of 364 days from the date of such election by such Purchaser.

(c) Conditions Precedent . Each purchase of Proposed Receivables described in a Purchase Request is subject to the satisfaction of the following conditions prior to (and, if applicable, after giving effect to) the proposed Purchase Date, all to the reasonable satisfaction of the applicable Purchaser to whom such Proposed Receivables have been offered:

(i) No event has occurred and is continuing, or would result from such purchase that constitutes a Termination Event or an Unmatured Termination Event;

(ii) No Material Adverse Change has occurred since the last purchase of Receivables under this Agreement with respect to Seller, Parent, Originator or Servicer;

(iii) The Servicer has delivered the most recent Servicer Report required to be delivered by it hereunder;

(iv) (A) There are no amounts then due and owing by the Seller or the Originator to the Account Debtor in respect of any Purchased Receivable (including, without limitation, in relation to any adjustments or settlements related to any preliminary invoices, based on any agreements with respect thereto between the Seller or the Originator and the Account Debtor); and (B) the Offset Condition shall be satisfied before and after giving effect to the purchase of such Proposed Receivables;

(v) The Sale Agreement remains in full force and effect and no Termination Event or Unmatured Termination Event has occurred and is continuing thereunder;

(vi) The applicable Purchaser and the Purchaser Representative shall have received at least three Business Days prior to any purchase (A) a Purchase Request with respect to the Proposed Receivables, (B) the related Contract (or portion thereof that is permitted to be disclosed to the Purchasers by the parties to such applicable Contract) and any material amendments thereto to the extent affecting the Receivables, in each case, to the extent not previously delivered to such Purchaser, and (C) such additional supporting documentation that the applicable Purchaser may have reasonably requested;

(vii) The applicable Purchaser is not legally prohibited from purchasing the Proposed Receivables listed on the relevant Purchase Request;

(viii) The representations and warranties contained in this Agreement and the Purchase Request shall be true and correct (subject to any applicable materiality qualification to the extent expressly set forth in any particular representation or warranty) on and as of such Purchase Date;

 

3


(ix) Seller, Servicer and Parent shall be in compliance (subject to any applicable materiality qualification to the extent expressly set forth in any particular covenant or other provision) with each term, covenant and other provision of this Agreement and the Parent Guarantee applicable to Seller, Servicer or Parent, as applicable;

(x) No Event of Repurchase shall then exist, unless Seller has repurchased and paid (or is paying on such proposed Purchase Date and the applicable Purchaser who purchased the related Purchased Receivable is satisfied that Seller will be paying on such proposed Purchased Date in cash), the full amount of the Repurchase Price (or the amount subject to Dispute or Dilution, to the extent provided pursuant to Section  7 hereof) for the affected Purchased Receivables pursuant to the terms of Section  7 hereof;

(xi) Following the sale and purchase of the Proposed Receivables set forth in the related Purchase Request, (A) the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amount with respect to the applicable Purchaser, shall not exceed such Purchaser’s Commitment, and (B) the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amount for all Purchased Receivables for all Purchasers, collectively, shall not exceed the Facility Amount;

(xii) (A) No Account Debtor Insolvency Event shall have occurred and be continuing with respect to any Account Debtor obligated on the Proposed Receivables described in such Purchase Request, and no Insolvency Event with respect to Seller, Servicer or Parent shall have occurred and be continuing; and (B) neither Moody’s nor Standard & Poor’s shall have rated or downgraded Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV from its current rating to a rating below Baa3 (in the case or Moody’s) or below BBB- (in the case of Standard & Poor’s);

(xiii) Each Purchaser shall have received payment of all Commitment Fees due and payable to such Purchaser under Section 2(e) and all other amounts due under this Agreement at such time have been paid;

(xiv) The Collection Account shall be open under the Collection Account Agreement and not subject to a notice of termination by the account bank under the Collection Account Agreement, or a replacement collection account under a replacement collection account agreement reasonably acceptable to each Purchaser shall be in effect (or scheduled to be in effect upon the termination of the Collection Account); and

(xv) On the initial Purchase Date, the Purchaser Agent shall have received fully executed copies of the Purchaser Agent Fee Letters and the Purchasers shall have received each of the following documents, each dated such date and in form and substance satisfactory to each such Purchaser:

(A) Executed counterparts of this Agreement and each of the other Transaction Documents by the parties thereof;

 

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(B) Each Purchaser shall have received evidence satisfactory to it that Seller shall have established the Collection Account and the Purchaser Representative shall have control over such account for the benefit of the Purchasers as herein provided and pursuant to the Collection Account Agreement ;

(C) A certificate of each of the Secretary or Assistant Secretary of Seller, Servicer and the Parent certifying the names and true signatures of the incumbent officers authorized on behalf of such Person to execute and deliver this Agreement, each Purchase Request, the other Transaction Documents and any other documents to be executed or delivered by it hereunder, together with its Organizational Documents and board resolutions, evidencing necessary organizational action and governmental approvals, if any, necessary for Seller, Servicer and Parent to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents.

(D) UCC and tax judgment lien searches or equivalent reports or searches, listing all effective financing statements, lien notices or comparable documents that name Seller or Originator as debtor and that are filed in those state and county jurisdictions in which Seller or Originator is organized or maintains its principal place of business or chief executive office and such other searches that the Purchasers deem reasonably necessary or appropriate.

(E) Acknowledgment copies of proper termination statements (Form UCC-3) and any other relevant filings necessary to evidence the release of all security interests, ownership and other rights of any Person previously granted by Seller in the Proposed Receivables.

(F) Copies of proper Uniform Commercial Code financing statements (or appropriate amendments thereto) identifying Seller as “seller” and each Purchaser as “buyer”, together with evidence that they have been duly filed on or before the initial Purchase Date hereunder in the correct filing office under the Uniform Commercial Code of the jurisdiction in which seller is located for purposes of the UCC. For the avoidance of doubt, each Purchaser will be listed as a “buyer” in separate Uniform Commercial Code financing statements.

(G) A good standing certificate for each of Seller, Servicer and Parent from its respective jurisdiction of organization.

(H) A fully completed Seller Information Schedule in the form attached as Schedule 2 , containing certain factual information regarding Seller to the extent that such information was not previously delivered to the Purchasers.

(I) A duly executed amended and restated Parent Guarantee, together with a secretary’s certificate of Parent and such other documentation relating to Parent as the Purchasers may request.

(J) A favorable legal opinion of counsel to each of Seller, Servicer and Parent covering enforceability, general corporate matters, no conflicts and UCC matters, in form and substance satisfactory to the Purchasers and addressed to the Purchasers;

(K) A favorable “true sale” opinion of counsel to Seller in form and substance satisfactory to the Purchasers and addressed to the Purchasers;

 

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(L) A schedule of Receivables purchased by the Purchasers from the Seller on each Purchase Date, as such schedule may be amended, modified, updated or supplemented from time to time as Receivables are purchased by any Purchaser hereunder;

(M) Originator and Seller shall have executed and delivered to each Purchaser two (2) original Notifications of Assignment in the form of Exhibit E hereto to be used in accordance with Section 6(d) ; and

(N) All documents and other evidence that each Purchaser requires for its know-your-customer and other compliance checks on Seller, Servicer, Parent and each Account Debtor.

(d) Purchase Price . The purchase price for any Purchased Receivable purchased on any Purchase Date (the “ Purchase Price ”) shall be determined on and as of the applicable Purchase Date (without any subsequent adjustment whether for late payment, credit rating deterioration or otherwise), shall be paid to Seller on the Purchase Date and shall be equal to:

 

Purchase Price = A - (A x (B x ( ( C ) /360)) , where:
A    =    Net Invoice Amount
B    =    Discount Rate
C    =    number of days between the Purchase Date and the Scheduled Payment Date (including the Purchase Date, but not including the Scheduled Payment Date

On each Purchase Date, the Purchase Price for Purchased Receivables purchased by any Purchaser shall be paid by such Purchaser to such account designated by the Seller (or the Servicer on its behalf) in immediately available funds.

(e) Commitment Fee and Purchaser Account Information . The Seller shall pay to each Purchaser, a commitment fee (the “ Commitment Fee ”) on the last business day of each calendar quarter (commencing with December 31, 2016) and on the Purchase Termination Date, in an amount equal to: (i) with respect to the quarterly payment to be made on December 31, 2016, (A) solely in the case of HCA, as a Purchaser, $5,000, plus (B) solely with respect to HCA as the sole Purchaser under the Original Agreement, with respect to the period from September 30, 2016 through, but not including, the Closing Date hereof, an amount calculated in arrears at a rate of 1% per annum (calculated on a 360-day basis) on $250,000,000, plus (C) in the case of each Purchaser, respectively, with respect to the period from the Closing Date through December 31, 2016, an amount calculated in arrears at a rate of 1% per annum (calculated on a 360-day basis) on such Purchaser’s Commitment, and (ii) in the case of each Purchaser, respectively, with respect to all other payments to be made after December 31, 2016, (A) such Purchaser’s Ratable Share of $5,000, plus (B) an amount calculated quarterly in arrears at a rate of 1% per annum (calculated on a 360-day basis), on such Purchaser’s Commitment. The Commitment Fee, and all other payments to be made to the Purchasers pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and the other Transaction Documents, shall be made to the following account maintained in (x) in the case of HCA, the name of Hitachi Capital America Corp., at Citibank, N.A., with account number 4076-4427, ABA # 021- 000-089 and SWIFT code CITIUS33 and (y) in the case of Intesa, the name of Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch , at Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch, with account number 35150840049, ABA # 026005319, SWIFT code BCITUS33XXX, or such other account designated by either such Purchaser from time to time.

 

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(f) [Reserved.]

(g) True Sale; No Recourse . Except as otherwise provided in Section  7 hereof, each purchase of the Purchased Receivables is made without recourse to Seller, and Seller shall have no liability to either Purchaser and each Purchaser shall be solely responsible for Account Debtor’s failure to pay any Purchased Receivable purchased by such Purchaser when it is due and payable under the terms applicable thereto, including but not limited to as the result of an Account Debtor Insolvency Event, such assumption of credit risk being effective as of the Purchase Date for such Purchased Receivables. The Purchasers and Seller have structured the transactions contemplated by this Agreement as a sale, and the Purchasers and Seller each agree to treat each such transaction as a “true sale” for all purposes under applicable law and accounting principles, including, without limitation, in their respective books, records, computer files, tax returns (federal, state and local), regulatory and governmental filings (and shall reflect such sale in their respective financial statements). Notwithstanding the intent of the parties hereunder, in the event that the transfers hereunder are recharacterized as other than a sale from the Seller to each of the Purchasers, as applicable, then in order to secure all of Seller’s obligations (monetary or otherwise) under this Agreement, whether now or hereafter existing or arising, due or to become due, direct or indirect, absolute or contingent, Seller hereby grants to each Purchaser, and solely with respect to clause (iii) below, the Purchaser Representative (for and on behalf of the Purchasers), a security interest in all of Seller’s right, title and interest (including any undivided interest of Seller) in, to and under all of the following, whether now or hereafter owned, existing or arising: (i) all Purchased Receivables and all Related Rights with respect thereto purchased by each such Purchaser, respectively, (ii) all Collections with respect to such Purchased Receivables, (iii) all accounts into which Collections may be deposited to which the Seller is the named owner on the account, including the Collection Account, and all amounts on deposit therein relating to such Purchased Receivables, (iv) all rights (but none of the obligations) of Seller under the Sale Agreement between Wise Alloys LLC and Seller relating to such Purchased Receivables, and (v) all proceeds of, and all amounts received or receivable under any or all of, the foregoing (collectively, the “ Sold Assets ”); it being understood that the security interest in any Sold Asset shall secure only obligations of Seller to the Purchaser of such Sold Assets. In addition, a Purchaser shall only have rights to the Purchased Receivables and related Sold Assets which have been purchased by such Purchaser hereunder and such Purchaser shall have no rights to any Purchased Receivables or other related Sold Assets purchased by the other Purchaser hereunder.

3. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES . Until the later of the Purchase Termination Date and the last Invoice Due Date (subject to any provisions hereof which by their express terms survive termination, and subject to any specific representations which are expressly limited to a particular date or dates) Seller and, to the extent specifically applicable to the Servicer below, the Servicer, in each case represents and warrants to each Purchaser with respect to itself only that on the date hereof and on each Purchase Date, the representations and warranties set forth below are true and correct (subject to any applicable materiality qualification to the extent expressly set forth in any particular representation or warranty below):

(a) Proposed Receivables .

(i) With respect to each transfer of Receivables hereunder, as of the date of the applicable Purchase Request and the related Purchase Date for such Proposed Receivable, the information contained in the applicable Purchase Request in respect of such Proposed Receivable on the applicable Purchase Date is a true and correct list of the Account Debtor’s name, the purchase order numbers, the invoice numbers, the Net Invoice Amount due in respect thereof and the Invoice Due Date, in each case, for each applicable Proposed Receivable that is the subject of such Purchase Request.

 

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With respect to the Proposed Receivables listed on the related Purchase Request to be transferred on the applicable Purchase Date to any Purchaser, as of the date of the applicable Purchase Request and the related Purchase Date for such Proposed Receivable, (A) all information contained in each Purchase Request is accurate in all respect, (B) each invoice related to such Proposed Receivable is accurate in all respects as of its date and the Purchase Date, as applicable, (C) the applicable Purchaser to whom such Proposed Receivables have been offered, has received true and correct copies of all the relevant documentation relating to each of the Proposed Receivables requested by such Purchaser, (D) none of the Proposed Receivables are currently evidenced by “chattel paper” or “instruments” (as each such term is defined in Article 9 of the UCC), (E) each of the Proposed Receivables is in full force and effect and is the valid and binding obligation of the applicable Account Debtor, enforceable in accordance with its terms, and constitutes the applicable Account Debtor’s legal, valid and binding obligation to pay to Seller the amount of the Purchased Receivables, subject to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, arrangement, moratorium and other laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors’ rights, (F) neither Seller nor any Account Debtor is in default in the performance of any of the provisions of the documentation applicable to its transactions included within any Proposed Receivables, including any of the Contracts relating to such Proposed Receivables, (G) each Proposed Receivable and the Contract and sale terms related thereto are not subject to any Dispute, whether arising out of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or independently thereof and (H) Originator has delivered to the Account Debtor all property or performed all services required to be so delivered or performed by the terms of the documentation giving rise to the Proposed Receivables. The payments due with respect to each Proposed Receivable are not contingent upon Seller’s or Originator’s fulfillment of any further obligation.

(ii) With respect to the Proposed Receivables listed on a Purchase Request, as of the date of the applicable Purchase Request and the related Purchase Date for such Proposed Receivables, each Proposed Receivable listed in such Purchase Request is an Eligible Receivable and a bona fide payment obligation of the applicable Account Debtor identified in the applicable invoice and due on the Invoice Due Date for such Proposed Receivable.

(iii) Each Proposed Receivable (A) arises under a Contract between Originator and the applicable Account Debtor, (B) does not require the applicable Account Debtor or any other Person to consent to the transfer, sale or assignment of Seller’s rights to payment under such agreement and (C) does not contain a confidentiality provision that purports to restrict the ability of the applicable Purchaser who purchases such Proposed Receivables to exercise its rights under this Agreement.

(iv) Seller is the legal and beneficial owner of each Proposed Receivable free and clear of any lien, encumbrance or security interest, and upon each purchase of a Proposed Receivable, the applicable Purchaser shall acquire valid ownership of each Purchased Receivable and the Collections and Related Rights with respect thereto prior to all other Persons.

 

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(v) No sale or assignment hereunder constitutes a fraudulent transfer or conveyance under any United States federal or applicable state bankruptcy or insolvency laws or is otherwise void or voidable under such or similar laws or principles or for any other reason.

(vi) All Proposed Receivables (i) were originated by Seller or the Originator in the ordinary course of its business, and (ii) were sold to the Seller (in the case of the Sale Agreement) and to the applicable Purchaser hereunder, as applicable, for fair consideration and reasonably equivalent value.

(vii) No proceeds of any purchase will be used (i) for any purpose that violates any applicable law, rule or regulation, including Regulations T, U or X of the Federal Reserve Board or (ii) to acquire any security in any transaction which is subject to Section 12, 13 or 14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

(b) Seller. Seller is a limited liability company, duly formed, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and is duly qualified to do business, and is in good standing, in every jurisdiction where the nature of its business requires it to be so qualified except where the failure to be so qualified would not have a material adverse effect on the ability of Seller to fulfill its obligations hereunder or on the validity or enforceability of, or the rights, remedies or benefits available to the Purchasers under this Agreement. Seller is not subject to any Insolvency Event. Seller was formed on February 26, 2016 and Seller did not engage in any business activities prior to the date of the Original Agreement. Seller has no subsidiaries.

(c) Servicer. Servicer is a limited liability company, duly formed, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and is duly qualified to do business, and is in good standing, in every jurisdiction where the nature of its business requires it to be so qualified except where the failure to be so qualified would not have a material adverse effect on the ability of Servicer to fulfill its obligations hereunder or on the validity or enforceability of, or the rights, remedies or benefits available to the Purchasers under this Agreement. Servicer is not subject to any Insolvency Event. In addition to any specific representations and warranties made by the Servicer herein, in its capacity as such, Servicer hereby makes all of the representations and warranties contained in the Sale Agreement whether in its capacity as Originator or Servicer thereunder, incorporated herein by reference and as if expressly set forth in this Agreement.

(d) No Conflict, etc . The execution, delivery and performance by Seller or Servicer (as the case may be) of this Agreement, each Purchase Request and each other document to be delivered by Seller and Servicer hereunder, (i) are within its corporate or other organizational powers, (ii) have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate or other organizational action, and (iii) do not contravene (A) its Organizational Documents, (B) any law, rule or regulation applicable to it, (C) any contractual restriction binding on or affecting it or its property, or (D) any order, writ, judgment, award, injunction or decree binding on or affecting it or its property. The Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Seller and Servicer. Each of Seller and Servicer have furnished to the Purchasers a true, correct and complete copy of its Organizational Documents, including all amendments thereto.

(e) Authorizations; Filings . No authorization or approval or other action by, and no notice to or filing with, any governmental entity is required for the due execution, delivery and performance by Seller and Servicer of this Agreement or any other document to be delivered thereunder except, with respect to the Seller, for the filing of any Uniform Commercial Code financing statements as

 

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may be necessary to perfect the sale of Purchased Receivables pursuant to this Agreement and UCC-3 statements releasing existing liens on the Receivables. Other than the Uniform Commercial Code financing statements to be released pursuant to the UCC-3s as aforementioned, and the UCC financing statement filed in favor of HCA in connection with the Original Agreement, no Uniform Commercial Code financing statement or other instrument similar in effect naming Seller as debtor or seller and covering any Purchased Receivable is on file in any filing or recording office, except those filed in favor of the Purchasers relating to this Agreement, and no competing notice of assignment or payment instruction or other notice inconsistent with the transactions contemplated in this Agreement is in effect with respect to any Account Debtor, other than those contemplated in the Intercreditor Agreement.

(f) Enforceability . This Agreement constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of Seller and Servicer, enforceable against Seller and Servicer, as applicable, in accordance with its terms, except as limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance or other laws relating to the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally and general principles of equity (regardless of whether enforcement is sought at equity or law).

(g) Litigation Matters . There is no pending (or, to its knowledge, threatened) action, proceeding, investigation or injunction, writ or restraining order affecting Seller or Servicer before any court, governmental entity or arbitrator which could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Change, and neither Seller nor Servicer is currently the subject of, and has no present intention of taking any action to commence, an Insolvency Event applicable to Seller or Servicer.

(h) Material Adverse Change . There exists no event which has or is reasonably likely to result in a Material Adverse Change with respect to Seller, Servicer, Parent or the Ultimate Parent.

(i) Change of Control. No Change of Control has occurred.

(j) Liens . All Purchased Receivables are free and clear of any Adverse Claim in favor of the Internal Revenue Service, any employee benefit plan, the PBGC or similar entity.

(k) Review . Each of Seller and Servicer has discussed and reviewed this Agreement with its accountant, independent auditors, tax advisors and counsel and neither Seller nor Servicer is relying upon oral representations or statements or advice from any Purchaser.

(l) Investment Company Act . Seller is not an “investment company,” or a company “controlled” by an “investment company” within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. In determining that Seller is not a “covered fund”, Seller is entitled to rely on the exemption from the definition of “investment company” set forth in Section 3(c)(5) of the Investment Company Act, as amended, and may be able to rely on other exemptions or exclusions.

(m) Termination Events . No Termination Event or Unmatured Termination Event has occurred and is continuing.

(n) Tax Matters. Each of Seller and the Servicer has filed all material tax returns and reports required by applicable law to have been filed by it and has paid all material taxes, assessments and governmental charges thereby shown to be owing by it, other than any such taxes, assessments or charges that are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which appropriate reserves have been established.

 

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(o) Accuracy of Information . All information, exhibits, financial statements, documents, books, records or other reports furnished or to be furnished at any time by or on behalf of Seller or the Servicer to the Purchasers or the Purchaser Representative in connection with the Agreement or any other Transaction Document is or will be complete and accurate in all material respects as of its date or as of the date so furnished and, to the extent materially related to the information then being provided, does not and will not omit to state a fact necessary in order to make the information contained therein with respect to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading (it being understood that such information may not contain all of the information or disclosure which would be required for inclusion in a registration statement for debt or equity securities issued by Seller).

(p) UCC Matters .

(i) Seller’s “location” as such term is defined in the applicable UCC is its jurisdiction of organization specified in the preamble to this Agreement, and the address or addresses at which it keeps its records concerning the Proposed Receivables is as set forth herein or otherwise identified to the Purchasers in writing. Seller’s Federal Employee Identification Number is 81-1679693. The Purchaser Representative has “control” (as defined in § 9-104 of the UCC) over the Collection Account for the benefit of the Purchasers.

(ii) Seller’s complete corporate name is set forth in this Agreement, and it does not use and has not during the last five years used any other corporate name, trade name, doing-business name or fictitious name, except for names set forth in a written notice delivered to each Purchaser.

(q) Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Laws; Etc .

(i) Neither Seller nor any Affiliate of Seller nor, to the knowledge of Seller, any Account Debtor (A) is, or is owned or controlled by, a Sanctioned Person; (B) is located, incorporated, organized, or resident in a Sanctioned Country; (C) has any business affiliation or commercial dealings with, or investments in, any Sanctioned Country or Sanctioned Person, except in the case of any Affiliate of Seller who is acting in compliance with all applicable Sanctions Laws and Anti-Money Laundering Laws; or (D) is in breach of or is the subject of any action or investigation under any Sanctions Laws or Anti-Money Laundering Laws.

(ii) Seller and its Affiliates, and, to the knowledge of Servicer and Seller without any duty to make inquiries, each Account Debtor and each Affiliate of such Account Debtor (A) are in compliance with Sanction Laws, the Trading with the Enemy Act, and each of the foreign assets control regulations of the United States Treasury Department (31 CFR, Subtitle B Chapter V, as amended) and any other enabling legislation or executive order relating thereto, the anti-money laundering and bank secrecy provisions of the Patriot Act, and other federal or state laws relating to “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations and (B) have taken appropriate steps to implement policies and procedures reasonably designed to provide that there will be no payments to any government official or employee, political party, candidate for political office, or anyone else acting in an official capacity, in order to obtain, retain or direct business or obtain any improper advantage in violation of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977.

 

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4. COVENANTS . Until the later of the Purchase Termination Date and the last Invoice Due Date (subject to any provisions hereof which by their express terms survive termination), Seller (and, to the extent specifically applicable to the Servicer below, the Servicer) agrees to perform the covenants set forth below solely as to itself only:

(a) Notice of Disputes, Breaches of Contract, Account Debtor Insolvency Events, Etc. Seller shall deliver to each Purchaser a reasonably detailed written notice promptly and in any event within two (2) Business Days after becoming aware or receiving notice of (i) any Dispute asserted or threatened in respect of a Purchased Receivable, (ii) any breach by the applicable Account Debtor of the Contract which might give rise to such Account Debtor failing to pay any invoice amount or give rise to any Dispute, (iii) any Account Debtor Insolvency Event occurring or with respect to which Seller has received actual knowledge, or (iv) it becoming illegal for an Account Debtor to pay all or any part of the invoice amount because of the imposition of any prohibition or restriction on such payments.

(b) Contracts; Purchased Receivables . Seller, at its expense, shall timely and fully perform in all material respects with all terms, covenants and other provisions, if any, required to be performed by it under the Contracts related to the Purchased Receivables. The Servicer shall enforce each Purchaser’s rights against each applicable Account Debtor under the Contracts related to the Purchased Receivables.

(c) Perfection . Each of Seller and Servicer shall at all times take all action necessary or desirable to maintain in full force and effect the security interests created under this Agreement free and clear of any Adverse Claim created or caused by or arising through or under Seller, Servicer or any of their Affiliates, or as a result of any act or omission of any such party.

(d) Existence . Seller will (i) comply in all material respects with all applicable laws, rules, regulations and orders and (ii) preserve and maintain its organizational existence, rights, franchises, qualifications, and privileges. Seller will keep its state of organization as the State of Delaware and principal place of business and chief executive office and the office where it keeps its records concerning the Purchased Receivables at the address set forth in Section  12 hereof or, in each case, upon ten (10) Business Days’ prior written notice to each Purchaser, at any other locations in jurisdictions where all actions reasonably requested by any Purchaser or otherwise necessary to protect, perfect and maintain each Purchaser’s interest in the Purchased Receivables have been taken and completed.

(e) Books and Records . Seller will maintain accurate books and accounts with respect to the Purchased Receivables and shall make a notation on its books and records, including any computer files, to indicate which Receivables have been sold to each Purchaser, as applicable. Seller shall maintain and implement administrative and operating procedures (including, without limitation, an ability to recreate records evidencing Purchased Receivables and related Contracts in the event of the destruction of the originals thereof), and keep and maintain all documents, books, records and other information reasonably necessary or advisable for collecting all Purchased Receivables (including, without limitation, records adequate to permit the daily identification of each Purchased Receivable and all Collections of and adjustments to each existing Purchased Receivable).

(f) Sales, Liens and Debt . Seller will not sell, assign or otherwise dispose of, or cause or create or suffer to exist any lien, encumbrance or security interest, as a result of any act or omission of Seller, upon or with respect to, the Purchased Receivables or upon or with respect to any deposit or other account to which any Collections of any Purchased Receivable are sent, or assign any right to receive income in respect thereof except the interests in favor of the Purchasers.

 

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(g) Extension or Amendment of Purchased Receivables . Neither Seller nor any Purchaser will amend or extend the payment terms under any Purchased Receivables, unless approved in advance in writing by the applicable Purchaser, and neither of them shall otherwise waive or permit or agree to any deviation from the terms or conditions of any Purchased Receivable without the prior written consent of the applicable Purchaser.

(h) Audits and Visits . Each of Seller and Servicer will, at any time and from time to time during regular business hours as requested by any Purchaser, permit each Purchaser, or its agents or representatives, upon reasonable notice, (i) on a confidential basis, to examine and make copies of and abstracts from all books, records and documents (including, without limitation, computer tapes and disks) in its possession or under its control relating to Purchased Receivables owed by Account Debtor including, without limitation, the related Contracts, and (ii) to visit its offices and properties for the purpose of examining and auditing such materials described in clause (i)  above, and to discuss matters relating to Purchased Receivables owed by Account Debtor or Seller’s performance hereunder or under the related Contracts with any of its officers or employees having knowledge of such matters (hereinafter, an “ Audit ”), provided that, unless a breach or default of Seller’s or Servicer’s obligations hereunder occurs and is continuing, only two such Audits by each Purchaser (but, collectively, not more than three such Audits; provided that the Purchasers shall use commercially reasonable efforts to coordinate in an effort to, if reasonably practical for each such Purchaser, conduct their audits on the same date) in any calendar year shall be at Seller’s expense. Subject to Section 15(d) and Section 15(e) , upon reasonable notice, the Seller will provide any Purchaser with any invoice requested with respect to one or more Purchased Receivables.

(i) Accounting Treatment. Seller will make all disclosures required by applicable law or regulation with respect to the sale of the Proposed Receivables to the Purchasers and account for such sale in accordance with GAAP.

(j) Notice. Seller and Servicer will promptly notify each Purchaser of any circumstance that it becomes aware of in connection with a Proposed Receivable that may relate to money laundering, terrorist financing, bribery, corruption, tax evasion or Sanctions.

(k) Further Assurances . Seller will, at its expense, promptly execute and deliver all further instruments and documents, and take all further action that either Purchaser may reasonably request, from time to time, in order to perfect, protect or more fully evidence the full and complete ownership of such Purchaser of the related Purchased Receivables, or to enable the Purchasers to exercise or enforce the rights of the Purchasers hereunder or under the Purchased Receivables.

(l) Taxes . Seller will pay any and all taxes (excluding any Excluded Taxes) relating to the transfer of the Purchased Receivables to the applicable Purchaser; except for those taxes that Seller is contesting in good faith and for which adequate reserves have been taken. Seller shall treat each sale of Purchased Receivables hereunder as a sale for federal and state income tax, reporting and accounting purposes.

(m) Not Adversely Affect Either Purchaser’s Rights . Seller will refrain from any act or omission which it reasonably believes might in any way prejudice or limit any Purchaser’s rights under any of the Purchased Receivables pursuant to this Agreement.

 

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(n) Nature of Business . Seller will not engage in any business or engage in any transactions other than the purchase of Receivables from Wise Alloys LLC and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the Transaction Documents. Seller will not create or form any subsidiary and will not make any loans to, advances to, investments in or otherwise acquire any capital stock or equity security of, or any equity interest in, any other Person. Seller shall not create, incur, guarantee, assume or suffer to exist any indebtedness or other liabilities, whether direct or contingent, other than (i) as a result of the endorsement of negotiable instruments for deposit or collection or similar transactions in the ordinary course of business and (ii) the incurrence of obligations under this Agreement.

(o) Change in Business . Except for changes mandated by Applicable Law applicable to the Seller or Servicer, as applicable, (i) the Seller will not make any change in the character of its business, which change would materially and adversely affect the collectibility of any Purchased Receivable or otherwise have a Material Adverse Change with respect to Seller, and (ii) the Servicer will not make any change in the character of its business relating to the administration, servicing and collection of Receivables, which change would materially and adversely affect the collectibility of any Purchased Receivable or otherwise have a Material Adverse Change with respect to the Servicer.

(p) Mergers, Etc. Seller will not merge with or into or consolidate with or into, or convey, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of (whether in one transaction or in a series of transactions), all or substantially all of its assets (whether now owned or hereafter acquired) to, or acquire all or substantially all of the assets or capital stock or other ownership interest of, or enter into any joint venture or partnership agreement with, any Person, other than as contemplated by this Agreement and the Transaction Documents.

(q) Separate Existence. Seller and Servicer hereby acknowledge that each Purchaser is entering into the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and in reliance upon Seller’s identity as a legal entity separate from Servicer and its respective Affiliates. Therefore, from and after the date hereof, each of Seller and Servicer shall take all steps specifically required by the Agreement or reasonably required to continue Seller’s identity as a separate legal entity and to make it apparent to third Persons that Seller is an entity with assets and liabilities distinct from those of Servicer and any other Person. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing and in addition to and consistent with the other covenants set forth herein, each of Seller and Servicer shall take such actions as shall be required in order that:

(i) Seller will be a limited purpose company whose primary activities are restricted in its organizational documents to: (i) purchasing or otherwise acquiring, owning, holding, granting security interests or selling interests in Receivables, (ii) entering into agreements for the selling and servicing of the Receivables, and (iii) conducting such other activities as it deems necessary or appropriate to carry out its primary activities;

(ii) Not less than one member of Seller’s Board of Directors (the “ Independent Director ”) shall be an individual who is not a direct, indirect or beneficial stockholder, officer, director, employee, affiliate, associate or supplier of Servicer or any of its Affiliates and is otherwise independent of Servicer and its Affiliates to the satisfaction of each Purchaser;

(iii) [reserved];

(iv) To the extent, if any, that Seller (or any Affiliate thereof) shares items of expenses not reflected in the servicing fee,

 

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such as legal, auditing and other professional services, such expenses will be allocated to the extent practical on the basis of actual use or the value of services rendered, and otherwise on a basis reasonably related to the actual use or the value of services rendered; it being understood that Servicer shall pay all expenses relating to the preparation, negotiation, execution and delivery of this Agreement, including legal, agency and other fees;

(v) All of Seller’s business correspondence and other communications shall be conducted in Seller’s own name and on its own separate stationery;

(vi) Seller’s books and records will be maintained separately from those of Servicer and any other Affiliate thereof;

(vii) All financial statements of the Ultimate Parent, Servicer or any Affiliate thereof that are consolidated to include Seller will, in accordance with GAAP, contain detailed notes clearly stating that: (i) a special purpose company exists as a subsidiary of Servicer, and (ii) Wise Alloys LLC has sold receivables and other related assets to such special purpose subsidiary that, in turn, has sold such receivables to certain financial institutions and other entities; and

(viii) Seller will strictly observe corporate formalities in its dealings with Servicer or any Affiliate thereof, and funds or other assets of Seller will not be commingled with those of the Originator, Servicer or any Affiliate thereof except as permitted by the Agreement or one of the other Transaction Documents in connection with servicing the Purchased Receivables. Seller shall not maintain joint bank accounts or other depository accounts to which Servicer or any Affiliate thereof (other than Servicer in its capacity as Servicer) has independent access. Seller is not named, and has not entered into any agreement to be named, directly or indirectly, as a direct or contingent beneficiary or loss payee on any insurance policy with respect to any loss relating to the property of Servicer or Affiliate thereof.

(r) Change in Credit and Collection Policy . Except for changes mandated by Applicable Law applicable to the Seller or the Servicer, as applicable, neither the Seller nor the Servicer, as applicable, shall make (or permit the Originator to make) without the prior written consent of each Purchaser (as provided in the following sentence), any change (by amendment or otherwise) to the Credit and Collection Policy that would materially adversely affect the collectability of the Purchased Receivables or the ability of the Servicer to perform its obligations under any related Contract that would in turn materially adversely affect the collectability of the Purchased Receivables (in each case, taken as a whole). If consent of the Purchasers is required pursuant to the immediately preceding sentence, then the Servicer will furnish or cause to be furnished to each Purchaser at least ten (10) days prior to the effectiveness of any material change in (or material amendment to) the Credit and Collection Policy, a notice indicating such change or amendment and a request for consent thereto.

5. TERMINATION EVENTS

If any Termination Event shall occur, either Purchaser may, by notice to Seller, declare the Purchase Termination Date (solely with respect to itself) to have occurred and that it shall have no further obligation to purchase any Receivables hereunder; provided that if any of the Termination Events

 

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described in paragraph (e)  of the definition thereof shall occur, then the obligation of each Purchaser to make purchases hereunder shall cease automatically upon the occurrence of such event, without notice of any kind; it being understood that if any Purchaser terminates with respect to itself, the other Purchaser may, solely with respect to itself, waive in writing and/or agree to continue this Agreement with respect to such other Purchaser.

Whether or not the expressed intent of the parties that the transfers hereunder constitute sales, is respected or recharacterized, each Purchaser shall have, with respect to the Purchased Receivables, Related Rights and all other Sold Assets (but solely to the extent of Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser hereunder), and in addition to all the other rights and remedies available to the Purchasers hereunder and under the Transaction Documents (whether prior to or following any Termination Event), all the rights and remedies of a secured party under any applicable UCC. In connection with any exercise of remedies by any Purchaser hereunder following the occurrence of a Termination Event that has not been cured or waived in accordance with this Agreement, Seller agrees that ten (10) Business Days shall be reasonable prior notice to Seller of the date of any public or private sale or other disposition of all or any of the Purchased Receivables and other Sold Assets.

6. SERVICING; COLLECTION ACTIVITIES; ETC.

(a) Servicing .

(i) Appointment of Servicer . Each Purchaser appoints Wise Alloys LLC as its servicer and agent (in such capacity, the “ Servicer ”) for the administration and servicing of all Purchased Receivables sold to such Purchaser hereunder, and Servicer hereby accepts such appointment and agrees to assume the duties and the administration and servicing obligations as Servicer, and perform all necessary and appropriate commercial collection activities in arranging the timely payment of amounts due and owing by any Account Debtor all in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, with reasonable care and diligence, including, without limitation, diligently and faithfully performing all servicing and collection actions (including, if necessary, acting as party of record in foreign jurisdictions). The Servicer shall also maintain and update the schedule of Receivables listing those Receivables purchased from time to time by each Purchaser under this Agreement and the Servicer shall indicate in the Servicer’s books and records and in the appropriate computer files those Receivables purchased from time to time by each Purchaser. In addition, Servicer shall track all Purchased Receivables on its ERP system or similar system. Such appointment as Servicer shall not release Seller from any of its other duties to comply with any other terms, covenants and provisions of this Agreement. In connection with its servicing obligations, Servicer will, and will ensure that Seller will, perform its respective obligations and exercise and enforce its respective rights and remedies under the contracts and other agreements related to the Purchased Receivables (the “ Contracts ”) with the same care and applying the same policies as it applies to its own Receivables generally and would exercise and apply if it owned the Purchased Receivables and shall use commercially reasonable efforts in connection with such activities and standards to maximize Collections. In consideration for its activities as Servicer, on the date of the first purchase hereunder, and on each one-year anniversary of this Agreement (or if such one-year anniversary is not a Business Day, the next succeeding Business Day), the Purchasers shall (ratably, based on their respective Ratable Shares thereof), so long as this Agreement

 

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remains in effect at such time and so long as Wise Alloys LLC has not been terminated or replaced on or prior to such date, pay to the Servicer, a servicing fee (each such annual payment, a “ Servicing Fee ”) in cash in immediately available funds, in an amount, in the case of each such annual Servicing Fee, equal to $20,000.

(ii) Replacement of Servicer . Upon the earlier to occur of (i) Servicer defaulting in its obligations set forth under this Section  6 , (ii) an Insolvency Event with respect to Servicer, (iii) a Material Adverse Change in Seller or Servicer, (iv) a Termination Event or (v) a breach of the representations and warranties in any material respect by Seller or Servicer under this Agreement, the Purchaser Representative (at the written direction or with the written consent of all Purchasers) shall (but only with respect to clauses (i)  and (iv) if within 10 days after knowledge of Seller or Servicer or notice from either Purchaser to Seller and Servicer, Servicer fails to cure such default or breach in all material respects and in all other cases without requirement of notice to Servicer, Seller or any other Person) replace Servicer (which replacement may be made through the outplacement to a Person of all back office duties, including billing, collection and processing responsibilities, and access to all personnel, hardware and software utilized in connection with such responsibilities). Servicer shall reimburse the Purchaser Representative and each Purchaser for all expenses reasonably incurred by such Person in connection with such replacement; provided that in no event shall Servicer be liable for any servicing compensation paid or payable to such replacement.

(b) Collections .

(i) Establishment of Account(s) . Seller has established the Collection Account to receive amounts owing under the Purchased Receivables and covenants to maintain such account so long as any Purchased Receivable remains unpaid unless otherwise agreed to in writing by each Purchaser.

(ii) Collections . Servicer covenants (i) Servicer shall direct each Account Debtor to wire or transmit by ACH transfer Collections directly to the Collections Account and shall take such commercially reasonable actions as may be reasonably requested by either Purchaser to ensure that each Account Debtor complies with such direction and (ii) not to change the payment instructions relating to Collections while any Purchased Receivable remains outstanding or, if later, prior to the Purchase Termination Date. If Seller or Servicer inadvertently receives any Collections, Seller or Servicer, as applicable, shall cause such Collections to be delivered to and deposited into the Collection Account within two (2) Business Days of receipt.

(iii) Receipt of Collections . No Collections shall be deemed received by any Purchaser for purposes of this Agreement until funds are credited to the Collection Account as immediately available funds or otherwise actually received by such Purchaser.

 

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(iv) Funds Held in Trust . Prior to being deposited in the Collection Account, funds received by Seller or Servicer in respect of any Purchased Receivables shall be deemed to be the exclusive property of the Purchaser who purchased such Purchased Receivables, and Seller and Servicer each shall be deemed to be holding such funds in trust for the exclusive use and benefit of such Purchaser. Neither Servicer nor any Seller shall, directly or indirectly, utilize such funds for its own purposes, and shall not have any right to pledge such funds as collateral for any obligations of Servicer or Seller or any other Person.

(v) Payment of Collections . Subject to Section 6(c) , Servicer shall pay any amounts of Collections deposited in the Collection Account from time to time to the Purchaser who purchased the Sold Assets to which such Collection relate within two (2) Business Days after such Collections are identified and matched to a related Purchased Receivable (or are to be applied on account thereof under Section 6(c) below) (each a “ Settlement Date ”). Any Collections held in the Collection Account between each Settlement Date shall be deemed to be the exclusive property of the applicable Purchaser who purchased the Sold Assets to which such Collection relate, and Seller and Servicer each shall be deemed to be holding such funds in trust for the exclusive use and benefit of such Purchaser until disbursement on the forthcoming Settlement Date. Upon the occurrence and at any time during the continuance of any Termination Event, the Purchaser Representative (at the written direction or with the written consent of the applicable Purchaser) shall exercise its rights under the Collection Account Agreement and take exclusive control of the Collection Account for the benefit of the Purchasers and none of Originator, Servicer nor Seller shall have any further right to make withdrawals or to otherwise direct disbursements from the Collection Account. During any period of such exclusive control, either Purchaser may direct the Purchaser Representative to direct the disbursement of Collections in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement and the Intercreditor Agreement and the Purchaser Representative shall follow any such directions.

(c) Payment Reconciliation . Pursuant to its servicing obligations under this Section  6 hereof, Servicer shall be responsible for promptly identifying, matching and reconciling any payments, including those related to any Dilution of the Receivable, deposited in the Collection Account with the Purchased Receivable associated with such payment. Servicer shall provide to Purchaser, substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit D and substance satisfactory to each Purchaser, a full reconciliation (“ Payment Reconciliation ”) of all such payments deposited in the Collection Account, together with the DSO values of all Collections deposited in the Collection Account and adjustments (including Dilutions amounts, if any, with respect to the Purchased Receivables), concurrently with the transfer to the Collection Account of all Collections in respect of the Purchased Receivables and from time to time upon the request of Purchaser. In accordance with the provisions of the Intercreditor Agreement, if at any time any payment is delivered to or identified in the Collection Account that does not constitute a Collection with respect to any Purchased Receivable, within two (2) Business Days following receipt by each Purchaser of evidence of payment details documenting that the payment is for Receivables not constituting Purchased Receivables which shall be done no less frequently than weekly, such funds will be forwarded to an account specified by the Seller or the Servicer. If any Collection on account of any Purchased Receivable is paid to the Originator, the Seller, the Parent or the Ultimate Parent, (either directly by Account Debtor or from out of the Collection Account pursuant to the remaining provisions of this paragraph (c) or otherwise), such Person shall promptly pay such amount to

 

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the applicable Purchaser, together with interest at the Discount Rate for the period that is two (2) Business Days after such erroneous payment is received until the date paid to the applicable Purchaser. To the extent the Purchase Representative (on behalf of the Purchasers) has control over the Collection Account, following the occurrence of a Termination Event the Purchaser Representative (and to the extent such amounts have already been remitted to a Purchaser, such Purchaser) shall be obligated to remit funds that do not relate to Purchased Receivables to an account specified by the Servicer within three (3) Business Days following receipt by each Purchaser of evidence of payment details documenting to each Purchaser’s reasonable satisfaction that the payment is for Receivables not constituting Purchased Receivables. In accordance with the provisions of the Intercreditor Agreement, if any payment is received from an Account Debtor, and such payment is not identified by such Account Debtor as relating to a particular Receivable and cannot otherwise be reasonably identified in accordance with the Payment Reconciliation as relating to a particular Receivable within five (5) Business Days of receipt thereof, such payment shall be applied first to the unpaid Receivables with respect to such Account Debtor that are not subject to any Dispute with such Account Debtor in chronological order based on the related scheduled payment dates (beginning with the unpaid Receivable with the oldest scheduled payment date).

(d) Rights of Purchasers; Notices to Account Debtors . Each Purchaser (solely to the extent of the Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser hereunder) shall have all rights as holder and owner in respect of the Purchased Receivables and the owner of the other Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser hereunder, including, subject to Section 6(a)(ii) (with respect to the replacement of the Servicer), the right to exercise any and all of its rights and remedies hereunder, under applicable law (including, the UCC) or at equity to collect any Purchased Receivables purchased by such Purchaser hereunder directly from the applicable Account Debtor, and the right to exercise any rights of Seller as purchaser under the Sale Agreement with respect to any such Purchased Receivables under the Sale Agreement. In furtherance of the foregoing, without limiting the generality thereof, each Purchaser may (solely to the extent of the Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser hereunder), in its sole discretion, upon the occurrence and continuation of (i) a Termination Event, (ii) any other event which would permit the Purchaser Representative at the direction of the Purchasers to replace Servicer (but prior to the expiration of, and without the need to take into account any grace or cure period as may be provided for prior to such replacement pursuant to Section 6(a)(ii) ), (iii) the giving by or on behalf of the ABL Agent to Account Debtor of any notice or instruction to pay any Unsold Receivables to an account other than the Collection Account, or (iv) any late payment with respect to any Purchased Receivable, to the extent that such late payment has not yet been determined to be the result of a Repurchase Event for which the Seller has paid or is required to pay the Repurchase Price therefor (or portion thereof subject to a Dispute or Dilution), (A) notify or otherwise indicate to any Account Debtor that Seller has sold the applicable Purchased Receivable to such Purchaser hereunder, and may direct such Account Debtor to make payments with respect to such Purchased Receivable directly to the Collection Account (or as otherwise directed by the applicable Purchaser), or (B) deliver a Notification of Assignment to the Account Debtor with respect to Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser. Each Purchaser agrees that prior to the occurrence of one of the events described in clauses (i) , (ii), (iii) or (iv)  above, each Purchaser shall hold the Notifications of Assignment held by it in trust for the benefit of the Seller and shall have no right to deliver, share, disclose or otherwise transmit any Notification of Assignment (or the contents thereof) to the Account Debtor or any other party, subject to the permitted disclosures permitted under Section 15(d) . Without limiting any Purchaser’s right to otherwise directly contact and direct the applicable Account Debtor, upon the occurrence of one of the events described in clauses (i) , (ii) , (iii) or (iv)  above, each of Seller and Originator hereby expressly and irrevocably consents to each Purchaser’s executing in the space provided, dating and providing to the Account Debtor, a Notification of Assignment executed by the Originator and Seller. Notwithstanding the foregoing, solely in the case of clause (iv)  above, so long as Seller and Servicer are in material compliance with all terms, covenants and provisions in this Agreement applicable to Seller and Servicer, and no event described in clauses (i), (ii) or (iii)  has occurred and is continuing at such time, upon the occurrence of any payment default by an Account

 

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Debtor in payment of the Purchased Receivable (which is not the subject of a Dispute or Dilution), prior to a Purchaser’s right (as described above) to directly contact and direct the applicable Account Debtor, Servicer shall consult with each Purchaser with regard to such default and on the course of action the Servicer plans to adopt in light thereof. If Servicer has not resolved the cause of such payment default (as a Dilution, Dispute, Account Debtor Insolvency or otherwise) within fifteen (15) days of the original due date for such payment, then each Purchaser with respect to Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser shall at such time, without further notice to or consultation with the Seller or Servicer, have all right to deliver a Notification of Assignment, notify, contact, instruct and direct the applicable Account Debtor as described in the prior sentences of this paragraph above. In connection with above, the Originator and Seller shall promptly execute and deliver to a Purchaser, upon the reasonable request of such Purchaser, updated replacement original Notifications of Assignment in the form of Exhibit E hereto.

(e) Reporting Requirements . Servicer shall provide or make available (by access to a website, Intralinks or otherwise); to each Purchaser the following:

(i) as soon as available and in any event within 60 days after the end of the first three quarters of each fiscal year of the Ultimate Parent, consolidated and consolidating balance sheets of the Ultimate Parent and its consolidated subsidiaries as of the end of such quarter and statements of income, retained earnings and cash flow of the Ultimate Parent and its consolidated subsidiaries for the period commencing at the end of the previous fiscal year and ending with the end of such quarter, certified by the chief financial officer of such Person;

(ii) as soon as available and in any event within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Ultimate Parent, a copy of the annual report for such year for such Person and its consolidated subsidiaries, containing unqualified consolidated and consolidating financial statements for such year audited by independent certified public accountants of nationally recognized standing;

(iii) on the fifth (5th) Business Day of each calendar month, aging, past due and performance reports (the “ Servicer Report ”) relating to all Purchased Receivables, together with such other data (including all calculations of the ratios described herein), reports and information relating to the Purchased Receivables of each Account Debtor reasonably requested by any Purchaser from time to time (including, without limitation, proof reasonably satisfactory to each Purchaser that Originator has delivered to the applicable Account Debtor all property or performed all services required to be so delivered or performed by the terms of the Contract giving rise to the Purchased Receivables) in each case, in a format reasonably acceptable to the Purchasers and the Servicer;

(iv) as to each of Seller and Servicer, as soon as possible and in any event within two Business Days after becoming aware of the occurrence of each Termination Event or Unmatured Termination Event, a statement of an officer of such Person setting forth details of such Termination Event or Unmatured Termination Event and the action that such Person has taken and proposes to take with respect thereto;

 

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(v) as soon as possible and in any event within two (2) Business Days (in the case of clause (A)  below) and three (3) Business Days (in the case of clause (B)  below) after becoming aware of the occurrence thereof, written notice of (A) any non-payment of amounts due with respect to any Purchased Receivable or (B) any matter that could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Change; and

(vi) such other information respecting the Receivables or the condition or operations, financial or otherwise, of Seller or Servicer as any Purchaser may from time to time reasonably request.

(f) From time to time, either Purchaser may request that the Servicer access Budnet (the Anheuser-Busch supplier portal) and, based solely upon the information referenced on Budnet on such access date, provide such Purchaser with the invoices that Anheuser-Busch LLC has processed as of such access date and the payment date(s) for such invoices. The Servicer shall promptly provide the each Purchaser with duplicate copies of all periodic statements on the Collection Account (including monthly statements) that are sent to the Servicer or the Seller by the account bank under the Collection Account Agreement.

7. REPURCHASE EVENTS; INDEMNITIES AND SET-OFF.

(a) Repurchase Events . If any of the following events (“ Event of Repurchase ”) occurs and is continuing with respect to any Purchased Receivable purchased by either Purchaser:

(i) Such Purchased Receivable, at the time of purchase, did not constitute an Eligible Receivable; or

(ii) Without limiting clause (i) above and in addition thereto, any representation or warranty made by Seller under Section 3(a) with respect to such Purchased Receivable is incorrect when made and shall have an adverse effect on the ability to collect the Net Invoice Amount of such Purchased Receivable, as reasonably determined by the Purchaser; or

(iii) Seller or Servicer fails to perform or observe any term, covenant or provision with respect to such Purchased Receivable and such failure shall have a material adverse effect on the ability to collect the Net Invoice Amount of such Purchased Receivable; or

(iv) the Account Debtor on such Purchased Receivable asserts an actual Dispute in writing or Dilution has occurred with respect to such Purchased Receivable, excluding any Dispute or Dilution that (A) relates to the acts or omissions of the applicable Purchaser who purchased such Purchased Receivable which are (x) in material violation of applicable law relating to such action or omission or (y) in material breach of its obligations hereunder, (B) does not relate to the acts or omissions of the Seller, the Servicer or any of their Affiliates, (C) does not relate to the transfer of such Purchased Receivable from the Seller to such Purchaser and (D) does not relate to the goods or services that are the subject of such Purchased Receivable; or

(v) Seller or Servicer instructs the Account Debtor on such Purchased Receivable to pay amounts owing in respect of such Purchased Receivable to an account other than the Collection Account;

 

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then, Seller shall, within one (1) Business Day of demand therefor from the applicable Purchaser who purchased such Purchased Receivable (such date, the “ Repurchase Date ”), repurchase all (or any portion) of such Purchased Receivable then outstanding. For the avoidance of doubt, to the extent any portion of a Purchased Receivable is subject to repurchase, the related invoice shall not be divided.

The repurchase price (the “ Repurchase Price ”) for such Purchased Receivable shall be the amount equal to the sum of (i) the Net Invoice Amount relating to such Purchased Receivable less the aggregate amount of all Collections with respect to such Purchased Receivables deposited into the Collection Account, plus (ii) interest for the period from the Scheduled Payment Date for such Purchased Receivable until the date the Repurchase Price has been repaid in full, at a rate equal to the Discount Rate.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Purchased Receivable is subject to a Repurchase Event described above as a result of a Dispute or an event of Dilution which affects or only applies with respect to a portion of such Receivable that is less than 10% of the Net Invoice Amount thereof, the Seller may, in its discretion, elect to satisfy its obligation under this Section  7 by rather than repurchasing such Receivable and paying the Repurchase Price therefor, paying to the applicable Purchaser who purchased such Purchased Receivable on what would otherwise have been the Repurchase Date, an amount in cash equal to the entire amount which is the subject of such Dispute or Dilution plus interest due thereon for a period from the Scheduled Payment Date for such Purchased Receivable until the date the Seller pays such amount in full, at a rate equal to the Discount Rate at such time (such amount, the “ Subject Payment Amount ”). If the Seller elects not to repurchase the entire Receivable but rather pay the Subject Payment Amount with respect thereto then each of the parties hereto hereby agrees that any such Receivable will remain the property of the applicable Purchaser hereunder and shall not be or be deemed to have been sold back to the Seller on the applicable Repurchase Date.

The Repurchase Price or Subject Payment Amount, as applicable, for a Purchased Receivable and all amounts due hereunder with respect to such Purchased Receivable shall be paid to the Collection Account in immediately available funds on the Repurchase Date. Upon the payment in full of the Repurchase Price for a Purchased Receivable and all amounts due hereunder with respect to such Purchased Receivable, such Purchased Receivable shall be automatically and without further action sold by the applicable Purchaser to Seller without recourse to or representation or warranty, express or implied, by such Purchaser. Upon repurchase by Seller, Seller shall have all right, title and interest in and to such repurchased Purchased Receivables. Seller agrees that the applicable Purchaser may set off in the manner set forth in paragraph (f)  below against any unpaid obligation of Seller under this Section 7(a) . Amounts due hereunder shall accrue interest at the Discount Rate.

(b) General Indemnification .

(i) Indemnities by Seller . Seller hereby agrees to indemnify the Purchaser Representative and each Purchaser (together with their officers, directors, agents, representatives, shareholders, counsel and employees, each, an “ Indemnified Party ”) from and against any and all claims, losses and liabilities (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees) (all of the foregoing being collectively referred to as “ Indemnified Amounts ”) arising out of or resulting from any of the following: (i) the sale to such Purchaser of any Receivable as to which the representations and warranties made herein are not all true and correct on the Purchase Date therefor; (ii) any representation or

 

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warranty made by Seller (or any of its respective officers) under or in connection with this Agreement (except with respect to the Purchased Receivables) which shall have been incorrect in any respect when made; (iii) the failure by Seller or Servicer to comply with any applicable law, rule or regulation with respect to any Purchased Receivable; (iv) the failure to vest in each Purchaser a perfected interest in each Purchased Receivable and other Sold Assets and the proceeds and Collections in respect thereof sold or assigned to such Purchaser hereunder, free and clear of any liens or encumbrances of any kind or nature whatsoever (other than those granted to the Purchasers under this Agreement); (v) any Dispute or any other claim related to such Purchased Receivable (or any portion thereof) excluding any Dispute or claim that (A) relates to the acts or omissions of such Purchaser which are (x) in material violation of applicable law relating to such action or omission or (y) in material breach of its obligations hereunder, (B) does not relate to the acts or omissions of the Seller, the Servicer or any of their Affiliates, (C) does not relate to the transfer of such Purchased Receivable from the Seller to such Purchaser and (D) does not relate to the goods or services that are the subject of such Purchased Receivables; (vi) except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement or in any of the other Transaction Documents, the commingling by Seller of Collections at any time with other funds of Seller or any other Person; (vii) any products liability claim, personal injury or property damage suit, environmental liability claim or any other claim or action by a party of whatever sort, whether in tort, contract or any other legal theory, arising out of or in connection with the goods or services that are the subject of any Purchased Receivable with respect thereto; (viii) this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby and the purchases of the Purchased Receivables by such Purchaser pursuant to the terms hereof, excluding any Dispute or claim that (A) relates to the acts or omissions of such Purchaser which are (x) in material violation of applicable law relating to such action or omission or (y) in material breach of its obligations hereunder, (B) does not relate to the acts or omissions of the Seller, the Servicer or any of their Affiliates, (C) does not relate to the transfer of such Purchased Receivable from the Seller to such Purchaser and (D) does not relate to the goods or services that are the subject of such Purchased Receivables; (ix) any currency restrictions or foreign political restrictions or regulations; (x) any failure by: (A) any Person who is not a party to the Intercreditor Agreement and to whom Seller, Originator or Servicer directs or furnishes payment, or (B) HSBC Bank USA, National Association or any of its successors, assigns or agents, to pay over to such Purchaser reasonably promptly any Collections on account of Purchased Receivables received by it; (xi) any breach by Seller, Originator or any of their affiliates of that certain letter dated March 11, 2016 from Originator and Wise Alloys Funding LLC to HCA regarding the termination of the receivables purchase facility between Wise Alloys Funding LLC and HSBC Bank USA, National Association; or (xii) the failure of Seller to perform any of its obligations under this Agreement or any of the other Transaction Documents. The foregoing indemnification shall not apply in the case any claims, losses or liabilities to the extent resulting solely from (1) the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Indemnified Party making a claim hereunder as determined in a final non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction, (2) lack of credit worthiness of the related Account Debtor or an Account Debtor Insolvency Event or (3) acts or omissions of such Purchaser (A) which are (x) in material violation of applicable law relating to such action or omission or (y) in

 

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material breach of its obligations hereunder, (B) which do not relate to the acts or omissions of the Seller, the Servicer or any of their Affiliates, (C) which do not relate to the transfer of such Purchased Receivable from the Seller to such Purchaser and (D) which do not relate to the goods or services that are the subject of such Purchased Receivables, (4) taxes imposed on a Purchaser under FATCA, or (5) with respect to the occurrence of the events set forth in clauses (i), (iii), (iv), (v) or (vi) above, to the extent such Purchased Receivable has been repurchased by the Seller. Amounts due hereunder shall accrue interest at the Delinquent Rate.

(ii) Indemnities by Servicer . Servicer hereby agrees to indemnify the Indemnified Parties from and against any and all claims, losses and liabilities (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees) (all of the foregoing being collectively referred to as “ Indemnified Amounts ”) arising out of or resulting from any of the following: (i) any representation or warranty made by Servicer (or any of its respective officers) under or in connection with this Agreement (except with respect to the Purchased Receivables) which shall have been incorrect in any respect when made; (ii) the failure by Servicer to comply with any applicable law, rule or regulation with respect to any Purchased Receivable; (iii) any failure by Servicer or Originator to perform its duties or obligations hereunder in accordance with this Agreement or under any other Transaction Document to which it is a party, or any claim brought by any Person other than an Indemnified Party arising from Servicer’s collection activities; or (iv) except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement or in any of the other Transaction Documents, the commingling by the Servicer of Collections at any time with other funds of the Servicer or any other Person. The foregoing indemnification shall not apply in the case any claims, losses or liabilities to the extent resulting solely from (A) the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Indemnified Party making a claim hereunder as determined in a final non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction, (B) lack of credit worthiness of the related Account Debtor or an Account Debtor Insolvency Event or (C) (w) enforcement or similar actions of such Purchaser with respect to a related Purchased Receivable as against the Account Debtor and which (as determined in a final non appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction) are in material violation of applicable law relating to such action, (x) a Dispute or Dilution by the Account Debtor not as a result of anything relating to the product or service provided to such Account Debtor by the Originator, Seller or Servicer, but solely as a result of a separate and distinct transaction or agreement between the Account Debtor and a Purchaser and not in any way related to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby (y) taxes imposed upon a Purchaser under FATCA, or (z) with respect to the occurrence of any of the events set forth in clause (iii) or (iv) above, to the extent such Purchased Receivable has been repurchased by the Seller. Amounts due hereunder shall accrue interest at the Delinquent Rate.

(c) Tax Indemnification . All payments on the Purchased Receivables from the Account Debtors will be made free and clear of any present or future taxes, withholdings or other deductions whatsoever. Seller will indemnify the Purchaser Representative and each Purchaser for any such taxes, withholdings or deductions other than Excluded Taxes with respect to such Purchaser as well as any stamp duty or any similar tax or duty on documents or the transfer of title to property arising in the

 

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context of this Agreement which has not been paid by Seller. Further, Seller shall pay, and indemnify and hold each Purchaser harmless from and against, any taxes other than Excluded Taxes with respect to such Purchaser that may be asserted in respect of the Purchased Receivables hereunder prior to the date of sale (including any sales, occupational, excise, gross receipts, personal property, privilege or license taxes, or withholdings, but not including taxes imposed upon a Purchaser with respect to its overall net income) and costs, expenses and reasonable counsel fees in defending against the same, whether arising by reason of the acts to be performed by Seller hereunder or otherwise. Amounts due hereunder shall accrue interest at the Delinquent Rate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the indemnities described herein with respect to tax matters, shall only apply with respect to applicable laws, rules and regulations relating thereto which are in existence on the applicable Purchase Date for any Purchased Receivables hereunder and shall not apply with respect to changes to such laws rules or regulations following such Purchase Date; it being understood and agreed that if the Purchaser Representative or any Purchaser and/or any Purchased Receivable becomes (following the applicable Purchase Date therefor) subject to any such tax matters which are not subject to the indemnity or recovery of this paragraph (c) , such Purchaser shall, solely with respect to itself, have the right, upon fifteen (15) days prior written notice to the Seller, to terminate this Agreement and its commitments hereunder and under the other Transaction Documents. If a payment made hereunder to any Indemnified Party would be subject to withholding tax imposed by FATCA if such Indemnified Party were to fail to comply with the applicable reporting requirements of FATCA (including those contained in Section 1471(b) or 1472(b) of the Code, as applicable), such Indemnified Party shall deliver to the Seller and the Servicer at the time or times prescribed by law and at such time or times reasonably requested by such persons such documentation prescribed by applicable law and such additional documentation reasonably requested by the Seller and the Servicer as may be necessary for such persons to comply with their obligations under FATCA and to determine that such Indemnified Party has complied with such Indemnified Party’s obligations under FATCA or to determine the amount to deduct and withhold from such payment.

(d) Increased Costs . If any Purchaser shall determine that any Regulatory Change regarding capital or liquidity requirements has or would have the effect of reducing the rate of return on such Purchaser’s capital or assets or increasing its amount of required liquidity as a consequence of (i) this Agreement, (ii) any of such Purchaser’s obligations under this Agreement or (iii) such Purchaser’s purchase or the ownership, maintenance or funding of any Purchased Receivables hereunder, to a level below that which such Purchaser would have achieved but for such Regulatory Change (taking into consideration such Purchaser’s policies with respect to capital adequacy), then (A) if such Regulatory Change relates to the commitment of such Purchaser hereunder, but does not relate to the purchase and subsequent ownership of Purchased Receivables, then such Purchaser may by notice to Seller setting forth in reasonable detail the basis therefor, adjust the Commitment Fee and/or provide a separate written demand for payment to reflect such increased cost with respect to such Purchaser’s commitment to make purchases hereunder, which adjustments to the fees or amounts payable in respect of the commitment hereunder, in each case, shall be effective and payable by the Seller within five (5) days after the giving of such notice, it being understood that if such Regulatory Change has retroactive application to the commitment hereunder, such retroactive increase shall be payable by the Seller in accordance with the terms of this paragraph, and (B) if such Regulatory Change relates to the purchase and subsequent ownership of Purchased Receivables, then such Purchaser shall have the right to by notice to Seller setting forth in reasonable detail the basis therefor, (x) for the purpose of future purchases hereunder adjust the Discount Rate to reflect such increased cost with respect to such future purchases (but not with respect to any prior purchases), which adjustments to the Discount Rate shall apply solely to purchases occurring at least five (5) days after the giving of such notice, and (y) to the extent it is not practical to so adjust the Discount Rate pursuant to clause (x) prior to the applicable Purchase Date, promptly after the applicable Purchase Date provide the Seller with a written demand for payment to reflect the increased costs with respect to Regulatory Changes that were in existence on the applicable Purchase Date for any Purchased Receivables hereunder but for which the Discount Rate was not adjusted as described in clause (x),

 

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which such increased costs shall be effective and payable by the Seller within five (5) days after the giving of such notice. Except as provided in clause (y) of the foregoing sentence, and notwithstanding any other provision, under no circumstances shall the purchase price of a Purchased Receivable be altered after the Purchase Date therefor as a result of a Regulatory Change. In addition to foregoing, if any Purchased Receivables or the existing of the commitment hereunder becomes the subject of a Regulatory Change regarding capital or liquidity requirements that has or would have the effect of reducing the rate of return on any Purchaser’s capital or assets or increasing its amount of required liquidity as a consequence of (i) this Agreement, (ii) any of such Purchaser’s obligations under this Agreement or (iii) such Purchaser’s purchase or the ownership, maintenance or funding of any Purchased Receivables hereunder, to a level below that which such Purchaser would have achieved but for such Regulatory Change (taking into consideration such Purchaser’s policies with respect to capital adequacy) that is not covered by clauses (A) or (B) of this paragraph, then such Purchaser shall have the right (solely with respect to itself), upon fifteen (15) days prior written notice to the Seller, to terminate this Agreement and its commitments hereunder and under the other Transaction Documents. Any amount owing pursuant to this section shall be paid to such Purchaser in immediately available funds. A certificate as to such amounts submitted to Seller by such Purchaser shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes as to the calculations therein, absent manifest error. Upon receipt of notice from any Purchaser of any such increased cost or adjustment to the Commitment Fee or the Discount Rate, Seller shall have the right, at any time after payment to a Purchaser of amounts, if any, due pursuant to clause (A) of this paragraph, and upon five (5) days prior written notice to such Purchaser, to terminate this Agreement and all commitments and obligations hereunder except insofar as such obligations relate to Purchased Receivables sold on or prior to the date of notice of termination or otherwise expressly survive termination hereof.

(e) Regulatory Indemnity . Seller will indemnify each Purchaser for all losses, costs, damages, claims, actions, suits, demands and liabilities (together, the “ Losses ”) suffered or incurred by or brought against such Purchaser arising out of or relating to any Compliance Action, unless such Losses are caused by (i) the gross negligence or intentional misconduct of such Purchaser or (ii) do not relate to the transfer of such Purchased Receivable from the Seller to such Purchaser under this Agreement.

(f) Set-Off . Seller further agrees that, unless Seller notifies a Purchaser in writing that it desires to pay on the date when due any amounts due under this Section  7 and Seller makes such payment to such Purchaser in immediately available funds on the date that such payment is due, Seller hereby irrevocably authorizes each Purchaser, without further notice to Seller, to set-off such amount against the Purchase Price of any Proposed Receivables to be purchased on or after such due date.

(g) UCC . The rights granted to the Purchasers hereunder are in addition to all other rights and remedies afforded to each Purchaser as a buyer under the UCC or other applicable law.

8. RETAINED OBLIGATIONS . No Purchaser shall have any responsibility for, or have any liability with respect to, the performance of any Contract, and neither shall any Purchaser have any obligation to intervene in any commercial dispute arising out of the performance of any Contract. All obligations of Seller under each Contract, including all representations and warranty obligations, all servicing obligations, all maintenance obligations, and all delivery, transport and insurance obligations, shall be retained by Seller (the “ Retained Obligations ”). Neither any claim that Seller may have against any Account Debtor or any other Person, nor the failure of an Account Debtor to fulfill its obligations under the applicable Contracts, shall affect the obligations of Seller or Servicer to perform its obligations hereunder, and none of such events or circumstances shall be used as a defense or as set-off, counterclaim or cross-complaint as against the performance or payment of any of Seller’s or Servicer’s obligations hereunder.

 

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9. COSTS AND EXPENSES; DELINQUENT RATE.

(a) Seller shall reimburse the Purchaser Representative, each Purchaser and the Purchaser Agent for all reasonable costs (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) that each Purchaser, the Purchaser Representative and the Purchaser Agent incurs in connection with the preparation and negotiation of this Agreement, any amendments hereto and the administration, preservation of rights and enforcement hereof. In no event shall such obligation of Seller to reimburse the Purchasers, the Purchaser Representative or the Purchaser Agent include costs incurred by any Purchaser, the Purchaser Representative or the Purchaser Agent in collecting or otherwise enforcing its rights as against the Account Debtors under the Receivables, including, but not limited to, as a result of an Account Debtor Insolvency Event, unless Seller or Servicer is in breach or default of the performance of its obligations hereunder or under the terms of such Receivable.

(b) Any fees, expenses, indemnity, Repurchase Price or other amounts payable by Seller to the Purchasers in connection with this Agreement shall bear interest each day from the date due until paid in full at the Delinquent Rate, whether before or after judgment. Such interest shall be payable on demand. Fees are deemed payable on the date or dates set forth herein; expenses, indemnity or other amounts payable by Seller to the Purchasers are due ten (10) days after receipt by Seller of written demand thereof.

10. GENERAL PAYMENTS. All amounts payable by Seller to the Purchasers under this Agreement shall be paid in full, free and clear of all deductions, set-off or withholdings whatsoever except only as may be required by law, and shall be paid on the date such amount is due by not later than 3:00 pm (New York City time) to the account of the applicable Purchaser notified to Seller from time to time. For the avoidance of doubt, Seller shall not be responsible for any deductions, set-off or withholdings made by the Account Debtors or required by law, except to the extent provided for in Section  7 above. If any deduction or withholding is required by law other than as Excluded Taxes, Seller shall pay to the applicable Purchaser such additional amount as necessary to ensure that the net amount actually received by such Purchaser equals to the full amount such Purchaser should have received had no such deduction or withholding been required. All payments to be made hereunder or in respect of a Purchased Receivable shall be in USD. Any amounts that would fall due for payment on a day other than a Business Day shall be payable on the succeeding Business Day. All interest amounts calculated on a per annum basis hereunder are calculated on the basis of a year of three hundred sixty (360) days.

11. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. IN NO EVENT SHALL ANY PURCHASER SHALL BE LIABLE TO SELLER FOR ANY SPECIAL INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT (INCLUDING LOST PROFITS OR LOSS OF BUSINESS).

12. NOTICES. Unless otherwise provided herein, any notice, request or other communication which any Purchaser, the Purchaser Representative, Seller or Servicer may be required or may desire to give to the other party under any provision of this Agreement shall be in writing and sent by email, hand delivery or first class mail, certified or registered and postage prepaid, and shall be deemed to have been given or made when transmitted with receipt confirmed in the case of email, when received if sent by hand delivery or five (5) days after deposit in the mail if mailed, and in each case addressed to the applicable Purchaser, Seller or Servicer as set forth below. Any party hereto may change the address to which all notices, requests and other communications are to be sent to it by giving written notice of such address change to the other parties in conformity with this paragraph, but such change shall not be effective until notice of such change has been received by the other parties.

 

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   If to Seller:    Wise Alloys Funding II LLC
      4805 Second Street
      Muscle Shoals, AL 35661
      Attn: Alex Godwin or Treasury Department
      Fax: 256.386.6980
      Email: alex.godwin@constellium.com
   with a copy to:    Constellium Switzerland AG
      Max Högger-Strasse 6
      8048 Zürich, Switzerland
      Attention: Mark Kirkland, Group Treasurer
      Office phone : +41 44 438 6642
      Email : mark.kirkland@constellium.com
   If to Servicer:    Wise Alloys LLC
      4805 Second Street
      Muscle Shoals, AL 35661
      Attn: Alex Godwin or Treasury Department
      Fax: 256.386.6980
      Email: alex.godwin@constellium.com
   with a copy to:    Constellium Switzerland AG
      Max Högger-Strasse 6
      8048 Zürich, Switzerland
      Attention: Mark Kirkland, Group Treasurer
      Office phone : +41 44 438 6642
      Email : mark.kirkland@constellium.com
   If to HCA, as a Purchaser and/or Purchaser Representative:    Hitachi Capital America Corp.
      800 Connecticut Ave.
      Norwalk, CT 06854
      Attention: Mark Benson; Tom Cross
      Email: mbenson@hitachicapitalamerica.com;
      tcross@hitachicapitalamerica.com
   If to Intesa, as a Purchaser:    Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch
      One William Street
      New York, NY 10004
      Attention: Viviana Fasano; Pablo De Bacco
      Email: viviana.fasano@intesasanpaolo.com;
      pablo.debacco@esternibisp.com
   If to the Purchaser Agent:    Greensill Capital Inc.
      175 Varick Street, 8 th Floor
      New York, NY 10014
      Attention: Michael Gilhuley
      Email: mike@greensill.com

Seller agrees that each Purchaser may presume the authenticity, genuineness, accuracy, completeness and due execution of any email bearing a scanned signature resembling a signature of an authorized Person of Seller without further verification or inquiry by such Purchaser. Notwithstanding

 

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the foregoing, each Purchaser in its sole discretion may elect not to act or rely upon such a communication and shall be entitled (but not obligated) to make inquiries or require further action by Seller to authenticate any such communication.

13. SURVIVAL. Notwithstanding the occurrence of the Purchase Termination Date, (a) all covenants, representations and warranties made herein shall continue in full force and effect so long as any Purchased Receivables remain outstanding; and (b) Seller’s and Servicer’s obligations to indemnify the Indemnified Parties with respect to the expenses, damages, losses, costs, liabilities and other obligations shall survive until the later of (i) all applicable statute of limitations periods with respect to actions that may be brought against such Indemnified Party have run and (ii) 365 days following the entry of a final non-appealable order of a court of competent jurisdiction with respect to actions brought against such Purchaser or any other Indemnified Party that were initiated prior to the end of the applicable statute of limitations for such actions.

14. PURCHASER REPRESENTATIVE.

(a) Each Purchaser hereby designates and appoints HCA, as the “Purchaser Representative”, as its representative for purposes of establishing control over the Collection Account, and authorizes the Purchaser Representative to take such actions and to exercise such powers as are specifically delegated to the Purchaser Representative hereby and to exercise such other powers as are reasonably incidental thereto. The Purchaser Representative shall not have any duties other than those expressly set forth herein or any fiduciary relationship with any Purchaser, and no implied obligations or liabilities shall be read into this Agreement, or otherwise exist, against the Purchaser Representative. The Purchaser Representative does not assume, nor shall it be deemed to have assumed, any obligation to, or relationship of trust or agency with, the Seller, Servicer or any Purchaser. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement or any other Transaction Document to the contrary, in no event shall the Purchaser Representative ever be required to take any action which exposes the Purchaser Representative to personal liability or which is contrary to the provision of any Transaction Document or applicable law.

(b) Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement, the provisions of this Section 14 are solely for the benefit of the Purchaser Representative and the Purchasers, and none of the Seller, Originator Servicer or any of their affiliates shall have any rights as a third party beneficiary or otherwise under any of the provisions of this Section 14, except that this Section 14 shall not affect any obligations which the Purchaser Representative or any Purchaser may have to the Seller or the Servicer under the other provisions of this Agreement.

(c) The Purchaser Representative shall not be responsible to the Purchasers for any recitals, statements, representations or warranties contained in this Agreement or the other Transaction Documents or for the value, validity, effectiveness, genuineness, collectibility, enforceability or sufficiency thereof, or for the perfection, priority or value of any Sold Assets, or for the financial condition of the Seller, Servicer, Originator, Parent, Ultimate Parent (or any of their Affiliates), any Account Debtor or any failure of any thereof to perform its obligations under any Transaction Document, or for any failure by any such Person to obtain any required governmental approvals. The Purchaser Representative may consult with counsel, independent public accountants and experts selected by it (including counsel for the Seller, Servicer, Originator or any of their affiliates) and shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken in good faith by it in accordance with the advice of any such professional. Finally, the Purchaser Representative shall not, in the absence of gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct by it, be under any liability to any Purchaser with respect to anything which it may do or refrain from doing which the Purchaser Representative determines is necessary or desirable.

 

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(d) The permissive right of the Purchaser Representative to take any action provided under this Agreement or any Transaction Document shall not be construed as a duty. The Purchaser Representative may conclusively rely and shall be fully protected in acting or refraining from acting upon any notice, requisition, request, consent, certificate, order, opinion, affidavit, letter, telegram or other paper or document reasonably believed by it to be genuine and correct and to have been signed or sent by or on behalf of a Purchaser.

(e) No provision of this Agreement shall require the Purchaser to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in respect of this Agreement or any Transaction Document, or any agreements related thereto, if it shall have reasonable grounds for believing that repayment of such funds or indemnity satisfactory to it against such risk or liability is not reasonably assured to it by the Purchasers. In addition, the Purchaser Representative shall not be obligated to take any action at the direction or request of any Purchaser if the Purchaser Representative reasonably believes that such action would be illegal or in conflict or breach of any provision of law (including all applicable consumer protection laws) or contract to which the Purchaser Representative is a party or to which it may be bound, or would otherwise expose the Purchaser Representative to material risk, loss or liability.

(f) The Purchaser Representative shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, opinion, report, notice, request, consent, entitlement, order, approval or other paper or document relating to any Transaction Document, whether or not provided to a Purchaser by the Seller, the Servicer or any other party.

(g) Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, in no event shall the Purchaser Representative or any agent of the Purchaser Representative be obligated or responsible for preparing, executing, filing or delivering in respect of this Agreement, any Transaction Document or on behalf of any other party, either (i) any report or filing required or permitted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, (ii) any filing, amendment or continuation statement necessary or desirable under the UCC with respect to Sold Assets purchased by applicable Purchaser or (iii) any certification in respect of any such report or filing.

(h) Each Purchaser acknowledges that it has received copies of all documents relating to the Agreement, all related Transaction Documents and any related Purchased Receivables or Proposed Receivables that such Purchaser has requested with respect thereto.

(i) Each Purchaser acknowledges that it is a sophisticated financial institution and has, independently and without reliance on the Purchaser Representative and based on such documents and information as such Purchaser has deemed appropriate, made its own credit analysis and decision to enter into this Agreement and will continue to make its own credit analysis and decision to purchase any applicable Sold Assets hereunder. Each Purchaser acknowledges, confirms and agrees that it has engaged and consulted with all legal, tax, accounting, regulatory and other professionals and advisors as it has deemed necessary and appropriate to enter into the transactions contemplated hereby and has not and shall not, be deemed to have relied on the Purchaser Representative for any such advice or decisions.

(j) Each Purchaser will pay and reimburse the Purchaser Representative on demand for any and all reasonable costs and expenses (including without limitation, reasonable legal fees and expenses) incurred by the Purchaser Representative in connection with the protection or enforcement the Participant’s rights under or in connection with this Agreement or any other Transaction Document with respect, or relating in any way, to the applicable Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser hereunder, unless the Purchaser Representative’s actions were not taken in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

 

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(k) The Purchaser Representative shall in all cases be fully protected in acting, or in refraining from acting, under this Agreement in accordance with a request of the Purchasers, and such request and any action taken or failure to act pursuant thereto shall be binding upon each Purchaser.

(l) Each of the Purchasers and the Purchaser Representative and their affiliates may extend credit to, accept deposits from and generally engage in any kind of banking, trust, debt, entity or other business with the Seller, Originator, Servicer or any of their affiliates. With respect to the acquisition of the Sold Assets pursuant to this Agreement, the Purchaser Representative shall have the same rights and powers under this Agreement as any Purchaser and may exercise the same as though it were not such a representative for the Purchasers, and the terms “Purchaser” and “Purchasers” shall include, to the extent applicable, the Purchaser Representative in its individual capacity.

(m) The Purchaser Representative hereby agrees that it shall not amend the Collateral Account Agreement without the prior written consent of each Purchaser.

15. GOVERNING LAW; VENUE; WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL; ETC.

(a) This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to conflict of laws principles that would require the application of the law of any other jurisdiction.

(b) Each of the parties hereto irrevocably and unconditionally submits, for itself and its property, to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of any New York State court or federal court of the United States sitting in the Borough of Manhattan, New York City, and any appellate court from any thereof, in any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or for recognition or enforcement of any judgment. Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that all claims in respect of any such action or proceeding may be heard and determined in any such New York State court or, to the extent permitted by law, in such federal court. A final judgment in any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law. Each of the parties hereto irrevocably and unconditionally waives, to the fullest extent it may legally and effectively do so, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement in any New York State or federal court located in the Borough of Manhattan. Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the defense of inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding in any such court.

(c) EACH PARTY HERETO IRREVOCABLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT THAT SUCH PERSON MAY HAVE TO A JURY TRIAL OF ANY CLAIM OR CAUSE OF ACTION BASED UPON OR ARISING OUT OF ANY OF THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREIN, INCLUDING CONTRACT CLAIMS, TORT CLAIMS, BREACH OF DUTY CLAIMS AND ALL OTHER COMMON LAW OR STATUTORY CLAIMS.

16. GENERAL PROVISIONS.

(a) This Agreement represents the final agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous understandings and agreements with respect to such subject matter. No provision of this Agreement may be amended or waived except by a writing signed by each Purchaser, the Purchaser Representative, the Servicer and the Seller and, in the case of any provision hereof which expressly refers to or provides a right to the Purchaser Agent or affects the definitions used to calculate the Purchase Price hereunder, the Purchaser Agent.

 

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(b) This Agreement shall bind and inure to the benefit of the respective successors and permitted assigns of each of the parties; provided , however , that neither Seller nor Servicer may assign any of its rights hereunder without each Purchaser’s prior written consent, given or withheld in each such Purchaser’s sole discretion. Each Purchaser shall have the right without the consent of Seller or Servicer but, other than in the case of any subsidiaries or affiliates of such Purchaser for which no such consent shall be required, with the prior written consent of the other Purchaser (not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed), to sell, transfer, negotiate or grant participations in all or any part of, or any interest in, such Purchaser’s obligations, rights and benefits hereunder and in any of the Sold Assets purchased by such Purchaser hereunder (any such sale, transfer or assignment, a “ Conveyance ”); provided , however , that prior to the occurrence and continuation of any Termination Event (it being understood that following the occurrence and continuation of any Termination Event, no such restriction, limitation or Seller consent shall apply), no Purchaser shall have the right to effect a Conveyance to any Wise Competitor, without the prior written consent of the Seller. In addition to the foregoing, prior to the occurrence and continuation of any Termination Event (following which no such notice shall be required), upon the occurrence of any Conveyance permitted by a Purchaser hereunder, such Purchaser shall provide the Seller with written notice thereof.

(c) Each provision of this Agreement shall be severable from every other provision hereof for the purpose of determining the legal enforceability of any specific provision. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties on separate counterparts, each of which, when executed and delivered, shall be deemed to be an original, and all of which, when taken together, shall constitute but one and the same agreement.

(d) Seller acknowledges that from time to time financial advisory, investment banking and other services may be offered or provided to Seller or one or more of its affiliates (in connection with this Agreement or otherwise) by a Purchaser or its subsidiaries. Seller hereby authorizes each Purchaser to share any information delivered to such Purchaser by Seller and its subsidiaries pursuant to this Agreement or any of the other Transaction Documents, or in connection with the decision of such Purchaser to enter into this Agreement to any actual or prospective participant or assignee under this Agreement that agrees to keep it confidential to the same extent as set forth in this paragraph (d) . Such authorization shall survive the termination of this Agreement or any provision hereof. Without limiting the foregoing, and subject to the provisions of paragraph (e)  below, each party agrees to maintain the confidentiality of any Confidential Information (as defined below) of the other party and shall not disclose such Confidential Information to any third party except as set forth in the Agreement. “ Confidential Information ” shall mean the terms of this Agreement and all information of a party provided to the other party hereunder. “Confidential Information” shall not include any information that (i) is part of the public domain without any breach of this Agreement by the receiving party; (ii) is or becomes generally known to the general public or organizations engaged in the same or similar businesses as the receiving party on a non-confidential basis, through no wrongful act of such party; (iii) is known by the receiving party prior to disclosure to it hereunder without any obligation to keep it confidential; (iv) is disclosed to it by a third party which, to the best of the receiving party’s knowledge, is not required to maintain the information as proprietary or confidential; (v) is independently developed by the receiving party without reference to Confidential Information of the other party; or (vi) is the subject of a written agreement whereby the other party consents to the disclosure of such Confidential Information on a non-confidential basis. A party may disclose Confidential Information, without the consent of the other party, if such party is requested or becomes legally compelled (by applicable law, rule, regulation, oral questions, interrogatories, request for information or documents, subpoena, civil investigative demand or similar process and including, without limitation, to the extent required to be disclosed to any regulatory body having jurisdiction over such party or its affiliates pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise) to disclose any of the Confidential Information. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (e) below, each party may disclose any

 

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Confidential Information to its Affiliates and to its and their directors, officers, employees, legal counsel, accountants, lenders, prospective lenders, agents and representatives, so long as any such Person is subject to confidentiality obligations similar to those in this paragraph (d) . The obligations under this paragraph (d)  shall terminate on the Confidentiality Termination Date which is two (2) years from the Purchase Termination Date. Following the Confidentiality Termination Date, each Purchaser shall, in its sole determination, either return Confidential Information of Seller to Seller, unless otherwise required by applicable law to maintain, or confirm to Seller that it has destroyed any Confidential Information in accordance with its document retention policy, unless otherwise required by applicable law to maintain. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Confidential Information may be disclosed by any Purchaser to the extent reasonably necessary or required, in the reasonable judgment of such Purchaser, for (i) the transfer of servicing, (ii) the sale or foreclosure of the Purchased Receivables, (iii) the enforcement of the rights of the Purchasers under any Transaction Document or with respect to any invoice (including, without limitation, in connection with any legal proceeding), and (iv) the protection of such Purchaser’s ownership and security interest in the Purchased Receivables and its rights hereunder and under the Transaction Documents.

(e) In addition to the confidentiality provisions set forth in paragraph (d)  above, each Purchaser (and any subsequent participant or assignee of a Purchaser under this Agreement) agrees that none of the terms and substance of any Contract or invoice (or portion of a Contract or invoice) provided pursuant to this Agreement shall be disclosed, directly or indirectly to any other person by such Purchaser, except (i) with the prior written consent of the Seller, (ii) any actual or prospective participant or assignee under this Agreement that agrees to keep it confidential to the same extent as set forth in this paragraph (e) , (iii) to its directors, officers and employees, (iv) to its Affiliates that control such Purchaser, directly or indirectly, (v) to its legal counsel, accountants, agents, representatives and advisors representing such Purchaser in connection with entering into, performing or enforcing this Agreement, or auditing or otherwise reviewing for diligence, financial reporting or regulatory purposes any Purchased Receivables, (vi) as required by applicable law or regulation or by any court, other tribunal or regulatory authority, and (vii) as such Purchaser, in good faith, reasonably determines is necessary in connection with the enforcement of any Transaction Document or any Purchased Receivable; in each case under clauses (i) , (ii) , (iii) , (iv) , and (v)  so long as any such Person is subject to confidentiality obligations similar to those in this Agreement. The obligations under this paragraph (e)  shall terminate on the Confidentiality Termination Date which is seven (7) years from the date hereof.

(f) As used in this Agreement, the terms “include” and “including” shall be read as if followed by “without limitation” whether or not so followed.

[Remainder of page intentionally blank]

 

33


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed as of the date first above written.

 

Wise Alloys Funding II LLC, as Seller
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

Alex Godwin

Title:  

Treasurer

Wise Alloys LLC, as initial Servicer and as Originator
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

Alex Godwin

Title:  

Treasurer

 

Amended and Restated

Receivables Purchase Agreement (Wise Alloys)


Hitachi Capital America Corp., as a Purchaser and as Purchaser Representative
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

James M. Giaimo

Title:  

Vice President

Structured Credit & Operations

Hitachi Commitment: $200,000,000.00

 

Amended and Restated

Receivables Purchase Agreement (Wise Alloys)


Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch, as a Purchaser
By:   LOGO   LOGO
 

 

 

 

Name:   A. Di Maggio,   LOGO
 

 

 

 

Title:  

FVP

 

AVP - Relationship Manager

Intesa Commitment: $125,000,000.00

 

Amended and Restated

Receivables Purchase Agreement (Wise Alloys)


Greensill Capital Inc., as Purchaser Agent
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

Jonathan Lane

Title:  

General Counsel & Authorized Attorney

 

Amended and Restated

Receivables Purchase Agreement (Wise Alloys)


Schedule 1

Account Debtors

 

1. Anheuser-Busch LLC (but only so long as Anheuser-Busch LLC remains a direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV)

 

Schedule 1-1


Schedule 2

Seller Information Schedule

Actual Name, as reflected in the attached organizational documents (i.e., certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation, Articles of Formation or Certificate of Limited Partnership):

Wise Alloys Funding II LLC

Trade Name(s) (if any): n/a

Type and Jurisdiction of Organization (e.g. Delaware corporation, sole proprietorship): Delaware limited liability company

Address of Place of Business (if only one) or Chief Executive Office (if more than one place of business):

Wise Alloys Funding II LLC

4805 Second Street

Muscle Shoals, AL 35661

Attn: Alex Godwin or Treasury Department

Fax: 256.386.6980

Email: alex.godwin@constellium.com

Seller Payment Instructions:

Account maintained in the name of Wise Alloys II LLC at Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, with account number 4194360814 or such other account designated by the Seller or the Servicer from time to time.

 

Schedule 2-1


Schedule 3

Applicable Credit Spreads

Applicable Credit Spread

On any applicable date, the “Applicable Credit Spread” for purposes of the Agreement shall be determined on such date based on the grid below depending on the lower of the most recent public issuer credit ratings for Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV as provided by S&P and Moody’s.

 

    

Anheuser-Busch
InBev SA/NV,

Long Term Rating

   Applicable
Credit
Spread
 
   S&P    Moody’s   

>=

   A-    A3      2.00

<=

   BBB+    Baa1      2.50

 

Schedule 3-1


Exhibit A

Definitions

ABL Agent ”: Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as successor in interest to General Electric Capital Corporation, in its capacity as agent under the ABL Credit Agreement, together with its successors and assigns.

ABL Credit Agreement ”: The credit agreement, dated as of December 11, 2013 (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time), by and among Wise Alloys LLC, as the borrower, the other credit parties signatory thereto, the ABL Agent, and the lenders signatory thereto.

Account Debtor ”: The meaning set forth in the recitals hereto.

Account Debtor Insolvency Event ”: With respect to any Account Debtor, such Account Debtor shall generally not pay its debts as such debts become due, or shall admit in writing its inability to pay its debts generally (including its obligations under the Receivables), or shall make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or any proceeding shall be instituted by or against such Account Debtor seeking to adjudicate it a bankrupt or insolvent, or seeking liquidation, winding up, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, protection, relief, or composition of it or its debts under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization or relief of debtors, or seeking the entry of an order for relief or the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for it or for any substantial part of its property, or any of the actions sought in such proceeding (including, without limitation, the entry of an order for relief against, or the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for, it or for any substantial part of its property) shall occur; or such Account Debtor shall take any action to authorize any of the actions set forth above in this definition.

Adverse Claim ”: Any ownership interest or claim, mortgage, deed of trust, pledge, lien, security interest, hypothecation, charge or other encumbrance or security arrangement of any nature whatsoever, whether voluntarily or involuntarily given, including, but not limited to, any conditional sale or title retention arrangement, and any assignment, deposit arrangement or lease intended as, or having the effect of, security and any filed financing statement or other notice of any of the foregoing (whether or not a lien or other encumbrance is created or exists at the time of the filing); it being understood that any thereof in favor of, or assigned to, a Purchaser shall not constitute an Adverse Claim in respect of such Purchaser.

Affiliate ”: With respect to any Person, each officer, director, general partner or joint-venturer of such Person and any other Person that directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such Person. For purpose of this definition, “ control ” means the possession of either (a) the power to vote, or the beneficial ownership of, 25% or more of the equity interests having ordinary voting power for the election of directors of such Person or (b) the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether by contract or otherwise.

Agreement ”: The meaning set forth in the first paragraph of the agreement to which this Exhibit is attached.

Applicable Credit Spread ”: On any applicable date of determination, means the credit spreads determined at such time in accordance with the credit spread chart set forth on Schedule 3 attached hereto.

Applicable Law ”: Any law (including common law), constitution, statute, treaty, regulation, rule, ordinance, order, injunction, writ, decree, judgment, award or similar item of or by a governmental authority or any interpretation, implementation or application thereof.

 

Exhibit A-1


Buffer Period ”: Five (5) days.

Business Day ”: Any day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which banks in New York City are required or permitted to close.

Capital Stock ”: With respect to any Person, any and all common shares, preferred shares, interests, participations, rights in or other equivalents (however designated) of such Person’s capital stock, partnership interests, limited liability company interests, membership interests or other equivalent interests and any rights (other than debt securities convertible into or exchangeable for capital stock), warrants or options exchangeable for or convertible into such capital stock or other equity interests.

Change of Control ”: If at any time, (i) Constellium N.V. ceases to own, directly or indirectly, 100% of the Capital Stock of Parent, (ii) Parent ceases to own directly or indirectly, 100% of the Capital Stock of the Originator or (iii) Originator ceases to own, directly or indirectly, free and clear of any Adverse Claim, except with respect to the ABL Credit Agreement, the PIK Toggle Notes Indenture, the Senior Secured Notes Indenture or any other similar incurrence of debt, 100% of the Capital Stock of the Seller.

Closing Date ”: November 22, 2016, or such other date as all conditions in Section 2(c) have been satisfied.

Code ”: The Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and shall include all amendments, modifications and supplements thereto from time to time.

Collections ”: All collections and other proceeds received and payment of any amounts owed in respect of the Purchased Receivables, including, without limitation, all cash collections, wire transfers or electronic funds transfers.

Collection Account ”: The account maintained in the name of Wise Alloys Funding II LLC at Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, with Account No. 4193371119 and ABA No. 121000248.

Collection Account Agreement ”: The Amended and Restated Deposit Account Control Agreement, dated as of November 22, 2016, by and among the Servicer, the Seller, as pledgor, the Purchaser Representative, as secured party for the benefit of the Purchasers), and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as the account bank, as amended, amended and restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

Commitment ”: With respect to any Purchaser, the commitment amount of such Purchaser set forth beneath its signature to this Agreement.

Commitment Fee ”: The meaning set forth in Section 2(e) hereof.

Compliance Action ”: Any action taken by any Purchaser (or any action that such Purchaser instructs other members of such Purchaser, its Affiliates or subsidiaries to take) to the extent it is legally permitted to do so under the laws of its jurisdiction, which it, in its sole discretion, considers appropriate to act in accordance with Sanctions Laws or domestic and foreign laws and regulations, including without limitation, the interception and investigation of any payment, communication or instruction; the making of further enquiries as to whether a person or entity is subject to any Sanctions Laws; and the refusal to process any transaction or instruction that does not conform with Sanctions Laws.

 

Exhibit A-2


Confidentiality Termination Da te ”: (i) With respect to the confidentiality obligations related to Contracts and invoices, the date which is seven (7) years from the date hereof, and (ii) with respect to the confidentiality obligations relating to all other Confidential Information, the date which is two (2) years from the Purchase Termination Date.

Contracts ”: The meaning set forth in Section 6(a) hereof.

Conveyance ”: The meaning set forth in Section 16(b) hereof.

Credit and Collection Policy ”: As the context may require, those receivables credit and collection policies and practices of each Originator, the Seller or the Servicer in effect on the date of this Agreement and delivered to each Purchaser on or prior to the date hereof, as may be modified in compliance with this Agreement and the Transaction Documents.

Defaulted Receivable ”: A Receivable:

(a) as to which any payment, or part thereof, remains unpaid for more than 10 days from the original due date for such payment, or

(b) without duplication (i) as to which an Account Debtor Insolvency Event shall have occurred, or (ii) that has been (or consistent with its standard Credit and Collection Policies, should have been) written off on Seller’s or Servicer’s books as uncollectible.

Default Ratio ”: The ratio (expressed as a percentage and rounded to the nearest 1/100 of 1%, with 5/1000th of 1% rounded upward) computed as of the last day of each calendar month by dividing: (a) the aggregate outstanding balance of all Purchased Receivables that became or remained Defaulted Receivables during such month, by (b) the aggregate outstanding balance of all Purchased Receivables during the month that is three calendar months before such month.

Delinquency Ratio ”: The ratio (expressed as a percentage and rounded to the nearest 1/100 of 1%, with 5/1000th of 1% rounded upward) computed as of the last day of each calendar month by dividing: (a) the aggregate outstanding balance of all Purchased Receivables that were Delinquent Receivables on such day by (b) the aggregate outstanding balance of all Purchased Receivables on such day.

Delinquent Receivable ”: A Receivable as to which any payment, or part thereof, remains unpaid for more than 5 days from the original due date for such payment.

Delinquent Rate ”: A rate of interest equal to 2.00% per annum plus the Discount Rate.

Dilution ”: All actual offsets to the face value of the Net Invoice Amount for the relating to one or more Purchased Receivables, including, without limitation, customer payment and/or volume discounts, write-offs, deductions, offsets, credit memoranda, returns and allowances, billing errors, rebates and other similar items but no event shall include failure or inability of the Account Debtor to timely pay due to credit-related reasons.

Discount Rate ”: On any date of determination, a rate equal LIBOR plus a per annum rate equal to the Applicable Credit Spread at such time.

Dispute ”: Any dispute, Dilution, claim, defense or counterclaim relating to one or more Purchased Receivables (other than an adjustment granted with the prior written consent of the Purchaser

 

Exhibit A-3


who purchased such Purchased Receivable hereunder) asserted or claimed by the Account Debtor in writing or other reasonable and customary form of business communication and which is not remedied within 10 days regardless of whether the same (i) is in an amount greater than, equal to or less than the applicable Purchased Receivable, or (ii) arises by reason of an act of God, civil strife, war, currency restrictions, foreign political restrictions or regulations, or any other circumstance beyond the control of Seller or the applicable Account Debtor, but shall in no event include the failure of the Account Debtor to timely pay any of its obligations under the Receivable in the absence of a Dispute, Dilution or any other event for which any amount is payable pursuant to Section  6 . For the avoidance of doubt, and notwithstanding the foregoing, the failure to make payment of a Purchased Receivable as a result of an Account Debtor Insolvency Event of the applicable Account Debtor shall not be deemed a “Dispute” hereunder.

Eligible Receivable ”: A Receivable that satisfies each of the following conditions to the satisfaction of the applicable Purchaser to whom such Receivable has been offered as a Proposed Receivable in any applicable Purchase Request:

(i) is generated by the Originator in the ordinary course of its business from sale of goods or the provision of services to an Account Debtor under a duly authorized Contract that is in full force and effect and that is a legal, valid and binding obligation of the Originator and the related Account Debtor, enforceable against such Person in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, fraudulent conveyance, arrangement, moratorium, receivership, conservatorship or other laws relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally;

(ii) such sale of goods or provision of services to the applicable Account Debtor have been fully delivered or performed by Originator,

(iii) the Account Debtor with respect to such Receivable is rated investment grade by all nationally recognized statistical rating organizations then rating such Account Debtor;

(iv) that by its terms has an Invoice Due Date that is no more than 90 days from the original invoice date and such Invoice Due Date has not occurred,

(v) that is owned by Seller, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances and security interests of any Person.

(vi) that is freely assignable without the consent of any Person, including the applicable Account Debtor,

(vii) for which no default or event of default (howsoever defined) exists under the applicable Contract between Originator and the applicable Account Debtor,

(viii) which is not subject to any Dispute or Dilution,

(ix) the related Account Debtor has been instructed in writing to make payments on such Receivable only to the Collection Account,

(x) the related Account Debtor (i) is a resident of the United States of America and has provided Originator with a billing address in the United States of America, (ii) is not an Affiliate of Seller, Servicer or Parent and (iii) is not a natural person,

 

Exhibit A-4


(xi) such Receivable (i) is denominated and payable only in USD in the United States and (ii) is not payable in installments,

(xii) such Receivable is not a Receivable which arose as a result of the sale of consigned goods or finished goods that have incorporated any consigned goods into such finished goods or a sale in which Seller or Servicer acted as a bailee, consignee or agent of any other Person or otherwise not as principal or otherwise in respect of deferred or unearned revenues,

(xiii) such Receivable does not constitute a re-billed amount arising from a deduction taken by the related Account Debtor with respect to a previously arising Receivable,

(xiv) as of the related Purchase Date, no Account Debtor Insolvency Event has occurred with respect to the related Account Debtor, such Account Debtor is not delinquent or in default either on more than 5% of its then unpaid and outstanding Receivables or on more than 5% of its then unpaid and outstanding Purchased Receivables,

(xv) such Receivable (i) does not arise from a sale of accounts made as part of a sale of a business or constitute an assignment for the purpose of collection only, (ii) is not a transfer of a single account made in whole or partial satisfaction of a preexisting indebtedness or an assignment of a right to payment under a contract to an assignee that is also obligated to perform under the contract and (iii) is not a transfer of an interest in or an assignment of a claim under a policy of insurance,

(xvi) such Receivable constitutes an account or a payment intangible as defined in the UCC and is not evidenced by instruments or chattel paper, and

(xvii) the related Account Debtor is Anheuser-Busch LLC (but only so long as Anheuser-Busch LLC remains a direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV) and/or such other Account Debtors as a Purchaser may agree to from time to time in its sole discretion and in a writing signed by the applicable Purchaser to whom such Receivable has been offered as a Proposed Receivable in any applicable Purchase Request.

Event of Repurchase ”: The meaning set forth in Section 7(a) hereof.

Excluded Taxes ”: Any of the following taxes imposed on or with respect to a Purchaser or required to be withheld or deducted from a payment to such Purchaser, taxes imposed on or measured by net income (however denominated) or capital, franchise taxes, and branch profits taxes, in each case, (i) imposed as a result of such Purchaser being organized under the laws of, or having its principal office or applicable lending office located in, the jurisdiction imposing such tax (or any political subdivision thereof), (ii) imposed under or as a result of FATCA, or (iii) that are taxes imposed as a result of a present or former connection between such Purchaser and the jurisdiction imposing such tax (other than connections arising from such Purchaser having executed, delivered, become a party to, performed its obligations under, received payments under, received or perfected a security interest under, Purchased Receivables under or engaged in any other transaction pursuant to this Agreement).

Facility Amount ”: At any time, the aggregate of the Commitments of each Purchaser hereunder at such time.

FATCA ”: Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, as of the date of this Agreement (or as amended or a successor version that is substantively comparable and not materially more onerous to comply with), any current or future regulations or official interpretations thereof, any agreements entered

 

Exhibit A-5


into pursuant to Section 1471(b)(1) of the Code (or any amended or successor version as described above), any intergovernmental agreement entered into in connection with such sections of the Code and any legislation, law, regulation or practice enacted or promulgated pursuant to such intergovernmental agreement.

First Tier Parent Guarantee ”: A guarantee agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Seller and the Purchasers duly executed and delivered by Parent to Seller, as the purchaser under the Sale Agreement.

GAAP ”: Generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America or the International Financial Reporting Standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and related interpretations (in each case as in effect from time to time).

HCA ”: The meaning set forth in the preamble.

Identification Ratio ”: The ratio (expressed as a percentage and rounded to the nearest 1/100 of 1%, with 5/1000th of 1% rounded upward) computed as of the last day of each calendar month by dividing: (a) the aggregate of all Collections during such month on all outstanding receivables originated by the Originator (whether or not Purchased Receivables hereunder (and whether or not then owned, pledged or otherwise assigned by the Originator), which were not, within five (5) Business Days of receipt of such Collections, properly identified as being related or applicable to a particular receivable (whether or not a Purchased Receivable), by (b) the aggregate of all Collections during such month on all outstanding Purchased Receivables, which were, within five (5) Business Days of receipt of such Collections, properly identified as being related or applicable to a particular Purchased Receivable.

Indemnified Amounts ”: The meaning set forth in Section 7(b) hereof.

Indemnified Party ”: The meaning set forth in Section 7(b) hereof.

Insolvency Event ”: With respect to any Person, such Person shall generally not pay its debts as such debts become due, or shall admit in writing its inability to pay its debts generally, or shall make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or any proceeding shall be instituted by or against such Person seeking to adjudicate it as bankrupt or insolvent, or seeking liquidation, winding up, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, protection, relief, or composition of it or its debts under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization or relief of debtors, or seeking the entry of an order for relief or the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for it or for any substantial part of its property and, in the case of any such proceeding instituted against it (but not instituted by it), either such proceeding shall remain undismissed or unstayed for a period of 30 days, or any of the actions sought in such proceeding (including, without limitation, the entry of an order for relief against, or the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for, it or for any substantial part of its property) shall occur; or such Person shall take any action to authorize any of the actions set forth above in this definition; provided , that in the case of the inability of a Person to pay its debts as such debts become due arising by reason of currency restrictions or foreign political restrictions or regulations beyond the control of Seller or such Person, such event shall not be deemed an “Insolvency Event” hereunder.

Intercreditor Agreement ”: That certain Amended and Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of the date hereof, by and among Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as ABL Agent (the “ ABL Agent ”), each Purchaser, the Servicer and the Seller, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

Exhibit A-6


Intesa ”: The meaning set forth in the preamble.

Invoice Due Date ”: With respect to a Purchased Receivable, the last date identified for timely payment in the applicable original invoice.

LIBOR ”: With respect to any Purchaser, the offered rate for deposits in U.S. dollars in the London interbank market for a period determined by the applicable Purchaser purchasing any Purchased Receivable hereunder at such time, which is shown on the Telerate screen (page 3750), global-rates.com (or any other recognized source as reasonably determined by such Purchaser on such date), as of 11:00 a.m. (London time) day that the Purchase Price is paid pursuant hereto; provided , however , that if such a rate ceases to be available on that or any other source from Telerate, global-rates.com (or such other recognized source), LIBOR Rate shall be a rate per annum equal to the offered rate for deposits in U.S. dollars in the London interbank market for a period determined by such Purchaser, that appears on Reuters Screen LIBO Page (or any successor page) as of 11:00 a.m. (London time) on the day such rate is calculated or if not so reported, then as determined by such Purchaser from another recognized source or interbank.

Material Adverse Change ”: With respect to any Person, an event that results or could likely result in (a) a material adverse change in (i) the business condition (financial or otherwise), operations, performance or properties of such Person, or (ii) the ability of such Person to fulfill its obligations hereunder, or (b) the impairment of the validity or enforceability of, or the rights, remedies or benefits available to, a Purchaser or the Purchaser Representative under this Agreement.

Moody’s ”: Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.

Net Invoice Amount ”: The amount shown on the original invoice for the applicable Purchased Receivable as the total amount payable by the applicable Account Debtor, which amount shall be net of any discounts, credits or other allowances identified with specificity on such original invoice.

OFAC ”: The meaning set forth in the definition of “Sanctioned Country”.

Offset Condition ”: On any date of determination shall be satisfied, so long as (i) the aggregate outstanding Purchase Prices of all Purchased Receivables at such time related to any Account Debtor and its Affiliates (on a combined basis) does not exceed (ii) 90% of (x) the aggregate outstanding principal balance of all receivables payable at such time by such Account Debtor (whether or not such receivables are Purchased Receivables hereunder), minus (y) the aggregate amounts of principal and interest, if any, at such time in respect of any amounts which are subject to payment by (whether or not then due and payable) the Seller or any of its Affiliates (on an aggregate basis), to or for the account of such Account Debtor (and any of its Affiliates (on a combined basis).

Organization Documents ”: (a) With respect to any corporation, the certificate or articles of incorporation and the bylaws (or equivalent or comparable constitutive documents with respect to any non-U.S. jurisdiction); (b) with respect to any limited liability company, the certificate or articles of formation or organization and the operating agreement, or the equivalent thereof; and (c) with respect to any partnership, joint venture, trust or other form of business entity, the partnership, joint venture or other applicable agreement of formation or organization and any agreement, instrument, filing or notice with respect thereto filed in connection with its formation or organization with the applicable governmental authority in the jurisdiction of its formation or organization and, if applicable, any certificate or articles of formation or organization of such entity, or any equivalent thereof.

Original Agreement ”: The meaning set forth in the preamble hereto.

 

Exhibit A-7


Originator ”: Wise Alloys LLC, as originator and seller under the Sale Agreement.

Outstanding Account Debtor Purchase Amount ”: As of the date of determination, (x) when used with respect to a specific Purchaser, an amount equal to (i) the aggregate amount paid by such Purchaser to Seller in respect of Purchased Receivables of a particular Account Debtor, minus (ii) the aggregate amount of all Collections with respect to such Purchased Receivables actually deposited into the Collection Account and (y) when used in respect of all Purchasers, the sum of the aggregate of the amounts described in clause (x) above for each Purchaser collectively.

Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amount ”: As of the date of determination, (x) when used with respect to a specific Purchaser, an amount equal to the Outstanding Account Debtor Purchase Amount for such Purchaser for all Account Debtors and (y) when used in respect of all Purchasers, the sum of the aggregate of the amounts described in clause (x) above for each Purchaser collectively.

Parent ”: Constellium Holdco II, B.V., a Dutch entity.

Parent Guarantee ”: A guarantee agreement in form and substance satisfactory to the Purchasers duly executed and delivered by Parent to the Purchasers.

Person ”: An individual, partnership, corporation (including a business trust), limited liability company, limited partnership, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated association, joint venture or other entity, or a government or any political subdivision or agency thereof.

PIK Toggle Notes Indenture ”: The indenture, dated as of April 16, 2014, among Wise Intermediate Holdings LLC, as an issuer, Wise Holdings Finance Corporation, as an issuer and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which the 93/4% / 101/2% Senior PIK toggle Notes due 2019 were issued.

Proposed Receivables ”: With respect to any Purchase Date, the Eligible Receivables proposed by Seller to the applicable Purchaser for purchase hereunder and described in a Purchase Request to be purchased on such Purchase Date.

Purchase Date ”: Each date on which a Purchaser purchases Eligible Receivables.

Purchase Price ”: The meaning set forth in Section 2(d) hereof.

Purchase Request ”: The meaning set forth in Section 2(a) hereof.

Purchase Termination Date ”: With respect to any Purchaser (it being understood if one Purchaser elects to terminate and one Purchaser elects to not so terminate, this Agreement shall be deemed to be terminated as to the terminating Purchaser, and remain in full, force and effect with respect to the Purchaser who does not so terminate), the date which is the earlier of (i) on which this Agreement terminates pursuant to Section 2(b) hereof, (ii) the date declared by a Purchaser in its sole discretion following the occurrence of a Termination Event and (iii) March 15, 2017, as such date may be extended in accordance with the terms of Section 2(b) hereof.

Purchased Receivables ”: The meaning set forth in Section 2(a) hereof.

Purchaser ”: The meaning set forth in the preamble hereto.

 

Exhibit A-8


Purchaser Agent ”: Greensill Capital Inc., together with its successors and assigns in such capacity.

Purchaser Agent Fee Letter ”: That certain (i) fee letter agreement dated on or about March 16, 2016 between HCA and the Purchaser Agent, as such letter agreement may be amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time and (ii) fee letter agreement dated on or about the date hereof between Intesa and the Purchaser Agent, as such letter agreement may be amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time.

Ratable Share ”: For any Purchaser, on any date, (i) prior to the expiration or termination of such Purchaser’s Commitment hereunder, a fraction (expressed as a percentage), (a) the numerator of which is the Commitment of such Purchaser on such date, and (b) the denominator of which is the sum of the Commitments of all Purchasers on such date, and (ii) following the expiration or termination of such Purchaser’s Commitment hereunder (in accordance with the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 2(b) of this Agreement, or otherwise) , a fraction (expressed as a percentage), (a) the numerator of which is the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amount of such Purchaser on such date, and (b) the denominator of which is the sum of the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amounts of all Purchasers on such date.

Receivables ”: Any indebtedness or other payment obligation owing to Seller or Originator by any Account Debtor (whether constituting an account or payment intangible), including any right to payment of interest or finance charges and other obligations of such Account Debtor with respect thereto, arising out of Originator’s sale and delivery of goods or Originator’s sale and provision of services.

Regulatory Change ”: Relative to any Person:

(a) any change in (or the adoption, implementation, administration, change in phase- in or interpretation or commencement of effectiveness of) any:

(i) Applicable Law applicable to such Person;

(ii) regulation, interpretation, directive, requirement or request (whether or not having the force of law) applicable to such Person of (A) any governmental authority charged with the interpretation or administration of any Applicable Law referred to in clause (a)(i) or of (B) any fiscal, monetary or other authority having jurisdiction over such Person;

(iii) GAAP, IFRS or regulatory accounting principles applicable to such Person and affecting the application to such Person of any Applicable Law, regulation, interpretation, directive, requirement or request referred to in clause (a)(i) or (a)(ii) above; or

(iv) notwithstanding the forgoing, (A) the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and all requests, rules, guidelines or directives thereunder, issued in connection therewith or in implementation thereof, and (B) all requests, rules, guidelines and directives promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any successor or similar authority) or the United States or foreign governmental or regulatory authorities, shall in each case be deemed to be a “Regulatory Change” occurring and implemented after the date hereof, regardless of the date enacted, adopted, issued or implemented; or

 

Exhibit A-9


(b) any change in the application to such Person of any existing Applicable Law, regulation, interpretation, directive, requirement, request or accounting principles referred to in clause (a)(i) , (a)(ii) , (a)(iii) or (a)(iv) above.

Related Rights ”: With respect to any Receivable:

(a) all of the Seller’s and the Originator’s interest in any documents of title evidencing the shipment or storage of any goods that give rise to such Receivable, and all goods (including returned goods) relating to such Receivable,

(b) all instruments, chattel paper or other documents or contracts, to the extent evidencing such Receivable,

(c) all other security interests or liens and property subject thereto from time to time, to the extent purporting to secure payment of such Receivable, whether pursuant to the Contract related to such Receivable or otherwise, together with all UCC financing statements or similar filings relating thereto,

(d) all of the Seller’s and each Originator’s rights, interests and claims under the Contracts and all guaranties, indemnities, insurance and other agreements (including the related Contract) or arrangements of whatever character from time to time, to the extent supporting or securing payment of such Receivable or otherwise relating to such Receivable, whether pursuant to the Contract related to such Receivable or otherwise,

(e) the Seller’s rights and remedies as against the Originator or Parent under the Sale Agreement and/or any other Transaction Document; and

(f) all Collections and proceeds of any of the foregoing.

Repurchase Date ”: The meaning set forth in Section  7 hereof.

Repurchase Price ”: The meaning set forth in Section  7 hereof.

Repurchase Rate ”: For any Purchased Receivable repurchased by the Seller, a rate per annum equal to the Discount Rate.

Repurchase Ratio ”: The ratio (expressed as a percentage) with respect to any month, equal to (i) the aggregate outstanding balance of all Purchased Receivables which has become the subject of a Repurchase Event, divided by (ii) the aggregate outstanding balance of all Receivables generated by the Wise Alloys LLC one month prior to such month.

Retained Obligations ”: The meaning set forth in Section  8 hereof.

Sale Agreement ”: The receivables purchase agreement between the Originator and the Seller, dated as of the date hereof, as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof.

Sanctioned Country ”: A country that is the subject of country-wide or territory wide economic or trade sanctions administered by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“ OFAC ”).

 

Exhibit A-10


Sanctioned Person ”: Any of the following currently or in the future: (i) an entity, vessel, or individual named on the list of Specially Designated Nationals or Blocked Persons maintained by U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) available at http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/SDN-List/Pages/default.aspx or on the consolidated list of persons, groups, and entities subject to the European Union financial sanctions currently available at http://eeas.europa.eu/cfsp/sanctions/consol-list_en.htm; (ii) any entity or individual located in or organized under the laws of any Sanctioned Country to the extent that the entity or individual is subject to sanctions under Sanctions Laws; (iii) any entity or individual otherwise a subject of sanctions under Sanctions Laws; and (iv) any entity or individual engaged in sanctionable activities under the Sanctions Laws.

Sanctions Laws ”: The sanctions laws, regulations, and rules promulgated or administered by OFAC and the U.S. Department of State, including any enabling legislation or Executive Order related thereto, as amended from time to time; the sanctions and other restrictive measures applied by the European Union in pursuit of the Common Foreign and Security Policy objectives set out in the Treaty on European Union; the United Kingdom, and any similar sanctions laws as may be enacted from time to time in the future by the U.S., the European Union (and any of its member states), or the Security Council or any other legislative body of the United Nations; and any corresponding laws of jurisdictions in which Seller operates or in which the proceeds of the Purchase Price will be used or from which repayments of such obligations be derived.

Scheduled Payment Date ”: For any invoice, the date arrived at by adding the Buffer Period to the Invoice Due Date.

Seller ”: The meaning set forth in the preamble.

Senior Secured Notes Indenture ”: The indenture, dated as of December 11, 2013, among Wise Metals Group LLC, as an issuer, Wise Alloys Finance Corporation, as an issuer, the guarantors party thereto, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which the 83/4 % Senior Secured Notes due 2018 were issued.

Servicer ”: The meaning set forth in Section 6(a) hereof.

Servicer Report ”: The meaning set forth in Section 6(e) hereof.

Servicing Fee ”: The meaning set forth in Section 6(a) hereof.

Settlement Date ”: The meaning set forth in Section 6(b)(v) hereof.

Sold Assets ”: The meaning set forth in Section 2(g) hereof.

Standard  & Poor’s ”: Standard & Poor’s, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

Termination Event ”: Each of the following shall be a “Termination Event”:

(a)(i) Seller, Parent, Originator or Servicer shall fail to perform or observe any term, covenant or agreement under this Agreement or any Transaction Document and, except as otherwise provided herein, such failure shall continue for five (5) Business Days after such Person’s knowledge or notice thereof, (ii) Seller or Servicer shall fail to make when due any payment or deposit to be made by it under this Agreement including without limitation, any payment or deposit of Collections Due on each Settlement Date or under Section 7(b) of this Agreement and such failure shall continue unremedied for one Business Day or (iii) Servicer shall resign as Servicer, and no successor Servicer reasonably satisfactory to the Purchasers shall have been appointed;

 

Exhibit A-11


(b) any representation or warranty made by Seller, Parent, Originator or Servicer (or any of their respective officers) under or in connection with this Agreement or any Transaction Document, or any information or report delivered by Seller, Parent, Originator or Servicer pursuant to the Agreement, shall prove to have been incorrect or untrue in any material respect when made or deemed made or delivered and shall continue unremedied for five (5) Business Days after such Person’s knowledge or notice thereof;

(c) Seller or Servicer shall fail to deliver any report required to be delivered by this Agreement when due;

(d) this Agreement or any purchase pursuant to the Agreement shall for any reason: cease to create with respect to the Purchased Receivables, or the interest of any Purchaser or the Purchaser Representative with respect to such Purchased Receivables shall cease to be, a valid and enforceable first priority perfected ownership interest, free and clear of any Adverse Claim; or there shall exist any Adverse Claim on the Purchased Receivables other than the Adverse Claims created under this Agreement;

(e) Seller, Parent, Originator or Servicer shall generally not pay its debts as such debts become due, or shall admit in writing its inability to pay its debts generally, or shall make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or any proceeding shall be instituted by or against Seller or Servicer seeking to adjudicate it a bankrupt or insolvent, or seeking liquidation, winding up, reorganization, arrangement, adjustment, protection, relief or composition of it or its debts under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization or relief of debtors, or seeking the entry of an order for relief or the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for it or for any substantial part of its property and, in the case of any such proceeding instituted against it (but not instituted by it), either such proceeding shall remain undismissed or unstayed for a period of 60 days, or any of the actions sought in such proceeding (including the entry of an order for relief against, or the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for, it or for any substantial part of its property) shall occur; or Seller, Parent, Originator or Servicer shall take any corporate action to authorize any of the actions set forth above in this paragraph;

(f) (i) on any date of determination the (A) Default Ratio shall exceed 1.00%, (B) the Delinquency Ratio shall exceed 1.00%; (C) the Repurchase Ratio shall exceed 3.00%, or (D) the Identification Ratio shall exceed 5.00%, (ii) the average for three consecutive calendar months of: (A) the Default Ratio shall exceed 1.00%, (B) the Delinquency Ratio shall exceed 1.00%, (C) the Repurchase Ratio shall exceed 3.00%, or (D) the Identification Ratio shall exceed 5.00% or (iii) the Offset Condition shall fail to be satisfied;

(g) a Change in Control shall occur;

(h) (i) Parent or Servicer or any of their subsidiaries shall fail to pay any principal of or premium or interest on any of its debt that is outstanding in a principal amount of at least $75,000,000 in the aggregate when the same becomes due and payable (whether by scheduled maturity, required prepayment, acceleration, demand or otherwise), and such failure shall continue after the applicable grace period, if any, specified in the agreement, mortgage, indenture or instrument relating to such debt (and shall have not been waived); or (ii) any other “default”, “event of default” or similar event shall occur or condition shall exist under any agreement, mortgage, indenture or instrument relating to any such debt and shall continue after the applicable grace period, if any, specified in such agreement, mortgage, indenture or instrument;

 

Exhibit A-12


(i) to the extent Ultimate Parent has a credit rating from Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s (including, if applicable, a shadow rating from either such rating agency): (i) such rating shall be downgraded below B- by Standard & Poor’s and below B3 by Moody’s or (ii) such rating of Ultimate Parent is withdrawn by Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s, as the case may be (for the avoidance of doubt, if either Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s takes any of the actions described in clauses (i)  or (ii) above, whether or not such action is taken by the other or both, such action by either such agency shall constitute a Termination Event hereunder);

(j) (i) One or more final judgments for the payment of money shall be entered against Seller or (ii) one or more final judgments for the payment of money in an amount in excess of $50,000,000, individually or in the aggregate, shall be entered against Servicer, Parent or Originator on claims not covered by insurance or as to which the insurance carrier has denied its responsibility; or

(k) This Agreement or the Parent Guarantee, at any time, ceases to be the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, the Originator, the Servicer or the Parent, as applicable, at any time, challenges its obligations hereunder or thereunder.

Transaction Documents ”: This Agreement, the Sale Agreement, the Parent Guarantee, the First Tier Parent Guarantee, the Intercreditor Agreement, the Collection Account Agreement, any account, control or similar agreement (if any) covering the Collection Account and all other certificates, instruments, UCC financing statements, reports, notices, agreements and documents executed or delivered under or in connection with this Agreement, in each case as the same may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with this Agreement.

UCC ”: The Uniform Commercial Code in effect in the State of New York from time to time.

Ultimate Parent ”: Constellium N.V., a Dutch public limited liability company.

Unmatured Termination Event ”: An event that, with the giving of notice or lapse of time, or both, would constitute a Termination Event.

Unsold Receivable ”: Any Receivable that is not a Purchased Receivable.

USD ”: United States Dollars, the lawful currency of the United States of America.

Wise Competitor ”: Novelis Inc., Norsk Hydro ASA, Alcoa, Inc., Tri-Arrows Aluminum Inc., Arconic Inc., UACJ Corp., UACJ North America, Inc., Aleris International, Inc., Kaiser Aluminum Corp., and, solely to the extent that the applicable Purchaser engaging in the related assignment or participation, has actual knowledge of such affiliation, after reasonable inquiry and using its customary “know your customer” diligence standards, any affiliates and successors of any such parties listed above.

 

Exhibit A-13


Exhibit B

Form of Purchase Request

[date]

Hitachi Capital America Corp.

800 Connecticut Ave.

Norwalk, CT 06854

Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch

One William Street

New York, NY 10004

Reference is hereby made to that certain Amended and Restated Receivable Purchase Agreement, dated as November 22, 2016, among Wise Alloys Funding II LLC (“ Seller ”), Hitachi Capital America Corp. (“ HCA ”) as a purchaser (the “ HCA Purchaser ”) and as purchaser representative, Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch (“ Intesa ”), as a purchaser (the “ Intesa Purchaser ”), Wise Alloys LLC (“ Servicer ”) and Greensill Capital Inc., as purchaser agent (as it may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time, the “ Agreement ”; capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Agreement).

Pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, Seller hereby requests that: (i) the HCA Purchaser purchase from Seller the Proposed Receivables listed herein in Item 6 below (for purposes of this Purchase Request, the “ HCA Proposed Receivables ”), with an aggregate Net Invoice Amount of USD[        ]; and (ii) the Intesa Purchaser purchase from Seller the Proposed Receivables listed herein in Item 7 below (for purposes of this Purchase Request, the “ Intesa Proposed Receivables ”), with an aggregate Net Invoice Amount of USD[         ].

Seller represents and warrants that as of the date hereof and on the Purchase Date:

1. Following the purchase of the Proposed Receivables set forth in this Purchase Request, (A) the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amount does not exceed: (i) USD[        ] in the aggregate for both Purchasers, (ii) USD[        ] for the HCA Purchaser and (iii) USD[        ] for the Intesa Purchaser, (B) the Outstanding Account Debtor Purchase Amount with respect to the Purchased Receivables (assuming the Proposed Receivables constitute Purchased Receivables) payable by any Account Debtor does not exceed the sublimit established by the applicable Purchaser for such Account Debtor and (C) after giving effect to the Purchase requested hereby, the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Price of Sold Assets purchased by each such Purchaser, shall not exceed such Purchaser’s Commitment at such time, and the Outstanding Aggregate Purchase Amount for all Purchased Receivables for all Purchasers, collectively, shall not exceed the Facility Amount;

2. Seller’s representations, warranties and covenants set forth in the Agreement are true and correct;

3. The conditions precedent for purchase set forth in Section 2(c) of the Agreement have been satisfied;

 

Exhibit B-1


4. No Event of Repurchase exists on such Purchase Date except for repurchases being effectuated on the date hereof by setoff by: (i) the HCA Purchaser against the Purchase Price for the HCA Proposed Receivables, and (ii) the Intesa Purchaser against the Purchase Price for the Intesa Proposed Receivables; and

5. There has not been any Material Adverse Change in Seller, Servicer, Originator or Parent since the last purchase of Receivables under the Agreement.

6. With respect to the HCA Proposed Receivables offered for sale by Seller to the HCA Purchaser based on the approved Account Debtor(s), set forth below is the following: applicable Account Debtor’s legal name, address, the invoice number(s), the stated amount of the invoice(s), the date and term of the invoice(s), the stated due date of such invoice (s), the Scheduled Payment Date of such invoice and the calculation of the Offset Condition:

[                                                                                  ]

[                                                                                  ]

[                                                                                  ]

7. With respect to the Intesa Proposed Receivables offered for sale by Seller to the Intesa Purchaser based on the approved Account Debtor(s), set forth below is the following: applicable Account Debtor’s legal name, address, the invoice number(s), the stated amount of the invoice(s), the date and term of the invoice(s), the stated due date of such invoice (s), the Scheduled Payment Date of such invoice and the calculation of the Offset Condition:

[                                                                                  ]

[                                                                                  ]

[                                                                                  ]

Upon acceptance by the HCA Purchaser of this Purchase Request and payment of the related Purchase Price by the HCA Purchaser, the HCA Purchaser hereby purchases, and Seller hereby sells, all of Seller’s right, title and interest with respect to the HCA Proposed Receivables identified on the attached Exhibit and all Related Rights as of the date hereof, and the HCA Proposed Receivables shall become Purchased Receivables in the manner set forth in the Agreement.

Upon acceptance by the Intesa Purchaser of this Purchase Request and payment of the related Purchase Price by the Intesa Purchaser, the Intesa Purchaser hereby purchases, and Seller hereby sells, all of Seller’s right, title and interest with respect to the Intesa Proposed Receivables identified on the attached Exhibit and all Related Rights as of the date hereof, and the Intesa Proposed Receivables shall become Purchased Receivables in the manner set forth in the Agreement.

 

WISE ALLOYS FUNDING II, LLC
By:  

 

  Name:
  Title:

 

Exhibit B-2


PURCHASE REQUEST ACCEPTED WITH RESPECT TO THE HCA PURCHASER AND THE HCA PROPOSED RECEIVABLES:

 

HITACHI CAPITAL AMERICA CORP.
By:  

 

  Name:  
  Title:  
  Date:  

 

PURCHASE REQUEST ACCEPTED WITH RESPECT TO THE INTESA PURCHASER AND THE INTESA PROPOSED RECEIVABLES:

 

INTESA SANPAOLO S.P.A., NEW YORK BRANCH
By:  

 

  Name:  
  Title:  
  Date:  

 

 

Exhibit B-3


Exhibit C

[Reserved.]

 

Exhibit C-1


Exhibit D

Payment Reconciliation

Exhibit D shows the payment for each individual invoice related to the Purchased Receivable. Please include all the information in the Purchase Request together with the payment date, payment amount, any Dilutions and the outstanding amount, if any.

 

Exhibit D-1


Exhibit E

Form of Notification of Assignment

HCA

                 , 201  

Anheuser-Busch, LLC.

One Busch Place, 202-5

St. Louis, Missouri 63118

Attention: Accounts Payable; Head of Metal Procurement

Wise Alloys LLC (“Supplier”) and Wise Alloys Funding II LLC (“Subsidiary”) hereby notifies you pursuant to Section 9-406 of the Uniform Commercial Code that Supplier has sold and assigned and will sell and assign to Subsidiary and Subsidiary has thereupon sold and assigned to Hitachi Capital America Corp. (the “ Purchaser ”) certain of Supplier’s accounts receivable due from you, including those accounts listed on Schedule 1 attached hereto. From time to time, Purchaser may notify you of additional accounts receivable due from you that have then been purchased by Purchaser. You are hereby instructed to rely upon any such notice from Purchaser.

You are hereby instructed to make all payments due from you on all Supplier’s or Subsidiary’s accounts receivable to Purchaser in accordance with the instructions set forth on Schedule 2 attached hereto or such other instructions as Purchaser may provide you with from time to time. Neither Supplier nor Subsidiary may countermand any Purchaser instructions and you are instructed to disregard any instructions from Supplier or Subsidiary that are contrary to those on Schedule 2 or to any other instructions hereafter furnished to you by Purchaser, unless such instructions are joined in by Purchaser in writing.

Please contact Purchaser at 203-956-3264 if you have any questions about the above notification of assignment and remittance instructions.

Very truly yours,

SUPPLIER:

 

Wise Alloys LLC ,

a Delaware limited liability company

By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

[Signatures continued on following page]

 

Exhibit E-1


SUBSIDIARY:

 

Wise Alloys Funding II LLC ,

a Delaware limited liability company

By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

Acknowledged and Accepted as of the date first written above:

PURCHASER:

 

Hitachi Capital America Corp .,

a Delaware corporation

By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

 

Exhibit E-2


Schedule 1 to Notification of Assignment

List of Current Purchased Accounts

 

Exhibit E-3


Schedule 2 to Notification of Assignment

Payment Instructions for Purchased Accounts

Until further notice, please continue to make payments on account of Purchased Receivables to:

 

Account Bank:    Wells Fargo Bank, National Association,
Account Holder:    Wise Alloys Funding II LLC
Account No.:    4193371119 and
ABA No.:    121000248

OR

Please pay all amounts due on Purchased Receivables to:

 

Exhibit E-4


Intesa

             , 201  

Anheuser-Busch, LLC.

One Busch Place, 202-5

St. Louis, Missouri 63118

Attention: Accounts Payable; Head of Metal Procurement

Wise Alloys LLC (“Supplier”) and Wise Alloys Funding II LLC (“Subsidiary”) hereby notifies you pursuant to Section 9-406 of the Uniform Commercial Code that Supplier has sold and assigned and will sell and assign to Subsidiary and Subsidiary has thereupon sold and assigned to Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch (the “ Purchaser ”) certain of Supplier’s accounts receivable due from you, including those accounts listed on Schedule 1 attached hereto. From time to time, Purchaser may notify you of additional accounts receivable due from you that have then been purchased by Purchaser. You are hereby instructed to rely upon any such notice from Purchaser.

You are hereby instructed to make all payments due from you on all Supplier’s or Subsidiary’s accounts receivable to Purchaser in accordance with the instructions set forth on Schedule 2 attached hereto or such other instructions as Purchaser may provide you with from time to time. Neither Supplier nor Subsidiary may countermand any Purchaser instructions and you are instructed to disregard any instructions from Supplier or Subsidiary that are contrary to those on Schedule 2 or to any other instructions hereafter furnished to you by Purchaser, unless such instructions are joined in by Purchaser in writing.

Please contact Purchaser at [●] if you have any questions about the above notification of assignment and remittance instructions.

Very truly yours,

SUPPLIER:

 

Wise Alloys LLC ,

a Delaware limited liability company

By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

[Signatures continued on following page]

 

Exhibit E-5


SUBSIDIARY:

 

Wise Alloys Funding II LLC ,

a Delaware limited liability company

By:  

 

Name:  
Title:  

Acknowledged and Accepted as of the date first written above:

PURCHASER:

 

Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., New York Branch ,

the New York branch of an Italian banking corporation

By:  

 

Print Name:  
Print Title:  

 

Exhibit E-6


Schedule 1 to Notification of Assignment

List of Current Purchased Accounts

 

Exhibit E-7


Schedule 2 to Notification of Assignment

Payment Instructions for Purchased Accounts

Until further notice, please continue to make payments on account of Purchased Receivables to:

 

Account Bank:    Wells Fargo Bank, National Association,
Account Holder:    Wise Alloys Funding II LLC
Account No.:    4193371119 and
ABA No.:    121000248

OR

Please pay all amounts due on Purchased Receivables to:

 

Exhibit E-8

Exhibit 10.24

EXECUTION COPY

SECOND OMNIBUS AMENDMENT

This SECOND OMNIBUS AMENDMENT, dated as of January 25, 2017 (this “ Amendment ”) is:

(1) THE THIRD AMENDMENT to the RECEIVABLES SALE AGREEMENT, between WISE ALLOYS LLC, as seller (the “ RSA Seller ) and WISE ALLOYS FUNDING II LLC, as purchaser; and

(2) THE FIRST AMENDMENT to the AMENDED AND RESTATED RECEIVABLES PURCHASE AGREEMENT, among WISE ALLOYS FUNDING II LLC, as seller (the “ RPA Seller ”), WISE ALLOYS LLC, as servicer (the “ Servicer ”), HITACHI CAPITAL AMERICA CORP. (together with its successors and permitted assigns) (“ HCA ”), as a purchaser, INTESA SANPAOLO S.P.A., NEW YORK BRANCH (together with its successors and permitted assigns) (“INTESA”), as a purchaser (and, together with HCA, in such capacity, the “ Purchasers ”), and GREENSILL CAPITAL INC., as purchaser agent (the “ Purchaser Agent ”).

RECITALS

WHEREAS , the RSA Seller and the RPA Seller have heretofore entered into the RECEIVABLES SALE AGREEMENT, dated as of March 16, 2016 (as amended, restated, supplemented, assigned or otherwise modified from time to time, the “ Receivables Sales Agreement ”);

WHEREAS , CONSTELLIUM HOLDCO II B.V. (the “ Parent ”) has heretofore entered into a PERFORMANCE UNDERTAKING, dated as of March 16, 2016, in favor of the RPA Seller with respect to obligations under the Receivables Sale Agreement (the “ First Tier Parent Guarantee ”);

WHEREAS , the RPA Seller, the Servicer, the Purchasers and the Purchaser Agent heretofore entered into the AMENDED AND RESTATED RECEIVABLES PURCHASE AGREEMENT, dated as of November 22, 2016 (as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “ Receivables Purchase Agreement ”; together with the Receivables Sales Agreement, each an “ Agreement ” and collectively, the “ Agreements ”);

WHEREAS , the Parent has heretofore entered into an AMENDED AND RESTATED PERFORMANCE UNDERTAKING, dated as of November 22, 2016, in favor of the Purchasers with respect to obligations under the Receivables Purchase Agreement (the “ Second Tier Parent Guarantee ”, and together with the First Tier Parent Guarantee, the “ Guarantees ”); and

WHEREAS , the parties hereto seek to modify each of the Agreements upon the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in exchange for good and valuable consideration (the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged and confirmed), the parties hereto agree as follows:

SECTION 1. Definitions . Unless otherwise defined or provided herein, capitalized terms used herein have the meanings attributed thereto in (or by reference in) the Agreements, as applicable.


SECTION 2. Amendments to the Receivables Sale Agreement . The Receivables Sale Agreement is hereby amended as follows:

(a) Clause (iii) of the definition of “Purchase Termination Date” set forth in Exhibit A of the Receivables Sale Agreement is hereby amended by replacing the date “March 15, 2017” with the date “January 24, 2018” therein.

SECTION 3. Amendments to the Receivables Purchase Agreement . The Receivables Purchase Agreement is hereby amended as follows:

(a) Clause (iii) of the definition of “Purchase Termination Date” set forth in Exhibit A of the Receivables Purchase Agreement is hereby amended by replacing the date “March 15, 2017” with the date “January 24, 2018” therein.

SECTION 4. Consent . The Parent hereby (a) consents to the RSA Seller and the RPA Seller entering into this Amendment, (b) consents to the extension of the “Purchase Termination Date” as defined in each of the Receivables Sale Agreement and the Receivables Purchase Agreement as contemplated by Sections 2 and 3 of this Amendment respectively, and (c) confirms and restates its obligations under the First Tier Parent Guarantee and the Second Tier Parent Guarantee with respect to the effectiveness of this Amendment and after giving effect thereto. The parent further confirms and agrees that the First Tier Parent Guarantee and the Second Tier Parent Guarantee have not been annulled, revoked, rescinded or terminated prior to the date hereof.

SECTION 5. Condition to Effectiveness . This Amendment shall become effective on the date on which all of the following conditions have been satisfied:

(a) each of the parties hereto shall have received counterparts of this Amendment executed by each of the other parties hereto (including facsimile or e-mail signature pages); and

(b) the representations and warranties contained in each of the Agreements and in this Amendment shall be true and correct both as of the date hereof and immediately after giving effect to this Amendment.

SECTION 6. Representations and Warranties . Each of the RSA Seller, RPA Seller and the Parent, on and as of the date hereof, make the following representations and warranties:

(a) Authority . It has the requisite corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Amendment and to perform its obligations hereunder and under the Agreements (as amended hereby) and the Guarantees, as the case may be. The execution and delivery and performance by it of this Amendment and the performance of the Agreements (as amended hereby) and the Guarantees, as the case may be, have been duly approved by all necessary corporate action and no other corporate proceedings are necessary to consummate such transactions;

 

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(b) Enforceability . This Amendment has been duly executed and delivered by it. Each of the Agreements (as amended hereby) and the Guarantees, as the case may be, is a legal, valid and binding obligation enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, moratorium or other similar laws affecting the rights of creditors and to general principles of equity, and is in full force and effect;

(c) Representations, Warranties and Covenants . Its representations, warranties and covenants contained in the Agreements and the Guarantees, as the case may be (other than any such representations or warranties that, by their terms, are specifically made as of a date other than the date hereof) are correct on and as of the date hereof as though made on and as of the date hereof; and

(d) No Termination Event . No Termination Event has occurred and is continuing.

SECTION 7. Effect of Amendment; Ratification .

(a) Upon the effectiveness of this Amendment, (i) all references in the Receivables Sale Agreement or in any other Transaction Document to “the Receivables Sale Agreement,” “this Agreement,” “hereof,” “herein” or words of similar effect, in each case referring to the Receivables Sale Agreement, shall be deemed to be references to the Receivables Sale Agreement as amended by this Amendment and (ii) all references in the Receivables Purchase Agreement or in any other Transaction Document to “the Receivables Purchase Agreement,” “this Agreement,” “hereof,” “herein” or words of similar effect, in each case referring to the Receivables Purchase Agreement, shall be deemed to be references to the Receivables Purchase Agreement as amended by this Amendment.

(b) Except as specifically amended hereby, the Agreements and all other Transaction Documents, instruments and agreements executed and/or delivered in connection therewith shall remain in full force and effect and are hereby ratified and confirmed in all respects.

(c) The execution, delivery and effectiveness of this Amendment shall not operate as a waiver of any right, power or remedy of the Purchaser or any of its assignees under the Agreements or any other Transaction Document, instrument, or agreement executed in connection therewith, nor constitute a waiver of any provision contained therein.

SECTION 8. Counterparts . This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts and by different parties on separate counterparts, and each counterpart shall be deemed to be an original, and all such counterparts shall together constitute but one and the same instrument.

SECTION 9. Governing Law . This Amendment shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to conflict of laws principles that would require the application of the law of any other jurisdiction.

SECTION 10. Transaction Document . This Amendment shall be a Transaction Document under each of the Agreements.

 

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SECTION 11. Section Headings . The various headings of the Amendment are inserted for convenience only and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Amendment or the Agreements or any provision hereof or thereof.

SECTION 12. Severability . If any one or more of the agreements, provisions or terms of this Amendment shall for any reason whatsoever be held invalid or unenforceable, then such agreements, provisions or terms shall be deemed severable from the remaining agreements, provisions and terms of this Amendment and shall in no way affect the validity or enforceability of the provisions of this Amendment.

[Signatures follow]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amendment as of the date first written above.

 

WISE ALLOYS LLC,
as the RSA Seller and the Servicer
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

Rina Teran

Title:  

VP & Secretary

WISE ALLOYS FUNDING II LLC,
as the RPA Seller
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

Yves Monette

Title:  

CFO

 

Second Omnibus Amendment


HITACHI CAPITAL AMERICA CORP.,
as a Purchaser
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

James M. Giaimo

Title:  

Vice President

Structured Credit & Operations

 

Second Omnibus Amendment


INTESA SANPAOLO S.P.A., NEW YORK BRANCH,
as a Purchaser
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

A. Di Maggio,

 

P. Pastorino,

Title:  

FVP

 

VP

 

Second Omnibus Amendment


GREENSILL CAPITAL INC.,

as the Purchaser Agent

By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:  

Jonathan Lane

Title:  

General Counsel

 

Second Omnibus Amendment


ACKNOWLEDGED AND AGREED:
CONSTELLIUM HOLDCO II B.V.
By:   LOGO
 

 

Name:   LOGO
 

 

Title:  

Director A

  LOGO
  Mark Kirkland
  Group Treasurer & Director B

 

Second Omnibus Amendment

Exhibit 10.25

 

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PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL

April 25, 2016

Jean-Marc Germain

28 Cavenswood LN

Owings Mills, MD 21117-2914

USA

 

Re: Employment Letter

Dear Jean-Marc:

We are pleased to make an offer of employment to you as Chief Executive Officer of Constellium N.V., a Netherlands naamloze vennootschap (the “ Company ”), and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “ Constellium Group ”). Your official starting date will be a date to be mutually agreed by the parties (the “ Effective Date ”).

The following are the key points in our offer:

1. Term . Your employment with Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC (“ Ravenswood ”) shall begin on the Effective Date and shall continue until terminated in accordance with this employment letter (this “ Agreement, ” and such term of employment, the “ Term ”). Although you will be appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Company as described in Section 2, you will be employed and your benefits will be administrated by Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC (“ Ravenswood ”).

2. Position and Duties .

(a) Position. Your appointment to the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Board ”) as executive director shall be proposed to the shareholders of the Company for vote at the annual general meeting of the Company’s shareholders scheduled to be held in June 2016, and, subject to such shareholder approval, the Board will then promptly appoint you as the Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective as of the Effective Date. In this role, you shall report to the Board. Following the Effective Date, you and the Board will mutually agree as to whether you will be appointed as President (or any similar role) of any subsidiary of the Company and whether you will serve as a member of the board of directors of any member of the Constellium Group (in addition to the Company) and any committees of any member of the Constellium Group.

(b) Duties. Subject to the ultimate authority of the Board, you will have full responsibility and management oversight control over the business and strategic planning function of the Constellium Group. Your key responsibilities


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will include, without limitation, reporting to the Board, meeting with the investment community, relationships with new and existing customers, stakeholders, and other external constituencies (including governments), and such other duties that may be reasonably required or that may be reasonably requested by the Board from time to time (the “ Duties ”). You may delegate your powers to the extent required by the Duties and good governance practices, and within the limits set out by applicable laws and regulations. You will be expected to devote substantially all of your working time to the Duties. In connection with the foregoing, the Board is aware that you currently serve, and agrees that you may continue to serve during the Term, on the board of directors of each of the entities designated on a list provided by you to the Board in writing prior to the date hereof, so long as such entity does not compete with the Constellium Group by carrying out any activity in the Business (as defined below) in any geography in which the Constellium Group carries out the Business. After the date hereof, you may not join the board of directors or similar body of any other for-profit entity without the prior written consent of the Board.

(c) Location . You will be based in an office located on the East Coast of the United States, but we expect you to spend a significant amount of time in Zurich, Switzerland, Paris, France, New York City, USA, Amsterdam, Netherlands, and the Constellium Group’s other operating sites.

3. Compensation .

(a) Base Salary . Your annual salary will be $950,000, payable on a biweekly basis in accordance with Ravenswood’s normal payroll practices in effect from time to time (the “ Base Salary ”). The Base Salary will be subject to review on an annual basis by the Board, commencing in or about April 2017.

(b) Annual Bonus . You will be eligible for an annual performance bonus pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Executive Performance Award Plan (the “ EPA Plan ”), including the attainment of performance targets, established by the Board (or a committee thereof, including the Remuneration Committee) from time to time in its sole and absolute discretion after consultation with you each year. Your target annual bonus will be 120% of your Base Salary (the “ Target Bonus ”). Your maximum annual bonus will be 180% of your Base Salary. Awards under the EPA Plan shall be paid after the closing of the performance year with the first payroll after the Board (or a committee thereof, including the Remuneration Committee) has validated the financial results and the resulting payout. The EPA Plan is provided at the discretion of the Company and is not a contractual entitlement. Participation in the EPA Plan in one year does not create a right to future participation in the EPA Plan. The Company reserves the right to amend the EPA Plan at its discretion at any time and for any reason whatsoever. If you are terminated at any point during the year, your right to an EPA Plan award, if any, in respect of such year shall be determined in accordance with this Agreement and the applicable terms and conditions of the EPA Plan to the extent consistent with this Agreement.

 

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(c) Equity Awards . Upon or promptly following the commencement of the first trading window period following the Effective Date, the Company shall grant you (i) an award of performance-based restricted stock units with a target number of shares of 150,000 and a maximum numbers of shares of 450,000, which shall vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant, subject to your continued employment and the achievement of certain performance goals, and shall have such other terms and conditions, as set forth in a performance-based restricted stock unit grant letter and award agreement substantially in the forms attached hereto as Exhibits A-1 and A-2 , respectively; (ii) an award of 100,000 restricted stock units, which represent your ordinary course 2016 long- term equity compensation grant, and which shall vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant, subject to your continued employment, and shall have such other terms and conditions as set forth in a restricted stock unit award agreement substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B ; and (iii) an award of 100,000 restricted stock units, which shall vest in equal installments on the first two anniversaries of the date of grant, subject to your continued employment, and shall have such other terms and conditions as set forth in a restricted stock unit award agreement substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit C . Future equity compensation awards will be at the discretion of the Remuneration Committee of the Board.

(d) Employee Benefits . You will participate in the Ravenswood Employee Benefit Program (the “ Employee Benefit Program ”), which provides medical, prescription drug, and dental care benefits, basic and optional term life insurance coverage, basic and voluntary accidental death and dismemberment coverage, dependent term life insurance coverage, long-term disability coverage, short term disability coverage, a flexible spending program, and an employee assistance program. You will also be eligible to participate in the Ravenswood Salaried Employees Defined Contribution Plan 401 (k) (the “ 401(k) Plan ”), under the same terms and conditions as other Ravenswood employees. As with all employee benefits, Ravenswood reserves the right to amend or terminate the Employee Benefit Program and the 401 (k) Plan and the benefits provided thereunder at any time.

(e) Perquisites . Ravenswood will make available at your selection either a car for your use or a monthly automobile allowance, in each case, in accordance with Ravenswood’s automobile policy.

(f) Annual Physical . The Company will pay for your annual physical with a physician of your choice.

(g) Vacation . You will be entitled to five weeks of paid vacation per year during the Term.

(h) Expenses . Ravenswood will reimburse you for reasonable and substantiated transportation, hotel, meal, telephone, and other business expenses in accordance with Ravenswood’s expense reimbursement policy as in effect from time to time. All business expenses incurred in the course of your Duties must be documented on a form prescribed by Ravenswood and substantiated by receipts.

 

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(i) D&O Insurance . During the Term and for six years thereafter, you will be provided with directors’ and officers’ insurance coverage at the Company’s expense in respect of your performance of the Duties pursuant to the Company’s directors’ and officers’ insurance coverage in effect from time to time.

(j) Indemnification . At all times during the Term and thereafter during which you may be subject to liability in respect of your employment with the Company, you shall be indemnified and held harmless to the maximum extent permitted under the Company’s articles of incorporation and bylaws (including advances of attorneys’ fees and other expenses to the extent set forth therein).

4. Termination of Employment .

(a) Death or Disability . Your employment with the Constellium Group shall automatically terminate upon your death during the Term. If the Company determines in good faith that you have experienced a Disability (as defined below) during the Term, it may provide you with written notice of its intention to terminate your employment. In such event, your employment with the Constellium Group shall terminate effective on the 30th day after receipt of such notice by you (the “ Disability Effective Date ”) if, within the 30 days after such receipt, you shall not have returned to full-time performance of the Duties. For purposes of this Agreement, “ Disability ” shall mean your absence from the Duties on a full-time basis for 180 consecutive business days as a result of incapacity due to mental or physical illness that is determined to be total and permanent by a physician selected by the Company or its insurers and reasonably acceptable to you or your legal representative. You agree to cooperate with any examination by such physician as requested by the Company.

(b) Termination by the Company . The Company may terminate your employment with the Constellium Group during the Term either with or without Cause (as defined below). For purposes of this Agreement, “ Cause ” shall mean:

(i) your gross negligence or willful misconduct in the performance of the Duties;

(ii) your conviction of, or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or your breach of or failure to perform your material obligations under any written agreement entered into between you and any member of the Constellium Group;

(iii) your breach of the bylaws of the Company (or any member of the Constellium Group at which you hold an officer position) or of any material legal duty to the Constellium Group;

 

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(iv) your failure to follow the lawful and reasonable instructions of the Board or the Delegation of Authority of Constellium;

(v) your breach of any material provision of this Agreement (including, without limitation, Section 6 or Section 7); or

(vi) your failure to cooperate in any audit or investigation of the Constellium Group;

in each case, after written notice of the breach or of the failure that has not been remedied within 14 calendar days from the date of your receipt of notice (to the extent remedy is reasonably possible, as determined by the Board).

(c) Resignation by You . You may resign your employment with the Constellium Group during the Term either with or without Good Reason. For purposes of this Agreement, “ Good Reason ” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following without your consent:

(i) a material reduction in your Base Salary and/or your Target Bonus (but not including any diminution related to and in the same proportion as a broader compensation reduction that is not limited to any particular employee or executive);

(ii) a material reduction in the Duties or your responsibilities;

(iii) the Company’s failure to nominate you for election to the Board;

(iv) a material adverse change in the reporting structure applicable to you;

(v) the Company’s failure to obtain an agreement from any successor to the Company or member of the Constellium Group, as applicable, to assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company or member of the Constellium Group, as applicable, would be required to perform if no succession had taken place, except where such assumption occurs by operation of law; or

(vi) any material breach by the Company or any member of the Constellium Group of Section 3 of this Agreement;

provided , however , that none of the events described in the foregoing clauses (i) through (vi) shall constitute Good Reason unless (A) you have notified the Board in writing describing the events that constitute Good Reason within 30 days following the initial existence of the condition, (B) the Company or the applicable member of the Constellium Group fails to cure such events within 30 days after its receipt of such written notice, and (C) you actually resign your employment within 30 days following the end of such cure period.

 

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(d) Notice of Termination . Any termination by the Company or by you shall be communicated by Notice of Termination (as defined below) to the other party hereto. For purposes of this Agreement, a “ Notice of Termination ” means a written notice that (i) indicates the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, (ii) to the extent applicable, sets forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of your employment under the provision so indicated, and (iii) if the Date of Termination (as defined below) is other than the date of receipt of such notice, specifies the Date of Termination. The failure by the Company or by you to set forth in the Notice of Termination any fact or circumstance that contributes to a showing of Cause or Good Reason, respectively, shall not waive any right of the Company or you hereunder or preclude the Company or you from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing the Company’s or your rights hereunder.

(e) Date of Termination . For purposes of this Agreement, “ Date of Termination ” means (i) if your employment is terminated by the Company with Cause, the date of receipt of the Notice of Termination by you or any later date specified therein; (ii) if your employment is terminated by you without Good Reason or by the Company without Cause, the date that is three months following the date of receipt of such notice by the other party, or such earlier date as mutually agreed by you and the Company; (iii) if your employment is terminated by you with Good Reason, the date specified in the Notice of Termination in accordance with Section 4(c), or such earlier date as mutually agreed by you and the Company; and (iv) if your employment is terminated by reason of death or Disability, your date of death or the Disability Effective Date, as the case may be. Upon your or the Company’s receipt of a Notice of Termination, as the case may be, the Company may, in its sole and absolute discretion, release you from returning to your office or performing your Duties during any portion of the notice period prior to Date of Termination (“ Garden Leave ”), and may appoint another person to perform the Duties; provided that, during your Garden Leave, you shall be entitled to continuation of the Base Salary and other non-cash benefits provided under this Agreement.

(f) Effect of Termination on Other Positions . If, on the Date of Termination, you are a member of the Board or the board of directors of any member of the Constellium Group or you hold any other position with any member of the Constellium Group, you shall be deemed to have resigned from all such positions as of the Date of Termination. You hereby agree to execute such documents and take such other actions as the Company may request to reflect such resignation.

5. Obligations of the Company upon Termination of Employment .

(a) Good Leaver Termination .

(i) Generally . Except as otherwise provided in Section 5(a)(ii), if, during the Term, your employment is terminated by the Company or any member of the Constellium Group without Cause or you resign with Good Reason (each, a “ Good Leaver Termination ”), then the Company shall pay or provide to you the following:

(A) the sum of (1) your Base Salary through the Date of Termination, to the extent not theretofore paid; plus (2) any earned but unpaid Annual Bonus owed pursuant to Section 3(b) in respect of a fiscal year of the Company ended prior to the Date of Termination; plus (3) any business expenses incurred by you that are unreimbursed as of the Date of Termination (the sum of the amounts described in clauses (1), (2) and (3), the “ Accrued Obligations ”), with such Accrued Obligations to be paid in a lump sum within 30 days following the Date of Termination;

 

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(B) subject to Section 5(d) and your compliance with Section 6, an amount in cash equal to the sum of your Base Salary and Target Bonus (the “ Severance Amount ”), which Severance Amount shall be paid in cash in equal installments over the 12-month period following the Date of Termination; provided , however , that the first such installment shall be paid no earlier than the date on which the Release (as defined below) becomes effective (the “ Release Date ”), and the first payment shall include any portion of the Severance Amount that would have otherwise been payable during the period between the Date of Termination and the Release Date; and

(C) to the extent not theretofore paid or provided, any other amounts or benefits required to be paid or provided or which you are eligible to receive under any plan, program, policy, or practice or contract or agreement of the Constellium Group through the Date of Termination (such other amounts and benefits, the “ Other Benefits ”).

(ii) Within One Year Following a Change in Control . Notwithstanding Section 5(a)(i), if a Change in Control (as defined in the Company’s 2013 Equity Incentive Plan as in effect on the Effective Date) occurs during the Term and upon or during the 12-month period following such Change in Control, your employment is terminated in a Good Leaver Termination, then the Company shall pay or provide to you the following:

(A) the Accrued Obligations, which shall be paid in a lump sum within 30 days following the Date of Termination;

(B) subject to Section 5(d) and your compliance with Section 6, an amount in cash equal to the product of (1) two multiplied by (2) the sum of your Base Salary and Target Bonus (the “ CIC Severance Amount ”), which CIC Severance Amount shall be paid in cash in equal installments over the 24-month period following the Date of Termination; provided , however , that the first such installment shall be paid no earlier than the Release Date and the first payment shall include any portion of the CIC Severance Amount that would have otherwise been payable during the period between the Date of Termination and the Release Date; and

(C) the Other Benefits.

 

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(b) By the Company with Cause; By You without Good Reason . If, during the Term, your employment is terminated by the Company with Cause or by you without Good Reason, this Agreement shall terminate without further obligations to you or your legal representatives, other than for the timely payment or provision of (i) the Accrued Obligations, which shall be paid in a lump sum within 30 days following the Date of Termination; and (ii) the Other Benefits.

(c) Death or Disability . If, during the Term, your employment is terminated by reason of your death or Disability, this Agreement shall terminate without further obligations to you or your legal representatives, other than for the timely payment or provision of (i) the Accrued Obligations, which shall be paid in a lump sum within 30 days following the Date of Termination; and (ii) the Other Benefits. In the event of death, the Accrued Obligations and the Other Benefits shall be paid to your estate or beneficiary, as applicable.

(d) Release of Claims . The Company’s obligation to pay the Severance Amount or CIC Severance Amount, as applicable, is conditioned on your execution, delivery to the Company, and non-revocation of a general release of claims in favor of the Company in a form provided by the Company in the time period specified therein (the “ Release ”).

6. Restrictive Covenants .

(a) Confidentiality; Return of Company Property . In consideration of being employed by the Company, you hereby agree and acknowledge that during the course of your employment, certain trade secrets of the Constellium Group may be disclosed to you, including, but not limited to, technical information (including methods, processes, formulae, compositions, systems, techniques, inventions, and research projects), and business information (including customer lists, pricing data, sources of supply, financial data, and marketing, production, or merchandising systems or plans). You hereby agree that, during or at any time after the termination of your employment, you shall not disclose or divulge to others, including future employees, any trade secrets, confidential information, or any other proprietary data of the Constellium Group in violation of this Agreement. Upon the termination of your employment, you shall return to the Company all documents and property of the Constellium Group, including, but not limited to, reports, manuals, and customer lists, and delete or destroy any copies of such documents and property which are on any computing or other device.

(b) Nondisparagement . The parties agree not to disparage one another or engage in criticism of one another to third parties or the general public and each agree not to seek, or cooperate with others seeking, publicity regarding any transaction.

 

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(c) Noncompetition . During your employment and for a period of 12 months after your termination of employment for any reason (the “ Restricted Period ”), you shall not compete with any member of the Constellium Group (including, but not limited to, as an employee, officer, director, consultant of, or investor in, a competing entity, or otherwise) in the aluminum fabrication, packaging, or rolling business (the “ Business ”) in any location in which the Constellium Group conducts its operations and engages in the Business at the time of your termination of employment.

(d) Nonsolicitation . During the Restricted Period, you shall not, directly or indirectly: (i) hire, or solicit for hiring or to otherwise cease performing services for the Constellium Group, any of the Constellium Group’s employees or consultants (including persons who were employees or persons or entities that were consultants at any time in the 12 months preceding such attempt to hire or solicit); or (ii) solicit any of the Constellium Group’s customers (including persons or entities who were customers at any time in the three years preceding such attempt to solicit).

(e) Remedies . You agree that your services are unique and valuable to the Company and the other members of the Constellium Group and that these restrictive covenants are necessary for the reasonable and proper protection of the Company and the other members of the Constellium Group and their trade secrets and confidential information and that each of the restrictive covenants set forth herein is reasonable in respect to subject matter, length of time and geographic area, and that these restrictive covenants, individually or in the aggregate, will not prevent you from obtaining other suitable employment during the period in which you are bound by them. You acknowledge that each of these restrictive covenants has a unique, substantial, and immeasurable value to the Company and the other members of the Constellium Group. You further covenant that you will not challenge the reasonableness or enforceability of any of these restrictive covenants. It is also agreed that any member of the Constellium Group will have the right to enforce all of your obligations to it under this Agreement, including through specific performance or any equitable relief available under applicable law granted by a court of competent jurisdiction. If it is determined by any court of competent jurisdiction that any of the restrictive covenants above is excessive in duration or scope or is unreasonable or unenforceable under applicable law, it is the intention of you and the Company that such restrictive covenant shall be modified or amended by the court to render it enforceable to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law.

7. Certain Representations . You represent that you are not bound by any restrictive covenants or other contractual limitations that would limit or restrict your ability to work for or perform the Duties to the Company or any member of the Constellium Group.

 

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8. Miscellaneous .

(a) “At Will” Employment . The Company strives to treat all employees fairly and provide opportunity for personal growth to the fullest extent possible. The Company is an “at will” employer; however, this does not guarantee continued employment. By definition, the term “at will” entitles either you and/or the Company to terminate your employment at any time, with or without notice, and for any or no reason, with or without cause, subject to any obligations of the Company under Section 5 of this Agreement.

(b) Amendment . This Agreement may not be amended or modified otherwise than by a written agreement executed by the parties hereto or their respective successors and legal representatives.

(c) Withholding . The Company may withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement such federal, state, local, or foreign taxes as shall be required to be withheld pursuant to any applicable law or regulation.

(d) Governing Law; Jurisdiction . The provisions of this Agreement shall be construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York, without regard to the conflict-of-law provisions of any state. The courts of New York shall have jurisdiction over all disputes arising out of this Agreement.

(e) Assignment. This Agreement is personal to you and no party hereto may assign or delegate any of its rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of the other party; provided , however , that the Ravenswood shall have the right to assign all or any part of Ravenswood’s rights and obligations under this Agreement to any member of the Constellium Group that directly or indirectly holds or acquires all or substantially all of the assets or equity interests of Ravenswood. This Agreement and any rights and benefits hereunder shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon you and your legal representatives, heirs, or legatees, and the Company and its successors and assigns.

(f) Severability . The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, and this Agreement shall be construed as if such invalid or unenforceable provision were omitted (but only to the extent that such provision cannot be appropriately reformed or modified).

(g) Waiver of Breach . No waiver by any party hereto of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by any other party, or of compliance with any condition or provision of this Agreement to be performed by such other party, shall operate or be construed as a waiver of any subsequent breach by such other party of any similar or dissimilar provisions and conditions at the same or any prior or subsequent time. The failure of any party hereto to take any action by reason of such breach will not deprive such party of the right to take action at any time while such breach continues.

 

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(h) Section 409A .

(i) General . The ongoing obligations under this Agreement are intended to comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “ Code ”), or an exemption or exclusion therefrom and shall in all respects be administered in accordance with Section 409A of the Code. Any payments that qualify for the “short-term deferral” exception under Treasury Regulations § 1.409A-1 (b)(4), the “separation pay” exception under Treasury Regulations § 1.409A-1 (b)(9)(iii), or any other exception under Section 409A of the Code shall be paid under the applicable exceptions to the greatest extent possible. Each payment under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A of the Code.

(ii) Reimbursements and In-Kind Benefits . All reimbursements and in-kind benefits that constitute deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code provided under this Agreement shall be made or provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, including, without limitation, that (A) in no event shall reimbursements by Ravenswood under this Agreement be made later than the end of the calendar year next following the calendar year in which the applicable fees and expenses were incurred, provided that you shall have submitted an invoice for such fees and expenses at least 10 days before the end of the calendar year next following the calendar year in which such fees and expenses were incurred; (B) the amount of in-kind benefits that Ravenswood is obligated to pay or provide in any given calendar year shall not affect the in-kind benefits that Ravenswood is obligated to pay or provide in any other calendar year; and (C) your right to have Ravenswood pay or provide such reimbursements and in- kind benefits may not be liquidated or exchanged for any other benefit.

(iii) Delayed Payment . Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if you are a “specified employee” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code (as determined in accordance with the methodology established by the Company as in effect on the Date of Termination), any payments that constitute “nonqualified deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code that would otherwise be payable under this Agreement during the six-month period immediately following the Date of Termination on account of your separation from service shall be accumulated and paid to you on the first business day of the seventh month following your “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code to the extent required to avoid tax penalties to you. If you die following the Date of Termination and prior to the payment of any amounts delayed on account of Section 409A of the Code, such amounts shall be paid to the personal representative of your estate within 30 days after the date of your death. With respect to any amounts that constitute nonqualified deferred compensation under Section 409A of the Code, (A) in no event shall the Date of Termination of your employment be deemed to occur until you experience a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code, and, notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, the date on which such separation from service takes place shall be the Date of Termination, and

 

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LOGO

 

(B) if the timing of the delivery of the Release as required under Section 5(d) could result in you selecting one of two calendar years for the receipt of any such amounts, then such payments shall not be made until the later calendar year.

(i) Entire Agreement . From and after the date hereof, this Agreement shall constitute the entire agreement between the Company and you regarding the subject matter hereof, and shall supersede any other agreement or understanding between the parties with respect to, the subject matter hereof.

(j) Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in separate counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

(k) Attorneys’ Fees . The Company shall reimburse you for reasonable attorneys’ fees incurred by you in connection with the review and negotiation of this Agreement.

*            *              *

If you have any questions regarding this letter, please contact sylvieJegrez-carre@constellium.com.

I look forward to a positive response and I am eager for you to become part of the team!

[ Signature Page Follows ]

 

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Upon acceptance of the offer, please sign and return, to my attention, at your earliest convenience. Please retain a copy of the offer for your records.

 

Yours truly,
CONSTELLIUM N.V.
By:  

/s/ Richard Evans

  Name:   Richard Evans
  Title:  

President of the Board

CONSTELLIUM ROLLED PRODUCTS RAVENSWOOD, LLC
By:  

/s/ Buddy Stemple

  Name:   Buddy Stemple
  Title:   Chief Executive Officer

 

ACCEPTED:

/s/ Jean-Marc Germain

Jean-Marc Germain


Exhibit A-1

Form of PSU Grant Letter

(attached)


    STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL
    WLRK DRAFT: 4/19/16

LOGO

CONSTELLIUM N.V.

TUPOLEVLAAN 41

611119 NW SCHIPHOL-RIJK

THE NETHERLANDS

Jean-Marc Germain

2016 Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Letter

Dear Jean-Marc,

We are pleased to inform you that, in accordance with the 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”) of Constellium N.V., a Netherlands naamloze vennootschap (the “ Company ”), you have been selected by the Remuneration Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “ Committee ”) to receive an award of performance-based restricted stock units (the “ Performance RSUs ”), on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth below:

This award of Performance RSUs is subject to the provisions of (i) the 2016 Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (the “ Agreement ”), which is attached hereto and which we request that you execute along with this award letter, and (ii) the Plan. Capitalized terms not defined in this award letter have the meanings given to them in the Agreement.

Grant Date: [●], 2016. 1

Total Target Number of RSUs : 150,000 (which amount may be increased if applicable performance conditions are exceeded).

Vesting : The Performance-Based RSUs will vest only if, and at the time:

 

    The presence condition is met : you are continuously employed or under contract by / with the Company or any of its Subsidiaries or Affiliates from the Grant Date (and not being in a termination notice period) through the third anniversary of the Grant Date (the “ Maturity Date ”), except if you qualify for Retirement and your employment terminates prior to such Maturity Date or if the Committee waives this condition; and

 

    The performance conditions are satisfied : the performance conditions are based on the Company’s Total Shareholder Return versus the Peer Group during each Performance Period (as defined in Appendix A to the Agreement).

 

1   Some Participants may be required to comply with applicable holding periods linked with their country of taxation. This will be detailed in specific subplans.


Neither the Company, any of its Subsidiaries, any of its Affiliates, nor any of their directors shall incur any liability with respect to the personal tax or social security treatment of a Participant in relation to the award of Performance RSUs or the entering into the Agreement.

Please acknowledge your agreement to receive the Performance RSUs in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the Agreement by returning the acceptance form duly completed and signed and the attached Agreement.

Thank you again for your contribution to value creation at the Company.

Very truly yours,

 

Constellium N.V.

By:

 

 

 

Marc Boone

 

VP Human Resources

Acknowledged and agreed:

 

Jean-Marc Germain

 

2


Exhibit A-2

Form of PSU Award Agreement

(attached)


      STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL
      WLRK DRAFT: 4/19/16

LOGO

CONSTELLIUM N.V.

2016 PERFORMANCE-BASED RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AGREEMENT

THIS 2016 PERFORMANCE-BASED RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”), which contains the terms and conditions for the Restricted Stock Units (“Restricted Stock Units” or “Performance RSUs”) referred to in the 2016 Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Letter delivered in hard copy or electronically to Participant (“2016 Award Letter”), is by and between CONSTELLIUM N.V. (the “Company”), and the individual identified on the last page hereof (the “Participant”).

1. Grant of Performance RSUs . Subject to the terms and conditions of the Constellium N.V. 2013 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended and restated from time to time (the “Plan”), this Agreement, and the 2016 Award Letter, the Company hereby grants to the Participant an award (the “Award”) of Performance RSUs shown in the 2016 Award Letter effective [●], 2016 (the “Effective Date”). The Award gives the Participant the opportunity to earn the right to receive the number of ordinary shares of the Company (the “Target Number of Shares”) equal to the Total Target Number of RSUs shown in the 2016 Award Letter (the “Target Number of Performance RSUs”) if the Target Goal, as established by the Committee, is achieved by the Company over the Performance Period. These shares, together with any other shares that are transferable under this Agreement, are referred to in this Agreement as “Shares.” Until the Shares vest and the Participant receives such Shares under the terms of Paragraph 6 below, the Participant shall have no rights as a shareholder of the Company in respect of the Shares.

2. Incorporation of Plan and Acceptance of Documents . The Plan is incorporated by reference and all terms used herein that are not defined in this Agreement (including the attached Appendix A) or in the 2016 Award Letter shall have the meaning set forth in the Plan. The Participant acknowledges that he or she has received a copy of, or has online access to, the Plan, and hereby automatically accepts the Performance RSUs subject to all the terms and provisions of the Plan and this Agreement.

3. Committee Decisions and Interpretations: Committee Discretion . The Participant hereby agrees to accept as binding, conclusive, and final all actions, decisions, and/or interpretations of the Committee, its delegates, or agents, upon any questions or other matters arising under the Plan or this Agreement.

4. Performance Measures: Number of Shares Payable to the Participant .

(a) Performance measures (as defined in Appendix A) established by the Committee are based on targeted levels of relative Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”). The Committee establishes goals for Constellium TSR in respect of the Performance Period and the designated numbers of Shares that may be received by the Participant based upon the achievement of each goal during the Performance Period, more fully described in Appendix A hereto. The number of Shares that may be received by the Participant if the Target Goal is reached is equal to the Target Number of Shares.


(b) The Performance RSUs awarded to the Participant and subject to this Agreement as reflected in Paragraph 1 above represents the Participant’s opportunity to earn the Target Number of Shares upon (i) certification by the Committee that 100% of the Target Goal for TSR for the Performance Period has been met and (ii) satisfaction of all the other conditions set forth in Paragraph 5 below.

(c) Subject to the Committee’s discretion as set forth in Subparagraph 4(d) below and to satisfaction of all other conditions set forth in Paragraph 5 below, the actual number of Shares earned by and transferable to Participant upon certification of TSR results and satisfaction of all other conditions set forth in Paragraph 5 below may be increased or decreased depending on the level of TSR certified by the Committee at the end of the Performance Periods as set forth in Appendix A.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement or the Plan, the Committee may in its sole and absolute discretion adjust, increase, reduce, the number of Shares payable to the Participant based on such factors as it deems appropriate, including, but not limited to, the Company’s performance.

5. Vesting .

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the Participant shall not be entitled to any transfer of Shares under this Agreement unless and until the Participant satisfies applicable vesting conditions for such payment.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in Subparagraphs 5(c) – 5(e) below and subject to the provisions of Subparagraph 4(d) above, the Participant shall vest in Shares under this Agreement only if, and at the time that, both following conditions are fully satisfied:

(i) The Participant remains an active employee of the Company, any of its Subsidiaries or its Affiliates, through the third anniversary of the Effective Date (the “Maturity Date”); and

(ii) The Committee certifies that the Company has met TSR targets at least equal to or above the Threshold Goal. Certification of the performance achievement level, if any, by the Committee for each Performance Period shall be made yearly by each applicable anniversary of the Effective Date or as soon thereafter as is administratively practicable.

(c) If the Participant qualifies for Retirement (as defined below) and the Participant’s employment or consulting relationship with the Company terminates prior to the Maturity Date, and the Committee certifies that the performance measures for the Performance Period are satisfied under this Agreement, then upon such certification, the Participant shall vest in that number of Shares the Participant would otherwise have received for the Performance Period, prorated to reflect that portion of the Performance Period prior to the Participant’s termination of employment or consulting relationship with the Company.

The pro rata number of Shares in which the Participant shall become vested in such case shall equal that number determined by multiplying (i) the number of Shares the Participant

 

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would otherwise have received for the Performance Period in accordance with Paragraph 4 above times (ii) a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of full months in the period that begins with the month that contains the Effective Date and ends with (and includes) the month in which the Participant’s employment or consulting relationship with the Company terminates due to the Participant’s Retirement, and the denominator of which is the total number of full months in the period that begins with the month that contains the Effective Date and ends with the month that contains the Maturity Date.

For purposes of this Agreement, “Retirement” means the Participant’s retirement at the minimum age under legal statute or any applicable contract required to be eligible for full retirement entitlements. However, the Committee may in its sole and absolute discretion adjust, increase or reduce, the number of Shares payable to the Participant based on such factors as it deems appropriate.

(d) Subject to the sole and absolute discretion of the Committee, if the Participant dies, becomes disabled or experiences a voluntary or involuntary termination of his/her services with the Company, any of its Subsidiaries or its Affiliates prior to the Maturity Date other than due to a Retirement (such date, the “Separation Date”), then no share will vest.

(e) In the event of a Change in Control of the Company, all Performance RSUs held by the Participant under the Agreement shall be deemed to be earned and vest in full and be free of restrictions and for the purposes hereof, the Target Goals shall be deemed to be reached at 100%, unless the Committee decides otherwise.

More generally, the Committee may in its sole and absolute discretion adjust, increase, reduce, the number of Shares payable to the Participant based on such factors as it deems appropriate.

6. Conversion & Dividends .

(a) Upon conversion of Performance RSUs into Shares under this Agreement, such Performance RSUs shall be cancelled. Shares that become transferable under this Agreement will be issued or purchased by the Company and transferred to the Participant, upon satisfaction of any required tax withholding obligations, if any, no later than March 15th of the year following the year in which the Maturity Date occurs.

(b) The Company shall pay to the Participant a cash amount equal to the product of (x) all Dividends, if any, paid on a Share from the Effective Date to the delivery date of the Shares as specified in Subparagraph 6(a) and (y) the number of Shares delivered to the Participant on such delivery date (including for this purpose any Shares that would have been delivered on such delivery date but are withheld to satisfy tax withholding obligations).

7. Other Provisions .

(a) The Participant acknowledges that this Award and similar awards are made on a selective basis and are, therefore, to be kept confidential.

 

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(b) Performance RSUs, Shares, and Participant’s interest in Performance RSUs and Shares, may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged, or otherwise disposed of or encumbered at any time prior to both (i) the Participant’s becoming vested in Shares and (ii) the transfer of Shares under this Agreement. Further restrictions as to resale of Shares delivered to the Participant under this Agreement may be imposed by applicable provisions of a sub-plan that the Participant may be subject to.

(c) If the Participant at any time forfeits any or all of the Performance RSUs pursuant to this Agreement, the Participant agrees that all of the Participant’s rights and interest in such Performance RSUs and in Shares issuable thereunder shall terminate upon forfeiture without payment of consideration.

(d) The Committee shall determine whether an event has occurred resulting in the forfeiture of the Performance RSUs and any Shares issuable thereunder in accordance with this Agreement and all determinations of the Committee shall be final and conclusive.

(e) The obligations of the Company under this Agreement are unfunded and unsecured. Each Participant shall have the status of a general creditor of the Company with respect to amounts due, if any, under this Agreement.

(f) The parties to this Agreement intend that this Agreement meets the requirements of Section 409A of the Code and recognize that it may be necessary to modify this Agreement and/or the Plan to reflect guidance under Section 409A of the Code issued by the Internal Revenue Service. Participant agrees that the Committee shall have sole discretion in determining (i) whether any such modification is desirable or appropriate and (ii) the terms of any such modification.

(g) The Participant hereby automatically becomes a party to this Agreement whether or not he or she accepts the Award electronically or in writing in accordance with procedures of the Committee, its delegates or agents.

(h) Nothing in this Agreement or the Plan shall interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company, its Subsidiaries or an Affiliate to terminate the Participant’s employment or service at any time, nor confer upon the Participant the right to continue in the employment of the Company and/or Affiliate.

8. Notices . All notices to the Company required hereunder shall be in writing and delivered by hand or by mail, addressed to Constellium NV., Tupolevlaan 41 - 611119 NW SCHIPHOL RIJK, Attention: Marc Boone. Notices shall become effective upon their receipt by the Company if delivered in the foregoing manner.

9. Tax Consultation . The Participant understands he or she will incur tax consequences as a result of acquisition or disposition of the Shares. The Participant agrees to consult with any tax consultants deemed advisable in connection with the acquisition of the Shares and acknowledges that he or she is not relying, and will not rely, on the Company for any tax advice.

 

-4-


Constellium N.V.    

/s/ Marc Boone

   
Marc Boone    

The Participant

VP Human Resources    

 

-5-


APPENDIX A

1. Certain Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement:

 

    The maximum number of Performance RSUs subject to this Award Agreement is 300% of the Target Number of Performance RSUs, of which up to 1/3 shall be eligible for vesting with respect to attainment of the Performance Measure in each of the three Performance Periods (as such term is defined below) set forth below.

 

    The “Performance Measure” is relative “TSR” (as such term is defined below) for each Performance Period, meaning a comparison of the Company’s TSR against the Peer Groups’ TSR.

2. Additional Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement:

(a) Annual Target Number of Performance RSUs means one third of the Target Number of Performance RSUs.

(b) “Peer Group” is defined with the three following components and means, in respect of the Annual Target Number of Performance RSUs that may be earned for each Performance Period:

(i) For 33%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (“DJIA”);

(ii) For 33%, the four following companies being direct “peer group competitors” of the Company: Alcoa, Allegheny, Carpenter and Kaiser, as such list may be adjusted as described below; and

(iii) For 34%, the four following “main partners” of the Company: Rio Tinto, Ball, Airbus and Ford.

When calculating the relative Total Shareholder Return, each of the four companies listed in clauses (ii) and (iii) above shall have an equal relative weight to such group of companies of one fourth.

(c) “Performance Period” means each of the following three periods:

 

  (i) the one-year period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the first anniversary of the Effective Date,

 

  (ii) the two-year period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the second anniversary of the Effective Date, and

 

  (iii) the three-year period commencing on the Effective Date and ending on the third anniversary of the Effective Date.

 

A-1


(d) “Total Shareholder Return” or “TSR” means (i) total shareholder return as applied to the Company or any company in the Peer Groups, meaning stock price appreciation from the beginning to the end of the Performance Period, plus dividends and distributions made or declared during the Performance Period, expressed as a percentage return, and (ii) with respect to the DJIA, the variation of the DJIA index from the beginning to the end of the Performance Period, expressed as a percentage of the beginning point.

For purposes of computing the TSR, the stock price at the beginning of the Performance Period will be the average closing price of a share of common stock of the Company over the 20 trading days ending on the first day of the Performance Period and the stock price at the end of the Performance Period will be the average closing price of a share of common stock of the Company over the 20 trading days ending on the last day of the Performance Period, adjusted for changes in capital structure as set forth in the Plan or as determined at the discretion of the Committee.

The same rules described above will apply to the Peer Group.

3. Calculation. The number of Shares earned under this Agreement for each Performance Period will be calculated each year following the applicable anniversary date as follows:

FIRST : Determine the TSR for the Company, for each other company in the Peer Group, and the DJIA for the Performance Period.

SECOND : Compare the Company’s TSR against the average Peer Group TSR.

THIRD : Apply the following principles to determine if the following target goals (“Target Goals”) are achieved:

If, for a given Performance Period, the Company’s TSR is below the average of the Peer Groups’ TSR (the “Threshold Goal”), then no Performance RSUs shall vest and no Shares shall be earned by the Participant in respect of that Performance Period;

If, for a given Performance Period, the Company’s TSR is equal to the average of the Peer Groups’ TSR, then 100% of the Annual Target Number of Performance RSUs shall vest and the corresponding number of Shares shall be earned by the Participant in respect of that Performance Period, subject always to his or her complying with the service-based vesting conditions at the end of the three year period as set forth in Paragraph 5(b) of this Agreement;

If, for a given Performance Period, the Company’s TSR is above the average of the Peer Group’ TSR, then:

 

  (i) 100% of the Annual Target Number of Performance RSUs shall vest and,

 

  (ii) an amount of additional Performance RSUs equal to twice of the excess of the Company’s TSR over the average of the Peer Group’ TSR shall vest (e.g., if the Company TSR exceeds the Peer Group TSR by 3%, an additional 6% of the Annual Target Number of Performance RSUs shall vest).

 

A-2


4. Rules. The following rules apply to the computation of the number of Performance RSUs earned:

(a) For a given Performance Period, the maximum number of Performance RSUs that may be earned is 300% of the Annual Target Number of Performance RSUs.

(b) Companies shall be removed from the “peer group competitor” and “main partner” components of the Peer Group if they undergo a Specified Corporate Change (as defined below). A company that is removed from the Peer Group before the measurement date will not be included at all in the computation of the performance factor. A company in the Peer Group will be deemed to have undergone a “Specified Corporate Change” if it:

 

  1. permanently ceases to be a publicly traded company on a national stock exchange or market system; or

 

  2. has been acquired by another company (but not including internal reorganizations, in which case the resulting public company will be deemed a member of the Peer Group), or has sold all or substantially all of its assets.

The Company shall rely on press releases, public filings, website postings, and other reasonably reliable information available regarding a company that is a member of the Peer Group in making a determination as to whether a Specified Corporate Change has occurred.

 

A-3


Exhibit B

Form of RSU Award Agreement

(attached)


    STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL
    WLRK DRAFT: 4/19/16

LOGO

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

This Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (this “ Award Agreement ”) evidences an award of restricted stock units (“ RSUs ”) by Constellium N.V., a Netherlands naamloze vennootschap (the “ Company ”), under its 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”). Capitalized terms not defined in the Award Agreement have the meanings given to them in the Plan.

 

Name of Participant:

  

Jean-Marc Germain (the “ Participant ”)

Grant Date:

   [●], 2016 1   

Number of RSUs:

   100,000   

Vesting Schedule:

   [●], 2016 2    100%
   The RSUs shall only vest if the Participant is continuously employed by the Company from the Grant Date (and not being in a termination notice period) through the date set forth above (the “ Vesting Date ”).
   Any failure to satisfy the aforementioned conditions will result in an immediate forfeiture of the RSUs.

Delivery Date:

   The Company shall deliver to the Participant within 30 days following the Vesting Date one Share for each RSU that becomes vested on such Vesting Date, subject to applicable tax withholding (the date on which a Share is so issued, the “ Delivery Date ” of such Share).

Dividend

Equivalents:

   On the Delivery Date, the Company shall pay to the Participant a cash amount equal to the product of (x) all cash dividends or other distributions (other than cash dividends or other distributions pursuant to which the RSUs were adjusted pursuant to Section 3(c) of the Plan), if any, paid on a Share from the Grant Date to such Delivery Date and (y) the number of Shares delivered to the Participant on such Delivery Date (including for this purpose any Shares that would have been delivered on such Delivery Date but for being withheld to satisfy tax withholding obligations).

All other terms of the RSUs shall be as set forth in the Plan, and the Plan is incorporated herein by reference. The Award Agreement and the Plan constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties with respect to the RSUs. In the event that any provision of the Award Agreement is inconsistent with the Plan, the terms of the Plan shall control. By accepting this Award, the Participant agrees to be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

 

1   Upon or promptly following the first trading window following the “Effective Date” (which is the employment start date).
2   3rd anniversary of the Grant Date.


This Award Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

[ Signature Page Follows ]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Award Agreement to be duly executed as of the Grant Date.

 

  CONSTELLIUM N.V..
  By:  

 

   

Marc Boone

   

VP Human Resources

  PARTICIPANT
 

 

  Jean-Marc Germain


Exhibit C

Form of Sign-On RSU Award Agreement

(attached)


STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL
WLRK DRAFT: 4/23/16

LOGO

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

This Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (this “ Award Agreement ”) evidences an award of restricted stock units (“ RSUs ”) by Constellium N.V., a Netherlands naamloze vennootschap (the “ Company ’), under its 2013 Equity Incentive Plan (the “ Plan ”). Capitalized terms not defined in the Award Agreement have the meanings given to them in the Plan.

 

Name of Participant:   

Jean-Marc Germain (the “ Participant ”)

Grant Date:    [●], 2016 1   
Number of RSUs:    100,000   
Vesting Schedule: 2   

[●], 2017

[●], 2018

  

1/2

1/2

   The RSUs shall only vest if the Participant is continuously employed by the Company from the Grant Date (and not being in a termination notice period) through the applicable date set forth above (each, a “ Vesting Date ”).
   Any failure to satisfy the aforementioned conditions will result in an immediate forfeiture of the RSUs.
Delivery Date:    The Company shall deliver to the Participant within 30 days following each Vesting Date one Share for each RSU that becomes vested on such Vesting Date, subject to applicable tax withholding (the date on which a Share is so issued, the “ Delivery Date ” of such Share).

Dividend

Equivalents:

   On each Delivery Date, the Company shall pay to the Participant a cash amount equal to the product of (x) all cash dividends or other distributions (other than cash dividends or other distributions pursuant to which the RSUs were adjusted pursuant to Section 3(c) of the Plan), if any, paid on a Share from the Grant Date to such Delivery Date and (y) the number of Shares delivered to the Participant on such Delivery Date (including for this purpose any Shares that would have been delivered on such Delivery Date but for being withheld to satisfy tax withholding obligations).

All other terms of the RSUs shall be as set forth in the Plan, and the Plan is incorporated herein by reference. The Award Agreement and the Plan constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the parties with respect to the RSUs. In the event that any provision of the Award Agreement is inconsistent with the Plan, the terms of the Plan shall control. By accepting this Award, the Participant agrees to be subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan.

 

1   Upon or promptly following the first trading window following the “Effective Date” (which is the employment start date).
2   Anniversaries of the Grant Date.


This Award Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

[ Signature Page Follows ]


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Award Agreement to be duly executed as of the Grant Date.

 

CONSTELLIUM N.V.
By:  

 

  Marc Boone
  VP Human Resources
PARTICIPANT

 

Jean-Marc Germain

Exhibit 10.26

LOGO

PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL

October 26 th , 2016

Mr Peter Matt

Re: Employment Letter

Dear Peter,

Constellium N.V., a company incorporated in the Netherlands, or its applicable direct or indirect subsidiary identified below (the “ Company ”), is pleased to offer you terms and conditions of employment as follows:

 

Term

  

Discussion

Position / Reporting:    Your offered position is Chief Financial Officer of the Constellium Group. In this role, you will directly report to the CEO of the Constellium Group.
Employer and Location / Travel:    You will be employed by Constellium Rolled Products – Ravenswood LLC (until we have another US company that can host our US corporate payroll). You will be based on the East Coast of the US.
   You hereby accept that after reasonable consultation with you (i) your employment may be transferred from the Company to a subsidiary or affiliate of Constellium N.V., and (ii) your office location may change in the future to an area where the Company (or a subsidiary or affiliate of Constellium N.V.) conducts its business, and in particular to any site where the Company could assign you, according to the development of our business and the specific requirements of your position and duties.
   Your position and duties may require travelling from time to time depending on the development of our business and the circumstances.
Governing Law:    The terms and conditions of this employment letter will be governed by the laws of the state of New York.
Effective Date / Term:    The first day of your employment will be November 1 st 2016.
Initial Base Salary:    Your annual gross base salary will be $ 600,000. Your gross base salary will be paid in installments in accordance with the Company’s normal payroll practices in effect from time to time.
Base Salary Review:    The Company will review your annual gross base salary once each year.

 

1 / 10


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Short-term Incentive Award:

   You will be eligible for an annual performance bonus pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Executive Performance Award Plan (the EPA Plan ) , including the attainment of performance targets, established by the Board (or a committee thereof, including the Remuneration Committee) from time to time in its sole and absolute discretion after consultation with you each year. Your target annual bonus will be 90% of your Base Salary (the Target Bonus ). Your maximum annual bonus will be 135% of your Base Salary. Awards under the EPA Plan shall be paid after the closing of the performance year with the first payroll after the Board (or a committee thereof, including the Remuneration Committee) has validated the financial results and the resulting payout. The EPA Plan is provided at the discretion of the Company and is not a contractual entitlement. Participation in the EPA Plan in one year does not create a right to future participation in the EPA Plan. The Company reserves the right to amend the EPA Plan at its discretion at any time and for any reason whatsoever. If you are terminated at any point during the year, your right to an EPA Plan award, if any, in respect of such year shall be determined in accordance with this Agreement and the applicable terms and conditions of the EPA Plan to the extent consistent with this Agreement.
   Your EPA 2016 will be calculated on a pro rata basis – i.e from November 1 st till December 31.
Long Term Incentive Plan:    Upon or promptly following the commencement of the first trading window period following the Effective Date, the Company shall grant you (i) an award of performance-based restricted stock units with a target number of shares of 80,000 and a maximum numbers of shares of 240,000 which shall vest on the third anniversary of the date of grant, subject to your continued employment and the achievement of certain performance goals, and shall have such other terms and conditions, as set forth in a performance-based restricted stock unit grant letter and award agreement substantially in the forms attached hereto as Exhibits A-1 and A-2 , respectively; (ii) an award of 30,000 restricted stock units which shall vest 100% after a 2 year period subject to continued employment at vesting date, and shall have such other terms and conditions as set forth in a restricted stock unit award agreement substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B .
   Future equity compensation awards will be at the discretion of your management and of the Remuneration Committee of the Board.

 

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Healthcare Benefits / Retirement Plan:    You will participate in the Ravenswood Employee Benefit Program (the Employee Benefit Program ), which provides medical, prescription drug, vision and dental care benefits, basic and optional term life insurance coverage, basic and voluntary accidental death and dismemberment coverage, dependent term life insurance coverage, long-term disability coverage, short term disability coverage, a flexible spending program, and an employee assistance program. You will also be eligible to participate in the Ravenswood Salaried Employees Defined Contribution Plan 401(k) (the 401(k) Plan ), under the same terms and conditions as other Ravenswood employees. As with all employee benefits, Ravenswood reserves the right to amend or terminate the Employee Benefit Program and the 401 (k) Plan and the benefits provided thereunder at any time.
Company Car Policy:    You will be eligible to participate in the Company’s car lease program under the terms and conditions that apply to similarly situated employees. Details of the program, including costs to you and limits, will be provided separately.
Holiday / Vacation:    You will be paid for or may take 5 weeks of paid vacation per year.
  

For the calendar year 2016, the amount of paid vacation will be prorated.

 

The times at which you take paid vacation days must be approved in advance in writing by the CEO. Untaken vacation days cannot be carried forward from one year to the following year.

Business Expense Reimbursement:    Ravenswood will reimburse you for reasonable and substantiated transportation, hotel, meal, telephone, and other business expenses in accordance with Ravenswood’s expense reimbursement policy as in effect from time to time. All business expenses incurred in the course of your Duties must be documented on a form prescribed by Ravenswood and substantiated by receipts.
Relocation Expenses:    You will benefit from the USA Constellium relocation policy at the time you will transfer to an East Coast location to be determined. This clause is valid if you relocate within the first 2 years of your employment, or subsequently, as long as the relocation is at the Company’s request.
Termination / Resignation Notice:    In the event of your termination of employment by the Company for any reason (a “Termination Event”) other than Company Cause (as defined herein), the Company will give you at least 90 days (the “NC Notice Period”) written notice (the “Termination Notice”). In the event of your termination

 

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   for Company Cause, no NC Notice Period need be given to you by the Company. In the event of your resignation for any reason other than Company Cause (a “VR”), you must give the Company advance written notice of not less than the NC Notice Period.
   Upon your receipt of a Termination Notice from the Company for a Termination Event, the Company may, if determined to be appropriate in the sole and absolute discretion of the Company, release you from returning to your office or performing your duties for the Company during the NC Notice Period provided that you shall be entitled to continuation of your annual gross base salary and other benefits during the NC Notice Period.
Severance:    In the event that your employment is terminated by the Company for Company Cause (as defined herein) or you voluntarily resign your employment for other than Good Reason, you shall not be entitled to any severance payments and outplacement services.
   If your employment is terminated by the Company without Company Cause or you resign for Good Reason, you shall, subject to the requirement that you sign, deliver, and not revoke the release described below, receive severance pursuant to this employment letter in an amount equal to 12 months of your then- current gross base salary plus your annual target EPA less applicable withholding. You will also be entitled to 6 months medical, dental, vision care at the Company’s expense.
   You will be entitled to be paid for any unused vacation for the year of the Termination Event prorated based on the number of days you were employed by the Company until employment is terminated for any or no reason.
   For purposes of this employment letter:
   Company Cause means your (i) conviction or plea of nolo contendere to a criminal offense that can be sanctioned by imprisonment; (ii) commission of an act of “Gross Negligence” or “Willful Misconduct” (as each such term is defined herein); or (iii) willful breach of or failure to perform your obligations under this employment letter or any agreement entered into between you and any member of the Company and/or any of their by-laws, or your willful breach of any legal duty to any member of the Company, or your willful failure to follow the lawful instructions of the CEO or board of directors, or any willful failure by you to cooperate in any audit or investigation of any member of the Company, in each case after written notice of the breach or of the failure that has not been remedied within 14 days from the date of your receipt (to the extent remedy is reasonably possible).

 

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   Gross Negligence means a willful departure from the normal standard of conduct of a professional person that could be regarded by those familiar with the circumstances ( e.g. , professionals with similar experience and working in the same industry) as a wrongdoing regarding the ordinary care or knowledge that a professional person of ordinary skill would display; and (ii) Willful Misconduct means any act that is deliberate and causes material harm or material damage to the Target Group, and was not done with the reasonable belief that such act was in the best interests of the Company.
   Good Reason means your voluntary resignation after any of the following actions are taken by the Company without your consent:
  

(i)     a failure to timely pay base salary or benefits set forth herein; or

 

(ii)    a material reduction in your duties or responsibilities, including a change in your reporting line; or

 

(iii)  a material reduction in your target annual compensation (base, EPA); or

 

(iv)   being asked to perform or observing illegal acts by the Company; or

 

(v)    other breach of this Agreement by the Company;

   However, that none of the events described in the foregoing clauses (i) or (iv) shall constitute Good Reason unless (x) you have notified the Company in writing describing the events which constitute Good Reason within 30 days (the GR Cure Period ) following the initial existence of the condition, (ii) the Company fails to cure such events within another 30 day Period after the Company’s receipt of such written notice (second GR Cure Period ) and (iii) you actually terminate employment by the end of the second GR Cure Period.
Restrictive Covenants:   

During your employment and, unless waived in writing by Constellium N.V. in its sole and absolute discretion, for a period of 12 months after your termination of employment or resignation for any reason (the Restricted Period ”) , you shall not compete with any member of the Target Group (including, but not limited to, as an employee, officer, director, consultant of, or investor in, a competing entity, or otherwise) in the aluminum fabrication or rolling business (the Business ) in any location in which the Target Group conducts its operations and engages in the Business at the time of your termination and in which your competing with the Target Group would cause actual harm to the Company. The target group is defined as the following companies, operating in North America : Alcoa, Novelis, Aleris, Kaiser and Noranda or any successor of any such company. During the Restricted Period, you shall not, directly or indirectly:

 

(i) hire or solicit any of the Target Group’s employees or consultants (including persons who were employees or persons or entities that were consultants at any time in the 12 months preceding such attempt to hire or solicit); or (ii) solicit any of the Target Group’s customers (including persons or entities who were customers at any time in the 3 years preceding such attempt to solicit).

 

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  In the event that your employment is terminated by the Company without Cause, and in consideration of your agreeing to be bound by the above restrictive covenants during the portion of the Restricted Period occurring after the effective date of your termination, the Company will offer you a cash payment, which payment will be an amount equal to 50 % of the average compensation (including gross base salary, EPA bonus award, if any, and vacation pay) paid to you during the 12 months prior to your termination and will be paid pursuant to applicable law in a series of equal monthly installments at the times that your annual gross base salary would have been paid to you absent your termination during the Restricted Period. In the event that your employment is terminated by the Company for Cause or you resign for any reason, you shall not receive any payment pursuant to this employment letter in consideration of your agreeing to be bound by the above restrictive covenants during the portion of the Restricted Period occurring after the effective date of your termination.
  If the restrictive covenants will, for any reason, not be enforceable, enforced or adhered to, the cash payment in consideration of your agreeing to be bound by the above restrictive covenants will be forfeited and not be due by the Company. You will have to reimburse any payments you may already have received for any period during which the restrictive covenants have, for any reason, not been enforceable, enforced or adhered to.
  You agree that your services are unique and valuable to the Company and the other members of the Target Group and that these restrictive covenants are necessary for the reasonable and proper protection of the Company and the other members of the Target Group and their trade secrets and confidential information and that each of the restrictive covenants is reasonable in respect to subject matter, length of time and geographic area, and that these restrictive covenants, individually or in the aggregate, will not prevent you from obtaining other suitable employment during the period in which you are bound by them. You acknowledge that each of these restrictive covenants has a unique, substantial and immeasurable value to the Company and the other members of the Target Group. You further covenant that you will not challenge the reasonableness or enforceability of any of these restrictive covenants. It is also agreed that any

 

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   member of the Target Group will have the right to enforce all of your obligations to it under this employment letter, including through specific performance or any equitable relief available under applicable law granted by a court of competent jurisdiction.
   If it is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in any state that any of the restrictive covenants above is excessive in duration or scope or is unreasonable or unenforceable under applicable law, it is the intention of you and the Company that such restrictive covenant shall be modified or amended by the court to render it enforceable to the maximum extent permitted by the laws of that state.
Confidentiality Agreement:    In consideration of being employed by the Company, you hereby agree and acknowledge that during the course of your employment, certain trade secrets of the Target Group may be disclosed to you, including, but not limited to, technical information (including methods, processes, formulae, compositions, systems, techniques, inventions and research projects), and business information (including customer lists, pricing data, sources of supply, financial data and marketing, production, or merchandising systems or plans). You hereby agree that, during or at any time after the termination of your employment, you shall not disclose or divulge to others, including future employees, any trade secrets, confidential information, or any other proprietary data of the Target Group in violation of this employment letter. Upon the termination of your employment, you shall return to the Company all documents and property of the Target Group, including but not limited to, reports, manuals, and customer lists.
   Neither party shall reveal to anyone, directly or indirectly, the existence of any or all terms contained in any agreement containing technical or business information as cited above without prior written consent of the other except where expressly required by law.
   The parties agree not to disparage one another or engage in criticism of one another to third parties or the general public and each agree not to seek, or cooperate with others seeking, publicity regarding any transaction.
Restrictions on Other Activities:    If you intend to pursue other business-related activities during your employment with the Company, you must obtain the prior written consent of the CEO of the Company (or his delegates) if, as determined by CEO of the Company, the interests of the Company would be adversely affected in any manner. By way of example only (and without limitation), consent would be required in the event that you intend to:
  

•       Publish an article or give lectures regarding the Business.

 

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•       Participate in the affairs of another company, even if not in violation of the Restrictive Covenants above (except as a minority, non-controlling equityholder).

  

•       Join the board of directors of another company.

   The CEO of the Company already agrees that you can remain on the Board of your family brewing business.
Company Property:    Upon your termination of employment or resignation for any reason, you must return all property and documents belonging to the Company and any other member of the Target Group.
Acceptance of Gifts:    Without the prior written consent of the CEO of the Company, you may not accept any gift with a value in excess of $ 150 from any customer, client or supplier of the Company or any member of the Target Group or any prospective customer, client or supplier of the Company or any member of the Target Group.
Code of Conduct:    You agree to abide by the Worldwide Code of Employees and Business Conduct of Constellium N.V. and its affiliated companies at all times during your employment.
Indemnification    The Company agrees that, in the event a legal claim is asserted against Employee related to his service for the Company, the Company shall defend and indemnify Employee and hold him harmless from any and all losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses flowing from such claim. The Company shall, in its discretion, select counsel to defend Employee and shall control the defense of the claim. The Company will maintain a D&O policy adequate for a US publicly traded Company.

Entire Agreement /

 

Amendments and Additions /

 

Severability:

  

This employment letter contains the complete agreement of the parties regarding all terms and conditions of your employment.

 

Any proposed amendments to this employment letter must be in writing and signed by both parties.

 

The invalidity of any provision of this employment letter shall not affect the validity of any other provision thereof.

  
  
  
Jurisdiction:    The courts of the state of New York shall have jurisdiction over all disputes arising out of this employment contract.

 

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Section 409A of the Code:    It is intended that this letter shall comply with the provisions of Section 409A of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations thereunder (the “Code”), or an exemption to Section 409A of the Code. Any payments that qualify for the “short-term deferral” exception or another exception under Section 409A of the Code shall be paid under the applicable exception. For purposes of the limitations on nonqualified deferred compensation under Section 409A of the Code, each payment of compensation under this letter shall be treated as a separate payment of compensation for purposes of applying the exclusion under Section 409A of the Code for certain short-term deferral amounts. All payments to be made upon a termination of employment under this letter which constitute “nonqualified deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code may be made only upon a “separation from service,” as that term is defined in Section 409A of the Code and Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(h). In no event may you, directly or indirectly, designate the calendar year of any payment under this letter..
   Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this letter, (i) all reimbursements provided under this letter shall be made or provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code; and (ii) if you are considered a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A of the Code (as determined in accordance with the methodology established by the Company as in effect on the date of your termination), any payment that constitutes “nonqualified deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code that is otherwise due to you under this letter during the six-month period following your separation from service on account of your separation from service shall be accumulated and paid to you on the first business day of the seventh month following your separation from service.
Time    Time is of the essence for all dates, time periods, and payments.
Waiver    No provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to have been waived except by a statement in writing signed by the party against whom enforcement of the waiver is sought.
Notices    All written notices shall be in writing and shall be sent by certified mail or overnight courier, return receipt requested, prepaid, and shall be deemed delivered two business days after being sent if addressed to an Officer of the Company where the Employee is employed by the Company and to the Employee at his address used for the payroll of the Company.
Counterparts/ Facsimile    This Agreement may be executed in counterparts. A facsimile signature shall have the same legal effect as an original signature

 

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Statute of Limitations    The Statute of Limitations shall begin from the date of the alleged breach of this Agreement and not from the date of this Agreement.
Binding    This Agreement shall be binding on the parties and their heirs, personal representative, successors, and assigns.

We hope that you find these terms satisfactory.

Please indicate your acceptance of these terms and conditions by initialling each page and signing where indicated below. You should retain a copy for your files.

 

Yours sincerely,      

/s/ Jean-Marc Germain

    Date:  

10/26/16

Jean-Marc Germain      
CEO Constellium      

Confirmation and Acceptance :

I confirm my acceptance of the terms and conditions of this employment letter. I understand at all times that the Company will handle my personal data in accordance with the terms of its Privacy Policy. I acknowledge and understand that the Company will use my personal data for the management and administration of its employment relationship with me, to comply with applicable statutory requirements, and for the purpose of workforce administration. I also understand that the Company may disclose my personal data to other third parties for these purposes, which in some cases may be located in foreign jurisdictions in addition to the United States. I consent to the use and transfer of my personal data for these purposes.

 

/s/ Peter Matt

    Date  

10/26/16

Name: Peter Matt      

 

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Exhibit 10.27

ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF CONTRACT AS SIGNED AUGUST 31, 2016

 

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Constellium Holdco

Washington Plaza

44, rue Washington

75008 Paris

Tel: +33 (1) 73 01 46 00

www.constellium.com

Ms. Corinne FORNARA

Subject: Amendment to your employment contract dated March 25, 2013

Paris, August 31, 2016

Corinne,

We are pleased to inform you that your original employment contract in effect as of March 25, 2013 has been amended as follows:

 

  1. Change of job position :

Beginning the morning of September 8, 2016, you will be appointed as interim Chief Financial Officer of the Constellium Group. You will hold this position until the appointment of the next Constellium Chief Financial Officer. Once the latter is appointed, you will return to your previous position as the Group Financial Controller.

 

  2. Salary :

 

  a. Your annual gross base salary , starting on September 1, 2016 will be €250,000 (on a final basis), which corresponds is equivalent to a monthly gross salary of €20,833.

 

  b. Your bonus rate (EPA) (Executive Performance Award) will increase to 40% starting in 2016. As in the past, based on the objectives reached, as determined by your manager, this rate could reach 150%, or a maximum of 60% (see the details in your original employment contract).

 

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  3. Retention plan

In order to take into account your investment in this new temporary position and your importance for our company, it has been decided on an exceptional basis to grant you a “retention bonus” of €250,000, payable at the end of the 18-month retention period, namely, March 1, 2018.

You will definitely receive this bonus if you stay with Constellium at least 18 months, i.e., until March 1, 2018.

If you leave during this 18-month period, the following terms will apply:

 

  a. In the event of a breach of your employment contract of your own accord (resignation):

 

    You will definitely lose this bonus in its entirety.

 

  b. In the event of a breach of your employment contract at our initiative:

 

    In case of serious or gross misconduct, the entire bonus will definitely be lost;

 

    In case of any other breach of your employment contract at our initiative (contractual termination, settlement agreement…), the bonus will be paid to you on a prorata temporis basis (period from September 1, 2016 until the end date of your employment contract).

 

  4. Termination fee

If your employment contract is terminated by the Company, other than for serious or gross misconduct (as defined by the Labor Division of the French Court of Cassation), and if after the termination notification you sign a contractual termination or a settlement agreement under which you formally waive any claim that you might have against Constellium Group with regard

 

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to the performance or the termination of your contract by the Company, the latter will pay you a termination fee equal to 9 months of your gross monthly salary in effect at the time, payable in a lump sum on the day of the signing of the document or as soon as reasonably practical after the signing of the contractual termination or the settlement agreement (called Termination Fee). The amount of the termination fee includes the fee that is owed pursuant to the local law or the collective bargaining agreement, as the case may be.

It is understood that the Company cannot refuse to pay you the fee as long as you make and fulfill such a commitment, a usual confidentiality clause, and a non-defamation clause with respect to Constellium Group as well as its managers and shareholders.

All the other clauses of your original employment contract will remain unaffected and valid.

For proper execution, we would appreciate it if you could sign this document after inserting the words “read and approved.”

 

Sincerely,

/s/ Sylvie Legrez-Carré

Sylvie Legrez-Carré
Manager of Compensation & Employee Benefits

 

/s/ Corinne Fornara

Corinne Fornara

 

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Exhibit 12.1

Certification by the Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

I, Jean-Marc Germain, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Constellium N.V. (the “Company”);

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 Company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The Company’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 Company 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 Company, 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 Company’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 Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting;

5. The Company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Company’s auditors and the audit committee of the Company’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 Company’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 Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 21, 2017

 

By:  

/s/ Jean-Marc Germain

  Name:   Jean-Marc Germain
  Title:   Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 12.2

Certification by the Chief Financial Officer

Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

I, Peter R. Matt, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Constellium N.V. (the “Company”);

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 Company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The Company’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 Company 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 Company, 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 Company’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 Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting;

5. The Company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Company’s auditors and the audit committee of the Company’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 Company’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 Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: March 21, 2017

 

By:  

/s/ Peter R. Matt

  Name:   Peter R. Matt
  Title:   Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit 13.1

Certification by the Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of Constellium N.V. (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Jean-Marc Germain, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

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

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

Date: March 21, 2017

 

By:  

/s/ Jean-Marc Germain

  Name:   Jean-Marc Germain
  Title:   Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 13.2

Certification by the Chief Financial Officer

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of Constellium N.V. (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Peter R. Matt, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

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

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

Date: March 21, 2017

 

By:  

/s/ Peter R. Matt

  Name:   Peter R. Matt
  Title:   Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit 15.1

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No.

333-191905 and 333-201141) and on Form F-3 (333-211378) of our report dated March 9, 2017 relating to the financial statements and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which appear in this Form 20-F.

 

Neuilly-sur-Seine, France

March 21, 2017

PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit

 

 

 

/s/ Cédric Le Gal

Cédric Le Gal

Partner

 

Exhibit 21.1

LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES OF CONSTELLIUM N.V.

 

Name

  

Jurisdiction of Incorporation

Alabama Electric Motor Services, LLC

   Delaware

Alcan International Network (Thailand) Co. Ltd.

   Thailand

Alcan International Network México S.A. de C.V.

   Mexico

Alcan International Network Portugal – Importações e Exportações, Lda. – Em Liquidação

   Portugal

Astrex Inc.

   Canada

Constellium Automotive México, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

   Mexico

Constellium Automotive México Trading, S. DE R.L. DE C.V.

  

Mexico

Constellium Automotive USA, LLC

   Delaware

Constellium China

   China

Constellium Deutschland GmbH

   Germany

Constellium Engley (Changchun) Automotive Structures Co Ltd.

   China

Constellium Extrusions Burg GmbH

   Germany

Constellium Extrusions Decin s.r.o.

   Czech Republic

Constellium Extrusions Deutschland GmbH

   Germany

Constellium Extrusions France

   France

Constellium Extrusions Landau GmbH

   Germany

Constellium Extrusions Levice S.r.o.

   Slovak Republic

Constellium Finance

   France

Constellium France Holdco

   France

Constellium France III

   France

Constellium Germany Holdco GmbH & Co. KG

   Germany

Constelium Germany Verwaltungs GmbH

   Germany

Constellium Holdco II B.V.

   Netherlands

Constellium Holdco III B.V.

   Netherlands

Constellium Issoire

   France

Constellium Italy S.p.A.

   Italy

Constellium Japan KK

   Japan

Constellium Metal Procurement LLC

   Delaware

Constellium Montreuil Juigné

   France

Constellium Neuf Brisach

   France

Constellium Paris

   France

Constellium Property and Equipment Company, LLC

   Delaware

Constellium Rolled Products Ravenswood, LLC

   Delaware


Constellium Rolled Products Singen GmbH & Co. KG    Germany
Constellium Singen GmbH    Germany
Constellium Southeast Asia PTE. LTD.    Singapore
Constellium Switzerland AG    Switzerland
Constellium-UACJ ABS LLC (formerly known as Quiver Ventures LLC)    Delaware
Constellium Treuhand UG (haftunsgbeschränkt)    Germany
Constellium UK Limited    United Kingdom
Constellium US Holdings I, LLC    Delaware
Constellium US Holdings II, LLC    Delaware
Constellium Ussel    France
Constellium Valais SA    Switzerland
Constellium W    France
C-TEC Constellium Technology Center    France
Engineered Products International SAS    France
Listerhill Total Maintenance Center LLC    Delaware
Wise Alloys Finance Corporation    Delaware
Wise Alloys LLC    Delaware
Wise Alloys Funding LLC    Delaware
Wise Alloys Funding II LLC    Delaware
Wise Holdings Finance Corporation    Delaware
Wise Metals Group LLC    Delaware
Wise Metals Intermediate Holdings LLC    Delaware

 

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