ANNUAL REPORT,
PROXY STATEMENT & NOTICE
OF ANNUAL MEETING
2015
Coherent, Inc.
5100 Patrick Henry Drive
Santa Clara, CA 95054
www.coherent.com
Printed in the U.S.A.
Copyright © 2016 Coherent, Inc.
14JAN201416185898
Notice of Annual Meeting
of Stockholders
February 26, 2016
8:00 a.m.
The Silicon Valley Capital Club
50 West San Fernando
San Jose, CA 95113
MATTERS TO BE VOTED ON:
1.
2.
3.
4.
To elect the seven directors named in the proxy statement;
To ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’s independent registered public
accounting firm for the fiscal year ending October 1, 2016;
Advisory vote to approve executive officer compensation; and
To transact such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting and any adjournment(s)
thereof.
The foregoing items of business are more fully described in the Proxy Statement accompanying this Notice.
Stockholders of record at the close of business on January 19, 2016 are entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting and at any adjournments
or postponements thereof.
All stockholders are cordially invited to attend the meeting. However, to ensure your representation at the meeting, you are urged to mark, sign,
date and return the enclosed proxy card as promptly as possible in the postage-prepaid envelope enclosed for that purpose or follow the
instructions on the enclosed proxy card to vote by telephone or via the Internet. Any stockholder of record attending the meeting may vote in
person even if he or she has returned a proxy. Please note, however, that if your shares are held of record by a broker, bank or other nominee and
you wish to vote at the meeting, you must obtain a proxy issued in your name from that record holder.
Santa Clara, California
January 27, 2016
Sincerely,
13JAN201423125288
John R. Ambroseo
President and Chief Executive Officer
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Stockholder Meeting to Be Held
on February 26, 2016
The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders are available at www.proxyvote.com.
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT
In order to assure your representation at the meeting, you are requested to complete, sign and date the enclosed proxy card as promptly as possible
and return it in the enclosed envelope or follow the instructions on the enclosed proxy card to vote by telephone or via the Internet. Any
stockholder attending the Annual Meeting may vote in person even if he or she returned a proxy card.
Table of Contents
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MEETING
PROPOSAL ONE
Election of Directors
PROPOSAL TWO
Ratification of the Appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP
as Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
PROPOSAL THREE
Advisory Vote to Approve Executive Officer Compensation
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
SUMMARY COMPENSATION AND EQUITY TABLES
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PERSON TRANSACTIONS
REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OTHER MATTERS
3
6
14
15
16
17
18
29
35
35
36
37
PROXY STATEMENT
General Information About the Meeting
General
The enclosed Proxy is solicited on behalf of the Board of Directors
(the ‘‘Board’’) of Coherent, Inc. for use at the Annual Meeting of
Stockholders (the ‘‘Annual Meeting’’ or ‘‘meeting’’) to be held at
8:00 a.m., local time, on February 26, 2016 at The Silicon Valley
Capital Club, 50 West San Fernando, San Jose, CA 95113, and at any
Who May Vote at the Meeting?
adjournment(s) thereof, for the purposes set forth herein and in the
accompanying Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Our
telephone number is (408) 764-4000. These proxy solicitation
materials were first mailed on or about January 27, 2016 to all
stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
You are entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting if our records show that you held your shares as of the close of business of our record date,
January 19, 2016 (the ‘‘Record Date’’). On the Record Date, 24,193,167 shares of our common stock, $0.01 par value, were issued and
outstanding.
What Does Each Share of Common Stock I Own Represent?
On all matters, each share has one vote, unless, with respect to Proposal 1 regarding the election of directors, cumulative voting is in effect. See
‘‘Election of Directors—Vote Required’’ for a description of cumulative voting rights with respect to the election of directors.
How Does a Stockholder Vote?
Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, we urge you
to vote by proxy to ensure your vote is counted. If you are entitled to
vote, you may do so as follows:
• Through your broker: If your shares are held through a broker,
bank or other nominee (commonly referred to as held in ‘‘street
name’’), you will receive instructions from them that you must
follow to have your shares voted. If you want to vote in person, you
will need to obtain a legal proxy from your broker, bank or other
nominee and bring it to the meeting.
• In person: Attend the Annual Meeting and, if you request, we will
give you a ballot at the time of voting. If you have previously
submitted a proxy card, you must notify us at the Annual Meeting
that you intend to cancel your prior proxy and vote by ballot at the
meeting.
• Returning a Proxy Card: Simply complete, sign and date the
enclosed proxy card and return it promptly in the envelope
Matters to be Presented at the Meeting
We are not aware of any matters to be presented at the meeting other
than those described in this proxy statement. If any other matter is
properly presented at the Annual Meeting, your proxy holders (one of
the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares in
their discretion. The cost of this solicitation will be borne by us. We
may reimburse brokerage firms and other persons representing
provided. If your signed proxy card is received before the Annual
Meeting, the designated proxies will vote your shares as you direct.
• Using the Telephone: Dial toll-free 1-800-690-6903 using a
touch-tone phone and follow the recorded instructions. You will be
asked to provide the control number from the enclosed proxy card.
• Through the Internet: Go to www.proxyvote.com to complete an
electronic proxy card. You will be asked to provide the control
number from the enclosed proxy card.
For telephone or Internet use, your vote must be received by
11:59 P.M. Eastern Time on February 25, 2016 to be counted.
If you return a signed and dated proxy card without marking any
voting directions, your shares will be voted ‘‘for’’ the election of all
seven nominees for director and ‘‘for’’ all other proposals.
beneficial owners of shares for their expenses in forwarding
solicitation material to such beneficial owners. In addition, proxies
may be solicited by certain of our directors, officers and regular
employees, without additional compensation, personally or by
telephone or facsimile.
3
GENERAL INFORMATION
Revoking Your Proxy
If you hold your shares in street name, you must follow the
instructions of your broker, bank or other nominee to revoke your
voting instructions. If you are a holder of record and wish to revoke
your proxy instructions, you must (i) advise the Corporate Secretary
Attendance at the Annual Meeting
All stockholders of record as of the Record Date may attend the
Annual Meeting. Please note that cameras, recording devices and
similar electronic devices will not be permitted at the Annual
Meeting. No items will be allowed into the Annual Meeting that
might pose a concern for the safety of those attending. Additionally, to
attend the meeting you will need to bring identification and proof
Quorum; Abstentions; Broker Non-Votes
Our bylaws provide that stockholders holding a majority of the shares
of common stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote on the
Record Date constitute a quorum at meetings of stockholders. Votes
will be counted by the inspector of election appointed for the Annual
Meeting, who will separately count ‘‘For’’ and ‘‘Against’’ votes,
abstentions and broker non-votes.
A ‘‘broker non-vote’’ occurs when a nominee holding shares for a
beneficial owner does not vote because the nominee does not have
discretionary voting power with respect to the proposal and has not
Deadline for Receipt of Stockholder Proposals
In order to submit stockholder proposals for inclusion in the
Company’s proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (‘‘SEC Rule 14a-8’’) for the annual
meeting to be held in 2017, written materials must be received by the
Corporate Secretary at the Company’s principal office in Santa Clara,
California no later than September 29, 2016. Stockholder proposals
must otherwise comply with the requirements of SEC Rule 14a-8.
Proposals must be addressed to: Bret DiMarco, Corporate Secretary,
Coherent, Inc., 5100 Patrick Henry Dr., Santa Clara, California
95054. Simply submitting a proposal does not guarantee its inclusion.
Section 2.15 of the Company’s bylaws also establishes an advance
notice procedure with regards to director nominations and
stockholder proposals that are not submitted for inclusion in the
proxy statement, but that a stockholder instead wishes to present
directly from the floor at any Annual Meeting. To be properly brought
before the Annual Meeting to be held in 2017, a notice of the
nomination or the matter the stockholder wishes to present at the
meeting must be delivered to the Corporate Secretary (see above), no
later than the close of business on the 45th day (December 13, 2016),
nor earlier than the close of business on the 75th day (November 13,
2016), prior to the one year anniversary of the date these proxy
materials were first mailed by us unless the annual meeting of
stockholders is held prior to January 27, 2017 or after April 27, 2017,
in which case, the proposal must be received by us not earlier than the
120th day prior to the annual meeting and not later than the later of
4
in writing at our principal executive offices at 5100 Patrick Henry Dr.,
Santa Clara, California 95054 before the proxies vote your shares at
the meeting, (ii) timely deliver later-dated proxy instructions or
(iii) attend the meeting and vote your shares in person.
sufficient to us that you were a stockholder of record as of the Record
Date or that you are a duly authorized representative of a stockholder
of record as of the Record Date. For directions to attend the Annual
Meeting or other questions, please contact Investor Relations by
telephone at (408) 764-4110 no later than noon (California time) on
February 25, 2016.
received instructions with respect to the proposal from the beneficial
owner. Abstentions will not be taken into account in determining the
outcome of the election of directors and will have no effect on the
outcome of Proposals Two and Three. We intend to separately report
abstentions and our Compensation and H.R. Committee will
generally view abstentions as neutral when considering the results of
Proposal Three. Broker non-votes represented by submitted proxies
will not be taken into account in determining the outcome of any
proposal.
the 90th day prior to the annual meeting and the tenth day following
public announcement of the date the annual meeting will be held and
must otherwise be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations
in order to be considered for inclusion in the proxy statement and
form of proxy relating to that meeting. We have not received any
notice regarding any such matters to be brought at the meeting on
February 26, 2016.
If a stockholder who has notified us of his or her intention to present a
proposal at an Annual Meeting does not appear to present his or her
proposal at such meeting, we need not present the proposal for vote at
such meeting. The Chair of the Annual Meeting has the final
discretion whether or not to allow any matter to be considered at the
meeting which did not timely comply with all applicable notice
requirements.
If a stockholder wishes only to recommend a candidate for
consideration by the Governance and Nominating Committee as a
potential nominee for the Company’s Board, see the procedures
discussed in ‘‘Proposal One—Election of Directors—Board Meetings
and Committees—Process
to Recommend
Candidates for Election to the Board of Directors.’’
for Stockholders
The attached proxy card grants to the proxyholders discretionary
authority to vote on any matter raised at the Annual Meeting,
including proposals which are timely raised at the meeting, but did
not meet the deadline for inclusion in this proxy statement.
Eliminating Duplicative Proxy Materials
To reduce the expense of delivering duplicate voting materials to our
stockholders who may hold shares of Coherent common stock in
more than one stock account, we are delivering only one set of the
proxy solicitation materials to certain stockholders who share an
address, unless otherwise requested. A separate proxy card is included
in the voting materials for each of these stockholders.
We will promptly deliver, upon written or oral request, a separate copy
of the annual report or this proxy statement to a stockholder at a
shared address to which a single copy of the documents was delivered.
To obtain an additional copy, you may write us at 5100 Patrick Henry
Drive, Santa Clara, California 95054, Attn: Investor Relations, or
contact our Investor Relations department by telephone at
(408) 764-4110.
Electronic Delivery of Proxy Materials
In an effort to reduce paper mailed to your home and help lower
printing and postage costs, we are offering stockholders the
convenience of viewing online proxy statements, annual reports and
related materials. With your consent, we can stop sending future
Incorporation by Reference
To the extent that this proxy statement has been or will be specifically
incorporated by reference into any other filing of Coherent with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (‘‘SEC’’), the sections of this
proxy statement entitled ‘‘Report of the Audit Committee of the
GENERAL INFORMATION
Similarly, if you share an address with another stockholder and have
received multiple copies of our proxy materials, you may contact us at
the address or telephone number specified above to request that only a
single copy of these materials be delivered to your address in the
future. Stockholders sharing a single address may revoke their consent
to receive a single copy of our proxy materials in the future at any time
by contacting our distribution agent, Broadridge, either by calling
toll-free at 1-800-542-1061, or by writing
to Broadridge,
Householding Department, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY
11717. It is our understanding that Broadridge will remove such
stockholder from the Householding program within 30 days of
receipt of such written notice, after which each such stockholder will
receive an individual copy of our proxy materials.
paper copies of these documents. To participate during the voting
season, registered stockholders may follow the instructions when
voting online.
Board of Directors’’ (to the extent permitted by the rules of the SEC)
and ‘‘Compensation Discussion and Analysis’’ shall not be deemed to
be so incorporated (other than in our annual report on Form 10-K),
unless specifically provided otherwise in such filing.
FURTHER INFORMATION
We will provide without charge to each stockholder solicited by these proxy solicitation materials a copy of our annual report on Form 10-K for
the fiscal year ended October 3, 2015 without exhibits and any amendments thereto upon request of such stockholder made in writing to
Coherent, Inc., 5100 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara, California 95054, Attn: Investor Relations. We will also furnish any exhibit to the annual
report on Form 10-K if specifically requested in writing. You can also access our SEC filings, including our annual reports on Form 10-K, and all
amendments thereto on the SEC website at www.sec.gov.
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS FOR THE STOCKHOLDER
MEETING TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 26, 2016
The proxy statement and annual report to stockholders are available at www.proxyvote.com.
Stockholder List
A list of stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be available for examination by stockholders of record at the Annual Meeting.
5
PROPOSAL ONE
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Nominees
Seven (7) members of our Board of Directors are to be elected at the
Annual Meeting. Unless otherwise instructed, the proxy holders will
vote the proxies received by them for the nominees named below.
Each nominee has consented to be named a nominee in the proxy
statement and to continue to serve as a director, if elected. If any
nominee becomes unable or declines to serve as a director, if
additional persons are nominated at the meeting or if stockholders are
entitled to cumulate votes, the proxy holders intend to vote all proxies
received by them in such a manner (in accordance with cumulative
voting) as will ensure the election of as many of the nominees listed
below as possible, and the specific nominees to be voted for will be
determined by the proxy holders.
We are not aware of any reason that any nominee will be unable or will
decline to serve as a director. The term of office of each person elected
as a director will continue until the next Annual Meeting of
Stockholders or until a successor has been elected and qualified or
until his or her earlier resignation or removal. There are no
arrangements or understandings between any director or executive
officer and any other person pursuant to which he or she is or was to
be selected as a director or officer.
The names of the nominees, all of whom are currently directors
standing for re-election, and certain information about them as of
December 31, 2015 are set forth below. All of the nominees have been
unanimously recommended for nomination by the Board acting on
the unanimous recommendation of the Governance and Nominating
Committee of the Board. The committee consists solely of
independent members of the Board. There are no family relationships
among directors or executive officers of Coherent.
Name
John R. Ambroseo
Jay T. Flatley(3)
Susan M. James(1)(2)
L. William Krause(2)(3)
Garry W. Rogerson(1)(2)
Steve Skaggs(1)
Sandeep Vij(3)
Age Director Since
Principal Occupation
54
63
69
73
63
53
50
2002
2011
2008
2009
2004
2013
2004
President and Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer of Illumina, Inc.
Retired Audit Partner, Ernst & Young
President of LWK Ventures
Former Chief Executive Officer of Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Atmel Corporation
Former President and Chief Executive Officer of MIPS Technologies, Inc.
(1) Member of the Audit Committee.
(2) Member of the Governance and Nominating Committee.
(3) Member of the Compensation and H.R. Committee.
Except as set forth below, each of our directors has been engaged in his
or her principal occupation set forth above during the past five years.
John R. Ambroseo. Mr. Ambroseo has served as our President and Chief
Executive Officer as well as a member of the Board of Directors since
October 2002. Mr. Ambroseo served as our Chief Operating Officer
from June 2001 through September 2002. Mr. Ambroseo served as
our Executive Vice President and as President and General Manager of
the Coherent Photonics Group from September 2000 to June 2001.
From September 1997 to September 2000, Mr. Ambroseo served as
our Executive Vice President and as President and General Manager of
the Coherent Laser Group. From March 1997 to September 1997,
Mr. Ambroseo served as our Scientific Business Unit Manager. From
August 1988, when Mr. Ambroseo joined us, until March 1997, he
served as a Sales Engineer, Product Marketing Manager, National
Sales Manager and Director of European Operations. Mr. Ambroseo
received a Bachelor degree from SUNY-College at Purchase and a
PhD in Chemistry from the University of Pennsylvania.
Mr. Ambroseo’s status as our Chief Executive Officer, his over 25 year
tenure with Coherent, his extensive knowledge of our products,
technologies and end markets and his over a decade of service as a director
of Coherent make him an invaluable member of our Board of Directors.
Jay T. Flatley. Since 1999, Mr. Flatley has served as Chief Executive
Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Illumina, Inc., a
leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of life science tools and
integrated systems for the analysis of genetic variation and function.
From 1999 to December 2013, Mr. Flatley also served as Illumina’s
President. Prior to joining Illumina, Mr. Flatley was President, Chief
Executive Officer, and a member of the Board of Directors of
Molecular Dynamics, Inc., a Nasdaq-listed life sciences company
focused on genetic discovery and analysis, from 1994 until its sale to
Amersham Pharmacia Biotech Inc. in 1998. Additionally, he was a
co-founder of Molecular Dynamics and served in various other
positions there from 1987 to 1994. From 1985 to 1987, he was Vice
President of Engineering and Vice President of Strategic Planning at
Plexus Computers, a UNIX computer company. Mr. Flatley holds a
B.A. in Economics from Claremont McKenna College and a B.S. and
a M.S. in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University.
Mr. Flatley’s years of executive and management experience in the high
technology industry, including serving as the chief executive officer of
several public companies, his service on the boards of other publicly held
companies, and his years of service as a director of Coherent make him an
invaluable member of our Board of Directors.
Susan M. James. Ms. James originally joined Ernst & Young, a global
accounting services firm in 1975, serving as a partner from 1987 until
her retirement in June 2006, and as a consultant from June 2006 to
December 2009. During her tenure with Ernst & Young, she was the
lead partner or partner-in-charge for the audit work for a significant
number of technology companies, including Intel Corporation, Sun
Microsystems, Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., Autodesk, Inc. and the
Hewlett-Packard Company, as well as for the Ernst & Young North
America Global Account Network. She also served on the Ernst &
Young Americas Executive Board of Directors from January 2002
through June 2006. She is a certified public accountant (inactive) and
6
PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Steve Skaggs. Since May 2013, Mr. Skaggs has served as Senior Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer of Atmel Corporation, a leading
supplier of microcontrollers. Mr. Skaggs joined Atmel in September
2010 and served as Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy and
Development until his appointment as Chief Financial Officer.
Mr. Skaggs has more than 25 years of experience in the semiconductor
industry, including serving as President, Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer of Lattice Semiconductor, a supplier of
programmable logic devices and related software. From 2008 to
September 2010, Mr. Skaggs was employed as an independent
management consultant, providing strategic advisory and consulting
services to clients. From 2005 to 2008, Mr. Skaggs served as Chief
supplier of
Executive Officer of Lattice Semiconductor, a
programmable logic devices and related software, and also served as
President of Lattice from 2003 to 2005 and as Chief Financial Officer
of Lattice from 1996 to 2003. He was also previously a member of the
Board of Directors of Lattice. Prior to Lattice, Mr. Skaggs was
employed by Bain & Company, a global management consulting
firm, where he specialized in high technology product strategy,
mergers and acquisitions and corporate restructurings. Mr. Skaggs
holds an MBA degree from the Harvard Business School and a B.S.
degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of California,
Berkeley.
Mr. Skaggs’ years of executive and management experience in the high
technology industry, including serving as the chief executive officer and
chief financial officer of other public companies, his prior service on the
board of another publicly held company and his years of service as a
director of Coherent make him an invaluable member of our Board of
Directors.
Sandeep Vij. Since February 2013, Mr. Vij has been a private investor.
Previously, he held the position of President and Chief Executive
Officer of MIPS Technologies, Inc., a leading provider of processor
architectures and cores, from January 2010 until its sale in February
2013. In addition, Mr. Vij had been the Vice President and General
Manager of the Broadband and Consumer Division of Cavium
Networks, Inc., a provider of highly integrated semiconductor
products from May 2008 to January 2010. Prior to that, he held the
position of Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, Services and
Support for Xilinx Inc., a digital programmable logic device provider,
from 2007 to April 2008. From 2001 to 2006, he held the position of
Vice President of Worldwide Marketing at Xilinx. From 1997 to
2001, he served as Vice President and General Manager of the General
Products Division at Xilinx. Mr. Vij joined Xilinx in 1996 as Director
of FPGA Marketing. He is a graduate of General Electric’s Edison
Engineering Program and Advanced Courses in Engineering. He
holds an MSEE from Stanford University and a BSEE from San Jose
State University.
Mr. Vij’s years of executive and management experience in the high
technology industry, including serving as the chief executive officer of
another public company, his service on the board of another publicly held
company, and his years of service as a director of Coherent make him an
invaluable member of our Board of Directors.
a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Ms. James also serves on the boards of directors of Applied
Materials, Inc., a global leader in materials engineering solutions for
the semiconductor, flat panel display and solar photovoltaic
industries, Yahoo! Inc., an Internet technology company, and
Tri-Valley Animal Rescue, a non-profit corporation dedicated to
providing homes for homeless pets. Ms. James holds Bachelor’s
degrees in Mathematics from Hunter College and Accounting from
San Jose State University.
Ms. James’ years in the public accounting industry, her service on the
boards and committees of a number of other publicly held companies and
her years of service as a director of Coherent make her an invaluable
member of our Board of Directors.
L. William (Bill) Krause. Since 1991, Mr. Krause has served as
President of LWK Ventures, a private advisory and investment firm. In
addition, Mr. Krause served as President and Chief Executive Officer
of 3Com Corporation, a global data networking company, from 1981
to 1990 and as its Chairman from 1987 to 1993 when he retired.
Mr. Krause currently serves as a director of Brocade Communications
Systems, Inc., a networking solutions and services company and
CommScope Holding Company, Inc., a networking infrastructure
company. Mr. Krause previously served as a director for the following
public
Inc.,
companies: Core-Mark Holding Company,
Packeteer, Inc., Sybase, Inc. and TriZetto Group, Inc. Mr. Krause
holds a B.S. degree in electrical engineering and received an honorary
Doctorate of Science from The Citadel.
Mr. Krause’s years of executive and management experience in the high
technology industry, including serving as the chief executive officer of
several companies, his service on the boards and committees of a number of
other publicly held companies, and his years of service as a director of
Coherent make him an invaluable member of our Board of Directors.
Garry W. Rogerson. Mr. Rogerson has served as Coherent’s Chairman
of the Board since June 2007. Since September 2014, Mr. Rogerson
has been a private investor. From August 2011 to September 2014,
Mr. Rogerson was Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board
of Directors of Advanced Energy Industries, Inc., a provider of power
and control technologies for thinfilm manufacturing and solar-power
generation, after which he agreed to serve as a special advisor for a
period of time. He was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
Varian, Inc., a major supplier of scientific
instruments and
consumable laboratory supplies, vacuum products and services, from
February 2009 and 2004, respectively, until the purchase of Varian by
Agilent Technologies, Inc. in May 2010. Mr. Rogerson served as
Varian’s Chief Operating Officer from 2002 to 2004, as Senior Vice
President, Scientific Instruments from 2001 to 2002, and as Vice
President, Analytical Instruments from 1999 to 2001. Mr. Rogerson
received an honours degree and Ph.D. in biochemistry as well as an
honorary doctoral science degree from the University of Kent at
Canterbury.
Mr. Rogerson’s years of executive and management experience in the high
technology industry, including serving as the chief executive officer of
several public companies, his service on the boards of other publicly held
companies, and his years of service as a director of Coherent make him an
invaluable member of our Board of Directors.
7
PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Director Independence
The Board has determined that, with the exception of Mr. Ambroseo, all of its current members and all of the nominees for director are
‘‘independent directors’’ as that term is defined in the listing rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market.
Board Meetings and Committees
The Board held a total of five (5) formal meetings and acted twice by
unanimous written consent during fiscal 2015. Additionally, from
time to time between formal meetings, members of the Board
participate in update or status telephone calls and briefings, which are
not included in these totals. During fiscal 2015, the Board had three
standing committees: the Audit Committee; the Compensation and
H.R. Committee; and the Governance and Nominating Committee.
From time to time, the Board may create limited ad hoc committees,
service on which does not provide additional compensation. In the
past, the Board has also established special committees, service on
which did provide compensation. No director serving during fiscal
2015 attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate of all meetings of the
Board and the committees of the Board upon which such director
served. All of the members of each standing committee are
‘‘independent’’ as defined under the applicable rules established by the
Nasdaq Stock Market.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee consists of directors James (Chair), Rogerson,
and Skaggs. The Audit Committee held thirteen (13) meetings during
fiscal 2015. The Board has determined that directors James, Rogerson
and Skaggs are ‘‘audit committee financial experts’’ as that term is
defined in the rules of the SEC. Among other things, the Audit
Committee has the sole authority for appointing and supervising our
independent registered public accounting firm and is primarily
responsible for approving the services performed by our independent
registered public accounting firm and for reviewing and evaluating
our accounting principles and our system of internal accounting
controls.
Compensation and H.R. Committee
The Compensation and H.R. Committee of the Board consists of
directors Krause, Flatley and Vij (Chair). As noted above, all of the
members of
the Compensation and H.R. Committee are
‘‘independent’’ as defined under the listing rules of the Nasdaq Stock
Market. The Compensation and H.R. Committee held nine
(9) meetings during fiscal 2015 and acted once by unanimous written
consent. The Compensation and H.R. Committee, among other
things, reviews and approves our executive compensation policies and
programs, and makes equity grants to our employees, including
officers, pursuant to our equity plan. This committee has the sole
authority delegated to it by the Board to make employee equity grants,
which are done at a meeting rather than by written consent. For
the committee’s processes and
additional
procedures for the consideration and determination of executive
compensation, see ‘‘Compensation Discussion and Analysis’’.
information about
Governance and Nominating Committee
The Governance and Nominating Committee consists of directors
James, Krause and Rogerson (Chair). The Governance and
Nominating Committee held five (5) meetings during fiscal 2015.
The Governance and Nominating Committee, among other things,
assists the Board by making recommendations to the Board on
matters concerning director nominations and elections, board
committees and corporate governance, allocation of risk oversight
amongst the Board and its committees and compensation for
directors. For fiscal 2015, the committee retained an independent
compensation consultant to advise it on compensation for service on
the Board.
Copies of the charters for each of our committees may be found on
our website at www.coherent.com under ‘‘Investor Relations.’’
Attendance at Annual Meeting of Stockholders by the Members of the Board of Directors
All directors are encouraged, but not required, to attend our annual meeting of stockholders. At our annual meeting held on March 4, 2015, all
members of the Board attended in person.
Process for Stockholders to Recommend Candidates for Election to the Board of Directors
The Governance and Nominating Committee will consider nominees
properly recommended by stockholders. A stockholder that desires to
recommend a candidate for election to the Board must direct the
recommendation in writing to us at our principal executive offices
(Attention: Corporate Secretary) and must include the candidate’s
name, age, home and business contact information, principal
occupation or employment, the number of shares beneficially owned
by the nominee and the stockholder making the recommendation,
whether any hedging transactions have been entered into by the
nominee or on his or her behalf, information regarding any
arrangements or understandings between the nominee and the
stockholder nominating the nominee or any other persons relating to
the nomination, a written statement by the nominee acknowledging
that the nominee will owe a fiduciary duty to Coherent if elected, a
written statement of the nominee that such nominee, if elected,
intends to tender, promptly following such nominee’s election or
re-election, an irrevocable resignation effective upon such nominee’s
failure to receive the required vote for re-election at the next meeting
8
at which such nominee would face re-election and upon acceptance of
such resignation by the Board in accordance with Coherent’s
guidelines or policies, and any other information required to be
disclosed about the nominee if proxies were to be solicited to elect the
nominee as a director.
For a stockholder recommendation to be considered by the
Governance and Nominating Committee as a potential candidate at a
meeting of stockholders, nominations must be received on or before
the deadline for receipt of stockholder proposals for such meeting. In
the event a stockholder decides to nominate a candidate for director
and solicits proxies for such candidate, the stockholder will need to
follow the rules set forth by the SEC and in our bylaws. See ‘‘General
Information About the Meeting-Deadline for Receipt of Stockholder
Proposals.’’
The Governance and Nominating Committee’s criteria and process
for evaluating and identifying the candidates that it approves as
director nominees are as follows:
•
•
•
•
the Governance and Nominating Committee regularly reviews the
current composition and size of the Board;
the Governance and Nominating Committee reviews
the
qualifications of any candidates who have been properly
recommended by a stockholder, as well as those candidates who
have been identified by management, individual members of the
Board or,
if the Governance and Nominating Committee
determines, a search firm. Such review may, in the Governance and
Nominating Committee’s discretion, include a review solely of
information provided to the Governance and Nominating
Committee or may also include discussions with persons familiar
with the candidate, an interview with the candidate or other actions
that the committee deems proper;
the Governance and Nominating Committee evaluates the
performance of the Board as a whole and evaluates the
qualifications of individual members of the Board eligible for
re-election at the annual meeting of stockholders;
the Governance and Nominating Committee considers the
suitability of each candidate, including the current members of the
Board, in light of the current size and composition of the Board.
Except as may be required by rules promulgated by the Nasdaq
Stock Market or the SEC, it is the current belief of the Governance
and Nominating Committee that there are no specific, minimum
qualifications that must be met by any candidate for the Board, nor
are there specific qualities or skills that are necessary for one or more
of the members of the Board to possess. In evaluating the
PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
qualifications of the candidates, the Governance and Nominating
Committee considers many factors, including, issues of character,
judgment, independence, age, expertise, diversity of experience,
length of service, other commitments and the like. While Coherent
does not have a formal policy with regard to the consideration of
diversity in identifying director nominees, as noted above, diversity
of experience is one of many factors that the committee considers;
•
•
•
the Governance and Nominating Committee evaluates such factors,
among others, and does not assign any particular weighting or
priority to any of these factors. The Governance and Nominating
Committee considers each individual candidate in the context of
the current perceived needs of the Board as a whole. While the
Governance and Nominating Committee has not established
specific minimum qualifications for director candidates, the
committee believes that candidates and nominees must reflect a
Board that is comprised of directors who (i) are predominantly
independent, (ii) are of high integrity, (iii) have qualifications that
will increase the overall effectiveness of the Board, and (iv) meet
other requirements as may be required by applicable rules, such as
financial literacy or financial expertise with respect to audit
committee members;
in evaluating and identifying candidates, the Governance and
Nominating Committee has the authority to retain and terminate
any third party search firm that is used to identify director
candidates and has the authority to approve the fees and retention
terms of any search firm; and
after such review and consideration, the Governance and
Nominating Committee recommends the slate of director
nominees to the full Board for its approval.
The Governance and Nominating Committee will endeavor to notify,
or cause to be notified, all director candidates, including those
recommended by a stockholder, of its decision as to whether to
nominate such individual for election to the Board.
Our corporate governance guidelines require that upon a member of
the Board turning 72 years old, he or she shall submit a conditional
resignation to the Governance and Nominating Committee effective
upon the next annual meeting of stockholders. The committee then
determines whether to recommend that the Board accept of such
resignation. Mr. Krause has so notified the committee, which
determined that it was not in the best interest of the Company’s
stockholders to accept such resignation and has included Mr. Krause
in the slate for this year’s election of directors.
Majority Voting and Conditional Resignations from the Board of Directors
Upon the recommendation of the Governance and Nominating
Committee the Board of Directors amended our bylaws, effective
December 1, 2013, to change the voting standard for the election of
directors that are not Contested Elections (as defined below) from a
plurality to a majority of the votes cast. A majority of the votes cast
means the number of votes cast ‘‘for’’ a director’s election exceeds the
number of votes cast against that director’s election (with
‘‘abstentions’’ and ‘‘broker non-votes’’ not counted as a vote cast either
‘‘for’’ or ‘‘against’’ that director’s election). However, if the number of
nominees exceeds the number of directors to be elected (a ‘‘Contested
Election’’), the directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes cast.
not Contested Elections, the Board also adopted a director election
policy to (i) establish procedures under which any incumbent director
who fails to receive a majority of the votes cast in an election that is
not a Contested Election shall tender his or her resignation to the
Governance and Nominating Committee for consideration; and
(ii) provide that the Governance and Nominating Committee will
make recommendations to the Board regarding the actions to be taken
with respect to all such offers to resign. The Board shall act on the
resignation within 90 days following certification of the election
results. In the event that the Board does not accept such resignation,
then such director shall continue to serve until such time as his or her
successor is elected.
In connection with the amendment to the Bylaws establishing a
majority vote standard for the election of directors in elections that are
9
PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Stockholder Communication with the Board of Directors
While the Board believes that management speaks for Coherent, the
stockholders.
Board encourages direct communication
Accordingly, any stockholder may contact any member of our Board
of Directors individually or as a group by writing by mail to our
principal executive offices (c/o Corporate Secretary) at 5100 Patrick
Henry Dr., Santa Clara, CA 95054.
from
Any stockholder may report to us any complaints or comments
regarding accounting, internal accounting controls, or auditing
matters. Any stockholder who wishes to so contact us should send
such complaints or comments to the Audit Committee c/o Corporate
Secretary, at our principal executive offices.
Any stockholder communications that the Board receives will first go
to our Corporate Secretary, who will log the date of receipt of the
Independent Chair and Board Leadership
Our Board leadership structure consists of an independent Chairman,
who is elected by the independent directors, and independent
committee chairs. We separate the positions of Chief Executive
Officer and Chairman in recognition of the differences between the
two roles. The Board believes this structure provides independent
Board leadership and engagement.
The Role of the Board and its Committees in Risk Oversight
The Board oversees Coherent’s risk profile and management’s
processes for assessing and managing risk, both as a Board and
through its committees, with our Governance and Nominating
Committee delegated the responsibility for assigning oversight
responsibilities to each committee and the Board as a whole. Our
senior executive team provides regular updates to the Board and each
committee regarding our strategies and objectives and the risks
inherent with them.
•
•
Each regular meeting of the Board includes a discussion of risks
related to the Company’s financial results and operations and each
committee schedules risk-related presentations regularly throughout
the year. In addition our directors have access to our management to
discuss any matters of interest, including those related to risk. Those
members of management most knowledgeable of the issues attend
Board and committee meetings to provide additional insight on the
matters being discussed, including risk exposures. Our Chief
Financial Officer and General Counsel both report directly to our
Chief Executive Officer, providing him with further visibility to our
risk profile. A Vice President, Finance is the designated officer
overseeing our enterprise risk management program and works closely
with both our Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel on these
matters.
These regular meetings also provide our Board members the
opportunity to discuss issues of concern directly with management. In
10
communication as well as the identity and contact information of the
correspondent in our stockholder communications log.
Our Corporate Secretary will review, summarize and, if appropriate,
investigate the complaint under the direction of the appropriate
committee of the Board in a timely manner. In the case of accounting
or auditing related matters, a member of the Audit Committee, or the
Audit Committee as a whole, will then review the summary of the
communication, the results of the investigation, if any, and, if
appropriate, the draft response. The summary and response will be in
the form of a memo, which will become part of the stockholder
communications log that the Corporate Secretary maintains with
respect to all stockholder communications.
Given that our Chairman is an independent director, the Board does
not feel the need for a separate ‘‘lead independent director,’’ as our
independent Chairman performs that function. The Board takes its
independence seriously and reinforces this standard with six of its
seven members being independent.
general the Board and its committees oversee the following risk
categories:
the Board generally oversees the Company’s overall enterprise risk
management process and specifically with regards to the areas of
strategy, mergers and acquisitions, communications and operations;
the Audit Committee generally oversees risks primarily related to
financial controls, IT, accounting, tax, treasury, capital, legal,
regulatory and compliance;
•
•
the Compensation and H.R. Committee generally oversees our
compensation programs so that they do not incentivize excessive
risk taking as well as overseeing human resources related risks; and
the Governance and Nominating Committee oversees the
assignment of risk oversight categories by each particular committee
and/or the Board as a whole as well as those risks related to
compensation of members of the Board, succession planning for the
Board and Chief Executive Officer.
In the winter of calendar 2015, management presented an assessment
of the risks associated with the Company’s compensation plans. The
Compensation and H.R. Committee agreed with the conclusion that
the risks were within our ability to effectively monitor and manage
and that these risks are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse
effect on the Company.
PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
•
•
•
•
Audit Committee members—No more than three (3) other
public company audit committees in addition to the Company;
Each independent member of the Board must within five years of
initial appointment acquire and thereafter maintain a minimum
value of Company stock equal to three times such director’s annual
Board cash retainer (exclusive of any cash retainer for service as
Chair or committee service);
The Board is responsible for reviewing the Company’s succession
planning and senior management development on an annual basis;
The Board maintains an age-based term limit of 72 (provided, that
the Governance and Nominating Committee maintains the
flexibility to not apply such limit on a facts and circumstances
basis).
Additional Governance Matters
The Board of Directors (acting on the recommendation of the
Governance and Nominating Committee) has approved the
Company’s Corporate Governance Guidelines, which include, among
other items (in addition to those items described elsewhere in this
proxy):
•
•
At each regular meeting of the Board the independent directors also
meet in executive session without the presence of management;
To avoid ‘‘over-boarding’’ we maintain the following limits on
service on other boards:
•
CEO—No more than one (1) other public company board of
directors in addition to the Company (note, however, that
Mr. Ambroseo does not serve on any public company boards
other than ours);
•
Independent Directors—No more than four (4) other public
company board of directors in addition to the Company;
Fiscal 2015 Director Compensation
During fiscal 2015, we paid our non-employee directors an annual retainer (depending upon position) and for service on the Board as follows:
Position
Board Member
Board Chair
Audit Committee Chair
Compensation and H.R. Committee Chair
Governance & Nominating Committee Chair
Audit Committee member (non-Chair)
Compensation and H.R. Committee member (non-Chair)
Governance and Nominating Committee member (non-Chair)
Annual Retainer
40,000
40,000
34,000
16,000
10,750
12,500
8,500
6,500
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
The Governance and Nominating Committee annually reviews Board
and committee compensation with the assistance of an independent
compensation consultant, which for fiscal 2015 was Compensia.
Compensia is separately compensated for this work from the work it
does as the Compensation and H.R. Committee’s independent
consultant for executive compensation. As noted elsewhere in this
proxy statement, Compensia has not provided any other service for
the Company other than as directed by a committee of the Board.
The chart below summarizes the gross cash amounts earned by non-employee directors for service during fiscal 2015 on the Board and its
committees:
Name
Jay T. Flatley
Susan M. James
L. William Krause
Garry W. Rogerson
Steve Skaggs
Sandeep Vij
Annual Board
Service
Audit
Committee
Compensation
and H.R.
Committee
Nominating
and Governance
Committee
$
$
$
$
$
$
40,000
40,000
40,000
80,000
40,000
40,000
$
$
$
— $
8,500
34,000
— $
12,500
12,500
$
— $
8,500
— $
$
— $
—
16,000
6,500
6,500
10,750
— $
$
$
$
— $
— $
Total
48,500
80,500
55,000
103,250
52,500
56,000
11
PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
The chart below presents information concerning the total compensation of our non-employee directors for services (including both Board and,
where applicable, committee service) provided during the fiscal year ended October 3, 2015:
Name
Jay T. Flatley
Susan M. James
L. William Krause
Garry W. Rogerson
Steve Skaggs
Sandeep Vij
Fees Paid in
Cash ($)
Stock Awards Option Awards
($)(3)
($)(1)(2)
Total ($)
48,500
80,500
55,000
103,250
52,500
56,000
229,250
229,250
229,250
229,250
229,250
229,250
— 277,750
— 309,750
— 284,250
— 332,500
— 281,750
— 285,250
(1) These amounts do not reflect compensation actually received. Rather, these amounts represent the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with ASC 718,
for restricted stock units (‘‘RSUs’’) which were granted in fiscal 2015. The assumptions used to calculate the value of these stock units are set forth in Note 12. ‘‘Employee
Stock Award, Option and Benefit Plans’’ of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2015.
(2) The directors’ aggregate outstanding RSU grants as of the end of fiscal 2015 were as follows:
Name
Jay T. Flatley
Susan M. James
L. William Krause
Garry W. Rogerson
Steve Skaggs
Sandeep Vij
Shares(a)
3,500(b)
3,500(b)
3,500(b)
3,500(b)
5,250(c)
3,500(b)
(a) The shares underlying the RSUs will vest to the extent an individual is a member of the Board of Directors on the applicable vesting date.
(b) 3,500 shares vest on February 15, 2016.
(c)
1,750 shares vest on December 12, 2015 (from Mr. Skaggs’ grant received when he first joined the Board) and 3,500 shares vest on February 15, 2016.
(3) No stock option awards were granted to members of the Board during fiscal 2015. The directors’ aggregate holdings of stock option awards (both vested and unvested) as
of October 3, 2015 were as follows:
Name
Jay T. Flatley
Susan M. James
L. William Krause
Garry W. Rogerson
Steve Skaggs
Sandeep Vij
The following table shows equity grants received by non-employee directors in fiscal 2015:
Name
Jay T. Flatley
Susan M. James
L. William Krause
Garry W. Rogerson
Steven Skaggs
Sandeep Vij
Shares
24,000
—
30,000
—
—
—
Restricted Stock Units
Granted in Fiscal 2015
(# shares)
3,500
3,500
3,500
3,500
3,500
3,500
Our stockholders approved the adoption of our 2011 Equity
Incentive Plan at our annual meeting held in March 2011 (the ‘‘2011
Plan’’).
Following the recommendation of the Governance and Nominating
Committee (based upon the review by Compensia), the Board has
adopted resolutions automatically granting under the 2011 Plan each
non-employee member of the Board of Directors 3,500 RSUs upon
such member’s reelection to the Board, with vesting on February 15 of
the following year. Effective in December 2011, the Board determined
that upon the initial appointment of a non-employee member to the
Board, such new director will receive a grant of 3,500 RSUs, which
vest over two years (fifty percent on each anniversary of grant).
For option grants held by a director who retires after at least eight
years of service on the Board which are outstanding under the 1998
Director Plan, such grants will fully vest and the director will have the
right to exercise his or her option as to both vested and unvested shares
12
PROPOSAL ONE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
as of such date. The option will remain exercisable for the lesser of
(i) two (2) years following the date of such director’s retirement or
(ii) the expiration of the option’s original term. No unvested options
remain outstanding. This provision was not adopted for option grants
under the 2011 Plan.
With the adoption of our 2011 Plan, the 1998 Director Plan has been
terminated other than for outstanding historical grants made
thereunder. As of October 3, 2015, 548,000 shares have been issued
upon the exercise of options and the vesting of RSUs under the 1998
Director Plan.
Option Exercises and Stock Vested at 2015 Fiscal Year-End
The table below sets forth certain information for each non-employee director regarding the exercise of options and the vesting of stock awards
during the year ended October 3, 2015, including the aggregate value realized upon such exercise or vesting.
Name
Jay T. Flatley
Susan M. James
L. William Krause
Garry W. Rogerson
Steve Skaggs
Sandeep Vij
Option Awards
Stock Awards
Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise
(#)
Value Realized
on Exercise
($)
Number of Shares
Acquired on
Vesting
(#)
Value Realized
on Vesting
($)(1)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
3,500
3,500
3,500
3,500
5,250
3,500
227,325
227,325
227,325
227,325
329,333
227,325
(1) Reflects the market price of our Common Stock on the vesting date.
Vote Required
Every stockholder voting for the election of directors may cumulate
such stockholder’s votes and give one candidate a number of votes
equal to the number of directors to be elected multiplied by the
number of votes to which the stockholder’s shares are entitled.
Alternatively, a stockholder may distribute his or her votes on the
same principle among as many candidates as the stockholder thinks
fit, provided that votes cannot be cast for more than seven
(7) candidates. However, no stockholder will be entitled to cumulate
votes for a candidate unless (i) such candidate’s name has been
properly placed in nomination for election at the Annual Meeting
prior to the voting and (ii) the stockholder, or any other stockholder,
has given notice at the meeting prior to the voting of the intention to
cumulate the stockholder’s votes. If cumulative voting occurs at the
meeting and you do not specify how to distribute your votes, your
proxy holders (the individuals named on your proxy card) will
cumulate votes in such a manner as will ensure the election of as many
of the nominees listed above as possible, and the specific nominees to
be voted for will be determined by the proxy holders.
If a quorum is present, each of the seven (7) nominees who receives
more ‘‘FOR’’ votes than ‘‘AGAINST’’ votes will be elected.
The Board recommends that Stockholders vote
‘‘FOR’’ the seven nominees presented herein.
13
PROPOSAL TWO
RATIFICATION OF
THE APPOINTMENT OF
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
AS INDEPENDENT
REGISTERED PUBLIC
ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Audit Committee of the Board has selected Deloitte &
Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, to
audit our financial statements for the fiscal year ending October 1,
2016, and recommends that stockholders vote for ratification of such
appointment. Deloitte & Touche LLP has audited our financial
statements since the fiscal year ended September 25, 1976. Although
ratification by stockholders is not required by law, the Audit
Committee has determined that it is desirable to request ratification of
this selection by the stockholders as a matter of good corporate
practice. Notwithstanding its selection, the Audit Committee, in its
discretion, may appoint a new independent registered public
accounting firm at any time during the year if the Audit Committee
Principal Accounting Fees and Services
believes that such a change would be in the best interest of Coherent
and its stockholders. If the stockholders do not ratify the appointment
of Deloitte & Touche LLP, the Audit Committee may reconsider its
selection. The Audit Committee selected Deloitte & Touche LLP to
audit our financial statements for the fiscal year ended October 3,
2015, which was ratified by our stockholders.
Representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP are expected to be present
at the meeting and will be afforded the opportunity to make a
statement if they desire to do so. The representatives of Deloitte &
Touche LLP are also expected to be available to respond to appropriate
questions.
The following table sets forth fees for services provided by Deloitte & Touche LLP, the member firms of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, and their
respective affiliates (collectively, ‘‘Deloitte’’) during fiscal 2015 and 2014:
Audit fees(1)
Tax fees(2)
All other fees(3)
Total
2015
2,030,577
176,323
2,600
$
2014
1,918,649
166,382
2,600
2,209,500
$
2,087,631
$
$
(1) Represents fees for professional services provided in connection with the integrated audit of our annual financial statements and internal control over financial reporting
and review of our quarterly financial statements, advice on accounting matters that arose during the audit and audit services provided in connection with other statutory
or regulatory filings.
(2) Represents tax compliance and related services.
(3) Represents the annual subscription for access to the Deloitte Accounting Research Tool, which is a searchable on-line accounting database.
Pre-Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services
The Audit Committee has determined that the provision of non-audit
services by Deloitte is compatible with maintaining Deloitte’s
independence. In accordance with its charter, the Audit Committee
approves in advance all audit and non-audit services to be provided by
Deloitte. In other cases, the Chairman of the Audit Committee has
Vote Required
The affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast will be required to
ratify the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent
registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending October 1,
2016.
the delegated authority from the Committee to pre-approve certain
additional services, and such pre-approvals are communicated to the
full Committee at its next meeting. During fiscal years 2015 and
2014, 100% of the services were pre-approved by the Audit
Committee in accordance with this policy.
The Audit Committee and the Board recommends that
Stockholders vote
‘‘FOR’’ the ratification of the
appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our
independent registered public accounting firm for the
fiscal year ending October 1, 2016.
14
PROPOSAL THREE
ADVISORY VOTE
TO APPROVE EXECUTIVE
OFFICER COMPENSATION
At our Annual Meeting in March 2011, our stockholders indicated
that they would like to have an annual advisory vote on executive
compensation. Accordingly, our Board of Directors proposes that
stockholders provide advisory (non-binding) approval of the
compensation of our named executive officers, as disclosed pursuant
to the compensation disclosure rules of the SEC, including the
Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the Fiscal 2015 Summary
Compensation Table and related tables and disclosure.
As described in our Compensation Discussion and Analysis, we have
adopted an executive compensation philosophy designed to provide
alignment between executive pay and performance and to focus
executives on making decisions that enhance our stockholder value in
both the short and long term. Executives are compensated in a
manner consistent with Coherent’s strategy, competitive practices,
stockholder
interest alignment, and evolving compensation
governance standards.
Vote Required
Under our bylaws the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of
the votes cast is required to approve the compensation of our named
executive officers disclosed in this proxy statement. The vote is an
advisory vote, and therefore not binding. Our Board of Directors
values the opinions of our stockholders and to the extent there is any
Recommendation
significant vote against the named executive officer compensation as
disclosed in this proxy statement, we will consider our stockholders’
concerns and the Compensation and H.R. Committee will evaluate
whether any actions are necessary to address those concerns.
The Board of Directors unanimously recommends that Stockholders vote ‘‘FOR’’ the approval of our
Executive Officer Compensation disclosed in this proxy statement.
15
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN
BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth, as of December 31, 2015, certain
information with respect to the beneficial ownership of common
stock by (i) any person (including any ‘‘group’’ as that term is used in
Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act known by us to be the beneficial
owner of more than 5% of our voting securities, (ii) each director and
each nominee for director, (iii) each of the executive officers named in
the Summary Compensation Table appearing herein, and (iv) all
Name and Address
BlackRock Fund Advisors(2)
400 Howard St.
San Francisco, CA 94105
NWQ Investment Management Company(2)
2049 Century Park East
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Vanguard Group Inc.(2)
P.O. Box 2600
Valley Forge, PA 19482
Eagle Asset Management, Inc.(2)
880 Carillon Parkway
St. Petersburg, FL 33716
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP(2)
6300 Bee Cave Rd.
Austin, TX 78746
John R. Ambroseo
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
Jay T. Flatley(3)
Susan M. James(4)
L. William Krause(5)
Garry W. Rogerson(6)
Steve Skaggs(7)
Sandeep Vij(8)
All directors and executive officers as a group (12 persons)(9)
executive officers and directors as a group, based on information
available to the Company as of filing this proxy statement. We do not
know of any arrangements, including any pledge by any person of our
securities, the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a
change of control. Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each
stockholder in the table below is c/o Coherent, Inc., 5100 Patrick
Henry Drive, Santa Clara, California 95054.
Number
of Shares
Percent of
Total(1)
2,024,556
8.37%
1,953,909
8.08%
1,800,795
7.44%
1,362,014
5.63%
1,351,112
5.59%
181,984
25,404
18,246
37,471
14,297
40,000
9,000
51,500
26,500
10,500
18,400
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
444,548
1.83%
*
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Represents less than 1%.
Based upon 24,189,610 shares of Coherent common stock outstanding as of December 31, 2015. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the
SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to the securities. In computing the number of shares beneficially owned by a person and the
percentage ownership of that person, each share of Coherent common stock subject to options held by that person that are currently exercisable or will be exercisable
within 60 days of December 31, 2015 and all RSUs which will vest within 60 days of December 31, 2015, are deemed outstanding. In addition, such shares, are not
deemed outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.
Based on the institutional holding report provided by NASDAQ, which reflects the most recent Schedule 13D, 13F or 13G (or amendments thereto) filed by such person
with the SEC, or a Schedule 13D, 13F or 13G filing made after our receipt of this report.
Includes 24,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options held by Mr. Flatley which were exercisable and 3,500 shares issuable upon vesting of RSUs within 60 days of
December 31, 2015.
Includes 3,500 shares issuable upon vesting of RSUs within 60 days of December 31, 2015 held by Ms. James.
Includes 30,000 shares issuable upon exercise of options held by Mr. Krause which were exercisable and 3,500 shares issuable upon vesting of RSUs within 60 days of
December 31, 2015.
Includes 3,500 shares issuable upon vesting of RSUs within 60 days of December 31, 2015 held by Mr. Rogerson.
Includes 3,500 shares issuable upon vesting of RSUs within 60 days of December 31, 2015 held by Mr. Skaggs.
Includes 3,500 shares issuable upon vesting of RSUs within 60 days of December 31, 2015 held by Mr. Vij.
Includes an aggregate of 54,000 options and 21,000 shares issuable upon vesting of RSU’s which were exercisable or would become exercisable or vested, as the case may
be, within 60 days of December 31, 2015.
16
OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ‘‘Exchange
Act’’) requires our officers and directors, and persons who own more
than ten percent of a registered class of our equity securities to file
reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the SEC. Such
officers, directors and ten-percent stockholders are also required by
SEC rules to furnish us with copies of all forms that they file pursuant
to Section 16(a). Based solely on our review of the copies of such
forms received by us, and on written representations from certain
reporting persons that no other reports were required for such
persons, we believe that, during fiscal 2015, our officers, directors
and, to our knowledge, greater than ten percent stockholders
complied with all applicable Section 16(a) filing requirements
OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The name, age, position and a brief account of the business experience of our Chief Executive Officer and each of our other executive officers as of
December 31, 2015 are set forth below:
Name
John R. Ambroseo(1)
Helene Simonet(1)
Mark Sobey(1)
Paul Sechrist(1)
Luis Spinelli
Bret DiMarco(1)
Age
54
63
55
56
68
47
Office Held
President and Chief Executive Officer
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Executive Vice President and General Manager, Specialty Laser Systems
Executive Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Service
Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
(1) Designated as a ‘‘Named Executive Officer’’ for purposes of our Compensation Discussion and Analysis
Please see heading ‘‘Nominees’’ under Proposal One above for
Mr. Ambroseo’s biographical information.
Helene Simonet. Ms. Simonet has served as our Executive Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer since April 2002. Ms. Simonet
served as Vice President of Finance of our former Medical Group and
Vice President of Finance, Photonics Division from December 1999
to April 2002. Prior to joining Coherent, she spent over twenty years
in senior finance positions at Raychem Corporation’s Division and
Corporate organizations, including Vice President of Finance of
Raynet Corporation. Since October 2014, Ms. Simonet has served as
a member of the Board of Directors of Rogers Corporation, a
NYSE-listed provider of engineered materials. Ms. Simonet has both
Master’s and Bachelor degrees from the University of Leuven,
Belgium. As previously disclosed, Ms. Simonet has notified the
Company that she intends to retire from her current positions with
the Company effective February 1, 2016.
Mark Sobey. Mr. Sobey was appointed Executive Vice President of
Coherent and General Manager of Specialty Laser Systems (SLS) in
April 2010. He has served as Senior Vice President and General
Manager for the SLS Business Group, which primarily serves the
Microelectronics and Research markets, since joining Coherent in July
2007. Prior to Coherent, Mr. Sobey spent over 20 years in the Laser
and Fiber Optics Telecommunications industries, including roles as
Senior Vice President Product Management at Cymer from January
2006 through June 2007 and previously as Senior Vice President
Global Sales at JDS Uniphase through October 2005. He received his
PhD in Engineering and BSc in Physics, both from the University of
Strathclyde in Scotland.
Paul Sechrist. Mr. Paul Sechrist was appointed Executive Vice
President, Worldwide Sales and Service in March 2011. He has over
35 years of experience with Coherent, including roles as Senior Vice
President and General Manager of Commercial Lasers and
Components from October 2008 to March 2011, Vice President and
General Manager of Specialty Laser Systems, Santa Clara from March
2008 to October 2008 and Vice President for Components from April
2005 to October 2008. Mr. Sechrist received an AA degree from San
Jose City College, with Physics studies at California State University,
Hayward.
Luis Spinelli. Mr. Spinelli has served as our Executive Vice President
and Chief Technology Officer since February 2004. Mr. Spinelli
joined the Company in May 1985 and has since held various
engineering and managerial positions, including Vice President,
Advanced Research from April 2000 to September 2002 and Vice
President, Corporate Research from September 2002 to February
2004. Mr. Spinelli has led the Advanced Research Unit from its
inception in 1998, whose charter is to identify and evaluate new and
emerging technologies of interest for us across a range of disciplines in
the laser field. Mr. Spinelli holds a degree in Electrical Engineering
from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina with post-graduate
work at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Bret M. DiMarco. Mr. DiMarco has served as our Executive Vice
President and General Counsel since June 2006 and our Corporate
Secretary since February 2007. From February 2003 until May 2006,
Mr. DiMarco was a member and from October 1995 until January
2003 was an associate at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C., a
law firm. Mr. DiMarco received a Bachelor’s degree from the
University of California at Irvine and a Juris Doctorate degree from
the Law Center at the University of Southern California.
Mr. DiMarco is also a member of the Nasdaq Listing and Hearing
Review Council.
17
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Introduction
In this section, we describe the material components of our executive
compensation program for our ‘‘Named Executive Officers’’ or
‘‘NEOs’’: Ms. Simonet and Messrs. Ambroseo, Sobey, Sechrist and
DiMarco.
We also provide an overview of our executive compensation
philosophy, principal compensation policies and practices by which
the Compensation and H.R. Committee, or the committee, arrives at
its decisions regarding NEO compensation.
Stockholder Feedback
The committee carefully considers feedback from our stockholders
regarding our executive compensation program, including the results
of our annual advisory vote on executive compensation, which our
stockholders have historically strongly supported. All stockholders are
invited to express their views to the committee as described in this
proxy under the heading ‘‘Stockholder Communication with the
Board of Directors.’’ The committee welcomes direct stockholder
feedback and considers such feedback as well as the results of our
historical ‘‘say on pay’’ results in its deliberations on executive
compensation. We strongly urge our stockholders to read this
Compensation Discussion and Analysis in conjunction with the
advisory vote under Proposal Three.
Executive Summary
Our Business
Founded in 1966, Coherent, Inc. is one of the leading providers of
lasers and laser-based technology for scientific, commercial and
industrial customers. Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq
Global Select Market and is part of the Russell 2000 and Standard &
Poor’s SmallCap 600 Index. For more information about our business,
please read ‘‘Business’’ and ‘‘Management’s Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations’’ sections in our
Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with SEC on December 1, 2015.
Selected Business Highlights
While we experienced slight growth in revenues, we did not meet our
own internal revenue growth targets in fiscal 2015. Offsetting our
revenue results, however, we were able to significantly grow our pro
forma EBITDA% and earnings per share. Accordingly, the Company
did not fully meet the performance-related goals for our executive
compensation programs, including both metrics in our annual cash
program as well as our long-term performance measurement under
our performance-based RSU design. As a result, you will see in the
coming pages that in fiscal 2015 our performance-related executive
compensation had below target payouts.
Set forth below are tables reflecting several performance metrics from
the last three fiscal years.
Our revenue decreased 2% from fiscal 2013 to fiscal 2014 and
increased 1% from fiscal 2014 to fiscal 2015 (dollars in millions):
Our pro forma EBITDA% decreased 3% from fiscal 2013 to fiscal
2014 and increased 12% from fiscal 2014 to fiscal 2015:
9JAN201617534427
*
Our non-GAAP earnings per share decreased 10% from fiscal 2013 to
fiscal 2014 and increased 22% from fiscal 2014 to fiscal 2015:
9JAN201617534304
*
9JAN201617534055
For a reconciliation table of earnings per share on a GAAP basis to
non-GAAP basis and net income % to pro forma EBITDA % as a
percentage of revenue, please refer to the ‘‘Reconciliation Table’’ at the end
of this section.
18
•
•
•
Compensation Overview
Compensation Philosophy. We tie executive total compensation to
stockholder value with two measures: our operational results and the
comparative performance of our stock price. This approach provides
strong alignment between executive pay and performance and focuses
executives on making decisions that enhance our stockholder value in
both the short and long-term. We design our executive compensation
program to achieve the following goals:
•
for performance, with both short and
Pay
long-term
measurements—A significant portion of the annual compensation
of our executives is designed to vary with annual business
performance and the long-term relative performance of Coherent’s
stock price in comparison to the Russell 2000 Index (by way of a
single three year vesting period). The committee and management
set demanding performance targets, so that even though the
Company’s financial performance has been solid, payouts and
vesting achievements have not been as robust. As seen over the last
several fiscal years, this direct connection has been demonstrated by
the reduced payouts under our annual cash bonus plan as well as the
below target vesting for our performance share grants. The
following chart shows the payout percentages for each of the last
three fiscal years under our annual variable compensation program:
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
stockholder
compensation with
interests—Our
Align
stockholders benefit from continued strong operating performance
by the Company and we believe that having a significant portion of
compensation tied to equity with both time and performance-based
vesting requirements directly aligns management to stockholder
returns. The performance-based RSUs make up the largest potential
portion of the equity grants for our CEO. Grants of performance-
based RSUs in fiscal 2015 have the same measurement as in fiscal
2014: a single vesting date three years from grant solely dependent
upon the performance of Coherent’s common stock price measured
against the Russell 2000 Index, with target at meeting the index’s
performance. For each 1% that Coherent’s common stock exceeds
the performance of the Russell 2000 Index for the trailing 90
trading days from the vesting measurement date against the
comparable period from the date of grant, the grant recipient will
get a 2% increase in the number of shares above target (up to a
maximum cap of 200% of target), and for each 1% below the
Russell 2000 Index’s performance, a 4% decrease in the number of
shares (down to zero). As a result, compensation decreases faster for
failing to achieve the target than it increases for exceeding it. If
Coherent’s stock underperforms the Russell 2000 performance by
more than 25%, then there is no payout, but in order to hit the
maximum possible payout, Coherent’s stock has to outperform the
index by at least 50% (the downside is faster achieved than the
upside). Accordingly, for our executives to achieve the committee’s
targeted compensation, Coherent’s common stock must at least
meet the Russell 2000 Index. The chart below shows this structure:
9JAN201617533651
Tie compensation to performance of the core business—Our
fiscal 2015 annual cash bonus plan was dependent upon Coherent’s
achievement against two criteria: adjusted EBITDA dollars and
revenue. The committee determined that these were the most
effective metrics for tying management’s compensation directly to
Coherent’s core operating result for fiscal 2015.
Retain and hire talented executives—Our executives should have
market competitive compensation and the committee orients our
target total compensation generally near the 50th percentile of the
committee’s selected peer group (as noted below), with actual
compensation falling above or below depending upon Coherent’s
financial performance. Additionally,
compensation
components may be above or below such percentile target and varies
by individual executive.
certain
9JAN201617534180
Elements of Executive Compensation. During fiscal 2015, the
compensation of our NEOs primarily consisted of (A) base salary,
(B) participation in our annual variable compensation plan (referred
to herein as our ‘‘cash bonus plan’’ or ‘‘VCP’’), and (C) long-term
equity incentive awards divided between time-based RSUs and
performance-based RSUs. For fiscal 2015, on average, approximately
77% of our NEO’s target compensation and approximately 84% of
our CEO’s target compensation was delivered through our cash bonus
plan and long-term equity incentives (both time and performance
vesting).
19
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
As a demonstration of how executive cash compensation is tied to
company performance, the cash compensation for our CEO during
fiscal 2015 at target, maximum and actual can be illustrated as
follows (dollars in thousands):
18JAN201617160649
You will note that our CEO’s performance-based cash compensation
was below target since the Company did not fully meet the
performance criteria under our cash bonus plan.
‘‘Pay for performance’’ has been and
Compensation Governance.
remains at the core of Coherent’s executive compensation coupled
with appropriately managing risk and aligning our compensation
programs with long-term stockholder interests. We accomplish this
primarily by having a majority of our NEOs’ potential compensation
being ‘‘at risk’’ through a combination of (i) a fiscal year variable cash
bonus program tied to achievement of financial metrics and (ii) equity
grant vesting tied to achievement of a performance metric. The
committee monitors and considers evolving governance approaches
and standards in executive compensation, as well as communications
it receives directly from stockholders.
As more fully discussed below, recent examples of how this philosophy
is applied and changes made pursuant to compensation practices as
well as governance practices in effect during fiscal 2015, include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
In fiscal 2015, the payouts of our annual cash bonus plan to our
NEOs were approximately 85% as compared to a target of 100%;
We have a recoupment or ‘‘claw-back’’ policy for our Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as described below;
We have minimum share ownership requirements for our Chief
Executive Officer and members of the Board of Directors;
Our performance-based RSU program is measured by the
Company’s stock price achievement against the Russell 2000 over a
three year period, which the committee believes is a direct
connection to long-term total stockholder return;
The committee is composed entirely of directors who satisfy the
standards of independence in Coherent’s Corporate Governance
Guidelines and Nasdaq listing standards;
Executive incentive compensation programs include limits on
maximum payouts to contain the risk of excessive payouts;
•
•
•
•
We have eliminated historical perquisites as an element of executive
compensation;
Our change-of-control plan provides for payment only in ‘‘double-
trigger’’ circumstances-namely a change-of-control coupled with a
termination of employment;
None of our executive officers are entitled to any ‘‘gross-up’’ to
offset the impact of IRS Code Section 280G in connection with a
change-of-control; and
None of our executive officers have other than
employment.
‘‘at will’’
Our stockholders have historically strongly supported our executive
compensation philosophy and design as seen in the significant
majorities approving our ‘‘say on pay’’ proposal (does not include broker
non-votes; rounded):
9JAN201617534555
Role of Management
The committee regularly meets with Mr. Ambroseo, our Chief
Executive Officer, to obtain recommendations with respect to the
compensation programs, practices and packages for our Named
Executive Officers other
than Mr. Ambroseo. Additionally,
Ms. Simonet, our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer, Mr. DiMarco, our Executive Vice President and General
Counsel, and members of our human resources department are
regularly invited to meetings of the committee or otherwise asked to
assist the committee.
The assistance of these individuals include providing financial
information and analysis for the committee and its compensation
consultant, taking minutes of the meeting or providing legal advice,
developing compensation proposals for consideration, and providing
insights regarding our employees (executive and otherwise) and the
business context for the committee’s decisions. Named Executive
Officers attend portions of committee meetings when invited by the
committee, but leave the meetings when matters potentially affecting
them are discussed.
The committee makes decisions
compensation without him present.
regarding Mr. Ambroseo’s
20
Role of the Committee’s Compensation
Consultant
The committee utilizes the services of an independent compensation
consultant and in fiscal 2015, engaged Compensia as its independent
compensation consultant. Compensia assisted the committee by:
•
•
Reviewing and analyzing our executive compensation program,
including providing NEO tally sheets to the Committee at each of
its regular meetings;
Providing market data and ranges for fiscal 2015 compensation;
and
•
Providing further insight on compensation governance trends.
Additionally, in fiscal 2015, Compensia was retained by the
Governance and Nominating Committee to review, analyze and make
recommendations regarding compensation for service on the Board of
Directors and its committees.
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
The independent compensation consultant serves at the discretion of
the committee and is not permitted to do other work for Coherent
unless expressly authorized by the committee. Since retention,
Compensia has not performed any work for Coherent other than its
work with the committee, the Board of Directors or other committees
of the Board of Directors. The committee is focused on maintaining
the independence of its compensation consultant and, accordingly,
does not anticipate having its consultant perform any other work for
the Company in addition to its direct work for the committee or the
Board. The committee has assessed the independence of Compensia
and concluded that no conflict of interest exists.
The Company also participates in and maintains a subscription to the
Radford Global Technology Survey. This survey provides benchmark
data and compensation practices reports of a broad cross-section of
technology companies similar in size to Coherent to assist us with
regards to employee compensation generally.
Pay Positioning Strategy and Benchmarking of Compensation
Philosophically the committee initially orients the midpoint of our
target total compensation for our NEOs generally near the
50th percentile of our peers (as measured by our designated peer
group and, when applicable, data from the Radford Global
Technology Survey), resulting in targeted total compensation that is
competitive for performance that meets the objectives established by
the committee. A Named Executive Officer’s actual salary, cash
incentive compensation opportunity and equity compensation grant
value may fall below or above the target position based on the
individual’s experience, seniority, skills, knowledge, performance and
contributions as well as the historical pay structure for each executive.
These factors are weighed individually by the committee in its
judgment, and no single factor takes precedence over others nor is any
formula used in making these decisions. In light of the fact that the
committee has designed the significant majority of the Chief
Executive Officer’s compensation to be at risk, including 2/3rds of his
long-term equity compensation, for fiscal 2015 the committee asked
Compensia to provide information at the 50th and 75th percentile for
our Chief Executive Officer. Given the significant ties to performance,
the committee oriented his compensation target closer to the
75th percentile.
than the targeted amounts for each individual based primarily on the
Company’s performance. For example, the performance RSUs
granted in 2012 only vested as to 60% of target, which resulted in
value received that is significantly lower than the ‘‘accounting value’’
reflected for equity compensation for each NEO reflected in the
summary compensation table for that year.
In analyzing our executive compensation program relative to this
target market positioning, the committee reviews information
provided by its independent compensation consultant, which includes
an analysis of data from peer companies’ proxy filings with respect to
similarly situated individuals at the peer companies (when available)
and the Radford Global Technology Survey (as a supplement when
peer group company data is unavailable). It is important to note that
these are the peers selected by the committee. The committee uses
criteria as described below in determining the appropriate group.
There are proxy advisory services which use their own criteria to select
peers for the Company and, accordingly, stockholders should be aware
that these advisory services do not, in fact, follow the same
methodology of the committee and there may be wide variances
between the different peer groups used by these services. Any
comparison of company performance or market data for executive
compensation using a completely different peer group will, therefore,
naturally result in a different analysis. We encourage our stockholders
to consider the peer group used in any comparisons and direct any
questions to the committee regarding such comparisons or any other
matters when considering how to vote on Proposal Three.
The Chief Executive Officer’s review of the performance of the other
Named Executive Officers is considered by the committee in making
individual pay decisions. With respect to the Chief Executive Officer,
the committee additionally considered the performance of Coherent
as a whole and the views of the Board of Directors regarding the Chief
Executive Officer’s performance. Actual realized pay is higher or lower
21
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
For pay decisions made for fiscal 2015, after consulting with our independent compensation consultant, the committee determined that the
following companies comprise the peer group for fiscal 2015:
Emulex (ELX)
Entegris (ENTG)
FEI Company (FEIC)
Finisar Corp. (FNSR)
FLIR Systems, Inc. (FLIR)
Harmonic (HLIT)
Infinera (INFN)
JDS Uniphase (JDSU)
The committee made the following change to the group of peer
companies from fiscal 2014 primarily as a result of filtering such
companies through the selection criteria noted below:
Added: MTS Systems Corp.
Several factors are considered in selecting the peer group, the most
important of which are:
Primary Criteria
•
•
Industry (primarily companies in the Electronic Equipment and
Semiconductor sub-industry classifications defined by the Global
Industry Classification Standard (GICS) system); and
Revenue level (primarily companies with annual revenues between
0.5x-2.0x that of Coherent).
MKS Instruments (MKSI)
MTS Systems Corp. (MTSC)
National Instruments (NATI)
Newport Corporation (NEWP)
OSI Systems (OSIS)
Plantronics (PLT)
PMC-Sierra, Inc. (PMCS)
Polycom (PLCM)
Secondary Criteria
•
•
•
Sustained (‘‘multi-year’’) revenue growth;
Market capitalization between 0.5 and 2.0x of Coherent;
Market capitalization as a multiple of revenues of greater than 1.5x;
and
•
A disclosed peer of a peer company.
The committee reviews the composition of the peer group annually to
ensure it is the most relevant set of companies to use for comparison
purposes.
Components of Our Executive Compensation Program
The principal components of our executive officer compensation and
employment arrangements during fiscal 2015 included:
continued overwhelming vote totals in favor of our executive
compensation through our annual ‘‘say-on-pay’’ proposal.
•
•
•
•
Base salary;
Cash bonus plan;
Equity awards; and
Other benefits.
These components were selected because the committee believes that
a combination of salary, incentive pay and benefits is necessary to help
us attract and retain the executive talent on which Coherent’s success
depends. The following table shows the components of total direct
compensation at target for our named executive officers as a group for
fiscal 2015. In maintaining the design for fiscal 2015, the committee
recognized the significant support received from the Company’s
stockholders for the compensation program design, as reflected in the
Base Salary
Base salary is the foundation to providing an appropriate total direct
compensation package. We use base salary to fairly and competitively
compensate our executives for the jobs we ask them to perform. This
is the most stable component of our executive compensation program,
as this amount is not at risk. The committee reviewed market data
22
9JAN201617533917
information provided by Compensia with respect to similarly situated
individuals to assist it in determining the base salary for each Named
Executive Officer, depending upon the particular executive’s
experience,
and
contribution. At management’s recommendation our named
skills, knowledge, performance
seniority,
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
executive officers have had few salary increases in recent years: one
individual in fiscal 2013 and one individual in fiscal 2014. After
reviewing this base salary trend and in reviewing peer compensation
data, the Committee determined to increase salaries in fiscal 2015 for
Ms. Simonet and Messrs. DiMarco, Sechrist, and Sobey.
Variable Cash Incentive Compensation
A substantial portion of each individual’s potential short-term
compensation is in the form of variable incentive pay tied to
committee-established goals. In fiscal 2015, Coherent maintained one
incentive cash program under which executive officers were eligible to
receive cash bonuses, the 2015 Variable Compensation Plan (‘‘2015
VCP’’).
2015 VCP
The 2015 VCP was designed as an ‘‘at risk’’ bonus compensation
program to promote a focus on Coherent’s growth and profitability. It
provided incentive compensation opportunity in line with targeted
market rates to our Named Executive Officers. Under the 2015 VCP,
participants were eligible to receive bi-annual bonuses (with
measurement periods for the first half and the second half of the 2015
fiscal year). In setting the performance goals at the beginning of the
fiscal year, the committee assessed the anticipated difficulty and
importance to the success of Coherent of achieving the performance
goals.
The actual awards (if any) payable for each semi-annual period varied
depending on the extent to which actual performance met, exceeded
or fell short of the goals approved by the committee. The 2015 VCP
goals were tied to Coherent achieving varying levels of revenue and
adjusted EBITDA dollars (‘‘adjusted EBITDA $’’), with revenue
weighted at 25% and adjusted EBITDA weighted at 75%. Each
performance metric is measured and paid out independently, but the
revenue payout is capped at 100% achievement until adjusted
EBITDA reaches a minimum dollar target. Adjusted EBITDA is
defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization
and certain other non-operating income and expense items and other
items, such as the impact of stock option expensing under the
Accounting Standards Codification 718, ‘‘Compensation—Stock
Compensation’’ and certain acquisition related expenses. The
Committee also reviews the financial impact of mergers and
acquisitions to determine if any adjustments in VCP are required.
Each measurement period had the same range of between zero and
200%, with target at 100% of the executive’s participation rate.
Fiscal 2015 Variable Compensation Plan Scale for Named Executive Officers
Revenue achievement for the first half of fiscal 2015 was
$404.3 million, with a corresponding cash bonus payout of
approximately 45.3% of target. Adjusted EBITDA$ achievement for
the first half of fiscal 2015 was $80.8 million, with a corresponding
cash bonus payout of approximately 125.0% of target. The weighted,
combined cash bonus payout was approximately 105.1% of target.
$405.0 (threshold)
$434.4 (target)
$465.0
Revenue $(in millions)
$396.1 (actual)
Second Half Fiscal 2015 VCP Scale
First Half Fiscal 2015 VCP Scale
Revenue $(in millions)
$395.0 (threshold)
$404.3 (actual)
$415.6 (target)
$435.0
Adjusted EBITDA $(in millions)
$67.0 (threshold)
$78.0 (target)
$80.8 (actual)
$89.0
Payout
0%
45.3% (actual)
100%
200%
Payout
0%
100%
125.0% (actual)
200%
Revenue achievement for the second half of fiscal 2015 was
$396.1 million, with a corresponding cash bonus payout of 0%.
Adjusted EBITDA$ achievement for the second half of fiscal 2015
was $86.2 million, with a corresponding cash bonus payout of
approximately 86.0% of target. The weighted, combined cash bonus
payout was approximately 64.47% of target.
Payout
None (actual)
0%
100%
200%
Payout
0%
86.0% (actual)
100%
200%
Adjusted EBITDA $(in millions)
$69.0 (threshold)
$86.2 (actual)
$89.0 (target)
$109.0
The tables below describe for each Named Executive Officer under
the 2015 VCP (i) the target percentage of base salary, (ii) the potential
award range as a percentage of base salary, and (iii) the actual award
earned for the measurement period in fiscal 2015.
FIRST HALF OF FISCAL 2015
Named
Executive
Officer
John Ambroseo
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
Target
Percentage
of Salary
Payout
Percentage
Range of
Salary
Actual
Award as a
Percentage of
Target
Award(2)
Actual
Award
($)(1)
100%
70%
65%
50%
50%
0-200% 328,416
0-140% 151,948
0-130% 128,904
0-100% 93,796
0-100% 90,249
105.09%
105.09%
105.09%
105.09%
105.09%
23
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
SECOND HALF OF FISCAL 2015
(1) Reflects gross amounts earned during the applicable half of fiscal 2015.
Named
Executive
Officer
John Ambroseo
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
Target
Percentage
of Salary
Payout
Percentage
Range of
Salary
Actual
Award as a
Percentage of
Target
Award(2)
Actual
Award
($)(1)
100%
70%
65%
50%
50%
0-200% 201,475
0-140% 93,216
0-130% 79,079
0-100% 57,541
0-100% 55,366
64.47%
64.47%
64.47%
64.47%
64.47%
(2) This reflects the aggregate bonuses earned by the Named Executive Officers for
the applicable half of fiscal 2015 under the 2015 VCP.
Equity Awards
We believe that equity awards provide a strong alignment between the
interests of our executives and our stockholders. We seek to provide
equity award opportunities that are consistent with our compensation
philosophy, with the potential for increase for exceptional financial
performance, consistent with the reasonable management of overall
equity compensation expense and stockholder dilution. Finally, we
believe that long-term equity awards are an essential tool in promoting
executive retention. For fiscal 2015, our long-term incentive program
included the grant of time-based RSUs and performance-based RSUs.
These components provide a reward for past corporate and individual
performance and as an incentive for future performance. Our
the Company’s
performance-based RSU grants are
performance and, as a result, may fluctuate from no vesting to vesting
which is above target. When making its compensation decisions, the
committee reviews a compensation overview prepared by
its
independent compensation consultant which reflects potential
realizable value under current short and long-term compensation
arrangements for each Named Executive Officer.
tied
to
Fiscal 2015 Equity Grants
For fiscal 2015, the committee based the equity program on a
combination of time-based and performance-based RSUs over a three
year period. In particular, the committee determined to measure
achievement for the performance grants by the relative performance of
Coherent’s stock price in comparison to the Russell 2000 Index. The
committee believed that using the Russell 2000 Index (in which
Coherent is a member) as a proxy of total stockholder return directly
aligns executive compensation with stockholder
interest. The
committee determined that both the performance-based and
time-based RSU grants provide a further retention tool in that the
time-based grants vest over three years with pro rata annual vesting
and, for the performance-based grants, a single measurement period
three years from the date of grant with three-year cliff vesting shortly
thereafter if such grants vest at all since such grants vest purely based
on performance.
Performance-based RSU grants in fiscal 2015 vest solely dependent
upon the performance of Coherent’s common stock price measured
against the Russell 2000 Index. For each 1% that Coherent’s common
stock exceeds the performance of the Russell 2000 Index for the
trailing 90 trading days from the vesting measurement date against the
comparable period from the date of grant, the grant recipient will get a
2% increase in the number of shares above target (up to a maximum
cap of 200% of target), and for each 1% below the Russell 2000
Index’s performance, a 4% decrease in the number of shares (down to
zero). As a result, compensation decreases faster for failing to achieve
the target than it increases for exceeding it. The performance-based
RSUs make up the largest potential portion of the equity grants for
our Chief Executive Officer.
The following table summarizes some of the key features of our fiscal
2015 equity grants:
Fiscal 2015 Equity Grants
Type
RSUs and PRSUs
Vesting for RSUs
One-third each grant anniversary
Vesting for PRSUs
Single vesting date three years from grant
PRSU Metrics
100% tied to Russell 2000 Index
Minimum vest: zero
Target vest: Even with Russell 2000 Index
Maximum vest: 200% of target
Fiscal 2015 Equity Grants
For our Chief Executive Officer, greater than half of his total equity
awards are performance-based. Accordingly, for our Chief Executive
Officer, at target, approximately 66% of his equity awards are
performance-based and at maximum achievement that percentage
increases to approximately 80%.
In the event of a change of control of the Company, the performance-
based grants will be measured, with respect to performance periods
not yet completed, by the relative stock performance of Coherent in
comparison to the Russell 2000 Index through the date of the change
of control and such performance-based shares would, subject to the
terms of the Change of Control Severance Plan, then convert to
24
time-based vesting with a single vesting date at the three year
anniversary of the grant.
Equity Award Practices
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
The following charts show the aggregate composition of equity
grants for fiscal 2015 to our Chief Executive Officer, at target and at
maximum achievement under the terms of the performance-based
grants:
21DEC201513125074
21DEC201513125226
The following tables reflect the equity grants to the Named Executive
Officers during the first quarter of fiscal 2015:
Named
Executive
Officer
John Ambroseo
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
Performance-Based
Performance-Based RSU Grants Range
(issuance dependent
upon achievement)
RSU Grants
at Target
Time-Based
RSU Grants
13,600
7,832
7,362
6,276
6,417
26,800
3,916
3,681
3,138
3,209
0 – 53,600
0 – 7,832
0 – 7,362
0 – 6,276
0 – 6,418
Other Benefits
Retirement Plans
Executive officers are eligible to participate in our 401(k) Retirement
Plan on the same terms as all other U.S. employees, including a 4%
Company matching contribution. Our 401(k) Retirement Plan is a
tax-qualified plan and therefore is subject to certain Internal Revenue
Code limitations on the dollar amounts of deferrals and Company
contributions that can be made to plan accounts. These limitations
apply to our more highly-compensated employees (including the
Named Executive Officers).
Equity grants to our employees are driven by our annual review
process. Grant guidelines are based on competitive market practices.
Typically, an eligible employee is granted equity at the first committee
meeting after beginning employment and may be eligible for periodic
grants thereafter. Eligibility for and the size of grants are influenced by
the then-current guidelines for non-executive officer grants and the
individual’s performance or particular requirements at the time of
hire. No option grants have been made to an employee since 2010.
In fiscal 2015 the committee granted an aggregate of 318,842 shares
subject to time-based and performance-based restricted stock units (at
maximum), representing approximately 1.33% of Coherent’s
outstanding common stock as of October 3, 2015 (excluding
automatic and initial grants to directors). With the assistance of
Compensia, the committee has reviewed this burn rate relative to peer
practices and guidance from Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS)
and found that the total dilution was consistent with the median of
peer practices and complied with ISS guidelines.
During fiscal 2015 equity grants were only made at meetings of the
committee.
Chief Executive Officer Minimum Stock
Ownership Guidelines
During fiscal 2012, the committee adopted mandatory stock
ownership guidelines for our Chief Executive Officer. Our guidelines
require that the Chief Executive Officer hold shares with a value of at
least three times base salary, without counting vested or unvested
option grants or unvested grants of RSUs. Compliance is measured as
of the date of each year’s annual meeting based on the stock price of
the shares as of the date of their acquisition. In the event that our
Chief Executive Officer does not satisfy the minimum requirements,
then 25% of the net after-tax shares (e.g. exercised options/shares
received on the vesting of RSUs) must be held until the guidelines are
met. As of December 31, 2015, Mr. Ambroseo held stock worth
approximately 19 times his base salary and, accordingly, significantly
exceeded the minimum stock ownership guideline.
We maintain a Deferred Compensation Plan for certain employees
and members of the Board. The Deferred Compensation Plan permits
eligible participants to defer receipt of compensation pursuant to the
terms of the plan. The Deferred Compensation Plan permits
participants to contribute, on a pre-tax basis, up to 75% of their base
salary earnings, up to 100% of their bonus pay and commissions and
up to 100% of directors’ annual retainer earned in the upcoming plan
year. We provide no matching or other additional contributions to
such Deferred Compensation Plan. Plan participants may invest
deferrals in a variety of different deemed investment options. To
preserve the tax-deferred status of deferred compensation plans, the
IRS requires that the available investment alternatives be ‘‘deemed
25
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
investments.’’ Participants do not have an ownership interest in the
funds they select; the funds are only used to measure the gains or losses
that are attributed to the participant’s deferral account over time.
The committee considers the Deferred Compensation Plan to be a
reasonable and appropriate program because it promotes executive
officer retention by offering a deferred compensation plan that is
comparable to and competitive with what is offered by our peer group
of companies.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Our stockholders have approved an employee stock purchase plan
whereby employees can purchase shares for a discount, subject to
various participation limitations. As employees, our Named Executive
Officers are eligible to participate in this plan.
Severance and Change of Control
Arrangements
Our Change of Control Severance Plan (the ‘‘Change of Control
Plan’’) provides certain benefits in the event of a change of control of
Coherent for certain executives, including each of our Named
Executive Officers. Benefits are provided if there is a change in
ownership of Coherent, a change in effective control of Coherent, or a
change in ownership of a substantial portion of Coherent’s assets (in
each case as construed under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue
Code and the regulations thereunder)(a ‘‘change of control’’) and
within two years thereafter (or within two months prior thereto) the
participant’s employment is terminated without cause or is voluntarily
terminated
termination event. The
committee believes the Change of Control Plan serves as an important
retention tool in the event of a pending change of control transaction.
following a constructive
The committee completed its review of the provisions of the Change
of Control Plan during fiscal 2015 and determined to review the plan
again in four years. Compensia assisted the Committee in its review
and analysis of the Change of Control Plan. The committee believes
that reviewing the Change of Control Plan every four years allows for
the right balance in providing certainty for the participants while
providing the committee with the opportunity to revise the plan
consistent with corporate governance best practices, evolving peer
group practices and regulatory changes.
The committee does not consider the potential payments and benefits
under these arrangements when making compensation decisions for
our NEOs. These arrangements serve specific purposes unrelated to
the determination of the NEOs’ total direct compensation for a
specific year.
Tax and Accounting Considerations
•
•
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—We account for stock-
based compensation in accordance with the requirements of ASC
718. We also take into consideration ASC 718 and other generally
accepted accounting principles in determining changes to policies
and practices for our stock-based compensation programs.
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code—This section limits
Coherent’s income tax deduction of compensation for our Chief
Executive Officer and our four other most highly compensated
Named Executive Officers (other than the Chief Financial Officer)
unless the compensation is less than $1 million during any fiscal
year or is ‘‘performance-based’’ under Section 162(m). Our 2001
Stock Plan and 2011 Plan are designed to permit option grants and
certain performance-based
fully
tax-deductible. Cash compensation (including both base salary and
full value awards
to be
payments under our 2015 VCP) and time-based full-value awards are
‘‘performance-based’’ compensation under
not qualified as
Section 162(m). We may from time to time pay compensation to
our executive officers (including under our VCP) that may not be
tax deductible when,
for example, we believe that such
compensation is appropriate and in the best interests of the
stockholders after taking various factors into consideration,
including business conditions and the performance of the executive
officer.
•
Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code—Section 409A imposes
additional significant taxes in the event that an executive officer,
director or service provider received ‘‘deferred compensation’’ that
does not satisfy the requirements of Section 409A. We consider
Section 409A in the design and operation of any plans.
Other Compensation Policies
To further align our executive compensation program with the
interests of our stockholders, at the end of fiscal 2009, a committee of
the Board approved a recoupment policy. The recoupment policy
provides that, in the event that there is an accounting restatement and
there is a finding by the Board that such restatement was due to the
gross recklessness or intentional misconduct of the Chief Executive
Officer or Chief Financial Officer and
it caused material
noncompliance with any financial reporting requirement, then
Coherent shall seek disgorgement of any portion of the bonus or other
incentive or equity based compensation related to such accounting
restatement received by such individual during the 12-month period
following the originally filed financial document. Under our Insider
Trading Policy, no employees or directors are allowed to hedge or
pledge Coherent securities. The Committee continues to monitor the
SEC rule-making related to Section 954 of the Dodd-Frank Act.
Following the final rules being adopted by the SEC, the Committee
intends to review and update its clawback policy.
26
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
During fiscal 2015, the Compensation and H.R. Committee of the
Board consisted of Messrs. Vij (Chair), Flatley and Krause. None of
the members of the committee has been or is an officer or employee of
Coherent. None of our executive officers serve on the board of
directors or compensation committee of a company that has an
executive officer that serves on our Board or Compensation and H.R.
Committee. No member of our Board is an executive officer of a
company in which one of our executive officers serves as a member of
the board of directors or compensation committee of that company.
Committee Independence
Each of the members of the committee qualifies as (i) an ‘‘independent director’’ under the requirements of The Nasdaq Stock Market, (ii) a
‘‘non-employee director’’ under Rule 16b-3 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ‘‘1934 Act’’), (iii) an ‘‘outside director’’ under
Section 162(m) of the Code and (iv) an ‘‘independent outside director’’ as that term is defined by ISS.
27
COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
Compensation and H.R. Committee Report
The Compensation and H.R. Committee of the Board has reviewed
and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by
Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K with management and, based on such
review and discussions, the Compensation and H.R. Committee
recommended to the Board that the Compensation Discussion and
Analysis be included in this Proxy Statement.
RECONCILIATION TABLE—NON-GAAP EARNINGS PER SHARE
Respectfully submitted by the Compensation and H.R. Committee
Sandeep Vij, Chair
Jay Flatley
L. William Krause
GAAP NET INCOME PER DILUTED SHARE
Stock based compensation
Intangible amortization
Non-recurring tax benefit
Customs audit
Impairment of investment
Gain from business combination
Scotland valuation adjustment
Purchase accounting step up
NON-GAAP NET INCOME PER DILUTED SHARE
RECONCILIATION TABLE—PRO FORMA EBITDA%
NET INCOME % OF REVENUE
Income tax expense
Interest and other income (expense), net
Depreciation and amortization
Customs audit
Purchase accounting step up
Gain on business combination
Impairment of investment
Stock based compensation
2015
$3.06
0.56
0.25
(0.04)
0.05
0.05
(0.05)
—
0.01
$3.89
Fiscal Year
2014
$2.36
0.54
0.29
—
—
—
—
—
—
$3.19
2013
$2.70
0.55
0.32
—
—
—
—
(0.06)
0.05
$3.56
Fiscal Year
2015
2014
2013
9.5%
2.9%
0.1%
4.1%
0.2%
0.1%
(0.2)%
0.3%
2.3%
7.4%
2.5%
0.3%
4.6%
—%
—%
—%
—%
2.4%
8.2%
2.1%
0.5%
4.5%
—%
0.2%
—%
—%
2.3%
PRO FORMA EBITDA % OF REVENUE
19.3%
17.2%
17.8%
28
SUMMARY COMPENSATION AND EQUITY TABLES
Fiscal 2015 Summary Compensation Table
The table below presents information concerning the total compensation of our Named Executive Officers for the fiscal years ended October 3,
2015, September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013.
Name and Principal Position
John Ambroseo,
President and
Chief Executive Officer
Helene Simonet,
Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
Mark Sobey,
Executive Vice President and
General Manager, Specialty Laser Systems
Paul Sechrist,
Executive Vice President
Worldwide Sales and Services
Bret DiMarco,
Executive Vice President,
General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Fiscal
Year
2015
2014
2013
2015
2014
2013
2015
2014
2013
2015
2014
2013
2015
2014
2013
(1) Reflects the dollar amount of salary earned in fiscal year 2015.
Salary ($)
Stock Awards
($)(2)
Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)(3)
All Other
Compensation
($)(4)
625,019(1)
625,019
625,019
411,553(1)
405,018
405,018
375,992(1)
370,011
360,006
355,663(1)
350,002
345,194
341,876(1)
335,005
335,005
2,773,100
3,387,440
3,293,280
784,179
758,864
735,948
737,120
713,227
691,808
628,385
608,035
589,604
642,537
621,766
492,248
529,891
208,631
214,694
245,164
94,636
97,386
207,983
80,281
80,380
151,337
58,415
60,113
145,615
55,912
57,537
11,776
11,596
33,623
14,098
13,918
20,774
12,565
11,596
12,147
12,856
12,427
10,822
11,344
11,164
12,934
Total ($)
3,939,786
4,232,686
4,166,616
1,454,994
1,272,436
1,259,126
1,333,660
1,175,115
1,144,341
1,148,241
1,028,879
1,005,733
1,141,372
1,023,847
897,724
(2) Amounts shown reflect the grant date fair value of awards granted in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification
(ASC) Topic 718. Reflects unvested time-based and performance-based restricted stock units; there is no guaranty that the recipients will ultimately receive this amount, or
any amount. No stock options were granted to the named executive officers in fiscal 2013, 2014 and 2015.
(3) Reflects the dollar amounts earned under the Variable Compensation Plan (VCP) during fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013.
(4) As previously noted, effective January 1, 2011, the Compensation and H.R. Committee announced the elimination and phasing out of executive perquisites. No
‘‘perquisites’’ are included for any named executive officers in the summary compensation table for fiscal 2015. Executives continue to receive certain ‘‘other
compensation’’ other than perquisites, such as the regular Company-provided employee 401(k) plan contribution match (subject to applicable IRS rule limitations).
During fiscal 2015, each of the named executive officers received a 401(k) match of approximately $10,500.
29
SUMMARY COMPENSATION AND EQUITY TABLES
Grants of Plan-Based Awards in Fiscal 2015
Except as set forth in the footnotes, the following table shows all plan-based equity and non-equity incentive awards granted to our Named
Executive Officers during fiscal 2015. Our Named Executive Officers did not receive any option awards during fiscal 2015.
Name
Type
Grant Date hold($)(1) Target($)
Thresh-
mum($)
($)(2)
Maxi-
hold(#) Target(#) mum(#)
Estimated Future Payouts Under
Non-Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
Actual
Payouts
Under
Non-Equity
Incentive
Maxi- Plan Awards Thresh-
Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive Plan
Awards
0
26,800
53,600
All Other
Stock
Awards:
# of
Securities
Underlying
Options
(#)
13,600
Grant
Date Fair
Value
($)(3)
1,891,276
881,824
John Ambroseo
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
PRSU
RSU
1st semi-annual
bonus
2nd semi-annual
bonus
Total
PRSU
RSU
1st semi-annual
bonus
2nd semi-annual
bonus
Total
PRSU
RSU
1st semi-annual
bonus
2nd semi-annual
bonus
Total
PRSU
RSU
1st semi-annual
bonus
2nd semi-annual
bonus
Total
PRSU
RSU
1st semi-annual
bonus
2nd semi-annual
bonus
Total
0
312,510
625,019
328,416
312,510
0
625,019
0 625,020 1,250,038
201,475
529,891
0
144,588
289,176
151,948
0
144,588
0 289,176
289,176
578,352
93,216
245,164
0
122,660
245,320
128,904
0
122,660
0 245,320
245,320
490,641
79,079
207,983
0
89,253
178,506
93,796
0
89,253
0 178,506
178,506
357,011
57,541
151,337
0
85,878
171,756
90,249
0
85,878
0 171,756
171,756
343,512
55,366
145,615
0
3,916
7,832
7,832
276,352
507,827
0
3,681
7,362
7,362
259,768
477,352
0
3,138
6,276
6,276
221,449
406,936
0
3,209
6,417
6,417
226,459
416,078
(1) Reflects the dollar amount recognized for financial statement reporting purposes (disregarding an estimate of forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions) for
fiscal 2015 in accordance with ASC 718, and includes grants made in fiscal 2015. The assumptions used in the valuation of these awards are set forth in Note 12
‘‘Employee Stock Option and Benefits Plans’’ of the Financial Statements in the Annual Report on Form 10-K. For informational purposes, if the maximum level of
performance for the PRSU awards was achieved, the value, calculated by multiplying the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant by the number
of shares issuable upon achievement of the maximum level of performance under the PRSU is $3,475,424, $507,824, $477,352, $406,936 and $416,143, for
Mr. Ambroseo, Ms. Simonet, Mr. Sobey, Mr. Sechrist and Mr. DiMarco, respectively. These amounts do not correspond to the actual value, if any, that will be recognized
by the Named Executive Officers. See ‘‘‘‘Compensation Discussion and Analysis-Equity Awards’’’’ for a description of the PRSUs.
(2) Failure to meet a minimum level of performance would have resulted in no bonus paid out under the 2015 Variable Compensation Plan.
(3) Reflects the amount earned under the 2015 Variable Compensation Plan during the 2015 fiscal year.
30
SUMMARY COMPENSATION AND EQUITY TABLES
Option Exercises and Stock Vested at 2015 Fiscal Year-End
The table below sets forth certain information for each Named Executive Officer regarding the exercise of options and the vesting of stock awards
during the year ended October 3, 2015, including the aggregate value realized upon such exercise or vesting.
John Ambroseo
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
Option Awards
Stock Awards
Number of
Shares
Acquired on
Exercise (#)
Value Realized
on Exercise ($)(1)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Number of
Shares
Acquired on
Vesting (#)
34,947
10,358
9,704
8,300
7,277
Value Realized
on Vesting ($)(2)
2,041,812
605,037
566,835
484,824
425,082
(1) Reflects the difference between the exercise price of the option and market price of our Common Stock on the exercise date.
(2) Reflects the market price of our Common Stock on the vesting date.
31
SUMMARY COMPENSATION AND EQUITY TABLES
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal 2015 Year-End
The following table presents information concerning unexercised options and stock that has not yet vested for each Named Executive Officer
outstanding as of October 3, 2015.
Option Awards(1)
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Number of
Securities
Underlying Unexercised Option
Options (#) Options (#)
Exercise
exercisable unexercisable Price ($)
Option
Expiration
Date
Stock Awards
Equity
incentive
Equity
plan awards:
incentive
Market or
plan awards:
payout value
Number of
of unearned
unearned
shares, units
shares, units
Stock That or other rights or other rights
that have
that have
not vested ($)
not vested (#)
Have Not
Vested ($)(2)
Number of Market Value
of Shares or
Units of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested (#)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
8,000
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
26.16
—
—
—
—
—
—
11/20/2016
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
13,600
—
17,000
—
12,000
—
7,832
—
7,295
—
5,550
—
7,362
—
6,857
—
5,200
—
6,276
—
5,845
—
4,450
—
—
6,417
—
5,977
—
7,400
743,648
—
929,560
—
656,160
—
428,254
—
398,891
—
303,474
—
402,554
—
374,941
—
284,336
—
343,172
—
319,605
—
243,326
—
—
350,882
—
326,822
—
404,632
53,600(5)
—
59,000(4)
—
94,000(3)
7,832(5)
—
7,296(4)
—
11,000(3)
—
7,362(5)
—
6,856(4)
—
10,400(3)
—
6,276(5)
5,846(4)
—
8,800(3)
—
—
6,418(5)
—
5,978(4)
—
7,400(3)
—
2,930,848
—
3,226,120
—
5,139,920
428,254
—
398,945
—
601,480
—
402,554
—
374,886
—
568,672
—
343,172
319,659
—
481,184
—
—
350,936
—
326,877
—
404,632
—
Name
John Ambroseo
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
Grant Date
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/8/2013
11/8/2013
11/14/2012
11/14/2012
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/8/2013
11/8/2013
11/14/2012
11/14/2012
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/8/2013
11/8/2013
11/14/2012
11/14/2012
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/8/2013
11/8/2013
11/14/2012
11/14/2012
11/20/2009
11/3/2014
11/3/2014
11/8/2013
11/8/2013
11/14/2012
11/14/2012
(1) Each of the unvested option grants set forth above vest in three equal installments on the anniversary of the date of grant.
(2) Market value is determined by multiplying the number of shares by $54.68, the closing price of the Company’s common stock on October 2, 2015, the last trading date of
the fiscal year.
(3) The performance-based RSU vesting determination date was November 14, 2015. The performance based RSUs vested at 58% based on the achievement of certain
performance metrics, however the amount reflected in the table is the maximum amount or 200%.
(4) The performance-based RSU vesting determination date is November 8, 2016. The performance based RSUs will vest in an amount which is 0-200% subject to the
achievement of certain performance metrics. The amount reflected in the table is the maximum amount or 200%.
(5) The performance-based RSU vesting determination date is November 3, 2017. The performance based RSUs will vest in an amount which is 0-200% subject to the
achievement of certain performance metrics. The amount reflected in the table is the maximum amount or 200%.
32
SUMMARY COMPENSATION AND EQUITY TABLES
Fiscal 2015 Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation
For a description of our Deferred Compensation Plan, see ‘‘Compensation Discussion and Analysis-Retirement Plans.’’ The following table
presents information regarding the non-qualified deferred compensation activity for each Named Executive Officer during fiscal 2015:
Name
John Ambroseo
SRP(4)
Helene Simonet
SRP(4)
Paul Sechrist
SRP(4)
Mark Sobey
Bret DiMarco
Executive
Contributions
in last FY ($)(1)
Executive Deferrals
including Company
Contribution in
Last FY ($)
Registrant
Contributions
in Last FY ($)(3)
Aggregate
Earnings in
Last
Aggregate
Withdrawals/
FY ($) Distributions ($)
Aggregate
Balance at Last
FYE ($)(2)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
144,606 $
— $
30,189 $
— $
55,375 $
— $
124,964 $
9,025 $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
(51,735) $
(8,320) $
(16,020) $
(2,108) $
(12,698) $
2,488 $
(7,375) $
(533) $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
— $
8,024,067
1,523,082
1,091,525
156,013
869,147
210,245
238,657
86,618
(1) Amounts in column (B) ‘‘Executive Contributions in Last FY ($)’’ consist of salary and/or bonus earned during fiscal 2015, which is also reported in the Summary
Compensation Table.
(2) The deferred compensation in a participant’s account is fully vested and is credited with positive or negative investment results based upon plan investment options
selected by the participant.
(3) Deferred Compensation company contributions were terminated on December 31, 2010.
(4) Amounts represent account balances and earnings from the Supplementary Retirement Plan (SRP) which was suspended on December 31, 2004. Deferrals (both executive
and company) into this plan have been suspended. The Deferred Compensation Plan is the only non-qualified deferred compensation plan available for executive
management.
33
SUMMARY COMPENSATION AND EQUITY TABLES
Potential Payments upon Termination or Change of Control
The following table shows the potential payments and benefits that
we (or our successor) would be obligated to make or provide upon
termination of employment of each our Named Executive Officers
pursuant to the terms of the Change of Control Severance Plan. Other
than this plan, there are no other executive employment agreements or
other contractual obligations triggered upon a change of control. For
purposes of this table, it is assumed that each Named Executive
Officer’s employment terminated at the close of business on
October 2, 2015 (the last business day before the end of our fiscal year
on October 3, 2015). These payments are conditioned upon the
execution of a form release of claims by the Named Executive Officer
in favor of us. The amounts reported below do not include the
nonqualified deferred compensation distributions that would be made
to the Named Executive Officers following a termination of
employment (for those amounts and descriptions, see the prior table).
There can be no assurance that a triggering event would produce the
same or similar results as those estimated below if such event occurs on
any other date or at any other price, of if any other assumption used to
estimate potential payments and benefits is not correct. Due to the
number of factors that affect the nature and amount of any potential
payments or benefits, any actual payments and benefits may be
different. These are aggregate payments and do not reflect such
individual’s net after tax benefit. No officer is entitled to any ‘‘gross
up’’ to offset the impact of IRS Code Section 280G.
Named Executive Officer
John Ambroseo
Multiplier for Base
Salary and Bonus
2.99X
Helene Simonet
Mark Sobey
Paul Sechrist
Bret DiMarco
2X
2X
2X
2X
Nature of Benefit
Termination
for Cause
Any Other
Termination
Salary Severance(1)
Bonus Severance
Equity Compensation Acceleration(2)
Aggregate Healthcare Related Monthly Payment(3)
TOTAL BENEFIT
Salary Severance(1)
Bonus Severance
Equity Compensation Acceleration(2)
Aggregate Healthcare Related Monthly Payment(3)
TOTAL BENEFIT
Salary Severance(1)
Bonus Severance
Equity Compensation Acceleration(2)
Aggregate Healthcare Related Monthly Payment(3)
TOTAL BENEFIT
Salary Severance(1)
Bonus Severance
Equity Compensation Acceleration(2)
Aggregate Healthcare Related Monthly Payment(3)
TOTAL BENEFIT
Salary Severance(1)
Bonus Severance
Equity Compensation Acceleration(2)
Aggregate Healthcare Related Monthly Payment(3)
TOTAL BENEFIT
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1,868,807
1,868,807
12,660,224
99,000
16,496,838
826,218
578,352
2,122,842
66,000
3,593,412
754,832
490,641
1,998,609
66,000
3,310,082
714,022
357,011
1,700,220
66,000
2,837,253
687,024
343,512
1,651,172
66,000
2,747,708
(1) Reflects salary as in effect as of December 31, 2015.
(2) Equity Compensation Acceleration is the in-the-money value of unvested stock options, time-based restricted stock units and performance-based restricted stock units, in
each case as of October 2, 2015 at the closing stock price on that date ($54.68). The value of accelerated stock options are thus calculated by multiplying the number of
unvested shares subject to acceleration by the difference between the exercise price and the closing stock price on October 2, 2015; the value of accelerated restricted stock
is calculated by multiplying the number of unvested shares subject to acceleration by the closing stock price on October 2, 2015. This assumes immediate release and
vesting of the performance-based restricted stock units at the maximum, or 200% of target, achievement. The amounts reflected for Equity Compensation Acceleration do
not reflect any applicable taxes, just gross proceeds. Since the table assumes a triggering event on October 2, 2015, only those stock options and restricted stock/RSU
grants outstanding as of that date are included in the table.
(3) Aggregate Monthly Payment is a monthly payment of $2,750 in lieu of receiving company subsidized COBRA benefits, life insurance premiums and/or other welfare
benefits, 36 months for the Chief Executive Officer and 24 months for the other named executive officers.
34
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
The following table provides information as of October 3, 2015 about the Company’s equity compensation plans under which shares of our
common stock may be issued to employees, consultants or members of our Board:
Plan category
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders
TOTAL
(a) Number of
securities to be issued
upon exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(b) Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights(1)
(c) Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under equity
compensation plans (excluding
securities reflected in column (a))
679,453(2)
—
679,453
$30.09
—
$30.09
6,176,071(3)
—
6,176,071
(1) These weighted average exercise prices do not reflect the shares that will be issued upon the payment of outstanding awards of RSUs.
(2) This number does not include any options which may be assumed by us through mergers or acquisitions, however, we do have the authority, if necessary, to reserve
additional shares of common stock under these plans to the extent necessary for assuming such options.
(3) This number of shares includes 661,900 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan and 5,514,171 shares reserved for
future issuance under the 2011 Plan.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED
PERSON TRANSACTIONS
Review, Approval or Ratification of Related Person Transactions
•
Any immediate family member, as defined in Item 404(a) of
Regulation S-K, of a director, nominee for director, executive officer
and 5% Stockholder. We will report all such material related person
transactions under applicable accounting rules, federal securities
laws and SEC rules and regulations.
In accordance with the charter for the Audit Committee of the Board,
the members of the Audit Committee, all of whom are independent
directors, review and approve in advance any proposed related person
transactions. Additionally, from time to time the Board may directly
consider these transactions. For purposes of these procedures, the
individuals and entities that are considered ‘‘related persons’’ include:
•
•
Any of our directors, nominees for director and executive officers;
Any person known to be the beneficial owner of five percent or
more of our common stock (a ‘‘5% Stockholder’’); and
Related Person Transactions
We have entered into indemnification agreements with each of our executive officers and directors. Such indemnification agreements require us to
indemnify these individuals to the fullest extent permitted by law. We also intend to execute these agreements with our future directors and
officers.
35
REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing our accounting
and financial reporting processes and audits of our financial
statements, including reviewing and approving the fees for the
performance of the audit by our independent auditors. As set forth in
its charter, the Audit Committee acts only in an oversight capacity and
relies on the work and assurances of both management, which has
primary responsibilities for our financial statements and reports, as
well as the independent registered public accounting firm that is
responsible for expressing an opinion on the conformity of our
audited financial statements to generally accepted accounting
principles.
The Audit Committee met thirteen (13) times either in person or by
telephone during fiscal 2015. In the course of these meetings, the
Audit Committee met with management, the internal auditors and
our independent registered public accounting firm and reviewed the
results of the internal and external audit examinations, evaluations of
our internal controls and the overall quality of our financial reporting.
The Audit Committee believes that a candid, substantive and focused
dialogue with the internal auditors and the independent registered
public accounting firm is fundamental to the Audit Committee’s
oversight responsibilities. To support this belief, the Audit Committee
periodically meets separately with the internal auditors and the
independent auditors, without management present. In the course of
its discussions in these meetings, the Audit Committee asked a
number of questions intended to bring to light any areas of potential
concern related to our financial reporting and internal controls. These
questions include:
•
•
•
Are there any significant accounting judgments, estimates or
adjustments made by management in preparing the financial
statements that would have been made differently had the auditors
themselves prepared and been responsible for the financial
statements;
Based on the auditors’ experience, and their knowledge of our
business, do our financial statements fairly present to investors, with
clarity and completeness, our financial position and performance
for the reporting period in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles and SEC disclosure requirements;
Based on the auditors’ experience, and their knowledge of our
business, have we implemented internal controls and internal audit
procedures that are appropriate for our business.
The Audit Committee approved the engagement of Deloitte &
Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for
fiscal 2015, including the fees to be paid for their audit work, and
reviewed with the internal auditors and independent registered public
accounting firm their respective overall audit scope and plans. In
approving Deloitte & Touche LLP, the Audit Committee considered
the qualifications of Deloitte & Touche LLP and discussed with
Deloitte & Touche LLP their independence, including a review of the
audit and non-audit services provided by them to us. The Audit
Committee also discussed with Deloitte & Touche LLP the matters
required
to be discussed by Auditing Standard No. 16,
‘‘Communications with Audit Committees’’ issued by the Public
Company Oversight Board (PCAOB), and it received the written
disclosures and the letter from Deloitte & Touche LLP required by the
applicable requirements of the Public Company Accounting
Oversight Board regarding Deloitte & Touche LLP’s communications
with Audit Committee concerning independence and has discussed
Deloitte & Touche LLP’s independence with Deloitte & Touche LLP.
Management has reviewed and discussed the audited financial
statements for fiscal 2015 with the Audit Committee, including a
discussion of the quality and acceptability of the financial reporting,
the reasonableness of significant accounting judgments and estimates
and the clarity of disclosures in the financial statements. In
connection with this review and discussion, the Audit Committee
asked a number of follow-up questions of management and the
independent registered public accounting firm to help give the Audit
Committee comfort in connection with its review.
In reliance on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Audit
Committee recommended to the Board that the audited financial
statements be included in the annual report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended October 3, 2015, for filing with the SEC.
Respectively submitted by the Audit Committee
Susan James, Chair
Garry Rogerson
Steve Skaggs
36
OTHER MATTERS
We know of no other matters to be submitted to the meeting. If any other matters properly come before the meeting, it is the intention of the
persons named in the enclosed form Proxy to vote the shares they represent as the Board may recommend.
Dated: January 27, 2016
By Order of the Board of Directors
13JAN201423125288
John R. Ambroseo
President and Chief Executive Officer
37
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
(cid:1) ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended October 3, 2015
or
(cid:2) TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number: 001-33962
COHERENT, INC.
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
5100 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara, California
(Address of principal executive offices)
94-1622541
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
95054
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (408) 764-4000
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
Name of each exchange on which registered
The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
Nasdaq Global Select Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities
Act. Yes (cid:1) No (cid:2)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the ‘‘Exchange Act’’). Yes (cid:2) No (cid:1)
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 (cid:1) No (cid:2)
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 (§229.405
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 (cid:1) No (cid:2)
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained
herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. (cid:2)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated
filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of ‘‘large accelerated filer’’, ‘‘accelerated filer’’ and ‘‘smaller
reporting company’’ in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer (cid:1)
Accelerated filer (cid:2)
Smaller reporting company (cid:2)
Non-accelerated filer (cid:2)
(Do not check if a
smaller reporting company)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange
Act). Yes (cid:2) No (cid:1)
As of November 30, 2015, 24,187,438 shares of common stock were outstanding. The aggregate market value of the
voting shares (based on the closing price reported on the NASDAQ Global Select Market on April 4, 2015, of
Coherent, Inc., held by nonaffiliates was approximately $1,384,567,684. For purposes of this disclosure, shares of common
stock held by persons who own 5% or more of the outstanding common stock and shares of common stock held by each
officer and director have been excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be ‘‘affiliates’’ as that term is defined
under the Rules and Regulations of the Exchange Act. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily conclusive.
DOCUMENT INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for the registrant’s fiscal 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are
incorporated by reference into Part III of the Form 10-K to the extent stated herein. The Proxy Statement or an
amended report on Form 10-K will be filed within 120 days of the registrant’s fiscal year ended October 3, 2015.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
BUSINESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 1.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 3.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY
SECURITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 6.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
5
22
39
40
41
42
43
45
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
46
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET
ITEM 8.
ITEM 9.
RISK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON
ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE .
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
68
69
69
70
73
74
76
MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS . . . . . . . . . .
76
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND
DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ITEM 14.
PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SIGNATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
76
76
78
81
2
SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report contains certain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements
include, without limitation, statements relating to:
• expansion into, and financial returns from, new markets;
• maintenance and development of current and new customer relationships;
• enhancement of market position through existing or new technologies;
• timing of new product introductions and shipments;
• optimization of product mix;
• future trends in microelectronics, scientific research and government programs, OEM
components and instrumentation and materials processing;
• utilization of vertical integration;
• adoption of our products or lasers generally;
• applications and processes that will use lasers, including the suitability of our products;
• capitalization on market trends;
• alignment with current and new customer demands;
• positioning in the marketplace and gains of market share;
• design and development of products, services and solutions;
• control of supply chain and partners;
• protection of intellectual property rights;
• compliance with environmental and safety regulations;
• net sales and operating results;
• capital spending;
• order volumes;
• variations in stock price;
• growth in our operations;
• market acceptance of products;
• controlling our costs;
• sufficiency and management of cash, cash equivalents and investments;
• acquisition efforts, payment methods for acquisitions and utilization of technology from our
acquisitions;
• sales by geography;
• effect of legal claims;
• expectations regarding the payment of future dividends;
• effect of competition on our financial results;
• plans to renew leases when they expire;
3
• compliance with standards;
• future dividends;
• effect of our internal controls;
• optimization of financial results;
• repatriation of funds;
• accounting for goodwill and intangible assets, inventory valuation, warranty reserves and taxes;
and
• impact from our use of financial instruments.
In addition, we include forward-looking statements under the ‘‘Our Strategy’’ and ‘‘Future Trends’’
headings set forth below in ‘‘Business’’ and under the ‘‘Bookings and Book-to-Bill Ratio’’ heading set
forth below in ‘‘Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations.’’
You can identify these and other forward-looking statements by the use of the words such as
‘‘may,’’ ‘‘will,’’ ‘‘could,’’ ‘‘would,’’ ‘‘should,’’ ‘‘expects,’’ ‘‘plans,’’ ‘‘anticipates,’’ ‘‘estimates,’’ ‘‘intends,’’
‘‘potential,’’ ‘‘projected,’’ ‘‘continue,’’ ‘‘our observation,’’ or the negative of such terms, or other
comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements also include the assumptions underlying or
relating to any of the foregoing statements.
Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking
statements as a result of various factors, including those set forth below in ‘‘Business,’’ ‘‘Management’s
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations’’ and under the heading
‘‘Risk Factors.’’ All forward-looking statements included in this document are based on information
available to us on the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to update these forward-looking
statements as a result of events or circumstances or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or
non-occurrence of anticipated events, except to the extent required by law.
4
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL
Business Overview
Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest to September 30. Fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013
ended on October 3, September 27, and September 28, respectively, and are referred to in this annual
report as fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 for convenience. Fiscal year 2015 included 53 weeks
and fiscal years 2014 and 2013 included 52 weeks.
We are one of the world’s leading suppliers of photonics-based solutions in a broad range of
commercial and scientific research applications. We design, manufacture, service and market lasers and
related accessories for a diverse group of customers. Since inception in 1966, we have grown through
internal expansion and through strategic acquisitions of complementary businesses, technologies,
intellectual property, manufacturing processes and product offerings.
We are organized into two operating segments: Specialty Lasers and Systems (‘‘SLS’’) and
Commercial Lasers and Components (‘‘CLC’’). This segmentation reflects the go-to-market strategies
for various products and markets. While both segments deliver cost-effective photonics solutions, SLS
develops and manufactures configurable, advanced performance products largely serving the
microelectronics, scientific research and government programs and original equipment manufacturer
(‘‘OEM’’) components and instrumentation markets. The size and complexity of many of the SLS
products require service to be performed at the customer site by factory-trained field service engineers.
CLC focuses on higher volume products that are offered in set configurations. The product
architectures are designed for easy exchange at the point of use such that substantially all product
service and repairs are based upon advanced replacement and depot (i.e., factory) repair. CLC’s
primary markets include materials processing, OEM components and instrumentation and
microelectronics.
Income from operations is the measure of profit and loss that our chief operating decision maker
(‘‘CODM’’) uses to assess performance and make decisions. Income from operations represents the
sales less the cost of sales and direct operating expenses incurred within the operating segments as well
as allocated expenses such as shared sales and manufacturing costs. We do not allocate to our
operating segments certain operating expenses, which we manage separately at the corporate level.
These unallocated costs include stock-based compensation and corporate functions (certain advanced
research and development, management, finance, legal and human resources) and are included in
Corporate and other. Management does not consider unallocated Corporate and other costs in its
measurement of segment performance.
We were originally incorporated in California on May 26, 1966 and reincorporated in Delaware on
October 1, 1990. Our common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and we are a
member of the Standard & Poor’s SmallCap 600 Index and the Russell 2000 Index.
Additional information about Coherent, Inc. (referred to herein as the Company, we, our, or
Coherent) is available on our web site at www.coherent.com. We make available, free of charge on our
web site, access to our annual report on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, our current
reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the ‘‘Exchange Act’’), as soon as reasonably
practicable after we file or furnish them electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission
(‘‘SEC’’). Information contained on our web site is not part of this annual report or our other filings
with the SEC. Any product, product name, process, or technology described in these materials is the
property of Coherent.
5
INDUSTRY BACKGROUND
The word ‘‘laser’’ is an acronym for ‘‘light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.’’ A
laser emits an intense coherent beam of light with some unique and highly useful properties. Most
importantly, a laser is orders of magnitude brighter than any lamp. As a result of its coherence, the
beam can be focused to a very small and intense spot, useful for applications requiring very high power
densities including cutting and other materials processing procedures. The laser’s high spatial resolution
is also useful for microscopic imaging and inspection applications. Laser light can be monochromatic—
all the beam energy is confined to a narrow wavelength band. Some lasers can be used to create
ultrafast output—a series of pulses with pulse durations as short as attoseconds (i.e., 10(cid:4)18 seconds).
There are many types of lasers and one way of classifying them is by the material or medium used
to create the lasing action. This can be in the form of a gas, liquid, semiconductor, solid state crystal or
fiber. Lasers can also be classified by their output wavelength: ultraviolet, visible, infrared or
wavelength tunable. We manufacture all of these laser types. There are also many options in terms of
pulsed output versus continuous wave, pulse duration, output power, beam dimensions, etc. In fact,
each application has its specific requirements in terms of laser performance. The broad technical depth
at Coherent enables us to offer a diverse set of product lines characterized by lasers targeted at growth
opportunities and key applications. In all cases, we aim to be the supplier of choice by offering a
high-value combination of superior technical performance and high reliability.
Photonics has taken its place alongside electronics as a critical enabling technology for the twenty-
first century. Photonics based solutions are entrenched in a broad array of industries that include
industrial automation, textile processing, microelectronics, flat panel displays and medical diagnostics,
with adoption continuing in ever more diverse applications. Growth in these applications stems from
two sources. First, there are many applications where the laser is displacing conventional technology
because it can do the job faster, better or more economically. Second, there are new applications where
the laser is the enabling tool that makes the work possible (e.g., the production of sub 50 micron
microvias); these lasers are used in the manufacturing of high density printed circuit boards (‘‘PCBs’’)
found in the latest smart phones and tablet computers.
Key laser applications include: semiconductor inspection; manufacturing of advanced PCBs; flat
panel display manufacturing; solar cell production; medical and bio-instrumentation; materials
processing; metals cutting and welding; industrial process and quality control; marking; imaging and
printing; graphic arts and display; and, research and development. For example, ultraviolet (‘‘UV’’)
lasers are enabling the move towards miniaturization, which drives innovation and growth in many
markets. In addition, the advent of industrial grade ultrafast lasers continues to open up new
applications for laser processing.
OUR STRATEGY
We strive to develop innovative and proprietary products and solutions that meet the needs of our
customers and that are based on our core expertise in lasers and optical technologies. In pursuit of our
strategy, we intend to:
• Leverage our technology portfolio and application engineering to lead the proliferation of
photonics into broader markets—We will continue to identify opportunities in which our
technology portfolio and application engineering can be used to offer innovative solutions and
gain access to new markets. We plan to utilize our expertise to increase our market share in the
mid to high power material processing applications.
• Optimize our leadership position in existing markets—There are a number of markets where we
have historically been at the forefront of technological development and product deployment
and from which we have derived a substantial portion of our revenues. We plan to optimize our
financial returns from these markets.
6
• Maintain and develop additional strong collaborative customer and industry relationships—We
believe that the Coherent brand name and reputation for product quality, technical performance
and customer satisfaction will help us to further develop our loyal customer base. We plan to
maintain our current customer relationships and develop new ones with customers who are
industry leaders and work together with these customers to design and develop innovative
product systems and solutions as they develop new technologies.
• Develop and acquire new technologies and market share—We will continue to enhance our
market position through our existing technologies and develop new technologies through our
internal research and development efforts, as well as through the acquisition of additional
complementary technologies, intellectual property, manufacturing processes and product
offerings.
• Streamline our manufacturing structure and improve our cost structure—We will focus on
optimizing the mix of products that we manufacture internally and externally. We will utilize
vertical integration where our internal manufacturing process is considered proprietary and seek
to leverage external sources when the capabilities and cost structure are well developed and on a
path towards commoditization.
• Focus on long-term improvement of adjusted EBITDA, in dollars and as a percentage of net
sales—We define adjusted EBITDA as operating income adjusted for depreciation, amortization,
stock compensation expenses, major restructuring costs and certain other non-operating income
and expense items. Key initiatives to reach our goals for EBITDA improvements include
utilization of our Asian manufacturing locations, rationalizing our supply chain and continued
leveraging of our infrastructure.
APPLICATIONS
Our products address a broad range of applications that we group into the following markets:
Microelectronics, Materials Processing, OEM Components and Instrumentation and Scientific Research
and Government Programs.
Microelectronics
Nowhere is the trend towards miniaturization more prevalent than in the Microelectronics market
where smart phones, tablets, personal computers (‘‘PC’s’’), televisions (‘‘TV’s’’) and now ‘‘wearables’’
are driving advances in displays, integrated circuits and PCBs. In response to market demands and
expectations, semiconductor and device manufacturers are continually seeking to improve their process
and design technologies in order to manufacture smaller, more powerful and more reliable devices at
lower cost. New laser applications and new laser technologies are a key element in delivering higher
resolution and higher precision at lower manufacturing cost.
We support three major markets in the microelectronics industry: (1) flat panel display (‘‘FPDs’’)
manufacturing, (2) advanced packaging and interconnects and (3) semiconductor front-end.
Microelectronics—flat panel display manufacturing
The high-volume consumer market is driving the production of FPDs in applications such as
mobile phones, tablets, laptop computers, TVs and wearables. There are several types of established
and emerging displays based on quite different technologies, including liquid crystal (‘‘LCD’’) and
organic light emitting diodes (‘‘OLED’’). Each of these technologies utilize laser applications due to the
fact that lasers enable higher process speed, better yield, improved battery life, lower cost and/or
superior display brightness and resolution.
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Several display types require a high-density pattern of silicon thin film transistors (‘‘TFTs’’). If this
silicon is polycrystalline, the display performance is greatly enhanced. In the past, these polysilicon
layers could only be produced on expensive special glass at high temperatures. However, excimer-based
processes, such as excimer laser annealing (‘‘ELA’’) have allowed high-volume production of
low-temperature polysilicon (‘‘LTPS’’) on conventional glass substrates. Our excimer lasers provide a
unique solution for LTPS because they are the only industrial-grade excimer lasers with the high pulse
energy optimized for this application. The current state-of-the-art product for this application is our
excimer VYPER laser, which delivers over 1000W of power, enabling customers to scale to current
Generation 5.5 & 6 substrates all the way up to Generation 8 sizes. These systems are integral to the
manufacturing process on all leading LTPS-based smart phone displays, with the highest commercially
available pixel densities of greater than 300 pixels per inch (ppi), with the current trends going to even
higher ppi for high end smart phones, and hold the potential for deployment in tablet display and
OLED TV manufacturing.
Our AVIA, Rapid, Talisker and DIAMOND lasers are also used in other production processes for
FPDs. These processes include drilling, cutting, patterning, marking and yield improvement.
During fiscal 2015 we introduced a range of new industry leading products and product platforms,
including ultrafast lasers with pulse durations below 1 pico second (ps), or femto second (fs) lasers. Ps
and fs lasers are commonly referred to collectively as ‘‘ultrafast’’ lasers. Our new fs lasers, Monaco and
Rapid FX, offer performances ideal for industrial applications in microelectronics, materials processing
and medical applications coupled with superior reliability and cost of ownership.
We also introduced a new laser based on our DIAMOND J-series using carbon-monoxide (‘‘CO’’)
as the lasing medium. CO lasers produce laser radiation in a wavelength region where there are few
commercially available laser sources and none at powers suitable for materials processing. The unique
wavelength range of this laser opens up laser processing to additional materials and can improve the
precision and throughput with which we process some traditional carbon dioxide (‘‘CO2’’) laser
applications, including in the areas of materials processing, medical therapy and microelectronics. We
are the only supplier of commercial, high power CO lasers.
Microelectronics—advanced packaging and interconnects
After a wafer is patterned, there are then a host of other processes, referred to as back-end
processing, which finally result in a packaged encapsulated silicon chip. Ultimately, these chips are then
assembled into finished products. The advent of high-speed logic and high-memory content devices has
caused chip manufacturers to look for alternative technologies to improve performance and lower
process costs. In terms of materials, this search includes new types of materials, such as low-k and
thinner silicon. Our AVIA, Rapid, Talisker and Matrix lasers provide economical methods of cutting
and scribing these wafers while delivering higher yields than traditional mechanical methods.
There are similar trends in chip packaging and PCB manufacturing requiring more compact
packaging and denser interconnects. In many cases, lasers present enabling technologies. For instance,
lasers are now the only economically practical method for drilling microvias in chip substrates and in
both rigid and flexible PCBs. These microvias are tiny interconnects that are essential for enabling
high-density circuitry commonly used in smart phones, tablets and advanced computing systems. Our
DIAMOND CO2 and AVIA diode pumped solid state (‘‘DPSS’’) lasers are the lasers of choice in this
application. The ability of these lasers to operate at very high repetition rates translates into faster
drilling speeds and increased throughput in microvia processing applications. In addition, multi-layer
circuit boards require more flexible production methods than conventional printing technologies can
offer, which has led to widespread adoption of laser direct imaging (‘‘LDI’’). Our Paladin laser is used
for this application.
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Lasers have also become a valuable tool in high-brightness (‘‘HB’’) light-emitting diode (‘‘LED’’)
manufacturing, improving LED performance and yield. LEDs have widespread adoption as the light
source in all categories of LCD displays, from phones all the way to full size TVs and moving into
general lighting. Our lasers are used in back-end processing of HB-LEDs.
Microelectronics—semiconductor front-end
The term ‘‘front-end’’ refers to the production of semiconductor devices which occurs prior to
packaging.
As semiconductor device geometries decrease in size, devices become increasingly susceptible to
smaller defects during each phase of the manufacturing process and these defects can negatively impact
yield. One of the semiconductor industry’s responses to the increasing vulnerability of semiconductor
devices to smaller defects has been to use defect detection and inspection techniques that are closely
linked to the manufacturing process. For example, automated laser-based inspection systems are now
used to detect and locate defects as small as 0.01 micron, which may not be observable by conventional
optical microscopes.
Detecting the presence of defects is only the first step in preventing their recurrence. After
detection, defects must be examined in order to identify their size, shape and the process step in which
the defect occurred. This examination is called defect classification. Identification of the sources of
defects in the lengthy and complex semiconductor manufacturing process has become essential for
maintaining high yield production. Semiconductor manufacturing has become an around-the-clock
operation and it is important for products used for inspection, measurement and testing to be reliable
and to have long lifetimes. Our Azure, Paladin and Excimer lasers are used to detect and characterize
defects in semiconductor chips.
Materials processing
Lasers are widely accepted today in many important industrial manufacturing applications
including cutting, welding, joining, drilling, perforating, and marking of metals and nonmetals. We
supply high-power lasers for metal processing and low-to-medium power lasers for laser marking,
nonmetals processing and precision micromachining.
Our high power industrial laser systems are used for cutting, welding, cladding and hardening of
metals, as well as other materials processing applications.
Our Semiconductor business provides higher power arrays with powers in excess of 50 kilowatts
through proprietary cooling and stacking technology. This unique technology provides the engine for
both our Highlight direct diode systems as well as our Highlight multi-kilowatt class fiber lasers. Our
differentiated fiber laser design offers our customers a higher level of integration and additional
options for product serviceability. Our fiber lasers are used for metal cutting, cladding, welding and
additive manufacturing applications.
Complementing our high power solid state lasers is our industry leading DIAMOND E1000 CO2
laser. This laser remains in high demand due to its high power, small size and completely sealed
design—all ideal for materials processing.
With the broadest product portfolio in the laser industry, we offer solutions for almost any
application on any material to our customers. Combining the high power Direct Diode, Fiber and CO2
products with our META flatbed cutting tool provides a strong, compelling four-pronged approach to
meeting the needs of our diverse high power materials processing customers. We are vertically
integrated with world class diode and active fiber manufacturing, which makes us very well positioned
to succeed in both the near and long term in the high power fiber laser market.
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We also participate in the low to medium power area, including such applications as the cutting,
drilling and joining of a host of materials using our DIAMOND CO and CO2 lasers; Highlight fiber
array product (‘‘FAP’’) semiconductor lasers in OEM opportunities and direct end user applications
with META cutting tools; applications including cutting, perforating and scoring of paper, thin metals
and packaging materials; and various cutting and patterning applications in the textile, wood and sign
industries. In the specific area of textiles and clothing, our DIAMOND lasers service older applications,
such as cutting complex shapes in leather for footwear, as well as newer applications such as creating
detailed fade patterns on designer denims.
Laser marking and coding are generally considered part of the precision materials processing
applications market for which we remain a leading supplier. The optimum choice of laser depends on
the material being marked, whether it is a surface mark (engraved) or a sub-surface mark, and the
specific economics of the application. Our DIAMOND J, C and GEM Series of CO2 lasers provide
many systems manufacturers with a reliable cost effective source for marking and engraving on
non-metals. In addition, our Matrix and Helios product lines of reliable, compact and low-cost DPSS
lasers provide an ideal solution for marking of other materials in high volume manufacturing.
With our large portfolio of Ultrafast laser technology, we serve customers with a variety of laser
micromachining solutions, including our Integrated Optics Systems group which will develop sub
systems and new applications in the fast growing micro materials processing market.
OEM components and instrumentation
Instrumentation is one of our more mature commercial applications. Representative applications
within this market include bio-instrumentation, medical OEMs, graphic arts and display and machine
vision. We also support the laser-based instrumentation market with a range of laser-related
components, including diode lasers for optical pumping. Our OEM component business includes sales
to other, less integrated laser manufacturers participating in OEM markets such as materials
processing, scientific, and medical.
Bio-instrumentation
Bio-instrumentation applications for lasers include bio-agent detection for point source and
standoff detection of pathogens or other bio-toxins; confocal microscopy for biological imaging that
allows researchers and clinicians to visualize cellular and subcellular structures and processes with an
incredible amount of detail; DNA sequencing that provides automation and data acquisition rates that
would be impossible by any other method; drug discovery—genomic and proteomic analyses that enable
drug discovery to proceed at very high throughput rates; and flow cytometry for analyzing single cells or
populations of cells in a heterogeneous mixture, including blood samples. Our OBIS, Flare, Galaxy,
Sapphire, BioRay and Genesis lasers are used in several bio-instrumentation applications.
Medical Therapy
We sell a variety of components and lasers to medical laser companies in end-user applications
such as ophthalmology, aesthetic, surgical, therapeutic and dentistry. Our DIAMOND series CO2 lasers
are widely used in ophthalmic, aesthetic and surgical markets. We have a leading position in Lasik and
photorefractive keratectomy surgery methods with our ExciStar XS excimer laser platform. We also
provide ultrafast lasers for use in cataract surgery, a growing applications space.
The unique ability of our optically pumped semiconductor lasers (‘‘OPSL’’) technology to match a
wavelength to an application has led to the development of a high-power yellow (577nm) laser for the
treatment of eye related diseases, such as Age Related Macular Degeneration and retinal diseases
associated with diabetes. The 577nm wavelength was designed to match the peak in absorption of
oxygenated hemoglobin thereby allowing treatment to occur at a lower power level, and thus reducing
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stress and heat-load placed on the eye with traditional green-based (530nm) solid state lasers. Other
applications where our OBIS, Genesis and Sapphire series of lasers are used include the retinal
scanning market in diagnostic imaging systems as well as new ground breaking in-vivo imaging.
Scientific research and government programs
We are widely recognized as a technology innovator and the scientific market has historically
provided an ideal ‘‘test market’’ for our leading-edge innovations. These have included ultrafast lasers,
DPSS lasers, continuous-wave (‘‘CW’’) systems, excimer gas lasers and water-cooled ion gas lasers. Our
portfolio of lasers that address the scientific research market is broad and includes our Chameleon,
COMPexPro, Evolution, Fidelity, Legend, Libra, MBD, MBR, Monaco, Vitara, Mephisto, Mira and
Verdi lasers. Many of the innovations and products pioneered in the scientific marketplace have
become commercial successes for both our OEM customers and us.
We have a large installed base of scientific lasers which are used in a wide range of applications
spanning virtually every branch of science and engineering. These applications include biology and life
science, engineering, physical chemistry and physics. Most of these applications require the use of
ultrafast lasers that enable the generation of pulses short enough to be measured in femto- or
attoseconds (10(cid:4)15 to 10(cid:4)18 seconds). Because of these very short pulse durations, ultrafast lasers
enable the study of fundamental physical and chemical processes with temporal resolution unachievable
with any other tool. These lasers also deliver very high peak power and large bandwidths, which can be
used to generate many exotic effects. Some of these are now finding their way into mainstream
applications, such as microscopy or materials processing. The use of ultrafast lasers such as the
Chameleon in microscopy is now a common occurrence in bio-imaging labs, and they have become a
crucial tool in modern brain research. We recently released a new product called the Chameleon
Discovery targeted to this market.
FUTURE TRENDS
Microelectronics
Lasers are widely used in mass production microelectronics applications largely because they
enable entirely new application capabilities that cannot be realized by any other known means. These
laser-based fabrication and testing methods provide a level of precision, typically on a micrometer and
nanometer level, that are unique, faster, are touch free, deliver superior end products, increase yields,
and/or cut production costs. We anticipate this trend to continue, driven primarily by the increasing
sophistication and miniaturization of consumer electronic goods and their convergence via the internet,
resulting in increasing demand for better displays, more bandwidth and memory, and all packaged into
devices which are lighter, thinner and consume less power. Although this market follows the macro-
economic trends and carries inherent risks, we believe that we are well positioned to continue to
capitalize on the current market trends and that we will see continued increased adoption of our solid-
state, CO2, fiber, direct diode and excimer lasers, as all these lasers enable entirely new applications,
performance improvements and reduced process costs.
LTPS-based high resolution mobile displays (greater than 300ppi), and especially the emergence of
OLED technology, is evolving as the prevalent FPD technology. We believe we are well positioned,
especially with our Vyper Excimer lasers and LB optical systems, to take advantage of this trend,
including flexible OLED displays.
CO2, Avia, Matrix, Rapid, Talisker, Helios and direct diode lasers all seem aligned with the need
for related FPD touch panel, film cutting, light guide technology, repair, frit welding, as well as
sapphire and glass-cutting applications.
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The trend for thinner and lighter devices is impacting the glass substrates used in today’s mobile
devices requiring thinner glass with higher degrees of mechanical strength and scratch resistance. This
trend also includes use of sapphire instead of glass. Mechanical means of cutting these glass and
sapphire pieces are no longer adequate to meet future requirements and we expect lasers to play an
increased role. Our CO, CO2, Monaco and Rapid lasers are well positioned to take advantage of this
trend.
Semiconductor devices look set to continue Moore’s Law, shrinking device geometries for at least
another decade, as well as expanding vertically into new 3D structures. As a result we believe our many
UV laser sources (such as Azure, Paladin, Avia, Rapid, ExiStar and Matrix) will continue to find
increasing adoption, since their unique optical properties align well with the process demands of a
nanometer scale world.
The same lasers plus Monaco, Rapid FX, CO and CO2 are also widely adopted for back end
Advanced Packaging and Interconnect (API) applications. With dimension roadmaps showing a decade
of dimension shrink on PCBs, interconnects, Silicon & LED scribe widths and wafer thickness, we
believe that our portfolio of lasers aligns well with these demands as well as new processes that seem
likely to be enabled by our lasers, to meet the increasing demands and decreasing tolerances of these
markets.
Materials processing
The market for low to medium power CO2, solid state and semiconductor lasers used in industrial
materials processing is very diverse. New product introductions such as our Diamond J-series CO2 and
CO lasers continue to support our growth in this area. These lasers represent a cost-effective
manufacturing solution for cutting, joining, marking and engraving of non-metal materials including
marking/coding, flat bed cutting, engraving, as well as the production of capital equipment for apparel
and leather goods manufacturing.
The market for kW class fiber lasers has seen strong growth in recent years, replacing legacy
multi-kW CO2 lasers in metal cutting and other applications. This trend will likely continue into the
future. The favorable cost of ownership of high power diode and fiber lasers has expanded their use in
a number of metal processing applications in addition to cutting. They have seen adoption in welding
and brazing applications as well as newer growth areas in additive manufacturing like cladding and 3D
printing. We believe we are well positioned to benefit from these large and growing markets with our
line of kW fiber and diode lasers.
We have developed an expanded portfolio of lasers with a broad spectrum of wavelengths and
power levels, enabling optimum solutions for virtually every metal and non-metal material type. At the
same time, the higher reliability of these products has lowered the cost of ownership.
OEM components and instrumentation
The bio instrumentation market is on a steady path in the most important areas: microscopy, flow
cytometry and DNA sequencing, which all are enjoying solid research funding on a worldwide basis
with some local variations. In this field, our OPSL technology gives us differentiated products at a
number of important wavelengths. This advantage coupled with strong focus on meeting our customers’
demands for more compact and cost effective sources has made us very successful and we expect that
to continue. Our OPSL technology resulted in the first truly continuous wave solid-state UV laser
which enables the use of UV in a clinical as well as a research environment.
In the medical therapeutic area, we see solid business with several opportunities for growth. We
supply excimer lasers used in refractive eye surgery and are actively involved in further developments in
laser vision correction including the use of ultrafast lasers in applications such as laser cataract surgery
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where higher precision and use of advanced implants enable better and more reliable patient outcomes.
Laser cataract surgery is a relatively new application which is expected to see strong growth over the
next several years. We also have opportunities in dental procedures for both hard and soft tissue
ablation, with greatly improved patient comfort and outcome. In the area of photocoagulation, our
Genesis OPSL yellow lasers are being used as the wavelength is particularly suitable for the treatment
of blood vessels. In aesthetic laser procedures, we are an OEM supplier of CO2 and semiconductor
lasers to the major manufacturers of equipment used in the latest procedures in dermatology and hair
removal.
Scientific research and government programs
Worldwide scientific funding seems very stable overall, with some regions growing and others just
holding their current level. Bright spots include the strong push in neuroscience to better understand
how the brain works. Lasers play a very important role in imaging brain structure as well as tracking
activity in animal brains using techniques such as optogenetics. We believe that our current and
upcoming products are well positioned to take advantage of this exciting opportunity. In physics and
chemistry applications, our recent product introductions of high performance and industrially hardened
ultrafast products have been very well received. While this is a very competitive market, we expect that
our new products will position us for growth.
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MARKET APPLICATIONS
We design, manufacture and market lasers, laser tools, precision optics and related accessories for
a diverse group of customers. The following table lists our major markets and the Coherent
technologies serving these markets.*
Market
Application
Technology
Microelectronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Flat panel display
Advanced packaging and
interconnects
Semiconductor front-end
Materials processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Metal cutting, drilling, joining,
cladding, surface treatment and
additive manufacturing
Laser marking and coding
Non-metal cutting, drilling
OEM components and instrumentation . . Bio-Instrumentation
Graphic arts and display
Medical therapy (OEM)
Scientific research and government
programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . All scientific applications
CO, CO2
DPSS
Excimer
Ultrafast
Semiconductor
CO, CO2
DPSS
Excimer
Ultrafast
CO2
DPSS
OPSL
Excimer
Ion
CO2
Fiber
Semiconductor
Laser Machine Tools Ultrafast
CO2
DPSS
Ultrafast
CO, CO2
DPSS
Ultrafast
Excimer
Semiconductor
Laser Machine Tools
DPSS
OPSL
Semiconductor
OPSL
CO2
CO, CO2
DPSS
Ultrafast
Excimer
OPSL
Semiconductor
DPSS
Excimer
OPSL
Ultrafast
*
Coherent sells its laser measurement and control products into a number of these applications.
In addition to products we provide, we invest routinely in the core technologies needed to create
substantial differentiation for our products in the marketplace. Our semiconductor, crystal, fiber and
large form factor optics facilities all maintain an external customer base providing value-added
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solutions. We direct significant engineering efforts to produce unique solutions targeted for internal
consumption. These investments, once integrated into our broader product portfolio, provide our
customers with uniquely differentiated solutions and the opportunity to substantially enhance the
performance, reliability and capability of the products we offer.
TECHNOLOGIES
Diode-pumped solid-state lasers
DPSS lasers use semiconductor lasers to pump a crystal to produce a laser beam. By changing the
energy, optical components and the types of crystals used in the laser, different wavelengths and types
of laser light can be produced.
The efficiency, reliability, longevity and relatively low cost of DPSS lasers make them ideally suited
for a wide range of OEM and end-user applications, particularly those requiring 24-hour operations.
Our DPSS systems are compact and self-contained sealed units. Unlike conventional tools and other
lasers, our DPSS lasers require minimal maintenance since they do not have internal controls or
components that require adjusting and cleaning to maintain consistency. They are also less affected by
environmental changes in temperature and humidity, which can alter alignment and inhibit performance
in many systems.
We manufacture a variety of types of DPSS lasers for different applications including
semiconductor inspection; advanced packaging and interconnects; laser pumping; spectroscopy;
bio-agent detection; DNA sequencing; drug discovery; flow cytometry; forensics; computer-to-plate
printing; entertainment lighting (display); medical; rapid prototyping and marking, welding, engraving,
cutting and drilling.
Fiber lasers
Fiber lasers use semiconductor lasers to pump a doped optical fiber to produce a laser beam. The
unique features of a fiber laser make them suitable for producing high power, continuous wave laser
beams. We introduced a multi kilowatt fiber laser platform in fiscal 2015. Our fiber laser design has
several unique features including a modular design for improved serviceability and diode bar based
pumping. Due to packaging efficiency, diode bars reduce the overall cost of a fiber laser. Some of the
most critical components inside a fiber laser include the gain fiber itself and the diodes providing the
pump power. We are well positioned as a fiber laser supplier since we are vertically integrated with
respect to these key technologies; we use diode bars and fiber manufactured in-house. We plan to
continue to drive cost reduction in our diode laser pumps and demonstrate the scalability of the
platform by moving up the power scale into the multi kilowatt regime. This platform will address the
large growing high power metal cutting and joining market.
Gas lasers (CO, CO2, Excimer, Ion)
The breadth of our gas laser portfolio is industry leading, encompassing CO, CO2, excimer and ion
laser technologies. Gas lasers derive their name from the use of one or more gases as a lasing medium.
They collectively span an extremely diverse and useful emission range, from the very deep ultraviolet to
the far infrared. This diverse range of available wavelengths, coupled with high optical output power,
and an abundance of other attractive characteristics, makes gas lasers extremely useful and popular for
a variety of microelectronics, scientific, medical therapeutic and materials processing applications.
Optically Pumped Semiconductor Lasers (‘‘OPSL’’)
Our OPSL platform is a surface emitting semiconductor laser that is energized or pumped by a
semiconductor laser. The use of optical pumping circumvents inherent power scaling limitations of
electrically pumped lasers, enabling very high powered devices. A wide range of wavelengths can be
achieved by varying the semiconductor materials used in the device and changing the frequency of the
laser beam using techniques common in solid state lasers. The platform leverages high reliability
technologies developed for telecommunications and produces a compact, rugged, high power,
single-mode laser.
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Our OPSL products are well suited to a wide range of applications, including the
bio-instrumentation, medical therapeutics and graphic arts and display markets. We continue to expand
our ultraviolet version of the OPSL platform called the Genesis, which was developed for the
bio-instrumentation market.
Semiconductor lasers
High power edge emitting semiconductor diode lasers use the same principles as widely-used CD
and DVD lasers, but produce significantly higher power levels. The advantages of this type of laser
include smaller size, longer life, enhanced reliability and greater efficiency. We manufacture a wide
range of discrete semiconductor laser products with wavelengths ranging from 650nm to over 1000nm
and output powers ranging from 1W to over 100W, with highly integrated products in the kW range.
These products are available in a variety of industry standard form factors including the following: bare
die, packaged and fiber coupled single emitters and bars, monolithic stacks and fully integrated
modules with microprocessor controlled units that contain power supplies and active coolers.
Our semiconductor lasers are used internally as the pump lasers in DPSS, fiber and OPSL
products that are manufactured by us, as well as a wide variety of external medical, OEM, military and
industrial applications, including aesthetic (hair removal, cosmetic dentistry), graphic arts, counter
measures, rangefinders, target designators, cladding, hardening and plastic welding.
Ultrafast (‘‘UF’’) Lasers
Ultrafast lasers are lasers generating light pulses with durations of a few femtoseconds
(10(cid:4)15 seconds) to a few tens of picoseconds (10(cid:4)11 seconds). These types of lasers are used for
medical, advanced microelectronics and materials processing applications as well as scientific research.
UF laser oscillators generate a train of pulses at 50-100 MHz, with peak powers of tens of kilowatts,
and UF laser amplifiers generate pulses at 1-2000 kHz, with peak powers up to several Terawatts.
The extremely short duration of UF laser pulses enables temporally resolving fast events like the
dynamics of atoms or electrons. In addition, the high peak power enables so-called non-linear effects
where several photons can be absorbed by a molecule at the same time. This type of process enables
applications like multi-photon excitation microscopy or UF ablation of materials with high precision
and minimal thermal damage. The use of our ultrafast lasers in applications outside science has been
growing rapidly over the last several years, particularly in microelectronics and materials processing
applications.
SALES AND MARKETING
We primarily market our products in the United States through a direct sales force. Our foreign
sales are made principally to customers in South Korea, Japan, Germany, China and other European
and Asia-Pacific countries. We sell internationally through direct sales personnel located in Canada,
France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, China, South Korea, Taiwan and the United Kingdom,
as well as through independent representatives in certain jurisdictions around the world. Foreign sales
accounted for 73% of our total net sales in fiscal 2015, 74% of our total net sales in fiscal 2014 and
77% of our total net sales in fiscal 2013. Sales made to independent representatives and distributors
are generally priced in U.S. dollars. A large portion of foreign sales that we make directly to customers
are priced in local currencies and are therefore subject to currency exchange fluctuations. Foreign sales
are also subject to other normal risks of foreign operations such as protective tariffs, export and import
controls and political instability.
We had one customer, Advanced Process Systems Corporation, who contributed more than 10% of
revenue during fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013.
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To support our sales efforts we maintain and continue to invest in a number of applications centers
around the world, where our applications experts work closely with customers on developing laser
processes to meet their manufacturing needs. The applications span a wide range, but are mostly
centered around the materials processing and microelectronics markets. Locations include several
facilities in the US, Europe and Asia.
We maintain customer support and field service staff in major markets within the United States,
Europe, Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan and other Asia-Pacific countries. This organization works
closely with customers, customer groups and independent representatives in servicing equipment,
training customers to use our products and exploring additional applications of our technologies.
We typically provide parts and service warranties on our lasers, laser-based systems, optical and
laser components and related accessories and services. Warranties on some of our products and services
may be shorter or longer than one year. Warranty reserves, as reflected on our consolidated balance
sheets, have generally been sufficient to cover product warranty repair and replacement costs. The
weighted average warranty period covered is approximately 15 months.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
We are constantly developing and introducing new products as well as improving and refining
existing products to better serve the markets we participate in. Our development efforts are focused on
designing and developing products, services and solutions that anticipate customers’ changing needs and
emerging technological trends. Our efforts are also focused on identifying the areas where we believe
we can make valuable contributions. Research and development expenditures for fiscal 2015 were $81.5
million, or 10.2% of net sales compared to $79.1 million, or 10.0% of net sales for fiscal 2014 and $82.8
million, or 10.2% of net sales for fiscal 2013. We work closely with customers, both individually and
through our sponsored seminars, to develop products to meet customer application and performance
needs. In addition, we are working with leading research and educational institutions to develop new
photonics based solutions.
MANUFACTURING
Strategies
One of our core manufacturing strategies is to tightly control our supply of key parts, components,
sub-assemblies and outsourcing partners. We primarily utilize vertical integration when we have
proprietary internal capabilities that are not cost-effectively available from external sources. We believe
this is essential to maintain high quality products and enable rapid development and deployment of
new products and technologies. We provide customers with 24-hour technical expertise and quality that
is International Organization for Standardization (‘‘ISO’’) certified at our principal manufacturing sites.
Committed to quality and customer satisfaction, we design and produce many of our own
components and sub-assemblies in order to retain quality and performance control. We have also
outsourced certain components, sub-assemblies and finished goods where we can maintain our high
quality standards while improving our cost structure.
As part of our strategy to increase our market share and customer support in Asia as well as our
continuing efforts to manage costs, we have transferred the production of additional products into both
of our Singapore and Malaysia factories. In addition, we expanded our repair activities in our China
operation. This has allowed us to reduce service response time and inventories, providing benefits to us
and to our customers. We have also established an International Procurement Office in Singapore and
have been increasing our sourcing of materials from Asia to reduce material costs on a global basis. In
fiscal 2012, we opened a tube refurbishment manufacturing site in South Korea to better service our
customers in that region. In fiscal 2013, we expanded our manufacturing presence in Germany through
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the acquisition of Lumera. In fiscal 2015, we increased our vertical integration capabilities with the
asset acquisition of the Tinsley Optics business from L-3 Communications Corporation.
We have designed and implemented proprietary manufacturing tools, equipment and techniques in
an effort to provide products that differentiate us from our competitors. These proprietary
manufacturing techniques are utilized in a number of our product lines including our gas laser
production, crystal growth, beam alignment as well as the wafer growth for our semiconductor and
optically pumped semiconductor laser product family.
Raw materials or sub-components required in the manufacturing process are generally available
from several sources. However, we currently purchase several key components and materials, including
exotic materials, crystals and optics, used in the manufacture of our products from sole source or
limited source suppliers. We also purchase assemblies and turnkey solutions from contract
manufacturers based on our proprietary designs. We rely on our own production and design capability
to manufacture and specify certain strategic components, crystals, fibers, semiconductor lasers, lasers
and laser based systems.
For a discussion of the importance to our business of, and the risks attendant to sourcing, see
‘‘Risk Factors’’ in item 1A—‘‘We depend on sole source or limited source suppliers, both internal and
external, for some of our key components and materials, including exotic materials, certain cutting-edge
optics and crystals, in our products, which make us susceptible to supply shortages or price fluctuations
that could adversely affect our business.’’
Operations
Our products are manufactured at our sites in Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Richmond, California;
Wilsonville, Oregon; East Hanover, New Jersey; Bloomfield, Connecticut; Salem, New Hampshire;
L¨ubeck, Germany; G¨ottingen, Germany; Kaiserslautern, Germany; Glasgow, Scotland; YongIn-Si, South
Korea; Kallang Sector, Singapore; and Penang, Malaysia. In addition, we also use contract
manufacturers for the production of certain assemblies and turnkey solutions. Our ion gas lasers, a
portion of our DPSS lasers that are used in microelectronics, scientific research and materials
processing applications, semiconductor lasers, OPS lasers, fiber lasers and ultrafast scientific lasers are
manufactured at our Santa Clara, California site. Our laser diode module products, laser
instrumentation products, test and measurement equipment products are manufactured in Wilsonville,
Oregon. We manufacture exotic crystals in East Hanover, New Jersey and both active and passive fibers
are manufactured in our Salem, New Hampshire facility. Our CO2 and CO gas lasers are manufactured
in Bloomfield, Connecticut. We manufacture a portion of our DPSS lasers used in microelectronics and
OEM components and instrumentation applications in L¨ubeck, Germany. We manufacture a portion of
our DPSS lasers used in microelectronics, OEM components and instrumentation and materials
processing applications in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Our excimer gas laser products are manufactured
in G¨ottingen, Germany. We refurbish excimer tubes at our manufacturing site in South Korea. We
manufacture the fiber-based lasers and a portion of our DPSS lasers used in microelectronics and
scientific research applications in Glasgow, Scotland. Our facility in Sunnyvale, California grows the
aluminum-free materials that are incorporated into our semiconductor lasers. Our facility in Richmond,
California manufactures large form factor optics for our Linebeam excimer laser annealing systems. We
have transferred several products and subassemblies for manufacture at our Singapore and Malaysia
facilities and are continuing to transfer additional product manufacturing to Singapore and Malaysia as
part of our worldwide manufacturing cost reduction strategy.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
We rely on a combination of patent, copyright, trademark and trade secret laws and restrictions on
disclosure to protect our intellectual property rights. As of October 3, 2015, we held approximately
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484 U.S. and foreign patents, which expire from 2015 through 2032 (depending on the payment of
maintenance fees) and we have approximately 139 additional pending patent applications that have
been filed. The issued patents cover various products in all of the major markets that we serve.
For a discussion of the importance to our business of, and the risks attendant to intellectual
property rights, see ‘‘Risk Factors’’ in Item 1A—‘‘We may not be able to protect our proprietary
technology which could adversely affect our competitive advantage’’ and ‘‘We may, in the future, be
subject to claims or litigation from third parties, for claims of infringement of their proprietary rights or
to determine the scope and validity of our proprietary rights or the proprietary rights of competitors or
other rights holders. These claims could result in costly litigation and the diversion of our technical and
management personnel. Adverse resolution of litigation may harm our operating results or financial
condition.’’
COMPETITION
Competition in the various photonics markets in which we provide products is very intense. We
compete against a number of companies including CVI Melles Griot, GSI Group, Inc., IPG Photonics
Corporation, Lumentum Holdings Inc., Newport Corporation, Rofin-Sinar Technologies, Inc.,
Trumpf GmbH, as well as other smaller companies. We compete globally based on our broad product
offering, reliability, cost, and performance advantages for the widest range of commercial and scientific
research applications. Other considerations by our customers include warranty, global service and
support and distribution.
BACKLOG
At fiscal 2015 year-end, our backlog of orders scheduled for shipment (within one year) was $309.5
million compared to $328.3 million at fiscal 2014 year-end. By segment, backlog for SLS was $219.3
million and $253.0 million, respectively, at fiscal 2015 and 2014 year-ends. Backlog for CLC was $90.2
million and $75.3 million, respectively, at fiscal 2015 and 2014 year-ends. The decrease in SLS backlog
from fiscal 2014 to fiscal 2015 year-end is primarily due to timing of large excimer laser annealing
system shipments net of new orders for the flat panel display market, which explains the decrease in
overall company backlog as well. Orders used to compute backlog are generally cancelable without
substantial penalties. Historically, the rate of cancellation experienced by us has not been significant
though we cannot guarantee that cancellations will not increase in the future.
SEASONALITY
We have historically experienced decreased bookings and revenue in the first fiscal quarter
compared to other quarters in our fiscal year due to the impact of time off and business closures at our
facilities and those of many of our customers due to year-end holidays. For example over the past
10 years we have noted, excluding certain recovery years, our first fiscal quarter revenues have ranged
2%-12% below the fourth quarter of the prior fiscal years. This historical pattern should not be
considered a reliable indicator of the Company’s future net sales or financial performance.
EMPLOYEES
As of fiscal 2015 year-end, we had 2,586 employees. Approximately 407 of our employees are
involved in research and development; 1,572 of our employees are involved in operations,
manufacturing, service and quality assurance; and 607 of our employees are involved in sales, order
administration, marketing, finance, information technology, general management and other
administrative functions. Our success will depend in large part upon our ability to attract and retain
employees. We face competition in this regard from other companies, research and academic
institutions, government entities and other organizations. We consider our relations with our employees
to be good.
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ACQUISITIONS
In July 2015, we acquired certain assets of Raydiance, Inc. (‘‘Raydiance’’) for approximately
$5.0 million, excluding transaction costs. Raydiance had manufactured complete tools and lasers for
ultrafast processing systems and subsystems in the precision micromachining processing market. The
Raydiance assets have been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
In July 2015, we acquired the assets and certain liabilities of the Tinsley Optics (‘‘Tinsley’’)
business from L-3 Communications Corporation for approximately $4.3 million, excluding transaction
costs. Tinsley is a specialized manufacturer of high precision optical components and subsystems sold
primarily in the aerospace and defense industry. Tinsley manufactures the large form factor optics for
our excimer laser annealing systems. Tinsley has been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems
segment.
In December 2012, we acquired privately held Lumera Laser GmbH (Kaiserslautern, Germany)
(‘‘Lumera’’) for approximately $51.5 million, excluding transaction costs. Lumera manufactures ultrafast
solid state lasers for microelectronics, OEM medical and materials processing applications. Lumera has
been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
In October 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding shares of Innolight Innovative Laser and
Systemtechnik GmbH (‘‘Innolight’’) for approximately $18.3 million, excluding transaction costs.
Innolight provides a core technology building block for an emerging class of commercial,
sub-nanosecond lasers for microelectronics manufacturing. Its semiconductor-based architecture delivers
pulsed output that can be amplified by conventional or fiber amplifiers to ultimately deliver infrared,
green or ultraviolet light capable of processing a range of materials. Innolight has been included in our
Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
Please refer to ‘‘Note 3. Business Combinations’’ of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
under Item 15 of this annual report for further discussion of recent acquisitions completed.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
Environmental regulation
Our operations are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign environmental regulations
relating to the use, storage, handling and disposal of regulated materials, chemicals, various radioactive
materials and certain waste products. In the United States, we are subject to the federal regulation and
control of the Environmental Protection Agency. Comparable authorities are involved in other
countries. Such rules are subject to change by the governing agency and we monitor those changes
closely. We expect all operations to meet the legal and regulatory environmental requirements and
believe that compliance with those regulations will not have a material adverse effect on our capital
expenditures, earnings and competitive and financial position.
Although we believe that our safety procedures for using, handling, storing and disposing of such
materials comply with the standards required by federal and state laws and regulations, we cannot
completely eliminate the risk of accidental contamination or injury from these materials. In the event of
such an accident involving such materials, we could be liable for damages and such liability could
exceed the amount of our liability insurance coverage and the resources of our business.
We may face the potential of increasing complexity in our product designs and procurement
operations due to the evolving nature of product compliance standards. Those standards may impact
the material composition of our products entering specific markets. Such regulations went into effect in
the European Union (‘‘EU’’) in 2006, (The Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS)) and
2007 (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)), and China in
2007 (Management Methods for Controlling Pollution Caused by Electronic Information Products
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Regulation (China-RoHS)), and the US Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
of 2010. Furthermore, we could face costs and liabilities in connection with product take-back
legislation. Beginning in 2006, the EU Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive made
producers of electrical goods financially responsible for specified collection, recycling, treatment and
disposal of past and future covered products. Similar laws are now pending in various jurisdictions
around the world, including the United States.
Environmental liabilities
Our operations are subject to various laws and regulations governing the environment, including
the discharge of pollutants and the management and disposal of hazardous substances. As a result of
our historic as well as on-going operations, we could incur substantial costs, including remediation
costs. The costs under environmental laws and the timing of these costs are difficult to predict. Our
accruals for such costs and liabilities may not be adequate because the estimates on which the accruals
are based depend on a number of factors including the nature of the matter, the complexity of the site,
site geology, the nature and extent of contamination, the type of remedy, the outcome of discussions
with regulatory agencies and other Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs) at multi-party sites and the
number and financial viability of other PRPs.
We further discuss the impact of environmental regulation under ‘‘Risk Factors’’ in
Item 1A—‘‘Compliance or the failure to comply with current and future environmental regulations
could cause us significant expense.’’
SEGMENT INFORMATION
We are organized into two operating segments: Specialty Lasers and Systems (‘‘SLS’’) and
Commercial Lasers and Components (‘‘CLC’’). This segmentation reflects the go-to-market strategies
for various products and markets. SLS develops and manufactures configurable, advanced-performance
products largely serving the microelectronics, scientific research and government programs and OEM
components and instrumentation markets. The size and complexity of many of the SLS products
require service to be performed at the customer site by factory-trained field service engineers. While
both segments work to deliver cost-effective photonics solutions, CLC focuses on higher volume
products that are offered in set configurations. The product architectures are designed for easy
exchange at the point of use such that product service and repairs are based upon advanced
replacement and depot (i.e., factory) repair. CLC’s primary markets include materials processing, OEM
components and instrumentation and microelectronics.
We have identified SLS and CLC as operating segments for which discrete financial information
was available. Both units have dedicated engineering, manufacturing, product business management and
product line management functions. A small portion of our outside revenue is attributable to projects
and recently developed products for which a segment has not yet been determined. The associated
direct and indirect costs are presented in the category of Corporate and other, along with other
corporate costs.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION ABOUT FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC OPERATIONS AND EXPORT
SALES
Financial information relating to foreign and domestic operations for fiscal years 2015, 2014 and
2013, is set forth in Note 15, ‘‘Segment and Geographic Information’’ of our Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements under Item 15 of this annual report.
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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider the followings risks when considering an investment in our Common
Stock. These risks could materially affect our business, results of operations or financial condition, cause the
trading price of our Common Stock to decline materially or cause our actual results to differ materially
from those expected or those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by us. These risks are not
exclusive, and additional risks to which we are subject include, but are not limited to, the factors mentioned
under ‘‘Forward-Looking Statements’’ and the risk of our businesses described elsewhere in this annual
report. Additionally, these risks and uncertainties described herein are not the only ones facing us. Other
events that we do not currently anticipate or that we currently deem immaterial also may affect our business,
results of operations or financial condition.
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT AND INDUSTRY TRENDS
Our operating results, including net sales, net income (loss) and adjusted EBITDA in dollars and
as a percentage of net sales, as well as our stock price have varied in the past, and our future
operating results will continue to be subject to quarterly and annual fluctuations based upon
numerous factors, including those discussed in this Item 1A and throughout this report. Our stock
price will continue to be subject to daily variations as well. Our future operating results and stock
price may not follow any past trends or meet our guidance and expectations.
Our net sales and operating results, such as adjusted EBITDA percentage, net income (loss) and
operating expenses, and our stock price have varied in the past and may vary significantly from quarter
to quarter and from year to year in the future. We believe a number of factors, many of which are
outside of our control, could cause these variations and make them difficult to predict, including:
• general economic uncertainties in the macroeconomic and local economies facing us, our
customers and the markets we serve;
• fluctuations in demand for our products or downturns in the industries that we serve;
• the ability of our suppliers, both internal and external, to produce and deliver components and
parts, including sole or limited source components, in a timely manner, in the quantity, quality
and prices desired;
• the timing of receipt and conversion of bookings to net sales;
• the concentration of a significant amount of our backlog, and resultant net sales, with a few
customers;
• rescheduling of shipments or cancellation of orders by our customers;
• fluctuations in our product mix;
• the ability of our customers’ other suppliers to provide sufficient material to support our
customers’ products;
• currency fluctuations and stability, in particular the Euro, the Japanese Yen, the South Korean
Won, the Chinese Renminbi and the US dollar as compared to other currencies;
• commodity pricing;
• introductions of new products and product enhancements by our competitors, entry of new
competitors into our markets, pricing pressures and other competitive factors;
• our ability to develop, introduce, manufacture and ship new and enhanced products in a timely
manner without defects;
• our ability to manage our manufacturing capacity and that of our suppliers;
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• our reliance on contract manufacturing;
• the rate of market acceptance of our new products;
• the ability of our customers to pay for our products;
• expenses associated with acquisition-related activities;
• seasonal sales trends;
• access to applicable credit markets by us, our customers and their end customers;
• delays or reductions in customer purchases of our products in anticipation of the introduction of
new and enhanced products by us or our competitors;
• our ability to control expenses;
• the level of capital spending of our customers;
• potential excess and/or obsolescence of our inventory;
• costs and timing of adhering to current and developing governmental regulations and reviews
relating to our products and business;
• costs related to acquisitions of technology or businesses;
• impairment of goodwill, intangible assets and other long-lived assets;
• our ability to meet our expectations and forecasts and those of public market analysts and
investors;
• the availability of research funding by governments with regard to our customers in the scientific
business, such as universities;
• continued government spending on defense-related projects where we are a subcontractor;
• maintenance of supply relating to products sold to the government on terms which we would
prefer not to accept;
• changes in policy, interpretations, or challenges to the allowability of costs incurred under
government cost accounting standards;
• damage to our reputation as a result of coverage in social media, Internet blogs or other media
outlets;
• managing our and other parties’ compliance with contracts in multiple languages and
jurisdictions;
• managing our internal and third party sales representatives and distributors, including
compliance with all applicable laws;
• impact of government economic policies on macroeconomic conditions;
• costs and expenses from litigation;
• costs associated with designing around or payment of licensing fees associated with issued
patents in our fields of business;
• government support of alternative energy industries, such as solar;
• the future impact of legislation, rulemaking, and changes in accounting, tax, defense
procurement, or export policies; and
• distraction of management related to acquisition or divestment activities.
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In addition, we often recognize a substantial portion of our sales in the last month of our fiscal
quarters. Our expenses for any given quarter are typically based on expected sales and if sales are
below expectations in any given quarter, the adverse impact of the shortfall on our operating results
may be magnified by our inability to adjust spending quickly enough to compensate for the shortfall.
We also base our manufacturing on our forecasted product mix for the quarter. If the actual product
mix varies significantly from our forecast, we may not be able to fill some orders during that quarter,
which would result in delays in the shipment of our products. Accordingly, variations in timing of sales,
particularly for our higher priced, higher margin products, can cause significant fluctuations in quarterly
operating results.
Due to these and other factors, such as varying product mix, we believe that quarter-to-quarter and
year-to-year comparisons of our historical operating results may not be meaningful. You should not rely
on our results for any quarter or year as an indication of our future performance. Our operating results
in future quarters and years may be below public market analysts’ or investors’ expectations, which
would likely cause the price of our stock to fall. In addition, over the past several years, U.S. and
global equity markets have experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that have affected the
stock prices of many technology companies both in and outside our industry. There has not always
been a direct correlation between this volatility and the performance of particular companies subject to
these stock price fluctuations. These factors, as well as general economic and political conditions or
investors’ concerns regarding the credibility of corporate financial statements, may have a material
adverse effect on the market price of our stock in the future.
We depend on sole source or limited source suppliers, both internal and external, for some of our key
components and materials, including exotic materials, certain cutting-edge optics and crystals, in our products,
which make us susceptible to supply shortages or price fluctuations that could adversely affect our business.
We currently purchase several key components and materials used in the manufacture of our
products from sole source or limited source suppliers, both internal and external. Our failure to timely
receive these key components and materials could cause delays in the shipment of our products. Some
of these suppliers are relatively small private companies that may discontinue their operations at any
time and which may be particularly susceptible to prevailing economic conditions. Some of our
suppliers are located in regions which may be susceptible to natural disasters, such as the flooding in
Thailand and the earthquake, tsunami and resulting nuclear disaster in Japan and severe flooding and
power loss in the Eastern part of the United States in recent years. Some may be vulnerable to
man-made disasters, such as the recent worldwide shortage of neon gas as a result of the conflict in
Ukraine. We typically purchase our components and materials through purchase orders or agreed upon
terms and conditions and we do not have guaranteed supply arrangements with many of these
suppliers. Some of our products, particularly in the flat panel display industry, require designs and
specifications which are at the cutting-edge of available technologies. Our and our customers’ designs
and specifications frequently change to meet rapidly evolving market demands. Accordingly certain of
our products require components and supplies which may be technologically difficult and unpredictable
to manufacture. By their very nature, these types of components may only be available by a single
supplier. These characteristics further pressure the timely delivery of such components. We may fail to
obtain these supplies in a timely manner in the future. We may experience difficulty identifying
alternative sources of supply for certain components used in our products and may have to incur
expenses and management distraction in assisting our current and future suppliers to meet our and our
customers’ technical requirements. We would experience further delays while identifying, evaluating and
testing the products of these potential alternative suppliers. Furthermore, financial or other difficulties
faced by these suppliers or significant changes in demand for these components or materials could limit
their availability. We continue to consolidate our supply base and move supplier locations. When we
transition locations we may increase our inventory of such products as a ‘‘safety stock’’ during the
transition, which may cause the amount of inventory reflected on our balance sheet to increase.
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Additionally, many of our customers rely on sole source suppliers. In the event of a disruption of our
customers’ supply chain, orders from our customers could decrease or be delayed.
Any interruption or delay in the supply of any of these components or materials, or the inability to
obtain these components and materials from alternate sources at acceptable prices and within a
reasonable amount of time, or our failure to properly manage these moves, would impair our ability to
meet scheduled product deliveries to our customers and could cause customers to cancel orders. We
have historically relied exclusively on our own production capability to manufacture certain strategic
components, crystals, semiconductor lasers, lasers and laser-based systems. Because we manufacture,
package and test these components, products and systems at our own facilities, and such components,
products and systems are not readily available from other sources, any interruption in manufacturing
would adversely affect our business. Since many of our products have lengthy qualification periods, our
ability to introduce multiple suppliers for parts may be limited. In addition, our failure to achieve
adequate manufacturing yields of these items at our manufacturing facilities may materially and
adversely affect our operating results and financial condition.
We participate in the microelectronics market, which requires significant research and development expenses to
develop and maintain products and a failure to achieve market acceptance for our products could have a
significant negative impact on our business and results of operations.
The microelectronics market is characterized by rapid technological change, frequent product
introductions, the volatility of product supply and demand, changing customer requirements and
evolving industry standards. The nature of this market requires significant research and development
expenses to participate, with substantial resources invested in advance of material sales of our products
to our customers in this market. Additionally, our product offerings may become obsolete given the
frequent introduction of alternative technologies. In the event either our customers’ or our products fail
to gain market acceptance, or the microelectronics market fails to grow, it would likely have a
significant negative effect on our business and results of operations.
We participate in the flat panel display market, which has a relatively limited number of end customer
manufacturers. Our backlog, timing of net sales and results of operations could be negatively impacted in the
event our customers reschedule orders.
In the flat panel display market, there are a relatively limited number of manufacturers who are
the end customers for our annealing products. In each of our last three fiscal years, Advanced Process
Systems Corporation, an integrator in the flat panel display market based in South Korea, has
contributed more than 10% of our revenue. Given macroeconomic conditions, varying consumer
demand and technical process limitations at manufacturers, our customers may seek to reschedule or
cancel orders. This was recently seen with a requested expedited shipment of a Linebeam 1500 product
for our third fiscal quarter of 2015, which delivery date was then changed at the customer’s request
back to its originally scheduled date in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2015. Since these larger flat panel-
related systems represent a large average selling price, rescheduling or canceling an order will likely
have a significant impact on either our quarterly or annual net sales and results of operations.
Additionally, challenges in meeting evolving technological requirements for these complex products by
us and our suppliers could also result in delays in shipments, rescheduled or canceled orders by our
customers. This could negatively impact our backlog, timing of net sales and results of operations.
As of October 3, 2015, flat panel display systems represented 32% of our backlog. Since our
backlog includes higher average selling price flat panel display systems, any delays or cancellation of
shipments could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.
25
Some of our laser systems are complex in design and may contain defects that are not detected until deployed
by our customers, which could increase our costs and reduce our net sales.
Lasers and laser systems are inherently complex in design and require ongoing regular
maintenance. The manufacture of our lasers, laser products and systems involves a highly complex and
precise process. As a result of the technological complexity of our products, in particular the flat panel
annealing systems, changes in our or our suppliers’ manufacturing processes or the inadvertent use of
defective materials by us or our suppliers could result in a material adverse effect on our ability to
achieve acceptable manufacturing yields and product reliability. To the extent that we do not achieve
and maintain our projected yields or product reliability, our business, operating results, financial
condition and customer relationships would be adversely affected. We provide warranties on a majority
of our product sales, and reserves for estimated warranty costs are recorded during the period of sale.
The determination of such reserves requires us to make estimates of failure rates and expected costs to
repair or replace the products under warranty. We typically establish warranty reserves based on
historical warranty costs for each product line. If actual return rates and/or repair and replacement
costs differ significantly from our estimates, adjustments to cost of sales may be required in future
periods which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
Our customers may discover defects in our products after the products have been fully deployed
and operated, including under the end user’s peak stress conditions. In addition, some of our products
are combined with products from other vendors, which may contain defects. As a result, should
problems occur, it may be difficult to identify the source of the problem. If we are unable to identify
and fix defects or other problems, we could experience, among other things:
• loss of customers or orders;
• increased costs of product returns and warranty expenses;
• damage to our brand reputation;
• failure to attract new customers or achieve market acceptance;
• diversion of development, engineering and manufacturing resources; and
• legal actions by our customers and/or their end users.
The occurrence of any one or more of the foregoing factors could seriously harm our business,
financial condition and results of operations.
Continued volatility in the advanced packaging and semiconductor manufacturing markets could adversely
affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
A portion of our net sales in the microelectronics market depends on the demand for our products
by advanced packaging applications and semiconductor equipment companies. These markets have
historically been characterized by sudden and severe cyclical variations in product supply and demand,
which have often severely affected the demand for semiconductor manufacturing equipment, including
laser-based tools and systems. The timing, severity and duration of these market cycles are difficult to
predict, and we may not be able to respond effectively to these cycles. The continuing uncertainty in
these markets severely limits our ability to predict our business prospects or financial results in these
markets.
During industry downturns, our net sales from these markets may decline suddenly and
significantly. Our ability to rapidly and effectively reduce our cost structure in response to such
downturns is limited by the fixed nature of many of our expenses in the near term and by our need to
continue our investment in next-generation product technology and to support and service our
products. In addition, due to the relatively long manufacturing lead times for some of the systems and
26
subsystems we sell to these markets, we may incur expenditures or purchase raw materials or
components for products we cannot sell. Accordingly, downturns in the semiconductor capital
equipment market may materially harm our operating results. Conversely, when upturns in these
markets occur, we must be able to rapidly and effectively increase our manufacturing capacity to meet
increases in customer demand that may be extremely rapid, and if we fail to do so we may lose
business to our competitors and our relationships with our customers may be harmed.
We are exposed to risks associated with worldwide economic conditions and related uncertainties which could
negatively impact demand for our products and results of operations.
Volatility and disruption in the capital and credit markets, depressed consumer confidence,
government economic policies, negative economic conditions, volatile corporate profits and reduced
capital spending could negatively impact demand for our products. In particular, it is difficult to
develop and implement strategy, sustainable business models and efficient operations, as well as
effectively manage supply chain relationships in the face of such conditions including uncertainty
regarding the ability of some of our suppliers to continue operations and provide us with uninterrupted
supply flow. Our ability to maintain our research and development investments in our broad product
offerings may be adversely impacted in the event that our sales decline and do not increase in the
future. Spending and the timing thereof by consumers and businesses have a significant impact on our
results and, where such spending is delayed or canceled, it could have a material negative impact on
our operating results. Current global economic conditions remain uncertain and challenging. Weakness
in our end markets could negatively impact our net sales, gross margin and operating expenses, and
consequently have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of
operations.
Uncertainty in global fiscal policy has likely had an adverse impact on global financial markets and
overall economic activity. Should this uncertain financial policy recur, it would likely negatively impact
global economic activity. Any weakness in global economies would also likely have negative
repercussions on U.S. and global credit and financial markets, and further exacerbate sovereign debt
concerns in the European Union. All of these factors would likely adversely impact the global demand
for our products and the performance of our investments, and would likely have a material adverse
effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
The financial turmoil affecting the banking system and financial markets continues to negatively
impact financial institutions and has resulted in tighter credit markets, and lower levels of liquidity in
some financial markets. There could be a number of follow-on effects from the tightened credit
environment on our business, including the insolvency of key suppliers or their inability to obtain credit
to finance development and/or manufacture products resulting in product delays; inability of customers
to obtain credit to finance purchases of our products and/or customer insolvencies; and failure of
financial institutions negatively impacting our treasury functions. In the event our customers are unable
to obtain credit or otherwise pay for our shipped products it could significantly impact our ability to
collect on our outstanding accounts receivable. Other income and expense also could vary materially
from expectations depending on gains or losses realized on the sale or exchange of financial
instruments; impairment charges resulting from revaluations of debt and equity securities and other
investments; interest rates; cash balances; and changes in fair value of derivative instruments. Volatility
in the financial markets and any overall economic uncertainty increase the risk that the actual amounts
realized in the future on our financial instruments could differ significantly from the fair values
currently assigned to them. Uncertainty about current global economic conditions could also continue
to increase the volatility of our stock price.
27
In addition, political and social turmoil related to international conflicts, terrorist acts, civil unrest
and mass migration may put further pressure on economic conditions in the United States and the rest
of the world. Unstable economic, political and social conditions make it difficult for our customers, our
suppliers and us to accurately forecast and plan future business activities. If such conditions persist, our
business, financial condition and results of operations could suffer. Additionally, unstable economic
conditions can provide significant pressures and burdens on individuals, which could cause them to
engage in inappropriate business conduct. See ‘‘Part II, Item 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.’’
Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments are managed through various banks around the
world and volatility in the capital and credit market conditions could cause financial institutions to fail or
materially harm service levels provided by such banks, both of which could have an adverse impact on our
ability to timely access funds.
World capital and credit markets have been and may continue to experience volatility and
disruption. In some cases, the markets have exerted downward pressure on stock prices and credit
capacity for certain issuers, as well as pressured the solvency of some financial institutions. These
financial institutions, including banks, have had difficulty timely performing regular services and in
some cases have failed or otherwise been largely taken over by governments. We maintain our cash,
cash equivalents and short-term investments with a number of financial institutions around the world.
Should some or all of these financial institutions fail or otherwise be unable to timely perform
requested services, we would likely have a limited ability to timely access our cash deposited with such
institutions, or, in extreme circumstances the failure of such institutions could cause us to be unable to
access cash for the foreseeable future. If we are unable to quickly access our funds when we need
them, we may need to increase the use of our existing credit lines or access more expensive credit, if
available. If we are unable to access our cash or if we access existing or additional credit or are unable
to access additional credit, it could have a negative impact on our operations, including our reported
net income. In addition, the willingness of financial institutions to continue to accept our cash deposits
will impact our ability to diversify our investment risk among institutions.
We are exposed to credit risk and fluctuations in the market values of our investment portfolio.
Although we have not recognized any material losses on our cash, cash equivalents and short-term
investments, future declines in their market values could have a material adverse effect on our financial
condition and operating results. Given the global nature of our business, we have investments both
domestically and internationally. There has recently been growing pressure on the creditworthiness of
sovereign nations, particularly in Europe where a significant portion of our cash, cash equivalents and
short-term investments are invested, which results in corresponding pressure on the valuation of the
securities issued by such nations. Additionally, our overall investment portfolio is often concentrated in
government-issued securities such as U.S. Treasury securities and government agencies, corporate notes,
commercial paper and money market funds. Credit ratings and pricing of these investments can be
negatively impacted by liquidity, credit deterioration or losses, financial results, or other factors.
Additionally, liquidity issues or political actions by sovereign nations could result in decreased values
for our investments in certain government securities. As a result, the value or liquidity of our cash, cash
equivalents and short-term investments could decline or become materially impaired, which could have
a material adverse effect on our financial condition and operating results. See ‘‘Item 7A. Quantitative
and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.’’
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Our future success depends on our ability to increase our sales volumes and decrease our costs to offset
potential declines in the average selling prices (‘‘ASPs’’) of our products and, if we are unable to realize
greater sales volumes and lower costs, our operating results may suffer.
Our ability to increase our sales volume and our future success depends on the continued growth
of the markets for lasers, laser systems and related accessories, as well as our ability to identify, in
advance, emerging markets for laser-based systems. We cannot assure you that we will be able to
successfully identify, on a timely basis, new high-growth markets in the future. Moreover, we cannot
assure you that new markets will develop for our products or our customers’ products, or that our
technology or pricing will enable such markets to develop. Future demand for our products is uncertain
and will depend to a great degree on continued technological development and the introduction of new
or enhanced products. If this does not continue, sales of our products may decline and our business will
be harmed.
We have in the past experienced decreases in the ASPs of some of our products. As competing
products become more widely available, the ASPs of our products may decrease. If we are unable to
offset any decrease in our ASPs by increasing our sales volumes, our net sales will decline. In addition,
to maintain our gross margins, we must continue to reduce the cost of manufacturing our products
while maintaining their high quality. From time to time, our products, like many complex technological
products, may fail in greater frequency than anticipated. This can lead to further charges, which can
result in higher costs, lower gross margins and lower operating results. Furthermore, as ASPs of our
current products decline, we must develop and introduce new products and product enhancements with
higher margins. If we cannot maintain our gross margins, our operating results could be seriously
harmed, particularly if the ASPs of our products decrease significantly.
Our future success depends on our ability to develop and successfully introduce new and enhanced products
that meet the needs of our customers.
Our current products address a broad range of commercial and scientific research applications in
the photonics markets. We cannot assure you that the market for these applications will continue to
generate significant or consistent demand for our products. Demand for our products could be
significantly diminished by disrupting technologies or products that replace them or render them
obsolete. Furthermore, the new and enhanced products in certain markets generally continue to be
smaller in size and have lower ASPs, and therefore, we have to sell more units to maintain revenue
levels. Accordingly, we must continue to invest in research and development in order to develop
competitive products.
Our future success depends on our ability to anticipate our customers’ needs and develop products
that address those needs. Introduction of new products and product enhancements will require that we
effectively transfer production processes from research and development to manufacturing and
coordinate our efforts with those of our suppliers to achieve volume production rapidly. If we fail to
transfer production processes effectively, develop product enhancements or introduce new products in
sufficient quantities to meet the needs of our customers as scheduled, our net sales may be reduced
and our business may be harmed.
We face risks associated with our foreign operations and sales that could harm our financial condition and
results of operations.
For fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, 73%, 74% and 77%, respectively, of our net sales were
derived from customers outside of the United States. We anticipate that foreign sales, particularly in
Asia, will continue to account for a significant portion of our net sales in the foreseeable future.
A global economic slowdown or a natural disaster could have a negative effect on various foreign
markets in which we operate, such as the earthquake, tsunami and resulting nuclear disaster in Japan
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and the flooding in Thailand in recent years. Such a slowdown may cause us to reduce our presence in
certain countries, which may negatively affect the overall level of business in such countries. Our
foreign sales are primarily through our direct sales force. Additionally, some foreign sales are made
through foreign distributors and representatives. Our foreign operations and sales are subject to a
number of risks, including:
• longer accounts receivable collection periods;
• the impact of recessions and other economic conditions in economies outside the United States;
• unexpected changes in regulatory requirements;
• certification requirements;
• environmental regulations;
• reduced protection for intellectual property rights in some countries;
• potentially adverse tax consequences;
• political and economic instability;
• import/export regulations, tariffs and trade barriers;
• compliance with applicable United States and foreign anti-corruption laws;
• cultural and management differences;
• reliance in some jurisdictions on third party sales channel partners;
• preference for locally produced products; and
• shipping and other logistics complications.
Our business could also be impacted by international conflicts, terrorist and military activity, civil
unrest and pandemic illness which could cause a slowdown in customer orders, cause customer order
cancellations or negatively impact availability of supplies or limit our ability to timely service our
installed base of products.
We are also subject to the risks of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates, which could
materially adversely affect the sales price of our products in foreign markets, as well as the costs and
expenses of our foreign subsidiaries. While we use forward exchange contracts and other risk
management techniques to hedge our foreign currency exposure, we remain exposed to the economic
risks of foreign currency fluctuations.
We may not be able to protect our proprietary technology which could adversely affect our competitive
advantage.
Maintenance of intellectual property rights and the protection thereof is important to our business.
We rely on a combination of patent, copyright, trademark and trade secret laws and restrictions on
disclosure to protect our intellectual property rights. Our patent applications may not be approved, any
patents that may be issued may not sufficiently protect our intellectual property and any issued patents
may be challenged by third parties. Other parties may independently develop similar or competing
technology or design around any patents that may be issued to us. We cannot be certain that the steps
we have taken will prevent the misappropriation of our intellectual property, particularly in foreign
countries where the laws may not protect our proprietary rights as fully as in the United States.
Further, we may be required to enforce our intellectual property or other proprietary rights through
litigation, which, regardless of success, could result in substantial costs and diversion of management’s
attention. Additionally, there may be existing patents of which we are unaware that could be pertinent
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to our business and it is not possible for us to know whether there are patent applications pending that
our products might infringe upon since these applications are often not publicly available until a patent
is issued or published.
We may, in the future, be subject to claims or litigation from third parties, for claims of infringement of their
proprietary rights or to determine the scope and validity of our proprietary rights or the proprietary rights of
competitors or other rights holders. These claims could result in costly litigation and the diversion of our
technical and management personnel. Adverse resolution of litigation may harm our operating results or
financial condition.
In recent years, there has been significant litigation in the United States and around the world
involving patents and other intellectual property rights. This has been seen in our industry, for example
in the recently concluded patent-related litigation between IMRA America, Inc. (‘‘Imra’’) and IPG
Photonics Corporation and in Imra’s recently brought litigation against two of our German subsidiaries.
From time to time, like many other technology companies, we have received communications from
other parties asserting the existence of patent rights, copyrights, trademark rights or other intellectual
property rights which such third parties believe may cover certain of our products, processes,
technologies or information. In the future, we may be a party to litigation to protect our intellectual
property or as a result of an alleged infringement of others’ intellectual property whether through
direct claims or by way of indemnification claims of our customers, as, in some cases, we contractually
agree to indemnify our customers against third-party infringement claims relating to our products.
These claims and any resulting lawsuit, if successful, could subject us to significant liability for damages
or invalidation of our proprietary rights. These lawsuits, regardless of their success, would likely be
time-consuming and expensive to resolve and would divert management time and attention. Any
potential intellectual property litigation could also force us to do one or more of the following:
• stop manufacturing, selling or using our products that use the infringed intellectual property;
• obtain from the owner of the infringed intellectual property right a license to sell or use the
relevant technology, although such license may not be available on reasonable terms, or at all; or
• redesign the products that use the technology.
If we are forced to take any of these actions or are otherwise a party to lawsuits of this nature, we
may incur significant losses and our business may be seriously harmed. We do not have insurance to
cover potential claims of this type.
If our goodwill or intangible assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant charge to
earnings.
Under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, we review our intangible
assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be
recoverable. Goodwill is required to be tested for impairment at least annually. Factors that may be
considered in determining whether a change in circumstances indicating that the carrying value of our
goodwill or other intangible assets may not be recoverable include declines in our stock price and
market capitalization or future cash flows projections. A decline in our stock price, or any other
adverse change in market conditions, particularly if such change has the effect of changing one of the
critical assumptions or estimates we used to calculate the estimated fair value of our reporting units,
could result in a change to the estimation of fair value that could result in an impairment charge. Any
such material charges, whether related to goodwill or purchased intangible assets, may have a material
negative impact on our financial and operating results.
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We depend on skilled personnel to operate our business effectively in a rapidly changing market, and if we are
unable to retain existing or hire additional personnel when needed, our ability to develop and sell our products
could be harmed.
Our ability to continue to attract and retain highly skilled personnel will be a critical factor in
determining whether we will be successful in the future. Recruiting and retaining highly skilled
personnel in certain functions continues to be difficult. At certain locations where we operate, the cost
of living is extremely high and it may be difficult to retain key employees and management at a
reasonable cost. We may not be successful in attracting, assimilating or retaining qualified personnel to
fulfill our current or future needs. Our failure to attract additional employees and retain our existing
employees could adversely affect our growth and our business.
Our future success depends upon the continued services of our executive officers and other key
engineering, sales, marketing, manufacturing and support personnel, any of whom may leave and our
ability to effectively transition to their successors. Our inability to retain or to effectively transition to
their successors could harm our business and our results of operations.
The long sales cycles for our products may cause us to incur significant expenses without offsetting net sales.
Customers often view the purchase of our products as a significant and strategic decision. As a
result, customers typically expend significant effort in evaluating, testing and qualifying our products
before making a decision to purchase them, resulting in a lengthy initial sales cycle. While our
customers are evaluating our products and before they place an order with us, we may incur substantial
sales and marketing and research and development expenses to customize our products to the
customers’ needs. We may also expend significant management efforts, increase manufacturing capacity
and order long lead-time components or materials prior to receiving an order. Even after this
evaluation process, a potential customer may not purchase our products. As a result, these long sales
cycles may cause us to incur significant expenses without ever receiving net sales to offset such
expenses.
The markets in which we sell our products are intensely competitive and increased competition could cause
reduced sales levels, reduced gross margins or the loss of market share.
Competition in the various photonics markets in which we provide products is very intense. We
compete against a number of large public and private companies, including CVI Melles Griot, GSI
Group, Inc., IPG Photonics Corporation, Lumentum Holdings Inc., Newport Corporation, Rofin-Sinar
Technologies, Inc., and Trumpf GmbH, as well as other smaller companies. Some of our competitors
are large companies that have significant financial, technical, marketing and other resources. These
competitors may be able to devote greater resources than we can to the development, promotion, sale
and support of their products. Some of our competitors are much better positioned than we are to
acquire other companies in order to gain new technologies or products that may displace our product
lines. Any of these acquisitions could give our competitors a strategic advantage. Any business
combinations or mergers among our competitors, forming larger companies with greater resources,
could result in increased competition, price reductions, reduced margins or loss of market share, any of
which could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Additional competitors may enter the markets in which we serve, both foreign and domestic, and
we are likely to compete with new companies in the future. We may encounter potential customers
that, due to existing relationships with our competitors, are committed to the products offered by these
competitors. Further, our current or potential customers may determine to develop and produce
products for their own use which are competitive to our products. As a result of the foregoing factors,
we expect that competitive pressures may result in price reductions, reduced margins, loss of sales and
loss of market share. In addition, in markets where there are a limited number of customers,
competition is particularly intense.
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If we fail to accurately forecast component and material requirements for our products, we could incur
additional costs and incur significant delays in shipments, which could result in a loss of customers.
We use rolling forecasts based on anticipated product orders and material requirements planning
systems to determine our product requirements. It is very important that we accurately predict both the
demand for our products and the lead times required to obtain the necessary components and
materials. We depend on our suppliers for most of our product components and materials. Lead times
for components and materials that we order vary significantly and depend on factors including the
specific supplier requirements, the size of the order, contract terms and current market demand for
components. For substantial increases in our sales levels of certain products, some of our suppliers may
need at least nine months lead-time. If we overestimate our component and material requirements, we
may have excess inventory, which would increase our costs. If we underestimate our component and
material requirements, we may have inadequate inventory, which could interrupt and delay delivery of
our products to our customers. Any of these occurrences would negatively impact our net sales,
business or operating results.
Our reliance on contract manufacturing and outsourcing may adversely impact our financial results and
operations due to our decreased control over the performance and timing of certain aspects of our
manufacturing.
Our manufacturing strategy includes partnering with contract manufacturers to outsource non-core
subassemblies and less complex turnkey products, including some performed at international sites
located in Asia and Eastern Europe. Our ability to resume internal manufacturing operations for
certain products and components in a timely manner may be eliminated. The cost, quality, performance
and availability of contract manufacturing operations are and will be essential to the successful
production and sale of many of our products. Our financial condition or results of operation could be
adversely impacted if any contract manufacturer or other supplier is unable for any reason, including as
a result of the impact of worldwide economic conditions, to meet our cost, quality, performance, and
availability standards. We may not be able to provide contract manufacturers with product volumes that
are high enough to achieve sufficient cost savings. If shipments fall below forecasted levels, we may
incur increased costs or be required to take ownership of the inventory. Also, our ability to control the
quality of products produced by contract manufacturers may be limited and quality issues may not be
resolved in a timely manner, which could adversely impact our financial condition or results of
operations.
If we fail to effectively manage our growth or, alternatively, our spending during downturns, our business
could be disrupted, which could harm our operating results.
Growth in sales, combined with the challenges of managing geographically dispersed operations,
can place a significant strain on our management systems and resources, and our anticipated growth in
future operations could continue to place such a strain. The failure to effectively manage our growth
could disrupt our business and harm our operating results. Our ability to successfully offer our products
and implement our business plan in evolving markets requires an effective planning and management
process. In economic downturns, we must effectively manage our spending and operations to ensure
our competitive position during the downturn, as well as our future opportunities when the economy
improves, remain intact. The failure to effectively manage our spending and operations could disrupt
our business and harm our operating results.
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Historically, acquisitions have been an important element of our strategy. However, we may not find suitable
acquisition candidates in the future and we may not be able to successfully integrate and manage acquired
businesses. Any acquisitions we make could disrupt our business and harm our financial condition.
We have in the past made strategic acquisitions of other corporations and entities, as well as asset
purchases, and we continue to evaluate potential strategic acquisitions of complementary companies,
products and technologies. In the event of any future acquisitions, we could:
• issue stock that would dilute our current stockholders’ percentage ownership;
• pay cash that would decrease our working capital;
• incur debt;
• assume liabilities; or
• incur expenses related to impairment of goodwill and amortization.
Acquisitions also involve numerous risks, including:
• problems combining the acquired operations, systems, technologies or products;
• an inability to realize expected operating efficiencies or product integration benefits;
• difficulties in coordinating and integrating geographically separated personnel, organizations,
systems and facilities;
• difficulties integrating business cultures;
• unanticipated costs or liabilities, including the costs associated with improving the internal
controls of the acquired company;
• diversion of management’s attention from our core businesses;
• adverse effects on existing business relationships with suppliers and customers;
• potential loss of key employees, particularly those of the purchased organizations;
• incurring unforeseen obligations or liabilities in connection with acquisitions; and
• the failure to complete acquisitions even after signing definitive agreements which, among other
things, would result in the expensing of potentially significant professional fees and other charges
in the period in which the acquisition or negotiations are terminated.
We cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully identify appropriate acquisition
candidates, to integrate any businesses, products, technologies or personnel that we might acquire in
the future or achieve the anticipated benefits of such transactions, which may harm our business.
Our market is unpredictable and characterized by rapid technological changes and evolving standards
demanding a significant investment in research and development, and, if we fail to address changing market
conditions, our business and operating results will be harmed.
The photonics industry is characterized by extensive research and development, rapid technological
change, frequent new product introductions, changes in customer requirements and evolving industry
standards. Because this industry is subject to rapid change, it is difficult to predict its potential size or
future growth rate. Our success in generating net sales in this industry will depend on, among other
things:
• maintaining and enhancing our relationships with our customers;
• the education of potential end-user customers about the benefits of lasers and laser systems; and
• our ability to accurately predict and develop our products to meet industry standards.
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For our fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, our research and development costs were $81.5 million
(10.2% of net sales), $79.1 million (10.0% of net sales) and $82.8 million (10.2% of net sales),
respectively. We cannot assure you that our expenditures for research and development will result in
the introduction of new products or, if such products are introduced, that those products will achieve
sufficient market acceptance or to generate sales to offset the costs of development. Our failure to
address rapid technological changes in our markets could adversely affect our business and results of
operations.
We are exposed to lawsuits in the normal course of business which could have a material adverse effect on our
business, operating results, or financial condition.
We are exposed to lawsuits in the normal course of our business, including product liability claims,
if personal injury, death or commercial losses occur from the use of our products. While we typically
maintain business insurance, including directors’ and officers’ policies, litigation can be expensive,
lengthy, and disruptive to normal business operations, including the potential impact of indemnification
obligations for individuals named in any such lawsuits. We may not, however, be able to secure
insurance coverage on terms acceptable to us in the future. Moreover, the results of complex legal
proceedings are difficult to predict. An unfavorable resolution of a particular lawsuit, including a recall
or redesign of products if ultimately determined to be defective, could have a material adverse effect
on our business, operating results, or financial condition.
We use standard laboratory and manufacturing materials that could be considered hazardous and we could be
liable for any damage or liability resulting from accidental environmental contamination or injury.
Although most of our products do not incorporate hazardous or toxic materials and chemicals,
some of the gases used in our excimer lasers and some of the liquid dyes used in some of our scientific
laser products are highly toxic. In addition, our operations involve the use of standard laboratory and
manufacturing materials that could be considered hazardous. Also, if a facility fire were to occur at our
Sunnyvale, California site and were to spread to a reactor used to grow semiconductor wafers, it could
release highly toxic emissions. We believe that our safety procedures for handling and disposing of such
materials comply with all federal, state and offshore regulations and standards. However, the risk of
accidental environmental contamination or injury from such materials cannot be entirely eliminated. In
the event of such an accident involving such materials, we could be liable for damages and such liability
could exceed the amount of our liability insurance coverage and the resources of our business which
could have an adverse effect on our financial results or our business as a whole.
Compliance or the failure to comply with current and future environmental regulations could cause us
significant expense.
We are subject to a variety of federal, state, local and foreign environmental regulations relating to
the use, storage, discharge and disposal of hazardous chemicals used during our manufacturing process
or requiring design changes or recycling of products we manufacture. If we fail to comply with any
present and future regulations, we could be subject to future liabilities, the suspension of production or
a prohibition on the sale of products we manufacture. In addition, such regulations could restrict our
ability to expand our facilities or could require us to acquire costly equipment, or to incur other
significant expenses to comply with environmental regulations, including expenses associated with the
recall of any non-compliant product and the management of historical waste.
From time to time new regulations are enacted, and it is difficult to anticipate how such
regulations will be implemented and enforced. We continue to evaluate the necessary steps for
compliance with regulations as they are enacted. These regulations include, for example, the
Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemical substances (‘‘REACH’’), the
Restriction on the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment
35
Directive (‘‘RoHS’’) and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (‘‘WEEE’’) enacted
in the European Union which regulate the use of certain hazardous substances in, and require the
collection, reuse and recycling of waste from, certain products we manufacture. This and similar
legislation that has been or is in the process of being enacted in Japan, China, South Korea and various
states of the United States may require us to re-design our products to ensure compliance with the
applicable standards, for example by requiring the use of different types of materials. These redesigns
or alternative materials may detrimentally impact the performance of our products, add greater testing
lead-times for product introductions or have other similar effects. We believe we comply with all such
legislation where our products are sold and we will continue to monitor these laws and the regulations
being adopted under them to determine our responsibilities. In addition, we are monitoring legislation
relating to the reduction of carbon emissions from industrial operations to determine whether we may
be required to incur any additional material costs or expenses associated with our operations. We are
not currently aware of any such material costs or expenses. The SEC has promulgated rules requiring
disclosure regarding the use of certain ‘‘conflict minerals’’ mined from the Democratic Republic of
Congo and adjoining countries and procedures regarding a manufacturer’s efforts to prevent the
sourcing of such minerals. The implementation of such rules has required us to incur additional
expense and internal resources and may continue to do so in the future, particularly in the event that
only a limited pool of suppliers are available to certify that products are free from ‘‘conflict minerals.’’
Our failure to comply with any of the foregoing regulatory requirements or contractual obligations
could result in our being directly or indirectly liable for costs, fines or penalties and third-party claims,
and could jeopardize our ability to conduct business in the United States and foreign countries.
Our and our customers’ operations would be seriously harmed if our logistics or facilities or those of our
suppliers, our customers’ suppliers or our contract manufacturers were to experience catastrophic loss.
Our and our customers’ operations, logistics and facilities and those of our suppliers and contract
manufacturers could be subject to a catastrophic loss from fire, flood, earthquake, volcanic eruption,
work stoppages, power outages, acts of war, pandemic illnesses, energy shortages, theft of assets, other
natural disasters or terrorist activity. A substantial portion of our research and development activities,
manufacturing, our corporate headquarters and other critical business operations are located near
major earthquake faults in Santa Clara, California, an area with a history of seismic events. Any such
loss or detrimental impact to any of our operations, logistics or facilities could disrupt our operations,
delay production, shipments and net sales and result in large expenses to repair or replace the facility.
While we have obtained insurance to cover most potential losses, after reviewing the costs and
limitations associated with earthquake insurance, we have decided not to procure such insurance. We
believe that this decision is consistent with decisions reached by numerous other companies located
nearby. We cannot assure you that our existing insurance coverage will be adequate against all other
possible losses.
Difficulties with our enterprise resource planning (‘‘ERP’’) system and other parts of our global information
technology system could harm our business and results of operation. If our network security measures are
breached and unauthorized access is obtained to a customer’s data or our data or our information technology
systems, we may incur significant legal and financial exposure and liabilities.
Like many modern multinational corporations, we maintain a global information technology
system, including software products licensed from third parties. Any system, network or Internet
failures, misuse by system users, the hacking into or disruption caused by the unauthorized access by
third parties or loss of license rights could disrupt our ability to timely and accurately manufacture and
ship products or to report our financial information in compliance with the timelines mandated by the
SEC. Any such failure, misuse, hacking, disruptions or loss would likely cause a diversion of
management’s attention from the underlying business and could harm our operations. In addition, a
significant failure of our global information technology system could adversely affect our ability to
36
complete an evaluation of our internal controls and attestation activities pursuant to Section 404 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Our information systems are subject to attacks, interruptions and failures.
As part of our day-to-day business, we store our data and certain data about our customers in our
global information technology system. While our system is designed with access security, if a third party
gains unauthorized access to our data, including any regarding our customers, such a security breach
could expose us to a risk of loss of this information, loss of business, litigation and possible liability.
Our security measures may be breached as a result of third-party action, including intentional
misconduct by computer hackers, employee error, malfeasance or otherwise. Additionally, third parties
may attempt to fraudulently induce employees or customers into disclosing sensitive information such
as user names, passwords or other information in order to gain access to our customers’ data or our
data, including our intellectual property and other confidential business information, or our information
technology systems. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, or to sabotage systems,
change frequently and generally are not recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable
to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. Any unauthorized
access could result in a loss of confidence by our customers, damage our reputation, disrupt our
business, lead to legal liability and negatively impact our future sales. Additionally, such actions could
result in significant costs associated with loss of our intellectual property, impairment of our ability to
conduct our operations, rebuilding our network and systems, prosecuting and defending litigation,
responding to regulatory inquiries or actions, paying damages or taking other remedial steps.
Changes in tax rates, tax liabilities or tax accounting rules could affect future results.
As a global company, we are subject to taxation in the United States and various other countries
and jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required to determine our worldwide tax liabilities. A number
of factors may affect our future effective tax rates including, but not limited to:
• changes in the composition of earnings in countries or states with differing tax rates;
• changes in the valuation of our deferred tax assets and liabilities;
• the resolution of issues arising from tax audits with various tax authorities, and in particular, the
outcome of the pending German tax audits of our tax returns for fiscal years 2006 - 2013;
• changes in our global structure that involve an increased investment in technology outside of the
United States to better align asset ownership and business functions with revenues and profits;
• adjustments to estimated taxes upon finalization of various tax returns;
• increases in expense not deductible for tax purposes, including impairments of goodwill in
connection with acquisitions;
• our ability to meet the eligibility requirements for tax holidays of limited time tax-advantage
status in various jurisdictions;
• changes in available tax credits;
• changes in share-based compensation;
• changes in the tax laws or the interpretation of such tax laws, including the Base Erosion Profit
Shifting (‘‘BEPS’’) project being conducted by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and
Development (‘‘OECD’’);
• changes in generally accepted accounting principles; and
• the repatriation of non-U.S. earnings for which we have not previously provided for U.S. taxes.
37
We are also engaged in discussions with various tax authorities regarding the appropriate level of
profitability for Coherent entities and this may result in changes to our worldwide tax liabilities. In
addition, we are subject to regular examination of our income tax returns by the Internal Revenue
Service (‘‘IRS’’) and other tax authorities. From time to time the United States, foreign and state
governments make substantive changes to tax rules and the application of rules to companies, including
various announcements from the United States government potentially impacting our ability to defer
taxes on international earnings. We regularly assess the likelihood of favorable or unfavorable outcomes
resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of our provision for income taxes.
Although we believe our tax estimates are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any final
determination will not be materially different than the treatment reflected in our historical income tax
provisions and accruals, which could materially and adversely affect our operating results and financial
condition.
Changing laws, regulations and standards relating to corporate governance and public disclosure may create
uncertainty regarding compliance matters.
Federal securities laws, rules and regulations, as well as the rules and regulations of self-regulatory
organizations such as NASDAQ and the NYSE, require companies to maintain extensive corporate
governance measures, impose comprehensive reporting and disclosure requirements, set strict
independence and financial expertise standards for audit and other committee members and impose
civil and criminal penalties for companies and their chief executive officers, chief financial officers and
directors for securities law violations. These laws, rules and regulations have increased and will
continue to increase the scope, complexity and cost of our corporate governance, reporting and
disclosure practices, which could harm our results of operations and divert management’s attention
from business operations. Changing laws, regulations and standards relating to corporate governance
and public disclosure may create uncertainty regarding compliance matters. New or changed laws,
regulations and standards are subject to varying interpretations in many cases. As a result, their
application in practice may evolve over time. We are committed to maintaining high standards of ethics,
corporate governance and public disclosure. Complying with evolving interpretations of new or changed
legal requirements may cause us to incur higher costs as we revise current practices, policies and
procedures, and may divert management time and attention from revenue generating to compliance
activities. If our efforts to comply with new or changed laws, regulations and standards differ from the
activities intended by regulatory or governing bodies due to ambiguities related to practice, our
reputation may also be harmed.
Governmental regulations, including duties, affecting the import or export of products could negatively affect
our net sales.
The United States and many foreign governments impose tariffs and duties on the import and
export of products, including some of those which we sell. In particular, given our worldwide
operations, we pay duties on certain products when they are imported into the United States for repair
work as well as on certain of our products which are manufactured by our foreign subsidiaries. These
products can be subject to a duty on the product value. Additionally, the United States and various
foreign governments have imposed tariffs, controls, export license requirements and restrictions on the
import or export of some technologies, especially encryption technology. From time to time,
government agencies have proposed additional regulation of encryption technology, such as requiring
the escrow and governmental recovery of private encryption keys. Governmental regulation of
encryption technology and regulation of imports or exports, or our failure to obtain required import or
export approval for our products, could harm our international and domestic sales and adversely affect
our net sales. From time to time our duty calculations and payments are audited by government
agencies. For example, we are currently under audit in South Korea for customs duties and value-
added-tax for the period March 2009 to March 2014. In the event of an adverse audit result, we could
38
be liable for additional payments, duties, taxes and penalties, any of which could have a material
adverse effect on our business or financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. As of
October 3, 2015, we have accrued an estimated liability of $1.3 million related to this matter.
In addition, compliance with the directives of the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls
(‘‘DDTC’’) may result in substantial expenses and diversion of management. Any failure to adequately
address the directives of DDTC could result in civil fines or suspension or loss of our export privileges,
any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business or financial position, results of
operations, or cash flows.
Failure to maintain effective internal controls may cause a loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our
financial statements or to cause us to delay filing our periodic reports with the SEC and adversely affect our
stock price.
The SEC, as directed by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, adopted rules requiring
public companies to include a report of management on internal control over financial reporting in
their annual reports on Form 10-K that contain an assessment by management of the effectiveness of
our internal control over financial reporting. In addition, our independent registered public accounting
firm must attest to and report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.
Although we test our internal control over financial reporting in order to ensure compliance with the
Section 404 requirements, our failure to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting
could result in an adverse reaction in the financial marketplace due to a loss of investor confidence in
the reliability of our financial statements or a delay in our ability to timely file our periodic reports
with the SEC, which ultimately could negatively impact our stock price.
Provisions of our charter documents and Delaware law, and our Change-of-Control Severance Plan may have
anti-takeover effects that could prevent or delay a change in control.
Provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a merger
or acquisition or make removal of incumbent directors or officers more difficult. These provisions may
discourage takeover attempts and bids for our common stock at a premium over the market price.
These provisions include:
• the ability of our Board of Directors to alter our bylaws without stockholder approval;
• limiting the ability of stockholders to call special meetings; and
• establishing advance notice requirements for nominations for election to our Board of Directors
or for proposing matters that can be acted on by stockholders at stockholder meetings.
We are subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which prohibits a
publicly-held Delaware corporation from engaging in a merger, asset or stock sale or other transaction
with an interested stockholder for a period of three years following the date such person became an
interested stockholder, unless prior approval of our board of directors is obtained or as otherwise
provided. These provisions of Delaware law also may discourage, delay or prevent someone from
acquiring or merging with us without obtaining the prior approval of our board of directors, which may
cause the market price of our common stock to decline. In addition, we have adopted a change of
control severance plan, which provides for the payment of a cash severance benefit to each eligible
employee based on the employee’s position. If a change of control occurs, our successor or acquirer
will be required to assume and agree to perform all of our obligations under the change of control
severance plan which may discourage potential acquirers or result in a lower stock price.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not Applicable.
39
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Our corporate headquarters is located in Santa Clara, California. At fiscal 2015 year-end, our
locations with larger than 10,000 square feet were as follows (all square footage is approximate) (unless
otherwise indicated, each property is utilized jointly by our two segments):
Santa Clara, CA . . . . . . . . . .
Santa Clara, CA . . . . . . . . . .
8.5 acres of land,
200,000 square feet manufacturing, R&D
90,120 square feet
Corporate headquarters,
Office
Description
Use
Term*
Owned
Leased through
July 2020
Sunnyvale, CA(1) . . . . . . . . .
24,159 square feet
Richmond, CA(2) . . . . . . . . .
37,952 square feet
Richmond, CA(2) . . . . . . . . .
30,683 square feet
Richmond, CA(2) . . . . . . . . .
11,500 square feet
Bloomfield, CT(1) . . . . . . . . .
72,996 square feet
East Hanover, NJ(2) . . . . . . .
29,932 square feet
Wilsonville, OR(1) . . . . . . . .
41,250 square feet
Salem, NH(1) . . . . . . . . . . . .
44,153 square feet
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
December 2023
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
November 2022
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
February 2019
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
November 2016
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
December 2017
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
January 2025
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
December 2018
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
Dieburg, Germany . . . . . . . . .
32,123 square feet
Office
October 2024
Leased through
December 2020
G¨ottingen, Germany(2) . . . . .
L¨ubeck, Germany(2) . . . . . . .
7.6 acres of land,
several buildings
totaling 136,380
square feet
41,328 square feet
L¨ubeck, Germany(2) . . . . . . .
22,583 square feet
L¨ubeck, Germany(2) . . . . . . .
8,159 square feet
L¨ubeck, Germany(2) . . . . . . .
7,578 square feet
Kaiserslautern, Germany(2) . .
33,740 square feet
Glasgow, Scotland(2) . . . . . . .
Tokyo, Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 acres of land,
31,600 square feet
17,602 square feet
Office, manufacturing, R&D Owned
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
December 2016
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
December 2016
with option to
purchase building
Leased through
December 2018
Leased through
December 2017
Office, manufacturing, R&D Leased through
September 2016
Office, Manufacturing
Office, Manufacturing
Office, manufacturing, R&D Owned
Office
Leased through
April 2017
Leased through
May 2017
Shanghai, China . . . . . . . . . .
11,127 square feet
Office
40
Description
Use
Term*
Beijing, China . . . . . . . . . . . .
10,739 square feet
Office
Seoul, South Korea . . . . . . . .
16,474 square feet
Office
YongIn-Si, South Korea(2) . . .
33,074 square feet
Office, manufacturing
Kallang Sector, Singapore . . .
31,894 square feet
Office, manufacturing
Penang, Malaysia . . . . . . . . . .
12,519 square feet
Office, manufacturing
Leased through
July 2018
Leased through
June 2017
Leased through
November 2017
Leased through
January 2022
Leased through
August 2017
(1) This facility is utilized primarily by our CLC operating segment.
(2) This facility is utilized primarily by our SLS operating segment.
* We currently plan to renew leases on buildings as they expire.
We maintain other sales and service offices under varying leases expiring from 2016 through 2020
in Japan, China, Taiwan, France, Italy, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.
We consider our facilities to be both suitable and adequate to provide for current and near term
requirements and that the productive capacity in our facilities is substantially being utilized or we have
plans to utilize it.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are subject to legal claims and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business, such as
product liability, employment or intellectual property claims, including, but not limited to, the matters
described below. On May 14, 2013, IMRA America (‘‘Imra’’) filed a complaint for patent infringement
against two of the Company’s subsidiaries in the Regional Court of D¨usseldorf, Germany, captioned In
re IMRA America Inc. versus Coherent Kaiserslautern GmbH et. al. 4b O 38/13. The complaint alleges
that the use of certain of our lasers infringe upon EP Patent No. 754,103, entitled ‘‘Method For
Controlling Configuration of Laser Induced Breakdown and Ablation,’’ issued November 5, 1997 (the
‘‘Patent’’). The Patent, now expired in all jurisdictions, is owned by the University of Michigan and
licensed to Imra. The complaint seeks unspecified compensatory damages, the cost of court proceedings
and seeks to permanently enjoin the Company from infringing the Patent in the future. Following the
filing of the infringement suit, our subsidiaries filed a separate nullity action with the Federal Patent
Court in Munich, Germany requesting that the court hold that the Patent was invalid based on prior
art. On October 1, 2015, the Federal Patent Court ruled that the German portion of the Patent was
invalid. Imra has the right to appeal this decision to the German Supreme Court. Management has
made an accrual with respect to this matter and has determined, based on its current knowledge, that
the amount or range of reasonably possible losses in excess of the amounts already accrued, is not
reasonably estimable. Although we do not expect that such legal claims and litigation will ultimately
have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash
flows, an adverse result in one or more matters could negatively affect our results in the period in
which they occur.
41
The United States and many foreign governments impose tariffs and duties on the import and
export of certain products we sell. From time to time our duty calculations and payments are audited
by government agencies. We are currently under audit in South Korea for customs duties and value
added tax for the period March 2009 to March 2014. Although we do not expect that the audit will
ultimately have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or
cash flows, an adverse result in this matter could negatively affect our results in the period in which it
occurs. As of October 3, 2015, management has accrued an estimated liability of $1.3 million related to
this matter.
Income Tax Audits
We are subject to taxation and file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and in many
state and foreign jurisdictions. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, all years prior to 2011 are closed.
In our major foreign jurisdictions and our major state jurisdictions, the years prior to 2006 and 2011,
respectively, are closed to examination. Earlier years in our various jurisdictions may remain open for
adjustment to the extent that we have tax attribute carryforwards from those years.
In December 2011 and January 2012, three of our German subsidiaries received notices of tax
audits for the fiscal years 2006 through 2010. In fiscal 2013, we received a preliminary assessment for
two of the German subsidiaries and the amount was immaterial. In September 2015, the German tax
authorities issued preliminary tax findings for the other subsidiary for the years 2006 to 2010. We
believe that we have adequately provided reserves for any adjustments that may result from tax
examinations. A meeting to discuss the findings with the German tax authorities is scheduled in
December 2015. In July 2015, Coherent Kaiserslautern GmbH (formerly Lumera Laser GmbH)
received a tax audit notice for the years 2010 to 2013. The audit began in August 2015. We acquired
the shares of Lumera Laser GmbH in December 2012 and we should not have responsibility for any
assessments related to the pre-acquisition period.
Management believes that it has adequately provided reserves for any adjustments that may result
from tax examinations. We regularly engage in discussions and negotiations with tax authorities
regarding tax matters in various jurisdictions. It is reasonably possible that certain federal, foreign and
state tax matters may be concluded in the next 12 months.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
42
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our common stock is quoted on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol ‘‘COHR.’’ The
following table sets forth the high and low sales prices for each quarterly period during the past two
fiscal years as reported on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.
Fiscal
2015
2014
High
Low
High
Low
First quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Second quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fourth quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$65.15
$67.97
$68.14
$63.66
$54.53
$54.30
$60.00
$53.09
$74.33
$75.89
$68.77
$67.58
$61.00
$63.90
$56.68
$58.46
The number of stockholders of record as of November 30, 2015 was 780. On December 10, 2012,
we announced that the Board of Directors approved a $1.00 per share special cash dividend on our
outstanding common stock payable on December 27, 2012 to stockholders of record on December 19,
2012, resulting in a payment of $24.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2013. While we paid a cash
dividend in fiscal 2013 and may elect to pay dividends in the future, we have no present intention to
declare cash dividends. Our line of credit agreement requires bank pre-approval for the payment of
cash dividends.
There were no sales of unregistered securities in fiscal 2015.
Stock repurchases during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 were as follows:
Period
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
Average
Price
Paid per
Share
July 5, 2015 - August 1, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
August 2, 2015 - August 29, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . .
August 30, 2015 - October 3, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . .
— $ —
$58.05
$57.14
430,675
437,534
Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
868,209
$57.59
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
Maximum
Dollar Value
that May Yet
Be Purchased
Under the Plans
or Programs(1)
—
430,675
437,534
868,209
$25,000,000
$25,000,000
—
$
$
—
(1) On January 21, 2015 and August 25, 2015, the Board of Directors authorized buyback programs
whereby the Company was authorized to repurchase up to $25.0 million of its common stock in
each program from time to time through January 31, 2016 and August 31, 2016, respectively.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company repurchased and retired outstanding
common stock for a total of $50.0 million, completing both programs.
Refer to Note 11 ‘‘Stock Repurchases and Dividends’’ of our Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements under Item 15 of this annual report for discussion on additional repurchases during fiscal
2015.
43
COMPANY STOCK PRICE PERFORMANCE
The following graph shows a five-year comparison of cumulative total stockholder return,
calculated on a dividend reinvestment basis and based on a $100 investment, from October 2, 2010
through October 3, 2015 comparing the return on our common stock with the Russell 2000 Index, the
Standard and Poors Technology Index and the Nasdaq Composite Index. The stock price performance
shown on the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future price performance.
COMPARISON OF FIVE-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN AMONG COHERENT, INC.,
THE RUSSELL 2000 INDEX, THE S&P TECHNOLOGY INDEX AND
THE NASDAQ COMPOSITE INDEX.
Comparison of Cumulative Five Year Total Return
$250
$200
$150
$100
$50
$0
10/02/10
10/01/11
9/29/12
9/28/13
9/27/14
10/03/15
Coherent, Inc.
Russell 2000 Index
S&P Technology Index
Nasdaq Composite Index
7DEC201517143294
Base
Period
INDEXED RETURNS
Years Ending
Company Name / Index
10/2/2010
10/1/2011
9/29/2012
9/28/2013
9/27/2014
10/3/2015
Coherent, Inc.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Russell 2000 Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
S&P Technology Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NASDAQ Composite Index . . . . . . . . . . .
100
100
100
100
106.87
96.02
103.96
102.87
114.08
126.66
137.65
134.27
155.69
164.79
147.99
165.28
159.81
173.93
189.90
199.61
138.83
175.47
197.19
210.72
The information contained above under the caption ‘‘Company Stock Price Performance’’ shall not
be deemed to be ‘‘soliciting material’’ or to be ‘‘filed’’ with the SEC, nor will such information be
incorporated by reference into any future SEC filing except to the extent that we specifically
incorporate it by reference into such filing.
44
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The information set forth below is not necessarily indicative of results of future operations and
should be read in conjunction with Item 7. ‘‘Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations’’ and the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this annual report.
We derived the consolidated statement of operations data for fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013 and the
consolidated balance sheet data as of fiscal 2015 and 2014 year-end from our audited consolidated
financial statements, and accompanying notes, contained in this annual report. The consolidated
statements of operations data for fiscal 2012 and 2011 and the consolidated balance sheet data as of
fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 year-end are derived from our consolidated financial statements which are
not included in this report.
Consolidated financial data
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per share(5):
Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shares used in computation(5):
Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other data:
Cash dividends declared per share . . . . . . . . . .
Fiscal
2015(1)
Fiscal
2014
Fiscal
2013(2)
Fiscal
2012(3)
Fiscal
2011(4)
$802,460
$335,399
$ 76,409
(in thousands, except per share data)
$769,088
$810,126
$794,639
$315,985
$322,271
$313,390
$ 62,962
$ 66,355
$ 59,106
$802,834
$350,822
$ 93,238
$
$
3.09
3.06
$
$
2.39
2.36
$
$
2.75
2.70
$
$
2.67
2.62
$
$
3.74
3.66
24,754
24,992
$968,947
$ 49,930
$796,418
24,760
25,076
$999,375
$ 62,407
$819,649
24,138
24,555
$966,478
$ 62,132
$758,518
23,561
24,026
$880,772
$ 55,328
$671,656
24,924
25,464
$843,266
$ 62,860
$618,001
$
— $
— $
1.00
$
— $
—
(1) Includes a charge of $1.3 million after tax for the impairment of our investment in SiOnyx, a
$1.3 million after-tax charge for an accrual related to an ongoing customs audit, a benefit of
$1.1 million from the renewal of the R&D tax credit for fiscal 2014 and $1.3 million gain on our
purchase of Tinsley in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015.
(2) Includes a tax benefit of $1.4 million from the renewal of the R&D tax credit for fiscal 2012.
(3) Includes a charge of $4.3 million after tax related to the write-off of previously acquired intangible
assets and inventories, a $2.8 million tax benefit due to decreases in valuation allowances against
deferred tax assets and a $1.6 million tax benefit related to the release of tax reserves and related
interest as a result of the closure of open tax years.
(4) Includes a gain of $6.1 million after tax related to the dissolution of our Finland operations, a
$9.7 million tax benefit from the release of tax reserves and related interest as a result of an IRS
settlement and the closure of open tax years and a $1.5 million tax charge due to an increase in
valuation allowances against deferred tax assets.
(5) See Note 2, ‘‘Significant Accounting Policies’’ in our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
under Item 15 of this annual report for an explanation of the determination of the number of
shares used in computing net income (loss) per share.
45
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be
read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes included in Item 8,
‘‘Financial Statements and Supplementary Data’’ in this annual report. This discussion contains
forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ
materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors,
including but not limited to those discussed in Item 1A,‘‘Risk Factors’’ and elsewhere in this annual
report. Please see the discussion of forward-looking statements at the beginning of this annual report
under ‘‘Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.’’
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Below is a summary of some of the quantitative performance indicators (as defined below) that are
evaluated by management to assess our financial performance. Some of the indicators are non-GAAP
measures and should not be considered as an alternative to any other measure for determining
operating performance that is calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Fiscal
Bookings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Book-to-bill ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net Sales—Specialty Lasers and Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net Sales—Commercial Lasers and Components . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross Profit as a Percentage of Net Sales—Specialty Lasers and
2013
2015
2014
(Dollars in thousands)
$890,531
1.12
$565,552
$229,087
$765,174
0.95
$559,593
$242,867
$767,329
0.95
$571,644
$238,482
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
45.3%
42.1%
41.7%
Gross Profit as a Percentage of Net Sales—Commercial Lasers
and Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
34.9%
33.9%
36.2%
Research and Development Expenses as a Percentage of Net
Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income Before Income Taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Days Sales Outstanding in Receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Annualized Fourth Quarter Inventory Turns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital Spending as a Percentage of Net Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net Income as a Percentage of Net Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusted EBITDA as a Percentage of Net Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.2%
10.0%
10.2%
$ 99,568
$124,458
63.8
3.0
2.8%
9.5%
19.3%
$ 79,219
$ 91,379
62.2
2.9
2.9%
7.4%
17.2%
$ 83,496
$115,522
60.8
3.0
2.7%
8.2%
17.8%
Definitions and analysis of these performance indicators are as follows:
Bookings and Book-to-Bill Ratio
Bookings represent orders received during the current period for products and services to be
provided pursuant to service contracts. While we generally have not experienced a significant rate of
cancellation, bookings are generally cancelable by our customers without substantial penalty and,
therefore, we cannot assure all bookings will be converted to net sales.
The book-to-bill ratio is calculated as annual bookings divided by annual net sales. This is an
indication of the strength of our business but can sometimes be impacted by a single large order or a
single large shipment. A ratio greater than 1.0 indicates that demand for our products is greater than
what we supply in the year whereas a ratio of less than 1.0 indicates that demand for our products is
less than what we supply in the year.
46
Fiscal 2015 bookings decreased 14% from bookings in fiscal 2014 and our book-to-bill ratio
decreased from 1.12 in fiscal 2014 to 0.95 in fiscal 2015. The bookings decrease included decreases in
the microelectronics (19%), OEM components and instrumentation (14%), materials processing (8%)
and scientific (2%) markets. Although fiscal 2015 bookings decreased, bookings in the fourth quarter of
fiscal 2015 increased 16% from the third quarter of fiscal 2015, with increases in all four markets.
Fiscal 2014 bookings increased 16% from bookings in fiscal 2013 and our book-to-bill ratio
increased from 0.95 in fiscal 2013 to 1.12 in fiscal 2014. The bookings increase included increases in the
microelectronics (28%) and OEM components and instrumentation (19%) markets partially offset by
decreases in the materials processing (2%) and scientific (2%) markets. Although fiscal 2014 bookings
increased, bookings in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 decreased 25% from the third quarter of fiscal
2014 , with decreases in the microelectronics, OEM components and instrumentation and materials
processing markets partially offset by increases in the scientific market.
Microelectronics
Although fiscal 2015 bookings decreased 19% from bookings in fiscal 2014 and the book-to-bill
ratio for the year was 0.90, bookings in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 increased 7% from the third
quarter of fiscal 2015 primarily due to increased systems orders net of lower service orders for the flat
panel display market and higher semiconductor applications orders.
Flat panel display orders for fiscal 2015 decreased 30% from orders in fiscal 2014 primarily due to
the timing and mix of order placement by customers. Fourth quarter fiscal 2015 orders were higher
than those in the third quarter of fiscal 2015 primarily due to higher systems orders from liquid crystal
display (‘‘LCD’’) fabs for Linebeam 750s net of lower service bookings. We expect continued
fluctuations in order volumes on a quarterly basis. We shipped the first, second and third Triple
VyperTM Linebeam 1500 systems in the first, second and fourth quarters of fiscal 2015, respectively.
Subsequent to year-end, we received additional orders totaling approximately $45 million for a
combination of single and twin Vyper systems. We expect significant opportunities to develop for
organic light-emitting diode (‘‘OLED’’) production as several smartphone manufacturers have either
decided to or are evaluating a shift to OLED displays in their devices. Because of nuances in the
manufacturing process, production of the highest resolution OLEDs has only been achieved with
Twin Vyper(cid:5)/Linebeam 1300 or Triple Vyper/Linebeam 1500 systems. We expect any new OLED
capacity would adhere to these standards. Our recent acquisition of Tinsley Optics provides a
dedicated, cost-effective solution for large form optics to help facilitate deliveries. The combination of
order volume and the customers’ ability to qualify and ramp production lines will extend into fiscal
2017.
Advanced packaging (‘‘API’’) orders increased 9% for the full fiscal year, but fourth quarter fiscal
2015 orders were flat from orders in the third quarter of fiscal 2015. API equipment manufacturers
have adopted a more cautionary posture for legacy products based on recent trends in the
semiconductor market. We believe that flex packaging and system in package (‘‘SiP’’) are two
applications that are promising. Flex packaging, which relies upon UV lasers, is used in mobile and
wearable devices and several systems manufacturers have seen strength in this area. SiP has been
building momentum in mobile devices and future smartphones are likely to incorporate more
SiP design elements, which will lead to an increase in ultrafast lasers for packaging.
Orders from semiconductor capital equipment OEMs decreased 9% for fiscal 2015, but were
higher in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the prior quarter due to increases in wafer
inspection applications. Service orders remain strong due to high utilization rates in most fabs and
orders for new equipment are tied to specific end user investments. These positives have been mostly
offset by falling chip prices that curb investment as well as another round of consolidation of
47
OEMs and chip makers leading to the inevitable spending cost reductions. These factors are already
included in our current run rate so we believe further downside risk is minimal.
OEM Components and Instrumentation
Bookings in fiscal 2015 decreased 14% from fiscal 2014 and the book-to-bill ratio for the year was
0.95. However, orders in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 increased 34% from orders in the third
quarter of fiscal 2015 due to strength in instrumentation applications.
Instrumentation orders increased 17% for the full fiscal year and fourth quarter fiscal 2015 orders
increased 90% compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2015 due to timing of orders. Our
bioinstrumentation business has benefitted from growth in personalized medicine, which has driven
sales in clinical flow cytometry for our OBIS(cid:5) and HOPS(cid:5) products. We are making further strides in
the high-speed gene sequencing market where the throughput requirements are out-of-reach for visible
diodes or LEDs. Our outlook for bioinstrumentation is positive and there is a modest resurgence in
worldwide biopharmaceutical R&D.
Orders for medical OEM products decreased 41% for the full fiscal 2015 and fourth quarter fiscal
2015 orders decreased 30% compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2015. In spite of the decrease in
orders, the medical OEM market remains strong. There are long-term opportunities on the therapeutic
side of the instrumentation business, although there have been some short-term inventory corrections
amid consumer confidence and China growth concerns, which we believe is a short-term effect. In
terms of new opportunities, we are making steady progress in qualifying our Monaco(cid:5) product in
various cataract platforms. A major research institution has achieved very encouraging initial results
using our new CO laser for surgical procedures, citing the absorption characteristics of CO versus CO2
as the key differentiator. In addition, our major dental customer has experienced positive customer
reaction to its new product which contains our CO2 laser.
Materials Processing
Annual bookings decreased 8% from fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2015’s book-to-bill ratio was 1.03.
However, bookings in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 were strong and increased 28% from the prior
quarter due to strength in non-metal cutting and marking applications. Bookings volumes in our
materials processing business can vary significantly from quarter to quarter. We have been working to
broaden our participation in the textile business, specifically for denim processing where lasers are used
to create design elements including patterning, texture and color. We secured two volume orders for
CO2 lasers in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 that resulted in record orders for marking. Orders for
cutting and converting were also strong, including a number of projects related to consumer packaging.
The level of engagement with potential customers on our second generation fiber laser is encouraging
and customer testing has gone well. We are still in the process of becoming qualified for deployment
with various OEMs. We continue to view fiscal 2016 as a year for initial orders with a volume ramp
occurring in fiscal 2017.
Scientific and Government Programs
Although fiscal 2015 orders decreased 2% from bookings in fiscal 2014, the book-to-bill ratio for
the year was 1.06. Orders in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 increased 15% from the third quarter of
fiscal 2015 as the European and U.S. markets delivered a typically strong performance in the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2015. The sequential order growth was led by our Chameleon(cid:5) product family for
multi-photon imaging, especially in neuroscience, where the U.S. BRAIN initiative is driving
investment. By contrast, we have seen limited benefit from Europe’s Human Brain Project which
emphasizes computer modeling over imaging. Amplifier orders for time-resolved studies came in strong
across the three major geographies and we continued a near-term trend of securing orders for
48
high-performance amplifiers from multi-user free electron and accelerator facilities with the recent
orders coming from European labs. In addition, our core Astrella(cid:5) and Libra(cid:5) amplifier products did
well particularly in the U.S. during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015.
Net Sales
Net sales include sales of lasers, laser tools, related accessories and service. Net sales for fiscal
2015 increased 1.0% from fiscal 2014. Net sales for fiscal 2014 decreased 1.9% from fiscal 2013. For a
description of the reasons for changes in net sales refer to the ‘‘Results of Operations’’ section below.
Gross Profit as a Percentage of Net Sales
Gross profit as a percentage of net sales (‘‘gross profit percentage’’) is calculated as gross profit for
the period divided by net sales for the period. Gross profit percentage for SLS increased to 45.3% in
fiscal 2015 from 42.1% in fiscal 2014 and from 41.7% in fiscal 2013. Gross profit percentage for CLC
increased to 34.9% in fiscal 2015 from 33.9% in fiscal 2014 and decreased from 36.2% in fiscal 2013.
For a description of the reasons for changes in gross profit refer to the ‘‘Results of Operations’’ section
below.
Research and Development as a Percentage of Net Sales
Research and development as a percentage of net sales (‘‘R&D percentage’’) is calculated as
research and development expense for the period divided by net sales for the period. Management
considers R&D percentage to be an important indicator in managing our business as investing in new
technologies is a key to future growth. R&D percentage increased to 10.2% from 10.0% in fiscal 2014
and remained flat from 10.2% in fiscal 2013. For a description of the reasons for changes in R&D
spending refer to the ‘‘Results of Operations’’ section below.
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities shown on our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
primarily represents the excess of cash collected from billings to our customers and other receipts over
cash paid to our vendors for expenses and inventory purchases to run our business. We believe that
cash flows from operations are an important performance indicator because cash generation over the
long term is essential to maintaining a healthy business and providing funds to help fuel growth. For a
description of the reasons for changes in Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities refer to the
‘‘Liquidity and Capital Resources’’ section below.
Days Sales Outstanding in Receivables
We calculate days sales outstanding (‘‘DSO’’) in receivables as net receivables at the end of the
period divided by net sales during the period and then multiplied by the number of days in the period,
using 360 days for years. DSO in receivables indicates how well we are managing our collection of
receivables, with lower DSO in receivables resulting in higher working capital availability. The more
money we have tied up in receivables, the less money we have available for research and development,
acquisitions, expansion, marketing and other activities to grow our business. Our DSO in receivables for
fiscal 2015 increased to 63.8 days from 62.2 days in fiscal 2014. The increase in DSO in receivables is
primarily due to a higher concentration of sales in the last month of the fiscal year in Asia and the
U.S. and slower collections in Asia partially offset by higher bad debt reserves in fiscal 2015.
49
Annualized Fourth Quarter Inventory Turns
We calculate annualized fourth quarter inventory turns as cost of sales during the fourth quarter
annualized and divided by net inventories at the end of the fourth quarter. This indicates how well we
are managing our inventory levels, with higher inventory turns resulting in more working capital
availability and a higher return on our investments in inventory. The more money we have tied up in
inventory, the less money we have available for research and development, acquisitions, expansion,
marketing and other activities to grow our business. Our annualized fourth quarter inventory turns for
fiscal 2015 increased to 3.0 turns from 2.9 turns in fiscal 2014 primarily due to timing of inventory
shipments of large annealing laser systems partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates.
Capital Spending as a Percentage of Net Sales
Capital spending as a percentage of net sales (‘‘capital spending percentage’’) is calculated as
capital expenditures for the period divided by net sales for the period. Capital spending percentage
indicates the extent to which we are expanding or improving our operations, including investments in
technology and equipment. Management monitors capital spending levels as this assists management in
measuring our cash flows, net of capital expenditures. Our capital spending percentage decreased to
2.8% in fiscal 2015 from 2.9% in fiscal 2014 and increased from 2.7% in fiscal 2013. The fiscal 2015
decrease was primarily due to lower purchases of production-related assets. The fiscal 2014 increase
was primarily due to higher purchases of production-related assets to support new product
introductions and growth in Asia, particularly to support service and refurbishment capacity in South
Korea and China. We expect capital spending for fiscal 2016 to increase to approximately 4.0% to 5.0%
of net sales due to rollover of forecasted spending that did not occur in fiscal 2015 and additional
building expansion and improvement projects, primarily in the U.S.
Adjusted EBITDA as a Percentage of Net Sales
We define adjusted EBITDA as operating income adjusted for depreciation, amortization, stock
compensation expenses, major restructuring costs and certain other non-operating income and expense
items. Key initiatives to reach our goals for EBITDA improvements include utilization of our Asian
manufacturing locations, rationalizing our supply chain and continued leveraging of our infrastructure.
We utilize a number of different financial measures, both GAAP and non-GAAP, such as adjusted
EBITDA as a percentage of net sales, in analyzing and assessing our overall business performance, for
making operating decisions and for forecasting and planning future periods. We consider the use of
non-GAAP financial measures helpful in assessing our current financial performance and ongoing
operations. While we use non-GAAP financial measures as a tool to enhance our understanding of
certain aspects of our financial performance, we do not consider these measures to be a substitute for,
or superior to, the information provided by GAAP financial measures. We provide adjusted EBITDA in
order to enhance investors’ understanding of our ongoing operations. This measure is used by some
investors when assessing our performance.
50
Below is the reconciliation of our net income as a percentage of net sales to our adjusted EBITDA
as a percentage of net sales:
Net income as a percentage of net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest and other income (expense), net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase accounting step up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on business combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customs audit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of investment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fiscal
2014
2013
2015
9.5% 7.4% 8.2%
2.9% 2.5% 2.1%
0.1% 0.3% 0.5%
4.1% 4.6% 4.5%
0.1% —% 0.2%
(0.2)% —% —%
0.2% —% —%
0.3% —% —%
2.3% 2.4% 2.3%
Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net sales . . . . . . . . . . . .
19.3% 17.2% 17.8%
SIGNIFICANT EVENTS
Acquisitions
On July 24, 2015, we acquired certain assets of Raydiance, Inc. (‘‘Raydiance’’) for approximately
$5.0 million, excluding transaction costs. Raydiance manufactured complete tools and lasers for
ultrafast processing systems and subsystems in the precision micromachining processing market. The
Raydiance assets have been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
On July 27, 2015, we acquired the assets and certain liabilities of the Tinsley Optics (‘‘Tinsley’’)
business from L-3 Communications Corporation for approximately $4.3 million, excluding transaction
costs. Tinsley is a specialized manufacturer of high precision optical components and subsystems sold
primarily in the aerospace and defense industry. Tinsley manufactures the large form factor optics for
our excimer laser annealing systems. Tinsley has been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems
segment.
On June 8, 2010, we invested $2.0 million in SiOnyx, Inc., a privately-held company. The
investment was included in other assets and was being carried on a cost basis. During the third quarter
of fiscal 2015 we determined that our investment became other-than temporarily impaired. As a result,
we recorded a non-cash charge of $2.0 million to operating expense in our results of operations in the
third quarter of fiscal 2015.
On December 20, 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding shares of Lumera for approximately
$51.5 million, excluding transaction costs. Lumera manufactures ultrafast solid state lasers for
microelectronics, OEM medical and materials processing applications. These assets and liabilities have
been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
On October 30, 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding shares of Innolight for approximately
$18.3 million, excluding transaction costs. Innolight provides a core technology building block for an
emerging class of commercial, sub-nanosecond lasers for microelectronics manufacturing and its
semiconductor-based architecture delivers pulsed output that can be amplified by conventional or fiber
amplifiers to ultimately deliver infrared, green or ultraviolet light capable of processing a range of
materials. These assets and liabilities have been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
51
Stock Repurchases and Stock Dividend
On August 25, 2015, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program to repurchase
up to $25.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through August 31, 2016.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we repurchased and retired 437,534 shares of outstanding
common stock under this plan at an average price of $57.14 per share for a total of $25.0 million.
On January 21, 2015, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program to repurchase
up to $25.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through January 31, 2016.
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we repurchased and retired 430,675 shares of outstanding
common stock under this plan at an average price of $58.05 per share for a total of $25.0 million.
On July 25, 2014, the Board of Directors authorized a buyback program whereby we were
authorized to repurchase up to $25.0 million of our common stock from time to time through July 31,
2015. During the first and second quarters of fiscal 2015, we repurchased and retired 434,114 shares of
outstanding common stock at an average price of $57.59 per share for a total of $25.0 million,
excluding expenses.
On December 10, 2012, we announced that the Board of Directors approved a $1.00 per share
special cash dividend on our outstanding common stock payable on December 27, 2012 to stockholders
of record on December 19, 2012, resulting in a payment of $24.0 million.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS—FISCAL 2015, 2014 AND 2013
Fiscal 2015 consists of 53 weeks. Fiscal 2014 and 2013 consist of 52 weeks.
Consolidated Summary
The following table sets forth, for the years indicated, the percentage of total net sales represented
by the line items reflected in our consolidated statement of operations:
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2015
Fiscal
2014
2013
(As a percentage of net
sales)
100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
58.2% 60.6% 60.2%
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41.8% 39.4% 39.8%
Operating expenses:
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on business combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of investment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.2% 10.0% 10.2%
18.7% 19.4% 18.5%
(0.2)% —% —%
0.2% —% —%
0.3% 0.4% 0.6%
Total operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29.2% 29.8% 29.3%
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income (expense), net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12.6% 9.6% 10.5%
(0.2)% 0.4% (0.2)%
Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12.4% 10.0% 10.3%
2.9% 2.6% 2.1%
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9.5% 7.4% 8.2%
52
Refer to Item 6 ‘‘Selected Financial Data’’ for a description of significant events that impacted the
results of operations for fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013.
Net Sales
Market Application
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the amount of net sales and their relative
percentages of total net sales by market application (dollars in thousands):
Fiscal 2015
Fiscal 2014
Fiscal 2013
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
Consolidated:
Microelectronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
OEM components and
instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Materials processing . . . . . . . . . . .
Scientific and government programs
$406,187
50.6% $384,620
48.4% $416,550
51.4%
168,741
110,986
116,546
21.0% 169,978
13.8% 118,569
14.6% 121,472
21.4% 149,974
14.9% 121,660
15.3% 121,942
18.5%
15.0%
15.1%
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$802,460
100.0% $794,639
100.0% $810,126
100.0%
During fiscal 2015, net sales increased by $7.8 million, or 1%, compared to fiscal 2014, with sales
increases in the microelectronics market partially offset by decreases in the materials processing,
scientific and government programs and OEM components and instrumentation markets.
Microelectronics sales increased $21.6 million, or 6%, primarily due to higher shipments for flat panel
display annealing systems partially offset by lower shipments for semiconductor and advanced packaging
applications. Materials processing sales decreased $7.6 million, or 6%, during fiscal 2015 primarily due
to lower shipments for marking, non-metal drilling and non-metal cutting applications. The decrease in
scientific and government programs market sales of $4.9 million, or 4%, during fiscal 2015 was
primarily due to lower demand for advanced research applications used by university and government
research groups in Europe. The decrease in the OEM components and instrumentation market of
$1.2 million, or 1%, during fiscal 2015 was primarily due to lower shipments for medical and machine
vision applications partially offset by higher shipments for bio-instrumentation and forensic applications,
including the impact of the acquisitions of Tinsley and Raydiance ($2.0 million).
During fiscal 2014, net sales decreased by $15.5 million, or 2%, compared to fiscal 2013, with sales
decreases in the microelectronics, materials processing and scientific and government programs markets
partially offset by increases in the OEM components and instrumentation market. Microelectronics
sales decreased $31.9 million, or 8%, primarily due to lower sales in flat panel display and advanced
packaging applications partially offset by higher sales in semiconductor applications. Materials
processing sales decreased $3.1 million, or 3%, during fiscal 2014 primarily due to lower shipments for
marking and non-metal drilling applications. The decrease in scientific and government programs
market sales of $0.5 million, or 0.4%, during fiscal 2014 was primarily due to lower demand for
advanced research applications used by university and government research groups. The increase in the
OEM components and instrumentation market of $20.0 million or 13%, during fiscal 2014 was
primarily due to higher shipments for medical and bio-instrumentation (including the acquisition of
Lumera at the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2013) applications partially offset by lower shipments
for military applications due to timing of military project spending.
Backlog represents orders which we expect to be shipped within 12 months and the current portion
of service contracts. Orders used to compute backlog are generally cancelable and subject to
rescheduling by our customers without substantial penalties. Historically, we have not experienced a
53
significant rate of cancellation or rescheduling, though we cannot guarantee that the rate of
cancellations or rescheduling will not increase in the future. We have a backlog of orders shippable
within 12 months of $309.5 million at October 3, 2015, including a significant concentration in the flat
panel display market (32%) for customers which are primarily in Asia.
The timing for shipments of our higher average selling price excimer products in the flat panel
display market have historically fluctuated and are in the future expected to fluctuate from
quarter-to-quarter due to customer scheduling, our ability to manufacture these products and/or
availability of supplies. As a result, the timing to convert orders for these products to net sales will
likely fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter.
Looking at our prior ten years of actual results, excluding a couple of recovery years, our first
quarter revenues generally ranged 2% to 12% below the fourth quarter of the prior fiscal year.
In fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013, one customer accounted for 17%, 13% and 14% of net sales,
respectively.
Segments
We are organized into two reportable operating segments: Specialty Lasers and Systems (‘‘SLS’’)
and Commercial Lasers and Components (‘‘CLC’’). SLS develops and manufactures configurable,
advanced-performance products largely serving the microelectronics, scientific research and government
programs and OEM components and instrumentation markets. CLC focuses on higher volume products
that are offered in set configurations. CLC’s primary markets include materials processing, OEM
components and instrumentation and microelectronics.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the amount of net sales and their relative
percentages of total net sales by segment (dollars in thousands):
Consolidated:
Specialty Lasers and Systems (SLS)
Commercial Lasers and
Fiscal 2015
Fiscal 2014
Fiscal 2013
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
$559,593
69.7% $565,552
71.2% $571,644
70.6%
Components (CLC) . . . . . . . . . .
242,867
30.3% 229,087
28.8% 238,482
29.4%
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$802,460
100.0% $794,639
100.0% $810,126
100.0%
Net sales for fiscal 2015 increased $7.8 million, or 1%, compared to fiscal 2014, with increases of
$13.8 million, or 6%, in our CLC segment and decreases of $6.0 million, or 1%, in our SLS segment.
Net sales for fiscal 2014 decreased $15.5 million, or 2%, compared to fiscal 2013, with decreases of
$6.1 million, or 1%, in our SLS segment and decreases of $9.4 million, or 4%, in our CLC segment.
Both the increase and decrease in CLC and SLS segment sales, respectively, included decreases due to
the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates.
The decrease in our SLS segment sales in fiscal 2015 was primarily due to lower shipments for
medical, semiconductor, bioinstrumentation and advanced packaging applications partially offset by
higher shipments of flat panel display annealing systems. The fiscal 2015 decrease includes an increase
of $2.0 million, primarily in military applications, resulting from our acquisitions of Tinsley and
Raydiance. The decrease in our SLS segment sales in fiscal 2014 was primarily due to lower revenue
for flat panel display annealing applications due to timing for shipment of large systems, lower
shipments for ink jet nozzle drilling applications and lower materials processing applications sales
partially offset by higher shipments for semiconductor and medical applications.
54
The increase in our CLC segment sales from fiscal 2014 to fiscal 2015 was primarily due to higher
medical, bioinstrumentation and flat panel display application sales. The decrease in our CLC segment
sales from fiscal 2013 to fiscal 2014 was primarily due to lower advanced packaging sales due to market
softness and lower military application sales partially offset by higher sales for medical and
instrumentation applications.
Gross Profit
Consolidated
Our gross profit rate increased by 2.4% to 41.8% in fiscal 2015 from 39.4% in fiscal 2014 primarily
due to favorable product margins (1.2%) resulting from favorable mix in the microelectronics market
and the favorable impact from foreign currency fluctuations net of the impact of lower volumes in
certain business units. In addition, the margin also benefited from lower warranty costs (0.6%) due to
fewer warranty events in both segments, lower other costs (0.5%) due primarily to lower inventory
charges as well as lower intangibles amortization (0.1%).
Our gross profit rate decreased by 0.4% to 39.4% in fiscal 2014 from 39.8% in fiscal 2013
primarily due to unfavorable product margins (0.4%) resulting from unfavorable mix in the OEM and
instrumentation and material processing markets in the CLC segment and unfavorable impact of
foreign exchange rates in the SLS segment as well as higher intangibles amortization (0.2%) due to the
acquisitions of Lumera at the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2013 and Innolight in the first quarter of
fiscal 2013 partially offset by lower warranty costs as a percentage of sales (0.2%) due to fewer
warranty events in the SLS segment.
Our gross profit rate has been and will continue to be affected by a variety of factors including
market and product mix, pricing on volume orders, shipment volumes, our ability to manufacture
advanced and more complex products, manufacturing efficiencies, excess and obsolete inventory write-
downs, warranty costs, amortization of intangibles, pricing by competitors or suppliers, new product
introductions, production volume, customization and reconfiguration of systems, commodity prices and
foreign currency fluctuations, particularly the recent weakening of the Euro and a lesser extent, the
Japanese Yen and South Korean Won.
Specialty Lasers and Systems
Our SLS gross profit rate increased by 3.2% to 45.3% in fiscal 2015 from 42.1% in fiscal 2014
primarily due to favorable product margins (1.7%), lower other costs (0.8%) primarily due to lower
inventory charges net of the amortization of the inventory step up from the Tinsley and Raydiance
acquisitions, lower warranty costs (0.6%) due to fewer warranty events and lower intangibles
amortization expense (0.1%). The 1.7% product margin improvement resulted from favorable product
mix in the microelectronics and OEM components and instrumentation markets as well as favorable
service mix and the favorable impact from foreign currency fluctuations.
Our SLS gross profit rate increased by 0.4% to 42.1% in fiscal 2014 from 41.7% in fiscal 2013
primarily due to lower warranty costs (0.8%) due to fewer warranty events and lower other costs
(0.1%) due to inventory step up amortization from the acquisition of Lumera recorded in fiscal 2013
net of higher fiscal 2014 inventory provisions as a percentage of sales. The decreases were partially
offset by higher intangibles amortization (0.3%) due to the acquisitions of Lumera at the end of the
first quarter of fiscal 2013 and Innolight in the first quarter of fiscal 2013 and the beginning of
amortization of in-process research and development (IPR&D) for Lumera in the third quarter of fiscal
2014 as well as unfavorable product cost (0.2%) due to higher scrap, rework and engineering change
order variances, unfavorable mix in the microelectronics and medical markets and the unfavorable
impact of foreign exchange rates.
55
Commercial Lasers and Components
Our CLC gross profit rate increased by 1.0% to 34.9% in fiscal 2015 from 33.9% in fiscal 2014
primarily due to a favorable product margin (0.5%) and lower warranty costs (0.5%) due to fewer
warranty events. The 0.5% product margin improvement resulted from favorable mix in the OEM
components and instrumentation and materials processing markets partially offset by unfavorable yields
in certain business units.
Our CLC gross profit rate decreased by 2.3% to 33.9% in fiscal 2014 from 36.2% in fiscal 2013
primarily due to higher warranty costs (1.2%) due to the impact of a higher installed base on lower
revenues in the advanced packaging market as well as new product introductions in the materials
processing and OEM components and instrumentation markets, unfavorable product costs (1.0%)
resulting from unfavorable mix in the OEM components and instrumentation and material processing
markets and higher other costs (0.1%) due to slightly higher inventory provisions as a percentage of
sales net of lower freight and duty.
Operating Expenses
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the amount of operating expenses and
their relative percentages of total net sales by the line items reflected in our consolidated statement of
operations (dollars in thousands):
2015
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
Fiscal
2014
Percentage
of total
net sales
Amount
Amount
2013
Percentage
of total
net sales
Research and development . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative
Gain on business combination . . .
Impairment of investment . . . . . .
Amortization of intangible assets .
$ 81,455
149,829
(1,316)
2,017
2,667
10.2%
18.7%
(0.2)%
0.2%
0.3%
(Dollars in thousands)
$ 79,070
154,030
—
—
3,424
10.0% $ 82,785
19.4% 149,513
—
—
5,074
—%
—%
0.4%
Total operating expenses . . . . . . .
$234,652
29.2%
$236,524
29.8% $237,372
10.2%
18.5%
—%
—%
0.6%
29.3%
Research and development
Fiscal 2015 research and development (‘‘R&D’’) expenses increased $2.4 million, or 3%, from
fiscal 2014, and increased to 10.2% from 10.0% of sales. The $2.4 million increase was primarily due to
$2.5 million higher project spending as a result of lower customer reimbursements for development
projects and higher spending on various projects net of the favorable impact of foreign exchange rates
as well as an increase of $0.6 million from the impact of the acquisitions of Tinsley and Raydiance in
the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015. The increases were partially offset by $0.7 million lower other
spending including lower charges for increases in deferred compensation plan liabilities with the related
income for increases in deferred compensation assets recorded in other income (expense) and lower
stock-based compensation expense. On a segment basis, SLS spending increased $0.8 million primarily
due to higher net spending on projects due to lower customer reimbursements and the impact of the
acquisitions of Tinsley and Raydiance partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign exchange rates.
CLC spending increased $2.1 million primarily due to higher spending on projects and lower customer
reimbursements. Corporate and other spending decreased $0.5 million due to lower charges for
increases in deferred compensation plan liabilities and lower stock-based compensation expense.
56
Fiscal 2014 research and development (‘‘R&D’’) expenses decreased $3.7 million, or 4%, from
fiscal 2013, and decreased to 10.0% from 10.2% of sales. The $3.7 million decrease was primarily due
to $5.3 million lower project spending as a result of higher customer reimbursements for development
projects net of higher spending on various projects and increased headcount. The decreases were
partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates and $0.4 million higher other
spending including higher charges for increases in deferred compensation plan liabilities with the
related expenses for decreases in deferred compensation assets recorded in other income (expense) and
higher stock-based compensation expense. On a segment basis, SLS spending decreased $2.9 million
primarily due to lower net spending on projects due to higher customer reimbursements net of higher
other spending on projects partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates. CLC spending
decreased $1.2 million primarily due lower spending on projects. Corporate and other spending
increased $0.4 million due to higher charges for increases in deferred compensation plan liabilities and
higher stock-based compensation expense.
Selling, general and administrative
Fiscal 2015 selling, general and administrative (‘‘SG&A’’) expenses decreased $4.2 million, or 3%,
from fiscal 2014. The decrease was primarily due to $3.7 million lower charges for increases in deferred
compensation plan liabilities with the related income for increases in deferred compensation assets
recorded in other income (expense) and $0.7 million lower stock-based compensation expense. The
decreases were partially offset by $0.2 million higher other net variable spending due to higher payroll
related spending from higher variable compensation, salaries and benefits, higher legal and consulting
costs including costs related to acquisitions and higher bad debt expenses partially offset by the
favorable impact of foreign exchange rates and lower demo amortization. On a segment basis, SLS
segment expenses decreased $1.7 million primarily due to lower variable spending. CLC spending
decreased $1.2 million primarily due to lower variable spending. Spending for Corporate and other
decreased $1.3 million primarily due to lower charges for increases in deferred compensation plan
liabilities and lower stock-based compensation expense partially offset by higher variable spending
including legal and consulting costs related to acquisitions and higher payroll spending.
Fiscal 2014 selling, general and administrative (‘‘SG&A’’) expenses increased $4.5 million, or 3%,
from fiscal 2013. The increase was primarily due to $2.9 million higher payroll spending due to higher
headcount and increased salaries and benefits, higher sales commissions due to changes in regional mix
and higher variable compensation spending; $1.2 million higher charges for increases in deferred
compensation plan liabilities with the related expenses for decreases in deferred compensation assets
recorded in other income (expense); and $0.5 million related to the acquisitions of Lumera and
Innolight in the first quarter of fiscal 2013. The increases were partially offset by $0.1 million lower
other variable spending on consulting and legal costs for acquisitions and lower external sales
representative commissions net of the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates. On a segment
basis, SLS segment expenses increased $2.0 million primarily due to higher payroll spending, the
unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates and the acquisitions of Lumera and Innolight partially
offset by lower external sales representative commissions. CLC spending increased $2.6 million
primarily due to higher payroll spending and higher other variable spending partially offset by lower
external sales representative commissions. Spending for Corporate and other decreased $0.1 million
primarily due to lower legal and consulting related to acquisitions and lower other variable spending
partially offset by higher charges for increases in deferred compensation plan liabilities and higher
payroll spending.
Gain on business combination
On July 27, 2015, we acquired the assets and certain liabilities of the Tinsley Optics (‘‘Tinsley’’)
business from L-3 Communications Corporation for approximately $4.3 million, excluding transaction
57
costs (See Note 3). The purchase price was lower than the fair value of net assets purchased, resulting
in a gain of $1.3 million recorded in our consolidated statements of operations for our fiscal year 2015.
Impairment of investment
On June 8, 2010, we invested $2.0 million in SiOnyx, Inc., a privately-held company. The
investment was included in other assets and was being carried on a cost basis. During the third quarter
of fiscal 2015 we determined that our investment became other-than temporarily impaired. As a result,
we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $2.0 million to operating expense in our results of
operations in the third quarter of fiscal 2015.
Amortization of intangible assets
Amortization of intangible assets decreased $0.8 million, or 22%, from fiscal 2014 to fiscal 2015
primarily due to the completion of amortization of certain intangibles from prior acquisitions partially
offset by amortization from the Raydiance acquisition in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015.
Amortization of intangible assets decreased $1.7 million, or 33%, from fiscal 2013 to fiscal 2014
primarily due to the completion of amortization of certain intangibles from the acquisition of Lumera
and other prior acquisitions.
Other income (expense), net
Other income (expense), net, decreased $3.5 million from fiscal 2014 to fiscal 2015. The decrease
was primarily due to $4.6 million lower gains, net of expenses, on our deferred compensation plan
assets partially offset by lower net foreign currency exchange losses ($0.9 million) and $0.2 million
higher interest income due to higher balances of cash and short-term investments. Net foreign currency
exchange losses decreased due to higher unhedged exposure in fiscal 2014 and the significant
movement of the Japanese Yen versus the Euro in the last month of the first quarter of fiscal 2014. In
addition, favorable changes in foreign exchange rates in the second quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to
the timing of hedge contracts were partially offset by an unfavorable impact in fiscal 2015 due to the
weakening of certain Asian currencies against the U.S. Dollar.
Other income (expense), net, increased $3.8 million from fiscal 2013 to fiscal 2014. The increase
was primarily due to $2.1 million higher gains, net of expenses, on our deferred compensation plan
assets and higher net foreign currency exchange gains ($1.5 million) primarily due to more favorable
movement in the Japanese Yen-Euro cross rate during fiscal 2014.
Income taxes
The effective tax rate on income before income taxes for fiscal 2015 of 23.3% was lower than the
statutory rate of 35.0%. This was primarily due to differences related to the benefit of income subject
to foreign tax rates that are lower than U.S. tax rates including South Korea and Singapore tax
exemptions, the benefit of foreign tax credits and the benefit of federal research and development tax
credits including renewal of the federal research and development tax credits for fiscal 2014. These
amounts are partially offset by deemed dividend inclusions under the Subpart F tax rules, stock-based
compensation not deductible for tax purposes and limitations on the deductibility of compensation
under IRC Section 162(m).
The effective tax rate on income before income taxes for fiscal 2014 of 25.4% was lower than the
statutory rate of 35.0%. This was primarily due to differences related to the benefit of income subject
to foreign tax rates that are lower than U.S. tax rates including South Korea and Singapore tax
exemptions and the benefit of foreign tax credits. These amounts are partially offset by deemed
58
dividend inclusions under the Subpart F tax rules, stock-based compensation not deductible for tax
purposes and limitations on the deductibility of compensation under IRC Section 162(m).
The effective tax rate on income before income taxes for fiscal 2013 of 20.5% was lower than the
statutory rate of 35.0%. This was primarily due to differences related to the benefit of income subject
to foreign tax rates that are lower than U.S. tax rates including South Korea and Singapore tax
exemptions, the benefit of foreign tax credits, the benefit of the federal research and development tax
credits including renewal of the federal research and development tax credits for fiscal 2012 and the
benefit of releasing foreign tax reserves accrued under ASC 740-10 Income Taxes and related interest.
These amounts are partially offset by deemed dividend inclusions under the Subpart F tax rules, stock-
based compensation not deductible for tax purposes and limitations on the deductibility of
compensation under IRC Section 162(m).
During fiscal 2015, we increased our valuation allowance on deferred tax assets by $1.2 million to
$15.6 million primarily due to the reduced ability to utilize California and other states research and
development tax credits. During fiscal 2014, we increased our valuation allowance on deferred tax
assets by $1.0 million to $14.4 million primarily due to the reduced ability to utilize California and
other states research and development tax credits. In making the determination to record the valuation
allowance, management considered the likelihood of future taxable income and feasible and prudent
tax planning strategies to realize deferred tax assets. In the future, if we determine that we expect to
realize deferred tax assets, an adjustment to the valuation allowance will affect income in the period
such determination is made.
Coherent Korea received the final approval for a High-Tech tax exemption in 2013 from the South
Korean authorities and it is subject to capital contribution limitations. The impact of this tax exemption
decreased South Korean income taxes by approximately $2.8 million (or $0.11 per diluted share) in
fiscal 2015, $2.4 million (or $0.10 per diluted share) in fiscal 2014 and $2.1 million (or $0.09 per diluted
share) in fiscal 2013. The remaining High-Tech tax exemption benefit is minimal and should be fully
utilized in fiscal 2016 and Coherent Korea should be subject to South Korea income tax at that time.
Coherent Singapore had previously received a Pioneer Status tax exemption from the Singapore
authorities effective from fiscal 2012 through fiscal 2017, and it may be extended if certain additional
requirements are satisfied. The tax holiday is conditional upon our meeting certain revenue, business
spending and employment thresholds. Although Coherent Singapore had income in fiscal 2015, 2014
and 2013, these amounts were offset by a loss carryforward from fiscal 2012 and therefore we did not
realize a cumulative benefit for the Singapore tax holiday.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
Liquidity and capital resources
At October 3, 2015, we had assets classified as cash and cash equivalents and short-term
investments, in an aggregate amount of $325.5 million, compared to $318.3 million at September 27,
2014. At October 3, 2015, approximately $271.3 million of this cash and securities was held in certain of
our foreign subsidiaries, $90.0 million of which was denominated in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar. We currently have approximately $263.3 million of cash held by foreign subsidiaries where we
intend to permanently reinvest our accumulated earnings in these entities and our current plans do not
demonstrate a need for these funds to support our domestic operations. If, however, a portion of these
funds were needed for and distributed to our operations in the United States, we would be subject to
additional U.S. income taxes and foreign withholding taxes. The amount of the taxes due would depend
on the amount and manner of repatriation, as well as the location from where the funds are
repatriated. We actively monitor the third-party depository institutions that hold these assets, primarily
focusing on the safety of principal and secondarily maximizing yield on these assets. We diversify our
cash and cash equivalents and investments among various financial institutions, money market funds,
59
sovereign debt and other securities in order to reduce our exposure should any one of these financial
institutions or financial instruments fail or encounter difficulties. To date, we have not experienced any
material loss or lack of access to our invested cash, cash equivalents or short-term investments.
However, we can provide no assurances that access to our invested cash, cash equivalents or short-term
investments will not be impacted by adverse conditions in the financial markets.
In the second quarter of fiscal 2015 and the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we converted
$42.3 million and $62.7 million, respectively, of cash and securities held in certain of our foreign
subsidiaries to U.S. dollars and invested those funds within a European subsidiary whose functional
currency is the U.S. dollar. At October 3, 2015, this subsidiary had $170.3 million of U.S. dollar
denominated investments primarily in U.S. Treasury securities, corporate notes and commercial paper.
In November 2015, we converted an additional $33.0 million of cash and securities held in certain of
our foreign subsidiaries to U.S. dollars and invested those funds within a European subsidiary whose
functional currency is the U.S. dollar. Accordingly, there is no translation expense arising from this
entity holding U.S. dollar denominated investments. The converted funds are not intended to be
repatriated to the U.S. and no U.S. tax was triggered on the transfer of these funds to the European
subsidiary. See ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT
MARKET RISK below for more information about risks and trends related to foreign currencies.
Sources and Uses of Cash
Historically, our primary source of cash has been provided by operations. Other sources of cash in
the past three fiscal years include proceeds received from the sale of our stock through our employee
stock option and purchase plans. Our historical uses of cash have primarily been for the repurchase of
our common stock, capital expenditures, acquisitions of businesses and technologies and the payment of
a one-time cash dividend in the first quarter of fiscal 2013. Supplemental information pertaining to our
historical sources and uses of cash is presented as follows and should be read in conjunction with our
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and notes thereto (in thousands):
Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . .
Sales of shares under employee stock plans . . . . . .
Repurchase of common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividend paid on common stock . . . . . . . . . .
Capital expenditures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired . . . .
2015
$124,458
7,308
(75,027)
—
(22,163)
(9,300)
Fiscal
2014
2013
$ 91,379
$115,522
10,685
16,541
—
—
— (24,040)
(21,988)
— (67,289)
(23,390)
Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $33.1 million in fiscal 2015 compared to
fiscal 2014 and decreased by $24.1 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013. The increase in cash
provided by operating activities in fiscal 2015 was primarily due to higher net income and higher cash
flows from the timing of shipments of large systems from inventory partially offset by lower cash flows
from prepaid income taxes and accounts receivable. The decrease in cash provided by operating
activities in fiscal 2014 was primarily due to lower cash flows from the timing of inventory purchases to
support new products and accounts payable, lower net income, lower cash flows from the timing of
accounts receivable due to higher days sales outstanding and lower income from operations partially
offset by higher cash flows from the timing of other current liabilities. We believe that our existing
cash, cash equivalents and short term investments combined with cash to be provided by operating
activities will be adequate to cover our working capital needs and planned capital expenditures for at
least the next 12 months to the extent such items are known or are reasonably determinable based on
current business and market conditions. However, we may elect to finance certain of our capital
expenditure requirements through borrowings under our bank credit facilities or other sources of
60
capital. We continue to follow our strategy to further strengthen our financial position by using
available cash flow to fund operations.
We intend to continue pursuing acquisition opportunities at valuations we believe are reasonable
based upon market conditions. However, we cannot accurately predict the timing, size and success of
our acquisition efforts or our associated potential capital commitments. Furthermore, we cannot assure
you that we will be able to acquire businesses on terms acceptable to us. We expect to fund future
acquisitions primarily through existing cash balances and cash flows from operations. If required, we
will look for additional borrowings or consider the issuance of securities. The extent to which we will
be willing or able to use our common stock to make acquisitions will depend on its market value at the
time and the willingness of potential sellers to accept it as full or partial payment.
On July 24, 2015, we acquired certain assets of Raydiance for approximately $5.0 million, excluding
transaction costs. On July 27, 2015, we acquired the assets and certain liabilities of the Tinsley business
from L-3 Communications Corporation for approximately $4.3 million, excluding transaction costs.
On December 10, 2012, we announced that the Board of Directors approved a $1.00 per share
special cash dividend on our outstanding common stock payable on December 27, 2012 to stockholders
of record on December 19, 2012, resulting in a payment of $24.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal
2013. We do not expect to pay any additional dividends in the foreseeable future.
In fiscal 2015, under plans authorized by the Board of Directors, we repurchased and retired
1,302,323 shares of outstanding common stock at an average price of $57.59 per share for a total of
$75.0 million.
Additional sources of cash available to us were domestic and international currency lines of credit
and bank credit facilities totaling $63.2 million as of October 3, 2015, of which $60.6 million was
unused and available. These unsecured credit facilities were used in the U.S., Europe, Japan and China
during fiscal 2015. Our domestic line of credit consists of a $50.0 million unsecured revolving credit
account, which expires on May 31, 2017 and is subject to covenants related to financial ratios and
tangible net worth and we were in compliance with these covenants at October 3, 2015. We have used
$1.1 million for letters of credit against our domestic line of credit and $1.5 million of the international
currency lines has been used as guarantees as of October 3, 2015. In the first quarter of fiscal 2016, we
have drawn $5.0 million on our domestic line of credit.
Our ratio of current assets to current liabilities was 5.6:1 at October 3, 2015, compared to 5.8:1 at
September 27, 2014. The decrease in our ratio is primarily due to increases in other current liabilities
and taxes payable as well as decreases in inventories partially offset by increases in cash and short-term
investments and accounts receivable. Our cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and
working capital are as follows (in thousands):
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Working capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$130,607
194,908
558,202
$ 91,217
227,058
563,736
Fiscal
2015
2014
61
Contractual Obligations and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have no off-balance sheet arrangements as defined by Regulation S-K of the Securities Act of
1933. The following summarizes our contractual obligations at October 3, 2015 and the effect such
obligations are expected to have on our liquidity and cash flow in future periods (in thousands):
Operating lease payments . . .
Asset retirement obligations .
Purchase commitments for
inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase obligations-other . .
Total
$45,853
2,999
Less than
1 year
$10,805
—
1 to 3 years
3 to 5 years
$ 9,630
1,064
$7,372
777
More than
5 years
$18,046
1,158
25,309
8,979
24,587
6,309
722
2,670
—
—
—
—
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$83,140
$41,701
$14,086
$8,149
$19,204
Because of the uncertainty as to the timing of such payments, we have excluded cash payments
related to our contractual obligations for our deferred compensation plans aggregating $28.2 million at
October 3, 2015.
As of October 3, 2015, we recorded gross unrecognized tax benefits of $24.3 million including
gross interest and penalties of $1.8 million. As of September 27, 2014, we recorded gross unrecognized
tax benefits of $23.7 million including gross interest and penalties of $1.8 million. Both gross
unrecognized tax benefits and gross interest and penalties are classified as non-current liabilities in the
consolidated balance sheet. At this time, we are unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of the
timing of payments in individual years due to uncertainties in the timing of tax audit outcomes. As a
result, these amounts are not included in the table above.
Changes in financial condition
Cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2015 was $124.5 million, which included net income
of $76.4 million, depreciation and amortization of $33.1 million, stock-based compensation expense of
$18.2 million, the impairment of our investment in SiOnyx of $2.0 million, decreases in net deferred tax
assets of $0.8 million and $0.6 million other, partially offset by cash used by operating assets and
liabilities of $5.3 million and the net effect of the gain from acquisition of Tinsley of $1.3 million. Cash
provided by operating activities in fiscal 2014 was $91.4 million, which included net income of
$59.1 million, depreciation and amortization of $36.2 million and stock-based compensation expense of
$18.9 million partially offset by cash used by operating assets and liabilities of $13.3 million, increases
in net deferred tax assets of $8.2 million and $1.3 million other.
Cash provided by investing activities in fiscal 2015 of $3.2 million included $33.5 million net sales
and maturities of available-for-sale securities partially offset by $21.0 million, net, used to acquire
property and equipment and improve buildings net of proceeds from dispositions and $9.3 million used
to acquire Tinsley and Raydiance. Cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2014 of $109.8 million
included $22.8 million, net, used to acquire property and equipment and improve buildings net of
proceeds from dispositions and $87.0 million net purchases of available-for-sale securities.
Cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2015 was $73.0 million, which included $75.0 million
repurchases of common stock and $5.3 million outflows due to net settlement of restricted stock
partially offset by $7.3 million generated from our employee stock option and purchase plans. Cash
provided by financing activities in fiscal 2014 was $2.9 million, which included $10.7 million generated
from our employee stock option and purchase plans partially offset by $7.8 million outflows due to net
settlement of restricted stock.
62
Changes in exchange rates in fiscal 2015 resulted in a decrease in cash balances of $15.2 million.
Changes in exchange rates in fiscal 2014 resulted in a decrease in cash balances of $3.7 million
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
See Note 2. ‘‘Significant Accounting Policies’’ in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
for a full description of recent accounting pronouncements, including the respective dates of adoption
or expected adoption and effects on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash
flows.
APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Our discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations are based upon our
consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the
SEC. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets
and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting period. We have identified the following as the items that require the
most significant judgment and often involve complex estimation: revenue recognition, accounting for
long-lived assets (including goodwill and intangible assets), inventory valuation, warranty reserves,
stock-based compensation and accounting for income taxes.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue when all four revenue recognition criteria have been met: persuasive
evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered or the service has been rendered,
the price is fixed or determinable and collection is probable. Revenue from product sales is recorded
when all of the foregoing conditions are met and risk of loss and title passes to the customer. Our
products typically include a warranty and the estimated cost of product warranty claims (based on
historical experience) is recorded at the time the sale is recognized. Sales to customers are generally
not subject to any price protection or return rights.
The majority of our sales are made to original equipment manufacturers (‘‘OEMs’’), distributors,
representatives and end-users in the non-scientific market. Sales made to these customers do not
require installation of the products by us and are not subject to other post-delivery obligations, except
in occasional instances where we have agreed to perform installation or provide training. In those
instances, we defer revenue related to installation services or training until these services have been
rendered. We allocate revenue from multiple element arrangements to the various elements based upon
fair values or a selling price hierarchy, as more fully described in Note 2, ‘‘Significant Accounting
Policies—Revenue Recognition,’’ in our consolidated financial statements.
Should changes in conditions cause management to determine these criteria are not met for
certain future transactions, revenue recognized for any reporting period could be adversely affected.
Failure to obtain anticipated orders due to delays or cancellations of orders could have a material
adverse effect on our revenue. In addition, pressures from customers to reduce our prices or to modify
our existing sales terms may have a material adverse effect on our revenue in future periods.
Our sales to distributors, representatives and end-user customers typically do not have customer
acceptance provisions and only certain of our sales to OEM customers and integrators have customer
acceptance provisions. Customer acceptance is generally limited to performance under our published
product specifications. For the few product sales that have customer acceptance provisions because of
higher than published specifications, (1) the products are tested and accepted by the customer at our
63
site or the customer accepts the results of our testing program prior to shipment to the customer, or
(2) the revenue is deferred until customer acceptance occurs.
Sales to end-users in the scientific market typically require installation and, thus, involve
post-delivery obligations; however our post-delivery installation obligations are not essential to the
functionality of our products. We defer revenue related to installation services until completion of these
services.
For most products, training is not provided; therefore, no post-delivery training obligation exists.
However, when training is provided to our customers, it is typically priced separately and recognized as
revenue as these services are provided.
For multiple element arrangements which include extended maintenance contracts, we allocate and
defer the amount of consideration equal to the separately stated price and recognize revenue on a
straight-line basis over the contract period.
Long-Lived Assets and Goodwill
We evaluate long-lived assets and amortizable intangible assets whenever events or changes in
business circumstances or our planned use of assets indicate that their carrying amounts may not be
fully recoverable or that their useful lives are no longer appropriate. Reviews are performed to
determine whether the carrying values of the assets are impaired based on comparison to the
undiscounted expected future cash flows identifiable to such long-lived and amortizable intangible
assets. If the comparison indicates that impairment exists, the impaired asset is written down to its fair
value.
We have determined that our reporting units are the same as our operating segments as each
constitutes a business for which discrete financial information is available and for which segment
management regularly reviews the operating results. We make this determination in a manner
consistent with how the operating segments are managed. Based on this analysis, we have identified two
reporting units which are our reportable segments: SLS and CLC.
Goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis and between annual tests in certain
circumstances, and written down when impaired (see Note 7 ‘‘Goodwill and Intangible Assets’’ in the
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements). We generally perform our annual impairment tests during
the fourth quarter of each fiscal year using the opening balance sheet as of the first day of the fourth
fiscal quarter, with any resulting impairment recorded in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year.
In fiscal 2013, we elected to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing
the first step of the goodwill impairment test. This election was made because we had last performed
this detailed impairment test in fiscal 2010 and we had subsequently added a substantial amount of
goodwill balances as a result of our acquisitions of Midaz in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 and the
acquisitions of Innolight and Lumera in the first quarter of fiscal 2013. We performed our Step 1 test
during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 using the opening balance sheet as of the first day of the fourth
quarter and noted no impairment. Management completed and reviewed the results of the Step 1
analysis and concluded that a Step 2 analysis was not required as the estimated fair values of both of
our reporting units were substantially in excess of their carrying values. Between the completion of that
testing and the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, we noted no indications of impairment or
triggering events to cause us to review goodwill for potential impairment.
In fiscal 2014 and 2015, we conducted a qualitative assessment of the goodwill in the SLS
reporting unit during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year using the opening balance sheet as of the
first day of the fourth quarter and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the
reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount. In assessing the qualitative factors, we considered the
impact of these key factors: macroeconomic conditions, fluctuations in foreign currency, market and
64
industry conditions, our operating and competitive environment, regulatory and political developments,
the overall financial performance of our reporting units including cost factors and budgeted-to-actual
revenue results. We also considered our market capitalization, stock price performance and the
significant excess calculated in the prior year between estimated fair value and the carrying value of
SLS. Based on our assessment, goodwill in the SLS reporting unit was not impaired as of the first day
of the fourth quarter of both fiscal 2014 and 2015. As such, it was not necessary to perform the
two-step goodwill impairment test at that time in either fiscal year.
For our CLC reporting unit we elected to bypass the qualitative assessment in fiscal 2014 and
proceeded directly to performing the first step of goodwill impairment. The election was made in
consideration of the lower financial performance of the reporting unit when compared to fiscal 2013,
mostly due to softness in market conditions, predominantly in the advanced packaging market. We
performed the Step 1 test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014. We determined the fair value of the
reporting unit for the Step 1 test using a 50-50% weighting of the Income (discounted cash flow)
approach and Market (market comparable) approach. The Income approach utilizes the discounted
cash flow model to provide an estimation of fair value based on the cash flows that a business expects
to generate. These cash flows are based on forecasts developed internally by management which are
then discounted at an after tax rate of return required by equity and debt market participants of a
business enterprise. This rate of return or cost of capital is weighted based on the capitalization of
comparable companies. The Market approach determines fair value by comparing the reporting units to
comparable companies in similar lines of business that are publicly traded. Total Enterprise Value
(TEV) multiples such as TEV to revenues and TEV to earnings (if applicable) before interest and
taxes of the publicly traded companies are calculated. These multiples are then applied to the reporting
unit’s operating results to obtain an estimate of fair value. Each of these two approaches captures
aspects of value in each reporting unit. The Income approach captures our expected future
performance, and the Market approach captures how investors view the reporting units through other
competitors. We believe these valuation approaches are proven valuation techniques and methodologies
for our industry and are widely accepted by investors. As neither was perceived by us to deliver any
greater indication of value than the other, and neither approach individually computed a fair value less
than the carrying value of the segment, we weighted each of the approaches equally. Management
completed and reviewed the results of the Step 1 analysis and concluded that a Step 2 analysis was not
required as the estimated fair value of the CLC reporting unit was in excess of its carrying value.
Between the completion of that testing and the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we noted no
indications of impairment or triggering events for either reporting unit to cause us to review goodwill
for potential impairment
For our CLC reporting unit we elected to bypass the qualitative assessment in fiscal 2015 and
proceeded directly to performing the first step of goodwill impairment. Although the reporting unit had
better financial performance in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014, such performance was not
significant enough to justify performing only a qualitative assessment in fiscal 2015. Accordingly, we
performed the Step 1 test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015. We determined the fair value of the
reporting unit for the Step 1 test using a 50-50% weighting of the Income (discounted cash flow)
approach and Market (market comparable) approach. The Income approach utilizes the discounted
cash flow model to provide an estimation of fair value based on the cash flows that a business expects
to generate. These cash flows are based on forecasts developed internally by management which are
then discounted at an after tax rate of return required by equity and debt market participants of a
business enterprise. This rate of return or cost of capital is weighted based on the capitalization of
comparable companies. The Market approach determines fair value by comparing the reporting units to
comparable companies in similar lines of business that are publicly traded. Total Enterprise Value
(TEV) multiples such as TEV to revenues and TEV to earnings (if applicable) before interest and
taxes of the publicly traded companies are calculated. These multiples are then applied to the reporting
unit’s operating results to obtain an estimate of fair value. Each of these two approaches captures
65
aspects of value in each reporting unit. The Income approach captures our expected future
performance, and the Market approach captures how investors view the reporting units through other
competitors. We believe these valuation approaches are proven valuation techniques and methodologies
for our industry and are widely accepted by investors. As neither was perceived by us to deliver any
greater indication of value than the other, and neither approach individually computed a fair value less
than the carrying value of the segment, we weighted each of the approaches equally. Management
completed and reviewed the results of the Step 1 analysis and concluded that a Step 2 analysis was not
required as the estimated fair value of the CLC reporting unit was substantially in excess of its carrying
value. Between the completion of that testing and the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we
noted no indications of impairment or triggering events for either reporting unit to cause us to review
goodwill for potential impairment.
At October 3, 2015, we had $101.8 million of goodwill ($95.5 million SLS and $6.4 million in
CLC), $22.8 million of purchased intangible assets and $102.4 million of property and equipment on
our consolidated balance sheet.
Inventory Valuation
We record our inventory at the lower of cost (computed on a first-in, first-out basis) or market. We
write-down our inventory to its estimated market value based on assumptions about future demand and
market conditions. Inventory write-downs are generally recorded within guidelines set by management
when the inventory for a device exceeds 12 months of its demand or when management has deemed
parts are no longer active or useful. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected
by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required which could materially affect our
future results of operations. Due to rapidly changing forecasts and orders, additional write-downs for
excess or obsolete inventory, while not currently expected, could be required in the future. In the event
that alternative future uses of fully written down inventories are identified, we may experience better
than normal profit margins when such inventory is sold. Differences between actual results and
previous estimates of excess and obsolete inventory could materially affect our future results of
operations. We write-down our demo inventory by amortizing the cost of demo inventory over a twenty
month period starting from the fourth month after such inventory is placed in service.
Warranty Reserves
We provide warranties on the majority of our product sales and allowances for estimated warranty
costs are recorded during the period of sale. The determination of such allowances requires us to make
estimates of product return rates and expected costs to repair or replace the products under warranty.
We currently establish warranty reserves based on historical warranty costs for each product line. The
weighted average warranty period covered is approximately 15 months. If actual return rates and/or
repair and replacement costs differ significantly from our estimates, adjustments to cost of sales may be
required in future periods.
Stock-Based Compensation
We account for stock-based compensation using fair value. We estimate the fair value of stock
options granted using the Black-Scholes Merton model and estimate the fair value of performance
restricted stock units granted using a Monte Carlo simulation model. We use historical data to estimate
pre-vesting option forfeitures and record stock-based compensation expense only for those awards that
are expected to vest. We amortize the fair value of stock options on a straight-line basis over the
requisite service periods of the awards, which are generally the vesting periods. We value service-based
restricted stock units using the intrinsic value method and amortize the value on a straight-line basis
over the restriction period. We value performance restricted stock units using a Monte Carlo simulation
66
model and amortize the value over the performance period, with no adjustment in future periods,
based upon the actual shareholder return over the performance period.
U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (‘‘GAAP’’) requires the use of option pricing
models that were not developed for use in valuing employee stock options. The Black-Scholes option-
pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of short-lived exchange traded options
that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option-pricing models require
the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the options expected life, the expected price
volatility of the underlying stock and an estimate of expected forfeitures. Our computation of expected
volatility considers historical volatility and market-based implied volatility. Our estimate of expected
forfeitures is based on historical employee data and could differ from actual forfeitures.
See Note 12 ‘‘Employee Stock Award, Option and Benefit Plans’’ in the notes to the Consolidated
Financial Statements for a description of our stock-based employee compensation plans and the
assumptions we use to calculate the fair value of stock-based employee compensation.
Income Taxes
As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to
estimate our income tax provision (benefit) in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. This
process involves us estimating our current income tax provision (benefit) together with assessing
temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes.
These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated
balance sheets.
We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to an amount that more likely
than not will be realized. While we have considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and
feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for the valuation allowance, in the event we were
to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of our net
recorded amount, an adjustment to the allowance for the deferred tax asset would increase income in
the period such determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we would not be able to
realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the valuation allowance
for the deferred tax asset would be charged to income in the period such determination was made.
Federal and state income taxes have not been provided for on a portion of the unremitted
earnings of foreign subsidiaries because such earnings are intended to be permanently reinvested. The
total amount of unremitted earnings (including accumulated translation adjustments) of foreign
subsidiaries for which we have not yet recorded federal and state income taxes was approximately
$471.9 million at fiscal 2015 year-end. The amount of federal and state income taxes that would be
payable upon repatriation of such earnings is not practicably determinable. We have not, nor do we
anticipate the need to, repatriate funds to the United States to satisfy domestic liquidity needs arising
in the ordinary course of business.
67
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market risk disclosures
We are exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange
rates. We do not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes.
Interest rate sensitivity
A portion of our investment portfolio is composed of fixed income securities. These securities are
subject to interest rate risk and will fall in value if market interest rates increase. If interest rates were
to increase immediately (whether due to changes in overall market rates or credit worthiness of the
issuers of our individual securities) and uniformly by 10% from levels at fiscal 2015 year-end, the fair
value of the portfolio, based on quoted market prices in active markets involving similar assets, would
decline by an immaterial amount due to their short-term maturities. We have the ability to generally
hold our fixed income investments until maturity and therefore we would not expect our operating
results or cash flows to be affected to any significant degree by the effect of a sudden change in market
interest rates on our securities portfolio. If necessary, we may sell short-term investments prior to
maturity to meet our liquidity needs.
At fiscal 2015 year-end, the fair value of our available-for-sale debt securities was $178.4 million,
all of which was classified as short-term investments. Gross unrealized gains and losses on
available-for-sale debt securities were $1.1 million and $(2,000), respectively, at fiscal 2015 year-end. At
fiscal 2014 year-end, the fair value of our available-for-sale debt securities was $227.1 million, all of
which was classified as short-term investments. Gross unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale
debt securities were $1.0 million and $(45,000), respectively, at fiscal 2014 year-end.
Foreign currency exchange risk
We maintain operations in various countries outside of the United States and have foreign
subsidiaries that manufacture and sell our products in various global markets. The majority of our sales
are transacted in U.S. dollars. However, we do generate revenues in other currencies, primarily the
Euro, Japanese Yen, the South Korean Won and the Chinese Renminbi. Additionally, we have
operations in different countries around the world with costs incurred in other local currencies, such as
British Pound Sterling, Singapore Dollars and Malaysian Ringgit. As a result, our earnings, cash flows
and cash balances are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. For example, we have
significant manufacturing operations in Europe so that a weakening Euro is advantageous to our
financial results. We attempt to limit these exposures through financial market instruments. We utilize
derivative instruments, primarily forward contracts with maturities of two months or less, to manage
our exposure associated with anticipated cash flows and net asset and liability positions denominated in
foreign currencies. Gains and losses on the forward contracts are mitigated by gains and losses on the
underlying instruments. We do not use derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
On occasion, we enter into currency forward exchange contracts to hedge specific anticipated
foreign currency denominated transactions generally expected to occur within the next 12 months.
These cash flow hedges are designated for hedge accounting treatment and gains and losses on these
contracts are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholder’s equity and
reclassified into earnings at the time that the related transactions being hedged are recognized in
earnings. See Note 6 ‘‘Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities’’.
We do not anticipate any material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of
operations or cash flows resulting from the use of these instruments. There can be no assurance that
these strategies will be effective or that transaction losses can be minimized or forecasted accurately.
While we model currency valuations and fluctuations, these may not ultimately be accurate. If a
68
financial counterparty to any of our hedging arrangements experiences financial difficulties or is
otherwise unable to honor the terms of the foreign currency hedge, we may experience material
financial losses. In the current economic environment, the risk of failure of a financial party remains
high.
At October 3, 2015, approximately $271.3 million of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term
investments were held outside the U.S. in certain of our foreign operations, $90.0 million of which was
denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar.
A hypothetical 10% change in foreign currency rates on our forward contracts would not have a
material impact on our results of operations, cash flows or financial position.
The following table provides information about our foreign exchange forward contracts at
October 3, 2015. The table presents the weighted average contractual foreign currency exchange rates,
the value of the contracts in U.S. dollars at the contract exchange rate as of the contract maturity date
and fair value. The U.S. fair value represents the fair value of the contracts valued at October 3, 2015
rates.
Forward contracts to sell (buy) foreign currencies (in thousands, except contract rates):
Average
Contract Rate
U.S. Notional
Contract Value
U.S. Fair Value
Non-Designated—For US Dollars:
Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japanese Yen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
British Pound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
South Korean Won . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chinese Renminbi
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Singapore Dollar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Malaysian Ringgit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Designated—for Euros:
Japanese Yen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1282
119.6796
1.5336
1,178.999
6.4248
1.4077
4.1793
$(52,669)
$ 15,246
$ 2,393
$ 17,494
$ 10,900
$ (2,003)
$ 2,162
$ (33)
$ 76
$ (17)
$ (30)
$ 106
$ 35
$(115)
117.3609
$ 2,903
$ (41)
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
See Item 15-(a) for an index to the Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary
Financial Information, which are attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein. The financial
statements and notes thereto can be found beginning on page 67 of this annual report.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
69
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Management’s Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and
procedures, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as of
the end of the period covered by this annual report (‘‘Evaluation Date’’). The controls evaluation was
conducted under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer
and Chief Financial Officer concluded as of the Evaluation Date that our disclosure controls and
procedures were effective in providing reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed
by us in reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is
(i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities
and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our
management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to
allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.
Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, is responsible for
establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange
Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Company.
Management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of
October 3, 2015, utilizing the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission (‘‘COSO’’) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013). Based on the
assessment by management, we determined that our internal control over financial reporting was
effective as of October 3, 2015. The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of
October 3, 2015 has been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, our independent registered public
accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears below.
Inherent Limitations Over Internal Controls
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 (‘‘GAAP’’). Because of its
inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.
Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness for 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. Our internal control over financial reporting is
designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP. Our 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 our assets;
(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 our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with
authorizations of our management and directors; and
(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized
acquisition, use, or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial
statements.
70
Management, including our CEO and CFO, does not expect that our internal controls will prevent
or detect all errors and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can
provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.
Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the
benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all
control systems, no evaluation of internal controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues
and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected. Also, any evaluation of the effectiveness of controls
in future periods are subject to the risk that those internal controls may become inadequate because of
changes in business conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may
deteriorate.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
quarter ended October 3, 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially
affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
71
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Coherent, Inc.:
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Coherent, Inc. and its subsidiaries
(collectively, the ‘‘Company’’) as of October 3, 2015, based on the criteria established in Internal
Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal
control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over
financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over
Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over
financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting
Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained
in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over
financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design
and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other
procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the
supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing
similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel
to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of
financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that
(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the
transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being
made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and
(3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition,
use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the
possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to
error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation
of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the
risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over
financial reporting as of October 3, 2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—
Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting
Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended
October 3, 2015, of the Company and our report dated December 1, 2015, expressed an unqualified
opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
San Jose, California
December 1, 2015
72
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
Not applicable.
73
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Information regarding: (i) our directors will be set forth under the caption ‘‘Proposal One—
Election of Directors—Nominees’’; (ii) compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 will
be set forth under the caption ‘‘Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance’’; (iii) the
process for stockholders to nominate directors will be set forth under the caption ‘‘Proposal One—
Election of Directors—Process for Recommending Candidates for Election to the Board of Directors’’;
(iv) our audit committee and audit committee financial expert will be set forth under the caption
‘‘Proposal One—Election of Directors—Board Meetings and Committees—Audit Committee’’; in our
proxy statement for use in connection with an upcoming Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held in
2016 (the ‘‘2016 Proxy Statement’’) and is incorporated herein by reference or included in a
Form 10-K/A as an amendment to this Form 10-K. The 2016 Proxy Statement or Form 10-K/A will be
filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year.
Business Conduct Policy
We have adopted a worldwide Business Conduct Policy that applies to the members of our Board
of Directors, executive officers and other employees. This policy is posted on our Website at
www.coherent.com and may be found as follows:
1.
From our main Web page, first click on ‘‘Company’’ and then on ‘‘corporate governance.’’
2. Next, click on ‘‘Business Conduct Policy.’’
We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirement under Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding an
amendment to, or waiver from, a provision of this Business Conduct Policy by posting such information
on our Website, at the address and location specified above.
Stockholders may request free printed copies of our worldwide Business Conduct Policy from:
Coherent, Inc.
Attention: Investor Relations
5100 Patrick Henry Drive
Santa Clara, California 95054
Executive Officers
The name, age, position and a brief account of the business experience of our executive officers as
of December 1, 2015 are set forth below:
Name
Age
Office Held
John R. Ambroseo . . .
Helene Simonet . . . . .
Mark Sobey . . . . . . . .
Paul Sechrist
. . . . . . .
Luis Spinelli . . . . . . . .
Bret M. DiMarco . . . .
President and Chief Executive Officer
54
63 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
55 Executive Vice President and General Manager, Specialty Laser Systems
56 Executive Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Service
67 Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer
47 Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
John R. Ambroseo. Mr. Ambroseo has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer as
well as a member of the Board of Directors since October 2002. Mr. Ambroseo served as our Chief
Operating Officer from June 2001 through September 2002. Mr. Ambroseo served as our Executive
Vice President and as President and General Manager of the Coherent Photonics Group from
September 2000 to June 2001. From September 1997 to September 2000, Mr. Ambroseo served as our
Executive Vice President and as President and General Manager of the Coherent Laser Group. From
74
March 1997 to September 1997, Mr. Ambroseo served as our Scientific Business Unit Manager. From
August 1988, when Mr. Ambroseo joined us, until March 1997, he served as a Sales Engineer, Product
Marketing Manager, National Sales Manager and Director of European Operations. Mr. Ambroseo
received a Bachelor degree from SUNY-College at Purchase and a PhD in Chemistry from the
University of Pennsylvania.
Helene Simonet. Ms. Simonet has served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer since April 2002. Ms. Simonet served as Vice President of Finance of our former Medical
Group and Vice President of Finance, Photonics Division from December 1999 to April 2002. Prior to
joining Coherent, she spent over twenty years in senior finance positions at Raychem Corporation’s
Division and Corporate organizations, including Vice President of Finance of Raynet Corporation.
Since October 2014, Ms. Simonet has served as a member of the Board of Directors of Rogers
Corporation, a NYSE-listed provider of engineered materials. Ms. Simonet has both Master’s and
Bachelor degrees from the University of Leuven, Belgium. As previously disclosed, Ms. Simonet has
notified us of her intent to retire effective February 1, 2016.
Mark Sobey. Mr. Sobey was appointed Executive Vice President of Coherent and General
Manager of Specialty Laser Systems (SLS) in April 2010. He has served as Senior Vice President and
General Manager for the SLS Business Group, which primarily serves the Microelectronics and
Research markets, since joining Coherent in July 2007. Prior to Coherent, Mr. Sobey has spent over
20 years in the Laser and Fiber Optics Telecommunications industries, including roles as Senior Vice
President Product Management at Cymer from January 2006 through June 2007 and previously as
Senior Vice President Global Sales at JDS Uniphase through October 2005. He received his PhD in
Engineering and BSc in Physics, both from the University of Strathclyde in Scotland.
Paul Sechrist. Mr. Paul Sechrist was appointed Executive Vice President, Worldwide Sales and
Service in March 2011. He has over 35 years of experience with Coherent, including roles as Senior
Vice President and General Manager of Commercial Lasers and Components from October 2008 to
March 2011, Vice President and General Manager of Specialty Laser Systems, Santa Clara from March
2008 to October 2008 and Vice President for Components from April 2005 to October 2008.
Mr. Sechrist received an AA degree from San Jose City College, with Physics studies at California State
University, Hayward.
Luis Spinelli. Mr. Spinelli has served as our Executive Vice President and Chief Technology
Officer since February 2004. Mr. Spinelli joined the Company in May 1985 and has since held various
engineering and managerial positions, including Vice President, Advanced Research from April 2000 to
September 2002 and Vice President, Corporate Research from September 2002 to February 2004.
Mr. Spinelli has led the Advanced Research Unit from its inception in 1998, whose charter is to
identify and evaluate new and emerging technologies of interest for us across a range of disciplines in
the laser field. Mr. Spinelli holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Buenos
Aires, Argentina with post-graduate work at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Bret M. DiMarco. Mr. DiMarco has served as our Executive Vice President and General Counsel
since June 2006 and our Corporate Secretary since February 2007. From February 2003 until May 2006,
Mr. DiMarco was a member and from October 1995 until January 2003 was an associate at Wilson
Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C., a law firm. Mr. DiMarco received a Bachelor’s degree from the
University of California at Irvine and a Juris Doctorate degree from the Law Center at the University
of Southern California. Mr. DiMarco also serves on the NASDAQ Listing and Hearing Review Council.
75
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Information regarding: (i) executive officer and director compensation will be set forth under the
captions ‘‘Election of Directors—Director Compensation’’ and ‘‘Executive Officers and Executive
Compensation’’ and (ii) compensation committee interlocks will be set forth under the caption
‘‘Executive Officers and Executive Compensation—Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider
Participation and Committee Independence’’ in the 2016 Proxy Statement or included in a
Form 10-K/A as an amendment to our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2015. The 2016
Proxy Statement or Form 10-K/A will be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the end of our fiscal
year.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Information regarding: (i) equity compensation plan information will be set forth under the
caption ‘‘Equity Compensation Plan Information’’; and (ii) security ownership of certain beneficial
owners and management will be set forth under the caption ‘‘Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial
Owners and Management’’; in our 2016 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference or
included in a Form 10-K/A as an amendment to our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3,
2015.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR
INDEPENDENCE
The information required under this item will be set forth under the caption ‘‘Certain
Relationships and Related Party Transactions’’ in our 2016 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein
by reference or included in a Form 10-K/A as an amendment to our Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended October 3, 2015.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Principal Accounting Fees and Services
The following table sets forth fees for services provided by Deloitte & Touche LLP, the member
firms of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, and their respective affiliates (collectively, ‘‘Deloitte’’) during fiscal
years 2015 and 2014:
Audit fees(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax fees(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
All other fees(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$2,030,577
176,323
2,600
$1,918,649
166,382
2,600
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$2,209,500
$2,087,631
2015
2014
(1) Represents fees for professional services provided in connection with the integrated audit
of our annual financial statements and internal control over financial reporting and review
of our quarterly financial statements, advice on accounting matters that arose during the
audit and audit services provided in connection with other statutory or regulatory filings.
(2) Represents tax compliance and related services.
(3) Represents the annual subscription for access to the Deloitte Accounting Research Tool,
which is a searchable on-line accounting database.
76
Pre-Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services
The Audit Committee has determined that the provision of non-audit services by Deloitte is
compatible with maintaining Deloitte’s independence. In accordance with its charter, the Audit
Committee approves in advance all audit and non-audit services to be provided by Deloitte. In other
cases, the Chairman of the Audit Committee has the delegated authority from the Committee to
pre-approve certain additional services, and such pre-approvals are communicated to the full
Committee at its next meeting. During fiscal year 2015, all such services were pre-approved by the
Audit Committee in accordance with this policy.
77
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) 1.
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
PART IV
The following Consolidated Financial Statements of Coherent, Inc. and its subsidiaries are filed as
part of this annual report on Form 10-K:
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Balance Sheets—October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Statements of Operations—Years ended October 3, 2015, September 27, 2014 and
September 28, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income—Years ended October 3, 2015,
September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity—Years ended October 3, 2015, September 27,
2014 and September 28, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows—Years ended October 3, 2015, September 27, 2014 and
84
85
86
87
88
September 28, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
89
90
129
2. Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules
Financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are either not required, not
applicable or the information required to be set forth therein is included in the Consolidated Financial
Statements hereto.
3. Exhibits
Exhibit
Numbers
3.1*
3.2*
Restated and Amended Certificate of Incorporation. (Previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 1990)
Certificate of Amendment of Restated and Amended Certificate of Incorporation of
Coherent, Inc. (Previously filed as Exhibit 3.2 to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
September 28, 2002)
3.3*
Bylaws. (Previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K, filed on December 12, 2012)
10.1*‡ Amended and Restated Employee Stock Purchase Plan. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to
Form S-8 filed on June 12, 2012)
10.2*‡
10.3*
10.4*‡
10.5*‡
Coherent Employee Retirement and Investment Plan. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.23 to
Form 8, Amendment No. 1 to Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
September 25, 1982)
1998 Director Option Plan. (Previously filed as Appendix B to Schedule 14A filed
February 28, 2006)
2001 Stock Plan. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
March 29, 2008)
Change of Control Severance Plan, as amended and restated effective December 7, 2012.
(Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, filed on December 17, 2014)
78
Exhibit
Numbers
10.6*‡ Variable Compensation Plan, as amended. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-K
for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011)
10.7*‡
Fiscal 2013 Variable Compensation Plan Payout Scale (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to
Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended December 28, 2013)
10.8***‡ Fiscal 2014 Variable Compensation Plan Payout Scale (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended December 28, 2013)
10.9*‡
Supplementary Retirement Plan. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.5 to Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended April 1, 2006)
10.10*‡
10.11*‡
10.12*‡
10.13*
10.14*
10.15*
10.16*
10.17*‡
10.18*‡
10.19*‡
10.20*‡
10.21*‡
10.22*‡
2005 Deferred Compensation Plan. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q for the
fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2011)
Form of 2001 Stock Plan Terms and Conditions of Restricted Stock Units. (Previously filed
as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed on November 27, 2009)
Form of 2001 Stock Plan Amended Global Stock Option Agreement. (Previously filed as
Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed on November 27, 2009)
Amended and Restated Loan Agreement by and between Coherent, Inc. and Union Bank
of California, N.A. dated as of May 30, 2012. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K
filed on June 5, 2012)
Amended and Restated Promissory Note (Base Rate) (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.2 to
Form 8-K filed on June 5, 2012)
Second Lease Amendment by and between Coherent, Inc. and 5200 Patrick Henry
Associates LLC dated as of July 23, 2010. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended July 3, 2010)
Form of Indemnification Agreement (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.18 to Form 10-K for the
year ended October 2, 2010)
2011 Equity Incentive Plan. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s
Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-174019) filed on May 6, 2011)
Form of RSU Agreement for members of the Board of Directors under the Company’s
2011 Equity Incentive Plan. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q for the fiscal
quarter ended July 2, 2011)
Form of Option Agreement for members of the Board of Directors under the Company’s
2011 Equity Incentive Plan. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q for the fiscal
quarter ended July 2, 2011)
Form of Performance RSU Agreement under the 2011 Equity Incentive Plan. (Previously
filed as Exhibit 10.22 to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011)
Form of Time-Based RSU Agreement under the 2011 Equity Incentive Plan. (Previously
filed as Exhibit 10.23 to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011)
Form of Performance RSU Agreement under the 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (Amended)
(Previously filed as Exhibit 10.23 to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29,
2012)
10.23*‡
Form of Performance RSU Agreement under the 2011 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended
November 8, 2013. (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed November 14, 2013)
79
Exhibit
Numbers
10.24*
First Modification Agreement to Loan and Security Agreement with Union Bank, N.A.,
dated May 30, 2014 (Previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed June 3, 2014)
10.25‡
Form of Performance RSU Agreement under the 2011 Equity Plan
21.1
23.1
24.1
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
Subsidiaries
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Power of Attorney (see signature page)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002.
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a),
as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
*
These exhibits were previously filed with the Commission as indicated and are incorporated herein
by reference.
** Portions of this exhibit are redacted and confidential treatment has been requested.
‡
Identifies management contract or compensatory plans or arrangements required to be filed as an
exhibit.
80
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized.
SIGNATURES
COHERENT, INC.
Date: December 1, 2015
By:
/s/ JOHN R. AMBROSEO
John R. Ambroseo
President and Chief Executive Officer
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears
below hereby constitutes and appoints John R. Ambroseo and Helene Simonet, and each of them
individually, as his attorney-in-fact, each with full power of substitution, for him in any and all
capacities to sign any and all amendments to this Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same with, with
exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact, or his or her substitute, may
do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed
below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates
indicated:
/s/ JOHN R. AMBROSEO
John R. Ambroseo
(Director and Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ HELENE SIMONET
Helene Simonet
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
/s/ JAY T. FLATLEY
Jay T. Flatley
(Director)
/s/ SUSAN M. JAMES
Susan M. James
(Director)
December 1, 2015
Date
December 1, 2015
Date
December 1, 2015
Date
December 1, 2015
Date
81
/s/ L. WILLIAM KRAUSE
L. William Krause
(Director)
/s/ GARRY W. ROGERSON
Garry W. Rogerson
(Director)
/s/ STEVE SKAGGS
Steve Skaggs
(Director)
/s/ SANDEEP VIJ
Sandeep Vij
(Director)
December 1, 2015
Date
December 1, 2015
Date
December 1, 2015
Date
December 1, 2015
Date
82
STATEMENT OF MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY
Management is responsible for the preparation, integrity, and objectivity of the Consolidated
Financial Statements and other financial information included in the Company’s 2015 Annual Report
on Form 10-K. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S.
generally accepted accounting principles and reflect the effects of certain estimates and judgments
made by management. It is critical for investors and other readers of the Consolidated Financial
Statements to have confidence that the financial information that we provide is timely, complete,
relevant and accurate.
Management, with oversight by the Company’s Board of Directors, has established and maintains a
corporate culture that requires that the Company’s affairs be conducted to the highest standards of
business ethics and conduct. Management also maintains a system of internal controls that is designed
to provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded and that transactions are properly recorded
and executed in accordance with management’s authorization. This system is regularly monitored
through direct management review, as well as extensive audits conducted by internal auditors
throughout the organization.
Our Consolidated Financial Statements as of and for the year ended October 3, 2015 have been
audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm. Their audit was
conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States) and included an integrated audit under such standards.
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors meets regularly with management, the internal
auditors and the independent registered public accounting firm to review accounting, reporting,
auditing and internal control matters. The Audit Committee has direct and private access to both
internal and external auditors.
See Item 9A for Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.
We are committed to enhancing shareholder value and fully understand and embrace our fiduciary
oversight responsibilities. We are dedicated to ensuring that our high standards of financial accounting
and reporting as well as our underlying system of internal controls are maintained. Our culture
demands integrity and we have the highest confidence in our processes, internal controls, and people,
who are objective in their responsibilities and operate under the highest level of ethical standards.
/s/ JOHN R. AMBROSEO
/s/ HELENE SIMONET
John R. Ambroseo
President and Chief Executive Officer
Helene Simonet
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
83
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Coherent, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Coherent, Inc. and its
subsidiaries (collectively, the ‘‘Company’’) as of October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014, and the
related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended October 3, 2015. These consolidated financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these consolidated financial statements 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 audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An
audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of the Company as of October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014, and the results of its
operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended October 3, 2015, in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting
Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of
October 3, 2015, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013)
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report
dated December 1, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over
financial reporting.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
San Jose, California
December 1, 2015
84
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except par value)
October 3,
2015
September 27,
2014
Current assets:
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable—net of allowances of $3,015 in 2015 and $1,155 in
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property and equipment, net
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible assets, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$130,607
194,908
$ 91,217
227,058
142,260
156,614
28,294
28,118
680,801
102,445
101,817
22,776
61,108
137,324
170,483
27,839
27,134
681,055
107,424
109,513
31,666
69,717
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$968,947
$999,375
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, par value $.01:
Authorized—500,000 shares;
Outstanding—23,970 shares in 2015 and 24,950 shares in 2014 . . . . . . . . .
Additional paid-in capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 33,379
4,279
84,941
122,599
49,930
$ 32,784
2,029
82,506
117,319
62,407
238
128,607
(9,513)
677,086
248
184,042
34,682
600,677
819,649
Total stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
796,418
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$968,947
$999,375
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
85
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share data)
Year Ended
October 3,
2015
September 27,
2014
September 28,
2013
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$802,460
467,061
$794,639
481,249
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
335,399
313,390
Operating expenses:
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on business combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of investment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total operating expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income (expense):
Interest and dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other—net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total other income (expense), net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
81,455
149,829
(1,316)
2,017
2,667
234,652
100,747
595
(48)
(1,726)
(1,179)
99,568
23,159
79,070
154,030
—
—
3,424
236,524
76,866
397
(72)
2,028
2,353
79,219
20,113
$810,126
487,855
322,271
82,785
149,513
—
—
5,074
237,372
84,899
230
(164)
(1,469)
(1,403)
83,496
17,141
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 76,409
$ 59,106
$ 66,355
Net income per share:
Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
$
3.09
3.06
$
$
2.39
2.36
$
$
2.75
2.70
Shares used in computation:
Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24,754
24,992
24,760
25,076
24,138
24,555
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
86
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands)
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income (loss):(1)
Translation adjustment, net of taxes(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net of taxes(3) . . . .
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale
Year Ended
October 3,
2015
September 27,
2014
September 28,
2013
$ 76,409
$ 59,106
$66,355
(45,624)
601
(19,185)
(573)
13,998
—
securities, net of taxes(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
828
(10)
(3)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . .
(44,195)
(19,768)
Comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 32,214
$ 39,338
13,995
$80,350
(1) Reclassification adjustments were not significant during fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013.
(2) Tax expense (benefit) of $(1,768), $250 and $(746) was provided on translation adjustments during
fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
(3) Tax expense (benefit) of $349 and $(332) was provided on net gain (loss) on derivative instruments
during fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively.
(4) Tax expense of $486 was provided on changes in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale
securities during fiscal 2015. Tax expense (benefit) on changes in unrealized gains (losses) on
available-for-sale securities during fiscal 2014 and 2013 was insignificant.
87
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Three Years in the Period Ended October 3, 2015
(In thousands)
Balances, September 29, 2012 . . . . .
Common stock issued under stock
plans, net of shares withheld for
employee taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax impact from employee stock
options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . .
Cash dividends paid ($1.00 per
common share) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income, net of
tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balances, September 28, 2013 . . . . .
Common stock issued under stock
plans, net of shares withheld for
employee taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax impact from employee stock
options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Balances, September 27, 2014 . . . . .
Common stock issued under stock
plans, net of shares withheld for
employee taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax impact from employee stock
options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchases of common stock . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Common
Stock
Shares
Common
Stock
Par
Value
Add.
Paid-in
Capital
Accum.
Other
Comp.
Income(Loss)
Retained
Earnings
Total
23,746
$237
$131,708
$ 40,455
$499,256
$671,656
718
—
—
—
—
—
7
—
—
—
—
—
12,364
(836)
19,017
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
12,371
(836)
19,017
(24,040)
66,355
(24,040)
66,355
13,995
—
13,995
24,464
$244
$162,253
$ 54,450
$541,571
$758,518
486
—
—
—
—
4
—
—
—
—
2,870
—
—
2,874
(52)
18,971
—
—
—
—
—
(19,768)
—
—
59,106
(52)
18,971
59,106
— (19,768)
24,950
$248
$184,042
$ 34,682
$600,677
$819,649
322
4
2,002
—
—
2,006
—
(1,302)
—
—
—
—
(14)
—
—
—
(667)
(75,013)
18,243
—
—
—
—
—
—
(44,195)
—
(667)
— (75,027)
18,243
—
76,409
76,409
— (44,195)
Balances, October 3, 2015 . . . . . . . .
23,970
$238
$128,607
$ (9,513)
$677,086
$796,418
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
88
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
Year Ended
October 3,
2015
September 27,
2014
September 28,
2013
$ 76,409
$ 59,106
$ 66,355
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on business combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment of investment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other non-cash (income) expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes payable/receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24,815
8,244
(1,316)
2,017
18,232
838
526
(10,099)
6,054
(2,048)
802
1,000
(6,759)
5,623
120
Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
124,458
Cash flows from investing activities:
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchases of property and equipment
Proceeds from dispositions of property and equipment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchases of available-for-sale securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from sales and maturities of available-for-sale securities . . . . . . . . .
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(22,163)
1,163
(312,592)
346,059
(9,300)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3,167
Cash flows from financing activities:
Short-term borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repayments of short-term borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net change in capital lease obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issuance of common stock under employee stock option and purchase plans . .
Repurchase of common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash dividend paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net settlement of restricted common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . .
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
$ 38,729
(38,729)
—
7,308
(75,027)
—
(5,302)
(73,021)
(15,214)
39,390
91,217
26,608
9,593
—
—
18,897
(8,185)
(1,364)
(5,191)
(6,890)
11,635
(3,489)
(2,295)
(11,373)
(580)
4,907
91,379
(23,390)
585
(280,408)
193,430
—
(109,783)
$ 61,523
(61,499)
(2)
10,685
—
—
(7,811)
2,896
(3,719)
(19,227)
110,444
26,356
9,767
—
—
18,891
(1,107)
353
4,226
4,260
10,128
34
6,116
(20,574)
(11,185)
1,902
115,522
(21,988)
1,482
(228,231)
245,361
(67,289)
(70,665)
$ 20,717
(20,717)
(17)
16,541
—
(24,040)
(4,170)
(11,686)
9,512
42,683
67,761
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 130,607
$ 91,217
$ 110,444
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
48
$ 29,816
Cash received during the year for:
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Unpaid property and equipment purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
$
3,297
1,425
$
32
$ 44,055
$
$
7,022
721
$
164
$ 54,047
$ 13,538
$
1,550
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
89
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Founded in 1966, Coherent, Inc. provides photonics-based solutions in a broad range of
commercial and scientific research applications. Coherent designs, manufactures, services and markets
lasers, laser tools and related accessories for a diverse group of customers. Headquartered in Santa
Clara, California, the Company has worldwide operations including research and development,
manufacturing, sales, service and support capabilities.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Fiscal Year
Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest to September 30. Fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013
ended on October 3, 2015, September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively, and are referred
to in these financial statements as fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014, and fiscal 2013 for convenience. Fiscal year
2015 includes 53 weeks and fiscal years 2014 and 2013 include 52 weeks. The fiscal years of the
majority of our international subsidiaries end on September 30. Accordingly, the financial statements of
these subsidiaries as of that date and for the years then ended have been used for our consolidated
financial statements. Management believes that the impact of the use of different year-ends is
immaterial to our consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with Generally Accepted
Accounting Principles (‘‘GAAP’’) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect
the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the
date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses
during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Coherent, Inc. and its majority-
owned subsidiaries (collectively, the ‘‘Company’’, ‘‘we’’, ‘‘our’’, or ‘‘Coherent’’). Intercompany balances
and transactions have been eliminated.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying amounts of certain of our financial instruments including accounts receivable,
accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Short-term
investments are comprised of available-for-sale securities, which are carried at fair value. Other
non-current assets include trading securities and life insurance contracts related to our deferred
compensation plans; trading securities are carried at fair value and life insurance contracts are carried
at cash surrender values, which due to their ability to be converted to cash at that amount, approximate
their fair values. Foreign exchange contracts are stated at fair value based on prevailing financial
market information.
90
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Cash Equivalents
All highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase are
classified as cash equivalents. At fiscal 2015 year-end, cash and cash equivalents included cash and
money market funds.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that may potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist
principally of cash equivalents, short-term investments and accounts receivable. At fiscal 2015 year-end,
the majority of our short-term investments are in US Treasury and federal agency obligations. Cash
equivalents and short-term investments are maintained with several financial institutions and may
exceed the amount of insurance provided on such balances. At October 3, 2015, we held cash and cash
equivalents and short-term investments outside the U.S. in certain of our foreign operations totaling
approximately $271.3 million, $90.0 million of which was denominated in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar. The majority of our accounts receivable are derived from sales to customers for commercial
applications. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and limit the
amount of credit extended when deemed necessary but generally require no collateral. In certain
instances, we may require customers to issue a letter of credit. We maintain reserves for potential
credit losses. Our products are broadly distributed and there was one customer who accounted for
21.4% and 15.2% of accounts receivable at fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014 year-end. There was another
customer who accounted for 11.6% of accounts receivable at fiscal 2014 year-end.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Our primary objective for holding derivative financial instruments is to manage currency exchange
rate risk. Principal currencies hedged include the Euro, South Korean Won, Japanese Yen, British
Pound, Chinese Renminbi, Malaysian Ringgit and Singapore dollar. Our derivative financial instruments
are recorded at fair value, on a gross basis, and are included in other current assets and other current
liabilities.
Our accounting policies for derivative financial instruments are based on whether they meet the
criteria for designation as a cash flow hedge. Changes in the fair value of these cash flow hedges that
are highly effective are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified into
earnings in the same line item on the consolidated statements of operations as the impact of the
hedged transaction during the period in which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The ineffective
portion of cash flow hedges are recognized immediately in other income and expenses. Derivatives that
we designate as cash flow hedges are classified in the consolidated statements of cash flows in the same
section as the underlying item, primarily within cash flows from operating activities. The changes in fair
value of derivative instruments that are not designated as hedges are recognized immediately in other
income and expenses.
We formally document all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as
the risk management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process
includes linking all derivatives that are designated as cash-flow hedges to specific forecasted
transactions. We also assess, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the
derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows
of the hedged items.
91
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Accounts Receivable Allowances
Accounts receivable allowances reflect our best estimate of probable losses inherent in our
accounts receivable balances. We regularly review allowances by considering factors such as historical
experience, credit quality, the age of the accounts receivable balances and current economic conditions
that may affect a customer’s ability to pay.
Activity in accounts receivable allowance is as follows (in thousands):
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions charged to expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deductions from reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$1,155
2,716
(856)
$ 1,386
1,194
(1,425)
$ 1,443
1,622
(1,679)
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$3,015
$ 1,155
$ 1,386
Fiscal year-end
2015
2014
2013
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market. Inventories are as follows
(in thousands):
Purchased parts and assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Work-in-process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Finished goods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 50,182
56,225
50,207
$ 51,091
70,486
48,906
Total inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$156,614
$170,483
Fiscal year-end
2015
2014
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated or amortized using the straight-line
method. Cost, accumulated depreciation and amortization, and estimated useful lives are as follows
(dollars in thousands):
Fiscal year-end
2015
2014
Useful Life
Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Buildings and improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equipment, furniture and fixtures . . . . . . . . . .
Leasehold improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
6,132
69,970
230,208
31,290
$
6,235
73,154
224,133
30,632
5 - 40 years
3 - 10 years
1 - 15 years
Accumulated depreciation and amortization . .
337,600
(235,155)
334,154
(226,730)
Property and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 102,445
$ 107,424
92
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Asset Retirement Obligations
The fair value (the present value of estimated cash flows) of a liability for an asset retirement
obligation is recognized in the period in which it is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can
be made. The fair value of the liability is added to the carrying amount of the associated asset and this
additional carrying amount is depreciated over the life of the asset. All of our existing asset retirement
obligations are associated with commitments to return the property to its original condition upon lease
termination at various sites and costs to clean up and dispose of certain fixed assets at our Sunnyvale,
California site. We estimated that as of fiscal 2015 year-end, gross expected future cash flows of
$3.0 million would be required to fulfill these obligations.
The following table reconciles changes in our asset retirement liability for fiscal 2015 and 2014 (in
thousands):
Asset retirement liability as of September 28, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustment to asset retirement obligations recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accretion recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes due to foreign currency exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asset retirement liability as of September 27, 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustment to asset retirement obligations recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accretion recognized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes due to foreign currency exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$2,247
39
53
(117)
2,222
542
55
(165)
Asset retirement liability as of October 3, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$2,654
At October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014, the asset retirement liability is included in Other
long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets.
Long-lived Assets
We evaluate the carrying value of long-lived assets, including intangible assets, whenever events or
changes in business circumstances or our planned use of long-lived assets indicate that their carrying
amounts may not be fully recoverable or that their useful lives are no longer appropriate. Reviews are
performed to determine whether the carrying values of long-lived assets are impaired based on a
comparison to the undiscounted expected future net cash flows. If the comparison indicates that
impairment exists, long-lived assets that are classified as held and used are written down to their
respective fair values. When long-lived assets are classified as held for sale, they are written down to
their respective fair values less costs to sell. Significant management judgment is required in the
forecast of future operating results that is used in the preparation of expected undiscounted cash flows.
For fiscal years 2015, 2014 and 2013, there were no significant asset impairments recorded other than
the impairment of our investment in SiOnyx (See Note 8. ‘‘Balance Sheet Details’’).
Goodwill
Goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis and between annual tests in certain
circumstances, and written down when impaired (see Note 7. ‘‘Goodwill and Intangible Assets’’). In
testing for impairment, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is
93
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
more likely than not (that is, a likelihood of more than 50%) that the fair value of a reporting unit is
less than its carrying amount. Moreover, an entity can bypass the qualitative assessment for any
reporting unit in any period and proceed directly to step one of the impairment test, and then resume
performing the qualitative assessment in any subsequent period. In both our fiscal 2015 and 2014
annual testing, we performed a qualitative assessment of the goodwill for our SLS reporting unit using
the opening balance sheet as of the first day of the fourth quarter and noted no impairment. For the
CLC reporting unit, we elected to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing
the first step of the goodwill impairment test. Accordingly, we performed our Step 1 test using the
opening balance sheet as of the first day of the fourth quarter and noted no impairment in both fiscal
2015 and 2014. (See Note 7 for additional discussion of the fiscal 2015 analysis.)
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets, including acquired existing technology, customer lists and trade name are
amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, currently 1 year to 15 years (See
Note 7. ‘‘Goodwill and Intangible Assets’’).
Warranty Reserves
We provide warranties on the majority of our product sales and reserves for estimated warranty
costs are recorded during the period of sale. The determination of such reserves requires us to make
estimates of product return rates and expected costs to repair or replace the products under warranty.
We currently establish warranty reserves based on historical warranty costs for each product line. The
weighted average warranty period covered is approximately 15 months. If actual return rates and/or
repair and replacement costs differ significantly from our estimates, adjustments to cost of sales may be
required in future periods.
Components of the reserve for warranty costs during fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013 were as follows (in
thousands):
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions related to current period sales . . . . . . . . .
Warranty costs incurred in the current period . . . . .
Accruals resulting from acquisitions . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjustments to accruals related to foreign exchange
and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fiscal year-end
2015
2014
2013
$ 16,961
20,959
(21,922)
215
$ 18,508
24,149
(25,144)
—
$ 17,442
26,721
(27,975)
1,735
(905)
(552)
585
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 15,308
$ 16,961
$ 18,508
Loss contingencies
We are subject to the possibility of various loss contingencies arising in the ordinary course of
business. We consider the likelihood of loss or impairment of an asset, or the incurrence of a liability,
as well as our ability to reasonably estimate the amount of loss, in determining loss contingencies. An
estimated loss contingency is accrued when it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability
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COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. If we determine that a loss is
possible and the range of the loss can be reasonably determined, then we disclose the range of the
possible loss. We regularly evaluate current information available to us to determine whether an accrual
is required, an accrual should be adjusted or a range of possible loss should be disclosed.
Revenue Recognition
When a sales arrangement contains multiple elements, such as products and/or services, we
allocate revenue to each element based on a selling price hierarchy. Using the selling price hierarchy,
we determine the selling price of each deliverable using vendor specific objective evidence (‘‘VSOE’’),
if it exists, and otherwise third-party evidence (‘‘TPE’’). If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price
exists, we use estimated selling price (‘‘ESP’’). We generally expect that we will not be able to establish
TPE due to the nature of the markets in which we compete, and, as such, we typically will determine
selling price using VSOE or if not available, ESP.
Our basis for establishing VSOE of a deliverable’s selling price consists of standalone sales
transactions when the same or similar product or service is sold separately. However, when services are
never sold separately, such as product installation services, VSOE is based on the product’s estimated
installation hours based on historical experience multiplied by the standard service billing rate. In
determining VSOE, we require that a substantial majority of the selling price for a product or service
fall within a reasonably narrow price range, as defined by us. We also consider the geographies in
which the products or services are sold, major product and service groups, and other environmental
variables in determining VSOE. Absent the existence of VSOE and TPE, our determination of a
deliverable’s ESP involves evaluating several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of
these arrangements, which include pricing strategy and policies driven by geographies, market
conditions, competitive landscape, correlation between proportionate selling price and list price
established by management having the relevant authority, and other environmental variables in which
the deliverable is sold.
For multiple element arrangements which include extended maintenance contracts, we allocate and
defer the amount of consideration equal to the separately stated price and recognize revenue on a
straight-line basis over the contract period.
We recognize revenue when all four revenue recognition criteria have been met: persuasive
evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered or the service has been rendered,
the price is fixed or determinable and collection is reasonably assured. Revenue from product sales is
recorded when all of the foregoing conditions are met and risk of loss and title passes to the customer.
Sales to customers are generally not subject to any price protection or return rights.
The majority of our sales are made to original equipment manufacturers (‘‘OEMs’’), distributors,
representatives and end-users in the non-scientific market. Sales made to these customers do not
require installation of the products by us and are not subject to other post-delivery obligations, except
in occasional instances where we have agreed to perform installation or provide training. In those
instances, we defer revenue related to installation services or training until these services have been
rendered. We allocate revenue from multiple element arrangements to the various elements based upon
relative fair values.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Our sales to distributors, representatives and end-user customers typically do not have customer
acceptance provisions and only certain of our sales to OEM customers and integrators have customer
acceptance provisions. Customer acceptance is generally limited to performance under our published
product specifications. For the few product sales that have customer acceptance provisions because of
higher than published specifications, (1) the products are tested and accepted by the customer at our
site or the customer accepts the results of our testing program prior to shipment to the customer, or
(2) the revenue is deferred until customer acceptance occurs.
Sales to end-users in the scientific market typically require installation and, thus, involve
post-delivery obligations; however, our post-delivery installation obligations are not essential to the
functionality of our products. We defer revenue related to installation services until completion of these
services.
For most products, training is not provided; therefore, no post-delivery training obligation exists.
However, when training is provided to our customers, it is typically priced separately and is recognized
as revenue as these services are provided.
We record taxes collected on revenue-producing activities on a net basis.
Research and Development
Research and development expenses include salaries, contractor and consultant fees, supplies and
materials, as well as costs related to other overhead such as depreciation, facilities, utilities and other
departmental expenses. The costs we incur with respect to internally developed technology and
engineering services are included in research and development expenses as incurred as they do not
directly relate to any particular licensee, license agreement or license fee.
We treat third party and government funding of our research and development activity, where we
are the primary beneficiary of such work conducted, as a reduction of research and development cost.
Research and development reimbursements of $2.5 million, $7.2 million and $1.7 million were offset
against research and development costs in fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Foreign Currency Translation
The functional currencies of our foreign subsidiaries are generally their respective local currencies.
Accordingly, gains and losses from the translation of the financial statements of the foreign subsidiaries
are reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (‘‘OCI’’). Foreign
currency transaction gains and losses are included in earnings.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) is defined as the change in equity of a business enterprise during a
period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. Accumulated
other comprehensive income (loss) (net of tax) at fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014 year-ends are substantially
comprised of accumulated translation adjustments of $(10.4) million and $35.3 million, respectively.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding
during the period, excluding unvested restricted stock. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on
the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period increased by the effect of dilutive
employee stock awards, including stock options, restricted stock awards and stock purchase contracts,
using the treasury stock method.
The following table presents information necessary to calculate basic and diluted earnings per
share (in thousands, except per share data):
Weighted average shares outstanding—basic . . . . . . . .
Dilutive effect of employee stock awards . . . . . . . . . . .
Weighted average shares outstanding—diluted . . . . . . .
2015
24,754
238
24,992
Fiscal
2014
24,760
316
25,076
2013
24,138
417
24,555
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$76,409
$59,106
$66,355
Net income—basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income—diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
$
3.09
3.06
$
$
2.39
2.36
$
$
2.75
2.70
There were no potentially dilutive securities excluded from the dilutive share calculation for fiscal
2015. A total of 47,242 and 883 potentially dilutive securities have been excluded from the dilutive
share calculation for fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively, as their effect was anti-dilutive.
Stock-Based Compensation
We account for stock-based compensation using the fair value of the awards granted. We estimate
the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes Merton model. We value restricted stock
units using the intrinsic value method, which is based on the fair market value price on the grant date.
We use a Monte Carlo simulation model to estimate the fair value of performance restricted stock
units. We use historical data to estimate pre-vesting option and restricted stock unit forfeitures and
record stock-based compensation expense only for those options and awards that are expected to vest.
We amortize the fair value of stock options and awards on a straight-line basis over the requisite
service periods of the awards, which are generally the vesting periods. See Note 12 ‘‘Employee Stock
Award, Option and Benefit Plans’’ for a description of our stock-based employee compensation plans
and the assumptions we use to calculate the fair value of stock-based employee compensation.
Shipping and Handling Costs
We record costs related to shipping and handling of revenue in Cost of Sales for all periods
presented. Shipping and handling fees billed to customers are included in Net Sales. Custom duties
billed to customers are recorded in Cost of Sales.
Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and were $2.1 million, $2.9 million and $3.4 million in
fiscal 2015, fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, respectively.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
Income Taxes
As part of the process of preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to
estimate our income tax provision (benefit) in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. This
process involves us estimating our current income tax provision (benefit) together with assessing
temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes.
These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated
balance sheets.
We account for uncertain tax issues pursuant to ASC 740-10 Income Taxes, which creates a single
model to address accounting for uncertainty in tax positions by prescribing a minimum recognition
threshold that a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements.
This standard provides a two-step approach for evaluating tax positions. The first step, recognition,
occurs when a company concludes (based solely on the technical aspects of the matter) that a tax
position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by a taxing authority. The second
step, measurement, is only considered after step one has been satisfied and measures any tax benefit at
the largest amount that is deemed more likely than not to be realized upon ultimate settlement of the
uncertainty. These determinations involve significant judgment by management. Tax positions that fail
to qualify for initial recognition are recognized in the first subsequent interim period that they meet the
more likely than not standard or when they are resolved through negotiation or litigation with factual
interpretation, judgment and certainty. Tax laws and regulations themselves are complex and are subject
to change as a result of changes in fiscal policy, changes in legislation, evolution of regulations and
court filings. Therefore, the actual liability for U.S. or foreign taxes may be materially different from
our estimates, which could result in the need to record additional tax liabilities or potentially to reverse
previously recorded tax liabilities.
We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to an amount that more likely
than not will be realized. While we have considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and
feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for the valuation allowance, in the event we were
to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of our net
recorded amount, an adjustment to the allowance for the deferred tax asset would increase income in
the period such determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we would not be able to
realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the allowance for the
deferred tax asset would be charged to income in the period such determination was made.
Federal and state income taxes have not been provided for on a portion of the unremitted
earnings of foreign subsidiaries because such earnings are intended to be permanently reinvested. The
total amount of unremitted earnings (including accumulated translation adjustments) of foreign
subsidiaries for which we have not yet recorded federal and state income taxes was approximately
$471.9 million and $429.4 million at fiscal 2015 and 2014 year-end, respectively. The amount of federal
and state income taxes that would be payable upon repatriation of such earnings is not practicably
determinable. We have not, nor do we anticipate the need to, repatriate funds to the United States to
satisfy domestic liquidity needs arising in the ordinary course of business.
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
In July 2013, the FASB issued amended guidance that resolves the diversity in practice for the
presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss,
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
or a tax credit carryforward exists. This new accounting guidance requires the netting of unrecognized
tax benefits (‘‘UTBs’’) against a deferred tax asset for a loss or other carryforward that would apply in
settlement of the uncertain tax positions. Under the new standard, UTBs will be netted against all
available same-jurisdiction losses or other tax carryforwards that would be utilized, rather than only
against carryforwards that are created by the UTBs. The new standard requires prospective adoption
but allows retrospective adoption for all periods presented. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, we
adopted the FASB’s amended guidance prospectively in accordance with the standard. As a result of
this adoption, both long-term income taxes payable and noncurrent deferred tax assets decreased by
$7.9 million on our consolidated balance sheet.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In November, the FASB issued amended guidance that clarifies that in a classified statement of
financial position, an entity shall classify deferred tax liabilities and assets as noncurrent amounts. The
new guidance supersedes ASC 740-10-45-5 which required the valuation allowance for a particular tax
jurisdiction be allocated between current and noncurrent deferred tax assets for that tax jurisdiction on
a pro rata basis. The new standard will become effective for our fiscal year beginning October 2, 2017.
We are currently assessing the impact of this amended guidance and the timing of adoption.
In September 2015, the FASB issued amended guidance that simplifies the accounting for
adjustments made to provisional amounts recognized in a business combination. Under previous
guidance, the acquirer retrospectively adjusted the provisional amounts recognized at the acquisition
date with a corresponding adjustment to goodwill, and would have to revise comparative information
for prior periods presented in financial statements as needed. The update requires an entity to present
separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes the portion of the amount
recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting
periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date.
The new standard will become effective for our fiscal year beginning October 2, 2017. We are currently
assessing the impact of this amended guidance and the timing of adoption.
In May 2014, the FASB amended the Accounting Standards Codification and created a new
Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The new guidance establishes a single
comprehensive contract-based model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts
with customers. The new model significantly changes existing GAAP, requires substantial judgment in
its application, and will generally require companies to make more disclosures about revenue. The core
principle of the amendment is that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised
goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects
to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In applying the new guidance, an entity will
(1) identify the contract(s) with a customer; (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract;
(3) determine the transaction price; (4) allocate the transaction price to the contract’s performance
obligations; and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. The
new standard provides for two alternative implementation methods. The first is to apply the new
standard retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented. This method does allow the use of
certain practical expedients. The second method is to apply the new standard retrospectively in the year
of initial adoption and record a cumulative effect adjustment for the impact of adjusting contracts open
at the date of adoption. Under this transition method, we would apply this guidance retrospectively
only to contracts that are not completed contracts at the date of initial application. We would then
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)
recognize the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard as an adjustment to the opening
balance of retained earnings. This method also requires us to disclose comparative information for the
year of adoption. In July 2015, the FASB approved a one-year deferral of the effective date. The new
standard will become effective for our fiscal year beginning September 30, 2018. We are currently
evaluating the new guidance and have not determined the impact this standard may have on our
financial statements nor have we decided upon the method of adoption.
3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
Fiscal 2015 Acquisitions
Raydiance, Inc.
On July 24, 2015, we acquired certain assets of Raydiance, Inc. (‘‘Raydiance’’) for approximately
$5.0 million, excluding transaction costs. Raydiance manufactured complete tools and lasers for
ultrafast processing systems and subsystems in the precision micromachining processing market. The
Raydiance assets have been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
Our preliminary allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
Tangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible assets:
$1,481
1,119
Existing technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
800
1,600
Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$5,000
Results of operations for the business have been included in our consolidated financial statements
subsequent to the date of acquisition and pro forma results of operations in accordance with
authoritative guidance for prior periods have not been presented because the effect of the acquisition
was not material to our prior period consolidated financial results.
The identifiable intangible assets are being amortized over their respective useful lives of three to
five years.
None of the goodwill from this purchase is deductible for tax purposes.
We expensed $0.1 million of acquisition-related costs as selling, general and administrative
expenses in our consolidated statements of operations for our fiscal year 2015.
Tinsley Optics
On July 27, 2015, we acquired the assets and certain liabilities of the Tinsley Optics (‘‘Tinsley’’)
business from L-3 Communications Corporation for approximately $4.3 million, excluding transaction
costs. Tinsley is a specialized manufacturer of high precision optical components and subsystems sold
primarily in the aerospace and defense industry. Tinsley manufactures the large form factor optics for
our excimer laser annealing systems. Tinsley has been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems
segment.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Continued)
Our preliminary allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
Tangible assets:
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities assumed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on business combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 2,263
2,240
1,132
2,451
(1,702)
(768)
(1,316)
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 4,300
The purchase price was lower than the fair value of net assets purchased, resulting in a gain of
$1.3 million recorded as a separate line item in our consolidated statements of operations for our fiscal
year 2015. The Company reassessed the recognition and measurement of identifiable assets acquired
and liabilities assumed and concluded that all acquired assets and assumed liabilities were recognized
and that the valuation procedures and resulting measures were appropriate.
Results of operations for the business have been included in our consolidated financial statements
subsequent to the date of acquisition and pro forma results of operations in accordance with
authoritative guidance for prior periods have not been presented because the effect of the acquisition
was not material to our prior period consolidated financial results.
The gain from the bargain purchase is not subject to income taxation.
We expensed $0.4 million of acquisition-related costs as selling, general and administrative
expenses in our consolidated statements of operations for our fiscal year 2015.
Fiscal 2013 Acquisitions
Lumera Laser GmbH
On December 20, 2012, we acquired privately held Lumera Laser GmbH (Kaiserslautern,
Germany) (‘‘Lumera’’) for approximately $51.5 million, excluding transaction costs. Lumera
manufactures ultrafast solid state lasers for microelectronics, OEM medical and materials processing
applications. Lumera has been included in our Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Continued)
Our allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
Tangible assets:
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other tangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill
Intangible assets:
Existing technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In-process R&D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trade name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Backlog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities assumed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 7,364
2,770
4,380
24,640
21,000
1,800
200
6,500
900
(9,300)
(8,793)
Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$51,461
Results of operations for the business have been included in our consolidated financial statements
subsequent to the date of acquisition and pro forma results of operations in accordance with
authoritative guidance for prior periods have not been presented because the effect of the acquisition
was not material to our prior period consolidated financial results.
None of the goodwill from this purchase is deductible for tax purposes.
The identifiable intangible assets are being amortized over their respective useful lives of less than
one to six years.
Acquired IPR&D assets are initially recognized at fair value and are classified as indefinite-lived
assets until the successful completion or abandonment of the associated research and development
efforts. The value assigned to IPR&D was determined by considering the value of the products under
development to the overall development plan, estimating the resulting net cash flows from the projects
when completed and discounting the net cash flows to their present value. During the development
period, these assets will not be amortized as charges to earnings; instead these assets will be subject to
periodic impairment testing. The development process for the acquired IPR&D projects was completed
and amortization of the assets, as existing technologies, began in the third quarter of fiscal 2014.
We expensed $0.6 million of acquisition-related costs as selling, general and administrative
expenses in our consolidated statements of operations for our fiscal year 2013.
Innolight Innovative Laser and Systemtechnik GmbH
On October 30, 2012, we acquired all of the outstanding shares of Innolight Innovative Laser and
Systemtechnik GmbH (‘‘Innolight’’) for approximately $18.3 million, excluding transaction costs.
Innolight provides a core technology building block for an emerging class of commercial,
sub-nanosecond lasers for microelectronics manufacturing. Its semiconductor-based architecture delivers
pulsed output that can be amplified by conventional or fiber amplifiers to ultimately deliver infrared,
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Continued)
green or ultraviolet light capable of processing a range of materials. Innolight has been included in our
Specialty Lasers and Systems segment.
Our allocation of the purchase price is as follows (in thousands):
Tangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill
Intangible assets:
Existing technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In-process R&D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trade name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities assumed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 2,510
8,312
8,500
430
100
2,800
(3,836)
(480)
Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$18,336
Results of operations for the business have been included in our consolidated financial statements
subsequent to the date of acquisition and pro forma results of operations in accordance with
authoritative guidance for prior periods have not been presented because the effect of the acquisition
was not material to our prior period consolidated financial results.
None of the goodwill from this purchase is deductible for tax purposes.
The identifiable intangible assets are being amortized over their respective useful lives of six to
seven years.
IPR&D consists of two projects that have not yet reached technological feasibility. The projects
have not been completed as of October 3, 2015.
We expensed $0.2 million of acquisition-related costs as selling, general and administrative
expenses in our consolidated statements of operations for our fiscal year 2013.
4. FAIR VALUES
We measure our cash equivalents and marketable securities at fair value. The fair values of our
financial assets and liabilities are determined using quoted market prices of identical assets or quoted
market prices of similar assets from active markets. We recognize transfers between levels within the
fair value hierarchy, if any, at the end of each quarter. There were no transfers between levels during
the periods presented. As of October 3, 2015, we did not have any assets or liabilities valued based on
Level 3 valuations. As of September 27, 2014, other than our investment in SiOnyx (See Note 8
‘‘Balance Sheet Details’’), we did not have any assets or liabilities valued based on Level 3 valuations.
103
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
4. FAIR VALUES (Continued)
Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value as of October 3, 2015 and September 27,
2014 are summarized below (in thousands):
Aggregate
Fair Value
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
October 3, 2015
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
Aggregate
Fair Value
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical Assets
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
September 27, 2014
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
Assets:
Cash equivalents:
Money market fund
deposits . . . . . . . . . . .
Certificates of deposit . . .
Commercial paper(2) . . . .
$ 8,297
—
—
$ 8,297
—
—
$
— $
—
—
5,975
12,084
1,400
$ 5,975
—
—
$
—
12,084
1,400
Short-term investments:
U.S. Treasury and agency
obligations(2) . . . . . . .
150,748
—
150,748
150,088
Corporate notes and
obligations(2) . . . . . . .
Commercial paper(2) . . . .
Equity securities(1) . . . . .
Prepaid and other assets:
Foreign currency
contracts(3) . . . . . . . . .
Mutual funds—Deferred
comp and supplemental
plan(4) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$217,354
Liabilities:
Other current liabilities:
Foreign currency
17,942
9,740
16,478
—
—
16,478
17,942
9,740
—
52,987
23,983
—
258
—
258
366
13,891
13,891
$38,666
—
15,000
$178,688
$261,883
15,000
$20,975
—
—
—
—
—
150,088
52,987
23,983
—
366
—
$240,908
contracts(3) . . . . . . . . .
(239)
—
(239)
(2,196)
—
(2,196)
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$217,115
$38,666
$178,449
$259,687
$20,975
$238,712
(1) Valuations are based upon quoted market prices.
(2) Valuations are based upon quoted market prices in active markets involving similar assets. The market inputs
used to value these instruments generally consist of market yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes or
alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of price transparency. Pricing sources include industry
standard data providers, security master files from large financial institutions, and other third party sources
which are input into a distribution-curve-based algorithm to determine a daily market value. This creates a
‘‘consensus price’’ or a weighted average price for each security.
(3) The principal market in which we execute our foreign currency contracts is the institutional market in an
over-the-counter environment with a relatively high level of price transparency. The market participants
usually are large commercial banks. Our foreign currency contracts’ valuation inputs are based on quoted
prices and quoted pricing intervals from public data sources and do not involve management judgment. At
October 3, 2015, prepaid expenses and other assets include $217 non-designated forward contracts and $41
foreign currency contracts designated for cash flow hedges, respectively; other current liabilities include $239
non-designated forward contracts and $0 foreign currency contracts designated for cash flow hedges,
respectively. At September 27, 2014, prepaid expenses and other assets include $303 non-designated forward
contracts and $63 foreign currency contracts designated for cash flow hedges, respectively; other current
104
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
4. FAIR VALUES (Continued)
liabilities include $1,246 non-designated forward contracts and $950 foreign currency contracts designated for
cash flow hedges, respectively. See Note 6, ‘‘Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities’’.
(4) The fair value of mutual funds is determined based on quoted market prices. Securities traded on a national
exchange are stated at the last reported sales price on the day of valuation; other securities traded in
over-the-counter markets and listed securities for which no sale was reported on that date are stated as the
last quoted bid price.
5. SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
We consider all highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less at the time of
purchase to be cash equivalents. Investments classified as available-for-sale are reported at fair value
with unrealized gains and losses, net of related income taxes, recorded as a separate component of OCI
in stockholders’ equity until realized. Interest and amortization of premiums and discounts for debt
securities are included in interest income. Gains and losses on securities sold are determined based on
the specific identification method and are included in other income (expense).
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments consist of the following (in thousands):
Fiscal Year-end October 3, 2015
Cost Basis
Unrealized
Gains
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$130,607
$ —
$—
$130,607
Short-term investments:
Available-for-sale securities:
Commercial paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
U.S. Treasury and agency obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate notes and obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
9,740
149,708
17,892
15,269
Total short-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$192,609
$ —
1,040
52
1,209
$2,301
$—
—
(2)
—
$(2)
$
9,740
150,748
17,942
16,478
$194,908
Fiscal Year-end September 27, 2014
Cost Basis
Unrealized
Gains
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 91,217
$ —
$ —
$ 91,217
Short-term investments:
Available-for-sale securities:
Commercial paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
U.S. Treasury and agency obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate notes and obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 23,983
149,260
52,834
Total short-term investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$226,077
$ —
831
195
$1,026
$ —
(3)
(42)
$(45)
$ 23,983
150,088
52,987
$227,058
None of the unrealized losses as of October 3, 2015 or September 27, 2014 were considered to be
other-than-temporary impairments.
105
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
5. SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Continued)
The amortized cost and estimated fair value of available-for-sale investments in debt securities as
of October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014, classified as short-term investments on our consolidated
balance sheets, were as follows (in thousands):
Investments in available-for-sale debt securities due in less
than one year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in available-for-sale debt securities due in one
to five years(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fiscal Year-end
2015
2014
Amortized
Cost
Estimated
Fair Value
Amortized
Cost
Estimated
Fair Value
$148,088
$149,100
$178,329
$179,223
$ 29,252
$ 29,330
$ 47,748
$ 47,835
(1) Classified as short-term investments because these securities are highly liquid and can be sold at
any time.
During fiscal 2015, we received proceeds totaling $163.8 million from the sale of available-for-sale
securities and realized gross gains of less than $0.1 million. During fiscal 2014, we received proceeds
totaling $37.3 million from the sale of available-for-sale securities and realized gross gains of less than
$0.1 million.
6. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
We maintain operations in various countries outside of the United States and have foreign
subsidiaries that manufacture and sell our products in various global markets. The majority of our sales
are transacted in U.S. dollars. However, we do generate revenues in other currencies, primarily the
Euro, Japanese Yen, South Korean Won and Chinese Renminbi (RMB). As a result, our earnings, cash
flows and cash balances are exposed to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. We attempt to
limit these exposures through financial market instruments. We utilize derivative instruments, primarily
forward contracts with maturities of two months or less, to manage our exposure associated with
anticipated cash flows and net asset and liability positions denominated in foreign currencies. Gains and
losses on the forward contracts are mitigated by gains and losses on the underlying instruments. We do
not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes. The credit risk amounts
represent the Company’s gross exposure to potential accounting loss on derivative instruments that are
outstanding or unsettled if all counterparties failed to perform according to the terms of the contract,
based on then-current currency rates at each respective date.
For derivative instruments that are not designated as hedging instruments, gains and losses are
recognized in other income (expense).
106
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
6. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Continued)
Non-Designated Derivatives
The outstanding notional contract and fair value asset (liability) amounts of non-designated hedge
contracts, with maximum maturity of two months, are as follows (in thousands):
U.S. Notional Contract
Value
U.S. Fair Value
October 3,
2015
September 27, October 3,
2014
2015
September 27,
2014
Euro currency hedge contracts
Purchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 52,699
$ 31,926
$ 33
$(1,153)
South Korean WON currency hedge contracts
Purchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$
253
$(17,747)
$
—
$ (2,991)
$ —
$ 30
$ —
72
$
Chinese RMB currency hedge contracts
Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$(10,900)
$(15,678)
$(106)
Japanese Yen currency hedge contracts
Purchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
558
$
$(15,804)
471
$
$(15,084)
8
$
$ (84)
Other foreign currency hedge contracts
Purchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 3,283
$ (5,835)
$ 1,899
$ (3,515)
$ (49)
$ 146
$
$
$
$
$
(56)
(3)
169
(35)
63
Designated Derivatives
Cash flow hedges related to anticipated transactions are designated and documented at the
inception of the hedge when we enter into contracts for specific future transactions. Cash flow hedges
are evaluated for effectiveness quarterly. The effective portion of the gain or loss on these hedges is
reported as a component of OCI in stockholder’s equity and is reclassified into earnings when the
underlying transaction affects earnings. The majority of the after-tax net income or loss related to
derivative instruments included in OCI at October 3, 2015 is expected to be reclassified into earnings
within 12 months. Changes in the fair value of currency forward contracts due to changes in time value
are excluded from the assessment of effectiveness and recognized in other income (expense) as
incurred. We classify the cash flows from the foreign exchange forward contracts that are accounted for
as cash flow hedges in the same section as the underlying item, primarily within cash flows from
operating activities since we do not designate our cash flow hedges as investing or financing activities.
107
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
6. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Continued)
The outstanding notional contract and fair value asset (liability) amounts of designated cash flow
hedge contracts, with maximum maturity of thirteen months, are as follows (in thousands):
U.S. Notional Contract
Value
U.S. Fair Value
October 3,
2015
September 27, October 3,
2014
2015
September 27,
2014
Euro currency hedge contracts
Purchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ —
$ 11,149
$—
$(950)
Japanese Yen currency hedge contracts
Sell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$(2,903)
$(12,091)
$41
$ 63
We have entered into certain derivative forward contracts to sell Japanese Yen and buy Euro to
hedge revenue exposures related to our photonics-based solutions in Asia. In order to facilitate the
hedge, we transact with counterparties in the U.S. directly and then allocate the hedge contracts to our
affiliates through a back-to-back relationship with our German subsidiary. The German subsidiary
designates these hedge contracts as cash flow hedges under ASC 815.
The fair value of our derivative instruments is included in prepaid expenses and other assets and in
other current liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets (See Note 4); such amounts were not
material as of October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014.
The locations and amounts of designated and non-designated derivative instruments’ gains and
losses in the consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2015 and
September 27, 2014 were as follows (in thousands):
Location in
financial statements
Fiscal Year
Ended
October 3, 2015
Fiscal Year
Ended
September 27, 2014
Fiscal Year
Ended
September 28, 2013
Derivatives designated as
hedging instruments
Gains(losses) in OCI on
derivatives (effective
portion), after tax . . . . . OCI
Gains(losses) reclassified
from OCI into income
(effective portion) . . . . . Cost of sales
Gains(losses) reclassified
from OCI into income
(effective portion) . . . . . Revenue
Gains(losses) recognized in
income on derivatives
(ineffective portion and
amount excluded from
effectiveness testing) . . . . Other income (expense)
Derivatives not designated as
hedging instruments
Gains(losses) recognized in
$
601
$ (573)
$ —
$(1,720)
$ —
$ —
$
208
$
(13)
$ —
$ (108)
$
20
$ —
income . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other income (expense)
$(4,320)
$(3,105)
$2,071
108
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
6. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Continued)
During the fiscal year ended October 3, 2015 we recognized a loss of $0.1 million in other income
(expense) as ineffectiveness related to a portion of an anticipated hedged transaction that failed to
occur within the original hedge period plus two months. The remainder of the hedged transaction
occurred as expected and effective amounts were recognized in revenue as disclosed in the above table.
The amounts that will be reclassified from OCI to earnings will generally be offset by the
recognition of the hedged transactions (e.g., anticipated cost of sales) in earnings, thereby achieving the
realization of prices contemplated by the underlying risk management strategies and will vary from the
expected amounts presented above as a result of changes in foreign exchange rates.
To mitigate credit risk in derivative transactions, we enter into master netting arrangements that
allow each counterparty in the arrangements to net settle amounts of multiple and separate derivative
transactions under certain conditions. We present the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities within
the our consolidated balance sheet on a gross basis even when derivative transactions are subject to
master netting arrangements and may otherwise qualify for net presentation. Our derivative contracts
do not contain any credit risk related contingent features and do not require collateral or other security
to be furnished by us or the counterparties.
Offsetting of Financial Assets/Liabilities under Master Netting Agreements with Derivative
Counterparties as of October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014 (in thousands):
Gross
Amounts of
Recognized
Derivative
Assets
Gross
Amounts
Offset in the
Consolidated
Balance
Sheets
Net Amounts
of Derivative
Assets
Presented in
the
Consolidated
Balance
Sheets
Gross Amounts Not Offset
in the Consolidated Balance
Sheets
Financial
Instruments(1)
Cash
Collateral
Received
Net
Amounts
As of October 3, 2015:
Foreign exchange contracts . .
As of September 27, 2014:
Foreign exchange contracts . .
$258
$367
$—
$—
$258
$367
$(116)
$(367)
$—
$—
$142
$ —
(1) The balances at October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014 were related to derivative liabilities
which are allowed to be net settled against derivative assets in accordance with the master netting
agreements.
109
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
6. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Continued)
Gross
Amounts of
Recognized
Derivative
Liabilities
Gross
Amounts
Offset in the
Consolidated
Balance
Sheets
Net Amounts
of Derivative
Liabilities
Presented in
the
Consolidated
Balance
Sheets
Gross Amounts Not Offset
in the Consolidated Balance
Sheets
Financial
Instruments(1)
Cash
Collateral
Paid
Net
Amounts
As of October 3, 2015:
Foreign exchange contracts . .
As of September 27, 2014:
Foreign exchange contracts . .
$ (239)
$(2,197)
$—
$—
$ (239)
$(2,197)
$116
$367
$—
$—
$ (123)
$(1,830)
(1) The balances at October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014 were related to derivative assets which
are allowed to be net settled against derivative liabilities in accordance with the master netting
agreements.
7. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis and between annual tests if events or
circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have occurred, and we write down these assets
when impaired. We perform our annual impairment tests during the fourth quarter of each fiscal year
using the opening balance sheet as of the first day of the fourth quarter, with any resulting impairment
recorded in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year.
Coherent has two reporting units: Specialty Laser Systems and Commercial Lasers and
Components. In our fiscal 2015 annual testing, we performed a qualitative assessment of the goodwill
for our SLS reporting unit during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 using the opening balance sheet as
of the first day of the fourth quarter and concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value
of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount. In assessing the qualitative factors, we considered
the impact of these key factors: macroeconomic conditions, fluctuations in foreign currency, market and
industry conditions, our operating and competitive environment, regulatory and political developments,
the overall financial performance of the reporting unit including cost factors and budgeted-to-actual
revenue results. We also considered our market capitalization, stock price performance and the
significant excess between the estimated fair value and carrying value of the SLS reporting unit. Based
on our assessment, goodwill in the SLS reporting unit was not impaired as of the first day of the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2015. As such, it was not necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test
at that time. For the CLC reporting unit, we elected to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed
directly to performing the first step of the goodwill impairment test. We performed our Step 1 test
using the opening balance sheet as of the first day of the fourth quarter and noted no impairment. We
determined the fair value of the CLC reporting unit for the Step 1 test using a 50-50% weighting of the
Income (discounted cash flow) approach and Market (market comparable) approach. Management
completed and reviewed the results of the Step 1 analysis and concluded that a Step 2 analysis was not
required as the estimated fair value of the CLC reporting unit was significantly in excess of its carrying
value. Between the completion of that testing and the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we
noted no indications of impairment or triggering events with either reporting unit to cause us to review
goodwill for potential impairment.
110
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
7. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Continued)
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by segment for fiscal 2015 and 2014 are as follows
(in thousands):
Commercial
Lasers and
Components(1)
Specialty
Laser
Systems(2)
Total
Balance as of September 28, 2013 . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustments and other . . . . . . . . . .
Balance as of September 27, 2014 . . . . . . . . . .
Additions (see Note 3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Translation adjustments and other . . . . . . . . . .
$6,363
—
6,363
—
—
$107,045
(3,895)
$113,408
(3,895)
103,150
1,119
(8,815)
109,513
1,119
(8,815)
Balance as of October 3, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$6,363
$ 95,454
$101,817
(1) Gross amount of goodwill for our CLC segment was $25.7 million at both October 3,
2015 and September 27, 2014. At both October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014, the
accumulated impairment loss for the CLC reporting unit was $19.3 million reflecting an
impairment charge in fiscal 2009.
(2) Gross amount of goodwill for our SLS segment was $97.8 million and $105.5 million at
October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014. At both October 3, 2015 and September 27,
2014, the accumulated impairment loss for the SLS reporting unit was $2.4 million
reflecting an impairment charge in fiscal 2003.
We evaluate long-lived assets and amortizable intangible assets whenever events or changes in
business circumstances or our planned use of assets indicate that their carrying amounts may not be
fully recoverable or that their useful lives are no longer appropriate. Reviews are performed to
determine whether the carrying values of assets are impaired based on comparison to the undiscounted
expected future cash flows identifiable to such long-lived and amortizable intangible assets. If the
comparison indicates that impairment exists, the impaired asset is written down to its fair value.
During fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013, we did not have any impairment of intangible assets as a result
of the impairment analysis.
The components of our amortizable intangible assets are as follows (in thousands):
Existing technology . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trade name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In-process research and development
Fiscal 2015 Year-ended
October 3, 2015
Fiscal 2014 Year-ended
September 27, 2014
Gross
Carrying
Amount
$71,365
16,099
399
375
Accumulated
Amortization
$(55,452)
(9,661)
(349)
—
Net
$15,913
6,438
50
375
Gross
Carrying
Amount
$81,551
16,632
431
424
Accumulated
Amortization
$(57,827)
(9,199)
(346)
—
Net
$23,724
7,433
85
424
Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$88,238
$(65,462)
$22,776
$99,038
$(67,372)
$31,666
111
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
7. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Continued)
For accounting purposes, when an intangible asset is fully amortized, it is removed from the
disclosure schedule.
Amortizable intangible assets include intangible assets acquired through business combinations as
well as through direct purchases or licenses.
The weighted average remaining amortization period for existing technology is approximately
3 years, and the weighted average remaining amortization period for customer lists and trade name is
4 years. Amortization expense for intangible assets during fiscal years 2015, 2014, and 2013 was
$8.2 million, $9.6 million and $9.8 million, respectively, which includes $6.3 million, $7.5 million and
$6.6 million, respectively, for amortization of existing technology. The change in accumulated
amortization also includes $2.9 million and $1.6 million of foreign exchange impact for fiscal 2015 and
fiscal 2014, respectively.
Estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years and all years thereafter are as follows
(in thousands):
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Estimated
Amortization
Expense
$ 8,157
7,034
4,291
2,273
628
393
Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$22,776
8. BALANCE SHEET DETAILS
Prepaid expenses and other assets consist of the following (in thousands):
Prepaid and refundable income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other taxes receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 8,846
6,574
12,874
$11,001
5,184
11,654
Total prepaid expenses and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$28,294
$27,839
Fiscal Year-end
2015
2014
112
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
8. BALANCE SHEET DETAILS (Continued)
Other assets consist of the following (in thousands):
Assets related to deferred compensation arrangements (see
Note 12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$25,131
32,136
3,841
$26,484
37,616
5,617
Total other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$61,108
$69,717
Fiscal Year-end
2015
2014
On June 8, 2010, we invested $2.0 million in SiOnyx, Inc., a privately-held company. The
investment was included in other assets and was being carried on a cost basis. During the third quarter
of fiscal 2015 we determined that our investment became other-than temporarily impaired. As a result,
during the third quarter of fiscal 2015, we recorded a non-cash charge of $2.0 million in our results of
operations to impair this investment. In determining the fair value of the cost method investment, we
considered many factors including but not limited to operating performance of the investee, the amount
of cash that the investee has on-hand, the ability to obtain additional financing and the overall market
conditions in which the investee operates. The fair value of the cost method investment represents a
Level 3 valuation as the assumptions used in valuing the investment were not directly or indirectly
observable.
Other current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
Accrued payroll and benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued expenses and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warranty reserve (see Note 2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer deposits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fiscal Year-end
2015
2014
$35,504
10,974
15,308
4,888
1,793
16,474
$29,228
13,410
16,961
5,036
2,335
15,536
Total other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$84,941
$82,506
Other long-term liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
Long-term taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred compensation (see Note 12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asset retirement obligations liability (see Note 2) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fiscal Year-end
2014
2015
$ 7,651
26,691
2,708
3,149
2,654
7,077
$15,776
27,858
6,511
3,448
2,222
6,592
Total other long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$49,930
$62,407
113
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
9. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
We have several lines of credit which allow us to borrow in the applicable local currency. We have
a total of $13.2 million of unsecured foreign lines of credit as of October 3, 2015. At October 3, 2015,
we had used $1.5 million of these available foreign lines of credit as guarantees. These credit facilities
were used in Europe, Japan and China during fiscal 2015. In addition, our domestic line of credit
consists of a $50.0 million unsecured revolving credit account. The agreement will expire on May 31,
2017. The line of credit is subject to covenants related to financial ratios and tangible net worth with
which we are currently in compliance. We have used $1.1 million for letters of credit against our
domestic line of credit as of October 3, 2015.
10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
We lease several of our facilities under operating leases and recognize rent expense on a
straight-line basis over the life of the leases.
Future minimum payments under our non-cancelable operating leases at October 3, 2015 are as
follows (in thousands):
Fiscal
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter through 2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$10,805
9,630
7,372
5,590
4,532
7,924
Total
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$45,853
Rent expense, exclusive of sublease income, was $11.0 million, $11.0 million and $10.8 million in
fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
As of October 3, 2015, we had total purchase commitments for inventory of approximately
$25.3 million and purchase obligations for fixed assets and services of $9.0 million compared to
$23.6 million of purchase commitments for inventory and $6.1 million of purchase obligations for fixed
assets and services at September 27, 2014.
Contingencies
We are subject to legal claims and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business, such as
product liability, employment or intellectual property claims, including, but not limited to, the matters
described below. On May 14, 2013, IMRA America (‘‘Imra’’) filed a complaint for patent infringement
against two of the Company’s subsidiaries in the Regional Court of D¨usseldorf, Germany, captioned In
re IMRA America Inc. versus Coherent Kaiserslautern GmbH et. al. 4b O 38/13. The complaint alleges
that the use of certain of our lasers infringe upon EP Patent No. 754,103, entitled ‘‘Method For
Controlling Configuration of Laser Induced Breakdown and Ablation,’’ issued November 5, 1997 (the
‘‘Patent’’). The Patent, now expired in all jurisdictions, is owned by the University of Michigan and
licensed to Imra. The complaint seeks unspecified compensatory damages, the cost of court proceedings
114
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)
and seeks to permanently enjoin the Company from infringing the Patent in the future. Following the
filing of the infringement suit, our subsidiaries filed a separate nullity action with the Federal Patent
Court in Munich, Germany requesting that the court hold that the Patent was invalid based on prior
art. On October 1, 2015, the Federal Patent Court ruled that the German portion of the Patent was
invalid. Imra has the right to appeal this decision to the German Supreme Court. Management has
made an accrual with respect to this matter and has determined, based on its current knowledge, that
the amount or range of reasonably possible losses in excess of the amounts already accrued, is not
reasonably estimable. Although we do not expect that such legal claims and litigation will ultimately
have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash
flows, an adverse result in one or more matters could negatively affect our results in the period in
which they occur.
The United States and many foreign governments impose tariffs and duties on the import and
export of certain products we sell. From time to time our duty calculations and payments are audited
by government agencies. We are currently under audit in South Korea for customs duties and value
added tax for the period March 2009 to March 2014. Although we do not expect that the audit will
ultimately have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or
cash flows, an adverse result in this matter could negatively affect our results in the period in which it
occurs. As of October 3, 2015, management has accrued an estimated liability of $1.3 million related to
this matter.
11. STOCK REPURCHASES AND DIVIDENDS
On December 10, 2012, we announced that the Board of Directors approved a $1.00 per share
special cash dividend on our outstanding common stock payable on December 27, 2012 to stockholders
of record on December 19, 2012, resulting in a payment of $24.0 million.
On July 25, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a buyback program authorizing the Company
to repurchase up to $25.0 million of our common stock from time to time through July 31, 2015.
During the first and second quarters of fiscal 2015, we repurchased and retired 434,114 shares of
outstanding common stock under this plan at an average price of $57.59 per share for a total of
$25.0 million.
On January 21, 2015, our Board of Directors authorized an additional stock repurchase program to
repurchase up to $25.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through
January 31, 2016. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we repurchased and retired 430,675 shares
of outstanding common stock under this plan at an average price of $58.05 per share for a total of
$25.0 million.
On August 25, 2015, our Board of Directors authorized an additional stock repurchase program to
repurchase up to $25.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through August 31,
2016. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we repurchased and retired 437,534 shares of
outstanding common stock under this plan at an average price of $57.14 per share for a total of
$25.0 million.
115
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
12. EMPLOYEE STOCK AWARD, OPTION AND BENEFIT PLANS
Deferred Compensation Plans
Under our deferred compensation plans (‘‘plans’’), eligible employees are permitted to make
compensation deferrals up to established limits set under the plans and accrue income on these
deferrals based on reference to changes in available investment options. While not required by the
plan, the Company chooses to invest in insurance contracts and mutual funds in order to approximate
the changes in the liability to the employees. These investments and the liability to the employees were
as follows (in thousands):
Fiscal Year-end
2015
2014
Cash surrender value of life insurance contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of mutual funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$12,780
13,891
$12,999
15,000
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$26,671
$27,999
Total assets, included in:
Prepaid expenses and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 1,540
25,131
$ 1,515
26,484
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$26,671
$27,999
Total deferred compensation liability, included in:
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other long-term liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 1,540
26,691
$ 1,515
27,858
Total deferred compensation liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$28,231
$29,373
Fiscal Year-end
2015
2014
Life insurance premiums loads, policy fees and cost of insurance that are paid from the asset
investments and gains and losses from the asset investments for these plans are recorded as
components of other income or expense; such amounts were a net loss of $0.4 million in fiscal year
2015, a net gain of $4.2 million (including a $0.1 million death benefit) in fiscal year 2014 and a net
gain of $2.1 million in fiscal year 2013. Changes in the obligation to plan participants are recorded as a
component of operating expenses and cost of sales; such amounts were an income of $0.2 million in
fiscal year 2015, a loss of $4.3 million in fiscal year 2014 and a loss of $2.8 million in fiscal year 2013.
Liabilities associated with participant balances under our deferred compensation plans are affected by
individual contributions and distributions made, as well as gains and losses on the participant’s
investment allocation election.
Coherent Employee Retirement and Investment Plan
Under the Coherent Employee Retirement and Investment Plan, we match employee contributions
to the plan up to a maximum of 4% of the employee’s individual earnings subject to IRS limitations.
Employees become eligible for participation on their first day of employment and for Company
matching contributions after completing one year of service. The Company’s contributions (net of
116
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
12. EMPLOYEE STOCK AWARD, OPTION AND BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)
forfeitures) during fiscal 2015, 2014, and 2013 were $3.6 million, $3.6 million and $3.4 million,
respectively.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
We have an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (‘‘ESPP’’) whereby eligible employees may authorize
payroll deductions of up to 10% of their regular base salary to purchase shares at the lower of 85% of
the fair market value of the common stock on the date of commencement of the offering or on the last
day of the six-month offering period. During fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013, a total of 132,004 shares,
134,321 shares and 159,754 shares, respectively, were purchased by and distributed to employees at an
average price of $51.34, $48.68 and $37.20 per share, respectively. At fiscal 2015 year-end, we had
661,900 shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the plan.
Stock Award and Option Plans
We have a stock plan for which employees and non-employee directors are eligible participants.
This plan is the 2011 Equity Incentive Plan (the ‘‘2011 Plan’’) which includes our options, time-based
restricted stock units and performance restricted stock units. In prior years, we have had a stock plan
for which employees and service providers were eligible participants and a non-employee Directors’
Stock Option Plan for which only non-employee directors were eligible participants. Those prior plans
have expired. Under the 2011 Plan, Coherent may grant options and awards (time-based restricted
stock units and performance restricted stock units) to purchase up to 6,747,691 shares of common
stock, of which 5,514,171 shares remained available for grant at fiscal 2015 year-end.
Grants to employees generally expire four years from the original grant date. Since adoption of the
2011 Plan, no stock options have been granted to employees.
Director options were previously automatically granted to our non-employee directors. New
directors now initially receive an award of restricted stock units of 3,500 shares which vest over a two
year period. The annual grant for non-employee directors is 3,500 shares of restricted stock units that
vest on February 15 of the calendar year following the grant.
Restricted stock awards and restricted stock units are typically subject to vesting restrictions—
either time-based or market-based conditions for vesting. Until restricted stock vests, shares (including
those issuable upon vesting of the applicable restricted stock unit) are subject to forfeiture if
employment or service to the Company terminates prior to the release of restrictions and cannot be
transferred.
• The service based restricted stock awards generally vest within three years from the date of
grant.
• The service based restricted stock unit awards are generally subject to annual vesting over three
years from the date of grant.
• The performance restricted stock unit award grants are generally either subject to annual vesting
over three years from the date of grant or subject to a single vest measurement three years from
the date of grant, depending upon achievement of performance measurements based on the
performance of the Company’s total shareholder returns (as defined in the plan) compared with
the performance of the Russell 2000 Index.
117
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
12. EMPLOYEE STOCK AWARD, OPTION AND BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)
Fair Value of Stock Compensation
We recognize compensation expense for all share-based payment awards based on the fair value of
such awards. The expense is recognized on a straight-line basis per tranche over the respective requisite
service period of the awards.
Determining Fair Value
Valuation and amortization method—We estimate the fair value of employee stock purchase shares
using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing formula. This fair value is then amortized on a
straight-line basis over the purchase period.
Expected Term—The expected term represents the period of our employee stock purchase plan.
Expected Volatility—Our process for computing expected volatility considers both historical volatility
and market-based implied volatility; however our estimate of expected forfeitures is based on historical
employee data and could differ from actual forfeitures.
Risk-Free Interest Rate—The risk-free interest rate used in the Black-Scholes-Merton valuation
method is based on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with an
equivalent remaining term.
The fair values of shares purchased under the employee stock purchase plan for fiscal 2015, 2014
and 2013 were estimated using the following weighted-average assumptions:
Expected life in years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected volatility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weighted average fair value per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Employee Stock Purchase Plans
2015
0.5
28.6%
0.1%
Fiscal
2014
2013
0.5
0.5
24.1% 32.3%
0.1%
0.1%
$14.39
$13.57
$10.56
Time-Based Restricted Stock Units
Time-based restricted stock units are fair valued at the closing market price on the date of grant.
Performance Restricted Stock Units
We grant performance restricted stock units to officers and certain employees. The performance
stock unit agreements provide for the award of performance stock units with each unit representing the
right to receive one share of our common stock to be issued after the applicable award vesting period.
The final number of units awarded, if any, for these performance grants will be determined as of the
vesting dates, based upon our total shareholder return over the performance period compared to the
Russell 2000 Index and could range from no units to a maximum of twice the initial award units. The
118
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
12. EMPLOYEE STOCK AWARD, OPTION AND BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)
weighted average fair value for these performance units was determined using a Monte Carlo
simulation model incorporating the following weighted average assumptions:
Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Volatility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weighted average fair value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2015
0.96%
28.7%
Fiscal
2014
2013
0.6% 0.30%
36.9% 37.9%
$70.57
$77.10
48.48
We recognize the estimated cost of these awards, as determined under the simulation model, over
the related service period, with no adjustment in future periods based upon the actual shareholder
return over the performance period.
Stock Compensation Expense
The following table shows total stock-based compensation expense and related tax benefits
included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 2,530
1,946
13,756
(4,247)
$ 2,393
2,033
14,471
(5,243)
$ 2,151
1,851
14,889
(5,292)
Fiscal 2015
Fiscal 2014
Fiscal 2013
$13,985
$13,654
$13,599
Total stock-based compensation cost capitalized as part of inventory during fiscal 2015 was
$2.5 million; $2.5 million was amortized into income during fiscal 2015, which includes amounts
capitalized in fiscal 2015 and amounts carried over from fiscal 2014. Total stock-based compensation
cost capitalized as part of inventory during fiscal 2014 was $2.5 million; $2.4 million was amortized into
income during fiscal 2014, which includes amounts capitalized in fiscal 2014 and amounts carried over
from fiscal 2013. Management has made an estimate of expected forfeitures and is recognizing
compensation costs only for those equity awards expected to vest.
At fiscal 2015 year-end, the total compensation cost related to unvested stock-based awards
granted to employees under the Company’s stock plans but not yet recognized was approximately
$19.0 million, net of estimated forfeitures of $0.6 million. This cost will be amortized on a straight-line
basis over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.4 years and will be adjusted for subsequent
changes in estimated forfeitures.
At fiscal 2015 year-end, the total compensation cost related to options to purchase common shares
under the ESPP but not yet recognized was approximately $0.2 million. This cost will be amortized on
a straight-line basis over a weighted-average period of approximately one month.
The stock option exercise tax benefits reported in the statement of cash flows results from the
excess tax benefits arising from tax deductions in excess of the stock-based compensation cost
recognized, determined on a grant-by-grant basis. During fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013 we have not
generated any excess tax benefits as cash flows from financing activities.
119
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
12. EMPLOYEE STOCK AWARD, OPTION AND BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)
Stock Awards Activity
At fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013 year-end, we had 86,000, 107,000 and 270,000 shares subject to stock
options outstanding. At fiscal 2015 year-end, the $86,000 shares outstanding were at a weighted average
exercise price of $30.09 per share and had a weighted average remaining contractual term of 3.4 years.
The following table summarizes our time-based and performance restricted stock units activity for
fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Time Based Restricted
Stock Units
Performance Restricted
Stock Units
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Number
of Shares
Number
of Shares
Nonvested stock at September 29, 2012 .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested(1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nonvested stock at September 28, 2013 .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nonvested stock at September 27, 2014 .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nonvested stock at October 3, 2015 . . . .
440
273
(254)
(6)
453
226
(275)
(14)
390
237
(219)
(14)
394
$47.81
44.03
43.06
45.59
$48.22
65.80
47.44
56.06
$58.66
64.84
53.62
59.06
$65.17
152
97
(28)
(8)
213
52
(33)
(3)
229
51
(38)
(43)
199
$57.55
48.48
49.50
53.30
$54.63
77.10
43.25
46.99
$61.46
70.57
53.46
53.46
$67.09
(1) Service-based restricted stock vested during each fiscal year. Performance awards and
units included at 100% of target goal; under the terms of the awards, the recipient may
earn between 0% and 200% of the award.
Restricted Stock Units are converted into the right to receive common stock upon vesting; prior to
issuance, the Company permits the employee holders to satisfy their tax withholding requirements by
net settlement, whereby the Company withholds a portion of the shares to cover the applicable taxes
based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock at the vesting date. The number of shares
withheld to cover tax payments was 91,000 in fiscal 2015, 118,000 in fiscal 2014 and 95,000 in fiscal
2013; tax payments made were $5.3 million, $7.8 million and $4.2 million, respectively.
At fiscal 2015 year-end, 5,514,171 options or restricted stock units were available for future grant
under all plans. At fiscal 2015 year-end, all outstanding stock options have been issued under plans
approved by our shareholders.
120
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
13. OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE), NET
Other income (expense) includes other-net which is comprised of the following (in thousands):
Foreign exchange loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain (loss) on deferred compensation investments, net
(Note 12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2015
Fiscal
2014
2013
$(1,396) $(2,246) $(3,762)
(351)
21
4,236
38
2,123
170
Other—net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$(1,726) $ 2,028
$(1,469)
14. INCOME TAXES
The provision for (benefit from) income taxes on income (loss) before income taxes consists of the
following (in thousands):
2015
Fiscal
2014
2013
Currently payable:
Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ (932) $ 2,492
92
26,885
108
32,189
$ (1,796)
(141)
27,152
31,365
29,469
25,215
Deferred:
Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(4,327)
(200)
(3,679)
(2,815)
(111)
(6,430)
(4,022)
(16)
(4,036)
(8,206)
(9,356)
(8,074)
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$23,159
$20,113
$17,141
The components of income (loss) before income taxes consist of (in thousands):
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ (13,293) $
112,861
821
78,398
$ (7,142)
90,638
Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 99,568
$79,219
$83,496
2015
Fiscal
2014
2013
121
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
14. INCOME TAXES (Continued)
The reconciliation of the income tax expense at the U.S. Federal statutory rate (35%) to actual
income tax expense is as follows (in thousands):
Federal statutory tax expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign taxes at rates less than U.S. rates, net . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit .
Research and development credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Release of unrecognized tax benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Release of interest accrued for unrecognized tax
benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2015
$ 34,849
635
(10,558)
2,150
(38)
(2,979)
(133)
(39)
Fiscal
2014
$27,727
841
(6,974)
1,326
58
(1,797)
(778)
(51)
2013
$29,223
534
(8,219)
1,292
(143)
(4,131)
(257)
(407)
(38)
(690)
(289)
50
(160)
(591)
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 23,159
$20,113
$17,141
Effective tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23.3%
25.4% 20.5%
The effective tax rate on income before income taxes for fiscal 2015 of 23.3% was lower than the
statutory rate of 35.0%. This was primarily due to differences related to the benefit of income subject
to foreign tax rates that are lower than U.S. tax rates including South Korea and Singapore tax
exemptions, the benefit of foreign tax credits and the benefit of federal research and development tax
credits including renewal of the federal research and development tax credits for fiscal 2014. These
amounts are partially offset by deemed dividend inclusions under the Subpart F tax rules, stock-based
compensation not deductible for tax purposes and limitations on the deductibility of compensation
under IRC Section 162(m).
Coherent Korea received the final approval for a High-Tech tax exemption in 2013 from the South
Korean authorities and it is subject to capital contribution limitations. The impact of this tax exemption
decreased South Korean income taxes by approximately $2.8 million (or $0.11 per diluted share) in
fiscal 2015, $2.4 million (or $0.10 per diluted share) in fiscal 2014 and $2.1 million (or $0.09 per diluted
share) in fiscal 2013. The remaining High-Tech tax exemption benefit is minimal and should be fully
utilized in fiscal 2016 and Coherent Korea should be subject to South Korea income tax at that time.
Coherent Singapore had previously received a Pioneer Status tax exemption from the Singapore
authorities effective from fiscal 2012 through fiscal 2017, and it may be extended if certain additional
requirements are satisfied. The tax holiday is conditional upon our meeting certain revenue, business
spending and employment thresholds. Although Coherent Singapore had income in fiscal 2015, 2014
and 2013, these amounts were offset by a loss carryforward from fiscal 2012 and therefore we did not
realize a cumulative benefit for the Singapore tax holiday.
122
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
14. INCOME TAXES (Continued)
The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities were (in thousands):
Fiscal year-end
2015
2014
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves and accruals not currently deductible . . . . . . . . . .
Operating loss carryforwards and tax credits . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred service revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventory capitalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Competent authority offset to transfer pricing tax reserves . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 31,067
53,386
2,144
1,827
6,128
4,328
2,418
$ 29,060
65,643
2,097
1,616
6,573
4,328
—
Total gross deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
101,298
(15,556)
109,317
(14,403)
Total net deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred tax liabilities:
Gain on issuance of stock by subsidiary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated translation adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total gross deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
85,742
94,914
20,859
5,117
2,229
—
28,205
20,759
9,579
1,357
5,012
36,707
Net deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 57,537
$ 58,207
In determining our fiscal 2015 and 2014 tax provisions under ASC Subtopic 740, we calculated the
deferred tax assets and liabilities for each separate tax entity. We then considered a number of factors
including the positive and negative evidence regarding the realization of our deferred tax assets to
determine whether a valuation allowance should be recognized with respect to our deferred tax assets.
We determined that a valuation allowance was appropriate for a portion of the deferred tax assets of
our California and certain state research and development tax credits, foreign tax attributes and foreign
net operating losses at fiscal 2015 and 2014 year-ends.
During fiscal 2015, we increased our valuation allowance on deferred tax assets by $1.2 million to
$15.6 million, primarily due to the reduced ability to utilize California and certain state research and
development tax credits.
123
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
14. INCOME TAXES (Continued)
The net deferred tax asset is classified on the consolidated balance sheets as follows (in
thousands):
Current deferred income tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current deferred income tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current deferred income tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-current deferred income tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$28,118
(9)
32,136
(2,708)
$27,134
(32)
37,616
(6,511)
Net deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$57,537
$58,207
Fiscal year-end
2015
2014
We have various tax attribute carryforwards which include the following:
• Foreign gross net operating loss carryforwards are $18.0 million, of which $17.1 million have no
expiration date and of which $0.9 million are scheduled to expire beginning in fiscal year 2030.
A valuation allowance totaling $4.9 million has been provided against the foreign gross net
operating loss carryforwards in certain jurisdictions since the recovery of the carryforwards are
uncertain. California gross net operating loss carryforwards are $14.7 million and are scheduled
to expire in fiscal years 2022 to 2032. The tax benefit relating to approximately $6.6 million of
the state gross net operating loss carryforwards will be credited to additional paid-in-capital
when recognized.
• Federal gross capital loss carryforwards of $0.9 million are scheduled to expire in fiscal year
2020. State gross capital loss carryforwards of $1.4 million are scheduled to expire in fiscal year
2020. No valuation allowance is recorded against the federal gross capital loss and the state
gross capital loss carryforwards since we anticipate that it is more likely than not we will be able
to utilize the capital loss in the future.
• Federal R&D credit carryforwards of $24.4 million are scheduled to expire in fiscal years 2024
to 2035. The tax benefit relating to approximately $0.9 million of the federal tax credit
carryforwards will be credited to additional paid-in-capital when recognized. California R&D
credit carryforwards of $22.2 million have no expiration date. The tax benefit relating to
approximately $0.5 million of the state tax credit carryforwards will be credited to additional
paid-in-capital when recognized. A valuation allowance totaling $14.0 million, before federal
benefit, has been recorded against California R&D credit carryforwards since the recovery of the
carryforwards are uncertain. Other states R&D credit carryforwards of $1.7 million are
scheduled to expire in fiscal years 2016 to 2030. A valuation allowance totaling $0.6 million,
before federal benefit, has been recorded against certain state R&D credit carryforwards since
the recovery of the carryforwards is uncertain.
• Federal foreign tax credit carryforwards of $19.0 million are scheduled to expire in fiscal years
2016 to 2023. The tax benefit relating to approximately $11.5 million of the federal foreign tax
credit carryforwards will be credited to additional paid-in-capital when recognized.
We are subject to taxation and file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and in many
state and foreign jurisdictions. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, all years prior to 2011 are closed.
In our major foreign jurisdictions and our major state jurisdictions, the years prior to 2006 and 2011,
124
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
14. INCOME TAXES (Continued)
respectively, are closed to examination. Earlier years in our various jurisdictions may remain open for
adjustment to the extent that we have tax attribute carryforwards from those years. The various tax
authorities may choose to audit tax returns for tax years beyond the statute of limitations period due to
significant tax attribute carryforwards from those prior years, making adjustments only to carryforward
attributes. We believe that we have provided adequate reserves for any adjustments that may be
determined by the tax authorities.
A reconciliation of the change in gross unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties,
is as follows (in thousands):
Balance as of the beginning of the year . . . . . . . . . . .
Tax positions related to current year:
Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions
Tax positions related to prior year:
Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions
Settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lapses in statutes of limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fiscal year-end
2015
2014
2013
$21,893
$21,378
$25,967
311
—
855
—
—
(521)
346
—
235
—
—
(66)
1,008
—
1,127
—
—
(6,724)
Balance as of end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$22,538
$21,893
$21,378
As of October 3, 2015, the total amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits including gross interest
and penalties was $24.3 million, of which $16.4 million, if recognized, would affect our effective tax
rate. Our total gross unrecognized tax benefit was classified as long-term taxes payable in the
consolidated balance sheets. We include interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits
within the provision for income taxes. As of October 3, 2015, the total amount of gross interest and
penalties accrued was $1.8 million and it is classified as long-term taxes payable in the consolidated
balance sheets. As of September 27, 2014, we had accrued $1.8 million for the gross interest and
penalties and it is classified as long-term taxes payable in the consolidated balance sheets.
Management believes that it has adequately provided for any adjustments that may result from tax
examinations. We regularly engage in discussions and negotiations with tax authorities regarding tax
matters in various jurisdictions. It is reasonably possible that certain federal, foreign and state tax
matters may be concluded in the next 12 months.
A summary of the fiscal tax years that remain subject to examination, as of October 3, 2015, for
our major tax jurisdictions is:
United States—Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United States—Various States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Netherlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2011—forward
2011—forward
2010—forward
2006—forward
2009—forward
2014—forward
125
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
15. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
We are organized into two reportable operating segments: Specialty Lasers and Systems (‘‘SLS’’)
and Commercial Lasers and Components (‘‘CLC’’). This segmentation reflects the go-to-market
strategies for various products and markets. While both segments work to deliver cost-effective
solutions, SLS develops and manufactures configurable, advanced-performance products largely serving
the microelectronics, scientific research and government programs and OEM components and
instrumentation markets. The size and complexity of many of our SLS products require service to be
performed at the customer site by factory-trained field service engineers. CLC focuses on higher
volume products that are offered in set configurations. The product architectures are designed for easy
exchange at the point of use such that product service and repairs are based upon advanced
replacement and depot (i.e., factory) repair. CLC’s primary markets include materials processing, OEM
components and instrumentation and microelectronics.
We have identified SLS and CLC as operating segments for which discrete financial information is
available. Both units have dedicated engineering, manufacturing, product business management and
product line management functions. A small portion of our outside revenue is attributable to projects
and recently developed products for which a segment has not yet been determined. The associated
direct and indirect costs are presented in the category of Corporate and other, along with other
corporate costs as described below.
Our Chief Executive Officer has been identified as the chief operating decision maker (CODM) as
he assesses the performance of the segments and decides how to allocate resources to the segments.
Income from operations is the measure of profit and loss that our CODM uses to assess performance
and make decisions. As assets are not a measure used to assess the performance of the company by the
CODM, asset information is not tracked or compiled by segment and is not available to be reported in
our disclosures. Income from operations represents the net sales less the cost of sales and direct
operating expenses incurred within the operating segments as well as allocated expenses such as shared
sales and manufacturing costs. We do not allocate to our operating segments certain operating expenses
which we manage separately at the corporate level. These unallocated costs include stock-based
compensation and corporate functions (certain research and development, management, finance, legal
and human resources) and are included in the results below under Corporate and other in the
reconciliation of operating results. Management does not consider unallocated Corporate and other
costs in its measurement of segment performance.
126
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
15. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Continued)
The following table provides net sales and income from operations for our operating segments a
reconciliation of our total income from operations to net income (in thousands):
2015
Fiscal
2014
2013
Net sales:
Specialty Laser Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commercial Lasers and Components . . . . . . . . .
$559,593
242,867
$565,552
229,087
$571,644
238,482
Total net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$802,460
$794,639
$810,126
Income from operations:
Specialty Laser Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commercial Lasers and Components . . . . . . . . .
Corporate and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$133,506
9,127
(41,886)
$117,947
2,688
(43,769)
Total income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total other income (expense), net . . . . . . . . . .
$100,747
(1,179)
$ 76,866
2,353
$115,931
12,411
(43,443)
$ 84,899
(1,403)
Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
99,568
23,159
79,219
20,113
83,496
17,141
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 76,409
$ 59,106
$ 66,355
Geographic Information
Our foreign operations consist primarily of manufacturing facilities and sales offices in Europe and
Asia-Pacific. Sales, marketing and customer service activities are conducted through sales subsidiaries
throughout the world. Geographic sales information for fiscal 2015, 2014 and 2013 is based on the
location of the end customer. Geographic long-lived asset information presented below is based on the
physical location of the assets at the end of each year.
Sales to unaffiliated customers are as follows (in thousands):
SALES
2015
Fiscal
2014
2013
United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$213,483
$202,205
$188,204
Foreign countries:
South Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe, other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia-Pacific, other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rest of World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total foreign countries sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
195,589
135,674
75,474
53,027
85,584
43,629
588,977
167,473
124,765
86,023
64,648
98,760
50,765
185,737
156,152
93,855
58,500
73,794
53,884
592,434
621,922
Total sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$802,460
$794,639
$810,126
127
COHERENT, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
15. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (Continued)
Long-lived assets, which include all non-current assets other than goodwill, intangibles and
deferred taxes, by geographic region, are as follows (in thousands):
LONG-LIVED ASSETS
Fiscal Year-end
2015
2014
United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$ 82,951
$ 82,274
Foreign countries:
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Europe, other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia-Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total foreign countries long-lived assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
33,964
2,993
11,504
48,461
38,678
2,920
13,650
55,248
Total long-lived assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$131,412
$137,522
Major Customers
We had one customer who accounted for 17%, 13% and 14% of consolidated revenue during fiscal
2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. This customer purchased primarily from our SLS segment.
128
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
Summarized quarterly financial data for the years ended October 3, 2015 and September 27, 2014
are as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Fiscal 2015:
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per basic share . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per diluted share . . . . . . . .
Fiscal 2014:
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per basic share . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per diluted share . . . . . . . .
First
Quarter
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
$200,615
82,319
17,430
0.70
0.69
$
$
$193,556
77,546
11,703
0.48
0.47
$
$
$203,721
83,304
18,413
0.75
0.74
$
$
$199,222
80,665
15,307
0.62
0.61
$
$
$188,502
78,782
13,264
0.54
0.53
$
$
$196,517
74,261
12,999
0.52
0.52
$
$
$209,622
90,994
27,302
1.11
1.10
$
$
$205,344
80,918
19,097
0.77
0.76
$
$
129
Sequentially
Exhibit
Number
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
Exhibit
10.25
Form of Performance RSU Agreement under the 2011 Equity Plan
21.1
23.1
24.1
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
Subsidiaries
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Power of Attorney (see signature page)
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002.
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of
2002.
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted
pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
All other exhibits required to be filed as part of this report have been incorporated by reference.
See item 15 for a complete index of such exhibits.
130
ANNUAL REPORT,
PROXY STATEMENT & NOTICE
OF ANNUAL MEETING
2015
Coherent, Inc.
5100 Patrick Henry Drive
Santa Clara, CA 95054
www.coherent.com
Printed in the U.S.A.
Copyright © 2016 Coherent, Inc.