1 ================================================================================ Securities And Exchange Commission Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q JOINT QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2000 VECTOR GROUP LTD. ------------------------------------------------------ (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) BROOKE GROUP LTD. ------------------------------------------------------ (Former name, if changed since last report) DELAWARE 1-5759 65-0949535 ------------------------------- ---------------------- ------------------------------------ (State or other jurisdiction of Commission File Number (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) incorporation or organization) BGLS INC. ------------------------------------------------------ (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) DELAWARE 33-93576 65-0949536 ------------------------------- ---------------------- ------------------------------------ (State or other jurisdiction of Commission File Number (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) incorporation or organization) 100 S.E. SECOND STREET MIAMI, FLORIDA 33131 305/579-8000 ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (Address, including zip code and telephone number, including area code, of the principal executive offices) Indicate by check mark whether the Registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. [X] Yes [ ] No At August 11, 2000, Vector Group Ltd. had 21,989,782 shares of common stock outstanding, and BGLS Inc. had 100 shares of common stock outstanding, all of which are held by Vector Group Ltd. ================================================================================
2 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. FORM 10-Q TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE ---- PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION Item 1. VECTOR GROUP LTD./BGLS INC. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: Vector Group Ltd. Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999............................................................................. 2 BGLS Inc. Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999..................... 3 Vector Group Ltd. Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000 and June 30, 1999......................................................... 4 BGLS Inc. Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000 and June 30, 1999......................................................... 5 Vector Group Ltd. Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) for the six months ended June 30, 2000.................................................................... 6 BGLS Inc. Consolidated Statement of Stockholder's Equity (Deficit) for the six months ended June 30, 2000........................................................................... 7 Vector Group Ltd. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2000 and June, 1999.................................................................. 8 BGLS Inc. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2000 and June 30, 1999............................................................... 9 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.......................................................... 10 Item 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.............................................. 36 Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK..................................... 47 PART II. OTHER INFORMATION Item 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.............................................................................. 48 Item 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS...................................................... 48 Item 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS............................................ 48 Item 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K............................................................... 49 SIGNATURES............................................................................................. 51 -1-
3 VECTOR GROUP LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 ---------------- ----------------- ASSETS: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents.................................................... $ 33,046 $ 20,123 Receivables from clearing brokers............................................ 13,594 10,903 Investment securities available for sale..................................... 36,756 48,722 Trading securities owned..................................................... 13,589 15,707 Accounts receivable - trade.................................................. 20,773 19,658 Other receivables............................................................ 1,993 1,290 Inventories.................................................................. 55,683 45,205 Restricted assets............................................................ 787 3,239 Deferred income taxes........................................................ 59,268 21,374 Other current assets......................................................... 5,600 2,511 --------- --------- Total current assets....................................................... 241,089 188,732 Property, plant and equipment, net............................................. 166,765 154,260 Investment in real estate, net................................................. 54,665 53,353 Long-term investments, net..................................................... 7,794 8,731 Investment in joint venture.................................................... 41,316 38,378 Restricted assets.............................................................. 4,101 5,195 Deferred income taxes.......................................................... 9,216 45,631 Other assets................................................................... 5,984 10,168 --------- -------- Total assets............................................................... $530,930 $504,448 ========= ======== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT): Current liabilities: Current portion of notes payable and long-term debt.......................... $161,347 $ 41,547 Margin loan payable.......................................................... 5,397 983 Accounts payable............................................................. 49,229 36,456 Securities sold, not yet purchased........................................... 976 7,625 Accrued promotional expenses................................................. 24,561 22,473 Accrued taxes payable........................................................ 50,172 42,408 Deferred income taxes........................................................ 2,364 2,274 Accrued interest............................................................. 8,118 8,488 Prepetition claims and restructuring accruals................................ 11,951 12,279 Other accrued liabilities.................................................... 45,778 52,121 -------- -------- Total current liabilities.................................................. 359,893 226,654 Notes payable, long-term debt and other obligations, less current portion...... 48,060 148,349 Noncurrent employee benefits................................................... 14,106 23,264 Deferred income taxes.......................................................... 117,230 117,285 Other liabilities.............................................................. 88,937 76,628 Minority interests............................................................. 41,745 45,366 Commitments and contingencies.................................................. Stockholders' equity (deficit): Preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share, authorized 10,000,000 shares..... Common stock, par value $0.10 per share, authorized 100,000,000 shares, issued 27,822,779 shares, outstanding 21,989,782................... 2,199 2,199 Additional paid-in capital................................................... 185,511 196,695 Deficit...................................................................... (298,793) (302,155) Accumulated other comprehensive income....................................... 3,258 1,379 Other........................................................................ (3,743) (3,743) Less: 5,832,997 shares of common stock in treasury, at cost................. (27,473) (27,473) -------- -------- Total stockholders' equity (deficit)..................................... (139,041) (133,098) ------- ------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit)..................... $530,930 $504,448 ======== ======== The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -2-
4 BGLS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 ---------------- ------------------- ASSETS: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents..................................................... $ 32,704 $ 19,590 Receivables from clearing brokers............................................. 13,594 10,903 Investment securities available for sale...................................... 36,756 48,722 Trading securities owned...................................................... 13,589 15,707 Accounts receivable - trade................................................... 20,773 19,658 Other receivables............................................................. 2,748 1,237 Inventories................................................................... 55,683 45,205 Restricted assets............................................................. 787 3,239 Deferred income taxes......................................................... 59,268 21,374 Other current assets.......................................................... 5,195 2,350 --------- --------- Total current assets...................................................... 241,097 187,985 Property, plant and equipment, net.............................................. 166,754 154,246 Investment in real estate, net.................................................. 54,665 53,353 Long-term investments, net...................................................... 7,794 8,731 Investment in joint venture..................................................... 39,630 38,378 Restricted assets............................................................... 4,101 5,195 Deferred income taxes........................................................... 9,216 45,631 Other assets.................................................................... 8,025 9,002 --------- --------- Total assets.............................................................. $531,282 $502,521 ======= ======= LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (DEFICIT): Current liabilities: Current portion of notes payable and long-term debt........................... $160,433 $ 41,333 Margin loan payable........................................................... 5,397 983 Accounts payable.............................................................. 49,129 36,236 Securities sold, not yet purchased............................................ 976 7,625 Accrued promotional expenses.................................................. 24,561 22,473 Accrued taxes payable......................................................... 50,172 42,408 Deferred income taxes......................................................... 2,364 2,274 Accrued interest.............................................................. 8,118 8,488 Prepetition claims and restructuring accruals................................. 11,951 12,279 Other accrued liabilities..................................................... 44,691 50,254 -------- -------- Total current liabilities................................................. 357,792 224,353 Notes payable, long-term debt and other obligations, less current portion....... 48,060 148,349 Noncurrent employee benefits.................................................... 14,106 23,264 Deferred income taxes........................................................... 117,230 117,285 Other liabilities............................................................... 88,868 76,360 Minority interests.............................................................. 41,745 45,366 Commitments and contingencies................................................... Stockholder's equity (deficit): Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 100 shares authorized, issued and outstanding................................................................. Additional paid-in capital.................................................... 161,770 161,800 Deficit....................................................................... (301,547) (295,635) Accumulated other comprehensive income........................................ 3,258 1,379 --------- --------- Total stockholder's equity (deficit)...................................... (136,519) (132,456) --------- ------- Total liabilities and stockholder's equity (deficit)...................... $ 531,282 $502,521 ========= ======= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -3-
5 VECTOR GROUP LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended --------------------------- --------------------------- June 30, June 30, June 30, June 30, 2000 1999 2000 1999 ------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- Revenues: Tobacco* .............................................. $ 187,644 $ 109,265 $ 334,792 $ 217,662 Broker-dealer transactions ............................ 18,300 5,876 48,596 5,876 Real estate leasing ................................... 820 754 1,591 754 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total revenues ...................................... 206,764 115,895 384,979 224,292 Expenses: Cost of goods sold* ................................... 85,567 40,098 154,142 81,525 Operating, selling, administrative and general expenses 111,067 62,210 210,812 106,932 Settlement charges .................................... 65 (11) 102 104 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Operating income .................................... 10,065 13,598 19,923 35,731 Other income (expenses): Interest and dividend income .......................... 1,652 672 3,182 732 Interest expense ...................................... (11,814) (12,073) (23,570) (27,061) Equity in loss of affiliate ........................... (1,362) (1,569) (2,913) (9,198) Recognition of deferred gain on sale of assets ........ 7,050 Foreign currency gain ................................. 312 341 1,535 2,611 Gain (loss) in joint venture .......................... 379 (790) 153 (790) Gain on sale of investments, net ...................... 1,438 327 6,191 327 Sale of assets ........................................ 150 3,984 150 4,125 Gain on brand transaction ............................. 294,287 294,287 Other, net ............................................ 883 64 1,111 310 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and minority interests ................. 1,703 298,841 5,762 308,124 Provision for income taxes ............................ 640 81,645 2,314 83,374 Minority interests .................................... (1,883) 1,382 (144) 1,382 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Income from continuing operations ....................... 2,946 215,814 3,592 223,368 Gain on disposal of discontinued operations ............. 1,249 Loss on extraordinary items ............................. (1,056) (230) (1,056) ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net income .............................................. $ 2,946 $ 214,758 $ 3,362 $ 223,561 ============ ============ ============ ============ Per basic common share: Income from continuing operations ..................... $ 0.13 $ 9.81 $ 0.16 $ 10.16 ============ ============ ============ ============ Gain from discontinued operations ..................... $ 0.06 ============ Loss from extraordinary items ......................... $ (0.05) $ (0.01) $ (0.05) ============ ============ ============ Net income applicable to common shares ................ $ 0.13 $ 9.76 $ 0.15 $ 10.17 ============ ============ ============ ============ Basic weighted average common shares outstanding ........ 21,989,782 21,989,782 21,989,782 21,989,782 ============ ============ ============ ============ Per diluted common share: Income from continuing operations ..................... $ 0.11 $ 8.00 $ 0.14 $ 8.30 ============ ============ ============ ============ Gain from discontinued operations ..................... $ 0.05 ============ Loss from extraordinary items ......................... $ (0.04) $ (0.01) $ (0.04) ============ ============ ============ Net income applicable to common shares ................ $ 0.11 $ 7.96 $ 0.13 $ 8.31 ============ ============ ============ ============ Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding ...... 26,331,250 26,961,596 26,281,801 26,906,485 ============ ============ ============ ============ - -------------- * Tobacco revenues and Cost of goods sold include excise taxes of $32,459, $14,718, $57,161 and $28,756, respectively. The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -4-
6 BGLS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended ------------------------------- ------------------------------ June 30, June 30, June 30, June 30, 2000 1999 2000 1999 --------------- --------------- -------------- --------------- Revenues: Tobacco* .............................................. $ 187,644 $ 109,265 $ 334,792 $ 217,662 Broker dealer transactions ............................ 18,300 5,876 48,596 5,876 Real estate leasing ................................... 820 754 1,591 754 --------- --------- --------- --------- Total revenues ...................................... 206,764 115,895 384,979 224,292 Expenses: Cost of goods sold* ................................... 85,567 40,098 154,142 81,525 Operating, selling, administrative and general expenses 110,068 62,061 208,479 106,381 Settlement charges .................................... 65 (11) 102 104 --------- --------- --------- --------- Operating income .................................... 11,064 13,747 22,256 36,282 Other income (expenses): Interest and dividend income .......................... 1,644 670 3,174 730 Interest expense ...................................... (11,803) (13,406) (23,535) (29,650) Equity in loss of affiliate ........................... (1,362) (1,569) (2,913) (9,198) Recognition of deferred gain on sale of assets ........ 8,264 Foreign currency gain ................................. 312 341 1,535 2,611 Gain (loss) in joint venture .......................... 379 (790) 153 (790) Gain on sale of investments, net ...................... 1,438 327 6,191 327 Sale of assets ........................................ 150 3,984 150 4,125 Gain on brand transaction ............................. 294,287 294,287 Other, net ............................................ 1,046 64 1,029 280 --------- --------- --------- --------- Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and minority interests ............. 2,868 297,655 8,040 307,268 Provision for income taxes ............................ 640 81,645 2,314 83,374 Minority interests .................................... (1,883) 1,382 (144) 1,382 --------- --------- --------- --------- Income from continuing operations ....................... 4,111 214,628 5,870 222,512 Gain on disposal of discontinued operations ............. 1,249 Loss on extraordinary items ............................. (1,056) (230) (1,056) --------- --------- --------- --------- Net income .............................................. $ 4,111 $ 213,572 $ 5,640 $ 222,705 ========= ========= ========= ========= - ----------- * Tobacco revenues and Cost of goods sold include excise taxes of $32,459, $14,718, $57,161 and $28,756, respectively. The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -5-
7 VECTOR GROUP LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) Accumulated Common Stock Additional Other ----------------- Paid-in Treasury Comprehensive Shares Amount Capital Deficit Stock Other Income Total ------ ------ ------- ------- ----- ----- ------ ----- Balance, December 31, 1999....... 21,989,782 $2,199 $196,695 $(302,155) $(27,473) $(3,743) $ 1,379 $(133,098) Net income....................... 3,362 3,362 Effect of New Valley capital transactions................. (30) 1,879 1,849 ----- Total other comprehensive income................... 1,849 ----- Total comprehensive income....... 5,211 Distributions on common stock.......................... (10,869) (10,869) Amortization of deferred compensation.......... (285) (285) ---------- ------ -------- --------- -------- ------- -------- --------- Balance, June 30, 2000........... 21,989,782 $2,199 $185,511 $(298,793) $(27,473) $(3,743) $ 3,258 $(139,041) ========== ===== ======= ========= ======== ======= ======== ========= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -6-
8 BGLS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (DEFICIT) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) Accumulated Common Stock Additional Other -------------------- Paid-in Comprehensive Shares Amount Capital Deficit Income Total ------ ------ ------- ------- ------ ----- Balance, December 31, 1999....................... 100 $ $161,800 $(295,635) $ 1,379 $(132,456) Net income....................................... 5,640 5,640 Other New Valley capital transactions.......... (30) 1,879 1,849 ----- Total other comprehensive income........... 1,849 ----- Total comprehensive income....................... 7,489 Distributions to parent.......................... (11,552) (11,552) ------ --------- -------- --------- ----------- --------- Balance, June 30, 2000........................... 100 $ $161,770 $(301,547) $ 3,258 $(136,519) === ========= ======= ======= ======= ======= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -7-
9 VECTOR GROUP LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) Six Months Ended ---------------------------------- June 30, June 30, 2000 1999 ---------------- ----------------- Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities......................... $ (3,556) $ 12,116 --------- -------- Cash flows from investing activities: Proceeds from sale of businesses and assets, net.......................... 162 5,214 Proceeds from brand transaction........................................... 145,000 Sale or maturity of investment securities................................. 29,126 491 Purchase of investment securities......................................... (5,732) (2,529) Purchase of long-term investments......................................... (1,875) Sale or liquidation of long-term investments.............................. 217 Decrease in restricted assets............................................. 3,394 Payment of prepetition claims............................................. (327) (23) Investment in joint venture............................................... (1,266) Repurchase by New Valley of common shares................................. (407) Capital expenditures...................................................... (21,429) (38,202) -------- -------- Net cash provided by investing activities................................... 1,646 110,168 --------- ------- Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from debt........................................................ 3,134 4,976 Repayments of debt........................................................ (6,718) (142,906) Borrowings under revolvers................................................ 225,241 163,978 Repayments on revolvers................................................... (200,929) (152,599) Effect of New Valley recapitalization..................................... 9,055 Increase (decrease) in margin loan payable................................ 4,414 (1,147) Increase in cash overdraft................................................ 693 1,173 Distributions on common stock............................................. (10,869) (3,210) -------- --------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities......................... 14,966 (120,680) -------- ------- Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents................ (133) (632) Net increase in cash and cash equivalents................................... 12,923 972 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period.............................. 20,123 7,396 -------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of period.................................... $ 33,046 $ 8,368 ======== ========= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -8-
10 BGLS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) Six Months Ended ---------------- ----------------- June 30, June 30, 2000 1999 ---------------- ----------------- Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities ........ $ (2,025) $ 9,327 --------- --------- Cash flows from investing activities: Proceeds from sale of businesses and assets, net ......... 162 5,214 Proceeds from brand transaction .......................... 145,000 Sale or maturity of investment securities ................ 29,126 491 Purchase of investment securities ........................ (5,732) (2,529) Sale or liquidation of long-term investments ............. 217 Purchase of long-term investments ........................ (1,875) Decrease in restricted assets ............................ 3,394 Payment of prepetition claims ............................ (327) (23) Investment in joint venture .............................. (1,266) Repurchase by New Valley of common shares ................ (407) Capital expenditures ..................................... (21,429) (38,202) --------- --------- Net cash provided by investing activities .................. 1,646 110,168 --------- --------- Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from debt ....................................... 2,434 4,500 Repayments of debt ....................................... (6,675) (142,858) Borrowings under revolvers ............................... 225,241 163,978 Repayments on revolvers .................................. (200,929) (152,599) Effect of New Valley recapitalization .................... 9,055 Increase in margin loan payable .......................... 4,414 (1,147) Increase in cash overdraft ............................... 693 1,180 Distributions paid to parent ............................. (11,552) --------- --------- Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities ........ 13,626 (117,891) --------- --------- Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (133) (632) Net increase in cash and cash equivalents .................. 13,114 972 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period ............. 19,590 7,396 --------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of period ................... $ 32,704 $ 8,368 ========= ========= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -9-
11 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (a) BASIS OF PRESENTATION: The consolidated financial statements of Vector Group Ltd. (the "Company" or "Vector") include the consolidated financial statements of its wholly-owned subsidiary, BGLS Inc. ("BGLS"). The consolidated financial statements of BGLS include the accounts of Liggett Group Inc. ("Liggett"), Brooke (Overseas) Ltd. ("Brooke (Overseas)"), Liggett-Ducat Ltd. ("Liggett-Ducat") and other less significant subsidiaries. As of June 1, 1999, New Valley Corporation ("New Valley") became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company as a result of New Valley's recapitalization in which the Company's interest in New Valley's common shares increased to 55.1%. (Refer to Note 4.) All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Liggett is engaged primarily in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes, principally in the United States. Prior to its sale in August 2000, Liggett-Ducat was engaged in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes in Russia. (Refer to Note 2.) New Valley is engaged primarily in the investment banking and brokerage business through its ownership of Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc., in the real estate development business in Russia and in investment in Internet-related businesses. Effective October 1, 1999, the Company was reorganized into a holding company form of organizational structure. The new corporate structure was implemented by the merger of a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of the former Brooke Group Ltd., the predecessor of the current Company, with the predecessor, which was the surviving corporation. As a result of this merger, each share of the common stock of the predecessor issued and outstanding or held in its treasury was converted into one share of common stock of the current Company (formerly known as BGL Successor Inc.). The current Company became the holding company for the business and operations previously conducted by the predecessor and its subsidiaries, and the predecessor became an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. On the effective date of the merger, the name of the current Company was changed to Brooke Group Ltd. and the name of the predecessor was changed to Brooke Group Holding Inc. ("Brooke Group Holding"). The holding company reorganization had no impact on these consolidated financial statements. At the Company's annual meeting held on May 24, 2000, stockholders approved a corporate name change to Vector Group Ltd. The New York Stock Exchange symbol for the Company's common stock was changed from "BGL" to "VGR". The interim consolidated financial statements of the Company and BGLS are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments necessary (which are normal and recurring) to present fairly the Company's and BGLS' consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company's and BGLS' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The -10-
12 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) consolidated results of operations for interim periods should not be regarded as necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. (b) RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES: The Russian Federation continues to experience economic difficulties following the financial crisis of August 1998. Consequently, the country's currency continues to devalue, there is continued volatility in the debt and equity market, hyperinflation persists, confidence in the banking sector has yet to be restored and there continues to be a general lack of liquidity in the economy. In addition, laws and regulations affecting businesses operating within the Russian Federation continue to evolve. The Russian Federation's return to economic stability is dependent to a large extent on the effectiveness of the measures taken by the government, decisions of international lending organizations, and other actions, including regulatory and political developments, which are beyond the Company's control. The Company's assets and operations could be at risk if there are any further significant adverse changes in the political and business environment. Management is unable to predict what effect those uncertainties might have on the future financial position of the Company. No adjustments related to these uncertainties have been included in these consolidated financial statements. (c) ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Significant estimates subject to material changes in the near term include deferred tax assets, allowance for doubtful accounts, promotional accruals, sales returns and allowances, actuarial assumptions of pension plans and litigation and defense costs. Actual results could differ from those estimates. (d) RECLASSIFICATIONS: Certain amounts in the 1999 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2000 presentation. (e) PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES: The effective tax rate does not bear a customary relationship to pre-tax accounting income principally as a consequence of foreign taxes and the change in the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets. -11-
13 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) (f) EARNINGS PER SHARE: Information concerning the Company's common stock has been adjusted to give effect to the 5% stock dividend paid to Company stockholders on September 30, 1999. In connection with the 5% dividend, the Company increased the number of warrants and stock options by 5% and reduced the exercise prices accordingly. All share amounts have been presented as if the stock dividend had occurred on January 1, 1999. (g) OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): Other comprehensive income is a component of stockholders' equity and includes such items as the Company's proportionate interest in New Valley's capital transactions, unrealized gains and losses on investment securities and minimum pension liability adjustments. Total other comprehensive income was $1,849 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 and $198,775 for the six months ended June 30, 1999. 2. SALE OF WESTERN TOBACCO INVESTMENTS On August 4, 2000, Brooke (Overseas) completed the sale of all of the membership interests of Western Tobacco Investments LLC ("Western Tobacco Investments") to Gallaher Overseas (Holdings) Ltd. ("Gallaher Overseas"). Brooke (Overseas) held its 99.9% equity interest in Liggett-Ducat, one of Russia's leading cigarette producers, through Western Tobacco Investments. The purchase price for the sale consisted of $334,100 in cash and $64,400 in assumed debt and capital commitments. The proceeds generated from the sale were divided among Brooke (Overseas) and Western Realty Development LLC ("Western Realty Development"), a joint venture of New Valley and Apollo Real Estate Investment Fund III, L.P. ("Apollo"), in accordance with the terms of the participating loan. (Refer to Note 5.) Of the cash proceeds from the transaction after estimated closing expenses, Brooke (Overseas) received approximately $200,000. New Valley received $57,208 in cash proceeds from the sale and Apollo received $68,378 in cash proceeds from the sale. These amounts are subject to adjustment based on final closing expenses. The Company anticipates recording a gain of approximately $159,000(including the Company's share of New Valley's gain), net of income taxes, in connection with the sale in the third quarter of 2000. On August 4, 2000, with the proceeds of the sale, BGLS repurchased $24,850 principal amount of its 15.75% Senior Secured Notes (the "Notes"), together with accrued interest of $11,531, for $36,381. On that date, BGLS called the remaining Notes for redemption on September 5, 2000. On the redemption date, all of these Notes will be redeemed for 100% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued interest. BGLS will use approximately $105,000 of the proceeds of the sale to retire the Notes. -12-
14 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) Gallaher Overseas has also agreed to purchase for $1,500 additional land adjacent to the Liggett-Ducat manufacturing facility outside Moscow, Russia. The seller is a subsidiary of Western Realty Repin LLC ("Western Realty Repin"). 3. PHILIP MORRIS BRAND TRANSACTION In November 1998, the Company and Liggett granted Philip Morris Incorporated options to purchase interests in Trademarks LLC which holds three domestic cigarette brands, L&M, CHESTERFIELD and LARK, formerly held by Liggett's subsidiary, Eve Holdings Inc. ("Eve"). Under the terms of the Philip Morris agreements, Eve contributed the three brands to Trademarks, a newly-formed limited liability company, in exchange for 100% of two classes of Trademarks' interests, the Class A Voting Interest and the Class B Redeemable Nonvoting Interest. Philip Morris acquired two options to purchase the interests from Eve. In December 1998, Philip Morris paid Eve a total of $150,000 for the options, $5,000 for the option for the Class A interest and $145,000 for the option for the Class B interest. The Class A option entitled Philip Morris to purchase the Class A interest for $10,100. On March 19, 1999, Philip Morris exercised the Class A option, and the closing occurred on May 24, 1999. The Class B option entitles Philip Morris to purchase the Class B interest for $139,900. The Class B option will be exercisable during the 90-day period beginning on December 2, 2008, with Philip Morris being entitled to extend the 90-day period for up to an additional six months under certain circumstances. The Class B interest will also be redeemable by Trademarks for $139,900 during the same period the Class B option may be exercised. On May 24, 1999, Trademarks borrowed $134,900 from a lending institution. The loan is guaranteed by Eve and collateralized by a pledge by Trademarks of the three brands and Trademarks' interest in the trademark license agreement (discussed below) and by a pledge by Eve of its Class B interest. In connection with the closing of the Class A option, Trademarks distributed the loan proceeds to Eve as the holder of the Class B interest. The cash exercise price of the Class B option and Trademarks' redemption price were reduced by the amount distributed to Eve. Upon Philip Morris' exercise of the Class B option or Trademarks' exercise of its redemption right, Philip Morris or Trademarks, as relevant, will be required to obtain Eve's release from its guaranty. The Class B interest will be entitled to a guaranteed payment of $500 each year with the Class A interest allocated all remaining income or loss of Trademarks. The proceeds of the loan and the exercise of the Class A option were used to retire a portion of the BGLS Notes. (Refer to Note 11.) Trademarks has granted Philip Morris an exclusive license of the three brands for an 11-year term expiring May 24, 2010 at an annual royalty based on sales of cigarettes under the brands, subject to a minimum annual royalty payment equal to the annual debt service obligation on the loan plus $1,000. -13-
15 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) If Philip Morris fails to exercise the Class B option, Eve will have an option to put its Class B interest to Philip Morris, or Philip Morris' designees, at a put price that is $5,000 less than the exercise price of the Class B option (and includes Philip Morris' obtaining Eve's release from its loan guarantee). The Eve put option is exercisable at any time during the 90-day period beginning March 2, 2010. If the Class B option, Trademarks' redemption right and the Eve put option expire unexercised, the holder of the Class B interest will be entitled to convert the Class B interest, at its election, into a Class A interest with the same rights to share in future profits and losses, the same voting power and the same claim to capital as the entire existing outstanding Class A interest, i.e., a 50% interest in Trademarks. Upon the closing of the exercise of the Class A option and the distribution of the loan proceeds on May 24, 1999, Philip Morris obtained control of Trademarks, and the Company recognized a pre-tax gain of $294,078 in its consolidated financial statements to the extent of the total cash proceeds received from the payment of the option fees, the exercise of the Class A option and the distribution of the loan proceeds. 4. NEW VALLEY CORPORATION Until May 31, 1999, the Company was an equity investor in New Valley. The Class A Senior Preferred Shares and the Class B Preferred Shares of New Valley that the Company owned were accounted for as debt and equity securities, respectively, pursuant to the requirements of SFAS No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities", and were classified as available for sale. The Common Shares were accounted for pursuant to APB No. 18, "The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock". RECAPITALIZATION. In connection with New Valley's recapitalization on June 4, 1999, New Valley's preferred shares were reclassified and changed into Common Shares and Warrants to purchase Common Shares. The Company's ownership of the Common Shares of New Valley increased from 42.3% to 55.1%, and its total voting power increased from 42.3% to 55.1%. As a result of the increase in ownership, New Valley became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company as of June 1, 1999. On October 5, 1999, New Valley's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 2,000,000 Common Shares from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions depending on market conditions. As of August 11, 2000, New Valley had repurchased 261,400 shares for approximately $981. At June 30, 2000, the Company owned 55.7% of New Valley's Common Shares. BROOKEMIL LTD. In connection with the sale by Brooke (Overseas) of the common shares of BrookeMil Ltd. ("BrookeMil") to New Valley in 1997, a portion of the gain was deferred in recognition of the fact that the Company retained an interest in BrookeMil through its 42% equity ownership of New Valley prior to recapitalization and that a portion of the property -14-
16 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) sold (the site of the third phase of the Ducat Place real estate project being developed by BrookeMil, which was used by Liggett-Ducat for its cigarette factory operation) was subject to a put option held by New Valley. The option expired when Liggett-Ducat ceased factory operations at the site in March 1999. The Company recognized that portion of the deferred gain, $7,050, in March 1999. 5. INVESTMENT IN WESTERN REALTY WESTERN REALTY DEVELOPMENT LLC. In February 1998, New Valley and Apollo organized Western Realty Development to make real estate and other investments in Russia. New Valley agreed to contribute the real estate assets of BrookeMil, including Ducat Place II and the site for Ducat Place III, to Western Realty Development and Apollo agreed to contribute up to $72,021, including the investment in Western Realty Repin discussed below. The ownership and voting interests in Western Realty Development are held equally by Apollo and New Valley. Apollo is entitled to a preference on distributions of cash from Western Realty Development to the extent of its investment commitment of $43,750, of which $41,266 had been funded through June 30, 2000, together with a 15% annual rate of return. New Valley is then entitled to a return of its investment commitment of $23,750, of which $21,266 had been funded through June 30, 2000, together with a 15% annual rate of return. Subsequent distributions are made 70% to New Valley and 30% to Apollo. Western Realty Development is managed by a board of managers consisting of an equal number of representatives chosen by Apollo and New Valley. Material corporate transactions by Western Realty Development generally require the unanimous consent of the board of managers. Accordingly, New Valley accounts for its non-controlling interest in Western Realty Development using the equity method of accounting. New Valley recognizes losses incurred by Western Realty Development to the extent that cumulative earnings of Western Realty Development are not sufficient to satisfy Apollo's preferred return. Summarized financial information as of June 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999 and for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2000 and June 30, 1999 for Western Realty Development follows: JUNE 30, 2000 DECEMBER 31, 1999 ------------- ----------------- Current assets....................... $ 3,336 $ 3,557 Participating loan receivable........ 40,725 37,849 Real estate, net..................... 77,174 77,988 Furniture and fixtures, net.......... 224 249 Other noncurrent assets.............. 226 320 Goodwill, net........................ 549 722 Notes payable - current.............. 6,968 6,445 Other current liabilities............ 4,939 7,067 Notes payable - long-term............ 4,591 8,211 Other long-term liabilities.......... 799 752 Members' equity...................... 104,937 98,210 -15-
17 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) Three Months Three Months Six Months Six Months Ended Ended Ended Ended June 30, 2000 June 30, 1999 June 30, 2000 June 30, 1999 ------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- Revenues............... $2,994 $2,430 $5,384 $5,878 Costs and expenses..... 2,288 2,811 4,458 7,236 Other income........... 1,464 (741) 2,876 261 Income tax provision... (16) Net income (loss)...... 2,186 (1,106) 3,802 1,097 Western Realty Development made a $30,000 participating loan to Western Tobacco Investments, which holds the interests of Brooke (Overseas) in Liggett-Ducat and its new factory. As a result of the sale of Western Tobacco Investments, Western Realty Development was entitled to receive the return of all amounts advanced on the loan, together with a 15% annual rate of return, and 30% of subsequent distributions. Brooke (Overseas) recognized net interest expense of $1,464 and $2,876 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000, which represented a 15% cumulative adjustment to realizable value on the loan and 30% of any net expense applicable to common interests in Western Tobacco Investments. The loan was classified in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet at June 30, 2000. The loan was repaid and terminated in connection with the sale of Western Tobacco Investments in August 2000. (Refer to Note 2.) WESTERN REALTY REPIN LLC. In June 1998, New Valley and Apollo organized Western Realty Repin to make a loan to BrookeMil, a wholly-owned subsidiary of New Valley. The proceeds of the loan have been used by BrookeMil for the acquisition and preliminary development of the Kremlin sites, two adjoining sites totaling 10.25 acres located in Moscow across the Moscow River from the Kremlin. BrookeMil is planning the development of a hotel, office, retail and residential complex on the Kremlin sites. BrookeMil owned 96.8% of one site and 100% of the other site at June 30, 2000. Western Realty Repin has three classes of equity: Class A interests, of which $18,750 were outstanding at June 30, 2000 and are owned by Apollo; Class B interests, of which $6,250 were outstanding at June 30, 2000 and are owned by New Valley; and Class C interests, of which Apollo had subscribed for $9,521 ($7,437 funded) and New Valley had subscribed for $5,712 ($4,463 funded) at June 30, 2000. Apollo and New Valley are entitled to receive on a pro-rata basis an amount equal to each party's investment in Class C interests, together with a 20% annual return. After the distributions to the Class C interests have been made, Apollo will be entitled to a preference on distributions of cash from Western Realty Repin to the extent of its investment of $18,750 in Class A interests, together with a 20% annual rate of return. New Valley will then be entitled to a return of its investment of $6,250 in Class B interests, together with a 20% annual rate of return. Subsequent distributions will be made 50% to New Valley and 50% to Apollo. Western Realty Repin is managed by a board of managers consisting of an equal number of representatives chosen by Apollo and New Valley. Material corporate transactions by Western Realty Repin generally require the unanimous consent of the board of managers. -16-
18 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) Through June 30, 2000, Western Realty Repin has advanced $36,900 to BrookeMil, of which $26,188 was funded by Apollo under the loan and was classified in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet at June 30, 2000. The loan bears no fixed interest and is payable only out of distributions by the entities owning the Kremlin sites to BrookeMil. Such distributions will be applied first to pay the principal of the loan and then as contingent participating interest on the loan. Any rights of payment on the loan are subordinate to the rights of all other creditors of BrookeMil. BrookeMil used a portion of the proceeds of the loan to repay New Valley for certain expenditures on the Kremlin sites previously incurred. The loan is due and payable upon the dissolution of BrookeMil and is collateralized by a pledge of New Valley's shares of BrookeMil. As of June 30, 2000, BrookeMil had invested $33,846 in the Kremlin sites and held $1,430 in cash and receivables from an affiliate, which were restricted for future investment in the Kremlin sites. In connection with the acquisition of a 34.8% interest in one of the Kremlin sites, BrookeMil agreed with the City of Moscow to invest an additional $22,000 by May 2000 in the development of the property. In April 2000, Western Realty Repin arranged short-term financing to fund the investment. Under the terms of the investment, BrookeMil is required to make additional construction expenditures of $22,000 on the site by June 2002. Failure to make the expenditures could result in forfeiture of the 34.8% interest in the site. Based on the distribution terms contained in the Western Realty Repin agreement, the 20% annual rate of return preference to be received by Apollo on funds advanced to Western Realty Repin is treated as interest cost in the consolidated statement of operations to the extent of New Valley's net investment in the Kremlin sites. Because BrookeMil's investment of $35,276 in the Kremlin sites was less than Apollo's preference of $35,688 in Western Realty Repin at June 30, 2000, the Company will recognize future interest costs associated with the participating loan concurrently with future investments by BrookeMil in the Kremlin sites. The development of Ducat Place III and the Kremlin sites will require significant amounts of debt and other financing. New Valley is considering potential financing alternatives on behalf of Western Realty Development and BrookeMil. However, in light of the recent economic turmoil in Russia, there is a risk that financing will not be available on acceptable terms. Failure to obtain sufficient capital for the projects would force Western Realty Development and BrookeMil to curtail or delay the planned development of Ducat Place III and the Kremlin sites. 6. PRO FORMA RESULTS The following table presents unaudited pro forma results of operations as if the Philip Morris brand transaction, New Valley's recapitalization and the sale of five of New Valley's shopping centers and the Thinking Machines assets had occurred immediately prior to January 1, 1999. These pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and do not purport to be indicative of what would have occurred had these transactions been consummated as of such date. -17-
19 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) Six Months Ended June 30, 1999 ------------- Revenues.................................. $ 241,743 ========== Operating income.......................... $ 15,367 ========== Income from continuing operations......... $ 5,734 ========== Net income................................ $ 6,246 ========== Net income per common share: Basic................................. $0.28 ==== Diluted............................... $0.23 ==== 7. INVESTMENT SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE Investment securities classified as available for sale are carried at fair value, with net unrealized gains included as a component of stockholders' equity, net of minority interest. The Company had realized gains on sales of investment securities available for sale of $1,438 and $6,191 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000. The components of investment securities available for sale at June 30, 2000 are as follows: Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gain Loss Value ---- ----------- ---------- ----- Marketable equity securities......... $29,074 $6,000 $2,149 $32,925 Marketable warrants.................. 3,831 3,831 ----------- ----- --------- ------- Investment securities................ $29,074 $9,831 $2,149 $36,756 ====== ===== ===== ====== -18-
20 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) 8. INVENTORIES Inventories consist of: June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 ------------- --------------- Leaf tobacco................................. $16,156 $13,599 Other raw materials.......................... 9,048 6,423 Work-in-process.............................. 3,016 3,542 Finished goods............................... 26,385 20,662 Replacement parts and supplies............... 6,124 4,795 ------- ------- Inventories at current cost.................. 60,729 49,021 LIFO adjustments............................. (5,046) (3,816) ------- ------- $55,683 $45,205 ======= ======= At June 30, 2000, the Company had leaf tobacco purchase commitments of approximately $51,134. 9. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, plant and equipment consist of: June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 --------------- -------------- Land and improvements.................. $ 443 $ 415 Buildings.............................. 53,395 51,773 Machinery and equipment................ 138,590 129,693 Construction-in-progress............... 23,455 14,605 -------- -------- 215,883 196,486 Less accumulated depreciation.......... (49,118) (42,226) -------- -------- $166,765 $154,260 ======== ======== 10. LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS At June 30, 2000, long-term investments were $7,794 and consisted primarily of investments in limited partnerships. The Company believes the fair value of the limited partnerships exceeds their carrying amount by approximately $5,448 based on the indicated market values of the underlying investment portfolio provided by the partnerships. The Company's estimates of the fair value of its long-term investments are subject to judgment and are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in the current market. The Company's investments in limited partnerships are illiquid, and the ultimate realization of these investments is subject to the performance of the underlying partnership and its management by the general partners. -19-
21 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) Also included in long-term investments are various Internet-related businesses which are carried at $3,659 at June 30, 2000. These investments include a 33.4% interest in AtomicPop LLC, an online music company, and smaller interests in other Internet companies. The Company accounts for its investment in AtomicPop and its investment in one other internet company under the equity method. 11. NOTES PAYABLE, LONG-TERM DEBT AND OTHER OBLIGATIONS Notes payable, long-term debt and other obligations consist of: June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 ----------------- ---------------- BGLS: 15.75% Series B Senior Secured Notes due 2001, net of unamortized discount of $2,777 and $5,468 .. $ 79,793 $ 82,602 Deferred interest on 15.75% Series B Senior Secured Notes due 2001 .................................... 22,708 25,435 New Valley: Notes payable ........................................... 19,674 19,813 Liggett: Revolving credit facility ............................... 17,453 Term loan under credit facility ......................... 4,680 5,040 Notes payable ........................................... 6,070 4,232 Brooke (Overseas): Foreign credit facilities ............................... 37,200 29,470 Notes payable ........................................... 20,915 23,090 Other ................................................... 914 214 --------- --------- Total notes payable, long-term debt and other obligations 209,407 189,896 Less: Current maturities ................................ (161,347) (41,547) --------- --------- Amount due after one year ............................... $ 48,060 $ 148,349 ========= ========= 15.75% SERIES B SENIOR SECURED NOTES DUE 2001 - BGLS: During 1999, BGLS repurchased $144,794 principal amount of its Notes, together with accrued interest thereon. The purchases were funded primarily with proceeds from the Philip Morris brand transaction which closed on May 24, 1999. In January 2000, BGLS repurchased an additional $5,500 principal amount of the Notes, together with accrued interest thereon. At June 30, 2000, the principal amount of Notes outstanding was $82,570, and $50,100 principal amount of the Notes were held by the holders who had agreed to defer payment of interest as discussed below. On March 2, 1998, the Company entered into an agreement with AIF II, L.P. and an affiliated investment manager on behalf of a managed account (together the "Apollo Holders"), who held approximately 41.8% of the $232,864 principal amount of the Notes then outstanding. The Apollo Holders (and any transferees) agreed to defer the payment of interest on -20-
22 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) the Notes held by them, commencing with the interest payment that was due July 31, 1997, which they had previously agreed to defer, through the interest payment due July 31, 2000. The deferred interest payments were payable at final maturity of the Notes on January 31, 2001 or upon an event of default under the Indenture for the Notes. Interest on all of the Notes for the six-month period ended January 31, 2000 was paid in cash. In connection with the sale of Western Tobacco Investments on August 4, 2000, BGLS repurchased a portion of the Notes and called the remaining Notes for redemption on September 5, 2000. (Refer to Note 2.) REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY - LIGGETT: Liggett has a $35,000 credit facility, under which $17,453 was outstanding at June 30, 2000. Availability under the credit facility was approximately $10,861 based on eligible collateral at June 30, 2000. The facility is collateralized by all inventories and receivables of Liggett. Borrowings under the facility, whose interest is calculated at a rate equal to 1.0% above First Union's (the indirect parent of Congress Financial Corporation, the lead lender) prime rate. The facility's interest rate was 10.5% at June 30, 2000. The facility requires Liggett's compliance with certain financial and other covenants including a restriction on the payment of cash dividends unless Liggett's borrowing availability under the facility for the 30-day period prior to the payment of the dividend, and after giving effect to the dividend, is at least $5,000. In addition, the facility, as amended, imposes requirements with respect to Liggett's adjusted net worth (not to fall below $8,000 as computed in accordance with the agreement) and working capital (not to fall below a deficit of $17,000 as computed in accordance with the agreement). At June 30, 2000, Liggett was in compliance with all covenants under the credit facility; Liggett's adjusted net worth was $18,112 and net working capital was $28,263, as computed in accordance with the agreement. The facility expires on March 8, 2003 subject to automatic renewal for an additional year unless a notice of termination is given by the lender at least 60 days prior to the anniversary date. In November 1999, 100 Maple Lane LLC, a new company formed by Liggett to purchase an industrial facility in Mebane, North Carolina, borrowed $5,040 from the lender under Liggett's credit facility. The loan is payable in 59 monthly installments of $60 including annual interest at 1% above the prime rate with a final payment of $1,500. Liggett has guaranteed the loan, and a first mortgage on the Mebane property collateralizes the Maple Lane loan and Liggett's credit facility. Liggett plans to complete the relocation of its manufacturing operations to this facility by October 2000. EQUIPMENT LOANS - LIGGETT: In January 1999, Liggett purchased equipment for $5,750 and borrowed $4,500 to fund the purchase. The loan, which is collateralized by the equipment and guaranteed by BGLS and the Company, is payable in 60 monthly installments of $56 including annual interest of 7.67% with a final payment of $2,550. In March 2000, Liggett purchased equipment for $1,000 -21-
23 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) under a capital lease which is payable in 60 monthly installments of $21 with an effective annual interest rate of 10.14%. In April 2000, Liggett purchased equipment for $1,071 under two capital leases which are payable in 60 monthly installments of $22 with an effective interest rate of 10.20%. NOTES PAYABLE - NEW VALLEY: During the third quarter 1999, New Valley refinanced its notes payable on its two remaining shopping centers in Florida and West Virginia for $19,674 in the aggregate. Interest rates range from 7.5% to 9.03% per annum. The four notes are due between 2002 and 2024. FOREIGN CREDIT FACILITIES - LIGGETT-DUCAT: At June 30, 2000, Liggett-Ducat had various credit facilities with Russian banks under which $37,200 was outstanding. The facilities are denominated in dollars, bear interest at rates of 13% to 20% per annum and expire within the next twelve months. The facilities are collateralized by the new factory building, factory equipment and tobacco inventory. NOTES PAYABLE - WESTERN TOBACCO INVESTMENTS: Western Tobacco Investments has entered into several contracts for the purchase of cigarette manufacturing equipment. Approximately 85% of the amount of the contracts were financed with promissory notes generally payable over a period of five years. The outstanding balance on these notes, which are denominated in various European currencies, was $15,892 at June 30, 2000. Other short-term notes for purchases of equipment were approximately $5,023. The terms of these notes ranged from four to twelve months and carried interest rates of up to 16%. A promissory note issued by Brooke (Overseas) for approximately $1,290 covering deposits for equipment purchased for the new factory was paid in full on March 31, 2000. In connection with the sale of Western Tobacco Investments on August 4, 2000, all of the credit facilities, notes payable and other obligations of Western Tobacco Investments and Liggett-Ducat were assumed by the purchaser. 12. 1999 LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN On November 4, 1999, the Company adopted its 1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "1999 Plan") which was approved by the stockholders of the Company at the 2000 annual meeting. The 1999 Plan authorizes the granting of up to 5,000,000 shares of common stock through awards of stock options (which may include incentive stock options and/or nonqualified stock options), stock appreciation rights and shares of restricted Company common stock. All officers, employees and consultants of the Company and its subsidiaries are eligible to receive awards under the 1999 Plan. -22-
24 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) On November 4, 1999, the Company granted non-qualified stock options to six executive officers of the Company or its subsidiaries pursuant to the 1999 Plan. Under the options, the option holders have the right to purchase an aggregate of 2,100,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $15 7/16 per share (the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date of grant). Common stock dividend equivalents will be paid currently with respect to each share underlying the unexercised portion of the options. The options have a ten-year term and become exercisable on the fourth anniversary of the date of grant. However, the options will earlier vest and become immediately exercisable upon (i) the occurrence of a "Change in Control" or (ii) the termination of the option holder's employment with the Company due to death or disability. 13. CONTINGENCIES SMOKING-RELATED LITIGATION: OVERVIEW. Since 1954, Liggett and other United States cigarette manufacturers have been named as defendants in numerous direct and third-party actions predicated on the theory that cigarette manufacturers should be liable for damages alleged to have been caused by cigarette smoking or by exposure to secondary smoke from cigarettes. These cases are reported here as though having been commenced against Liggett (without regard to whether such cases were actually commenced against Brooke Group Holding, the Company's predecessor and a wholly-owned subsidiary of BGLS, or Liggett). There has been a noteworthy increase in the number of cases commenced against Liggett and the other cigarette manufacturers in recent years. The cases generally fall into the following categories: (i) smoking and health cases alleging injury brought on behalf of individual plaintiffs ("Individual Actions"); (ii) smoking and health cases alleging injury and purporting to be brought on behalf of a class of individual plaintiffs ("Class Actions"); (iii) health care cost recovery actions brought by various governmental entities ("Governmental Actions"); and (iv) health care cost recovery actions brought by third-party payors including insurance companies, union health and welfare trust funds, asbestos manufacturers and others ("Third-Party Payor Actions"). As new cases are commenced, defense costs and the risks attendant to the inherent unpredictability of litigation continue to increase. The future financial impact of the risks and expenses of litigation and the effects of the tobacco litigation settlements discussed below is not quantifiable at this time. For the six months ended June 30, 2000, Liggett incurred counsel fees and costs totaling approximately $4,133 compared to $3,001 for the comparable prior year period. INDIVIDUAL ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 330 cases pending against Liggett, and in most cases the other tobacco companies, where individual plaintiffs allege injury resulting from cigarette smoking, addiction to cigarette smoking or exposure to secondary smoke and seek compensatory and, in some cases, punitive damages. Of these, 85 were pending in Florida, 94 in New York, 40 in Massachusetts, 17 in Texas and 32 in California. The balance of the individual cases were pending in 29 states. There are five individual cases pending where Liggett is the only named defendant. -23-
25 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) The plaintiffs' allegations of liability in those cases in which individuals seek recovery for injuries allegedly caused by cigarette smoking are based on various theories of recovery, including negligence, gross negligence, breach of special duty, strict liability, fraud, misrepresentation, design defect, failure to warn, breach of express and implied warranties, conspiracy, aiding and abetting, concert of action, unjust enrichment, common law public nuisance, property damage, invasion of privacy, mental anguish, emotional distress, disability, shock, indemnity and violations of deceptive trade practice laws, the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act ("RICO"), state RICO statutes and antitrust statutes. In many of these cases, in addition to compensatory damages, plaintiffs also seek other forms of relief including, treble/multiple damages, disgorgement of profits and punitive damages. Defenses raised by defendants in these cases include lack of proximate cause, assumption of the risk, comparative fault and/or contributory negligence, lack of design defect, statute of limitations, equitable defenses such as "unclean hands" and lack of benefit, failure to state a claim and federal preemption. In February 1999, a California jury awarded $51,500 in damages to a woman who claimed lung cancer from smoking Marlboro cigarettes made by Philip Morris. The award includes $1,500 in compensatory damages and $50,000 in punitive damages. The court subsequently reduced the punitive damages award to $25,000. In March 1999, an Oregon jury awarded $80,311 in damages to the family of a deceased smoker who smoked Marlboro cigarettes made by Philip Morris. The award includes $79,500 in punitive damages. The court subsequently reduced the punitive damages award to $32,000. Philip Morris has appealed both the verdict and damage awards in both cases. In March 2000, a California jury awarded $1,700 in compensatory damages and $20,000 in punitive damages to a former smoker and her husband. The jury found Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds Tobacco misrepresented the health dangers of cigarettes and that they acted with malice. The defendants have stated that they intend to appeal both the verdict and damage awards. CLASS ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 60 actions pending, for which either a class has been certified or plaintiffs are seeking class certification, where Liggett, among others, was a named defendant. Many of these actions purport to constitute statewide class actions and were filed after May 1996 when the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, in the CASTANO case (discussed below), reversed a Federal district court's certification of a purported nationwide class action on behalf of persons who were allegedly "addicted" to tobacco products. In March 1994, an action entitled CASTANO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY INC., ET AL., United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, was filed against Liggett and others. The class action complaint sought relief for a nationwide class of smokers based on their alleged addiction to nicotine. In February 1995, the District Court granted plaintiffs' motion for class certification. In May 1996, the Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed the class certification order and instructed the District Court to dismiss the class complaint. The -24-
26 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) Fifth Circuit ruled that the District Court erred in its analysis of the class certification issues by failing to consider how variations in state law affect predominance of common questions and the superiority of the class action mechanism. The appeals panel also held that the District Court's predominance inquiry did not include consideration of how a trial on the merits in CASTANO would be conducted. The Fifth Circuit further ruled that the "addiction-as-injury" tort is immature and, accordingly, the District Court could not know whether common issues would be a "significant" portion of the individual trials. According to the Fifth Circuit's decision, any savings in judicial resources that class certification may bring about were speculative and would likely be overwhelmed by the procedural problems certification brings. Finally, the Fifth Circuit held that in order to make the class action manageable, the District Court would be forced to bifurcate issues in violation of the Seventh Amendment. The extent of the impact of the CASTANO decision on smoking-related class action litigation is still uncertain. The CASTANO decision has had a limited effect with respect to courts' decisions regarding narrower smoking-related classes or class actions brought in state rather than federal court. For example, since the Fifth Circuit's ruling, a court in Louisiana (Liggett is not a defendant in this proceeding) has certified "addiction-as-injury" class actions that covered only citizens in those states. Two other class actions, BROIN and ENGLE, were certified in state court in Florida prior to the Fifth Circuit's decision. In May 1994, an action entitled ENGLE, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Circuit Court, Eleventh Judicial Circuit, Dade County, Florida, was filed against Liggett and others. The class consists of all Florida residents and citizens, and their survivors, who have suffered, presently suffer or have died from diseases and medical conditions caused by their addiction to cigarettes that contain nicotine. Phase I of the trial commenced in July 1998 and in July 1999, the jury returned the Phase I verdict. The Phase I verdict concerned certain issues determined by the trial court to be "common" to the causes of action of the plaintiff class. Among other things, the jury found that: smoking cigarettes causes 20 diseases or medical conditions, cigarettes are addictive or dependence producing, defective and unreasonably dangerous, defendants made materially false statements with the intention of misleading smokers, defendants concealed or omitted material information concerning the health effects and/or the addictive nature of smoking cigarettes and agreed to misrepresent and conceal the health effects and/or the addictive nature of smoking cigarettes, and defendants were negligent and engaged in extreme and outrageous conduct or acted with reckless disregard with the intent to inflict emotional distress. The jury also found that defendants' conduct "rose to a level that would permit a potential award or entitlement to punitive damages." The court decided that Phase II of the trial, which commenced November 1999, would be a causation and damages trial for three of the class representatives and a punitive damages trial on a class-wide basis, before the same jury that returned the verdict in Phase I. On April 7, 2000, the jury awarded compensatory damages of $12,704 to the three plaintiffs, to be reduced in proportion to the respective plaintiff's fault. The jury also decided that the claim of one of the plaintiffs, who was awarded compensatory damages of $5,831, was not timely filed. On July 14, 2000, the jury awarded approximately $145,000,000 in the punitive -25-
27 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) damages portion of Phase II against all defendants including $790,000 against Liggett. Liggett intends to pursue all available post-trial and appellate remedies. If this verdict is not eventually reversed on appeal, or substantially reduced by the court, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company. Phase III of the trial will be conducted before separate juries to address absent class members' claims, including issues of specific causation and other individual issues regarding entitlement to compensatory damages. On July 14, 2000, the Southeastern Iron Workers Union filed a motion to intervene in the ENGLE case, seeking to protect its members' subrogation rights under the federal Employment Retirement Income and Security Act. Based on the federal question raised in that motion, defendants removed the case to federal court in Miami on July 24, 2000. The removal stays all state court proceedings unless and until the federal court decides to return the case to the state court. Now that the jury has awarded punitive damages, it is unclear how the state court's order in ENGLE will be implemented. The order provides that the punitive damage amount should be standard as to each class member and acknowledges that the actual size of the class will not be known until the last case has withstood appeal. The order does not address whether defendants will be required to pay the punitive damage award prior to a determination of claims of all class members, a process that could take years to conclude. Recently, legislation has been enacted in Florida that limits the size of any bond required, pending appeal, to stay execution of a punitive damages verdict to the lesser of the punitive award plus twice the statutory rate of interest, $100,000 or 10% of the net worth of the defendant, but the limitation on the bond does not affect the amount of the underlying verdict. Although the legislation is intended to apply to the ENGLE case, management cannot predict the outcome of any possible challenges to the application or constitutionality of this legislation. Similar legislation has been enacted in Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina and Virginia. Class certification motions are pending in a number of putative class actions. Classes remain certified against Liggett in Florida (ENGLE). A number of class certification denials are on appeal. Approximately 38 purported state and federal class action complaints have been filed against the cigarette manufacturers for alleged antitrust violations. The actions allege that the cigarette manufacturers have engaged in a nationwide and international conspiracy to fix the price of cigarettes in violation of state and federal antitrust laws. Plaintiffs allege that defendants' price-fixing conspiracy raised the price of cigarettes above a competitive level. Plaintiffs in the 31 state actions purport to represent classes of indirect purchasers of cigarettes in each of the states; plaintiffs in the seven federal actions purport to represent a nationwide class of wholesalers who purchased cigarettes directly from the defendants. The federal actions have been consolidated and, on July 28, 2000, plaintiffs in the federal consolidated action filed a single consolidated complaint that did not name Liggett or Brooke Group Holding as defendants. In February 2000, Liggett and plaintiffs sent correspondence to the court, in SIMON V. PHILIP MORRIS ET AL., a putative nationwide smokers class action, indicating that Liggett and the plaintiffs are engaged in preliminary settlement discussions. There are no assurances that any settlement will be reached or that the class will ultimately be certified. -26-
28 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) GOVERNMENTAL ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 25 Governmental Actions pending against Liggett. In these proceedings, both foreign and domestic governmental entities seek reimbursement for Medicaid and other health care expenditures. The claims asserted in these health care cost recovery actions vary. In most of these cases, plaintiffs assert the equitable claim that the tobacco industry was "unjustly enriched" by plaintiffs' payment of health care costs allegedly attributable to smoking and seek reimbursement of those costs. Other claims made by some but not all plaintiffs include the equitable claim of indemnity, common law claims of negligence, strict liability, breach of express and implied warranty, breach of special duty, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, conspiracy, public nuisance, claims under state and federal statutes governing consumer fraud, antitrust, deceptive trade practices and false advertising, and claims under RICO. THIRD-PARTY PAYOR ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 70 Third-Party Payor Actions pending against Liggett. The claims in these cases are similar to those in the Governmental Actions but have been commenced by insurance companies, union health and welfare trust funds, asbestos manufacturers and others. Five United States Circuit Courts of Appeal have ruled that Third-Party Payors did not have standing to bring lawsuits against the tobacco companies. In January 2000, the United States Supreme Court denied petitions for certiorari filed by several of the union health and welfare trust funds. However, a number of Third-Party Payor Actions, including an action brought by 24 Blue Cross/Blue Shield Plans, remain pending. In other Third-Party Payor Actions claimants have set forth several additional theories of relief sought: funding of corrective public education campaigns relating to issues of smoking and health; funding for clinical smoking cessation programs; disgorgement of profits from sales of cigarettes; restitution; treble damages; and attorneys' fees. Nevertheless, no specific amounts are provided. It is understood that requested damages against the tobacco company defendants in these cases might be in the billions of dollars. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ACTION. In September 1999, the United States government commenced litigation against Liggett and the other tobacco companies in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. The action seeks to recover an unspecified amount of health care costs paid for and furnished, and to be paid for and furnished, by the Federal Government for lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema and other smoking-related illnesses allegedly caused by the fraudulent and tortious conduct of defendants, and to restrain defendants and co-conspirators from engaging in fraud and other unlawful conduct in the future, and to compel defendants to disgorge the proceeds of their unlawful conduct. The complaint alleges that such costs total more than $20,000,000 annually. The action asserts claims under three federal statutes, the Medical Care Recovery Act, the Medicare Secondary Payer provisions of the Social Security Act and RICO. In December 1999, Liggett filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit on numerous grounds, including that the statutes invoked by the government do not provide the basis for the relief sought. The trial court has heard oral argument on the motion but has not issued a ruling to date. -27-
29 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) SETTLEMENTS. In March 1996, Brooke Group Holding and Liggett entered into an agreement, subject to court approval, to settle the CASTANO class action tobacco litigation. The CASTANO class was subsequently decertified by the court. In March 1996, March 1997 and March 1998, Brooke Group Holding and Liggett entered into settlements of smoking-related litigation with the Attorneys General of 45 states and territories. The settlements released both Brooke Group Holding and Liggett from all smoking-related claims, including claims for health care cost reimbursement and claims concerning sales of cigarettes to minors. In November 1998, Philip Morris, Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and Lorillard Tobacco Company (collectively, the "Original Participating Manufacturers" or "OPMs") and Liggett (together with the OPMs and any other tobacco product manufacturer that becomes a signatory, the "Participating Manufacturers") entered into the Master Settlement Agreement (the "MSA") with 46 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the United States Virgin Islands, American Samoa and the Northern Marianas (collectively, the "Settling States") to settle the asserted and unasserted health care cost recovery and certain other claims of those Settling States. The MSA has been initially approved by trial courts in all Settling States. The MSA is subject to final judicial approval in each of the Settling States, which approval has been obtained in 50 jurisdictions. If final judicial approval is not obtained in a jurisdiction by December 31, 2001, then, unless the settling defendants and the relevant jurisdiction agree otherwise, the MSA will be terminated with respect to such jurisdiction. The MSA restricts tobacco product advertising and marketing within the Settling States and otherwise restricts the activities of Participating Manufacturers. Among other things, the MSA prohibits the targeting of youth in the advertising, promotion or marketing of tobacco products; bans the use of cartoon characters in all tobacco advertising and promotion; limits each Participating Manufacturer to one tobacco brand name sponsorship during any 12-month period; bans all outdoor advertising, with the exception of signs 14 square feet or less in dimension at retail establishments that sell tobacco products; prohibits payments for tobacco product placement in various media; bans gift offers based on the purchase of tobacco products without sufficient proof that the intended recipient is an adult; prohibits Participating Manufacturers from licensing third parties to advertise tobacco brand names in any manner prohibited under the MSA; prohibits Participating Manufacturers from using as a tobacco product brand name any nationally recognized non-tobacco brand or trade name or the names of sports teams, entertainment groups or individual celebrities; and prohibits Participating Manufacturers from selling packs containing fewer than twenty cigarettes. The MSA also requires Participating Manufacturers to affirm corporate principles to comply with the MSA and to reduce underage usage of tobacco products and imposes requirements applicable to lobbying activities conducted on behalf of Participating Manufacturers. Liggett has no payment obligations under the MSA unless its market share exceeds a base share of 125% of its 1997 market share, or approximately 1.65% of total cigarettes sold in the United States. Liggett believes, -28-
30 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) based on published industry sources, that its domestic shipments accounted for 1.2% of the total cigarettes shipped in the United States during 1999. In the year following any year in which Liggett's market share does exceed the base share, Liggett will pay on each excess unit an amount equal (on a per-unit basis) to that paid during such following year by the OPMs under the annual and strategic contribution payment provisions of the MSA, subject to applicable adjustments, offsets and reductions. Under the annual and strategic contribution payment provisions of the MSA, the OPMs (and Liggett to the extent its market share exceeds the base share) will pay the following annual amounts (subject to certain adjustments): YEAR AMOUNT ---- ------ 2000 $4,500,000 2001 $5,000,000 2002 - 2003 $6,500,000 2004 - 2007 $8,000,000 2008 - 2017 $8,139,000 2018 and each $9,000,000 year thereafter These annual payments will be allocated based on relative unit volume of domestic cigarette shipments. The payment obligations under the MSA are the several, and not joint, obligations of each Participating Manufacturer and are not the responsibility of any parent or affiliate of a Participating Manufacturer. The MSA replaces Liggett's prior settlements with all states and territories except for Florida, Mississippi, Texas and Minnesota. In the event the MSA does not receive final judicial approval in any state or territory, Liggett's prior settlement with that state or territory, if any, will be revived. The states of Florida, Mississippi, Texas and Minnesota, prior to the effective date of the MSA, negotiated and executed settlement agreements with each of the other major tobacco companies separate from those settlements reached previously with Liggett. Because these states' settlement agreements with Liggett provided for "most favored nation" protection for both Brooke Group Holding and Liggett, the payments due these states by Liggett (with certain possible exceptions) have been eliminated. With respect to all non-economic obligations under the previous settlements, both Brooke Group Holding and Liggett are entitled to the most favorable provisions as between the MSA and each state's respective settlement with the other major tobacco companies. Therefore, Liggett's non-economic obligations to all states and territories are now defined by the MSA. In April 1999, a putative class action was filed on behalf of all firms that directly buy cigarettes in the United States from defendant tobacco manufacturers. The complaint alleges violation of antitrust law, based in part on the MSA. Plaintiffs seek treble damages computed as three times the difference between current prices and the price plaintiffs would have -29-
31 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) paid for cigarettes in the absence of an alleged conspiracy to restrain and monopolize trade in the domestic cigarette market, together with attorneys' fees. Plaintiffs also seek injunctive relief against certain aspects of the MSA. In March 1997, Liggett, Brooke Group Holding and a nationwide class of individuals that allege smoking-related claims filed a mandatory class settlement agreement in an action entitled FLETCHER, ET AL. V. BROOKE GROUP LTD., ET AL., Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, where the court granted preliminary approval and preliminary certification of the class. In July 1998, Liggett, Brooke Group Holding and plaintiffs filed an amended class action settlement agreement in FLETCHER which agreement was preliminarily approved by the court in December 1998. In July 1999, the court denied approval of the FLETCHER class action settlement. The parties' motion for reconsideration is still pending. The Company accrued $16,902 for the present value of the fixed payments under the March 1998 Attorneys General settlements. As a result of the Company's treatment under the MSA, $14,928 of net charges accrued for the prior settlements were reversed in 1998 and $1,051 were reversed in 1999. Copies of the various settlement agreements are filed as exhibits to the Company's Form 10-K and the discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference thereto. TRIALS. In addition to the ENGLE case, cases currently scheduled for trial in 2000 include Third-Party Payor Actions brought by several Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans and an asbestos company trust in federal court in New York (October). One action with five individuals, GLUSSI, is scheduled to be tried in state court in New York in September and an action with two individuals is scheduled for trial in West Virginia in October. A motion to certify the West Virginia case as a class action remains pending. Trial dates, however, are subject to change. Management is not able to predict the outcome of the litigation pending against Brooke Group Holding or Liggett. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties. An unfavorable verdict was returned in the first phase of the ENGLE smoking and health class action trial pending in Florida. Recently, the jury awarded $790,000 in punitive damages against Liggett in the second phase of the trial. Liggett intends to pursue all available post-trial and appellate remedies. If this verdict is not eventually reversed on appeal, or substantially reduced by the court, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company. It is possible that additional cases could be decided unfavorably and that there could be further adverse developments in the ENGLE case. Management cannot predict the cash requirements related to any future settlements and judgments, including cash required to bond any appeals, and there is a risk that those requirements will not be able to be met. An unfavorable outcome of a pending smoking and health case could encourage the commencement of additional similar litigation. Management is unable to make a meaningful estimate with respect to the amount or range of loss that could result from an unfavorable outcome of the cases pending against Brooke Group Holding or Liggett or the costs of defending such cases. The complaints filed in these cases rarely detail alleged damages. Typically, the claims set forth in an individual's complaint against the tobacco industry pray for money damages in an amount to be determined by a jury, plus punitive damages and costs. These damage claims are typically stated as being for the minimum necessary to invoke the jurisdiction of the court. -30-
32 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) It is possible that the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected by an unfavorable outcome in any such smoking-related litigation. Liggett's management is unaware of any material environmental conditions affecting its existing facilities. Liggett's management believes that current operations are conducted in material compliance with all environmental laws and regulations and other laws and regulations governing cigarette manufacturers. Compliance with federal, state and local provisions regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, has not had a material effect on the capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position of Liggett. There are several other proceedings, lawsuits and claims pending against the Company and certain of its consolidated subsidiaries unrelated to smoking or tobacco product liability. Management is of the opinion that the liabilities, if any, ultimately resulting from such other proceedings, lawsuits and claims should not materially affect the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows. LEGISLATION AND REGULATION: In 1993, the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") released a report on the respiratory effect of secondary smoke which concludes that secondary smoke is a known human lung carcinogen in adults and in children, causes increased respiratory tract disease and middle ear disorders and increases the severity and frequency of asthma. In June 1993, the two largest of the major domestic cigarette manufacturers, together with other segments of the tobacco and distribution industries, commenced a lawsuit against the EPA seeking a determination that the EPA did not have the statutory authority to regulate secondary smoke, and that given the current body of scientific evidence and the EPA's failure to follow its own guidelines in making the determination, the EPA's classification of secondary smoke was arbitrary and capricious. Whatever the outcome of this litigation, issuance of the report may encourage efforts to limit smoking in public areas. In July 1998, a federal district court vacated those sections of the report relating to lung cancer, finding that the EPA may have reached different conclusions had it complied with relevant statutory requirements. The federal government has appealed the court's ruling. In February 1996, the United States Trade representative issued an "advance notice of rule making" concerning how tobaccos imported under a previously established tobacco rate quota ("TRQ") should be allocated. Currently, tobacco imported under the TRQ is allocated on a "first-come, first-served" basis, meaning that entry is allowed on an open basis to those first requesting entry in the quota year. Others in the cigarette industry have suggested an "end-user licensing" system under which the right to import tobacco under the quota would be initially assigned based on domestic market share. Such an approach, if adopted, could have a material adverse effect on the Company and Liggett. -31-
33 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) In August 1996, the Food and Drug Administration (the "FDA") filed in the Federal Register a Final Rule classifying tobacco as a "drug" or "medical device", asserting jurisdiction over the manufacture and marketing of tobacco products and imposing restrictions on the sale, advertising and promotion of tobacco products. Litigation was commenced challenging the legal authority of the FDA to assert such jurisdiction, as well as challenging the constitutionality of the rules. On March 21, 2000, the United States Supreme Court ruled that the FDA does not have the power to regulate tobacco. Liggett supported the FDA Rule and began to phase in compliance with certain of the proposed FDA regulations. In August 1996, Massachusetts enacted legislation requiring tobacco companies to publish information regarding the ingredients in cigarettes and other tobacco products sold in that state. In December 1997, the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts enjoined this legislation from going into effect on the grounds that it is preempted by federal law. In November 1999, the First Circuit affirmed this ruling. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in December 1997, Liggett began complying with this legislation by providing ingredient information to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Several other states have enacted, or are considering, legislation similar to that enacted in Massachusetts. As part of the 1997 budget agreement approved by Congress, federal excise taxes on a pack of cigarettes, which are currently 34 cents, were increased at the beginning of 2000 and will rise 5 cents more in the year 2002. In general, excise taxes and other taxes on cigarettes have been increasing. These taxes vary considerably and, when combined with sales taxes and the current federal excise tax, may be as high as $1.66 per pack in a given locality in the United States. Congress has been considering significant increases in the federal excise tax or other payments from tobacco manufacturers, and the Clinton Administration's fiscal year 2001 budget proposal included an additional increase of $.25 per pack in the federal excise tax, as well as a contingent special assessment related to youth smoking rates. Increases in other cigarette-related taxes have been proposed at the state and local level. In June 2000, the New York state legislature passed legislation charging the state's Office of Fire Prevention and Control with developing standards for "fire safe" or self-extinguishing cigarettes. The OFPC has until July 1, 2002 to issue final regulations. Six months from the issuance of the standards, but no later than January 1, 2003, all cigarettes offered for sale in New York state will be required to be manufactured to those standards. In addition to the foregoing, there have been a number of other restrictive regulatory actions, adverse legislative and political decisions and other unfavorable developments concerning cigarette smoking and the tobacco industry, the effects of which, at this time, management is not able to evaluate. These developments may negatively affect the perception of potential triers of fact with respect to the tobacco industry, possibly to the detriment of certain pending litigation, and may prompt the commencement of additional similar litigation. -32-
34 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) OTHER MATTERS: In March 1997, a stockholder derivative suit was filed in Delaware Chancery Court against New Valley, as a nominal defendant, its directors and Brooke Group Holding by a stockholder of New Valley. The suit alleges that New Valley's purchase of the BrookeMil shares from Brooke (Overseas) in January 1997 constituted a self-dealing transaction which involved the payment of excessive consideration by New Valley. The plaintiff seeks (i) a declaration that New Valley's directors breached their fiduciary duties, Brooke Group Holding aided and abetted such breaches and such parties are therefore liable to New Valley, and (ii) unspecified damages to be awarded to New Valley. In December 1999, another stockholder of New Valley commenced an action in Delaware Chancery Court substantially similar to the March 1997 action. This stockholder alleges, among other things, that the consideration paid by New Valley for the BrookeMil shares was excessive, unfair and wasteful, that the special committee of New Valley's board lacked independence, and that the appraisal by the independent appraisal firm and the fairness opinion by the independent investment bank were flawed. Brooke Group Holding and New Valley believe that the allegations in both cases are without merit. By order of the court, both actions were consolidated. Brooke Group Holding and New Valley recently filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated action. Although there can be no assurances, Brooke Group Holding and New Valley believe, after consultation with counsel, that the ultimate resolution of this matter will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's or New Valley's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. In July 1999, a purported class action was commenced on behalf of New Valley's former Class B preferred shareholders against New Valley, Brooke Group Holding and certain directors and officers of New Valley in Delaware Chancery Court. The complaint alleges that the recapitalization, approved by a majority of each class of New Valley's stockholders in May 1999, was fundamentally unfair to the Class B preferred shareholders, the proxy statement relating to the recapitalization was materially deficient and the defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Class B preferred shareholders in approving the transaction. The plaintiffs seek class certification of the action and an award of unspecified compensatory damages as well as all costs and fees. Brooke Group Holding and New Valley believe that the allegations are without merit. Brooke Group Holding and New Valley recently filed a motion to dismiss the action. Although there can be no assurances, Brooke Group Holding and New Valley believe, after consultation with counsel, that the ultimate resolution of this matter will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's or New Valley's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. On October 18, 1999, an action was commenced against a subsidiary of Brooke Group Holding in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of New York. The complaint alleges that under the terms of a 1993 Put Agreement, Brooke Group Holding's subsidiary was obligated to purchase certain shares of plaintiff's stock for $7,500. In addition, the complaint seeks prejudgment interest in the amount of approximately $4,000. Brooke Group Holding believes, and has been so advised by counsel, that it has a number of valid defenses to this matter. Both parties recently moved for summary judgment. -33-
35 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) As of June 30, 2000, New Valley had $11,951 of prepetition bankruptcy-related claims and restructuring accruals. The remaining prepetition claims may be subject to future adjustments depending on pending discussions with the various parties and the decisions of the bankruptcy court. New Valley is a defendant in various lawsuits and may be subject to unasserted claims primarily concerning its activities as a securities broker-dealer and its participation in public underwritings. These lawsuits involve claims for substantial or indeterminate amounts and are in varying stages of legal proceedings. In the opinion of management, after consultation with counsel, the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's or New Valley's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. -34-
36 VECTOR GROUP LTD. BGLS INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (Continued) (UNAUDITED) 14. SEGMENT INFORMATION Financial information for the Company's continuing operations before taxes and minority interest for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000 and 1999 follows: United States Russian Broker- Real Corporate Tobacco Tobacco Dealer Estate and Other Total ------- ------- ------- --------- --------- ----- THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2000: Revenues ........................ $138,560 $ 49,084 $ 18,300 $ 820 $ 0 $206,764 Operating income ................ 15,636 1,287 163 (2,113) (4,908) 10,065 Depreciation and amortization ... 1,008 2,619 217 383 8 4,235 THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999: Revenues ........................ $ 93,926 $ 15,339 $ 5,876 $ 754 $ 0 $115,895 Operating income (loss) ......... 16,146 (807) (107) (371) (1,263) 13,598 Depreciation and amortization ... 965 429 80 168 103 1,745 SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2000: Revenues ........................ $245,462 $ 89,330 $ 48,596 $ 1,591 $ 0 $384,979 Operating income (loss) ......... 24,690 1,643 5,046 (4,096) (7,360) 19,923 Identifiable assets ............. 119,699 170,060 44,573 58,493 138,105 530,930 Depreciation and amortization ... 2,006 4,641 437 532 17 7,633 Capital expenditures ............ 8,790 10,505 289 1,845 21,429 SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999: Revenues ........................ $179,973 $ 37,689 $ 5,876 $ 754 $ 0 $224,292 Operating income (loss) ......... 36,215 568 (107) (371) (574) 35,731 Identifiable assets ............. 102,650 133,130 44,390 100,360 170,002 550,532 Depreciation and amortization ... 1,820 1,182 80 168 151 3,401 Capital expenditures ............ 6,972 30,565 338 327 38,202 - ----------- * Broker-Dealer, Real Estate and New Valley's portion of Corporate and Other are included for the month ended June 30, 1999 when New Valley became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company. -35-
37 ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) INTRODUCTION The following discussion provides an assessment of the consolidated results of operations, capital resources and liquidity of Vector Group Ltd. (the "Company") and its subsidiaries and should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto of the Company and BGLS Inc. ("BGLS") included elsewhere in this document. BGLS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of BGLS, Liggett Group Inc. ("Liggett"), Brooke (Overseas) Ltd. ("Brooke (Overseas)"), Liggett-Ducat Ltd. ("Liggett-Ducat") and other less significant subsidiaries. As of June 1, 1999, New Valley Corporation ("New Valley") became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company as a result of New Valley's recapitalization in which the Company's interest in New Valley's common shares increased to 55.1%. New Valley's stock repurchase program, which began in late 1999, increased the Company's interest to 55.7% at June 30, 2000. The Company is a holding company for a number of businesses which it holds through its wholly-owned subsidiary BGLS. Accordingly, a separate Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for BGLS is not presented herein as it would not differ materially from the discussion of the Company's consolidated results of operations, capital resources and liquidity. The Company is principally engaged in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes in the United States through its subsidiary Liggett and in the investment banking and brokerage business in the United States, real estate operations in Russia and investment in Internet-related businesses through its majority-owned subsidiary New Valley. Prior to the sale of Western Tobacco Investments on August 4, 2000, the Company was engaged in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes in Russia through Liggett-Ducat. At the Company's annual meeting held on May 24, 2000, stockholders approved a corporate name change to Vector Group Ltd. The New York Stock Exchange symbol for the Company's common stock was changed from "BGL" to "VGR". RECENT DEVELOPMENTS SALE OF WESTERN TOBACCO INVESTMENTS. On June 14, 2000, Brooke (Overseas) entered into a definitive agreement to sell all of the membership interests of Western Tobacco Investments to a subsidiary of Gallaher Group Plc for $400,000 in cash and the assumption of debt and capital commitments. Brooke (Overseas) completed the sale on August 4, 2000. Brooke (Overseas) held its 99.9% equity interest in Liggett-Ducat, one of Russia's leading cigarette producers, through Western Tobacco Investments. Of the cash proceeds from the transaction after estimated closing expenses, Brooke (Overseas) received approximately $200,000 and New Valley received $57,208, in accordance with the terms of the participating loan. These amounts are subject to adjustment based on final closing expenses. The Company anticipates recording a gain of approximately $159,000(including the Company's share of New Valley's gain), net of income taxes, in connection with the transaction in the third quarter of 2000. On August 4, 2000, with the proceeds of the sale, BGLS repurchased a portion of its Notes and called the remaining Notes for redemption on September 5, 2000. BGLS will use approximately $105,000 of the proceeds of the sale to retire the Notes. -36-
38 RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN LEGISLATION, REGULATION AND LITIGATION The cigarette industry continues to be challenged on numerous fronts. New cases continue to be commenced against Liggett and other cigarette manufacturers. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 330 individual suits, 60 purported class actions and 95 governmental and other third-party payor health care reimbursement actions pending in the United States in which Liggett was a named defendant. Additionally, approximately 38 purported class action complaints have been filed against the cigarette manufacturers for alleged antitrust violations. As new cases are commenced, the costs associated with defending such cases and the risks attendant to the inherent unpredictability of litigation continue to increase. An unfavorable verdict was returned in the first phase of the ENGLE smoking and health class action trial pending in Florida. Recently, the jury awarded $790,000 in punitive damages against Liggett in the second phase of the trial. Liggett intends to pursue all available post-trial and appellate remedies. If this verdict is not eventually reversed on appeal, or substantially reduced by the court, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company. It is possible that additional cases could be decided unfavorably and that there could be further adverse developments in the ENGLE case. Management cannot predict the cash requirements related to any future settlements and judgments, including cash required to bond any appeals, and there is a risk that those requirements will not be able to be met. In recent years, there have been a number of restrictive regulatory actions from various Federal administrative bodies, including the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration. There have also been adverse political decisions and other unfavorable developments concerning cigarette smoking and the tobacco industry, including the commencement and certification of class actions and the commencement of third-party payor actions. These developments generally receive widespread media attention. The Company is not able to evaluate the effect of these developing matters on pending litigation or the possible commencement of additional litigation, but the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected by an unfavorable outcome in any of such smoking-related litigation. See Part II, Item 1, "Legal Proceedings" and Note 13 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of legislation, regulation and litigation. In March 1996, March 1997 and March 1998, the Company and Liggett entered into settlements of tobacco-related litigation with the Attorneys General of 45 states and territories. The settlements released the Company and Liggett from all tobacco claims including claims for health care cost reimbursement and claims concerning sales of cigarettes to minors. See the discussions of the tobacco litigation settlements appearing in Note 13 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements. -37-
39 RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, ------------------- ------------------- 2000 1999 2000 1999 ---- ---- ---- ---- REVENUES: Liggett...................... $138,560 $ 93,926 $245,462 $179,973 Liggett-Ducat................ 49,084 15,339 89,330 37,689 -------- -------- -------- -------- Total tobacco............. 187,644 109,265 334,792 217,662 *Broker-dealer.................. 18,300 5,876 48,596 5,876 *Real estate.................... 820 754 1,591 754 ---------- ---------- --------- ---------- Total revenues............ 206,764 115,895 384,979 224,292 OPERATING INCOME: Liggett...................... 15,636 16,146 24,690 36,215 Liggett-Ducat................ 1,287 (807) 1,643 568 --------- ---------- --------- ---------- Total tobacco............. 16,923 15,339 26,333 36,783 *Broker-dealer.................. 163 (107) 5,046 (107) *Real estate.................... (2,113) (371) (4,096) (371) Corporate and other........... (4,908) (1,263) (7,360) (574) --------- --------- --------- ---------- Total operating income.... $ 10,065 $ 13,598 $ 19,923 $ 35,731 ======== ======== ======== ======== - -------- * New Valley became a consolidated subsidiary on June 1, 1999. Accordingly, results of operations for New Valley are included for the one month ended June 30, 1999. THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2000 COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 REVENUES. Total revenues were $206,764 for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $115,895 for the three months ended June 30, 1999. This 78.4% increase in revenues was due to a $44,634 or 47.5% increase in revenues at Liggett, an increase of $33,745 or 220.0% in revenues at Liggett-Ducat and the addition of three months' revenues from New Valley of $19,120 compared to one month's revenue of $6,630 in the prior year. TOBACCO REVENUES. In August 1999, the major cigarette manufacturers, including Liggett, announced a list price increase of $1.50 per carton. In January 2000, an additional list price increase of $1.30 per carton was announced. Effective July 31, 2000, a further increase of $0.60 per carton was announced. Total tobacco revenues were $187,644 for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $109,265 for the three months ended June 30, 1999. This 71.7% increase in revenues was due to an increase in tobacco revenues at Liggett and at Liggett-Ducat discussed above. Revenues at Liggett increased for both the premium and discount segments due to price increases of $24,140 and a 37.5% increase in unit sales volume (approximately 436.0 million units), accounting for $35,236 in volume variance, partially offset by an unfavorable sales mix of $14,742. Premium sales at Liggett for the second quarter of 2000 amounted to $14,839 and represented 10.7% of Liggett's total sales, compared to $23,297 and 24.8% of total sales in the second quarter of 1999. In the premium segment, revenues declined by 36.3% ($8,458) for the three months ended June 30, 2000, compared to the prior year period, due to the contribution of three of Liggett's premium brands, LARK, CHESTERFIELD and L & M, in the Philip Morris brand transaction which closed on May 24, 1999. The contribution of the brands accounted for an unfavorable volume variance in the second quarter of 2000 of -38-
40 $10,114, reflecting a 43.4% decline in unit sales volume (approximately 105.1 million units). This was partially offset by price increases of $1,656. As adjusted for the contribution of the three brands in the Philip Morris brand transaction, Liggett's premium segment declined from the prior year period by 6.4% (approximately 9.4 million units). Discount sales at Liggett (comprising the brand categories of branded discount, private label, control label, generic, international and contract manufacturing) for the three months ended June 30, 2000 amounted to $123,721 and represented 89.3% of Liggett's total sales, compared to $70,629 and 75.2% of total sales for the three months ended June 30, 1999. In the discount segment, revenues grew by 75.2% ($53,092) for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to the prior year period, due to price increases of $22,484, along with a 58.8% increase in unit sales volume (approximately 541.1 million units), accounting for $41,536 in volume variance, partially offset by an unfavorable product mix among the discount brand categories of $10,928. For the three months ended June 30, 2000, fixed manufacturing costs at Liggett on a basis comparable to 1999 were $141 higher than in the same period in 1999, although costs per thousand units of $1.63 per thousand declined 21.6% ($0.45) from $2.08 in the prior period, due to the 35.3% increase in production volume. Net tobacco revenues at Liggett-Ducat for the three months ended June 30, 2000 increased 220% over the same period in 1999 due to a 215% increase in unit sales volume of $33,034 (approximately 8,302 million units) and a favorable product mix of $5,469 (36%) offset by an approximate 30% decrease in prices of $4,758. TOBACCO GROSS PROFIT. Tobacco consolidated gross profit was $101,927 for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $69,167 for the three months ended June 30, 1999, an increase of $32,760 or 47.4% when compared to the same period last year, reflecting an increase in gross profit at Liggett of $28,308 and at Liggett-Ducat of $4,452 for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to the same period in the prior year. For the three months ended June 30, 2000, Liggett's premium brands contributed 10.5% and discount brands contributed 82.5% to the Company's gross tobacco profit. Liggett-Ducat contributed 7.0%. Over the same period in 1999, Liggett's premium brands contributed 24.8%, Liggett's discount brands contributed 71.5% and Liggett-Ducat contributed 3.7% to the Company's gross profit. Gross profit at Liggett of $94,770 for the three months ended June 30, 2000 increased $28,308 from gross profit of $66,462 for the second quarter of 1999, due primarily to the price increases discussed above. As a percent of revenues (excluding federal excise taxes), gross profit at Liggett increased to 84.6% for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to 82.7% for the same period in 1999, with gross profit for the premium segment at 85.8% in the 2000 period compared to 84.0% in the 1999 period. Gross profit for the discount segment was 84.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2000 and 82.3% for the three months ended June 30, 1999. This increase is primarily the result of the August 1999 and January 2000 list price increases. As a percent of revenues (excluding Russian excise taxes), gross profit at Liggett-Ducat decreased 1.3% to 16.6% for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to 17.9% in the same period in 1999, primarily due to lower prices offset in part by higher sales volumes. BROKER-DEALER AND REAL ESTATE REVENUES. For the three months ended June 30, 2000, Ladenburg's revenues were $18,300 and real estate revenues were $820 compared to revenues of $5,826 at Ladenburg and $754 in real estate for one month in the prior year period. -39-
41 EXPENSES. Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses were $111,067 for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $62,210 for the same period last year, an increase of $48,857 primarily due to increased expenses at Liggett of $30,330, increased expenses at Liggett-Ducat of $2,402 and an increase of $17,262 caused by consolidation of New Valley for the full three-month period compared to one month in the period ended June 30, 1999. The increase was partially offset by lower corporate expense due to a reduction in the Company's obligation under non-current employee benefits. The increase in operating expenses at Liggett was due primarily to higher spending for promotional and marketing programs, factory relocation costs and increased administrative expenses. At Liggett-Ducat, depreciation expense increased over the prior year period due to the opening of the new factory in June 1999, and marketing and advertising expense increased due primarily to the introduction of western-style cigarettes. OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES). For the three months ended June 30, 2000, other expense was $8,362 compared to income of $285,243 for the period ended June 30, 1999 in which Liggett recognized a gain of $294,287 in connection with the closing of the Philip Morris brand transaction. Interest expense was $11,814 for the three months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $12,073 for the same period last year. This decrease of $259 was due to a savings at corporate because of the purchase by BGLS of $150,294 principal amount of its Notes beginning in May 1999. This was offset by the addition of $1,984 in interest expense of New Valley and higher interest expense at Western Tobacco Investments primarily due to non-cash interest expense under the participating loan agreement. New Valley contributed gains on sale of investment securities of $1,438 and interest and dividend income of $1,620 offset by a loss in equity of its affiliate of $1,362. For the three months ended June 30, 1999, equity in earnings of affiliate was a loss of $1,569 and related to New Valley's net loss applicable to common shares. This loss in the 1999 period was offset by the gain on the Philip Morris brand transaction. INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS. The income from continuing operations for the three months ended June 30, 2000 was $2,946 compared to income of $215,814 for the three months ended June 30, 1999. Income tax expense for the second quarter of 2000 was $640 compared to $81,645 for the for the second quarter of 1999. SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2000 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 REVENUES. Total revenues were $384,979 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $224,292 for the six months ended June 30, 1999. This 71.6% increase in revenues was due to a $65,489 or 36.4% increase in revenues at Liggett, a $51,641 increase at Liggett-Ducat and an increase of $43,557 in revenues from New Valley. TOBACCO REVENUES. Tobacco revenues at Liggett increased for both the premium and discount segments due to price increases of $42,594 discussed above and a 26.2% ($47,123) gain in unit sales volume (approximately 585.1 million units) offset by $24,228 in unfavorable sales mix. The increase in tobacco revenues of $51,641 or 137% at Liggett-Ducat was attributable to increased volume (151%) at the new factory of $57,081 and a favorable product mix of $7,571 (20%) offset by a 34% price decline ($13,011) compared to the prior year period. Liggett-Ducat's sales volume during the 1999 period was adversely affected by the move to the new factory and price declines in Russia, following the continued decline in the value of the ruble. -40-
42 Premium sales at Liggett for the six months ended June 30, 2000 amounted to $30,531 and represented 12.4% of total Liggett sales, compared to $48,663 and 27.0% of total sales for the same period in 1999. In the premium segment, revenues declined by 37.3% ($18,132) over the six months ended June 30, 2000, compared to the same period in 1999, due to an unfavorable volume variance of $21,824, reflecting a 44.8% decline in unit sales volume (approximately 0.9 million units), which was partially offset by price increases of $3,692. Liggett's discount sales over the six-month period in 2000 amounted to $214,931 and represented 87.6% of total Liggett sales, compared to $131,310 and 73.0% of total Liggett sales for the same period in 1999. In the discount segment, revenues grew by 63.7% ($83,621) over the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to the same period in 1999, due to price increases of $38,902, and a 47.3% gain in unit sales volume (approximately 814.5 million units) accounting for $62,069 in volume variance, partially offset by an unfavorable product mix of $17,350. For the six months ended June 30, 2000, fixed manufacturing costs on a basis comparable to the same period in 1999 were $93 higher, although costs per thousand units of $1.47 declined by $0.32 (17.9%) from the previous period's $1.79, concurrent with a 24.0% increase in production volume due to the impact of higher volumes on fixed costs. TOBACCO GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit was $180,350 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $135,837 for the six months ended June 30, 1999, an increase of $44,513 or 32.8% when compared to the same period last year, due primarily to price increases at Liggett offset by the price declines at Liggett-Ducat discussed above. Liggett's premium brands contributed 12.2% to the Company's gross profit, the discount segment contributed 81.0% and Liggett-Ducat contributed 6.8% for the six months ended June 30, 2000. Over the same period in 1999, Liggett's premium brands contributed 26.8%, the discount segment contributed 68.4% and Liggett-Ducat contributed 4.8%. Liggett's gross profit of $168,029 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 increased $38,685 from gross profit of $129,344 for the same period in 1999, due primarily to the price increases discussed above. In the first six months of 2000, Liggett's premium brands contributed 13.1% and Liggett's discount brands contributed 86.9% to Liggett's overall gross profit. Over the same period in 1999, Liggett's premium brands contributed 28.1% and Liggett's discount brands contributed 71.9% to Liggett's gross profit. As a percent of revenues (excluding federal excise taxes), gross profit at Liggett increased to 84.5% for the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to 84.1% for the same period in 1999, with gross profit for the premium segment at 85.8% and 85.3% in the six months ended June 30 of 2000 and 1999, respectively, and gross profit for the discount segment at 84.3% and 83.6% in 2000 and 1999, respectively. This increase is primarily the result of the August 1999 and January 2000 list price increases. As a percentage of revenues (excluding Russian excise taxes), gross profit at Liggett-Ducat decreased to 15.7% for the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to 18.5% in the same period in 1999, due to decreased selling prices. BROKER-DEALER AND REAL ESTATE REVENUES. New Valley's broker-dealer revenues were $48,596 and real estate revenues were $1,591 for the month ended June 30, 2000. This compares to one month of revenues in the 1999 period of $5,876 at Ladenburg and $754 at the real estate division. EXPENSES. Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses were $210,812 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $106,932 for the prior year period. The increase of $103,880 is due primarily to a $52,288 increase at Liggett, a $4,562 increase at Liggett-Ducat and additional expenses of $47,864 as a result of the consolidation of New Valley. The increase was partially offset by lower corporate expense due to a reduction in the Company's -41-
43 obligation under non-current employee benefits. The increase in operating expenses at Liggett was due primarily to higher spending for promotional and marketing programs, factory relocation costs and increased administrative expenses. OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES). Other expense was $14,161 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to other income of $272,393 for the six months ended June 30, 1999. For the six months ended June 30, 1999, Liggett recognized a gain of $294,287 in connection with the closing of the Philip Morris brand transaction. In addition, New Valley recognized a gain of $3,801 on the sale of substantially all of Thinking Machines' assets. During the first six months of 1999, the Company also recognized a deferred gain of $7,050 relating to a put obligation on the site of the old cigarette factory in connection with the sale of the BrookeMil Ltd. common shares in 1997. Interest expense was $23,570 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 compared to $27,061 for the same period in the prior year. The decrease of $3,491 is largely due to the repurchase of a portion of the BGLS Notes. This was offset by additional interest expense at Liggett-Ducat of $4,571 and additional interest at New Valley of $3,366. Equity in earnings of affiliate was a loss of $2,913 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 at New Valley compared to a loss of $9,198 for the six months ended June 30, 1999 which relates to New Valley's net loss applicable to common shares. Income tax expense for the six months ended June 30, 2000 was $2,314 compared to $83,374 for the six months ended June 30, 1999. CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY Net cash and cash equivalents increased $12,923 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 and increased $972 for the six months ended June 30, 1999. Net cash used in operations for the six months ended June 30, 2000 was $3,556 compared to net cash provided by operations of $12,116 for the comparable period of 1999. The decrease in net cash from operating activities of $15,672 was primarily due to a decrease in operating income at Liggett over the prior year, an increase in inventories at Liggett and Liggett-Ducat and a gain on the sale of securities at New Valley offset by a reduction in debt service, resulting primarily from the Company's repurchase of $150,294 of the BGLS Notes. Cash provided by investing activities of $1,646 compares to cash provided of $110,168 for the periods ended June 30, 2000 and 1999, respectively. For the six months ended June 30, 2000, the majority of the proceeds were attributable to the sale or maturity of long-term investments of $29,126. This was offset primarily by capital expenditures at Liggett and Liggett-Ducat and the purchase of investment securities. For the six months ended June 30, 1999, the majority of the proceeds were from the closing of the Philip Morris brand transaction in May 1999. In the 1999 period, these proceeds were partially offset by capital expenditures for machinery and equipment at Liggett of $6,972 and equipment and construction costs for the new factory of $30,565 at Liggett-Ducat. Other payments made principally pertained to broker-dealer transactions and real estate at New Valley. Cash provided by financing activities was $14,966 for the six months ended June 30, 2000 as compared with cash used of $120,680 for the six months ended June 30, 1999. Cash was provided primarily by net borrowings under the revolving credit facilities of $24,312 and an increase in the margin loan payable of $4,414. Cash provided was offset by net repayments of debt of $3,584 and distributions on common stock of $10,869. Cash was used in the 1999 period to retire a portion of the BGLS Notes for $142,584. Cash was also used in 1999 to decrease the margin loan at New Valley and for distributions on the Company's -42-
44 common stock. Net borrowings under the revolving credit facilities were $11,379, of which $420 is attributable to Liggett and $10,959 is attributable to Liggett-Ducat. Proceeds included $4,976 of equipment financing and the effect of the New Valley recapitalization. LIGGETT. Liggett has a $35,000 credit facility under which $17,453 was outstanding at June 30, 2000. Availability under the credit facility was approximately $10,861 based on eligible collateral at June 30, 2000. The facility is collateralized by all inventories and receivables of Liggett. Borrowings under the facility, whose interest is calculated at a rate equal to 1.0% above First Union's (the indirect parent of Congress Financial Corporation, the lead lender) prime rate. The facility's interest rate was 10.5% at June 30, 2000. The facility requires Liggett's compliance with certain financial and other covenants including a restriction on the payment of cash dividends unless Liggett's borrowing availability under the facility for the 30-day period prior to the payment of the dividend, and after giving effect to the dividend, is at least $5,000. In addition, the facility, as amended, imposes requirements with respect to Liggett's adjusted net worth (not to fall below $8,000 as computed in accordance with the agreement) and working capital (not to fall below a deficit of $17,000 as computed in accordance with the agreement). At June 30, 2000, Liggett was in compliance with all covenants under the facility; Liggett's adjusted net worth was $18,112 and net working capital was $28,263, as computed in accordance with the agreement. The facility expires on March 8, 2003 subject to automatic renewal for an additional year unless a notice of termination is given by the lender at least 60 days prior to the anniversary date. In November 1999, 100 Maple Lane LLC, a new company formed by Liggett to purchase an industrial facility in Mebane, North Carolina, borrowed $5,040 from the lender under Liggett's credit facility. The loan is payable in 59 monthly installments of $60 including annual interest at 1% above the prime rate with a final payment of $1,500. Liggett has guaranteed the loan, and a first mortgage on the Mebane property collateralizes the Maple Lane loan and Liggett's credit facility. Liggett plans to complete the relocation of its manufacturing operations to this facility by October 2000. In January 1999, Liggett purchased equipment for $5,750 and borrowed $4,500 to fund the purchase. The loan, which is collateralized by the equipment and guaranteed by BGLS and the Company, is payable in 60 monthly installments of $56 including annual interest of 7.67% with a final payment of $2,550. In March 2000, Liggett purchased equipment for $1,000 under a capital lease which is payable in 60 monthly installments of $21 with an effective annual interest rate of 10.14%. In April 2000, Liggett purchased equipment for $1,071 under two capital leases which are payable in 60 monthly installments of $22 with an effective interest rate of 10.20%. Liggett (and, in certain cases, Brooke Group Holding, the Company's predecessor and a wholly-owned subsidiary of BGLS) and other United States cigarette manufacturers have been named as defendants in a number of direct and third-party actions (and purported class actions) predicated on the theory that they should be liable for damages from cancer and other adverse health effects alleged to have been caused by cigarette smoking or by exposure to so-called secondary smoke from cigarettes. The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel handling the respective cases, that Brooke Group Holding and Liggett have a number of valid defenses to claims asserted against them. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties. An unfavorable verdict was returned in the first phase of the ENGLE smoking and health class action trial pending in Florida. Recently, the jury awarded $790,000 in punitive damages against Liggett in the second phase of the trial. Liggett intends to pursue all available post-trial and appellate remedies. If this verdict is not eventually reversed on appeal, or -43-
45 substantially reduced by the court, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company. It is possible that additional cases could be decided unfavorably and that there could be further adverse developments in the ENGLE case. An unfavorable outcome of a pending smoking and health case could encourage the commencement of additional similar litigation. Management cannot predict the cash requirements related to any future settlements and judgments, including cash required to bond any appeals, and there is a risk that those requirements will not be able to be met. In recent years, there have been a number of adverse regulatory, political and other developments concerning cigarette smoking and the tobacco industry. These developments generally receive widespread media attention. Neither the Company nor Liggett is able to evaluate the effect of these developing matters on pending litigation or the possible commencement of additional litigation or regulation. (See Note 13 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.) Management is unable to make a meaningful estimate of the amount or range of loss that could result from an unfavorable outcome of the cases pending against Brooke Group Holding or Liggett or the costs of defending such cases. It is possible that the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected by an unfavorable outcome in any such smoking-related litigation. Liggett-Ducat completed construction of a new cigarette factory on the outskirts of Moscow which became operational in June 1999. The new factory, which utilizes Western cigarette making technology and has a capacity in excess of 40 billion units per year, produces American and international blend cigarettes, as well as traditional Russian cigarettes. Western Realty Development made a $30,000 participating loan to, and payable out of a 30% profits interest in, Western Tobacco Investments, which held the 99.9% equity interest of Brooke (Overseas) in Liggett-Ducat and the new factory. In addition, Western Tobacco Investments entered into note agreements for equipment purchases which have a liability of approximately $20,915 at June 30, 2000. The remaining costs for construction and equipment for the new factory and working capital requirements were financed by loans and credit facilities from Russian banks. On August 4, 2000, Brooke (Overseas) completed the sale of Western Tobacco Investments to a subsidiary of Gallaher Group Plc. (See Recent Developments.) In connection with the sale, all of the credit facilities, notes payable and other obligations of Western Tobacco Investments and Liggett-Ducat were assumed by the purchaser. BGLS. At June 30, 2000, BGLS had outstanding $82,570 principal amount of the BGLS Notes which mature on January 31, 2001. Of this amount, $50,100 of the Notes carry deferred interest. On March 2, 1998, BGLS entered into a standstill agreement with the holders of $97,239 principal amount of its notes, who were affiliated with Apollo, under which the Apollo holders (and any transferees) agreed to the deferral of interest payments, commencing with the interest payment due July 31, 1997 through the interest payment due July 31, 2000. BGLS had a total of $22,708 of deferred interest outstanding as of June 30, 2000. Interest on all of the Notes for the six month period ended July 31, 2000 was paid in cash. On August 4, 2000, with the proceeds of the Western Tobacco Investments sale, BGLS repurchased $24,850 principal amount of its Notes, together with accrued interest of $11,531, for $36,381. On that date, BGLS called the remaining Notes for redemption on September 5, 2000. On the redemption date, all of these Notes will be redeemed for 100% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued interest. BGLS will use approximately $105,000 of the proceeds of the sale to retire the Notes. -44-
46 THE COMPANY. After giving effect to the retirement of the BGLS Notes and the assumption of the Western Tobacco Investments and Liggett-Ducat debt, the Company has aggregate required principal payments of approximately $10,800 due within the next twelve months. The Company believes that it will continue to meet its liquidity requirements through 2000. Corporate expenditures (exclusive of Liggett and New Valley) over the next twelve months for current operations include dividends on the Company's shares (currently at an annual rate of approximately $6,300) and corporate expenses. The Company anticipates funding its expenditures for current operations with the proceeds from the Western Tobacco Investments sale, public and/or private debt and equity financing, management fees from subsidiaries and tax sharing and other payments from Liggett or New Valley. New Valley may acquire or seek to acquire additional operating businesses through merger, purchase of assets, stock acquisition or other means, or to make other investments, which may limit its ability to make such distributions. MARKET RISK Vector is exposed to market risks principally from fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and equity prices. The Company seeks to minimize these risks through its regular operating and financing activities and its long-term investment strategy. FOREIGN MARKET RISK EUROPE. Vector has foreign currency exchange risk relating to its outstanding obligations under foreign currency denominated construction and equipment contracts with various European companies where costs are affected by fluctuations in the United States dollar as compared to certain European currencies. Management believes that currencies in which it presently has such exposure are relatively stable. RUSSIA. BrookeMil's and Western Realty Development's operations are conducted in Russia. The Russian Federation continues to experience economic difficulties following the financial crisis of August 1998. Consequently, the country's currency continues to devalue, there is continued volatility in the debt and equity markets, hyperinflation persists, confidence in the banking sector has yet to be restored and there continues to be a general lack of liquidity in the economy. In addition, laws and regulations affecting businesses operating within the Russian Federation continue to evolve. The Russian Federation's return to economic stability is dependent to a large extent on the effectiveness of the measures taken by the government, decisions of international lending organizations, and other actions, including regulatory and political developments, which are beyond Vector's control. Vector's Russian operations may be significantly affected by these factors for the foreseeable future. DOMESTIC MARKET RISK New Valley's market risk management procedures cover all market risk sensitive financial instruments. -45-
47 Current and proposed underwriting, corporate finance, merchant banking and other commitments at Ladenburg are subject to due diligence reviews by Ladenburg's senior management, as well as professionals in the appropriate business and support units involved. Credit risk related to various financing activities is reduced by the industry practice of obtaining and maintaining collateral. Ladenburg monitors its exposure to counterparty risk through the use of credit exposure information, the monitoring of collateral values and the establishment of credit limits. EQUITY PRICE RISK. Ladenburg maintained inventories of trading securities at June 30, 2000 with fair values of $13,589 in long positions and $976 in short positions. Ladenburg performed an entity-wide analysis of its financial instruments and assessed the related risk and materiality. Based on this analysis, in the opinion of management, the market risk associated with the Ladenburg's financial instruments at June 30, 2000 will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position or results of operations of Vector. New Valley held investment securities available for sale totaling $36,756 at June 30, 2000. Approximately 32% of these securities represent an investment in Nabisco Group Holdings Corp., which is a defendant in numerous tobacco products-related litigation, claims and proceedings. An adverse outcome in any of these proceedings could have a significant effect on the value of New Valley's investment. New Valley also holds long-term investments in limited partnerships and limited liability companies. These investments are illiquid, and their ultimate realization is subject to the performance of the investee entities. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." SFAS 133 requires that all derivative instruments be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded each period in current earnings or other comprehensive income, depending on whether a derivative is designated as part of a hedge transaction and, if it is, the type of hedge transaction. Originally, the statement had been effective for all quarters of fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. In June 1999, the FASB issued SFAS No. 137, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities", which postponed the adoption of SFAS No. 133 until fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000. Vector has not yet determined the impact that the adoption of SFAS 133 will have on its earnings or statement of financial position. In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101 "Revenue Recognition" ("SAB 101"), which provides guidance on the recognition, presentation and disclosure of revenue in financial statements filed with the SEC. SAB 101 is applicable beginning with the Company's fourth quarter of 2000. Based on the Company's current analysis, SAB 101 will not have an impact on the financial results of the Company. SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS The Company and its representatives may from time to time make oral or written "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Reform Act of 1995, including any statements that may be contained in the foregoing discussion in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations", in this report and in other filings with the SEC and in its reports to stockholders, which reflect management's current views with respect to future events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and, in connection with the "safe-harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Reform Act, the Company has identified under "Risk Factors" in Item 1 of the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999 filed with the SEC important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement made by or on behalf of the Company. -46-
48 Results actually achieved may differ materially from expected results included in these forward-looking statements as a result of these or other factors. Due to such uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which such statements are made. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company. ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK The information under the caption "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Market Risk" is incorporated herein by reference. -47-
49 PART II OTHER INFORMATION Item 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS Reference is made to Note 13, incorporated herein by reference, to the Consolidated Financial Statements of Vector Group Ltd. and BGLS Inc. included elsewhere in this Report on Form 10-Q which contains a general description of certain legal proceedings to which Brooke Group Holdings, BGLS, New Valley or their subsidiaries are a party and certain related matters. Reference is also made to Exhibit 99.1 for additional information regarding the pending smoking-related material legal proceedings to which Brooke Group Holding, BGLS and/or Liggett are party. A copy of Exhibit 99.1 will be furnished to security holders of the Company and its subsidiaries without charge upon written request to the Company at its principal executive offices, 100 S.E. Second St., Miami, Florida 33131, Attn. Investor Relations. Item 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS No securities of the Company which were not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, have been issued or sold by the Company during the three months ended June 30, 2000. Item 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS During the second quarter of 2000, the Company submitted the following matters to a vote of stockholders at its Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 24, 2000. Proxies for the Annual Meeting were solicited pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The matters voted upon at the Annual Meeting were (i) the election of four directors, (ii) approval of the Brooke Group Ltd. 1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan and (iii) approval of an amendment to the certificate of incorporation to change the corporate name to Vector Group Ltd., and the following is a tabulation of the results: Total shares of common stock outstanding as of April 17, 2000 (the record date) - 21,989,782 Total shares of common stock voted in person or by proxy - 20,537,713 Election of Directors: FOR WITHHOLD --- -------- Robert J. Eide 20,266,990 270,723 Bennett S. LeBow 20,266,733 270,980 Jeffrey S. Podell 20,266,990 270,723 Jean E. Sharpe 20,266,990 270,723 -48-
50 Approval of Incentive Plan: BROKER FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN NON-VOTES --- ------- ------- --------- 13,396,328 1,569,155 64,867 5,507,363 Approval of Name Change: FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN --- ------- ------- 20,426,663 55,760 55,289 Item 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (a) EXHIBITS *3.1 Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 in the Company's Form 8-K dated May 24, 2000). 3.2 By-Laws of the Company. *10.1 Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of June 14, 2000, between Gallaher Overseas (Holdings) Ltd. and Brooke (Overseas) Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 in the Company's Form 8-K dated June 14, 2000). *10.2 Guaranty, dated as of June 14, 2000, by Vector Group Ltd. in favor of Gallaher Overseas (Holdings) Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 in the Company's Form 8-K dated June 14, 2000). 27.1 Vector Group Ltd.'s Financial Data Schedule (for SEC use only). 27.2 BGLS Inc.'s Financial Data Schedule (for SEC use only). 99.1 Material Legal Proceedings. 99.2 Liggett Group Inc.'s Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the quarterly periods ended June 30, 2000 and 1999. *99.3 New Valley Corporation's Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the quarterly periods ended June 30, 2000 and 1999 (incorporated by reference to New Valley's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2000, Commission File No. 1-2493). 99.4 Brooke (Overseas) Ltd.'s Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the quarterly periods ended June 30, 2000 and 1999. - ---------- * Incorporated by reference -49-
51 (b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K The Company filed the following Reports on Form 8-K during the second quarter of 2000: FINANCIAL DATE ITEMS STATEMENTS ---- ----- ---------- April 3, 2000 7 None May 24, 2000 5, 7 None June 14, 2000 5, 7 None -50-
52 SIGNATURES 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. VECTOR GROUP LTD. (REGISTRANT) By: /s/ Joselynn D. Van Siclen ------------------------------- Joselynn D. Van Siclen Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Date: August 14, 2000 BGLS INC. (REGISTRANT) By: /s/ Joselynn D. Van Siclen ------------------------------- Joselynn D. Van Siclen Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Date: August 14, 2000 -51-
1 Exhibit 3.2 BY-LAWS OF VECTOR GROUP LTD. EFFECTIVE MAY 24, 2000 (A Delaware Corporation) ARTICLE I Offices SECTION 1. REGISTERED OFFICE. The registered office of the Corporation within the State of Delaware shall be in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle. SECTION 2. OTHER OFFICES. The Corporation may also have an office or offices other than said registered office at such place or places, either within or without the State of Delaware, as the Board of Directors shall from time to time determine or the business of the Corporation may require. ARTICLE II Meetings of Stockholders SECTION 1. PLACE OF MEETINGS. All meetings of the stockholders for the election of directors or for any other purpose shall be held at any such place, either within or without the State of Delaware, as shall be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors and stated in the notice of meeting or in a duly executed waiver thereof. SECTION 2. ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of stockholders shall be held at such date and time as shall be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors and stated in the notice of meeting or in a duly executed waiver thereof. At such annual meeting, the stockholders shall elect, by a plurality vote, a Board of Directors and transact such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting. SECTION 3. SPECIAL MEETINGS. Special meetings of stockholders, unless otherwise prescribed by statute, may be called at any time by the Board of Directors or the Chairman of the Board, if one shall have been elected, or the President and shall be called by the Secretary upon the request in writing of a stockholder or stockholders holding of record at least 25 percent of the voting power of the issued and outstanding shares of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at such meeting.
2 SECTION 4. NOTICE OF MEETINGS. Except as otherwise expressly required by statute, written notice of each annual and special meeting of stockholders stating the date, place and hour of the meeting, and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called, shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote thereat not less than ten nor more than sixty days before the date of the meeting. Business transacted at any special meeting of stockholders shall be limited to the purposes stated in the notice. Notice shall be given personally or by mail and, if by mail, shall be sent in a postage prepaid envelope, addressed to the stockholder at his address as it appears on the records of the Corporation. Notice by mail shall be deemed given at the time when the same shall be deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid. Notice of any meeting shall not be required to be given to any person who attends such meeting, except when such person attends the meeting in person or by proxy for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened, or who, either before or after the meeting, shall submit a signed written waiver of notice, in person or by proxy. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, an annual or special meeting of stockholders need be specified in any written waiver of notice. SECTION 5. LIST OF STOCKHOLDERS. The officer who has charge of the stock ledger of the Corporation shall prepare and make, at least ten days before each meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, arranged in alphabetical order, showing the address of and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting, during ordinary business hours, for a period of at least ten days prior to the meeting, either at a place within the city, town or village where the meeting is to be held, which place shall be specified in the notice of meeting, or, if not specified, at the place where the meeting is to be held. The list shall be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof, and may be inspected by any stockholder who is present. SECTION 6. QUORUM, ADJOURNMENTS. The holders of a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding stock of the Corporation entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of stockholders, except as otherwise provided by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation. If, however, such quorum shall not be present or represented by proxy at any meeting of stockholders, the stockholders entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall have the power to adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present or represented by proxy. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall be present or represented by proxy, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally called. If the adjournment is for more than thirty days, or, if after adjournment a new record date is set, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting. 2
3 SECTION 7. ORGANIZATION. At each meeting of stockholders, the Chairman of the Board, if one shall have been elected, or, in his absence or if one shall not have been elected, the President shall act as chairman of the meeting. The Secretary or, in his absence or inability to act, the person whom the chairman of the meeting shall appoint secretary of the meeting shall act as secretary of the meeting and keep the minutes thereof. SECTION 8. ORDER OF BUSINESS. The order of business at all meetings of the stockholders shall be as determined by the chairman of the meeting. SECTION 9. VOTING. Except as otherwise provided by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation, each stockholder of the Corporation shall be entitled at each meeting of stockholders to one vote for each share of capital stock of the Corporation standing in his name on the record of stockholders of the Corporation: (a) on the date fixed pursuant to the provisions of Section 7 of Article V of these By-Laws as the record date for the determination of the stockholders who shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at such meeting; or (b) if no such record date shall have been so fixed, then at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice thereof shall be given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the date next preceding the day on which the meeting is held. Each stockholder entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders may authorize another person or persons to act for him by a proxy signed by such stockholder or his attorney-in-fact, but no proxy shall be voted after three years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period. Any such proxy shall be delivered to the secretary of the meeting prior to the time designated in the order of business for so delivering such proxies. When a quorum is present at any meeting, the vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding stock of the Corporation entitled to vote thereon, present in person or represented by proxy, shall decide any question brought before such meeting, unless the question is one upon which by express provision of statute or of the Certificate of Incorporation or of these By-Laws, a different vote is required, in which case such express provision shall govern and control the decision of such question. Unless required by statute, or determined by the chairman of the meeting to be advisable, the vote on any question need not be by ballot. On a vote by ballot, each ballot shall be signed by the stockholder voting, or by his proxy, if by such proxy, and shall state the number of shares voted. SECTION 10. INSPECTORS. The Board of Directors may, in advance of any meeting of stockholders, appoint one or more inspectors to act at such meeting or any adjournment thereof. If any of the inspectors so appointed shall fail to appear or act, the chairman of the meeting shall, or if inspectors shall not have been appointed, the chairman of the meeting may, appoint one or more inspectors. Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of his duties, shall take and sign an oath faithfully to execute the duties of inspector at such meeting with strict impartiality and according to the best of his ability. The inspectors shall determine the number 3
4 of shares of capital stock of the Corporation outstanding and the voting power of each, the number of shares represented at the meeting, the existence of a quorum, the validity and effect of proxies, and shall receive votes, ballots or consents, hear and determine all challenges and questions arising in connection with the right to vote, count and tabulate all votes, ballots or consents, determine the results, and do such acts as are proper to conduct the election or vote with fairness to all stockholders. On request of the chairman of the meeting, the inspectors shall make a report in writing of any challenge, request or matter determined by them and shall execute a certificate of any fact found by them. No director or candidate for the office of director shall act as an inspector of an election of directors. Inspectors need not be stockholders. SECTION 11. ACTION BY CONSENT. Whenever the vote of stockholders at a meeting thereof is required or permitted to be taken for or in connection with any corporate action, by any provision of statute or of the Certificate of Incorporation or of these By-Laws, the meeting and vote of stockholders may be dispensed with, and the action taken without such meeting and vote, if a consent in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote thereon were present and voted. ARTICLE III Board of Directors SECTION 1. GENERAL POWERS. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may exercise all such authority and powers of the Corporation and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation directed or required to be exercised or done by the stockholders. SECTION 2. NUMBER, QUALIFICATIONS, ELECTION AND TERM OF OFFICE. The number of directors may be fixed, from time to time, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the entire Board of Directors or by action of the stockholders of the Corporation. Any decrease in the number of directors shall be effective at the time of the next succeeding annual meeting of stockholders unless there shall be vacancies in the Board of Directors, in which case such decrease may become effective at any time prior to the next succeeding annual meeting to the extent of the number of such vacancies. Directors need not be stockholders. Except as otherwise provided by statute or these By-Laws, the directors shall be elected at the annual meeting of stockholders. Each director shall hold office until his successor shall have been elected and qualified, or until his death, or until he shall have resigned, or have been removed, as hereinafter provided in these By-Laws. SECTION 3. PLACE OF MEETINGS. Meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at such place or places, within or without the State of Delaware, as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or as shall be specified in the notice of any such meeting. 4
5 SECTION 4. ANNUAL MEETING. The Board of Directors shall meet for the purpose of the election of officers and the transaction of other business, as soon as practicable after each annual meeting of stockholders, on the same day and at the same place where such annual meeting shall be held. Notice of such meeting need not be given. In the event such annual meeting is not so held, the annual meeting of the Board of Directors may be held at such other time or place (within or without the State of Delaware) as shall be specified in a notice thereof given as hereinafter provided in Section 7 of this Article III. SECTION 5. REGULAR MEETINGS. Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at such time and place as the Board of Directors may fix. If any day fixed for a regular meeting shall be a legal holiday at the place where the meeting is to be held, then the meeting which would otherwise be held on that day shall be held at the same hour on the next succeeding business day. Notice of regular meetings of the Board of Directors need not be given except as otherwise required by statute or these By-Laws. SECTION 6. SPECIAL MEETINGS. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by the Chairman of the Board, if one shall have been elected, or by two or more directors of the Corporation or by the President. SECTION 7. NOTICE OF MEETINGS. Notice of each special meeting of the Board of Directors (and of each regular meeting for which notice shall be required) shall be given by the Secretary as hereinafter provided in this Section 7, in which notice shall be stated the time and place of the meeting. Except as otherwise required by these By-Laws, such notice need not state the purposes of such meeting. Notice of each such meeting shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to each director, addressed to him at his residence or usual place of business, by first class mail, at least two days before the day on which such meeting is to be held, or shall be sent addressed to him at such place by telegraph, cable, telex, telecopier or other similar means, or be delivered to him personally or be given to him by telephone or other similar means, at least twenty-four hours before the time at which such meeting is to be held. Notice of any such meeting need not be given to any director who shall, either before or after the meeting, submit a signed waiver of notice or who shall attend such meeting, except when he shall attend for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. SECTION 8. QUORUM AND MANNER OF ACTING. A majority of the entire Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Board of Directors and, except as otherwise expressly required by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation or these By-Laws, the act of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors. In the absence of a quorum at any meeting of the Board of Directors, a majority of the directors present thereat may adjourn such meeting to another time and place. Notice of the time and place of any such adjourned meeting shall be given to all of the directors unless such time and place were announced at the meeting at which the adjournment was taken, in which case such notice shall only be given to the directors who were not present thereat. At any adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the 5
6 meeting as originally called. The directors shall act only as a Board and the individual directors shall have no power as such. SECTION 9. ORGANIZATION. At each meeting of the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board, if one shall have been elected, or, in the absence of the Chairman of the Board or if one shall not have been elected, the President (or, in his absence, another director chosen by a majority of the directors present) shall act as chairman of the meeting and preside thereat. The Secretary or, in his absence, any person appointed by the Chairman of the Board shall act as secretary of the meeting and keep the minutes thereof. SECTION 10. RESIGNATIONS. Any director of the Corporation may resign at any time by giving written notice of his resignation to the Corporation. Any such resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein or, if the time when it shall become effective shall not be specified therein, immediately upon its receipt. Unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. SECTION 11. VACANCIES. Any vacancy in the Board of Directors, whether arising from death, resignation, removal (with or without cause), an increase in the number of directors or any other cause, may be filled by the vote of a majority of the directors then in office, though less than a quorum, or by the sole remaining director or by the stockholders at the next annual meeting thereof or at a special meeting thereof. Each director so elected shall hold office until his successor shall have been elected and qualified. SECTION 12. REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS. Any director may be removed, either with or without cause, at any time, by the holders of a majority of the voting power of the issued and outstanding capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at an election of directors. SECTION 13. COMPENSATION. The Board of Directors shall have authority to fix the compensation, including fees and reimbursement of expenses, of directors for services to the Corporation in any capacity. SECTION 14. COMMITTEES. The Board of Directors may, by resolution passed by a majority of the entire Board of Directors, designate one or more committees, including an executive committee, each committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In addition, in the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not he or they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of Directors to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member. Except to the extent restricted by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation, each such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution creating it, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the Board of Directors and may authorize the seal of the Corporation to be affixed to all papers which require it. Each such committee shall serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors and have such name as may be determined from time to time by resolution adopted by 6
7 the Board of Directors. Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report the same to the Board of Directors. SECTION 15. ACTION BY CONSENT. Unless restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation, any action required or permitted to be taken by the Board of Directors or any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors or such committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing, and the writing or writings are filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the Board of Directors or such committee, as the case may be. SECTION 16. TELEPHONIC MEETING. Unless restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation, any one or more members of the Board of Directors or any committee thereof may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors or such committee by means of a conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other. Participation by such means shall constitute presence in person at a meeting. ARTICLE IV Officers SECTION 1. NUMBER AND QUALIFICATIONS. The officers of the Corporation shall be elected by the Board of Directors and shall include the President, one or more Vice-Presidents, the Secretary and the Treasurer. If the Board of Directors wishes, it may also elect as an officer of the Corporation a Chairman of the Board and may elect other officers (including one or more Assistant Treasurers and one or more Assistant Secretaries) as may be necessary or desirable for the business of the Corporation. Any two or more offices may be held by the same person, and no officer except the Chairman of the Board need be a director. Each officer shall hold office until his successor shall have been duly elected and shall have qualified, or until his death, or until he shall have resigned or have been removed, as hereinafter provided in these By-Laws. SECTION 2. RESIGNATIONS. Any officer of the Corporation may resign at any time by giving written notice of his resignation to the Corporation. Any such resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein or, if the time when it shall become effective shall not be specified therein, immediately upon receipt. Unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of any such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. SECTION 3. REMOVAL. Any officer of the Corporation may be removed, either with or without cause, at any time, by the Board of Directors at any meeting thereof. SECTION 4. CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD. The Chairman of the Board, if one shall have been elected, shall be a member of the Board, an officer of the Corporation and, if present, shall preside at each meeting of the Board of Directors or the stockholders. He shall advise and 7
8 counsel with the President and in his absence with other executives of the Corporation, and shall perform such other duties as may from time to time be assigned to him by the Board of Directors. SECTION 5. THE PRESIDENT. The President shall be the chief executive officer of the Corporation. He shall, in the absence of the Chairman of the Board or if a Chairman of the Board shall not have been elected, preside at each meeting of the Board of Directors or the stockholders. He shall perform all duties incident to the office of President and chief executive officer and such other duties as may from time to time be assigned to him by the Board of Directors. SECTION 6. VICE-PRESIDENT. Each Vice-President shall perform all such duties as from time to time may be assigned to him by the Board of Directors or the President. At the request of the President or in his absence or in the event of his inability or refusal to act, the Vice-President, or if there shall be more than one, the Vice-Presidents in the order determined by the Board of Directors (or if there be no such determination, then the Vice-Presidents in the order of their election), shall perform the duties of the President, and, when so acting, shall have the powers of and be subject to the restrictions placed upon the President in respect of the performance of such duties. SECTION 7. TREASURER. The Treasurer shall (a) have charge and custody of, and be responsible for, all the funds and securities of the Corporation; (b) keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Corporation; (c) deposit all moneys and other valuables to the credit of the Corporation in such depositories as may be designated by the Board of Directors or pursuant to its direction; (d) receive, and give receipts for, moneys due and payable to the Corporation from any source whatsoever; (e) disburse the funds of the Corporation and supervise the investments of its funds, taking proper vouchers therefor; (f) render to the Board of Directors, whenever the Board of Directors may require, an account of the financial condition of the Corporation; and (g) in general, perform all duties incident to the office of Treasurer and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him by the Board of Directors. 8
9 SECTION 8. SECRETARY. The Secretary shall (a) keep or cause to be kept in one or more books provided for the purpose, the minutes of all meetings of the Board of Directors, the committees of the Board of Directors and the stockholders; (b) see that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these By-Laws and as required by law; (c) be custodian of the records and the seal of the Corporation and affix and attest the seal to all certificates for shares of the Corporation (unless the seal of the Corporation on such certificates shall be a facsimile, as hereinafter provided) and affix and attest the seal to all other documents to be executed on behalf of the Corporation under its seal; (d) see that the books, reports, statements, certificates and other documents and records required by law to be kept and filed are properly kept and filed; and (e) in general, perform all duties incident to the office of Secretary and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him by the Board of Directors. SECTION 9. THE ASSISTANT TREASURER. The Assistant Treasurer, or if there shall be more than one, the Assistant Treasurers in the order determined by the Board of Directors (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election), shall, in the absence of the Treasurer or in the event of his inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Treasurer and shall perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the Board of Directors. SECTION 10. THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY. The Assistant Secretary, or if there be more than one, the Assistant Secretaries in the order determined by the Board of Directors (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election) shall, in the absence of the Secretary or in the event of his inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Secretary and shall perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the Board of Directors. SECTION 11. OFFICERS' BONDS OR OTHER SECURITY. If required by the Board of Directors, any officer of the Corporation shall give a bond or other security for the faithful performance of his duties, in such amount and with such surety as the Board of Directors may require. SECTION 12. COMPENSATION. The compensation of the officers of the Corporation for their services as such officers, shall be fixed from time to time by the Board of Directors. An 9
10 officer of the Corporation shall not be prevented from receiving compensation by reason of the fact that he is also a director of the Corporation. ARTICLE V Stock Certificates and Their Transfer SECTION 1. STOCK CERTIFICATES. Every holder of stock in the Corporation shall be entitled to have a certificate, signed by, or in the name of the Corporation by, the Chairman of the Board or the President or a Vice-President and by the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer or the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Corporation, certifying the number of shares owned by him in the Corporation. If the Corporation shall be authorized to issue more than one class of stock or more than one series of any class, the designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restriction of such preferences and/or rights shall be set forth in full or summarized on the face or back of the certificate which the Corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock, provided that, except as otherwise provided in Section 202 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, there may be set forth on the face or back of the certificate which the Corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock, a statement that the Corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. SECTION 2. FACSIMILE SIGNATURES. Any or all of the signatures on a certificate may be a facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if he were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the date of issue. SECTION 3. LOST CERTIFICATES. The Board of Directors may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Corporation alleged to have been lost, stolen, or destroyed. When authorizing such issue of a new certificate or certificates, the Board of Directors may, in its discretion and as a condition precedent to the issuance thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen, or destroyed certificate or certificates, or his legal representative, to give the Corporation a bond in such sum as it may direct sufficient to indemnify it against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of any such certificate or the issuance of such new certificate. SECTION 4. TRANSFERS OF STOCK. Upon surrender to the Corporation or the transfer agent of the Corporation of a certificate for shares duly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignment or authority to transfer, it shall be the duty of the Corporation to issue a new certificate to the person entitled thereto, cancel the old certificate and record the transaction upon its records; provided, however, that the Corporation shall be 10
11 entitled to recognize and enforce any lawful restriction on transfer. Whenever any transfer of stock shall be made for collateral security, and not absolutely, it shall be so expressed in the entry of transfer if, when the certificates are presented to the Corporation for transfer, both the transferor and the transferee request the Corporation to do so. SECTION 5. TRANSFER AGENTS AND REGISTRARS. The Board of Directors may appoint, or authorize any officer or officers to appoint, one or more transfer agents and one or more registrars. SECTION 6. REGULATIONS. The Board of Directors may make such additional rules and regulations, not inconsistent with these By-Laws, as it may deem expedient concerning the issue, transfer and registration of certificates for shares of stock of the Corporation. SECTION 7. FIXING THE RECORD DATE. In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, or to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a record date, which shall not be more than sixty nor less than ten days before the date of such meeting, nor more than sixty days prior to any other action. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting. SECTION 8. REGISTERED STOCKHOLDERS. The Corporation shall be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its records as the owner of shares of stock to receive dividends and to vote as such owner, shall be entitled to hold liable for calls and assessments a person registered on its records as the owner of shares of stock, and shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares of stock on the part of any other person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of Delaware. ARTICLE VI Indemnification of Directors and Officers SECTION 1. GENERAL. The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the Corporation) by reason of the fact that he is or was or has agreed to become a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving or has agreed to serve at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise or by reason of any action alleged to have been taken or omitted in such capacity, against costs, charges, expenses (including 11
12 attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him or on his behalf in connection with such action, suit or proceeding and any appeal therefrom, if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction or upon a plea of NOLO CONTENDERE or its equivalent shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful. SECTION 2. DERIVATIVE ACTIONS. The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the Corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that he is or was or has agreed to become a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving or has agreed to serve at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, or by reason or any action alleged to have been taken or omitted in such capacity, against costs, charges and expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him or on his behalf in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit and any appeal therefrom, if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the Corporation unless and only to the extent that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware or the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such costs, charges and expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper. SECTION 3. INDEMNIFICATION IN CERTAIN CASES. Notwithstanding the other provisions of this Article VI, to the extent that a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise, including without limitation, the dismissal of an action without prejudice, in defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in Sections 1 and 2 of this Article VI, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he shall be indemnified against all costs, charges and expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him or on his behalf in connection therewith. SECTION 4. PROCEDURE. Any indemnification under Sections 1 and 2 of this Article VI (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Corporation only as authorized in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the director, officer, employee or agent is proper in the circumstances because he has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in such Sections 1 and 2. Such determination shall be made (a) by the Board of Directors by a majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who were not parties to such action, suit or proceeding (the "Continuing Directors"), or (b) if such a quorum of disinterested Continuing Directors is not obtainable, or, even if obtainable a quorum of disinterested Continuing 12
13 Directors so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (c) by the stockholders. SECTION 5. ADVANCES FOR EXPENSES. Costs, charges and expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred by a person referred to in Sections 1 and 2 of this Article VI in defending a civil or criminal action, suit or proceeding shall be paid the Corporation in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the director, officer, employee or agent to repay all amounts so advanced in the event that it shall ultimately be determined that such director, officer, employee or agent is not entitled to be indemnified by the Corporation as authorized in this Article VI. Such costs, charges and expenses incurred by other employees and agents may be so paid upon such terms and conditions, if any, as the majority of the Continuing Directors deems appropriate. The majority of the Continuing Directors may, in the manner set forth above, and upon approval of such director, officer, employer, employee or agent of the Corporation, authorize the Corporation's counsel to represent such person, in any action, suit or proceeding, whether or not the Corporation is a party to such action, suit or proceeding. SECTION 6. PROCEDURE FOR INDEMNIFICATION. Any indemnification under Sections 1, 2 and 3, or advance of costs, charges and expenses under Section 5 of this Article VI, shall be made promptly, and in any event within 60 days upon the written request of the director, officer, employee or agent. The right to indemnification or advances as granted by this Article VI shall be enforceable by the director, officer, employee or agent in any court of competent jurisdiction, if the Corporation denies such request, in whole or in part, or if no disposition thereof is made within 60 days. Such person's costs and expenses incurred in connection with successfully establishing his right to indemnification, in whole or in part, in any such action shall also be indemnified by the Corporation. It shall be a defense to any such action (other than an action brought to enforce a claim for the advance of costs, charge and expenses under Section 5 of this Article VI where the required undertaking, if any, has been received by the Corporation) that the claimant has not met the standard of conduct set forth in Sections 1 or 2 of this Article VI, but the burden of proving such defense shall be on the Corporation. Neither the failure of the Corporation (including its Board of Directors, its independent legal counsel, and its stockholders) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification of the claimant is proper in the circumstances because he has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in Sections 1 or 2 of this Article VI, nor the fact that there has been an actual determination by the Corporation (including its Board of Directors, its independent legal counsel, and its stockholders) that the claimant has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that the claimant has not met such applicable standard of conduct. SECTION 7. OTHER RIGHTS; CONTINUATION OF RIGHT TO INDEMNIFICATION. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by this Article VI shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which a person seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under any law (common or statutory), by-law, agreement, vote of stockholders, or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in his official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding office or while employed by or acting as agent for 13
14 the Corporation, and shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent, and shall inure to the benefit of the estate, heirs, executors and administrators of such person. If the Delaware General Corporation Law is hereafter amended to permit the Corporation to indemnify directors and officers to a greater extent than otherwise permitted by this Article VI, the Corporation shall indemnify directors and officers to such greater extent. All rights to indemnification under this Article VI shall be deemed to be a contract between the Corporation and each director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation who serves or served in such capacity at any time while this Article VI is in effect. Any repeal or modification of this Article VI or any repeal or modification of relevant provisions of Delaware General Corporation Law or any other applicable laws shall not in any way diminish any rights to indemnification of such director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation who serves or served in such capacity at any time while this Article VI is in effect. Any repeal or modification of this Article VI or any repeal or modification of relevant provisions of Delaware General Corporation Law or any other applicable laws shall not in any way diminish any rights to indemnification of such director, officer, employee or agent or the obligations of the Corporation arising hereunder with respect to any action, suit or proceeding arising out of, or relating to, any actions, transactions or facts occurring prior to the final adoption of such modification or repeal. For the purposes of this Article VI, references to "the Corporation" include all constituent corporations absorbed in a consolidation or merger as well as the resulting or surviving corporation, so that any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of such a constituent corporation or is or as serving at the request of such constituent corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise shall stand in the same position under the provisions of this Article VI, with respect to the resulting or surviving corporation, as he would if he had served the resulting or surviving corporation in the same capacity. SECTION 8. INSURANCE. The Corporation shall have power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was or has agreed to become a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against him and incurred by him or on his behalf in any such capacity, or arising out of his status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify him against such liability under the Provisions of this Article VI; provided, however, that such insurance is available on acceptable terms, which determination shall, be made by a vote of a majority of the Continuing Directors. SECTION 9. SAVINGS CLAUSE. If this Article VI or any portion hereof shall be invalidated on any ground by any court of competent jurisdiction, then the Corporation shall nevertheless indemnify each director, officer, employee and agent of the Corporation as to costs, charges and expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement with respect to any action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, including an action by or in the right of the Corporation, to the full extent permitted by any applicable portion of this Article VI that shall not have been invalidated and to the full extent permitted by applicable law. 14
15 ARTICLE VII General Provisions SECTION 1. DIVIDENDS. Subject to the provisions of statute and the Certificate of Incorporation, dividends upon the shares of capital stock of the Corporation may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property or in shares of stock of the Corporation, unless otherwise provided by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation. SECTION 2. RESERVES. Before payment of any dividend, there may be set aside out of any funds of the Corporation available for dividends such sum or sums as the Board of Directors may, from time to time, in its absolute discretion, think proper as a reserve or reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation or for such other purpose as the Board of Directors may think conducive to the interests of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may modify or abolish any such reserves in the manner in which it was created. SECTION 3. SEAL. The seal of the Corporation shall be in such form as shall be approved by the Board of Directors. SECTION 4. FISCAL YEAR. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed, and once fixed, may thereafter be changed, by resolution of the Board of Directors. SECTION 5. CHECKS, NOTES, DRAFTS, ETC. All checks, notes, drafts or other orders for the payment of money of the Corporation shall be signed, endorsed or accepted in the name of the Corporation by such officer, officers, person or persons as from time to time may be designated by the Board of Directors or by an officer or officers authorized by the Board of Directors to make such designation. SECTION 6. EXECUTION OF CONTRACTS, DEEDS, ETC. The Board of Directors may authorize any officer or officers, agent or agents, in the name and on behalf of the Corporation to enter into or execute and deliver any and all deeds, bonds, mortgages, contracts and other obligations or instruments, and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. SECTION 7. VOTING OF STOCK IN OTHER CORPORATIONS. Unless otherwise provided by resolution of the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Board or the President, from time to time, may (or may appoint one or more attorneys or agents to) cast the votes which the Corporation may be entitled to cast as a shareholder or otherwise in any other corporation, any of whose shares or securities may be held by the Corporation, at meetings of the holders of the shares or other securities of such other corporation. In the event one or more attorneys or agents are appointed, the Chairman of the Board or the President may instruct the person or persons so appointed as to the manner of casting such votes or giving such consent. The Chairman of the Board or the President may, or may instruct the attorneys or agents appointed, to execute or cause to be executed in the name and on behalf of the Corporation and under its seal or 15
16 otherwise, such written proxies, consents, waivers or other instruments as may be necessary or proper in the circumstances. ARTICLE VIII Amendments These By-Laws may be amended or repealed or new by-laws adopted (a) by action of the stockholders entitled to vote thereon at any annual or special meeting of stockholders or (b) if the Certificate of Incorporation so provides, by action of the Board of Directors at a regular or special meeting thereof. Any by-law made by the Board of Directors may be amended or repealed by action of the stockholders at any annual or special meeting of stockholders. 16
5 0000059440 VECTOR GROUP LTD. 1,000 DOLLARS 6-MOS DEC-31-2000 JAN-01-2000 JUN-30-2000 1 33,046 50,345 36,360 0 55,683 65,655 215,883 (49,118) 530,930 359,893 0 0 0 2,199 (141,240) 530,930 383,388 384,979 (154,142) (365,056) 9,409 0 (23,570) 5,762 2,314 3,592 0 (230) 0 3,362 0.15 0.13
5 0000927388 BGLS INC. 1,000 DOLLARS 6-MOS DEC-31-2000 JAN-01-2000 JUN-30-2000 1 32,704 50,345 37,115 0 55,683 241,097 215,856 (49,102) 531,282 357,792 0 0 0 0 (136,519) 531,282 383,388 384,979 (154,142) (362,723) 9,319 0 (23,535) 8,040 2,314 5,870 0 (230) 0 5,640 0 0
1 Exhibit 99.1 I. GOVERNMENTAL HEALTH CARE RECOVERY ACTIONS THE NAVAJO NATION V. PHILIP MORRIS, INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. WR-CV-449-99, District Court of the Navajo Nation, Judicial District of Window Rock, Arizona (case filed 8/11/99). The Navajo nation seeks civil penalties, damages, remediation through tobacco education and anti-addiction programs, injunctive relief, attorney's fees and cost. PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. BC194217, Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles (case filed 7/14/98). People seek injunctive relief and economic reimbursement with respect to damages allegedly caused by environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). PECHANGA BAND OF LUISENO MISSION INDIANS, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 725419, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (case filed 10/30/98). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff tribe and all similarly situated American Indian smokers resident in California. PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 980-864, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 8/5/98). People seek injunctive relief and economic reimbursement with respect to damages allegedly caused by environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). UNITED STATES OF AMERICA V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 1:99CVO2496, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 9/22/99). The United States of America seeks to recover health care costs paid for and furnished, and to be paid for and furnished, by the federal government through Medicare and otherwise, for lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema and other tobacco-related illnesses REPUBLIC OF ECUADOR V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-1951-CA-27, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Miami-Dade County (case filed 1/21/00). The Republic of Ecuador seeks reimbursement of the funds expended on behalf of those injured by and addicted to tobacco products. REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 99-01943-CA-01, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Miami-Dade County (case filed 1/27/99). The Republic of Venezuela seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the Republic in paying for the Medicaid expenses of indigent smokers. THE STATE OF ESPIRITO SANTO, BRAZIL V. BROOKE GROUP LTD., ET AL., Case No. 00-07472-CA- 03, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Miami-Dade County. The State of Espirito Santo, Brazil seeks reimbursement for all costs and damages incurred by the State. THE STATE OF GOIAS, BRAZIL V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 99-24202-CA 02, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida-Dade County (case filed 10/19/99). The State of Goias, Brazil seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages for personal injuries and misrepresentation of risk regarding the use of tobacco products manufactured by defendants. COUNTY OF COOK V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97L04550, Circuit Court, State of Illinois, Cook County (case filed 7/21/97). County of Cook seeks to obtain declaratory and equitable relief and restitution as well as to recover money damages resulting from payment by the County for tobacco-related medical treatment for its citizens and health insurance for its employees. COUNTY OF WAYNE V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., USDC, Eastern District, Michigan. County of Wayne seeks to obtain damages, remediation through tobacco education and anti-addiction programs, injunctive relief, attorneys' fees and costs.
2 CITY OF ST. LOUIS, ET AL. V. AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, INC., ET AL., Case No. CV-982-09652, Circuit Court, State of Missouri, City of St. Louis, (case filed 12/4/98). City of St. Louis and area hospitals seek to recover past and future costs expended to provide healthcare to Medicaid, medically indigent, and non-paying patients suffering from tobacco-related illnesses. COUNTY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI V. AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, INC., ET AL., Case No. 982-09705, Circuit Court, State of Missouri, City of St. Louis, (case filed 12/10/98). County seeks to recover costs from providing healthcare services to Medicaid and indigent patients, as part of the State of Missouris terms as a party to the Master Settlement Agreement. ALLEGHENY GENERAL HOSPITAL, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 98-18956, Court of Common Pleas, State of Pennsylvania, Allegheny County (case filed 10/10/98). Hospitals seek to recover past and future costs expended to provide healthcare to Medicaid, medically indigent, and non-paying patients suffering from tobacco-related illnesses. COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL; Case No. 99-365, USDC, Western District of Pennsylvania (case filed 3/12/99). County seeks equitable relief and economic reimbursement for moneys expended on payments for healthcare for smokers resident in the County. THE CROW CREEK SIOUX TRIBE V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. CV 97-09-082, Tribal Court of The Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, State of South Dakota (case filed 9/26/97). Indian tribe seeks equitable and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the tribe in paying for the expenses of indigent smokers. THE SISSETON-WAHPETON SIOUX TRIBE V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 030399, Tribal Court of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribe, State of North Dakota (case filed 2/3/99). Indian tribe seeks equitable and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the tribe in paying for the expenses of indigent smokers. REPUBLIC OF BOLIVIA V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 6949*JG99, District Court, State of Texas, Brazoria County, State of Texas (case filed 1/20/99). The Republic of Bolivia seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the Republic in paying for the medicaid expenses of indigent smokers. REPUBLIC OF GUATEMALA V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 1:98CV01185, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 5/18/98). The Republic of Guatemala seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the Republic in paying for the medicaid expenses of indigent smokers. REPUBLIC OF NICARAGUA V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-2380 RLA, USDC, District of Puerto Rico (case filed 12/10/98). The Republic of Nicaragua seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the Republic in paying for the medicaid expenses of indigent smokers. REPUBLIC OF PANAMA V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-17752, Civil District Court, State of Louisiana, Orleans Parish (case filed 10/20/98). The Republic of Panama seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the Republic in paying for the medicaid expenses of indigent smokers. THE KINGDOM OF THAILAND V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL, Case No. H-99-0320, USDC, Southern District Texas (case filed 3/11/99). The Kingdom of Thailand seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the Kingdom in paying for the medicaid expenses of indigent smokers. 2
3 THE STATE OF RIO DE JANERIO OF THE FEDERATED REPUBLIC OF BRAZIL V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET al., Case No. CV-32198, District of Angelina County, State of Texas (case filed 7/12/99). The State of Rio de Janerio of The Federated Republic of Brazil seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the Republic in paying for the medicaid expenses of indigent smokers. THE STATE OF SAO PAULO V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 20 00-02058, Civil District Court, Louisiana, Parish of Orleans (case filed 2/9/00). The State of Sao Paulo seeks reimbursement of the funds expanded on behalf of those injured by and addicted to Defendants's tobacco products. UKRAINE V. AMERICAN BRANDS, ET AL., Case No. 1:99CV03080, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 11/19/99). Ukraine seeks compensatory and injunctive relief for damages incurred by the country in paying for the healthcare expenses of resident smokers. COUNTY OF McHENRY, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00L 007949, Circuit Court, Cook County, Illinois (case filed 7/13/00). County of McHenry seeks monetary damages, civil penalties, declaratory and injunctive relief, restitution, and disgorgement of profits. HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN IN RIGHT OF ONTARIO, THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND LONG TERM CARE V. IMPERIAL TOBACCO LIMITED, ET AL., Case No. 00CIV1593, USDC, Southern District of New York. Plaintiff brings this federal civil RICO action for the purpose of obtaining recoupment of its tobacco-related health cost, as well as such other relief as will afford a full and complete remedy. II. THIRD-PARTY PAYOR ACTIONS UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS UNIONS, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. CV-97-1340, Circuit Court of Tuscaloosa, Alabama (case filed 11/13/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. LABORERS' AND OPERATING ENGINEERS UTILITY AGREEMENT V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. CIV97-1406 PHX, USDC, District of Arizona (case filed 7/29/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. ARKANSAS CARPENTERS HEALTH & WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. LR-C-97-0754, USDC, Eastern District of Arkansas (case filed 9/4/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. BAY AREA AUTOMOTIVE GROUP WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC. ET AL., Case No. 994380, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 4/16/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. FIBREBOARD CORPORATION, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 791919-8, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda (case filed 11/10/97). Asbestos company seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. 3
4 NEWSPAPER PERIODICAL DRIVERS LOCAL 921 SAN FRANCISCO NEWSPAPER AGENCY HEALTH & WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 404469, Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo, (case filed 4/15/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. NORTHERN CALIFORNIA GENERAL TEAMSTERS SECURITY FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 798492-9, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda (case filed 5/22/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. NORTHERN CALIFORNIA TILE INDUSTRY HEALTH & WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 996822, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 5/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. OPERATING ENGINEERS LOCAL 12 HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. CV-97-7620 TJH, USDC, Central District of California (case filed 11/6/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. PIPE TRADES DISTRICT COUNCIL NO. 36 HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 797130-1, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda (case filed 4/16/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. SAN FRANCISCO NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEWSPAPER GUILD HEALTH & WELFARE TRUST V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 994409, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 4/17/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. SCREEN ACTORS GUILD - PRODUCERS HEALTH PLAN, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. DC181603, Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles (case filed 11/20/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. THE SEIBELS BRUCE GROUP, INC. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL, Case No. 300235, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 12/30/98). Insurance company seeks to recover equitable contribution from the tobacco industry defendants for the amount that has been, and will be paid by plaintiff for past and future defense and indemnification costs. SIGN, PICTORIAL AND DISPLAY INDUSTRY WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 994403, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 4/16/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. STATIONARY ENGINEERS LOCAL 39 HEALTH & WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. C-97-1519-DLJ, USDC, Northern District of California (case filed 4/25/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. 4
5 TEAMSTERS BENEFIT TRUST V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 796931-5, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda (case filed 4/20/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. UA LOCAL NO. 159 HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 796938-8, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda (case filed 4/15/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. UA LOCAL NO. 343 HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 796956-4, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda. Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. UA LOCAL NO. 393 HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 798474-3, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda (case filed 5/21/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. UA LOCAL NO. 467 HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 404308, Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo. Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. CONNECTICUT PIPE TRADES HEALTH FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 397CV01305CT, USDC, District of Connecticut (case filed 7/17/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. HOLLAND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 1:98CV01716, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 7/9/98). Asbestos company seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. S.E.I.U. LOCAL 74 WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 1:98CV01569, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 6/22/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC. ET AL., Case No. 1:98CV00704, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 3/19/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. SHEET METAL WORKERS TRUST FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 1:99CVO2326, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 8/31/99). Sheet Metal Workers Trust Fund seeks to obtain injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to their participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. 5
6 RAYMARK INDUSTRIES, INC. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 1:97-CV-2711-RCF, USDC, Northern District of Georgia (case filed 11/5/97). Asbestos company seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. ARKANSAS BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 98 C 2612, USDC, Northern District of Illinois (case filed 5/22/98). Seven Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans seek injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by healthcare plans to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. CENTRAL ILLINOIS LABORERS HEALTH & WELFARE TRUST FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-L516, USDC, Southern District of Illinois (case filed 5/22/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. CENTRAL STATES JOINT BOARD HEALTH & WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97L12855, USDC, Northern District of Illinois (case filed 10/30/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS, LOCAL 734 HEALTH & WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97L12852, USDC, Northern District of Illinois (case filed 10/30/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. TEAMSTERS UNION NO. 142, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 71C019709CP01281, USDC, Northern District of Indiana (case filed 9/15/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Union Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. KENTUCKY LABORERS DISTRICT COUNCIL HEALTH & WELFARE TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No.3-97-394, USDC, Western District of Kentucky (case filed 6/20/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Trust Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. ARK-LA-MISS LABORERS WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-1944, USDC, Eastern District of Louisiana (case filed 6/20/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. MASSACHUSETTS LABORERS' HEALTH & WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. C.A. 97-2892G, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Suffolk County (case filed 6/2/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. CARPENTERS & JOINERS WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 60,633-001, USDC, District of Minnesota (case filed 12/31/97). Health and Welfare Trust Plan seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. CONWED CORPORATION, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. C1-98-3620, District Court, Ramsey County, State of Minnesota (case filed 4/30/98). Plaintiffs operate several industrial plants 6
7 in the state of Minnesota, and seek reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. GROUP HEALTH PLAN, INC., ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 98-1036 DSD/JMM, USDC, Second Judicial District, Ramsey County, State of Minnesota (case filed 3/13/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. THOMAS, EZELL, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 96-0065, Circuit Court of Mississippi, Jefferson County (case filed 10/9/98). Plaintiffs in this putative personal injury class action seek a judgment against both tobacco companies and asbestos companies, and represent all similarly situated adult smokers resident in the state of Mississippi. Owens Corning Fiberglass is also a plaintiff in this action and seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. CONSTRUCTION LABORERS OF GREATER ST. LOUIS WELFARE FUND, Case No. 4:97CV02030ERW, USDC, Eastern District of Missouri (case filed 12/1/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. CONTRACTORS, LABORERS, TEAMSTERS & ENGINEERS HEALTH & WELFARE PLAN V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC. ET AL., Case No. 8:98CV364, USDC, District of Nebraska (case filed 8/17/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. NEW JERSEY CARPENTERS HEALTH FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-3421, USDC, District of New Jersey (case filed 10/7/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. BERGERON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INC., ET AL., Case No. CV 99 6142, USDC, State of New York, Eastern District (case filed 10/8/99). This action seeks is brought on behalf of the trustees and fiduciaries of the Massachusetts State Carpenters Health and Benefits Funds on behalf of themselves and other similarly situated trustees of Taft Hartley Health & Welfare funds. BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF NEW JERSEY, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. CV-98-3287(JBW), USDC, Eastern District of New York (case filed 4/29/98). Twenty-five health plans seek to recover moneys expended on healthcare costs purportedly attributed to tobacco-related diseases caused by Defendants. DAY CARE COUNCIL-LOCAL 205 D.C. 1707 WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 606240/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/4/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. EASTERN STATES HEALTH AND WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 603869/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 7/28/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. 7
8 FALISE V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. CV 97-7640(JBW), USDC, Eastern District of New York (case filed 11/31/97). Asbestos company seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. H.K. PORTER COMPANY, INC. V. B.A.T. INDUSTRIES, P.L.C., ET AL., Case No. 97-7658(JBW), USDC, Eastern District of New York (case filed 6/19/98). Asbestos company seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. IBEW LOCAL 25 HEALTH AND BENEFIT FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 122255/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/25/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. IBEW LOCAL 363 WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 122254/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/25/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. KEENE CREDITORS TRUST V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CORP., ET AL., Case no. 606479/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/19/97). Asbestos company seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. LABORERS' LOCAL 17 HEALTH BENEFIT FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 98-7944, 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals, State of New York (case filed 7/17/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and benefactors suffering from smoking-related illnesses. LOCAL 1199 HOME CARE INDUSTRY BENEFIT FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 606249/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/4/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. LOCAL 1199 NATIONAL BENEFIT FUND FOR HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES EMPLOYEES V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 606241/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/4/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. LOCAL 138, 138A & 138B INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 122257/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/25/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. LOCAL 840 INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS HEALTH & INSURANCE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 122256/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/25/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. LONG ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS WELFARE LOCAL 840 INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS HEALTH & INSURANCE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 122258/97, Supreme Court of New York, New 8
9 York County (case filed 11/25/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. NATIONAL ASBESTOS WORKERS MEDICAL FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 98-1492, USDC, Eastern District of New York (case filed 3/23/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. PUERTO RICAN ILGWU HEALTH & WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 604785-97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/25/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. RAYMARK INDUSTRIES, INC. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 98-CV-675, USDC, Eastern District of New York (case filed 5/21/98). Asbestos company seeks reimbursement for damages paid to asbestos victims for medical and other relief, which damages allegedly are attributable to the tobacco companies. UNITED FEDERATION OF TEACHERS WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-CIV-4676, USDC, Southern District of New York (case filed 7/17/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. UNR ASBESTOS-DISEASE CLAIMS TRUST V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 105152/99, Supreme Court of the State of New York, New York County (case filed 3/15/99). The Trust brings this action to recover contribution, indemnity and/or reimbursement from the tobacco defendants. STEAMFITTERS LOCAL UNION NO. 420 WELFARE FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC, ET AL., Case No. 97-CV-5344, USDC, Eastern District of Pennsylvania (case filed 10/7/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. RHODE ISLAND LABORERS' HEALTH & WELFARE FUND V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 97-500L, USDC, District of Rhode Island (case filed 10/24/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. STEAMFITTERS LOCAL UNION NO. 614 HEALTH AND WELFARE FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 92260-2, Circuit Court for the 30th Judicial District at Memphis, State of Tennessee (case filed 1/7/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. TEXAS CARPENTERS HEALTH BENEFIT FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 1:97C0625, USDC, Eastern District of Texas (case filed 11/7/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. UTAH LABORERS' HEALTH AND WELFARE TRUST FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 2:98CV403C, USDC, District of Utah, Central Division (case filed 6/11/98). Health and Welfare Trust 9
10 Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. ASSOCIATION OF WASHINGTON PUBLIC HOSPITAL DISTRICTS, ET AL V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL, Case No. C98-1675, USDC, Western District of Washington (case filed 3/17/99). Public Hospital Districts seek injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended in providing medical treatment to its patients suffering from smoking-related illnesses. NORTHWEST LABORERS-EMPLOYERS HEALTH & SECURITY TRUST FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. C97-849-WD, USDC, Western District of Washington (case filed 6/26/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. REGENCE BLUESHIELD, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. C98-559R, USDC, Western District of Washington (case filed 4/29/98). Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans seek injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by healthcare plans to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. WEST VIRGINIA LABORERS' PENSION TRUST FUND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 397-0708, USDC, Southern District of West Virginia (case filed 8/27/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. WEST VIRGINIA - OHIO VALLEY AREA I.B.E.W., ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-C-2135, USDC, Southern District of West Virginia (case filed 9/19/97). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. MILWAUKEE CARPENTERS' DISTRICT COUNCIL HEALTH FUND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 98CV002394, Circuit Court of Wisconsin, Milwaukee County (case filed 3/30/98). Health and Welfare Trust Fund seeks injunctive relief and economic reimbursement to recover moneys expended by Fund to provide medical treatment to its participants and beneficiaries suffering from smoking-related illnesses. III. CLASS ACTION CASES HANSEN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. LR-C-96-881, USDC, Eastern District of Arkansas (case filed 4/4/97). This "addiction-as-injury" putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly addicted smokers resident in Arkansas. BROWN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 711400, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (case filed 10/1/97). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in California. DANIELS, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 719446, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (case filed 8/13/98). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in California. SMOKERS FOR FAIRNESS, LLC, ET AL. V. THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ET AL., Case No. 7076751, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (case filed 9/25/98). Plaintiffs bring this putative class action on behalf of all similarly situated adult smokers resident in the State of California. 10
11 ENGLE, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 94-08273 CA 20, Circuit Court, State of Florida, Dade County (case filed 5/5/94). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in Florida. The case was certified as a class action on October 31, 1994. Trial commenced in July 1998. See Note 12, Contingencies, for a more detailed discussion of this case. PETERSON, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 97-0490-02, First Circuit Court of the First Circuit, State of Hawaii (case filed 2/6/97). This "addiction-as-injury" putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly addicted smokers resident in Hawaii. CLAY, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 97-4167-JPG, USDC, Southern District of Illinois (case filed 5/22/97). This "addiction-as-injury" putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly addicted smokers resident in 34 states. CLEARY, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98 L06427, Circuit Court of the State of Illinois, Cook County (case filed 6/11/98). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated smokers resident in Illinois. NORTON, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 48-D01-9605-CP-0271, Superior Court of Indiana, Madison County (case filed 5/3/96). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated injured smokers resident in Indiana. BRAMMER, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 4-97-CV-10461, USDC, Southern District of Iowa (case filed 6/30/97). This "addiction-as-injury" putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiffs and all similarly situated allegedly addicted smokers resident in Iowa. CASTANO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 95-30725, USDC, Eastern District of Louisiana (case filed 3/29/94). This case was settled by Liggett and Brooke on March 12, 1996. Nationwide Aaddiction-as-injury@ class action was decertified by the Fifth Circuit in May 1996. GRANIER, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., USDC, Eastern District of Louisiana (case filed 9/29/94). This case currently is stayed pursuant to a decision in CASTANO. YOUNG, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 2:97-CV-03851, Civil District Court, State of Louisiana, Orleans Parish (case filed 11/12/97). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in Louisiana. RICHARDSON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 96145050/CL212596, Circuit Court, Baltimore City, Maryland (case filed on 5/29/96). This "addiction-as-injury" putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly addicted smokers resident in Maryland. NATIONAL TOBACCO CONSUMERS' GROUP NUMBER 1 V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Demand letter and draft complaint, Superior Court, Massachusetts, Middlesex County. NATIONAL TOBACCO CONSUMERS' GROUP NUMBER 13 V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Demand letter and draft complaint, Superior Court, Massachusetts, Middlesex County. POIRIER, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Demand letter and draft complain, Superior Court, Massachusetts, Middlesex County. 11
12 TAYLOR, TERRY, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 97-715975, Circuit Court of Michigan, Wayne County (case filed 7/28/97). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in Michigan. BADILLO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. CV-N-97-573-HDM (RAM), USDC, District of Nevada (case filed 11/4/97). This action is brought on behalf of all Nevada casino workers that allegedly have been injured by exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. DIENNO, VITO AND MARTIN N. HALLNAN, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. CV-S-98-489-DWH (RLH), District Court, Clark County, Nevada (case filed 12/22/97). This action is brought on behalf of all Nevada casino workers that allegedly have been injured by exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. SELCER, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. CV-S-97-00334-PMP (RLH), USDC, District of Nevada (case filed 9/3/97). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in Nevada. AVALLONE, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. MID-L-4883-98, Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex County (case filed 5/5/98). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated non-smokers allegedly injured from exposure to second hand smoke resident in New Jersey. COSENTINO, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. L-5135-97, Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division, Middlesex County (case filed 5/21/97). This "addiction-as-injury" putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly addicted smokers resident in New Jersey. GEIGER, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Index No. 10657/97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 1/12/97). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated injured smokers resident in New York. NWANZE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-CIV-7344, USDC, Southern District of New York (case filed 10/17/97). This action is brought on behalf of all prisoners nationwide that have allegedly been injured by exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. SIMON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INC, ET AL., Case No CV 99 1998, USDC, Eastern District of New York (case filed 4/9/99), This personal injury action is brought on behalf of plaintiffs seeking certification of a nation wide class under the applicable provisions of Rule 23 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, on behalf of persons who have smoked defendant's cigarettes and who presently have a claim for personal injuries or damages, or wrongful death, arising from the smoking of defendants' cigarettes. CREEKMORE, ESTATE OF, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CORPORATION, ET AL., Case No. 98 CV 03403, Superior Court of North Carolina, Buncombe County (case filed 11/19/98). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiffs and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in North Carolina. BROWN, REV. JESSE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-CV-5518, USDC, Eastern District of Pennsylvania (case filed 10/22/98). This civil rights putative class action is brought by several national African-American organizations, on behalf of all African-Americans resident in the United States who have smoked menthol cigarettes. 12
13 SWEENEY, ET AL. V. AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. GD98-16226, Court of Common Pleas, State of Pennsylvania, Allegheny County (case filed 10/15/98). This putative class action is brought on behalf of all current smokers who began smoking prior to the age of eighteen resident in the State of Pennsylvania. AKSAMIT, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 6:97-3636-21, USDC, District of South Carolina, Greenville Division (case filed 11/24/97). This personal injury putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in South Carolina. NEWBORN, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-2938 GV, USDC, Western District of Tennessee (case filed 10/1/97). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in Tennessee. BUSH, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 597CV180, USDC, Eastern District of Texas (case filed 9/22/97). Two individuals suing on behalf of a class of individuals. This case currently is stayed until 5/10/99. COLE, ET AL. V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, ET AL., Case No. 1:97CV0256, USDC, Eastern District of Texas (case filed 5/12/97). Two individuals suing on behalf of a class of individuals. MASON, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 7-97CV-293-X, USDC, Northern District of Texas (case filed 12/23/97). This nationwide taxpayer putative class action seeks reimbursement of Medicare expenses made by the United States government. HERRERA, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 2:98-CV-00126, USDC, District of Utah (case filed 1/28/98). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers under the age of nineteen [at time of original filing] resident in Utah. JACKSON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 980901634PI, 3rd Judicial Court of Utah, Salt Lake County (case filed 3/10/98). This "addiction-as-injury" class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in Utah. INGLE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-C-21-S, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, McDowell County (case filed 2/4/97). This personal injury putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in West Virginia. McCUNE V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 97-C-204, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 1/31/97). This "addiction-as-injury" putative class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly addicted smokers resident in West Virginia. PARSONS, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-C-388, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 4/9/98). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff's decedent and all West Virginia residents having claims for personal injury arising from exposure to both cigarette smoke and asbestos fibers. WALKER, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 2:97-0102, USDC, Southern District of West Virginia (case filed 2/12/97). Nationwide class certified and limited fund class action settlement preliminarily approved with respect to Liggett and Brooke Group on May 15, 1997. Class decertified and preliminary approval of settlement withdrawn by order of district court on August 5, 1997, which order currently is on appeal to the Fourth Circuit. 13
14 FLETCHER, ET AL. V. BROOKE GROUP LTD., Civil Action No. 97-913, Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama (Case filed 3/19/97). Nationwide class of individuals alleging smoking-related claims. The limited fund settlement was preliminarily approved by the court in December 1998. Final approval of the limited fund settlement was denied on July 22, 1999. A motion for reconsideration of that order presently is pending. ARNITZ, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Circuit Court of the 13th Judicial Circuit, Hillsborough County, Florida (case filed 6/30/00). Plaintiffs are seeking class action representation, similarly to ENGLE, with the exception that this class action applies to class members diagnosed after July 15, 1997 with lung cancer, throat cancer or cancer of the oral cavity. MYERS, ET AL. V. ARTHUR A. HAYES, JR., ET AL. Case No. 00C1773, Circuit Court, Davidson County, Tennessee. This action is for injunctive relief and damages. Plaintiffs allege a class action against the tobacco defendants for their smoking related medical expenses paid by Medicaid and/or Tenn care under in violation of 42 USCS 1981 et seq., 18 USCS 241 (Conspiracy against rights), and 42 USCS 1986. IV. INDIVIDUAL SMOKER CASES SPRINGER V. LIGGETT GROUP INC. AND LIGGETT & MYERS, INC., Case No. LR-C-98-428, USDC, Eastern District of Arkansas (case filed 7/19/98). Two individuals suing. Liggett only defendant. BAKER, ET AL V. SAFEWAY, INC., ET AL., Case No. 304532, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco(case filed 6/28/99). Two individuals suing. CHANDLER V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. BC226097, Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County (case filed 3/7/00). One individual suing. COLFIELD, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. CIV S-98-1695, USDC, Eastern District of California (case filed 9/3/98). Eleven individuals suing. CONER V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. BC227929, Superior Court, California, Los Angeles (case filed 3/7/00). One individual suing. COOK, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. CIV. S-98-1698, USDC, Eastern District of California (case filed 9/2/98). Eight individuals suing. COOPER V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. BC227929, Superior Court, California, Los Angeles County (case filed 4/7/00). One individual suing. CRAYTON V. SAFEWAY, INC., ET AL., Case No. RDC 820871-0, Superior Court, Alameda County, California (case filed 1/18/00). One individual suing. DONALDSON, ET AL. V. RAYBESTOS MANHATTAN, INC., ET AL., Case No.998147, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 9/25/98). Two individuals suing. ELLIS V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 804002, Superior Court of California, County of Orange (case filed 1/13/99). One individual suing. GUZMAN, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 300200, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 12/29/98). Four individuals suing. 14
15 HELT, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. CIV S-98-1697, USDC, Eastern District of California (case filed 9/3/98). Eight individuals suing. JONES V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 812307, Superior Court, State of California, County of Orange (case filed 7/26/99). One individual suing. MAGGARD, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. CV779940, Superior Court, State of California, Santa Clara County (case filed 2/16/99). Two individuals suing. REIN V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 807453-1, Superior Court of California, County of Alameda (case filed 5/5/99). One individual suing. REYNOLDS, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. SC024107, Superior Court of California, County of Ventura (case filed 10/04/99). Two individuals suing. ROBINSON, ET AL. V. RAYBESTOS-MANHATTAN, INC., ET AL., Case No. 996378, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 7/23/98). Two individuals suing. ROVAI V. RAYBESTOS-MANHATTAN, ET AL., Case No. 996380, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 7/23/98). One individual suing. SELLERS, ET AL. V. RAYBESTOS-MANHATTAN, ET AL., Case No. 996382, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco (case filed 7/23/98). Two individuals suing. SHAFFER V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, INC., ET AL., Case No. 99AD06057, Superior Court, Sacramento County, California (case filed 10/29/99). One individual suing. STERN, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. M37696, Superior Court of California, County of Monterey (case filed 4/28/97). Two individuals suing. WILLIAMS V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. BC227930, Superior Court, California, Los Angeles County (case filed 4/7/00). One individual suing. ADAMS V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97 05442, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 4/10/97). Two individuals suing. ALLMAN V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-91348 CICI, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 6/2/97). Two individuals suing. ALTIERI V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. CI 97-4289, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (cased filed 8/12/97). One individual suing. ARMAND V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31179-CICI, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 7/9/97). Two individuals suing. ATCHESON V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31148-CICU, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 7/29/97). One individual suing. ATKINS V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. CI97-6597, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 9/16/97). One individual suing. 15
16 BAILEY, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-18056 CA15, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 8/18/97). Two individuals suing. BARTLEY, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-11153, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/21/97). Two individuals suing. BLAIR V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31177, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 7/29/97). One individual suing. BLANK V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-05443, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 4/10/97). Two individuals suing. BOUCHARD V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31347, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 6/2/97). Two individuals suing. BRONSTEIN, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-008769, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). Two individuals suing. BROWN V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. CI-97-5050, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 9/16/97). Two individuals suing. BURNS, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-11175-27, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 4/3/98). One individual suing. CLARK V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., Case No. 95-3333-CA, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Dade County (case filed 8/18/95). One individual suing. Liggett only defendant. COWART V. LIGGETT GROUP INC, ET AL., Case No.98-01483CA, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 3/16/98). One individual suing. DAVIS, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-11145, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 7/21/97). One individual suing. DAVISON, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97008776, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). Two individuals suing. DE LA TORRE, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-11161, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 7/21/97). One individual suing. DELL V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No.97 1023-CA-10-A, Circuit Court of the 18th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Seminole County (case filed 7/29/97). One individual suing. DICK V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. CI 97-4544, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 8/21/97). Two individuals suing. DILL V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-05446, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 4/10/97). One individual suing. DOUGHERTY V. PHILIP MORRIS INC., ET AL., Case No. 1999 32074 CICI, Circuit Court, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 11/17/99). One individual suing. 16
17 DOYLE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-627-CA, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Flagler County (case filed 9/16/97). Two individuals suing. DRISCOLL V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97 1049-CA-10, Circuit Court of the 18th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Seminole County (case filed 7/29/97). Two individuals suing. DUECKER V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., Case No. 98-03093 CA, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 7/5/98). One individual suing. Liggett only defendant. EASTMAN V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CORP., ET AL., Case No. 01-98-1348, Circuit Court of the 13th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Hillsborough County (case filed 3/11/98). One individual suing. FISCHETTI V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. CI 97-9792, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 11/17/97). One individual suing. FLAKS, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-008750, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). Two individuals suing. GARRETSON, ET UX. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-32441 CICI, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 10/22/96). One individual suing. GOLDBERG, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-008780, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). Two individuals suing. GRAY, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-21657 CA 42, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Putnam County (case filed 10/15/97). Two individuals suing. HABIB V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-30960 CICI, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 7/10/97). One individual suing. HALEN V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. CL 96005308, Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Palm Beach County (case filed 6/19/96). One individual suing. HARRIS, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-1151, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 7/21/97). Two individuals suing. HART, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 9708781, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). One individual suing. HAYES, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31007, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 6/30/97). Two individuals suing. HENIN V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-29320 CA 05, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Dade County (case filed 12/26/97). One individual suing. HENNING. ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-11159, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 7/21/97). Two individuals suing. HITCHENS, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No.97008783, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). 17
18 HUMPAL, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-10456 CIDL, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 6/30/97). Two individuals suing. KATZ V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 95-15307-CA-01, USDC, Southern District of Florida (case filed 8/3/95). One individual suing. Plaintiff has dismissed all defendants except Liggett Group Inc. KALOUSTIAN V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 95-5498, Circuit Court for the 13th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Hillsborough County (case filed 8/28/95). Two individuals suing. KRUEGER, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 96-1692-CIV-T-24A, USDC, Middle District of Florida (case filed 8/30/96). Two individuals suing. LAPPIN V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31371 CICI, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 6/2/97). One individual suing. LASCHKE, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 96-8131-CI-008, Circuit Court of the 6th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Pinellas County (case filed 12/20/96). Two individuals suing. LASS V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 96-04469, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 12/23/96). Two individuals suing. LEOMBRUNO, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. CI 97-4540, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 9/16/97). Two individuals suing. LEVINE V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. CL 95-98769 (AH), Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Palm Beach County (case filed 7/24/96). One individual suing. LOBLEY V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-1033-CA-10-L, Circuit Court of the 18th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Seminole County (case filed 7/29/97). Two individuals suing. LUSTIG, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97 11168, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 7/21/97). One individual suing. MAGLIARISI, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97008895, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/11/97). One individual suing. MANLEY, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-11173-27, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 4/3/98). Two individuals suing. McMAHON V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. G-97-1391, Circuit Court of the 10th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Polk County (case filed 4/29/97). Two individuals suing. MEAGHER V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. CI 97-4543, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 5/22/97). Two individuals suing. MECKLER, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-03949-CA, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 7/10/97). One individual suing. MULLIN V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 95-15287 CA 15, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Dade County (case filed 11/7/95). One individual suing. 18
19 MULLINS V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-4749-37, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 9/16/97). Two individuals suing. O'ROURKE V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-31345-CICI, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 6/2/97). One individual suing. PEREZ, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 96-1721-CIV-T-24B, USDC, Middle District of Florida (case filed 8/20/96). One individual suing. PHILLIPS V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31278, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 5/27/97). One individual suing. PIPOLO V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-05448, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 4/10/97). Two individuals suing. POYTHRESS V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-30844, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 5/5/97). One individual suing. RAUCH, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-11144, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 7/21/97). Two individuals suing. RAWLS, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-01354 CA, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 3/6/97). One individual suing. REBANE, ET AL. V, BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. CIO-00-0000750, Circuit Court, Orange County, Florida (case filed 2/1/00). Two individuals suing. REILLY, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-2468-CA, Circuit Court of the 5th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Lake County (case filed 10/22/97). Two individuals suing. RIX V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 96-1778 CA, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 4/29/96). One individual suing. SCHULTZ V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 99019898, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 11/24/99). One individual suing. SHAW, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-008755, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). Two individuals suing. SHIRA V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. CI 97-4576, Circuit Court of the 9th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Orange County (case filed 5/30/97). Two individuals suing. SPOTTS V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-31373 CICI, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 9/16/97). One individual suing. STAFFORD V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-7732-CI-019, Circuit Court of the 6th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Pinellas County (case filed 11/14/97). One individual suing. STEWART V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97 2025 CA, Circuit Court of the 5th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Lake County (case filed 9/16/97). Two individuals suing. 19
20 STRICKLAND, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 98-00764, Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Dade County (case filed 1/8/98). Two individuals suing. STROHMETZ V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 98-03787 CA, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 7/16/98). One individual suing. SWANK-REICH V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97008782, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). One individual suing. THOMSON, BARRY, V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-400-CA, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Flagler County (case filed 9/2/97). One individual suing. THOMSON, EILEEN, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-11170, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 7/21/97). One individual suing. UFFNER V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 18142, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 12/31/96). Two individuals suing. VENTURA V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-27024 CA (09), Circuit Court of the 11th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Dade County (case filed 11/26/97). One individual suing. WASHINGTON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-10575 CIDL, Circuit Court of the 7th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Volusia County (case filed 9/16/97). Two individuals suing. WEIFFENBACH, ET UX. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 96-1690-CIV-T-24C, USDC, Middle District of Florida (case filed 8/30/96). Two individuals suing. WISCH V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-008759, Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Broward County (case filed 6/10/97). One individual suing. YOUNG V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 96-03566, Circuit Court of the 4th Judicial Circuit, State of Florida, Duval County (case filed 11/30/95). One individual suing. BROWN-JONES V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-RCCV-28, Superior Court of Georgia, Richmond County (case filed 1/13/98). Two individuals suing. POLSTON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 199-CV-2958, USDC, Northern District, State of Georgia (case filed 11/15/99).Two individuals suing. DENBERG, ET AL. V. AMERICAN BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No.97L07963, USDC, Northern District of Illinois (case filed 8/13/97). Four individuals suing. (Formerly Daley). ROGERS V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 49 D 02-9301-CT-0008, Superior Court of Indiana, Marion County (case filed 3/7/97). Two individuals suing. SUMPTER V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. IP98-0401-C-M/G, USDC, District of Indiana, Marion County (case filed 2/26/98). 15 individuals suing. GRONBERG, ET AL. V. LIGGETT & MYERS, ET AL., Case No. LA-CV-080487, District Court, State of Iowa, Black Hawk County (case filed 3/30/98). Two individuals suing. 20
21 KOBOLD, ET AL. V. BAT INDUSTRIES, ET AL., Case No. CL-77551, District Court, State of Iowa, Polk County (case filed 9/15/98). Two individuals suing. MASON V. AMERICAN BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. CL7922, District Court, State of Iowa, Polk County (case filed 4/13/99). One individual suing. ESTATE OF LOREN H. MITCHELL, ET AL. V. LIGGETT & MYERS, ET AL., Case No. C00-3026, USDC, State of Iowa, Northern District (case filed 4/19/00). Two individuals suing. WRIGHT, ET AL. V. BROOKE GROUP LIMITED, ET AL., Case No. LA CV 05867, District Court, State of Iowa, Cerro Gordo County (case filed 11/10/99). Two individuals suing. ALEXANDER, ET UX V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 99-C-3975-A, 27th Judicial District Court, St. Landry Parish (case filed 9/27/99). Two individuals suing. BADON, ET UX. V. RJR NABISCO INC., ET AL., Case No. 10-13653, USDC, Western District of Louisiana (case filed 5/24/94). Six individuals suing. BIRD, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 507-532, 24th Judicial District Court, State of Louisiana, Jefferson Parish (case filed 4/10/97). Four individuals suing. BRAKEL, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 96-13672-D, USDC, Eastern District of Louisiana (case filed 8/30/96). Seven individuals suing. HEBERT, ET AL. V. UNITED STATES TOBACCO, ET AL., Case No. 96-2281, 14th Judicial District Court, State of Louisiana, Calcasieu Parish (case filed 5/8/96). Two individuals suing. HIGGINS, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 96-2205, USDC, Eastern District of Louisiana (case filed 6/1/96). One individual suing. JACKSON V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CORP., ET AL., Case No. 97-441-C-MI, USDC, Middle District of Louisiana (case filed 7/3/97). One individual suing. KENNON V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 98-586, USDC, Middle District of Louisiana (case filed 12/5/97). One individual suing. OSER V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-9293, Civil District of the Judicial District Court, State of Louisiana, Orleans Parish (case filed 5/27/97). One individual suing. PITRE, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS , ET AL., Case No. 97 CA 0059, 19th Judicial District Court, State of Louisiana, East Baton Rouge Parish (case filed 8/7/92). Five individuals suing. POTTS , ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 41844, 40th Judicial District, State of Louisiana, St. John the Baptist Parish (case filed 4/6/00). Seven individuals suing. RACCA, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 10-14999, 38th Judicial District Court, State of Louisiana, Cameron Parish (case filed 7/16/98). Eleven individuals suing. ADAMS V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Massachusetts, Demand Letter. One individual suing. ANDERSON V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, Case No. 99-2915, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 6/8/99). One individual suing. 21
22 ESTATE OF FRED G. ARNOLD V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, Demand Letter. Two individuals suing. BAKOIAN, ESTATE OF MYDA V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 98-3737, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 6/22/98). One individual suing. BISTANY V. MICHAEL T. SHANNON, D.M.D., ET AL., Case No. 00-1557, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County. One individual suing. BOHL V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-6195, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 12/18/98). One individual suing. BRANDANO V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/25/98). One individual suing. CAMERON V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-4960, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/3/98). One individual suing. CARMICHAEL-FOLEY V. LOWNEY, ET AL., Case No. 98-3694, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 7/17/98). One individual suing. CURTIS V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-4488, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/27/98). One individual suing. FEENEY V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-4241, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 7/15/98). One individual suing. FRANCIS, ESTATE OF RALPH V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-4963, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/25/98). One individual suing. GORDON V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-5417, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/10/98). One individual suing. GREBAUSKI V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 99-1063B, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 1/25/99). One individual suing. HARB V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-597, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 9/10/98). One individual suing. HISCOCK V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.98-446, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 7/15/98). One individual suing. ESTATE OF JOHN C. JOHNSON, ET AL V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Demand Letter, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex, County. Four individuals suing. JONES V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-4940, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/1/98). One individual suing. MAIENZA V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-4888, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/25/98). Two individuals suing. 22
23 McKENNEY, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-3910, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 7/27/98). One individual suing. MONTY V. HARVARD PILGRIM HEALTH CARE, ET AL., Demand Letter. Superior Court, Massachusetts. MULCAHY V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-5208, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 9/5/98). One individual suing. ESTATE OF ETTA NYSKO, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Demand letter and draft complaint, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County. Three individual suing. PAIGE V. MARILYN KOVANT, M.D., ET AL., Demand letter and draft complaint, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County. One individual suing. PISCIONE V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Demand letter and draft complaint, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County. One individual suing. REEDY, ESTATE OF MARIE, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-5056, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 8/13/98). One individual suing. SATCHELL V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Demand Letter. Superior Court, Massachusetts. SEMPRUCCI V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-6268, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 12/21/98). One individual suing. TENERILLO V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-4214, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 7/14/98). One individual suing. WEST V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Massachusetts. Demand letter. One individual suing. WOLF V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 99-01260, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Norfolk County (case filed 9/1/99). One individual suing. VARGHESSE V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-6124, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 12/17/98). One individual suing. VARNEY V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-5835, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 10/27/98). One individual suing. WAJDA V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-4959, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 7/17/98). One individual suing. WALECKI V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 00-081, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County. One individual suing. WATT V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-5499, USDC, District of Massachusetts (case filed 8/18/98). One individual suing. WHITING V. LIGGETT GROUP, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-5026, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 9/4/98). One individual suing. 23
24 WOODS, ESTATE OF HELEN V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-5721, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 11/18/98). One individual suing. WOODS, JOSEPH V. THE TOBACCO INSTITUTE, INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-5723, Superior Court of Massachusetts, Middlesex County (case filed 11/18/98). One individual suing. COLLIER, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 1:98 ov 246RG, USDC, Southern District of Mississippi (case filed 6/5/98). This putative class action is brought on behalf of all non-smoking policemen and seamen employed in the United States who allegedly have been injured by exposure to second hand smoke. JACKSON, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No., Circuit Court, State of Mississippi, Jefferson County. This action seeks judgment from both the Tobacco Defendants and the Asbestos Defendants for joint and several liability WHITE, HENRY LEE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 5:97-CV-91BRS, Chancery Court of Mississippi, Jefferson County (case filed 4/24/97). This personal injury class action is brought on behalf of plaintiff and all similarly situated allegedly injured smokers resident in Mississippi. BLYTHE V. RAPID AMERICAN CORPORATION, ET AL., Case No. CI 96-0080-AS, Circuit Court, State of Mississippi, Jackson County (case filed 9/23/96). One individual suing. BUTLER, ESTATE OF BURL V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 94-5-53, Circuit Court of the 2nd Judicial District, State of Mississippi, Jones County (case filed 5/12/94). One individual suing. ESTATE OF ED DOSS, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 99-0108, Circuit Court, State of Mississippi, Jefferson County (case filed 8/17/99). Nine individuals suing. Liggett has not been served. EVANS V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 97-0027, Circuit Court of the 1st Judicial District, State of Mississippi, Jasper County (case filed 6/10/97). One individual suing. ROSE V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 2:98 CV 132, USDC, Northern District of Mississippi (case filed 7/30/98). One individual suing. MUMIN V, PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 4:99CV-03005, USDC, District Court of Nebraska (case filed 7/5/99). Eleven individuals suing. MURPHY V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. CV-S-98-00021-HDM (RJJ), USDC, Southern District of Nevada (case filed 1/6/98). Liggett has not yet been served. One individual suing. JOAN HOWARD, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Superior Court, New Hampshire, Merrimack County. Two individuals suing. PISCITELLO, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-CIV-4613, Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex County (case filed 3/6/98). TEPPER AND WATKINS, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INC., ET AL., Case No. BER-L-4983-97-E, Superior Court of New Jersey, Middlesex County (case filed 5/28/97). HAINES (ETC.) V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. C 6568-96B, USDC, District of New Jersey (case filed 2/2/94). One individual suing. 24
25 ALTMAN, ET AL. V. FORTUNE BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-123521, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/16/97). Seven individuals suing. ANDERSON, ET AL. V. FORTUNE BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 42821-97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 11/13/97). Six individuals suing. ARNETT, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 109416/98, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 5/29/98). Nine individuals suing. BELLOWS, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 122518/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/26/97). Five individuals suing. BRAND, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INC., ET AL., Case No. 29017/98, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 12/21/98). Two individuals suing. CAIAZZO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 13213/97, Supreme Court of New York, Richmond County (case filed 10/27/97). Six individuals suing. CAMERON V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 019125/97, Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County (case filed 7/18/97). Five individuals suing. CANAAN V. PHILIP MORRIS INC., ET AL., Case No. 105250/98, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 3/24/98). One individual suing. CARLL, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 112444/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 8/12/97). Five individuals suing. CAVANAGH, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.11533/97, Supreme Court of New York, Richmond County (case filed 4/23/97). Two individuals suing. COLLINS, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 08322/97, Supreme Court of New York, Westchester County (case filed 7/2/97). Nine individuals suing. CONDON, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 108902/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 2/4/97). Seven individuals suing. CRANE, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.106202-97, USDC, Southern District of New York (case filed 4/4/97). Four individuals suing. CREECH, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 106202-97, Supreme Court of New York, Richmond County (case filed 1/14/97). Four individuals suing. CRESSER, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 36009/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 10/4/96). Two individuals suing. DA SILVA, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.106095/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 1/14/97). Six individuals suing. DOMERACKI V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 98/6859, Supreme Court of New York, Erie County (case filed 8/3/98). One individual suing. 25
26 DOUGHERTY, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-09768, Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County (case filed 4/18/97). Two individuals suing. DZAK, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 26283/96, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 12/2/96). Five individuals suing. EVANS, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 28926/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 8/23/96). Two individuals suing. FINK, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 110336/97 Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 4/25/97). Six individuals suing. GOLDEN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 112445/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 8/11/97). Six individuals suing. GRECO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 15514-97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 7/18/97). Three individuals suing. GRUDER , ET AL. V. FORTUNE BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No.48487/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/8/97). Four individuals. GUILLOTEAU, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 46398/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 11/26/97). Four individuals suing. HANSEN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.97-26291, Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County (case filed 4/12/97). Six individuals suing. HELLEN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 28927/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 8/23/96). Two individuals suing. INZERILLA, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 11754/96, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 7/16/96). Two individuals suing. JAUST, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 116249/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 10/14/97). Ten individuals suing. JULIANO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 12470/97, Supreme Court of New York, Richmond County (case filed 8/12/96). Four individuals suing. KEENAN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 116545-97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 10/6/97). Eight individuals suing. KESTENBAUM, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 109350/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 6/4/97). Eight individuals suing. KNUTSEN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 36860/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 4/25/97). Two individuals suing. KOTLYAR, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 28103/97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 11/26/97). Five individuals suing. 26
27 KRISTICH, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 96-29078, Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County (case filed 10/12/97). Two individuals suing. KROCHTENGEL V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 24663/98, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 7/15/98). One individual suing. LABROILA, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-12855, Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County (case filed 7/20/97). Four individuals suing. LEHMAN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 112446/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 8/11/97). One individual suing. LEIBSTEIN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-019145, Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County (case filed 7/25/97). Six individuals suing. LEIDERMAN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 22691/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 7/23/97). Three individuals suing. LENNON, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 120503/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/19/97). Seven individuals suing. LE PAW V. B.A.T. INDUSTRIES, ET AL., Case No. 17695-96, USDC, Southern District of New York (case filed 8/14/96). Four individuals suing. LEVINSON, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 13162/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 4/17/97). Seven individuals suing. LIEN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-9309, Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County (case filed 4/28/97). Two individuals suing. LITKE, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 15739/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 5/1/97). Five individuals suing. LOHN V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 105249/98, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 3/26/98). One individual suing. LOMBARDO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 16765/97, Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County (case filed 6/6/97). Five individuals suing. LONG, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 22574-97, Supreme Court of New York, Bronx County (case filed 10/22/97). Four individuals suing. LOPARDO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 027182/97, Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County (case filed 10/27/97). Six individuals suing. LUCCA, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 3583/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 1/27/97). Two individuals suing. LYNCH, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 117244/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 10/22/97). Five individuals suing. 27
28 MAGNUS V. FORTUNE BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. CV-98-3441, USDC, Eastern District of New York (case filed 5/6/98). Three individuals suing. MAISONET, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 17289/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 5/20/97). Three individuals suing. MARGOLIN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 120762/96, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/22/96). One individual suing. MARTIN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 15982-97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 7/18/97). Three individuals suing. McGUINNESS, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 112447/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 7/28/97). Six individuals suing. McLANE, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 11620/97, Supreme Court of New York, Richmond County (case filed 5/13/97). Four individuals suing. MEDNICK, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 29140/1997, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 9/19/97). Eight individuals suing. MISHK, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 108036/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed May 1, 1997). Five individuals suing. MOREY V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. I1998/9921, Supreme Court of New York, Erie County (case filed 10/30/98). Two individuals suing. NEWELL, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-25155, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 10/3/97). Six individuals suing. NOCIFORO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 96-16324, Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County (case filed 7/12/96). One individual suing. O'HARA, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 103095/98, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 2/23/98). Two individuals suing. ORNSTEIN V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 117548/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 9/29/97). One individual suing. PEREZ, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 26347/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 8/26/97). Seven individuals suing. PERRI, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 029554/97, Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County (case filed 11/24/97). Six individuals suing. PICCIONE, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 34371/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 10/27/97). Five individuals suing. PORTNOY, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 16323/96, Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County (case filed 7/16/96). Two individuals suing. 28
29 REITANO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 28930/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 8/22/96). One individual suing. RICO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPASTATE OF NEW YORK, ET AL., Case No. 120693/98, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 11/16/98). Nine individuals suing. RINALDI, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 48021/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 12/11/96). Five individuals suing. ROSE, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 122131/96, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/18/96). Eight individuals suing. ROSEFF V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 123143/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 12/10/97). One individual suing. RUBINOBITZ, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 15717/97, Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County (case filed 5/28/97). Five individuals suing. SCHULHOFF, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 23737-97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 11/21/97). Six individuals suing. SCHWARTZ, IRWIN V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.14841/97, Supreme Court of New York, Nassau County (case filed 5/19/97). One individual suing. SCHWARTZ, PEARL V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.47239/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 12/2/96). One individual suing. SENZER, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 11609/97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 5/13/97). Eight individuals suing. SHAPIRO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 111179/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 7/21/96). Four individuals suing. SIEGEL, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No.36857/96, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 10/8/96). Two individuals suing. SILVERMAN, ET AL. V. LORILLARD TOBACCO COMPANY. ET AL., Case No. 11328/99, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 7/9/99) Five individuals suing. SMITH, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 020525/97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 9/19/97). Eight individuals suing. SOLA, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 18205/96, Supreme Court of New York, Bronx County (case filed 7/16/96). Two individuals suing. SPRUNG, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 16654/97, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County (case filed 5/14/97). Ten individuals suing. STANDISH, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 18418-97, Supreme Court of New York, Bronx County (case filed 7/28/97). Five individuals suing. 29
30 VALENTIN, ET AL. V. FORTUNE BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 019539/97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 9/16/97). Seven individuals suing. WALGREEN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO, ET AL., Case No. 109351/97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 5/23/97). Eight individuals suing. WERNER, ET AL. V. FORTUNE BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 029071-97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 12/12/97). Four individuals suing. ZARUDSKY, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 15773-97, Supreme Court of New York, New York County (case filed 5/28/97). Six individuals suing. ZIMMERMAN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 1997). ZUZALSKI, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 001378/97, Supreme Court of New York, Queens County (case filed 4/3/97). Seven individuals suing. WILSON, ET AL. V. LIGGETT & MYERS, ET AL., USDC, Middle District Court, North Carolina. One individual suing. TOMPKIN, ET AL. V. AMERICAN BRANDS, ET AL., Case No. 5:94 CV 1302, USDC, Northern District of Ohio (case filed 7/25/94). One individual suing. BUSCEMI V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 002007, Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County (case filed 9/21/99). Two individuals suing. CAMPANELLA, ET AL. V. LORILLARD TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Cane No. 003575, Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County, PA (case filed 1/31/00). Two individuals suing. HALL V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 4:97-CV-01723, USDC, Middle District of Pennsylvania (case filed 2/18/98). One individual suing. TANTUM V. AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 3762, Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County (case filed 1/26/99). Two individuals suing. TAYLOR V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CORPORATION, ET AL., Case No. 004378, Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County (case filed 12/13/99). One individual suing. BROWN V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CORP., ET AL., Case No. 98-5447, Superior Court of Rhode Island (case filed 10/30/98). One individual suing. NICOLO V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 96-528 B, USDC, District of Rhode Island (case filed 9/24/96). One individual suing. LABELLE V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON TOBACCO CORP., ET AL., Case No. 2-98-1879-23, USDC, District of South Carolina (case filed 11/4/98). One individual suing. LITTLE V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 98-CD-10-2156, USDC, District of South Carolina (case filed 6/26/98). Two individuals suing. 30
31 PERRY, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 2-473-95, Circuit Court, State of Tennessee, Knox County (case filed 7/20/95). One individual suing. ADAMS V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 96-17502, District Court of the 164th Judicial District, State of Texas, Harris County (case filed 4/30/96). One individual suing. BURLESON ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP, INC., ET AL., Case No. 9:99CV233, USDC, Eastern District (case filed 9/10/99). Two individuals suing. COLUNGA V. AMERICAN BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. C-97-265, USDC, Southern District of Texas (case filed 4/17/97). One individual suing. DIESTE V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No.597CV117, USDC, Eastern District of Texas (case filed 11/3/97). Two individuals suing. HALE, ET AL. V. AMERICAN BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. C-6568-96B, District Court of the 93rd Judicial District, State of Texas, Hidalgo County (case filed 1/30/97). One individual suing. HAMILTON, ET AL. V. BGLS, INC., ET AL., Case No. C 70609 6 D, USDC, Southern District of Texas (case filed 2/26/97). Five individuals suing. HARRIS, ET AL. V. KOCH REFINING CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-03426-00-0-G, District Court of Texas, 319th Judicial District (case Filed 6/10/99). Three individuals suing. HODGES, ET VIR V. LIGGETT GROUP, INC., ET AL., Case No. 8000*JG99, District Court of Texas, Brazoria County, Texas 239th Judicial District (case filed 5/5/99). Two individuals suing. LUNA V. AMERICAN BRANDS, ET AL., Case No. 96-5654-H, USDC, Southern District of Texas (case filed 2/18/97). One individual suing. McLEAN, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 2-96-CV-167, USDC, Eastern District of Texas (case filed 8/30/96). Three individuals suing. MIRELES V. AMERICAN BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 966143A, District Court of the 28th Judicial District, State of Texas, Nueces County (case filed 2/14/97). One individual suing. MISELL, ET AL. V. AMERICAN BRANDS, ET AL., Case No. 96-6287-H, District Court of the 347th Judicial District, State of Texas, Nueces County (case filed 1/3/97). Four individuals suing. RAMIREZ V. AMERICAN BRANDS, INC., ET AL., Case No. M-97-050, USDC, Southern District of Texas (case filed 12/23/96). One individual suing. SANCHEZ V. AMERICAN BRANDS, ET AL., Case No. 97-04-35562, USDC, Southern District of Texas (case filed 7/22/97). Two individuals suing. THOMPSON, ET AL. V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 97-2981-D, District Court of the 105th Judicial District, State of Texas, Nueces County (case filed 12/15/97). Two individuals suing. WEINGARTEN V. THE LIGGETT GROUP INC., Case No. 98-1541, USDC, Western District of Vermont (case filed 7/19/97). One individual suing. Liggett only defendant. 31
32 BOWDEN, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 98-0068-L, USDC, Western District of Virginia (case filed 1/6/99). VAUGHAN V. MARK L. EARLEY, ET AL., Case No. 760 CH 99 K 00011-00, Circuit Court, State of Virginia, Richmond (case filed 1/8/99). One individual suing. ALLEN, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-C-2337 through 2401, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 10/1/98). 118 individuals suing. ANDERSON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No.98-C-1773 through 1799, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 7/31/98). 50 individuals suing. BALL V. LIGGETT & MYERS INC., ET AL., Case No. 2:97-0867, USDC, Southern District of West Virginia (case filed 5/1/98). One individual suing. BISHOP, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 97-C-2696 through 2713, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 10/28/98). One individual suing. HISSOM, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 97-C-1479, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 9/13/97). Two individuals suing. HUFFMAN V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-C-276, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 2/13/98). Two individuals suing. JIVIDEN V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 98-C-278, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Mason County (case filed 1/19/99). Two individuals suing. NEWKIRK, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP INC., ET AL., Case No. 98-C-1699, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Kanawha County (case filed 7/22/98). One individual suing. FLOYD V. STATE OF WISCONSIN, ET AL., Case No. 99 CV 001125, Circuit Court, State of Wisconsin, Milwaukee County (case filed 2/10/99). One individual suing. BROWN, D., ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. BC 226245, Superior Court, Los Angeles County, California (case filed 3/9/00). One individual suing. Liggett has not been served. BROWN V., ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 00AS02085, Superior Court, Sacramento County, California (case filed 4/18/00). Two individuals suing. COTTON, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., XAW No. 00AS02088, Superior Court, Sacramento County, California (case filed 4/18/00). Five individuals suing. JOHNSON, ET AL V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. BC 226246, Superior Court, Los Angeles County, California (case filed 3/9/00) Five individuals suing. Liggett has been served. LAMB, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. RIC 343417, Superior Court, Riverside County, California (case filed 5/26/00). Two individuals suing. McCRAN, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 00AS02087, Superior Court, Sacramento county, California (case filed 4/18/00). Two individuals suing. 32
33 MORSE V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 822825-9, Superior Court, Alameda County, California, One Individual suing. SOLIMAN V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL, Case No. 31105, Superior Court, San Francisco County, California (case filed 3/28/00). One individual suing. DIMM, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 53919, 18th Judicial District Court, Parish of Iberville, Louisiana. Seven individuals suing. McDOWELL, LOUTTER, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 3:00CV0705, USDC, Western District, Louisiana (case filed 5/16/00). Four individuals suing. NEWSOM, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 105838, 16th Judicial District Court, Parish of St. Mary, Louisiana (case filed 5/17/00). Five individuals suing. BLUESTEIN, ESTAE OF INA J., ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS, ET AL., Case No. 00-1956, Superior Court, Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Two individuals suing. DOOLITTLE, ET AL. V. R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Superior Court, Gloucester County, New Jersey (case filed 5/22/00). Two individuals suing. STAR, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. L-11517-99, Superior Court, Middlesex County, New Jersey (case filed 12/13/99). Two individuals suing. COTNER V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. CS-2000-157, District Court, Adair County, Oklahoma. One individual suing. DANKO, ET AL. V. LIGGETT GROUP, ET AL., Case No. 2:00CV2683, USDC Eastern District, Pennsylvania. Two individuals suing. FLOYD V. BROWN & WILLIAMSON, ET AL., Case No. 000231, Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County, PA. One individual suing. COCKER V. AMERICAN TOBACCO CO., ET AL., Case No. 1-00-0069, USDC, Middle District Tennessee (case filed 5/22/00). One individual suing. TEMPLE V. PHILIP MORRIS TOBACCO CORP., ET AL. Case No. 3:00-0126, USDC, Middle District, Tennessee. One individual suing. ADKINS, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO, ET AL., Case No. 00-C-1381, Circuit Court, Kanawha County, West Virginia (case filed 5/31/00). Two individuals suing. ANDERSON V, V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 00-C-1370, Circuit Court, Kanawha County, West Virginia (case filed 5/30/00). One individual suing. MARCUM, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00CV0839, Circuit Court, Dane County, Wisconsin (case filed 3/29/00). Two individuals suing. 33
34 V. ACTIONS CHALLENGING MSA PTI, INC., ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS INCORPORATED, ET AL., Case No. 99-08235 NM, USDC, Central District of California (case filed 8/13/99). Plaintiffs seek damages, declaratory, equitable, injunctive relief and to invalidate the Master Settlement Agreement between the largest manufacturers of cigarettes in the United States and the Attorneys General of forty-six states and the settlement entered into by the State of Texas settlement. HISE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 98 CV 947 C (E), USDC, Northern District of Oklahoma (case filed 12/15/98). Two individuals suing. Price-fixing action concerning price increases resulting from the M.S.A. HEREK, ET AL. V. STATE OF WISCONSIN, ET AL., Case No. 99CV2644, Circuit Court, State of Wisconsin, Dane County (case filed 11/5/99). Three individuals suing. AMENT, ET AL. V. TOMMY G. THOMPSON, ET AL., Case No. 00CV1159, Circuit Court, Dane County, Wisconsin (case filed 4/28/00). This action seeks to recover damages attributable to the past, present and future tobacco-related healthcare costs and expenses of the plaintiffs. LAPEAN, ET AL. V. TOMMY G. THOMPSON, ET AL., Case No. 00CV1162, Circuit Court, Dane County, Wisconsin (case filed 4/28/00). This action seeks to recover damages attributable to the past, present and future tobacco-related healthcare costs and expenses of the plaintiffs. VI. PRICE FIXING CASES GRAY, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. C2000 0781, Superior Court, Pima County, Arizona (case filed 2/11/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Arizona. GREER, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 309826, Superior Court, San Francisco, California (case filed 2/9/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. MORSE V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 822825-9, Superior Court, California, Alameda County (case filed 2/14/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. MUNOZ, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 309834, Superior Court, San Francisco City and County, California (case filed 2/9/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. PEIRONA, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 310283, Superior Court, San Francisco City and County, California (case filed 2/28/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. TEITLER V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 823161-9, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California (case filed 2/17/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. 34
35 SULLIVAN V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 823162-8, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California (case filed 2/17/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. ULAN V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 823160-0, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California. In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. SAND V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. BC225580, Superior Court, County of Los Angeles, California. In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. BELMONTE V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 825112-1, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California (case filed 4/11/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. BELCH V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 825115-8, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California (case filed 4/11/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. AGUAYO V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 826420-8, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California (case filed 5/15/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. PHILLIPS V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 826421-7, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California (case filed 5/15/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. CAMPE V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY, ET AL., Case No. 826425-3, Superior Court, County of Alameda, California (case filed 5/15/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of California. AMSTERDAM TOBACCO CORP., ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No.1: 00CV0460, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 3/6/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the United States and elsewhere in the world. BARNES, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-0003678, Superior Court, District of Columbia (case filed 5/11/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the District of Columbia. BUFFALO TOBACCO PRODUCTS, INC., ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 1:00CV00224, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 2/8/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the United States. HARTZ FOODS V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 1:00CV01053, USDC, District of Columbia (case filed 5/10/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the United States. 35
36 BROWNSTEIN V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00002212, Circuit Court, Broward County, Florida (case filed 2/8/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Florida. WILLIAMSON OIL COMPANY, INC. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-CV-0447, USDC, Georgia, Northern District (case filed 2/18/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the United States. SUWANEE SWIFTY STORES, INC. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-CV-0667, USDC, Georgia, Northern District (case filed 3/14/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the United States. HOLIDAY MARKETS, INC. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-CV-0707, USDC, Georgia, Northern District (case filed 3/17/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the United States. SMITH, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-CV-26, District Court, Kansas, Seward County (case filed 2/7/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Kansas TAYLOR, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. CV-00-203, Superior Court, Maine (case filed 3/27/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Maine. DEL SERRONE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., Case No. 00-004035 CZ, Circuit Court, Wayne County, Michigan (case filed 2/8/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Michigan. LUDKE, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. MC 00-001954, District Court, Hennepin County, Minnesota (case filed 2/15/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Minnesota. ANDERSON. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-1212, United States District Court, Minnesota (case filed 5/17/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Minnesota. UNRUH, ET AL. V. R. J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO CO., Case No. CV00-2674, District Court, Washoe County, Nevada (case filed 6/9/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Nevada. ROMERO, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC. ET AL., Case No. D0117 CV-00000972, District Court, Rio Arriba County, New Mexico (case filed 4/10/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of New Mexico. LENNON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Index No. 102396, Supreme Court of New York, New York County, New York (case filed 2/14/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of New York. SYLVESTER, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Index No. 00/601008 Supreme Court of New York, New York County, New York (case filed 3/8/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that 36
37 defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of New York. NEIRMAN, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Index No. 00/102396, Supreme Court of New York, New York County, New York (case filed 3/6/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of New York. SHAFER, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-C-1231, District Court, Morton County, North Dakota (case filed 4/18/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of North Dakota. I. GOLDSHLACK COMPANY V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-CV-1286, USDC, Eastern District of Pennsylvania (case filed 3/9/00). In this class action plaintiff allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the United States. SWANSON, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00-144, Circuit Court, Hughes County, South Dakota (case filed 4/18/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of South Dakota. WITHERS, ET AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 17, 194-I, Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Tennessee (case filed 2/9/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Tennessee. KISSEL, ET, AL. V. PHILIP MORRIS, ET AL., Case No. 00-C-82, Circuit Court, State of West Virginia, Brooke County (case filed 4/13/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of West Virginia. CUSATIS V, PHILIP MORRIS COMPANIES, INC., ET AL., Case No. 00CV003676, Circuit Court, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin (case filed 5/5/00). In this class action plaintiffs allege that defendants conspired to fix, raise, stabilize, or maintain prices for cigarettes in the State of Wisconsin. 37
1 EXHIBIT 99.2 LIGGETT GROUP INC. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2000
2 18 LIGGETT GROUP INC. Index to Financial Statements PAGE ---- Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999 .................. 2 Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000 and 1999 ....................................................... 4 Consolidated Statement of Stockholder's Equity for the six months ended June 30, 2000 ............................................................... 5 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2000 and 1999 .......................................................................... 6 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements .............................................. 7
3 LIGGETT GROUP INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited) June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 -------- ------------ ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents ................................................. $ -- $ 2,959 Accounts receivable: Trade, less allowances of $1,181 and $1,002, respectively ............. 8,799 7,228 Other ................................................................. 2,763 1,568 Inventories ............................................................... 34,457 27,119 Other current assets ...................................................... 35,541 42,656 -------- -------- Total current assets .............................................. 81,560 81,530 Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation of $35,720 and $33,924, respectively .......................... 36,496 29,668 Other assets ................................................................... 1,643 1,702 -------- -------- Total assets ..................................................... $119,699 $112,900 ======== ======== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 2
4 LIGGETT GROUP INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Continued) (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited) June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 -------- ------------ LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY Current liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt ................................... $ 1,420 $ 1,074 Cash overdraft ......................................................... 693 -- Accounts payable, principally trade .................................... 6,403 2,575 Accrued expenses: Promotional ......................................................... 24,561 22,473 Other taxes, principally excise taxes ............................... 6,103 225 Estimated allowance for sales returns ............................... 4,190 4,190 Settlement accruals ................................................. 2,106 2,005 Other ............................................................... 12,882 16,675 --------- --------- Total current liabilities ....................................... 58,358 49,217 Long-term debt, less current maturities ..................................... 26,783 8,198 Non-current employee benefits ............................................... 11,906 11,966 Other long-term liabilities ................................................. 9,586 9,738 Commitments and contingencies (Note 8) Stockholder's equity: Redeemable preferred stock (par value $1.00 per share; authorized 1,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding) Common stock (par value $0.10 per share; authorized 2,000 shares; issued and outstanding 1,000 shares) and contributed capital .............................................. 60,208 60,002 Accumulated deficit .................................................... (47,142) (26,221) --------- --------- Total stockholder's equity ..................................... 13,066 33,781 --------- --------- Total liabilities and stockholder's equity ..................... $ 119,699 $ 112,900 ========= ========= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 3
5 LIGGETT GROUP INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Dollars in thousands) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, ------------------------- ------------------------- 2000 1999 2000 1999 --------- --------- --------- --------- Net sales* ............................................. $ 138,560 $ 93,926 $ 245,462 $ 179,973 Cost of sales* ......................................... 43,790 27,464 77,433 50,629 --------- --------- --------- --------- Gross profit .................................. 94,770 66,462 168,029 129,344 Selling, general and administrative expenses excluding non-cash stock-based expense and factory relocation expenses ......................... 76,779 48,739 139,284 90,949 Settlement charges ...................................... 65 (11) 102 104 Non-cash stock-based expense ............................ -- 488 -- 976 Factory relocation expenses ............................. 2,290 -- 3,953 -- Restructuring ........................................... -- 1,100 -- 1,100 --------- --------- --------- --------- Operating income .............................. 15,636 16,146 24,690 36,215 Other income (expense): Interest expense ................................... (811) (409) (1,417) (1,116) Gain (loss) on sale of assets ...................... 4 259 (3) 212 Gain on brand transaction .......................... -- 294,287 -- 294,287 --------- --------- --------- --------- Income before income taxes ................... 14,829 310,283 23,270 329,598 Income tax provision .................................... 5,857 119,763 9,191 127,395 --------- --------- --------- --------- Net income .................................... $ 8,972 $ 190,520 $ 14,079 $ 202,203 ========= ========= ========= ========= * Net sales and cost of sales include federal excise taxes of $26,508, $13,607, $46,550 and $26,160, respectively. The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 4
6 LIGGETT GROUP INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited) Common Stock and Total Contributed Accumulated Stockholder's Capital Deficit Equity ----------- ----------- ------------- Balance at December 31, 1999 ...................... $ 60,002 $(26,221) $ 33,781 Net income ..................................... -- 14,079 14,079 Amortization of deferred compensation .......... 206 -- 206 Distributions and other payments ............... -- (35,000) (35,000) -------- -------- -------- Balance at June 30, 2000 ......................... $ 60,208 $(47,142) $ 13,066 ======== ======== ======== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 5
7 LIGGETT GROUP INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Dollars in thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, ------------------------- 2000 1999 --------- --------- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities ..................... $ 21,194 $(122,221) --------- --------- Cash flows from investing activities: Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment ................. 12 899 Proceeds from brand transaction ..................................... -- 145,000 Capital expenditures ................................................ (8,790) (6,972) --------- --------- Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities ......... (8,778) 138,927 --------- --------- Cash flows from financing activities: Repayments of notes payable ......................................... (642) (106) Issuance of notes payable ........................................... 2,121 4,500 Borrowings under revolving credit facility .......................... 199,241 153,019 Repayments under revolving credit facility .......................... (181,788) (152,599) Distributions and other payments .................................... (35,000) (22,700) Increase in cash overdraft .......................................... 693 1,180 --------- --------- Net cash used in financing activities ....................... (15,375) (16,706) --------- --------- Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents ............................... (2,959) -- Cash and cash equivalents: Beginning of period ................................................. 2,959 -- --------- --------- End of period ....................................................... $ -- $ -- ========= ========= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 6
8 LIGGETT GROUP INC. Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited) 1. THE COMPANY Liggett Group Inc. ("Liggett" or the "Company") is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Brooke Group Holding Inc. ("Brooke Group Holding"). Brooke Group Holding is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BGLS Inc. ("BGLS"), all of whose capital stock is owned by Vector Group Ltd. ("Vector"). Liggett is engaged primarily in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes, principally in the United States. Certain management and administrative functions are performed by affiliates. (See Note 9.) The interim consolidated financial statements included herein are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments necessary (which are normal and recurring) to present fairly the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. The December 31, 1999 balance sheet has been derived from audited financial statements. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included as Exhibit 99.2 in Vector's and BGLS' Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the year ended December 31, 1999, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The consolidated results of operations for interim periods should not be regarded as necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. All of the Company's common shares (1,000 shares, issued and outstanding for all periods presented herein) are owned by Brooke Group Holding. Accordingly, earnings and dividends per share data are not presented in these consolidated financial statements. 2. ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Significant estimates subject to material changes in the near term include allowance for doubtful accounts, sales returns and allowances, actuarial assumptions of pension plans and litigation and defense costs. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 3. PHILIP MORRIS BRAND TRANSACTION In November 1998, Liggett and Vector granted Philip Morris Incorporated options to purchase interests in Trademarks LLC which holds three cigarette brands, L&M, CHESTERFIELD and LARK, formerly held by Liggett's subsidiary, Eve Holdings Inc. Under the terms of the Philip Morris agreements, Eve contributed the three brands to Trademarks, a newly-formed limited liability company, in exchange for 100% of two classes of Trademarks' interests, the Class A Voting Interest and the Class B Redeemable Nonvoting Interest. Philip Morris acquired two options to purchase the interests from Eve. In December 1998, Philip Morris paid Eve a total of $150,000 for the options, $5,000 for the option for the Class A interest and $145,000 for the option for the Class B interest. 7
9 The Class A option entitled Philip Morris to purchase the Class A interest for $10,100. On March 19, 1999, Philip Morris exercised the Class A option, and the closing occurred on May 24, 1999. The Class B option entitles Philip Morris to purchase the Class B interest for $139,900. The Class B option will be exercisable during the 90-day period beginning on December 2, 2008, with Philip Morris being entitled to extend the 90-day period for up to an additional six months under certain circumstances. The Class B interest will also be redeemable by Trademarks for $139,900 during the same period the Class B option may be exercised. On May 24, 1999, Trademarks borrowed $134,900 from a lending institution. The loan is guaranteed by Eve and collateralized by a pledge by Trademarks of the three brands and Trademarks' interest in the trademark license agreement (discussed below) and by a pledge by Eve of its Class B interest. In connection with the closing of the Class A option, Trademarks distributed the loan proceeds to Eve as the holder of the Class B interest. The cash exercise price of the Class B option and Trademarks' redemption price were reduced by the amount distributed to Eve. Upon Philip Morris' exercise of the Class B option or Trademarks' exercise of its redemption right, Philip Morris or Trademarks, as relevant, will be required to obtain Eve's release from its guaranty. The Class B interest will be entitled to a guaranteed payment of $500 each year with the Class A interest allocated all remaining income or loss of Trademarks. Trademarks has granted Philip Morris an exclusive license of the three brands for an 11-year term expiring May 24, 2010 at an annual royalty based on sales of cigarettes under the brands, subject to a minimum annual royalty payment equal to the annual debt service obligation on the loan plus $1,000. If Philip Morris fails to exercise the Class B option, Eve will have an option to put its Class B interest to Philip Morris, or Philip Morris' designees, at a put price that is $5,000 less than the exercise price of the Class B option (and includes Philip Morris' obtaining Eve's release from its loan guarantee). The Eve put option is exercisable at any time during the 90-day period beginning March 2, 2010. If the Class B option, Trademarks' redemption right and the Eve put option expire unexercised, the holder of the Class B interest will be entitled to convert the Class B interest, at its election, into a Class A interest with the same rights to share in future profits and losses, the same voting power and the same claim to capital as the entire existing outstanding Class A interest, i.e., a 50% interest in Trademarks. Upon the closing of the exercise of the Class A option and the distribution of the loan proceeds on May 24, 1999, Philip Morris obtained control of Trademarks and the Company recognized a gain of $294,078 in its consolidated financial statements to the extent of the total cash proceeds received from the payment of the option fees, the exercise of the Class A option and the distribution of the loan proceeds. 4. PRO FORMA EFFECTS OF BRAND TRANSACTION The following table presents unaudited pro forma results of operations as if the Philip Morris brand transaction had occurred immediately prior to January 1, 1999. These pro forma results are presented for comparative purposes only and do not purport to be indicative of what would have occurred had these transactions been consummated as of such date. For the three For the six months ended months ended June 30, 1999 June 30, 1999 --------------- ------------- Revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $84,688 $158,043 ----------- --------- Operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11,327 23,386 ----------- --------- Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . 11,177 22,482 ----------- --------- Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,948 13,781 =========== ========= 8
10 5. INVENTORIES Inventories consist of the following: June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 -------- -------- Leaf tobacco ............................................................. $ 9,440 $ 6,871 Other raw materials ...................................................... 1,727 1,841 Work-in-process .......................................................... 2,229 2,583 Finished goods ........................................................... 23,881 17,461 Replacement parts and supplies ........................................... 2,226 2,179 -------- -------- Inventories at current cost .............................................. 39,503 30,935 LIFO adjustment .......................................................... (5,046) (3,816) -------- -------- Inventories at LIFO cost ................................................. $ 34,457 $ 27,119 ======== ======== The Company has a leaf inventory management program whereby, among other things, it is committed to purchase certain quantities of leaf tobacco. The purchase commitments are for quantities not in excess of anticipated requirements and are at prices, including carrying costs, established at the date of the commitment. Liggett had leaf tobacco purchase commitments of approximately $1,746 at June 30, 2000. 6. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, plant and equipment consists of the following: June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 -------- ------------ Land and improvements ......................................................... $ 443 $ 415 Buildings ..................................................................... 5,871 5,852 Construction-in-progress ...................................................... 18,337 10,342 Machinery and equipment ....................................................... 47,565 46,983 -------- -------- Property, plant and equipment ................................................. 72,216 63,592 Less accumulated depreciation ................................................. (35,720) (33,924) -------- -------- Property, plant and equipment, net ............................................ $ 36,496 $ 29,668 ======== ======== As of June 30, 2000, the Company has capitalized into construction-in-progress approximately $8,604 of the contracted $9,672 construction costs related to the new manufacturing facility. 9
11 7. LONG-TERM DEBT Long-term debt consists of the following: June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 -------- ------------ Borrowings outstanding under revolving credit facility ................................................................ $ 17,453 $ -- Other ...................................................................... 10,750 9,272 -------- -------- 28,203 9,272 Current portion ............................................................ (1,420) (1,074) -------- -------- Amount due after one year .................................................. $ 26,783 $ 8,198 ======== ======== REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY: Liggett has a $35,000 revolving credit facility under which $17,453 was outstanding at June 30, 2000. The facility is collateralized by all inventories and receivables of the Company. Availability under the facility was approximately $10,861 based upon eligible collateral at June 30, 2000. Borrowings under the facility bear interest equal to 1.0% above First Union's (the indirect parent of Congress Financial Corporation, the lead lender) prime rate. At June 30, 2000, Liggett's interest rate was 10.5%. The facility requires Liggett's compliance with certain financial and other covenants including a restriction on the payment of cash dividends unless Liggett's borrowing availability under the facility for the 30-day period prior to the payment of the dividend, and after giving effect to the dividend, is at least $5,000. In addition, the facility, as amended, imposes requirements with respect to Liggett's adjusted net worth (not to fall below $8,000 as computed in accordance with the agreement) and working capital (not to fall below a deficit of $17,000 as computed in accordance with the agreement). At June 30, 2000, Liggett was in compliance with all covenants under the credit facility; Liggett's adjusted net worth was $18,112 and net working capital was $28,263 as computed in accordance with the agreement. The facility expires on March 8, 2003 subject to automatic renewal for an additional year unless a notice of termination is given by the lender at least 60 days prior to the anniversary date. In November 1999, 100 Maple Lane, LLC, a new company formed by Liggett to purchase an industrial facility in Mebane, North Carolina, borrowed $5,040 from the lender under Liggett's credit facility. The loan is payable in 59 monthly installments of $60 with a final payment of $1,500. Interest is charged at the same rate as applicable to the facility. Liggett has guaranteed the loan, and a first mortgage on the Mebane property collateralizes the Maple Lane loan and Liggett's credit facility. EQUIPMENT LOANS: In January 1999, Liggett purchased equipment for $5,750 and borrowed $4,500 to fund the purchase from a third party. The loan, which is collateralized by the equipment and guaranteed by BGLS and Vector, is payable in 60 monthly installments of $56 including annual interest of 7.67% with a final payment of $2,550. In March 2000, Liggett purchased equipment for $1,000 through a capital lease arrangement payable in 60 monthly installments of $21 with an effective annual interest rate of 10.14%. In April 2000, Liggett purchased equipment for $1,071 through two capital lease arrangements payable in 60 monthly installments of $22 with an effective interest rate of 10.20%. 10
12 8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES SMOKING-RELATED LITIGATION: OVERVIEW. Since 1954, Liggett and other United States cigarette manufacturers have been named as defendants in numerous direct and third-party actions predicated on the theory that cigarette manufacturers should be liable for damages alleged to have been caused by cigarette smoking or by exposure to secondary smoke from cigarettes. These cases are reported here as though having been commenced against Liggett (without regard to whether such cases were actually commenced against Brooke Group Holding, the Company's parent or Liggett). There has been a noteworthy increase in the number of cases commenced against Liggett and the other cigarette manufacturers in recent years. The cases generally fall into the following categories: (i) smoking and health cases alleging injury brought on behalf of individual plaintiffs ("Individual Actions"); (ii) smoking and health cases alleging injury and purporting to be brought on behalf of a class of individual plaintiffs ("Class Actions"); (iii) health care cost recovery actions brought by various governmental entities ("Governmental Actions"); and (iv) health care cost recovery actions brought by third-party payors including insurance companies, union health and welfare trust funds, asbestos manufacturers and others ("Third-Party Payor Actions"). As new cases are commenced, defense costs and the risks attendant to the inherent unpredictability of litigation continue to increase. The future financial impact of the risks and expenses of litigation and the effects of the tobacco litigation settlements discussed below is not quantifiable at this time. For the six months ended June 30, 2000, Liggett incurred counsel fees and costs totaling approximately $4,133, compared to $3,001 for the comparable prior year period. INDIVIDUAL ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 330 cases pending against Liggett, and in most cases the other tobacco companies, where individual plaintiffs allege injury resulting from cigarette smoking, addiction to cigarette smoking or exposure to secondary smoke and seek compensatory and, in some cases, punitive damages. Of these, 85 were pending in Florida, 94 in New York, 40 in Massachusetts, 17 in Texas and 32 in California. The balance of the individual cases were pending in 29 states. There are five individual cases pending where Liggett is the only named defendant. The plaintiffs' allegations of liability in those cases in which individuals seek recovery for injuries allegedly caused by cigarette smoking are based on various theories of recovery, including negligence, gross negligence, breach of special duty, strict liability, fraud, misrepresentation, design defect, failure to warn, breach of express and implied warranties, conspiracy, aiding and abetting, concert of action, unjust enrichment, common law public nuisance, property damage, invasion of privacy, mental anguish, emotional distress, disability, shock, indemnity and violations of deceptive trade practice laws, the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act ("RICO"), state RICO statutes and antitrust statutes. In many of these cases, in addition to compensatory damages, plaintiffs also seek other forms of relief including, treble/multiple damages, disgorgement of profits and punitive damages. Defenses raised by defendants in these cases include lack of proximate cause, assumption of the risk, comparative fault and/or contributory negligence, lack of design defect, statute of limitations, equitable defenses such as "unclean hands" and lack of benefit, failure to state a claim and federal preemption. In February 1999, a California jury awarded $51,500 in damages to a woman who claimed lung cancer from smoking Marlboro cigarettes made by Philip Morris. The award includes $1,500 in compensatory damages and $50,000 in punitive damages. The court subsequently reduced the punitive damages award to $25,000. In March 1999, an Oregon jury awarded $80,311 in damages to the family of a deceased smoker who smoked Marlboro cigarettes made by Philip Morris. The award includes $79,500 in punitive damages. The court subsequently reduced the punitive damages award to $32,000. Philip Morris has appealed both the verdict and damage awards in both cases. In March 2000, a California jury awarded $1,700 in compensatory damages and $20,000 in punitive damages to a former smoker and her husband. The jury found 11
13 Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds Tobacco misrepresented the health dangers of cigarettes and that they acted with malice. The defendants have stated that they intend to appeal both the verdict and damage awards. CLASS ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 60 actions pending, for which either a class has been certified or plaintiffs are seeking class certification, where Liggett, among others, was a named defendant. Many of these actions purport to constitute statewide class actions and were filed after May 1996 when the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, in the CASTANO case (discussed below), reversed a Federal district court's certification of a purported nationwide class action on behalf of persons who were allegedly "addicted" to tobacco products. In March 1994, an action entitled CASTANO, ET AL. V. THE AMERICAN TOBACCO COMPANY INC., ET AL., United States District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, was filed against Liggett and others. The class action complaint sought relief for a nationwide class of smokers based on their alleged addiction to nicotine. In February 1995, the District Court granted plaintiffs' motion for class certification. In May 1996, the Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed the class certification order and instructed the District Court to dismiss the class complaint. The Fifth Circuit ruled that the District Court erred in its analysis of the class certification issues by failing to consider how variations in state law affect predominance of common questions and the superiority of the class action mechanism. The appeals panel also held that the District Court's predominance inquiry did not include consideration of how a trial on the merits in CASTANO would be conducted. The Fifth Circuit further ruled that the "addiction-as-injury" tort is immature and, accordingly, the District Court could not know whether common issues would be a "significant" portion of the individual trials. According to the Fifth Circuit's decision, any savings in judicial resources that class certification may bring about were speculative and would likely be overwhelmed by the procedural problems certification brings. Finally, the Fifth Circuit held that in order to make the class action manageable, the District Court would be forced to bifurcate issues in violation of the Seventh Amendment. The extent of the impact of the Castano decision on smoking-related class action litigation is still uncertain. The Castano decision has had a limited effect with respect to courts' decisions regarding narrower smoking-related classes or class actions brought in state rather than federal court. For example, since the Fifth Circuit's ruling, a court in Louisiana (Liggett is not a defendant in this proceeding) has certified "addiction-as-injury" class actions that covered only citizens in those states. Two other class actions, Broin and Engle, were certified in state court in Florida prior to the Fifth Circuit's decision. In May 1994, an action entitled Engle, et al. v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, et al., Circuit Court, Eleventh Judicial Circuit, Dade County, Florida, was filed against Liggett and others. The class consists of all Florida residents and citizens, and their survivors, who have suffered, presently suffer or have died from diseases and medical conditions caused by their addiction to cigarettes that contain nicotine. Phase I of the trial commenced in July 1998 and in July 1999, the jury returned the Phase I verdict. The Phase I verdict concerned certain issues determined by the trial court to be "common" to the causes of action of the plaintiff class. Among other things, the jury found that: smoking cigarettes causes 20 diseases or medical conditions, cigarettes are addictive or dependence producing, defective and unreasonably dangerous, defendants made materially false statements with the intention of misleading smokers, defendants concealed or omitted material information concerning the health effects and/or the addictive nature of smoking cigarettes and agreed to misrepresent and conceal the health effects and/or the addictive nature of smoking cigarettes, and defendants were negligent and engaged in extreme and outrageous conduct or acted with reckless disregard with the intent to inflict emotional distress. The jury also found that defendants' conduct "rose to a level that would permit a potential award or entitlement to punitive damages." The court decided that Phase II of the trial, which commenced November 1999, 12
14 would be a causation and damages trial for three of the class representatives and a punitive damages trial on a class-wide basis, before the same jury that returned the verdict in Phase I. On April 7, 2000, the jury awarded compensatory damages of $12,704 to the three plaintiffs, to be reduced in proportion to the respective plaintiff's fault. The jury also decided that the claim of one of the plaintiffs, who was awarded compensatory damages of $5,831, was not timely filed. On July 14, 2000, the jury awarded approximately $145,000,000 in the punitive damages portion of Phase II against all defendants including $790,000 against Liggett. Liggett intends to pursue all available post-trial and appellate remedies. If this verdict is not eventually reversed on appeal, or substantially reduced by the court, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company. Phase III of the trial will be conducted before separate juries to address absent class members' claims, including issues of specific causation and other individual issues regarding entitlement to compensatory damages. On July 14, 2000, the Southeastern Iron Workers Union filed a motion to intervene in the ENGLE case, seeking to protect its members' subrogation rights under the federal Employment Retirement Income and Security Act. Based on the federal question raised in that motion, defendants removed the case to federal court in Miami on July 24, 2000. The removal stays all state court proceedings unless and until the federal court decides to return the case to the state court. Now that the jury has awarded punitive damages, it is unclear how the state court's order in Engle will be implemented. The order provides that the punitive damage amount should be standard as to each class member and acknowledges that the actual size of the class will not be known until the last case has withstood appeal. The order does not address whether defendants will be required to pay the punitive damage award prior to a determination of claims of all class members, a process that could take years to conclude. Recently, legislation has been enacted in Florida that limits the size of any bond required, pending appeal, to stay execution of a punitive damages verdict to the lesser of the punitive award plus twice the statutory rate of interest, $100,000 or 10% of the net worth of the defendant, but the limitation on the bond does not affect the amount of the underlying verdict. Although the legislation is intended to apply to the ENGLE case, management cannot predict the outcome of any possible challenges to the application or constitutionality of this legislation. Similar legislation has been enacted in Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina and Virginia. Class certification motions are pending in a number of putative class actions. Classes remain certified against Liggett in Florida (ENGLE). A number of class certification denials are on appeal. Approximately 38 purported state and federal class action complaints have been filed against the cigarette manufacturers for alleged antitrust violations. The actions allege that the cigarette manufacturers have engaged in a nationwide and international conspiracy to fix the price of cigarettes in violation of state and federal antitrust laws. Plaintiffs allege that defendants' price-fixing conspiracy raised the price of cigarettes above a competitive level. Plaintiffs in the 31 state actions purport to represent classes of indirect purchasers of cigarettes in each of the states; plaintiffs in the seven federal actions purport to represent a nationwide class of wholesalers who purchased cigarettes directly from the defendants. The federal actions have been consolidated and, on July 28, 2000, plaintiffs in the federal consolidated action filed a single consolidated complaint that did not name Liggett or Brooke Group Holding as defendants. In February 2000, Liggett and plaintiffs sent correspondence to the court, in SIMON V. PHILIP MORRIS ET AL., a putative nationwide smokers class action, indicating that Liggett and the plaintiffs are engaged in preliminary settlement discussions. There are no assurances that any settlement will be reached or that the class will ultimately be certified. GOVERNMENTAL ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 25 Governmental Actions pending against Liggett. In these proceedings, both foreign and domestic governmental entities seek reimbursement for Medicaid and other health care expenditures. The claims asserted in these health care cost recovery actions vary. In most of these cases, plaintiffs assert the equitable claim that the tobacco industry was "unjustly enriched" by plaintiffs' payment of health care costs allegedly attributable to smoking and seek reimbursement of those costs. Other claims made by some but not all plaintiffs include the equitable 13
15 claim of indemnity, common law claims of negligence, strict liability, breach of express and implied warranty, breach of special duty, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, conspiracy, public nuisance, claims under state and federal statutes governing consumer fraud, antitrust, deceptive trade practices and false advertising, and claims under RICO. THIRD-PARTY PAYOR ACTIONS. As of June 30, 2000, there were approximately 70 Third-Party Payor Actions pending against Liggett. The claims in these cases are similar to those in the Governmental Actions but have been commenced by insurance companies, union health and welfare trust funds, asbestos manufacturers and others. Five United States Circuit Courts of Appeal have ruled that Third-Party Payors did not have standing to bring lawsuits against the tobacco companies. In January 2000, the United States Supreme Court denied petitions for certiorari filed by several of the union health and welfare trust funds. However, a number of Third-Party Payor Actions, including an action brought by 24 Blue Cross/Blue Shield Plans, remain pending. In other Third-Party Payor Actions claimants have set forth several additional theories of relief sought: funding of corrective public education campaigns relating to issues of smoking and health; funding for clinical smoking cessation programs; disgorgement of profits from sales of cigarettes; restitution; treble damages; and attorneys' fees. Nevertheless, no specific amounts are provided. It is understood that requested damages against the tobacco company defendants in these cases might be in the billions of dollars. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ACTION. In September 1999, the United States government commenced litigation against Liggett and the other tobacco companies in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. The action seeks to recover an unspecified amount of healthcare costs paid for and furnished, and to be paid for and furnished, by the Federal Government for lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema and other smoking-related illnesses allegedly caused by the fraudulent and tortious conduct of defendants, and to restrain defendants and co-conspirators from engaging in fraud and other unlawful conduct in the future, and to compel defendants to disgorge the proceeds of their unlawful conduct. The complaint alleges that such costs total more than $20,000,000 annually. The action asserts claims under three federal statutes, the Medical Care Recovery Act, the Medicare Secondary Payer provisions of the Social Security Act and RICO. In December 1999, Liggett filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit on numerous grounds, including that the statutes invoked by the government do not provide the basis for the relief sought. The trial court has heard oral argument on the motion but has not issued a ruling to date. SETTLEMENTS. In March 1996, Brooke Group Holding and Liggett entered into an agreement, subject to court approval, to settle the CASTANO class action tobacco litigation. The CASTANO class was subsequently decertified by the court. In March 1996, March 1997 and March 1998, Brooke Group Holding and Liggett entered into settlements of smoking-related litigation with the Attorneys General of 45 states and territories. The settlements released both Brooke Group Holding and Liggett from all smoking-related claims, including claims for health care cost reimbursement and claims concerning sales of cigarettes to minors. In November 1998, Philip Morris, Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and Lorillard Tobacco Company (collectively, the "Original Participating Manufacturers" or "OPMs") and Liggett (together with the OPMs and any other tobacco product manufacturer that becomes a signatory, the "Participating Manufacturers") entered into the Master Settlement Agreement (the "MSA") with 46 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the United States Virgin Islands, American Samoa and the Northern Marianas (collectively, the "Settling States") to settle the asserted and unasserted health care cost recovery and certain other claims of those Settling States. The MSA has been initially approved by trial courts in all Settling States. The MSA is subject to final judicial approval in each of the Settling States, which approval has been obtained in 50 jurisdictions. If final judicial approval is not obtained in a jurisdiction by December 31, 2001, then, 14
16 unless the settling defendants and the relevant jurisdiction agree otherwise, the MSA will be terminated with respect to such jurisdiction. The MSA restricts tobacco product advertising and marketing within the Settling States and otherwise restricts the activities of Participating Manufacturers. Among other things, the MSA prohibits the targeting of youth in the advertising, promotion or marketing of tobacco products; bans the use of cartoon characters in all tobacco advertising and promotion; limits each Participating Manufacturer to one tobacco brand name sponsorship during any 12-month period; bans all outdoor advertising, with the exception of signs 14 square feet or less in dimension at retail establishments that sell tobacco products; prohibits payments for tobacco product placement in various media; bans gift offers based on the purchase of tobacco products without sufficient proof that the intended recipient is an adult; prohibits Participating Manufacturers from licensing third parties to advertise tobacco brand names in any manner prohibited under the MSA; prohibits Participating Manufacturers from using as a tobacco product brand name any nationally recognized non-tobacco brand or trade name or the names of sports teams, entertainment groups or individual celebrities; and prohibits Participating Manufacturers from selling packs containing fewer than twenty cigarettes. The MSA also requires Participating Manufacturers to affirm corporate principles to comply with the MSA and to reduce underage usage of tobacco products and imposes requirements applicable to lobbying activities conducted on behalf of Participating Manufacturers. Liggett has no payment obligations under the MSA unless its market share exceeds a base share of 125% of its 1997 market share, or approximately 1.65% of total cigarettes sold in the United States. Liggett believes, based on published industry sources, that its domestic shipments accounted for 1.2% of the total cigarettes shipped in the United States during 1999. In the year following any year in which Liggett's market share does exceed the base share, Liggett will pay on each excess unit an amount equal (on a per-unit basis) to that paid during such following year by the OPMs under the annual and strategic contribution payment provisions of the MSA, subject to applicable adjustments, offsets and reductions. Under the annual and strategic contribution payment provisions of the MSA, the OPMs (and Liggett to the extent its market share exceeds the base share) will pay the following annual amounts (subject to certain adjustments): YEAR AMOUNT ---- ------ 2000 $4,500,000 2001 $5,000,000 2002 - 2003 $6,500,000 2004 - 2007 $8,000,000 2008 - 2017 $8,139,000 2018 and each $9,000,000 year thereafter These annual payments will be allocated based on relative unit volume of domestic cigarette shipments. The payment obligations under the MSA are the several, and not joint, obligations of each Participating Manufacturer and are not the responsibility of any parent or affiliate of a Participating Manufacturer. The MSA replaces Liggett's prior settlements with all states and territories except for Florida, Mississippi, Texas and Minnesota. In the event the MSA does not receive final judicial approval in any state or territory, Liggett's prior settlement with that state or territory, if any, will be revived. The states of Florida, Mississippi, Texas and Minnesota, prior to the effective date of the MSA, negotiated and executed settlement agreements with each of the other major tobacco companies separate from those settlements reached previously 15
17 with Liggett. Because these states' settlement agreements with Liggett provided for "most favored nation" protection for both Brooke Group Holding and Liggett, the payments due these states by Liggett (with certain possible exceptions) have been eliminated. With respect to all non-economic obligations under the previous settlements, both Brooke Group Holding and Liggett are entitled to the most favorable provisions as between the MSA and each state's respective settlement with the other major tobacco companies. Therefore, Liggett's non-economic obligations to all states and territories are now defined by the MSA. In April 1999, a putative class action was filed on behalf of all firms that directly buy cigarettes in the United States from defendant tobacco manufacturers. The complaint alleges violation of antitrust law, based in part on the MSA. Plaintiffs seek treble damages computed as three times the difference between current prices and the price plaintiffs would have paid for cigarettes in the absence of an alleged conspiracy to restrain and monopolize trade in the domestic cigarette market, together with attorneys' fees. Plaintiffs also seek injunctive relief against certain aspects of the MSA. In March 1997, Liggett, Brooke Group Holding and a nationwide class of individuals that allege smoking-related claims filed a mandatory class settlement agreement in an action entitled FLETCHER, ET AL. V. BROOKE GROUP LTD., ET AL., Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, where the court granted preliminary approval and preliminary certification of the class. In July 1998, Liggett, Brooke Group Holding and plaintiffs filed an amended class action settlement agreement in FLETCHER which agreement was preliminarily approved by the court in December 1998. In July 1999, the court denied approval of the FLETCHER class action settlement. The parties' motion for reconsideration is still pending. The Company accrued $16,902 for the present value of the fixed payments under the March 1998 Attorneys General settlements. As a result of the Company's treatment under the MSA, $14,928 of net charges accrued for the prior settlements were reversed in 1998 and $1,051 were reversed in 1999. Copies of the various settlement agreements are filed as exhibits to Vector's Form 10-K and the discussion herein is qualified in its entirety by reference thereto. TRIALS. In addition to the ENGLE case, cases currently scheduled for trial in 2000 include Third-Party Payor Actions brought by several Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans and an asbestos company trust in federal court in New York (October). One action with five individuals, GLUSSI, is scheduled to be tried in state court in New York in September and an action with two individuals is scheduled for trial in West Virginia in October. A motion to certify the West Virginia case as a class action remains pending. Trial dates, however, are subject to change. Management is not able to predict the outcome of the litigation pending against Brooke Group Holding or Liggett. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties. An unfavorable verdict was returned in the first phase of the ENGLE smoking and health class action trial pending in Florida. Recently, the jury awarded $790,000 in punitive damages against Liggett in the second phase of the trial. Liggett intends to pursue all available post-trial and appellate remedies. If this verdict is not eventually reversed on appeal, or substantially reduced by the court, it could have a material adverse effect on the Company. It is possible that additional cases could be decided unfavorably and that there could be further adverse developments in the ENGLE case. Management cannot predict the cash requirements related to any future settlements and judgments, including cash required to bond any appeals, and there is a risk that those requirements will not be able to be met. An unfavorable outcome of a pending smoking and health case could encourage the commencement of additional similar litigation. Management is unable to make a meaningful estimate with respect to the amount or range of loss that could result from an unfavorable outcome of the cases pending against Brooke Group Holding or Liggett or the costs of defending such cases. The complaints filed in these cases rarely detail alleged damages. Typically, the claims set forth in an individual's complaint against the tobacco industry pray for money damages in an amount to be determined by a jury, plus punitive damages and costs. These damage claims are typically stated as being for the minimum necessary to invoke the jurisdiction of the court. 16
18 It is possible that Liggett's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected by an unfavorable outcome in any such smoking-related litigation. Management is unaware of any material environmental conditions affecting its existing facilities. Management believes that current operations are conducted in material compliance with all environmental laws and regulations and other laws and regulations governing cigarette manufacturers. Compliance with federal, state and local provisions regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, or otherwise relating to the protection of the environment, has not had a material effect on the capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position of Liggett. There are several other proceedings, lawsuits and claims pending against Liggett unrelated to smoking or tobacco product liability. Management is of the opinion that the liabilities, if any, ultimately resulting from such other proceedings, lawsuits and claims should not materially affect Liggett's financial position, results of operations or cash flows. LEGISLATION AND REGULATION: In 1993, the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") released a report on the respiratory effect of secondary smoke which concludes that secondary smoke is a known human lung carcinogen in adults and in children, causes increased respiratory tract disease and middle ear disorders and increases the severity and frequency of asthma. In June 1993, the two largest of the major domestic cigarette manufacturers, together with other segments of the tobacco and distribution industries, commenced a lawsuit against the EPA seeking a determination that the EPA did not have the statutory authority to regulate secondary smoke, and that given the current body of scientific evidence and the EPA's failure to follow its own guidelines in making the determination, the EPA's classification of secondary smoke was arbitrary and capricious. Whatever the outcome of this litigation, issuance of the report may encourage efforts to limit smoking in public areas. In July 1998, a federal district court vacated those sections of the report relating to lung cancer, finding that the EPA may have reached different conclusions had it complied with relevant statutory requirements. The federal government has appealed the court's ruling. In February 1996, the United States Trade representative issued an "advance notice of rule making" concerning how tobaccos imported under a previously established tobacco rate quota ("TRQ") should be allocated. Currently, tobacco imported under the TRQ is allocated on a "first-come, first-served" basis, meaning that entry is allowed on an open basis to those first requesting entry in the quota year. Others in the cigarette industry have suggested an "end-user licensing" system under which the right to import tobacco under the quota would be initially assigned based on domestic market share. Such an approach, if adopted, could have a material adverse effect on Liggett. In August 1996, the Food and Drug Administration (the "FDA") filed in the Federal Register a Final Rule classifying tobacco as a "drug" or "medical device", asserting jurisdiction over the manufacture and marketing of tobacco products and imposing restrictions on the sale, advertising and promotion of tobacco products. Litigation was commenced challenging the legal authority of the FDA to assert such jurisdiction, as well as challenging the 17
19 constitutionality of the rules. On March 21, 2000, the United States Supreme Court ruled that the FDA does not have the power to regulate tobacco. Liggett supported the FDA Rule and began to phase in compliance with certain of the proposed FDA regulations. In August 1996, Massachusetts enacted legislation requiring tobacco companies to publish information regarding the ingredients in cigarettes and other tobacco products sold in that state. In December 1997, the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts enjoined this legislation from going into effect on the grounds that it is preempted by federal law. In November 1999, the First Circuit affirmed this ruling. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in December 1997, Liggett began complying with this legislation by providing ingredient information to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Several other states have enacted, or are considering, legislation similar to that enacted in Massachusetts. As part of the 1997 budget agreement approved by Congress, federal excise taxes on a pack of cigarettes, which are currently 34 cents, were increased at the beginning of 2000 and will rise 5 cents more in the year 2002. In general, excise taxes and other taxes on cigarettes have been increasing. These taxes vary considerably and, when combined with sales taxes and the current federal excise tax, may be as high as $1.66 per pack in a given locality in the United States. Congress has been considering significant increases in the federal excise tax or other payments from tobacco manufacturers, and the Clinton Administration's fiscal year 2001 budget proposal included an additional increase of $.25 per pack in the federal excise tax, as well as a contingent special assessment related to youth smoking rates. Increases in other cigarette-related taxes have been proposed at the state and local level. In June 2000, the New York state legislature passed legislation charging the state's Office of Fire Prevention and Control with developing standards for "fire safe" or self-extinguishing cigarettes. The OFPC has until July 1, 2002 to issue final regulations. Six months from the issuance of the standards, but no later than January 1, 2003, all cigarettes offered for sale in New York state will be required to be manufactured to those standards. In addition to the foregoing, there have been a number of other restrictive regulatory actions, adverse legislative and political decisions and other unfavorable developments concerning cigarette smoking and the tobacco industry, the effects of which, at this time, management is not able to evaluate. These developments may negatively affect the perception of potential triers of fact with respect to the tobacco industry, possibly to the detriment of certain pending litigation, and may prompt the commencement of additional similar litigation. 9. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Liggett is party to a Tax-Sharing Agreement dated June 29, 1990 with Vector and certain other entities pursuant to which Liggett has paid taxes to Vector as if it were filing a separate company tax return except that the agreement effectively limits the ability of Liggett to carry back losses for refunds. Liggett is entitled to recoup overpayments in a given year out of future payments due under the agreement. Liggett is a party to an agreement dated February 26, 1991, as amended October 1, 1995, with Vector to provide various management and administrative services to the Company in consideration for an annual management fee of $900 paid in monthly installments and annual overhead reimbursements of $864 paid in quarterly installments. In addition, Liggett has entered into an annually renewable Corporate Services Agreement with BGLS wherein BGLS agreed to provide corporate services to the Company at an annual fee paid in monthly installments. Corporate services provided by BGLS under this agreement include the provision of administrative services related to Liggett's participation in its parent company's multi-employer benefit plan, external publication of financial results, preparation of consolidated financial statements and tax returns and such other administrative and managerial services as may be reasonably requested by Liggett. The charges for services rendered under the agreement amounted to $1,920 in the first six months of 2000 and $1,829 in the first six months of 1999. The Company leases equipment from a subsidiary of BGLS for $50 per month. 18
1 EXHIBIT 99.4 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS JUNE 30, 2000
2 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE ---- Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2000 and December 31, 1999............................... 2 Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000 and June 30, 1999............................................................... 3 Consolidated Statement of Stockholder's Equity (Deficit) for the six months ended June 30, 2000........................................................................... 4 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2000 and June 30, 1999........................................................................ 5 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.......................................................... 6 -1-
3 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) ================================================================================ June 30, December 31, 2000 1999 ----------- ------------- ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents ............................ $ 2,276 $ 3,078 Accounts receivable - trade .......................... 11,743 11,648 Inventories .......................................... 21,226 18,086 Other current assets ................................. 2,784 1,066 --------- --------- Total current assets .............................. 38,029 33,878 Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation of $10,025 and $5,376 ... 122,004 116,169 Other .................................................. 2,820 3,272 --------- --------- Total assets ...................................... $ 162,853 $ 153,319 ========= ========= LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY Current liabilities: Credit facilities and current portion of notes payable $ 48,093 $ 39,982 Accounts payable - trade ............................. 40,974 32,412 Due to affiliates .................................... 970 394 Accrued taxes ........................................ 7,119 9,483 Accrued interest ..................................... 339 474 Other accrued liabilities ............................ 3,168 3,401 --------- --------- Total current liabilities ......................... 100,663 86,146 Long-term portion of notes payable ..................... 10,022 12,578 Participating loan ..................................... 40,725 37,849 Other liabilities ...................................... 2,128 5,436 Commitments and contingencies........................... Stockholder's equity: Common stock, par value $1 per share, 701,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding ................ 701 701 Additional paid-in-capital ........................... 103,115 103,115 Deficit .............................................. (94,501) (92,506) --------- --------- Total stockholder's equity ........................ 9,315 11,310 --------- --------- Total liabilities and stockholder's equity ........ $ 162,853 $ 153,319 ========= ========= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -2-
4 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) ================================================================================ Three Months Ended Six Months Ended ----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- June 30, June 30, June 30, June 30, 2000 1999 2000 1999 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Net sales* ........................... $ 49,068 $ 15,339 $ 89,329 $ 37,689 Cost of sales* ....................... 41,927 12,784 77,009 31,198 -------- -------- -------- -------- Gross profit ......................... 7,141 2,555 12,320 6,491 Operating, selling, administrative and general expenses ................ 5,870 3,468 10,678 6,114 -------- -------- -------- -------- Operating income (loss) .............. 1,271 (913) 1,642 377 Other income (expense): Interest expense .................. (3,774) (3,005) (7,311) (6,971) Gain on sale of assets ............ 8,478 Gain on foreign currency exchange . 311 341 1,534 2,611 Other, net ........................ (164) 169 (193) 259 -------- -------- -------- -------- (Loss) income before income taxes .... (2,356) (3,408) (4,328) 4,754 Benefit for income taxes ............. (1,291) (164) (2,333) (1,880) -------- -------- -------- -------- Net income ........................... $ (1,065) $ (3,244) $ (1,995) $ 6,634 ======== ======== ======== ======== - -------------- * Net sales and cost of sales include excise taxes of $5,951, $1,111, $10,611 and $2,596, respectively. The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -3-
5 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (DEFICIT) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) ================================================================================ COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL ----------------------- PAID-IN SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL DEFICIT TOTAL ------ ------ ---------- ------- ----- Balance, December 31, 1999 701,000 $ 701 $103,115 $(92,506) $ 11,310 Net loss ................. (1,995) (1,995) -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Balance, June 30, 2000 ... 701,000 $ 701 $103,115 $(94,501) $ 9,315 ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -4-
6 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) ================================================================================ SIX MONTHS ENDED -------------------------------------- JUNE 30, JUNE 30, 2000 1999 ------------------- ------------------ Net cash provided by operating activities .... $ 2,978 $ 18,812 -------- -------- Cash flows from investing activities: Capital expenditures ................... (10,505) (30,565) -------- -------- Net cash used in investing activities ........ (10,505) (30,565) -------- -------- Cash flows from financing activities: Repayments of debt ..................... (155) Borrowings under credit facilities ..... 26,000 10,959 Repayment under credit facilities ...... (19,142) -------- -------- Net cash provided by financing activities .... 6,858 10,804 -------- -------- Effect of currency rate translation on cash .. (133) (631) -------- -------- Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents .... (802) (1,580) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 3,078 2,722 -------- -------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of period ..... $ 2,276 $ 1,142 ======== ======== The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements. -5-
7 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (UNAUDITED) 1. ORGANIZATION Brooke (Overseas) Ltd. ("the Company"), a Delaware corporation, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BGLS Inc. ("BGLS") and an indirect subsidiary of Vector Group Ltd. ("Vector"). The consolidated financial statements of the Company include Western Tobacco Investments LLC ("Western Tobacco Investments"), a Delaware limited liability company. Prior to its sale in August 2000, Western Tobacco Investments held the Company's 99.9% equity interest in Liggett-Ducat Ltd. ("Liggett-Ducat"), a Russian closed joint stock company engaged in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes in Russia, and Liggett-Ducat Tobacco Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liggett-Ducat which recently completed construction of a new cigarette factory. (Refer to Note 2.) The interim consolidated financial statements of the Company are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments necessary (which are normal and recurring) to present fairly the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included as Exhibit 99.4 in Vector's and BGLS' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The consolidated results of operations for interim periods should not be regarded as necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Certain amounts in the 1999 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2000 presentation. 2. SALE OF WESTERN TOBACCO INVESTMENTS On August 4, 2000, the Company completed the sale of Western Tobacco Investments to Gallaher Overseas (Holdings) Ltd. The purchase price for the sale consisted of $334,100 in cash and $64,400 in assumed debt and capital commitments. The proceeds generated from the sale were divided among the Company and Western Realty Development LLC ("Western Realty Development"), a joint venture of New Valley Corporation ("New Valley"), a 55.9%-owned subsidiary of Vector, and Apollo Real Estate Investment Fund III, L.P. ("Apollo"), which provided financing. (Refer to Note 7.) Of the cash proceeds from the transaction after estimated closing expenses, the Company received approximately $200,000. -6-
8 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (CONTINUED) (UNAUDITED) 3. SALE OF BROOKEMIL In connection with the sale by the Company of its 99.1% of the outstanding shares of BrookeMil Ltd. ("BrookeMil") to New Valley in 1997, a portion of the gain was deferred in recognition of the fact that the Company's parent, BGLS, retained an interest in BrookeMil through its then 42% equity ownership of New Valley and that a portion of the property sold (the site of the third phase of the Ducat Place real estate project being developed by BrookeMil) was subject to a put option held by New Valley. The option expired when Liggett-Ducat ceased factory operations at the site in March 1999. The Company recognized that portion of the deferred gain, $8,478, in March 1999. 4. INVENTORIES Inventories consist of: JUNE 30, DECEMBER 31, 2000 1999 -------------- -------------- Leaf tobacco............................. $ 6,716 $ 6,727 Other raw materials...................... 7,321 4,582 Work-in-process.......................... 788 959 Finished goods........................... 2,504 3,201 Replacement parts and supplies........... 3,897 2,617 ------- ------- $21,226 $18,086 ======= ======= At June 30, 2000, the Company had leaf tobacco purchase commitments of approximately $49,388. 5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, plant and equipment consist of: JUNE 30, DECEMBER 31, 2000 1999 ------------- -------------- Buildings................................ $ 47,524 $ 46,510 Factory machinery and equipment.......... 71,158 64,385 Computers and software................... 2,378 1,343 Office furniture and equipment........... 1,669 1,205 Vehicles................................. 4,182 3,839 Construction-in-progress................. 5,118 4,263 -------- -------- 132,029 121,545 Less accumulated depreciation............ (10,025) (5,376) -------- -------- $122,004 $116,169 ======== ======== -7-
9 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (CONTINUED) (UNAUDITED) 6. CREDIT FACILITIES AND NOTES PAYABLE Credit facilities and notes payable consist of the following: JUNE 30, DECEMBER 31, 2000 1999 --------- ------------ Notes payable................................. $ 20,915 $ 23,090 Credit facilities............................. 37,200 29,470 -------- -------- Total notes payable and credit facilities..... 58,115 52,560 Less current portion.......................... (48,093) (39,982) -------- -------- Amount due after one year..................... $ 10,022 $ 12,578 ======== ======== At June 30, 2000, Liggett-Ducat had various credit facilities with Russian banks under which $37,200 was outstanding. The facilities bear interest at rates of 13% to 20% per annum and expire within the next twelve months. The facilities are collateralized by the new factory building, factory equipment and tobacco inventory. Western Tobacco Investments has entered into several contracts for the purchase of cigarette manufacturing equipment. Approximately 85% of the amount of the contracts were financed with promissory notes generally payable over a period of five years. The outstanding balance on these notes, which are denominated in various European currencies, was $15,892 at June 30, 2000. In addition, at June 30, 2000, the Company had several short-term notes payable totaling approximately $5,023 for additional equipment purchases. The terms of these notes ranged from four to twelve months and carried interest rates of up to 16%. The Company paid in full a promissory note for approximately $1,290 due March 31, 2000. In connection with the sale of Western Tobacco Investments on August 4, 2000, all of the credit facilities, notes payable and other obligations of Western Tobacco Investments and Liggett-Ducat were assumed by the purchaser. 7. PARTICIPATING LOAN In February 1998, New Valley and Apollo organized Western Realty Development to make real estate and other investments in Russia. Western Realty Development made a $30,000 participating loan to Western Tobacco Investments with the proceeds used by the Company to reduce intercompany debt to BGLS and for payments on the new factory construction contracts. As a result of the sale of Western Tobacco Investments, Western Realty Development was entitled to receive the return of all amounts advanced on the loan, together with a 15% annual rate of return, and 30% of subsequent distributions. The Company recognized net interest expense of $1,464 and $2,876 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2000, which represented a 15% cumulative adjustment to realizable value on the loan and 30% of any net expense applicable to common interests in Western Tobacco Investments. The loan was repaid and terminated in connection with the sale of Western Tobacco Investments on August 4, 2000. -8-
10 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (CONTINUED) (UNAUDITED) 8. INCOME TAXES For the three and six months ended June 30, 2000, the tax benefit consists of U.S. income tax benefit of $1,291 and $2,333, respectively, in accordance with the Company's tax sharing agreement with Vector. In connection with the construction of its new cigarette factory, Liggett-Ducat received an exemption from Russian taxes on income from certain production lines for the 2000 tax year. Such exemption resulted in no provision for Russian taxes being recorded. For the six months ended June 30, 1999, the tax benefit of $164 and $1,880, respectively, consists of income tax expense pursuant to Russian statutory requirements of $655 and $171, respectively, and U.S. income tax benefit of $819 and $2,051, respectively, in accordance with the Company's tax sharing agreement with Vector. 9. CONTINGENCIES BGLS NOTES. BGLS has pledged its ownership interest in the Company's common stock as collateral in connection with the issuance of BGLS' 15.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2001. In connection with the sale of Western Tobacco Investments on August 4, 2000, BGLS repurchased a portion of the notes and called the remaining notes for redemption on September 5, 2000. OPERATING ENVIRONMENT. The Russian Federation continues to experience economic difficulties following the financial crisis of August 1998. Consequently, the country's currency continues to devalue, there is continued volatility in the debt and equity markets, hyperinflation persists, confidence in the banking sector has yet to be restored and there continues to be a general lack of liquidity in the economy. In addition, laws and regulations affecting businesses operating within the Russian Federation continue to evolve. The Russian Federation's return to economic stability is dependent to a large extent on the effectiveness of the measures taken by the government, decisions of international lending organizations, and other actions, including regulatory and political developments, which are beyond the Company's control. No adjustments related to these uncertainties have been included in these consolidated financial statements. TAXATION. Russian tax legislation is subject to varying interpretations and changes occurring frequently. Further, the interpretation of tax legislation by tax authorities as applied to the transactions and activity of the Company may not coincide with that of management. As a result, transactions may be challenged by tax authorities and the Company may be assessed additional taxes, penalties and interest, which can be significant. Management regularly reviews the Company's taxation compliance with applicable legislation, laws and decrees and current interpretations and from time to time potential exposures are identified. At any point -9-
11 BROOKE (OVERSEAS) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) - (CONTINUED) (UNAUDITED) in time, a number of open matters may exist; however, management believes that adequate provision has been made for all material liabilities. The periods remain open to review by the tax and customs authorities with respect to tax payments for three years. -10-