Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 6-K filing by James Hardie Industries N.V. (James Hardie Industries Plc) was submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on May 11, 2009. The filing serves as a conduit for an Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) results notification (Exhibit 99.1) but does not contain the detailed financial results within the text of the Form 6-K itself.
Financial Metrics
The provided filing text does not contain specific numerical data regarding revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. These metrics are referenced as being contained within the attached ASX results notification (Exhibit 99.1), the content of which is not included in the source text.
Material Changes
The filing text does not provide specific details on material changes versus prior periods. It references the attached exhibit for operational results but does not summarize comparative performance data.
Guidance, Outlook, and Risks
The filing includes a comprehensive Safe Harbor Statement identifying forward-looking statements and associated risks. Key areas of uncertainty and risk highlighted include:
- Future performance projections and operational results.
- Costs associated with the suspension or closure of plant operations.
- Renewal or extension of credit facilities and dividend payment expectations.
- Tax liabilities, audits, and potential changes to corporate or tax domiciles.
- Proceedings brought by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission against the company and former directors.
- Contributions to the Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund and indemnification obligations.
- Product and environmental liabilities, including those arising from prior asbestos manufacturing.
- General economic conditions, raw material costs, and currency exchange rate fluctuations.
Key Facts for Investor Verification
- Verify the specific financial results (revenue, earnings, cash flow) in the attached ASX results notification (Exhibit 99.1), as they are not detailed in this Form 6-K text.
- Confirm the status of any plant closures or suspensions mentioned in the forward-looking statements.
- Review the latest updates on the Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund contribution requirements.
- Monitor the outcome of proceedings involving the Australian Securities & Investments Commission.
- Assess the impact of currency exchange rates on the company's financial statements, particularly regarding asbestos liabilities.