form10-q.htm




 
UNITED STATES
 
 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 
 
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
 
 
FORM 10-Q
 
 
 
(Mark One)
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2007.
OR
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Transition Period from _______________ to _______________

Commission File Number: 1-4639

CTS CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 
Indiana
 
35-0225010
 
 
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification Number)
 

 
905 West Boulevard North, Elkhart, IN
 
46514
 
 
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 574-293-7511

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes x                 No o

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

Large accelerated filer  o                               Accelerated filer  x                             Non-accelerated filer  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes o                 No x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of October 19, 2007: 35,202,358.



CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS


 
   
Page
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
3
 
 
 
 
 
                    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings
3
 
- For the Three and Nine Months ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006
 
 
 
 
 
 
                            Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
4
 
                - As of September 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006
 
 
 
 
 
 
                            Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
5
 
- For the Nine Months ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006
 
 
 
 
 
 
                            Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings
6
 
- For the Three and Nine Months ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006
 
 
 
 
 
 
                            Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
7
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
18
 
 
 
 
 
Item 3.
27
 
 
 
 
 
Item 4.
27
 
 
 
 
OTHER INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
28
       
 
Item 1A.
28
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
29
       
 
Item 6.
29
 
 
 
 
 
30





 
PART I  -  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.  Financial Statements
 

CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS - UNAUDITED
(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)



 
 
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net sales
  $
174,790
    $
165,676
    $
507,672
    $
482,094
 
Costs and expenses:
                               
Cost of goods sold
   
140,997
     
136,571
     
410,597
     
391,180
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
19,821
     
16,320
     
62,031
     
51,932
 
Research and development expenses
   
4,055
     
3,775
     
12,277
     
11,937
 
Restructuring charges
   
     
486
     
     
3,368
 
Operating earnings
   
9,917
     
8,524
     
22,767
     
23,677
 
Other (expense) income:
                               
Interest expense
    (869 )     (803 )     (2,241 )     (2,948 )
Interest income
   
497
     
199
     
1,462
     
522
 
Other
   
320
     
231
     
474
     
293
 
Total other expense
    (52 )     (373 )     (305 )     (2,133 )
                                 
Earnings before income taxes
   
9,865
     
8,151
     
22,462
     
21,544
 
Income tax expense — Note I
   
2,071
     
1,904
     
4,717
     
4,998
 
Net earnings
  $
7,794
    $
6,247
    $
17,745
    $
16,546
 
 
Net earnings per share Note H
                               
Basic
  $
0.22
    $
0.17
    $
0.50
    $
0.46
 
                                 
Diluted
  $
0.20
    $
0.16
    $
0.46
    $
0.43
 
                                 
Cash dividends declared per share
  $
0.03
    $
0.03
    $
0.09
    $
0.09
 
Average common shares outstanding:
                               
Basic
   
35,481
     
35,861
     
35,709
     
35,841
 
Diluted
   
39,956
     
40,266
     
40,222
     
40,215
 


      See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
3

 
 
CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS — UNAUDITED
(dollars in thousands)

   
September 30, 2007
   
December 31, 2006*
 
ASSETS
 
 
   
 
 
Current Assets
 
 
   
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $
44,956
    $
38,630
 
Accounts receivable, less allowances (2007 - $1,486; 2006 - $2,139)
   
102,707
     
106,012
 
Inventories, net — Note C
   
72,537
     
60,543
 
Other current assets
   
23,624
     
22,435
 
Total current assets
   
243,824
     
227,620
 
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation (2007  - $268,233; 2006 - $259,548)
   
91,391
     
96,468
 
Other Assets
               
Prepaid pension asset — Note E
   
107,365
     
100,666
 
Goodwill
   
24,657
     
24,657
 
Other intangible assets, net
   
36,816
     
39,154
 
Deferred income taxes  — Note I
   
32,592
     
37,401
 
Other
   
1,417
     
1,867
 
Total other assets
   
202,847
     
203,745
 
Total Assets
  $
538,062
    $
527,833
 
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Current Liabilities
               
  Notes payable
  $
1,934
    $
5,425
 
  Current portion of long-term debt — Note D
   
     
186
 
  Accounts payable
   
84,445
     
78,205
 
  Accrued liabilities
   
41,980
     
41,865
 
    Total current liabilities
   
128,359
     
125,681
 
Long-term debt  Note D
   
60,000
     
60,635
 
Other long-term obligations
   
20,081
     
22,494
 
Shareholders’ Equity
               
Preferred stock – authorized 25,000,000 shares without par value; none issued
   
     
 
Common stock — authorized 75,000,000 shares without par value; 53,911,117 shares issued at 2007 and 53,718,801 shares issued at 2006
   
278,821
     
276,553
 
Additional contributed capital
   
27,789
     
27,899
 
Retained earnings
   
329,911
     
315,370
 
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (28,381 )     (31,283 )
     
608,140
     
588,539
 
Cost of common stock held in treasury (18,603,959 shares at 2007 and 17,895,708 shares at 2006) — Note J
    (278,518 )     (269,516 )
Total shareholders’ equity
   
329,622
     
319,023
 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
  $
538,062
    $
527,833
 
*The balance sheet at December 31, 2006  has been derived from the  audited financial statements at that date.
 
See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
               






CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - UNAUDITED
(In thousands of dollars)

   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
   
 
 
Net earnings
  $
17,745
    $
16,546
 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
       Depreciation and amortization
   
16,977
     
19,043
 
Prepaid pension asset
    (6,699 )     (4,697 )
       Equity-based compensation
   
2,526
     
2,960
 
       Restructuring charges
   
     
3,368
 
       Loss/(gain) on sales of assets
   
50
      (2,124 )
       Deferred income taxes
    (413 )    
 
       Amortization of retirement benefit adjustments
   
3,188
     
 
       Changes in assets and liabilities
               
      Accounts receivable
   
3,305
      (10,863 )
      Inventories
    (11,994 )     (6,243 )
      Other current assets
    (708 )     (4,860 )
      Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
7,826
     
13,963
 
      Other
    (568 )    
1,397
 
Total adjustments
   
13,490
     
11,944
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
31,235
     
28,490
 
 
               
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Capital expenditures
    (9,295 )     (11,108 )
Proceeds from sales of assets
   
39
     
14,453
 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
    (9,256 )    
3,345
 
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Payments of long-term debt
    (7,857 )     (81,562 )
Proceeds from borrowings of long-term debt
   
7,000
     
73,850
 
Payments of short-term notes payable
    (43,756 )     (102,078 )
Proceeds from borrowings of short-term notes payable
   
40,265
     
98,237
 
Dividends paid
    (3,204 )     (3,227 )
Purchase of treasury stock
    (8,922 )     (946 )
Other
   
303
      (149 )
Net cash used in financing activities
    (16,171 )     (15,875 )
                 
Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents
   
518
     
1,734
 
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
6,326
     
17,694
 
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
   
38,630
     
12,029
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $
44,956
    $
29,723
 
                 
Supplemental cash flow information
               
Cash paid during the period for:
               
Interest
  $
1,437
    $
2,249
 
Income taxes—net
  $
1,953
    $
3,123
 
                 
 
See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.



CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS - UNAUDITED
(In thousands of dollars)



 

 

 
 
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
 
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
Net earnings
  $
7,794
    $
6,247
    $
17,745
    $
16,546
 
Other comprehensive earnings:
                               
   Cumulative translation adjustment
   
457
     
932
     
1,007
     
2,915
 
   Amortization of retirement benefit adjustments (net of tax)
   
625
     
     
1,895
     
 
Comprehensive earnings
  $
8,876
    $
7,179
    $
20,647
    $
19,461
 
 

 
See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.



NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – UNAUDITED
September 30, 2007
 

 
NOTE A—Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying condensed consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared by CTS Corporation (CTS or the Company), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements, notes thereto, and other information included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006.
 
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements reflect, in the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring items) necessary for a fair statement, in all material respects, of the financial position and results of operations for the periods presented.  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 at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period.  Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.  The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire year.

Certain reclassifications have been made for the periods presented in the consolidated financial statements to conform to the classifications adopted in 2007.
 
 
NOTE B—Equity-Based Compensation
 
Effective January 1, 2006, CTS adopted the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (FASB) Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment.”  FAS No. 123(R) requires that CTS recognize expense related to the fair value of equity-based compensation awards in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

At September 30, 2007, CTS had five equity-based compensation plans:  the 1988 Restricted Stock and Cash Bonus Plan (1988 Plan), the 1996 Stock Option Plan (1996 Plan), the 2001 Stock Option Plan (2001 Plan), the Nonemployee Directors’ Stock Retirement Plan (Directors’ Plan), and the 2004 Omnibus Long-Term Incentive Plan (2004 Plan).  As of December 2004, additional grants can only be made under the 2004 Plan.  CTS believes that equity-based awards align the interest of employees with those of its shareholders.

The 2004 Plan, and previously the 1996 Plan and 2001 Plan, provides for grants of incentive stock options or nonqualified stock options to officers, key employees, and nonemployee members of CTS’ board of directors.  In addition, the 2004 Plan allows for grants of stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, and other equity awards.

The following table summarizes the compensation expense included in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings for the three and nine-month periods ending September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006 relating to equity-based compensation plans:

 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 ($ in thousands)
 
September 30,
2007
 
October 1,
2006
 
September 30,
2007
 
October 1,
2006
 
Stock options (1)
 
$
82
 
$
167
 
$
318
 
$
938
 
Restricted stock units
 
 
777
 
 
680
 
 
2,093
 
 
1,856
 
Restricted stock
 
 
31
 
 
48
 
 
115
 
 
166
 
Total
 
$
890
 
$
895
 
$
2,526
 
$
2,960
 

(1)  
Stock option expense includes $3 and $10  in the quarters ending September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006, respectively, and $11 and $35 for the nine-month periods ending September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006, respectively, related to non-employee director stock options.
_______________________
 

 
7

 
The following table summarizes plan status as of September 30, 2007:

 
 
2004 Plan
   
2001 Plan
   
1996 Plan
 
Awards originally available
   
6,500,000
     
2,000,000
     
1,200,000
 
Stock options outstanding
   
313,850
     
846,938
     
290,050
 
Restricted stock units outstanding
   
581,878
     
     
 
Awards exercisable
   
160,863
     
808,004
     
290,050
 
Awards available for grant
   
5,300,456
     
     
 
 
Stock Options
 
Stock options are exercisable in cumulative annual installments over a maximum 10-year period, commencing at least one year from the date of grant.   Stock options are generally granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant.  The stock options generally vest over four years and have a 10-year contractual life.  The awards generally contain provisions to either accelerate vesting or allow vesting to continue on schedule upon retirement if certain service and age requirements are met.   The awards also provide for accelerated vesting if there is a change in control event.

The Company estimates the fair value of the stock option on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and assumptions for expected price volatility, option term, risk-free interest rate, and dividend yield.  Expected price volatilities are based on historical volatilities of the Company’s stock.  The expected option term is derived from historical data on exercise behavior.  The range of option terms shown below results from certain groups of employees exhibiting different behavior.  The dividend yield is based on historical dividend payments.  The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.

A summary of the status of stock options as of September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006, and changes during the nine-month periods then ended, is presented below:

 
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1, 2006
 
 
 
Options
   
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
   
Options
   
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
 
Outstanding at beginning of year
   
1,529,863
    $
15.91
     
1,567,499
    $
15.93
 
Granted
   
     
     
93,000
     
13.68
 
Exercised
    (42,900 )    
8.74
      (37,624 )    
8.53
 
Expired
    (20,400 )    
26.79
      (52,150 )    
23.07
 
Forfeited
    (15,725 )    
12.29
      (8,950 )    
9.43
 
Outstanding at end of period
   
1,450,838
    $
16.01
     
1,561,775
    $
15.76
 
 
                               
Exercisable at end of period
   
1,258,917
    $
16.54
     
1,220,275
    $
16.94
 

The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006 was $209,363 and $183,000, respectively.   The exercise price of options granted during the nine-month period ending October 1, 2006 equaled the trading price of the Company’s stock on the grant date.  There were no options granted during the nine-month period ending September 30, 2007.

A summary of the weighted-average remaining contractual term and aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and exercisable at September 30, 2007 is presented below:

 
Weighted-average
Remaining Contractual Life
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)
Options outstanding
5.08 years
$2,864
Options exercisable
4.76 years
$2,697





A summary of the nonvested stock options as of September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006, and changes during the nine-month periods then ended, is presented below:

 
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1, 2006
 
 
 
Options
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
   
Options
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Nonvested at beginning of year
   
340,900
    $
6.11
     
488,943
    $
5.35
 
Granted
   
     
     
93,000
     
6.53
 
Vested
    (166,588 )    
5.69
      (231,493 )    
4.74
 
Forfeited
    (15,725 )    
7.58
      (8,950 )    
4.52
 
Nonvested at end of period
   
158,587
 (1)   $
6.41
     
341,500
    $
6.11
 
 
(1) Based on historical experience, CTS currently expects all of these options to vest.
_____________________


The total fair value of shares vested during the nine-months ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006 was approximately $947,886 and $1,097,277 respectively.  As of September 30, 2007, there was $218,276 of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested stock options.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.2 years.  CTS recognizes expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards.

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at September 30, 2007:

 
 
 
Options Outstanding
 
Options Exercisable
 
           
Weighted-Average
               
Range of
 
Number
 
Remaining
 
Weighted-Average
 
Number
 
Weighted-Average
Exercise
 
Outstanding
 
Contractual
 
Exercise
 
Exercisable
 
Exercise
Prices
 
at 9/30/07
 
Life (Years)
 
Price
 
at 9/30/07
 
Price
$
7.70 – 11.11
   
814,613
 
 
 
5.88
 
 
$
9.41
 
 
 
723,876
   
$
9.20
 
 
13.68 – 16.24
   
227,800
 
 
 
5.99
 
 
 
14.12
 
 
 
126,616
   
 
14.33
 
 
23.00 – 33.63
   
306,675
 
 
 
3.28
 
 
 
24.62
 
 
 
306,675
   
 
24.62
 
 
35.97 – 79.25
   
101,750
 
 
 
2.96
 
 
 
47.12
 
 
 
101,750
   
 
47.12
 
 

 
9

 
 
Service-Based Restricted Stock Units
 
Service-based restricted stock units (RSUs) entitle the holder to receive one share of common stock for each unit when the unit vests.  RSUs are issued to officers and key employees as compensation.  Generally, the RSUs vest over a five-year period.  A summary of the status of RSUs as of September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006, and changes during the nine-month periods then ended is presented below:

 
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1, 2006
 
 
 
RSUs
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
   
RSUs
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Outstanding at beginning of year
   
658,938
    $
12.43
     
525,898
    $
11.49
 
Granted
   
192,950
     
12.18
     
236,700
     
13.67
 
Settled
    (211,987 )    
12.75
      (100,110 )    
11.23
 
Cancelled
    (58,023 )    
12.46
      (22,570 )    
11.34
 
Outstanding at end of period
   
581,878
    $
12.23
     
639,918
    $
12.11
 
 
                               
Weighted-average remaining contractual life
 
4.6 years
           
4.2 years
         

As of September 30, 2007, there was $3.7 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested RSUs.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years.  CTS recognizes expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards.

Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units
During the first quarter of 2007, CTS established performance-based restricted stock unit awards for certain executives.  Executives will receive between 0% to 200% of their target awards based on achievement of year-over-year sales growth and free cash flow performance goals for fiscal year 2007.  Restricted stock unit awards will be made in 2008 following a determination of the extent to which performance goals were achieved.  Each performance-based restricted stock unit will cliff vest and convert to one share of CTS common stock three years after the end of the 2007 fiscal year.   CTS intends to review its assumptions about the level of performance goal achievement on a quarterly basis and to adjust the related compensation expense accordingly.  CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $23,000 related to performance-based restricted stock units during the nine-months ending September 30, 2007.

Market-Based Restricted Stock Units
 
In July 2007, CTS established a market-based restricted stock unit award for an executive officer.  An aggregate of 25,000 units may be earned in performance years ending in the following three consecutive years on the anniversary of the award date.  Vesting will occur, if at all, at a rate of 0 -150% of the target award on the end date of each performance period and is tied exclusively to CTS total stockholder return relative to 32 enumerated peer group total stockholder return rates.  The vesting rate will be determined using a matrix based on a percentile ranking of CTS total stockholder return with peer group total shareholder return.  CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $9,000 related to market-based restricted stock units during the nine-months ending September 30, 2007.

Restricted Stock and Cash Bonus Plan
 
CTS’ 1988 Plan originally reserved 2,400,000 shares of CTS’ common stock for sale at market price, or award, to key employees.  Under the 1988 Plan, 11,600 shares of Restricted Stock were outstanding as of September 30, 2007.  Shares sold or awarded are subject to restrictions against transfer and repurchase rights of CTS.  In general, restrictions lapse at the rate of 20% per year beginning one year from the grant date.  In addition, the 1988 Plan provides for a cash bonus to the participant equal to the fair market value of shares on the dates restrictions lapse, in the case of an award.  The total bonus paid to any participant during the restricted period is limited to twice the fair market value of the shares on the date of award. As of September 30, 2007, there was $55,700 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested Restricted Stock.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.6 years.  CTS recognizes expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards.

Stock Retirement Plan
 
The Directors’ Plan provides for a portion of the total compensation payable to nonemployee directors to be deferred and paid in CTS stock.  The Directors’ Plan was frozen effective December 1, 2004.  All future grants will be from the 2004 Plan.
 
10

 
 
NOTE C—Inventories, net
 
Inventories consist of the following:

($ in thousands)
 
September 30, 2007
   
December 31,
2006
 
Finished goods
  $
10,736
    $
12,336
 
Work-in-process
   
16,929
     
15,059
 
Raw materials
   
44,872
     
33,148
 
Total inventories
  $
72,537
    $
60,543
 
 
 
NOTE D—Debt
 
Long-term debt was comprised of the following:

($ in thousands)
 
September 30, 2007
   
December 31,
2006
 
Revolving credit agreement, weighted-average interest rate of 6.2%, due in 2011
  $
    $
 
Convertible, senior subordinated debentures at a weighted-average interest rate of 2.125%, due in 2024
   
60,000
     
60,000
 
Term loan, weighted-average interest rate of 8.0% (2007) and 7.3% (2006), due in 2011
   
     
821
 
 
   
60,000
     
60,821
 
Less current maturities
   
     
186
 
Total long-term debt
  $
60,000
    $
60,635
 

On June 27, 2006, CTS entered into a $100 million, unsecured revolving credit agreement.  Under the terms of the revolving credit agreement, CTS can expand the credit facility to $150 million.  There were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit agreement at September 30, 2007 or December 31, 2006.  Interest rates on the revolving credit agreement fluctuate based upon LIBOR and the Company’s quarterly total leverage ratio.  CTS pays a commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the revolving credit agreement.  The commitment fee varies based on the quarterly leverage ratio and was 0.15 percent per annum at September 30, 2007.  The revolving credit agreement requires, among other things, that CTS comply with a maximum total leverage ratio and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio.  Failure of CTS to comply with these covenants could reduce the borrowing availability under the revolving credit agreement.  CTS was in compliance with all debt covenants at September 30, 2007.

Additionally, the revolving credit agreement contains restrictions relating to the amount of secured debt the Company can have outstanding, the amounts allowed for acquisitions or asset sales and the amounts allowed for stock repurchases and dividend payments.  The revolving credit agreement expires in June 2011.
 
CTS has $60 million convertible senior subordinated debentures (2.125% Debentures). These debentures bear interest at an annual rate of 2.125%, payable semiannually on May 1 and November 1 of each year through the maturity date of May 1, 2024. The 2.125% Debentures are convertible, under certain circumstances, into CTS common stock at a conversion price of $15.00 per share (which is equivalent to an initial conversion rate of approximately 66.6667 shares per $1,000 principal amount of the notes). Upon conversion of the 2.125% Debentures, in lieu of delivering common stock, the Company may, at its discretion, deliver cash or a combination of cash and common stock.

The conversion price of the 2.125% Debentures will be adjusted if CTS completes certain transactions, including: distribution of shares as a dividend to substantially all shareholders; subdivision, combination or reclassification of its common stock; distribution of stock purchase warrants to substantially all shareholders; distribution of cash, stock or property to shareholders in excess of  $0.03 per share; or purchase of its common stock pursuant to a tender offer or exchange offer under certain circumstances.
 
Holders may convert the 2.125% Debentures at any time during a conversion period if the closing price of CTS common stock is more than 120% of the conversion price ($18.00 per share) for at least 20 of the 30 consecutive trading days immediately preceding the first trading day of the conversion period. The conversion periods begin on February 15, May 15, August 15, and November 15 of each year. Holders may also convert the notes if certain corporate transactions occur. As of September 30, 2007, none of the conditions for conversion of the 2.125% million Debentures were satisfied.
 
11

 
 
CTS may, at its option, redeem all or a portion of the 2.125% Debentures for cash at any time on or after May 1, 2009, at a redemption price equal to the principal amount of the notes plus any accrued and unpaid interest at the redemption date. Holders may require CTS to purchase for cash all or part of their notes on May 1, 2009, 2014, and 2019, or upon the occurrence of certain events, at 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest up to, but not including, the date of purchase.

As of December 31, 2006, the Company also had an $0.8 million (denominated in Thai Baht) outstanding term loan that was assumed in connection with the acquisition of SMTEK.  The loan was secured by machinery and equipment of the Thailand Manufacturing facility and was repaid by CTS in March 2007.

During the nine-months ended September 30, 2007, CTS paid down its foreign lines of credit, classified as short-term notes payable, through normal cash flow generation.

NOTE E—Retirement Plans

Effective December 31, 2006, CTS adopted all of the provisions of FAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R).”  FAS No. 158 requires employers to: a) recognize the funded status of a benefit plan—measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value and the benefit obligation—in its statement of financial position, b) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost pursuant to FAS No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions,” or FAS No. 106, “Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions,” c) measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year-end statement of financial position, and d) disclose in the notes to financial statements additional information about certain effects on net periodic benefit cost for the next fiscal year that arise from delayed recognition of the gains or losses, prior service costs or credits, and transition asset or obligation. As required by the standard, CTS has applied these FAS No. 158 requirements prospectively.
 
Net pension (income)/postretirement expense for the three and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006 includes the following components:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
($ in thousands)
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
PENSION PLANS
                       
Service cost
  $
1,215
    $
1,283
    $
3,637
    $
3,839
 
Interest cost
   
3,005
     
3,020
     
9,003
     
9,049
 
Expected return on plan assets (1) 
    (6,346 )     (6,188 )     (19,026 )     (18,547 )
Amortization of prior service cost
   
224
     
135
     
674
     
404
 
Amortization of (gain)/loss
   
835
     
645
     
2,513
     
1,933
 
Curtailment loss
   
     
     
     
325
 
Net pension income
  $ (1,067 )   $ (1,105 )   $ (3,199 )   $ (2,997 )

(1) Expected return on plan assets is net of expected investment expenses and certain administrative expenses.
__________________
 
12

 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
($ in thousands) 
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Service cost
  $
5
    $
5
    $
16
    $
14
 
Interest cost
   
83
     
75
     
250
     
224
 
Amortization of prior service cost
   
1
     
     
1
     
 
Amortization of (gain)/loss
   
     
     
     
 
Curtailment gain
   
     
     
      (81 )
Net postretirement expense
  $
89
    $
80
    $
267
    $
157
 

CTS recognized a pension plan curtailment loss of approximately $0.3 million in 2006 and a postretirement benefit plan curtailment gain of approximately $0.1 million in 2006, due to reduced employment levels.  Also, effective April 1, 2006, CTS closed one of its U.S. defined benefit plans to new participants.

 
NOTE F—Segments
 
FAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” requires companies to provide certain information about their operating segments.  CTS has two reportable segments: 1) Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) and 2) Components and Sensors.
 
EMS includes the higher level assembly of electronic and mechanical components into a finished subassembly or assembly performed under a contract manufacturing agreement with an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or other contract manufacturer.  Additionally, for some customers, CTS provides full turnkey manufacturing and completion including design, bill-of-material management, logistics, and repair.
 
Components and sensors are products which perform specific electronic functions for a given product family and are intended for use in customer assemblies.  Components and sensors consist principally of automotive sensors and actuators used in commercial or consumer vehicles; electronic components used in communications infrastructure and computer markets; terminators, including ClearONE™ terminators, used in computer and other high speed applications, switches, resistor networks, and potentiometers used to serve multiple markets.
 
The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K.  Management evaluates performance based upon segment operating earnings before restructuring and related charges, interest expense, other non-operating income, and income tax expense.
 
 
13

 
 
 
Summarized financial information concerning CTS’ reportable segments is shown in the following table:
 

($ in thousands)
 
EMS
 
 
Components and Sensors
 
 
Total
 
Third Quarter of 2007
               
 
Net sales to external customers
 
$
106,000
   
$
68,790
   
$
174,790
 
Segment operating earnings
   
3,952
     
5,965
     
9,917
 
Total assets
   
170,722
     
367,340
     
538,062
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Third Quarter of 2006
                     
 
Net sales to external customers
 
$
100,832
   
$
64,844
   
$
165,676
 
Segment operating earnings
   
3,598
     
5,666
     
9,264
 
Total assets
   
169,403
     
392,310
     
561,713
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
First Nine Months of 2007
                       
Net sales to external customers
 
$
298,559
   
$
209,113
   
$
507,672
 
Segment operating earnings
   
6,309
     
16,458
     
22,767
 
Total assets
   
170,722
     
367,340
     
538,062
 
                         
First Nine Months of 2006
                       
Net sales to external customers
 
$
277,927
   
$
204,167
   
$
482,094
 
Segment operating earnings
   
3,424
     
24,577
     
28,001
 
Total assets
   
169,403
     
392,310
     
561,713
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Reconciling information between reportable segments’ operating earnings and CTS’ consolidated pre-tax income is shown in the following table:

 
 
 
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
 ($ in thousands)
 
September 30,
2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
Total segment operating earnings
  $
9,917
    $
9,264
    $
22,767
    $
28,001
 
Restructuring and related charges - Components and Sensors
   
      (265 )    
      (3,849 )
Restructuring charge – EMS
   
      (475 )    
      (475 )
Interest expense
    (869 )     (803 )     (2,241 )     (2,948 )
Other income
   
817
     
430
     
1,936
     
815
 
Earnings before income taxes
  $
9,865
    $
8,151
    $
22,462
    $
21,544
 
 
 
NOTE G—Contingencies
 
Certain processes in the manufacture of CTS’ current and past products create hazardous waste by-products as currently defined by federal and state laws and regulations.  CTS has been notified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state environmental agencies and, in some cases, generator groups, that it is or may be a Potentially Responsible Party (PRP) regarding hazardous waste remediation at several non-CTS sites.  In addition to these non-CTS sites, CTS has an ongoing practice of providing reserves for probable remediation activities at certain of its manufacturing locations and for claims and proceedings against CTS with respect to other environmental matters.  In the opinion of management, based upon presently available information relating to all such matters, either adequate provision for probable costs has been made, or the ultimate costs resulting will not materially affect the consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of CTS.
 
Certain claims are pending against CTS with respect to matters arising out of the ordinary conduct of its business.  For all claims, in the opinion of management, based upon presently available information, either adequate provision for anticipated costs has been made or the ultimate anticipated costs resulting will not materially affect CTS’ consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 

14

 
NOTE H—Earnings Per Share
 
FAS No. 128, “Earnings per Share,” requires companies to provide a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) computations. The calculations below provide net earnings, average common shares outstanding, and the resultant earnings per share for both basic and diluted EPS for the three and nine-month periods ending September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006.
 

($ in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Net Earnings
(Numerator)
   
Shares
(in thousands) (Denominator)
   
Per Share Amount
 
Third Quarter 2007
                 
Basic EPS
  $
7,794
     
35,481
    $
0.22
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Convertible debt
   
251
     
4,000
         
Equity-based compensation plans
   
     
475
         
Diluted EPS
  $
8,045
     
39,956
    $
0.20
 
 
                       
Third Quarter 2006
                       
Basic EPS
  $
6,247
     
35,861
    $
0.17
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Convertible debt
   
240
     
4,000
         
Equity-based compensation plans
           
405
         
Diluted EPS
  $
6,487
     
40,266
    $
0.16
 
 
                       
First Nine Months of 2007
                       
Basic EPS
  $
17,745
     
35,709
    $
0.50
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Convertible debt
   
753
     
4,000
         
Equity-based compensation plans
   
     
513
         
Diluted EPS
  $
18,498
     
40,222
    $
0.46
 
 
                       
First Nine Months of 2006
                       
Basic EPS
  $
16,546
     
35,841
    $
0.46
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
Convertible debt
   
724
     
4,000
         
Equity-based compensation plans
           
374
         
Diluted EPS
  $
17,270
     
40,215
    $
0.43
 

 
The following table shows the potentially dilutive securities which have been excluded from the three and nine-month periods ending September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006 dilutive earnings per share calculation because they are either anti-dilutive, or the exercise price exceeds the average market price.

 
 
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
(Number of Shares in Thousands)
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
Stock options where the assumed proceeds exceeds the average market price
   
636
     
701
     
609
     
750
 
Securities related to the 6.5% Debentures (1)
   
     
     
     
159
 

(1) The 6.5% convertible, subordinated debentures were repaid in June 2006.
________________

 
15

 
 
NOTE I – Income Taxes

On January 1, 2007, the Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN 48).  FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income tax positions recognized in accordance with FAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” FIN 48 requires that an enterprise must determine whether it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not threshold is then measured to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements.
 
At the date of adoption, CTS had approximately $4.3 million of unrecognized tax benefits, which, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate.  Of this amount, approximately $3.6 million was reclassified from current tax liabilities to a reduction of the long-term deferred tax asset in accordance with the provisions of FIN 48.  The remaining $0.7 million was reclassified from current tax liabilities to long term deferred tax liabilities.  Adoption of this interpretation had no other impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2007, CTS did not have a change to its total unrecognized tax benefits of $4.3 million.  These benefits are not expected to be realized within the next twelve months.    
 
CTS’ continuing practice is to recognize interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters as income tax expense. As of September 30, 2007, there were no significant amounts accrued for interest and/or penalties related to uncertain income tax positions.

The Company’s tax years are subject to examination for all U.S. jurisdictions from 2003 through 2006.  The international tax statutes vary widely and the tax years subject to examination range from 2001 through 2006. Taxing authorities also have the ability to review prior tax years to the extent of net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards and apply these changes to open tax years. CTS does not anticipate any significant changes in the unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months as the result of examinations or lapse of statutes of limitation.
 
The provision for income taxes for the nine-months ending September 30, 2007 was calculated using an estimated full year rate of 21.0% compared to 23.2% for the nine-months ending October 1, 2006 and an actual effective rate of  21.1% for the full year 2006.  The reduction in the effective tax rate between the nine-months ending October 1, 2006 and nine-months ending September 30, 2007 was attributable to a higher percentage of foreign earnings in lower taxed jurisdictions relative to total foreign earnings.
 
NOTE J—Treasury Stock

In November 2005, CTS’ Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of its common stock in the open market.  Reacquired shares will be used to support equity-based compensation programs and for other corporate purposes. Under this program, CTS repurchased 395,000 shares at a total cost of $4.9 million before the program expired on June 29, 2007.

In June 2007, CTS’ Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to two million shares of common stock in the open market.  The authorization expires on June 30, 2009.  Reacquired shares will be used to support equity-based compensation programs and for other corporate purposes.  Since June 30, 2007 CTS has repurchased 307,700 shares at a total cost of $4.0 million, under this program.
 
 
16


 
 
NOTE KNew Accounting Pronouncements

EITF 06-03 “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross Versus Net Presentation)”
In June 2006, the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 06-03, “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross Versus Net Presentation)” (EITF 06-03).  EITF 06-03 provides that the presentation of taxes assessed by a governmental authority that is directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction between a seller and a customer on either a gross basis (included in revenue and costs) or on a net basis (excluded from revenues) is an accounting policy decision that should be disclosed.  The provisions of EITF 06-3 were effective for CTS as of January 1, 2007.  CTS classifies sales taxes on a net basis in its consolidated financial statements.

FAS No. 157 “Fair Value Measurements”
In September 2006, the FASB issued Financial Accounting Standard No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”(FAS No. 157).  FAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS No. 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, and accordingly, does not require any new fair value measurements. FAS No. 157 is effective for CTS beginning January 1, 2008. CTS is currently reviewing the provisions of FAS No. 157, but does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

FAS No. 159 “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities”
In February 2007, the FASB issued Financial Accounting Standard No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (FAS No. 159).  FAS No. 159 provides the option to report certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value, with the intent to mitigate volatility in financial reporting that can occur when related assets and liabilities are recorded on different bases.  This statement is effective for CTS beginning January 1, 2008.  CTS does not expect FAS No. 159 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

FASB Staff Position FIN 48-1, “Definition of Settlement in FASB Interpretation No. 48”
In May 2007, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FIN 48-1 that amends FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FSP FIN 48-1).  FSP FIN 48-1 provides guidance on how an enterprise should determine whether a tax position is effectively settled for the purpose of recognizing previously unrecognized tax benefits. CTS does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

EITF 06-11 “Accounting for Income Tax Benefits of Dividends on Share-Based Payment Awards”
In June 2007, the EITF reached a consensus reached on EITF Issue No. 06-11, “Accounting for Income Tax Benefits of Dividends on Share-Based Payment Awards” (EITF 06-11).  EITF 06-11 provides that a realized income tax benefit from dividends that are charged to retained earnings and are paid to employees for equity classified nonvested equity shares and units should be recognized as an increase to additional paid-in capital. The provisions of this EITF should be applied prospectively to the income tax benefits of dividends on equity-classified employee share-based payment awards that are declared in fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2007. CTS currently pays dividends on its unvested Restricted Stock under the 1988 Plan. CTS has reviewed the provisions of EITF 06-11 and does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

EITF 07-3, “Accounting for Nonrefundable Advance Payments for Goods and Services to Be Used in Future Research and Development Activities”
In June 2007, the EITF reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 07-3, “Accounting for Nonrefundable Advance Payments for Goods and Services to Be Used in Future Research and Development Activities” (EITF 07-3).  EITF 07-3 provides that nonrefundable advance payments for future research and development activities should be deferred and capitalized and recognized as an expense as the goods are delivered or the related services are performed. The provisions of this EITF are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2007. CTS does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.





Item 2.         Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Overview
 
CTS is a global manufacturer of components and sensors used primarily in the automotive, communications, and computer markets.  The Company also provides electronic manufacturing solutions, including design and supply chain management functions, primarily serving the communications, computer, industrial, medical and defense and aerospace markets under contract arrangements with the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).  Sales and marketing are accomplished through CTS sales engineers, independent manufacturer’s representatives and distributors.  Sales are reported through two segments, Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) and Components and Sensors.
 
In the third quarter of 2007, sales of EMS and Components and Sensors segments represented 60.6% and 39.4% of CTS’ total sales respectively, compared to 60.9% and 39.1% respectively in the third quarter of 2006.
 
As discussed in more detail throughout the Management's Discussion and Analysis:

·  
Sales increased by $9.1 million, or 5.5%, in the third quarter of 2007 from the third quarter of 2006.  Sales in the EMS segment increased by 5.1% compared to the third quarter of 2006, while sales in the Components and Sensors segment increased by 6.1% compared to the third quarter of 2006.

·  
Gross margin, as a percent of sales, was 19.3% and 17.6% in the third quarter of 2007 and 2006, respectively.  Gross margin within the Component and Sensors segment was higher primarily due to improved product mix and lower automotive launch-related costs while EMS segment gross margins were higher due to favorable product mix and lower material costs.

·  
Selling, general and administrative and research and development expenses as a percent of sales increased to 13.6% in the third quarter of 2007 compared to 12.1% in the third quarter of 2006.  In the third quarter of 2006, a $0.7 million pre-tax gain was realized for the sale/leaseback of CTS’ Albuquerque, New Mexico building.

·  
The provision for income taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 was calculated using an estimate full year rate of 21.0% compared to 23.2% for the nine months ending October 1, 2006 and an actual effective rate of 21.1% for the full year 2006.

·  
Net earnings were $7.8 million, or $0.20 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2007 compared to $6.2 million, or $0.16 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2006.


Critical Accounting Policies
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations discusses the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
 
Management believes that judgment and estimates related to the following critical accounting policies could materially affect its consolidated financial statements:

·  
Estimating inventory valuation, the allowance for doubtful accounts, and other accrued liabilities
·  
Valuation of long-lived and intangible assets, and depreciation/amortization periods
·  
Income taxes
·  
Retirement plans
·  
Equity-based compensation

In the third quarter of 2007, there were no material changes in the above critical accounting policies.

Results of Operations
 
Comparison of Third Quarter 2007 and Third Quarter 2006
 
Segment Discussion
 
Refer to Note F, “Segments,” for a description of the Company’s segments.
 
The following table highlights the segment results for the three-month periods ending September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006:
 

($ in thousands)
 
Components & Sensors
   
EMS
   
Consolidated Total
 
Third Quarter 2007
                 
Sales
  $
68,790
    $
106,000
    $
174,790
 
Segment operating earnings
   
5,965
     
3,952
     
9,917
 
% of sales
    8.7 %     3.7 %     5.7 %
 
                       
Third Quarter 2006
                       
Sales
  $
64,844
    $
100,832
    $
165,676
 
Segment operating earnings
   
5,666
     
3,598
     
9,264
 
% of sales
    8.7 %     3.6 %     5.6 %
 
Sales in the Components and Sensors segment increased by $3.9 million, or approximately 6.1% from the third quarter of 2006.  The increase in sales was attributable primarily to growth in automotive component demand and higher sales into infrastructure applications.

The Components and Sensors segment operating earnings increased $0.3 million, or 5.2%, in the third quarter of 2007 versus the third quarter of 2006.  Operating earnings increased primarily due to margin contribution from higher sales volume, favorable product mix and lower automotive launch related costs for certain new products, partially offset by higher compensation-related and outside service expenses.  Also, a gain of $0.7 million was recognized in the third quarter of 2006 on the sale/leaseback of CTS’ Albuquerque, New Mexico building.
 
Sales in the EMS segment increased by $5.2 million, or 5.1%, in the third quarter of 2007 versus the third quarter of 2006.  The increase in sales was attributable primarily to higher sales into the industrial and defense and aerospace markets partially offset by a decrease primarily in computer market sales.
 
The EMS segment operating earnings increased $0.4 million in the third quarter of 2007 primarily due to improved product mix and margin contribution from higher sales volume.
 
19

 
 
Total Company Discussion
 
The following table highlights changes in significant components of the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the three-month periods ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006:
 

 
Three Months Ended
 
 
 
($ in thousands, except net earnings per share)
 
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
Increase (Decrease)
 
Net sales
  $
174,790
    $
165,676
    $
9,114
 
Restructuring-related costs
   
-
     
254
      (254 )
% of net sales
    - %     0.2 %     (0.2 )%
 
                       
Gross margin
   
33,793
     
29,105
     
4,688
 
% of net sales
    19.3 %     17.6 %     1.7 %
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
19,821
     
16,320
     
3,501
 
% of net sales
    11.3 %     9.9 %     1.4 %
 
                       
Research and development expenses
   
4,055
     
3,775
     
280
 
% of net sales
    2.3 %     2.3 %     0.0 %
 
                       
Restructuring charge
   
-
     
486
      (486 )
% of net sales
    - %     0.3 %     (0.3 )%
 
                       
Operating earnings
   
9,917
     
8,524
     
1,393
 
% of net sales
    5.7 %     5.1 %     0.6 %
 
Income tax expense
   
2,071
     
1,904
     
167
 
 
Net earnings
  $
7,794
    $
6,247
    $
1,547
 
% of net sales
    4.5 %     3.8 %     0.7 %
 
Net earnings per share - diluted
  $
0.20
    $
0.16
    $
0.04
 
 
Third quarter sales increased $9.1 million, or 5.5%, from the third quarter of 2006.  The sales increase was mainly attributable to higher sales into the industrial, defense and aerospace and automotive markets partially offset by a decline in computer sales and weak electronic component demand.
 
Gross margin as a percent of sales was 19.3% in the third quarter of 2007 compared to 17.6% in the third quarter of 2006, primarily due to favorable product mix, lower material costs and lower automotive launch-related costs.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $19.8 million, or 11.3% of sales, in the third quarter of 2007 versus $16.3 million, or 9.9% of sales in the third quarter of 2006.  Selling, general and administrative expenses were higher primarily due to higher compensation-related expenses and a $0.7 million pre-tax gain for the sale/leaseback of CTS’ Albuquerque, New Mexico building recorded in 2006.

Operating earnings were $9.9 million, or 5.7% of sales, in the third quarter of 2007 compared to $8.5 million, or 5.1% of sales, in the third quarter of 2006.  The increase in operating earnings resulted from higher gross margin dollars.  Additionally, the three months ended October 1, 2006 included restructuring and related costs associated with CTS’ Berne, Indiana and Marlborough, Massachusetts facilities that were incurred in the third quarter of 2006.  The increase was partially offset by higher selling general and administrative expenses.

The provision for income taxes for the nine months ending September 30, 2007 was calculated using an estimated full year rate of 21.0% compared to 23.2% for the nine months ending October 1, 2006 and an actual effective rate of 21.1% for the full year 2006.  The reduction in the effective tax rate between the nine months ending October 1, 2006 and the nine months ending September 30, 2007 was attributable to a higher percentage of foreign earnings in lower taxed jurisdictions relative to total foreign earnings.

 
20

 
 
Comparison of First Nine Months of 2007 and First Nine Months of 2006
 
Segment Discussion
 
The following table highlights the segment results for the nine-month periods ending September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006:
 

($ in thousands)
 
Components
& Sensors
   
EMS
   
Consolidated
Total
 
First Nine Months 2007
                 
    Sales
  $
209,113
    $
298,559
    $
507,672
 
    Segment operating earnings
   
16,458
     
6,309
     
22,767
 
    % of sales
    7.9 %     2.1 %     4.5 %
 
                       
First Nine Months 2006
                       
   Sales
  $
204,167
    $
277,927
    $
482,094
 
   Segment operating earnings
   
24,577
     
3,424
     
28,001
 
   % of sales
    12.0 %     1.2 %     5.8 %

During the first nine months of 2007, sales of Components and Sensors and EMS products, as a percentage of total sales, were 41.2% and 58.8% respectively.  In the first nine months of 2006, sales of Components and Sensors and EMS products, as a percentage of total sales, were 42.4% and 57.6% respectively.

The Components and Sensors segment sales increased $4.9 million or 2.4% from the first nine months of 2006.  The increase was primarily due to higher sales of automotive products, partially offset by decreased sales of electronic components.  The Components and Sensors segment operating earnings decreased $8.1 million, primarily due to legal and accounting expenses, lower royalty income, lower fixed asset gains, start-up costs of CTS’ Czech Republic facility, and an insurance settlement received in the first quarter of 2006.
 
EMS segment sales increased by $20.6 million, or 7.4%, in the first nine months of 2007 from the first nine months of 2006.  The increase is due to higher sales into the industrial and defense and aerospace markets, partially offset by lower computer and medical market sales.  The EMS segment operating earnings increased $2.8 million due to higher sales volumes versus 2006, improved product mix and efficiency gains, partially offset by legal and accounting expenses. 
21

 
Total Company Discussion
 
The following table highlights changes in significant components of the condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2007 and October 1, 2006:

 
 
Nine Months Ended
     
 ($ in thousands, except net earnings per share)  
September 30, 2007
   
October 1,
2006
   
Increse (Decrease)
 
Net sales
  $
507,672
    $
482,094
    $
25,578
 
Restructuring-related costs
   
-
     
956
      (956 )
% of net sales
    - %     0.2 %     (0.2 )%
                         
Gross margin
   
97,075
     
90,914
     
6,161
 
% of net sales
    19.1 %     18.9 %     0.2 %
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
62,031
     
51,932
     
10,099
 
% of net sales
    12.2 %     10.8 %     1.4 %
                         
Research and development expenses
   
12,277
     
11,937
     
340
 
% of net sales
    2.4 %     2.5 %     (0.1 )%
                         
Restructuring charge
   
-
     
3,368
      (3,368 )
% of net sales
    - %     0.7 %     (0.7 )%
                         
Operating earnings
   
22,767
     
23,677
      (910 )
% of net sales
    4.5 %     4.9 %     (0.4 )%
 
Income tax expense
   
4,717
     
4,998
      (281 )
 
Net earnings
  $
17,745
    $
16,546
    $
1,199
 
% of net sales
    3.5 %     3.4 %     0.1 %
                         
Net earnings per share - diluted
  $
0.46
    $
0.43
    $
0.03
 

Sales in the first nine months of 2007 increased $25.6 million, or 5.3%, from the first nine months of 2006.  The sales increase was attributable to higher sales into the industrial, defense and aerospace, and automotive markets offset by a decline in computer sales and lower electronic component demand.
 
Gross margin increased $6.2 million for the first nine months of 2007 primarily due to the contribution from higher sales volume and lower restructuring-related costs, partially offset by lower royalty income.  As a percentage of sales, gross margin increased to 19.1% in the first nine months of 2007 compared to 18.9% in the first nine months of 2006.
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $10.1 million, primarily from $3.4 million of legal and accounting fees, higher compensation-related expenses, a favorable insurance claim settlement of $1.5 million received in 2006, and a pre-tax gain of $0.7 million for the sale/leaseback of CTS’ Albuquerque, New Mexico building recorded in 2006.

Operating earnings were $22.8 million in the first nine months of 2007 compared to $23.7 million in the first nine months of 2006.  The decrease in operating earnings was primarily attributable to higher selling, general and administrative expenses as discussed above.  The decrease in operating earnings was partially offset by higher gross margins.  Additionally, the first nine months of 2006 included restructuring and related costs associated with CTS’ Berne, Indiana and Marlborough, Massachusetts facilities that were incurred in the first nine months of 2006.

22

 
 
The provision for income taxes for the nine months ending September 30, 2007 was calculated using an estimated full year rate of 21.0% compared to 23.2% for the nine months ending October 1, 2006 and an actual effective rate of 21.1% for the full year 2006.  The reduction in the effective tax rate between the nine months ending October 1, 2006 and the nine months ending September 30, 2007 was attributable to a higher percentage of foreign earnings in lower taxed jurisdictions relative to total foreign earnings.

Interest and other expenses through the first nine months of 2007 were $0.3 million, $1.8 million lower than the first nine months of 2006.  Compared to the prior year, interest income increased $0.9 million, favorable foreign currency gain increased $0.3 million and interest expense was $0.7 million lower primarily from lower outstanding debt balances.

Outlook

Based on the first nine months results and the outlook for the remainder of the year, CTS expects full-year 2007 sales to grow by 4% to 5% over 2006.  Full-year diluted earnings per share are expected to be in a range of $0.65 to $0.68.


Liquidity and Capital Resources

Overview

Cash and cash equivalents were $45.0 million at September 30, 2007 compared to $38.6 million at December 31, 2006.  Total debt on September 30, 2007 was $61.9 million, lower than the $66.3 million amount at the end of 2006, primarily due to decreased notes payable.  Total debt as a percentage of total capitalization was 15.8% at the end of the third quarter of 2007, compared with 17.2% at the end of 2006. Total debt as a percentage of total capitalization is defined as the sum of notes payable, current portion of long-term debt and long-term debt as a percent of total debt and shareholder’s equity.

 
Cash Flow
 
Operating Activities
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $31.2 million for the first nine months of 2007.  Components of net cash provided by operating activities included net earnings of $17.7 million, depreciation and amortization expense of $17.0 million, equity-based compensation of $2.5 million and unfavorable changes in assets and liabilities of $1.6 million.  The changes in assets and liabilities were due to increased inventory of $12.0 million and an increase in prepaid pension asset of $6.7 million partially offset by increased accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $7.8 million and decreased accounts receivable of $3.3 million.
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $28.5 million for the first nine months of 2006.  Components of net cash provided by operating activities included net earnings of $16.5 million, depreciation and amortization expense of $19.0 million, equity-based compensation of $3.0 million and restructuring charges of $3.4 million partially offset by an increase to the prepaid pension asset of $4.7 million, gain on sales of assets of $2.1 million and an unfavorable change in assets and liabilities of $8.0 million. The changes in assets and liabilities were primarily due to increased accounts receivables of $10.9 million, an increase in inventory of $6.2 million, and an increase in other current assets of $4.9 million, partially offset by an increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $14.0 million.

Investing Activities
 
Net cash used by investing activities was $9.3 million for the first nine months of 2007, primarily for capital expenditures.
 
Net cash provided by investing activities were $3.3 million for the first nine months of 2006, including $14.5 million in proceeds for sale of assets, primarily related to the $12.5 million proceeds for the sale of the Albuquerque facility, partially offset by $11.1 million used for capital expenditures.
 
Total free cash flow in the first nine months of 2007 was $21.9 million.  Total free cash flow in the first nine months of 2006 was $17.4 million.
 
23

 
 
The following table summarizes free cash flow for CTS:
 

 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
($ in millions) 
 
September 30,
 2007
   
October 1,
2006
 
Net cash provided by operations
  $
31.2
    $
28.5
 
Capital expenditures
    (9.3 )     (11.1 )
Free cash flow
  $
21.9
    $
17.4
 
 
Free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure that CTS defines as net cash provided by operations less capital expenditures.  The most comparable GAAP measure is net cash provided by operations.  CTS' management uses free cash flow to evaluate financial performance and in strategic planning, specifically, for investing and financing decisions.  CTS' management believes that free cash flow is a useful measure because it indicates the ability of a business operation to fund its own required capital investments.  CTS' management believes that the non-GAAP measure free cash flow is useful to investors because it reflects the performance of its overall operations more accurately than net cash provided by operations and because it provides investors with the same results that management uses as the basis for making decisions about the business.  Free cash flow is not an indicator of residual cash available for discretionary spending, because it does not take into account mandatory debt service or other non-discretionary spending requirements which are not deducted in the calculation of free cash flow.  CTS' management takes these limitations into account when using free cash flow to make investing and financing decisions.

Financing Activities
 
Net cash used in financing activities was $16.2 million in first nine months of 2007, consisting primarily of an $8.9 million purchase of treasury stock, $3.5 million in decreased short-term debt and $3.2 million in dividend payments.
 
Net cash used in financing activities was $15.9 million in first nine months of 2006, consisting primarily of a net $7.7 million reduction in long-term debt associated with the payment of the $5.5 million of 6.5% debenture, a decrease in short- term notes payable of $3.8 million, $3.2 million in dividends payments, and a $0.9 million purchase of treasury stock.
 
Capital Resources

Refer to Note D, “Debt,” for further discussion.

On June 27, 2006, CTS entered into a $100 million, unsecured revolving credit agreement.  Under the terms of the revolving credit agreement, CTS can expand the credit facility to $150 million.  There were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit agreement at September 30, 2007.  Interest rates on the revolving credit agreement fluctuate based upon LIBOR and the Company’s quarterly total leverage ratio.  CTS pays a commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the revolving credit agreement.  The commitment fee varies based on the quarterly leverage ratio and was 0.15 percent per annum at September 30, 2007.  The revolving credit agreement requires, among other things, that CTS comply with a maximum total leverage ratio and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio.  Failure of CTS to comply with these covenants could reduce the borrowing availability under the revolving credit agreement.  CTS was in compliance with all debt covenants at September 30, 2007.

Additionally, the revolving agreement contains restrictions relating to the amount of secured debt the Company can have outstanding, the amounts allowed for acquisitions or asset sales and the amounts allowed for stock repurchases and dividend payments.  The revolving credit agreement expires in June 2011.
 
CTS believes cash flows from operating activities and available borrowings under its revolving credit agreement will be adequate to fund its working capital and capital expenditure requirements.  CTS may choose to pursue additional equity and/or debt financing to fund acquisitions and/or to reduce its overall interest expense or improve its capital structure.

In November 2005, CTS’ Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of its common stock in the open market.  Reacquired shares will be used to support equity-based compensation programs and for other corporate purposes.  Under this program, CTS repurchased 395,000 shares at a total cost of $4.9 million before the program expired June 29, 2007.

In June 2007, CTS’ Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to two million shares of its common stock in the open market.  The authorization expires on June 30, 2009.  Reacquired shares will be used to support equity-based compensation programs and for other corporate purposes.  Since June 30, 2007 CTS has repurchased 307,700 shares at a total cost of $4.0 million, under this program.




New Accounting Pronouncements

EITF 06-03 “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross Versus Net Presentation)”
In June 2006, the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 06-03, “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross Versus Net Presentation)” (EITF 06-03).  EITF 06-03 provides that the presentation of taxes assessed by a governmental authority that is directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction between a seller and a customer on either a gross basis (included in revenue and costs) or on a net basis (excluded from revenues) is an accounting policy decision that should be disclosed.  The provisions of EITF 06-3 were effective for CTS as of January 1, 2007.  CTS classifies sales taxes on a net basis in its consolidated financial statements.

FAS No. 157 “Fair Value Measurements”
In September 2006, the FASB issued Financial Accounting Standard No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”(FAS No. 157).  FAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS No. 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, and accordingly, does not require any new fair value measurements. FAS No. 157 is effective for CTS beginning January 1, 2008. CTS is currently reviewing the provisions of FAS No. 157, but does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

FAS No. 159 “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities”
In February 2007, the FASB issued Financial Accounting Standard No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (FAS No. 159).  FAS No. 159 provides the option to report certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value, with the intent to mitigate volatility in financial reporting that can occur when related assets and liabilities are recorded on different bases.  This statement is effective for CTS beginning January 1, 2008.  CTS does not expect FAS No. 159 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

FASB Staff Position FIN 48-1, “Definition of Settlement in FASB Interpretation No. 48”
In May 2007, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FIN 48-1 that amends FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FSP FIN 48-1).  FSP FIN 48-1 provides guidance on how an enterprise should determine whether a tax position is effectively settled for the purpose of recognizing previously unrecognized tax benefits. CTS does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

EITF 06-11 “Accounting for Income Tax Benefits of Dividends on Share-Based Payment Awards”
In June 2007, the EITF reached a consensus reached on EITF Issue No. 06-11, “Accounting for Income Tax Benefits of Dividends on Share-Based Payment Awards” (EITF 06-11).  EITF 06-11 provides that a realized income tax benefit from dividends that are charged to retained earnings and are paid to employees for equity classified nonvested equity shares and units should be recognized as an increase to additional paid-in capital. The provisions of this EITF should be applied prospectively to the income tax benefits of dividends on equity-classified employee share-based payment awards that are declared in fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2007. CTS currently pays dividends on its unvested Restricted Stock under the 1988 Plan. CTS has reviewed the provisions of EITF 06-11 and does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

EITF 07-3, “Accounting for Nonrefundable Advance Payments for Goods and Services to Be Used in Future Research and Development Activities”
In June 2007, the EITF reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 07-3, “Accounting for Nonrefundable Advance Payments for Goods and Services to Be Used in Future Research and Development Activities” (EITF 07-3).  EITF 07-3 provides that nonrefundable advance payments for future research and development activities should be deferred and capitalized and recognized as an expense as the goods are delivered or the related services are performed. The provisions of this EITF are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2007. CTS does not expect the provisions to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.



*****

25


 
Forward-Looking Statements


This document contains statements that are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, any financial or other guidance, statements that reflect our current expectations concerning future results and events, and any other statements that are not based solely on historical fact.  Forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations, certain assumptions and currently available information.  Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.  These forward-looking statements are made subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those presented in the forward-looking statements.  For more detailed information on the risks and uncertainties associated with CTS’ business, see our reports filed with the SEC.  Examples of factors that may affect future operating results and financial condition include, but are not limited to: rapid technological change; general market conditions in the automotive, communications, and computer industries, as well as conditions in the industrial, defense & aerospace, and medical markets; reliance on key customers; the ability to protect our intellectual property; pricing pressures and demand for our products; and risks associated with our international operations, including trade and tariff barriers, exchange rates and political and geopolitical risks; and the impact of the accounting misstatements at its Moorpark and Santa Clara, California locations, including the results of the impact of the SEC’s informal inquiry into these misstatements.  CTS undertakes no obligation to publicly update its forward-looking statements to reflect new information or events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof, including market or industry changes.






  Item 3.        Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
There have been no material changes in CTS’ market risk since December 31, 2006.
 
 
 Item 4.           Controls and Procedures
 
CTS’ management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e).

In February 2007, CTS announced that it was investigating incorrect accounting entries at its Moorpark, California manufacturing location and that its financial statements for the first three quarters of 2006 should not be relied upon.  The investigation determined that incorrect entries transferred significant costs from income statement accounts, primarily cost of goods sold, to balance sheet accounts, primarily accounts payable, beginning in 2005 and continuing through 2006.  For more information on these matters, please refer to Item 1A, Risk Factors; Item 9A Controls and Procedures; Note B to the consolidated financial statements, “Restatement of the Consolidated Financial Statements”; and Management 's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting in CTS’ 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed May 15, 2007.  Management determined that the effect of the misstatements on CTS' 2006 consolidated financial statements was material and accordingly amendments to CTS’ 2006 Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q/A restating CTS' condensed consolidated financial statements for each of the first three quarters of 2006 were filed contemporaneously with CTS’ 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K. In addition, as a result of the incorrect entries discussed above CTS restated its consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2005 in its 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

In its assessment of internal control over financial reporting for the year ended December 31, 2006, CTS' management concluded that a material weakness existed in CTS' internal control over financial reporting. The following control deficiencies, on a combined basis, resulted in the material weakness related to the Moorpark and Santa Clara, California manufacturing locations:
 
·  
Monitoring and accountability over the operating effectiveness of controls including effective operation of designed controls over reconciliations, journal entry approval and oversight.
·  
Ability to set-up fictitious vendors and ability to make payments to vendors without appropriate support and approval.
·  
Lack of effectiveness of the internal audit function to obtain an understanding of process and controls at the Moorpark and Santa Clara, California locations.
 
Prior to identifying the material weakness described above, CTS’ management had taken actions to strengthen the  Moorpark and Santa Clara accounting organization by replacing the Moorpark plant controller and adding a Santa Clara plant controller.  Since identifying the material weakness, CTS has implemented the following changes to strengthen its internal control over financial reporting:

·  
Increased review and approval of all manual journal entries by the entity controllers.
·  
Increased review and approval of all account reconciliation activities by the entity controllers.
·  
Added a senior Corporate accountant to provide additional review and oversight of all key accounting processes globally, including manual journal entries and key account reconciliations.
·  
Increased internal audit resources and revised internal audit programs to increase the scope and frequency of audits.
·  
Standardized and strengthened the account reconciliation process at both Moorpark and Santa Clara.
·  
Completed a review of all Moorpark and Santa Clara vendors.
·  
Removed the entity controllers’ ability to set-up vendors and make payments through the financial information system.
·  
Removed the entity controllers’ security access to record journal entries.

Management believes these actions have strengthened the internal control environment at both Moorpark and Santa Clara and that these actions have remediated the material weakness described above.  These internal control enhancements will be tested throughout the year by CTS’ Internal Audit organization to confirm that they are operating effectively.

27

 
In addition, CTS intends to implement the following changes over the course of 2007 to further strengthen its internal control environment:

·  
Further enhance the Moorpark and Santa Clara reporting system documentation and user training.
·  
Continue to strengthen operating policies, including policies around pricing adjustments, customer returns and vendor disputes at all CTS locations.
·  
Institute additional operational monitoring reports to review and track early warning signs e.g. short payments, premium freight and customer rejects at all CTS locations.
·  
Further enhance and document CTS’ annual vendor certification process at all CTS locations.
·  
Standardize and strengthen the account reconciliation process at all CTS locations.

As of September 30, 2007 CTS' management, including its Chief Executive Officer and its Interim Chief Financial Officer, have carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of CTS' disclosure controls and procedures.  Based on the determination that the material weakness remediations in CTS' internal control over financial reporting described above have not been fully tested, CTS’ Chief Executive Officer and Interim Chief Financial Officer have determined that CTS' disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of September 30, 2007.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Except as described above, there were no changes in CTS' internal control over financial reporting for the quarter ended September 30, 2007 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect CTS' internal control over financial reporting.
 

 
PART II  -   OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.    Legal Proceedings
 
Certain processes in the manufacturer of CTS’ current and past products create hazardous waste by-products as currently defined by federal and state laws and regulations.  CTS has been notified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state environmental agencies and, in some cases, generator groups that it is or may be a Potentially Responsible Party (PRP) regarding hazardous waste remediation at several non-CTS sites.  In addition to these non-CTS sites, CTS  has an ongoing practice of providing reserves for probably remediation activities at certain of its manufacturing locations and for claims and proceedings against CTS with respect to other environmental matters.  In the opinion of management, based upon presently available information relating to all such matters, either adequate provision for probable costs has been made, or the ultimate costs resulting will not materially affect the consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows of CTS.

Certain claims are pending against CTS with respect to matters arising out of the ordinary conduct of its business.  For all claims, in the opinion of management, based upon presently available information, either adequate provision for anticipated costs has been made by insurance, accruals or otherwise, or the ultimate anticipated costs resulting will not materially affect CTS’ consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

CTS has been informed that the staff of the SEC is conducting an informal inquiry relating to the accounting misstatements of its Moorpark and Santa Clara, California manufacturing facilities.  CTS is in full cooperation with the SEC in its inquiry.
 
Item 1A.     Risk Factors

There have been no significant changes in the Company’s risk factors since December 31, 2006.




  Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
The following table summarizes the repurchases of CTS common stock made by the Company during the three-month period ending September 30, 2007:

   
(a)
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
   
(b)
Average Price
Paid per Share
   
(c)
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as Part of Plans
or Programs
(1)
   
(d)
Maximum Number
of Shares
That May Yet Be
Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
 
                       
2,340,000
 
July 2, 2007 – July 5, 2007
   
45,000
    $
12.90
     
45,000
     
2,000,000
 
August 8, 2007 – August 24, 2007
   
116,000
     
12.95
     
116,000
     
1,884,000
 
August 27, 2007 – September 28, 2007
   
191,700
     
13.02
     
191,700
     
1,692,300
 
Total
   
352,700
    $
12.98
     
352,700
         
 
 
_________________________________
 
(1)
In November 2005, CTS’ Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of its common stock in the open market.  The authorization expired June 29, 2007.
 
 
In June 2007, CTS’ Board of Director authorized a program to repurchase up to two million shares of its common stock in the open market.  The authorization expires June 30, 2009.
 

 
 
Item 6.      Exhibits

 
Performance Share Agreement with Vinod M. Khilnani
     
 
Amendment to Employment Agreement of Donald K. Schwanz
     
 
Amendment to CTS Corporation Individual Excess Benefit Retirement Plan of Donald K. Schwanz
     
 
Form of CTS Corporation Individual Excess Benefit Retirement Plan
     
 
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
 
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
 
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
 
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     




SIGNATURES

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

CTS Corporation
 
CTS Corporation
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Richard G. Cutter III
 
/s/ Vinod M. Khilnani
 
Richard G. Cutter III
Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel
 
Vinod M. Khilnani
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 
Dated: October 24, 2007
 
 Dated: October 24, 2007
 

 
 
 
 
30