Form 20-F
Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 26, 2012

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 20-F

 

 

 

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

OR

 

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011

OR

 

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

For the transition period from              to             

OR

 

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

Date of event requiring this shell company report

Commission file number 0–31106

 

 

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 

 

Bermuda

(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)

No. 1, R&D Road 1, Hsinchu Science Park

Hsinchu, Taiwan

Republic of China

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

Shou-Kang Chen

Chief Financial Officer

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

No. 1, R&D Road 1, Hsinchu Science Park

Hsinchu, Taiwan

Republic of China

Telephone: (886) 3 563 3988

Facsimile: (886) 3 563 3998

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile Number and Address of Company Contract Person)

 

 

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

 

Title of Each Class

 

Name of Each Exchange

on Which Registered

Common Shares, par value US$0.04 each   The NASDAQ Capital Market

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

None

(Title of Class)

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

None

(Title of Class)

 

 

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

As of December 31, 2011, 26,923,905 Common Shares, par value US$0.04 each, were outstanding (not including 6,474,211 Common Shares held by our subsidiary).

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

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

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  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ¨    No  ¨

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

Large Accelerated Filer  ¨    Accelerated Filer  x    Non-Accelerated Filer  ¨

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

US GAAP  ¨

International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board  ¨    Other  x

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

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

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

 

          Page  
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE “SAFE HARBOR” PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995      1   
PART I   
Item 1.    Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers      1   
Item 2.    Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable      1   
Item 3.    Key Information      2   
Item 4.    Information on the Company      20   
Item 4A.    Unresolved Staff Comments      43   
Item 5.    Operating and Financial Review and Prospects      43   
Item 6.    Directors, Senior Management and Employees      65   
Item 7.    Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions      72   
Item 8.    Financial Information      76   
Item 9.    The Offer and Listing      77   
Item 10.    Additional Information      77   
Item 11.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk      86   
Item 12.    Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities      86   
PART II   
Item 13.    Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies      87   
Item 14.    Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds      87   
Item 15.    Controls and Procedures      87   
Item 16A.    Audit Committee Financial Expert      87   
Item 16B.    Code of Ethics      87   
Item 16C.    Principal Accountant Fees and Services      88   
Item 16D.    Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees      88   
Item 16E.    Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers      88   
Item 16F.    Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant      88   
Item 16G.    Corporate Governance      88   
PART III   
Item 17.    Financial Statements      90   
Item 18.    Financial Statements      90   
Item 19.    Exhibits      90   


Table of Contents

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE “SAFE HARBOR” PROVISIONS OF

THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

Except for historical matters, the matters discussed in this Annual Report on Form 20-F are forward-looking statements that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These statements are generally indicated by the use of forward-looking terminology such as the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “project”, “will” or other similar words that express an indication of actions or results of actions that may or are expected to occur in the future. These statements appear in a number of places throughout this Annual Report on Form 20-F and include statements regarding our intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, among other things, our results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the industries in which we operate.

By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industries in which we operate may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F. Important factors that could cause those differences include, but are not limited to:

 

   

our ability to successfully overcome the current economic conditions and the financial market crisis;

 

   

the volatility of the semiconductor industry and the market for end-user applications for semiconductor products;

 

   

overcapacity in the semiconductor testing and assembly markets;

 

   

the increased competition from other companies and our ability to retain and increase our market share;

 

   

our ability to successfully develop new technologies and remain a technological leader;

 

   

our ability to maintain control over capacity expansion and facility modifications;

 

   

our ability to generate growth or profitable growth;

 

   

our ability to hire and retain qualified personnel;

 

   

our ability to acquire required equipment and supplies to meet customer demand;

 

   

our ability to raise debt or equity financing as required to meet certain existing obligations;

 

   

the pending criminal indictment of our chairman and chief executive officer;

 

   

our reliance on the business and financial condition of certain major customers;

 

   

the success of any of our future acquisitions, investments or joint ventures;

 

   

the outcome of any pending litigation;

 

   

the outbreak of contagious disease and occurrence of earthquakes, typhoons and other natural disasters, as well as industrial accidents;

 

   

the political stability of the regions to which we conduct operations; and

 

   

general local and global economic and financial conditions.

Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our strategy and future plans, future business condition and financial results, our capital expenditure plans, our capacity expansion plans, our expansion plans in Mainland China, technological upgrades, investment in research and development, future market demand, future regulatory or other developments in our industry. Please see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors” for a further discussion of certain factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by our forward-looking statements.

PART I

 

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

Not applicable.

 

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

Not applicable.

 

1


Table of Contents
Item 3. Key Information

Selected Financial Data

The following tables set forth our selected consolidated financial data. The selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2010 and 2011 and our consolidated statement of operations and cash flows data for 2009, 2010 and 2011 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included herein, and should be read in conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by reference to, these audited consolidated financial statements and related notes beginning on page F-1 of this Annual Report on Form 20-F. These audited consolidated financial statements have been audited by Moore Stephens. The selected consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2007, 2008 and 2009 and the consolidated statement of operations and cash flows data for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2008 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included herein. Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared and presented in accordance with ROC GAAP, which differs in some material respects from US GAAP. Please see Note 25 to our audited consolidated financial statements for a description of the principal differences between ROC GAAP and US GAAP for the periods covered by these financial statements.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2007     2008     2009     2010     2011     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in millions, except per share data)  

Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:

            

ROC GAAP:

            

Net revenue:

            

Related parties(1)

   $ 6,915.9      $ 3,122.9      $ 668.9      $ 2,033.3      $ 379.0      $ 12.5   

Others

     16,681.7        13,887.3        11,481.4        15,176.4        17,831.9        589.1   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total net revenue

     23,597.6        17,010.2        12,150.3        17,209.7        18,210.9        601.6   

Cost of revenue

     17,444.1        16,969.9        15,661.5        16,564.0        16,549.2        546.7   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit (loss)

     6,153.5        40.3        (3,511.2     645.7        1,661.7        54.9   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

            

Research and development

     322.3        435.6        375.3        412.7        409.8        13.5   

General and administrative

     1,070.5        885.6        657.8        677.6        651.9        21.5   

Sales and marketing

     98.3        2,362.7        561.2        64.4        66.5        2.2   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     1,491.1        3,683.9        1,594.3        1,154.7        1,128.2        37.2   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (Loss) from operations

     4,662.4        (3,643.6     (5,105.5     (509.0     533.5        17.7   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other income (expenses), net

     (669.2     (3,286.8     116.7        2,320.6        (455.8     (15.1
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (Loss) before income tax, noncontrolling interests and interest in bonuses paid by subsidiaries(2)

     3,993.2        (6,930.4     (4,988.8     1,811.6        77.7        2.6   

Income tax benefit (expense)

     (768.2     (120.8     420.7        99.3        (45.5     (1.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (Loss) before noncontrolling interests and interest in bonuses paid by subsidiaries(2)

     3,225.0        (7,051.2     (4,568.1     1,910.9        32.2        1.1   

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (720.0     143.3        149.4        (266.2     (47.4     (1.6

Interest in bonuses paid by subsidiaries(2)

     (285.8     (362.4     —          —          —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS

   $ 2,219.2      $ (7,270.3   $ (4,418.7   $ 1,644.7      $ (15.2   $ (0.5
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings (Loss) per share(4):

            

Basic

   $ 110.54      $ (346.63   $ (223.35   $ 68.61      $ (0.57   $ (0.02

Diluted

   $ 96.94      $ (346.63   $ (230.15   $ 67.38      $ (0.57   $ (0.02

Weighted-average number of shares outstanding(4):

            

Basic

     20.1        21.0        19.8        24.0        26.6        26.6   

Diluted

     27.1        21.0        22.3        26.8        26.6        26.6   

US GAAP:(3)

            

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS

   $ 2,901.7      $ (7,177.7   $ (4,550.3   $ 1,616.9      $ 46.1      $ 1.5   

Earnings (Loss) per share(4):

            

Basic

   $ 144.52      $ (342.24   $ (230.00   $ 67.45      $ 1.73      $ 0.06   

Diluted

   $ 84.28      $ (342.24   $ (236.60   $ 66.35      $ 1.71      $ 0.06   

Weighted-average number of shares outstanding(4):

            

Basic

     20.1        21.0        19.8        24.0        26.6        26.6   

Diluted

     27.1        21.0        20.8        26.8        26.9        26.9   

 

(1) Related parties include Mosel Vitelic Inc., or Mosel, Siliconware Precision Industries Co. Ltd., or Siliconware Precision, ProMOS Technologies Inc., or ProMOS and DenMOS Technology Inc., or DenMOS. Commencing April 1, 2011, Mosel and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are no longer related parties of the Company as collectively, they hold less than 10% interest in ChipMOS Bermuda and is no longer considered as having significant influence on the Company. Commencing April 1, 2011, Siliconware Precision held less than 10% interest in ChipMOS Bermuda and was no longer a major shareholder of the Company. See Note 19 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
(2) Refers to bonuses to directors, supervisors and employees paid by subsidiaries.
(3) Reflects the US GAAP adjustments as described in Note 25 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
(4) The outstanding shares and per share information reflect the reverse stock split of the Company’s common stocks with a ratio of 1-for-every-4 shares effective on January 21, 2011.

 

2


Table of Contents
     As of December 31,  
     2007      2008      2009      2010      2011      2011  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in millions)  

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:

                 

ROC GAAP:

                 

Current assets:

                 

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 5,133.6       $ 6,651.9       $ 3,884.8       $ 7,143.3       $ 7,357.9       $   243.1   

Restricted cash and cash equivalents

     87.0         59.5         243.8         546.8         285.1         9.4   

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss

     555.6         102.1         119.0         3.0         —           —     

Held-to-maturity financial assets

     —           250.0        —           —           —           —     

Investment with no active market

     —           100.0        100.0         —           —           —     

Notes receivable

                 

—related parties(1)

     —           195.0        —           —           —           —     

—third parties

     28.0         14.2         27.9         14.0         5.7         0.2   

Accounts receivable

                 

—related parties(1)

     1,498.8         0.4         0.2         258.0         —           —     

—third parties

     3,795.9         1,296.5         2,441.8         2,816.0         3,666.5         121.1   

Other receivables

                 

—related parties(1)

     11.9         30.0         —           66.4        —           —     

—third parties

     31.2         172.2         130.1         182.0         73.2         2.4   

Inventories

     1,043.6         1,001.5         862.1         1,279.8         1,533.9         50.7   

Deferred income tax, net

     85.1         355.8         356.4         278.7         76.6         2.5   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     334.5         265.2         265.1         202.3         92.3         3.1   

Total current assets

     12,605.2         10,494.3         8,431.2         12,790.3         13,091.2         432.5   

Long-term investments

     358.0         437.8         220.0         10.5         39.1         1.3   

Property, plant and equipment—net

     30,020.4         23,654.9         20,769.0         17,273.0         13,896.1         459.1   

Intangible assets—net

     180.4         107.8         102.8         94.2         100.5         3.3   

Other assets

     2,152.1         746.8         833.2         1,147.0         1,154.2         38.1   

Total assets

     45,316.1         35,441.6         30,356.2         31,315.0         28,281.1         934.3   

Current liabilities:

                 

Short-term bank loans

     1,249.2         2,745.4         2,363.3         1,494.7         546.9         18.1   

Current portion of long-term loans

     3,686.2         4,603.7         1,553.9         4,925.7         684.0         22.6   

Convertible notes

     3,014.9         1,541.6         —           65.8         —           —     

Derivative liabilities

     96.0         —           —           —           —           —     

Accounts payable

     976.1         477.9         738.0         690.1         1,130.8         37.4   

Payables to contractors and equipment suppliers

     454.1         251.6         201.2         790.6         415.4         13.7   

Other payables

     604.1         628.0         696.1         896.7         1,081.5         35.7   

Current portion of capital leases payable

     —           —           821.2         822.0         —           —     

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     886.7         469.4         525.7         990.9         830.9         27.4   

Total current liabilities

     11,374.2         10,721.6         6,921.5         10,697.5         4,712.2         155.7   

Long-term liabilities

     11,323.7         9,832.6         13,377.6         6,477.0         8,484.3         280.3   

Other liabilities

     370.1         344.6         104.9         97.1         101.3         3.3   

Total liabilities

     23,068.0         20,898.8         20,404.0         17,271.6         13,297.8         439.3   

Total equity (including noncontrolling interests)

   $ 22,248.1       $ 14,542.8       $ 9,952.2       $ 14,043.4       $ 14,983.3       $ 495.0   

 

(1) Related parties include Mosel, Siliconware Precision, ProMOS and DenMOS. Commencing April 1, 2011, Mosel and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are no longer related parties of the Company as collectively, they hold less than 10% interest in ChipMOS Bermuda and is no longer considered as having significant influence on the Company. Commencing April 1, 2011, Siliconware Precision held less than 10% interest in ChipMOS Bermuda and was no longer a major shareholder of the Company. See Note 19 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

 

3


Table of Contents
     As of December 31,  
     2007      2008      2009      2010      2011      2011  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in millions)  

US GAAP(1) :

                 

Current assets:

                 

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 5,133.6       $ 6,651.9       $ 3,884.8       $ 7,143.3       $ 7,357.9       $   243.1   

Restricted cash and cash equivalents

     87.0         59.5         243.8         546.8         285.1         9.4   

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss

     555.6         102.1         119.0         3.0         —           —     

Held-to-maturity financial assets

     —           250.0         —           —           —           —     

Available-for-sale financial assets

     —           100.0         100.0         —           —           —     

Notes receivable

                 

—related parties(2)

     —           195.0         —           —           —           —     

—third parties

     28.0         14.2         27.9         14.0         5.7         0.2   

Accounts receivable

                 

—related parties(2)

     1,498.8         0.4         0.2         258.0         —           —     

—third parties

     3,795.9         1,296.5         2,441.8         2,816.0         3,666.5         121.1   

Other receivables

                 

—related parties(2)

     11.9         30.0         —           66.4         —           —     

—third parties

     31.2         172.2         130.1         182.0         73.2         2.4   

Inventories

     1,044.3         966.1         863.1         1,280.9         1,534.9         50.7   

Deferred income tax, net

     82.6         349.5         350.2         272.5         70.4         2.3   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     334.5         265.2         265.1         202.3         92.3         3.1   

Total current assets

     12,603.4         10,452.6         8,426.0         12,785.2         13,086.0         432.3   

Long-term investments

     358.0         437.8         220.0         10.5         39.1         1.3   

Property, plant and equipment—net

     29,861.6         23,427.2         20,474.4         16,924.1         13,501.0         446.0   

Intangible assets—net

     180.4         107.8         102.8         94.2         100.5         3.3   

Other assets

     2,262.6         731.6         893.2         1,221.1         1,237.6         40.9   

Total assets

     45,266.0         35,157.0         30,116.4         31,035.1         27,964.2         923.8   

Current liabilities:

                 

Short-term bank loans

     1,249.2         2,745.4         2,363.3         1,494.7         546.9         18.1   

Current portion of long-term loans

     3,686.2         4,603.7         1,553.9         4,925.7         684.0         22.6   

Convertible notes

     3,056.4         1,453.0         —           65.8         —           —     

Derivative liabilities

     85.4         —           —           —           —           —     

Accounts payable

     976.1         477.9         738.0         690.1         1,130.8         37.4   

Payables to contractors and equipment suppliers

     454.1         251.6         201.2         790.6         415.4         13.7   

Other payables

     604.1         628.0         696.1         896.7         1,081.5         35.7   

Current portion of capital leases payable

     —           —           821.2         822.0         —           —     

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     1,321.0         469.4         525.7         990.9         830.9         27.4   

Total current liabilities

     11,839.3         10,632.9         6,921.5         10,697.5         4,712.2         155.7   

Long-term liabilities

     11,179.3         9,832.6         13,377.6         6,477.0         8,484.3         280.3   

Other liabilities

     596.5         537.3         383.7         488.0         478.8         15.8   

Total liabilities

     23,615.1         21,002.8         20,682.8         17,662.5         13,675.3         451.8   

Total equity (including noncontrolling interests)

   $ 21,650.9       $ 14,154.2       $ 9,433.6       $ 13,372.6       $ 14,288.9       $ 472.0   

 

(1) Reflects the US GAAP adjustments as described in Note 25 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
(2) Related parties include Mosel, Siliconware Precision, ProMOS and DenMOS. Commencing April 1, 2011, Mosel and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are no longer related parties of the Company as collectively, they hold less than 10% interest in ChipMOS Bermuda and is no longer considered as having significant influence on the Company. Commencing April 1, 2011, Siliconware Precision held less than 10% interest in ChipMOS Bermuda and was no longer a major shareholder of the Company. See Note 19 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

 

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     Year ended December 31,  
     2007     2008     2009     2010     2011     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in millions)  

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Data:

            

ROC GAAP:

            

Capital expenditures

   $ 6,093.8      $ 2,188.4      $ 3,479.7      $ 4,237.3      $ 2,319.3      $ 76.6   

Depreciation and amortization

     6,834.8        7,174.5        6,524.6        6,281.6        5,677.6        187.6   

Net cash provided by (used in):

            

Operating activities

     10,882.9        5,164.2        781.0        8,688.9        5,898.0        194.8   

Investing activities

     (12,212.1     (2,296.9     (1,042.5     (2,454.2     (3,250.7     (107.4

Financing activities

     528.1        (1,395.3     (2,503.8     (2,959.5     (2,464.6     (81.4

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

     38.8        46.3        (1.8     (16.8     31.9        1.1   

Net increase (decrease) in cash

   $ (762.3   $ 1,518.3      $ (2,767.1   $ 3,258.4      $ 214.6      $ 7.1   

Exchange Rates

References to “US$” and “US dollars” are to United States dollars and references to “NT$” and “NT dollars” are to New Taiwan dollars. This Annual Report on Form 20-F contains translations of certain NT dollar amounts into US dollars at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from NT dollars to US dollars and from US dollars to NT dollars were made at the noon buying rate in The City of New York for cable transfers in NT dollars per US dollar as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as of December 30, 2011, which was NT$30.27 to US$1.00. We make no representation that the NT dollar or US dollar amounts referred to in this Annual Report on Form 20-F could have been or could be converted into US dollars or NT dollars, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all. On April 20, 2011, the noon buying rate was NT$29.45 to US$1.00.

The following table sets out, for the years and the months indicated, information concerning the number of NT dollars for which one US dollar could be exchanged based on the noon buying rate for cable transfers in NT dollars as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

 

     NT dollars per US dollar noon buying rate  
     Average      High      Low      Period-end  

2007

     32.85         33.41         32.26         32.43   

2008

     31.52         33.58         29.99         32.76   

2009

     33.02         35.21         31.95         31.95   

2010

     31.50         32.43         29.14         29.14   

2011

     29.38         30.67         28.50         30.27   

October

     30.26         30.67         29.86         29.91   

November

     30.22         30.43         30.02         30.31   

December

     30.25         30.38         30.10         30.27   

2012

           

January

     29.99         30.28         29.61         29.61   

February

     29.54         29.59         29.37         29.37   

March

     29.52         29.61         29.37         29.50   

April (through 20, 2012)

     29.49         29.55         29.45         29.45   

Sources: Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Risk Factors

Risks Relating to Economic Conditions and the Financial Markets

The global credit and financial markets crisis could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Since 2009 and through 2011, global credit and financial markets have experienced severe disruptions. These include diminished liquidity and limited availability of credit, reduced consumer confidence, reduced economic growth, increased unemployment rates and uncertainty about economic stability. Limited availability of credit in financial markets may lead consumers and businesses to postpone spending. This in turn may cause our customers to cancel, decrease or delay their existing and future orders with us. Financial difficulties experienced by our customers or suppliers as a result of these conditions could lead to production delays and delays or defaults in payment of accounts receivable. Continuing credit markets disruption restricts our access to capital and limits our ability to fund operations or to refinance maturing obligations as they become due through additional borrowing or other sources of financing. We are not able to predict the duration or extent of the current global credit and financial markets crisis. These conditions increase the difficulty of accurately forecasting and planning our business activities. If these conditions and uncertainties continue or if credit and financial markets and confidence in economic conditions further deteriorate, our business and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

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Risks Relating to Our Industry

Because we depend on the highly cyclical semiconductor industry, which is characterized by significant and sometimes prolonged downturns from time to time, our net revenue and earnings may fluctuate significantly, which in turn could cause the market price of our common shares to decline.

Because our business is, and will continue to be, dependent on the requirements of semiconductor companies for independent testing and assembly services, any downturn in the highly cyclical semiconductor industry may reduce demand for our services and adversely affect our results of operations. All of our customers operate in this industry and variations in order levels from our customers and in service fee rates may result in volatility in our net revenue and earnings. For instance, during periods of decreased demand for assembled semiconductors, some of our customers may even simplify, delay or forego final testing of certain types of semiconductors, such as dynamic random access memory or DRAM, further intensifying our difficulties. From time to time, the semiconductor industry has experienced significant, and sometimes prolonged, downturns which have adversely affected our results of operations. In 2009, the semiconductor industry, especially the assembly and testing services for DRAM products sector, continued to experience the significant downturn that began in fourth quarter of 2008, and which has adversely affected our business. As a result of the industry downturn, our net revenue for 2009 decreased 29% from 2008 levels. This industry downturn started to recover from the second quarter of 2009, and our net revenue for 2010 increased 42% from 2009 levels. Our net revenue for 2011 increased 6% from 2010 levels and generated a net loss of NT$15 million (US$1 million) in 2011. We cannot give any assurances that there will not be any downturn in the future or that any future downturn will not affect our results of operations.

Any deterioration in the market for end-user applications for semiconductor products would reduce demand for our services and may result in a decrease in our earnings.

Market conditions in the semiconductor industry track, to a large degree, those for their end-user applications. Any deterioration in the market conditions for the end-user applications of semiconductors we test and assemble could reduce demand for our services and, in turn, materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Our net revenue is largely attributable to fees derived from testing and assembling semiconductors for use in personal computers, communications equipment, consumer electronic products and display applications. A significant decrease in demand for products in these markets could put pricing pressure on our testing and assembly services and negatively affect our net revenue and earnings. Weak demand for LCD and other flat-panel display products began in 2007 and has since adversely affected our operating results in 2008, 2009, and 2010. The LCD driver market started to recover in the second quarter of 2009 and the positive recovery trend continues in 2010 and 2011. We cannot give any assurances that there will not be any downturn in the future or that any future downturn will not affect our results of operations. Any significant decrease in demand for end-user applications of semiconductors will negatively affect our net revenue and earnings.

A decline in average selling prices for our services could result in a decrease in our earnings.

Historically, prices for our testing and assembly services in relation to any given semiconductor tend to decline over the course of its product and technology life cycle. See also “— A decrease in market demand for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors may adversely affect our capacity utilization rates and thereby negatively affect our profitability”. If we cannot reduce the cost of our testing and assembly services, or introduce higher-margin testing and assembly services for new package types, to offset the decrease in average selling prices for our services, our earnings could decrease.

A reversal or slowdown in the outsourcing trend for semiconductor testing and assembly services could reduce our profitability.

In recent years, integrated device manufacturers, or IDMs, have increasingly outsourced stages of the semiconductor production process, including testing and assembly, to independent companies like us to shorten production cycles. In addition, the availability of advanced independent semiconductor manufacturing services has also enabled the growth of so-called “fabless” semiconductor companies that focus exclusively on design and marketing and outsource their manufacturing, testing and assembly requirements to independent companies. A substantial portion of our net revenue is indirectly generated from providing semiconductor assembly and testing services to these IDMs and fabless companies. We cannot assure you that these companies will continue to outsource their testing and assembly requirements to independent companies like us. A reversal of, or a slowdown in, this outsourcing trend could result in reduced demand for our services, which in turn could reduce our profitability.

 

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Risks Relating to Our Business

If we are unable to compete effectively in the highly competitive semiconductor testing and assembly markets, we may lose customers and our income may decline.

The semiconductor testing and assembly markets are very competitive. We face competition from a number of IDMs with in-house testing and assembly capabilities and other independent semiconductor testing and assembly companies. Our competitors may have access to more advanced technologies and greater financial and other resources than we do. Many of our competitors have shown a willingness to reduce prices quickly and sharply in the past to maintain capacity utilization in their facilities during periods of reduced demand. In addition, an increasing number of our competitors conduct their operations in lower cost centers in Asia such as Mainland China, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. Any renewed or continued erosion in the prices or demand for our testing and assembly services as a result of increased competition could adversely affect our profits.

We are highly dependent on the market for memory products. A downturn in market prices for these products could significantly reduce our net revenue and net income.

A significant portion of our net revenue is derived from testing and assembling memory semiconductors. Our net revenue derived from the testing and assembly of memory semiconductors accounted for 66%, 62% and 57% of our net revenue in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. In the past, our service fees for testing and assembling memory semiconductors were sharply reduced in tandem with the decrease in the average selling price of DRAM in the semiconductor industry. The continuing oversupply of DRAM products in 2008 and the weak demand in the DRAM market in 2009, 2010 and 2011 resulted in significant reductions in the price of DRAM products, which in turn drove down the average prices for our testing and assembly services for DRAM products in these periods. We cannot assure you that there will not be further downturns in DRAM prices in the future.

A decrease in market demand for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors may adversely affect our capacity utilization rates and thereby negatively affect our profitability.

Our testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors generated net revenue of NT$1,986 million, NT$3,199 million and NT$3,986 million (US$132 million) in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. We invested NT$37 million, NT$1,659 million and NT$1,188 million (US$39 million) in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively, on equipment for tape carrier package, or TCP, chip-on-film, or COF and chip-on-glass, or COG, technologies, which are used in testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. Most of this equipment may not be used for technologies other than TCP, COF or COG. The market demand for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors and related testing and assembly services increased in 2011 compared to the market demand in 2010. Any significant decrease in demand for these products and our related services, however, would significantly impair our capacity utilization rates. That may result in our inability to generate sufficient revenue to cover the significant depreciation expenses for the equipment used in testing and assembling LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors, thereby negatively affecting our profitability. See also “— Because of our high fixed costs, if we are unable to achieve relatively high capacity utilization rates, our earnings and profitability may be adversely affected”.

Our significant amount of indebtedness and interest expense will limit our cash flow and could adversely affect our operations.

We have a significant level of debt and interest expense. As of December 31, 2011, we had approximately NT$8,484 million (US$280 million) and NT$1,231 million (US$41 million) outstanding long-term and short-term indebtedness, respectively. Our long-term indebtedness as of December 31, 2011, represented bank loans with an interest rate between 1.92% and 3.0421%. As of December 31, 2011, NT$799 million (US$26 million) of our short-term indebtedness and NT$8,484 million (US$280 million) of our long-term indebtedness was secured by collateral comprised of assets owned by ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin.

Our significant indebtedness poses risks to our business, including the risks that:

 

   

we may have to use a substantial portion of our consolidated cash flow from operations to pay principal and interest on our debt, thereby reducing the funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other general corporate purposes;

 

   

insufficient cash flow from operations may force us to sell assets, or seek additional capital, which we may be unable to do at all or on terms favorable to us;

 

   

our ability to sell assets or seek additional capital may be adversely affected by security interests in our assets granted to our lenders as collateral;

 

   

our level of indebtedness may make us more vulnerable to economic or industry downturns; and

 

   

our debt service obligations increase our vulnerabilities to competitive pressures, because many of our competitors may be less leveraged than we are.

 

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For additional information on our indebtedness, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources”.

Our results of operations may fluctuate significantly and may cause the market price of our common shares to be volatile.

Our results of operations have varied significantly from period to period and may continue to vary in the future. Among the more important factors affecting our quarterly and annual results of operations are the following:

 

   

our ability to accurately predict customer demand, as we must commit significant capital expenditures in anticipation of future orders;

 

   

our ability to quickly adjust to unanticipated declines or shortfalls in demand and market prices for our testing and assembly services, due to our high percentage of fixed costs;

 

   

changes in prices for our testing and assembly services;

 

   

volume of orders relative to our testing and assembly capacity;

 

   

capital expenditures and production uncertainties relating to the roll-out of new testing or assembly services;

 

   

our ability to obtain adequate testing and assembly equipment on a timely basis;

 

   

changes in costs and availability of raw materials, equipment and labor;

 

   

changes in our product mix; and

 

   

earthquakes, drought and other natural disasters, as well as industrial accidents.

Because of the factors listed above, our future results of operations or growth rates may be below the expectations of research analysts and investors. If so, the market price of our common shares, and the market value of your investment, may fall.

The ongoing criminal proceeding of and adverse publicity associated with Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Hung-Chiu Hu, our former director, could have a material adverse effect on our business and cause our stock price to decline.

Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, our chairman and chief executive officer, was indicted by the Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office, or the prosecutor, in December 2005. Based upon information released by the prosecutor, the indictment alleges that Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, as instructed by Mr. Hung-Chiu Hu, purchased repurchase notes on January 6, January 13, and January 28, 2004 from Founder Associates Limited, a British Virgin Islands company affiliated with Mega Securities Co., Ltd. (formerly known as Barits International Securities Co., Ltd.), with an aggregate principal amount of approximately US$29 million, by using corporate funds from ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin. The indictment further alleges that these repurchase notes were used as a cover to misuse the corporate funds of Mosel, and its affiliated entities, including ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin, in violation of ROC law. In addition, the indictment alleges that Mr. Hu and others were engaged in the insider trading of the securities of Mosel in violation of ROC law, but none of the current officers at ChipMOS Taiwan or ThaiLin was indicted in this regard.

On January 5, 2006, our board established a special committee to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the indictment of Mr. Cheng. The special committee engaged K&L Gates LLP (formerly Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis LLP) as its independent international legal counsel, Baker & McKenzie as its independent ROC legal counsel, and Ernst & Young (formerly Diwan, Ernst & Young) as its financial advisor to assist in its investigation. As of March 31, 2012, the special committee was solely comprised of Mr. Yeong-Her Wang, our independent director.

The special committee’s investigation focused on (1) the probability that Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng would be convicted on the charges described in the indictment, (2) whether the indictment resulted in any pecuniary or other damage to us, (3) whether there were any internal control weaknesses related to the investments in repurchase notes within ChipMOS Bermuda and its subsidiaries and (4) whether ChipMOS Bermuda is required by applicable laws or the NASDAQ Global Select Market listing requirements to take any action in connection with the indictment. The special committee did not attempt to independently determine whether Mr. Cheng had engaged in any wrongdoing in connection with the investments in repurchase notes, irrespective of whether such wrongdoing would lead to a conviction on the charges under the indictment.

 

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On June 28, 2006, the special committee issued its report, including its findings and recommendations. Based upon the results of its investigation, it found that (1) Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng has declared himself not guilty of the charges described in the indictment, (2) Baker & McKenzie, after reviewing the indictment and the prosecutor’s exhibits, has found that the evidence produced by the prosecutor seems to be inadequate and that there is a low probability of the charge of irregular transactions in the indictment being founded, (3) the financial advisor to the special committee has found that we suffered no loss (not taking into account exchange rate factors) and that all monies (capital and interest) were remitted back to our subsidiaries involved, (4) we have suffered no identifiable harm to our reputation or business and (5) Mr. Cheng has not been impaired by the indictment to perform as our chairman and chief executive officer. The special committee recommended that our board maintain Mr. Cheng as our chairman and chief executive officer with full responsibilities and our board unanimously (with Mr. Cheng having recused himself) resolved to accept and adopt the special committee’s recommendation with regard to Mr. Cheng. Our board of directors also resolved to continue the role of the special committee for the duration of the ongoing criminal proceeding involving Mr. Cheng to actively monitor any developments of the criminal investigation and take or recommend any appropriate action in light of such developments.

On October 1, 2007, the Taipei District Court found Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng not guilty, and on October 22, 2007, the prosecutor appealed the Taipei District Court decision at the Taiwan High Court. The Taiwan High Court held four trial hearings in 2008, six trial hearings in 2009 and six trial hearings in 2010. Due to the rotation of the judges in the meantime, a new bench was formed at the beginning of 2010 to try this case. Two trial hearings have since been conducted by the new bench in 2011. Another trial hearing was scheduled on May 21, 2012.

Theoretically, as a result of prosecutor’s appeal, Mr. Cheng may still be convicted of one or more charges in the indictment. In addition, new evidence that leads to additional criminal charges and/or an adverse judgment against Mr. Cheng may be produced during the ongoing criminal investigation, and the special committee may make recommendations to our board in respect of Mr. Cheng’s positions with us or our subsidiaries. However, up to the present, no new evidence or charge has been presented or collected by the prosecutor or the Court. Therefore, we are reasonably confident that the non-guilty judgment for Mr. Cheng will be maintained by the Taiwan High Court. If Mr. Cheng is convicted, or in light of any new developments, the special committee may recommend or our board of directors may otherwise decide that it is in the Company’s best interests that Mr. Cheng no longer serves in all or some of his current capacities with us or our subsidiaries, or if Mr. Cheng resigns as a result of a final adverse judgment rendered against him by the court, or otherwise, the public perception of us may be seriously harmed and we would lose some or all of the services of Mr. Cheng. In addition, if Mr. Cheng is convicted and sentenced to imprisonment, the ROC Financial Supervisory Commission may subject ChipMOS Taiwan or ThaiLin to certain restrictions on financing activities if Mr. Cheng continues to serve as the chairman or president of ChipMOS Taiwan or ThaiLin. Mr. Cheng is very important to our current on-going business operations and our relationships with our customers and financing sources, and our loss of his services due to and any adverse publicity from the trial or conviction of Mr. Cheng or other key personnel could materially and adversely affect our business, reputation and prospects and therefore cause our stock price to decline.

We depend on key customers for a substantial portion of our net revenue and a loss of, or deterioration of the business from, or delayed payment by, any one of these customers could result in decreased net revenue and materially adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

We depend on a small group of customers for a substantial portion of our business. In 2011, our top five customers, collectively accounted for 50% of our net revenue. As part of our strategy, we have been focusing on sales to key customers through long-term service agreements. We also focus on our business with smaller customers and customers who do not place orders on a regular basis. We expect that we will continue to depend on a relatively limited number of customers for a significant portion of our net revenue. Any adverse development in our key customers’ operations, competitive position or customer base could materially reduce our net revenue and adversely affect our business and profitability.

ProMOS is an affiliate of Mosel. Commencing April 1, 2011, Mosel and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are no longer related parties to the Company. In March 2008, ProMOS defaulted on its payment obligations under our long-term service agreement. In November 2008, we entered into a revised subcontracting contract with ProMOS by requiring ProMOS to provide wafers with a value of 80% of the subcontracting fee as collateral. Effective March 2009, we started to request prepayments from ProMOS. In May 2009, a further revised subcontracting contract was entered into by and between us and ProMOS under which ProMOS provided us with wafer as a pledge for its payment obligations and Work-In-Process, or WIP and existing finished goods would serve as lien material. Part of ProMOS’ receivables had been recovered through sales of the pledged wafer and lien material back to ProMOS with a discount to market price, and the remaining outstanding accounts receivables have been secured by equipment mortgage under the same contract arrangement. NT$7 million was received by April 2010. The remaining outstanding accounts receivables have been paid under the amended subcontracting contract and settlement with ProMOS. ProMOS paid us NT$200 million and NT$24 million in May 2010 and December 2010, respectively and the remaining NT$202 million was paid in nine monthly installments ended on March 15, 2011. All sums have been received in 2011. We have no other concern regarding the collection with ProMOS in 2011. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Customers”.

 

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In January 2009, Spansion defaulted on its payment obligations under our long-term service agreement and we subsequently terminated the long-term service agreement with Spansion on February 19, 2009. On March 1, 2009, Spansion filed for a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. On January 25, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a definitive Transfer of Claim Agreement to sell to Citigroup Financial Products Inc. (“Citigroup”) the general unsecured claim reflected in the proof of claim against Spansion. In February 2010, we received from Citigroup the purchase price for the Undisputed Claim of NT$1,118 million against accounts receivable of NT$2,186 million. We recognized a related loss on sale of receivables of NT$1,068 million and we reversed the related allowance for doubtful receivables of NT$2,186 million in 2010. On October 4, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a settlement agreement with Spansion LLC for the general unsecured claim on breach of contract and liquidated damages rights reflected in the proof of claim, Claim No. 5, against Spansion Inc., Spansion Technology LLC, Spansion LLC, Spansion International Inc. and Cerium Laboratories LLC filed by ChipMOS Taiwan in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. In October 2010, the Company received payment of NT$2,118 million under the Transfer of Claim Agreement to Citigroup. See “Item 4. Information on the Company— Customers”.

Since semiconductor companies generally rely on service providers with whom they have established relationships to meet their testing and assembly needs for their applications and new customers usually require us to pass a lengthy and rigorous qualification process, if we lose any of our key customers, we may not be able to replace them in a timely manner. We cannot assure you that receivable collection difficulties experienced by us will not occur in the future. If any of our key customers reduces or cancels its orders or terminates existing contractual arrangements, and if we are unable to attract new customers and establish new contractual arrangements with existing or new customers, our net revenue could be reduced and our business and results of operations may be materially adversely affected.

Because of our high fixed costs, if we are unable to achieve relatively high capacity utilization rates, our earnings and profitability may be adversely affected.

Our operations are characterized by a high proportion of fixed costs. For memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductor testing services, our fixed costs represented 80%, 73% and 68% of our total cost of revenue in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. For memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductor assembly services, our fixed costs represented 30%, 24% and 23% of our total cost of revenue in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. For LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services, our fixed costs represented 64%, 55% and 52% of our total cost of revenue in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. For bumping services, our fixed costs represented 38%, 27% and 23% of our total cost of revenue in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. Our profitability depends in part not only on absolute pricing levels for our services, but also on the utilization rates for our testing and assembly equipment, commonly referred to as “capacity utilization rates”. Increases or decreases in our capacity utilization rates can significantly affect our gross margins as unit costs generally decrease as the fixed costs are allocated over a larger number of units. In the past, our capacity utilization rates have fluctuated significantly as a result of the fluctuations in the market demand for semiconductors. If we fail to increase or maintain our capacity utilization rates, our earnings and profitability may be adversely affected. In addition, we have entered into various long-term assembly and testing services agreements with certain of our customers that may require us to incur significant capital expenditures. If we are unable to achieve high capacity utilization rates for the equipment purchased pursuant to these agreements, our gross margins may be materially and adversely affected.

The testing and assembly process is complex and our production yields and customer relationships may suffer as a result of defects or malfunctions in our testing and assembly equipment and the introduction of new packages.

Semiconductor testing and assembly are complex processes that require significant technological and process expertise. Semiconductor testing involves sophisticated testing equipment and computer software. We develop computer software to test our customers’ semiconductors. We also develop conversion software programs that enable us to test semiconductors on different types of testers. Similar to most software programs, these software programs are complex and may contain programming errors or “bugs”. In addition, the testing process is subject to human error by our employees who operate our testing equipment and related software. Any significant defect in our testing or conversion software, malfunction in our testing equipment or human error could reduce our production yields and damage our customer relationships.

The assembly process involves a number of steps, each of which must be completed with precision. Defective packages primarily result from:

 

   

contaminants in the manufacturing environment;

 

   

human error;

 

   

equipment malfunction;

 

   

defective raw materials; or

 

   

defective plating services.

 

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These and other factors have, from time to time, contributed to lower production yields. They may do so in the future, particularly as we expand our capacity or change our processing steps. In addition, to be competitive, we must continue to expand our offering of packages. Our production yields on new packages typically are significantly lower than our production yields on our more established packages. Our failure to maintain high standards or acceptable production yields, if significant and prolonged, could result in a loss of customers, increased costs of production, delays, substantial amounts of returned goods and related claims by customers. Further, to the extent our customers have set target production yields, we may be required to compensate our customers in a pre-agreed manner. Any of these problems could materially adversely affect our business reputation and result in reduced net revenue and profitability.

Because of the highly cyclical nature of our industry, our capital requirements are difficult to plan. If we cannot obtain additional capital when we need it, we may not be able to maintain or increase our current growth rate and our profits will suffer.

As our industry is highly cyclical and rapidly changing, our capital requirements are difficult to plan. To remain competitive, we may need capital to fund the expansion of our facilities as well as to fund our equipment purchases and research and development activities. To meet our liquidity, capital spending and other capital needs, we have taken and plan to take certain measures to generate additional working capital and to save cash. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources”. We cannot assure you that these plans and measures will be implemented or will provide sufficient sources of capital.

In addition, future capacity expansions or market or other developments may require additional funding. Our ability to obtain external financing in the future depends on a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. They include:

 

   

our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows;

 

   

general market conditions for financing activities by semiconductor testing and assembly companies; and

 

   

economic, political and other conditions in Taiwan and elsewhere.

If we are unable to obtain funding in a timely manner or on acceptable terms, our growth prospects and potential future profitability will suffer.

Disputes over intellectual property rights could be costly, deprive us of technologies necessary for us to stay competitive, render us unable to provide some of our services and reduce our opportunities to generate revenue.

Our ability to compete successfully and achieve future growth will depend, in part, on our ability to protect our proprietary technologies and to secure, on commercially acceptable terms, critical technologies that we do not own. We cannot assure you that we will be able to independently develop, or secure from any third party, the technologies required for our testing and assembly services. Our failure to successfully obtain these technologies may seriously harm our competitive position and render us unable to provide some of our services.

Our ability to compete successfully also depends on our ability to operate without infringing upon the proprietary rights of others. The semiconductor testing and assembly industry is characterized by frequent litigation regarding patent and other intellectual property rights. We may incur legal liabilities if we infringe upon the intellectual property or other proprietary rights of others. We are not able to ascertain what patent applications have been filed in the United States or elsewhere, however, until they are granted. If any third party succeeds in its intellectual property infringement claims against us or our customers, we could be required to:

 

   

discontinue using the disputed process technologies, which would prevent us from offering some of our testing and assembly services;

 

   

pay substantial monetary damages;

 

   

develop non-infringing technologies, which may not be feasible; or

 

   

acquire licenses to the infringed technologies, which may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all.

 

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Any one of these developments could impose substantial financial and administrative burdens on us and hinder our business. We are, from time to time, involved in litigation in respect of intellectual property rights. Any litigation, whether as plaintiff or defendant, is costly and diverts our resources. If we fail to obtain necessary licenses on commercially reasonable terms or if litigation, regardless of the outcome, relating to patent infringement or other intellectual property matters occurs, our costs could be substantially increased to impact our margins. Any such litigation could also prevent us from testing and assembling particular products or using particular technologies, which could reduce our opportunities to generate revenue. For more information on litigation in respect of intellectual property rights, see “Item 8. Financial Information—Legal Proceedings”.

If we are unable to obtain raw materials and other necessary inputs from our suppliers in a timely and cost-effective manner, our production schedules would be delayed and we may lose customers and growth opportunities and become less profitable.

Our operations require us to obtain sufficient quantities of raw materials at acceptable prices in a timely and cost-effective manner. We source most of our raw materials, including critical materials like leadframes, organic substrates, epoxy, gold wire and molding compound for assembly, and tapes for TCP/COF, from a limited group of suppliers. We purchase all of our materials on a purchase order basis and have no long-term contracts with any of our suppliers. From time to time, suppliers have extended lead times, increased the price or limited the supply of required materials to us because of market shortages. Consequently, we may, from time to time, experience difficulty in obtaining sufficient quantities of raw materials on a timely basis. In addition, from time to time, we may reject materials that do not meet our specifications, resulting in declines in output or yield. Although we typically maintain at least two suppliers for each key raw material, we cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain sufficient quantities of raw materials and other supplies of an acceptable quality in the future. It usually takes from three to six months to switch from one supplier to another, depending on the complexity of the raw material. If we are unable to obtain raw materials and other necessary inputs in a timely and cost-effective manner, we may need to delay our production and delivery schedules, which may result in the loss of business and growth opportunities and could reduce our profitability.

If we are unable to obtain additional testing and assembly equipment or facilities in a timely manner and at a reasonable cost, we may be unable to fulfill our customers’ orders and may become less competitive and less profitable.

The semiconductor testing and assembly business is capital intensive and requires significant investment in expensive equipment manufactured by a limited number of suppliers. The market for semiconductor testing and assembly equipment is characterized, from time to time, by intense demand, limited supply and long delivery cycles. Our operations and expansion plans depend on our ability to obtain equipment from a limited number of suppliers in a timely and cost-effective manner. We have no binding supply agreements with any of our suppliers and we acquire our testing and assembly equipment on a purchase order basis, which exposes us to changing market conditions and other significant risks. Semiconductor testing and assembly also requires us to operate sizeable facilities. If we are unable to obtain equipment or facilities in a timely manner, we may be unable to fulfill our customers’ orders, which could negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations as well as our growth prospects. Previously we have committed to acquire certain wafer sorting testers and probers under our long-term service agreement with Spansion. We terminated that agreement and commitment on February 19, 2009, after Spansion defaulted on its payment obligations. Currently, we do not have any long-term service agreements that require our commitment to acquire additional testing and assembly equipment or facilities, however we cannot assure you that such commitment will not be made in the future. See “Item 4. Information on the Company— Customers”.

If we are unable to manage the expansion of our operations and resources effectively, our growth prospects may be limited and our future profitability may be reduced.

We expect to continue to expand our operations and increase the number of our employees. Rapid expansion puts a strain on our managerial, technical, financial, operational and other resources. As a result of our expansion, we will need to implement additional operational and financial controls and hire and train additional personnel. We cannot assure you that we will be able to do so effectively in the future, and our failure to do so could jeopardize our expansion plans and seriously harm our operations.

Bermuda law may be less protective of shareholder rights than laws of the United States or other jurisdictions.

Our corporate affairs are governed by our memorandum of association, our bye-laws and laws governing corporations incorporated in Bermuda. Shareholder suits such as class actions (as these terms are understood with respect to corporations incorporated in the United States) are generally not available in Bermuda. Therefore, our shareholders may be less able under Bermuda law than they would be under the laws of the United States or other jurisdictions to protect their interests in connection with actions by our management, members of our board of directors or our controlling shareholder.

 

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It may be difficult to bring and enforce suits against us in the United States.

We are incorporated in Bermuda and a majority of our directors and most of our officers are not residents of the United States. A substantial portion of our assets is located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for our shareholders to serve notice of a lawsuit on us or our directors and officers within the United States. Because most of our assets are located outside the United States, it may be difficult for our shareholders to enforce in the United States judgments of United States courts. Appleby, our Bermuda counsel, has advised us that there is some uncertainty as to the enforcement in Bermuda, in original actions or in actions for enforcement of judgments of United States courts, of liabilities predicated upon United States federal securities laws.

Investor confidence and the market price of our common shares may be adversely impacted if we or our independent public registered accounting firm is unable to conclude that our internal control over our financial reporting is effective as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

We are subject to the SEC’s reporting obligations, and beginning in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2006, we have been required by the SEC, as directed by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, to include a report of management on our internal control over financial reporting in our Annual Report on Form 20-F that contains an assessment by management of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Beginning in fiscal year 2007, our independent public registered accounting firm has audited the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Although our management concluded that our internal controls are effective in this Annual Report on Form 20-F, and our independent public registered accounting firm has rendered its opinion that we maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria set forth in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by Committee of Sponsoring Organization of the Treadway Commission (COSO), our management may not conclude that our internal controls are effective in the future. Moreover, even if our management concludes that our internal controls over our financial reporting are effective, our independent public registered accounting firm may disagree. If our independent public registered accounting firm is not satisfied with our internal controls over our financial reporting or the level at which our controls are documented, designed, operated or reviewed, or if the independent public registered accounting firm interprets the requirements, rules or regulations differently from us, it may decline to attest to our management’s assessment or may issue an adverse opinion in the future. Any of these possible outcomes could result in an adverse reaction in the financial marketplace due to a loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our consolidated financial statements, which ultimately could negatively impact the market prices of our common shares.

Any environmental claims or failure to comply with any present or future environmental regulations, or any new environmental regulations, may require us to spend additional funds, may impose significant liability on us for present, past or future actions, and may dramatically increase the cost of providing our services to our customers.

We are subject to various laws and regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge and disposal of chemical by-products of, and water used in, our assembly and gold bumping processes. Although we have not suffered material environmental claims in the past, a failure or a claim that we have failed to comply with any present or future regulations could result in the assessment of damages or imposition of fines against us, suspension of production or a cessation of our operations or negative publicity. New regulations could require us to acquire costly equipment or to incur other significant expenses. Any failure on our part to control the use of, or adequately restrict the discharge of, hazardous substances could subject us to future liabilities that may materially reduce our earnings.

Fluctuations in exchange rates could result in foreign exchange losses.

Currently, most of our net revenue is denominated in NT dollars. Our cost of revenue and operating expenses, on the other hand, are incurred in several currencies, including NT dollars, Japanese yen, US dollars and Renminbi, or RMB. In addition, a substantial portion of our capital expenditures, primarily for the purchase of testing and assembly equipment, has been, and is expected to continue to be, denominated in Japanese yen with much of the remainder in US dollars. We also have debt denominated in NT dollars, Japanese yen, US dollars and RMB. Fluctuations in exchange rates, primarily among the US dollar, the NT dollar and the Japanese yen, will affect our costs and operating margins in NT dollar terms. In addition, these fluctuations could result in exchange losses and increased costs in NT dollar terms. Despite selective hedging and other techniques implemented by us, fluctuations in exchange rates have affected, and may continue to affect, our financial condition and results of operations.

 

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We may not be successful in our acquisitions, investments, joint ventures and dispositions, and may therefore be unable to implement fully our business strategy.

As part of our growth strategy, we may make acquisitions and investments in companies and businesses, establish joint ventures or make dispositions of our interests. For example, in September 2007, we acquired all outstanding common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan through a share exchange transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan. In February 2010, we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision and the transaction was completed in January 2011. The success of our acquisitions, investments, joint ventures and dispositions depends on a number of factors, including:

 

   

our ability to identify suitable investment, acquisition, joint venture or disposition opportunities;

 

   

our ability to reach an agreement for an acquisition, investment, joint venture or disposition opportunity on terms that are satisfactory to us or at all;

 

   

the extent to which we are able to exercise control over the acquired or joint venture company;

 

   

our ability to align the economic, business or other strategic objectives and goals of the acquired company with those of our company; and

 

   

our ability to successfully integrate the acquired or joint venture company or business with our company.

If we are unsuccessful in our acquisitions, investments, joint ventures and dispositions, we may not be able to implement fully our business strategy to maintain or grow our business.

We depend on key personnel, and our revenue could decrease and our costs could increase if we lose their services.

We depend on the continued service of our executive officers and skilled engineering, technical and other personnel. We will also be required to hire a substantially greater number of skilled employees in connection with our expansion plans. In particular, we depend on a number of skilled employees in connection with our LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services, and the competition for such employees in Taiwan and Mainland China is intense. We may not be able to either retain our present personnel or attract additional qualified personnel as and when needed. Moreover, we do not carry key person insurance for any of our executive officers nor do we have employment contracts with any of our executive officers or employees, and, as a result, none of our executive officers or employees is bound by any non-competition agreement. If we lose any of our key personnel, it could be very difficult to find and integrate replacement personnel, which could affect our ability to provide our services, resulting in reduced net revenue and earnings. In addition, we may need to increase employee compensation levels in order to retain our existing officers and employees and to attract additional personnel. As of March 31, 2012, 9.3% of the workforce at our facilities are foreign workers employed by us under work permits that are subject to government regulations on renewal and other terms. Consequently, if the regulations in Taiwan relating to the employment of foreign workers were to become significantly more restrictive or if we are otherwise unable to attract or retain these workers at reasonable cost, we may be unable to maintain or increase our level of services and may suffer reduced net revenue and earnings.

If our security measures are breached and unauthorized access is obtained to our information technology systems, we may lose proprietary data.

Our security measures may be breached as a result of third-party action, including computer hackers, employees error, malfeasance or otherwise, and result in unauthorized access to our customers’ data or our data, including our intellectual property and other confidential business information, or our information technology systems. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, or to sabotage systems, change frequently, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. Any security breach could result in disclosure of our trade secrets, confidential customer, supplier or employee data, which could result in legal liability, harm to our reputation and otherwise harm our business.

 

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Risk Relating to Our Relationship with Mosel

ChipMOS Taiwan entered into certain transactions that, if determined to have constituted impermissible financings or purchases of assets or equity of Mosel under ROC law, could result in the resignations of members of our management. As a result, our business operations could be disrupted and the market price of our common shares could decline.

ROC law limits the ability of a company incorporated in Taiwan to purchase any equity interest in companies, directly or indirectly, holding more than 50% of its issued and outstanding voting securities or registered capital or to provide loans or other financing to any company. ChipMOS Taiwan purchased NT$242 million worth of Mosel shares in 2002. Lee and Li, our ROC special counsel, has advised us that these purchases do not violate relevant ROC law that prohibits a subsidiary from buying or taking collateral in shares of companies holding, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of its issued and outstanding voting securities or registered capital, because Mosel’s indirect interest (calculated as the product of (i) Mosel’s percentage interest in ChipMOS Bermuda and (ii) ChipMOS Bermuda’s percentage interest in ChipMOS Taiwan) in ChipMOS Taiwan was less than 50% and ChipMOS Bermuda is incorporated outside of Taiwan. In 2005, ChipMOS Taiwan disposed of NT$84 million of Mosel shares, and in August 2006, ChipMOS Taiwan further disposed of the remaining Mosel shares for approximately NT$30 million. ChipMOS Taiwan no longer owns any Mosel shares. Lee and Li has advised that under relevant ROC law, there is no similar restriction or limitation on a subsidiary’s disposal of its parent’s equity shares, if the previous acquisitions of such shares complied with relevant ROC law. However, we understand that there is no applicable judicial precedent and there is some doubt as to how a court would rule if presented with the situation.

If it were to be determined that any of the transactions described above constituted an impermissible financing or purchase of assets of Mosel by ChipMOS Taiwan or an impermissible purchase of Mosel’s equity by ChipMOS Taiwan, then ChipMOS Taiwan’s then chairman and any responsible officers would be jointly and severally liable to ChipMOS Taiwan for any losses suffered by ChipMOS Taiwan and may also be severally liable criminally for any breach of fiduciary duties that resulted in losses and damages suffered by ChipMOS Taiwan. Moreover, certain of these transactions may not have been in full compliance with ChipMOS Taiwan’s then applicable internal procedures due to the failure to have received an appropriate valuation opinion prior to entering into such purchases. The failure to comply fully with ChipMOS Taiwan’s then applicable internal procedures could constitute evidence of a failure by the then chairman of ChipMOS Taiwan and responsible officers to comply fully with their fiduciary duties, which could result in them being held criminally liable for any breach of fiduciary duties that resulted in losses and damages to ChipMOS Taiwan. If members of our current management were held to have breached their fiduciary duties or become criminally liable for the transactions described above, they may become obliged, whether under law or otherwise, to resign from their respective positions at ChipMOS Bermuda and our affiliates. Any loss of the services of these persons could disrupt our business, damage our reputation, and cause the market price of our common shares to decline.

Risks Relating to Countries in Which We Conduct Operations

ROC laws and regulations limit or prohibit certain technology cooperation between ROC persons or entities with PRC persons or entities, and our current technology transfer arrangements between ChipMOS Bermuda and ChipMOS Shanghai may be found to be in violation of any such limitation or prohibition, which may result in a fine of between NT$50 thousand and NT$25 million and the termination of such technology transfer arrangements and therefore have a material adverse effect on the operations of ChipMOS Shanghai and our financial condition and results of operations.

ROC laws and regulations previously prohibited any transfer of semiconductor testing and assembly technologies to any person or entity located in Mainland China, except for transfers involving certain low-end semiconductor testing and assembly technologies, such as conventional wire bond assembly technology, if certain requirements are met. The ROC Ministry of Economic Affairs has the ultimate administrative authority in interpreting such laws and regulations. In February 2010, these restrictions have been relaxed, so that ROC entities may transfer semiconductor testing and assembly technologies to any person or entity located in Mainland China after they have obtained approval from the Investment Commission of the ROC Ministry of Economic Affairs, or the ICM. Under a technology transfer agreement, dated August 1, 2002, ChipMOS Bermuda licensed to ChipMOS Shanghai certain testing and assembly-related technologies that were then controlled by ChipMOS Bermuda, which included technologies that were licensed to ChipMOS Bermuda by ChipMOS Taiwan. ChipMOS Bermuda will continue to license such technologies to ChipMOS Shanghai pursuant to a new technology transfer agreement dated October 3, 2011 with effective date on August 1, 2012. ChipMOS Bermuda also provided ChipMOS Shanghai with technical support and consulting services under this agreement. On April 7, 2004, ChipMOS Bermuda entered into an assignment agreement with ChipMOS Taiwan, pursuant to which ChipMOS Taiwan transferred all of the technologies it owned as of that date to ChipMOS Bermuda, including those previously licensed to ChipMOS Bermuda. On April 12, 2007, ChipMOS Bermuda entered into an assignment agreement with ChipMOS Taiwan, pursuant to which ChipMOS Taiwan assigned and transferred fifty percent of the title to ownership of and interest in all of the technologies and intellectual property it owned as of that date to ChipMOS Bermuda.

 

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In the opinion of Lee and Li, our ROC special counsel, our technology transfer arrangements as described above are in compliance with all applicable ROC laws and regulations. However, substantial uncertainties remain regarding the interpretation and application of those laws and regulations. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that ROC regulatory authorities will not take a view contrary to the opinion of our ROC special counsel. If ChipMOS Taiwan were determined to be in violation of applicable ROC laws and regulations governing technology cooperation with PRC persons and entities, ChipMOS Taiwan may be subject to a fine of between NT$50 thousand and NT$25 million and may be ordered by the ICM to terminate or rectify such activity within a specified period of time. Any termination of our current technology transfer to ChipMOS Shanghai could materially adversely affect our Mainland China operations and our financial condition, results of operations or prospects, as well as the market price of our common shares.

Our ability to direct the operations we conduct through our subsidiaries and affiliated companies that we do not fully own may be limited by legal duties owed to other shareholders of such companies.

Certain of our operations are conducted through companies that we do not fully own. For example, certain current consolidated operations are conducted through ChipMOS Taiwan, our 84.2% subsidiary as of March 31, 2012, ThaiLin, ChipMOS Taiwan’s 42.9% owned subsidiary as of March 31, 2012, and ChipMOS Shanghai, ThaiLin’s wholly-owned subsidiary as of March 31, 2012. We also conduct other activities through our affiliated entities.

In accordance with the various laws of the relevant jurisdictions in which our subsidiaries and affiliates are organized, each of our subsidiaries and affiliates and their respective directors owe various duties to their respective shareholders. As a result, the actions we wish our subsidiaries or affiliates to take could be in conflict with their or their directors’ legal duties owed to their other shareholders. When those conflicts arise, our ability to cause our subsidiaries or affiliates to take the action that we desire may be limited.

Any future outbreak of health epidemics and outbreaks of contagious diseases, including avian influenza, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome or H1N1 influenza may materially affect our operations and business.

An outbreak of a contagious disease such as New Influenza A (H1N1) or more commonly known as the “swine flue”, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), or more recently, avian influenza with subtypes H5N1 and H3N2, for which there is inadequate treatment or no known cure or vaccine, may potentially result in a quarantine of infected employees and related persons, and adversely affect our operations at one or more of our facilities or the operations of our customers or suppliers. We cannot predict the impact that any further future outbreak of the aforementioned influenza viruses or other diseases could have on our business and results of operations.

We face substantial political risk associated with doing business in Taiwan, particularly due to recent domestic political events and the strained relations between the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China, that could negatively affect our business and the market price of our common shares.

Our principal executive offices and most of our testing and assembly facilities are located in Taiwan. As a result, our business, financial condition and results of operations and the market price of our common shares may be affected by changes in ROC governmental policies, as well as social instability and diplomatic and social developments in or affecting Taiwan which are beyond our control. For example, the ROC has a unique international political status. The PRC government regards Taiwan as a renegade province and does not recognize the legitimacy of the ROC. Although significant economic and cultural relations have been strengthened in recent years between the ROC and the PRC, relations have often been strained. In March 2005, the PRC government enacted the “Anti-Secession Law” codifying its policy of retaining the right to use military force to gain control over Taiwan, particularly under what it considers as highly provocative circumstances, such as a declaration of independence by Taiwan or the refusal by the ROC to accept the PRC’s stated “One China” policy. Past developments related to the interaction between the ROC and the PRC have on occasion depressed the market prices of the securities of Taiwanese or Taiwan-related companies, including our own. Relations between the ROC and the PRC and other factors affecting military, political or economic conditions in Taiwan could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations, as well as the market price and the liquidity of our common shares.

We are vulnerable to natural disasters and other events disruptive to our business and operations.

We currently provide most of our testing services through our facilities in the Hsinchu Industrial Park and the Hsinchu Science Park in Taiwan and the Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone, and all of our assembly services through our facilities in the Southern Taiwan Science Park in Taiwan and the Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone. Significant damage or other impediments to these facilities as a result of natural disasters, industrial strikes or industrial accidents could significantly increase our operating costs.

 

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Taiwan is particularly susceptible to earthquakes and typhoons. For example, in late 1999, Taiwan suffered severe earthquakes that caused significant property damage and loss of life, particularly in the central part of Taiwan. These earthquakes damaged production facilities and adversely affected the operations of many companies involved in the semiconductor and other industries. We experienced NT$1 million in damages to our machinery and equipment, NT$6 million in damages to our facilities, NT$1 million in damages to our inventory and five days of delay in our production schedule as a result of these earthquakes.

In January and February 2008, certain parts of Mainland China, particularly in the southern, central and eastern regions, experienced reportedly the most severe winter weather in the country in recent decades, which resulted in significant and extensive damages to factories, power lines, homes, automobiles, crops and other properties, blackouts, transportation and communications disruptions and other losses in the affected areas. In addition, in May 2008, certain semiconductor companies with facilities in eastern Mainland China experienced production disruption reportedly due to power stoppages caused by the failure of certain electricity supply system in the area where the plants are located. We cannot assure you that our facilities in the Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone will not be adversely affected by future snowstorms, power shortages, earthquakes or other similar events.

The 2011 Sendai earthquake and tsunami was a 9.0-magnitude (Mw) undersea megathrust earthquake off the coast of Japan that occurred on March 11, 2011 (the “2011 Sendai Earthquake”). The 2011 Sendai Earthquake was recorded as most powerful earthquake to hit Japan and the fourth most powerful earthquake in the world overall. The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings and evacuations along Japan’s Pacific coast and in at least 20 countries, including Taiwan and Mainland China. The earthquake and tsunami resulted in deaths, injuries and people missing across the affected Japanese prefectures and caused extensive and severe property damage in Japan, including heavy damage to roads and railways as well as fires in many areas, and dam collapse. Many electrical generators were disabled, and at least three nuclear power plant reactors partially melted down and experienced a chemical explosion extensively damaging surrounding buildings. We cannot assure you that our production facilities, operations and market located in Taiwan and Mainland China will not be adversely affected as result of the 2011 Sendai Earthquake, including as a result of radiation emission from the damaged nuclear power plants or subsequent future earthquakes that may take place.

The production facilities of many of our suppliers and customers and providers of complementary semiconductor manufacturing services, including foundries, are located in Taiwan and Mainland China. If our customers are adversely affected by natural disasters or other events occurring in or affecting these geographic areas, it could result in a decline in the demand for our testing and assembly services. If our suppliers and providers of complementary semiconductor manufacturing services are affected by such events, our production schedule could be interrupted or delayed. As a result, a major earthquake, snowstorm, other natural disaster, industrial strike, industrial accident or other disruptive event occurring in or affecting Taiwan or Mainland China could severely disrupt the normal operation of business and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Any future outbreak of radiation-related disease as a result of nuclear power plant reactors damage caused by the 2011 Sendai Earthquake may materially adversely affect our operations and business.

The 2011 Sendai Earthquake raises tremendous concerns about the possible effects of radiation emission from the damaged nuclear power plants. Japanese official authorities are working with experts in assessing the risk and determining the best courses of actions to implement to escape harmful radiation. The potential health effects due to exposure to harmful radiation may be temporary or permanent harmful effects in nature.

Multiple radioactive gases could possibly be emitted in a situation where uranium attains a “meltdown” state, which is a severe overheating of the core of a nuclear reactor, in which the core melts and radiation and heat are caused to escape. This would occur if the containment system partially or fully fails. The particles that are released with the gases due to the meltdown would be the spewed particles of iodine-131, strontium-90 and cesium-137. These might enter into a human by being swallowed, absorbed through the skin, or inhaled. Depending on the chemical characteristics of each of these and their predilection for certain body tissues, they could cause cancers of such organs as bones, soft tissues near bones, thyroid gland, and the bone marrow (typically known as leukemia).

Acute or very high level radiation exposure can cause a person to become very ill or to die quickly. Ionizing radiation, which is defined as high-energy particles or electromagnetic waves that can break chemical bonds, damage humans by disrupting cellular function, particularly in tissues with rapid growth and turnover of cells. Intense, high level and/or excessive radiation exposure may result in acute radiation syndrome whereby harmful effects to the human body may be evidenced by skin burns, internal organ deterioration, bleeding, vomiting, bone marrow distortion and deaths. If the radiation exposure is less intense and/or more prolonged at a lower level, then the central nervous system, kidneys, thyroid gland, and liver may be affected. Cancer is the most well known effect, and may affect virtually any significantly exposed tissue.

Certain health effects due to exposure to harmful radiation does not have adequate treatment or known cure or vaccine, consequently, may potentially result in a quarantine of infected employees and related persons, and adversely affect our operations at one or more of our facilities or the operations of our customers or suppliers. We cannot predict the probability of any future outbreak of radiation related diseases as a possible result of nuclear power plants damage caused by the 2011 Sendai Earthquake or the extent of the material adverse impact that this could have on our business and results of operations.

 

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Risks Relating to Our Corporate Structure

Our ability to receive dividends and other payments from our subsidiaries may be restricted by commercial, statutory and legal restrictions, and thereby materially adversely affect our ability to grow, fund investments, make acquisitions, pay dividends, repay or repurchase outstanding indebtedness and otherwise fund and conduct our business.

The ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other distributions to us is restricted by, among other things, the availability of funds and the terms of various credit arrangements entered into by our subsidiaries, as well as statutory and other legal restrictions. In addition, although there are currently no foreign exchange control regulations which restrict the ability of our subsidiaries located in Taiwan to distribute dividends to us, we cannot assure you that the relevant regulations will not be changed and that the ability of our subsidiaries to distribute dividends to us will not be restricted in the future. A Taiwan company is generally not permitted to distribute dividends or to make any other distributions to shareholders for any year in which it did not have either earnings or retained earnings (excluding reserves). In addition, before distributing a dividend to shareholders following the end of a fiscal year, the company must recover any past losses, pay all outstanding taxes and set aside 10% of its annual net income (less prior years’ losses and outstanding taxes) as a legal reserve until the accumulated legal reserve equals its paid-in capital, and may set aside a special reserve.

In addition, PRC law requires that our PRC-incorporated subsidiary only distributes dividends out of its net income, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Under PRC law, it is also required to set aside at least 10% of its after-tax net income each year into its reserve fund until the accumulated legal reserve amounts to 50% of its registered capital. PRC-incorporated companies are further required to maintain a bonus and welfare fund at percentages determined at their sole discretion. The reserve fund and the bonus and welfare fund are not distributable as dividends. Moreover, a ROC-incorporated company is only able to declare dividends at its annual general meeting of shareholders, which cannot occur until after completion of its annual financial statements. Any limitation on dividend payments by our subsidiaries could materially adversely affect our ability to grow, fund investments, make acquisitions, pay dividends, repay or repurchase outstanding indebtedness, and otherwise fund and conduct our business.

ThaiLin and He & Fang 2005 Revocable Living Trust, our two largest shareholders, may have significant influence over our company and may cause us to take actions that may not be, or refrain from taking actions that may be, in our best interest or the best interest of our other shareholders.

As of March 31, 2012, ThaiLin, ChipMOS Taiwan’s 42.9% owned subsidiary, directly owned 19.2% of our common shares. He & Fang 2005 Revocable Living Trust owned 10.3% of our common shares according to the 13G/A filed by He Zhengxu with SEC on January 10, 2012. These two largest shareholders, individually or collectively, through their equity interests may have significant influence over matters submitted to our shareholders for approval and other corporate actions, such as:

 

   

election of directors;

 

   

timing and manner of dividend distributions;

 

   

approval of contracts between us and these two largest shareholders or their respective affiliates, which could involve conflicts of interest;

 

   

open market purchase programs or other purchases of our common shares;

 

   

delay, defer or prevent a change in who controls us;

 

   

discourage bids for our shares at a premium over the market price; and

 

   

adversely affect the market price of our common shares.

Moreover, because large shareholders have potential power to direct or influence our corporate actions, we may be required to engage in transactions that may not be agreeable to our other shareholders or that may not be in the best interest of our other shareholders.

Our ability to make further investments in ChipMOS Taiwan may be dependent on regulatory approvals. If ChipMOS Taiwan is unable to receive the equity financing it requires, its ability to grow and fund its operations may be materially adversely affected.

As ChipMOS Taiwan is not a listed company, it generally depends on its shareholders, ChipMOS Bermuda and Siliconware Precision, to meet its equity financing requirements. Any capital contribution by us to ChipMOS Taiwan may require the approval of the relevant ROC authorities. For example, any capital contribution by us to ChipMOS Taiwan will require the approval of the authorities of the Science Park Administration. We may not be able to obtain any such approval in the future in a timely manner, or at all. If ChipMOS Taiwan is unable to receive the equity financing it requires, its ability to grow and fund its operations may be materially adversely affected.

 

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Risks Relating to Our Common Shares

Volatility in the price of our common shares may result in shareholder litigation that could in turn result in substantial costs and a diversion of our management’s attention and resources.

The financial markets in the United States and other countries have experienced significant price and volume fluctuations, and market prices of technology companies have been and continue to be extremely volatile. Volatility in the price of our common shares may be caused by factors outside of our control and may be unrelated or disproportionate to our results of operations. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a public company’s securities, shareholders have frequently instituted securities class action litigation against that company. Litigation of this kind could result in substantial costs and a diversion of our management’s attention and resources.

Certain provisions in our constitutive documents and in our severance agreements with our executive officers make the acquisition of us by another company more difficult and costly and therefore may delay, defer or prevent a change of control.

Our bye-laws provide that our board of directors is divided into three classes of directors, each class to be re-elected only once every three years. As a result, shareholders would not generally be able to replace a majority of the directors until after two annual general meetings. In addition, any extraordinary corporate transaction such as a merger, amalgamation or consolidation, or a sale or transfer of all or substantially all of our assets, cannot be done without the approval of shareholders representing 70% of the total voting rights of all shareholders having the right to vote at such general meeting called to consider such extraordinary transaction. These provisions in our constitutive documents may increase the difficulty faced by a party which seeks to acquire control of our board or to approve an extraordinary transaction.

In 2007, we entered into change in control severance agreements with certain executive officers pursuant to which we agreed to pay certain severance payments if a change in control event (as defined in the change in control severance agreements) occurs and the employment of such executive officer is terminated by our company other than for cause or by such executive officer for good reasons within two years following the occurrence of the change in control event. These agreements may increase the cost of a party seeking to effect a change in control of our company.

Future sales, pledge or issuance of common shares by us or our current shareholders could depress our share price and you may suffer dilution.

Sales of substantial amounts of shares in the public market, the perception that future sales may occur, or the pledge of a substantial portion of our common shares could depress the prevailing market price of our shares. As of March 31, 2012, we had approximately 34 million common shares issued and outstanding. ThaiLin, He & Fang 2005 Revocable Living Trust, Siliconware Precision, Mosel, and DLS Capital Management, LLC, our five largest shareholders, owned 6,474,211, 3,479,751, 3,043,749, 2,698,659 and 2,252,889 common shares as of March 31, 2012, respectively, representing in the aggregate of approximately 53.2% of our outstanding common shares. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions — Major Shareholders”.

Mosel in the past decided to sell a significant portion of our common shares in order to raise funds. In June 2006, Mosel sold 6,956,522 (1,739,130) common shares through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Giant Haven, under a shelf registration statement which has since expired. In addition, in March 2007, we issued 12,174,998 (3,043,749) common shares pursuant to a share purchase and subscription agreement with ChipMOS Taiwan and Siliconware Precision, and we entered into a registration rights agreement in March 2007 with Siliconware Precision, pursuant to which we granted to Siliconware Precision certain rights to require us to register these common shares for sale under the Securities Act. In July 2007, Mosel sold 8,121,266 (2,030,316) common shares through Giant Haven to ProMOS and Powertech Technology, and we then granted Giant Haven, ProMOS and Powertech Technology certain rights to require us to register these common shares for sale under the Securities Act. For a shareholder that is not our affiliate these shares may be resold pursuant to Rule 144 after lapse of the applicable holding period. In 2008, ProMOS failed to meet its payment obligations to ThaiLin. Subsequently in March 2009, ThaiLin acquired 4,060,633 (1,015,158) common shares from ProMOS pursuant to its enforcement of the collateral under a Stock Pledge Agreement between ThaiLin and ProMOS dated December 3, 2008. Furthermore, each of Siliconware Precision, Mosel and ThaiLin may be able to sell, in any three-month period, that number of those ChipMOS common shares that each of Siliconware Precision, Mosel and ThaiLin owns, as the case may be, up to the greater of (i) one percent of our outstanding common shares or (ii) the average weekly trading volume of our common shares as reported on the NASDAQ Capital Market during the four calendar weeks prior to filing a notice under Rule 144(h) for any such sales pursuant to Rule 144(e) under the Securities Act. In March 2012, Mosel sold 100,000 common shares through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Giant Haven, under Rule 144.

 

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On September 14, 2007, ChipMOS Bermuda issued 604,124 (151,031) common shares pursuant to a share exchange transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan, under which ChipMOS Bermuda exchanged one common share for every 8.4 ChipMOS Taiwan shares then outstanding. Following the completion of the share exchange transaction, ChipMOS Taiwan became our wholly-owned subsidiary. In February 2010, we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision. In January 2011, the share purchase transaction was completed and we owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares as of December 31, 2011. We plan to issue, from time to time, additional shares in connection with employee compensation and to finance possible future capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions. See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Share Option Plan and Share Appreciation Rights Plan” for a discussion of the Share Option Plan that we have adopted for the benefit of all of our directors, officers, employees and consultants. The issuance of additional shares may have a dilutive effect on other shareholders and may cause the price of our common shares to decrease.

In addition, the indictment relating to Mr. Hung-Chiu Hu alleges that embezzled funds were used in investments by PacMOS, which, as of March 31, 2012, owned 3% of our outstanding common shares. As a result, PacMOS may be ordered by relevant authorities to dispose of its investments made with any embezzled funds, which may result in a sale of our shares by PacMOS. A sale of a significant number of our shares by PacMOS or our other current shareholders could depress our share price.

The share numbers disclosed in the foregoing notes, contain corresponding adjusted figures in brackets denoting the effect of Company’s 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011.

If the trading price of our common shares declines, we may face a limited public market for our common shares and reduced availability of future debt or equity financing.

Companies listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) are subject to delisting for, among other things, failure to maintain a minimum closing bid price of US$1.00 per share for 30 consecutive business days. We are in compliance with the NASDAQ Listing Rules as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 20-F. We were not in compliance with the NASDAQ minimum bid price requirement from September 15, 2009 until May 5, 2010, when we regained compliance. During this time, we applied for, and NASDAQ approved, the transfer of our listing from NASDAQ Global Select Market to NASDAQ Capital Market. If the bid price of our common stock falls below US$1.00 per share for 30 consecutive business days again in the future, we may be subject to delisting. If our common shares are delisted from the NASDAQ Capital Market, our common shares would likely trade in the over-the-counter market, which could make selling our common shares more difficult. Smaller quantities of shares would likely be bought and sold, transactions could be delayed, and security analysts’ coverage of us may be reduced. In addition, in the event our common shares are delisted, broker-dealers have certain regulatory burdens imposed upon them, which may discourage broker-dealers from effecting transactions in our common shares. These factors could limit our common shares’ liquidity and result in lower prices and larger spreads in the bid and ask prices for our common shares.

Future declines in our share price could also significantly impair our ability to raise additional necessary capital through equity or debt financing, and could significantly increase ownership dilution to shareholders caused by our issuing equity in financing or other transactions. A general permission under the Exchange Control Act 1972 and the Exchange Control Regulation 1973 (and other relevant legislations and regulations) has been given by the Bermuda Monetary Authority (the “BMA”) for the issue and transfer of our common shares, notes and other securities to and between non-residents of Bermuda for exchange control purposes, provided that our common shares remain listed on an appointed stock exchange (which includes listing on the NASDAQ Capital Market). There can be no assurance that the BMA will give the same or a similar consent in the event our common shares are no longer listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market or another appointed stock exchange. In the absence of such a general consent, specific consents of the BMA would be required for all issues and transfers of our shares, notes and other securities, unless such issues and/or transfers fall under certain exemptions as provided by the BMA.

 

Item 4. Information on the Company

Overview of the Company

We believe that we are one of the leading independent providers of semiconductor testing and assembly services. Specifically, we believe that we are one of the leading independent providers of testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors in Taiwan and for advanced memory and logic/mixed-signal products in Taiwan and Mainland China. The depth of our engineering expertise and the breadth of our testing and assembly technologies enable us to provide our customers with advanced and comprehensive testing and assembly services. In addition, our geographic presence in Taiwan and Mainland China is attractive to customers wishing to take advantage of the logistical and cost efficiencies stemming from our close proximity to foundries and producers of consumer electronic products in Taiwan and Mainland China. Our production facilities are located in Hsinchu and Tainan, Taiwan and Shanghai, Mainland China.

 

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Our Structure and History

We are a holding company, incorporated in August 2000 under the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda (as amended) (the “Bermuda Companies Act”), under the name “ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD”. Our principal place of business is located at No. 1, R&D Road 1, Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China and our phone number is (886) 3 563 3988. We provide most of our services in Taiwan through our subsidiary, ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC., or ChipMOS Taiwan, in which we hold a majority ownership interest, and its subsidiaries and investees. We also provide services in Mainland China through ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Shanghai) LTD., or ChipMOS Shanghai, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MODERN MIND TECHNOLOGY LIMITED, or Modern Mind, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp., or ThaiLin. As of March 31, 2012, ThaiLin, a 42.9% owned subsidiary of ChipMOS Taiwan, owned 19.2% of our common shares, He & Fang 2005 Revocable Living Trust, owned 10.3% of our common shares, Siliconware Precision, owned 9.0% of our common shares and 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares, and Mosel, indirectly owned 8.0% of our common shares.

The following chart illustrates our corporate structure and our equity interest in each of our principal subsidiaries and affiliates as of March 31, 2012.

 

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Notes:

(1) Under ROC Financial Accounting Standards and the regulations of the Taiwan Securities and Futures Bureau, we are required to consolidate the financial results of any subsidiaries in which we hold a controlling interest or voting interest in excess of 50%. We consolidated the financial results of ChipMOS Taiwan, ChipMOS Japan (which was liquidated in October 2009), ChipMOS USA, ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (H.K.) Limited, or ChipMOS Hong Kong (which was dissolved on July 20, 2011), Modern Mind, its wholly-owned subsidiary, ChipMOS Shanghai and ThaiLin.
(2) On March 27, 2007, we completed a share purchase and subscription transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan and Siliconware Precision, under which we and ChipMOS Taiwan purchased all of Siliconware Precision’s equity interest in ChipMOS Taiwan, and Siliconware Precision subscribed to 12,174,998 (3,043,749 shares as taking into effect of 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011) of our newly issued common shares through a private placement. Following such transaction, on September 14, 2007, we completed a share exchange transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan pursuant to which we exchanged one common share for every 8.4 ChipMOS Taiwan shares. Following the completion of the share exchange transaction, ChipMOS Taiwan became our wholly-owned subsidiary. In February 2010, we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision. The share purchase transaction was completed in January 2011. As of March 31, 2012, we owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares.

 

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Below is a description of our principal consolidated subsidiaries:

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. ChipMOS Taiwan was incorporated in Taiwan in July 1997 as a joint venture company of Mosel and Siliconware Precision and with the participation of other investors. Its operations consist of the testing and assembly of semiconductors as well as gold bumping and memory module manufacturing. We acquired our interest in ChipMOS Taiwan by issuing our common shares to ChipMOS Taiwan’s shareholders in exchange for their 70.3% shareholding in ChipMOS Taiwan in January 2001. In October 2001, ChipMOS Taiwan issued 6,911,732 common shares as employee bonuses. In December 2002, we issued 531,175 (132,793) common shares in exchange for 5,633,442 ChipMOS Taiwan common shares held by these employees.

On March 27, 2007, we completed a share purchase and subscription transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan and Siliconware Precision, under which we and ChipMOS Taiwan purchased all of Siliconware Precision’s equity interest in ChipMOS Taiwan, and Siliconware Precision subscribed to 12,174,998 (3,043,749) of our newly issued common shares through a private placement. As of March 31, 2007, we held 99.1% of the outstanding common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan.

On September 14, 2007, we completed a share exchange transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan pursuant to which we exchanged one common share for every 8.4 ChipMOS Taiwan shares. In connection with the share exchange transaction, ChipMOS Bermuda and ChipMOS Taiwan paid in the aggregate NT$53 million in cash to purchase fractional shares and shares held by dissenting shareholders, and ChipMOS Bermuda issued 604,124 (151,031) new common shares. Following the completion of the share exchange transaction, ChipMOS Taiwan became our wholly-owned subsidiary. In February 2010, we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision. The share purchase transaction was completed in January 2011. As of March 31, 2012, we owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares.

The share numbers disclosed in the foregoing notes, contain corresponding adjusted figures in brackets denoting the effect of Company’s 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011.

MODERN MIND TECHNOLOGY LIMITED and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Shanghai) LTD. Modern Mind was incorporated in the British Virgin Islands in January 2002. Modern Mind conducts its operations through ChipMOS Shanghai, a wholly-owned subsidiary incorporated in Mainland China in June 2002. ChipMOS Shanghai is engaged in wafer testing and semiconductor assembly and testing. We acquired a 100% equity interest in Modern Mind on December 12, 2002, and then transferred it to Jesper on December 31, 2002. In 2003, we acquired from Jesper a convertible note in the amount of US$37.5 million issued by Modern Mind that may be converted into a controlling equity interest in Modern Mind at a conversion rate of one ordinary share of Modern Mind for every US$1.00 if the repayment is not made when due. In 2004, we restructured our control of ChipMOS Shanghai and our Mainland China operations. On July 29, 2004, we replaced the US$37.5 million convertible note previously issued by Modern Mind in its entirety with a US$62.8 million demand note issued by Modern Mind, with the difference representing a US$25 million loan that we extended to Modern Mind from the net proceeds of our July 2004 offering of common shares. In addition, we extended a loan in the aggregate amount of US$50 million to Modern Mind from the net proceeds of our November 2004 convertible debt offering in exchange for demand notes issued by Modern Mind in the same aggregate amount (the “MMT Notes”). The MMT Notes were convertible at any time into common shares representing, immediately after the conversion, almost 100% of the then outstanding common shares of Modern Mind at a conversion rate of US$1.00 for each common share of Modern Mind. Payment under the MMT Notes were fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Jesper and secured by a pledge agreement in respect of the entire equity interest in Modern Mind and ChipMOS Shanghai. We obtained from Jesper an irrevocable option to acquire at any time the common shares of Modern Mind then owned by Jesper. Under an assignment and assumption agreement signed on April 22, 2011 (the “MMT Assignment Agreement”), ChipMOS agreed to sell the MMT Notes to ThaiLin for a purchase price of approximately US$40 million subject to certain closing conditions. Post completion of MMT Assignment Agreement transaction, ThaiLin immediately converted the MMT Notes into common shares of Modern Mind and purchased all of the remaining common shares of Modern Mind from Jesper, with ChipMOS Shanghai becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of ThaiLin. The MMT Assignment Agreement was completed on October 3, 2011.

On July 1, 2010, ChipMOS Bermuda and ChipMOS Shanghai entered into an exclusive services agreement, pursuant to which ChipMOS Shanghai provides services exclusively to ChipMOS Bermuda or customers designated by ChipMOS Bermuda. Under the exclusive services agreement, ChipMOS Bermuda agrees to procure certain equipment required to render those services and consign such equipment for the exclusive use of ChipMOS Shanghai. The exclusive services agreement has a term of ten years and unless otherwise terminated by either party giving at least 30 days prior written notice to the expiration of such ten-year term, will automatically renew for another ten-year term upon its expiry. In addition, under the exclusive services agreement, ChipMOS Bermuda has the discretion to terminate the exclusive services agreement for any reason at any time by giving 30 days’ prior written notice to ChipMOS Shanghai.

 

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ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp. ThaiLin was incorporated in Taiwan in May 1996, and is listed on the GreTai Securities Market in Taiwan. It is engaged in the provision of semiconductor testing services. ChipMOS Taiwan acquired a 41.8% interest in ThaiLin in December 2002. Under applicable accounting principles, ThaiLin was consolidated into our consolidated financial statements in 2003 because ChipMOS Taiwan was deemed to exert significant control over ThaiLin through common directors and management.

On March 4, 2008, ChipMOS Taiwan made a loan in an amount of NT$145 million that bears interest at a rate of 4.69% per annum to Taiwan Kolin Co. Ltd., or Kolin, a major shareholder of ThaiLin, ChipMOS Taiwan’s 42.9% owned subsidiary. NT$15 million of this loan was repaid in 2008. The loan is secured by a pledge by Kolin of 11 million common shares of ThaiLin. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp.”

As of March 31, 2012, ChipMOS Taiwan held (excluding the ThaiLin common shares pledged to us in connection with the loan to Kolin) a 42.9% interest in ThaiLin. Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, our chairman and chief executive officer and the director and chairman of ChipMOS Taiwan, is also a director and the chairman of ThaiLin. In addition, four of the nine directors of ThaiLin are appointed by ChipMOS Taiwan. As of March 31, 2012, ThaiLin held 6,474,211 of our outstanding shares, corresponding to 19.2% of all of our outstanding shares. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions — Related Party Transactions—ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp”.

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (H.K.) Limited ChipMOS Hong Kong (formerly ChipMOS Far East Limited) was incorporated in Hong Kong in November 2002. It is engaged in semiconductor testing and assembly services and trading of spare parts and tools. Effective May 31, 2005, the name of ChipMOS Far East Limited was changed to ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (H.K.) Limited. ChipMOS Hong Kong was dissolved on July 20, 2011.

Industry Background

We provide a broad range of back-end testing services, including engineering testing, wafer probing and final testing of memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors. We also offer a broad selection of leadframe-based and organic substrate-based package assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors. Our advanced leadframe-based packages include thin small outline packages, or TSOPs, and our advanced organic substrate-based packages include fine-pitch ball grid array, or fine-pitch BGA, packages. In addition, we provide gold bumping, testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors by employing TCP, COF and COG technologies.

Semiconductors tested and assembled by us are used in personal computers, graphics applications, such as game consoles and personal digital assistants, or PDAs, communications equipment, such as cellular handsets, and consumer electronic products and display applications, such as flat-panel displays. In 2011, 32.4% of our net revenue was derived from testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors, 32.9% from assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors, 21.9% from LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services and 12.8% from bumping services for semiconductors.

Semiconductor Industry Trends

Growth in the semiconductor industry is largely driven by end-user demand for consumer electronics, communications equipment and computers, for which semiconductors are critical components. Highly cyclical, the worldwide semiconductor industry has experienced peaks and troughs over the last decade, with a severe downturn at the end of 2000 that was followed by a modest recovery in late 2002. Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2008, the semiconductor industry commenced another downturn that increased in unprecedented severity into the first quarter of 2009. The overall semiconductor industry commenced to recover from the downturn in the second quarter of 2009 and the positive recovery trend continues in 2010 and 2011.

Selected Key Semiconductor Markets

After such time as a recovery occurs in end-user demand for new and improved electronic products and applications that is sufficient to reverse reduced demand trends that began in 2007 and are still continuing, various sectors of the semiconductor industry are in turn expected to benefit from a resumption in growth. These sectors include the memory semiconductor market, and the LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor market.

Memory Semiconductor Market

The potential for memory market growth is linked to anticipated memory content increases in consumer electronics and PC applications (after such time as a recovery occurs in end-user demand for these) due to increasing operating system requirements, increasing use of graphics in gaming and other applications, continued growth of broadband content and a transition to 64-bit PC architecture. The memory market is dominated by two segments—DRAM and flash memory. Potential growth in the DRAM market is expected to be driven by continued growth in both the commodity and niche DRAM market, as well as growth opportunities in mobile DRAM as memory requirements significantly increase for mobile applications. Flash memory market potential growth is expected to be driven by increasing memory requirements for cellular handsets, digital cameras, digital audio /video, and other mobile applications.

 

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LCD and Other Flat-Panel Display Driver Semiconductor Market

Flat-panel displays are used in applications such as PC monitors, notebook computers, television sets, cellular handsets and digital cameras. The end-user demand for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor experienced a downturn in 2007 and 2008. The LCD driver market, though still overall weak, started to recover in the second quarter of 2009 and the positive recovery trend continues in 2010 and 2011.

Logic/Mixed-Signal Semiconductor Market

The communications market is one of the main drivers of potential growth in the semiconductor industry. Logic/mixed-signal semiconductors, which are chips with analog functionality covering more than half of the chip area, are largely used in the communications market. The increasing use of digital technology in communications equipment requires chips with both digital and analog functionality for applications such as modems, network routers, switches, cable set-top boxes and cellular handsets. As the size and cost of cellular handsets and other communications-related devices have decreased, components have increased in complexity. Logic/mixed-signal semiconductors, such as LCD controllers and DVD controllers, are also used in consumer electronic products.

Overview of the Semiconductor Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing of semiconductors is a complex process that requires increasingly sophisticated engineering and manufacturing expertise. The manufacturing process may be broadly divided into the following stages:

 

LOGO

 

Process

  

Description

Circuit Design    The design of a semiconductor is developed by laying out circuit patterns and interconnections.
Wafer Fabrication    Wafer fabrication begins with the generation of a photomask, a photographic negative onto which a circuit design pattern is etched or transferred by an electron beam or laser beam writer. Each completed wafer contains many fabricated chips, each known as a die.
Wafer Probe    Each individual die is then electrically tested, or probed, for defects. Dies that fail this test are discarded, or, in some cases, salvaged using laser repair.
Assembly    The assembly of semiconductors serves to protect the die, facilitates its integration into electronic systems and enables the dissipation of heat. The process begins with the dicing of the wafers into chips. Each die is affixed to a leadframe-based or organic substrate-based package. Then, electrical connections are formed, in many cases by connecting the terminals on the die to the inner leads of the package using fine metal wires. Finally, each chip is encapsulated for protection, usually in a molded epoxy enclosure.
Final Test    Assembled semiconductors are tested to ensure that the device meets performance specifications. Testing takes place on specialized equipment using software customized for each application. For memory semiconductors, this process also includes “burn-in” testing to screen out defective devices by applying very high temperatures and voltages on to the memory device.

 

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Outsourcing Trends in Semiconductor Manufacturing

Historically, integrated device manufacturers, or IDMs, designed, manufactured, tested and assembled semiconductors primarily at their own facilities. In recent years, there has been a trend in the industry to outsource stages in the manufacturing process to reduce the high fixed costs resulting from the increasingly complex manufacturing process. Virtually every significant stage of the manufacturing process can be outsourced. The independent semiconductor manufacturing services market currently consists of wafer fabrication and probing services and semiconductor testing and assembly services. Most of the world’s major IDMs now use some independent semiconductor manufacturing services to maintain a strategic mix of internal and external manufacturing capacity. We believe that many of these IDMs are significantly reducing their investments in new semiconductor testing and assembly facilities.

The availability of technologically advanced independent semiconductor manufacturing services has also enabled the growth of “fabless” semiconductor companies that focus exclusively on semiconductor design and marketing and outsource their fabrication, testing and assembly requirements to independent companies.

We believe the outsourcing of semiconductor manufacturing services, and in particular of testing and assembly services, will increase for many reasons, including the following:

Significant Capital Expenditure Requirements. Driven by increasingly sophisticated technological requirements, wafer fabrication, testing and assembly processes have become highly complex, requiring substantial investment in specialized equipment and facilities and sophisticated engineering and manufacturing expertise. In addition, product life cycles have been shortening, magnifying the need to continually upgrade or replace manufacturing, testing and assembly equipment to accommodate new products. As a result, new investments in in-house fabrication, testing and assembly facilities are becoming less desirable for IDMs because of the high investment costs, as well as difficulties in achieving sufficient economies of scale and utilization rates to be competitive with the independent service providers. Independent foundry, testing and assembly companies, on the other hand, are able to realize the benefits of specialization and achieve economies of scale by providing services to a large base of customers across a wide range of products. This enables them to reduce costs and shorten production cycles through high capacity utilization and process expertise.

Increasing Focus on Core Competencies. As the costs of semiconductor manufacturing facilities increase, semiconductor companies are expected to further outsource their wafer fabrication, testing and assembly requirements to focus their resources on core competencies, such as semiconductor design and marketing.

Time-to-Market Pressure. Increasingly short product life cycles have amplified time-to-market pressure for semiconductor companies, leading them to rely increasingly on independent companies as a key source for effective wafer fabrication, testing and assembly services.

Semiconductor Testing and Assembly Services Industry

Growth in the semiconductor testing and assembly services industry is driven by increased outsourcing of the various stages of the semiconductor manufacturing process by IDMs and fabless semiconductor companies.

The Semiconductor Industry and Conditions of Outsourcing in Taiwan and Mainland China

Taiwan is one of the world’s leading locations for outsourced semiconductor manufacturing. The semiconductor industry in Taiwan has developed such that the various stages of the semiconductor manufacturing process have been disaggregated, thus allowing for specialization. The disaggregation of the semiconductor manufacturing process in Taiwan permits these semiconductor manufacturing service providers to focus on particular parts of the production process, develop economies of scale, maintain higher capacity utilization rates and remain flexible in responding to customer needs by lowering time-to-market pressure faced by semiconductor companies. There are several leading service providers in Taiwan, each of which offers substantial capacity, high-quality manufacturing, leading semiconductor wafer fabrication, test, assembly and process technologies, and a full range of services. These service providers have access to an educated labor pool and a large number of engineers suitable for sophisticated manufacturing industries. As a result, many of the world’s leading semiconductor companies outsource some or all of their semiconductor manufacturing needs to Taiwan’s semiconductor manufacturing service providers and take advantage of the close proximity among facilities. In addition, companies located in Taiwan are very active in the design and manufacture of electronic systems, which has created significant local demand for semiconductor devices.

Mainland China has emerged as a similarly attractive location for outsourced semiconductor manufacturing. Mainland China is an attractive manufacturing location for electronic products because companies can take advantage of a well-educated yet low-cost labor force, cost savings due to tax benefits and a large domestic market. These factors have driven increased relocation of much of the electronics industry manufacturing and supply chain to Mainland China. An increasing number of global electronic systems manufacturers and contract manufacturers are relocating or have relocated production facilities to Mainland China. We believe that these electronic product manufacturers and contract manufacturers will source an increasing portion of their demand for semiconductors from semiconductor suppliers located in Mainland China in order to reduce production cycle times, decrease costs, simplify supply chain logistics and meet local content requirements. In line with this trend, we have in recent years expanded our operations in Mainland China.

 

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Our Strategy

Our goal is to reinforce our position as a leading independent provider of semiconductor testing and assembly services, concentrating principally on memory, logic/mixed-signal and LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. The principal components of our business strategy are set forth below.

Focus on Providing Our Services to Potential Growth Segments of the Semiconductor Industry.

We intend to continue our focus on developing and providing advanced testing and assembly services for potential growth segments of the semiconductor industry, such as memory, logic/mixed-signal, LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors and bumping services. We believe that our investments in equipment and research and development in some of these areas allow us to offer a differentiated service from our competition. In order to benefit from the expected resumption of growth in these segments, we intend to continue to invest in capacity to meet the testing and assembly requirements of these key semiconductor market segments.

Continue to Invest in the Research and Development of Advanced Testing and Assembly Technologies.

We believe that our ability to progressively provide more advanced testing and assembly services to customers is critical to our business. In addition, advanced semiconductor testing and assembly services typically have the potential to generate higher margins due to the greater expertise required and the more sophisticated technologies used. We will continue to invest in the research and development of advanced testing and assembly technologies. For example, we are expanding our capabilities in fine-pitch BGA, multi-chip package (MCP) and the testing and assembly of COFs. We have also introduced fine-pitch COF based on our proprietary technology and COG testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors.

In addition, we will continue to pursue the development of new testing and assembly technologies jointly with domestic and foreign research institutions and universities. We expect to focus our research and development efforts in the following areas:

 

   

developing new software conversion programs to increase the capabilities of our testers;

 

   

developing advanced assembly technologies for high-speed memory devices;

 

   

developing fine-pitch bumping, chip probing and bonding technologies for LCD drivers;

 

   

improving manufacturing yields for new assembly technologies; and

 

   

developing environmentally friendly assembly services that focus on eliminating the lead and halogen elements from the materials employed in the package and reducing the toxicity of gaseous chemical wastes.

In 2011, we spent approximately 2.3% of our net revenue on research and development. We will continue to invest our resources to recruit and retain experienced research and development personnel. As of March 31, 2012, our research and development team comprised 274 persons.

Build on Our Strong Presence in Taiwan and Expand Our Operations Outside Taiwan.

We intend to build on our strong presence in key centers of semiconductor and electronics manufacturing to grow our business. Currently, most of our operations are in Taiwan, one of the world’s leading locations for outsourced semiconductor manufacturing. This presence provides us with several advantages. First, our proximity to other semiconductor companies is attractive to customers who wish to outsource various stages of the semiconductor manufacturing process. Second, our proximity to many of our suppliers, customers and the end-users of our customers’ products enables us to be involved in the early stages of the semiconductor design process, enhances our ability to quickly respond to our customers’ changing requirements and shortens our customers’ time-to-market. Third, we have access to an educated labor pool and a large number of engineers who are able to work closely with our customers and other providers of semiconductor manufacturing services.

As with our operations in Taiwan, we intend to similarly benefit from our operations in Mainland China. We intend to invest in and expand our operations in Mainland China, increasing our testing and assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors.

Depending on customers demands, market conditions and other relevant considerations, we may from time to time look into other opportunities to expand our operations outside Taiwan.

 

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Expand Our Offering of Vertically Integrated Services.

We believe that one of our competitive strengths is our ability to provide vertically integrated services to our customers. Vertically integrated services consist of the integrated testing, assembly and direct shipment of semiconductors to end-users designated by our customers. Providing vertically integrated services enables us to shorten lead times for our customers. As time-to-market and cost increasingly become sources of competitive advantage for our customers, they increasingly value our ability to provide them with comprehensive back-end services.

Through ChipMOS Taiwan, ThaiLin and ChipMOS Shanghai, we are able to offer vertically integrated services for a broad range of products, including memory, logic/mixed-signal and LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. We believe that these affiliations, which offer complementary technologies, products and services as well as additional capacity, will continue to enhance our own development and expansion efforts into new and potential growth markets. We intend to establish new alliances with leading companies and, if suitable opportunities arise, engage in merger and acquisition activities that will further expand the services we can provide.

Focus on Increasing Sales through Long-Term Agreements with Key Customers as well as Business with Smaller Customers.

From time to time, we strategically agree to commit a portion of our testing and assembly capacity to certain of our customers. We intend to continue focus on increasing sales to key customers through long-term capacity agreements. The customers with which we currently have long-term agreements including a reputable memory customer based in the US. See “— Customers” below for a more detailed discussion of these long-term agreements.

Global market and economic conditions have been unprecedented and challenging with tight credit conditions and recession in most major economies continuing into 2011. Beginning in 2008, we also resumed our focus on our business with smaller customers or customers who do not place orders on a regular basis. We believe that the dual focused strategy would assist us to be better prepared for the current economic volatility and ensure maximum utilization rate of our capacity and help us to develop closer relationships with all types of our customers.

Principal Products and Services

The following table presents, for the periods shown, revenue by service segment as a percentage of our net revenue. During 2011, the revenue of the bumping segment exceeded the quantitative threshold for aggregation and the Company deems it appropriate to present revenue data related to bumping as a separate segment. The bumping segment has been recasted from LCD for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2010.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  

Testing

        

Memory testing revenue

     38.2%         32.4%         30.0%   

Logic/mixed-signal testing revenue

     4.3           3.5           2.4     

Total testing revenue

     42.5           35.9           32.4     

Assembly

        

Memory assembly revenue

     27.5           29.7           27.4     

Logic/mixed-signal assembly revenue

     8.4           6.7           5.5     

Total assembly revenue

     35.9           36.4           32.9     

LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly revenue

     16.3           18.6           21.9     

Bumping

     5.3           9.1           12.8     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total net revenue

     100.0%         100.0%         100.0%   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Memory and Logic/Mixed-Signal Semiconductors

Testing

We provide testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors:

Memory. We provide testing services for a variety of memory semiconductors, such as SRAM, DRAM and flash memory. To speed up the time-consuming process of memory product testing, we provide multi-site testing, which can test up to 256 devices simultaneously. The memory semiconductors we test are used primarily in desktop computers, notebook computers and handheld consumer electronic devices and wireless communication devices.

Logic/Mixed-Signal. We conduct tests on a wide variety of logic/mixed-signal semiconductors, with lead counts ranging from the single digits to over 1024 and operating frequencies of up to 800 MHz. The semiconductors we test include those used for networking and wireless communications, data communications, graphics and disk controllers for home entertainment and personal computer applications. We also test a variety of application specific integrated circuits, or ASICs, for applications such as cellular handsets, digital still cameras and personal digital assistants.

 

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The following is a description of our pre-assembly testing services:

Engineering Testing. We provide engineering testing services, including software program development, electrical design validation, reliability and failure analyses.

 

   

Software Program Development. Design and test engineers develop a customized software program and related hardware to test semiconductors on advanced testing equipment. A customized software program is required to test the conformity of each particular semiconductor to its particular function and specification.

 

   

Electrical Design Validation. A prototype of the designed semiconductor is submitted to electrical tests using advanced test equipment, customized software programs and related hardware. These tests assess whether the prototype semiconductor complies with a variety of different operating specifications, including functionality, frequency, voltage, current, timing and temperature range.

 

   

Reliability Analysis. Reliability analysis is designed to assess the long-term reliability of the semiconductor and its suitability of use for its intended applications. Reliability testing may include operating-life evaluation, during which the semiconductor is subjected to high temperature and voltage tests.

 

   

Failure Analysis. If the prototype semiconductor does not perform to specifications during either the electrical validation or reliability analysis process, failure analysis is performed to determine the reasons for the failure. As part of this analysis, the prototype semiconductor may be subjected to a variety of tests, including electron beam probing and electrical testing.

Wafer Probing. Wafer probing is the step immediately before the assembly of semiconductors and involves visual inspection and electrical testing of the processed wafer for defects to ensure that it meets our customers’ specifications. Wafer probing employs sophisticated design and manufacturing technologies to connect the terminals of each chip for testing. Defective chips are marked on the surface or memorized in an electronic file, known as a mapping file, to facilitate subsequent processing.

Laser Repairing. In laser repairing of memory products, specific poly or metal fuses are blown after wafer probing to enable a spare row or column of a memory cell to replace a defective memory cell.

After assembly, we perform the following testing services:

Burn-In Testing. This process screens out unreliable products using high temperature, high voltage and prolonged stress to ensure that finished products will survive a long period of end-user service. This process is used only for memory products.

Top Marking. By using either a laser marker or an ink marker, we mark products according to our customers’ specifications, including the logo, product type, date code and lot number.

Final Testing. Assembled semiconductors are tested to ensure that the devices meet performance specifications. Tests are conducted using specialized equipment with software customized for each application in different temperature conditions ranging from minus 45 degrees celsius to 85 degrees celsius. One of the tests includes speed testing to classify the parts into different speed grades.

Final Inspection and Packing. Final inspection involves visual or auto-inspection of the devices to check for any bent leads, inaccurate markings or other construction defects. Packing involves dry packing, packing-in-tube and tape and reel. Dry pack involves heating semiconductors in a tray at 125 to 150 degrees celsius for about two hours to remove the moisture before the semiconductors are vacuum-sealed in an aluminum bag. Packing-in-tube involves packing the semiconductors in anti-static tubes for shipment. Tape and reel pack involves transferring semiconductors from a tray or tube onto an anti-static embossed tape and rolling the tape onto a reel for shipment to customers.

 

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Assembly

Our assembly services generally involve the following steps:

 

Wafer Lapping    The wafers are ground to their required thickness.
Die Saw    Wafers are cut into individual dies, or chips, in preparation for the die-attach process.
Die Attach    Each individual die is attached to the leadframe or substrate.
Wire Bonding    Using gold wires, the I/O pads on the die are connected to the package inner leads.
Molding    The die and wires are encapsulated to provide physical support and protection.
Marking    Each individual package is marked to provide product identification.
Dejunking and Trimming    Mold flash is removed from between the lead shoulders through dejunking, and the dambar is cut during the trimming process.
Electrical Plating    A solderable coating is added to the package leads to prevent oxidization and to keep solder wettability of the package leads.
Ball Mount and Reflow    Each electrode pad of the substrate is first printed with flux, after which solder balls are mounted, heated and attached to the electrode pad of the substrate through a reflow oven.
Forming/Singulation    Forming involves the proper configuration of the device packages leads, and singulation separates the packages from each other.

We offer a broad range of package formats designed to provide our customers with a broad array of assembly services. The assembly services we offer customers are leadframe-based packages, which include thin small outline packages, and organic substrate-based packages, including fine-pitch BGA.

The differentiating characteristics of these packages include:

 

   

the size of the package;

 

   

the number of electrical connections which the package can support;

 

   

the electrical performance and requirements of the package; and

 

   

the heat dissipation requirements of the package.

As new applications for semiconductor devices require smaller components, the size of packages has also decreased. In leading-edge packages, the size of the package is reduced to just slightly larger than the size of the individual chip itself in a process known as chip scale packaging.

As semiconductor devices increase in complexity, the number of electrical connections required also increases. Leadframe-based products have electrical connections from the semiconductor device to the electronic product through leads on the perimeter of the package. Organic substrate-based products have solder balls on the bottom of the package, which create the electrical connections with the product and can support large numbers of electrical connections.

Leadframe-Based Packages. These are generally considered the most widely used package category. Each package consists of a semiconductor chip encapsulated in a plastic molding compound with metal leads on the perimeter. This design has evolved from a design plugging the leads into holes on the circuit board to a design soldering the leads to the surface of the circuit board.

The following diagram presents the basic components of a standard leadframe-based package for memory semiconductors:

 

LOGO

 

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To address the market for miniaturization of portable electronic products, we are currently developing and will continue to develop increasingly smaller versions of leadframe-based packages to keep pace with continually shrinking semiconductor device sizes. Our advanced leadframe-based packages generally are thinner and smaller, have more leads and have advanced thermal and electrical characteristics when compared to traditional packages. As a result of our continual product development, we offer leadframe-based packages with a wide range of lead counts and sizes to satisfy our customers’ requirements.

The following table presents our principal leadframe-based packages, including the number of leads in each package, commonly known as lead-count, a description of each package and the end-user applications of each package.

 

Package

   Lead-count   

Description

  

End-User Applications

Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC)    32-44    Package with leads on four sides used in consumer electronics products in which the size of the package is not vital    Copiers, printers, scanners, personal computers, electronic games, monitors
Plastic Dual-in-line Package (PDIP)    16-56    Package with insertion leads on longer sides used in consumer electronics products    Electronic games, monitors, copiers, printers, audio and video products, personal computers
Thin Small Outline Package I (TSOP I)    28-56    Designed for high volume production of low lead-count memory devices, including flash memory, SRAM and MROM    Notebook computers, personal computers, still and video cameras and standard connections for peripherals for computers
Thin Small Outline Package II (TSOP II)    24-86    Designed for memory devices, including flash memory, SRAM, SDRAM and DDR DRAM    Disk drives, recordable optical disk drives, audio and video products, consumer electronics, communication products
Quad Flat Package (QFP)    44-208    Flat structure with 4-sided peripheral leads designed for SRAM, graphic processors, personal computer chipsets and mixed-signal devices    Wireless communication products, notebook computers, personal computers, consumer electronics
Quad Flat No Lead (QFN)    8-132    Thermal enhanced quad flat no lead package providing small footprint (chip scale), light weight with good thermal and electrical performance    Wireless communication products, notebook computers, PDAs, consumer electronics
Low-Profile Quad Flat Package (LQFP)    48-128    Low-profile and light weight package designed for ASICs, digital signal processors, microprocessors/controllers, graphics processors, gate arrays, SSRAM, SDRAM, personal computer chipsets and mixed-signal devices    Wireless communication products, notebook computers, digital cameras, cordless/radio frequency devices
Thin Quad Flat Package (TQFP)    44-128    Designed for lightweight portable electronics requiring broad performance characteristics and mixed-signal devices    Notebook computers, personal computers, disk drives, office equipment, audio and video products and wireless communication products
Small Outline Package (SOP)    8    Designed for low lead-count memory and logic semiconductors, including SRAM and micro-controller units    Personal computers, consumer electronics, audio and video products, communication products
Multi-Chip Package (TSOP with organic substrate)    24-86    Our patented design for memory devices, including SRAM, DRAM and SDRAM    Notebook computers, personal computers, disk drives, audio and video products, consumer products, communication products

 

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Organic Substrate-based Packages. As the number of leads surrounding a traditional leadframe-based package increases, the leads must be placed closer together to reduce the size of the package. The close proximity of one lead to another can create electrical shorting problems and requires the development of increasingly sophisticated and expensive techniques to accommodate the high number of leads on the circuit boards.

The BGA format solves this problem by effectively creating external terminals on the bottom of the package in the form of small bumps or balls. These balls are evenly distributed across the entire bottom surface of the package, allowing greater pitch between the individual terminals. The ball grid array configuration enables high-pin count devices to be manufactured less expensively with less delicate handling at installation.

Our organic substrate-based packages employ a fine-pitch BGA design, which uses a plastic or tape laminate rather than a leadframe and places the electrical connections, or leads, on the bottom of the package rather than around the perimeter. The fine-pitch BGA format was developed to address the need for the smaller footprints required by advanced memory devices. Benefits of ball grid array assembly over leadframe-based assembly include:

 

   

smaller size;

 

   

smaller footprint on a printed circuit board;

 

   

better electrical signal integrity; and

 

   

easier attachment to a printed circuit board.

The following diagram presents the basic component parts of a fine-pitch BGA package:

 

LOGO

The following table presents the ball-count, description and end-user applications of organic substrate-based packages we currently assemble:

 

Package

   Connections   

Description

  

End-User Applications

Mini BGA    36-400    Low-cost and space-saving assembly designed for low input/output count, suitable for semiconductors that require a smaller package size than standard BGA    Memory, analog, flash memory, ASICs, radio frequency devices, personal digital assistants, cellular handsets, communication products, notebook computers, wireless systems
Fine-Pitch BGA    54-90    Our patented design for DRAM products that require high performance and chip scale package (CSP)    Notebook computers, cellular handsets, global positioning systems, personal digital assistants, wireless systems
Very Thin Fine-Pitch BGA    48-176    Similar structure of Mini BGA package with thinner and finer ball pitch that is designed for use in a wide variety of applications requiring small size, high reliability and low unit cost    Handheld devices, notebook computers, disk drives, wireless and mobile communication products
Land Grid Array (LGA)    44-52    Thinner and lighter assembly designed essential to standard BGA without solder balls, suitable for applications that require high electrical performance    Disk drives, memory controllers, wireless, mobile communication products
Multi-Chip BGA    48-137    Designed for assembly of two or more memory chips (to increase memory density) or combinations of memory and logic chips in one BGA package    Notebook computers, digital cameras, personal digital assistants, global positioning systems, sub-notebooks, board processors, wireless systems
Stacked-Chip BGA    48-137    Designed for assembly of two or more memory chips or logic and memory chips in one CSP, reducing the space required for memory chips    Cellular handsets, digital cameras, personal digital assistants, wireless systems, notebook computers, global positioning systems

 

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LCD and Other Flat-Panel Display Driver Semiconductors and Gold Bumping

We also offer testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. We employ TCP, COF and COG technologies for testing and assembling LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. In addition, we offer gold bumping services to our customers.

Gold bumping technology, which can be used in TCP, COF and COG technologies, is a necessary interconnection technology for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. Most gold bumping services are performed on six- or eight-inch wafers. Gold bumping technology provides the best solution for fine-pitch chips and is able to meet the high production requirement for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors or other chips that require thin packaging profiles.

The gold bumping fabrication process uses thin film metal deposition, photolithography and electrical plating technologies. A series of barrier and seed metal layers are deposited over the surface of the wafer. A layer of thick photoresist material is spin-coated over these barrier and seed layers. A photomask is used to pattern the locations over each of the bond pads that will be bumped. UV exposure and developing processes open the photoresist material, which defines the bump shape. The gold bump is then electroplated over the pad and the deposited barrier metal layers. Once the plating is complete, a series of etching steps are used to remove the photoresist material and the metal layers that are covering the rest of the wafer. The gold bump protects the underlying materials from being etched. The gold bumped wafers will go through an annealing furnace to soften the gold bumps to fit the hardness requirement of TCP, COF and COG assembly processes.

Tape Carrier Package Technology

TCPs offer a high number of inputs and outputs, a thin package profile and a smaller footprint on the circuit board, without compromising performance. Key package features include surface mount technology design, fine-pitch tape format and slide carrier handling. Because of their flexibility and high number of inputs and outputs, TCPs are primarily employed either for STN-LCD or TFT-LCD driver semiconductors.

Testing of TCPs. We conduct full function testing of LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors with a specially designed probe handler to ensure reliable contact to the test pads on the TCP tape. We can test STN-LCD or TFT-LCD driver semiconductors with frequencies of up to 750 MHz and at voltages up to 40V. The test is performed in a temperature-controlled environment with the device in tape form. The assembled and tested LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors in tape form are packed between spacer tapes together with a desiccant in an aluminum bag to avoid contact during shipment.

Assembly of TCPs. TCPs use a tape-automated bonding process to connect die and tape. The printed circuit tape is shipped with a reel. The reel is then placed onto an inner lead bonder, where the LCD or other flat-panel display driver semiconductor is configured onto the printed circuit tape. The resulting TCP component consists of the device interconnected to a three-layer tape, which includes a polyimide carrier film, an epoxy-based adhesive layer and a metal layer. The tape metallization area of the interconnections is tin plated over a metal layer. The silicon chip and inner lead area is encapsulated with a high temperature thermoset polymer after inner lead bonding. The back face of the chip is left un-sealed for thermal connection to the printed circuit board.

The following diagram presents the basic components of a TCP:

 

LOGO

Chip-on-Film Technology

In 2001, we commenced testing and assembly services using COF technology. We have developed this proprietary technology from our existing TCP technology, and it has been widely accepted by our customers. The primary use of the COF module is to replace the liquid crystal module, or LCM, in certain applications. LCM is mainly employed in handheld electronics, such as PDAs and cellular handsets.

COF technology provides several additional advantages. For example, COF is able to meet the size, weight and higher resolution requirements in electronic products, such as flat-panel displays. This is because of its structural design, including an adhesive-free two-layer tape that is highly flexible, bending strength and its capacity to receive finer patterning pitch.

 

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The following diagram presents the basic components of a COF:

 

LOGO

The TCP and COF processes involve the following steps:

 

Chip Probing    Screen out the defect chips which fail to meet the device spec.
Wafer Lapping    Wafers are grounded to their required thickness.
Die Saw    Wafers are cut into individual dies, or chips, in preparation for inner lead bonding.
Inner Lead Bonding    An inner lead bonder machine connects the chip to the printed circuit tape.
Potting    The package is dispensed to a resin.
Potting Cure    The potting cure process matures the resin used during the potting oven with high temperatures.
Marking    A laser marker is used to provide product identification.
Final Testing    To verify device spec. with in electrical testing after assembly process.
Inspection and Packing    Each individual die with tape is visually inspected for defects. The dies are packed within a reel into an aluminum bag after completion of the inspection process.

Chip-on-Glass Technology

COG technology is an electronic assembly technology that is used increasingly in assembling LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors for communications equipment. Compared to the traditional bonding process for TCP or COF, the new COG technology requires lower bonding temperature. In addition, the COG technology reduces assembly cost as it does not use tapes for interconnection between the LCD panel and the printed circuit board.

The COG assembly technology involves the following steps:

 

Chip Probing    To screen out the defect chips which fail to meet the device spec.
Wafer Lapping    Wafers are ground to their required thickness.
Die Saw    Wafers are cut into individual dies, or chips, in preparation for the pick and place process.
Auto Optical Inspection    Process of wafer inspection is detecting defect to separate chips at pick and place station.
Pick and Place    Each individual die is picked and placed into a chip tray.
Inspection and Packing    Each individual die in a tray is visually or auto-inspected for defects. The dies are packed within a tray into an aluminum bag after completion of the inspection process.

Other Services

Drop Shipment

We offer drop shipment of semiconductors directly to end-users designated by our customers. We provide drop shipment services, including assembly in customer-approved and branded boxes, to a majority of our testing and assembly customers. Since drop shipment eliminates the additional step of inspection by the customer prior to shipment to end-users, quality of service is a key to successful drop shipment service. We believe that our ability to successfully execute our full range of services, including drop shipment services, is an important factor in maintaining existing customers as well as attracting new customers.

 

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Software Development, Conversion and Optimization Program

We work closely with our customers to provide sophisticated software engineering services, including test program development, conversion and optimization, and related hardware design. Generally, testing requires customized testing software and related hardware to be developed for each particular product. Software is often initially provided by the customer and then converted by us at our facilities for use on one or more of our testing machines and contains varying functionality depending on the specified testing procedures. Once a conversion test program has been developed, we perform correlation and trial tests on the semiconductors.

Customer feedback on the test results enables us to adjust the conversion test programs prior to actual testing. We also typically assist our customers in collecting and analyzing the test results and recommend engineering solutions to improve their design and production process.

Customers

We believe that the following factors have been, and will continue to be, important factors in attracting and retaining customers:

 

   

our advanced testing and assembly technologies;

 

   

our strong capabilities in testing and assembling LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors;

 

   

our focus on high-density memory products and logic/mixed-signal communications products; and

 

   

our reputation for high quality and reliable customer-focused services.

The number of our customers as of March 31, in each of 2010, 2011 and 2012, respectively, was 100, 87 and 85. Our top 15 customers in terms of revenue in 2011 were (in alphabetical order):

Elite Semiconductor Memory Technology, Inc.

Eon Silicon Solution Inc.

FIDELIX CO., LTD.

Himax Technologies, Inc.

ILI TECHNOLOGY CORP.

Integrated Circuit Solution Inc.

Integrated Device Technology Inc.

Macronix International Co., Ltd.

Micron Technology, Inc.

Novatek Microelectronics Corp.

ProMOS Technologies Inc.

Raydium Semiconductor Corp.

Spansion LLC

Winbond Electronics Corp.

Zentel Electronics Corp.

In 2009, our largest customer was Spansion, our second-largest customer was Novatek, and our third-largest customer was Micron Technology, Inc. (“Micron”) accounting for approximately 15%, 12% and 10% of our net revenue, respectively. In 2010, our largest customer was Novatek, our second-largest customer was ProMOS; and our third-largest customer was Micron accounting for approximately 18%, 12% and 9% of our net revenue, respectively. In 2011, our largest customer was Novatek, our second-largest customer was Micron and our third-largest customer was Winbond Electronics Corp., accounting for approximately 21%, 11% and 7% of our net revenue, respectively.

The majority of our customers purchase our services through purchase orders and provide us three-month non-binding rolling forecasts on a monthly basis. The price for our services is typically agreed upon at the time when a purchase order is placed.

In 2006 and 2007, we strategically entered into or extended certain long-term agreements with some of our key customers, including a reputable memory customer based in the US, under which we reserved capacity for the customers primarily and the customer committed to place orders in the amount of the reserved capacity (which is subject in certain cases to reduction by the customer).

 

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Pursuant to the long-term service agreement we have entered into with ProMOS in July 2007, ProMOS agreed to provide us with six month rolling forecast on testing and assembly service orders to be placed to us, and ProMOS guarantees that such orders will represent no less than certain percentage of ProMOS’ total production volume of these products (excluding OEM products). In January 2008, at the request of ProMOS, we agreed to permit ProMOS to defer payment of aggregate service fees of NT$450 million to February 15, 2009. The deferred service fees, bore an interest at a rate of 4.69% per annum, was recorded as long-term accounts receivables as of December 31, 2007, and were paid in full by ProMOS in March and April 2008. In March 2008, ProMOS failed to place orders in the amount of the reserved capacity and failed to meet its payment obligations under the long-term service agreement. In November 2008, we entered into a revised subcontracting contract with ProMOS by requiring ProMOS to provide wafers with a value of 80% of the subcontracting fee as collateral. In May 2009, a further revised subcontracting contract was entered into by and between us and ProMOS under which ProMOS provided us with wafer as pledge and Work-In-Process, or WIP and existing finished goods as lien material. Part of ProMOS’ receivables will be recovered through sales of the pledged wafer and lien material back to ProMOS with a discount to market price, and the remaining outstanding accounts receivables will be secured by equipment mortgage under the same contract arrangement. Effective March 2009, we started to request prepayment from ProMOS. As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$409 million and 100% allowance was made by ChipMOS Taiwan. NT$7 million was received by April 2010. Under the amended subcontracting contract, ProMOS paid ChipMOS Taiwan NT$200 million in May 2010. The remaining NT$202 million was paid in nine monthly installments with final installment payment ended on March 15, 2011. As of December 31, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan received NT$336 million and the related allowance of NT$409 million was reversed to other non-operating income. In March 2011, all payments have been received. The collection term was revised to 30 days upon delivery in May 2010, to 45 days upon delivery in October 2010 and to the current term of advance payment prior to delivery from ProMOS in June 2011.

As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$55 million and 100% allowance was made by ThaiLin. In June 2010, ThaiLin agreed a settlement with ProMOS in the amount of NT$24 million and it was collected during the same year. The allowance of NT$24 million was reversed to other non-operating income. Commencing in June 2010, the collection term was revised to become 30 days upon delivery. In January 2011, the collection term was revised to 45 days after delivery and it was further revised to request advance payments from ProMOS in June 2011. See Note 19 to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Pursuant to the long-term service agreement we have entered into with Spansion in September 2005, Spansion agreed to provide us with six month rolling forecast on testing and assembly service orders to be placed to us. In January 2009, Spansion defaulted on its payment obligations under the long-term service agreement and we subsequently terminated the long-term service agreement with Spansion on February 19, 2009. Our service fee receivable from Spansion in connection with its default amounted to NT$1,539 million. On March 1, 2009, Spansion filed for a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Subsequent to such filing, on March 16, 2009, ChipMOS Taiwan was elected as the co-chairman of the Unsecured Creditor Committee to represent unsecured creditors in Spansion’s efforts to reorganize its debts under Chapter 11 petition. In early January 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan resigned as a member of the Unsecured Creditor Committee.

On January 25, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a definitive Transfer of Claim Agreement to sell to Citigroup the general unsecured claim reflected in the proof of claim against Spansion Inc., Spansion Technology LLC, Spansion LLC, Spansion International Inc. and Cerium Laboratories LLC (collectively, “Spansion”) filed by ChipMOS Taiwan in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. The claim that is the subject of the Transfer of Claim Agreement includes accounts receivable for testing and assembly services provided to Spansion in the amount of approximately US$66 million to US$70 million (the “Undisputed Claim”). ChipMOS Taiwan received the purchase price for the Undisputed Claim of NT$1,118 million in February 2010 from Citigroup. The Transfer of Claim Agreement also includes the sale of breach of contract and liquidated damages rights against Spansion in the amount of approximately US$234 million (the “Damages Claim”). The purchase price for the Damages Claim is expected to be an amount that will be determined based on a purchase rate of 50.2% multiplied by the portion of the Damages Claim that is allowed by a final adjudication of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. The purchase price for the Damages Claim is payable to ChipMOS Taiwan to the extent that the Court allows this claim. In furtherance of the Transfer of Claim Agreement, the Company also has entered into an agreement to subscribe for, purchase and transfer to Citigroup rights offering shares to be issued by Spansion according to the Second Amended Joint Plan of Reorganization filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. This agreement provides that Citigroup will pay to the Company the amount of the rights offering shares purchase price. On October 4, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a settlement agreement with Spansion LLC for the general unsecured claim on breach of contract and liquidated damages rights reflected in the proof of claim, Claim No. 5, against Spansion Inc., Spansion Technology LLC, Spansion LLC, Spansion International Inc. and Cerium Laboratories LLC filed by ChipMOS Taiwan in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. In October 2010, the Company has received payment of NT$2,118 million for the Transfer of Claim Agreement to Citigroup.

 

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On April 22, 2010, the Company announced that Spansion LLC and ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a two-year wafer sort services agreement, utilizing the V5400 test platform, making ChipMOS Taiwan Spansion’s exclusive wafer sort subcontractor, except for any sort equipment operated by Spansion LLC or currently located at Spansion Japan Limited. The wafer sort services agreement became effective upon the effective date of Spansion’s confirmed plan of reorganization. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court confirmed Spansion’s Second Amended Plan of Reorganization on April 16, 2010. The effective date of Spansion’s plan of reorganization is May 10, 2010. The wafer sort services agreement became effective on May 10, 2010.

Beginning in 2008, we also resumed a focus on our business with smaller customers and customers who do not place orders on a regular basis.

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the percentage breakdown of our net revenue, categorized by geographic region based on the jurisdiction in which each customer is headquartered.

 

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  

Taiwan

     60%         74%         73%   

United States

     33           22           15     

Singapore

     2           (1)         6     

Korea

     3           3           2     

Japan

     1           1           2     

Hong Kong SAR

     (1)         (1)         1     

Others

     1           (1)         1     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     100%         100%         100%   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) Less than 1%.

Qualification and Correlation by Customers

Our customers generally require that our facilities undergo a stringent “qualification” process during which the customer evaluates our operations, production processes and product reliability, including engineering, delivery control and testing capabilities. The qualification process typically takes up to eight weeks, or longer, depending on the requirements of the customer. For test qualification, after we have been qualified by a customer and before the customer delivers semiconductors to us for testing in volume, a process known as “correlation” is undertaken. During the correlation process, the customer provides us with test criteria, information regarding process flow and sample semiconductors to be tested and either provides us with the test program or requests that we develop a new or conversion program. In some cases, the customer also provides us with a data log of results of any testing of the semiconductor that the customer may have conducted previously. The correlation process typically takes up to two weeks, but can take longer depending on the requirements of the customer.

Sales and Marketing

We maintain sales and marketing offices in Taiwan, Mainland China and the United States. Our sales and marketing strategy is to focus on memory semiconductors in Taiwan, Japan, Korea and the United States, logic/mixed-signal semiconductors in Taiwan, Japan and the United States, LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors in Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Mainland China. As of March 31, 2012, our sales and marketing efforts were primarily carried out by teams of sales professionals, application engineers and technicians, totaling 37 staff members. Each of these teams focuses on specific customers and/or geographic regions. As part of our emphasis on customer service, these teams:

 

   

actively participate in the design process at the customers’ facilities;

 

   

resolve customer testing and assembly issues; and

 

   

promote timely and individualized resolutions to customers’ issues.

We conduct marketing research through our in-house customer service personnel and through our relationships with our customers and suppliers to keep abreast of market trends and developments. Furthermore, we do product and system bench marking analyses to understand the application and assembly technology evolution, such as analysis on mobile handsets and CD-/DVD-ROM players. In addition, we regularly collect data from different segments of the semiconductor industry and, when possible, we work closely with our customers to design and develop testing and assembly services for their new products. These “co-development” or “sponsorship” projects can be critical when customers seek large-scale, early market entry with a significant new product.

 

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We have appointed a non-exclusive sales agent for promoting our services for memory semiconductors in the United States, Japan and Korea. Our sales agent helps us promote and market our services, maintain relations with our existing and potential customers and communicate with our customers on quality, specific requirements and delivery issues. We generally pay our sales agent a commission of 1.5% to 2.5% of our revenue from services for memory semiconductors in the United States, Japan and Korea. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we paid approximately NT$9 million, NT$9 million and NT$3 million (US$99 thousand), respectively, in commissions to our sales agent.

Research and Development

We believe that research and development is critical to our future success. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we spent approximately NT$375 million, or 3%, NT$413 million, or 2% and NT$410 million (US$14 million), or 2%, respectively, of our net revenue on research and development. We intend to sustain these efforts.

Our research and development efforts have focused primarily on improving the efficiency, production yields and technologies of our testing and assembly services. From time to time, we jointly develop new technologies with universities and research institutions. For testing, our research and development efforts focus particularly on thin wafer probing, non-clean sockets, and non-clean probing. Our projects include:

 

   

Developing thin wafer probing technology to study the yield effect after processing;

 

   

Developing non-clean probing and sockets to increase productivity and yield; and

 

   

Developing high-speed probing.

We are also continuing development of interface designed to provide high frequency testing by minimizing electrical noise.

In the assembly areas, our research and development efforts focus on:

 

   

Copper wire bonding and low-cost wire bonding alternatives;

 

   

Wafer-level chip scale packaging and low-cost flip-chip integrated solution;

 

   

Low cost, fine–pitch bumping solutions;

 

   

High performance, fine pitch and miniaturization of packages;

 

   

Multi-chip assembly and modules;

 

   

Stacked-die chip scale package;

 

   

3D IC packaging related technologies: thin wafer handling/testing/dicing;

 

   

Compression molding; and

 

   

Developing environmentally friendly assembly services.

Our projects include developing multi-chip packages, flip-chip technologies, environmentally friendly products, 12-inch wafer technologies, fine-pitch wire bonding technologies, 25-micron wafer thinning technology, and advanced packages. These are aimed to meet advanced needs for DDR III, COF, fine-pitch LCD driver bumping, mixed-signal assembly and advanced probe card technologies. We work closely with our customers to optimize software and with equipment vendors to increase the efficiency and reliability of testing and assembly equipment. Our research and development operations also include a mechanical engineering group, which currently designs handler kits for semiconductor testing and wafer probing, as well as software to optimize capacity utilization.

As of March 31, 2012, we employed 274 employees in our research and development activities. In addition, other management and operational personnel are also involved in research and development activities but are not separately identified as research and development professionals.

We maintain laboratory facilities to analyze the characteristics of semiconductor packages by computer simulation, and verify their performance by measurement tools. Shadow Moiré and Micro Moiré characterization capabilities were established in the Advanced Packaging Lab. Electrical measurement instruments and simulation software Agilent ADS, EMPro, and Ansoft Q3D were set up in Electrical Measurement and Simulation Lab. These added capabilities allow us to support various advanced development work. The implementation of computer simulation, as compared with physical testing methods, is expected to substantially shorten the development cycle and provides predictable performance of our packages.

 

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Quality Control

We believe that our reputation for high quality and reliable services has been an important factor in attracting and retaining leading international semiconductor companies as customers for our testing and assembly services. We are committed to delivering semiconductors that meet or exceed our customers’ specifications on time and at a competitive cost. We maintain quality control staff at each of our facilities.

As of March 31, 2012, we employed 372 personnel for our quality control activities. Our quality control staff typically includes engineers, technicians and other employees who monitor testing and assembly processes in order to ensure high quality. We employ quality control procedures in the following critical areas:

 

   

sales quality assurance: following market trends to anticipate customers’ future needs;

 

   

design quality assurance: when developing new testing and assembly processes;

 

   

supplier quality assurance: consulting with our long-term suppliers;

 

   

manufacturing quality assurance: through a comprehensive monitoring program during mass production; and

 

   

service quality assurance: quickly and effectively responding to customers’ claims after completion of sale.

All of our facilities have been QS 9000 certified by the International Automotive Sector Group. In addition, our facilities in Hsinchu and Tainan have been ISO 9002 certified in September 1997 and December 1998, respectively and recertified with ISO 9001 for substantial revision since 2000. With respect to our quality management system, on November 26, 2003, ChipMOS Taiwan obtained ISO/TS 16949 quality system certification. In 2005, ChipMOS acquired Chantek as Chupei site. In the subsequent year, the Chupei site obtained ISO/TS16949 quality system certification. ThaiLin and ChipMOS Shanghai also obtained ISO/TS 16949 quality system certification in September 2005 and January 2006, respectively.

QS 9000 quality standards provide for continual improvement with an emphasis on the prevention of defects and reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain, and a QS 9000 certification is required by certain semiconductor manufacturers as a threshold indicator of a company’s quality control standards. An ISO 9002 certification is required by many countries for sales of industrial products. ISO/TS 16949:2002 certification system seeks to integrate quality management standards into the operation of a company, and emphasizes the supervision and measurement of process and performance.

In addition to the quality management system, we also earned the 1998 QC Group Award from The Chinese Society of Quality, which is equivalent to the similar award from the American Society of Quality. In 2003, ChipMOS passed SONY Green Partner (Tier 2) certification through its ProMOS channel, and in 2009, ChipMOS obtained SONY Green Partner (Tier 1) certification due to its direct business relationship with SONY. ChipMOS Shanghai also obtained SONY Green Partner (Tier 2) certification through its ISSI channel in 2008. Our laboratories have also been awarded Chinese National Laboratory accreditation under the categories of reliability test, electricity and temperature calibration.

Our testing and assembly operations are carried out in clean rooms where air purity, temperature and humidity are controlled. To ensure the stability and integrity of our operations, we maintain clean rooms at our facilities that meet U.S. federal 209E class 100, 1,000, 10,000 and 100,000 standards. A class 1,000 clean room means a room containing less than 1,000 particles of contaminants per cubic foot.

We have established manufacturing quality control systems that are designed to ensure high-quality services to our customers and maintain reliability and high production yields at our facilities. We employ specialized equipment for manufacturing quality and reliability control, including:

 

   

Joint Electron Device Engineering Council (JEDEC) standardized temperature cycling, thermal shock and pressure cook reliability tests;

 

   

high and low temperature storage life tests, temperature humidity bias test and highly accelerated temperature/humidity stress test (HAST); and

 

   

high resolution scanning acoustic tomography, scanning electronic microscope and X-Ray microscopy for physical failure analysis, curve tracer and semi-probe station for electrical failure analysis.

In addition, to enhance our performance and our research and development capabilities, we also installed a series of high-cost equipment, such as temperature humidity bias testers, low temperature storage-life testers and highly accelerated stress testers. We believe that many of our competitors do not own this equipment.

 

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As a result of our ongoing focus on quality, in 2011, we achieved monthly assembly yields of an average of 99.98% for our memory and logic/mixed-signal assembly packages, 99.94% for our COF packages and 99.96% for our COG packages. The assembly yield, which is the industry standard for measuring production yield, is equal to the number of integrated circuit packages that are shipped back to customers divided by the number of individual integrated circuits that are attached to leadframes or organic substrate.

Raw Materials

Semiconductor testing requires minimal raw materials. Substantially all of the raw materials used in our memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductor assembly processes are interconnect materials such as leadframes, organic substrates, gold wire and molding compound. Raw materials used in the LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly process include carrier tape, resin, spacer tape, plastic reel, aluminum bags, and inner and outer boxes. Cost of raw materials represented 21%, 22% and 22% of our net revenue in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

We do not maintain large inventories of leadframes, organic substrates, gold wire or molding compound, but generally maintain sufficient stock of each principal raw material for approximately one month’s production based on blanket orders and rolling forecasts of near-term requirements received from customers. In addition, since the commencement of economic downturn in second quarter of 2008, due to the volatility of the semiconductor market, several of our principal suppliers have also ceased to stock inventories to be reserved to meet its customers’ production requirements. Instead, our suppliers now require longer lead time for delivery of our supply orders. Despite shortages in the supply of materials, the prices of raw materials have decreased compared to prior to the economic downturn. Our principal raw material supplies have not been impacted by Japan earthquake and tsunami catastrophe. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—If we are unable to obtain raw materials and other necessary inputs from our suppliers in a timely and cost-effective manner, our production schedules would be delayed and we may lose customers and growth opportunities and become less profitable” for a discussion of the risks associated with our raw materials purchasing methods. For example, with the exception of aluminum bags and inner and outer boxes, which we acquire from local sources, the raw materials used in our TCP/COF process and for modules are obtained from a limited number of Japanese suppliers.

Competition

The independent testing and assembly markets are very competitive. Our competitors include large IDMs with in-house testing and assembly capabilities and other independent semiconductor testing and assembly companies, especially those offering vertically integrated testing and assembly services, such as Advanced Semiconductor Engineering Inc., Amkor Technology, Inc., Chipbond Technology Corporation, King Yuan Electronics Co., Ltd., Powertech Technology Inc., Siliconware Precision, STATS ChipPAC Ltd. and United Test and Assembly Center Ltd. We believe that the principal measures of competitiveness in the independent semiconductor testing industry are:

 

   

engineering capability of software development;

 

   

quality of service;

 

   

flexibility;

 

   

capacity;

 

   

production cycle time; and

 

   

price.

In assembly services, we compete primarily on the basis of:

 

   

production yield;

 

   

production cycle time;

 

   

process technology, including our COF technology for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor assembly services;

 

   

quality of service;

 

   

capacity;

 

   

location; and

 

   

price.

 

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IDMs that use our services continually evaluate our performance against their own in-house testing and assembly capabilities. These IDMs may have access to more advanced technologies and greater financial and other resources than we do. We believe, however, that we can offer greater efficiency and lower costs while maintaining an equivalent or higher level of quality for three reasons:

 

   

first, we offer a broader and more complex range of services as compared to the IDMs, which tend to focus their resources on improving their front-end operations;

 

   

second, we generally have lower unit costs because of our higher utilization rates and thus enabling us to operate at a more cost-effective structure compared to the IDMs; and

 

   

finally, we offer a wider range of services in terms of complexity and technology.

Intellectual Property

As of March 31, 2012, we held 446 patents in Taiwan, 121 patents in the United States, 209 patents in the People’s Republic of China and 1 patent in the United Kingdom, France and Germany, respectively, relating to various semiconductor testing and assembly technologies. These patents will expire at various dates through to 2030. As of March 31, 2012, we also had a total of 42 pending patent applications in the United States, 126 in Taiwan, and 49 in the People’s Republic of China. In addition, we have registered “ChipMOS” and its logo and “InPack” as trademarks in Taiwan, and “ChipMOS” and its logo as trademarks in the United States, the People’s Republic of China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea, Japan and the European Community.

We expect to continue to file patent applications where appropriate to protect our proprietary technologies. We may need to enforce our patents or other intellectual property rights or to defend ourselves against claimed infringement of the rights of others through litigation, which could result in substantial costs and a diversion of our resources. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Disputes over intellectual property rights could be costly, deprive us of technologies necessary for us to stay competitive, render us unable to provide some of our services and reduce our opportunities to generate revenue” and “Item 8. Financial Information—Legal Proceedings”.

On June 3, 2006, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a license agreement with Sharp Corporation, or Sharp, pursuant to which we acquired a perpetual license to use TCP testing and assembly technology for a lump sum royalty payment of 10 million Japanese yen (approximately US$87 thousand), which we paid in July 2006. This license agreement superseded the previous license agreement with Sharp entered into in February 2000 pursuant to which Sharp licensed to us TCP-related technology and intellectual property rights for five years starting from February 10, 2000 for a royalty fee based on the service fees paid to us by our customers. Our royalty obligations under the February 2000 license agreement were fully paid.

On April 12, 2007, ChipMOS Bermuda entered into an assignment agreement with ChipMOS Taiwan, pursuant to which ChipMOS Taiwan assigned and transferred fifty percent of the title to, ownership of and interest in all of the technologies and intellectual property it owned as of that date to ChipMOS Bermuda for a purchase price of US$6.4 million, which was paid in full in June 2007.

Government Regulations

As discussed above under “— Intellectual Property”, governmental regulation of our intellectual property may materially affect our business. The failure to protect our property rights would deprive us of our ability to stay competitive in the semi-conductor industry. Our intellectual property rights are protected by the relevant patent and intellectual property agencies of the European Community, United States, the People’s Republic of China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea, Japan and Taiwan.

 

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Environmental Matters

Semiconductor testing does not generate significant pollutants. The semiconductor assembly process generates stationary acid and alkali pollution, principally at the plating stages. Liquid waste is produced when silicon wafers are ground thinner and diced into chips with the aid of diamond saws and cooled with running water and during the gold bumping process. In addition, excess material on lead-frames and moldings are removed from assembled semiconductors in the trimming and dejunking processes, respectively. We have installed various types of liquid and gaseous chemical waste-treatment equipment at our semiconductor assembly and gold bumping facilities. Since 2001, we have adopted certain environmentally-friendly production management systems, and have implemented certain measures intended to bring our assembly process in compliance with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive 2002/95/EC issued by the European Union. We believe that we have adopted adequate and effective environmental protection measures that are consistent with semiconductor industry practices in Taiwan and Mainland China. In addition, we believe we are in compliance in all material respects with current environmental laws and regulations applicable to our operations and facilities.

All of our facilities in Taiwan and Mainland China have been certified as meeting the ISO 14001 environmental standards of the International Organization for Standardization, and all of our facilities in Taiwan have been further certified as meeting the OHSAS18001 standards, of the International Organization for Standardization. Our facilities at Hsinchu Science Park, Chupei and Southern Taiwan Science Park have won numerous awards including health promotion awards granted by Department of Health of ROC in 2009, “Safety & Health Performance Certification Unit” from Council of the Labor Affairs of ROC in 2009 and 2010. Our bumping facility has won “Civil Defence Excellent Award” from Hsinchu City in 2009, 2010 and 2011. We continue to encourage our employees to attend and participate in community environmental campaigns and events to promote and build better environmental friendly practices.

We will continue to implement programs, measures and related training to reduce industrial waste, save energy and control pollution. In 2001, ChipMOS Taiwan completed a lead-free process control program, which offers a lead-free method in a semiconductor package, a lead-free plating, a lead-free solder ball and a lead-free reliability method and specification. In 2005, ChipMOS Shanghai completed a similar lead-free process control program. In 2003 and 2008, ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS Shanghai obtained Green Partner certification from Sony Corporation of Japan, respectively. The Green Partner program requires external suppliers to meet SONY’s Green Partner requirements. In 2009, we further obtained SGS recognition whereby we received the “Greenhouse Gas Verification Statement” which also further enhances our eligibility under the Green Partner program. Standardizing on green, “environmentally friendly” products, production facilities and management systems, which has become an industry trend, and to many companies, a key criteria in selection of their service providers.

Insurance

We maintain insurance policies on our buildings, equipment and inventories. These insurance policies cover property damages due to all risks, including but not limited to, fire, lightning and earthquakes. The maximum coverage of property insurance for ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin is approximately NT$52,545 million and NT$7,610 million, respectively. ChipMOS Shanghai also maintains property insurance policies for a maximum coverage of approximately RMB864 million.

Insurance coverage on facilities under construction is maintained by us and our contractors, who are obligated to procure necessary insurance policies and bear the relevant expenses of which we are the beneficiary. We also maintain insurance on the wafers delivered to us while these wafers are in our possession and during transportation from suppliers to us and from us to our customers.

Employees

See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Employees” for certain information relating to our employees.

Taxation

See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Taxation” for certain information regarding the effect of PRC and ROC tax regulations on our operations.

 

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Facilities

We provide testing services through our four facilities in Taiwan and one facility in Shanghai, with one facility at each of the following locations: Chupei, the Hsinchu Industrial Park, the Hsinchu Science Park, the Southern Taiwan Science Park and the Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone. We provide assembly services through our facility at the Southern Taiwan Science Park and our facility at the Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone. We own the land for our Hsinchu Industrial Park testing facility and Chupei facility and possess the land use right to the land on which our Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone facility is located until 2052, and, we lease two parcels of land for our Hsinchu Science Park testing facility with lease expiration in year 2017 and 2027, respectively, and Southern Taiwan Science Park facility with lease expiration in year 2017.

The following table shows the location, primary use and size of each of our facilities, and the principal equipment installed at each facility, as of March 31, 2012.

 

Location of Facility

  

Primary Use

   Floor Area (m2)     

Principal Equipment

Chupei, Hsinchu    Wafer Testing/Gold Bumping      25,294      

5 steppers

15 sputters

239 testers

Hsinchu Industrial Park, Taiwan    Testing      39,997      

122 testers

31 burn-in ovens

Hsinchu Science Park, Taiwan    Testing      28,633      

134 testers

99 burn-in ovens

Southern Taiwan Science Park,

Taiwan

   Assembly/Testing      109,822      

503 wire bonders

150 inner-lead bonders

296 testers

Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone,

Mainland China

   Assembly/Testing      66,817      

43 testers

158 wire bonders

21 burn-in ovens

Equipment

Testing of Memory and Logic/Mixed-Signal Semiconductors

Testing equipment is the most capital-intensive component of the memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors testing business. Upon the acquisition of new testing equipment, we install, configure, calibrate and perform burn-in diagnostic tests on the equipment. We also establish parameters for the testing equipment based on anticipated requirements of existing and potential customers and considerations relating to market trends. As of March 31, 2012, we operated 834 testers for testing memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors. We generally seek to purchase testers with similar functionality that are able to test a variety of different semiconductors. We purchase testers from international manufacturer, Advantest Corporation.

In general, particular semiconductors can be tested using a limited number of specially designed testers. As part of the qualification process, customers will specify the machines on which their semiconductors may be tested. We often develop test program conversion tools that enable us to test semiconductors on multiple equipment platforms. This portability among testers enables us to allocate semiconductor testing across our available testing capacity and thereby improve capacity utilization rates. If a customer requires the testing of a semiconductor that is not yet fully developed, the customer consigns its testing software programs to us to test specific functions. If a customer specifies testing equipment that is not widely applicable to other semiconductors we test, we require the customer to furnish the equipment on a consignment basis.

We will continue to acquire additional testing equipment in the future to the extent market conditions, cash generated from operations, the availability of financing and other factors make it desirable to do so. Some of the equipment and related spare parts that we require have been in short supply in recent years. Moreover, the equipment is only available from a limited number of vendors or is manufactured in relatively limited quantities and may have lead time from order to delivery in excess of six months.

 

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Assembly of Memory and Logic/Mixed-Signal Semiconductors

The number of wire bonders at a given facility is commonly used as a measure of the assembly capacity of the facility. Typically, wire bonders may be used, with minor modifications, for the assembly of different products. We purchase wire bonders principally from Shinkawa Co., Ltd. and Kulicke & Soffa Industries Inc. As of March 31, 2012, we operated 503 wire bonders. In addition to wire bonders, we maintain a variety of other types of assembly equipment, such as wafer grinders, wafer mounters, wafer saws, die bonders, automated molding machines, laser markers, solder platers, pad printers, dejunkers, trimmers, formers, substrate saws and lead scanners.

Gold Bumping, Testing and Assembly of LCD and Other Flat-Panel Display Driver Semiconductors

We acquired TCP-related equipment from Sharp to begin our TCP-related services. We subsequently purchased additional TCP-related testers from Yokogawa Electric Corp. and Advantest Corporation and assembly equipment from Shibaura Mechatronics Corp., Shinkawa Co., Ltd., Athlete FA Corp., Daitron Electron Crop and GMM Corp. As of March 31, 2012, we operated 5 steppers and 15 sputters for gold bumping, 150 inner-lead bonders for assembly and 296 testers for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. We are currently in the process of purchasing additional testing equipment. The testing equipment can be used for the TCP, COF and COG processes, while the inner-lead bonders are only used in the TCP and COF processes. The same types of wafer grinding, auto wafer mount and die saw equipment is used for the TCP, COF and COG processes. In addition, auto inspection machines and manual work are used in the COG process, which is more labor-intensive than the TCP and COF processes.

 

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments

Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Overview

We provide a broad range of back-end testing services, including wafer probing and final testing of memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors. We also offer a broad selection of leadframe-based and organic substrate-based package assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors. Our advanced leadframe-based packages include thin small outline packages, or TSOPs, and our advanced organic substrate-based packages include fine-pitch ball grid array, or fine-pitch BGA, packages. In addition, we provide gold bumping, testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors by employing TCP, COF and COG technologies. In 2011, our consolidated net revenue was NT$18,211 million (US$602 million) and our net loss was NT$15 million (US$1 million).

We are a holding company, incorporated in Bermuda on August 1, 2000. We provide most of our services through our majority-owned subsidiary, ChipMOS Taiwan, and its subsidiaries and investees. ChipMOS Taiwan was incorporated in Taiwan in July 1997 as a joint venture company of Mosel and Siliconware Precision and with the participation of other investors. Following the completion of the share exchange transaction between ChipMOS Bermuda and ChipMOS Taiwan on September 14, 2007, ChipMOS Taiwan became a wholly-owned subsidiary of ChipMOS Bermuda. In February 2010, we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision. The share purchase transaction was completed in January 2011. As of March 31, 2012, we owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares. In Taiwan, we conduct testing operations in our facilities at the Hsinchu Science Park and the Hsinchu Industrial Park, gold bumping and wafer testing in our facility at Chupei, and testing and assembly operations in our facility at the Southern Taiwan Science Park. We also conduct operations in Mainland China through ChipMOS Shanghai, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Modern Mind. ChipMOS Shanghai operates a testing and assembly facility at the Qingpu Industrial Zone in Shanghai. Through our subsidiaries, we also have equity interests in other companies that are engaged in the semiconductor industry. In April 2011, ChipMOS Bermuda entered into the MMT Assignment Agreement with ThaiLin to sell the MMT Notes to ThaiLin for a purchase price of approximately US$40 million. The MMT Assignment Agreement is subject to certain closing conditions, including approval of shareholders of ThaiLin and obtaining certain approval from ICM for ThaiLin’s investment in China. The transaction was completed on October 3, 2011 and Modern Mind then became the wholly-owned subsidiary of ThaiLin. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Overview of the Company” for more details.

 

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The following key trends are important to understanding our business:

Capital Intensive Nature of Our Business. Our operations, in particular our testing operations, are characterized by relatively high fixed costs. We expect to continue to incur substantial depreciation and other expenses as a result of our previous acquisitions of testing and assembly equipment and facilities. Our profitability depends in part not only on absolute pricing levels for our services, but also on capacity utilization rates for our testing and assembly equipment. In particular, increases or decreases in our capacity utilization rates could significantly affect our gross margins since the unit cost of testing and assembly services generally decreases as fixed costs are allocated over a larger number of units.

The current generation of advanced testers typically cost between US$2 million and US$5 million each, while wire bonders used in assembly typically cost approximately US$68 thousand each and inner-lead bonders for TCP and COF assembly cost approximately US$380 thousand each and COG chip sorters cost approximately US$160 thousand each. We begin depreciating our equipment when it is placed into commercial operation. There may be a time lag between the time when our equipment is placed into commercial operation and when it achieves high levels of utilization. In periods of depressed semiconductor industry conditions, we may experience lower than expected demand from our customers and a sharp decline in the average selling prices of our testing and assembly services, resulting in an increase in depreciation expenses relative to net revenue. In particular, the capacity utilization rates for our testing equipment may be severely adversely affected during a semiconductor industry downturn as a result of the decrease in outsourcing demand from integrated device manufacturers, or IDMs, which typically maintain larger in-house testing capacity than in-house assembly capacity.

Highly Cyclical Nature of the Semiconductor Industry. Highly cyclical, the worldwide semiconductor industry has experienced peaks and troughs over the last decade, with a severe downturn beginning in the fourth quarter of 2000 that was followed by a recovery in early 2003. The significant decrease in market demand for semiconductors that began in 2000 adversely affected our results of operations for 2001 and 2002. Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2008, the semiconductor industry commenced another significant downturn which continued in 2009 and in 2010. Market demand for semiconductors significantly decreased across our industry during these periods, which adversely affected average selling prices for our services and our results of operations for 2008, 2009 and 2010. The impact on our results of operations of the decrease in market demand during these periods was partly offset by increases in our 2009 and 2010 net revenue from assembly services for logic/mixed-signal semiconductors due to higher customer demand for these services in 2009 and 2010. The overall outsourced assembly and testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased gradually since 2010. During periods of decreased demand for assembled semiconductors, some of our customers may forego, delay or simplify final testing of certain types of semiconductors, such as DRAM, which may further decrease demand and average selling prices for our services and intensify our difficulties related to realizing pricing levels, capacity realization rates and gross margin during these periods.

Declining Average Selling Prices of Our Testing and Assembly Services. The semiconductor industry is characterized by a general decrease in prices for products and services over the course of their product and technology life cycles. The rate of decline is particularly steep during periods of intense competition and adverse market conditions. The average selling prices of our testing and assembly services experienced sharp declines during such periods as a result of intense price competition from other independent testing and assembly companies that attempt to maintain high capacity utilization levels in the face of reduced demand.

To offset the effects of decreasing average selling prices, we will continue to seek to:

 

   

improve production efficiency and attain high capacity utilization rates;

 

   

concentrate on testing of potentially high-demand, high-growth semiconductors;

 

   

develop new assembly technologies; and

 

   

implement new technologies and platforms to shift into potentially higher margin services.

 

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Market Conditions for the End-User Applications for Semiconductors. Market conditions in the semiconductor industry, to a large degree, track those for their end-user applications. Any deterioration in the market conditions for the end-user applications of semiconductors that we test and assemble may reduce demand for our services and, in turn, materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Despite an increase in the demand for mobile/niche DRAM in 2010, for DRAMs with more advanced features such as that of enhanced graphic capability, increased power efficiency and increased mobility, the average market demand for DRAM remained low. Our net revenue is largely attributable to fees from testing and assembling semiconductors for use in personal computers, consumer and portable electronic products, display applications and communications equipment. The markets for these products are intensely competitive, and a significant decrease in demand puts pricing pressure on our testing and assembly services and negatively affects our earnings. The oversupply of DRAM products in the second half of 2007 and the weak demand in the DRAM market in 2008 and in the first quarter of 2009 resulted in significant reductions in the price of DRAM products, which in turn drove down the average selling prices for our testing and assembly services for DRAM products from the second half of 2009 and continue in 2011.

Change in Product Mix. Declines in average selling prices have been partially offset over the last three years by a change in our revenue mix. In particular, revenue from testing and assembly of LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors, bumping services and 12-inch wafer processing have increased as a percentage of our total net revenue over the 2009 to 2011 period. We intend to continue focusing on testing and assembling more semiconductors that have the potential to provide higher margins and developing and offering new technologies in testing and assembly services, in order to mitigate the effects of declining average selling prices on our ability to attain profitability.

Recent Acquisitions

In March 2007, we completed a share purchase and subscription transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan and Siliconware Precision, under which we became a holder of 99.1% of the outstanding common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan. In April 2007, we and ChipMOS Taiwan further entered into a share exchange transaction and pursuant to which we agreed to exchange one common share for every 8.4 ChipMOS Taiwan shares outstanding. Following the completion of the share exchange transaction in September 2007, ChipMOS Taiwan became our wholly-owned subsidiary. In February 2010, we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision. The share purchase transaction was completed in January 2011. As of March 31, 2012, we owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Our Structure and History” for description of our earlier merger events.

Net Revenue

We conduct our business according to the following main business segments: (1) testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors; (2) assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors; (3) LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services; and (4) bumping services for memory, logic/mixed-signal and LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, our consolidated net revenue for each segment.

 

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011      2011  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in millions)  

Testing

           

Memory

   $ 4,646.5       $ 5,577.4       $ 5,455.1       $ 180.2   

Logic/mixed-signal

     524.7         592.3         444.0         14.7   

Total testing

     5,171.2         6,169.7         5,899.1         194.9   

Assembly

           

Memory

     3,335.7         5,112.6         4,982.2         164.6   

Logic/mixed-signal

     1,017.2         1,146.2         1,006.8         33.2   

Total assembly

     4,352.9         6,258.8         5,989.0         197.8   

LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly

     1,986.4         3,199.0         3,985.8         131.7   

Bumping

     639.8         1,582.2         2,337.0         77.2   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 12,150.3       $ 17,209.7       $ 18,210.9       $ 601.6   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Our net revenue consists primarily of service fees for testing and assembling semiconductors, and to a lesser extent, fees from equipment rentals to semiconductor manufacturers for engineering testing, less allowances for product returns. We offer testing and assembly services for memory semiconductors, logic/mixed-signal semiconductors, testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors and bumping services.

Most of our customers do not place purchase orders far in advance and our contracts with customers generally do not require minimum purchases of our products or services. Our customers’ purchase orders have varied significantly from period to period because demand for their products is often volatile. We have strategically entered into long-term capacity agreements with some of our customers. Under certain of those long-term agreements, we have agreed to reserve capacity for our customers and our customers have agreed to place orders in the amount of the reserved capacity (which is subject in certain cases to reduction by the customers). As part of our strategy, we intend to enter into additional long-term capacity agreements in the future if this approach continues to represent a potential growth opportunity for our business. Depending on customer demands, market conditions and other considerations, we may explore opportunities to expand our operations outside Taiwan and Mainland China in connection with possible future long-term capacity agreements.

Our financial condition and results of operations have also been, and are likely to continue to be, affected by price pressures on our service fees, which tend to decline in tandem with the declining average selling prices of the products we test and assemble over the course of their product and technology life cycles. In order to maintain our margins, it is necessary to offset the fee erosion by continually improving our production efficiency and maintaining high capacity utilization rates. We also plan to continue to develop and implement new technologies and expand our services into potentially higher-margin segments. These efforts require significant up front investment in advance of incremental revenue, which could impact our margins.

Pricing

We price our testing fees primarily based on the cost of testing the products to our customers’ specifications, including the costs of the required material and components, the depreciation expenses relating to the equipment involved and our overhead expenses, and with reference to prevailing market prices. Accordingly, the testing fee for a particular product would principally depend on the time taken to perform the tests, the complexity of the product and the testing process, and the cost of the equipment used to perform the test. For example, testing fees for memory semiconductors are significantly higher than those for other products because of the longer time required and the need for burn-in testing.

We price our assembly services on a per unit basis, taking into account the complexity of the package, our costs, including the costs of the required material and components, the depreciation expenses relating to the equipment involved and our overhead expenses, prevailing market conditions, the order size, the strength and history of our relationship with the customer and our capacity utilization.

We price our testing and assembly services for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors and bumping services on the basis of our costs, including the costs of the required material and components, the depreciation expenses relating to the equipment involved and our overhead expenses, and the price for comparable services.

We offer volume discounts to all customers who purchase large quantities of our services and special discounts to customers who use our vertically integrated services. On a case by case basis, we also may offer special payment terms, including longer payment cycles, to key customers during downturns in the market so as to retain business from such key customers.

Revenue Recognition

We generally recognize our revenue upon completion of testing and assembly services. We also recognize our revenue upon shipment of tested and assembled semiconductors to locations designated by our customers, including our internal warehouse for customers using our warehousing services. We submit invoices at the time of completion of service or shipment or delivery and generally require all customers to pay within 60 days after the last day of the month during which the invoice was sent. However, for ProMOS, during 2010 the invoice settlement cycle has been changed to 30 or 45 days upon delivery, and commencing in June 2011, the collection term was revised to advance payment prior to delivery.

 

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In January 2008, at the request of ProMOS, we agreed to permit ProMOS to defer payment of aggregate service fees of NT$450 million to February 15, 2009. The deferred service fees, bore interest at a rate of 4.69% per annum, were recorded as long-term accounts receivable as of December 31, 2007, and were paid in full by ProMOS in March and April 2008. We also experienced collection problems for our receivables from ProMOS in 2008 and 2009, respectively. The full amount of allowance for these doubtful receivables of NT$578 million and NT$464 million were reserved as of December 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$409 million and 100% allowance was made by ChipMOS Taiwan. NT$7 million was received by April 2010. Under the amended subcontracting contract ProMOS paid ChipMOS Taiwan NT$200 million in May 2010. The remaining NT$202 million was paid in nine monthly installments with the final payment made on March 15, 2011. As of December 31, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan received NT$336 million and the related allowance of NT$409 million was reversed to other non-operating income. In March 2011, all payments have been received.

As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$55 million and 100% allowance was made by ThaiLin. In June 2010, ThaiLin agreed a settlement with ProMOS in the amount of NT$24 million and it was collected during the same year. The allowance of NT$24 million was reversed to other non-operating income. See “Item 4. Information on the Company — Customers”.

We also experienced collection problems for our services of receivables from Spansion in 2008 and 2009, respectively. The full amount of allowance of these doubtful receivables of NT$1,539 million and NT$2,232 million were reserved as of December 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively. On January 25, 2010, we entered into a definitive Transfer of Claim Agreement to sell to Citigroup Financial Products Inc. (Citigroup) the general unsecured claim reflected in the proof of claim against Spansion. The claim that is the subject of the Transfer of Claim Agreement includes accounts receivable for testing and assembly services provided to Spansion (the “Undisputed Claim”). In February 2010, we received from Citigroup the purchase price for the Undisputed Claim of NT$1,118 million against accounts receivable of NT$2,186 million. A loss on sale of receivables of NT$1,068 million was recognized and the related allowance for doubtful receivables of NT$2,186 million was reversed in 2010. See “Item 4. Information on the Company — Customers”.

We have not experienced other significant collection problems for our services.

Related Party Revenues

In 2009, 2010 and 2011, 5%, 12% and 2%, respectively, of our net revenue were derived from related parties. While we believe that our transactions with related parties were entered into on an arm’s length basis, we extended them favorable payment terms, as discussed in the preceding paragraph. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions” for more information concerning our related party transactions.

Geography and Currency

The majority of our net revenue is generated from customers headquartered in Taiwan, which represented 60%, 74% and 73% of our net revenue in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. We also generate net revenue from customers in the United States, Singapore, Korea, Japan and other countries. Our service fees and revenue are generally denominated in the currency of the jurisdiction in which our facilities are located, for example NT dollars for our Taiwan operations and RMB for our Mainland China operations. As we generate most of our net revenue from Taiwanese customers using our Taiwanese operations, and since most of our labor and overhead costs are denominated in NT dollars, we consider the NT dollar to be our functional currency.

See Note 23 to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk — Market Risks — Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risks” for certain information on our exchange rate risks.

Cost of Revenue and Gross Profit (Loss)

Our cost of revenue consists primarily of the following: depreciation and amortization expenses, raw material costs, and labor and overhead expenses, which primarily include expendable equipments, sub-contracting fees and rental expenses. Our operations, in particular our testing, are characterized by relatively high fixed costs. We expect to continue to incur substantial depreciation and other expenses as a result of our previous and future acquisitions of testing and assembly equipment and facilities, including our investment in our Mainland China operations. As of March 31, 2012, we had 834 testers, 151 burn-in ovens, 503 wire bonders, 150 inner-lead bonders, 5 steppers and 15 sputters. We use inner-lead bonders for the assembly of LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors using TCP or COF technology, and wire bonders for TSOP, BGA, and some other package assembly technologies.

 

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Our profitability depends in part not only on absolute pricing levels for our services, but also on our capacity utilization rates. Our average capacity utilization rate for testing of memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors was 45% in 2009, 60% in 2010 and 62% in 2011. Our average capacity utilization rate for assembly of memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors was 64% in 2009, 85% in 2010 and 79% in 2011. Our average capacity utilization rate for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly was 52% in 2009, 77% in 2010 and 80% in 2011. In addition, our average capacity utilization rate for bumping was 45% in 2009, 77% in 2010 and 88% in 2011.

For each period of time selected, we derived the capacity utilization rate for our testing operations by dividing the total number of hours of actual use of our facilities’ testing equipment units by the maximum number of hours that these equipment units were capable of being used. The testing capacity utilization rate generally increases in correlation to increases in the total volume of our customer orders, and generally decreases in correlation to decreases in the total volume of our customer orders.

For each period of time selected, we derived the capacity utilization rate for our assembly operations by dividing the total number of units actually produced by our assembly facilities by the maximum number of units that these facilities are capable of producing. The assembly capacity utilization rate generally increases in correlation to increases in the total volume of our customer orders, and generally decreases in correlation to decreases in the total volume of our customer orders.

Our gross revenue is generally the product of the total volume of our customer orders multiplied by the average selling price per deliverable unit from our assembly or testing services, as the case may be. As a result, in a period where the average selling prices do not fluctuate significantly, increases or decreases in our capacity utilization rates generally correlate to increases or decreases in our gross revenue. Periods with significant increases in the average selling prices reduce the negative impact on our gross revenue from any decreases in our capacity utilization rates. Similarly, periods with significant decreases in the average selling prices reduce the positive impact on our gross revenue from any increases in our capacity utilization rates.

The Company has significant fixed costs in operating our assembly and testing facilities. For this reason, decreases in our cost of goods sold during a period generally occur at a slower rate than decreases, during the same period, in our gross revenue due to lower capacity utilization rates, lower average selling prices, or both. Also, as a result, our gross margin and profitability generally decrease in correlation to decreases in our capacity utilization rates, decreases in our average selling prices, or both. Similarly, our gross margin and profitability generally increase in correlation to increases in our capacity utilization rates, increases in our average selling prices, or both. Due to the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry, customer orders may change significantly, causing fluctuation in our capacity utilization rate and average selling price.

Most of our labor and overhead costs are denominated in NT dollars. However, we also incur costs of revenues and operating expenses associated with testing and assembly services in several other currencies, including Japanese yen, US dollars and RMB. In addition, a substantial portion of our capital expenditures, primarily for the purchase of testing and assembly equipment, has been, and is expected to continue to be, denominated in Japanese yen with much of the remainder denominated in US dollars.

 

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The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, our gross profit (loss) and our gross profit (loss) margin as a percentage of net revenue.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2009        2010        2011            2011      
     NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in millions)  

Gross profit (loss):

           

Testing

           

Memory

   $ (2,275.9)         $ (362.4)         $ 352.1         $ 11.7     

Logic/mixed-signal

     84.7           114.5           24.9           0.8     

Total testing

     (2,191.2)           (247.9)           377.0           12.5     

Assembly

           

Memory

     (745.2)           (36.0)           (20.3)           (0.7)     

Logic/mixed-signal

     (13.2)           240.9           303.2           10.0     

Total assembly

     (758.4)           204.9           282.9           9.3     

LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly

     (185.3)           703.8           887.3           29.3     

Bumping

     (376.3)           (15.1)           114.5           3.8     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ (3,511.2)         $ 645.7         $ 1,661.7         $ 54.9     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit (loss) margin:

           

Testing

           

Memory

     (49.0)%         (6.5)%         6.5%         6.5%   

Logic/mixed-signal

     16.1             19.3             5.6             5.6      

Total testing

     (42.4)            (4.0)            6.4             6.4      

Assembly

           

Memory

     (22.3)            (0.7)            (0.4)            (0.4)      

Logic/mixed-signal

     (1.3)            21.0             30.1             30.1      

Total assembly

     (17.4)            3.3             4.7             4.7      

LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly

     (9.3)            22.0             22.3             22.3      

Bumping

     (58.8)            (1.0)            4.9             4.9      

Overall

     (28.9)%         3.8%         9.1%         9.1%   

Operating Expenses

Research and Development

Research and development expenses consist primarily of personnel expenses, amortization expenses relating to technology, expenditures to qualify our services for specific customers and other consulting fees and certification fees paid to third parties. Research and development expenses are recognized as they are incurred. We currently expect that research and development expenses will increase in the future as we continue to explore new technologies and service offerings. We also expect to hire additional employees in our research and development department.

Sales and Marketing

Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of shipping and handling expenses incurred in delivering products to our customers’ designated locations, advertising, corporate communications and other marketing expenses, salary expenses for sales and marketing personnel, sales commission, professional service fees, bad debt provision and service support expenses.

General and Administrative

General and administrative expenses consist of salaries and related expenses for executive, finance and accounting, and management information systems personnel, professional service fees, and other corporate expenses. They also include stock-based compensation that is expensed using the intrinsic value-based method and fair value method. See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Share Option Plan and Share Appreciation Rights Plan” for more information concerning our share option plan. We expect general and administrative expenses to increase in absolute terms as we add personnel and incur additional expenses related to the growth of our business and operations.

 

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Other Income (Expenses), Net

Our other income principally consists of interest income, sales of claims receivables, foreign exchange gains, warehouse space rental revenue, royalty income, gains on sale of investments, gains on disposal of property, plant and equipment, fair value gains on financial assets, gain on disposal of land use right and gains on embedded derivative. In 2008, our other income included certain interest income paid by Kolin under a loan repayable to ChipMOS Taiwan that bears interest at a rate of 4.69% per annum. NT$15 million of this loan was repaid in 2008. The loan is secured by a pledge by Kolin of 11 million common shares of ThaiLin. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp” for more information. In January 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a definitive Transfer of Claim Agreement to sell to Citigroup Financial Products Inc. (Citigroup) the general unsecured claim reflected in the proof of claim against Spansion. As a result of the agreement, ChipMOS Taiwan received from Citigroup the purchase price for the Undisputed Claim of NT$1,118 million against accounts receivable of NT$2,186 million. A loss on sale of receivables of NT$1,068 million was recognized and the related allowance for doubtful receivables of NT$2,186 million was reversed in 2010. The Transfer of Claim Agreement also includes the sale of breach of contract and liquidated damages rights against Spansion in the amount of NT$2,118 million, which was received in October 2010.

As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$409 million and 100% allowance was made by ChipMOS Taiwan. NT$7 million was received by April 2010. Under an amended subcontracting contract, ProMOS paid ChipMOS Taiwan NT$200 million in May 2010. The remaining NT$202 million was subsequently received by March 2011. As of December 31, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan received NT$336 million and the related allowance of NT$409 million was reversed to other non-operating income. In March 2011, all payments have been received.

As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$55 million and 100% allowance was made by ThaiLin. In June 2010, ThaiLin agreed a settlement with ProMOS in the amount of NT$24 million, this payment was fully received in the same year. The allowance of NT$24 million was reversed to other non-operating income.

Our other expenses principally consist of interest expense, fair value loss on financial assets, financing costs, impairment losses, losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment, loss on embedded derivative and foreign exchange losses.

Noncontrolling Interests and Interest in Bonuses Paid by Subsidiaries

Noncontrolling interests represent the portion of our income that is attributable to the shareholding in our consolidated subsidiaries that we do not own. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Our Structure and History” for information concerning our consolidated subsidiaries. In 2009, our noncontrolling interests were attributable to the public shareholders’ interest in ThaiLin, ChipMOS Taiwan’s 42.9% owned subsidiary. In 2010 and 2011, our noncontrolling interests were attributable to the noncontrolling interests owned by Siliconware Precision in ChipMOS Taiwan as a result of the February 2010 share purchase agreement under which we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision, and the public shareholders’ interest in ThaiLin. The sale of 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision was completed in January 2011. Under the MMT Assignment Agreement signed on April 22, 2011, ChipMOS Bermuda agreed to sell the MMT Notes to ThaiLin. The transaction was completed in October 2011 and ThaiLin immediately converted the MMT Notes into common shares of Modern Mind and purchased all of the remaining common shares of Modern Mind from Jesper, with ChipMOS Shanghai becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of ThaiLin. As a result of the transaction, interest of ChipMOS Bermuda in Modern Mind and also ChipMOS Shanghai decreased to 36.1% from 100%. As of March 31, 2012, we owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares.

Interest in bonuses paid by subsidiaries represents our portion of ChipMOS Taiwan’s and ThaiLin’s distributable earnings that are appropriated as bonuses to employees and remuneration to directors and supervisors of ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin, as required by ROC regulations and ChipMOS Taiwan’s and ThaiLin’s articles of incorporation. ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin did not pay any bonuses to directors, supervisors and employees in 2009 and 2010. In 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin paid nil and NT$29 million (US$958 thousand) to employees, directors and supervisors as bonuses, which was accrued in 2010.

Net Income (Loss)

Our net loss was NT$4,419 million in 2009, net income was NT$1,645 million in 2010, and net loss was NT$15 million (US$1 million) in 2011, respectively. We believe our future results will be dependent upon the overall economic conditions in the markets we serve, the competitive environment in which we operate, and our ability to successfully implement our strategy, among other things. For additional information on factors that will affect our future performance, see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors”.

 

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Results of Operations

The following table presents selected operating data as a percentage of net revenue for the periods indicated:

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  

ROC GAAP:

        

Net revenue

     100.0%         100.0%         100.0%   

Cost of revenue

     128.9            96.2            90.9       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross profit (loss) margin

     (28.9)           3.8            9.1       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

        

Research and development

     3.1            2.4            2.3       

General and administrative

     4.6            3.9            3.6       

Sales and marketing

     5.4            0.4            0.3       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     13.1            6.7            6.2       
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (Loss) from operations

     (42.0)           (2.9)           2.9       

Other income (expenses), net

     1.0            13.5            (2.5)      
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (Loss) before income tax and noncontrolling interests

     (41.0)           10.6            0.4       

Income tax benefit (expense)

     3.4            0.5            (0.2)      
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income (Loss) before noncontrolling interests

     (37.6)           11.1            0.2       

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests

     1.2             (1.5)           (0.3)      
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS

       (36.4)%         9.6%         (0.1)%   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2011 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2010

Net Revenue. Our net revenue increased by NT$1,001 million, or 6%, to NT$18,211 million (US$602 million) in 2011 from NT$17,210 million in 2010.

Net revenue from testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors decreased by NT$271 million, or 4%, to NT$5,899 million (US$195 million) in 2011 from NT$6,170 million in 2010. Net revenue from testing services for memory semiconductors decreased by NT$122 million, or 2%, to NT$5,455 million (US$180 million) in 2011 from NT$5,577 million in 2010, principally due to decreased average selling price for DRAM products. Net revenue for testing services for logic/mixed-signal semiconductors decreased by NT$149 million, or 25%, to NT$444 million (US$15 million) in 2011 from NT$593 million in 2010, principally due to decreased average selling price.

Net revenue from assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors decreased by NT$270 million, or 4%, to NT$5,989 million (US$198 million) in 2011 from NT$6,259 million in 2010. Net revenue from assembly services for memory semiconductors decreased by NT$131 million, or 3%, to NT$4,982 million (US$165 million) in 2011 from NT$5,113 million in 2010, primarily as a result of decreased capacity utilization rates and average selling price. Net revenue from assembly services for logic/mixed-signal semiconductors decreased by NT$139 million, or 12%, to NT$1,007 million (US$33 million) in 2011 from NT$1,146 million in 2010, also attributable to decreased capacity utilization rates and average selling price.

Net revenue from LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services increased by NT$787 million, or 25%, to NT$3,986 million (US$132 million) in 2011 from NT$3,199 million in 2010. This increase was principally as a result of an increase of capacity and its utilization for LCD and other flat-panel display products in 2011.

Net revenue from bumping services increased by NT$755 million, or 48%, to NT$2,337 million (US$77 million) in 2011 from NT$1,582 million in 2010. This increase was principally as a result of an increased capacity utilization rate for bumping services in 2011.

See “— Cost of Revenue and Gross Profit (Loss)” for more information concerning our testing and assembly capacity utilization rates and the impact on our gross revenue, gross margin and profitability from any increases or decreases in our capacity utilization rates.

 

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Cost of Revenue and Gross Margin. Cost of revenue decreased by NT$15 million, or 0.1%, to NT$16,549 million (US$547 million) in 2011 from NT$16,564 million in 2010, primarily due to decreases of depreciation expenses of NT$629 million (US$21 million) and partially offset by an increase in direct materials, direct labor, inventory supplies and inventory valuation allowance of NT$173 million (US$6 million), NT$114 million (US$4 million), NT$104 million (US$3 million) and NT$214 million (US$7 million), respectively. Direct materials increased principally as a result of the increase in capacity utilization rate.

Our gross profit increased to NT$1,662 million (US$55 million) in 2011 from NT$646 million in 2010. Our gross margin was 9% in 2011, compared to 4% in 2010.

Our gross margin for testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased to 6% in 2011 from negative 4% in 2010, primarily due to a higher capacity utilization rate, which increased to 62% in 2011 from 60% in 2010.

Our gross margin for assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased to 5% in 2011 from 3% in 2010, primarily due to the increased sales of higher margin memory semiconductor assembly services.

Our gross margin for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services increased to 23% in 2011 from 22% in 2010, primarily as a result of an increase in the capacity utilization rate from 77% in 2010 to 80% in 2011.

Our gross margin for bumping services increased to 5% in 2011 from negative 1% in 2010, primarily as a result of an increase in the capacity utilization rate from 77% in 2010 to 88% in 2011.

See “— Cost of Revenue and Gross Profit (Loss)” for more information concerning our testing and assembly capacity utilization rates and the impact on our gross revenue, gross margin and profitability from any increases or decreases in our capacity utilization rates.

Research and Development Expenses. Research and development expenses decreased by NT$3 million, or 1%, to NT$410 million (US$14 million) in 2011 from NT$413 million in 2010. This decrease was primarily due to the decrease of amortization expenses and professional services fees.

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses decreased by NT$26 million, or 4%, to NT$652 million (US$22 million) in 2011 from NT$678 million in 2010, primarily due to the decrease of amortization expenses and bank charges.

Sales and Marketing Expenses. Sales and marketing expenses increased by NT$2 million, or 3%, to NT$66 million (US$2 million) in 2011 from NT$64 million in 2010, primarily due to an increase of freight-out expenses.

Other Income (Expenses), Net. Other income (expenses), net, changed by NT$2,777 million, or 120%, to other expenses, net, of NT$456 million (US$15 million) in 2011 from other income, net, of NT$2,321 million in 2010. This change was primarily due to the one-off income from the sale of Undisputed Claim against Spansion of NT$2,118 million, and recovery of allowance for doubtful receivables of NT$2,717 million in 2010, which were partially offset by the loss on sale of receivables of NT$1,068 million in 2010.This change was also caused in part by the increase of foreign exchange gain by NT$422 million (US$14 million), decrease of interest expense by NT$374 million (US$12 million) and decrease of impairment loss on other assets by NT$223 million (US$7 million).

Income (Loss) Before Income Tax and Noncontrolling Interests. As a result of the foregoing, income before income tax and noncontrolling interests decreased by 96% to NT$78 million (US$3 million) in 2011 from NT$1,812 million in 2010.

Income Tax Benefit (Expense). We had an income tax expense of NT$46 million (US$2 million) in 2011 compared to income tax benefit of NT$99 million for 2010, primarily due to the utilization of tax credit in 2011.

Net (Income) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests. The net income less losses of ThaiLin and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Modern Mind and ChipMOS Shanghai and of ChipMOS Taiwan attributable to noncontrolling interests amounted to NT$47 million (US$2 million) in 2011, compared to the net income of ThaiLin and of ChipMOS Taiwan attributable to noncontrolling interests of NT$266 million in 2010.

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ChipMOS. As a result of the foregoing, the net loss attributable to ChipMOS was NT$15 million (US$1 million) in 2011, compared to a net income attributable to ChipMOS of NT$1,645 million in 2010.

 

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Year Ended December 31, 2010 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2009

Net Revenue. Our net revenue increased by NT$5,060 million, or 42%, to NT$17,210 million in 2010 from NT$12,150 million in 2009.

Net revenue from testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased by NT$999 million, or 19%, to NT$6,170 million in 2010 from NT$5,171 million in 2009, mainly due to an increase in net revenue from testing services for memory semiconductors. Net revenue from testing services for memory semiconductors increased by NT$931 million, or 20%, to NT$5,577 million in 2010 from NT$4,646 million in 2009, principally due to increased capacity utilization rates and higher average selling price for DRAM products. Net revenue for testing services for logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased by NT$68 million, or 13%, to NT$593 million in 2010 from NT$525 million in 2009, principally due to increased capacity utilization rates.

Net revenue from assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors, which includes revenue from assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors and revenue from our memory module manufacturing business, increased by NT$1,906 million, or 44%, to NT$6,259 million in 2010 from NT$4,353 million in 2009. This increase was primarily the result of an increase in net revenue from assembly services for memory semiconductors. Net revenue from assembly services for memory semiconductors increased by NT$1,777 million, or 53%, to NT$5,113 million in 2010 from NT$3,336 million in 2009, primarily as a result of an increased capacity utilization rate for DDR II SDRAM products. Net revenue from assembly services for logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased by NT$129 million, or 13%, to NT$1,146 million in 2010 from NT$1,017 million in 2009, principally as a result of higher customer demand.

Net revenue from LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services increased by NT$1,213 million, or 61%, to NT$3,199 million in 2010 from NT$1,986 million in 2009. This increase was principally as a result of an increased capacity utilization rate for LCD and other flat-panel display products in 2010.

Net revenue from bumping services increased by NT$942 million, or 147%, to NT$1,582 million in 2010 from NT$640 million in 2009. This increase was principally as a result of an increased capacity utilization rate for bumping products in 2010.

See “— Cost of Revenue and Gross Profit (Loss)” for more information concerning our testing and assembly capacity utilization rates and the impact on our gross revenue, gross margin and profitability from any increases or decreases in our capacity utilization rates.

Cost of Revenue and Gross Margin. Cost of revenue increased by NT$903 million, or 6%, to NT$16,564 million in 2010 from NT$15,661 million in 2009, primarily due to increases of the direct materials, direct labor, salary and fringes expenses and expendable equipment of NT$1,168 million, NT$531 million, NT$239 million and NT$215 million, respectively. These expenses increases are partially offset by the decrease of rental expenses of NT$1,288 million. Direct materials increased principally as a result of a raise in the capacity utilization rate.

Our gross profit increased to NT$646 million in 2010 from negative NT$3,511 million in 2009. Our gross margin was 4% in 2010, compared to negative 29% in 2009.

Our gross margin for testing services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased to negative 4% in 2010 from negative 42% in 2009, primarily due to a higher capacity utilization rate, which increased to 60% in 2010 from 45% in 2009.

Our gross margin for assembly services for memory and logic/mixed-signal semiconductors increased to 3% in 2010 from negative 17% in 2009, primarily due to a higher capacity utilization rate, which increased to 85% in 2010 from 64% in 2009.

Our gross margin for LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductor testing and assembly services increased to 22% in 2010 from negative 9% in 2009, primarily as a result of an increase in the capacity utilization rate from 52% in 2009 to 77% in 2010.

Our gross margin for bumping services increased to negative 1% in 2010 from negative 59% in 2009, primarily as a result of an increase in the capacity utilization rate from 45% in 2009 to 77% in 2010.

See “— Cost of Revenue and Gross Profit (Loss)” for more information concerning our testing and assembly capacity utilization rates and the impact on our gross revenue, gross margin and profitability from any increases or decreases in our capacity utilization rates.

 

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Research and Development Expenses. Research and development expenses increased by NT$38 million, or 10%, to NT$413 million in 2010 from NT$375 million in 2009. This increase was primarily due to the higher personnel expenses and the increase of professional services fees.

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by NT$20 million, or 3%, to NT$678 million in 2010 from NT$658 million in 2009, primarily due to the higher personnel expenses.

Sales and Marketing Expenses. Sales and marketing expenses decreased by NT$497 million, or 89%, to NT$64 million in 2010 from NT$561 million in 2009, primarily due to a decrease of NT$497 million in bad debt provision.

Other Income (Expenses), Net. Other income, net increased by NT$2,204 million, or 1,884%, to NT$2,321 million in 2010 from NT$117 million in 2009. This increase was primarily due to the damage claim received of NT$2,118 million, recovery of allowance for doubtful receivables of NT$2,717 million in 2010 and partially offset by the increase of loss on sale of receivables of NT$1,068 million, impairment loss on other assets of NT$392 million, and the increase of foreign exchange loss by NT$307 million, increase of loss on derivative liability by NT$311 million and increase of interest expense by NT$244 million.

Income (Loss) Before Income Tax and Noncontrolling Interests. As a result of the foregoing, income before income tax and noncontrolling interests increased by 136% to an income of NT$1,812 million in 2010 from a loss of NT$4,989 million in 2009.

Income Tax Benefit (Expense). We had an income tax benefit of NT$99 million in 2010 compared to income tax benefit of NT$421 million for 2009, primarily due to a significant increase in income before income tax in 2010.

Net (Income) Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests. The net income of ThaiLin and of ChipMOS Taiwan attributable to noncontrolling interests amounted to NT$266 million in 2010, compared to the net loss of ThaiLin attributable to noncontrolling interests of NT$149 million in 2009.

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ChipMOS. As a result of the foregoing, the net income attributable to ChipMOS was NT$1,645 million in 2010, compared to a net loss attributable to ChipMOS of NT$4,419 million in 2009.

Critical Accounting Policies

We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with ROC GAAP. Under ROC GAAP, we are required to make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time those estimates, judgments and assumptions are made, and our financial condition or results of operations may be materially impacted if we use different but nonetheless reasonable estimates, judgments or assumptions about those matters for that particular period or if we change our estimates, judgments or assumptions from period to period.

Under ROC GAAP, the significant accounting policies are set forth in Note 2 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F. The significant accounting policies that require us to make estimates and assumptions about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain are discussed below. In connection with the reconciliation of our consolidated financial statements to US GAAP, there are no additional accounting policies that we believe are critical to us except as described below under “— Convertible Notes” and “— Share-Based Compensation”.

Allowance for Doubtful Receivables and Sales Returns

Our accounts receivable balance on our balance sheet is affected by our allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns, which reflect our estimate of the expected amount of the receivables that we will not be able to collect and our estimate of the expected amount of sales returns.

Our determination of the allowance for doubtful receivables is based on our determination of two different types of reserves. The first type of reserve involves an individual examination of available information regarding any customer that we have reason to believe may have an inability to meet its financial obligations. For these customers, we use our judgment, based on the available facts and circumstances, and record a specific reserve for that customer against amounts due to reduce the receivable to the amount that is expected to be collected. These specific reserves are reevaluated and adjusted as additional information is received. The second type of reserve is a general reserve established for all customers based on a range of percentages applied to aging categories. These percentages are based on historical collection and write-off experience. If circumstances change, our estimates of the recoverability of amounts due to us could be reduced by a material amount. As of December 31, 2011, we provided NT$65 million (US$2 million) for the first type of reserve and NT$2 million (US$66 thousand) for the second type of reserve. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Customers”.

 

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Our determination of the allowances for sales returns as of the end of any quarter is based upon calculating an average historical return rate, usually based on the previous three quarters, and multiplying this by the revenue of that quarter. As of December 31, 2011, we provided NT$119 million (US$4 million) for the allowance of sales returns.

The allowance we set aside for doubtful receivables and sales returns was NT$2,937 million as of December 31, 2009, NT$262 million as of December 31, 2010 and NT$186 million (US$6 million) as of December 31, 2011. The allowances as of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 represented 53%, 7% and 5%, respectively, of our accounts receivable and other receivables as of those dates. The allowance in 2009, 2010 and 2011 reflected a reduction of NT$1,065 million, NT$74 million and NT$2 million (US$66 thousand), respectively, in accounts receivable and other receivables that were charged to sales and marketing expenses. If we were to change our estimate of the allowance for doubtful receivables either upward or downward 10%, our operating income would be affected by NT$1 million (US$33 thousand) for 2011.

An increase in our allowance for doubtful receivables and sales returns would increase our sales and marketing expenses, decrease our recorded revenue and our current assets.

Inventory Valuation

Inventories are stated at the lower of standard cost (adjusted to the approximate weighted average cost on the balance sheet date) or net realizable value. Inventory write-down is made on an item-by-item basis, except where it may be appropriate to group similar or related items. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price of inventories less all estimated costs of completion and necessary selling costs. Prior to January 1, 2009, inventories were stated at the lower of cost or market value. Any write-down was made on a total-inventory basis. Market value represented replacement cost for raw materials and net realizable value for finished goods and work in progress.

In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we reserved NT$199 million, NT$37 million and NT$85 million (US$3 million) of inventory valuation allowance, primarily due to the market price of tested and assembled DRAM and SDRAM inventory was below cost. In addition, we reserved NT$1 million in 2009, NT$28 million in 2010 and NT$36 million (US$1 million) in 2011 for identified slow-moving inventories.

As of December 31, 2011, we recorded NT$121 million (US$4 million) of inventory valuation allowances. If the prevailing market price of our testing and assembly services had been 10% lower, we would have been required to recognize a valuation allowance of approximately NT$55 million (US$2 million) in 2011 and would have decreased our inventory value by 4% and increased our net loss by 362%, respectively.

Valuation Allowance for Deferred Tax Assets

When we have net operating loss carry forwards, investment tax credits or temporary differences in the amount of tax recorded for tax purposes and accounting purposes, we may be able to reduce the amount of tax that we would otherwise be required to pay in future periods. We recognize all existing future tax benefits arising from these tax attributes as deferred tax assets and then, based on our internal estimates of our future profits, establish a valuation allowance equal to the extent, if any, that it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized. We record an income tax expense or benefit in our statement of operations when there is a net change in our total deferred tax assets and liabilities in a period. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which the net operating losses and temporary differences become deductible or the investment tax credits may be utilized. Specifically, our valuation allowances are impacted by our expected future revenue growth and profitability, tax holidays, alternative minimum tax, and the amount of tax credits that can be utilized within the statutory period. In determining the amount of valuation allowance for deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2011, we considered past performance, the general outlook of the semiconductor industry, future taxable income and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies.

Because the determination of the amount of valuation allowance is based, in part, on our forecast of future profitability, it is inherently uncertain and subjective. Changes in market conditions and our assumptions may cause the actual future profitability to differ materially from our current expectation, which may require us to increase or decrease the amount of valuation allowance that we have recorded. Because our expectation for future profitability is generally less during periods of reduced revenue, we will be more likely to provide significant valuation allowances with respect to deferred tax assets during those periods of already reduced income.

As of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, the ending balance for valuation allowances were NT$2,400 million, NT$1,171 million and NT$825 million (US$27 million), respectively.

 

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Impairment Loss of Long-Lived Assets

Under ROC GAAP, we record impairment losses on long-lived assets used in operations if events and circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired and the recoverable amounts of the assets of the cash-generating unit are less than the carrying amounts of those items. Assumptions about the recoverable amounts of the long-lived assets require significant judgment on our expected cash flow. Our cash flow estimates are based on historical results adjusted to reflect our best estimate of future market and operating conditions. The net carrying value of assets not recoverable is reduced to fair value. Our management periodically reviews the carrying value of our long-lived assets and this review is based upon our projections of anticipated future cash flows.

In determining whether any impairment charges were necessary for the property, plant and equipment and other assets as of December 31, 2011, we assumed that the semiconductor industry will continue its growth in the next few years. Based upon our assumption of growth in the semiconductor industry and our other assumptions in our internal budget, for the purpose of determining whether any impairment charges are necessary as of December 31, 2011, we estimated that our discounted future cash flows are not smaller than our property, plant and equipment. Therefore, no impairment loss has been recognized in respect of property, plant and equipment. If our current estimates of future cash flows decreases, those cash flows would be less than the reported amount of long-lived assets, and we would be required to recognize additional impairment loss, which would significantly decrease our net income before taxes.

Under US GAAP, an impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of an asset or a group of assets is not recoverable from the expected future cash flows and the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the fair value and the carrying amount of the asset or group of assets. The impairment loss is recorded in earnings and cannot be reversed subsequently. Long-lived assets (excluding goodwill) held and used by the Company are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.

Based on the assessment of our management, in 2011, we recognized NT$168 million (US$6 million) of impairment loss for other long-lived assets under ROC GAAP and US GAAP.

While we believe that our estimates of future cash flows are reasonable, different assumptions regarding such cash flows could materially affect our evaluations.

Convertible Notes

Under US GAAP, we are required to account for the conversion features in the Convertible Notes issued in 2006 (“2006 Notes”), the Convertible Notes issued in 2009 (“2009 Notes”), the Convertible Notes issued in 2010 (“2010 Notes”) and the Convertible Notes issued in 2011 (“2011 Notes”) as derivative liabilities in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification (“FASB ASC”) 815 “Derivatives and Hedging”.

The change in fair value on revaluation of the embedded derivative liabilities represents the difference between the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities at the beginning of the reporting period and their fair value at the end of the reporting period. We are required to record the change in fair value as a loss or gain on embedded derivative liabilities in determining net income under US GAAP. As of December 31, 2011, all the 2006 Notes, the 2009 Notes, the 2010 Notes and the 2011 Notes have been redeemed or converted and there was nil balance of embedded derivative liabilities. During 2011, the changes of the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities resulted in a loss on embedded derivative liabilities of NT$57 million (US$2 million). The loss was taken into account when determining our net income under US GAAP for the year ended December 31, 2011. The fair values of embedded derivatives are determined using option pricing models, which require us to make various assumptions, including among others, the expected volatility of our stock over the life of the option, market interest rates, credit spread and the expected life of the option. In determining these input assumptions, we consider historical trends and other relevant factors which may change from period to period. Because the option pricing models are sensitive to change in the input assumptions, different determinations of the required inputs may result in different fair value estimates of the options.

Under ROC GAAP, we are required to bifurcate and separately account for embedded derivatives contained in our convertible notes issued after 2005 in accordance with SFAS No. 34 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”. For more information, see Notes 13 and 25i to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

 

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Share-Based Compensation

Under US GAAP, we are required to account for our employee share option plans under the fair-value-based method and to recognize share-based compensation arrangements as expenses in the consolidated statements of operations, in accordance with FASB ASC 718 “Compensation – Stock Compensation”. The determination of the fair value of our share options on the date of grant under the Black Scholes Option Pricing Model is affected by the price of our common shares and assumptions of a number of variables, including the risk-free interest rate, the expected life of the options, the estimated fair value of our common shares and the expected price volatility of our common shares over the term of the options. In 2011, the share-based compensation expense amounted to NT$26 million (US$1 million), which was taken into account when determining our net income and shareholders’ equity under US GAAP for the year ended December 31, 2011.

Prior to adopting FASB ASC 718 in 2006, share-based compensation arrangements were accounted for under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, which utilized an intrinsic value approach in recognizing compensation expense. Under ROC GAAP and prior to January 1, 2008, we accounted for our share-based compensation arrangements under the intrinsic value method. Commencing January 1, 2008, we adopted SFAS No. 39 “Share-based Payment”. After the adoption of SFAS No. 39, our share-based compensation has been measured at the fair value of the options at grant date using an option valuation model. For more information, see Notes 2, 25j and 26h to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Senior Management’s Discussion with the Audit Committee

Our management has discussed the critical accounting policies described above with the audit committee of our board of directors and the audit committee has reviewed our disclosure relating to the critical accounting policies in this section.

Impact of Foreign Currency Fluctuations and Governmental or Political Factors

For a discussion of the impact of foreign currency fluctuations and governmental economics, fiscal, monetary or political policies or factors that may directly or indirect impact us, see “Item 3. Key Information—Risks Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Fluctuations in exchange rates could result in foreign exchange losses” and “Item 3. Key Information—Risks Factors—Risks Relating to Countries in Which We Conduct Operations”.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Since our inception, we have funded our operations and growth primarily through the issuance of equity, a mixture of short- and long-term loans and cash flow from operations. As of December 31, 2011, our primary sources of liquidity were cash and cash equivalents (excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents) of NT$7,358 million (US$243 million), and short-term loans of NT$869 million (US$29 million) available to us in undrawn facilities, which have expired or will expire before November 2012. To meet our liquidity, capital spending and other capital needs, we have taken certain steps discussed below.

In December 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan reached agreement with and received approval from its bank creditors for an extension of its repayment schedule on its short-term loans. This loan repayment schedule is further discussed under Note 14 to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F. The following related key extended repayment terms and conditions apply to ChipMOS Taiwan’s bank loans due between 2009 to 2013. For repayment of non-revolving short-term loans, ChipMOS Taiwan agreed to repay 20% of the outstanding principal on December 31, 2010, to repay the balance outstanding in eight quarterly installments by the end of 2012, and to set aside NT$50 million per month with Bank of Taiwan from January 2011 until December 2012 to fund the scheduled estimated principal repayments. ChipMOS Taiwan may maintain its current revolving short-term facilities but is required to increase its collateral to secure up to 60% of the outstanding principal amount by the end of 2011. For repayment of long-term loans, ChipMOS Taiwan agreed to set aside with Bank of Taiwan NT$300 million per month for 2011, NT$270 million per month for 2012 and NT$150 million per month for 2013 to meet the principal repayment schedule. The bank creditors agreed that ChipMOS Taiwan may arrange additional bank loans for purchasing operating materials by using its available assets as collateral. These banks also agreed not to unilaterally foreclose and seize any machinery, property or deposits of ChipMOS Taiwan and agreed to waive any penalties that might have to be imposed on the Company in case of breach under the existing loan agreements.

In July 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan obtained a syndicated loan facility from banks in Taiwan in the amount of NT$8,410 million (US$278 million) separated into two parts with its respective term of four years and five years. This loan facility was used to refinance the existing bank debts and equipment leases in July and August 2011.

 

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Our bank creditors provided us with a waiver in February 2010 relating to any potential covenant breaches under a syndicated loan facility agreement with Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited as agent. The application by the Company for early repayment of the outstanding loan in four installments was approved in April 2010 without penalty. The syndicated loan facility was fully repaid in January 2011. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Our significant amount of indebtedness and interest expense will limit our cash flow and could adversely affect our operations” for additional information.

Liquidity

The following table sets forth our cash flows with respect to operating activities, investing activities, financing activities and the effect of exchange rate changes on cash for the periods indicated.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in millions)  

Net cash provided by (used in):

        

Operating activities

   $ 781.0      $ 8,688.9      $ 5,898.0      $ 194.8   

Investing activities

     (1,042.5     (2,454.2     (3,250.7     (107.4

Financing activities

     (2,503.8     (2,959.5     (2,464.6     (81.4

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

     (1.8     (16.8     31.9        1.1   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash

   $ (2,767.1   $ 3,258.4      $ 214.6      $ 7.1   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled NT$5,898 million (US$195 million) in 2011, compared to NT$8,689 million in 2010. The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to a net loss of NT$15 million (US$1 million) in 2011, compared to net income of NT$1,645 million in 2010, an increase of accounts receivables of NT$693 million (US$23 million) in 2011 compared to a decrease of accounts receivable of NT$1,564 million in 2010, the decrease of depreciation expenses, which was NT$5,514 million (US$182 million) in 2011 compared to NT$6,133 million in 2010, a decrease of accrued expenses and other liabilities of NT$219 million (US$7 million) in 2011 compared to an increase of accrued expenses and other liabilities of NT$473 million in 2010. The net cash provided by operating activities was partially offset by the recovery of allowance for doubtful receivables, which was NT$69 million (US$2 million) in 2011 compared to NT$2,718 million in 2010.

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled NT$8,689 million in 2010, compared to NT$781 million in 2009. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to a net income of NT$1,645 million in 2010, compared to net loss of NT$4,419 million in 2009 and a decrease of accounts receivable of NT$1,564 million in 2010 compared to an increase of accounts receivable of NT$1,241 million in 2009. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was also partially offset by the increase of recovery of allowance for doubtful receivables, which was NT$2,718 million in 2010 compared to NT$561 million in 2009.

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities totaled NT$3,251 million (US$107 million) in 2011, compared to NT$2,454 million in 2010. The increase in net cash used in investing activities was primarily the result of a decrease in the proceeds from sales of ChipMOS Taiwan's outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision which decreased to NT$487 million (US$16 million) in 2011 from NT$1,133 million in 2010.

Net cash used in investing activities totaled NT$2,454 million in 2010, compared to NT$1,043 million in 2009. The increase in net cash used in investing activities was primarily the result of an increase in capital expenditures and partially offset by the proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment which increased to NT$899 million in 2010 from NT$19 million in 2009 and the proceeds from the sales of 11.0% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding share to Siliconware Precision of NT$1,133 million in 2010. Capital expenditures were NT$4,468 million in 2010, compared to NT$1,245 million in 2009.

 

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Net Cash Used in Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities totaled NT$2,465 million (US$81 million) in 2011, compared to NT$2,959 million in 2010. The decrease in net cash used in financing activities was primarily the result of the net payments of long-term loans of NT$1,398 million (US$46 million) in 2011, compared to NT$2,227 million in 2010 and net payments of short-term loans of NT$948 million (US$31 million) in 2011, compared to NT$869 million in 2010. This was partially offset by the net proceeds of convertible notes of NT$131 million in 2010.

Net cash used in financing activities totaled NT$2,959 million in 2010, compared to NT$2,504 million in 2009. The increase in net cash used in financing activities was primarily the result of the net payments of long-term loans of NT$2,227 million in 2010, compared to NT$1,573 million in 2009 and the net payments of short-term bank loans of NT$869 million in 2010, compared to NT$382 million in 2009. This was partially offset by the net proceeds of convertible notes of NT$131 million in 2010 compared to the net payments of NT$517 million in 2009.

Capital Resources

Capital expenditures in 2009 were funded by NT$781 million in cash flows from operating activities. Capital expenditures in 2010 were funded by NT$8,689 million in cash flows from operating activities. Capital expenditures in 2011 were funded by NT$5,898 million (US$195 million) in cash flows from operating activities.

Steps taken with respect to generating additional working capital and to saving cash are further discussed under “—Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

Loans

As of December 31, 2011, we had long-term loans of NT$9,168 million (US$303 million) (including current portions of such long-term loans of NT$684 million (US$23 million)). As of December 31, 2011, all the credit line of long-term bank loans were fully utilized. As of December 31, 2011, NT$5,478 million (US$181 million) of our long-term loans were collateralized by equipment, and NT$3,690 million (US$122 million) were collateralized by land and buildings. Of our long-term loans, in the aggregate:

 

   

NT$9,072 million (US$300 million) were floating rate loans with a rate between 1.92% and 3.0421% as of December 31, 2011, repayable quarterly or semi-annually until January 2015 to March 2018; and

 

   

NT$96 million (US$3 million) were floating rate loans with a rate of 2.315% as of December 31, 2011, repayable quarterly until February 2012.

As of December 31, 2011, we had entered into the following syndicated loan facilities:

 

   

On March 21, 2003, we obtained a syndicated loan facility in the amount of NT$1,000 million. This loan facility is separated into two parts with its respective term of seven years and five years. This loan facility is secured by ThaiLin’s facilities and the testing equipment at Chupei. This loan facility was fully repaid in May 2011.

 

   

On July 27, 2004, we obtained a syndicated loan facility in the amount of NT$1,000 million for a term of five years. This loan facility is secured by our facilities at the Southern Taiwan Science Park and our testing and assembly equipment located within our facilities at Chupei, the Hsinchu Science Park and the Southern Taiwan Science Park. This loan facility was fully repaid in August 2011.

 

   

On June 7, 2005, we obtained a syndicated loan facility in the amount of NT$1,000 million for a term of four years. This loan facility is secured by our facilities at the Hsinchu Science Park. This loan facility was fully repaid in July 2011.

 

   

In January 2006, we obtained a syndicated loan facility from banks in Taiwan in the amount of NT$6,000 million for a term of five years. This loan facility is secured by our facilities at the Hsinchu Science Park and our testing and assembly equipment located within our facilities at Chupei, the Hsinchu Science Park and the Southern Taiwan Science Park. This loan facility was fully repaid in July 2011.

 

   

In February 2006, we obtained a syndicated loan facility from banks in Taiwan in the amount of NT$3,000 million for a term of six years. This loan facility is secured by ThaiLin’s facilities at Chupei. The last withdraw date was August 2009, and the facility was adjusted to NT$1,500 million. As of December 31, 2011, this loan facility was fully drawn.

 

   

In June 2007, we obtained a syndicated loan facility from banks in Taiwan in the amount of NT$6,000 million for a term of five years. This loan facility is secured by our facilities at the Southern Taiwan Science Park and equipment located within our facilities at Chupei, the Hsinchu Science Park and the Southern Taiwan Science Park. In November 2009, the facility downward adjusted to NT$2,100 million. This loan facility was fully repaid in August 2011.

 

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In July 2008, we obtained a syndicated loan facility from banks in Taiwan in the amount of US$74.5 million for a term of three years. This loan facility is guaranteed by ChipMOS Taiwan. This loan facility was fully repaid on January 31, 2011.

 

   

On July 14, 2011, we obtained a syndicated loan facility from banks in Taiwan in the amount of NT$8,410 million (US$278 million) separated into two parts with its respective term of four years and five years. This loan facility is secured by existing land and buildings and equipment owned by ChipMOS Taiwan. As of December 31, 2011, this loan facility was fully drawn.

Certain of our loan agreements and indentures contain covenants that, if violated, could result in the obligations under these agreements becoming due prior to the originally scheduled maturity dates. These covenants include financial covenants that require us to:

 

   

maintain a current assets to current liabilities ratio above 1:2 and 1:1;

 

   

maintain total indebtedness to shareholders’ equity (excluding goodwill and other intangible assets) ratio below 1.5:1;

 

   

maintain total indebtedness to shareholders’ equity ratio below 1.2:1 and 1.6:1; and

 

   

maintain the earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization to gross interest expense ratio above 1.5:1 and 2:1 and 2.5:1.

In December 2009, ThaiLin was waived from compliance with the earnings to principal and interest ratio requirement for 2009. ThaiLin was in compliance with the financial ratio requirement for 2010 and 2011. In February and November 2009 and November 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan received three separate waiver request approvals from its creditors and was waived from compliance with the financial ratio requirements for 2009 and 2010, respectively. ChipMOS Taiwan was in compliance with the financial ratio requirement for 2011. Pursuant to a bank creditors meetings and the approval notice from Standard Chartered Bank on February 9, 2010, ChipMOS Bermuda, as borrower, and ChipMOS Taiwan, as guarantor, were waived from compliance with the financial ratio requirements as of December 31, 2009.

In December 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan further received approval for its request for repayment extension from over 50% of the creditor banks for its short-term loans and the amount of NT$1,468 million has been extended on December 31, 2010. The key extension repayment terms include agreement by ChipMOS Taiwan to repay 20% of the outstanding short-term loans on December 31, 2010 and to repay the balance in eight installments by setting aside monthly installments of NT$50 million with Bank of Taiwan, the largest bank creditor, commencing January 2011 to December 2012.

In addition, a substantial portion of our short-term and long-term borrowings may be subject to repayment upon a material deterioration of our financial condition, results of operations or our ability to perform under the loan agreements.

Set forth below are the maturities of our long-term bank loans outstanding as of December 31, 2011:

 

     As of
December 31,  2011
 
     NT$      US$  
     (in millions)  

During 2012

   $ 684       $ 23   

During 2013

     2,278         75   

During 2014

     2,370         78   

During 2015

     1,794         59   

During 2016 and onwards

     2,042         68   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 9,168       $ 303   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2011, certain of our land and buildings and machinery with an aggregate net book value of NT$5,514 million (US$182 million) and NT$5,151 million (US$170 million), respectively, were pledged as collateral in connection with our long-term borrowings. Approximately 77% of our net property, plant and equipment in terms of book value was pledged as collateral for our long-term loans.

Our unused credit lines for short-term loans, as of December 31, 2011, totaled NT$869 million (US$29 million), which have expired or will expire from January 2012 to November 2012. As of December 31, 2011, our long-term credit facilities were fully drawn.

 

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As of December 31, 2011, we had unsecured short-term credit loans for importing raw materials in the total amount of NT$132 million (US$4 million), which were due between January 2012 and February 2012, and secured loans for import in the total amount of NT$115 million (US$4 million), which were due between February 2012 and March 2012, and an unsecured short-term working capital loan of NT$300 million (US$10 million), which was due in January 2012.

On March 7, 2012, ChipMOS Shanghai obtained banking facilities of US$9 million (NT$278 million) for a term of three years from a bank. The banking facilities are secured by land use right, building and equipment and US$0.7 million (NT$21 million) have been drawdown as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

We believe our current cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from operations and available credit facilities will be sufficient to meet our capital spending and other capital needs through the end of 2012. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Our significant amount of indebtedness and interest expense will limit our cash flow and could adversely affect our operations”. There can be no assurance regarding these matters, however, considering prevailing global economic conditions which continue to have a negative impact on our ability to accurately forecast our revenues, results of operations and cash position.

Capital Lease Obligations

ChipMOS Taiwan negotiated with its lessors and converted the leases of certain equipment into capital leases in November 2009. As of December 31, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan had capital lease obligations of NT$1,454 million to be repaid between 2011 and 2013, with an interest rate between 4.0888% to 4.0973%. The leased equipment and the corresponding capital leases payable are recorded at the lower of the fair value of the leased equipment and the present value of the minimum lease payments of such assets. The capital leases were fully repaid with the proceeds of the new NT$8,410 million (US$278 million) long-term loans in July 2011.

Convertible Notes

As of December 31, 2011, all convertible notes have been fully converted or redeemed and no convertible notes remained outstanding.

On November 3, 2004, ChipMOS Bermuda issued US$85 million of 1.75 % Convertible Senior Notes due 2009 (the “2004 Notes”), with a conversion price of US$7.85 per share (which was later adjusted to a conversion price of US$6.28 per share). In December 2004, we repurchased and cancelled approximately US$1 million of the 2004 Notes. In October 2006, we made an induced conversion offer to the noteholders of the 2004 Notes in which noteholders converted approximately US$7 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2004 Notes into a combination of common shares and cash. In November 2006, we repurchased approximately US$6 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2004 Notes pursuant to the noteholders’ put option under the indenture. In 2007, ThaiLin, ChipMOS Taiwan’s 42.9% owned subsidiary, purchased approximately US$9 million of the 2004 Notes. During 2008, we repurchased approximately US$15 million of the 2004 Notes. In October 2009, we completed the closing of two privately negotiated transactions with two investors holding, in aggregate, US$54 million of the 2004 Notes. In the first transaction, the Company and an institutional investor completed the exchange of US$45 million in outstanding 2004 Notes for US$15 million in cash and US$16 million of the 10% Notes (as defined below) issued pursuant to an indenture with The Bank of New York Mellon as indenture trustee. In the second transaction, the Company and ThaiLin, ChipMOS Taiwan’s 42.9% owned subsidiary, completed an exchange of US$9 million in outstanding 2004 Notes for US$3 million of the 10% Notes and US$6 million of the 8% Notes (as defined below) issued by us. The remaining 2004 Notes, approximately US$2 million, were repaid in full at maturity in 2009.

In September 2006, we issued US$100 million 3.375% Convertible Senior Notes due 2011 with a conversion price of US$6.85 (US$27.4) per share, issued pursuant to an indenture with The Bank of New York Mellon as the indenture trustee (the “2006 Notes”). In 2007, we repurchased approximately US$1 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2006 Notes. In 2008, we repurchased approximately US$97 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2006 Notes, primarily pursuant to the put option offered under the indenture. On March 31, 2011, the Company has elected to redeem approximately US$2 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2006 Notes, then outstanding. The effective date of the redemption is May 3, 2011.

In 2009, we issued the following convertible notes (collectively, the “2009 Notes”):

 

   

US$16 million of 10% Convertible Senior Notes due 2014 with conversion price of US$1.5 (US$6.0) per share, issued in October 2009 pursuant to an indenture with The Bank of New York Mellon as indenture trustee (the “10% Notes”);

 

   

US$3 million of 10% Senior Convertible Bonds due 2014 with a conversion price of US$1.5 (US$6.0) per share, pursuant to notes issued in October 2009 by us directly to ThaiLin, ChipMOS Taiwan’s 42.9% owned subsidiary, in exchange of outstanding 2004 Notes (also, the “10% Notes”); and

 

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US$21 million of 8% Senior Convertible Bonds due 2014 with conversion price of US$1.25 (US$5.0) per share, pursuant to notes issued by us directly to the noteholders thereof (the “8% Notes”), of which, US$16 million were issued to ThaiLin in October 2009. Approximately US$6 million of which principal amount was issued in exchange for outstanding 2004 Notes and US$10 million of which principal amount was purchased by ThaiLin at face value.

In December 2009, we entered into purchase agreements with seven other investors (the “Purchasers”) for the purchase of 8% Notes at face value in the principal aggregate amount of US$10 million. The Purchasers included the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, who purchased the 8% Notes in the principal amount of US$1 million on the same terms and conditions as the other Purchasers. The closing occurred on December 29, 2009 for all Purchasers other than PacMOS and the Chairman of PacMOS, Mr. Chi Hung Yip. The closing for PacMOS and Mr. Chi Hung Yip (in the aggregate amount of US$5 million) occurred in March 2010.

As of December 31, 2011, all 2009 Notes have been fully converted into our common shares, in various conversion transactions that occurred during the first quarter of 2010 through to second quarter of 2011. The conversion prices of our convertible notes disclosed in the foregoing paragraph contain corresponding adjusted figures in brackets denoting the effect of the Company’s 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011.

In March 2010, we issued US$5 million of 8% Senior Convertible Bonds due 2015, upon the same commercial terms as the 8% Notes (the “2010 Notes”), all of which have been fully converted into our common shares, in conversion transactions that occurred in May 2010 and April 2011.

The amount converted to our common shares upon conversion of the 2009 Notes and the 2010 Notes included an amount equal to the sum of any make-whole amount and any accrued and unpaid interest, calculated in accordance with the terms and conditions of the 2009 Notes and the 2010 Notes. The make-whole amount was the amount of interest that would have accrued from the applicable conversion date until the stated maturity, discounted to the present value using the published yield on U.S. treasury notes having a comparable remaining tenor on the determination date plus 50 basis points; provided that the additional 50 basis points was not added if the applicable treasury note rate is greater than two percent (2%) of any unpaid interest accrued as of the conversion date. Under the 2009 Notes’ and 2010 Notes’ “PIK” or payment in kind provisions, unpaid interest was payable on a quarterly basis and the Company had the option, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, of paying interest in cash or common shares or a combination thereof. When interest was paid in our common shares, the number of common shares was equal to the amount of interest payable in common shares divided by the volume weighted average price of our common shares over a period of 10 consecutive trading days ending on the sixth day prior to the applicable payment date.

See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Economic Conditions and the Financial Markets” for additional information. For a discussion of the accounting for the conversion feature of the convertible notes under US GAAP, see “— Critical Accounting Policies—Convertible Notes” and “— US GAAP Reconciliation”.

Research and development, patents and licenses

See the discussion under “Item 4. Information on the Company—Research and Development”.

Trend Information

See the discussion under “Item 4. Information on the Company—Industry Background” and “Item 4. Information on the Company—Competition”.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of December 31, 2011, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements.

US GAAP Reconciliation

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with ROC GAAP, which differs in certain material respects from US GAAP. The following table sets forth a comparison of our net income (loss), total assets and shareholders’ equity (including noncontrolling interests) in accordance with ROC GAAP and US GAAP for the periods indicated:

 

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     Year ended as of December 31,  
     2009     2010      2011     2011  
     NT$     NT$      NT$     US$  
     (in millions)  

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS in accordance with:

         

ROC GAAP

   $ (4,418.7   $ 1,644.7       $ (15.2   $ (0.5

US GAAP

     (4,550.3     1,616.9         46.1        1.5   

Total assets in accordance with:

         

ROC GAAP

     30,356.2        31,315.0         28,281.1        934.3   

US GAAP

     30,116.4        31,035.1         27,964.2        923.8   

Total equity (including noncontrolling interests) in accordance with:

         

ROC GAAP

     9,952.2        14,043.4         14,983.3        495.0   

US GAAP

   $ 9,433.6      $ 13,372.6       $ 14,288.9      $ 472.0   

Note 25 to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F describes the principal differences between ROC GAAP and US GAAP as they relate to us, and a reconciliation to US GAAP for certain items, including net income (loss) and shareholders’ equity. Differences between ROC GAAP and US GAAP which have an effect on our net income (loss) as reported under ROC GAAP relate to, among other things, depreciation policy, treatment of loss on partial disposal of subsidiary while retaining control, pension expenses, share-based compensation and accounting for our convertible notes.

Under FASB ASC 718, share-based compensation transactions are generally required to be accounted for using a fair-value-based method and recognized as expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. The standards became effective for the first interim period beginning after December 15, 2005. For more information, see “— Critical Accounting Policies—Share-Based Compensation” and Notes 25j and 26h to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Under FASB ASC 815, we are required to bifurcate and separately account for the conversion feature of our convertible notes as embedded derivatives contained in the convertible notes. Under US GAAP, we are required to carry these embedded derivatives on our balance sheet at fair value and changes in fair values of these embedded derivatives are reflected in the consolidated statement of operations. The change in fair value for embedded derivative liabilities for the conversion feature for the year ended December 31, 2011, under US GAAP was NT$57 million (US$2 million) and the resulting net income for the year ended December 31, 2011, under US GAAP was approximately NT$46 million (US$2 million). For more information, see Note 25i to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 26a to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F for a description of the authoritative accounting principles recognized by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), FASB’s issuance of FASB ASC guidance and the extent to which these will impact our consolidated financial statements.

Non-GAAP Financial Information Derived from US GAAP Measures

To supplement our consolidated income statement for the year ended December 31, 2011, on a ROC GAAP basis, our management uses a non-GAAP measure of net income, which is net income pursuant to US GAAP adjusted to exclude two non-cash items referred to as special items. The two non-cash items excluded are changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities and amortization of discount on convertible notes. These items are considered by the management to be outside of our core operating results. For example, changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities relate heavily to the price of our company’s common shares, interest rate and volatility, all of which are difficult to predict and outside of the control of our management.

For these reasons, our management uses non-GAAP adjusted measures of net income and non-GAAP net income per share, both derived from US GAAP measures to evaluate the performance of our core businesses and to estimate future core performance. In addition, this information facilitates our management’s internal comparisons to our historical operating results as well as to the operating results of our competitors.

Our management finds these supplemental non-GAAP measures to be useful, and believes these non-GAAP measures are useful to investors in enabling them to perform additional analyses of past, present and future operating performance and as a supplemental means to evaluate our core operating results. However, readers are reminded that non-GAAP numbers are merely a supplement to, and not a replacement for, ROC GAAP or US GAAP financial measures. They should be read in conjunction with ROC GAAP and US GAAP financial measures. It should be noted as well that our non-GAAP information may be different from the non-GAAP information provided by other companies.

 

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The following table sets forth, for the year ended December 31, 2011, reconciliation of US GAAP net income to non-GAAP net income:

     Year ended December  31,
2011
 
    NT$     US$  
    (in millions, except for
per share data)
 

US GAAP Net Income Attributable to ChipMOS (Basic)(1)

  $ 46.1      $ 1.5   

US GAAP Net Income Attributable to ChipMOS (Diluted)

    46.1        1.5   

Special Items (in Non-Operating Income (Expenses), Net)

   

Changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities(2)

    57.1        1.9   

Amortization of discount on convertible notes(3)

    1.3        0.0   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Special Items

    58.4        1.9   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income Attributable to ChipMOS (Basic)

  $ 104.5      $ 3.4   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income Attributable to ChipMOS (Diluted)

  $ 104.5      $ 3.4   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

US GAAP Net Income Per Share (Basic)

  $ 1.73      $ 0.06   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjustment for special items

    2.20        0.07   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Net Income Per Share (Basic)

  $ 3.93      $ 0.13   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

US GAAP Net Income Per Share (Diluted)

  $ 1.71      $ 0.06   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjustment for special items

    2.17        0.07   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-GAAP Net Income Per Share (Diluted)

  $ 3.88      $ 0.13   
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Notes:

(1) Reflects the US GAAP adjustments as described in Note 25 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
(2) The management of our company believes excluding non-cash special item for the changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities from its non-GAAP financial measure of net income is useful for itself and investors as such loss does not have any impact on cash available to our company.
(3) The management of our company believes excluding non-cash amortization expense of discount on convertible notes from its non-GAAP financial measure of net income is useful for itself and investors as such expense does not have any impact on cash available to our company.

Taxation

ChipMOS Taiwan is entitled to tax incentives generally available to Taiwan companies under the ROC Statute of Upgrading Industries, including tax credits of 30% for certain research and development and employee training expenses (and, if the amount of expenditure exceeds the average amount of expenditure for the preceding two years, 50% of the excess amount may be credited against tax payable) and from 5% to 7% for certain investments in automated equipment and technology. These tax credits must be utilized within five years from the date on which they were earned. In addition, except for the last year of the five-year period, the aggregate tax reduction from these tax credits for any year cannot exceed 50% of that year’s income tax liability. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, tax credits resulted in tax savings for ChipMOS Taiwan of nil, nil and approximately NT$164 million (US$5 million), respectively.

ThaiLin was granted a ROC income tax exemption for a period of five years on income attributable to the expansion of its production capacity as a result of purchases of new equipment funded by capital increase in 2002, which expired on December 31, 2009.

ThaiLin is also entitled to other tax incentives generally available to Taiwan companies under the ROC Statute of Upgrading Industries, including tax credits of 5% to 7% for certain investment in automated equipment and technology. These tax credits must be utilized within five years from the date on which they were earned. In addition, except for the last year of the five-year period, the aggregate tax reduction from these tax credits for any year cannot exceed 50% of such year’s income tax liability. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, tax credits resulted in tax savings for ThaiLin of nil, approximately NT$9 million and NT$15 million (US$496 thousand), respectively.

Net income generated by ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin after January 1, 1998, which is not distributed in the year following the year the income was generated, is subject to income tax at the rate of 10%. If that net income is subsequently distributed, the income tax previously paid on that income is credited against the amount of withholding tax payable by shareholders, who are not individuals or entities of the Republic of China (for taxation purposes), in connection with the distribution.

The ROC government enacted the ROC Alternative Minimum Tax Act (“AMT Act”) that became effective on January 1, 2006. The alternative minimum tax (“AMT”) imposed under the AMT Act is a supplemental tax which is payable if the income tax payable pursuant to the ROC Income Tax Act is below the minimum amount prescribed under the AMT Act. The taxable income for calculating the AMT includes most income that is exempted from income tax under various legislations, such as tax holidays and investment tax credits. The AMT rate for business entities is 10%. However, the AMT Act grandfathered certain tax exemptions and tax credits granted prior to the enactment of the AMT. The effects of the AMT on the tax expenses of ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin were reflected in 2011.

 

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In accordance with the relevant tax rules and regulations of the PRC, ChipMOS Shanghai is entitled to an income tax exemption starting from the first profit making year, with a full exemption available for the first two years and a 50% exemption available for three additional years thereafter. As the first profit-making year for ChipMOS Shanghai was 2004, the profits made in the years 2004 and 2005 were fully exempt, and the profits made in the years 2006 through 2008 were subject to a 50% tax exemption. Commencing January 1, 2009, ChipMOS Shanghai is subject to a 25% tax on profits. Any tax losses can only be carried forward for five years.

Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2011, or the periods indicated:

 

      Payments Due by Period  

Contractual Obligations

   Total      Less than
1 year
     2-3 years      4-5 years      More than
5 years
 
     NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$  
     (in millions)  

Long-term debts(1)

   $ 9,870.1       $ 942.1       $ 4,990.8       $ 3,810.5       $ 126.7   

Short-term loans(1)

     549.4         549.4         —           —           —     

Operating leases

     204.4         26.3         52.3         49.3         76.5   

Capital commitments

     686.9         686.9         —           —           —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total contractual cash obligations

   $ 11,310.8       $ 2,204.7       $ 5,043.1       $ 3,859.8       $ 203.2   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

Notes:

(1) Includes interest payments. Assumes level of relevant interest rates remains at December 31, 2011, level throughout all relevant periods.

In addition to the commitments set forth in the contractual obligations table above, we have certain outstanding purchase orders relating to the procurement of raw materials for which there are no definite delivery dates or deadlines.

 

Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

Directors and Senior Management

Our board of directors currently comprises nine directors who were elected by our shareholders. The number of directors, which must not be less than three nor greater than nine according to our bye-laws, is set by our directors but so long as a quorum of directors remains in office, casual vacancies on the board may be filled by the board. The quorum for a meeting of the directors is set by the board and otherwise is two in number. The chairman of the board is appointed from among the members of the board.

There is no requirement under Bermuda law that a director be a shareholder.

The following table sets out the names of our directors and executive officers, their positions with our company and their ages as of March 31, 2012. The business address for our directors and executive officers is No. 1, R&D Road 1, Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Republic of China.

 

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Name

   Age     

Position

   Term Expires

Shih-Jye Cheng

     54      

Chairman and Director/Chief Executive Officer

   2014

Antonio R. Alvarez

     56      

Independent Director

   2014

Chin-Shyh Ou

     55      

Deputy Chairman and Independent Director

   2014

Hsing-Ti Tuan

     68      

Director

   2012

Yeong-Her Wang

     56      

Independent Director

   2012

Shou-Kang Chen

     51      

Chief Financial Officer and Director

   2012

John Yee Woon Seto

     68      

Independent Director

   2013

Chao-Jung Tsai

     58      

Director

   2013

Rong Hsu

     62      

Independent Director

   2013

Carl Lei

     48      

Acting President of ChipMOS Shanghai

   —  

Lafair Cho

     50      

President of ThaiLin

   —  

Li-Chun Li

     55      

Chief Operating Officer

   —  

Steve Cheng

     50      

President of ChipMOS USA

   —  

Vincent Hsu

     43      

Vice President, LCDD Production Group

   —  

Michael Lee

     47      

Vice President, Chupei Production Group

   —  

Ivan Hsu

     46      

Vice President, Memory Production Group

   —  

Jesse Huang

     46      

Vice President, Assembly Production Group

   —  

David W. Wang

     64      

Vice President, Research & Strategy Development Center

   —  

I-Fan Chiang

     54      

Vice President, I.T.M. Center

   —  

Shih-Jye Cheng has served as one of our directors and chief executive officer since our inception. He was our deputy chairman from our inception to May 2004 and became our chairman in May 2004. He has also served as a director and president of ChipMOS Taiwan since 1997, the chairman of ChipMOS Taiwan since June 2003, the chairman of ThaiLin since 2002. He was a director of Syntax-Brillian Corporation from November 2005 to June 2008, the chairman of ChipMOS Shanghai from 2002 to June 2005, the chairman of Chantek from 2002 to November 2005, the chairman of ChipMOS Logic from January 2004 to November 2005, the chairman of Advanced Micro Chip Technology Co., Ltd. from 2003 to April 2004 and a director of Ultima Electronics Corp. from 2000 to June 2003. He was a division head of the back-end operation of Mosel from 1992 to 1997. Mr. Cheng has a master’s degree in business administration from Saginaw Valley State University. Mr. Cheng is currently under indictment of the Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office for matters relating to the purchase by ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin of certain repurchase notes in 2004. Although Mr. Cheng was found not guilty by the Taipei District Court on October 1, 2007, the prosecutor appealed the Taipei District Court’s decision on October 27, 2007. For more information, please see “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—The ongoing criminal proceeding of and adverse publicity associated with Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Hung-Chiu Hu, our former director, could have a material adverse effect on our business and cause our stock price to decline”.

Antonio R. Alvarez has served as one of our directors from July 2005. Mr. Alvarez was the chief operating officer of Advance Analogic Technology from October 2011 until its acquisition by Skyworks in January 2012. He was president and chief executive officer of Leadis Technology Inc. from November 2005 to January 2009 and is currently a director. He was senior vice president and general manager of the memory products division of Cypress Semiconductor Corporation from 1998 to July 2005, and senior vice president of research and development from 1991 to 2001. He holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology, where he is a member of the advisory board of the Electrical Engineering Department. He is a member of the Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers.

Chin-Shyh Ou has served as one of our directors since August 2008. He has been the deputy chairman since August 2010. He has served as a director of ChipMOS Taiwan since June 2007. Mr. Ou joined the National Chengchi University as an associate professor in 1993 and a professor in 1997. In 1998, he joined National Chung Cheng University as a professor and the chairman of the Department of Accounting. He led a project to establish an executive MBA program and Graduate Institute of Accounting and Information Technology of National Chung Cheng University in 1999. Mr. Ou earned a master degree in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University, and a Ph.D. degree in Business Administration (Accounting) from the University of Minnesota. Mr. Ou holds several professional licenses and qualifications, including U.S. Certified Public Accountant and Certified Internal Auditor.

Hsing-Ti Tuan has served as one of our directors since August 2000. Mr. Tuan was the executive vice president of ProMOS Technologies Inc. in charge of R&D from 2005 to 2010. Mr. Tuan was the president of Mosel Vitelic Corp., USA from 1994 to 2009. Mr. Tuan was the acting president of Mosel from November 2004 to December 2005 and previously served as the executive vice president of their research and development division. He was also the vice president of Mosel from 1992 to 1996. Mr. Tuan holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Utah State University and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan.

 

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Yeong-Her Wang has served as one of our directors since July 2004 and a member of the board of directors of ChipMOS Taiwan. He has been a professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering of National Cheng Kung University since 1992. He serves as the vice president of National Applied Research Laboratories since 2007. He was also an associate dean of the College of Engineering between 1999 and 2003, chairman of the Department of Electrical Engineering between 1996 and 1999, associate director of the Department of Electrical Engineering between 1993 and 1996 and director of the Electrical Factory, College of Engineering of National Cheng Kung University between 1995 and 1996. Mr. Wang holds Ph.D., master’s and bachelor’s degrees from National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan.

Shou-Kang Chen has served as one of our directors since June 2005. He has served as our chief financial officer, investor relations officer and head of the finance division of ChipMOS Taiwan since 2002. He was the head of our strategy development department from 2000 to 2001. He was the department head of the quality lab of ChipMOS Taiwan from 1998 to 2000. Mr. Chen holds a bachelor’s degree in mining and petroleum engineering and a master of science degree and a Ph.D. degree from the graduate school of mining, metallurgy and material science of National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan.

John Yee Woon Seto has served as one of our directors since August 2010. He was a member of ChipMOS’s Board of Directors from August 2000 to May 2004. Dr. Seto was a founder and senior vice president of operation and strategic planning of Vitelic Corporation U.S.A. He served as the executive vice president of the business group of Mosel Vitelic Inc. from 1995 to 2005. He was a director of Mosel Vitelic Inc. from 1999 to 2008. He served on the board of directors in a number of companies, such as ProMOS Technologies Inc. and Advanced Analogic Technologies Inc. He has been the president and CEO of International Capture Tech Co LTD since 2006. He holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from University of California at Berkeley.

Chao-Jung Tsai has served as one of our directors since November 2004. Mr. Tsai was a director of ChipMOS Taiwan from January 2001 to December 2005, as a representative of Siliconware Precision, where he was a director from June 2005 to December 2009 and served as a supervisor from June 2002 to June 2005. He was also a supervisor of Phoenix Precision Technology Co. Ltd. from June 2005 to December 2009. He was previously president of Grand Cathay Securities Co., Ltd. and assistant vice president of China Trust Commercial Bank Co., Ltd. Mr. Tsai received his bachelor’s degree in statistics from National Cheng Kung University and master’s degree in management of technology from National Chiao Tung University in Taiwan. He holds Taiwan CPA and CFA licenses.

Rong Hsu was appointed by our board of directors on October 1, 2008 to fill the vacancy from Mr. Takaki Yamada’s resignation. He has served as one of our directors from July 2005 to August 2008. He has been the director of Corp. R&D, Delta Electronics since February 2009. He has been the vice president of Spatial Photonics Inc. since May 2006. He was a founder of eLCOS Microdisplay Technology Group where he was the president from April 2001 to December 2005, senior director of operations at Aurora Systems Co. from 1999 to March 2001, director of manufacturing for micro-display systems and testing at S-Vision Co. from 1996 to 1999, manager of manufacturing at nCHIP Co. from 1991 to 1996, research engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory from 1988 to 1991 and senior engineer at Intel Corporation from 1982 to 1988. He has a doctorate degree in material engineering from the University of Maryland, a master’s degree in material science from Brown University and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from National Taiwan University. He is a founding member and senior advisor of the Chinese American Semiconductor Professional Association.

Carl Lei has served as the acting president and vice president of assembly and testing operations of ChipMOS Shanghai since July 2010. Mr. Lei was the deputy director of Backend Operation of ProMOS from 2004 to 2010 and product manager of Mosel from 1998 to 2003. Mr. Lei received his bachelor’s degree from Feng Chia University in Taiwan.

Lafair Cho has served as ThaiLin’s president since December 1, 2003 and a director since December 30, 2002. He was vice president of ThaiLin from February 1, 2003 to November 30, 2003. He has also served as vice president of the memory production group of ChipMOS Taiwan from July 2003 to August 2004 and as a director of ChipMOS Taiwan from October 2003 to June 2007. He served as a deputy assistant vice president of the IC testing division of ChipMOS Taiwan from April 2000 to December 2001 and as an assistant vice president of the IC testing division of ChipMOS Taiwan from January 2002 to January 2003. He served as manager of production material control of Mosel from 1993 to 1997. He holds a master’s degree in industrial management from National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan.

Li-Chun Li has served as the Chief Operating Officer of ChipMOS Taiwan since January 2010. Prior to joining ChipMOS, he served as vice president of the Product Engineering group in Mosel-Vitelic (U.S.A.) and ProMOS Technologies Inc. from 2003 to 2009, and vice president of product development in Mosel-Vitelic (U.S.A.) and Mosel-Vitelic (Taiwan) from 1992 to 2003. Mr. Li received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of California, Berkeley.

Steve Cheng has served as the president of ChipMOS U.S.A. since August 2008. Mr. Cheng has served as the director of Finance and Administration in ChipMOS U.S.A. since July 2004. He has been serving in ChipMOS U.S.A. since November 1999. He received a bachelor’s degree in business banking and insurance from Feng Chia University in Taiwan.

 

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Vincent Hsu has served as ChipMOS Taiwan’s vice president of LCD driver production group since March 2012. He was assistant vice president of ChipMOS Taiwan from 2007 to 2012. He received a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from National Sun Yat-sen University in Taiwan.

Michael Lee has served as ChipMOS Taiwan’s vice president of Chupei production group since November 2011 and vice president for wafer sort business group since June 2004. He was assistant vice president of ChipMOS Taiwan from 2003 to 2004. Mr. Lee received a master’s degree from National Chiao Tung University in Taiwan.

Ivan Hsu has served as ChipMOS Taiwan’s vice president of memory production group since December 2004. He was ChipMOS Taiwan’s assistant vice president from 2003 to 2004 and deputy assistant vice president from 2002 to 2003. Mr. Hsu received a bachelor’s degree from Feng Chia University in Taiwan.

Jesse Huang has served as ChipMOS Taiwan’s vice president of assembly production group since April 2007. He was the assistant vice president of assembly engineering division formerly. He received a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Soochow University in Taiwan.

David W. Wang joined ChipMOS Taiwan as vice president of Research and Strategy Development Center in 2007. Prior to joining ChipMOS, he was the vice president of Fibera, Inc. from 2001 to 2007. Mr. Wang served as Senior Director at Lam Research where his responsibilities included new product introduction, system integration, field escalation and management of regional teams from 1996 to 2001. Mr. Wang also worked for IBM’s Microelectronics Division where he as Senior Engineer/ Manager led advanced packaging materials, process development and marketing organizations. Mr. Wang is a member of SEMI Taiwan Packaging and Test Committee and holds 45 US patents. Mr. Wang holds a Ph.D in M.S. from the University of Michigan and Bachelor of Science degree from Fu Jen University.

I-Fan Chiang has served as ChipMOS Taiwan’s vice president of ITM Center since July 2010. Mr. Chiang was a vice president of Websurf Technologies Taiwan from 2003 to June 2010. Mr. Chiang also served as a vice president of Hitrust Inc. from 2000 to 2003. Mr. Chiang holds a bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering from Tamkang University in Taiwan.

Board Practice and Terms of Directorship

Our board of directors consists of three classes of directors. The first class, consisting of Hsing-Ti Tuan, Yeong-Her Wang and Shou-Kang Chen, is up for re-election at the annual general meeting in 2012 and then every third annual general meeting thereafter. The second class, consisting of John Yee Woon Seto, Chao-Jung Tsai and Rong Hsu, is up for re-election at the annual general meeting in 2013 and then every third annual general meeting thereafter. The third class, consisting of Shih-Jye Cheng, Antonio R. Alvarez and Chin-Shyh Ou, is up for re-election at the annual general meeting in 2014 and then every third annual general meeting thereafter.

Any director vacates his or her office if he or she:

 

   

is prohibited by law from being a director or ceases to be a director by virtue of the Bermuda Companies Act;

 

   

resigns from his or her office;

 

   

becomes bankrupt under the laws of any country or compounds with his or her creditors;

 

   

becomes of unsound mind or a patient for the purpose of any statute or applicable law relating to mental health and the board resolves that his or her office is vacated; or

 

   

is removed by a resolution passed by our shareholders at a special general meeting called for that purpose.

Share Ownership

The following table sets forth certain information as of March 31, 2012 with respect to our common shares owned by our directors and executive officers.

 

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Name

   Number of
Common
Shares Held
     Percentage
of Shares
Issued and
Outstanding
     Number of
Options
Held (1)
     Exercise Price
of Options
(US$)
     Expiration Date  of
Options
 

Shih-Jye Cheng

     545,400         1.6%         86,250         2.55-21.488         2012/8/31-2016/8/31   

Antonio R. Alvarez

             —            *         *         *   

Chin-Shyh Ou

             —            *         *         *   

Hsing-Ti Tuan

     *         *            *         *         *   

Yeong-Her Wang

             —            *         *         *   

Shou-Kang Chen

     *         *            *         *         *   

John Yee Woon Seto

     *         *            *         *         *   

Chao-Jung Tsai

             —            *         *         *   

Rong Hsu

             —            *         *         *   

Carl Lei

     *         *            *         *         *   

Lafair Cho

     *         *            *         *         *   

Steve Cheng

     *         *            *         *         *   

Vicent Hsu

             —            *         *         *   

Li-Chun Li

             —            *         *         *   

Michael Lee

     *         *            *         *         *   

Ivan Hsu

     *         *            *         *         *   

Jesse Huang

     *         *            *         *         *   

David W. Wang

             —            *         *         *   

I-Fan Chiang

             —            *         *         *   

 

Notes:

* Upon exercise of options currently exercisable or vested within 60 days after March 31, 2012, would beneficially own less than 1% of our ordinary shares.
(1) Each option covers one of our common shares.

Compensation Committee

The aggregate compensation paid in 2011 to our directors and our executive officers, including cash and accrued pension payable upon retirement, was approximately NT$97 million (US$3 million). In 2011, we granted options to purchase 223,660 of our common shares and 15,080 share appreciation rights (SARs) to our directors and executive officers as set forth in the table below. These options will vest over a period of four years, with an equal proportion vesting on each of August 31, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015, except for certain options granted on August 31, 2011 that vested on the date of grant.

 

Number of common shares issuable upon exercise of options

   Expiration date    Exercise price (US$)    Considerations paid
for options granted

181,160

   August 31, 2017    5.1510    None

42,500

   August 31, 2021    5.1510    None

Number of SARs granted

   Expiration date    Exercise price (US$)    Considerations paid
for SARs granted

15,080

   August 31, 2017    5.1510    None

We do not provide our directors with any benefits upon termination of employment.

Our compensation committee currently consists of Mr. Antonio R. Alvarez, Dr. John Yee Woon Seto and Dr. Rong Hsu. This committee reviews and recommends to our board of directors the compensation of all our directors and officers on at least an annual basis.

Audit Committee

Under our audit committee charter adopted on February 28, 2001 and amended on May 14, 2004, December 21, 2004 and August 27, 2009, our audit committee:

 

   

is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of the work of our external auditors or any other public accounting firm engaged for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or to perform audit, review or attestation services;

 

   

oversees our accounting principles and policies, financial reporting and internal control over financial reporting, internal audit controls and procedures, financial statements and independent audits;

 

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meets with management, our external auditors and, if appropriate, the head of the auditing department to discuss audited financial statements, audit reports or other communications, including, without limitation, any audit problems or difficulties relating to our financial statements, any major issues regarding accounting principles and the adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting;

 

   

pre-approves, or adopts appropriate procedures to pre-approve all audit and non-audit services, if any, provided to us by our external auditors;

 

   

establishes our internal complaints procedure for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by us regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, and for the confidential, anonymous submission thereof by our employees;

 

   

evaluates the independence of and discuss with management the timing and process for implementing the rotation of the audit partners of the outside auditors; and

 

   

reviews and approves all our related party transactions.

The audit committee currently consists of Dr. John Yee Woon Seto, Dr. Chin-Shyh Ou and Dr. Yeong-Her Wang, all of whom are independent directors according to NASDAQ Marketplace Rules requirements. Dr. Chin-Shyh Ou serves as a financial expert to the Audit Committee.

Nominations Committee

Under our nominations committee charter adopted on August 26, 2005, our nominations committee:

 

   

identifies individuals qualified to become members of the board of directors, selects or recommends nominees to the board of directors and, in the case of a vacancy of a director, recommends to the board of directors an individual to fill such vacancy;

 

   

develops and recommends to the board of directors standards to be applied in making determinations as to the absence of material relationships between us and a director;

 

   

identifies members of the board of directors qualified to fill vacancies on any committee thereof and recommends the appointment of the identified member(s) to the respective committee;

 

   

assists our management in the preparation of the disclosure in our annual proxy statement regarding the operations of the nominations committee; and

 

   

performs any other duties or responsibilities expressly delegated to the nominations committee by the board of directors from time to time relating to the nomination of members of the board of directors and any committee thereof.

Dr. Yeong-Her Wang, Dr. Rong Hsu and Dr. Chin-Shyh Ou are currently the members of our nominations committee.

Special Committee

In connection with the indictment of Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng by the Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office, our board of directors formed a special committee to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the indictment. As of March 31, 2012, the special committee was solely comprised of Mr. Yeong-Her Wang, our Company’s independent director. The special committee has engaged K&L Gates LLP (formerly Kirkpatrick & Lockhart Preston Gates Ellis LLP) as its independent international legal counsel and Baker & McKenzie as its independent ROC legal counsel, and Ernst & Young (formerly know as Diwan, Ernst & Young) as its accounting advisor to assist in its evaluation and provide recommendations.

On June 28, 2006, the special committee issued its report, including its findings and recommendations. Based upon the results of its investigation, it found that: (1) Mr. Cheng has declared himself not guilty of the charges described in the indictment; (2) Baker & McKenzie, after reviewing the indictment and the prosecutor’s exhibits, have found that the evidence produced by the prosecutor seems to be inadequate and that there is a low probability of the charges in the indictment being founded; (3) the financial advisor to the special committee have found that we suffered no loss (not taking into account exchange rate factors) and that all monies (capital and interest) were remitted back to our subsidiaries involved; (4) we have suffered no identifiable harm to our reputation or our business; and (5) Mr. Cheng has not been impaired by the indictment to perform as our chairman and chief executive officer. The special committee recommended that our board maintains Mr. Cheng as our chairman and chief executive officer with full responsibilities and our board unanimously (with Mr. Cheng having recused himself) resolved to accept and adopt the special committee’s recommendation with regard to Mr. Cheng.

 

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Our board of directors also resolved to continue the role of the special committee, for the duration of the ongoing criminal proceeding involving Mr. Cheng to actively monitor any developments of the criminal investigation and take or recommend any appropriate action in light of such developments.

During its engagement by the special committee, Ernst & Young identified certain internal control weaknesses that existed during the relevant period of the special committee’s investigation within ChipMOS Taiwan, ThaiLin and ChipMOS Logic (which was merged into ThaiLin on December 1, 2005). These weaknesses were in areas related to segregation of duties and of corporate governance on investment authorizations, insufficiency of training for financial personnel in respect of derivative transactions, and non-compliance with the applicable ROC regulations. These identified internal control weaknesses have either been addressed previously or have been remedied by our company and our subsidiaries.

In light of the identification of these internal control weaknesses, the special committee recommended that the audit committee of the board of directors lead a special task force and report to the board of the directors as to the effectiveness of the implementation of internal control over financial reporting, with an aim to enhance our company’s financial personnel’s knowledge of derivative transactions. The board of directors unanimously resolved to accept and adopt the special committee’s recommendation in this regard.

In August 2006, we engaged Ernst & Young to design certain employee training sessions regarding derivative transactions and the applicable accounting treatment for these transactions.

See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—The ongoing criminal proceeding of and adverse publicity associated with Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Hung-Chiu Hu, our former director, could have a material adverse effect on our business and cause our stock price to decline”.

Employees

The following table sets forth, as of the dates indicated, the number of our full-time employees serving in the functions indicated:

 

      As of December 31,     

As of

March 31,

 

Function

   2009      2010      2011      2012  

General operations

     3,001         3,224         3,193         3,084   

Quality control

     380         381         384         372   

Engineering

     1,299         1,360         1,377         1,362   

Research and development

     263         269         276         274   

Sales, administration and finance

     186         213         229         225   

Others

     370         361         335         331   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     5,499         5,808         5,794         5,648   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table sets forth, as of the dates indicated, a breakdown of the number of our full-time employees by geographic location:

 

Location

   As of December 31,     

As of

March 31,

 
   2009      2010      2011      2012  

ThaiLin (Hsinchu Industrial Park)

     695         668         596         554   

ChipMOS Taiwan Hsinchu Production Group

     1,703         1,658         1,664         1,599   

ChipMOS Taiwan Southern Taiwan Production Group

     2,479         2,886         2,997         2,895   

Shanghai

     617         591         531         593   

Japan and the United States

     5         5         6         7   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     5,499         5,808         5,794         5,648   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Our employees are not covered by any collective bargaining agreements. We have not experienced any strikes or work stoppages by our employees and believe that our relationship with our employees is good.

 

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Share Option Plan and Share Appreciation Rights Plan

We adopted a broad-based share option plan in 2001, which was amended at a special general meeting on March 19, 2004 to increase the number of shares available for issuance under the share option plan from 5,800,000 (1,450,000) to 9,000,000 (2,250,000). In August 2006, we adopted a second broad-based share option plan, which has 7,000,000 (1,750,000) shares available for issuance. In September 2011, we adopted a third broad-based share option plan, which has 1,000,000 shares available for issuance. Each share option plan provides that our directors, officers, employees and those of our affiliates may, at the discretion of our board of directors or a committee, be granted options to purchase our shares at an exercise price of no less than the par value of our common shares. The board or the committee has complete discretion to determine which eligible individuals are to receive option grants, the number of shares subject to each grant, the exercise price of all options granted, the vesting schedule to be in effect for each option grant and the maximum term for which each granted option is to remain outstanding, up to a maximum term of ten years. Shares available for issuance under these plans are replenished by shares that were subject to forfeited and expired share options.

In 2009, we granted 1,977,577 (494,394) share options, with an exercise price, at the time of grant, ranging from US$0.2132 to US$0.6375 (US$0.8528 to US$2.55) per share. In 2009, 697,181 (174,295) share options were forfeited, 385,001 (96,250) share options were expired and nil share options were exercised. In 2010, we granted 642,640 (160,660) share options, with an exercise price, at the time of grant, ranging from US$0.6120 to US$1.3685 (US$2.448 to US$5.474) per share. In 2010, 848,198 (212,049) share options were forfeited, 1,415,200 (353,800) share options were expired and 76,985 (19,246) share options were exercised. In 2011, we granted 692,624 share options, with an exercise price, at the time of grant, ranging from US$4.59 to US$6.222 per share. In 2011, 148,403 share options were forfeited, nil share options were expired and 96,103 share options were exercised. As of December 31, 2011, we had 2,562,172 share options outstanding, with an exercise price ranging from US$0.748 to US$25.908.

In September 2006 and August 2008, we adopted a share appreciation rights (“SARs”) plan pursuant to which we may issue up to 2,000,000 (500,000) and 3,000,000 (750,000) cash-settled SARs to our directors, officers, employees and those of our affiliates. Under the share appreciation rights plan, each holder of SARs, issued thereunder will be entitled to receive, on the applicable exercise date, cash in an amount equal to the excess of the market value of our common shares on such date over the exercise price of such rights. Our board of directors or a relevant committee thereof has complete discretion over the administration of the share appreciation rights plan, including determining the recipients of the share appreciation right awards, the number of rights awarded, the exercise date, the exercise price and other relevant terms. Unless earlier terminated by our board of directors or the relevant board committee, the plan will remain effective until September 2016 and August 2018. In 2009, 1,173,060 (293,265) SARs were granted, with an exercise price, at the time of grant, ranging from US$0.2210 to US$0.6375 (US$0.884 to US$2.55). In 2009, 204,662 (51,165) SARs were forfeited and no SARs were exercised. In 2010, 74,500 (18,625) SARs were granted, with an exercise price, at the time of grant, ranging from US$0.612 to US$0.765 (US$2.448 to US$3.06). In 2010, 357,200 (89,300) SARs were forfeited and 61,200 (15,300) SARS were exercised. In 2011, 525,885 SARs were granted, with an exercise price, at the time of grant, ranging from US$5.151 to US$6.222. In 2011, 70,621 SARs were forfeited and 32,832 SARs were exercised. As of December 31, 2011, we had 1,049,939 SARs outstanding, with an exercise price, at the time of grant, ranging from US$0.748 to US$25.908.

The share numbers and exercise price of our share option plan and share appreciation rights plan disclosed in the foregoing paragraph, contain corresponding adjusted figures in brackets denoting the effect of Company’s 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011.

 

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

Major Shareholders

The following table and information set out certain information as of March 31, 2012 regarding the ownership of our common shares by (1) each person known to us to be the owner of more than five percent of our common shares and (2) the total amount owned by our directors and executive officers as a group.

 

Identity of person or group

  

Number of

 shares owned

    

Percentage

Owned

 
  

 

 

 

ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp.(1)

     6,474,211         19.2      

He & Fang 2005 Revocable Living Trust (2)

     3,479,751         10.3      

Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.(3)

     3,043,749         9.0      

Mosel Vitelic Inc.(4)

     2,698,659         8.0      

DLS Capital Management, LLC(5)

     2,252,889         6.7      

Directors and executive officers, as a group(6)

     599,600         1.8      

 

Notes:

(1) From December 2008 to August 2009, ThaiLin acquired 2,025,455 (506,364) shares pursuant to the Rule 10b5-1/10b-18 securities purchase program, under which purchases commenced on December 28, 2008; 4,060,633 (1,015,158) shares in March 2009 pursuant to its enforcement of the collateral provided by ProMOS under the Stock Pledge Agreement entered into between ThaiLin and ProMOS dated December 3, 2008; 1,605,410 (401,352) shares and 262,829 (65,707) shares in 2010 and January 2011, respectively, pursuant to the interest shares payment under 2009 Notes held by ThaiLin and 4,485,630 shares (including 790,630 shares as interest payment in connection with the make-whole clause) in March 2011 pursuant to the conversion of 2009 Notes held by ThaiLin.

 

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(2) According to the Schedule 13G/A filed by He Zhengxu with the SEC on January 10, 2012.
(3) Siliconware Precision completed a share purchase and subscription transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan and us on March 27, 2007, pursuant to which we and ChipMOS Taiwan purchased all of Siliconware Precision’s equity interest in ChipMOS Taiwan, and Siliconware Precision subscribed for 12,174,998 (3,043,749) of our common shares through a private placement. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Our Structure and History—ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC”.
(4) Mosel owned 2,612,513 shares indirectly through Giant Haven, and 86,146 shares indirectly through Mou-Fu Investment Ltd. Mosel is a public company listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange.
(5) According to the Schedule 13G filed by DLS Capital Management, LLC with the SEC on January 17, 2012.
(6) Excludes Mosel’s beneficial ownership of our common shares which may be considered to be beneficially held by some of our directors or officers. Includes shares held by certain family members of certain directors.

The share numbers disclosed in the foregoing notes, contain corresponding adjusted figures in brackets denoting the effect of Company’s 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011.

As of March 31, 2012, approximately 62% of our common shares were held of record by shareholders located in the United States. All holders of our common shares have the same voting rights with respect to their shares.

Related Party Transactions

Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.

As of March 31, 2012, Siliconware Precision owned 9.0% of our outstanding common shares and 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares. On March 27, 2007, we completed a share purchase and subscription transaction with ChipMOS Taiwan and Siliconware Precision, under which we and ChipMOS Taiwan purchased all of Siliconware Precision’s equity interest in ChipMOS Taiwan, and Siliconware Precision subscribed to 12,174,998 (3,043,749 shares as taking into effect of 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011) of our newly issued common shares through a private placement. ChipMOS Taiwan became our wholly-owned subsidiary on September 14, 2007. In February 2010, we agreed to sell 15.8% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares to Siliconware Precision. The share purchase transaction was completed in January 2011. As of March 31, 2012, we owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares. Siliconware Precision is an independent provider of semiconductor testing and packaging services. Siliconware Precision currently has, and is expected to continue to have from time to time in the future, contractual and other business relationships with us. Sales to Siliconware Precision in 2009 was NT$195 thousand. No revenue was derived from Siliconware Precision in 2010 and 2011. From April 2011 onwards, Siliconware Precision is not our related party as it owned less than 10% of our outstanding common shares.

Mosel Vitelic Inc.

As of March 31, 2012, Mosel indirectly owned 8.0% of our outstanding common shares. Mosel designs and manufactures semiconductor products, including DRAM, SRAM, flash memory, LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors and power-related semiconductors. Mosel and its affiliates currently have, and are expected to continue to have from time to time in the future, contractual and other business relationships with us. Our relationships include the following:

 

   

In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we paid NT$148 thousand, NT$148 thousand and NT$25 thousand (US$1 thousand) in website fees to Mosel for provision of certain website services.

Commencing April 1, 2011, Mosel and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are no longer related parties to the Company.

Registration Rights Agreements with Siliconware Precision, Giant Haven, ProMOS and Powertech Technology Inc.

In March 2007, we issued 12,174,998 (3,043,749) common shares pursuant to a share purchase and subscription agreement with ChipMOS Taiwan and Siliconware Precision, and we entered into a registration rights agreement, dated March 27, 2007, with Siliconware Precision, pursuant to which Siliconware Precision agreed not to sell or otherwise transfer any of our common shares it acquired in the share purchase and acquisition for a period of nine months after March 27, 2007, and we granted to Siliconware Precision certain rights, including demand registration, “piggyback” registration and Form F-3 registration rights, to require us to register its common shares for sale under the Securities Act. In addition, we entered into a registration rights agreement, dated August 8, 2007, with Giant Haven, ProMOS and Powertech Technology Inc., pursuant to which we granted to Mosel, ProMOS and Powertech Technology Inc. certain registration rights, including customary demand and “piggyback” registration rights, common shares for the sale of our common shares under the Securities Act. In March 2009, ThaiLin acquired 4,060,633 (1,015,158) common shares from ProMOS pursuant to its enforcement of the collateral under a Stock Pledge Agreement entered into between ThaiLin and ProMOS dated December 3, 2008.

The share numbers disclosed in the foregoing notes, contain corresponding adjusted figures in brackets denoting the effect of Company’s 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011.

 

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DenMOS Technology Inc.

We do not own any equity interest in DenMOS. As of March 31, 2012, Mosel directly owned 44.1% of common shares of DenMOS. Sales to DenMOS were NT$1 million in 2009, and nil in 2010 and 2011, respectively.

Commencing April 1, 2011, DenMOS is not our related party as Mosel is no longer our related party.

SyncMOS Technologies International, Inc.

We do not own any equity interest in SyncMOS Technologies International, Inc., or SyncMOS. Since January 2012, SynMOS is no longer an investee of Mosel and therefore is no longer considered as our related party. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we provided storage services to SyncMOS and rental revenue from SyncMOS was NT$2,208 thousand, NT$2,208 thousand and nil, respectively.

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Shanghai) LTD.

Since 2002, we have managed our PRC operations, ChipMOS Shanghai, through Modern Mind, our controlled subsidiary. Whilst we did not own any equity interest in Modern Mind, we had controlled Modern Mind through our ownership of the MMT Notes. Under the MMT Assignment Agreement signed on April 22, 2011, ChipMOS has agreed to sell the MMT Notes to ThaiLin for a purchase price of approximately US$40 million subject to certain closing conditions. The Assignment Agreement transaction completed in October 2011 and ThaiLin immediately converted the MMT Notes into common shares of Modern Mind and purchased all of the remaining common shares of Modern Mind from Jesper, with ChipMOS Shanghai becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of ThaiLin.

Under a technology transfer agreement dated August 1, 2002 which will be expired on August 1, 2012, we licensed certain technologies and systems, and agreed to provide certain technical support and consulting services to ChipMOS Shanghai relating to those technologies and systems, and ChipMOS Shanghai paid an aggregate of US$25 million to us in 2002 for the technology and services we provide under this agreement. Under another technology transfer agreement dated October 3, 2011 which will be effective date on August 1, 2012, we licensed certain technologies and systems, and agreed to provide certain technical support and consulting services to ChipMOS Shanghai relating to those technologies and systems, and ChipMOS Shanghai will pay an aggregate of RMB27 million to us by forty installments on the last day of each quarter during the term of this agreement.

On July 1, 2010, ChipMOS Bermuda and ChipMOS Shanghai entered into an exclusive services agreement, pursuant to which ChipMOS Shanghai will provide its services exclusively to ChipMOS Bermuda or customers designated by ChipMOS Bermuda. Under the exclusive services agreement, ChipMOS Bermuda agrees to procure some of the equipment and consign such equipment for use by ChipMOS Shanghai. The exclusive services agreement has a term of ten years and will automatically be renewed for periods of ten years, unless terminated by either party at least 30 days prior to the expiration of such ten-year term. In addition, ChipMOS Bermuda may terminate the exclusive services agreement at any time by giving 30 days’ prior notice.

ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp.

On March 4, 2008, ChipMOS Taiwan made a loan in an amount of NT$145 million that bears interest at a rate of 4.69% per annum to Kolin, a major shareholder of ThaiLin. The loan is secured by a pledge by Kolin of 11 million common shares of ThaiLin. On August 22, 2008, Kolin repaid NT$15 million of the loan. On December 23, 2008, ChipMOS Taiwan notified Kolin to proceed with the transfer of the collateral’s ownership, the payment of unpaid loan and interest accrued in the amount of NT$130 million, and the payment of interest incurred due to loan repayment default under the loan. On January 20, 2009, Kolin informed ChipMOS that it could not fulfill request made by ChipMOS, including the transfer of shares since it is prohibited to do so under an interim restrictive order of disposition. Subsequently, Kolin was granted on March 27, 2009, pursuant to a ruling of Taiwan District Court on (Civil Ruling no.7 and No.9 of 2009), the approval for its reorganization and declaration of creditor’s rights application. Therefore, such shares shall still be deemed as the creditor’s collateral. ChipMOS made the creditor’s rights application on April 21, 2009. On January 31, 2011, a final ruling of Taiwan High Court (Civil Ruling No.186 of 2010) confirmed its approval of the organization plan of Kolin. On March 15, 2012, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into an agreement with Kolin whereby Kolin agreed to dispose of the common shares of ThaiLin that were pledged to ChipMOS Taiwan and use the proceeds to settle the outstanding debt to ChipMOS Taiwan. As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 20-F, the process is still ongoing.

As of March 31, 2012, ThaiLin held 6,474,211 of our outstanding shares, corresponding to 19.2% of all of our outstanding shares. ThaiLin’s current holding includes 4,060,633 (1,015,158) shares or 3.0% of our outstanding shares acquired pursuant to ThaiLin’s enforcement of the collateral provided by ProMOS under the Stock Pledge Agreement dated December 3, 2008, entered into between ThaiLin and ProMOS, 2,025,455 (506,364) shares or 1.5% of our outstanding shares accumulated from the Rule 10b5-1/10b-18 securities purchase program launched in December 2008, and 1,868,239 (467,059) shares or 1.4% of our outstanding shares acquired pursuant to the interest shares payment and 4,485,630 shares (including 790,630 shares as interest payment in connection with the make-whole clause) or 13.3% of our outstanding shares acquired pursuant to the conversion of 2009 Notes in March 2011.

 

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The share numbers disclosed in the foregoing notes, contain corresponding adjusted figures in brackets denoting the effect of Company’s 1-for-every-4 reverse stock split effective on January 21, 2011.

ProMOS Technologies Inc.

As of March 31, 2012, Mosel directly and indirectly owned 12.0% of ProMOS.

On July 1, 2003, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a long-term agreement with ProMOS, under which ChipMOS Taiwan reserves a specified amount of capacity for DRAM testing and assembly services to ProMOS and under which ProMOS guarantees to place orders in the amount of the reserved capacity. This agreement was superseded in July 2007 when ChipMOS Taiwan and ProMOS entered into a new long-term agreement with similar terms and conditions, except that under the new agreement, ProMOS will give ChipMOS six month rolling forecast on testing and assembly service orders to be placed to us, and ProMOS guarantees that such orders will represent no less than certain percentage of ProMOS’ total production volume of these products (excluding OEM products). The price for the services of ChipMOS Taiwan under this agreement will be agreed upon quarterly, subject to certain price adjustments. If ChipMOS Taiwan is unable to test and assemble the agreed number of DRAM, ProMOS may use a third party to cover the shortfall and ChipMOS Taiwan may be liable for, among other damages, any operation loss of ProMOS caused by such delay or any additional costs in using a third party to cover the shortfall. If ProMOS fails to place orders in the amount of the reserved capacity, ChipMOS Taiwan is entitled to damages calculated based on the difference between the value of the reserved capacity and the value of the actual used capacity, provided that the value of the capacity by ChipMOS Taiwan that has been used for other customers shall be deducted. In March 2008, ProMOS failed to place orders in the amount of the reserved capacity. In November 2008, we entered into a revised subcontracting contract with ProMOS by requiring ProMOS to provide wafers with a value of 80% of the subcontracting fee as collateral. In May 2009, a further revised subcontracting contract was entered into by and between us and ProMOS under which ProMOS provided us with wafer as pledge and Work-In-Process, or WIP and existing finished goods as lien material. Part of ProMOS’ receivables will be recovered through sales of the pledged wafer and lien material back to ProMOS with a discount to market price, and the remaining outstanding accounts receivables will be secured by equipment mortgage under the same contract arrangement. Effective March 2009, we started to request prepayment from ProMOS. As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$409 million and 100% allowance was made by ChipMOS Taiwan. NT$7 million was received by April 2010. Under the amended subcontracting contract, ProMOS paid ChipMOS Taiwan NT$200 million in May 2010. The remaining NT$202 million was paid in nine monthly installments with final installment payment ending on March 15, 2011. As of December 31, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan received NT$336 million and the related allowance of NT$409 million was reversed to other non-operating income. All payments have been received in March 2011. In May 2010, the collection term provided to ProMOS was revised to 30 days upon delivery and this was further revised to 45 days upon delivery in October 2010. Since June 2011, we request ProMOS to pay in advance prior to delivery.

As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$55 million and 100% allowance was made by ThaiLin. In June 2010, ThaiLin agreed a settlement with ProMOS in the amount of NT$24 million and it was collected during the same year. The allowance of NT$24 million was reversed to other non-operating income. Commencing in June 2010, the collection term was revised to 30 days upon delivery. In January 2011, the collection term was revised to 45 days after delivery. Since June 2011, we request ProMOS to pay in advance prior to delivery. See Note 19 to our consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Commencing April 1, 2011, since Mosel is no longer a related party to us, ProMOS is also not considered our related party.

 

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Item 8. Financial Information

Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information

Please see “Item 18. Financial Statements” and pages F-1 through F-61.

Legal Proceedings

In February 2006, ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS USA received notice of a lawsuit filed by Tessera Technologies, Inc., or Tessera. The complaint was initially filed in United States District Court for the Northern District of California (Civil Action No. C05-04063CW), or the California court. In an amended complaint, Tessera added ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS USA, among several other semiconductor companies, as co-defendants. The amended complaint alleges that ChipMOS Taiwan, ChipMOS USA and the other co-defendants infringed certain patents owned by Tessera and that ChipMOS Taiwan is in breach of a license agreement with Tessera, or the Tessera license agreement. Tessera also sought unspecified damages and injunctive relief. ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS USA have responded to the lawsuit by denying Tessera’s claims of patent infringement and breach of contract. ChipMOS USA and ChipMOS Taiwan have also raised various counterclaims for declaratory judgment and related affirmative defenses that the Tessera patents are invalid and unenforceable. In May 2007, the California court, with the concurrence of ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS USA, stayed all litigation in the California court as a result of a related investigation by the International Trade Commission, or ITC, initiated by Tessera against certain other co-defendants. In addition, a co-defendant in the Tessera lawsuit requested the United States Patent and Trademark Office to reexamine the patentability of each of Tessera’s patents that are at issue in the case in the California court. The requests were granted and, in February 2007, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office concluded that certain claims of the patents were invalid on the basis of prior art. In April 2008, ChipMOS Bermuda, ChipMOS USA and ChipMOS Taiwan received notice that Tessera requested the ITC to initiate another investigation alleging that the sale for and after importation into the United States as well as importation into the United States of certain small format non-tape based BGA semiconductor packages by ChipMOS Bermuda, ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS USA infringe three of the five Tessera patents at issue in the case pending in the California court. Tessera sought, among other things, an investigation by the ITC and general exclusion orders to prohibit the infringing products from entry into the United States. The ITC initiated the investigation in May 2008. On March 13, 2009, after the close of discovery, Tessera submitted a request to terminate the proceedings at the ITC, which the judge granted on July 17, 2009. No petitions for review were filed. The ITC issued an order to terminate the investigation on August 7, 2009. Due to the completion of a companion investigation against other companies by ITC, the stayed litigations in the Northern District of California resumed in January 2012. The date for jury trial was scheduled for April 2014. Our counsel has not formed an opinion as to the outcome of the case.

In April 1999, Motorola, Inc. (“Motorola”) and ChipMOS Taiwan entered into an immunity agreement (the “Agreement”) whereby each party covenanted not to sue each other for the use of certain Ball Grid Array (“BGA”) patents. In December 2004, Motorola spun off its semiconductor division, and thereby formed Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. (“Freescale”), who then assumed Motorola’s rights and obligations under the Agreement. On October 16, 2006, Freescale unilaterally terminated the Agreement, alleging that ChipMOS Taiwan breached the Agreement. ChipMOS Taiwan argued that Freescale’s unilateral termination of the Agreement has no legal effect, and continues to accrue royalty payments for products it believes are covered by the Agreement. The payments previously returned by Freescale and accrued by ChipMOS Taiwan have been deposited in a separate escrow account. On July 13, 2009, Freescale alleged that ChipMOS Taiwan breached the Agreement by failing to pay royalties on certain BGA packages assembled by ChipMOS Taiwan. ChipMOS Taiwan filed an answer to deny all allegations, and also filed counterclaims against Freescale alleging that Freescale engaged in patent misuse by seeking to obtain royalties on certain of ChipMOS Taiwan’s BGA products that were not covered by any Freescale patent included under the Agreement, and for declaratory judgment of patent non-infringement and invalidity. On December 11, 2009, Freescale filed a motion to dismiss the declaratory judgment counterclaims filed by ChipMOS Taiwan and to stay all other patent related claims and issues until its breach of contract claims could be decided. On March 5, 2010, the Court stayed the patent related discovery until the parties could conduct the discovery they felt was needed to address whether the Agreement constituted a “Total Sales Royalty” agreement. On July 29, 2010, the Court finds that the Agreement constituted a “Total Sales Royalty” agreement, however, Freescale’s motion was partly denied for patent misuse issue. The fact discovery and expert discovery process regarding patent misuse issue closed in middle June 2011. On June 17, 2011, Freescale filed a motion for summary judgment on ChipMOS’ patent misuse defense. ChipMOS filed opposition to the above Freescale motion and also the cross-motion for summary judgment. An Order granting Freescale’s motion for partial summary judgment and denying ChipMOS’ cross-motion for partial judgment was given on September 8, 2011. On September 13, 2011, ChipMOS filed a Motion for Leave for Motion for Reconsideration of both the Court’s August 3, 2010 Order and September 8, 2011 Order. An Order granting in part and denying in part ChipMOS’ Motion for Reconsideration was issued on March 30, 2012. The above order finds that the Agreement constituted a “Total Sales Royalty” agreement, however, the patent misuse issue is a triable fact and ChipMOS is entitled to a jury trial. The Company’s counsel has not formed any opinion as to the outcome of the case.

Other than the matters described above, we were not involved in any material litigation in 2011 and are not currently involved in any material litigation.

 

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For certain information regarding legal proceedings relating to certain of our current and former directors, see “Item 3.—Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—The ongoing criminal proceeding of and adverse publicity associated with Mr. Shih-Jye Cheng, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Hung-Chiu Hu, our former director, could have a material adverse effect on our business and cause our stock price to decline”.

Dividend Policy

To date, we have not distributed any dividends. We currently intend to retain future earnings, if any, to finance the expansion of our business and thus do not expect to pay any cash dividends for the foreseeable future. In addition, we have no current plans to pay stock dividends.

 

Item 9. The Offer and Listing

Listing

Since March 17, 2010, the NASDAQ Capital Market has been the principal trading market for our common shares, which are not listed or quoted on any other markets in or outside the United States. Our common shares were formerly quoted on the NASDAQ Global Market (formerly the NASDAQ National Market) under the symbol “IMOS” since June 19, 2001, and our common shares were formerly quoted on the NASDAQ Global Select Market since July 1, 2006. The CUSIP number for our common shares is “G2110R114”. Our Shareholders approved a reverse stock split of ChipMOS’s common stock in January 2011 with a ratio of 1-for-every-4 shares effective on January 21, 2011. As a result, the number of outstanding shares of ChipMOS common stock is reduced to 27,725,782 shares, from 110,908,341 shares prior to the reverse stock split becoming effective. As of March 31, 2012, there were 33,772,837 common shares issued and outstanding. The table below sets forth for the periods indicated, historical prices for the high, low and average closing prices on the NASDAQ National Market, the NASDAQ Global Select Market or the NASDAQ Capital Market for our common shares.

 

    

NASDAQ Price per share(1)

(US$)

 
   High      Low      Average  

2007

     31.56         16.44         25.70   

2008

     16.40         0.74         9.32   

2009

     3.97         0.80         2.45   

2010

     7.68         2.40         4.80   

First Quarter

     3.28         2.40         2.86   

Second Quarter

     7.68         3.02         5.84   

Third Quarter

     6.00         3.60         4.77   

Fourth Quarter

     6.36         4.92         5.63   

2011

        

First Quarter

     8.80         6.24         7.33   

Second Quarter

     9.81         7.71         8.70   

Third Quarter

     9.02         5.16         6.53   

November

     6.00         4.92         5.40   

December

     5.93         4.90         5.32   

Fourth Quarter

     6.00         4.48         5.20   

2012

        

January

     8.78         5.47         7.24   

February

     13.07         7.90         9.31   

March

     19.04         11.38         15.76   

First Quarter

     19.04         5.47         10.93   

April (through April 20, 2012)

     18.48         13.21         14.97   

 

Note:

(1) The figures in the table contain historical prices reflecting the effect of our reverse stock split which was approved by our Shareholders on January 21, 2011.

 

Item 10. Additional Information

Description of Share Capital

Our authorized share capital is US$3,250,000 consists of 62,500,000 common shares of par value US$0.04 per share, and 18,750,000 preferred shares of par value US$0.04 per share.

 

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Common Shares

Each shareholder is entitled to one vote for each common share held on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. Cumulative voting for the election of directors is not provided for in our bye-laws, which means that the holders of a majority of the shares voted can elect all of the directors then standing for election. The common shares are not entitled to preemptive rights and are not subject to conversion or redemption. Upon the occurrence of a liquidation, dissolution or winding-up, the holders of common shares would be entitled to share ratably in the distribution of all of our assets remaining available for distribution after satisfaction of all liabilities.

Preferred Shares

Currently there are no specific rights attached to the preferred shares. The specific rights of the preferred shares could include rights, preferences or privileges in priority to our common shares and the establishment of such rights or the delegation to the board of directors to establish such rights will need to be approved by our shareholders. As of March 31, 2012, no preferred shares have been issued by our company.

Bermuda Law

We are an exempted company organized under the Bermuda Companies Act. The rights of our shareholders are governed by Bermuda law and our memorandum of association and bye-laws. The Bermuda Companies Act differs in some material respects from laws generally applicable to United States corporations and their shareholders.

Dividends

Under Bermuda law, a company may pay dividends that are declared from time to time by its board of directors unless there are reasonable grounds for believing that the company is, or would after the payment be, unable to pay its liabilities as they become due or that the realizable value of its assets would thereby be less than the aggregate of its liabilities, issued share capital and share premium accounts. The holders of common shares are entitled to receive dividends out of assets legally available for such purposes at times and in amounts as our board of directors may from time to time determine. Any dividend unclaimed for a period of six years from its date of declaration will be forfeited and will revert to our company.

Voting Rights

Under Bermuda law, except as otherwise provided in the Bermuda Companies Act or our bye-laws, questions brought before a general meeting of shareholders are decided by a majority vote of shareholders present at the meeting. Our bye-laws provide that, subject to the provisions of the Bermuda Companies Act, and except for the resolutions for approving the extraordinary transaction, any question properly proposed for the consideration of the shareholders will be decided by a simple majority of the votes cast, either on a show of hands or on a poll, with each shareholder present (and each person holding proxies for any shareholder) entitled to one vote on a show of hands, or on a poll, one vote for each fully paid-up common share held by the shareholder. In the case of an equality of votes cast, the chairman of the meeting shall have a second or casting vote. Any resolution for any of the following extraordinary transactions will require the approval of shareholders holding at least 70.0% of the total voting rights of all the shareholders having the right to vote at such meeting:

 

   

a resolution for the merger, amalgamation or any other consolidation of us with any other company, wherever incorporated;

 

   

a resolution for the sale, lease, exchange, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of our consolidated assets; or

 

   

a resolution for the adoption of any plan or proposal for the liquidation of our company.

Rights in Liquidation

Under Bermuda law, in the event of liquidation or winding-up of a company, after satisfaction in full of all claims of creditors and subject to the preferential rights accorded to any series of preferred shares, the proceeds of the liquidation or winding-up are distributed pro rata in species or in kind among the holders of our common shares in accordance with our bye-laws.

 

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Meetings of Shareholders

Under Bermuda law, a company is required to convene at least one general shareholders’ meeting as an Annual General Meeting each calendar year, unless according to the provisions of the Bermuda Companies Act, shareholders elect to dispense with the holding of annual general meeting. Bermuda law provides that a special general meeting may be called by the board of directors and must be called upon the request of shareholders holding not less than 10% of the paid-up capital of the company carrying the right to vote. Bermuda law also requires that shareholders be given at least five days’ advance notice of a general meeting but the accidental omission to give notice to any person does not invalidate the proceedings at a meeting. Under our bye-laws, we must give each shareholder written notice at least five days prior to the annual general meeting, unless otherwise agreed by all shareholders having the right to vote at that annual general meeting, and written notice at least five days prior to any special general meeting, unless otherwise agreed by a majority of shareholders having a right to vote at that special general meeting, and together holding at least 95% of the paid-up capital of the company carrying the right to vote at that meeting.

Under Bermuda law, the number of shareholders constituting a quorum at any general meeting of shareholders is determined by the bye-laws of the company. Our bye-laws provide that at least two shareholders present in person or by proxy and holding shares representing at least 50% of the total voting rights of all shareholders having the right to vote at the meeting constitute a quorum. Our bye-laws further provide that, in respect of a general meeting adjourned for lack of quorum, at least two shareholders present in person or by proxy holding shares representing 33 1/3% of the total voting rights of all shareholders having the right to vote at the meeting constitute a quorum.

Access to Books and Records and Dissemination of Information

Under Bermuda law, members of the general public have the right to inspect the public documents of a company available at the office of the Registrar of Companies in Bermuda. These documents include a company’s certificate of incorporation, its memorandum of association (including its objects and powers), and any alteration to its memorandum of association and documents relating to an increase or reduction of authorized share capital. The shareholders have the additional right to inspect the bye-laws of the company, minutes of general meetings and the company’s audited financial statements, which, unless agreed by all shareholders and directors, must be laid before the annual general meeting. The register of shareholders of a company is also open to inspection by shareholders and by members of the general public for not less than two hours each day without charge. Any member of the public may require a copy of the register, or of any part thereof, on the payment of a fee. A company is required to maintain its share register in Bermuda but may, subject to the provisions of Bermuda law, establish a branch register outside Bermuda. We maintain a share register in Hamilton, Bermuda and a branch register in New Jersey, USA. A company is required to keep at its registered office a register of its directors and officers which is open for inspection for not less than two hours each day by members of the public without charge. Bermuda law does not, however, provide a general right for shareholders to inspect or obtain copies of any other corporate records.

Election or Removal of Directors

Under Bermuda law and our bye-laws, directors are elected or appointed at an annual general meeting and serve until re-elected or re-appointed or until their successors are elected or appointed, unless they are earlier removed for cause or resign or otherwise cease to be directors under Bermuda law or our bye-laws.

A director may be removed for cause at a special general meeting of shareholders specifically called for that purpose, provided that the director is served with at least 14 days’ notice. The director has a right to be heard at that meeting. Any vacancy created by the removal of a director at a special general meeting may be filled at that meeting by the election of another director in his or her place or, in the absence of any election by the shareholders, by the board of directors.

Board Actions

Our bye-laws provide that the quorum necessary for the transaction of business is two individual directors of the board, and that questions arising at a properly convened meeting of the board of directors must be approved by a majority of the votes present and entitled to be cast. In the case of an equality of votes, the chairman of the meeting is entitled to a second or casting vote.

The board of directors may appoint any of our directors to act as our managing director or other senior executive, on such terms and conditions as it may determine, including with respect to remuneration.

 

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Amendment of Memorandum of Association and Bye-Laws

Bermuda law provides that the memorandum of association of a company may, with the consent of the Minister of Finance of Bermuda (if required), be amended by a resolution passed at a general meeting of shareholders of which due notice has been given. Our bye-laws, other than the bye-law separating our board of directors into three classes, may be amended by the board of directors if the amendment is approved by a majority of votes cast by our directors and by our shareholders by a resolution passed by a majority of votes cast at a general meeting. Any amendment to our bye-law separating a board of directors into three classes must be approved by our board of directors and by shareholders holding shares representing at least 60% of the total voting rights of all our shareholders having the right to vote at such general meeting.

Under Bermuda law, the holders of an aggregate of no less than 20% in par value of a company’s issued share capital or any class of issued share capital have the right to apply to the Bermuda Court for an annulment of any amendment of the memorandum of association adopted by shareholders at any general meeting. Where an application is made, the amendment becomes effective only to the extent that it is confirmed by the Bermuda Court. An application for the annulment of an amendment of the memorandum of association must be made within 21 days after the date on which the resolution altering the company’s memorandum of association is passed and may be made on behalf of the person entitled to make the application by one or more of their number as they may appoint in writing for the purpose. No application may be made by persons voting in favor of the amendment.

Appraisal Rights and Shareholder Suits

Under Bermuda law, in the event of an amalgamation or a merger of two Bermuda companies, a shareholder who did not vote in favour of the amalgamation or the merger and who is not satisfied that fair value has been paid for such shareholder’s shares may apply to the Bermuda Court to appraise the fair value of those shares. The Bermuda Companies Act provides that, subject to the terms of a company’s bye-laws, the amalgamation or merger of a Bermuda company with another company requires the amalgamation or merger agreement to be approved by the board of directors and, except where the amalgamation or merger is between a holding company and one or more of its wholly-owned subsidiaries or between two or more wholly-owned subsidiaries, by meetings of the holders of shares of each company and of each class of such shares at a meeting of the shareholders by seventy-five percent of the members present and entitled to vote at that meeting in respect of which the quorum shall be two persons holding or representing at least one-third of the issued shares of each company or class, as the case may be. Under our bye-laws, any resolution proposed for consideration at any general meeting to approve the merger, amalgamation or any other consolidation of our company with any other company, wherever incorporated shall require the approval of our shareholders holding shares representing at least 70% of the total voting rights of all our shareholders, and the quorum to be at least 2 shareholders present in person or by proxy holdings shares representing at least 50% of the total voting rights of all our shareholders.

Class actions and derivative actions are generally not available to shareholders under Bermuda law. The Bermuda Court, however, would ordinarily be expected to permit a shareholder to commence an action in the name of a company to remedy a wrong done to the company where the act complained of is alleged to be beyond the corporate power of the company or is illegal or would result in the violation of the company’s memorandum of association or bye-laws. Further consideration would be given by the Bermuda Court to acts that are alleged to constitute a fraud against the minority shareholders or, for instance, where an act requires the approval of a greater percentage of the company’s shareholders than that which actually approved it.

When the affairs of a company are being conducted in a manner oppressive or prejudicial to the interests of some part of the shareholders, one or more shareholders may apply to the Bermuda Court for an order regulating the company’s conduct of affairs in the future or compelling the purchase of the shares by any shareholder, by other shareholders or by the company.

Exchange Controls

The following discussion is based on the advice of Appleby, our Bermuda counsel.

The BMA, has designated us as non-resident for exchange control purposes. The BMA has granted its consent under the Exchange Control Act 1972 and regulations promulgated thereunder for the issue or transfer to non-residents of Bermuda for exchange control purposes of our common shares, subject to the common shares remaining quoted on the NASDAQ Capital Market.

Share Issuance and Transfers by Non-Bermuda and Bermuda Residents

Under Bermuda law, there are no limitations on the rights of non-Bermuda residents to hold or vote their shares of Bermuda companies. Because we have been designated as a non-resident for Bermuda exchange control purposes, there are no restrictions on our ability to transfer funds in and out of Bermuda or to pay dividends to United States residents who are holders of our common shares other than in respect of local Bermuda currency.

 

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Under Bermuda law, we are an exempted company. An exempted company is exempt from the provisions of Bermuda law, which stipulate that at least 60% of the equity must be beneficially owned by Bermuda persons. Persons regarded as residents of Bermuda for exchange control purposes require specific consent under the Exchange Control Act 1972 to acquire securities issued by us. The Exchange Control Act 1972 permits companies to adopt bye-law provisions relating to the transfer of securities. None of Bermuda law, our memorandum of association or our bye-laws imposes limitations on the right of foreign nationals or non-residents of Bermuda to hold our shares or vote such shares.

As an exempted company, we may not participate in certain business transactions, including, among others: (1) the acquisition or holding of land in Bermuda, except (i) land acquired for its business by way of lease or tenancy agreement for a term not exceeding fifty years, or (ii) with the consent of the Minister of Finance granted in his discretion, land by way of lease or tenancy agreement for a term not exceeding twenty-one years in order to provide accommodation or recreational facilities for its officers and employees; (2) the taking of mortgages on land in Bermuda to secure an amount in excess of US$50,000 without the consent of the Bermuda Minister of Finance; or (3) the carrying on of business of any kind in Bermuda, except in furtherance of our business carried on outside Bermuda or under a license granted by the Bermuda Minister of Finance.

The Bermuda government actively encourages foreign investment in exempted entities like us that are based in Bermuda but do not operate in competition with local business. In addition to having no restrictions on the degree of foreign ownership, we are subject neither to taxes on our income or dividends nor to any foreign exchange controls in Bermuda. In addition, there is no capital gains tax in Bermuda, and profits can be accumulated by us without limitation.

Director’s Interests

Under our Bye-Laws, our director may, notwithstanding his office be a party to, or otherwise interested in, any transaction or arrangement with our company or in which our company is otherwise interested. He or she may also be a director or officer of, or employed by, or a party to any transaction or arrangement with, or otherwise interested in, any corporate body promoted by our company in which our company is interested. Therefore, where it is necessary, so long as our director declares the nature of his or her interest at the first opportunity at a meeting of the board or by writing to the directors as required by the Bermuda Companies Act, that director shall not by reason of his or her office be accountable to our company for any benefit he or she derives from any office or employment to which our bye-laws allow him or her to be appointed or from any transaction or arrangement in which our bye-laws allow him or her to be interested, and no such transaction or arrangement shall be liable to be avoided on the ground of any such interest or benefit. A general notice to our directors by a director or officer declaring that he or she is a director or officer or has an interest in a person and is to be regarded as interested in any transaction or arrangement made with that person shall be sufficient declaration of interest in relation to any transaction or arrangement so made.

Share Issuance and Transfer

We have been designated as a non-resident for exchange control purposes by the BMA, whose permission for the issuance and transfer of common shares has been obtained subject to the common shares being quoted on the NASDAQ Capital Market.

The transfer of common shares between persons regarded as non-resident in Bermuda for exchange control purposes and the issuance of shares after the completion of the currently contemplated offering of our common shares to those persons may be effected without specific consent under the Exchange Control Act 1972 of Bermuda and regulations thereunder subject to the common shares remaining quoted on the NASDAQ Capital Market. Issuance and transfer of shares to any person regarded as resident in Bermuda for exchange control purposes require specific prior approval under the Exchange Control Act 1972.

There are no limitations on the rights of persons regarded as non-residents of Bermuda for foreign exchange control purposes who own common shares to hold or vote their common shares. Since we have been designated as a non-resident for Bermuda exchange control purposes, there are no restrictions on our ability to transfer funds in and out of Bermuda or to pay dividends to United States residents or other non-residents of Bermuda who are holders of common shares, other than in respect of local Bermuda currency. Furthermore, it is not our intent to maintain Bermuda dollar deposits and, accordingly, will not pay dividends on the common shares in Bermuda currency.

Share certificates are issued only in the names of corporations or individuals, being the registered holders of shares as represented by such share certificates. Where an applicant for common shares acts in a special capacity, such as an executor or trustee, certificates may, at the request of that applicant, record the capacity in which the applicant is acting. Our recording of any special capacity, however, shall not be construed as obliging us either to investigate, or to incur any responsibility or liability in respect of, the proper administration of any trust or estate. Except as ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction or as required by law, regardless of whether or not we have had notice of a trust, no notice shall be taken of any trust, equitable, contingent, future or partial interest in any share or any interest in any fractional part of a share or any other right in respect of any common shares except an absolute right to the entirety thereof in the registered holder.

 

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Transfer Agent and Registrar

Appleby Management (Bermuda) Ltd. (formerly known as Reid Management Limited) serves as our principal registrar and transfer agent in Bermuda for the common shares. Computershare Shareowner Services, LLC (formerly known as Mellon Investor Services, LLC) serves as our United States transfer agent and registrar for the common shares.

Material Contracts

We have entered into the following contracts within the two years preceding the date of this Annual Report on Form 20-F that are or may be material:

 

   

On February 26, 2010, the Company entered into a share purchase agreement (the “Share Purchase Agreement”) with Siliconware Precision to sell to Siliconware Precision our holding of 133 million common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan with a consideration of approximately NT$1,630 million. The purchase shares represent 15.8% of the total number of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares. Under the terms and conditions of the Share Purchase Agreement, Siliconware Precision paid the purchase price in four installments to ChipMOS Bermuda, with the final installment scheduled to be paid on or before March 31, 2011. The share purchase transaction was completed in January 2011 and subsequently the Company owned 84.2% of ChipMOS Taiwan’s outstanding shares.

 

   

On February 26, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into an equipment purchase agreement (the “Equipment Purchase Agreement”) with Siliconware Precision to purchase its DRAM testers and LCD driver assembly and test equipment with a purchase price of approximately NT$1,630 million. Under the terms and conditions of the Equipment Purchase Agreement, ChipMOS Taiwan will pay the purchase price in four installments to Siliconware Precision, with the final installment paid on or before March 31, 2011. All of the purchased equipment will be shipped to and installed at ChipMOS’ plant no later than July 31, 2010. In January 2011, the Company has paid the final installment to Siliconware Precision and completed the Equipment Purchase Agreement transaction.

 

   

On April 22, 2011, the Company entered MMT Assignment Agreement with ThaiLin to sell the MMT Notes to ThaiLin for a purchase price of approximately US$40 million subject to certain closing conditions. The MMT Assignment Agreement was completed in October 2011. Post completion of the MMT Assignment Agreement transaction, ThaiLin immediately converted the MMT Notes into common shares of Modern Mind and purchased all of the remaining common shares of Modern Mind from Jesper, with ChipMOS Shanghai becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of ThaiLin.

 

   

On July 14, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan obtained a syndicated loan facility from banks in Taiwan in the amount of NT$8,410 million (US$278 million) separated into two parts with its respective term of four years and five years. This loan facility was used to refinance the existing bank debts and equipment leases in July and August 2011. As of December 31, 2011, this loan facility was fully drawn.

Please see also “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions” for summaries of contracts with certain of our related parties.

Bermuda Taxation

This summary is based on laws, regulations, treaty provisions and interpretations now in effect and available as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 20-F. The laws, regulations, treaty provisions and interpretations, however, may change at any time, and any change could be retroactive to the date of issuance of our common shares. These laws, regulations and treaty provisions are also subject to various interpretations, and the relevant tax authorities or the courts could later disagree with the explanations or conclusions set out below.

At the date hereof, there is no Bermuda income, corporation or profits tax, withholding tax, capital gains tax, capital transfer tax, estate duty or inheritance tax payable by us or our shareholders other than shareholders ordinarily resident in Bermuda. We are not subject to stamp or other similar duty on the issuance, transfer or redemption of our common shares.

We have obtained an assurance from the Minister of Finance of Bermuda under the Exempted Undertaking Tax Protection Act 1966 that, in the event there is enacted in Bermuda any legislation imposing tax computed on profits or income or computed on any capital assets, gain or appreciation or any tax in the nature of estate duty or inheritance tax, such tax shall not be applicable to us or to our operations, or to the common shares, debentures or our other obligations until March 28, 2016, except insofar as such tax applies to persons ordinarily resident in Bermuda and holding such common shares, debentures or our other obligations or any real property or leasehold interests in Bermuda owned by us. No reciprocal income tax treaty affecting us exists between Bermuda and the United States.

 

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As an exempted company, we are liable to pay in Bermuda an annual government fee calculated on a sliding scale basis by reference to our assessable capital, which is the aggregate of our authorized common share capital and the premium on our issued common shares currently at a rate not exceeding US$31,120 per annum.

United States Federal Income Tax Consequences

The discussion below is for general information only and is not, and should not be interpreted to be, tax advice to any holder of our common shares. Each holder or a prospective holder of our common shares is urged to consult his, her or its own tax advisor.

General

This section is a general summary of the material United States federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders, as defined below, of the ownership and disposition of our common shares as of the date of this report. This summary is based on the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, the applicable Treasury regulations promulgated and proposed thereunder, judicial decisions and current administrative rulings and practice, all of which are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis. The summary applies to you only if you hold our common shares as a capital asset within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code. The United States Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, may challenge the tax consequences described below, and we have not requested, nor will we request, a ruling from the IRS or an opinion of counsel with respect to the United States federal income tax consequences of acquiring, holding or disposing of our common shares. This summary does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all the tax considerations that may be relevant to the ownership of our common shares. In particular, the discussion below does not cover tax consequences that depend upon your particular tax circumstances nor does it cover any state, local or foreign law, or the possible application of the United States federal estate or gift tax. You are urged to consult your own tax advisors regarding the application of the United States federal income tax laws to your particular situation as well as any state, local, foreign and United States federal estate and gift tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of the common shares. In addition, this summary does not take into account any special United States federal income tax rules that apply to a particular U.S. or Non-U.S. holder of our common shares, including, without limitation, the following:

 

   

a dealer in securities or currencies;

 

   

a trader in securities that elects to use a market-to-market method of accounting for its securities holdings;

 

   

a financial institution or a bank;

 

   

an insurance company;

 

   

a tax-exempt organization;

 

   

a person that holds our common shares in a hedging transaction or as part of a straddle or a conversion transaction;

 

   

a person whose functional currency for United States federal income tax purposes is not the U.S. dollar;

 

   

a person liable for alternative minimum tax;

 

   

a person that owns, or is treated as owning, 10% or more, by voting power or value, of our common shares;

 

   

certain former U.S. citizens and residents who have expatriated; or

 

   

a person who receives our shares pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation.

U.S. Holders

For purposes of the discussion below, you are a “U.S. Holder” if you are a beneficial owner of our common shares who or which is:

 

   

an individual United States citizen or resident alien of the United States (as specifically defined for United States federal income tax purposes);

 

   

a corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for United States federal income tax purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States, any State or the District of Columbia;

 

   

an estate whose income is subject to United States federal income tax regardless of its source; or

 

   

a trust (x) if a United States court can exercise primary supervision over the trust’s administration and one or more United States persons are authorized to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (y) if it was in existence on August 20, 1996, was treated as a United States person prior to that date and has a valid election in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as a United States person.

 

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If a partnership holds our common shares, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the partner and upon the activities of the partnership. If you are a partner of a partnership holding our common shares, you should consult your tax advisor.

Distributions

Subject to the “passive foreign investment company” (“PFIC”) rules discussed below, for cash dividends, the gross amount of any such distribution (other than in liquidation) that you receive with respect to our common shares generally will be taxed to you as dividend income to the extent such distribution does not exceed our current or accumulated earnings and profits (“E&P”), as calculated for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Such income will be includable in your gross income as ordinary income on the date of receipt. Dividends received by individuals and certain other non-corporate taxpayers in tax years before January 1, 2013 from “qualified foreign corporations” are taxed at the rate of either 0 percent or 15 percent, depending upon the particular taxpayer’s U.S. federal income tax bracket; provided that the recipient-shareholder has held his or her shares as a beneficial owner for more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning on the date which is 60 days before the shares’ ex-dividend date. The special tax rates on qualified dividends will expire on December 31, 2012. Starting 2013, the distinction between ordinary and qualified dividends will disappear, and all dividends will be subject to the ordinary tax rates. Recent legislation will impose, beginning in 2013, a new 3.8 percent Medicare contribution tax on net investment income, including interest, dividends, and capital gain, of U.S. individuals with income exceeding $200,000 (or $250,000 if married filing jointly), and of estates and trusts.

A foreign corporation is a “qualified foreign corporation” if the stock with respect to which it pays dividend is traded on an established securities market in the United States, provided that the foreign corporation is not a PFIC. Our stock is traded on an established securities market in the United States, although we cannot guarantee that our stock will be so traded in the future. We believe that we should not be treated as a PFIC for U.S. federal income purposes. No assurance can be given, however, that the IRS may not disagree and seek to treat us as a PFIC.

If we were a PFIC with respect to a particular U.S. Holder, dividends received from us will be taxed at regular ordinary income tax rates. Holders of our shares should consult their own tax advisers regarding the availability of the reduced dividend tax rate in light of their own particular circumstances.

To the extent any distribution exceeds our E&P, the distribution will first be treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of your adjusted tax basis in our common shares and will be applied against and reduce such basis on a dollar-for-dollar basis (thereby increasing the amount of gain and decreasing the amount of loss recognized on a subsequent disposition of such shares). To the extent that such distribution exceeds your adjusted tax basis, the distribution will be taxed as gain recognized on a sale or exchange of our common shares. See “Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition of Our Common Shares,” below. Because we are not a U.S. corporation, no dividends-received deduction will be allowed to corporations with respect to dividends paid by us.

For United States foreign tax credit limitation purposes, dividends received on our common shares will be treated as foreign source income and will generally be “passive category income”, or in the case of certain holders, “general category income.” You may be eligible, subject to a number of complex limitations, to claim a foreign tax credit in respect of foreign withholding taxes, if any, imposed on dividends paid on our common shares. The rules governing United States foreign tax credits are complex, and we recommend that you consult your tax advisor regarding the applicability of such rules to you.

Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition of Our Common Shares

Subject to the PFIC rules discussed below, generally, in connection with the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of our common shares:

 

   

you will recognize capital gain or loss equal to the difference (if any) between:

 

   

the amount realized on such sale, exchange or other taxable disposition and

 

   

your adjusted tax basis in such common shares (your adjusted tax basis in the shares you hold generally will equal your U.S. dollar cost of such shares);

 

   

such gain or loss will be long-term capital gain or loss if your holding period for our common shares is more than one year at the time of such sale or other disposition;

 

   

such gain or loss will generally be treated as United States source for United States foreign tax credit purposes; and

 

   

your ability to deduct capital losses is subject to limitations.

 

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Long-term capital gains recognized by individuals and certain other non-corporate taxpayers in tax years before January 1, 2013, are taxed at the rate of 0 or 15 percent, depending upon the particular taxpayer’s U.S. federal income tax bracket. The special tax rates on long-term gains will expire on December 31, 2012. Starting 2013, the tax rate on long-term capital gains will be 20 percent (or 10 percent for a taxpayer in the 15 percent tax bracket). Recent legislation will impose, beginning in 2013, a new 3.8 percent Medicare contribution tax on net investment income, including interest, dividends, and capital gain, of U.S. individuals with income exceeding $200,000 (or $250,000 if married filing jointly), and of estates and trusts.

Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC)

We believe that our common shares should not be treated as stock of a Passive Foreign Investment Company, or PFIC, for United States federal income tax purposes, but this conclusion is a legal and factual determination that is made annually and thus may be subject to change. If we were to be treated as a PFIC, unless a U.S. holder elects to be taxed annually on a mark-to-market basis with respect to the shares, gain realized on the sale or other disposition of your common shares would in general not be treated as capital gain. Instead, if you are a U.S. holder, you would be treated as if you had realized such gain and certain “excess distributions” ratably over your holding period for the common shares and would not be taxed at the highest tax rate in effect for each such year to which the gain was allocated, together with an interest charge in respect of the tax attributable to each such year. With certain exceptions, your common shares will be treated as stock in a PFIC if we were a PFIC at any time during your holding period in your common shares. Dividends that you receive from us will not be eligible for the special tax rates applicable to qualified dividend income if we are treated as a PFIC with respect to you either in the taxable year of the distribution or the preceding taxable year, but instead will be taxable at rates applicable to ordinary income.

Non-U.S. Holders

If you are not a U.S. Holder, you are a “Non-U.S. Holder.”

Distributions on Our Common Shares

You generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax, including withholding tax, on distributions made on our common shares unless:

 

   

you conduct a trade or business in the United States and

 

   

the distributions are effectively connected with the conduct of that trade or business (and, if an applicable income tax treaty so requires as a condition for you to be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of income from our common shares, such distributions are attributable to a permanent establishment that you maintain in the United States).

If you meet the two tests above, you generally will be subject to tax in respect of such dividends in the same manner as a U.S. Holder, as described above. In addition, any effectively connected dividends received by a non-U.S. corporation may also, under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at a 30 percent rate or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty.

Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition of Our Common Shares

Generally, you will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax, including withholding tax, in respect of gain recognized on a sale or other taxable disposition of our common shares unless:

 

   

your gain is effectively connected with a trade or business that you conduct in the United States (and, if an applicable income tax treaty so requires as a condition for you to be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of gain from the sale or other disposition of our common shares, such gain is attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by you in the United States), or

 

   

you are an individual Non-U.S. Holder and are present in the United States for at least 183 days in the taxable year of the sale or other disposition, and certain other conditions exist.

You will be subject to tax in respect of any gain effectively connected with your conduct of a trade or business in the United States generally in the same manner as a U.S. Holder, as described above. Effectively connected gains realized by a non-U.S. corporation may also, under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at a rate of 30 percent or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty.

 

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Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

Payments, including dividends and proceeds of sales, in respect of our common shares that are made in the United States or by a United States related financial intermediary will be subject to United States information reporting rules. In addition, such payments may be subject to United States federal backup withholding tax. You will not be subject to backup withholding provided that:

 

   

you are a corporation or other exempt recipient, or

 

   

you provide your correct United States federal taxpayer identification number and certify, under penalties of perjury, that you are not subject to backup withholding.

Amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be credited against your United States federal income tax, and you may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS in a timely manner.

Documents on Display

We are subject to the information requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In accordance with these requirements, we file reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These materials may be inspected and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Commission’s Public Reference Room by calling the Commission in the United States at 1-800-SEC-0330. The Commission also maintains a web site at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the Commission.

 

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

Market Risks

Our exposure to financial market risks relates primarily to changes in interest rates and foreign exchange rates. To mitigate these risks, we utilize derivative financial instruments, the application of which is primarily for hedging, and not for speculative, purposes.

Interest Rate Risks

As of December 31, 2011, we had aggregate debts outstanding of NT$9,715 million (US$321 million), which was incurred for capital expenditure and general operating expenses. Of our outstanding debts as of December 31, 2011, 94.4% bear interest at variable rates. The interest rate for the majority of our variable rate debts varies based on a fixed percentage spread over the prime rate established by our lenders. Our variable rate debts had an annual weighted average interest rate of 2.953% as of December 31, 2011. Accordingly, we have cash flows and earnings exposure due to market interest rate changes for our variable rate debts. An increase in interest rates of 1% would increase our annual interest charge by NT$92 million (US$3 million) based on our outstanding floating rate indebtedness as of December 31, 2011.

As of December 31, 2010 and 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan had no interest rate swap agreements outstanding.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risks

Our foreign currency exposure gives rise to market risks associated with exchange rate movements against the NT dollar, is the Japanese yen and the US dollar. As of December 31, 2011, 51.7% of our financial assets and 9.0% of our financial liabilities are denominated in the US dollar and Japanese yen, respectively. To minimize foreign currency exchange risk, from time to time we utilize forward exchange contracts and foreign currency options to hedge our exchange rate risk on foreign currency assets or liabilities positions. These hedging transactions help to reduce, but do not eliminate, the impact of foreign currency exchange rate movements. An average appreciation of the NT dollar against all other relevant foreign currencies of 5% would decrease our exchange gain by NT$240 million (US$8 million) based on our outstanding assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies as of December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, we had no outstanding forward exchange or foreign currency option contracts.

See Note 23 of our audited consolidated financial statements for additional information on these derivative transactions.

 

Item 12. Description of Securities Other Than Equity Securities

Not applicable.

 

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PART II

 

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

None.

 

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

Not applicable.

 

Item 15. Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures. An evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Based upon that evaluation, the chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2011.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting is set forth below.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

April 26, 2012

Management of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. (together with its consolidated subsidiaries, the “Company”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of the Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Company’s financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the Republic of China and the required reconciliation to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.

As of December 31, 2011, the Company’s management, with the participation of the Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer, conducted an assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting using criteria set forth in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, the Company’s management has concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011 was effective.

Moore Stephens, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report of the Company on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2011 and has issued an attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011. The attestation report is set forth in “Item 18. Financial Statements”.

 

/s/ Shih-Jye Cheng

   

/s/ Shou-Kang Chen

Name:   Shih-Jye Cheng     Name:   Shou-Kang Chen
Title:   Chairman and Chief Executive Officer     Title:   Chief Financial Officer

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. During 2011, no change to our internal control over financial reporting occurred that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 16A.     Audit Committee Financial Expert

Our Board of Directors have determined that Chin-Shyh Ou, one of our independent directors, qualified as audit committee financial expert and meets the independence requirement as defined in Item 16A to Form 20-F.

 

Item 16B.     Code of Ethics

We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, which applies to our directors, officers and employees. A copy of our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is filed as Exhibit 11.1 to this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

 

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Item 16C.     Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The table below summarizes the aggregate fees that we paid or accrued for services provided by Moore Stephens for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2011.

 

     2010      2011  
     NT$      NT$  
     (In thousands)  

Audit Fees

   $ 10,549       $ 9,686   

Audit Related Fees

     —           —     

Tax Fees

     —           —     

All Other Fees

     —           —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 10,549       $ 9,686   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Audit Fees. This category includes the audit of our annual financial statements and services that are normally provided by the independent auditors in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years. For 2010 and 2011, this category primarily include the audit of our financial statements and our internal control over financial reporting contained in this Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Audit-Related Fees. This category includes fees reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements and not included in the category of Audit Fees (described above).

All non-audit services are pre-approved by our Audit Committee on a case-by-case basis. Accordingly, we have not established any pre-approval policies and procedures.

All audit services that Moore Stephens was engaged to carry out after May 6, 2003, the effective date of revised Rule 2-01(c)(7) of Regulation S-X entitled “Audit Committee Administration of the Engagement” on strengthening requirements regarding auditor independence, were pre-approved by the Audit Committee.

 

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

Not applicable.

 

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

On October 3, 2011, our Board of Directors approved and subsequently implemented a Rule 10b5-1 and 10b-18 share repurchase program in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act 1934, as amended, on November 17, 2012 to purchase through a broker our common shares, with a maximum purchase amount of US$10 million. As of December 31, 2011, no share was purchased under the share repurchase program.

 

Item 16F.     Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

Not applicable.

 

Item 16G.     Corporate Governance

Our corporate governance practices are governed by applicable Bermuda law, specifically, the Bermuda Companies Act, and our memorandum of association and bye-laws. Also, because our securities are listed on the NASDAQ, we are subject to corporate governance requirements applicable to NASDAQ-listed foreign private issuers under NASDAQ listing rules.

Under NASDAQ Rule 5615(a)(3), NASDAQ-listed foreign private issuers may, in general, follow their home country corporate governance practices instead of most NASDAQ corporate governance requirements. However, all NASDAQ-listed, foreign private issuers must comply with NASDAQ Rules 5605(c)(2)(A)(ii), 5605(c)(3), 5625 and 5640.

 

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Item 16G requires a foreign private issuer to provide in its annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission a brief, general summary of any significant ways its corporate governance practices differ from those followed by NASDAQ-listed domestic companies. The table below provides this summary information as required by Item 16G and by NASDAQ Rule 5615(a)(3):

 

NASDAQ Listing Rule

  

Corporate Governance Practice To Be
Followed by Domestic Companies

  

Our Corporate Governance Practice

5605(b)    Requires a majority independent board and an independent director executive session.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.
5605(c)(1)    Audit committee charter requirements.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.
5605(c)(2)(A)(ii)    Audit committee composition and independence requirements.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.
5605(c)(2)(A)(i), (iii), (iv)    Audit committee financial sophistication requirements.    We follow governance practices under Bermuda law: Bermuda Companies Act does not have such requirement.
5605(c)(3)    Audit committee responsibilities and authority requirements.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.
5605(d), (e)    Requires independent director oversight of executive officer compensation and director nominations.    We follow governance practices under Bermuda law: Bermuda Companies Act does not have such requirement.
5610    Requires a code of conduct for directors, officers and employees.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.
5620    Annual shareholder meeting requirements.   

We follow governance practices under Bermuda law.

 

The Bermuda Companies Act and our bye-laws provide for certain requirements for the annual shareholder meeting, including the following:

      (a) an annual general meeting at least once in every calendar year unless according to the provisions of Bermuda Companies Act, shareholders elect to dispense with the holding of annual general meetings;
      (b) the Bermuda Companies Act does not have express provisions requiring proxy solicitation; and
      (c) under bye-law 49, the quorum for any annual general meeting shall be at least two shareholders present in person or by proxy and holding shares representing at least fifty percent (50%) of the total voting rights of all the shareholders having the right to vote at such meeting and entitled to vote.
5625    Requires an issuer to notify NASDAQ of any material noncompliance with the Rule 5600 series.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.
5630    Requires oversight of related party transactions.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.
5635    Circumstances that require shareholder approval.    We follow governance practices under Bermuda law. The Bermuda Companies Act and our bye-laws provide for certain circumstances which require shareholders’ approval, including the following:
      (a) under bye-law 5, subject to the Bermuda Companies Act, all or any of the special rights for the time being attached to any class of shares for the time being issued may from time to time be altered or abrogated with the consent in writing of the holders of not less than 75% of the issued shares of that class or with the sanction of a resolution of our shareholders passed at a separate general meeting of the holders of such shares voting in person or by proxy;

 

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NASDAQ Listing Rule

  

Corporate Governance Practice To Be
Followed by Domestic Companies

  

Our Corporate Governance Practice

      (b) under bye-law 129, subject to the Bermuda Companies Act and our bye-laws, any resolution proposed for consideration at any general meeting to approve (i) the merger, amalgamation or any other consolidation of us with any other company, wherever incorporated; (ii) any sale, lease, exchange, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of our consolidated assets; and (iii) the adoption for any plan or proposal for our liquidation, shall require the approval of our shareholders holding shares representing at least 70% of the total voting rights of all the shareholders having the right to vote at such meeting; and
      (c) under the Bermuda Companies Act, there are provisions setting out the requirements as well as specified shareholders’ approval for a scheme of arrangement, compulsory acquisition, amalgamation or merger.
5640    Shareholder voting rights requirements.    We follow the same NASDAQ listing rule governance practice as followed by domestic companies.

PART III

 

Item 17. Financial Statements

The Company has elected to provide the financial statements and related information specified in Item 18 in lieu of Item 17.

 

Item 18. Financial Statements

The financial statements and related information of the Company are located at pages F-1 to F-61.

 

Item 19. Exhibits

 

Exhibits

  

Description

1.1

   Memorandum of Association of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.(1)

1.2

   Bye-laws of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.(10)

2.1

   Certificate of Incorporation of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD., dated August 15, 2000.(1)

4.1

   Joint Venture Agreement, dated July 14, 1997, between Mosel Vitelic Inc. and Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.(1)

4.2

   Asset Sales Agreement, dated June 14, 1999, between Microchip Technology Taiwan and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.3

   Tessera Compliant Chip License Agreement, dated April 20, 1999, between Tessera Inc. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.4

   License Agreement, dated April 1, 1999, between Fujitsu Ltd. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.5

   Sales Agreement, dated February 10, 2000, between Sharp Corp. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.6

   Raw Materials Processing Agreement, dated August 10, 2000, between Mosel Vitelic Inc. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.7

   Raw Materials Processing Agreement, dated January 1, 2001, between Siliconware Precision Co. Ltd. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.8

   Integrated Circuit Processing Agreement, dated January 1, 2001, between Siliconware Precision Co. Ltd. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.9

   Integrated Circuit Processing and Warehousing Management Agreement, dated August 10, 2000, between Mosel Vitelic Inc. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.10

   Land Lease Agreement, dated November 26, 1997, between Science Based Industrial Park Administration and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.11

   Land Lease Agreement, dated November 26, 1997, between Science Based Industrial Park Administration and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

 

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Exhibits

  

Description

4.12

   Land Lease Agreement, dated September 1, 1997, between Science Based Industrial Park Administration and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(1)

4.13

   Purchase Agreement, dated July 31, 1997, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Mosel Vitelic Inc.(1)

4.14

   Form of Share Exchange Covenant Letter from the Company to the Shareholders.(1)

4.15

   Amendment to the Integrated Circuit Processing and Warehousing Management Agreement, dated August 10, 2000, between Mosel Vitelic Inc. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC, dated September 1, 2001.(2)

4.16

   Purchase Agreement, dated October 15, 2003, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and DenMOS Technology Inc.(2)

4.17

   Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated April 25, 2003, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Ron How Investment Corp. (English Translation)(3)

4.18

   Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated April 25, 2003, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Yuan Shan Investment Corp. (English Translation)(3)

4.19

   Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated April 25, 2003, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Mosel Vitelic Inc. (English Translation)(3)

4.20

   Laser Stamping Machine Lease Agreement, dated November 1, 2002, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and CHANTEK ELECTRONIC CO., LTD. (English Translation)(3)

4.21

   Automatic Stamping Machine Lease Agreement, dated December 1, 2002, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and CHANTEK ELECTRONIC CO., LTD. (English Translation)(3)

4.22

   Raw Materials Processing Agreement, dated January 1, 2003, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and CHANTEK ELECTRONIC CO., LTD. (English Translation)(3)

4.23

   Integrated Circuit Processing Agreement, dated January 1, 2003, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and CHANTEK ELECTRONIC CO., LTD. (English Translation)(3)

4.24

   Technology Transfer Agreement, dated December 24, 2002, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp. (English Translation)(3)

4.25

   Tester Equipment Lease Agreement, dated November 14, 2002, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp. (English Translation)(3)

4.26

   Tester Equipment Lease Agreement, dated December 3, 2002, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp. (English Translation)(3)

4.27

   Joint Engagement Letter, undated, by and among Ultima Electronics Corp., ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Sun-Fund Securities Ltd. (English Translation)(3)

4.28

   Lease Agreement, dated June 1, 2002, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and SyncMOS Technologies, Inc. (English Translation)(3)

4.29

   Technology Transfer Agreement, dated August 1, 2002, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Shanghai) LTD.(3)

4.30

   Promissory Note from Modern Mind Technology Limited to Jesper Limited, dated November 4, 2002.(3)

4.31

   Deed of Variation, dated December 2, 2002, between Modern Mind Technology Limited and Jesper Limited.(3)

4.32

  

Deed of Assignment, dated December 27, 2002, between Jesper Limited and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda)

LTD.(3)

4.33

   Deed of Assignment, dated June 25, 2003, between Jesper Limited and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(3)

4.34

   Agreement, dated May 3, 2003, between Jesper Limited and Modern Mind Technology Limited.(3)

4.35

   Master loan agreement, dated July 12, 2004, among ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD., Modern Mind Technology Limited and Jesper Limited.(5)

4.36

   Cooperation Agreement, dated March 27, 2002, between Shanghai Qingpu Industrial Zone Development (Group) Company and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. (English Translation)(3)

4.37

   Deed of assignment, dated December 17, 2003, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.(4)

 

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Exhibits

  

Description

4.38

   Supplemental deed of assignment, dated May 14, 2004 between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.(4)

4.39

   Second supplemental deed of assignment, dated October 11, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(5)

4.40

   Assignment agreement, dated April 7, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(4)

4.41

   Supplemental assignment agreement, dated May 14, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(4)

4.42

   Second supplemental assignment agreement, dated October 11, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(5)

4.43

   Patent license agreement, dated April 7, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(4)

4.44

   Supplemental patent license agreement dated July 8, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(5)

4.45

   Second supplemental patent license agreement dated October 11, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(5)

4.46

   Third supplemental patent license agreement dated December 30, 2004, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(5)

4.47

   Assembly and Testing Service Agreement, dated November 27, 2005, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Spansion LLC.(6)

4.48

   Share Purchase and Subscription Agreement, dated February 13, 2007, among ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD., ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.(7)

4.49

   Registration Rights Agreement, dated March 27, 2007, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.(7)

4.50

   Share Exchange Agreement, dated as of April 12, 2007, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(9)

4.51

   Assignment Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(8)

4.52

   Form of Change In Control Severance Agreement.(9)

4.53

   Southern Taiwan Science Park Administration Land Lease Agreement, dated June 1, 2007, between Southern Taiwan Science Park Administration and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (English Translation)(9)

4.54

   Second Amendment to Assembly and Test Service Agreement, dated July 16, 2007, by and between Spansion LLC and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(9)

4.55

   Service Agreement for Integrated Circuit Products, dated July 17, 2007, by and between ProMOS Technologies Inc. and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (English Translation)(9)

4.56

   Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 8, 2007, among ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD., Giant Haven Investment Limited, ProMOS Technologies Inc. and Powertech Technology Inc.(9)

4.57

   Third Amendment to Assembly and Test Services Agreement, dated November 30, 2007, by and between Spansion LLC and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.(9)

4.58

   Science Park Administration Land Lease Agreement, dated December 1, 2007, between Science Park Administration and ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (English Translation)(9)

4.59

   Lease Agreement, dated April 2, 2008, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp. (English Translation)(9)

4.60

   Master Lease Agreement and Addendums to the Master Lease Agreement, dated November 9, 2009, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and GE Money Taiwan Limited.(11)

4.61

   Transfer of Claim Agreement, dated January 25, 2010, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Citigroup Financial Products Inc.(11)

 

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Exhibits

  

Description

4.62

   Share Purchase Agreement, dated February 26, 2010, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.(11)

4.63

   Equipment Purchase Agreement, dated February 26, 2010, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.(11)

4.64

   Assignment and Assumption Agreement, effective on April 22, 2011 between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp. (12)

4.65

   Syndicated Loan Agreement, dated July 14, 2011, between ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. and Taiwan Cooperative Bank, Bank of Taiwan and Land Bank of Taiwan as the lead Arrangers.

  8.1

   List of principal subsidiaries of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

11.1

   Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.(4)

12.1

   Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) under the Exchange Act.

12.2

   Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) under the Exchange Act.

13.1

   Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) under the Exchange Act.

13.2

   Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b) under the Exchange Act.

15.1

   Consent of independent registered public accounting firm.

 

(1) Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-13218), filed on February 28, 2001.
(2) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 17, 2002.
(3) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 30, 2003.
(4) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 17, 2004.
(5) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 29, 2005.
(6) Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333-130230), filed on December 9, 2005.
(7) Incorporated by reference to Schedule 13D filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission by Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd. on April 4, 2007.
(8) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 8 2007.
(9) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 6, 2008.
(10) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 4, 2009.
(11) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 4, 2010.
(12) Incorporated by reference to our Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 0-31106), filed on June 3, 2011.

We have not included as exhibits certain instruments with respect to our debt, the amount of debt authorized under each of which does not exceed 10% of our total assets, and we agree to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the Commission upon request.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant certifies that it meets all the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and it has duly caused this Annual Report on Form 20-F to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China, on April 26, 2012.

 

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.
By:  

/s/ Shih-Jye Cheng

Name:   Shih-Jye Cheng
Title:   Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

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ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     F-2   

Consolidated Balance Sheets

     F-4   

Consolidated Statements of Operations

     F-6   

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

     F-8   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

     F-9   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-11   

 

F-1


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Shareholders

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. and subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) (see Note 1) as of December 31, 2010 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011, all expressed in New Taiwan dollars. We have also audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the Republic of China and the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

F-2


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (continued)

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2010 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of China. Also, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

Accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of China vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The application of the latter would have affected the determination of net income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2011, and the determination of equity and financial position at December 31, 2010 and 2011, to the extent summarized in Note 25.

/s/ Moore Stephens

Certified Public Accountants

Hong Kong

March 15, 2012

 

F-3


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31, 2010 and 2011 (Notes 1 and 17)

(In Thousands of New Taiwan and U.S. Dollars, Except Par Value)

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$    

US$

(Note 3)

 

ASSETS

         

CURRENT ASSETS

         

Cash and cash equivalents

     7,143,265           7,357,902        243,076   

Restricted cash and cash equivalents (Note 20)

     546,807           285,133        9,420   

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss (Notes 2 and 4)

     2,999           —          —     

Notes receivable (Note 2)

     13,980           5,710        189   

Accounts receivable - net of allowance for doubtful receivables and sales return allowances of NT$197,311 in 2010 and NT$121,143 in 2011 (Notes 2 and 5)

         

Related parties (Note 19)

     257,982           —          —     

Third parties

     2,816,072           3,666,507        121,127   

Other receivables - net of allowance for doubtful receivables and sales return allowances of NT$64,783 in 2010 and NT$64,783 in 2011 (Notes 2 and 5)

         

Related parties (Note 19)

     66,378           —          —     

Third parties

     182,028           73,179        2,417   

Inventories - net (Notes 2 and 6)

     1,279,804           1,533,866        50,673   

Deferred income tax - net (Notes 2 and 18)

     278,711           76,559        2,529   

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     202,272           92,335        3,050   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Current Assets

     12,790,298           13,091,191        432,481   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS (Notes 2 and 7)

         

Financial assets carried at cost

     10,537           39,121        1,292   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - NET (Notes 2 and 20)

         

Cost

         

Land

     452,738           452,738        14,957   

Buildings and auxiliary equipment

     8,721,205           9,095,376        300,475   

Machinery and equipment

     35,222,825           38,698,624        1,278,448   

Furniture and fixtures

     1,289,149           1,401,278        46,293   

Transportation equipment

     36,396           36,819        1,216   

Tools

     2,970,633           3,056,053        100,960   

Leasehold improvements

     2,223           2,310        76   

Leased equipment (Note 15)

     2,149,768           —          —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total cost

     50,844,937           52,743,198        1,742,425   

Accumulated depreciation (Note 8)

     (33,342,105        (37,910,331     (1,252,406

Accumulated impairment

     (1,310,474        (1,417,109     (46,816

Construction in progress and advance payments

     1,080,610           480,290        15,867   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Property, Plant and Equipment

     17,272,968           13,896,048        459,070   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

INTANGIBLE ASSETS - NET (Notes 2 and 9)

     94,265           100,498        3,320   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

OTHER ASSETS

         

Employee dormitory buildings - net of accumulated depreciation of NT$152,639 in 2010 and NT$180,731 in 2011 (Note 2)

     262,735           248,429        8,207   

Refundable deposits

     20,295           21,364        706   

Prepaid pension (Notes 2 and 16)

     26,825           33,541        1,108   

Deferred income tax – net (Notes 2 and 18)

     417,931           600,351        19,833   

Others (Note 2)

     419,176           250,522        8,277   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Assets

     1,146,962           1,154,207        38,131   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

     31,315,030           28,281,065        934,294   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-4


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)

December 31, 2010 and 2011 (Notes 1 and 17)

(In Thousands of New Taiwan and U.S. Dollars, Except Par Value)

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$    

US$

(Note 3)

 

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

         

CURRENT LIABILITIES

         

Bank loans (Notes 10 and 20)

     1,494,651           546,916        18,068   

Current portion of long-term loans (Notes 14 and 20)

     4,925,739           684,028        22,598   

Convertible notes (Note 13)

     65,834           —          —     

Deferred credit

     2,181           2,383        79   

Accounts payable

     690,060           1,130,730        37,355   

Other payables

         

Related parties (Note 19)

     13           —          —     

Third parties (Note 11)

     896,706           1,081,530        35,729   

Income tax payable (Note 2)

     18,799           20,283        670   

Payables to contractors and equipment suppliers (Note 19)

     790,598           415,391        13,723   

Capital leases payable (Notes 15 and 20)

     822,047           —          —     

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (Note 12)

     990,896           830,903        27,449   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Current Liabilities

     10,697,524           4,712,164        155,671   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

         

Convertible notes (Note 13)

     108,304           —          —     

Derivative liabilities (Note 13)

     96,788           —          —     

Capital leases payable (Notes 15 and 20)

     631,744           —          —     

Long-term loans (Notes 14 and 20)

     5,640,132           8,484,300        280,287   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Long-Term Liabilities

     6,476,968           8,484,300        280,287   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

OTHER LIABILITIES

         

Deferred credit

     89,425           95,304        3,149   

Accrued pension cost (Notes 2 and 16)

     3,665           4,250        140   

Guarantee deposits

     3,989           1,777        59   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Liabilities

     97,079           101,331        3,348   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Liabilities

     17,271,571           13,297,795        439,306   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 21)

         

EQUITY (Notes 2 and 17) (1)

         

Capital stock NT$1.169 (US$0.04) par value

         

Authorized 62,500 thousand common shares and 18,750 thousand preferred shares

         

Issued 33,398 thousand common shares (2010: 27,638 thousand common shares)

         

Outstanding 26,924 thousand common shares (2010: 25,715 thousand common shares)

     36,008           39,041        1,290   

Capital surplus

     14,040,716           15,201,353        502,192   

Deferred compensation

     (1,577        —          —     

Accumulated losses

     (3,772,270        (3,787,431     (125,122

Cumulative translation adjustments

     326,051           433,902        14,335   

Treasury stock

     (128,614        (924,781     (30,551
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Shareholders’ Equity

     10,500,314           10,962,084        362,144   

Noncontrolling interests

     3,543,145           4,021,186        132,844   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Equity

     14,043,459           14,983,270        494,988   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

     31,315,030           28,281,065        934,294   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) The outstanding shares and par value reflect the reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock with a ratio of 1-for-every-4 shares effective on January 21, 2011.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-5


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 (Notes 1 and 17)

(In Thousands of New Taiwan and U.S. Dollars, Except Earnings Per Share)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     

US$

(Note 3)

 

NET REVENUE (Notes 2, 19 and 24)

         

Related parties

     668,906        2,033,342        379,009         12,521   

Third parties

     11,481,402        15,176,391        17,831,928         589,096   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Net Revenues

     12,150,308        17,209,733        18,210,937         601,617   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

COST OF REVENUE (Notes 24)

         

Related parties

     885,119        2,408,321        446,609         14,754   

Third parties

     14,776,333        14,155,682        16,102,605         531,966   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Cost of Revenue

     15,661,452        16,564,003        16,549,214         546,720   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

GROSS PROFIT (LOSS)

     (3,511,144     645,730        1,661,723         54,897   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES (Note 19)

         

Research and development (Note 2)

     375,283        412,753        409,754         13,537   

General and administrative

     657,802        677,618        651,922         21,537   

Sales and marketing (Notes 2 and 5)

     561,231        64,382        66,538         2,198   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Operating Expenses

     1,594,316        1,154,753        1,128,214         37,272   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS

     (5,105,460     (509,023     533,509         17,625   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

NON-OPERATING INCOME

         

Gain on embedded derivative

     50,740        —          —           —     

Foreign exchange gain - net (Note 2)

     14,683        —          129,721         4,286   

Rental

     12,307        12,648        9,605         317   

Interest (Note 19)

     37,297        15,861        23,772         785   

Cash dividend from financial assets

     —          9,194        —           —     

Fair value gain on financial assets

     62,674        3,918        —           —     

Subsidy income

     4,128        —          —           —     

Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment (Note 2)

     10,274        104,310        39,061         1,290   

Gain on disposal of financial assets

     —          15,819        1,254         42   

Gain on partial disposal of a subsidiary

     —          31,372        —           —     

Gain on extinguishment of convertible notes

     412,337        —          —           —     

Claim received (Note 5)

     —          2,118,490        —           —     

Recovery of allowance for doubtful receivables (Notes 5 and 19)

     —          2,716,880        —           —     

Royalty income

     —          —          10,616         351   

Other

     63,751        183,491        79,320         2,620   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total Non-Operating Income

     668,191        5,211,983        293,349         9,691   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-6


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 (Notes 1 and 17)

(In Thousands of New Taiwan and U.S. Dollars, Except Earnings Per Share)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$    

US$

(Note 3)

 

NON-OPERATING EXPENSES

        

Interest

     439,411        683,486        309,286        10,218   

Financing cost

     37,081        39,613        99,436        3,285   

Foreign exchange loss - net (Note 2)

     —          292,567        —          —     

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment (Note 2)

     152        83,593        7,389        244   

Impairment loss on long-term investments (Note 7)

     —          9,429        —          —     

Impairment loss on property, plant and equipment

     25,543        —          —          —     

Impairment loss on other assets

     —          391,646        168,154        5,555   

Loss on embedded derivative

     —          260,654        57,188        1,889   

Loss on partial disposal of a subsidiary

     —          —          74,923        2,475   

Loss on sale of receivables (Note 5)

     —          1,067,791        —          —     

Other

     49,262        62,615        32,743        1,082   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Non-Operating Expenses

     551,449        2,891,394        749,119        24,748   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAX AND NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

     (4,988,718     1,811,566        77,739        2,568   

INCOME TAX BENEFIT (EXPENSE) (Notes 2 and 18)

     420,662        99,360        (45,506     (1,503
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

     (4,568,056     1,910,926        32,233        1,065   

NET LOSS (INCOME) ATTRIBUTABLE TO NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

     149,373        (266,194     (47,394     (1,566
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO ChipMOS

     (4,418,683     1,644,732        (15,161     (501
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE - BASIC (1)

     (223.35     68.61        (0.57     (0.02
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING - BASIC(1)

     19,784        23,971        26,590        26,590   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE - DILUTED (Note 2) (1)

     (230.15     67.38        (0.57     (0.02
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING - DILUTED (Note 2) (1)

     22,254        26,806        26,590        26,590   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) The outstanding shares and per share information reflect the reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock with a ratio of 1-for-every-4 shares effective on January 21, 2011.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-7


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 (Notes 1 and 17)

(In Thousands of New Taiwan Dollars, Except Number of Shares)

 

     CAPITAL STOCK     CAPITAL     DEFERRED     RETAINED
EARNINGS
(ACCUMULATED
    CUMULATIVE
TRANSLATION
ADJUSTMENTS
    TREASURY     NON-
CONTROLLING
    TOTAL  
     Shares (1)     Amount     SURPLUS     COMPENSATION     LOSSES)     (Note 2)     STOCK     INTERESTS     EQUITY  
     (Thousands)     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$     NT$  

BALANCE, January 1, 2009

     20,943        27,557        12,784,081        (26,000     (998,319     433,714        (1,779     2,323,559        14,542,813   

Issue of option warrants

     —          —          73,292        17,308        —          —          —          —          90,600   

Net loss for 2009

     —          —          —          —          (4,418,683     —          —          (149,373     (4,568,056

Adjustment of equity method for long- term investments

     —          —          2,724        —          —          —          —          —          2,724   

Changes in noncontrolling interests

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (6,731     (6,731

Stock purchased by a subsidiary

     (1,472     —          —          —          —          —          (79,936     —          (79,936

Translation adjustments

     —          —          —          —          —          (29,197     —          —          (29,197
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2009

     19,471        27,557        12,860,097        (8,692     (5,417,002     404,517        (81,715     2,167,455        9,952,217   

Exercise of stock option

     19        23        1,427        —          —          —          —          —          1,450   

Issue of option warrants

     —          —          36,757        7,115        —          —          —          —          43,872   

Net profit for 2010

     —          —          —          —          1,644,732        —          —          266,194        1,910,926   

Interest payment for convertible notes(“CN”)

     290        879        75,236        —          —          —          (46,899     —          29,216   

CN conversion

     5,935        7,549        1,070,459        —          —          —          —          —          1,078,008   

Adjustment of equity method for long- term investments

     —          —          (3,260     —          —          —          —          —          (3,260

Changes in noncontrolling interests

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —          3,710        3,710   

Partial disposal of a subsidiary

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —          1,105,786        1,105,786   

Translation adjustments

     —          —          —          —          —          (78,466     —          —          (78,466
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2010

     25,715        36,008        14,040,716        (1,577     (3,772,270     326,051        (128,614     3,543,145        14,043,459   

Exercise of stock option

     96        111        15,871        —          —          —          —          —          15,982   

Issue of option warrants

     —          —          47,402        1,577        —          —          —          —          48,979   

Net loss for 2011

     —          —          —          —          (15,161     —          —          47,394        32,233   

Interest payment for CN

     27        108        16,828        —          —          —          (11,528     —          5,408   

CN conversion

     1,086        6,619        1,083,589        —          —          —          (784,639     —          305,569   

Adjustment of equity method for long- term investments

     —          —          (6,619     —          —          —          —          —          (6,619

Changes in noncontrolling interests

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (132,806     (132,806

Partial disposal of a subsidiary

     —          —          —          —          —          —          —          563,453        563,453   

Reverse stock split

     —          (3,805     3,566        —          —          —          —          —          (239

Translation adjustments

     —          —          —          —          —          107,851        —          —          107,851   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 2011

     26,924        39,041        15,201,353        —          (3,787,431     433,902        (924,781     4,021,186        14,983,270   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) The outstanding shares reflect the reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock with a ratio of 1-for-every-4 shares effective on January 21, 2011.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-8


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 (Notes 1 and 17)

(In Thousands of New Taiwan and U.S. Dollars)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$    

US$

(Note 3)

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

        

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS

     (4,418,683     1,644,732        (15,161     (501

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities

        

Depreciation

     6,340,321        6,132,868        5,513,554        182,146   

Amortization of intangible and other assets

     184,275        148,761        164,050        5,420   

Amortization of discount of convertible notes

     3,737        11,762        1,298        43   

Interest payment from conversion of CN

     —          276,891        39,780        1,314   

Allowance for doubtful receivables

     1,064,771        73,882        1,566        52   

Recovery of allowance for doubtful receivables

     (560,854     (2,718,171     (69,205     (2,286

Deferred compensation

     90,600        43,872        48,979        1,618   

Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment - net

     (10,122     (20,717     (31,672     (1,046

Gain on extinguishment of convertible notes

     (412,337     —          —          —     

Gain on disposal of financial assets

     —          (15,819     (1,254     (42

Loss (gain) on partial disposal of a subsidiary

     —          (31,372     74,923        2,475   

Loss (gain) on embedded derivative

     (50,740     260,654        57,188        1,889   

Impairment loss on long-term investments

     —          9,429        —          —     

Impairment loss on property, plant and equipment

     25,543        —          —          —     

Impairment loss on other assets

     —          391,646        168,154        5,555   

Fair value gain on financial assets

     (62,674     (3,918     —          —     

Accrued pension cost

     (8,288     (7,044     (6,131     (203

Deferred income tax - net

     (447,683     (126,966     19,732        652   

Noncontrolling interests

     (149,373     266,194        47,394        1,566   

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

        

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss

     102,137        124,813        4,253        141   

Notes receivable

     181,243        13,950        8,270        273   

Accounts receivable

     (1,241,354     1,563,610        (693,101     (22,897

Other receivables

     (399,651     383,356        119,243        3,939   

Inventories

     137,166        (423,180     (58,712     (1,940

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     (238     60,565        132,673        4,383   

Other assets

     409        61        (2,002     (66

Accounts payable

     263,564        (43,357     433,196        14,311   

Other payables

     68,422        202,253        160,974        5,318   

Income tax payable

     18,078        (858     1,483        49   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     65,162        473,312        (219,175     (7,241

Deferred credit

     (2,404     (2,304     (2,257     (75
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

     781,027        8,688,905        5,898,040        194,847   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

        

Decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents

     (172,804     (303,637     262,313        8,665   

Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment

     19,080        899,076        314,502        10,390   

Proceeds from sales of long-term investment

     —          10,953        —          —     

Proceeds from liquidation of a long-term investment

     105,000        —          —          —     

Proceeds from redemption of held-to-maturity financial assets and financial assets with no active market

     350,000        300,000        —          —     

Proceeds from sales of employee dormitory buildings and other assets

     7,048        —          6,814        225   

Proceeds from partial disposal of a subsidiary

     —          1,133,049        486,859        16,084   

Acquisitions of:

        

Long-term investment

     —          —          (28,584     (944

Property, plant and equipment

     (1,244,631     (4,467,696     (4,150,898     (137,129

Deferred assets

     (107,771     (17,913     (139,692     (4,615

Employee dormitory building and other assets

     (82     (11,102     (962     (32

Decrease (increase) in refundable deposits

     1,628        3,102        (1,070     (35
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

     (1,042,532     (2,454,168     (3,250,718     (107,391
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-9


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)

For the Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 (Notes 1 and 17)

(In Thousands of New Taiwan and U.S. Dollars)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$    

US$

(Note 3)

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

        

Payments on:

        

Bank loans

     (382,071     (868,668     (947,734     (31,309

Long-term loans

     (1,572,518     (2,227,389     (1,397,543     (46,169

Convertible notes

     (681,958     —          —          —     

Treasury stock

     (25,085     —          —          —     

Reverse stock split

     —          —          (239     (8

Proceeds from:

        

Convertible notes

     164,710        131,085        —          —     

Issuance of capital stock

     —          1,450        15,982        528   

Changes in noncontrolling interests

     (6,731     3,710        (132,806     (4,387

Increase (decrease) in guarantee deposits

     (143     323        (2,212     (73
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net Cash used in Financing Activities

     (2,503,796     (2,959,489     (2,464,552     (81,418
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH

     (1,780     (16,811     31,867        1,053   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (2,767,081     3,258,437        214,637        7,091   

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the year

     6,651,909        3,884,828        7,143,265        235,985   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of the year

     3,884,828        7,143,265        7,357,902        243,076   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

        

Income tax paid

     10,675        27,651        24,931        824   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Interest paid

     424,964        383,581        289,693        9,570   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NON-CASH FINANCING ACTIVITIES

        

Current portion of long-term loans

     1,553,949        4,925,739        684,028        22,598   

Extinguishment of convertible notes (Note 13)

     503,213        —          —          —     

Interest payment for CN in shares

     —          296,180        42,371        1,400   

PARTIAL CASH PAID FOR INVESTING ACTIVITIES

        

Cash paid for acquisition of property, plant and equipment

        

Total acquisitions

     3,479,682        4,237,278        2,319,283        76,620   

Decrease (increase) in payables to contractors and equipment suppliers

     (2,235,051     230,418        1,831,615        60,509   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,244,631        4,467,696        4,150,898        137,129   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

F-10


Table of Contents

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1. ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. (ChipMOS Bermuda) was incorporated under the laws of Bermuda on August 1, 2000, and its common shares have been traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market since June 2001. In February 2010, ChipMOS Bermuda submitted an application to the NASDAQ Stock Market to transfer its listing to The NASDAQ Capital Market from The NASDAQ Global Select Market. The NASDAQ Stock Market has determined that the Company meets the NASDAQ Capital Market initial listing criteria set forth in Listing Rule 5505. Its common shares have been traded on the NASDAQ Capital Market since March 17, 2010. As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS Bermuda was 19.38% (2010: 6.96%) owned by ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp. (ThaiLin). As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS Bermuda owned 84.22% (2010: 88.96%) of the outstanding common shares of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (ChipMOS Taiwan).

 

LOGO

ChipMOS Taiwan was incorporated in Taiwan on July 28, 1997 as a joint venture company between Mosel Vitelic Inc. (MVI) and Siliconware Precision Industries Co. Ltd. (SPIL). Its operations consist of testing and assembly of semiconductors. In connection with a corporate restructuring on January 12, 2001, the holders of an aggregate of 583,419 thousand common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan executed a Purchase and Subscription Agreement whereby they transferred their shares of ChipMOS Taiwan to ChipMOS Bermuda in exchange for 14,585 thousand common shares in ChipMOS Bermuda. The selling shareholders, who previously held an aggregate of 70.25% of the entire outstanding common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan, thus became the holders of the entire outstanding common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda. Because 100% of the outstanding common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda were owned by former shareholders of ChipMOS Taiwan, the exchange of shares has been accounted for as a merger as if ChipMOS Bermuda was the acquirer. Equity and operations attributable to ChipMOS Taiwan shareholders not participating in the exchange offer were reflected as noncontrolling interests in the historical financial statements. In March 2007, ChipMOS Bermuda, ChipMOS Taiwan and SPIL completed a share purchase and subscription transaction whereby ChipMOS Bermuda purchased 100% of SPIL’s equity interest in ChipMOS Taiwan at US$0.75 per share. SPIL also subscribed to 3,043,749 newly issued common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda through a private placement of US$6.28 per share. After the transaction, ChipMOS Taiwan became a 99.14% subsidiary of ChipMOS Bermuda and SPIL owned 14.7% of ChipMOS Bermuda. In September 2007, another share exchange transaction was completed whereby ChipMOS Bermuda offered to exchange one share of ChipMOS Bermuda for 8.4 shares of ChipMOS Taiwan shares. The exchange was completed in September 2007 and ChipMOS Taiwan became a wholly-owned subsidiary of ChipMOS Bermuda. In February 2010, ChipMOS Bermuda entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with SPIL to sell to SPIL the holding of 133,000 thousand common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan for a consideration of NT$1,630,580 thousand. In January 2011, the transaction was completed. As of December 31, 2011, SPIL held a 15.78% interest in ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS Bermuda held an 84.22% interest in ChipMOS Taiwan.

 

F-11


Table of Contents
1. ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS (continued)

 

ThaiLin was incorporated on May 15, 1996 and is listed on the GreTai Securities Market in Taiwan. ThaiLin is engaged in wafer and semiconductor testing services. On December 31, 2002, ChipMOS Taiwan acquired an equity interest of 41.8% in ThaiLin. On December 1, 2003, ChipMOS Taiwan obtained controlling influence over ThaiLin’s decisions on its operations, personnel and financial policies. Therefore, ThaiLin has been consolidated into these financial statements from December 1, 2003 in spite of the fact that ChipMOS Taiwan holds an equity interest of less than 50% in ThaiLin. ChipMOS Bermuda consolidates ThaiLin in reliance on Rule 3A-02(a) under Regulation S-X which requires a company to consolidate an entity, notwithstanding the lack of majority ownership, if such consolidation is necessary to present fairly its financial position and results of operations because of the existence of a parent-subsidiary relationship by means other than record ownership of voting stock. This is consistent with the guidance in Financial Accounting Statement Board Accounting Standard Codification (FASB ASC) 810-10. ChipMOS Bermuda has a parent-subsidiary relationship with ThaiLin by indirect ownership and by means other than record ownership of voting stock. This relationship is based on ChipMOS Bermuda’s power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of ThaiLin. As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan held a 42.87% (2010: 42.87%) equity interest in ThaiLin.

ChipMOS Japan Inc. (ChipMOS Japan) was incorporated in Japan in June 1999, and ChipMOS USA Inc. (ChipMOS USA) was incorporated in the United States of America in October 1999. These two companies engage in sales and customer services and all the expenses incurred from these activities are charged to current income. ChipMOS Japan began generating revenue in 2000, while ChipMOS USA began generating revenue in 2001. As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan owned 100% of the outstanding shares of ChipMOS USA. ChipMOS Japan was liquidated in October 2009.

MODERN MIND TECHNOLOGY LIMITED (Modern Mind) was incorporated in the British Virgin Islands on January 29, 2002. Modern Mind conducts its operations through ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Shanghai) LTD. (ChipMOS Shanghai). ChipMOS Bermuda acquired a 100% equity interest in Modern Mind on December 12, 2002, and then transferred it to Jesper Limited (Jesper) on December 31, 2002. In December 2002 and 2003, ChipMOS Bermuda acquired from Jesper and ChipMOS Taiwan, respectively, convertible notes issued by Modern Mind (MMT Notes) that are convertible into a controlling equity interest in Modern Mind if the repayment is not made when due. ChipMOS Bermuda consolidates Modern Mind and its wholly-owned subsidiary, ChipMOS Shanghai in reliance on Rule 3A-02(a) under Regulation S-X which requires a company to consolidate an entity, notwithstanding the lack of majority ownership, if such consolidation is necessary to present fairly its financial position and results of operations because of the existence of a parent-subsidiary relationship by means other than record ownership of voting stock. This is consistent with the guidance in FASB ASC 810-10. ChipMOS Bermuda has a parent-subsidiary relationship with Modern Mind by means other than record ownership of voting stock. This relationship is based on ChipMOS Bermuda’s power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of Modern Mind and ChipMOS Shanghai.

The parent-subsidiary relationship with and management and policies direction of Modern Mind and ChipMOS Shanghai is established through the MMT Notes. ChipMOS Bermuda has agreed to provide loans from time to time to Modern Mind pursuant to MMT Notes that can be converted into Modern Mind common shares at any time. Payment under the MMT Notes is fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Jesper and secured by a security interest in all outstanding equity interests in Modern Mind and ChipMOS Shanghai. Jesper has granted the Company an irrevocable option, exercisable at any time, to acquire all common shares of Modern Mind then owned by Jesper. These MMT Notes would represent, immediately after the conversion, almost 100% of the then outstanding common shares of Modern Mind. Accordingly, ChipMOS Bermuda is deemed to have a controlling interest in Modern Mind.

ChipMOS Shanghai a wholly-owned subsidiary of Modern Mind was established in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on June 7, 2002. ChipMOS Shanghai is engaged in wafer testing, semiconductor assembly and testing, and module and subsystem manufacturing. ChipMOS Shanghai commenced commercial production in 2003.

Under an assignment and assumption agreement signed on April 22, 2011, ChipMOS Bermuda agreed to sell the MMT Notes to ThaiLin for a purchase price of US$39,950 thousand. On October 3, 2011, the transaction was completed.

 

F-12


Table of Contents
1. ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS (continued)

 

On October 3, 2011, ThaiLin converted the MMT notes into common shares of Modern Mind and purchased all of the remaining common shares of Modern Mind from Jesper Limited. Modern Mind and its wholly-owned subsidiary, ChipMOS Shanghai, became wholly-owned subsidiaries of ThaiLin.

As of December 31, 2011 ChipMOS Bermuda’s interest in ChipMOS Shanghai was reduced from 100% to 36.11%.

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (H.K.) Limited (ChipMOS HK) was incorporated in Hong Kong on November 18, 2002. It is engaged in semiconductor testing and assembly services and trading of spare parts and tools. ChipMOS HK is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ChipMOS Bermuda. ChipMOS HK was liquidated in July 2011.

 

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of ChipMOS Bermuda and all subsidiaries in which ChipMOS Bermuda (hereinafter, referred to individually or collectively as the “Company”) holds a controlling interest or voting interests in excess of 50% in accordance with the requirements of ROC Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS No. 7”). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

The Company’s consolidated financial statements include for 2009, 2010 and 2011, the financial results of ChipMOS Taiwan and its subsidiaries, ThaiLin, ChipMOS USA, and Modern Mind and its wholly-owned subsidiary, ChipMOS Shanghai, and ChipMOS Japan and ChipMOS HK up to their respective dates of liquidation.

Concentration of credit risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk consist of cash, accounts and other receivables.

At December 31, 2010 and 2011, the Company had credit risk exposure of uninsured cash in banks of approximately NT$7,690,072 thousand and NT$7,643,035 thousand (US$252,496 thousand), respectively.

A substantial portion of revenue is earned from a small number of customers on credit and generally without any requirement of collateral.

The Company had one customer and two customers that had balances greater than ten percent of total notes and accounts receivable as of December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively:

 

     December 31,  
     2010     2011  

Third party

    

Micron Technology, Inc. group (“Micron”)

     6     18

Novatek Microelectronics Corp. (Novatek)

     20     13

Credit evaluation of each customer is performed and reserves for potential credit losses are maintained.

Use of estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the recorded amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses of the Company. The Company continually evaluates these estimates, including those related to allowances for doubtful amounts, inventories, useful lives of properties, income tax valuation allowances, pension plans and the fair value of financial instruments. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and other assumptions, which it believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions and conditions.

Cash equivalents

Repurchase notes with original maturity dates of three months or less are classified as cash equivalents.

 

F-13


Table of Contents
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Financial assets/liabilities at fair value through profit and loss

Financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit and loss include investments and liabilities held for trading purposes and those designated as financial assets/liabilities reported at fair value. Transaction costs directly attributable to the acquisition or issuance of these financial assets and liabilities are expensed immediately as incurred. Subsequent to initial recognition, financial assets and liabilities are remeasured at fair value and the changes shall be recognized in earnings.

Financial assets carried at cost

Investments for which the Company does not exercise significant influence and that do not have a quoted market price in an active market and whose fair value cannot be reliably measured, such as non-publicly traded stocks and mutual funds, are carried at their original cost. The costs of non-publicly traded stocks and mutual funds are determined using the weighted-average method. If there is objective evidence which indicates that a financial asset is impaired, a loss is recognized. A subsequent reversal of such impairment loss is not allowed.

Notes and accounts receivable and other receivables

Notes and accounts receivable arise from the sales of goods or services Receivables that do not arise from the sales of goods and services are classified as other receivables. Notes and accounts receivable and other receivables are initially recognized at fair value and carried at amortized cost using the effective interest method.

Individual notes and accounts receivable, and other receivables, are assessed individually for indicators of impairment as of each balance sheet date. Certain categories of financial assets, such as receivables, that are assessed not to be impaired individually are subsequently assessed for impairment on a collective basis.

For financial assets carried at amortized cost, an impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations when there is objective evidence that the asset is impaired.

If in a subsequent period, the amount of impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is reversed through the consolidated statement of operations to the extent that the carrying amount of the asset at the date the impairment is reversed does not exceed what the amortized cost would have been had the impairment not been recognized.

Allowances for sales returns and discounts

Allowances for sales returns and discounts are provided based on the sales returns from past experience; such provisions are deducted from sales and the related costs of products are deducted from cost of products sold.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of standard cost (which is adjusted to approximate weighted average cost on the balance sheet date) or net realizable value. Inventory write-down is made on an item-by-item basis, except where it may be appropriate to group similar or related items. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price of inventories less all estimated costs of completion and necessary selling costs.

 

F-14


Table of Contents
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Property, plant and equipment and employee dormitory buildings

Property, plant and equipment and employee dormitory buildings (presented as part of Other Assets) are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Major additions, renewals and improvements are capitalized while maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.

The initial estimate of the service lives of property, plant and equipment is as follows: machinery and equipment, 1 to 5 years; buildings and auxiliary equipment, 1 to 54 years; furniture and fixtures, 1 to 5 years; tooling, 1 to 2 years; transportation equipment, 5 years; and leasehold improvements, the shorter of lease term or 1 to 10 years. Salvage value is considered when determining the basis of depreciated assets. If items of property, plant and equipment and employee dormitory buildings are still in good condition and useful at the end of their original service lives, the salvage value is depreciated over any extended useful life.

Upon sale or disposal of items of properties, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is credited or charged to current income.

Leased assets

Assets under capital leases are recorded at the lower of the fair value of the leased assets and the present value of the minimum lease payments of such assets. The leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of lease terms or the estimated useful life of the leased assets.

Intangible assets

Intangible assets are recorded at cost except for donation from the government, which is measured at fair value. Subsequent to their initial recognition, the book values are the cost and their incremental value that results from revaluation minus accumulated amortization and impairment loss.

Amortization is computed using the straight-line method. The Company reevaluates the residual value, estimated useful lives, and amortization method at least once every year. Changes in the above factors will be regarded as changes in accounting estimate.

Deferred charges

Deferred charges are amortized using the straight-line method over the following periods: technology know-how, 5 years; technology license fees, 5 years; software, 2 to 4 years; bond issuance costs, using the average method.

Asset impairment

The Company reviews its long-lived assets, including properties, assets leased to others and deferred charges, to look for any indication that an asset may be impaired as of the balance sheet date. An impairment loss is recognized whenever the recoverable amount of the asset of the cash-generating unit is below the carrying amount of an asset. If there is an indicator that an asset may be impaired, then the Company calculates the recoverable amount of the asset or the cash-generating unit. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of the value in use of the asset or cash-generating unit to which it belongs and its fair value.

If an asset impairment loss (excluding goodwill) is reversed, the increase in the carrying value resulting from the reversal is credited to current income or debited to accumulated impairment to increase the carrying value of the asset to its recoverable amount. However, loss reversal is limited to the carrying value (net of depreciation or amortization) of the asset as if the impairment had not been recognized.

Reverse stock split

On January 21, 2011, the Company’s shareholders approved a one-for-four share combination of its common stock which became effective on January 21, 2011. As a result of this reverse stock split, every four shares of the Company’s common stock that were issued and outstanding as of January 21, 2011 were automatically combined into one issued and outstanding share with par value change from US$0.01 to US$0.04 per share, and the number of authorized but unissued shares of the Company’s common stock was proportionally reduced. A proportionate adjustment was also made to the Company’s outstanding stock options and convertible notes. No fractional shares were issued in connection with this reverse stock split, but rather shareholders who were entitled to fractional shares received cash in aggregate of NT$ 239 thousand (US$8 thousand) in lieu of receiving fractional shares. All references within this document to earnings (loss) per share reflect this reverse stock split. Additionally, the number of common shares and stock options, and the price per common share, stock option and convertible notes, reflect this reverse stock split.

 

F-15


Table of Contents
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Revenue recognition

The Company recognized revenue upon completion of testing and assembly services. Other criteria that the Company uses to determine when to recognize revenue are: (1) existence of persuasive evidence of the services provided, (2) customers’ fixed commitment to use our service, (3) the selling price is fixed or determinable and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.

The Company does not take ownership of: (1) bare semiconductor wafers received from customers that it assembles into finished semiconductors, and (2) assembled semiconductors received from the customers that it tests. The title and risk of loss remains with the customer for those bare semiconductors and/or assembled semiconductors. Accordingly, the customer-supplied semiconductor materials are not included in the consolidated financial statements.

These policies are consistent with provisions in the FASB ASC 605 “Revenue Recognition”.

The Company does not provide warranties to customers except in cases of defects in the assembly services provided and deficiencies in testing services provided. An appropriate sales allowance is recognized in the period during which the sale is recognized, and is estimated based on historical experience.

Government grant

A government grant is recognized at its fair value and credited to the income statement. Where the grant relates to an asset, the fair value is credited to a deferred income account and is recognized as income over the periods necessary to match the related amortization of the asset, on a systematic basis.

Research and development costs

Research and development costs consist of expenditure incurred during the course of planned research and investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge which will be useful for developing new products or production processes, or significantly enhancing existing products or production processes, and the implementation of such through design and testing of product alternatives or construction of prototypes. All expenses incurred in connection with the Company’s research and development activities are charged to current income.

Pension and retirement costs

Defined benefit pension costs are recorded based on actuarial calculations. Provisions for pension costs are accrued based on actuarially determined amounts which include service cost, interest, amortization of unrecognized net transition obligation and expected return on pension assets. Unrecognized net transition obligation is amortized over 15 years.

Retirement benefit contributions are made to a pension scheme and/or retirement funds, the assets of which are managed by independent investment firms and/or government agencies. Contributions are made based on a percentage of the employees’ salaries and bonus, if applicable, and are charged to the statement of operations as incurred.

Income tax

The Company has adopted the inter-period income tax allocation method. Deferred income tax assets are recognized for the tax effects of deductible temporary differences, unused tax credits, and operating loss carryforwards and those of taxable temporary differences are recognized as deferred income tax liabilities. A valuation allowance is provided for deferred tax assets that are not certain to be realized. A deferred tax asset or liability is classified as current or non-current based on the classification of the related asset or liability. However, if a deferred asset or liability cannot be related to an asset or liability in the financial statements, then it is classified as current or non-current based on the expected reversal dates of the temporary difference.

Any tax credit arising from the purchase of machinery, equipment and technology, research and development expenditures, personnel training, or investments in important technology-based enterprise is recognized as incurred.

Adjustments of prior years’ tax liabilities are added to or deducted from the current year’s tax provision.

Income taxes (10%) on unappropriated earnings generated by ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin are recorded as an expense in the year when the stockholders have effectively resolved that earnings shall be retained.

 

F-16


Table of Contents
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Advertising costs

Advertising costs included in sales and marketing expenses are expensed when incurred.

Foreign-currency transactions

Foreign-currency transactions, except for derivative financial instruments, are recorded in New Taiwan dollars at the rates of exchange in effect when the transactions occur. Gains or losses resulting from the application of different foreign exchange rates when cash in foreign currency is converted into New Taiwan dollars, or when foreign-currency receivables or payables are settled, are credited or charged to income in the year of conversion or settlement. On the balance sheet dates, the balances of foreign-currency assets and liabilities are restated at the prevailing exchange rates and the resulting differences are charged to current income except those foreign currencies-denominated investments in shares of stock where such differences are accounted for as translation adjustments under equity. SFAS No. 14, “Accounting for Foreign-Currency Transactions,” applies to foreign operations, with the local currency of each foreign subsidiary as its functional currency. The financial statements of foreign subsidiaries are translated into New Taiwan dollars at the following exchange rates: assets and liabilities - current rate; equity - historical rates; income and expenses - weighted average rate during the year. The resulting translation adjustment is recorded as a separate component of equity.

Earnings (Loss) per share

Earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of shares outstanding in each period, adjusted retroactively for reverse stock split, stock dividends and stock bonuses issued subsequently. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution of securities by including other potential common stock equivalents, including stock options and warrants, and convertible securities in the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the year, if dilutive.

The following table reconciles the denominator to calculate basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:

 

     December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  
     (in thousands)  

Basic number of shares

     19,784         23,971         26,590   

Add: stock options

     —           288         —     

convertible notes

     2,470         2,547         —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Diluted number of shares

     22,254         26,806         26,590   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table reconciles the numerator to calculate basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2009     2010      2011  
     NT$     NT$      NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS

     (4,418,683     1,644,732         (15,161     (501

Add: interest expense and other income/expenses (net of tax)

     (703,046     161,381         —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS adjusted for the effects of assumed exercise of options and conversion of notes

     (5,121,729     1,806,113         (15,161     (501
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-17


Table of Contents
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Stock-based compensation

The Company adopted SFAS No. 39 “Share-based Payment” to account for employee stock-based compensation. Employee stock-based compensation is measured at the fair value of the options at grant date using an option valuation model. The total stock-based compensation expense resulting from stock options is included in the consolidated statement of operations.

Share appreciation rights have been accounted for using the fair value method. Cash-settled stock appreciation rights have been recognized as a liability.

Bonuses to employees, directors and supervisors

The Company recognizes bonus to employees, directors and supervisors according to Interpretation No. 2007-052 issued by the Accounting Research and Development Foundation (No. 2007-052). Bonuses to employees, directors and supervisors were accrued and recorded in the consolidated statements of operations according to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation.

Convertible notes

Convertible notes issued before January 1, 2006 were accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 21 “Accounting for Convertible Bonds” and thus, the related interest premium payable and amortization of discount or premium were recognized.

Convertible notes issued after January 1, 2006 are split into liability and equity components. If a convertible debt instrument has an embedded call or put option feature, the assessment of whether the call or put option is closely related to the host debt contract is made in accordance with SFAS No. 34 “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”. If the derivatives embedded in the convertible notes are not closely related to the host debt contract, the put and call option features are carried at fair value with gains and losses in earnings.

When holders of convertible notes exercise their conversion right, the book value of the note is credited to common stock at an amount equal to the par value of the common stock and the excess is credited to capital surplus. No gain or loss is recognized upon conversion of notes.

Treasury stock

The Company’s stock held by its subsidiaries is treated as treasury stock. Treasury stock is stated at cost and shown as a deduction in equity. When the Company retires treasury stock, the treasury stock account is reduced and the common stock as well as the capital surplus — additional paid-in capital are reversed on a pro rata basis. When the book value of the treasury stock exceeds the sum of the par value and additional paid-in capital, the difference is charged to capital surplus — treasury stock transactions and to retained earnings for any remaining amount.

Operating Segments

On January 1, 2011, the Company adopted the newly issued SFAS No. 41, “Operating Segments.” The statement requires identification and disclosure of operating segments on the basis of how the Company’s chief operating decision maker regularly reviews information in order to allocate resources and assess performance. This statement supersedes SFAS No. 20, “Segment Reporting.” The Company conformed to the disclosure requirements as of December 31, 2011. This accounting change did not have a significant effect on the Company’s financial statements as of December 31, 2011.

 

3. TRANSLATION INTO U.S. DOLLAR AMOUNTS

The Company maintains its accounts and expresses its consolidated financial statements in New Taiwan dollars. For convenience purposes, U.S. dollar amounts presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements have been translated from New Taiwan dollars to U.S. dollars at the noon buying rate in the City of New York for cable transfers as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as of December 30, 2011, which was NT$30.27 to US$1.00. These convenience translations should not be construed as representations that the New Taiwan dollar amounts have been, or could in the future be, converted into U.S. dollars at this or any other rate of exchange.

 

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Table of Contents
4. FINANCIAL ASSETS AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH PROFIT AND LOSS

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Stock

     2,999           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

5. ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL RECEIVABLES AND SALES RETURN ALLOWANCES

The changes in the allowances are summarized as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Balance, beginning of year

     2,433,013        2,936,930        262,094        8,659   

Additions

     1,064,771        73,882        1,566        52   

Reversal

     (560,854     (2,718,181     (69,205     (2,286

Write off

     —          (30,537     (8,529     (283
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of year

     2,936,930        262,094        185,926        6,142   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The allowance/reversal of allowance for doubtful receivables was recorded in sales and marketing expenses and other non-operating income, respectively. The allowance/reversal of allowance for sales return was recorded in sales discount and returns in net revenue.

In 2010, included in the reversal of allowance for doubtful receivables were recovery of doubtful receivables from Spansion LLC (Spansion) of NT$2,282,085 thousand (NT$2,186,365 thousand was recovered from the sale of receivable to Citigroup) and ProMOS Technologies Inc. (ProMOS) of NT$432,999 thousand, respectively.

On January 25, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a definitive Transfer of Claim Agreement to sell to Citigroup Financial Products Inc. (Citigroup) the general unsecured claim reflected in the proof of claim against Spansion. The claim that is the subject of the Transfer of Claim Agreement includes accounts receivable for testing and assembly services provided to Spansion (the “Undisputed Claim”). In February 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan received from Citigroup the purchase price for the Undisputed Claim of NT$1,118,574 thousand against accounts receivable of NT$2,186,365 thousand. A loss on sale of receivables of NT$1,067,791 thousand was recognized and the related allowance for doubtful receivables of NT$2,186,365 thousand was reversed. The Transfer of Claim Agreement also includes the sale of breach of contract and liquidated damages rights against Spansion in the amount of NT$2,118,490 thousand, which was received in October 2010.

 

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Table of Contents
6. INVENTORIES - NET

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Finished goods

     98,521           107,137        3,539   

Work in progress

     234,478           218,871        7,231   

Raw materials

     1,011,539           1,328,441        43,886   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,344,538           1,654,449        54,656   

Less - allowance for losses

     (64,734        (120,583     (3,983
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,279,804           1,533,866        50,673   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

The changes in the inventory valuation allowances are summarized as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Balance, beginning of year

     102,142        200,064        64,734        2,139   

Additions

     100,150        3,107        58,917        1,946   

Reversals

     (2,228     (138,437     (3,068     (101
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance, end of year

     200,064        64,734        120,583        3,984   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

7. LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
    

Carrying

Value

        

% of

Ownership

        

Carrying

Value

        

% of

Ownership

 
     NT$                     NT$     US$             
     (in thousands, except percentage interests)  

Cost method:

                   

DigiMedia Technologies Co., Ltd. (DigiMedia Cayman)

     198,666           11           198,666        6,563           11   

Validity Sensors Inc.

     19,956           —             19,956        660           —     

CONNECTEC JAPAN Corporation (CTJ)

     —             —             28,584        944           —     

Tashee Golf & Country Club

     10           —             10        —             —     

Less: Accumulated impairment

     (208,095             (208,095     (6,875     
  

 

 

           

 

 

   

 

 

      
     10,537                39,121        1,292        
  

 

 

           

 

 

   

 

 

      

Digimedia Cayman was fully impaired since December 31, 2008.

During 2010, impairment loss of NT$9,429 thousand was recognized in respect of investment in Validity Sensors Inc.

In July 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan acquired 50 thousand preferred shares of CTJ for JPY 80,000 thousand (NT$28,584 thousand).

 

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Table of Contents
8. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT – NET

Accumulated depreciation consists of the following:

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Buildings and auxiliary equipment

     2,756,570           3,265,533         107,880   

Machinery and equipment

     26,603,781           31,120,212         1,028,088   

Furniture and fixtures

     881,180           971,501         32,094   

Transportation equipment

     25,699           23,058         762   

Tools

     2,452,104           2,528,129         83,519   

Leased equipment

     621,244           —           —     

Leasehold improvements

     1,527           1,898         63   
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 
     33,342,105           37,910,331         1,252,406   
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2011, certain of the above buildings and machinery were mortgaged as collateral for long-term loans (Notes 14 and 20).

 

9. INTANGIBLE ASSETS – NET

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Land use rights

         

Cost

     111,621           121,934        4,028   

Accumulated amortization

     (17,356        (21,436     (708
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Carrying value

     94,265           100,498        3,320   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

The amortization charge for 2011 amounted to NT$2,346 thousand (2010: NT$2,399 thousand, 2009: NT$2,491 thousand). The weighted average amortization period is 50 years (2010: 50 years). The estimated aggregate amortization charge for the five years ending December 31, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 amounts to approximately NT$2,350 thousand each year. The land use rights were pledged as collateral for a credit facility (Note 20).

 

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Table of Contents
10. BANK LOANS

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Unsecured loans:

          

Loans for import of machinery:

          

US$1,458 thousand, repayable by February 2011, annual interest at 1.47992% - 1.55391%

     42,457           —           —     

JPY16,200 thousand, repayable by April 2011, annual interest at 0%

     5,803           —           —     

US$1,350 thousand, repayable by May 2011, annual interest at 0%

     39,326           —           —     

JPY117,000 thousand, repayable by May 2011, annual interest at 0%

     41,909           —           —     

US$2,968 thousand, repayable by June 2011, annual interest at 2.13531% - 2.14588%

     86,458           —           —     

Loans for import:

          

US$27 thousand, repayable by January 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in July 2011, annual interest at 2.376%

     787           —           —     

JPY181,115 thousand, repayable by January 2011, annual interest at 1.2611%

     64,875           —           —     

JPY114,262 thousand, repayable by February 2011, annual interest at 1.247357%

     40,929           —           —     

JPY195,310 thousand, repayable by January 2012, annual interest at 1.79281%

     —             76,288         2,520   

JPY141,600 thousand, repayable by February 2012, annual interest at 1.78541%

     —             55,309         1,827   

Loans for working capital:

          

NT$332,340 thousand, repayable by January 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in August 2011, annual interest at 2.989% - 3.74%

     332,340           —           —     

NT$368,800 thousand, repayable by February 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in August 2011, annual interest at 2.462% - 2.498%

     368,800           —           —     

NT$13,680 thousand, repayable by June 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in August 2011, annual interest at 3.3%

     13,680           —           —     

NT$85,500 thousand, repayable by October 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in August 2011, annual interest at 2.525%

     85,500           —           —     

NT$300,000 thousand, repayable by January 2012, annual interest at 1.5% - 1.976744%

     —             300,000         9,911   

 

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Table of Contents
10. BANK LOANS (continued)

 

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Secured loans:

          

Loans for import:

          

NT$95,000 thousand, repayable by February 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in July 2011, annual interest at 3.125%

     95,000           —           —     

JPY44,631 thousand, repayable by February 2012, annual interest at 2.2611%

     —             17,433         576   

JPY250,605 thousand, repayable by March 2012, annual interest at 2.2611%

     —             97,886         3,234   

Loans for working capital :

          

NT$212,040 thousand, repayable by December 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in July 2011, annual interest at 2.488%

     212,040           —           —     

NT$4,747 thousand, repayable by April 2011, extension of repayment to December 2011, and prepaid in July 2011, annual interest at 3.125%

     4,747           —           —     

NT$60,000 thousand, repayable by January 2011, annual interest at 1.80% - 1.90%

     60,000           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 
     1,494,651           546,916         18,068   
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Unused credit lines of short-term bank loans, as of December 31, 2011, totaled approximately NT$869,147 thousand (US$28,713 thousand), which will expire from January 2012 to November 2012.

The weighted average interest rate for bank loans was 1.4326% per annum in 2011 (2010: 2.8424% per annum).

Certain short-term loans were secured by time deposits (Note 20).

 

11. OTHER PAYABLES – THIRD PARTIES

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Miscellaneous factory expenses

     243,153           357,753         11,819   

Others

     653,553           723,777         23,910   
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 
     896,706           1,081,530         35,729   
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

12. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Accrued bonus

     345,103           431,361         14,250   

Others

     645,793           399,542         13,199   
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 
     990,896           830,903         27,449   
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents
13. CONVERTIBLE NOTES AND DERIVATIVE LIABILITIES

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Convertible notes

     174,138           —           —     

Less: current portion

     (65,834        —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-current portion

     108,304           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Derivative liabilities - non-current

     96,788           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Convertible notes due 2009 (CN due 2009)

On November 3, 2004, ChipMOS Bermuda issued US$85,000 thousand (NT$2,572,950 thousand) CN due 2009. The CN due 2009 bore interest at 1.75% per annum. The noteholders may convert any outstanding notes into common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda, initially at the conversion price of US$7.85, at any time during the period from the 41st day after the latest original issuance date of the notes to the close of business on the fifth business day before the stated maturity date, subject to prior repurchase or redemption. The conversion price was subject to certain adjustments. On November 3, 2005, the conversion price was adjusted to US$6.28 per share from the initial conversion price of US$7.85 per share, pursuant to the terms of the CN due 2009. The market price of the Company’s stock on November 3, 2005 was US$6.00. There was no fixed discount to the common shares’ market price in relation to conversion. On December 20, 2004, ChipMOS Bermuda repurchased US$699 thousand (NT$21,159 thousand) of the CN due 2009. No conversion had taken place during 2005, 2007 and 2008.

On October 18, 2006, noteholders of CN due 2009 converted US$7,000 thousand (NT$211,890 thousand) in aggregate principal amount into 1,114,649 common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda pursuant to ChipMOS Bermuda’s induced conversion offer, dated October 17, 2006. Pursuant to the induced conversion offer, ChipMOS Bermuda paid approximately US$490 thousand (NT$$14,832 thousand) to the converting noteholders.

The noteholders of CN due 2009 had an option to cause ChipMOS Bermuda to repurchase for cash all or a portion of the notes on November 3, 2006 at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus any accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of repurchase (put option). On November 3, 2006, ChipMOS Bermuda repurchased US$6,300 thousand (NT$190,701 thousand) CN due 2009 pursuant to the put option. After November 3, 2006, noteholders may cause ChipMOS Bermuda to repurchase the CN due 2009 only upon the occurrence of certain fundamental changes.

During 2008, ChipMOS Bermuda repurchased US$15,000 thousand (NT$454,050 thousand) of CN due 2009.

On October 21, 2009, ChipMOS Bermuda entered into an exchange transaction with a noteholder holding in an aggregate principal amount of US$45,000 thousand of the CN due 2009 (see CN due 2014 below). The exchange transaction was accounted for as an extinguishment of debt. A gain of NT$412,337 thousand was recorded as non-operating income in the statement of operations. On November 3, 2009, ChipMOS Bermuda repaid the remaining outstanding CN due 2009 in aggregate principal amount of US$2,001 thousand (NT$60,570 thousand) plus accrued and unpaid interest at maturity to the remaining noteholders.

The exercise price and the number of common shares converted of the CN due 2009 have not been adjusted for the reverse stock split as it matured on November 3, 2009.

Convertible notes due 2011 (CN due 2011)

On September 29, 2006, ChipMOS Bermuda issued US$100,000 thousand (NT$3,027,000 thousand) CN due 2011. The CN due 2011 bear interest at 3.375% per annum. The noteholders may convert any outstanding notes into common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda, initially at the conversion price of US$27.40, at any time during the period from the 41st day after the latest original issuance date of the notes to the close of business on the fifth business day before the stated maturity date, subject to prior repurchase or redemption. The conversion price will be subject to certain adjustments. No conversion took place during 2006 to 2010. During 2007, ChipMOS Bermuda repurchased US$1,000 thousand (NT$30,270 thousand) of CN due 2011.

During 2008, ChipMOS Bermuda repurchased US$18,075 thousand (NT$547,130 thousand) of CN due 2011.

 

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Table of Contents
13. CONVERTIBLE NOTES AND DERIVATIVE LIABILITIES (continued)

 

The noteholders of CN due 2011 have an option to cause ChipMOS Bermuda to repurchase for cash all or a portion of the notes on September 29, 2008 at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus any accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of repurchase (put option). On September 29, 2008, ChipMOS Bermuda repurchased aggregate principal US$78,665 thousand (NT$2,381,190 thousand) pursuant to the put option offer. After September 29, 2008, noteholders may cause ChipMOS Bermuda to repurchase the CN due 2011 only upon the occurrence of certain fundamental changes.

At any time on or after September 29, 2008, the Company may also at its option redeem the notes for cash at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest, (a) in whole or in part, if the market price of the Company’s common shares has been at least 130% of the conversion price for at least 20 trading days during any 30 consecutive trading day period, or (b) in whole only, if at least 90% of the initial aggregate principal amount of the notes have been converted, repurchased or redeemed (call option).

On May 3, 2011 ChipMOS Bermuda redeemed the notes for cash at 100% of the principle amount at US$2,260 thousand (NT$68,410 thousand) plus accrued and unpaid interest at redemption date to the remaining noteholders.

Convertible notes due 2014 (CN due 2014)

On October 21, 2009, ChipMOS Bermuda completed an exchange transaction with a noteholder of CN due 2009 in an aggregate principal amount of US$45,000 thousand for US$15,300 thousand (NT$463,131 thousand) in cash and US$15,750 thousand (NT$476,753 thousand) in new convertible notes of ChipMOS Bermuda due October 21, 2014. The CN due 2014 bear interest at 10% per annum (10%CN due 2014). In connection with the exchange transaction, the Company recorded a gain of NT$412,337 thousand. The gain was recorded in non-operating income in the statement of operations in 2009.

The noteholder may convert any outstanding notes into common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda, initially at the conversion price of US$6.00 per share, at any time during the period from the 41st day after the closing date to the close of business on the tenth business day prior to the stated maturity date, subject to prior repurchase or redemption (Conversion). The conversion price will be subject to certain adjustments. In addition to the common shares issuable upon conversion, an amount equal to the sum of any make-whole amount and any accrued and unpaid interest relating to the portion of the notes being converted is paid to the converting holder. Make-whole amount is the amount of interest that would have accrued with respect to applicable conversion date, change of control repurchase date or redemption date, as the case may be, until the stated maturity, discounted to present value using the published yield on treasury notes of the U.S. Federal Government having a comparable remaining tenor on the determination date plus 50 basis points; provided, however, the additional 50 basis points shall not be added if the applicable treasury note rate is greater than two percent (2%); in each case, the make-whole amount shall be calculated by the Company. At any time after the issuance date, if (i) the closing sale price of the common shares on an eligible market exceeds two hundred percent (200%) of the conversion price then in effect for a period of 20 consecutive trading days ending on the fifth trading day immediately preceding the company conversion notice date, (ii) the average daily trading volume of the common shares trading on an eligible market over such company conversion measuring period equals or exceeds one percent (1%) of the then outstanding common shares and (iii) no equity conditions failure has occurred and is continuing, the Company shall have the right to convert some or all of the outstanding principal amount of the Convertible Instruments as designated in a company conversion notice on the company conversion date. (Company Conversion)

At any time prior to the maturity date, the Company may redeem all or part of the outstanding amount in cash. On the applicable redemption date, the Company shall redeem the outstanding principal amount specified in the redemption notice by paying in cash to the trustee as of the date of the redemption notice an amount equal to (a) the Principal amount being redeemed plus (b) the sum of any make-whole amount and any accrued and unpaid interest (to but excluding the redemption date), if any, in each case relating to the outstanding portion of the CN due 2014 being redeemed. If the Company redeems the CN due 2014 of a holder, the holder may nevertheless exercise its right to convert its CN due 2014 until the close of business on the day that is five business days immediately preceding the redemption date. (Redemption)

Interest on the CN due 2014 is payable at the Company’s option on each interest payment date (1) in whole in cash, (2) in whole in common shares or (3) in a combination of cash and common shares; provided, however, that in the case of the payment of common shares, in whole or in part, there shall not have been an equity conditions failure.

In accordance with SFAS No. 34, the notes are recorded as liabilities using the effective interest method. The Company bifurcated the Conversion and Company conversion features from the CN due 2014 and 2015 and recorded the embedded derivatives as derivative liabilities at fair value. The fair value of the derivative liabilities was determined using the Binomial Lattice model. The Redemption feature is clearly and closely related to the notes as the redemption payoff by the Company is the debt plus unpaid and accrued interest and make-whole amount.

 

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Table of Contents
13. CONVERTIBLE NOTES AND DERIVATIVE LIABILITIES (continued)

 

On December 29, 2009, ChipMOS Bermuda issued US$5,120 thousand (NT$154,982 thousand) CN due 2014 which bear interest at 8% per annum (8%CN due 2014). The terms of 8%CN due 2014 are the same as 10%CN due 2014 except the conversion price, coupon rate and the maturity date. The conversion price of 8%CN due 2014 is US$5.00 per share and the coupon rate is 8%. The maturity date is December 29, 2014.

During 2010, the noteholder of 10%CN due 2014 converted all 10%CN due 2014 into 2,625 thousand common shares of the Company. In connection with the make-whole clause, the Company issued 1,956 thousand common shares to the noteholder as interest payment of US$6,872 thousand (NT$208,015 thousand).

During 2010, noteholders of 8%CN due 2014 converted US$2,000 thousand (NT$60,540 thousand) in aggregate principal amount into 400 thousand common shares of our Company. In connection with the make-whole clause, the Company issued 106 thousand common shares to the noteholders as interest payment of US$702 thousand (NT$21,250 thousand).

During 2011, noteholders of 8%CN due 2014 converted US$2,120 thousand (NT$64,172 thousand) in aggregate principal amount into 424 thousand common shares of our Company. In connection with the make-whole clause, the Company issued 78 thousand common shares to the noteholders as interest payment of US$610 thousand (NT$18,465 thousand).

On April 19, 2011, ChipMOS Bermuda executed Company Conversion of 8%CN due 2014 of US$1,000 thousand (NT$30,270 thousand) in aggregate principal amount into 200 thousand common shares of our Company. In connection with the make-whole clause, the Company issued 33 thousand common shares to the noteholders as interest payment of US$ 286 thousand (NT$8,657 thousand).

Convertible notes due 2015 (CN due 2015)

On March 8 and 16, 2010, ChipMOS Bermuda issued US$1,500 thousand (NT$45,405 thousand) and US$3,000 thousand (NT$90,810 thousand) CN due 2015, respectively, which bear interest at 8% per annum. The terms of CN due 2015 are the same as CN due 2014 except for the conversion price, coupon rate and maturity date. The conversion price of CN due 2015 is US$5.0 per share and the coupon rate is 8%. The maturity date is March 8, 2015 and March 16, 2015, respectively.

In May 2010, noteholders of CN due 2015 converted US$3,000 thousand (NT$90,810 thousand) in aggregate principal amount into 600 thousand common shares of our Company. In connection with the make-whole clause, the Company issued 248 thousand common shares to the noteholders as interest payment of US$1,133 thousand (NT$34,296 thousand).

On April 19, 2011, ChipMOS Bermuda executed Company Conversion of 8%CN due 2015 of US$1,500 thousand (NT$45,405 thousand) in aggregate principal amount into 300 thousand common shares of our Company. In connection with the make-whole clause, the Company issued 51 thousand common shares to the noteholders as interest payment of US$ 452 thousand (NT$13,682 thousand).

As of December 31, 2011, there were no outstanding convertible notes.

 

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Table of Contents
14. LONG-TERM LOANS

 

     December 31,  
     2010           2011  
     NT$           NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Syndicated bank loans within guarantee provided by ChipMOS Taiwan, repayable annually from August 2009 to August 2011, prepaid in January 2011, interest at floating rate (1.28438% as of December 31, 2010)

     642,317                    —                   —     

Syndicated bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable semi-annually from November 2006 to May 2012, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.97% as of December 31, 2010)

     317,287            —           —     

Syndicated bank loans collateralized by buildings, repayable in September 2011, prepaid in July 2011, interest at floating rate (2.475% as of December 31, 2010)

     450,000            —           —     

Syndicated bank loans repayable quarterly from March 2009 to September 2011, prepaid in July 2011, interest at floating rate (2.625% as of December 31, 2010)

     337,500            —           —     

Bank loans, repayable quarterly from February 2006 to November 2011, prepaid In August 2011, interest at fixed rate of 4.69%

     112,500            —           —     

Syndicated bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable semi-annually from April 2008 to April 2013, prepaid in July 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     3,814,190            —           —     

Syndicated bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable semi-annually from June 2010 to December 2013, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     1,995,000            —           —     

Bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable quarterly from September 2008 to June 2013, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (3.53% as of December 31, 2010)

     225,000            —           —     

Bank loans repayable quarterly from December 2008 to September 2013, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     247,500            —           —     

Bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable quarterly from December 2007 to December 2011, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     159,750            —           —     

Bank loans collateralized by buildings, repayable semi-annually from June 2009 to December 2015, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     720,000            —           —     

Bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable quarterly from September 2009 to March 2012, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     263,395            —           —     

 

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Table of Contents
14. LONG-TERM LOANS (continued)

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Bank loans, repayable quarterly from March 2010 to December 2014, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     95,000           —          —     

Bank loans collateralized by buildings, repayable semi-annually from January 2010 to July 2012, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.2% as of December 31, 2010)

     285,000           —          —     

Syndicated bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable quarterly from May 2007 to February 2012, interest at floating rate (2.182% - 2.311% and 2.315% as of December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively)

     479,139           95,828        3,166   

Bank loans collateralized by buildings, repayable quarterly from April 2011 to January 2015, interest at floating rate (1.86% and 1.92% as of December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively)

     200,000           162,500        5,368   

Bank loans repayable quarterly from March 2011 to December 2012, prepaid in July 2011, interest at floating rate (3.75% as December 31, 2010)

     68,400           —          —     

Bank loans repayable quarterly from March 2011 to December 2012, prepaid in July 2011, interest at fixed rate (4.00% as December 31, 2010)

     32,983           —          —     

Bank loans, repayable quarterly from March 2011 to December 2012, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.458% as December 31, 2010)

     68,400           —          —     

Bank loans, repayable quarterly from March 2011 to December 2012, prepaid in August 2011, interest at floating rate (2.3256% as December 31, 2010)

     39,000           —          —     

Bank loans, repayable quarterly from March 2011 to December 2012, prepaid in July 2011, interest at floating rate (1.214% as December 31, 2010)

     13,510           —          —     

Syndicated bank loans collateralized by equipment, repayable semi-annually from January 2012 to July 2015, interest at floating rate (3.0421% as of December 31, 2011)

     —             5,382,000        177,800   

Syndicated bank loans collateralized by land and buildings, repayable semi-annually from January 2014 to July 2016, interest at floating rate (3.0421% as of December 31, 2011)

     —             3,028,000        100,033   

Bank loans collateralized by buildings, repayable quarterly from June 2013 to March 2018, interest at floating rate (1.92% as of December 31, 2011)

     —             500,000        16,518   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     10,565,871           9,168,328        302,885   

Less - current portion

     (4,925,739        (684,028     (22,598
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     5,640,132           8,484,300        280,287   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2011, credit lines of long-term bank loans totaled approximately NT$9,168,328 thousand (US$302,885 thousand) were fully utilized.

Under syndicated bank loans facility agreements, ChipMOS Bermuda, ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin are required to maintain certain financial ratios. ChipMOS Taiwan was waived from compliance of the financial ratio requirements for 2010. ThaiLin was in compliance with the financial ratio requirements as of December 31, 2010. ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin both were in compliance with the financial ratio requirements as of December 31, 2011.

 

F-28


Table of Contents
14. LONG-TERM LOANS (continued)

 

As of December 31, 2011, certain land and buildings and machinery were mortgaged as collateral for the long-term loans (Note 20).

On March 4, 2010, a meeting was arranged by ChipMOS Bermuda with Standard Chartered Bank as lead banker of the syndicated loan of US$74,500 thousand (NT$2,255,115 thousand). The Company’s application for early repayment of the outstanding loan in four installments was approved in April 2010 without penalty. The last installment was repaid in January 2011.

On November 18, 2010 a meeting was hosted by Bank of Taiwan, the largest bank creditor, to discuss ChipMOS Taiwan’s request for an extension of repayment for short-term loans of NT$1,467,571 thousand. Over 50% of the banks agreed by December 27, 2010 and the repayment of short-term loans was extended to December 31, 2012 but with quarterly repayment starting from March 31, 2011. The key extended repayment terms and conditions include: agreement by ChipMOS Taiwan to repay 20% of the outstanding short-term loans on December 31, 2010 and to repay the balance in eight installments by setting aside NT$50,000 thousand per month with Bank of Taiwan from January 2011 till December 2012.

In the same meeting, ChipMOS Taiwan also agreed to set aside NT$300,000 thousand per month for 2011, NT$270,000 thousand per month for 2012 and NT$150,000 thousand per month for 2013 with Bank of Taiwan for the long-term loan repayment.

On July 14, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan signed a new syndicated loan facility of NT$8,410,000 thousand (US$277,833 thousand) for a term of 5 years. This loan facility is primarily used for refinancing and repaying existing bank debts and equipment leases, which were fully repaid in July and August 2011.

Future minimum principal payments under the long-term loans as of December 31, 2011 are as follows:

 

     Amount  
     NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

2012

     684,028         22,598   

2013

     2,277,800         75,249   

2014

     2,370,200         78,302   

2015

     1,794,500         59,283   

After 2015

     2,041,800         67,453   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     9,168,328         302,885   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

F-29


Table of Contents
15. CAPITAL LEASES PAYABLE

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Capital leases payable

     1,453,791                   —                   —     

Less - current portion

     (822,047        —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-current portion

     631,744           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

ChipMOS Taiwan originally leased some equipment under operating leases. As part of the plan to remediate the financial difficulty, ChipMOS Taiwan negotiated with the lessors and converted the leases of certain equipment into capital leases in November 2009. The capital leases originally mature from 2012 to 2013 and have buy-out options but they cannot be renewed, terminated or refunded.

The leased equipment and the corresponding capital leases payable were recorded at the lower of the fair value of the leased equipment and the present value of the minimum lease payments of such assets. The capital leases were repayable in quarterly installments and carried interest at floating rates of 4.0888% - 4.0973% as of December 31, 2010.

Under the capital leases, ChipMOS Taiwan was required to maintain certain financial ratios, starting from 2010.

In July 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan repaid the outstanding capital leases utilizing the new syndicated loan of NT$8,410,000 thousand (Note 14).

 

16. PENSION PLAN

ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin have established defined benefit pension plans for all of their regular employees, which provide benefits based on the length of service and the average monthly salary for the six-month period immediately before retirement.

ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin make monthly contributions, equal to 2% of salaries and wages, to a pension fund that is administered by a pension fund monitoring committee and deposited in the Central Trust of China in the Republic of China.

Taiwan has a new pension scheme law effective July 1, 2005. The new pension scheme is a defined contribution scheme. All new employees who join or joined ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin on or after July 1, 2005 must participate in the new scheme. Existing employees can choose to stay with the old scheme or to join the new scheme. Under the new scheme, ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin are required to contribute 6% of the employees’ salaries into the employees’ own pension fund accounts managed by the government.

The employees of ChipMOS Shanghai are required to participate in a central pension scheme operated by the local municipal government. Contributions are made based on a percentage of the employees’ salaries and bonuses, if applicable, and are charged to the income statement as incurred.

Certain pension information is as follows:

 

  a. Net pension cost

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Service cost

     1,518        1,325        1,189        39   

Interest cost

     11,340        12,292        11,833        391   

Projected return on plan assets

     (6,857     (5,140     (7,090     (234

Amortization

     53        53        53        2   

Curtailment loss

     7,362        8,149        12,055        398   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     13,416        16,679        18,040        596   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-30


Table of Contents
16. PENSION PLAN (continued)

 

  b. Reconciliation of the fund status of the plan and accrued pension cost

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Actuarial present value of benefit obligations

        

Vested benefit obligation

     506        486        14,020        463   

Nonvested benefit obligation

     245,276        304,253        334,180        11,040   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Accumulated benefit obligation

     245,782        304,739        348,200        11,503   

Additional benefits based on future salaries

     300,603        359,728        297,355        9,823   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation

     546,385        664,467        645,555        21,326   

Plan assets at fair value

     (314,992     (343,823     (371,452     (12,271
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets

     231,393        320,644        274,103        9,055   

Unrecognized net transition obligation

     (451     (398     (345     (11

Unrecognized prior service cost

     4,411        4,205        3,999        132   

Unrecognized net gain

     (251,471     (347,611     (307,048     (10,144
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Prepaid pension

     (16,118     (23,160     (29,291     (968
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

  c. Actuarial assumptions

 

     2009      2010      2011  

Discount rate used in determining present values

     2.38%         1.88%         1.88%   

Future salary increase rate

     4.25%         4.25%         3.50%   

Expected rate of return on plan assets

     1.88%         2.00%         2.00%   

 

  d. Changes in pension fund

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Company contributions

     21,705         23,844         24,172         799   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Payment of benefits

     —           —           649         21   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

17. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Under ROC Company Law, capital surplus can only be used to offset deficits, except that capital surplus generated from (1) donations (donated capital) or (2) the excess of the issue price over the par value of capital stock (including stocks issued for new capital and mergers, and the purchase of treasury stock) can be transferred to capital as stock dividends when no deficit remains and shareholders approve such distribution.

ChipMOS Taiwan’s Articles of Incorporation provide that the following may be appropriated from the accumulated net income, after deducting any previously accumulated deficit and 10% legal reserve, subject to shareholders’ approval: (a) 10% as bonuses to employees, (b) not more than 0.5% as remuneration to directors and supervisors, (c) a special reserve, if deemed necessary, and (d) dividends to shareholders.

ThaiLin’s Articles of Incorporation provide that the following may be appropriated from the accumulated net income, after deducting any previously accumulated deficit and 10% legal reserve, subject to shareholders’ approval: (a) not more than 0.5% as remuneration to directors and supervisors, (b) not less than 10% as bonuses to employees, and (c) dividends to shareholders but not less than 50% should be distributed as cash dividends to shareholders.

These appropriations and the disposition of the remaining net income, except for bonuses to employees, directors and supervisors, shall be resolved by the shareholders in the following year and given effect in the financial statements of that year.

The aforementioned appropriation for legal reserve shall be made until the reserve equals the aggregate par value of ChipMOS Taiwan’s and ThaiLin’s outstanding capital stock. The reserve can only be used to offset a deficit, or when its balance has reached 50% of the aggregate par value of the outstanding capital stock of ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin, and up to 50% thereof can be distributed as stock dividends.

 

F-31


Table of Contents
17. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (continued)

 

Stock Options

The Share Option plan provides that the directors, officers, employees and consultants of ChipMOS Bermuda and its affiliates may be granted options to purchase common shares of ChipMOS Bermuda at specified exercise prices.

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2011.

 

Year

of Grant

 

Exercise
Price

 

Number

Outstanding

 

Market
Price

at Grant

 

Market

Price

at Year
End

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

    US$       US$   US$                    
2006   19.244

~ 22.882

  358,371   22.64

~ 26.92

  5.16   13,500

August

2006

  88,094

August ~

December

2007

  85,704

August ~

December

2008

  85,586

August ~

December

2009

  85,487

August ~

December

2010

2007   14.552

~ 25.908

  314,622   17.12

~ 30.48

  5.16   13,500

August

2007

  75,407

January ~

December

2008

  75,324

January ~

December

2009

  75,241

January ~

December

2010

  75,150

January ~

December

2011

2008   0.748

~ 11.9

  675,512   0.88

~ 14.00

  5.16   17,500

August ~

November

2008

  151,766

January ~

December

2009

  151,555

January ~

December

2010

  179,448

January ~

December

2011

  175,243

January ~

December

2012

2009   0.8528

~ 2.55

  371,741   1.0032

~ 3.00

  5.16   25,094

August ~

November

2009

  61,539

January ~

November

2010

  92,104

January ~

November

2011

  96,512

January ~

November

2012

  96,492

January ~

November

2013

2010   2.448

~ 5.474

  155,122   2.88

~6.44

  5.16   21,250

August

2010

  33,143

January~

September

2011

  33,578

January~

August

2012

  33,576

January~

August

2013

  33,575

January~

August

2014

2011   4.59

~6.222

  686,804   5.4

~7.32

  5.16   42,500

August

2011

  161,081

March~

September

2012

  161,081

March~

September

2013

  161,073

March~

September

2014

  161,069

March~

September

2015

   

 

             
    2,562,172              
   

 

             

NT$420,150 thousand (US$13,880 thousand) of compensation expense has been recognized with NT$49,055 thousand (US$1,621 thousand) (2010: NT$43,874 thousand) being accounted for through the statement of operations. The Company issued 692,624 (2010: 160,660) stock options in 2011 to its employees. In 2011, 148,403 (2010: 212,049) stock options were forfeited, nil (2010: 353,800) stock options were expired and 96,103 (2010: 19,246) stock options were exercised, leaving 2,562,172 (2010: 2,114,054) stock options outstanding at December 31, 2011.

 

F-32


Table of Contents
17. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (continued)

 

Share Appreciation Rights

The share appreciation rights plan provides that the directors, officers and employees of ChipMOS Bermuda and its affiliates may be granted cash-settled share appreciation rights.

The following table summarizes information about share appreciation rights outstanding at December 31, 2011.

 

Year

of Grant

 

Exercise
Price

 

Number

Outstanding

 

Market
Price

at Grant

 

Market

Price

at Year
End

 

Number

Exercisable
on

Or after

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

 

Number

Exercisable
on

or after

    US$       US$   US$                
2006   19.244

~ 22.882

  162,343   22.64

~ 26.92

  5.16   40,664

August ~
December
2007

  40,660

August ~
December
2008

  40,524

August ~
December
2009

  40,495

August ~
December
2010

2007   14.552

~ 25.908

  66,375   17.12

~ 30.48

  5.16   16,635

January ~

December
2008

  16,635

January ~

December
2009

  16,553

January ~

December
2010

  16,552

January ~

December
2011

2008   0.748

~ 11.9

  95,215   0.88

~ 14.00

  5.16   22,961

January ~

December
2009

  22,959

January ~

December
2010

  24,794

January ~

December
2011

  24,501

January ~

December
2012

2009   0.884

~ 2.55

  222,879   1.04

~ 3.00

  5.16   34,346

January ~

August

2010

  60,134

January ~

August

2011

  64,217

January ~

August

2012

  64,182

January ~

August

2013

2010   2.448

~ 3.06

  16,717   2.88

~ 3.6

  5.16   4,631

March ~

August

2011

  4,034

March ~

August

2012

  4,033

March ~

August

2013

  4,019

March ~

August

2014

2011   5.151

~6.222

  486,410   6.06

~ 7.32

  5.16   121,618

March ~

August

2012

  121,614

March ~

August

2013

  121,593

March ~

August

2014

  121,585

March ~

August

2015

   

 

           
    1,049,939            
   

 

           

During the year, 525,885 (2010: 18,625) rights were granted, 70,621 (2010: 89,300) rights were forfeited and 32,832 (2010: 15,300) rights were exercised. As of December 31, 2011, there were 1,049,939 (2010: 627,507) share appreciation rights outstanding.

The Company recognized compensation expense of NT$3,009 thousand (US$99 thousand) (2010: NT$27,809 thousand) in respect of share appreciation rights at fair value.

 

F-33


Table of Contents
18. INCOME TAX EXPENSE

 

  a. A reconciliation of income tax expense – current before tax credits and income tax expense on income (loss) before income tax at statutory rates is shown below:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Tax on pretax income (loss) at 0%

     —          —          —          —     

Tax on pretax income (loss) at applicable statutory rates

     (1,322,415     538,998        82,840        2,737   

Tax effect:

        

Losses carried forward

     1,088,819        (61,646     (113,727     (3,757

Permanent differences

     (105,083     (183,426     (37,848     (1,250

Temporary differences

     346,995        (256,756     112,875        3,729   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense - current before tax credits

     8,316        37,170        44,140        1,459   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The ROC statutory tax rates for 2009, 2010 and 2011 were 25%, 17% and 17%, respectively.

The PRC statutory rates for 2009, 2010 and 2011 were 25%.

 

  b. Income tax expense consists of:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Income tax expense - current before tax credits

     8,316        37,170        44,140        1,459   

Additional 10% on the unappropriated earnings

     —          —          164,073        5,420   

Income tax credits

     —          (9,445     (179,823     (5,941
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax for the current year

     8,316        27,725        28,390        938   

Net change in deferred income tax assets (liabilities) for the year

        

Tax credits

     4,080        515,421        302,966        10,009   

Temporary differences

     (310,264     289,610        (104,406     (3,449

Losses (recognized) utilized

     (1,088,819     82,057        218,845        7,230   

Valuation allowances

     804,420        (1,124,766     (397,672     (13,138

Deferred tax effect of change in tax rate

     139,526        80,935        —          —     

Adjustment of prior years’ taxes

     22,079        29,658        (2,617     (87
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense (benefit)

     (420,662     (99,360     45,506        1,503   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Since the Company is an exempted company incorporated in Bermuda, a tax-free country, tax on pretax income is calculated at the Bermuda statutory rate of 0% for each year.

In accordance with the relevant tax rules and regulations in the PRC, ChipMOS Shanghai enjoys income tax exemptions for the first two profitable years and 50% reductions for the following three years. Tax losses can only be carried forward for five years. ChipMOS Shanghai is subject to PRC income tax at 25% since January 1, 2009.

 

F-34


Table of Contents
18. INCOME TAX EXPENSE (BENEFIT) (continued)

 

  c. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are summarized as follows:

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Net current deferred income tax assets:

         

Unrealized foreign exchange losses

     25,248           2,085        69   

Tax credits

     285,891           76,280        2,520   

Loss of market price decline and obsolete and slow-moving inventories

     10,430           19,413        641   

Unrealized loss on sale allowances

     31,932           20,167        666   

Allowance for doubtful receivables

     11,013           11,013        364   

Others

     4,768           6,337        209   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     369,282           135,295        4,469   

Less: Valuation allowances

     (90,571        (58,736     (1,940
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     278,711           76,559        2,529   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net non-current deferred income tax assets:

         

Losses carried forward

     1,178,333           1,000,200        33,043   

Tax credits

     163,777           70,421        2,326   

Depreciation differences

     (93,342        41,475        1,370   

Unrealized impairment loss on idle property, plant and equipment

     13,114           10,497        347   

Others

     236,306           243,543        8,046   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,498,188           1,366,136        45,132   

Less: Valuation allowances

     (1,080,257        (765,785     (25,299
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 
     417,931           600,351        19,833   
  

 

 

      

 

 

   

 

 

 

The deferred income tax components measured at respective applicable statutory rates as of December 31, 2010 and 2011 were 17%, respectively for ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin and 25% for ChipMOS Shanghai.

 

  d. The balance and year of expiry of unused investment tax credits and losses carried forward as of December 31, 2011 are as follows:

 

     R & D
expenditures
     Machinery
and  equipment
    

Losses

carried
forward

 
     NT$      NT$      NT$  

Year of expiry

   (in thousands)  

2012

     37,682         38,598         122,931   

2013

     15,333         21,061         141,802   

2014

     —           34,027         102,862   

2015

     —           —           51,176   

2018

     —           —           43,713   

2019

     —           —           537,716   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     53,015         93,686         1,000,200   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The deferred tax assets relate to investment tax credits on research and development expenditure and purchases of machinery and equipment which will expire from 2012 to 2014. Under ROC tax regulations, tax credits can be utilized to reduce current income tax obligations only to the extent of 50% of such income tax obligations except in the year when such tax credits will expire, in which case, the entire amount of expiring tax credits may be utilized to reduce the current income tax obligation. The foregoing limitation on the utilization of tax credits, the expiry dates of the tax credits, the level of tax credits expected to be generated from future operations led management to conclude that it is unlikely that these investment tax credits will be fully realized. Losses carried forward can be used to deduct current income tax obligations up to the extent of taxable income and will expire after ten years if not fully utilized by the Company. Accordingly, a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets is recognized as of December 31, 2010 and 2011.

The tax losses of ChipMOS Shanghai will expire after five years.

 

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18. INCOME TAX EXPENSE (BENEFIT) (continued)

 

  e. According to ROC tax law, ChipMOS Taiwan’s and ThaiLin’s unappropriated earnings generated in 1998 and thereafter are subject to a tax of 10% in the year when the shareholders resolve that such earnings shall be retained. The retained earnings as of December 31, 2010 and 2011 consist of:

 

     December 31,  
     2010           2011  
     NT$           NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Before 1998

     —              —           —     

1998 and thereafter

     2,593,408            1,925,365         63,606   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 
     2,593,408            1,925,365         63,606   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

The income tax returns of ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin through 2009 have been assessed by the tax authorities.

 

19. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company engages in business transactions with the following related parties:

 

  a. MVI: A major shareholder. (Note 1)

 

  b. DenMOS Technology Inc. (DenMOS): An investee of MVI. (Note 1)

 

  c. ProMOS: An investee of MVI. (Note 1)

 

  d. SPIL: A major shareholder. (Note 2)

 

Note 1:   Since April 1, 2011, MVI’s interest in ChipMOS Bermuda was reduced to below 10%. Accordingly MVI, ProMOS and DenMOS were not considered related parties of the Company. The transactions with these parties were disclosed till the end of March 2011 as related party transactions.
Note 2:   In March 2011, SPIL’s holding in ChipMOS Bermuda decreased to below 10% and SPIL was no longer regarded a major shareholder of ChipMOS Bermuda. From April 1, 2011 onwards, SPIL was not considered a related party of the Company. The transactions with SPIL were disclosed till the end of March 2011 as related party transactions.

The significant transactions with the aforementioned parties, other than those disclosed in other notes, are summarized as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

During the year

           

Revenue

           

ProMOS

     667,800         2,033,342         379,009         12,521   

DenMOS

     911         —           —           —     

SPIL

     195         —           —           —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     668,906         2,033,342         379,009         12,521   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other expenses

           

MVI

     148         148         25         1   

DenMOS

     1         —           —           —     

SPIL

     —           766         —           —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     149         914         25         1   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other revenue

           

ProMOS

     26,800         412         98         3   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Interest income

           

ProMOS

     1,183         —           —           —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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19. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
     NT$          NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

At the end of year

          

Accounts receivable

          

ProMOS

     259,415           —           —     

Less: Allowances for doubtful receivables

     (1,433        —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 
     257,982           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other receivables

          

ProMOS

     66,378           —           —     

Less: Allowances for doubtful receivables

     —             —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 
     66,378           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other payables

          

MVI

     13           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

Payables to contractors and equipment suppliers

          

SPIL

     490,000           —           —     
  

 

 

      

 

 

    

 

 

 

The price of sales to ProMOS was agreed upon quarterly, based on the then fair market price. The collection term for ProMOS was originally 75 days after month end. On November 13, 2008, ChipMOS Taiwan and ProMOS revised the subcontracting contract by requiring ProMOS to provide wafers with a value of 80% of the subcontracting fee as collateral. Effective March 2009, ChipMOS Taiwan started to request prepayments from ProMOS. In May 2010, the collection term was revised to 30 days after delivery and it was further revised to 45 days after delivery in October 2010. In September 2008, ThaiLin revised the collection term for ProMOS from 75 days to 105 days after month end. In April 2009, ThaiLin started to request prepayments from ProMOS. In June 2010, the collection term was revised to 30 days after delivery. In January 2011, the collection term was revised to 45 days after delivery.

Other related parties have normal collection terms of 60 days after month end. The selling price is the same as for other customers.

The payment terms for purchases from related parties are the same as those from other suppliers.

In 2009, ProMOS used 1,015 thousand shares of ChipMOS Bermuda to settle the other receivables of NT$30,000 thousand and accounts receivable of NT$24,851 thousand.

On December 29, 2009, a director of the Company purchased US$1,000 thousand (NT$30,270 thousand) 8%CN due 2014 (Note 13). On April 19, 2011, the 8%CN due 2014 issued to the director was converted into 200 thousand common shares of the Company. In connection with the make-whole clause, the Company issued 33 thousand common shares to the director as interest payment of US$286 thousand (NT$8,657 thousand).

As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$408,999 thousand and 100% allowance was made by ChipMOS Taiwan. NT$7,000 thousand was received by April 2010. Under the amended subcontracting contract ProMOS paid ChipMOS Taiwan NT$200,000 thousand in May 2010. The remaining NT$201,999 thousand was collected in nine monthly installments ending on March 15, 2011. As of December 31, 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan received NT$335,999 thousand and the related allowance of NT$408,999 thousand was reversed to other non operating income. The balance of NT$66,000 thousand was collected in monthly installments by March 2011.

As of December 31, 2009, other receivables from ProMOS amounted to NT$54,537 thousand and 100% allowance was made by ThaiLin. In June 2010, ThaiLin agreed a settlement with ProMOS in the amount of NT$24,000 thousand and it was collected during the year. The allowance of NT$24,000 thousand was reversed to other non-operating income.

 

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19. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

In February 2010, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into an Equipment Purchase Agreement with SPIL to purchase SPIL’s DRAM test and LCD driver assembly and test operation lines with purchase price of approximately NT$1,630,580 thousand. Under the terms and conditions of the Equipment Purchase Agreement, ChipMOS Taiwan will pay the purchase price in four installments to SPIL with the final installment scheduled to be paid on or before March 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2010, the unpaid was NT$ 490,000 thousand and it was paid in January 2011.

At the same time, ChipMOS Bermuda also entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with SPIL to sell to SPIL its holding of 133,000 thousand common shares of ChipMOS Taiwan with a consideration of NT$1,630,580 thousand. Under the terms and conditions of the Share Purchase Agreement, SPIL will pay the purchase price in four installments to the Company with the final installment scheduled to be paid on or about March 31, 2011. The transaction was early completed in January 2011.

The Company consults its ROC counsel on certain related party transactions and obtains legal opinions, as appropriate, to ensure that such transactions do not violate relevant ROC laws and regulations.

 

20. PLEDGED OR MORTGAGED ASSETS

The Company provided certain assets as collateral mainly for short and long-term bank loans, capital leases and customs duty guarantee, which were as follows:

 

     December 31,  
     2010           2011  
     NT$           NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Restricted cash and cash equivalent

     546,807            285,133         9,420   

Land

     452,738            452,738         14,957   

Buildings

     6,270,155            5,474,164         180,845   

Machinery and equipment

     6,345,521            5,150,540         170,153   

Leased equipment

     1,636,115            —           —     

Land use right

     94,265            100,498         3,320   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 
     15,345,601            11,463,073         378,695   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

21. SIGNIFICANT COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

  a. As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan leased parcels of land from the Hsinchu and Tainan Science Park under several agreements expiring on various dates from 2017 to 2027, with renewal options.

The future minimum lease payments under the above-mentioned leases as of December 31, 2011 are as follows:

 

Year

   Amount  
     NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

2012

     23,142         765   

2013

     23,142         765   

2014

     23,142         765   

2015

     23,142         765   

Thereafter

     99,581         3,288   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

     192,149         6,348   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents
21. SIGNIFICANT COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

  b. As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS USA leased its office under an agreement expiring in 2015. The future minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2011 are as follow:

 

Year

   Amount  
     NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

2012

     3,147         104   

2013

     3,058         101   

2014

     2,965         98   

2015

     3,054         101   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

     12,224         404   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  c. As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan had capital commitments in relation to purchase of plant and machinery in the amount of NT$613,982 thousand (US$20,284 thousand).

 

  d. As of December 31, 2011, ThaiLin had capital commitments in relation to purchase of plant and machinery in the amount of NT$38,535 thousand (US$1,273 thousand).

 

  e. As of December 31, 2011, ChipMOS Shanghai had capital commitments in relation to purchase of plant and machinery in the amount of NT$34,362 thousand (US$1,135 thousand).

 

  f. On April 1, 1999, Motorola, Inc. (“Motorola”) and ChipMOS Taiwan entered into an immunity agreement (the “Agreement”), that each party covenanted not to sue each other for the use of certain Ball Grid Array (“BGA”) patents pursuant to the Agreement. In December 2004, Motorola spun off its semiconductor division and thereby formed Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. (“Freescale”). Subsequently, Freescale assumed Motorola’s rights and obligations under the Agreement. On October 16, 2006, Freescale unilaterally terminated the Agreement, alleging ChipMOS Taiwan breach of the Agreement. Under the Agreement, ChipMOS Taiwan agreed to pay running royalties for its manufacturing of certain BGA packages covered by Motorola (now Freescale) patents pursuant to the Agreement. As such, ChipMOS Taiwan argued Freescale’s unilateral termination of the Agreement has no legal effect. ChipMOS Taiwan has continued to accrue royalty payments for products it believes are covered by the Agreement. The payments previously returned by Freescale and accrued by ChipMOS Taiwan have been deposited in a separate escrow account. On July 13, 2009, Freescale alleged that ChipMOS Taiwan breached the Agreement by failing to pay royalties on certain BGA packages assembled by ChipMOS Taiwan. Freescale claims that such packages are covered by one or more Freescale patents identified in the Agreement while ChipMOS Taiwan contends that such packages are not covered by any of Freescale’s patents in the Agreement. ChipMOS Taiwan filed an answer to deny all allegations and also filed counterclaims against Freescale alleging Freescale engaged in patent misuse by seeking to obtain royalties on certain of ChipMOS Taiwan’s BGA products that were not covered by any Freescale patent included under the Agreement, and for declaratory judgement of patent non-infringement and invalidity. In response, on December 11, 2009, Freescale filed a motion to dismiss the declaratory judgment counterclaims filed by ChipMOS Taiwan and to stay all other patent related claims and issues until its breach of contract claims could be decided. That motion and the initial case management conference were held on March 5, 2010 and the motions were deemed submitted. A Summary Judgment granting in part and denying in part the motions of both Freescale and ChipMOS Taiwan was given by court on July 29, 2010. The above order finds that the Agreement constituted a “Total Sales Royalty” agreement, however, Freescale’s motion was partly denied for patent misuse. A mediation was held by both parties on October 28, 2010, but the mediation was unsuccessful. The fact discovery process regarding patent misuse issue closed in late April 2011. The expert discovery process regarding patent misuse issue closed in the middle of June 2011. On June 17, 2011, Freescale filed a motion for summary judgment on ChipMOS Taiwan’s patent misuse defense. ChipMOS Taiwan filed opposition to the above Freescale motion and also the cross-motion for summary judgment. An Order granting Freescale’s motion for partial summary judgment and denying ChipMOS Taiwan’s cross-motion for partial judgment was given on September 8, 2011. On September 13, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan filed a Motion for Leave for Motion for Reconsideration. On October 17, 2011, ChipMOS Taiwan filed its opening brief in accordance with the Court Order dated September 22, 2011 granting ChipMOS Taiwan’s Motion for Leave for Motion for Reconsideration. Subsequently Freescale filed its response on October 31, 2011 and ChipMOS Taiwan replied on November 7, 2011. No Order has been granted by the Court as of March 15, 2012. The Company’s counsel has not formed any opinion as to the outcome of the case. The Company considers that an unfavorable outcome for this matter is remote.

 

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21. SIGNIFICANT COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)

 

  g. On April 20, 1999, ChipMOS Taiwan entered into a semiconductor packaging technology license agreement with Tessera Technologies, Inc. (Tessera). In February 2006, ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS USA received notice of a patent infringement lawsuit brought by Tessera, alleging infringement of several Tessera patents and breach of an existing license agreement with ChipMOS Taiwan. The fact discovery has been stayed in accordance with a Northern District of California Court order issued on May 24, 2007. On April 21, 2008, Tessera requested that the International Trade Commission (ITC) investigate ChipMOS Bermuda, ChipMOS Taiwan and ChipMOS USA (collectively referred to as the Companies) on the basis of alleged violations of Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930. In its request for investigation (“ITC-649 Investigation”), Tessera alleged that the Companies infringed certain patents among which are three that were the subject of the stayed litigation in the Northern District of California. Tessera also requested that the ITC issue an exclusion order to enjoin the importation of accused products into the United States. On September 30, 2008, Judge of Northern District of California Court (“Judge”) granted a motion to extend the hearing date from March 16 to March 24, 2009 and target date from August 28 to November 2, 2009. On February 10, 2009, the Judge ordered the procedural schedule in the ITC-649 Investigation be stayed until the ITC issues its Final Determination in the ITC-605 Investigation. The target date of Initial Determination was also extended from December 7, 2009 to February 8, 2010. On March 13, 2009, after the close of discovery, Tessera submitted a request to terminate the ITC-649 Investigation. On July 17, 2009, the Judge issued an order granting the request to terminate the ITC-649 Investigation. No petitions for review were filed. The ITC had determined not to review the Initial Determination and issued an order to terminate the investigation on August 7, 2009. The ITC’s Final Determination for the ITC-605 Investigation issued in May 2009 was appealed to the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (“CAFC”). CAFC confirmed ITC’s finding in May 2011. CAFC’s above decision was appealed to the United States Supreme Court. The United States Supreme Court denied the above petition for review of the 605 Investigation in December 2011. Due to the denial of the petition for review of the 605 Investigation by the United States Supreme Court, the stayed litigation in the Northern District of California Court resumed. A Case Management Conference was held on January 4, 2012. The schedule of the litigation has been set. The date for jury trial was scheduled in April 2014. The Company’s counsel has not formed an opinion as to the outcome of the case. The Company considers that an unfavorable outcome for this matter is remote.

 

22. POST BALANCE SHEET EVENTS

 

  a. On November 17, 2011, the Company effected its US$10 million share repurchase program with Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Shares will be repurchased pursuant to a written plan agreed to and entered into between the Company and its broker. The repurchased shares will be retired and cancelled. As of March 14, 2012, the Company had repurchased 47 thousand common shares.

 

  b. On March 7, 2012, ChipMOS Shanghai obtained banking facilities of US$9,200 thousand (NT$278,484 thousand) for a term of three years from a bank. The banking facilities are secured by land use right, building and equipment and it has not been drawdown as of March 15, 2012.

 

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23 DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

ChipMOS Taiwan has entered into forward exchange contracts and foreign currency options for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 to hedge its exchange rate risk on foreign-currency assets or liabilities and anticipated transactions. No derivative financial instrument was used during 2010 and 2011. Information on the derivative transactions is as follows:

 

  a. Forward exchange contracts

As of December 31, 2010 and 2011, there were no outstanding forward contracts.

 

  b. Financial risk information

 

  1) Credit risk. Credit risk is the risk that a counterparty will not meet its obligations under a financial instrument or customer contract, leading to a financial loss. The Company is exposed to credit risk from its operating activities (primarily for trade and other receivables). The Company performs ongoing credit evaluation of the debtors’ financial condition and maintains an allowance for doubtful receivables based on historical collection, write-off experience and individual examination of available information regarding the customers. The banks with which the Company has entered into the above contracts are reputable and, therefore, the Company is not expected to be exposed to significant credit risks.

 

  2) Market risk and hedge strategy. The Company’s financial assets at fair value through profit and loss are stated at market value, which is affected by the stock prices in the open stock market. Subject to turmoil in the global financial market, the Company has evaluated its financial instruments and the Company believed the exposure to market risk as of December 31, 2011 was not significant. The Company is exposed to market risks arising from changes in currency exchange rates due to U.S. dollar denominated accounts receivable, Yen denominated accounts payable and U.S. dollar denominated debt. In order to manage these exposures, the Company sometimes enters into forward contracts and option contracts.

 

  3) Liquidity risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will encounter difficulty in raising funds to meet commitments associated with financial instruments. Liquidity risk may result from an inability to sell a financial asset quickly at close to its fair value. Prudent liquidity risk management implies maintaining sufficient cash. The Company monitors and maintains a level of bank balances deemed adequate to finance its operations. The Company employs projected cash flow analysis to manage liquidity risk by forecasting the amount of cash required and monitoring the working capital of the group to ensure that all liabilities due and known funding requirements could be met. In addition, there are unused credit lines for contingency purposes.

 

  4) Cash flow interest rate risk. Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. The Company’s exposure to the risk of changes in market interest rates relates primarily to the Company’s short and long term bank loans with floating interest rates. At December 31, 2011, it is estimated that a general increase or decrease of 1% in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, would increase the Company’s annual cash outflow by NT$97,152 thousand (US$ 3,210 thousand).

 

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Table of Contents
23. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

  c. The estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments are as follows:

 

     December 31,  
     2010          2011  
    

Carrying

Value

     Fair Value          Carrying
Value
     Fair Value  
     NT$      NT$          NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Assets

                

Cash and cash equivalents

     7,143,265         7,143,265           7,357,902         7,357,902         243,076   

Restricted cash and cash equivalents

     546,807         546,807           285,133         285,133         9,420   

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss

     2,999         2,999           —           —           —     

Notes receivable

     13,980         13,980           5,710         5,710         189   

Accounts receivable:

                

Related parties

     257,982         257,982           —           —           —     

Third parties

     2,816,072         2,816,072           3,666,507         3,666,507         121,127   

Other receivables:

                

Related parties

     66,378         66,378           —           —           —     

Third parties

     182,028         182,028           73,179         73,179         2,417   

Long-term investments

     10,537         10,537           39,121         39,121         1,292   

Refundable deposits

     20,295         20,295           21,364         21,364         706   

Liabilities

                

Bank loans

     1,494,651         1,494,651           546,916         546,916         18,068   

Accounts payable:

                

Third parties

     690,060         690,060           1,130,730         1,130,730         37,355   

Other payables:

                

Related parties

     13         13           —           —           —     

Third parties

     896,706         896,706           1,081,530         1,081,530         35,729   

Payables to contractors and equipment suppliers

     790,598         790,598           415,391         415,391         13,723   

Capital leases payable (including current portion)

     1,453,791         1,453,791           —           —           —     

Convertible notes (including current portion)

     174,138         194,672           —           —           —     

Derivative liabilities

     96,788         96,788           —           —           —     

Long-term loans (including current portion)

     10,565,871         10,565,871           9,168,328         9,168,328         302,885   

Guarantee deposits

     3,989         3,989           1,777         1,777         59   

Fair values of financial instruments were determined as follows:

 

  1) Short-term financial instruments – the carrying values approximate the fair values due to its short-term nature.

 

  2) Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss – open market values.

 

  3) Long-term investments – market value for listed companies and net equity value for the others.

 

  4) Refundable deposits and guarantee deposits – future values.

 

  5) Long-term liabilities – based on forecasted cash flows discounted at current interest rates of similar long-term liabilities. The fair value of convertible notes in 2010 is determined by option pricing models. Other long-term liabilities are their carrying values as they use floating interest rates.

The fair value of non-financial instruments was not included in the fair values disclosed above. Accordingly, the sum of the fair values of the financial instruments listed above does not equal the fair value of the Company.

 

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Table of Contents
23. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

  d. The following table details the Company’s exposure to foreign currency risk arising from recognised assets or liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity to which they relate:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010           2011  
     Foreign
Currency
     Exchange
Rate
     NT$           Foreign
Currency
     Exchange
Rate
     NT$  
     (in thousands)  

Financial Assets

                    

U.S. Dollar

     147,120         29.13         4,284,641            187,902         30.275         5,688,423   

Japanese Yen

     1,990,578         0.3582         713,015            586,033         0.3906         228,895   

Financial Liabilities

                    

U.S. Dollar

     44,687         29.13         1,301,716            15,808         30.275         478,273   

Japanese Yen

     958,859         0.3582         373,454            1,626,183         0.3906         635,157   

 

24. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

The Company engages mainly in the research and development, manufacturing, assembly and testing of semiconductors. In accordance with SFAS No. 41 and FASB ASC 280-10-50, the Company’s chief operating decision maker has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer, who reviews these segment results by Testing, Assembly, Testing and Assembly for LCD and other Flat-Panel Display Driver Semiconductors and Bumping when making decisions about allocating resources and assessing the performance of the Company. During 2011, the revenue of the bumping segment exceeded the quantitative threshold for aggregation and the Company has presented bumping as a separate segment. The bumping segment has been recasted from LCD for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2010. Financial segment information required by FASB ASC 280-10-50 is as follows:

 

  a. Semiconductor testing, assembly, LCD and other flat-panel display driver semiconductors and bumping services.

 

     2009  
     Testing      Assembly      LCD      Bumping      Segment
Totals
     Corporate  &
Other

Assets
     Consolidated
Totals
 
     NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$  
     (in thousands)  

Revenue from customers

     5,171,207         4,352,836         1,986,453         639,812         12,150,308         —           12,150,308   

Cost of revenues

     7,362,399         5,111,252         2,171,731         1,016,070         15,661,452         —           15,661,452   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segment gross loss

     (2,191,192      (758,416      (185,278      (376,258      (3,511,144      —           (3,511,144
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total operating expenses

                       (1,594,316

Fair value gain on financial asset

                       62,674   

Gain on extinguishment of convertible notes

                       412,337   

Gain on embedded derivative

                       50,740   

Other non-operating income

                       142,440   

Interest expense

                       (439,411

Impairment loss recognized during the year

                       (25,543

Other non-operating expense

                       (86,495
                    

 

 

 

Loss before income tax and noncontrolling interests

                       (4,988,718
                    

 

 

 

Segment assets

     12,160,688         4,790,237         1,970,447         1,847,620         20,768,992         —           20,768,992   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Long-term investment

                       219,966   

Corporate and other assets

                       9,367,262   
                    

 

 

 

Total assets

                       30,356,220   
                    

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

     3,779,168         1,206,440         1,172,552         319,063         6,477,223         47,373         6,524,596   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Expenditure for segment assets

     3,188,750         233,298         36,665         20,969         3,479,682         —           3,479,682   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents
24. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (continued)

 

     2010  
     Testing      Assembly      LCD      Bumping      Segment
Totals
     Corporate  &
Other

Assets
     Consolidated
Totals
 
     NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$  
     (in thousands)  

Revenue from customers

     6,169,705         6,258,815         3,199,009         1,582,204         17,209,733         —           17,209,733   

Cost of revenues

     6,417,644         6,053,881         2,495,139         1,597,339         16,564,003         —           16,564,003   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segment gross profit (loss)

     (247,939      204,934         703,870         (15,135      645,730         —           645,730   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total operating expenses

                       (1,154,753

Fair value gain on financial asset

                       3,918   

Recovery of allowance for doubtful receivables

                       2,716,880   

Claim received

                       2,118,490   

Other non-operating income

                       372,695   

Interest expense

                       (683,486

Loss on embedded derivative

                       (260,654

Impairment loss recognized during the year

                       (391,646

Loss on sale of receivables

                       (1,067,791

Other non-operating expense

                       (487,817
                    

 

 

 

Income before income tax and noncontrolling interests

                       1,811,566   
                    

 

 

 

Segment assets

     8,681,506         3,866,062         2,947,985         1,777,415         17,272,968         —           17,272,968   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Long-term investment

                       10,537   

Corporate and other assets

                       14,031,525   
                    

 

 

 

Total assets

                       31,315,030   
                    

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

     3,797,698         1,020,979         1,100,664         328,981         6,248,322         33,307         6,281,629   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Expenditure for segment assets

     1,380,029         512,489         1,658,501         686,259         4,237,278         —           4,237,278   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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Table of Contents
24. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (continued)

 

     2011  
     Testing      Assembly      LCD      Bumping      Segment
Totals
     Corporate  &
Other

Assets
     Consolidated
Totals
 
     NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Revenue from customers

     5,899,082         5,989,068         3,985,834         2,336,953         18,210,937         —           18,210,937         601,617   

Cost of revenues

     5,522,131         5,706,157         3,098,529         2,222,397         16,549,214         —           16,549,214         546,720   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segment gross profit

     376,951         282,911         887,305         114,556         1,661,723         —           1,661,723         54,897   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

                       (1,128,214      (37,272

Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment

                       39,061         1,290   

Foreign exchange gain

                       129,721         4,286   

Other non-operating income

                       124,567         4,115   

Interest expense

                       (309,286      (10,218

Loss on embedded derivative

                       (57,188      (1,889

Impairment loss recognized during the year

                       (168,154      (5,555

Loss on partial disposal of a subsidiary

                       (74,923      (2,475

Loss on disposal of property, plan and equipment

                       (7,389      (244

Other non-operating expense

                       (132,179      (4,367
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Income before income tax and noncontrolling interests

                       77,739         2,568   
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Segment assets

     6,047,835         2,954,657         3,240,228         1,653,328         13,896,048         —           13,896,048         459,070   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

       

Long-term investment

                       39,121         1,292   

Corporate and other assets

                       14,345,896         473,932   
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

                       28,281,065         934,294   
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

     3,136,031         885,850         1,268,350         361,562         5,651,793         25,811         5,677,604         187,566   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Expenditure for segment assets

     463,602         254,741         1,188,021         412,919         2,319,283         —           2,319,283         76,620   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The corporate and other assets consist of the total current assets, intangible assets and other assets.

 

F-45


Table of Contents
24. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (continued)

 

  b. Net revenue:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Area

           

ROC

     7,330,964         12,684,431         13,338,554         440,653   

U.S.

     3,998,989         3,780,058         2,762,662         91,267   

Singapore

     185,706         63,352         1,015,659         33,554   

Korea

     352,642         430,746         314,774         10,399   

Japan

     167,475         120,673         351,048         11,597   

Others

     114,532         130,473         428,240         14,147   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     12,150,308         17,209,733         18,210,937         601,617   

 

c. Net sales to customers representing at least 10% of net total sales:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  
     Amount      %      Amount      %      Amount      %      Amount  
     NT$             NT$             NT$             US$  
     (in thousands)  

Customer

                    

Spansion

     1,867,515         15         1,086,031         6         1,005,832         6         33,229   

ProMOS

     667,800         5         2,033,342         12         1,005,728         6         33,225   

Novatek

     1,403,887         12         3,166,799         18         3,829,112         21         126,499   

Micron

     1,252,507         10         1,477,440         9         1,925,586         11         63,614   

 

25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of China (“ROC GAAP”), which differ in the following respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”):

 

  a. Technologies transferred in payment of capital stock

Pursuant to a Joint Venture Agreement entered into between MVI and SPIL on July 28, 1997, MVI and SPIL contributed, as payment for their subscription in the shares of stock of ChipMOS Taiwan, technologies relating to the testing and assembly of semiconductors at an agreed value of NT$750,000 thousand. Under ROC GAAP, such technology transfers in payment of capital stock are recorded as an intangible asset, and amortized by systematic charges to income over the periods estimated to be benefited. As permitted under ROC GAAP, the Company uses a five-year amortization period. Under U.S. GAAP, the technology contribution cannot be recognized due to the unavailability of a fair value for the technologies. Therefore, the carrying value of the technologies has been adjusted to zero under U.S. GAAP.

 

  b. Start-up costs

ROC GAAP requires start-up costs to be deferred and amortized in a systematic manner over its estimated useful beneficial life. Start-up costs include all costs incurred prior to production readiness. On the other hand, U.S. GAAP primarily requires that start-up costs be expensed as incurred. Some of the expenses were recorded in manufacturing expenses and therefore also affect ending inventory balances under U.S. GAAP.

 

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25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES (continued)

 

  c. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment and employee dormitory building

Under ROC GAAP, the estimated life of a building can be as long as 55 years based on the ROC Internal Revenue Code. For U.S. GAAP purposes, building lives are estimated to be 25 years. Some of the depreciation expenses were recorded in manufacturing expenses and therefore also affect ending inventory balances under U.S. GAAP.

 

  d. Transfer of building and facilities from MVI

The Company purchased buildings and facilities from MVI in 1997. The costs of assets purchased from MVI were based on MVI’s book value of such building and facilities on a specified cut-off date plus an additional payment of NT$173,174 thousand representing compensation to MVI. This additional payment of NT$173,174 thousand was capitalized by the Company as allowed under ROC GAAP. Under U.S. GAAP, assets acquired are recorded at amounts that do not exceed their fair values. Also, generally under U.S. GAAP, the transferee should record the assets transferred from related parties with significant influence at the predecessor’s basis. Therefore, the transfer of assets from MVI was recorded at MVI’s predecessor cost basis and NT$173,174 thousand was deducted from the capital surplus and building and facilities for the purposes of U.S. GAAP. Some of the related depreciation expenses were recorded in manufacturing expenses and therefore also affect ending inventory balances under U.S. GAAP.

 

  e. Impairment of long-lived assets

Impairment assessments are made by the Company when events and circumstances exist that indicate the carrying value of these assets may not be recoverable. In view of the sustained losses incurred by ChpiMOS Shanghai, the Company reviewed its property, plant and equipment and land use rights for potential impairment as at December 31, 2010 and 2011.

Under U.S. GAAP, impairment losses for assets to be held and used are recorded in current period earnings and create a new cost basis for related assets going forward, and cannot be reversed subsequently. Under U.S. GAAP, in accordance with FASB ASC 360 “Property, Plant and Equipment”, long-lived assets held and used by the Company are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss shall be recognized only if the carrying amount of a long-lived asset (asset group) is not recoverable and exceeds its fair value. The carrying amount of a long-lived asset (asset group) is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset (asset group). That assessment shall be based on the carrying amount of the asset (asset group) at the date it is tested for recoverability, whether in use or under development. An impairment loss shall be measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of a long-lived asset (asset group) exceeds its fair value. Fair value is determined by the Company using future cash flows discounted at current rates. There are no differences in impairment loss recognized under ROC GAAP and U.S. GAAP in 2009, 2010 and 2011.

 

  f. Earnings per share (EPS)

In calculating the weighted average number of shares outstanding for EPS purposes under ROC GAAP, employee bonus shares have been treated as outstanding for all periods in a manner similar to a stock split or stock dividend. Under U.S. GAAP, employee bonus shares have been considered separately from the stock dividend or split and have been treated as outstanding from the date of shareholder approval.

 

  g. Interest capitalization

Under ROC GAAP, interest on borrowings during construction conceptually should be capitalized in the assets that are constructed or produced for a company’s own use. However, if equity capital is raised during a year, no capitalization interest is recorded for the amount of property acquired up to the equity capital raised in that year. Under U.S. GAAP, FASB ASC 835 “Interest”, interest is generally capitalized on assets until they are available and ready for use.

 

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25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES (continued)

 

  h. Inventories stated at lower of cost or market

ROC GAAP allows assessment of carrying values of inventories on an aggregate basis. An allowance was made when the aggregate carrying values of inventories were higher than market.

Under U.S. GAAP, the Company’s assessed inventories at the lower of cost or market on an item-by-item basis. This resulted in an additional write-off of NT$36,818 thousand which was charged to the consolidated statement of operations as a component of cost of revenue in 2008.

Under ROC GAAP and effective January 1, 2009, the Company adopted the revised SFAS No. 10. The Company is required to assess inventories at the lower of cost or market on an item-by-item basis. Therefore, there are no difference between ROC GAAP and U.S. GAAP effective January 1, 2009. The adjustment in 2009 relates to reversal of the allowance made under U.S. GAAP in 2008.

 

  i. Convertible notes

Under ROC GAAP, there is no requirement to account for the fair value of a conversion feature embedded in CN due 2009 as it was issued before January 1, 2006. Under U.S. GAAP, the Company accounts for the fair value of the conversion feature of its convertible notes in accordance with FASB ASC 815 “Derivatives and Hedging”, which requires the Company to bifurcate and separately account for the conversion feature as embedded derivatives contained in the Company’s convertible notes. The Company carried these embedded derivatives on its balance sheet at fair value and changes in fair values of these embedded derivatives are reflected in the consolidated statement of operations. Commencing January 1, 2006, ROC GAAP requires the Company to bifurcate and separately account for put and call option features contained in the Company’s convertible notes issued after 2005. The Company issued convertible notes (CN due 2011) on September 29, 2006. The Company carried the put and call options of the CN due 2011 on the balance sheet at fair value with changes in fair values reflected in the consolidated statement of operations. The other conversion features are recorded in equity.

Commencing from January 1, 2006, under ROC GAAP, the issue costs of convertible notes are recorded as a reduction of the convertible notes. Under U.S. GAAP the issue costs are capitalized as deferred assets and amortized over the period of the convertible notes.

There is no difference under ROC GAAP and U.S. GAAP in accounting for the CN due 2014 and 2015 (see Note 13).

As of December 31, 2011, there were no outstanding convertible notes (See Note 13).

 

  j. Share-based payments

Under ROC GAAP, the Company followed Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (“APB No. 25”), in accounting for its employee stock option plans prior to January 1, 2008. Under APB No. 25, when the exercise price of the Company’s stock options is less than the market price of the underlying shares on the date of grant, compensation expense is recognized. Under U.S. GAAP, commencing from January 1, 2006, the Company applies FASB ASC 718 “Compensation – Stock Compensation”, with respect to options and warrants issued to non-employees. FASB ASC 718 requires the use of option valuation models to measure the fair value of the options and warrants at the measurement date. The total stock-based compensation expense resulting from stock options was included in the consolidated statements of operations. There is no difference between ROC GAAP and U.S. GAAP effective January 1, 2008 upon adoption of SFAS No. 39 for options granted since January 1, 2008.

 

  k. Defined Benefit Pension Plans

Under U.S. GAAP, commencing from January 1, 2006, the Company applies FASB ASC 715 “Compensation – Retirement Benefits”. FASB ASC 715 requires an employer that sponsors one or more defined benefit pension plans or other postretirement plans to 1) recognize the funded status of a plan, measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value and the benefit obligation, in the balance sheet; 2) recognize in equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not yet recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost; 3) measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations as of the date of the employer’s fiscal year-end balance sheet; and 4) disclose in the notes to the financial statements additional information about the 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. Under ROC GAAP, there is no such requirement for recognition.

 

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25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES (continued)

 

  l. Income tax expense

Effective January 1, 2007, the Company adopted FASB ASC 740 “Income Taxes”. FASB ASC 740 prescribes a more-likely-than-not threshold for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. This interpretation also provides guidance on derecognizing of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions and income tax disclosures.

Uncertain tax positions have been classified as non-current income tax liabilities unless these are expected to be paid in one year. The Company’s policy for interest and penalties related to income tax exposure is to recognize interest and penalties as a component of the provision of income taxes in the consolidated statement of operations.

The Company is potentially subject to income tax audits in the ROC and internationally until the applicable statutes of limitations expire. Tax audits by their nature are often complex and can require several years to complete. The following is a summary of tax years, potentially subject to examination, in the significant tax and business jurisdictions in which the Company operates:

 

Jurisdiction

   Tax Years Subject to
Examination

Republic of China

   5 Years

United States

   3 Years

Hong Kong

   6 Years

People’s Republic of China

   Unlimited

In 2011, the Company assessed that certain royalty payments are more likely than not to be disallowed by relevant tax authorities and a provision has been made for this uncertain tax position in the amount of NT$5,205 thousand (US$172 thousand).

The Company’s subsidiaries are currently under examination by the relevant tax authorities for various tax years. The Company regularly assesses the potential outcome of these examinations in each of the taxing jurisdictions when determining the adequacy of the amount of unrecognized tax benefit recorded. While it is often difficult to predict the final outcome or the timing of resolution of any particular uncertain tax position, the Company believes it has appropriately accrued for uncertain tax benefits. However, audit outcomes and timing of audit settlements and future events that would impact the previously recorded unrecognized tax benefits and the range of anticipated increases or decreases in unrecognized tax benefits are subject to significant uncertainty. It is possible that the ultimate outcome of current or future examinations may exceed current unrecognized tax benefits in amounts that could be material, but cannot be estimated as of December 31, 2011. The effective tax rate and net income in any given future period could therefore be materially impacted.

There are no such provisions under ROC GAAP.

 

  m. Cash and cash equivalents

Under ROC GAAP, cash and cash equivalents include time deposits regardless of its maturity date. Under U.S. GAAP, cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to cash with original maturities of three months or less. Thus, time deposits with original maturities of more than three months are classified as cash equivalents under ROC GAAP but should be included in other current assets under U.S. GAAP.

 

  n. Classification of non-operating income (expenses)

Under ROC GAAP, gains on disposal of property, plant and equipment, land use rights, scrap material and tooling and claim received are recorded as non-operating income; and loss on sale of receivables, impairment losses on property, plant and equipment, other assets, and goodwill are recorded as non-operating expenses as these items represent revenue and expenses not arising from ordinary operating activities. All of these specific non-operating line items are considered operating items under U.S. GAAP.

Under U.S. GAAP, gains on disposal of property, plant and equipment, land use rights, scrap material and tooling and claim received are recorded as other operating income; and loss on sale of receivables, impairment losses on property, plant and equipment, other assets, and goodwill are recorded as operating expenses.

 

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25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES (continued)

 

  o. Classification of loss on partial disposal of a subsidiary while retaining control

Under ROC GAAP, loss on partial disposal of a subsidiary while retaining control is recorded as a non-operating expense as this item represents an expense not arising from ordinary operating activities.

Under U.S. GAAP, changes in a parent’s ownership interest while the parent retains its controlling financial interest in its subsidiary shall be accounted for as equity transactions. Therefore, no loss shall be recognized in consolidated net income or comprehensive income. Any difference between the fair value of the consideration received or paid and the amount by which the noncontrolling interest is adjusted shall be recognized in equity attributable to the parent.

The following reconciles net income (loss) and equity under ROC GAAP as reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements to net income and equity amounts determined under U.S. GAAP, giving effect to adjustments for the differences listed above.

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS

        

Net income (loss) based on ROC GAAP

     (4,418,683     1,644,732        (15,161     (501

Adjustments:

        

Amortization of deferred charge

     (446     (446     (334     (11

Amortization of start-up costs

     1,597        35        —          —     

Pension expenses

     (17,358     (22,075     (17,904     (591

Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment

     —          —          3,972        131   

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment and employee dormitory building

     (56,430     (56,125     (52,002     (1,718

Transfer of building and facilities from MVI

     160        159        158        5   

Interest capitalization

     (14,064     —          —          —     

Loss on inventory valuation

     36,818        —          —          —     

Effect of U.S. GAAP adjustments on income taxes

     12,319        13,260        11,182        369   

Adjustment for uncertain tax positions

     20,228        3,001        (5,205     (172

Stock-based compensation

     (40,705     13,252        23,036        761   

Loss on partial disposal of a subsidiary while retaining control

     —          —          74,923        2,475   

Amortization of discount on convertible notes

     (88,603     —          —          —     

Noncontrolling interests

     14,880        21,109        23,420        774   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net income

     (131,604     (27,830     61,246        2,023   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) based on U.S. GAAP

     (4,550,287     1,616,902        46,085        1,522   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) per share - basic

     (230.00     67.45        1.73        0.06   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) per share - diluted

     (236.60     66.35        1.71        0.06   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Number of weighted average shares outstanding - basic

     19,784        23,971        26,590        26,590   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Number of weighted average shares outstanding - diluted

     20,749        26,806        26,962        26,962   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES (continued)

 

The following table reconciles the denominator to calculate basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:

 

     December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  
     (in thousands)  

Basic number of shares

     19,784         23,971         26,590   

Add: Stock options

     —           288         372   

Convertible notes

     965         2,547         —     
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Diluted number of shares

     20,749         26,806         26,962   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table reconciles the numerator to calculate basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:

 

    Year Ended December 31,  
    2009     2010     2011  
    NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
    (in thousands)  

Net income (loss) based on U.S. GAAP

    (4,550,287     1,616,902        46,085        1,522   

Add: Amortization of discount on convertible notes

    3,737        9,909        —          —     

Interest expense (net of tax)

    (309,298     (18,423     —          —     

Loss (gains) on embedded derivative

    (50,740     181,436        —          —     

Amortization of deferred charge on convertible notes

    —          446        —          —     

Foreign exchange gain

    (2,658     (11,541     —          —     
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS adjusted for the effects of assumed exercise of options and conversion of notes

    (4,909,246     1,778,729        46,085        1,522   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

    Year Ended December 31,  
    2009     2010     2011  
    NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
    (in thousands)  

Equity

       

Equity based on ROC GAAP

    9,952,217        14,043,459        14,983,270        494,988   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjustments:

       

Technology transfer in payment of capital stock

       

Original cost

    (750,000     (750,000     (750,000     (24,777

Accumulated amortization of technology transfer in payment of capital stocks

    750,000        750,000        750,000        24,777   

Start-up costs

       

Original cost

    (49,825     —          —          —     

Accumulated amortization of start-up costs

    49,825        —          —          —     

Net effect on inventories

    (35     —          —          —     

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment and employee dormitory building

    (283,868     (339,993     (391,995     (12,950

Transfer of building and facilities from MVI

       

Original cost

    (173,174     (173,174     (173,174     (5,721

Depreciation and gain on disposal of building and facilities from MVI

    170,519        170,677        170,835        5,644   

Net effect on inventories

    (4     (3     (3     —     

Pension expenses

    (278,795     (390,980     (372,273     (12,298

Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment

    —          —          3,972        131   

Interest capitalization

    118,757        118,757        118,757        3,923   

Amortization of interest capitalization

    (143,781     (143,781     (143,781     (4,750

Effect of U.S. GAAP adjustments on income taxes

    75,287        88,547        99,729        3,295   

Adjustment for uncertain tax positions

    (4,247     (1,246     (6,451     (213

Equity component of convertible notes

    (466,151     (466,151     (466,151     (15,400

Loss on redemption of convertible notes

    (129,299     (129,299     (129,299     (4,272

Amortization of deferred charge

    (38,822     (39,268     (39,602     (1,308

Amortization of discount on convertible notes

    (607,569     (607,569     (607,569     (20,072

Gain on embedded derivative liabilities

    1,242,621        1,242,621        1,242,621        41,051   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net decrease in equity

    (518,561     (670,862     (694,384     (22,940
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity based on U.S. GAAP

    9,433,656        13,372,597        14,288,886        472,048   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-51


Table of Contents
25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES (continued)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009      2010      2011  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Changes in equity based on U.S. GAAP

           

Balance, beginning of the year

     14,154,147         9,433,656         13,372,597         441,778   

Stock purchased by a subsidiary

     (79,936      —           —           —     

Interest payment for convertible notes

     —           29,216         5,408         178   

Convertible notes conversion

     —           1,078,008         305,569         10,095   

Issuance of option warrants

     90,600         43,872         48,979         1,618   

Exercise of option warrants

     —           1,450         15,982         528   

Stock-based compensation

     40,705         (13,252      (23,036      (761

Cumulative translation adjustments

     (29,197      (78,466      107,851         3,563   

Net income (loss) for the year

     (4,550,287      1,616,902         46,085         1,522   

Loss on partial disposal of a subsidiary while retaining control

     —           —           (74,923      (2,475

Reverse stock split

     —           —           (239      (8

Adjustment of equity method for long-term Investment

     2,724         (3,260      (6,619      (219

Unrecognized pension expenses

     (20,760      (53,698      43,619         1,441   

Noncontrolling interests

     (174,340      1,318,169         447,613         14,788   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Balance, end of the year

     9,433,656         13,372,597         14,288,886         472,048   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

A reconciliation of the significant balance sheet accounts to the approximate amounts determined under U.S. GAAP is as follows:

 

     December 31,  
     2010           2011  
     NT$           NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Current assets

           

As reported

     12,790,298            13,091,191         432,481   

U.S. GAAP adjustments

           

Effect of inventory adjustments:

           

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

     1,059            1,005         33   

Transfer of building and facilities from MVI

     (3         (3      —     

Adjustments for uncertain tax position

     (6,207         (6,207      (205
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

As adjusted

     12,785,147            13,085,986         432,309   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment - net

           

As reported

     17,272,968            13,896,048         459,070   

U.S. GAAP adjustments

           

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

     (321,365         (367,710      (12,148

Transfer of building and facilities from MVI

     (2,497         (2,339      (77

Interest capitalization

     (25,024         (25,024      (827
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

As adjusted

     16,924,082            13,500,975         446,018   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other assets

           

As reported

     1,146,962            1,154,207         38,131   

U.S. GAAP adjustments

           

Depreciation of employee dormitory building

     (19,687         (21,318      (704

Deferred charge

     334            —           —     

Effect of U.S. GAAP adjustment on income tax

     88,547            99,729         3,294   

Adjustments for uncertain tax position

     4,961            4,961         164   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

As adjusted

     1,221,117            1,237,579         40,885   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

F-52


Table of Contents
25. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES FOLLOWED BY THE COMPANY AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES (continued)

 

     December 31,  
     2010           2011  
     NT$           NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Other liabilities

           

As reported

     97,079            101,331         3,348   

U.S. GAAP adjustments

           

Pension

     390,980            372,273         12,298   

Adjustment for uncertain tax position

     —              5,205         172   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

As adjusted

     488,059            478,809         15,818   
  

 

 

       

 

 

    

 

 

 

As a result of the adjustments presented above, the approximate amounts of total assets under U.S. GAAP were NT$31,035,148 thousand and NT$27,964,159 thousand (US$923,824 thousand) as of December 31, 2010, and 2011, respectively.

The following U.S. GAAP condensed statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 have been derived from the audited financial statements and reflect the adjustments presented above. Certain accounts have been reclassified to conform to U.S. GAAP.

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Net revenue

     12,150,308        17,209,733        18,210,937        601,617   

Cost of revenue

     (15,690,962     (16,634,902     (16,612,519     (548,812
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross profit (loss)

     (3,540,654     574,831        1,598,418        52,805   

Other operating income

     97,265        5,039,578        120,595        3,984   

Operating expenses

     (1,726,537     (2,670,660     (1,307,533     (43,195
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) from operations

     (5,169,926     2,943,749        411,480        13,594   

Non-operating income (expenses) - net

     2,176        (1,197,383     (301,892     (9,974
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income (loss) before income tax and noncontrolling interests

     (5,167,750     1,746,366        109,588        3,620   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to ChipMOS

     (4,550,287     1,616,902        46,085        1,522   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-53


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP

 

  a. Recent accounting pronouncements

In May 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update No.2011-04 (“ASU 2011-04”). This update is to clarify the Board’s intent about the application of existing fair value measurement and disclosure requirements and change a particular principle or requirement for measuring fair value or for disclosing information about fair value measurements. In addition, to improve consistency in application across jurisdictions some changes in wording are necessary to ensure that U.S. GAAP and IFRS fair value measurement and disclosure requirements are described in same way. This update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2011. The adoption of ASU 2011-04 may impact the Company’s disclosure on fair value measurement in its consolidated financial statements in future periods.

In June 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update ASU 2011-05 to address the reclassification adjustments and the effect of those reclassification adjustments on the face of the financial statements where net income is presented, by component of net income, and on the face of the financial statements where other comprehensive income is presented, by component of other comprehensive income. This update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of ASU No. 2011-05 is unlikely to have a material impact on the Company’s results and financial position.

In December 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update ASU 2011-12 to supersede the presentation requirements for reclassification adjustments of items out of accumulated other comprehensive income in Update 2011-05 for all entities. The intent of this Update is to defer changes to the presentation requirements for reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income contained in Update 2011-05 to allow the Board time to reconsider whether changes should be made to the presentation requirements for reclassification adjustments out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of ASU No. 2011-12 is unlikely to have a material impact on the Company’s results and financial position.

 

  b. FASB ASC 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” establishes a fair value hierarchy that distinguishes between assumptions based on market data (observable inputs) and the Company’s assumptions (unobservable inputs). The hierarchy consists of three broad levels as follows:

Level 1—Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

Level 2—Inputs other than level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable

Level 3—Unobservable inputs developed using the Company’s estimates and assumptions, which reflect those that market participants would use.

The following table sets forth the assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis, by input level, as of December 31, 2010:

 

     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
     NT$      NT$      NT$      NT$  
     (in thousands)  

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss

     2,999         —           —           2,999   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss include investments in stocks and open-ended funds, which are measured using quoted price in active markets and are classified as Level 1.

As of December 31, 2011, the company did not hold any financial instruments recognized at fair value on a recurring basis.

 

F-54


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP (continued)

 

  c. Income tax expense

Income (loss) before income tax and noncontrolling interests consists of the following:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Bermuda

     80,964        (951,545     356,956        11,792   

ROC

     (5,170,100     2,242,375        285,515        9,432   

Others

     (78,614     455,536        (532,883     (17,604
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (5,167,750     1,746,366        109,588        3,620   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense (benefit) consists of:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Income tax for the current year

        

Bermuda

     6,267        6,585        6,360        210   

ROC

     —          19,366        21,527        711   

Others

     2,049        1,774        503        17   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     8,316        27,725        28,390        938   

Deferred income tax

        

ROC

     (483,604     (143,227     13,756        454   

Others

     (1     (29,777     —          —     
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (483,605     (173,004     13,756        454   

Adjustment of prior years’ income taxes

     22,080        29,658        (2,617     (86
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense (benefit)

     (453,209     (115,621     39,529        1,306   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Reconciliation between the income tax calculated on pre-tax financial statement income based on the statutory tax rate and the income tax expense which conforms to U.S. GAAP is as follows:

 

    Year Ended December 31,  
    2009     2010     2011  
    NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
    (in thousands)  

Tax on pretax income (loss) at 0%

    —          —          —          —     

Tax on pretax income (loss) at applicable statutory rates

    (1,334,734     525,738        76,863        2,539   

Additional 10% on the unappropriated earnings

    —          —          164,073        5,420   

Tax effects of:

       

Permanent differences

       

Non-taxable loss on sales of investment

    358        5,089        —          —     

Non-deductible investment losses

    (17,167     (135,961     (10,982     (362

Non-deductible expense

    (91,828     (53,479     (26,976     (891

Other

    3,554        925        110        4   

Temporary differences

    28,026        32,854        8,469        280   

Tax credits - utilized

    —          (9,445     (179,823     (5,941

                   - deferred

    4,080        515,421        302,966        10,009   

Valuation allowance

    703,359        (1,127,767     (397,672     (13,138

Losses carried forward

    1,088,819        (61,646     (113,727     (3,757

Losses carried forward - deferred

    (981,013     82,057        218,845        7,230   

Deferred tax effect of change in tax rate

    139,526        80,935        —          —     

Adjustment of prior year’s income tax

    3,811        29,658        (2,617     (87
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense (benefit)

    (453,209     (115,621     39,529        1,306   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-55


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP (continued)

 

  c. Income tax expense (continued)

 

The components of net deferred income tax assets were as follows:

 

    December 31,  
    2010         2011  
    NT$         NT$     US$  
    (in thousands)  

Deferred income tax assets

       

Current

       

Unrealized foreign exchange loss

    25,248          2,085        69   

Tax credits

    285,891          76,280        2,520   

Loss of market price decline and obsolete and slow-moving inventories

    10,430          19,413        641   

Unrealized loss on sale allowances

    31,932          20,167        666   

Allowance for doubtful receivables

    11,013          11,013        364   

Others

    1,015          3,293        109   
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
    365,529          132,251        4,369   

Valuation allowance

    (93,025       (61,899     (2,045
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
    272,504          70,352        2,324   
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-current

       

Tax credits

    163,777          70,421        2,326   

Losses carried forward

    1,178,333          1,000,200        33,043   

Impairment loss

    13,114          10,497        347   

Building

    638          611        20   

Start-up costs

    2          2        —     

Depreciation differences

    —            125,749        4,154   

Others

    248,106          258,387        8,536   
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,603,970          1,465,867        48,426   

Valuation allowances

    (1,075,298       (760,826     (25,134
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
    528,672          705,041        23,292   
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Deferred income tax liabilities

       

Non-current

       

Depreciation differences

    (17,233       —          —     
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
    511,439          705,041        23,292   
 

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-56


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP (continued)

 

  d. Pension plans

The impact of the adoption of FASB ASC 715 has been reflected within the consolidated financial statements as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Components of net periodic benefit cost

        

Service cost

     1,518        1,325        1,189        39   

Interest cost

     11,340        12,292        11,833        391   

Project return on plan assets

     (6,857     (5,140     (7,090     (234

Net amortization and deferral:

        

Unrecognized net transition obligation

     53        53        53        2   

Curtailment loss

     7,568        8,355        12,261        405   

Net prior service cost

     (206     (206     (206     (7
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost

     13,416        16,679        18,040        596   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Recognized in other comprehensive income:

        

Unrecognized net transition obligation

     133        136        136        4   

Net prior service cost

     156        620        323        11   

Unrecognized actuarial loss (gain)

     20,471        52,942        (44,078     (1,456
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total recognized in other comprehensive income

     20,760        53,698        (43,619     (1,441
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total recognized in total benefit cost and other comprehensive income

     34,176        70,377        (25,579     (845
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The estimated net transition assets and actuarial loss for the defined benefit pension plans that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into benefits cost in 2012 is NT$115 thousand (US$4 thousand) and NT$8,457 thousand (US$279 thousand), respectively.

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Changes in benefit obligation

        

Benefit obligation at beginning of Year

     496,548        546,385        664,467        21,951   

Service cost

     1,518        1,325        1,189        39   

Interest cost

     11,340        12,292        11,833        391   

Plan amendments

     —          —          —          —     

Actuarial loss (gain)

     36,979        104,465        (31,935     (1,055
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Benefit obligation at end of year

     546,385        664,467        645,554        21,326   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Changes in plan assets

        

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

     291,532        314,992        343,823        11,359   

Actual return on plan assets

     1,755        4,415        3,732        123   

Employer contribution

     21,705        24,416        23,897        789   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     314,992        343,823        371,452        12,271   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Funds status

     (231,393     (320,644     (274,102     (9,055

Unrecognized actuarial loss

     (31,285     (47,175     (68,878     (2,276
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net amount recognized (recognized as accrued pension cost)

     (262,678     (367,819     (342,980     (11,331
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-57


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP (continued)

 

  d. Pension plans (continued)

 

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of noncontrolling interests, consist of:

 

     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Unrecognized net transition obligation (asset)

     (2,366     (2,047     (67

Net prior service cost

     (3,347     (3,258     (108

Unrecognized loss

     332,792        295,773        9,771   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross amount recognized

     327,079        290,468        9,596   

Noncontrolling interests

     (47,796     (54,804     (1,811
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total recognized in total benefit cost and other comprehensive income

     279,283        235,664        7,785   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     2009     2010     2011  

Actuarial assumptions

      

Discount rate

     2.25%        1.75%        1.75%   

Rate of compensation increase

     4.25%        4.25%        4.00%   

Expected return on plan assets

     1.5%        2.00%        2.00%   

The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was NT$304,931 thousand and NT$335,176 thousand (US$11,073 thousand) at December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively.

There were no pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31, 2010 and 2011.

The plan assets are all invested in the Bank of Taiwan. The plan benefits are based on employees’ years of service and compensation. The plan assets primarily consist of cash, government loans, equity securities, notes and bonds.

The fair value of the plan assets was NT$343,823 thousand and NT$371,452 thousand (US$12,271 thousand) at December 31, 2010 and 2011, respectively. As of December 31, 2010 and 2011, these assets were allocated among asset categories as follows:

 

Asset category

       2010              2011                   Current maximum    
allocation policy
 

Equity securities

     38%         41%            40%   

Bonds

     18%         27%         

Notes

     11%         8%         

Government loans

     1%         1%         

Cash

     32%         23%         
  

 

 

    

 

 

       

Total

     100%         100%         
  

 

 

    

 

 

       

Under ROC regulation, government authority will collect the fund as Labor Retirement Fund and determine the assets allocation and investment policy.

ChipMOS Taiwan and ThaiLin anticipate contributing NT$24,429 thousand to their pension plans during 2012.

The Company has no other post-retirement or post-employment benefit plans.

 

F-58


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP (continued)

 

  e. Statements of cash flows

SFAS No. 17, “Statement of Cash Flows” has been applied. Its objectives and principles are similar to those set out in FASB ASC 230, “Statement of Cash Flows. The principal differences between the standards relate to classification. Summarized cash flow data by operating, investing and financing activities are as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$     US$  
     (in thousands)  

Net cash inflow (outflow) from:

        

Operating activities

     1,633,419        8,504,005        6,179,594        204,149   

Investing activities

     (1,042,532     (2,454,168     (3,250,718     (107,391

Financing activities

     (2,503,796     (2,959,489     (2,464,552     (81,418
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (1,912,909     3,090,348        464,324        15,340   

Effect of changes in foreign exchange rate

     (1,780     (16,811     31,867        1,053   

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year

     5,591,017        3,676,328        6,749,865        222,988   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year

     3,676,328        6,749,865        7,246,056        239,381   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

  f. Statements of comprehensive income (loss)

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2009     2010     2011  
     NT$     NT$     NT$      US$  
     (in thousands)  

Net income based on U.S. GAAP

     (4,550,287     1,616,902        46,085         1,522   

Other comprehensive income (loss):

         

Translation adjustment

     (29,196     (78,466     107,851         3,563   

Unrecognized pension costs

     (20,760     (53,698     43,619         1,441   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss)

     (4,600,243     1,484,738        197,555         6,526   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

  g. Statements of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

     Unrecognized
Pension Costs
    Translation
Adjustment
   

Accumulated

Other

Comprehensive

Income

 
     NT$     NT$     NT$  
     (in thousands)  

December 31, 2009

     (225,585     404,517        178,932   

Addition in 2010

     (53,698     (78,466     (132,164
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

December 31, 2010

     (279,283     326,051        46,768   

Addition in 2011

     43,619        107,851        151,470   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

December 31, 2011

     (235,664     433,902        198,238   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

F-59


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP (continued)

 

  h. Shareholders’ equity

Employee stock-based compensation has been accounted for under FASB ASC 715.

The Company has in place a Share Option Plan (2001 Plan). Under the terms of the plan, the exercise price set on the grant of share options may not be less than the par value of a Company Share on the date of grant of such option. In August 2006, the Company adopted a second Share Option Plan (2006 Plan). The number of shares that may be issued under the two plans is 4,000,000 shares and may consist in whole or part of authorized but unissued shares of the Company which are not reserved for any other purpose. No consideration is payable for the grant of an option. In September 2011, the Company adopted a third Share Option Plan (2011 Plan). The number of shares that may be issued under this plan is 1,000,000 shares and may consist in whole or part of authorized but unissued shares of the Company which are not reserved for any other purpose. No consideration is payable for the grant of an option.

Under the plans, options may be granted to all directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company and its affiliates. Options are exercisable for a maximum of ten years from the date on which such option is granted and five years from the date on which such option is granted if the holder of the option owns more than 10% of the combined voting power of the Company at the time the option is granted.

In September 2006 and August 2008, the Company adopted share appreciation rights plans. The share appreciation rights plans provide that the directors, officers and employees of the Company and its affiliates may be granted cash-settled share appreciation rights.

The fair value for options granted has been estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model with the following weighted average assumptions:

 

Year of grant

   Risk free
interest rate
     Expected life      Expected volatility     

Expected

dividend yield

 

2006

     4.62% ~ 4.74%         4.25 years         102.67% ~ 133.21%         0%   

2007

     3.32% ~ 5.04%         4.25 years         134.71% ~ 171.09%         0%   

2008

     1.30% ~ 3.42%         4.25 ~ 6 years         97.83% ~ 188.06%         0%   

2009

     1.32% ~ 2.39%         4.25 ~ 5 years         139.36% ~ 163.82%         0%   

2010

     0.86% ~ 2.48%         3.25 ~ 7 years         153.18% ~ 213.94%         0%   

2011

     0.45% ~ 2.11%         3.50 ~ 5 years         170.25% ~ 177.79%         0%   

The following table presents the stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2011.

 

     Number of
Options
    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
     Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
           US$      US$  
                  (in thousands)  

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

     2,538,489        12.68      

Granted

     160,660        3.60      

Forfeited

     (212,049     11.84      

Exercised

     (19,246     2.44      

Expired

     (353,800     20.72      
  

 

 

      

Outstanding at December 31, 2010

     2,114,054        10.80      

Granted

     692,624        5.17      

Forfeited

     (148,403     10.99      

Exercised

     (96,103     5.73      
  

 

 

      

Outstanding at December 31, 2011

     2,562,172        9.47         1,351   
  

 

 

      

Exercisable at December 31, 2010

     1,196,611        12.84      
  

 

 

      

Exercisable at December 31, 2011

     1,448,892        12.77         658   
  

 

 

      

Vested and expected to vest in 2010

     2,068,182        8.28      
  

 

 

      

Vested and expected to vest in 2011

     2,506,508        13.58         1,317   
  

 

 

      

 

F-60


Table of Contents
26. ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES REQUIRED BY U.S. GAAP (continued)

 

  h. Shareholders’ equity (continued)

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total intrinsic value (i.e., the difference between the Company’s closing stock price of US$5.16 on December 31, 2011 (December 31, 2010: US$6.12) and the exercise price, times the number of options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on December 31, 2011. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2011 was NT$3,036 thousand (US$100 thousand) (2010: NT$2,069 thousand). The total fair value of options vested and forfeited during the year ended December 31, 2011 was NT$121,368 thousand (US$4,010 thousand) (2010: NT$194,733 thousand). The number of options vested during the year ended December 31, 2011 was 348,384 (2010: 444,044). The weighted average remaining contractual term of the outstanding options at December 31, 2011 was 3.6 (2010: 3.8) years.

Total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.3 years.

The Company’s employees have the ability to exercise a stock option (i.e., remit cash consideration to the Company for the exercise price) in exchange for stock during the vesting period of the award.

The following table presents a summary of the number of and weighted average grant date fair values regarding the unvested share options as of December 31, 2011 and changes during the year then ended:

 

     Number of
Options
    Weighted
Average
Fair
Value
 
           US$  

Unvested options outstanding at December 31, 2009

     1,412,876        8.40   

Granted

     160,660        3.91   

Vested

     (444,044     9.18   

Forfeited

     (212,049     12.3   
  

 

 

   

Unvested options outstanding at December 31, 2010

     917,443        6.66   

Granted

     692,624        5.57   

Vested

     (348,384     6.74   

Forfeited

     (148,403     11.2   
  

 

 

   

Unvested options outstanding at December 31, 2011

     1,113,280        5.35   
  

 

 

   

The Company’s determination of fair value of employee share options on the date of grant using the Black Scholes Option Pricing Model is affected by the Company’s stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of highly complex and subjective variables. These variables include, but are not limited to the Company’s expected stock price volatility over the term of the awards. Option pricing models were developed for use in estimating the value of traded options that have no vesting or hedging restrictions and are fully transferable. Because the Company’s employee stock options have certain characteristics that are significantly different from traded options, and because changes in the subjective assumptions can materially affect the estimated value, in management’s opinion, the existing valuation models may not provide an accurate measure of the fair value of the Company’s employee stock options. Although the fair value of employee stock options is determined in accordance with FASB ASC 715 using an option pricing model, that value may not be indicative of the fair value observed in a willing buyer/willing seller market transaction.

 

F-61

Syndicated Loan Agreement, dated July 14, 2011

Exhibit 4.65

(Translation)

NT$8,410,000,000 SYNDICATED LOAN AGREEMENT

INDEX

 

PREAMBLE

     1   

I.

      GENERAL      1   
   1.      

DEFINITION

     1   
   2.      

TOTAL FACILITY AMOUNT AND ALLOCATION

     4   
   3.      

FACILITY PERIOD

     5   
   4.      

REPAYMENT PLACE AND OTHERS

     5   
   5.      

SPECIMEN CHOP AND/OR SIGNATURE

     6   
   6.      

PROMISSORY NOTE AND NOTE AUTHORIZATION

     7   
   7.      

RESERVE ACCOUNT OF THE FACILITY

     7   

II.

      INTEREST RATE AND TAX      8   
   8.      

INTEREST RATE AND TAX

     8   
   9.      

FEE

     10   

III.

      DRAWDOWN OF FACILITY      11   
   10.      

CONDITION PRECEDENT TO FIRST DRAWDOWN

     11   
   11.      

DRAWDOWN PERIOD

     12   
   12.      

DOCUMENTS FOR DRAWDOWN

     12   

IV.

      DRAWDOWN AND CONDITIONS PRECEDENT      13   
   13.      

DRAWDOWN AND CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

     13   

V.

      REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL      14   
   14.      

REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL

     14   

VI.

      CANCELLATION OF FACILITY AMOUNT      14   
   15.      

CANCELLATION OF FACILITY AMOUNT

     14   

VII.

      PREPAYMENT      15   
   16.      

PREPAYMENT

     15   

VIII.

      REPRESENTATION AND WARRANTIES      15   
   17.      

COVENANT

     15   
   18.      

REPRESENTATIONS UPON EXECUTION

     17   
   19.      

REPRESENTATION UPON EACH DRAWDOWN

     18   

IX.

      SECURITY      19   
   20.      

MORTGAGED ASSETS

     19   


X.

      PRESERVATION OF RIGHT      23   
   21.      

SUPERVISION AND REPORT

     23   
   22.      

FORGED, DISTORTED AND DAMAGED DOCUMENT

     23   
   23.      

COOPERATION

     24   
   24.      

CONSENT OF COLLECTION, UTILIZATION AND TRANSMISSION

     24   

XI.

      EVENT OF DEFAULT AND ACCELERATION      25   
   25.      

EVENT OF DEFAULT AND ACCELERATION

     25   

XII.

      SET-OFF AND DISCHARGE      27   
   26.      

SET-OFF AND DISCHARGE

     27   

XIII.

      RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BORROWER AND BANKS      28   
   27.      

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BORROWER AND BANKS

     28   

XIV.

      APPOINTMENT OF AGENT AND RELATED PROVISIONS      28   
   28.      

APPOINTMENT OF AGENTS

     28   
   29.      

DUTIES OF AGENTS

     29   
   30.      

EXCULPATION OF AGENT’S PERSONNEL TO BANKS

     30   
   31.      

EXCULPATION OF AGENT’S PERSONNEL TO BORROWER

     31   
   32.      

AGENT’S RESPONSIBILITY

     31   
   33.      

PRIORITY OF AGENT’S FEE

     31   
   34.      

RESIGNATION OF AGENTS

     31   

XV.

      RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS AMONG BANKS      32   
   35.      

JOINT AND SEVERAL CLAIM

     32   
   36.      

BANK’S RESOLUTION AND AMENDMENT EXECUTED BY FACILITY AGENT

     33   
   37      

BANKS’ MEETING

     33   
   38.      

SEVERABLE LIABILITY OF BANK

     33   
   39.      

ASSIGNMENT

     34   
   40.      

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND CONSENT OF BANKS

     34   

XVI.

     

OTHERS

     35   
   41.      

CHANGE OF LAWS OR CIRCUMSTANCE

     35   
   42.      

NOTIFICATION AND REQUEST

     35   
   43.      

DELIVERY AND DEEMED DELIVERY

     36   
   44.      

GOVERNING LAW

     36   
   45.      

JURISDICTION

     36   
   46.      

AGREEMENT AND REPLACEMENT

     36   
   47.      

HEADINGS

     36   
   48.      

COUNTERPART

     36   
   49.      

EFFECTIVE DATE

     36   


SCHEDULE 1:    Contact Information
SCHEDULE 2:    Commitment Amount and Percentage
SCHEDULE 3:    Existing Indebtedness
SCHEDULE 4:    Details of Repayment Schedule
EXHIBIT 1:    Certificate of Specimen Chop/Signature
EXHIBIT 2:    Promissory Note
EXHIBIT 3:    Note Authorization
EXHIBIT 4:    Drawdown Request
EXHIBIT 5:    Appropriation Notice
EXHIBIT 6:    Detailed Terms and Conditions of Real Estate Mortgage Agreement
EXHIBIT 7:    Chattel Mortgage Agreement
EXHIBIT 8:    Negative Pledge Certificate
EXHIBIT 9:    Non-letting Undertaking
EXHIBIT 10:    Borrower’s Certificate
EXHIBIT 11:    Subordination Undertaking
EXHIBIT 12:    Assignment of Insurance Interest
EXHIBIT 13:    Undertaking of Insurer
EXHIBIT 14:    Assignment Agreement
EXHIBIT 15:    Notice of Assignment
EXHIBIT 16:    HCSP Lease Agreement
EXHIBIT 17:    STSP Lease Agreement


PREAMBLE

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (VAT number: 16130042) is a company organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of China (hereinafter the “ROC”). Whereas in order to repay the existing indebtedness (the short, medium and long term loan borrowed by the Borrower from financial institution), ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. has requested TAIWAN COOPERATIVE BANK, BANK OF TAIWAN and LAND BANK OF TAIWAN to act as the arranger (hereinafter collectively, the “Arrangers” and each, an “Arranger”) for a syndicated loan facilities in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding Eight Billion Four Hundred and Ten Million New Taiwan Dollars (NT$8,410,000,000) to be extended by thirteen (13) financial institutions, i.e., TAIWAN COOPERATIVE BANK, BANK OF TAIWAN, LAND BANK OF TAIWAN, TAISHIN INTERNATIONAL BANK, YUANTA COMMERCIAL BANK, HUA NAN COMMERCIAL BANK, CHANG HWA COMMERCIAL BANK, MEGA INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL BANK, EN TIE COMMERCIAL BANK, FIRST COMMERCIAL BANK, BANK OF PANHSIN, SHIN KONG COMMERCIAL BANK, and JIH SUN INTERNATIONAL BANK (hereinafter collectively, the “Banks” and each, a “Bank”). The Banks agree that TAIWAN COOPERATIVE BANK shall act as facility agent; BANK OF TAIWAN shall act as security agent and LAND BANK OF TAIWAN shall act as document facility agent, to handle all matters relating to the facility and exercise the right hereunder for and on behalf of the Banks. The parties hereto have executed this syndicated loan agreement (hereinafter, the “Agreement”) and agree as follows:

 

I. GENERAL

 

1. DEFINITION

 

  1.1 “Facility” shall mean Tranche A Facility and Tranche B Facility collectively unless otherwise specifying Tranche A Facility or Tranche B Facility.

 

  1.2 “Borrower” shall mean ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.

 

  1.3 “Facility Agent” shall mean TAIWAN COOPERATIVE BANK in its capacity as facility agent of the Facility.

 

  1.4 “Security Agent” shall mean BANK OF TAIWAN in its capacity as security agent of the Facility.

 

  1.5 “Document Agent” shall mean LAND BANK OF TAIWAN in its capacity as document agent of the Facility.

 

  1.6 “Agents” shall mean Facility Agent, Security Agent, Document Agent collectively. In the event that the Agents have any disagreements in connection with their capacity, power or obligations hereunder, they shall settle such disagreements through negotiation and notify other Banks accordingly; in the event that such disagreements are associated with the rights or obligations of the Borrower, the Borrower should be concurrently notified.

 

- 1 -


  1.7 “Existing Indebtedness” shall mean, including but not limited to all the loans and obligations payable by the Borrower to financial institutions with the details listed in Schedule 3.

 

  1.8 “Details of Repayment Schedule” shall mean the list containing the Existing Indebtedness which will be repaid by advances under the Facility as contemplated by the Borrower, substantially in the form of Schedule 4.

 

  1.9 “Commitment Amount” shall mean, the amount each Bank agrees to extend individually under the Facility as set out in Schedule 2, which shall deduct any amount cancelled by the Borrower in accordance with the Agreement from time to time.

 

  1.10 “Aggregate Commitment Amount” shall mean the aggregate amount of the Commitments, which is Eight Billion Four Hundred and Ten Million New Taiwan Dollars (NT$8,410,000,000).

 

  1.11 “Commitment Percentage” shall mean the percentage of which the amount of advances the Banks agree to make in proportion to the Aggregate Commitment Amount as set out in Schedule 2.

 

  1.12 “Total Facility Amount” shall mean the aggregate facility amount under the Facility, which is Eight Billion Four Hundred and Ten Million New Taiwan Dollars (NT$8,410,000,000).

 

  1.13 “Majority Resolution” shall mean the resolution or written consent of the Banks, the then aggregate outstanding advances of which exceed two-thirds of the then aggregate outstanding advances of all the Banks under this Facility; or, if no drawdown is made by the Borrower, the resolution or written consent of the Banks, the aggregate Commitments of which exceed two-thirds of the Aggregate Commitment Amount. The Facility Agent may take any action in respond to the change of laws and rules as requested by the competent authorities by notifying the Banks irrespective of the restriction of the percentage provided above.

 

  1.14 “First Drawdown Date” shall mean the date on which the first drawdown is made; provided, however, the expiry date of three (3) months commencing from the execution date of the Agreement shall be deemed as the First Drawdown Date in the event that no drawdown has been made during the first three-month period.

 

- 2 -


  1.15 “Bank Business Day” shall mean a full banking business day on which banks are open for business in Taipei City, New Taipei City, Taichung City, Tainan City and Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, ROC.

 

  1.16 “Repayment Place” shall mean the location of the Hsinchu branch of the Facility Agent.

 

  1.17 “Annual Interest Rate” shall mean the interest rate calculated on the basis of a year of three hundred sixty-five (365) days.

 

  1.18 “Promissory Note” shall mean the promissory note in the form of Exhibit 2 hereto issued or replaced by the Borrower in accordance with this Agreement.

 

  1.19 “Note Authorization” shall mean the written authorization in the form of Exhibit 3 hereto issued by the Borrower in accordance with the Agreement authorizing the Security Agent to complete the Promissory Note as provided therein.

 

  1.20 “Facility Period” shall mean, unless otherwise provided in this Agreement, the period from the execution date of this Agreement to and until the full repayment of all the note obligations, principal, interest, default interest, penalties, arranger’s fee, agent’s fee, commitment fee, indemnification, other fees, damages and other covenant on any amount payable by the Borrower and the full performance of all its obligations under the Facility.

 

  1.21 “HCSP Lease Agreement” shall mean the land lease agreement entered into by and between the Borrower and Hsinchu Science Park Administration (“HSPA”) on August 4, 2008 (scanned copy attached as Exhibit 16) in respect of the land, located at Lot No. 5, Keguan Section, Hsinchu County, having a total area of 9000 square meters.

 

  1.22 “STSP Lease Agreement” shall mean the land lease agreement entered into by and between the Borrower and the South Taiwan Science Park Administration (“STSPA”) on June 1, 2007 (scanned copy attached as Exhibit 17) in respect of the land, located at Lot No. 55, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, having a total area of 50000 and 2000 square meters respectively.

 

  1.23 “Mortgaged Assets” shall mean collectively (1) the buildings with Building Nos. 13, 29 and 36, Keguan Section, Hsinchu County, located at Lot No. 5, Keguan Section, Hsinchu County, and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by HSPA; (2) the buildings, with Building Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 612 and 613, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, located at Lot No. 55, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by STSPA; (3) the land, located at Lot Nos. 1072, 1073, 1074 and 1077, Taihe Section, Chubei City, Hsinchu County, and the buildings, with Building Nos. 251-1, 251-2, and 251-3 and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by the Borrower; and (4) all machinery equipment placed in the buildings and its ancillary attachments provided in (1) to (3) above (aside from those buildings and ancillary attachments placed at Lot No. 1, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, as provided by the Borrower and accepted by the Security Agent.

 

- 3 -


  1.24 “Net Worth” shall mean the shareholders’ equity of the Borrower.

 

  1.25 “Tangible Net Worth” shall mean the shareholders’ equity minus intangible assets of the Borrower.

 

  1.26 “Liquidity Ratio” shall mean a ratio of current assets to current liabilities of the Borrower.

 

  1.27 “Interest Coverage Ratio”

shall mean earnings before tax plus depreciation plus amortization plus interest expense to interest expense.

 

  1.28 “Leverage Ratio” shall mean a ratio of total liabilities of the Borrower to Tangible Net Worth.

 

  1.29 “Earnings Before Tax Ratio” shall mean a ratio of earnings before tax to net business income of the Borrower.

 

  1.30 “Risk Participation Percentage” shall mean, in connection with the matters relevant to the Facility and the Banks, the Commitment Percentage of respective Bank prior to the drawdown by the Borrower; or, after the drawdown is made by the Borrower, the percentage of the outstanding principal amount payable to respective Bank under the Facility to the total outstanding principal amount payable under the Facility.

 

  1.31 “Officers of the Agents” shall mean the managers, staff, attorneys and other relevant personnel of the Agents.

 

2. TOTAL FACILITY AMOUNT AND ALLOCATION

 

2.1 The Total Facility Amount is Eight Billion Four Hundred and Ten Million New Taiwan Dollars (NT$8,410,000,000) and will be allocated as follows:

 

  2.1.1 Tranche A Facility:

Tranche A Facility shall be categorized as middle term secured loan in terms of accounting. Tranche A Facility is secured by the land, building and its ancillary attachments among the Mortgaged Assets in an aggregate principal amount of Three Billion Twenty Eight Million New Taiwan Dollars (NT$3,028,000,000). Tranche A Facility may be drawn in installments on a non-revolving basis for the repayment of Existing Indebtedness.

 

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  2.1.2 Tranche B Facility

Tranche B Facility shall be categorized as middle term secured loan in terms of accounting. Tranche B Facility is secured by the machinery equipment and its ancillary attachments among the Mortgaged Assets as provided by the Borrower and accepted by the Security Agent in an aggregate principal amount of Five Billion Three Hundred and Eighty Two Million New Taiwan Dollars (NT$5,382,000,000). Tranche B Facility may be drawn in installments on a non-revolving basis for the repayment of Existing Indebtedness.

 

2.2 The Bank shall perform its obligation under the Agreement in accordance with the Commitment Amount set out in Schedule 2. Unless otherwise provided in the Agreement, any Bank shall immediately notify the Borrower and the Facility Agent in writing if it fails to make advances in accordance with this Agreement and the Commitment Amount or Commitment Percentage of such Bank shall be reduced on a pro rata basis. The Facility Agent and other Banks are not responsible for the act of such breaching Bank and the obligations of the Facility Agent and other Banks to make advances under the Agreement remains unchanged.

 

2.3 The Bank fails to make advances in accordance with Article 2.2 shall, if the Bank is imputed for such failure, indemnify the damage incurred by the Borrower there from, including but not limited to the funding cost of the Borrower which exceeds the interest rate or fee under the Facility while the Facility Agent and other Bank shall in no event be held responsible for such failure; provided, however, the Borrower shall furnish the relevant invoices or certificates supporting the alleged losses and expenses; if the Bank is not imputed for such failure, the Facility Agent and the Bank shall assist the Borrower with their reasonable effort in obtaining other facility to the extent permitted by the relevant laws and regulations. Notwithstanding the above, none of the Bank failing to make advances, other Banks and the Facility Agent shall be responsible for the availability of such facility.

 

3. FACILITY PERIOD

 

3.1 Tranche A Facility: The facility period of Tranche A Facility shall be five years commencing from the First Drawdown Date.

 

3.2 Tranche B Facility: The facility period of Tranche B Facility shall mean four years commencing from the First Drawdown Date.

 

4. REPAYMENT PLACE AND OTHERS

 

4.1 Repayment Place:

 

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Unless otherwise agreed by all the Banks in advance, the Borrower shall repay any indebtedness or take any action under the Facility at the repayment place, otherwise the payment obligations hereunder shall not be discharged and the action taken shall not be effective.

 

4.2 Repayment Currency:

The Borrower shall, for all amount payable under the Agreement and its relevant documents, make any and all repayment pursuant to its nature (for instance the principal, interest or fee) in New Taiwan Dollars on the due date of respective amount payable in accordance with the relevant provisions hereof.

 

4.3 Repayment Date:

Unless otherwise provided in the Agreement, if the date the Borrower shall make any payment under the Agreement is not a Bank Business Day, such due date shall be extended to the next succeeding Bank Business Day unless such next succeeding Bank Business Day falls in another calendar month, in which case such due date shall end on the immediately preceding Bank Business Day.

 

5. SPECIMEN CHOP AND/OR SIGNATURE

 

5.1 The Borrower shall provide its specimen chop and/or signature (in the form of Exhibit 1) to the Agents specifying the name, position and the specimen chop and/or signature of each authorized signatory of the relevant documents under the Agreement. The specimen chop and/or signature shall be effective to the Borrower in respect of any matters relevant to the Agreement and the Borrower shall be absolutely bound by such specimen chop and/or signature. Unless the Borrower notifies the Agents for change in accordance with Article 5.3, the Agents may rely on the genuineness of the documents with the specimen chop and/or signature attached as legally authorized and validly executed if the Agents, through its relevant personnel, deems that the signature or chop conforms to the specimen preserved by the Agents. The Borrower will in no event deny the validity of the documents by asserting the forgery or theft of the specimen.

 

5.2 The Agents is entitled to refuse to proceed on any application or documents relevant to the Agreement provided by the Borrower if the Agents find the specimen chop and/or signature is inconsistent with the ones preserved by the Agents.

 

5.3 the Borrower shall notify the Agents in writing regarding the changes of its name, organization, Articles of Incorporation, representatives, authorization of the representatives or the specimen. If the preserved specimen chop and/or signature is changed thereby, the Borrower shall immediately apply for the alteration or cancellation of specimen chop and/or signature. The changes above shall not be a valid defense by the Borrower against the Banks before the Borrower notifies the Agents the same and completes the required procedure. The specimen chop and/or signature preserved by the Agents shall remain effective before the Borrower completes the required procedures of alteration or cancellation of specimen chop and/or signature and the Borrower shall bear full responsibility for all the transaction with the Bank arising from the utilization of the original specimen chop and/or signature.

 

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6. PROMISSORY NOTE AND NOTE AUTHORIZATION

 

6.1 The Borrower shall issue and deliver to the Security Agent a Promissory Note (in the form of Exhibit 2) payable to the Security Agent in the amount of Eight Billion Four Hundred and Ten Million New Taiwan Dollars with the issue date as the First Drawdown Date together with Note Authorization (in the form of Exhibit 3) prior to the First Drawdown Date.

 

6.2 The Security Agent may present the Promissory Note and exercise the right thereon upon the acceleration declared by the Banks regarding a part or the whole Facility in accordance with Article 25.2 if the Borrower meets the events provided in Article 25.1.1 to 25.1.10.

 

6.3 The Security Agent may request the Borrower to issue new Promissory Note and Note Authorization in exchange for such Promissory Note(s) and Note Authorization(s) previously delivered to the Security Agent when it deems necessary and the Borrower shall not refuse such request. The Borrower shall not apply for exchange of any Promissory Note(s) and Note Authorization(s) due to its partial repayment of the loan under the Facility or its cancellation of facility amount.

 

6.4 The Security Agent shall return the Borrower the Promissory Note and Note Authorization upon the expiration of the Facility Period unless the Security Agent has exercised the right under the Promissory Note.

 

7. RESERVE ACCOUNT OF THE FACILITY

 

7.1 The Borrower shall open a reserve account with the Facility Agent for the purpose specified under Article 7.2 and shall cause the balance in such account not less than the aggregate interest payments for the succeeding two months from time to time. The Facility Agent shall approve the close of such reserve account upon the full repayment of the indebtedness under this Facility by the Borrower.

 

7.2 The facility amount drawn by the Borrower hereunder shall remit to the reserve account and is deemed to have been received by the Borrower upon such remittance. The reserve account shall be utilized for the repayment of the Existing Indebtedness and shall be remitted to the designated accounts in accordance with the Details of Repayment Schedule as set out in Schedule 4. Once the Borrower delivers the Details of Repayment Schedule, it shall not be withdrawn, cancelled or render it ineffective in any form. However, the Borrower may make change to such subject to the Facility Agent’s prior written consent. If the balance in the reserve account is insufficient to meet amount in the Details of Repayment Schedule, the Facility Agent is not obliged to remit accordingly unless the Borrower replenishes such deficiency.

 

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7.3 Unless otherwise provided herein, the Borrower shall not assign, change, close, create pledge or other encumbrances, entrust or dispose over the reserve account in any other form.

 

II. INTEREST RATE AND TAX

 

8. INTEREST RATE AND TAX

 

8.1 Interest Rate:

The applicable interest rate of the Facility shall be the reference rate plus the margin of 1.55% per annum. Interest rates shall be round to the nearest fourth decimal point.

 

8.2 Reference Rate:

The reference rate in Article 8.1 shall mean the floating interest rate for one-year time deposit as displayed in the bulletin of Chunghwa Post Co., Ltd (non large deposit).

 

8.3 Interest Adjustment Date of the Reference Rate:

The last date of each calendar month shall be the interest adjustment date of the reference rate. If such date is not a Bank Business Day, the interest adjustment date shall be the preceding Bank Business Day.

 

8.4 Margin Adjustment Mechanism and Interest Adjustment Date:

The margin above the interest rate under the Facility shall be adjusted according to the following every year with reference to the Pretax Income Margin in its annual non-consolidated financial statements audited by a certified public accountant. The interest payment date in May each year shall be the interest adjustment date.

 

Pretax Income Margin (X)

 

Margin

X£0%

  1.55%

0%<X£6%

  1.30%

6%<X

  1.05%

 

8.5 Interest Payment Date:

 

  8.5.1 Interest shall be calculated in accordance with the actual number of days elapsed on the basis of a year of 365 days.

 

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  8.5.2 Interest payment date under the Facility shall be the last date of each calendar month. If such date is not a Bank Business Day, the interest payment date shall be the preceding Bank Business Day.

 

8.6 Default Interest and Penalty:

In the event that the Borrower shall fail to timely pay any principal or interest due and payable hereunder, the Borrower shall pay default interest on such principal or interest at the rate which is one point five percent (1.5%) per annum above the applicable interest rate of the Facility commencing from the due date or payment date (inclusive) until the date of actual payment. In addition to such default interest, with respect to any principal or interest due and unpaid for a period of less than six (6) months, a penalty charge shall be paid at the rate equal to ten percent (10%) of the default interest Rate; for any amount due and unpaid for a period exceeding six (6) months, a penalty charge shall be paid at the rate equal to twenty percent (20%) of the default interest rate. If the Borrower fails to pay any amount which is due for a period of more than one (1) year (or such shorter period permitted by law) after demand for payment, the Facility Agent may roll over such default interest into any principal of the Facility for the calculation of interest.

 

8.7 Tax Burden:

 

  8.7.1 The Borrower shall bear the Business Tax in connection with the interest and the stamp duty under the Facility.

 

  8.7.2 Article 11 of the Value-added and Non-value-added Business Tax Act has been modified and the Business Tax for banking industry decreased from July 1, 1999. 3% of the sales amount generated from the operation other than the operation of the primary business (the difference between the prevailing 2% and the original 5%) shall be solely used by the banks for writing off overdue loans or setting aside allowances for bad debts pursuant to the applicable laws. Therefore the business tax to be born by the Borrower in connection with interest under the Facility shall be calculated at the original business tax rate as provided in Article 10 of the Value-added and Non-value-added Business Tax Act (i.e. 5%); provided, however, the change of laws after the execution of this Agreement shall apply.

 

  8.7.3 The Borrower shall not withhold or deduct any portion of the current and future taxes (unless otherwise provided, including business tax and stamp duty) or fees in other nature from the amount due under this Facility. In the event that the Borrower is required by law to withhold or deduct any amount from payment above, the Borrower shall pay such additional amount as may be necessary in order that the actual amount received after deduction or withholding shall equal the amount that would have been received if such deduction or withholding was not required.

 

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9. FEE

 

9.1 Arranger’s Fee and Agent’s Fee:

The Borrower shall pay arranger’s fee to the Arrangers, agent’s fee to the Agents and other fees in the amount and payment terms agreed among the Borrower, Arrangers and Agents prior to the execution of this Agreement in a separate written agreement.

 

9.2 Commitment Fee:

In the event that the amount drawn by the Borrower does not exceed 80% of the available facility amount, the Borrowers shall, within five days after the expiry of the drawdown period, pay a commitment fee of 0.15% on the difference between the amount drawn and 80% of the available facility amount to the Facility Agent in a lump sum for the distribution to the Banks on a pro rata basis. However, if the facility amount has been cancelled in accordance with Article 15 before the expiry of the drawdown period, the commitment fee shall not apply to the cancelled amount.

 

9.3 Wavier/Amendment Fee and Operation Fee:

 

  9.3.1 For waiver of any Event of Default or for any amendment (Save for amendments to this Agreement due to any change in laws or regulations) applied by the Borrower to the Agreement, the Borrower shall pay an operation fee of NT$50,000 per application to the Facility Agent. The Borrower shall further pay to the Facility Agent, an operation fee of 0.01% on the outstanding facility amount payable within 5 calendar days upon the consent resolved by the Banks for the distribution to the Banks on the basis of Risk Participation Percentage.

 

  9.3.2 If the Borrower is required to adopt International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) in preparing its financial statements, subject to the Majority Resolution on the renewal of the financial ratios provided in Article 17.1.1 to 17.1.3, the amendment fee and operation fee shall not apply.

 

9.4 Other Relevant Fee:

Aside from the fees above, the Borrower shall bear all the expenses before the execution of the Agreement and during the Facility Period, including but not limited to the followings:

 

  9.4.1 The expenses on organizing the Banks.

 

  9.4.2 The expenses on registration of the Mortgaged Assets.

 

  9.4.3 The attorneys’ fee incurred by the Arrangers and Agents for the preparation, execution and discussion of the Agreement.

 

  9.4.4 The attorney’s fee for amendments to the Agreement.

 

  9.4.5 The expenses on the execution of the Agreement.

 

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9.5 Payment of the Fees:

Unless otherwise provided herein, the Borrower shall pay the fees and expenses payable provided in this Article no later than five Bank Business Days upon the Borrower’s receipt of the payment notification delivered by the Facility Agent; which also apply to the disbursements extended by the Banks; provided, however, the Banks are not obliged to make any disbursements.

 

9.6 Default Interest and Penalty to the Fees:

In the event that the Borrower shall fail to timely pay any fees or expenses, unless otherwise provided herein, the Borrower shall pay default interest on such fees or expenses at the rate which is one point five percent (1.5%) per annum above the applicable interest rate of the Facility commencing from the payment date provided in Article 9.5 (For disbursements by the Banks, from the date of making disbursements) until the date of actual payment. In addition to such default interest, with respect to any fees or expenses due and unpaid for a period of less than six (6) months, a penalty charge shall be paid at the rate equal to ten percent (10%) of the default interest Rate; for any amount due and unpaid for a period exceeding six (6) months, a penalty charge shall be paid at the rate equal to twenty percent (20%) of the default interest rate. If the Borrower fails to pay any amount which is due for a period of more than one (1) year (or such shorter period permitted by law) after demand for payment, the Facility Agent may roll over such default interest into any principal of the Facility for the calculation of interest.

 

III. DRAWDOWN OF FACILITY

 

10 CONDITION PRECEDENT TO FIRST DRAWDOWN

 

10.1 This Agreement is jointly executed by all the parties hereto upon the first drawdown by the Borrower.

 

10.2 All the approvals required have been obtained upon the first drawdown by the Borrower, including the valid resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Borrower for approving the execution of the relevant documents (including but not limited to the Agreement, Promissory Note, Note Authorization and the certificate supporting the valid authorization by the Borrower as well as the provision of the Mortgaged Assets and the creation of first priority mortgage over the Mortgaged Assets in favor of the Security Agent) and the conformity to the requirements of the relevant authorities.

 

10.3 There is no material adverse change to the Borrower’s finance, operation and assets.

 

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10.4 No litigation, arbitration, administrative appeal, breach or other disputes, which might have a material adverse effect on the Borrower’s financial conditions, business operations and properties.

 

10.5 If there is shareholder’s loan existing upon the first drawdown by the Borrower, the Borrower shall provide the duly executed Subordination Undertaking by its shareholders undertaking that except for the capitalization of such loans, the shareholder’s loan shall not be repaid before the full repayment of the indebtedness hereunder.

 

10.6 The Borrower shall provide the Details of Repayment Schedule as approved by the Facility Agent.

 

10.7 For those buildings and its ancillary attachments among the Mortgaged Assets provided by the Borrower and are situated at the land rented from the Science Park, the Borrower shall provide a lease agreement which is validly effective, absent of breach and the term of which exceeds the Facility Period.

 

10.8 The Borrower is validly existing as a corporation. There is no ongoing reorganization, debt clearance, suspension, winding-up, liquidation in connection with the Borrower, nor has the Borrower’s registration been cancelled or abolished by the competent authority.

 

10.9 The financial information provided by the Borrower is accurate.

 

10.10 Other reasonable conditions precedent required by the Agents.

 

11. DRAWDOWN PERIOD

The Borrower shall complete all drawdown within 3 (3) months after the First Drawdown Date. Upon the expiry of such drawdown period, all undrawn facility amount shall be automatically cancelled and cannot be re-borrowed.

 

12. DOCUMENTS FOR DRAWDOWN

The Borrower shall fulfill the conditions precedent for the first drawdown provided in Article 10 and provide the following documents (photocopies of the documents shall be certified by the person who has provided the same to be genuine, accurate and complete) to the Facility Agent (unless otherwise requested by the Facility Agent, the documents which have already provided is not required to provide again) in form and substance satisfactory to the Facility Agent:

 

12.1 the minutes and resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Borrower for approving the matters including but not limited to the followings:

 

  12.1.1 Approving the Facility, authorizing its representative to sign and agree on all the terms in this Agreement.

 

  12.1.2 Approving the provision and the creation of first priority mortgage over the Mortgaged Assets in favor of the Security Agent.

 

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  12.1.3 Approving the provision of Negative Pledge Certificate and a Non-letting Undertaking.

 

12.2 the latest Articles of Incorporation and a certified copy of the Borrower’s articles of incorporation (including the roster of directors and supervisors).

 

12.3 Details of Repayment Schedule in the form of Schedule 4.

 

12.4 the specimen chop and/or signature of the Borrower in the form of Exhibit 1.

 

12.5 Promissory Note (in the form of Exhibit 2) and Note Authorization (in the form of Exhibit 3).

 

12.6 Drawdown Request in the form of Exhibit 4.

 

12.7 Negative Pledge Certificate in the form of Exhibit 8.

 

12.8 Non-letting Undertaking in the form of Exhibit 9.

 

12.9 Subordination Undertaking of shareholder in the form of Exhibit 11.

 

12.10 Assignment of Insurance Interest in the form of Exhibit 12.

 

12.11 Undertaking of Insurer in the form of Exhibit 13.

 

12.12 photocopy of Rules for Lending Capital of the Borrower.

 

12.13 photocopy of Rules for Provisions of Endorsements and Guarantees of the Borrower.

 

12.14 the latest financial statements of the Borrower audited by a certified public accountant.

 

12.15 the supporting documents for the Borrower’s reserve account.

 

12.16 other necessary documents or certificates reasonably required by the Agents.

 

IV. DRAWDOWN AND CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

 

13. DRAWDOWN AND CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

 

13.1 Drawdown:

With respect to the first drawdown, the Borrower shall, at least seven (7) Business Days prior to the First Drawdown Date, for any subsequent drawdown, at least five (5) Business Days prior to the relevant Drawdown Date (or such shorter period of time agreed by the Facility Agent) submit a Drawdown Request in the form of Exhibit 4 to the Facility Agent. Once the Borrower has issued the Drawdown Request, it shall not be withdrawn or cancelled. The Facility Agent shall notify each Bank to make available the funds in accordance with its respective Participation Percentage by delivering an Appropriation Notice (in the form of Exhibit 5) no later than two (2) Business Days prior to the relevant date for advance. Each Bank shall remit its respective fund to the account designated by the Facility Agent no later than 12:00 noon on the date specified in the Appropriation Notice.

 

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13.2 Conditions of drawdown:

With respect to the first drawdown, the Borrower shall simultaneously provide a Details of Repayment Schedule (in the form of Schedule 4) to the Facility Agent, and the Facility Agent shall notify each Bank to make available the funds in accordance with its respective Participation Percentage and shall repay the Existing Indebtedness for the Borrower; if the Facility Agent has made the remittance to the creditor’s account designated by the Borrower pursuant to the instruction of the Borrower, the Borrower is deemed to receive such advance and shall not raise any objection, withdraw or cancel such instruction or render it ineffective in any way.

 

V. REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL

 

14. REPAYMENT OF PRINCIPAL

The Borrower shall repay the Facility by installment in accordance with the following as from the expiry of six (6) months after the First Drawdown Date and thereafter in a six (6) month interval. The Borrower shall in any event repay the entire outstanding principal, interest together with all the relevant fees and expenses under the Facility in the last installment:

 

Repayment

Installment

  

Repayment Percentage

Tranche A Facility

  

Repayment Percentage

Tranche B Facility

1~2    —      5% per installment
3~4    —      20% per installment
5~6    10% per installment    15% per installment
7~8    10% per installment    10% per installment
9~10    30% per installment    —  

 

VI. CANCELLATION OF FACILITY AMOUNT

 

15. CANCELLATION OF FACILITY AMOUNT

 

15.1 The Borrower may cancel all or any portion of the undrawn Aggregate Commitment Amount in accordance with following Article 15.1.1 to 15.1.3; provided, however, any cancelled portion of the Commitments may not re-borrowed and each Bank’s Commitment shall be reduced on a pro-rata basis:

 

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  15.1.1 any partial cancellation shall be in the minimum amount of Fifty Million NT Dollars and shall be a whole integral multiple of Ten Million.

 

  15.1.2 the Cancellation Date shall be an Interest Payment Date.

 

  15.1.3 Each cancellation shall be made by an irrevocable notification in writing to the Facility Agent at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the cancellation date.

 

15.2 If the Borrower cancel the facility amount not in accordance with the provisions under Article 15.1.1 to 15.1.3, it shall be liable for an indemnification of 0.15% of the cancelled amount and shall pay such amount to the Facility Agent on the Cancellation Date for its distribution to other Banks.

 

VII. PREPAYMENT

 

16. PREPAYMENT

 

16.1 Unless otherwise provided herein, the Borrower may prepay the outstanding amount of the Facility in whole or in part in accordance with following Article 16.1.1 to 16.1.3; provided, however, any cancelled portion of the Commitments may not re-borrowed and each Bank’s Commitment shall be reduced on a pro-rata basis:

 

  16.1.1 any partial prepayment shall be in the minimum amount of Fifty Million NT Dollars and shall be a whole integral multiple of Ten Million.

 

  16.1.2 the Prepayment Date shall be an Interest Payment Date.

 

  16.1.3 Each prepayment shall be made by an irrevocable notification in writing to the Facility Agent at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the Prepayment Date.

 

16.2 If the Borrower prepay the facility amount not in accordance with the provisions under Article 16.1.1 to 16.1.3, it shall be liable for an indemnification of 0.15% of the prepaid amount and shall pay such indemnification to the Facility Agent on the Prepayment Date for its distribution to other Banks.

 

16.3 The Borrower shall prepay the Tranche B Facility first and the prepayment shall be applied against repayment installments of the Facility in the inverse order of their maturities as provided in Article 14. All interests and other amount payable to which such prepayment is applied shall concurrently be paid together with the principal amount prepaid hereunder.

 

VIII. REPRESENTATION AND WARRANTIES

 

17. COVENANT

The Borrower hereby undertakes to perform including but not limited to the following undertakings throughout the Facility Period:

 

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17.1 The Borrower shall maintain the following financial ratios throughout the Facility Period and such ratios shall be reviewed on an annual basis:

 

  17.1.1 Liquidity Ratio: shall not be lower than one hundred percent (100%).

 

  17.1.2 Interest Coverage Ratio: shall not be less than two point five (2.5).

 

  17.1.3 Leverage Ratio: shall not be higher than one hundred and sixty percent (160%) for the fiscal year 2011 and one hundred and forty percent (140%) as from the fiscal year 2012.

 

17.2 The financial ratios and covenants under Article 17.1.1 to 17.1.3 shall be based on the annual non-consolidated financial statements audited by a certified public accountant on an annual basis (the Annual Review Date being each April 30). In the event that the Borrower fails to comply with any of the above financial covenants, it shall pay a default charge at the rate of 0.05% on the outstanding principal on the Annual Review Date to the Facility Agent for its distribution to the Banks and such failure shall not be deemed as an Event of Default upon the full payment of the default charge. However, in the event that the Borrower fails to remedy to reach the required ratios before the next Annual Review Date, it shall be deemed an Event of Default without prejudice to its obligation to pay a default charge at the rate of 0.05% on the outstanding principal on the Annual Review Date to the Facility Agent for its distribution to the Banks.

 

17.3 If the Borrower is required to adopt International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) in preparing its financial statements, which renders its failure to comply with the financial ratios and covenants under Article 17.1.1 to 17.1.3, such failure shall not be deemed as an Event of Default if the financial ratios are renewed by the Majority Resolution.

 

17.4 The Borrower shall furnish to the Facility Agent with the annual consolidated and non-consolidated financial statements within one hundred and twenty (120) calendar days after the end of each financial year. Upon the provision of the financial statements above, the Borrower shall issue a certificate certifying no violation of financial covenants in the form of Exhibit 10; provided however, such certificate is not required under the circumstance provided in Article 17.3.

 

17.5 The Borrower shall appropriately maintain and upkeep the Mortgaged Assets and shall not create any other encumbrances over the Mortgaged Assets before the full repayment of the Facility.

 

17.6 The Borrower shall maintain any official approval, license, or permit necessary for the Borrower’s performance of the obligations herein and shall comply with all laws and regulations promulgated by the authorities in the ROC.

 

17.7 The Borrower shall keep its financial status and operation in fair conditions.

 

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17.8 The Borrower shall notify the Facility Agent in writing within five (5) calendar days after it has passed any board resolution for engagement into any substantial investment (the amount of which reaches NT$500,000,000 or its equivalent).

 

17.9 The Borrower shall not engage into any merger or spin-off save for a merger under which it is the surviving company and there is no adverse change in its financial and business conditions.

 

17.10 Unless otherwise provided herein, without obtaining a prior consent adopted by a Majority Resolution, the Borrower shall not conduct any of the following acts:

 

  17.10.1 change its primary scope or nature of business, or dispose its main asset, transfer, lease or dispose in any other form.

 

  17.10.2 Unless otherwise permitted in the Borrower’s Rules for Provisions of Endorsements and Guarantees and Rules for Lending Capital, and save for those made in the course of ordinary business of the Borrower, lend funds to other, assumes liabilities, provide guarantee, issue notes, endorses or otherwise be liable for the debts of any third person. With respect to the lending and guarantees permitted in the Borrower’s Rules for Provisions of Endorsements and Guarantees and Rules for Lending Capital, and those made in the course of ordinary business of the Borrower, the Borrower shall notify the Facility Agent in writing within five (5) calendar days upon its engagement of the lending and/or guarantees which involves an amount exceeding NT$200,000,000 or its equivalent.

 

  17.10.3 Unless otherwise required by the relevant laws or administrative rules, distribute cash dividends upon the occurrence of an Event of Default.

 

17.11 If there is existing shareholder’s loan by the Borrower, the Borrower shall provide the duly executed Subordination Undertaking by its shareholders undertaking that except for the capitalization of such loans, the shareholder’s loan shall not be repaid before the full repayment of the indebtedness hereunder.

 

17.12 The Borrower shall pay all taxes and repay any other indebtedness when due.

 

17.13 The Borrower shall ensure that the HSP Lease Agreement and STSP Lease Agreement remain effective and shall ensure its conformity to the terms therein. The borrower shall notify the Facility Agent in writing within ten (10) Bank Business Days upon any amendment or change to the HSP Lease Agreement or STSP Lease Agreement.

 

17.14 There has been no violation of laws or other agreements which may have an adverse effect on its ability to perform the Agreement.

 

18. REPRESENTATIONS UPON EXECUTION

The Borrower hereby represents and warrants the followings:

 

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18.1 The Borrower is duly organized and validly existing as a corporation under the laws of the Republic of China, and has obtained all the approvals from the government and other administrative bodies.

 

18.2 The Borrower is qualified to do its current business, has the legal right to own its assets, and has the corporate power and authority to enter into, deliver and perform the Agreement and issue the Promissory Note and Note Authorization. The execution and performance of the Agreement and its relevant documents by the Borrower have not violated any laws or orders, its contractual agreement with any third party, its Articles of Incorporation or other constitutional documents, and no documents are forged or modified.

 

18.3 The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and its relevant documents do not violate any requirements of laws and orders, and will not result in any violation of laws or contractual agreements.

 

18.4 The Borrower has obtained the necessary approval or consent from its Board of Directors.

 

18.5 The Borrower is not in violation of any binding contractual agreement or documents to which the Borrower is a party.

 

18.6 Upon the application of drawdown under the Facility, the information and contents of the documents provided by the Borrower to the Banks are true and correct.

 

18.7 No litigation, non-litigation, arbitration, administrative appeal or disputes, compulsory execution, default nor any other procedure which might have a material adverse effect on the Borrower’s financial conditions, business operation or property is pending.

 

18.8 There has been no material adverse change in the financial condition, business operations and properties of the Borrower.

 

18.9 The financial information provided by the Borrower is accurate in all aspects.

 

18.10 There is no violation of laws or default affecting the Borrower’s ability to perform this Agreement.

 

19. REPRESENTATION UPON EACH DRAWDOWN

The Borrower hereby represents and warrants the followings upon each drawdown:

 

19.1 the representations, warranties, undertakings and covenant as well as the information and documents provided by the Borrower remain true and correct; all documentation previously delivered pursuant to the Agreement remains in full force and effect, without modification or has been updated with notification; or the most updated documentation has been voluntarily provided or provided upon the request by the Banks and remains in full force and effect.

 

19.2 There has been no Event of Default and the performance of the Agreement will not violate the Borrower’s contractual agreements with any third party.

 

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IX. SECURITY

 

20. MORTGAGED ASSETS

 

20.1 Provisions of the Mortgaged Assets

 

  20.1.1 The Borrower agrees to mortgage the Mortgaged Assets in favor of the Security Agent, individually or jointly, by way of first priority mortgage, and to use the Detailed Terms and Conditions of Real Estate Mortgage Agreement and Chattel Mortgage Agreement in the form of Exhibit 6 and 7 respectively for the purpose of filing for the registration of mortgage with the Security Agent.

 

  20.1.2 Land, building and its ancillary attachments among the Mortgaged Assets shall be appraised by the professional appraisal firm approved by the Security Agent and shall be mortgaged in favor of the Security Agent in an amount of one hundred twenty percent (120%) of the Secured Lending Amount for Tranche A Facility, which is eighty percent (80%) of the appraised value (deducting the Land Value Increment Tax based on the Current Land Value).

 

  20.1.3 Machinery equipment and its ancillary among the Mortgaged Assets as provided by the Borrower and accepted by the Security Agent shall be appraised by the professional appraisal firm approved by the Security Agent or be evaluated in accordance with the relevant procuring certificates (including but not limited to invoices or other certificates approved by the Security Agent which could be dated back to twelve (12) months but not more from the relevant drawdown date) and shall be mortgaged in favor of the Security Agent in an amount of one hundred thirty percent (130%) of the Secured Lending Amount for Tranche B Facility, which is fifty to seventy percent (50~70%) (50% for those the remaining useful life of which is less than 24 months (inclusive); 65% for those the remaining useful life of which exceeds 24 months and no less than 48 months (inclusive); 70% for those the remaining useful life of which exceeds 48 months) of the appraised value or the amount of the relevant procuring invoices (deducting depreciation). Upon the completion of the registration of first priority chattel mortgage, the Borrower shall, pursuant to the instruction by the Facility Agent, immediately affix such plaques or other markings on the Mortgaged Assets identifying the Security Agent as mortgagor, and take photographs and deliver such to the Security Agent for record.

 

  20.1.4 In the event that the mortgage registration of the Mortgaged Assets in favor of the Security Agent has not yet been completed prior to the First Drawdown Date, the Borrower shall, cause and procure its board of directors to issue a Negative Pledge Certificate (in the form of Exhibit 8) agreeing on the provision of such Mortgaged Assets and not to encumber the Mortgaged Assets by mortgage to a third party; provided, however, the Borrower may request for drawdown within the Secured Lending Amount and complete the registration of first priority mortgage in favor of the Security Agent no later than ten (10) Bank Business Days (or other period approved by the Security Agent) after the drawdown date.

 

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  20.1.5 The Borrower shall issue a Non-letting Undertaking in the form of Exhibit 9 in respect of the Mortgaged Assets.

 

20.2 Appointment of Mortgagee:

The Agreement is entered into by and among the Borrower and the Banks. Each Bank hereby agrees to register all the mortgage documents and Mortgaged Assets under the name of the Security Agent and that all the security interest in the Security Agent in its capacity of a joint and several creditor and for the joint and several benefits of the Banks. Each Bank further agrees to appoint the Security Agent as the mortgagee, pledge or other right holder of encumbrances in any other form as well as the beneficiary of the relevant insurance.

 

20.3 Scope of Debt Secured by Mortgaged Assets:

The Borrower agrees to provide the Mortgaged Asset as security to all indebtedness incurred by the Borrower to the Banks under the Agreement, including the note obligations, principal, interest, default interest, penalties, arranger’s fee, agent’s fee, commitment fee, indemnification, amendment fee, appraisal fee of the Security, registration fee of the Security , insurance premium, fees and expenses for compulsory enforcement, expenses for participation of distribution, other fees, damages due to the failure to perform all the obligations herein.

 

20.4 Borrower’s Representation I:

The Mortgaged Assets conform to the quality, amount, specification and the information or documents provided by the Borrower and is wholly and legally owned by the Borrower. There is no encumbrances or right over the Mortgaged Asset beyond the knowledge of the Security Agent upon the execution of the Agreement. The Mortgaged Assets may be inspected by the Security Agent from time to time upon its request. The Borrower shall provide other assets of equivalent or higher value compared to the Mortgaged Assets or repay partial indebtedness, it shall further indemnify the Banks against any dispute arising from the inconformity of the Mortgaged Assets.

 

20.5 Borrower’s Representation II:

If any of the Mortgaged Assets is damaged, loss or devaluation due to the natural disaster, change of circumstance, act of third party or other event not attributable to the Borrower, the Borrower shall notify the Security Agent immediately and restore its value by providing additional cash or additional assets unanimously approved by all the Banks. The Security Agent may prescribe a deadline for the provision of additional cash or assets and if the Borrower fails to meet the deadline, the Facility Agent may declare an Event of Default as provided in Article 25.

 

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20.6 Transformation of Mortgaged Assets:

If any of the Mortgaged Assets is expropriated or for any other reason, consequently causing the Borrower eligible for compensation, indemnity or other interest therefore, the secured indebtedness of the Banks shall remain on the compensation, indemnity or other interest in the form of pledge. The Security Agent is entitled to receive such proceeds for the benefit of the Banks or exercise the pledge as evidenced by the Agreement which constitutes the irrevocable authorization by the Borrower. However, the Borrower shall promptly reimburse the Facility Agent for the deficiency if those proceeds are not sufficient to justify the devaluation of the first priority mortgage in respect of such Mortgaged Assets.

 

20.7 Replacement of the Mortgaged Assets:

During the Facility Period, the Borrower may replace any machinery equipment or its ancillary among the Mortgaged Assets for the purpose of advancing the technology standard; or if any of the machinery equipment or its ancillary is damaged and may not be repaired (the “Old Mortgaged Machinery”), the Borrower may replace such with the newly procured semiconductor packaging or testing machine and its ancillary (the “New Mortgaged Machinery”) subject to the following:

 

  20.7.1 The procuring certificates for the New Mortgaged Machinery shall not be lower than the appraised value/amount of procuring certificate of the Old Mortgaged Machinery.

 

  20.7.2 If the amount of the Mortgaged Assets (as stated in the procuring certificate) to be replaced by the Borrower does not exceed NT$100,000,000 and the amount of the Mortgaged Assets which have been replaced in accordance with the above, in the aggregate, does not exceed NT$500,000,000, such replacement shall be subject to the written consent of the Security Agent (Within the limits provided, the Security Agent is authorized by each Bank hereof to decide whether to approve the replacement at it sole discretion without notifying or obtaining the consent from other Bank). However, if the amount of the Mortgaged Assets to be replaced by the Borrower exceeds the limits above, the replacement shall be subject to the consent by Majority Resolution.

 

  20.7.3 Upon the written consent of the Security Agent or the consent by Majority Resolution, the Borrower shall create the first priority chattel mortgage over the New Mortgaged Machinery in the same amount as such created in accordance with the Agreement; and shall take out the insurance and assign the insurance interest in accordance with the provisions under the Agreement. Subject to the completion of the above, the Borrower may request the Security Agent to invalidate the mortgage over Old Mortgaged Machinery (the Security Agent may at the same time invalidate the mortgage over Old Mortgaged Machinery pursuant to the consent by the Majority Resolution). The New Mortgaged Machinery upon the completion of the procedures provided in this Article 20.7 shall be deemed as a part of the Mortgaged Assets.

 

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20.8 Diminution of the Mortgaged Assets:

Unless otherwise provided herein or approved by the Majority Resolution, the Borrower shall not sell, lease, lend, transfer, entrust, dismantle, rebuild, supplement all or a part of the Mortgaged Assets, or take any action which could diminish the value of the Mortgaged Assets.

 

20.9 Expenses of the Security:

The Borrower shall bear all the expenses incurred by the Banks in respect of the Mortgaged Assets or the enforcement of the mortgage.

 

20.10 Return of Documents and Request for Invalidation of Mortgage:

The Security Agent shall invalidate the mortgages and return the relevant documentation after all indebtedness under this Agreement are paid in full by the Borrower.

 

20.11 Maintenance of the Mortgaged Assets:

The Borrower shall upkeep the Mortgaged Assets appropriately during the Facility Period.

 

20.12 Insurance of the Mortgaged Assets:

 

  20.12.1 The Borrower shall take out the insurance over the Mortgaged Assets in the amount and kind recognized by the Security Agent and consistent with the practice of the business of like kind and subsequently assign the relevant insurance interests to the Security Agent by the assignment agreement in the form of Exhibit 12 by designating the Security Agent as the sole insurance beneficiary to the relevant insurance. The original insurance policy and the copies of the receipt of insurance premium shall be retained by the Security Agent on behalf and for the benefit of the Banks. The Borrower shall also procure the Undertaking of Insurer issued by the insurer in the form of Exhibit 13 and deliver such to the Security Agent.

 

  20.12.2 Unless otherwise approved by the Majority Resolution, the Borrower shall not change the beneficiary of the insurance, the mortgagee or the assignee of insurance interests.

 

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  20.12.3 The Borrower shall renew the insurance taken out in Article 20.12.1 upon the expiry of the insurance policy and shall bear all the expenses there from. If the Borrower fails to renew such in time or the insurance amount is not sufficient to cover the risk and such failure or insufficiency is not remedied within the period prescribed by the Security Agent, the Borrower hereby agree that the Security Agent, when it deems necessary, is authorized to take out or renew the insurance as evidenced by the Agreement with a written notice to the Borrower, and relevant premium shall be born by the Borrower. However, none of the Security Agent nor the Banks are obliged to take out insurance or disburse the premium. If the Borrower fails to promptly reimburse the Banks of the above, the Banks may roll over such disbursement into the principal under the Facility for the calculation of interest pursuant to the applicable interest rates of the Facility.

 

X. PRESERVATION OF RIGHT

 

21. SUPERVISION AND REPORT

 

21.1 The Borrower agrees to be supervised by the Facility Agent regarding the utilization of the Facility. The Facility Agent, when necessary, may audit the business operations and financial status of the Borrower and review the relevant books, financial statements (including consolidate financial statement required by the competent authority), and notes and documents.

 

21.2 The Facility Agent, when necessary, may request the Borrower to deliver for its review the relevant documents provided in Article 21.1 above, or to provide financial report audited by a certified public accountant as required by the applicable laws. The expenses so incurred shall be borne by the Borrower.

 

21.3 The Borrower shall voluntarily inform the Facility Agent of any changes to the conditions for drawdown, covenants and others, including but not limited to, financial or business status, financial ratios or other information that would otherwise influence the evaluation by the Banks, or any change to the performance, payment of principal or interests by the Borrower hereunder.

 

22. FORGED, DISTORTED AND DAMAGED DOCUMENT

 

22.1 If any negotiable instruments or documents provided by the Borrower or any other documents issued under the Agreement by the Borrower is forged or distorted; damaged, lost, or delayed during the course of its transmission due to any accidents, incidents or other force majeure events; except for the apparent mistakes of the amount recorded on the book, vouchers, any computer-produced documents, debt certificates, and copies of correspondences at the Agent’s place which has been proven by the Borrower and corrected by the Agents immediately, the Borrower shall acknowledge the amount as recorded on the documents set forth above, and shall, discharge the debt, including interest and principal when due; or reissue a debt certificate to the Agents before due. In any event when the instruments issued by Borrower under the Agent’s custody is lost, damaged or destroyed, the Borrower shall cooperate with the Agents to report such loss, provided that the cost so incurred shall be borne by the Agents.

 

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22.2 In the case that the Borrower’s signatures and chops are appropriated and used on the notes, declaration or other documents held by the Agents in respect of the Facility and the Agents is a bona fide holder without knowledge of such appropriation; or in the case that the Borrower’s signatures and chops are forged, the Borrower shall be liable for any damages suffered by the Banks and Agents incurred therefrom unless it is attributable to the Agents’ willful or gross negligence. When the Agents, based on the notes held, has remitted the proceeds to Borrower’s account in accordance with this Agreement, the Borrower shall not deny the existence of the debt by claiming that the signatures and chops were appropriated or forged.

 

23. COOPERATION

 

23.1 The Borrower agrees and undertakes to promptly take all such actions and execute all such documents as may be required under the Agreement.

 

23.2 The Borrower agrees that the Agents or each Bank is entitled to outsource the duty of collecting the receivable debt to other agencies in compliance with “Regulations Governing Internal Operating Systems and Procedures for the Outsourcing of Financial Institution Operation” regulated by Financial Supervisory Commission, Executive Yuan, R.O.C., and “Rules on Financial Institutions’ Outsourcing the Receivable Debt Collection Operations” regulated by the Bank Association of the R.O.C.

 

23.3 The Borrower agrees, and undertakes to cause its representative (including its succeeded representative during the Facility Period) to agree, that each Bank, for the purpose of assignment of its credit rights, may provide all information relevant to the indebtedness of the Borrower hereunder to the assignee (including prospective assignee) and the appraiser of the proposed assignment. In the event that any of the Banks entrusts its asset or assigns its credit rights for the purpose of financial asset securitization, the Borrower agree that the Bank may notify the Borrower by announcement instead of individual notice, without delivering the notice or evidence of announcement to the Borrower.

 

24. CONSENT OF COLLECTION, UTILIZATION AND TRANSMISSION

The Borrower agrees and undertakes to cause its representatives (same applies when any of the representative changes during the Facility Period) to agree the follows:

 

24.1 According to the Computer Processed Personal Data Protection Law (including Personal Information Protection Act, which is to be implemented in a later date), each Bank may collect, process by computers, transmit internationally or use the personal information of the Borrower, its responsible persons and all information between the Borrower, its responsible person and its corresponding institutions for the purpose of this Agreement, provided, that the Banks shall keep all the above information collected for the purpose of this Agreement confidential in accordance with the Banking Act and other relevant laws and regulations.

 

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24.2 Each Bank may provide the above information to the Joint Credit Information Center, National Credit Card Center, Financial Information Service Co., Ltd. and other corresponding institutions of the Banks, who may process the information by computer, transmit internationally and use such information.

 

24.3 The institutions listed in Article 24.2 may, within its registered business items or the specific purposes of the business needs provided in their Articles of Incorporation, collect, process by computer, transmit internationally and use the personal information of the Borrower, its responsible persons and all information between the Borrower, its responsible persons and its corresponding institutions, and provide such information to each Bank who may process by computer, transmit internationally and use such information.

 

XI. EVENT OF DEFAULT AND ACCELERATION

 

25. EVENT OF DEFAULT AND ACCELERATION

 

25.1 The Facility Agent is entitled to suspend the drawdown of this Facility; or, pursuant to the Majority Resolution, terminate the entire or partial undrawn amount under the Facility or to accelerate the entire or partial outstanding amount to maturity upon the occurrence of the following events:

 

  25.1.1 The failure to repay the principal, interest, default interest, penalties, Arranger’s fee, Agent’s fee, commitment fee and any other expenses in accordance with the Agreement or upon the request by the Facility Agent.

 

  25.1.2 Any representation, warranty (including without limitation those provided in Section VIII), or undertaking made or any information, report or statements provided by the Borrower in this Agreement shall be false, untrue, hidden or omitted; or the Borrower shall violate, fail to comply with or perform any terms, undertakings or conditions set forth in this Agreement; provided, however, for the violation of financial covenants provided in Article 17.1.1 to 17.1.3, the Borrower shall fail to meet the ratios provided in Article 17.1.1 to 17.1.3 for consecutive two years.

 

  25.1.3 Any negotiable instrument issued by the Borrower is dishonored, or any of them is rejected by a clearing house.

 

  25.1.4 Other than the indebtedness hereunder, there shall be any event of default by the Borrower in any loan facility granted or indebtedness incurred at present or in the future (including, without limitation, cross default incurred from direct or contingent liabilities) and is not remedied within the period prescribed by the Facility Agent.

 

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  25.1.5 The Borrower shall be subject to compulsory execution, provisional seizure, provisional measures, unfavorable judgment, or administrative act, administrative enforcement, restriction on registration, expropriation, frozen or forfeiture of properties, the amount of which is equal to or more than NT$200,000,000 or its equivalent and is deemed to adversely affect the Borrower’s ability to perform this Agreement by Majority Resolution.

 

  25.1.6 The Borrower shall apply for, or be applied involving the settlement under Bankruptcy Act, bankruptcy, debt clearance, reorganization, dissolution, liquidation; or the Borrower shall be merged by third party, engage spin-off or cease its business operation; or any official permit, business license, relevant covenants or license necessary for the Borrower’s operation relevant to the Facility shall become invalid, withdrawn, nullified or terminated.

 

  25.1.7 The Borrower shall fail to utilize the facility in compliance with the funding purposes of this Agreement.

 

  25.1.8 There shall be any material adverse change in the financial conditions, shareholding or management structure or business operation of the Borrower and is deemed to adversely affect the Borrower’s ability to perform this Agreement by Majority Resolution.

 

  25.1.9 The value of the Mortgaged Assets provided by the Borrower shall materially diminish or the mortgage agreements or covenants become unenforceable.

 

  25.1.10 There shall be any other event which is sufficiently deemed to materially affect the Borrower’s ability to perform this Agreement by a Majority Resolution.

 

25.2 In the event that the Facility Agent, in its discretion or by a Majority Resolution, terminates the entire or partial undrawn amount under the Facility or accelerate the entire or partial outstanding amount to maturity upon the occurrence of the events provided in Article 25.1.1 to 25.1.10 above, the Borrower shall immediately repay all the outstanding amount, including principal, interest, penalty and other relevant fees and expenses. If the Borrower fails to repay in accordance with the above, the Facility Agent may, in its discretion or by a Majority Resolution, exercise all legal and contractual rights (including but not limited to the rights under the laws, the Agreement and its relevant documents), or demand the Borrower for payment by exercising the right over the Promissory Note.

 

25.3 If the Facility Agent notifies the Borrower of the suspension of drawdown in accordance with Article 25.1, the availability of the Facility shall only be resumed upon the notification issued by the Facility Agent to the Borrower subject to the recognition by a Majority Resolution that the cause of suspension has no longer existed as proved by the Borrower.

 

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25.4 Unless otherwise provided herein, the terms and conditions of the Agreement shall remain effective during the period of suspension under Article 25.1.

 

XII. SET-OFF AND DISCHARGE

 

26. SET-OFF AND DISCHARGE

Upon the occurrence of the events provided under Article 25.1.1 to 25.1.10 above and upon the acceleration asserted by a Majority Resolution, the Borrower agrees to immediately repay all the outstanding amounts, including principal, interest, penalty and other relevant fees and expenses and further agrees the following:

 

26.1 Set-Off

 

  26.1.1 The Borrower agrees that each Bank may exercise the right of set-off against any deposit the Borrower placed with the Bank and all its rights against the Bank even if not due, but shall have been deemed due. If the Borrower has other property deposited with any of the Banks, or if any Bank receives any fund on behalf of the Borrower, such Bank may detain or offset after the fund is deposited into its account with the Bank. In the event that any amount in the account of the Borrower with any Bank is subject to provisional seizure, provisional disposition or compulsory execution or other similar legal procedures initiated by the Borrower’s other creditors, an outstanding amount of the Facility hereunder equivalent to the amount enforceable or attachable against which the said procedure is taken shall be, without such the Facility Agent’s notice or demand or a Majority Resolution, deemed due by acceleration and this Article shall apply. Unless otherwise provided herein, the acceleration provided in this Article shall not constitute an Event of Default under Article 25.1. Each Bank exercising its right of set-off shall promptly notify the Borrower and Facility Agent in writing.

 

  26.1.2 In the case of a checking deposit, the Borrower acknowledges and agrees that each Bank may in its check deposit agreement set out the condition subsequent to be the acceleration of the Facility. In the event that the condition subsequent is fulfilled, the aforementioned checking deposit agreement shall cease to be valid and the Bank shall immediately return the balance of such checking account and claim the set-off on such balance against all indebtedness of the Borrower payable to the Banks hereunder and notify the Borrower and the Facility Agent accordingly.

 

  26.1.3 When the Borrower has received or is deemed to have received the notice of set-off from any of the Banks in accordance with Article 26.1.1 to 26.1.2, the set-off shall become retroactively effective from the time such Bank may exercise its right of set-off; at the same time, the deposit certificate, passbook or other certificate of deposit of the Borrower shall become invalidated within the amount being offset.

 

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  26.1.4 If the Borrower exercise its right of set-off pursuant to the laws against any of the Banks, only the outstanding amount allocated to such Bank may be offset.

 

26.2 Discharge

During the Facility Period, if the amounts received as a result of the exercise of the relevant rights under this Agreement, whether by disposing the Mortgaged Assets or payment received in any other way, are insufficient to fully settle all indebtedness of the Borrower, the orders of discharge among the indebtedness owed by the Borrower shall be determined by the Facility Agent. Even if the nature of such indebtedness differs from each other, the Facility Agent may determine the way and orders of discharge and then allocate such to respective Banks based on the Risk Participation Percentage.

 

XIII. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BORROWER AND BANKS

 

27. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BORROWER AND BANKS

 

27.1 The Borrower may not assign all or partial of its rights or obligations hereunder.

 

27.2 No failure or delay by Arranger, Agents, or any Bank in exercising any right or remedy shall operate as a waiver or estoppels of any right, remedy or condition. Arranger, Agents, or any Bank exercises part of the right or makes partial claim does not constitute a waiver of other right or claim under the Agreement.

 

XIV. APPOINTMENT OF AGENT AND RELATED PROVISIONS

 

28. APPOINTMENT OF AGENTS

 

28.1 The Banks jointly appoint the Agents to act as agents as herein specified and authorize the Agents to take such action on their behalves under the provisions of this Agreement and any security instruments referred to herein and to exercise such rights, powers and discretions hereunder as are specifically delegated to the Agents and such rights, powers and discretions as are reasonably incidental thereto. Each Bank shall not revoke or withdraw the forgoing rights, powers and discretions.

 

28.2 In performing their functions and duties hereunder, the Agents shall act as the agents of the Banks solely for the convenience of the administrative management and shall not be deemed as the trustees of the Banks or trust relationship with the Banks, nor the agents or trustees of the Borrower.

 

28.3 The Agents may carry out any of their duties hereunder through their personnel.

 

28.4 Regardless of other provisions hereunder, the fees, costs and expenses (including, without limitation, attorney’s fees, out-of-pocket expenses) incurred by the actions taken by the Agents for the interests of the Banks shall be borne by the Banks pursuant to the Risk Participation Percentage. The Banks shall make advance payment or provide surety to the Agents, otherwise the Agents are not obliged to take any action on their own or pursuant to the instruction made in the resolution adopted by the Banks.

 

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29. DUTIES OF AGENTS

 

29.1 The Agents shall act in accordance with the Risk Participation Percentage to manage the Facility and the matters relating to the Banks. In the event that after the Agents’ calculation, the Agents are unable to distribute in accordance with the Risk Participation Percentage, the Agents may, based on their reasonable determination, conduct the distribution, and the Banks shall raise no objections.

 

29.2 According to the provisions hereunder, the Agents shall distribute all the amounts collected from the Borrower and the amounts relating to the Facility to each Bank in accordance with the Risk Participation Percentage.

 

29.3 Unless otherwise provided in the Agreement, the Agents shall take actions or inactions pursuant to the Majority Resolution. Such actions or inactions are binding upon the Banks as a whole.

 

29.4 Unless otherwise provided in the Agreement, the communication of the Agents relating to their management hereunder may be carried out via fax.

 

29.5 The Agents shall not act against the instruction made by unanimous resolution by the Banks or the Majority Resolution. The Agents shall take legal actions in accordance with the said resolutions, the Agreement and the applicable laws.

 

29.6 In the event that the Agents deem that an action might constitute the violation of applicable laws and regulations, the Agents may refuse to take such action. In the event that the Agents deem that an action is required in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations, the Agents may take such action.

 

29.7 The Agents shall immediately forward any written notification, received from the Borrower or related obligors pursuant to the Agreement, to each Bank. Except the notifications, reports or other documents delivered by the Agents to each Bank pursuant to the Agreement, the Agents are not obliged to provide each Bank with any other information relating to the Borrower’s credit, ordinary course of business or financial condition held by the Agents. Nonetheless, each Bank may from time to time retrieve the information at the Agents relating to the Facility.

 

29.8 According to Article 25.2 hereunder or the Majority Resolution, the Facility Agent may assert the acceleration of the maturity of the Facility term. In the event that the Borrower does not make payment pursuant to the Agreement, the Agents shall, in accordance with the Agreement or other related agreements or instruments, initiate any necessary litigations or proceed with any necessary procedures against the Borrower or any third party.

 

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29.9 The Agents are not obliged to conduct investigation on the Event of Default. Prior to the receipt of the written notification from the Banks or the Borrower, the Agents may assume that there is no occurrence of Event of Default or prospective Event of Default and assume that each party hereunder does not breach the duties stipulated in the Agreement or any other security instruments. The forgoing does not apply where the Agents are aware of the occurrence of Event of Default.

 

30. EXCULPATION OF AGENT’S PERSONNEL TO BANKS

 

30.1 Unless otherwise provided in this Agreement, the personnel of the Agents are not responsible for the matters as follows to the Banks:

 

  30.1.1 The liability attributed by the Borrower’s or any other parties’ non-performance or breach of the duties prescribed in the Agreement or any security instruments.

 

  30.1.2 The authorization, execution, legitimacy, legal effect, enforceability, authenticity or adequacy of the Agreement, any security instruments or other documents relating to the Facility; or the representations and warranties and the accuracy thereof in the Agreement or any security instruments or other documents related thereto; or the accuracy and entirety of any information provided by any person, regardless of whether such information is received from the Agents.
 
  30.1.3 The accuracy and accountability of the Borrower’s information, i.e., the credit, financial conditions, revenue forecast, statement, and report; or whether the Agreement is sufficient to secure the claims; or any information provided relating to the financial or other status of the Borrower or any other parties in the security instruments.
 
  30.1.4 The amount that the Agents receive for their own to reimburse the expenses and out-of-pocket expenses relating to the Agreement; or any interests (except those received for the Banks’ interests) that the Agents receive, for the Borrower or other parties in the security instruments, from the present and future transaction or other relationship with other Banks irrelevant to the Agreement.
 
  30.1.5 Whether any payments in the Agreement or the security instruments are paid up in full.
 
  30.1.6 For the purpose of the Agents’ performance of their duties to retain professionals, e.g., consultants, attorneys, accountants, or agents, which was based on the Agents’ determination in good faith.

 

30.2 The foregoing provisions from Article 30.1.1 to 30.1.6 apply to the successor Agents and the personnel thereof appointed in accordance with Article 34.3.

 

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31. EXCULPATION OF AGENT’S PERSONNEL TO BORROWER

The personnel of the Agents are not responsible to the Borrower for the non-performance or breach of the duties prescribed in the Agreement or any security instruments by any Bank or any other parties.

 

32. AGENT’S RESPONSIBILITY

 

32.1 The Agents shall be responsible to the Banks for their willful misconduct or gross negligence in respect of the Agreement.

 

32.2 Unless it is attributable to the Agents’ willful misconduct or gross negligence, the Banks agree to, in accordance with their respective Risk Participation Percentage, indemnify the Agents in their capacity (to the extent not reimbursed by the Borrower under the Agreement), from and against any and all liabilities, obligations, losses, damages, penalties, actions, judgments, suits, costs, expenses or disbursements of any kind whatsoever which may at any time be reasonably imposed on, incurred by or asserted against the Agents in any way relating to any legal action or inaction of the Agents under or in connection with the Agreement (including but not limited to attorney’s fees or any disbursement). After the Banks indemnify the Agents in accordance with this Article 32.2, the Agents shall claim against the Borrower on behalf of the Banks.

 

33. PRIORITY OF AGENT’S FEE

For the purpose of smooth performance of the Agent’s function hereunder, the Agents shall have a priority claim over the payment received from the Borrower if the Borrower fails to pay the Agents’ Fee to the Agents in accordance with Article 9.1 above.

 

34. RESIGNATION OF AGENTS

 

34.1 Any of the Agents may at any time resign as agents by notifying the Banks and Borrower in writing sixty (60) days prior to the resignation.

 

34.2 The Agents shall convene a Banks’ meeting to designate their successor. In any event the Banks fail to designate such successor within sixty (60) days after the Agents’ resignation, the resigning Agents may designate their successor on behalf of the Banks. The designation shall take effect upon the successor’s acceptance.

 

34.3 Upon the acceptance of the designation, the successor shall assume the rights and obligations of the resigning Agents under this Agreement and the rights, obligations and relevant authority of the resigning Agents hereunder shall be terminated.

 

34.4 The Agent’s Fee received by the resigning Agents shall be handed over to their successors on a pro-rata basis as from the effective date of the resignation. The parties of this Agreement agree to execute any documents necessary to replace the Agents, provided that, any cost incurred therefrom shall be borne by the Borrower.

 

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XV. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS AMONG BANKS

 

35. JOINT AND SEVERAL CLAIM

 

35.1 The Banks and the Agents shall be deemed joint and several creditors with respect to the claims under the Agreement.

 

35.2 The Agents representing each Bank, in their capacity, shall be entitled to, in its own name, pursue all the indebtedness under the Agreement payable by the Borrower to the Banks and to enforce all the indebtedness.

 

35.3 Each claim that the Banks and the Agents is entitled to pursue against the Borrower and each related debtor under the Agreement shall be the joint and several claim stipulated in Article 283 of the R.O.C. Civil Code. The Banks hereby agree the following, which shall not be withdrawn, cancelled or by any means invalidated.

 

  35.3.1 Under the Agreement, the Agents are authorized to exercise claims and rights. Unless authorized by the resolution adopted unanimously by the Banks, each Bank shall not act alone to pursue the joint and several claims against the Borrower or the related debtors or to take any action, nor does each bank take any actions or inactions in conflict with or inconsistent with the resolution adopted by the Banks. However, this provision does not apply where the rights of set-off or lien, or merger of rights are asserted.

 

  35.3.2 Each Bank shall share the risk under this Facility pursuant to the Risk Participation Percentage. The amount of the payment made pursuant to the Agreement shall be shared by each Bank in accordance with the Risk Participation Percentage. However, if the determination of the Risk Participation Percentage is affected by other circumstances, a Majority Resolution shall be adopted.

 

35.4 In the event that the set-off or the merger of rights occurs between one Bank, and the Borrower and the related debtors, and in the event that such Bank intends to enforce the joint and several claims under this Facility, within the amount being offset or merged under this Facility, such Bank is compensated only to the extent of its Risk Participation Percentage and the remainder of the said amount shall be deemed as the payment to the rest of the Banks. Within three (3) Bank Business Days after the set-off or merger of rights, such Bank, deducting the amount which such Bank is entitled to, shall pay the remainder of the amount to the Agents for them to distribute to other Banks in accordance with the Risk Participation Percentage.

 

35.5 An act resulting from any breach of the provisions in the preceding paragraph by any Bank has no legal effect and shall not be used against other Banks.

 

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36. BANK’S RESOLUTION AND AMENDMENT EXECUTED BY FACILITY AGENT

 

36.1 Except provided in this Agreement, the following shall be resolved unanimously by the Banks.

 

  36.1.1 Exemption of the relevant debts or obligations of the Borrower hereunder.

 

  36.1.2 Change to the facility amount.

 

  36.1.3 Change to the Facility Period or repayment date.

 

  36.1.4 Change to the interest rate of the loan.

 

  36.1.5 Extension of due date(s).

 

  36.1.6 Change to the currency of the Facility.

 

  36.1.7 Settlement or conciliation in connection with the rights and obligations under the Facility.

 

  36.1.8 Change to the definitions under Article 1.13 or this Article 36.

 

36.2 Except as set forth in Article 36.1.1 to 36.1.8 and otherwise provided under the Agreement, any other matters shall be resolved by Majority Resolution.

 

36.3 Except as stipulated in Article 36.1 and Article 36.2, when necessary, the Banks hereby authorize the Facility Agent to execute, on behalf of the Banks, any amendment with the Borrower, such agreement shall have binding effect upon each and every Bank, provided that the Facility Agent shall provide an executed copy of such amendment to the Banks respectively for their record.

 

37 BANKS’ MEETING

 

37.1 Any of the Banks may request the Facility Agent to convene a Banks’ meeting to discuss the Borrower’s default or other issues relating to the Agreement, however, the Facility Agent may consult with other Banks upon such request for the Banks to determine whether to convene the Banks’ meeting. Notwithstanding the above, the Facility Agent may convene the Banks’ meeting from time to time when it deems necessary.

 

37.2 When a Banks’ meeting is convened in accordance with Article 37.1 above, the Facility Agent shall issue a meeting notice at least give (5) Bank Business Days prior to the date of Banks’ meeting, and hold the meeting accordingly.

 

38. SEVERABLE LIABILITY OF BANK

 

38.1 The liability of the Banks under the Agreement is severable liability. The risks and benefits hereunder shall be proportionally shared by all the Banks in accordance with the Risk Participation Percentage.

 

38.2 Any Bank’s failure to perform under this Agreement does not discharge other Banks, Agents or Borrower from its obligations under the Agreement, yet none of the Banks or the Agents shall be responsible for the liability of other Banks.

 

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39. ASSIGNMENT

Upon the execution of the Agreement, each of the Banks may transfer, assign or grant participations in its rights, benefits or obligations hereunder subject to the following:

 

39.1 Each Bank may, without consent of the Borrower, assign all or a part of its rights or obligations hereunder to a third party; provided, however, such assignment shall not cause any direct and immediate increase of the costs or taxes or the obligations of the Borrower hereunder.

 

39.2 Each Bank shall enter into an Assignment Agreement in the form of Exhibit 14 and shall issue a Notice of Assignment in the form of Exhibit 15 within ten (10) days upon the execution of the Assignment Agreement notifying the Borrower and the Facility Agent. The assignee shall be bound by this Agreement. The assigning Bank shall pay the Facility Agent an operation fee of NT$100,000 unless such assignment is made due to the merge, spin-off, general assignment, other similar event or the compliance of laws, or such assignment or transfer of Commitment is approved by the competent authorities.

 

39.3 Each Bank may, without notice to the Borrower, enter into a risk participation agreement with any third party with respect to its rights and obligations hereunder; provided, however, that such party participating the risk shall not enjoy a voting right in connection with this Facility nor be entitled to claim against the Borrower based on the risk participation agreement or this Agreement, and such risk participation arrangement shall not cause any direct and immediate increase of the costs or taxes or the obligations of the Borrower hereunder.

 

39.4 For the purpose of assignment, the Bank may disclose any information to any potential or actual assignee, the appraisal auditors and the relevant consultants. The disclosing Bank shall provide the Facility Agent with a confidentiality agreement signed by the said assignee, appraisal auditors and relevant consultants. Each Bank shall indemnify the Borrower for the damage it suffered due to the disclosure of confidential information in violation of the preceding provision.

 

39.5 This Agreement shall be binding to the assignee, successor or the party assigned or succeeded the rights or obligations of the assigning Bank hereunder pursuant to other laws or regulations.

 

40. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND CONSENT OF BANKS

To the Arrangers and the Agents, each Bank hereby acknowledges and agrees to the following:

 

40.1 Each Bank does not rely upon the Arrangers and any personnel of the Agents and does, with its sole responsibility from the inception (and still continuing in the future), on its own conduct analysis and investigation on the status quo, credit, prospect, business, operation, assets and financial condition of the Borrower and other related parties; on its own comply with all the laws and regulations applicable to the financial institutions relating to the Agreement; and on its own determine whether to proceed with the Facility or whether to take actions or inactions relating to the Facility.

 

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40.2 Each Bank does not rely upon any representations or statements of the Arrangers and the Agents for the purpose of facilitation of each Bank’s execution of the Agreement.

 

XVI. OTHERS

 

41. CHANGE OF LAWS OR CIRCUMSTANCE

 

41.1 In the event that any restriction in the R.O.C. laws (including but not limited to laws, regulatory rules or ruling letters), any change to the interpretation of laws or any instruction or request made by the competent authority, or change of circumstance, shall make the whole or a portion of the Agreement invalid, or make it illegal for any Bank to give effect to its obligations to commit or maintain its commitment hereunder, the affected Bank shall immediately notify the Facility Agent in writing, and (1) the affected Bank may suspend its Commitment Amount before such illegality ceases to exist (however, if such event no longer exists before the expiry of the drawdown period, the Bank shall still provide its Commitment Amount); and (2) the Commitment Percentage of other Banks shall remain unchanged.

 

41.2 If the event set forth in Article 41.1 is attributable to the affected Bank, such Bank shall arrange another loan facility for the Borrower in equivalent terms and conditions compared to the Facility and no other Banks shall be held responsible therefore. Such Bank shall compensate the Borrower for any loss it suffers due to the Bank’s failure to provide facilities hereunder, including but not limited to the increment of cost and expenses in procuring relevant funding at a rate higher than the interest/fee rate hereunder. However, the Borrower shall provide the relevant certification evidencing such loss.

 

41.3 If the event set forth in Article 41.1 is not attributable to the affected Bank, such Bank shall, with reasonable effort, assist the Borrower to obtain alternative loan facility from other banks to the extent permitted by laws. However, the Banks shall not be responsible for the availability of the alternative loan facility, and the Commitment Percentage of other Banks shall remain unchanged.

 

42. NOTIFICATION AND REQUEST

All demands or notices hereunder shall be given in writing by post unless transmission via facsimile is otherwise permitted hereunder.

 

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43. DELIVERY AND DEEMED DELIVERY

All notices made hereunder shall be deemed to have been given, at the time of sending out with a confirmation received if delivered by fax; or upon the expiry of a regular delivery period if delivered by registered mail with postage prepaid. The Agents shall be notified of any changes to the address of the Borrower in writing, and the Agents shall notify the Borrower any changes to the addresses of the Banks. In any event that any parties fail to notify respective party of the address change, the notice will be deemed given if such is posted by registered mail to the address last known to the sender upon the expiry of a regular delivery period.

 

44. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the R.O.C.

 

45. JURISDICTION

The parties hereto hereby agree to submit to the jurisdiction of the Taiwan Hsinchu District Court for the first instance with respect to any dispute or legal actions arising from or relating to the Agreement, save for any case where an applicable exclusive jurisdiction is provided by law.

 

46. AGREEMENT AND REPLACEMENT

This Agreement is the sole agreement among the parties of this Agreement that replaces any and all oral communication or written commitment or promises among the parties of this Agreement prior to the effective date of this Agreement. Unless otherwise provided hereunder, any amendment shall be made in writing to be effective; provided, however, as for the matters among the Agents and the Banks which are not directly relating to the Borrower, an amendment may be made in writing upon the consent by the Agents and the Banks without a need to obtain the consent from the Borrower.

 

47. HEADINGS

The headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the construction hereof.

 

48. COUNTERPART

This Agreement shall be executed in fourteen (14) originals and five (5) extra counterparts. Each of the originals and the counterparts when fully executed, will be considered an original. Each party of the Agreement shall keep one original respectively; the Borrower and the Agents shall each take one counterpart, and the lawyer of the Banks shall keep the last counterpart.

 

49. EFFECTIVE DATE

The Agreement is fully reviewed within reasonable period of time and is understood by the parties of the Agreement before its execution. After the execution of the Agreement, the same will take effect on July 14, 2011 (“Effective Date”). The Effective Date applies to the parties which execute the Agreement on a later date.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date and year first above written.

(Signatory Page Omitted)

 

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SCHEDULE 3: Existing Indebtedness

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Unit: dollar

                                                                     

Existing Indebtedness Category

  

Bank

   Currency      Principal Balance as of
June 30, 2011
     Existing
Indebtedness

Category
  

Bank

   Currency      Principal Balance as
of June 30, 2011
     Existing
Indebtedness

Category
  

Bank

   Currency      Principal Balance
as of June 30, 2011
 
Syndicated loan    Banks of syndicated loan – leasing      NTD         1,065,492,040       Foreign
currency
loans
for
import
   Bank of Taiwan Nanke Branch (L/C)      USD         515,500.00       Foreign
currency
loans
for
import
   Bank of Taiwan Nanke Branch (L/C)      YEN         3,000,000   
  

Taiwan Cooperative Bank

(6 billion syndicated loan)

     NTD         3,061,244,363          Bank of Taiwan Nanke Branch (Standby L/C)      USD         1,040,000.00          Bank of Taiwan Nanke Branch (O/A)      YEN         173,468,296   
   Taiwan Cooperative Bank (1 billion syndicated loan)      NTD         540,023,000          Bank of Taiwan Nanke Branch (O/A)      USD         1,288,088.17         

First

Commercial

Bank Nanke

Branch (L/C)

     YEN         26,835,207   
   Standard Chartered Bank (1 billion syndicated loan)      NTD         201,404,041          Hua Nan Bank Yong Kang Branch (O/A)      USD         772,485.60          Hua Nan Bank Yong Kang Branch (O/A)      YEN         150,293,532   
   Bank of Taiwan      NTD         1,643,557,000          Taichung Commercial      USD         19,109.94          Sub total      YEN         353,597,035   
   (6 billion syndicated loan)             Bank Ping Jhen Branch (L/C)                  
   Sub total      NTD         6,511,720,444          Sub total      USD         3,635,183.71               
Medium and long-term loan    Bank of Taiwan Nanke Branch      NTD         846,481,000                           
   Bank SinoPac Hsinchu Branch      NTD         220,718,007                           
   Ta Chong Bank Hsinchu Branch      NTD         53,039,000                           
   Taiwan Life Insurance Co. Ltd.      NTD         180,436,000                           
   Taiwan Cooperative Bank Hsinchu Branch      NTD         80,054,000                           
   Bank of KaoHsiung Hsinchu Branch      NTD         204,186,000                           
   Sub total      NTD         1,584,914,007                           
Loans for working capital    Taishin International Bank      NTD         151,014,000                           
   Yuanta Commercial Bank Hsinchu Branch      NTD         46,386,000                           
  

Mega

International

Commercial Bank

Xin An Branch

     NTD         70,622,067                           
   Sunny Bank Hsinchu Branch      NTD         21,773,809                           
   Bank of Taiwan Nanke Branch      NTD         266,200,000                           
   Standard Chartered Bank      NTD         16,329,000                           
   Taiwan Cooperative Bank Hsinchu Branch      NTD         100,000,000                           
   Hua Nan Bank Yong Kang Branch      NTD         70,586,000                           
   Land Bank of Taiwan Sin Gong Branch      NTD         165,863,000                           
   Bank SinoPac Hsinchu Branch      NTD         44,055,000                           
   Chang Hwa Bank Hsinchu Branch      NTD         48,731,000                           
   Cathay United      NTD         73,079,000                           
   Bank Hsinchu Branch                              
   Taiwan Business Bank Jhu Dong Branch      NTD         9,746,000                           
   Sub total      NTD         1,084,384,876                           
        

 

 

             

 

 

             

 

 

 
   Total      NTD         9,181,019,327          Total      USD         3,635,183.71          Total      YEN         353,597,035   
        

 

 

             

 

 

             

 

 

 
           @1                  @28.725                  @0.3573   
  

Equivalent in NTD

     NTD         9,181,019,327               NTD         104,420,652               NTD         126,340,221   
                           Total equivalent in NTD      NTD         9,411,780,200   

The table disclosed the total debts of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. as of June 30, 2011. For the repayment schedule of this syndicated loan, please refer to the “Details of Repayment Schedule”.


EXHIBIT 2: Promissory Note

 

   

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned unconditionally promises to pay to the order of Bank of Taiwan or its designates on [Date] [Amount] New Taiwan Dollars, and agrees as follows:

 

1.      Interest hereon is payable at the rate of [            ] percent ([        ]%) per annum from [Date] to the date of actual payment hereon.

 

2.      Protest to this note and the notice requirement under Article 89 of the Law of Negotiable Instruments of the Republic of China is hereby expressly waived.

 

3.      The place of payment is the office of Bank of Taiwan, Tainan Science Park Branch (Address: 1F, No. 15, Nanke 3rd Rd., Southern Taiwan Science Park, Tainan County)

   
Promissory Note       
   
    Issuer:    ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Representative:    Chairman Shih-Jye Cheng
    VAT number:    16130042
    Address:    No.1 R&D 1st Rd., Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu
   
    Date of Issuance:[Date]     

 

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EXHIBIT 3: Note Authorization

Note Authorization

In accordance with the Syndicated Loan Agreement (the “Agreement”) dated July 14, 2011 in the aggregate amount of NT$8,410,000,000 by and among ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (“ChipMOS”), your Bank as Security Agent and such other banks named therein, ChipMOS has issued a Promissory Note in the amount of NT$8,410,000,000 to your Bank.

ChipMOS hereby irrevocably and specifically authorizes and empowers your Bank, in your capacity as the Security Agent and joint and several creditor under the Agreement and for the benefit of the Banks, to exercise the rights under the Promissory Note and its replacement thereof or substitution therefore, at any time after the occurrence of an Event of Default as provided in Article 25.1.1 to 25.1.10 which declared by your Bank or the Banks in accordance with Article 25.2 of the Agreement by accelerating any or all of the interests and principal under the Agreement to maturity. Your Bank and any of your agents or employees are fully authorized to, for and on behalf of the Banks, complete the Promissory Note and/or any replacement or substitution, as applicable, by inserting therein the maturity date, the date from which interest thereon is to accrue and the interest rates all in accordance with the terms of the Agreement. ChipMOS shall not withdraw, amend, release or terminate the authorization herein.

This authorization shall expire on the date that all sums owing under the Agreement have been fully paid as recognized by a resolution of the Banks or a notification made by the Facility Agent.

To:

Security Agent: Bank of Taiwan

 

Issuer:    ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.
Representative:    Chairman Shih-Jye Cheng
VAT number:    16130042
Address:   

No.1 R&D 1st Rd., Hsinchu Science

Park, Hsinchu

Date of Issuance: [Date]

 

- 2 -


EXHIBIT 8: Negative Pledge Certificate

Negative Pledge Certificate

In accordance with the Syndicated Loan Agreement (the “Agreement”) dated July 14, 2011 in the aggregate amount of NT$8,410,000,000 by and among ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (“ChipMOS”), your Bank as Facility Agent and such other banks named therein, ChipMOS hereby undertakes as follows:

 

1. ChipMOS undertakes to create, jointly or separately, a first priority mortgage over: (1) the buildings with Building Nos. 13, 29 and 36, Keguan Section, Hsinchu County, located at Lot No. 5, Keguan Section, Hsinchu County, and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by HSPA; (2) the buildings, with Building Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 612 and 613, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, located at Lot No. 55, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by STSPA; (3) the land, located at Lot Nos. 1072, 1073, 1074 and 1077, Taihe Section, Chubei City, Hsinchu County, and the buildings, with Building Nos. 251-1, 251-2, and 251-3 and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by the Borrower; and (4) all machinery equipment placed in the buildings and its ancillary attachments provided in (1) to (3) above (aside from those buildings and ancillary attachments placed at Lot No. 1, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, as provided by ChipMOS and accepted by the Security Agent, i.e. the Bank of Taiwan (collectively the “Mortgaged Assets”); in favor of the Security Agent under the Agreement.

 

2. Unless otherwise provided under the Agreement, ChipMOS undertakes not to create any other mortgage, pledge or other security interest over, or provide similar undertakings with respect to, the Mortgaged Assets as described above in detail to any third party.

 

3. If ChipMOS is in breach of the undertakings or take any action impedimental to the undertakings herein, the directors who participated in the decision-making of such breach by ChipMOS and the wrongdoer(s) shall be jointly and severally responsible for compensation of damages resulting therefrom and shall be punished in accordance with the provisions of Article 126 of the Banking Law of the Republic of China.

 

- 3 -


4. Unless otherwise agreed by your Bank in writing, ChipMOS shall not withdraw, amend, terminate or release this Certificate.

 

5. The original copy of the relevant minutes of the Board of Directors of ChipMOS is herewith attached.

Attachment: Original of the minutes of the Board of Directors of ChipMOS

To:

Facility Agent: Taiwan Cooperative Bank

 

Issuer:    ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.
Representative:    Chairman Shih-Jye Cheng
VAT number:    16130042
Address:    No.1 R&D 1st Rd., Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu

Date of Issuance: [Date]

 

- 4 -


EXHIBIT 9: Non-letting Undertaking

Non-letting Undertaking

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC. (“ChipMOS”), in accordance with the Syndicated Loan Agreement (the “Agreement”) dated July 14, 2011 in the aggregate amount of NT$8,410,000,000 by and among, ChipMOS, your Bank as Facility Agent and such other banks named therein, agrees to create, jointly or separately, a first priority mortgage over: (1) the buildings with Building Nos. 13, 29 and 36, Keguan Section, Hsinchu County, located at Lot No. 5, Keguan Section, Hsinchu County, and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by HSPA; (2) the buildings, with Building Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 612 and 613, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, located at Lot No. 55, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by STSPA; (3) the land, located at Lot Nos. 1072, 1073, 1074 and 1077, Taihe Section, Chubei City, Hsinchu County, and the buildings, with Building Nos. 251-1, 251-2, and 251-3 and its ancillary attachments situated thereon, owned by the Borrower; and (4) all machinery equipment placed in the buildings and its ancillary attachments provided in (1) to (3) above (aside from those buildings and ancillary attachments placed at Lot No. 1, Sinke Section, Shinshr Shiang, Tainan County, as provided by ChipMOS and accepted by the Security Agent, i.e. the Bank of Taiwan (collectively the “Mortgaged Assets”); in favor of the Security Agent under the Agreement.

ChipMOS further undertakes to your Bank that there is no letting, lending, other encumbrances or rights or possession by any third party existing over the Mortgaged Assets upon ChipMOS’s provision of and its creation of mortgage over the Mortgaged Assets in favor of the Security Agent, i.e. the Bank of Taiwan and ChipMOS shall be fully responsible for the legal consequences of any violation of the above undertakings as evidenced in this letter.

To:

Facility Agent: Taiwan Cooperative Bank

 

Issuer:    ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.
Representative:    Chairman Shih-Jye Cheng
VAT number:    16130042
Address:    No.1 R&D 1st Rd., Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu

Date of Issuance: [Date]

 

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List of principal subsidiaries of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD

Exhibit 8.1

List of Principal Subsidiaries

 

Name

 

Place of Incorporation

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES INC.

  Republic of China

MODERN MIND TECHNOLOGY LIMITED

  British Virgin Islands

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Shanghai) LTD.

  People’s Republic of China

ThaiLin Semiconductor Corp.

  Republic of China
Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a)

Exhibit 12.1

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Shih-Jye Cheng, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: April 26, 2012

 

/s/ Shih-Jye Cheng

Name:   Shih-Jye Cheng
Title:   Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a)

Exhibit 12.2

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Shou-Kang Chen, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the company and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The company’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: April 26, 2012

 

/s/ Shou-Kang Chen

Name:   Shou-Kang Chen
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b)

Exhibit 13.1

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

CERTIFICATION

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, the undersigned, Shih-Jye Cheng, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. (the “Company”), hereby certifies, to his knowledge, that the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2011 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company, as of, and for, the periods presented in the Report.

The foregoing certification is being furnished pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350 solely for purposes of complying with the provisions of Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, is not intended to be used or relied upon for any other purpose and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.

Date: April 26, 2012

 

/s/ Shih-Jye Cheng

Name:   Shih-Jye Cheng
Title:   Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(b)

Exhibit 13.2

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

CERTIFICATION

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, the undersigned, Shou-Kang Chen, Chief Financial Officer of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. (the “Company”), hereby certifies, to his knowledge, that the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2011 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company, as of, and for, the periods presented in the Report.

The foregoing certification is being furnished pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350 solely for purposes of complying with the provisions of Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, is not intended to be used or relied upon for any other purpose and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.

Date: April 26, 2012

 

/s/ Shou-Kang Chen

Name:   Shou-Kang Chen
Title:   Chief Financial Officer
Consent of independent registered public accounting firm

Exhibit 15.1

 

LOGO

April 26, 2012

The Board of Directors

ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD.

No. 1, R & D Road 1

Hsinchu Science Park

Hsinchu City, 30076

Republic of China

Attention: Mr. S.J. Cheng

Dear Sirs,

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM’S CONSENT

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-130230 on Form F-3 and Registration Statements Nos. 333- 176935, 333-137838, 333-116670 and 333-85290 on Form S-8 of our report dated March 15, 2012, relating to the consolidated financial statements of ChipMOS TECHNOLOGIES (Bermuda) LTD. (the “Company”), and the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 20-F of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2011 (the “Annual Report”). We also consent to the inclusion of our report in the Annual Report.

Yours faithfully,

/s/ Moore Stephens

Certified Public Accountants

Hong Kong