utahmed10q033108.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q

Quarterly Report Under Section 13 or 15(d) of
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 
For quarter ended: March 31, 2008 
 
Commission File No. 0-11178
 
                                                                                                          
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 
                  UTAH                  
 
    87-0342734     
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 
7043 South 300 West
            Midvale, Utah  84047           
Address of principal executive offices


Registrant's telephone number:    (801) 566-1200

 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports) and; (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.   Yes x   No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer o
Accelerated filer x
Non-accelerated filer o
 Smaller reporting company o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes o   No x
 
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of May 9, 2008: 3,876,000.
 


UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
INDEX TO FORM 10-Q



 
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 PAGE
         
  Item 1. Financial Statements    
         
    Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007
1
 
         
    Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the three months ended March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007
2
 
         
    Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for three months ended March 31, 2008 and March 31, 2007
3
 
         
    Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements
4
 
         
  Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
6
 
         
  Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
11
 
         
  Item 4. Controls and Procedures
11
 
         
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION    
         
  Item 1A. Risk Factors
12
 
         
  Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
12
 
         
  Item 6. Exhibits
13
 
         
SIGNATURES
13
 
 

 
 
PART I  -  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1. Financial Statements
 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS AS OF
MARCH 31, 2008 AND DECEMBER 31, 2007
(in thousands)
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(audited)
 
ASSETS 
 MARCH 31, 2008
  DECEMBER 31, 2007  
             
Current assets:
           
Cash
  $ 984     $ 1,251  
Investments, available-for-sale
    21,139       21,121  
Accounts & other receivables - net
    4,073       3,905  
Inventories
    3,642       3,153  
Other current assets
    768       502  
Total current assets
    30,606       29,931  
                 
Property and equipment - net
    8,883       8,606  
                 
Goodwill
    7,191       7,191  
                 
Other intangible assets
    2,644       2,640  
Other intangible assets - accumulated amortization
    (2,395 )     (2,382 )
Other intangible assets - net
    249       258  
                 
TOTAL
  $ 46,930     $ 45,986  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
                 
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 487     $ 393  
Accrued expenses
    2,805       2,349  
Current portion of note payable
    449       423  
Total current liabilities
    3,741       3,165  
                 
Note payable
    3,687       3,689  
                 
Deferred income taxes
    461       343  
Total liabilities
    7,889       7,197  
                 
Stockholders' equity:
               
Preferred stock - $.01 par value; authorized - 5,000 shares; no shares issued or outstanding
               
Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized - 50,000 shares; issued - March 31, 2008, 3,885 shares and December 31, 2007, 3,905 shares
    39        39   
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    (834 )     (789 )
Retained earnings
    39,835       39,539  
Total stockholders' equity
    39,041       38,789  
                 
TOTAL
  $ 46,930     $ 45,986  
 
 
see notes to consolidated condensed financial statements
 
-1-

 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME FOR THE
 
THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2008 AND MARCH 31, 2007
 
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
(unaudited)
 
   
       
THREE MONTHS ENDED
 
       
MARCH 31,
 
       
2008
   
2007
 
Sales, net
  $ 6,890     $ 7,118  
                     
Cost of goods sold
    3,139       3,181  
                     
Gross margin
    3,750       3,937  
                     
Operating expense
               
                     
Selling, general and administrative
    1,118       1,150  
Research & development
    92       96  
                     
Total
    1,210       1,246  
                     
Income from operations
    2,540       2,691  
                     
Other income
    203       300  
                     
Income before provision for income taxes
    2,743       2,991  
                     
Provision for income taxes
    852       1,047  
                     
Net income
  $ 1,891     $ 1,944  
                     
                     
Earnings per common share (basic)
  $ 0.49     $ 0.49  
                     
Earnings per common share (diluted)
  $ 0.48     $ 0.48  
                     
Shares outstanding - basic
    3,887       3,941  
                     
Shares outstanding - duluted
    3,930       4,016  
 
 
see notes to consolidated condensed financial statements
 
-2-

 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2008 AND MARCH 31, 2007
 
(in thousands - unaudited)
 
   
   
MARCH 31,
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net income
  $ 1,891     $ 1,944  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    147       151  
Gain on investments
    (128 )     (248 )
Provision for losses on accounts receivable
    (10 )     0  
Loss on disposal of assets
    0       -  
Deferred income taxes
    (77 )     -  
Stock-based compensation expense
    31       19  
  Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Accounts receivable - trade
    97       (385 )
Accrued interest and other receivables
    (200 )     (149 )
Inventories
    (457 )     (172 )
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    (92 )     (100 )
Accounts payable
    92       49  
Accrued expenses
    446       838  
Total adjustments
    (151 )     4  
Net cash provided by operating activities
    1,740       1,948  
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Capital expenditures for:
               
Property and equipment
    (85 )     (85 )
Intangible assets
    (4 )     (8 )
Purchases of investments
    (1,000 )     (900 )
Proceeds from sale of investments
    921       544  
Net cash used in investing activities
    (168 )     (449 )
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Proceeds from issuance of common stock - options
    133       102  
Common stock purchased and retired
    (921 )     (544 )
Tax benefit attributable to exercise of stock options
    36       30  
Repayments of note payable
    (251 )     (225 )
Payment of dividends
    (880 )     (829 )
Net cash used in financing activities
    (1,883 )     (1,466 )
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    44       (10 )
                 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH
    (267 )     23  
                 
CASH AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD
    1,251       610  
                 
CASH AT END OF PERIOD
  $ 984     $ 634  
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
               
Cash paid during the period for income taxes
  $ -     $ -  
Cash paid during the period for interest
  $ 66     $ 65  
 
 
see notes to consolidated condensed financial statements
 
-3-

 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)

 
(1)  The unaudited financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and note disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.  These statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes included in the Utah Medical Products, Inc. ("UTMD" or "the Company") annual report on form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.  In the opinion of management, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to summarize fairly the Company's financial position and results of operations.   Dollar amounts are in thousands except per-share amounts and where noted.
 
(2)  Inventories at March 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007 consisted of the following:
 
   
March 31,
2008
   
December 31,
2007
 
Finished goods   $ 1,190     $ 1,245  
Work-in-process     852       694  
Raw materials     1,599       1,214  
Total   $ 3,641     $ 3,153  
 
(3)  The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48 “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” on January 1, 2007.   UTMD did not make any adjustment to opening retained earnings as a result of the implementation.  The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits along with penalties in operating expenses.  During the quarters ended March 31, 2008 and 2007, the Company did not recognize any interest and penalties relating to income taxes.  UTMD did not have any accrual for the payment of interest and penalties at March 31, 2008 or December 31, 2007.
 
(4)  Comprehensive Income.  Comprehensive income for the three months ending March 31, 2008 and 2007 was $1,817 and $1,940, net of taxes, respectively.  The components used to calculate comprehensive income were foreign currency translation adjustments of $46 and ($4) in 2008 and 2007, respectively, and unrealized holding losses of ($120) in 2008.
 
(5)  Warranty Reserve.   The Company accrues provisions for estimated costs that are likely to be incurred for product warranties and uncollectible accounts.  The amount of the provision is adjusted, as required, to reflect historical experience.  The following table summarizes changes to UTMD’s warranty reserve during 1Q 2008:

Beginning Balance, January 1, 2008
  $ 40  
Changes in Warranty Reserve during 1Q 2008:
       
Aggregate reductions for warranty repairs
    -  
Aggregate changes for warranties issued during reporting period
    -  
Aggregate changes in reserve related to preexisting warranties
    -  
Ending Balance, March 31, 2008
  $ 40  
 
-4-


(6)  Investments.  As of March 31, 2008, the Company’s investments are held in Fidelity Instl Treas Port Cl I (FISXX), Fidelity US Gov’t Reserves (FGRXX), Fidelity Cash Reserves (FDRXX), Citigroup (C) and Washington Mutual (WM).  Changes in the unrealized holding gain on investment securities available-for-sale and reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:
 
   
1Q 2008
   
1Q 2007
 
Balance, beginning of period
  $ (156 )   $ -  
Realized gain from securities included in beginning balance
    -       -  
Gross unrealized holding gains (losses), in equity securities
    (197 )     -  
Deferred income taxes on unrealized holding loss
    77       -  
Balance, end of period
  $ (276 )   $ -  

(7)  Forward-Looking Information.   This report contains certain forward-looking statements and information relating to the Company that are based on the beliefs of management as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management.  When used in this document, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “should,”  “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.  Such statements reflect the current view of the Company respecting future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties noted throughout this document.  Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause the forward statement not to come true as anticipated, believed, projected, expected, or intended.  Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may differ materially from those described herein as anticipated, believed, projected, estimated, expected, or intended.  Financial estimates are subject to change and are not intended to be relied upon as predictions of future operating results, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or disclose revisions to those estimates.
General risk factors that may impact the Company’s revenues include the market acceptance of competitive products; administrative practices of group purchasing organizations; obsolescence caused by new technologies; the possible introduction by competitors of new products that claim to have many of the advantages of UTMD’s products at lower prices; the timing and market acceptance of UTMD’s own new product introductions; changes in clinical practices; UTMD’s ability to efficiently and responsively manufacture its products; including the possible effects of lack of performance of suppliers; opportunities in gaining access to important global distribution channels; budgetary constraints; the timing of regulatory approvals for newly introduced products; regulatory intervention in current operations; and third party reimbursement of health care costs of patients.
Negative factors that may adversely impact future performance include managed care reforms or hospital group buying agreements that may limit physicians’ ability to choose certain products or procedures, new products introduced by other companies that displace UTMD’s products, new product regulatory approval delays, changes in the Company’s relationships with distribution partners, and loss of key personnel
The length of time and number of administrative steps required in adopting new products for use in hospitals has grown substantially in recent years.  As a potential negative factor to future performance, as UTMD introduces new products it believes are safer and more effective, it may find itself excluded from certain customers because of the existence of long term supply agreements for preexisting products.  UTMD may also be unable to establish viable relationships with other medical device companies that do have access to users but lack an interest in the Company’s approach or present unreasonable burdens.
Risk factors, in addition to the risks outlined in the previous paragraphs and elsewhere in this report that may impact the Company’s assets and liabilities, as well as cash flows, include: risks inherent to companies manufacturing products used in healthcare, including claims resulting from the improper use of devices and other product liability claims; defense of the Company’s intellectual property or claims of patent infringement by others; productive use of assets in generating revenues; management of working capital, including inventory levels required to meet delivery commitments at a minimum cost; and timely collection of accounts receivable.
Additional risk factors that may affect non-operating income include: the continuing viability of the Company’s technology license agreements; actual cash and investment balances; asset dispositions; and acquisition activities that may or may not require external funding.
 
-5-


Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

General
UTMD manufactures and markets a well-established range of specialty medical devices.  The Company’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2007 provides a detailed description of products, technologies, markets, regulatory issues, business initiatives, resources and business risks, among other details, and should be read in conjunction with this report.  Because of the relatively short span of time, results for any given three month period in comparison with a previous three month period may not be indicative of comparative results for the year as a whole.  Dollar amounts in the report are in thousands, except per-share amounts or where otherwise noted.

Analysis of Results of Operations
    a)  Overview
In 1Q 2008, UTMD’s consolidated global sales decreased 3% compared to 1Q 2007.  UTMD achieved the following profitability measures for 1Q 2008, in comparison with 1Q 2007:
 
      1Q 08       1Q 07  
Gross Profit Margin:     54.4 %     55.3 %
Operating Profit Margin:     36.9 %     37.8 %
Net (Income) Margin:     27.5 %     27.3 %
 
1Q 2008 earnings per share (EPS) were $.481 compared to $.484 in 1Q 2007.
 
   b)   Revenues
The Company believes that revenue should be recognized at the time of shipment as title generally passes to the customer at the time of shipment.  Revenue recognized by UTMD is based upon documented arrangements and fixed contracts in which the selling price is fixed prior to completion of an order.  Revenue from product and service sales is generally recognized at the time the product is shipped or service completed and invoiced, and collectibility is reasonably assured.  There are circumstances under which revenue may be recognized when product is not shipped, all of which meet the criteria of SAB 104: the Company provides engineering services, for example, design and production of manufacturing tooling that may be used in subsequent UTMD manufacturing of custom components for other companies.   This revenue is recognized when UTMD’s service has been completed according to a fixed contractual agreement.
Total sales in 1Q 2008 were about 3% lower than in 1Q 2007.  International sales increased 5% while domestic sales decreased 7%.  Domestic sales were comprised of domestic direct sales (sales of finished devices to users or distributors) which were down 9%, and domestic OEM sales (sales of components to other companies for use in their products) which were up 35%. Domestic OEM sales and international sales have an uneven quarter-to-quarter sales pattern because customers tend to purchase several months’ supply of products at a time to minimize costs.
Trade shipments from UTMD’s Ireland facility were down 20% in EURO terms, and down 6% in USD terms.
The following table provides sales dollar amounts divided into general product categories for total sales and the subset of international sales:

Global revenues by product category:
 
     
1Q 2008
   
%
     
1Q 2007
   
%
 
Obstetrics
  $ 1,729       25     $ 2,260       32  
Gynecology/ Electrosurgery/ Urology
    1,562       23       1,561       22  
Neonatal
    1,760       25       1,744       24  
Blood Pressure Monitoring and Accessories*
    1,839       27       1,553       22  
Total:
  $ 6,890       100     $ 7,118       100  
*includes molded components sold to OEM customers.
 
-6-

 
International revenues by product category:
 
     
1Q 2008
   
%
     
1Q 2007
   
%
 
Obstetrics
  $ 94       4     $ 292       14  
Gynecology/ Electrosurgery/ Urology
    567       26       457       22  
Neonatal
    202       9       182       9  
Blood Pressure Monitoring and Accessories*
    1,322       61       1,146       55  
Total:
  $ 2,185       100     $ 2,077       100  
*includes molded components sold to OEM customers.

For the rest of 2008, UTMD’s sales depend on its continued ability to retain medical staff involvement in purchasing decisions for UTMD’s “physician-preference” products used in U.S. hospitals where administrators are increasingly making the product decisions, expanded clinical acceptance of its newer specialty products, release of new products after FDA concurrence with premarketing submissions and continued development of UTMD’s international distribution channels.
 
   c)   Gross Profit
UTMD’s average gross profit margin (GPM), gross profits as a percentage of sales, was 54.4% in 1Q 2008, compared to 55.3% 1Q 2007.  As a result of the combination of lower sales and lower GPM, gross profits declined 5%.  This was primarily due to the mix shift in distribution channels. International sales and domestic OEM sales, at more heavily discounted prices because other entities provide the direct sales and marketing efforts, were together up 9%, while domestic direct sales at less discounted prices were down 9%. In addition, devices manufactured in Ireland, at a lower average GPM in EURO terms, diluted UTMD’s average gross margins in U.S. Dollar (USD) terms due to the weaker USD.  A weak USD enhances UTMD’s international revenues but dilutes gross profits because about 50% of devices sold overseas are manufactured in Ireland with costs in EURO terms. The third factor negatively affecting GPM was the higher cost of crude oil, which translated into higher costs of raw materials for plastic devices, as well as substantially higher freight costs.  UTMD continues to retain facilities and other manufacturing capabilities in excess of its needs.  As a result, it projects that the dilution of fixed overhead costs that will occur with anticipated increased sales during the remainder of 2008 will help mitigate a continuing expected increase in incremental direct material and labor costs together with increased competitive pressure on prices.  The Company expects an overall GPM in 2008 slightly lower than in 2007.
OEM sales are sales of UTMD components and subassemblies that are marketed by other companies as part of their product offerings.  UTMD utilizes OEM sales as a means to help maximize utilization of its capabilities established to satisfy its direct sales business.  As a general rule, prices for OEM sales expressed as a multiple of direct variable manufacturing expenses are lower than for direct sales because, in the OEM and international channels, UTMD’s business partners incur significant expenses of sales and marketing.  Because of UTMD’s small size and period-to-period fluctuations in OEM business activity, allocation of fixed manufacturing overhead expenses cannot be meaningfully allocated between direct and OEM sales.  Therefore, UTMD does not report GPM by sales channels.
 
   d)   Operating Profit
Operating Profit, or income from operations, is the surplus after operating expenses are subtracted from gross profits.  Operating expenses include sales and marketing (S&M) expenses, product development (R&D) expenses and general and administrative (G&A) expenses.  Combined operating expenses in 1Q 2008 were lower than 1Q 2007 by $36 mainly as a result of lower sales expenses when selling through international distributors.  Option compensation expense included in G&A expenses in 1Q 2008 was $31 compared to $19 in 1Q 2007.  Operating profit margin in 1Q 2008 was 36.9% compared to 37.8% of sales in 1Q 2007.  For the remainder of 2008, UTMD expects to control operating expenses, excluding consideration for litigation expenses which are less predictable, at a level below 19% of sales, yielding an operating profit margin slightly lower than in 2007, consistent with the decline in GPM.
S&M expenses in 1Q 2008 were $449 or 6.5% of sales compared to $485, or 6.8% of sales in 1Q 2007.  Because UTMD sells internationally through third party distributors, its S&M expenses are predominantly for U.S. business activity where it sells directly to clinical users.  During the remainder of 2008, UTMD intends to continue to manage S&M expenses to less than 8% of total sales.
 
-7-

 
R&D expenses in 1Q 2008 were $92 or 1.3% of sales compared to $96 or 1.4% of sales in 1Q 2007.  UTMD will opportunistically invest in R&D as projects are identified that may help its product development pipeline.  During the remainder of 2008, UTMD plans to continue R&D spending approximately the same as a percentage of sales.
G&A expenses in 1Q 2008 were $669 or 9.7% of sales compared to $664 or 9.3% of 1Q 2007 sales.  In addition to litigation costs, G&A expenses include the cost of outside auditors and corporate governance activities relating to the implementation of SEC rules resulting from the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as well as estimated stock-based compensation cost as required by SFAS 123R.  Excluding any currently unexpected litigation costs, UTMD plans to continue to hold G&A expenses in 2008 at a level less than 10% of sales.
 
   e)   Non-operating income
Non-operating income in 1Q 2008 was $203 compared to $300 in 1Q 2007.  UTMD received $141 in 1Q 2008 compared to $254 in 1Q 2007 in interest, dividends and capital gains income from investing cash balances.  The decline was primarily due to the fact that interest rates in the U.S. have declined substantially, reducing interest earned on cash balances.  In 1Q 2008, UTMD paid $66 for interest expense compared to $65 in 1Q 2007.  The interest expense resulted from UTMD’s Ireland subsidiary borrowing €4.5 million ($5,336) in December 2005 to allow the repatriation of profits generated by its Ireland operations between 1996 and 2005.  The loan is being paid by the Ireland subsidiary from profits generated there.  It should take about 3 more years to repay the loan.  Royalty income, which UTMD receives from licensing its technology to other companies, was the same in both years.  Management currently estimates that total 2008 non-operating income will be about $500 lower than in 2007.  The actual amount of 2008 non-operating income may be even lower if UTMD utilizes its excess cash for an acquisition, unexpected litigation costs or substantial share repurchases.
 
   f)    Earnings Before Income Taxes
1Q 2008 earnings before income taxes (EBT) decreased to $2,743 compared to $2,991 in 1Q 2007.  1Q 2008 EBT margin was 39.8% of sales compared to 42.0% in 1Q 2007.
 
   g)   Net Income and Earnings per Share
  UTMD’s net income decreased to $1,891 in 1Q 2008 compared to $1,944 in 1Q 2007.  Net profit margins (NPM), which are net income (after tax) expressed as a percentage of sales, were 27.5% in 1Q 2008 compared to 27.3% in 1Q 2007.  The income tax provision rate in 1Q 2008 was 31.1% compared to 35.0% in 1Q 2007.  The lower tax provision rate resulted primarily from refunds on amended 2004-2006 tax returns for Ireland.  UTMD expects its consolidated income tax rate for the rest of 2008 will be about the same as in 2007, which was 34.3% for the year.
Diluted 1Q 2008 Earnings per Share (EPS) decreased slightly to $.481 from $.484 in 1Q 2007. 1Q 2008 weighted average number of diluted common shares (the number used to calculate diluted EPS) were 3,929,501 compared to 4,015,955 shares in 1Q 2007.  The Company repurchased 31,343 of its shares in the open market in 1Q 2008.   Exercises of employee options in 1Q 2008 added 11,451 shares (net of 1,800 shares swapped by employees as payment for the option exercise cost).  Employees exercised a total of 13,251 option shares during 1Q 2008.  Options outstanding at March 31, 2008 were about 210,300 shares at an average exercise price of $22.62 per share.
Increases and decreases in UTMD’s stock price impact EPS as a result of the dilution calculation for unexercised options with exercise prices below the average stock market value during each period. The dilution calculation added 43,000 shares to actual weighted average shares outstanding in 1Q 2008 compared to 74,000 in 1Q 2007.  The decrease in 2008 dilution is primarily due to elimination of about 32,800 outstanding options from the dilution calculation because their exercise prices are above the average market value.  Actual outstanding common shares as of the end of 1Q 2008 were 3,885,400 compared to 3,946,400 at the end of 1Q 2007.
 
   h)   Return on Equity
Return on equity (ROE) is the portion of net income retained by UTMD (after payment of dividends) to internally finance its growth, divided by the average accumulated shareholder equity during the applicable time period.  Annualized ROE (after payment of dividends) in 1Q 2008 was 10%, compared to 12% in 1Q 2007.  The lower ROE in 1Q 2008 was due to 3% lower net profits, 6% higher dividends and 5% higher average equity to date in 2008.  Share repurchases have a beneficial impact on ROE as long as the Company sustains net profit performance because shareholder equity is reduced by the cost of the shares repurchased.  UTMD expects continued lower ROE in 2008 compared to 2007 as a result of lower net profits, higher dividends and higher average shareholder equity.
 
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
   i)    Cash flows
Net cash provided by operating activities, including adjustments for depreciation and other non-cash operating expenses along with changes in working capital, totaled $1,740 in 1Q 2008 compared to $1,948 in 1Q 2007.  A $392 smaller increase in accrued expenses and a $285 larger increase in inventories during 1Q 2008 compared to 1Q 2007 were the most significant differences in the two periods.
The Company’s use of cash for investing activities was primarily as a result of purchases of short-term investments, in an effort to maximize returns on excess cash balances while maintaining safety and liquidity.  Capital expenditures for property and equipment were $85 in both periods.  This rate of investing in new property and equipment is required to keep facilities, equipment and tooling in good working condition.
In 1Q 2008, UTMD received $133 and issued 11,451 shares of stock upon the exercise of employee stock options.  Employees exercised a total of 13,251 option shares in 1Q 2008, with 1,800 shares immediately being retired as a result of the individuals trading the shares in payment of the exercise price of the options.  UTMD repurchased 31,343 shares of stock in the open market at a cost of $921 during 1Q 2008.  Option exercises in 1Q 2008 were at an average price of $14.13 per share.  Share repurchases in the open market were at an average cost of $29.38 per share, including commissions and fees.  In comparison, the Company received $102 from issuing 19,723 shares of stock on the exercise of employee stock options in 1Q 2007, net of 6,197 shares retired upon employees trading those shares in payment of the stock option exercise price.  UTMD repurchased 16,900 shares of stock in the open market at a cost of $544 during 1Q 2007.
UTMD Ltd. made payments of $251 on its note payable during 1Q 2008, compared to $225 during 1Q 2007.  UTMD paid $880 in cash dividends during 1Q 2008 compared to $829 in 1Q 2007.
Management believes that future income from operations and effective management of working capital will provide the liquidity needed to finance internal growth plans.  Planned capital expenditures during the remainder of 2008 are expected to be less than $400 to keep facilities, equipment and tooling in good working order.  In addition, UTMD may use cash in 2008 for selective infusions of technological, marketing or product manufacturing rights to broaden the Company's product offerings; for continued share repurchases when the price of the stock is undervalued; and if available for a reasonable price, acquisitions that may strategically fit UTMD’s business and are accretive to performance.
 
   j)    Assets and Liabilities
March 31, 2008 total assets were $944 higher than at December 31, 2007.  The increase resulted primarily from a $488 increase in inventories, a $168 increase in net receivables, and a $303 increase in US Dollar-valued net property and equipment in Ireland.  Inventories increased as a result of bulk purchases to offset incremental rising direct materials costs. The Company expects 2008-ending inventory balances to be about the same as 2007-ending balances.  Cash and investment balances decreased just $248 despite paying $880 in dividends, $921 to repurchase shares and $251 in repayments of the note payable in Ireland.
Working capital was $26,865 at March 31, 2008, a $98 increase from 2007 year-end.  Working capital continues in excess of UTMD’s normal operating needs.  Current liabilities increased $576 from higher accrued expenses.  The increase resulted from the fact that in the first quarter, unlike other calendar quarters, estimated income tax payments are due after the end of the quarter.  As a result of the working capital changes, UTMD’s current ratio decreased to 8.2 on March 31, 2008 from 9.5 at year-end 2007.  The current ratio was 7.0 on March 31, 2007.
Net property and equipment increased $277 in 1Q 2008 after additions of $85 and an increase in the dollar-denominated value of Ireland P&E, offset by depreciation of $135.  Goodwill resulting from prior acquisitions remained the same. Net intangible assets excluding goodwill decreased $9 as a result of amortization of intellectual property of $13 offset by additions of intangibles of $4.  At March 31, 2008, net intangible assets including goodwill were 16% of total assets, the same as at year-end 2007.
UTMD’s long term liabilities are comprised of the Ireland note payable ($3,687 on March 31, 2008) and deferred income taxes ($461 on March 31, 2008).  As of December 31, 2007, the respective long term liabilities were $3,689 and $343.  The note payable, denominated in Euros, declined just $2 in USD book value despite actual principal payments of $251 because the Euro increased about 7% against the USD.  In Euros, the note declined 6% from €2,791 to €2,620 (both in thousands) during the quarter.   As of March 31, 2008, UTMD’s total debt ratio (total liabilities/ total assets) increased to 17% from 16% on December 31, 2007.  UTMD’s total debt ratio on March 31, 2007 was 19%.
 
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   k)   Management's Outlook.
As outlined in its December 31, 2007 10-K report, UTMD’s plan for 2008 is to
    1) retain the significant U.S. market shares of key products, and continue growth of newer products;
    2) add proprietary products helpful to clinicians through internal new product development;
    3) continue to disproportionately increase international sales;
    4)
make effective adjustments to intracompany manufacturing operations to minimize consolidated manufacturing costs;
    5) continue outstanding overall financial operating performance;
    6) look for new acquisitions to augment sales growth;  and
    7) utilize current cash balances in shareholders’ best long-term interest.
 
Other than a substantial loss in domestic market share of Intran Plus, UTMD accomplished its 1Q 2008 objective for item 1).  For the other items, UTMD believes its performance is on track after one quarter in 2008. UTMD does not announce its new product development initiatives until after it achieves applicable premarketing regulatory concurrences, or acquisition initiatives until after a transaction agreement is done.
 
   l)    Accounting Policy Changes.
None.
 
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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

  UTMD has manufacturing operations, including related assets, in Ireland denominated in the EURO, and sells products under agreements denominated in other Western European currencies.  The EURO and other currencies are subject to exchange rate fluctuations that are beyond the control of UTMD.  The exchange rate was 0.6336 EURO per USD as of March 31, 2008, and 0.7505 EURO per USD as of March 31, 2007.    UTMD manages its foreign currency risk without separate hedging transactions by converting currencies to USD as transactions occur.

 
Item 4. Controls and Procedures

The company’s management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of March 31, 2008. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that, as of March 31, 2008, the company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
 There were no changes in the company’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended March 31, 2008, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal controls over financial reporting.
 
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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1A. Risk Factors

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, investors should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in UTMD’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which could materially affect its business, financial condition or future results.  The risks described in the Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only risks facing the Company.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to UTMD or currently deemed to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition and/or operating results.


Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

The following table details purchases by UTMD of its own securities during 1Q 2008.

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)
   
Average Price Paid per Share
   
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)
   
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)
 
1/01/08 - 1/31/08
    25,343     $ 29.27       25,343          
2/01/08 - 2/29/08
    6,000       29.86       6,000          
3/01/08 - 3/31/08
    -       -       -          
Total
    31,343     $ 29.38       31,343          

(1)  In 1Q 2008 UTMD repurchased the above shares pursuant to a continued open market repurchase program initially announced in August 1992.  Since 1993 through 1Q 2008, the Company has repurchased 6.4 million shares at an average cost of $11.95 per share including broker commissions and fees in open market transactions.  In addition, the Company conducted tender offer transactions in which it purchased an additional 2.8 million shares at an average cost of $9.76 per share including fees and administrative costs.  In total, UTMD has repurchased over 9.2 million of its shares at an average price of $11.29 per share since 1993.  To complete the picture relating to current shares outstanding, since 1993 the Company’s employees and directors have exercised and purchased 1.6 million option shares at an average price of $9.00 per share.  All options were awarded at the market value of the stock on the date of the award.
 
The frequency of UTMD’s open market share repurchases depends on the availability of sellers and the price of the stock.  The board of directors has not established an expiration date or a maximum dollar or share limit for UTMD’s continuing and long term pattern of open market share repurchases.
 
The purpose of UTMD’s ongoing share repurchases is to maximize the value of the Company for its continuing shareholders, and maximize its return on shareholder equity by employing excess cash generated by effectively managing its business.  UTMD does not intend to repurchase shares that would result in terminating its Nasdaq Global Market listing.

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Item 6. Exhibits

Exhibit #
SEC
Reference #
Title of Document
     
1
31
Certification of CEO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
2
31
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
3
32
Certification of CEO pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
     
4
32
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002



SIGNATURES

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

 
 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
REGISTRANT
   
   
Date:         5/9/08                                        By:      /s/ Kevin L. Cornwell
 
Kevin L. Cornwell
CEO
   
   
Date:         5/9/08                                       
By:        /s/ Paul O. Richins
Paul O. Richins
Principal Financial Officer
 
 
 
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