10-Q 1 leco-20140930x10q.htm 10-Q
Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2014
or
¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _____________ to _____________
Commission File Number: 0-1402
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Ohio |  | 34-1860551
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |  | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
22801 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio |  | 44117
(Address of principal executive offices) |  | (Zip Code)

(216) 481-8100
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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

Large accelerated filer x |  | Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) |  | Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes o No x
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common shares as of September 30, 2014 was 77,680,043.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION | 3
Item 1. Financial Statements | 3
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED) | 3
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED) | 4
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) | 5
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) | 6
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | 7
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | 23
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk | 34
Item 4. Controls and Procedures | 34
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION | 35
Item 1. Legal Proceedings | 35
Item 1A. Risk Factors | 35
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds | 36
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures | 36
Item 6. Exhibits | 36
Signatures | 37
EX-31.1 | Certification of the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. |
EX-31.2 | Certification of the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. |
EX-32.1 | Certification of the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer) pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
EX-101 | Instance Document |
EX-101 | Schema Document |
EX-101 | Calculation Linkbase Document |
EX-101 | Label Linkbase Document |
EX-101 | Presentation Linkbase Document |
EX-101 | Definition Linkbase Document |

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

| Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Net sales | $ | 715,777 |  |  | $ | 691,875 |  |  | $ | 2,129,370 |  |  | $ | 2,137,880 |
Cost of goods sold | 474,168 |  |  | 459,178 |  |  | 1,411,158 |  |  | 1,438,273 |
Gross profit | 241,609 |  |  | 232,697 |  |  | 718,212 |  |  | 699,607 |
Selling, general & administrative expenses | 136,424 |  |  | 131,217 |  |  | 419,495 |  |  | 403,323 |
Rationalization and asset impairment charges | 29,068 |  |  | 6,302 |  |  | 29,887 |  |  | 8,204 |
Operating income | 76,117 |  |  | 95,178 |  |  | 268,830 |  |  | 288,080 |
Other income (expense): |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Interest income | 627 |  |  | 536 |  |  | 2,465 |  |  | 2,452 |
Equity earnings in affiliates | 1,172 |  |  | 1,170 |  |  | 4,308 |  |  | 3,687 |
Other income | 1,043 |  |  | 1,514 |  |  | 3,204 |  |  | 3,141 |
Interest expense | (1,174 | ) |  | (558 | ) |  | (3,730 | ) |  | (2,307 | )
Total other income | 1,668 |  |  | 2,662 |  |  | 6,247 |  |  | 6,973 |
Income before income taxes | 77,785 |  |  | 97,840 |  |  | 275,077 |  |  | 295,053 |
Income taxes | 32,953 |  |  | 33,588 |  |  | 96,532 |  |  | 91,431 |
Net income including non-controlling interests | 44,832 |  |  | 64,252 |  |  | 178,545 |  |  | 203,622 |
Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries’ loss | (857 | ) |  | (1,792 | ) |  | (929 | ) |  | (1,834 | )
Net income | $ | 45,689 |  |  | $ | 66,044 |  |  | $ | 179,474 |  |  | $ | 205,456 |
Basic earnings per share | $ | 0.58 |  |  | $ | 0.81 |  |  | $ | 2.25 |  |  | $ | 2.50 |
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 0.57 |  |  | $ | 0.80 |  |  | $ | 2.22 |  |  | $ | 2.47 |
Cash dividends declared per share | $ | 0.23 |  |  | $ | 0.20 |  |  | $ | 0.69 |  |  | $ | 0.60 |

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
(In thousands)

| Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Net income including non-controlling interests | $ | 44,832 |  |  | $ | 64,252 |  |  | $ | 178,545 |  |  | $ | 203,622 |
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges, net of tax of $(159) and $25 in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014; $276 and $(55) in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 | 313 |  |  | (734 | ) |  | (284 | ) |  | (147 | )
Defined benefit pension plan activity, net of tax of $1,974 and $5,235 in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014; $2,050 and $8,232 in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 | 2,909 |  |  | 4,314 |  |  | 7,989 |  |  | 14,391 |
Currency translation adjustment | (49,550 | ) |  | 19,891 |  |  | (49,778 | ) |  | (15,209 | )
Other comprehensive (loss) income: | (46,328 | ) |  | 23,471 |  |  | (42,073 | ) |  | (965 | )
Comprehensive (loss) income | (1,496 | ) |  | 87,723 |  |  | 136,472 |  |  | 202,657 |
Comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interests | (797 | ) |  | (1,678 | ) |  | (164 | ) |  | (1,769 | )
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to shareholders | $ | (699 | ) |  | $ | 89,401 |  |  | $ | 136,636 |  |  | $ | 204,426 |

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)

| September 30, 2014 |  | December 31, 2013
| (UNAUDITED) |  | (NOTE 1)
ASSETS |  |  |  |  |
Current Assets |  |  |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 279,523 |  |  | $ | 299,825 |
Accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $7,703 in 2014; $8,398 in 2013) | 354,376 |  |  | 367,134 |
Inventories: |  |  |  |  |
Raw materials | 96,857 |  |  | 112,478 |
Work-in-process | 37,779 |  |  | 38,963 |
Finished goods | 202,561 |  |  | 198,522 |
Total inventory | 337,197 |  |  | 349,963 |
Other current assets | 238,740 |  |  | 113,853 |
Total Current Assets | 1,209,836 |  |  | 1,130,775 |
Property, Plant and Equipment |  |  |  |  |
Land | 47,286 |  |  | 48,369 |
Buildings | 361,489 |  |  | 373,373 |
Machinery and equipment | 703,082 |  |  | 723,715 |
| 1,111,857 |  |  | 1,145,457 |
Less accumulated depreciation | 661,841 |  |  | 661,452 |
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net | 450,016 |  |  | 484,005 |
Non-current assets | 452,667 |  |  | 537,087 |
TOTAL ASSETS | $ | 2,112,519 |  |  | $ | 2,151,867 |
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY |  |  |  |  |
Current Liabilities |  |  |  |  |
Amounts due banks | $ | 85,642 |  |  | $ | 14,581 |
Trade accounts payable | 186,751 |  |  | 212,799 |
Other current liabilities | 297,449 |  |  | 228,822 |
Current portion of long-term debt | 1,859 |  |  | 715 |
Total Current Liabilities | 571,701 |  |  | 456,917 |
Long-Term Liabilities |  |  |  |  |
Long-term debt, less current portion | 1,041 |  |  | 3,791 |
Accrued pensions | 23,166 |  |  | 26,999 |
Other long-term liabilities | 140,132 |  |  | 133,472 |
Total Long-Term Liabilities | 164,339 |  |  | 164,262 |
Shareholders’ Equity |  |  |  |  |
Common shares | 9,858 |  |  | 9,858 |
Additional paid-in capital | 252,138 |  |  | 240,519 |
Retained earnings | 2,033,290 |  |  | 1,908,462 |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (194,779 | ) |  | (151,941 | )
Treasury shares | (727,168 | ) |  | (480,296 | )
Total Shareholders’ Equity | 1,373,339 |  |  | 1,526,602 |
Non-controlling interests | 3,140 |  |  | 4,086 |
Total Equity | 1,376,479 |  |  | 1,530,688 |
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | $ | 2,112,519 |  |  | $ | 2,151,867 |

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
(In thousands)

| Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES |  |  |  |  |
Net income | $ | 179,474 |  |  | $ | 205,456 |
Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries’ loss | (929 | ) |  | (1,834 | )
Net income including non-controlling interests | 178,545 |  |  | 203,622 |
Adjustments to reconcile Net income including non-controlling interests to Net cash provided by operating activities: |  |  |  |  |
Rationalization and asset impairment charges | 29,447 |  |  | 5,049 |
Depreciation and amortization | 53,017 |  |  | 51,881 |
Equity earnings in affiliates, net | (1,901 | ) |  | (1,313 | )
Deferred income taxes | 6,155 |  |  | 21,023 |
Stock-based compensation | 6,268 |  |  | 7,511 |
Pension expense | 9,634 |  |  | 22,261 |
Pension contributions and payments | (34,643 | ) |  | (84,417 | )
Foreign exchange loss (gain) | 19,968 |  |  | (3,852 | )
Other, net | (2,350 | ) |  | 5,075 |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions: |  |  |  |  |
Increase in accounts receivable | (22,388 | ) |  | (17,982 | )
Increase in inventories | (11,153 | ) |  | (9,889 | )
(Increase) decrease in other current assets | (27,963 | ) |  | 10,860 |
Decrease in trade accounts payable | (11,534 | ) |  | (32,703 | )
Increase in other current liabilities | 81,262 |  |  | 64,767 |
Net change in other long-term assets and liabilities | (4,311 | ) |  | 198 |
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES | 268,053 |  |  | 242,091 |
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES |  |  |  |  |
Capital expenditures | (55,430 | ) |  | (59,691 | )
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired | (892 | ) |  | (4,936 | )
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment | 17,046 |  |  | 796 |
Other investing activities | 778 |  |  | (4,217 | )
NET CASH USED BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES | (38,498 | ) |  | (68,048 | )
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES |  |  |  |  |
Proceeds from short-term borrowings | 8,135 |  |  | 788 |
Payments on short-term borrowings | (11,463 | ) |  | (1,732 | )
Amounts due banks, net | 75,958 |  |  | (1,110 | )
Proceeds from long-term borrowings | 57 |  |  | — |
Payments on long-term borrowings | (1,573 | ) |  | (297 | )
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | 5,945 |  |  | 16,077 |
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation | 3,361 |  |  | 6,973 |
Purchase of shares for treasury | (249,403 | ) |  | (113,641 | )
Cash dividends paid to shareholders | (55,395 | ) |  | (32,987 | )
Transactions with non-controlling interests | (2,330 | ) |  | (2,809 | )
NET CASH USED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES | (226,708 | ) |  | (128,738 | )
Effect of exchange rate changes on Cash and cash equivalents | (23,149 | ) |  | (1,460 | )
(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | (20,302 | ) |  | 43,845 |
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 299,825 |  |  | 286,464 |
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD | $ | 279,523 |  |  | $ | 330,309 |

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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
NOTE 1 — BASIS OF PRESENTATION
As used in this report, the term “Company,” except as otherwise indicated by the context, means Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries for which it has a controlling interest. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these unaudited consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. However, in the opinion of management, these unaudited consolidated financial statements contain all the adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods. Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014.
The accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2013 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date, but does not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year financial statements to conform to current year classifications.
Venezuela — Highly Inflationary Economy
Venezuela is a highly inflationary economy under GAAP. As a result, the financial statements of the Company’s Venezuelan operation are reported under highly inflationary accounting rules as of January 1, 2010. Under highly inflationary accounting, the financial statements of the Company’s Venezuelan operation have been remeasured into the Company’s reporting currency and exchange gains and losses from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities are reflected in current earnings. On February 8, 2013, the Venezuelan government announced the devaluation of its currency relative to the U.S. dollar. Effective February 13, 2013, the official rate moved from 4.3 to 6.3 bolivars to the U.S. dollar. The devaluation of the bolivar resulted in a foreign currency transaction loss of $8,081 in Selling, general & administrative expenses and higher Cost of goods sold of $4,117 due to the liquidation of inventory valued at the historical exchange rate.
In January 2014, the Venezuela government announced the formation of the National Center of Foreign Trade (“CENCOEX”) to replace the Commission for the Administration of Currency Exchange (“CADIVI”). Effective January 24, 2014, the exchange rate applicable to the settlement of certain transactions through CENCOEX, including payments of dividends and royalties, changed to utilize the Complementary System of Foreign Currency Administration ("SICAD") auction-based exchange rate (the "SICAD I rate") as opposed to the official rate. In February 2014, the government announced a new market based foreign exchange system, the SICAD II. The exchange rate established through SICAD II fluctuates daily and is significantly higher than both the official rate and the SICAD I rate.
As of March 31, 2014, the Company determined that the rate used in remeasuring the Venezuelan operation's financial statements into U.S. dollars would change to the SICAD I rate as future remittances for dividend payments could be transacted at the SICAD I rate. As of March 31, 2014, the SICAD I rate was 10.7 bolivars to the U.S. dollar, which resulted in a remeasurement loss on the bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position of $17,665 which was recorded in Selling, general & administrative expenses in the three months ended March 31, 2014. Additionally, the Company incurred higher Cost of goods sold of $3,468 during the second quarter of 2014 related to the adoption of the SICAD I rate. The SICAD I rate is determined by periodic auctions which may result in additional losses or gains on a remeasurement of the bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position. While there remains considerable uncertainty as to the nature and volume of transactions that will flow through the various currency exchange mechanisms, the Company has determined that the SICAD I rate remains the most appropriate exchange rate for the Company to utilize in remeasuring the Venezuelan operation's financial statements into U.S. dollars. As of September 30, 2014, the SICAD I rate was 12.0 bolivars to the U.S dollar.
Future impacts to earnings of applying highly inflationary accounting for Venezuela on the Company’s consolidated financial statements will be dependent upon the applied currency exchange mechanisms, the movements in the applicable exchange rates between the bolivar and the U.S. dollar and the amount of monetary assets and liabilities included in the Company’s Venezuelan operation’s balance sheet. The bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position was $8,438 at September 30, 2014, including $1,847 of cash and cash equivalents and $38,633 at December 31, 2013, including $50,642 of cash and cash equivalents.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
NOTE 2 — EARNINGS PER SHARE
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

| Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Numerator: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net income | $ | 45,689 |  |  | $ | 66,044 |  |  | $ | 179,474 |  |  | $ | 205,456 |
Denominator: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Basic weighted average shares outstanding | 78,817 |  |  | 81,644 |  |  | 79,779 |  |  | 82,260 |
Effect of dilutive securities - Stock options and awards | 908 |  |  | 1,063 |  |  | 923 |  |  | 1,054 |
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding | 79,725 |  |  | 82,707 |  |  | 80,702 |  |  | 83,314 |
Basic earnings per share | $ | 0.58 |  |  | $ | 0.81 |  |  | $ | 2.25 |  |  | $ | 2.50 |
Diluted earnings per share | $ | 0.57 |  |  | $ | 0.80 |  |  | $ | 2.22 |  |  | $ | 2.47 |

For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, common shares subject to equity-based awards of 259,336 and 44,026, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect of their exercise would be anti-dilutive. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, common shares subject to equity-based awards of 260,964 and 420,584, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect of their exercise would be anti-dilutive.
NOTE 3 — NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
New Accounting Standards Yet to Be Adopted:
In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, "Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718)." ASU 2014-12 requires a performance target which affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition by applying existing guidance in Topic 718 as it relates to awards with performance conditions. The amendment also specifies the period over which compensation costs should be recognized. The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-12 on the Company's financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)." ASU 2014-09 requires an entity to recognize revenue in a manner that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. To achieve that core principle, the amendment provides five steps that an entity should apply when recognizing revenue. The amendment also specifies the accounting of some costs to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer and expands the disclosure requirements around contracts with customers. An entity can either adopt this amendment retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the update recognized at the date of initial application. The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on the Company's financial statements.
NOTE 4 — ACQUISITIONS
During October 2014, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Easom Automation Systems, Inc. ("Easom"). Easom, based in Detroit, Michigan, is an integrator and manufacturer of automation and positioning solutions, serving heavy fabrication, aerospace and automotive OEMs and suppliers. The acquisition advances the Company's leadership position in automated welding and cutting solutions. Easom has annual sales of approximately $30,000. In addition, during 2014, the Company acquired the remaining interest in its majority-owned joint venture, Harris Soldas Especiais S.A.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
During November 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of Robolution GmbH ("Robolution"). Robolution, based outside of Frankfurt, Germany, is a leading European provider of robotic arc welding systems. The acquisition added to the Company's growing automation business and will enable the Company to support automation customers across three continents.
During November 2013, the Company acquired an ownership interest in Burlington Automation Corporation ("Burlington"). Burlington, based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is a leader in the design and manufacture of 3D robotic plasma cutting systems whose products are sold under the brand name Python X®. The acquisition broadens the Company's portfolio of automated cutting and welding process solutions.
Combined revenues for Robolution and Burlington in 2013 were approximately $35,000. In addition, during 2013 the Company acquired a greater interest in its majority-owned joint venture, Lincoln Electric Heli (Zhengzhou) Welding Materials Company Ltd.
Pro forma information related to these acquisitions has not been presented because the impact on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income is not material. Acquired companies are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of the date of acquisition.
NOTE 5 — SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company’s primary business is the design and manufacture of arc welding and cutting products, manufacturing a broad line of arc welding equipment, consumable welding products and other welding and cutting products. The Company also has a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market. The Company has aligned its business units into five operating segments to enhance the utilization of the Company’s worldwide resources and global end user and sourcing initiatives. The operating segments consist of North America Welding, Europe Welding, Asia Pacific Welding, South America Welding and The Harris Products Group. The North America Welding segment includes welding operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Europe Welding segment includes welding operations in Europe, Russia, Africa and the Middle East. The other two welding segments include welding operations in Asia Pacific and South America, respectively. The fifth segment, The Harris Products Group, includes the Company’s global cutting, soldering and brazing businesses as well as the retail business in the United States.
Segment performance is measured and resources are allocated based on a number of factors, the primary profit measure being earnings before interest and income taxes (“EBIT”), as adjusted. Segment EBIT is adjusted for special items as determined by management such as the impact of rationalization activities, certain asset impairment charges and gains or losses on disposals of assets.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
Financial information for the reportable segments follows:

| North America Welding |  | Europe Welding |  | Asia Pacific Welding |  | South America Welding |  | The Harris Products Group |  | Corporate / Eliminations |  | Consolidated
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 439,621 |  |  | $ | 107,507 |  |  | $ | 57,404 |  |  | $ | 32,862 |  |  | $ | 78,383 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 715,777 |
Inter-segment sales | 30,365 |  |  | 4,533 |  |  | 3,595 |  |  | 9 |  |  | 2,009 |  |  | (40,511 | ) |  | — |
Total | $ | 469,986 |  |  | $ | 112,040 |  |  | $ | 60,999 |  |  | $ | 32,871 |  |  | $ | 80,392 |  |  | $ | (40,511 | ) |  | $ | 715,777 |
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 84,450 |  |  | $ | 15,221 |  |  | $ | (304 | ) |  | $ | (590 | ) |  | $ | 8,947 |  |  | $ | (324 | ) |  | $ | 107,400 |
Special items (gain) charge | — |  |  | (81 | ) |  | 28,567 |  |  | 582 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 29,068 |
EBIT | $ | 84,450 |  |  | $ | 15,302 |  |  | $ | (28,871 | ) |  | $ | (1,172 | ) |  | $ | 8,947 |  |  | $ | (324 | ) |  | $ | 78,332 |
Interest income |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 627 |
Interest expense |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (1,174 | )
Income before income taxes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ | 77,785 |
Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 404,113 |  |  | $ | 98,522 |  |  | $ | 63,834 |  |  | $ | 51,715 |  |  | $ | 73,691 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 691,875 |
Inter-segment sales | 35,355 |  |  | 5,256 |  |  | 3,821 |  |  | 151 |  |  | 2,311 |  |  | (46,894 | ) |  | — |
Total | $ | 439,468 |  |  | $ | 103,778 |  |  | $ | 67,655 |  |  | $ | 51,866 |  |  | $ | 76,002 |  |  | $ | (46,894 | ) |  | $ | 691,875 |
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 75,225 |  |  | $ | 7,881 |  |  | $ | (979 | ) |  | $ | 15,942 |  |  | $ | 6,917 |  |  | $ | (822 | ) |  | $ | 104,164 |
Special items (gain) charge | (17 | ) |  | 1,595 |  |  | 4,724 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 6,302 |
EBIT | $ | 75,242 |  |  | $ | 6,286 |  |  | $ | (5,703 | ) |  | $ | 15,942 |  |  | $ | 6,917 |  |  | $ | (822 | ) |  | $ | 97,862 |
Interest income |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 536 |
Interest expense |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (558 | )
Income before income taxes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ | 97,840 |
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 1,271,017 |  |  | $ | 328,487 |  |  | $ | 185,687 |  |  | $ | 115,906 |  |  | $ | 228,273 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 2,129,370 |
Inter-segment sales | 96,668 |  |  | 15,887 |  |  | 11,644 |  |  | 73 |  |  | 6,389 |  |  | (130,661 | ) |  | — |
Total | $ | 1,367,685 |  |  | $ | 344,374 |  |  | $ | 197,331 |  |  | $ | 115,979 |  |  | $ | 234,662 |  |  | $ | (130,661 | ) |  | $ | 2,129,370 |
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 247,009 |  |  | $ | 39,412 |  |  | $ | (579 | ) |  | $ | 16,170 |  |  | $ | 22,183 |  |  | $ | 3,167 |  |  | $ | 327,362 |
Special items (gain) charge | (68 | ) |  | 923 |  |  | 28,450 |  |  | 21,715 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 51,020 |
EBIT | $ | 247,077 |  |  | $ | 38,489 |  |  | $ | (29,029 | ) |  | $ | (5,545 | ) |  | $ | 22,183 |  |  | $ | 3,167 |  |  | $ | 276,342 |
Interest income |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 2,465 |
Interest expense |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (3,730 | )
Income before income taxes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ | 275,077 |
Total assets | $ | 1,205,179 |  |  | $ | 389,122 |  |  | $ | 285,626 |  |  | $ | 139,908 |  |  | $ | 161,069 |  |  | $ | (68,385 | ) |  | $ | 2,112,519 |
Nine months ended September 30, 2013 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 1,242,736 |  |  | $ | 317,674 |  |  | $ | 203,112 |  |  | $ | 132,592 |  |  | $ | 241,766 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 2,137,880 |
Inter-segment sales | 99,869 |  |  | 13,865 |  |  | 12,579 |  |  | 222 |  |  | 7,209 |  |  | (133,744 | ) |  | — |
Total | $ | 1,342,605 |  |  | $ | 331,539 |  |  | $ | 215,691 |  |  | $ | 132,814 |  |  | $ | 248,975 |  |  | $ | (133,744 | ) |  | $ | 2,137,880 |
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 234,662 |  |  | $ | 28,114 |  |  | $ | 1,967 |  |  | $ | 32,119 |  |  | $ | 21,411 |  |  | $ | (2,963 | ) |  | $ | 315,310 |
Special items (gain) charge | 1,109 |  |  | 1,664 |  |  | 5,431 |  |  | 12,198 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 20,402 |
EBIT | $ | 233,553 |  |  | $ | 26,450 |  |  | $ | (3,464 | ) |  | $ | 19,921 |  |  | $ | 21,411 |  |  | $ | (2,963 | ) |  | $ | 294,908 |
Interest income |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 2,452 |
Interest expense |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | (2,307 | )
Income before income taxes |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ | 295,053 |
Total assets | $ | 979,043 |  |  | $ | 415,387 |  |  | $ | 329,117 |  |  | $ | 145,672 |  |  | $ | 186,474 |  |  | $ | 63,948 |  |  | $ | 2,119,641 |

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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
In the third quarter 2014, special items include net credits of $81 in the Europe Welding segment and charges of $582 in the South America Welding segment primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items include net charges of $28,567, which represents charges of $32,448 related to impairment of long-lived assets partially offset by net gains of $3,881 primarily related to a gain on the sale of real estate.
In the third quarter 2013, special items include net charges of $1,595 and $49 for rationalization actions in the Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments, respectively, and a net credit of $17 in the North America Welding segment primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items also include charges of $4,675 related to impairment of long-lived assets.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2014, special items include net credits of $68 in the North America Welding segment and net charges of $923 and $582 in the Europe Welding and South America Welding segments, respectively, primarily related to employee severance. The South America Welding segment special items also include Venezuelan foreign exchange remeasurement losses of $21,133, related to the adoption of a new foreign exchange mechanism in the first quarter. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items include net charges of $28,450, which represents charges of $32,557 related to impairment of long-lived assets partially offset by net gains of $4,107 primarily related to a gain on the sale of real estate.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2013, special items include net charges of $1,109, $1,664 and $756 in the North America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items also include charges of $4,675 related to impairment of long-lived assets. The South America Welding segment special items represent charges of $12,198 relating to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency.
NOTE 6 — RATIONALIZATION AND ASSET IMPAIRMENTS
The Company recorded net rationalization charges of $29,887 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The net charges include $1,260 primarily related to employee severance and $32,557 in asset impairments, offset by gains of $3,930 related to the sale and disposal of assets. A description of each restructuring plan and the related costs follows:
North America Welding Plans:
During 2012, the Company initiated various rationalization plans within the North America Welding segment. Plans for the segment include consolidating its Oceanside, California operations and its Reno, Nevada operations to another facility in Reno, Nevada and consolidating its Baltimore, Maryland manufacturing operations into its current manufacturing operations in Cleveland, Ohio. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded credits of $68 related to these actions. The Company does not expect further costs associated with these actions as they were substantially completed and paid at September 30, 2014.
Europe Welding Plans:
During 2014, the Company initiated a rationalization plan within the Europe Welding segment. The plan includes headcount restructuring to better align the cost structure with current economic conditions and operating needs. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded charges of $686, which represent employee severance costs. At September 30, 2014, a liability relating to these actions of $356 was recognized in Other current liabilities. Additional charges related to the completion of this plan are expected to be immaterial.
During 2013, the Company initiated a rationalization plan within the Europe Welding segment to consolidate certain consumable manufacturing operations. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded net charges of $335, which primarily represents employee severance and other related costs. At September 30, 2014, a liability relating to these actions of $44 was recognized in Other current liabilities. Additional charges related to the completion of this plan are expected to be immaterial.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
During 2012, the Company initiated various rationalization plans within the Europe Welding segment. Plans for the segment include the consolidation of manufacturing facilities in Russia, relocation of its Italian machine manufacturing operations to current facilities in Poland and headcount restructuring at various other manufacturing operations within the segment to better align the cost structure and capacity requirements with current economic needs and conditions. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded net credits of $98 related to these activities. At September 30, 2014, a liability relating to these actions of $111 was recognized in Other current liabilities, which will be substantially paid in 2014. Additional charges related to the completion of this plan are expected to be immaterial.
Asia Pacific Welding Plans:
During the third quarter of 2014, the Company identified assets within the segment for planned divestiture. In anticipation of the divestiture, the Company reviewed the carrying values and future cash flows of certain long-lived assets and indefinite-lived intangible assets for potential impairment. The Company determined that for certain assets, including the planned divestiture, the carrying values of the assets exceeded the fair values resulting in non-cash impairment charges of $32,448 recorded in Rationalization and asset impairment charges. This result was considered a possible indication of goodwill impairment. As such, the Company performed a goodwill impairment test for the Asia Pacific reporting unit ahead of the annual impairment tests, which resulted in no impairment to the carrying value of goodwill. As of September 30, 2014, the assets identified for divestiture were classified as held for sale. As of September 30, 2014, $36,331 and $13,236 of assets and liabilities held for sale were recorded in Other current assets and Other current liabilities, respectively.
During 2012, the Company initiated various rationalization plans within the Asia Pacific Welding segment. Plans for the segment include the rationalization of its Australian manufacturing operations and headcount restructuring at various other manufacturing operations within the segment to better align the cost structure and capacity requirements with current economic needs and conditions. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded net gains of $3,982, which primarily represent a gain of $3,911 on the sale of real estate, a net reversal of $184 of previously accrued costs and $125 in asset impairment charges. The Company does not expect further costs associated with these actions as they were substantially completed and paid at September 30, 2014.
South America Welding Plans:
During 2014, the Company initiated a rationalization plan within the South America Welding segment to restructure headcount to better align the cost structure with current economic conditions and operating needs. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded net charges of $582, which primarily represents employee severance and other related costs. The Company does not expect further costs associated with these actions as they were substantially completed and paid at September 30, 2014.
The Company continues evaluating its cost structure and additional rationalization actions may result in charges in future periods.
The following tables summarize the activity related to the rationalization liabilities by segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2014:

| North America Welding |  | Europe Welding |  | Asia Pacific Welding |  | South America Welding | Consolidated
Balance, December 31, 2013 | $ | 466 |  |  | $ | 2,435 |  |  | $ | 375 |  |  | $ | — |  | $ | 3,276 |
Payments and other adjustments | (398 | ) |  | (2,854 | ) |  | (191 | ) |  | (582 | ) | (4,025 | )
Charged (credited) to expense | (68 | ) |  | 930 |  |  | (184 | ) |  | 582 |  | 1,260 |
Balance, September 30, 2014 | $ | — |  |  | $ | 511 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | — |  | $ | 511 |

NOTE 7 — COMMON SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM
As of September 30, 2014, the Company had a share repurchase program for up to 45 million of the Company’s common shares. At management’s discretion, the Company repurchases its common shares from time to time in the open market, depending on market conditions, stock price and other factors. During the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014, the Company purchased an aggregate of 1,859,670 and 3,555,415 common shares, respectively, in the open market under this program. As of September 30, 2014, there remained 12,115,344 common shares available for repurchase under this program. The repurchased common shares remain in treasury and have not been retired.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
NOTE 8 — ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME ("AOCI")
The following tables set forth the total changes in AOCI by component, net of taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013:

|  | Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
|  | Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges |  | Defined benefit pension plan activity |  | Currency translation adjustment |  | Total
Balance at June 30, 2014 |  | $ | (228 | ) |  | $ | (155,613 | ) |  | $ | 7,450 |  |  | $ | (148,391 | )
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification |  | 397 |  |  | — |  |  | (49,610 | ) | 3 |  | (49,213 | )
Amounts reclassified from AOCI |  | (84 | ) | 1 |  | 2,909 |  | 2 |  | — |  |  | 2,825 |
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income |  | 313 |  |  | 2,909 |  |  | (49,610 | ) |  | (46,388 | )
Balance at September 30, 2014 |  | $ | 85 |  |  | $ | (152,704 | ) |  | $ | (42,160 | ) |  | $ | (194,779 | )
|  | Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
|  | Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges |  | Defined benefit pension plan activity |  | Currency translation adjustment |  | Total
Balance at June 30, 2013 |  | $ | 667 |  |  | $ | (251,767 | ) |  | $ | (8,687 | ) |  | $ | (259,787 | )
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification |  | (1,203 | ) |  | — |  |  | 19,777 |  | 3 |  | 18,574 |
Amounts reclassified from AOCI |  | 469 |  | 1 |  | 4,314 |  | 2 |  | — |  |  | 4,783 |
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income |  | (734 | ) |  | 4,314 |  |  | 19,777 |  |  | 23,357 |
Balance at September 30, 2013 |  | $ | (67 | ) |  | $ | (247,453 | ) |  | $ | 11,090 |  |  | $ | (236,430 | )

1 | During the 2014 period, this AOCI reclassification is a component of Net sales of $(23) (net of tax of $(20)) and Cost of goods sold of $(61) (net of tax of $(42)); during the 2013 period, the reclassification is a component of Net sales of $165 (net of tax of $29) and Cost of goods sold of $304 (net of tax of $145). (See Note 17 - Derivatives for additional details.)

2 | This AOCI component is included in the computation of net periodic pension costs (net of tax of $1,974 and $2,050 during the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively). (See Note 15 - Retirement and Postretirement Benefit Plans for additional details.)

3 | The Other comprehensive income before reclassifications excludes $60 and $114 attributable to Non-controlling interests in the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. (See Note 9 - Equity for additional details.)

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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
The following tables set forth the total changes in AOCI by component, net of taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013:

|  | Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
|  | Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges |  | Defined benefit pension plan activity |  | Currency translation adjustment |  | Total
Balance at December 31, 2013 |  | $ | 369 |  |  | $ | (160,693 | ) |  | $ | 8,383 |  |  | $ | (151,941 | )
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification |  | (486 | ) |  | — |  |  | (50,543 | ) | 3 |  | (51,029 | )
Amounts reclassified from AOCI |  | 202 |  | 1 |  | 7,989 |  | 2 |  | — |  |  | 8,191 |
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income |  | (284 | ) |  | 7,989 |  |  | (50,543 | ) |  | (42,838 | )
Balance at September 30, 2014 |  | $ | 85 |  |  | $ | (152,704 | ) |  | $ | (42,160 | ) |  | $ | (194,779 | )
|  | Nine months ended September 30, 2013
|  | Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges |  | Defined benefit pension plan activity |  | Currency translation adjustment |  | Total
Balance at December 31, 2012 |  | $ | 80 |  |  | $ | (261,844 | ) |  | $ | 26,364 |  |  | $ | (235,400 | )
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification |  | (1,067 | ) |  | — |  |  | (15,274 | ) | 3 |  | (16,341 | )
Amounts reclassified from AOCI |  | 920 |  | 1 |  | 14,391 |  | 2 |  | — |  |  | 15,311 |
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income |  | (147 | ) |  | 14,391 |  |  | (15,274 | ) |  | (1,030 | )
Balance at September 30, 2013 |  | $ | (67 | ) |  | $ | (247,453 | ) |  | $ | 11,090 |  |  | $ | (236,430 | )

1 | During the 2014 period, this AOCI reclassification is a component of Net sales of $27 (net of tax of $(10)) and Cost of goods sold of $175 (net of tax of $63); during the 2013 period, the reclassification is a component of Net sales of $467 (net of tax of $78) and Cost of goods sold of $453 (net of tax of $136). (See Note 17 - Derivatives for additional details.)

2 | This AOCI component is included in the computation of net periodic pension costs (net of tax of $5,235 and $8,232 during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively). (See Note 15 - Retirement and Postretirement Benefit Plans for additional details.)

3 | The Other comprehensive income before reclassifications excludes $765 and $65 attributable to Non-controlling interests in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. (See Note 9 - Equity for additional details.)

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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
NOTE 9 — EQUITY
Changes in equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 are as follows:

| Shareholders’ Equity |  | Non-controlling Interests |  | Total Equity
Balance, December 31, 2013 | $ | 1,526,602 |  |  | $ | 4,086 |  |  | $ | 1,530,688 |
Comprehensive income (loss): |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net income (loss) | 179,474 |  |  | (929 | ) |  | 178,545 |
Other comprehensive (loss) income | (42,838 | ) |  | 765 |  |  | (42,073 | )
Total comprehensive income (loss) | 136,636 |  |  | (164 | ) |  | 136,472 |
Cash dividends declared - $0.69 per share | (54,646 | ) |  | — |  |  | (54,646 | )
Issuance of shares under benefit plans | 15,634 |  |  | — |  |  | 15,634 |
Purchase of shares for treasury | (249,403 | ) |  | — |  |  | (249,403 | )
Transactions with non-controlling interests | (1,484 | ) |  | (782 | ) |  | (2,266 | )
Balance, September 30, 2014 | $ | 1,373,339 |  |  | $ | 3,140 |  |  | $ | 1,376,479 |

Changes in equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 are as follows:

| Shareholders’ Equity |  | Non-controlling Interests |  | Total Equity
Balance, December 31, 2012 | $ | 1,342,373 |  |  | $ | 15,948 |  |  | $ | 1,358,321 |
Comprehensive income (loss): |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net income (loss) | 205,456 |  |  | (1,834 | ) |  | 203,622 |
Other comprehensive (loss) income | (1,030 | ) |  | 65 |  |  | (965 | )
Total comprehensive income (loss) | 204,426 |  |  | (1,769 | ) |  | 202,657 |
Cash dividends declared - $0.60 per share | (49,353 | ) |  | — |  |  | (49,353 | )
Issuance of shares under benefit plans | 30,835 |  |  | — |  |  | 30,835 |
Purchase of shares for treasury | (113,641 | ) |  | — |  |  | (113,641 | )
Balance, September 30, 2013 | $ | 1,414,640 |  |  | $ | 14,179 |  |  | $ | 1,428,819 |

NOTE 10 — INVENTORY VALUATION
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Fixed manufacturing overhead costs are allocated to inventory based on normal production capacity and abnormal manufacturing costs are recognized as period costs. For most domestic inventories, cost is determined principally by the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method, and for non-U.S. inventories, cost is determined by the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method. The valuation of LIFO inventories is made at the end of each year based on inventory levels and costs at that time. Accordingly, interim LIFO calculations are based on management’s estimates of expected year-end inventory levels and costs. Actual year-end costs and inventory levels may differ from interim LIFO inventory valuations. The excess of current cost over LIFO cost was $74,602 and $70,882 at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
NOTE 11 — ACCRUED EMPLOYEE BONUS
Other current liabilities at September 30, 2014 and 2013 include accruals for year-end bonuses and related payroll taxes of $107,021 and $107,049, respectively, related to the Company’s employees worldwide. The payment of bonuses is discretionary and subject to approval by the Board of Directors. A majority of annual bonuses are paid in December, resulting in an increasing bonus accrual during the Company’s fiscal year.
NOTE 12 — CONTINGENCIES
The Company, like other manufacturers, is subject from time to time to a variety of civil and administrative proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. Such claims and litigation include, without limitation, product liability claims and health, safety and environmental claims, some of which relate to cases alleging asbestos induced illnesses. The claimants in the asbestos cases seek compensatory and punitive damages, in most cases for unspecified amounts. The Company believes it has meritorious defenses to these claims and intends to contest such suits vigorously.
The Company accrues its best estimate of the probable costs, after a review of the facts with management and counsel and taking into account past experience. If an unfavorable outcome is determined to be reasonably possible but not probable, or if the amount of loss cannot be reasonably estimated, disclosure is provided for material claims or litigation. Many of the current cases are in differing procedural stages and information on the circumstances of each claimant, which forms the basis for judgments as to the validity or ultimate disposition of such actions, varies greatly. Therefore, in many situations a range of possible losses cannot be made. Reserves are adjusted as facts and circumstances change and related management assessments of the underlying merits and the likelihood of outcomes change. Moreover, reserves only cover identified and/or asserted claims. Future claims could, therefore, give rise to increases to such reserves.
Based on the Company's historical experience in litigating product liability claims, including a significant number of dismissals, summary judgments and defense verdicts in many cases and immaterial settlement amounts, as well as the Company's current assessment of the underlying merits of the claims and applicable insurance, the Company believes resolution of these claims and proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
NOTE 13 — PRODUCT WARRANTY COSTS
The Company accrues for product warranty claims based on historical experience and the expected material and labor costs to provide warranty service. Warranty services are generally provided for periods up to three years from the date of sale. The accrual for product warranty claims is included in Other current liabilities.
The changes in the carrying amount of product warranty accruals for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:

| Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013
Balance at beginning of period | $ | 15,180 |  |  | $ | 15,304 |
Accruals for warranties | 9,063 |  |  | 8,430 |
Settlements | (9,212 | ) |  | (9,193 | )
Foreign currency translation | (275 | ) |  | (88 | )
Balance at end of period | $ | 14,756 |  |  | $ | 14,453 |

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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
NOTE 14 — DEBT
The Company has a line of credit totaling $400,000 through the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), which was amended on September 12, 2014. The Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative, negative and financial covenants for credit facilities of this type, including limitations on the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to liens, investments, distributions, mergers and acquisitions, dispositions of assets, transactions with affiliates and a fixed charges coverage ratio and total leverage ratio. As of September 30, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all of its covenants and had $75,000 in outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement which was recorded in Amounts due banks. The Credit Agreement has a five-year term and may be increased, subject to certain conditions, by an additional amount up to $100,000. The interest rate on borrowings is based on either LIBOR or the prime rate, plus a spread based on the Company’s leverage ratio, at the Company’s election.
NOTE 15 — RETIREMENT AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
The components of total pension cost were as follows:

| Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Service cost | $ | 4,228 |  |  | $ | 6,144 |  |  | $ | 14,372 |  |  | $ | 17,563 |
Interest cost | 10,647 |  |  | 8,954 |  |  | 31,924 |  |  | 27,852 |
Expected return on plan assets | (16,940 | ) |  | (14,667 | ) |  | (51,009 | ) |  | (45,931 | )
Amortization of prior service cost | (154 | ) |  | (153 | ) |  | (461 | ) |  | (459 | )
Amortization of net loss | 4,815 |  |  | 7,045 |  |  | 13,246 |  |  | 23,262 |
Settlement/curtailment loss | 1,562 |  |  | — |  |  | 1,562 |  |  | — |
Defined benefit plans | 4,158 |  |  | 7,323 |  |  | 9,634 |  |  | 22,287 |
Multi-employer plans | 250 |  |  | 237 |  |  | 781 |  |  | 702 |
Defined contribution plans | 2,898 |  |  | 2,599 |  |  | 8,551 |  |  | 7,791 |
Total pension cost | $ | 7,306 |  |  | $ | 10,159 |  |  | $ | 18,966 |  |  | $ | 30,780 |

The Company voluntarily contributed $21,175 to its defined benefit plans in the United States during the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The amortization of net loss decreased due to greater actuarial gains during 2013, attributable to a higher discount rate and higher actual return on plan assets compared with the expected return on assets.
NOTE 16 — INCOME TAXES
The Company recognized $96,532 of tax expense on pre-tax income of $275,077, resulting in an effective income tax rate of 35.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The effective income tax rate approximates the Company’s statutory rate due to the effects of income earned in lower tax rate jurisdictions and U.S. tax credits and deductions being offset by impairment charges recorded in the Asia Pacific Welding segment for which no tax benefit was recorded.
The effective income tax rate of 31.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was lower than the Company’s statutory rate primarily due to income earned in lower tax rate jurisdictions, reversal of valuation allowance on deferred tax assets more-likely-than-not to be realized, U.S. tax credits and deductions and the utilization of foreign tax loss carry-forwards for which valuation allowances had been previously provided.
As of September 30, 2014, the Company had $20,823 of unrecognized tax benefits. If recognized, approximately $11,481 would be reflected as a component of income tax expense.
The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. and various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2011. The Company is currently subject to various U.S. state audits and non-U.S. income tax audits.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
Unrecognized tax benefits are reviewed on an ongoing basis and are adjusted for changing facts and circumstances, including progress of tax audits and closing of statutes of limitations. Based on information currently available, management believes that additional audit activity could be completed and/or statutes of limitations may close relating to existing unrecognized tax benefits. It is reasonably possible there could be a reduction of $3,436 in previously unrecognized tax benefits by the end of the third quarter 2015.
In July 2012, the Company received a Notice of Reassessment (the "Reassessments") from the Canada Revenue Agency (the “CRA”) in respect to its 2004 to 2010 taxation years to disallow the deductibility of inter-company dividends. The Company appealed the Reassessments to the Tax Court of Canada. As part of the appeals process to the Tax Court of Canada, the Company made a cash deposit with a value of $79,967 as of September 30, 2014.
In September 2014, the Department of Justice Canada consented to a judgment, wholly in the Company's favor. In vacating the reassessment, this tax litigation is concluded. Refund of the cash deposit is currently being processed by the CRA. The Company expects the cash deposit, recorded in Other current assets as of September 30, 2014, plus 1% annual interest to be received in the first quarter of 2015.
NOTE 17 — DERIVATIVES
The Company uses derivatives to manage exposures to currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices arising in the normal course of business. Derivative contracts to hedge currency and commodity exposures are generally written on a short-term basis but may cover exposures for up to two years while interest rate contracts may cover longer periods consistent with the terms of the underlying debt. The Company does not enter into derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.
All derivatives are recognized at fair value on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. The accounting for gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value depends on the use of the derivative and whether it is designated and qualifies for hedge accounting. The Company formally documents the relationship of the hedge with the hedged item as well as the risk-management strategy for all designated hedges. Both at inception and on an ongoing basis, the hedging instrument is assessed as to its effectiveness, when applicable. If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, the underlying hedged transaction is no longer likely to occur, or the derivative is terminated, hedge accounting is discontinued. The cash flows from settled derivative contracts are recognized in operating activities in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.
The Company is subject to the credit risk of the counterparties to derivative instruments. Counterparties include a number of major banks and financial institutions. The Company manages individual counterparty exposure by monitoring the credit rating of the counterparty and the size of financial commitments and exposures between the Company and the counterparty. None of the concentrations of risk with any individual counterparty was considered significant at September 30, 2014. The Company does not expect any counterparties to fail to meet their obligations.
Cash Flow Hedges
Certain foreign currency forward contracts were qualified and designated as cash flow hedges. The dollar equivalent gross notional amount of these short-term contracts was $31,022 and $36,880 at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The effective portions of the fair value gains or losses on these cash flow hedges are recognized in AOCI and subsequently reclassified to Cost of goods sold or Sales for hedges of purchases and sales, respectively, as the underlying hedged transactions affect earnings.
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
The Company has certain foreign exchange forward contracts that are not designated as hedges. These derivatives are held as economic hedges of certain balance sheet exposures. The dollar equivalent gross notional amount of these contracts was $246,555 and $186,158 at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. The fair value gains or losses from these contracts are recognized in Selling, general and administrative expenses, offsetting the losses or gains on the exposures being hedged.
The Company had short-term silver and copper forward contracts with notional amounts of 250,000 troy ounces and 375,000 pounds, respectively, at September 30, 2014. The notional amount of short-term silver and copper forward contracts was 290,000 troy ounces and 375,000 pounds, respectively, at December 31, 2013. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on these contracts are recognized in Costs of goods sold.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
Fair values of derivative instruments in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets follow:

|  | September 30, 2014 |  | December 31, 2013
Derivatives by hedge designation |  | Other Current Assets |  | Other Current Liabilities |  | Other Current Assets |  | Other Current Liabilities
Designated as hedging instruments: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Foreign exchange contracts |  | $ | 480 |  |  | $ | 355 |  |  | $ | 706 |  |  | $ | 219 |
Not designated as hedging instruments: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Foreign exchange contracts |  | 1,157 |  |  | 3,531 |  |  | 766 |  |  | 228 |
Commodity contracts |  | 480 |  |  | — |  |  | 262 |  |  | 47 |
Total derivatives |  | $ | 2,117 |  |  | $ | 3,886 |  |  | $ | 1,734 |  |  | $ | 494 |

The effects of undesignated derivative instruments on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 consisted of the following:

|  |  |  | Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
Derivatives by hedge designation |  | Classification of gain (loss) |  | 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Not designated as hedges: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Foreign exchange contracts |  | Selling, general & administrative expenses |  | $ | (4,746 | ) |  | $ | 3,186 |  |  | $ | (3,448 | ) |  | $ | 194 |
Commodity contracts |  | Cost of goods sold |  | 1,024 |  |  | (916 | ) |  | 523 |  |  | 2,340 |

The effects of designated hedges on AOCI and the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income consisted of the following:

Total gain (loss) recognized in AOCI, net of tax |  | September 30, 2014 |  | December 31, 2013
Foreign exchange contracts |  | $ | 85 |  |  | $ | 369 |

|  |  |  | Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
Derivative type |  | Gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI to: |  | 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Foreign exchange contracts |  | Sales |  | $ | (23 | ) |  | $ | 165 |  |  | $ | 27 |  |  | $ | 467 |
|  | Cost of goods sold |  | (61 | ) |  | 304 |  |  | 175 |  |  | 453 |

The Company expects a gain of $85 related to existing contracts to be reclassified from AOCI, net of tax, to earnings over the next 12 months as the hedged transactions are realized.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
NOTE 18 - FAIR VALUE
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The following hierarchy is used to classify the inputs used to measure fair value:
Level 1 Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, or unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability.
Level 3 Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
The following table provides a summary of assets and liabilities as of September 30, 2014, measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

Description |  | Balance as of September 30, 2014 |  | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets or Liabilities (Level 1) |  | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |  | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Assets: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Foreign exchange contracts |  | $ | 1,637 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 1,637 |  |  | $ | — |
Commodity contracts |  | 480 |  |  | — |  |  | 480 |  |  | — |
Total assets |  | $ | 2,117 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 2,117 |  |  | $ | — |
Liabilities: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Foreign exchange contracts |  | $ | 3,886 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 3,886 |  |  | $ | — |
Contingent consideration |  | 5,766 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 5,766 |
Forward contract |  | 19,961 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 19,961 |
Deferred compensation |  | 21,601 |  |  | — |  |  | 21,601 |  |  | — |
Total liabilities |  | $ | 51,214 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 25,487 |  |  | $ | 25,727 |

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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
The following table provides a summary of assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2013, measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

Description |  | Balance as of December 31, 2013 |  | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets or Liabilities (Level 1) |  | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |  | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Assets: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Foreign exchange contracts |  | $ | 1,472 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 1,472 |  |  | $ | — |
Commodity contracts |  | 262 |  |  | — |  |  | 262 |  |  | — |
Total assets |  | $ | 1,734 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 1,734 |  |  | $ | — |
Liabilities: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Foreign exchange contracts |  | $ | 447 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 447 |  |  | $ | — |
Commodity contracts |  | 47 |  |  | — |  |  | 47 |  |  | — |
Contingent consideration |  | 5,375 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 5,375 |
Forward contract |  | 16,974 |  |  | — |  |  | — |  |  | 16,974 |
Deferred compensation |  | 20,132 |  |  | — |  |  | 20,132 |  |  | — |
Total liabilities |  | $ | 42,975 |  |  | $ | — |  |  | $ | 20,626 |  |  | $ | 22,349 |

The Company’s derivative contracts are valued at fair value using the market approach. The Company measures the fair value of foreign exchange contracts and net investment contracts using Level 2 inputs based on observable spot and forward rates in active markets. The Company measures the fair value of commodity contracts using Level 2 inputs through observable market transactions in active markets provided by financial institutions. During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, there were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 or 3.
In connection with an acquisition, the Company recorded a contingent consideration fair valued at $5,766 as of September 30, 2014, which reflects a $391 increase in the liability from December 31, 2013. The contingent consideration is based upon estimated sales for the five-year period ending December 31, 2015 and will be paid in 2016 based on actual sales during the five-year period. The fair value of the contingent consideration is a Level 3 valuation and fair valued using a probability weighted discounted cash flow analysis.
In connection with an acquisition, the Company obtained a controlling financial interest in the acquired entity and at the same time entered into a contract to obtain the remaining financial interest in the entity over a three-year period. The amount to be paid to obtain the remaining financial interest will be based upon actual financial results of the entity. A liability was recorded for the Canadian dollar denominated forward contract at a fair value of $19,961 as of September 30, 2014. The change in liability resulted in $2,275 being recognized in interest expense in the nine months ended September 30, 2014. The fair value of the contract is a Level 3 valuation and is based on the present value of the expected future payments. The expected future payments are based on a multiple of forecast earnings and cash flows over the three-year period ending December 31, 2016, present valued utilizing a risk based discount rate. The present value calculations utilized discount rates of 3.5% reflective of the Company's cost of debt and 15.9% as a risk adjusted cost of capital and annual earnings before interest and taxes with growth rates ranging from 7.4% to 20.3%.
The deferred compensation liability is the Company’s obligation under its executive deferred compensation plan. The Company measures the fair value of the liability using the market values of the participants’ underlying investment fund elections.
During the third quarter of 2014, the Company identified assets within the segment for planned divestiture. As of September 30, 2014, the assets identified for divestiture were classified as held for sale and recorded at their fair value as determined using a Level 3 discounted cash flow valuation model. As of September 30, 2014, $36,331 and $13,236 of assets and liabilities held for sale were recorded in Other current assets and Other current liabilities, respectively.
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts
The fair value of “Cash and cash equivalents,” “Accounts receivable,” “Amounts due banks” and “Trade accounts payable” approximated book value due to the short-term nature of these instruments at both September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. The fair value of long-term debt at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, including the current portion, was approximately $2,700 and $4,212, respectively, which was determined using available market information and methodologies requiring judgment. The carrying value of this debt at such dates was $2,900 and $4,506, respectively. Since considerable judgment is required in interpreting market information, the fair value of the debt is not necessarily the amount that could be realized in a current market exchange.
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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read together with the Company’s unaudited consolidated financial statements and other financial information included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
General
The Company is the world’s largest designer and manufacturer of arc welding and cutting products, manufacturing a broad line of arc welding equipment, consumable welding products and other welding and cutting products. Welding products include arc welding power sources, wire feeding systems, robotic welding packages, fume extraction equipment, consumable electrodes and fluxes. The Company’s product offering also includes computer numeric controlled plasma and oxy-fuel cutting systems and regulators and torches used in oxy-fuel welding, cutting and brazing. In addition, the Company has a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market.
The Company’s products are sold in both domestic and international markets. In North America, products are sold principally through industrial distributors, retailers and also directly to users of welding products. Outside of North America, the Company has an international sales organization comprised of Company employees and agents who sell products from the Company’s various manufacturing sites to distributors and product users.
Results of Operations
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 Compared with Three Months Ended September 30, 2013

| Three Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | Change
| Amount |  | % of Sales |  | Amount |  | % of Sales |  | Amount |  | %
Net sales | $ | 715,777 |  |  | 100.0 | % |  | $ | 691,875 |  |  | 100.0 | % |  | $ | 23,902 |  |  | 3.5 | %
Cost of goods sold | 474,168 |  |  | 66.2 | % |  | 459,178 |  |  | 66.4 | % |  | 14,990 |  |  | 3.3 | %
Gross profit | 241,609 |  |  | 33.8 | % |  | 232,697 |  |  | 33.6 | % |  | 8,912 |  |  | 3.8 | %
Selling, general & administrative expenses | 136,424 |  |  | 19.1 | % |  | 131,217 |  |  | 19.0 | % |  | 5,207 |  |  | 4.0 | %
Rationalization and asset impairment charges | 29,068 |  |  | 4.1 | % |  | 6,302 |  |  | 0.9 | % |  | 22,766 |  |  | 361.3 | %
Operating income | 76,117 |  |  | 10.6 | % |  | 95,178 |  |  | 13.8 | % |  | (19,061 | ) |  | (20.0 | %)
Interest income | 627 |  |  | 0.1 | % |  | 536 |  |  | 0.1 | % |  | 91 |  |  | 17.0 | %
Equity earnings in affiliates | 1,172 |  |  | 0.2 | % |  | 1,170 |  |  | 0.2 | % |  | 2 |  |  | 0.2 | %
Other income | 1,043 |  |  | 0.1 | % |  | 1,514 |  |  | 0.2 | % |  | (471 | ) |  | (31.1 | %)
Interest expense | (1,174 | ) |  | (0.2 | %) |  | (558 | ) |  | (0.1 | %) |  | (616 | ) |  | (110.4 | %)
Income before income taxes | 77,785 |  |  | 10.9 | % |  | 97,840 |  |  | 14.1 | % |  | (20,055 | ) |  | (20.5 | %)
Income taxes | 32,953 |  |  | 4.6 | % |  | 33,588 |  |  | 4.9 | % |  | (635 | ) |  | (1.9 | %)
Net income including non-controlling interests | 44,832 |  |  | 6.3 | % |  | 64,252 |  |  | 9.3 | % |  | (19,420 | ) |  | (30.2 | %)
Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries’ loss | (857 | ) |  | (0.1 | %) |  | (1,792 | ) |  | (0.3 | %) |  | 935 |  |  | 52.2 | %
Net income | $ | 45,689 |  |  | 6.4 | % |  | $ | 66,044 |  |  | 9.5 | % |  | $ | (20,355 | ) |  | (30.8 | %)

Net Sales: Net sales for the third quarter of 2014 increased 3.5% from the third quarter 2013. The sales increase reflects volume increases of 1.9%, price increases of 2.5%, increases from acquisitions of 1.4% and unfavorable impacts from foreign exchange of 2.3%. Sales volumes increased primarily as a result of improvement in the domestic and European markets. Product pricing increased from prior year levels reflecting the highly inflationary environment in Venezuela and is partially offset by the unfavorable foreign exchange impact in Venezuela.
Gross Profit: Gross profit increased 3.8% to $241,609 for the third quarter 2014 compared with $232,697 in the third quarter 2013. As a percentage of Net sales, Gross profit increased to 33.8% in the third quarter 2014 from 33.6% in the third quarter 2013. The increase was the result of geographic mix and operational improvements. The prior period includes charges of $2,521 for inventory write-downs, partially offset by a gain of $1,672 from an insurance settlement. Foreign currency exchange rates had a $5,781 unfavorable impact in the third quarter 2014.
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Selling, General & Administrative (“SG&A”) Expenses: SG&A expenses were higher by $5,207, or 4.0%, in the third quarter 2014 compared with the third quarter of 2013. As a percentage of Net sales, SG&A expenses were 19.1% and 19.0% in the third quarter 2014 and 2013, respectively. The increase in SG&A expenses was predominantly due to higher bonus expense of $4,510 and increased SG&A expenses from acquisitions of $1,915, partially offset by lower foreign currency translation of $2,476.
Rationalization and Asset Impairment Charges: In the third quarter 2014, the Company recorded $29,068 in net rationalization charges primarily related to non-cash long-lived asset impairment charges partially offset by a gain on the sale of real estate. See Note 6, "Rationalization and Asset Impairments" for additional information.
Equity Earnings in Affiliates: Equity earnings in affiliates were $1,172 in the third quarter 2014 compared with earnings of $1,170 in the third quarter of 2013.
Interest Expense: Interest expense increased to $1,174 in the third quarter 2014 from $558 in the third quarter of 2013. The increase was due to the accretion of interest expense from a liability to acquire additional ownership interests in a majority-owned subsidiary.
Income Taxes: The Company recognized $32,953 of tax expense on pre-tax income of $77,785, resulting in an effective income tax rate of 42.4% for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared with an effective income tax rate of 34.3% in the third quarter of 2013. The higher effective income tax rate in the current period is primarily due to impairment charges recorded in the Asia Pacific Welding segment for which no tax benefit was recorded.
Net Income: Net income for the third quarter 2014 was $45,689 compared with Net income of $66,044 in the third quarter of 2013. Diluted earnings per share for the third quarter 2014 were $0.57 compared with $0.80 in the third quarter of 2013. Foreign currency exchange rates had a $623 unfavorable impact in the third quarter 2014.
Segment Results
Net Sales: The table below summarizes the impacts of volume, acquisitions, price and foreign currency exchange rates on Net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2014:

|  |  | Change in Net Sales due to: |  |
| Net Sales 2013 |  | Volume |  | Acquisitions |  | Price |  | Foreign Exchange |  | Net Sales 2014
Operating Segments |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
North America Welding | $ | 404,113 |  |  | $ | 23,208 |  |  | $ | 9,917 |  |  | $ | 4,670 |  |  | $ | (2,287 | ) |  | $ | 439,621 |
Europe Welding | 98,522 |  |  | 12,340 |  |  | — |  |  | (1,048 | ) |  | (2,307 | ) |  | 107,507 |
Asia Pacific Welding | 63,834 |  |  | (7,000 | ) |  | — |  |  | 932 |  |  | (362 | ) |  | 57,404 |
South America Welding | 51,715 |  |  | (20,858 | ) |  | — |  |  | 13,155 |  |  | (11,150 | ) |  | 32,862 |
The Harris Products Group | 73,691 |  |  | 5,432 |  |  | — |  |  | (709 | ) |  | (31 | ) |  | 78,383 |
Consolidated | $ | 691,875 |  |  | $ | 13,122 |  |  | $ | 9,917 |  |  | $ | 17,000 |  |  | $ | (16,137 | ) |  | $ | 715,777 |
% Change |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
North America Welding |  |  |  | 5.7 | % |  | 2.5 | % |  | 1.2 | % |  | (0.6 | %) |  | 8.8 | %
Europe Welding |  |  |  | 12.5 | % |  | — |  |  | (1.1 | %) |  | (2.3 | %) |  | 9.1 | %
Asia Pacific Welding |  |  |  | (11.0 | %) |  | — |  |  | 1.5 | % |  | (0.6 | %) |  | (10.1 | %)
South America Welding |  |  |  | (40.3 | %) |  | — |  |  | 25.4 | % |  | (21.6 | %) |  | (36.5 | %)
The Harris Products Group |  |  |  | 7.4 | % |  | — |  |  | (1.0 | %) |  | — |  |  | 6.4 | %
Consolidated |  |  |  | 1.9 | % |  | 1.4 | % |  | 2.5 | % |  | (2.3 | %) |  | 3.5 | %

Net sales volumes for the third quarter of 2014 increased for all operating segments except for the Asia Pacific Welding and South America Welding segments as a result of improvement in the domestic and European markets. Net sales volumes in the South America Welding segment decreased because of disruptions of manufacturing operations due to the availability of raw materials in Venezuela. Product pricing in the North America Welding segment increased due to the realization of price increases. Product pricing in the South America Welding segment reflects a highly inflationary environment, particularly in Venezuela. The increase in Net sales from acquisitions was due to the acquisitions of Robolution GmbH ("Robolution") and Burlington Automation Corporation ("Burlington") in November 2013 (see the "Acquisitions" section below for additional information regarding the acquisitions). With respect to changes in Net sales due to foreign exchange, all segments decreased due to a stronger U.S. dollar.
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Earnings Before Interest and Income Taxes (“EBIT”), as Adjusted: Segment performance is measured and resources are allocated based on a number of factors, the primary profit measure being EBIT, as adjusted. The following table presents EBIT, as adjusted for the three months ended September 30, 2014 by segment compared with the comparable period in 2013:

| Three Months Ended September 30, |  |  |  |
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | $ Change |  | % Change
North America Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 439,621 |  |  | $ | 404,113 |  |  | 35,508 |  |  | 8.8 | %
Inter-segment sales | 30,365 |  |  | 35,355 |  |  | (4,990 | ) |  | (14.1 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 469,986 |  |  | $ | 439,468 |  |  | 30,518 |  |  | 6.9 | %
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 84,450 |  |  | $ | 75,225 |  |  | 9,225 |  |  | 12.3 | %
As a percent of total sales | 18.0 | % |  | 17.1 | % |  |  |  |  | 0.9 | %
Europe Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 107,507 |  |  | $ | 98,522 |  |  | 8,985 |  |  | 9.1 | %
Inter-segment sales | 4,533 |  |  | 5,256 |  |  | (723 | ) |  | (13.8 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 112,040 |  |  | $ | 103,778 |  |  | 8,262 |  |  | 8.0 | %
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 15,221 |  |  | $ | 7,881 |  |  | 7,340 |  |  | 93.1 | %
As a percent of total sales | 13.6 | % |  | 7.6 | % |  |  |  |  | 6.0 | %
Asia Pacific Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 57,404 |  |  | $ | 63,834 |  |  | (6,430 | ) |  | (10.1 | %)
Inter-segment sales | 3,595 |  |  | 3,821 |  |  | (226 | ) |  | (5.9 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 60,999 |  |  | $ | 67,655 |  |  | (6,656 | ) |  | (9.8 | %)
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | (304 | ) |  | $ | (979 | ) |  | 675 |  |  | 68.9 | %
As a percent of total sales | (0.5 | %) |  | (1.4 | %) |  |  |  |  | 0.9 | %
South America Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 32,862 |  |  | $ | 51,715 |  |  | (18,853 | ) |  | (36.5 | %)
Inter-segment sales | 9 |  |  | 151 |  |  | (142 | ) |  | (94.0 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 32,871 |  |  | $ | 51,866 |  |  | (18,995 | ) |  | (36.6 | %)
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | (590 | ) |  | $ | 15,942 |  |  | (16,532 | ) |  | (103.7 | %)
As a percent of total sales | (1.8 | %) |  | 30.7 | % |  |  |  |  | (32.5 | %)
The Harris Products Group: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 78,383 |  |  | $ | 73,691 |  |  | 4,692 |  |  | 6.4 | %
Inter-segment sales | 2,009 |  |  | 2,311 |  |  | (302 | ) |  | (13.1 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 80,392 |  |  | $ | 76,002 |  |  | 4,390 |  |  | 5.8 | %
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 8,947 |  |  | $ | 6,917 |  |  | 2,030 |  |  | 29.3 | %
As a percent of total sales | 11.1 | % |  | 9.1 | % |  |  |  |  | 2.0 | %

EBIT, as adjusted as a percent of total sales increased for the North America Welding segment in the three months ended September 30, 2014 as compared with the same period of the prior year primarily due to volume increases of 5.7%, operational improvements and lower pension expense. The increase in the Europe Welding segment is primarily due to volume increases of 12.5%, lower manufacturing costs and improved product mix. The South America Welding segment decrease was a result of lower volumes related to disruptions of manufacturing operations due to the availability of raw materials in Venezuela and higher SG&A expenses due to the foreign exchange losses in Venezuela.
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In the three months ended September 30, 2014, special items include net credits of $81 in the Europe Welding segment and charges of $582 in the South America Welding segment primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items include net charges of $28,567, which represents charges of $32,448 related to impairment of long-lived assets partially offset by net gains of $3,881 primarily related to a gain on the sale of real estate.
In the three months ended September 30, 2013, special items include net charges of $1,595 and $49 for rationalization actions in the Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments, respectively, and a net credit of $17 in the North America Welding segment primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items also include charges of $4,675 related to impairment of long-lived assets.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 Compared with Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013

|  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
|  | 2014 |  | 2013 |  | Change
|  | Amount |  | % of Sales |  | Amount |  | % of Sales |  | Amount |  | %
Net sales |  | $ | 2,129,370 |  |  | 100.0 | % |  | $ | 2,137,880 |  |  | 100.0 | % |  | $ | (8,510 | ) |  | (0.4 | %)
Cost of goods sold |  | 1,411,158 |  |  | 66.3 | % |  | 1,438,273 |  |  | 67.3 | % |  | (27,115 | ) |  | (1.9 | %)
Gross profit |  | 718,212 |  |  | 33.7 | % |  | 699,607 |  |  | 32.7 | % |  | 18,605 |  |  | 2.7 | %
Selling, general & administrative expenses |  | 419,495 |  |  | 19.7 | % |  | 403,323 |  |  | 18.9 | % |  | 16,172 |  |  | 4.0 | %
Rationalization and asset impairment charges |  | 29,887 |  |  | 1.4 | % |  | 8,204 |  |  | 0.4 | % |  | 21,683 |  |  | 264.3 | %
Operating income |  | 268,830 |  |  | 12.6 | % |  | 288,080 |  |  | 13.5 | % |  | (19,250 | ) |  | (6.7 | %)
Interest income |  | 2,465 |  |  | 0.1 | % |  | 2,452 |  |  | 0.1 | % |  | 13 |  |  | 0.5 | %
Equity earnings in affiliates |  | 4,308 |  |  | 0.2 | % |  | 3,687 |  |  | 0.2 | % |  | 621 |  |  | 16.8 | %
Other income |  | 3,204 |  |  | 0.2 | % |  | 3,141 |  |  | 0.1 | % |  | 63 |  |  | 2.0 | %
Interest expense |  | (3,730 | ) |  | (0.2 | %) |  | (2,307 | ) |  | (0.1 | %) |  | (1,423 | ) |  | (61.7 | %)
Income before income taxes |  | 275,077 |  |  | 12.9 | % |  | 295,053 |  |  | 13.8 | % |  | (19,976 | ) |  | (6.8 | %)
Income taxes |  | 96,532 |  |  | 4.5 | % |  | 91,431 |  |  | 4.3 | % |  | 5,101 |  |  | 5.6 | %
Net income including non-controlling interests |  | 178,545 |  |  | 8.4 | % |  | 203,622 |  |  | 9.5 | % |  | (25,077 | ) |  | (12.3 | %)
Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries’ loss |  | (929 | ) |  | — |  |  | (1,834 | ) |  | (0.1 | %) |  | 905 |  |  | 49.3 | %
Net income |  | $ | 179,474 |  |  | 8.4 | % |  | $ | 205,456 |  |  | 9.6 | % |  | $ | (25,982 | ) |  | (12.6 | %)

Net Sales: Net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 decreased 0.4% from the comparable period in 2013. The sales decrease reflects volume decreases of 1.6%, price increases of 1.8%, increases from acquisitions of 1.2% and unfavorable impacts from foreign exchange of 1.8%. Sales volumes decreased as a result of softer volumes in the South America Welding segment. Product pricing increased from prior year levels, reflecting the highly inflationary environment in Venezuela partially offset by pricing declines in The Harris Products Group segment due to decreases in the costs of silver and copper.
Gross Profit: Gross profit increased 2.7% to $718,212 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared with $699,607 in the comparable period in 2013. As a percentage of Net sales, Gross profit increased to 33.7% in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 from 32.7% in the comparable period in 2013. The increase was the result of geographic mix and operational improvements. The current period includes a gain of $3,946 from an insurance settlement. The prior period includes charges of $2,521 for inventory write-downs, partially offset by a gain of $1,672 from an insurance settlement. Foreign currency exchange rates had a $18,106 unfavorable translation impact in the nine months ended September 30, 2014, which includes $3,468 related to the liquidation of Venezuelan inventory valued at a historical exchange rate.
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Selling, General & Administrative (“SG&A”) Expenses: SG&A expenses were higher by $16,172, or 4.0%, in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared with the comparable period in 2013. As a percentage of Net sales, SG&A expenses were 19.7% and 18.9% in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The increase in SG&A expenses was predominantly due to higher foreign exchange transaction losses of $13,379, which includes a charge of $17,665 in the current period relating to a Venezuelan remeasurement loss compared with a charge of $8,081 in the prior year period due to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency and higher SG&A expenses from acquisitions of $5,705, partially offset by lower foreign currency translation of $7,609.
Rationalization and Asset Impairment Charges: In the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded $29,887 in net rationalization charges primarily related to non-cash long-lived asset impairment charges partially offset by a gain on the sale of real estate. See Note 6, "Rationalization and Asset Impairments" for additional information.
Equity Earnings in Affiliates: Equity earnings in affiliates were $4,308 in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared with earnings of $3,687 in the comparable period in 2013. The increase was primarily due to an increase in earnings in Turkey.
Interest Expense: Interest expense increased to $3,730 in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 from $2,307 in the comparable period in 2013. The increase was due to the accretion of interest expense from a liability to acquire additional ownership interests in a majority-owned subsidiary.
Income Taxes: The Company recognized $96,532 of tax expense on pre-tax income of $275,077, resulting in an effective income tax rate of 35.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared with an effective income tax rate of 31.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The effective income tax rate was higher in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2013 primarily due to impairment charges recorded in the Asia Pacific Welding segment for which no tax benefit was recorded partially offset by income earned in lower tax rate jurisdictions and U.S. tax credits and deductions.
Net Income: Net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $179,474 compared with Net income of $205,456 in the nine months ended September 30, 2013. Diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $2.22 compared with $2.47 in the comparable period in 2013. Foreign currency exchange rates had a $6,211 unfavorable impact in the the nine months ended September 30, 2014, which includes $3,468 related to the liquidation of Venezuelan inventory valued at a historical exchange rate.
Segment Results
Net Sales: The table below summarizes the impacts of volume, acquisitions, price and foreign currency exchange rates on Net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2014:

|  |  | Change in Net Sales due to: |  |
| Net Sales 2013 |  | Volume |  | Acquisitions |  | Price |  | Foreign Exchange |  | Net Sales 2014
Operating Segments |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
North America Welding | $ | 1,242,736 |  |  | $ | (996 | ) |  | $ | 26,248 |  |  | $ | 10,345 |  |  | $ | (7,316 | ) |  | $ | 1,271,017 |
Europe Welding | 317,674 |  |  | 10,263 |  |  | — |  |  | (2,810 | ) |  | 3,360 |  |  | 328,487 |
Asia Pacific Welding | 203,112 |  |  | (12,650 | ) |  | — |  |  | 977 |  |  | (5,752 | ) |  | 185,687 |
South America Welding | 132,592 |  |  | (31,654 | ) |  | — |  |  | 43,565 |  |  | (28,597 | ) |  | 115,906 |
The Harris Products Group | 241,766 |  |  | 1,848 |  |  | — |  |  | (14,484 | ) |  | (857 | ) |  | 228,273 |
Consolidated | $ | 2,137,880 |  |  | $ | (33,189 | ) |  | $ | 26,248 |  |  | $ | 37,593 |  |  | $ | (39,162 | ) |  | $ | 2,129,370 |
% Change |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
North America Welding |  |  |  | (0.1 | %) |  | 2.1 | % |  | 0.8 | % |  | (0.6 | %) |  | 2.3 | %
Europe Welding |  |  |  | 3.2 | % |  | — |  |  | (0.9 | %) |  | 1.1 | % |  | 3.4 | %
Asia Pacific Welding |  |  |  | (6.2 | %) |  | — |  |  | 0.5 | % |  | (2.8 | %) |  | (8.6 | %)
South America Welding |  |  |  | (23.9 | %) |  | — |  |  | 32.9 | % |  | (21.6 | %) |  | (12.6 | %)
The Harris Products Group |  |  |  | 0.8 | % |  | — |  |  | (6.0 | %) |  | (0.4 | %) |  | (5.6 | %)
Consolidated |  |  |  | (1.6 | %) |  | 1.2 | % |  | 1.8 | % |  | (1.8 | %) |  | (0.4 | %)

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Net sales volumes for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 increased for the Europe Welding and The Harris Products Group segments as a result of stronger end market demand in those geographies. Due to lower demand, the Asia Pacific Welding and South America Welding segments decreased. Product pricing in the North America Welding segment increased slightly due to the realization of price increases. Product pricing in the South America Welding segment reflects a highly inflationary environment, particularly in Venezuela, and pricing increases in Brazil and Argentina. Product pricing decreased for The Harris Products Group segment because of decreases in the costs of silver and copper as compared to the prior year period. The increase in Net sales from acquisitions was due to the acquisitions of Robolution and Burlington in November 2013 (see the "Acquisitions" section below for additional information regarding the acquisitions). With respect to changes in Net sales due to foreign exchange, all segments, except for the Europe Welding segment, decreased due to a stronger U.S. dollar. The Europe Welding segment increased primarily due to a stronger euro, British pound and Polish zloty.
EBIT, as Adjusted: Segment performance is measured and resources are allocated based on a number of factors, the primary profit measure being EBIT, as adjusted. The following table presents EBIT, as adjusted for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 by segment compared with the comparable period in 2013:

| Nine Months Ended September 30, |  |  |  |
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | $ Change |  | % Change
North America Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 1,271,017 |  |  | $ | 1,242,736 |  |  | 28,281 |  |  | 2.3 | %
Inter-segment sales | 96,668 |  |  | 99,869 |  |  | (3,201 | ) |  | (3.2 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 1,367,685 |  |  | $ | 1,342,605 |  |  | 25,080 |  |  | 1.9 | %
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 247,009 |  |  | $ | 234,662 |  |  | 12,347 |  |  | 5.3 | %
As a percent of total sales | 18.1 | % |  | 17.5 | % |  |  |  |  | 0.6 | %
Europe Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 328,487 |  |  | $ | 317,674 |  |  | 10,813 |  |  | 3.4 | %
Inter-segment sales | 15,887 |  |  | 13,865 |  |  | 2,022 |  |  | 14.6 | %
Total Sales | $ | 344,374 |  |  | $ | 331,539 |  |  | 12,835 |  |  | 3.9 | %
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 39,412 |  |  | $ | 28,114 |  |  | 11,298 |  |  | 40.2 | %
As a percent of total sales | 11.4 | % |  | 8.5 | % |  |  |  |  | 2.9 | %
Asia Pacific Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 185,687 |  |  | $ | 203,112 |  |  | (17,425 | ) |  | (8.6 | %)
Inter-segment sales | 11,644 |  |  | 12,579 |  |  | (935 | ) |  | (7.4 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 197,331 |  |  | $ | 215,691 |  |  | (18,360 | ) |  | (8.5 | %)
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | (579 | ) |  | $ | 1,967 |  |  | (2,546 | ) |  | (129.4 | %)
As a percent of total sales | (0.3 | %) |  | 0.9 | % |  |  |  |  | (1.2 | %)
South America Welding: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 115,906 |  |  | $ | 132,592 |  |  | (16,686 | ) |  | (12.6 | %)
Inter-segment sales | 73 |  |  | 222 |  |  | (149 | ) |  | (67.1 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 115,979 |  |  | $ | 132,814 |  |  | (16,835 | ) |  | (12.7 | %)
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 16,170 |  |  | $ | 32,119 |  |  | (15,949 | ) |  | (49.7 | %)
As a percent of total sales | 13.9 | % |  | 24.2 | % |  |  |  |  | (10.3 | %)
The Harris Products Group: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net sales | $ | 228,273 |  |  | $ | 241,766 |  |  | (13,493 | ) |  | (5.6 | %)
Inter-segment sales | 6,389 |  |  | 7,209 |  |  | (820 | ) |  | (11.4 | %)
Total Sales | $ | 234,662 |  |  | $ | 248,975 |  |  | (14,313 | ) |  | (5.7 | %)
EBIT, as adjusted | $ | 22,183 |  |  | $ | 21,411 |  |  | 772 |  |  | 3.6 | %
As a percent of total sales | 9.5 | % |  | 8.6 | % |  |  |  |  | 0.9 | %

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EBIT, as adjusted as a percent of total sales increased for the North America Welding segment in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 as compared with the same period of the prior year due to operational improvements, lower pension expense and a gain of $3,946 from an insurance settlement, partially offset by higher SG&A expenses. The increase in the Europe Welding segment is primarily due to volume increases of 3.2%, lower manufacturing costs and improved product mix, partially offset by higher SG&A expenses. The South America Welding segment decrease was a result of lower volumes related to disruptions of manufacturing operations due to the availability of raw materials in Venezuela and higher SG&A expenses due to the foreign exchange losses in Venezuela.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2014, special items include net credits of $68 in the North America Welding segment and net charges of $923 and $582 in the Europe Welding and South America Welding segments, respectively, primarily related to employee severance. The South America Welding segment special items also include Venezuelan foreign exchange remeasurement losses of $21,133, related to the adoption of a new foreign exchange mechanism in the first quarter. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items include net charges of $28,450, which represents charges of $32,557 related to impairment of long-lived assets partially offset by net gains of $4,107 primarily related to a gain on the sale of real estate.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2013, special items include net charges of $1,109, $1,664 and $756 in the North America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations. The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items also include charges of $4,675 related to impairment of long-lived assets. The South America Welding segment special items represent charges of $12,198, relating to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The Company reviews Adjusted operating income, Adjusted net income and Adjusted diluted earnings per share, all non-GAAP financial measures, in assessing and evaluating the Company’s underlying operating performance. These non-GAAP financial measures exclude the impact of special items on the Company’s reported financial results. Non-GAAP financial measures should be read in conjunction with the generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP") financial measures, as non-GAAP measures are a supplement to, and not a replacement for, GAAP financial measures.
The following table presents a reconciliation of Operating income as reported to Adjusted operating income:

| Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Operating income as reported | $ | 76,117 |  |  | $ | 95,178 |  |  | $ | 268,830 |  |  | $ | 288,080 |
Special items (pre-tax): |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Rationalization and asset impairment charges | 29,068 |  |  | 6,302 |  |  | 29,887 |  |  | 8,204 |
Venezuela foreign exchange losses | — |  |  | — |  |  | 21,133 |  |  | 12,198 |
Adjusted operating income | $ | 105,185 |  |  | $ | 101,480 |  |  | $ | 319,850 |  |  | $ | 308,482 |

Special items included in Operating income during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $29,068 and $29,887, respectively. The net impairment charges during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 primarily consist of non-cash asset impairment charges of $32,448 partially offset by a gain of $3,911 related to the sale of real estate at a rationalized operation. Special items for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 also include Venezuelan remeasurement losses of $21,133 related to the adoption of a new foreign exchange mechanism in the first quarter.
Special items included in Operating income during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $6,302 and $8,204, respectively, related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations and impairment of long-lived assets. Special items for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 also include charges of $12,198 related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency.
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The following table presents reconciliations of Net income and Diluted earnings per share as reported to Adjusted net income and Adjusted diluted earnings per share:

| Three Months Ended September 30, |  | Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | 2014 |  | 2013
Net income as reported | $ | 45,689 |  |  | $ | 66,044 |  |  | $ | 179,474 |  |  | $ | 205,456 |
Special items (after-tax): |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Rationalization and asset impairment charges | 30,056 |  |  | 6,098 |  |  | 30,747 |  |  | 7,350 |
Venezuela foreign exchange losses | — |  |  | — |  |  | 21,133 |  |  | 12,198 |
Non-controlling interests associated with special items | (805 | ) |  | (1,021 | ) |  | (805 | ) |  | (1,021 | )
Adjusted net income | $ | 74,940 |  |  | $ | 71,121 |  |  | $ | 230,549 |  |  | $ | 223,983 |
Diluted earnings per share as reported | $ | 0.57 |  |  | $ | 0.80 |  |  | $ | 2.22 |  |  | $ | 2.47 |
Special items | 0.37 |  |  | 0.06 |  |  | 0.64 |  |  | 0.22 |
Adjusted diluted earnings per share | $ | 0.94 |  |  | $ | 0.86 |  |  | $ | 2.86 |  |  | $ | 2.69 |

Special items included in Net income during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $30,056 and $30,747, respectively. The net impairment charges during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 primarily consist of non-cash asset impairment charges of $32,448 partially offset by a gain of $2,738 related to the sale of real estate at a rationalized operation. Associated with the impairment of long-lived assets is an offsetting special item of $805 attributable to non-controlling interests. Special items for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 also include Venezuelan remeasurement losses of $21,133 related to the adoption of a new foreign exchange mechanism in the first quarter.
Special items included in Net income during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $6,098 and $7,350, respectively, related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations and impairment of long-lived assets. Associated with the impairment of long-lived assets is an offsetting special item of $1,021 attributable to non-controlling interests. Special items for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 also include charges of $12,198 related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company’s cash flow from operations can be cyclical. Operational cash flow is a key driver of liquidity, providing cash and access to capital markets. In assessing liquidity, the Company reviews working capital measurements to define areas for improvement. Management anticipates the Company will be able to satisfy cash requirements for its ongoing businesses for the foreseeable future primarily with cash generated by operations, existing cash balances and, if necessary, borrowings under its existing credit facilities.
The Company continues to expand globally and periodically looks at transactions that would involve significant investments. The Company can fund its global expansion plans with operational cash flow, but a significant acquisition may require access to capital markets, in particular, the long-term debt market, as well as the syndicated bank loan market. The Company’s financing strategy is to fund itself at the lowest after-tax cost of funding. Where possible, the Company utilizes operational cash flows and raises capital in the most efficient market, usually the United States, and then lends funds to the specific subsidiary that requires funding. If additional acquisitions providing appropriate financial benefits become available, additional expenditures may be made.
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The following table reflects changes in key cash flow measures:

| Nine Months Ended September 30,
| 2014 |  | 2013 |  | Change
Cash provided by operating activities | $ | 268,053 |  |  | $ | 242,091 |  |  | $ | 25,962 |
Cash used by investing activities | (38,498 | ) |  | (68,048 | ) |  | 29,550 |
Capital expenditures | (55,430 | ) |  | (59,691 | ) |  | 4,261 |
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired | (892 | ) |  | (4,936 | ) |  | 4,044 |
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment | 17,046 |  |  | 796 |  |  | 16,250 |
Other investing activities | 778 |  |  | (4,217 | ) |  | 4,995 |
Cash used by financing activities | (226,708 | ) |  | (128,738 | ) |  | (97,970 | )
Proceeds from (payments on) short-term borrowings, net | 72,630 |  |  | (2,054 | ) |  | 74,684 |
Payments on long-term borrowings, net | (1,516 | ) |  | (297 | ) |  | (1,219 | )
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | 5,945 |  |  | 16,077 |  |  | (10,132 | )
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation | 3,361 |  |  | 6,973 |  |  | (3,612 | )
Purchase of shares for treasury | (249,403 | ) |  | (113,641 | ) |  | (135,762 | )
Cash dividends paid to shareholders | (55,395 | ) |  | (32,987 | ) |  | (22,408 | )
Transactions with non-controlling interests | (2,330 | ) |  | (2,809 | ) |  | 479 |
(Decrease) increase in Cash and cash equivalents | (20,302 | ) |  | 43,845 |  |  |

Cash and cash equivalents decreased 6.8% or $20,302 during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 to $279,523 from $299,825 as of December 31, 2013. This decrease was predominantly due to cash provided by operating activities of $268,053 offset by capital expenditures of $55,430, purchase of treasury stock of $249,403 and cash dividends paid to shareholders of $55,395. The decrease in Cash and cash equivalents during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compares to an increase of 15.3% or $43,845 to $330,309 during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.
Cash provided by operating activities increased by $25,962 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, compared with the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The increase was predominantly due to reduced pension contributions and payments of $49,774 in the nine months ended September 30, 2014. Net operating working capital is defined as the sum of Accounts receivable and Total inventory less Trade accounts payable. Net operating working capital to sales, defined as net operating working capital divided by annualized rolling three months of Net sales, remained consistent at 17.6% at September 30, 2014 compared with 17.6% at December 31, 2013 and decreased from 20.5% at September 30, 2013. Days sales in inventory decreased to 91.2 days at September 30, 2014 from 93.2 days at December 31, 2013 and 101.2 days at September 30, 2013. Accounts receivable days decreased to 48.2 days at September 30, 2014 from 50.3 days at December 31, 2013 and 52.6 days at September 30, 2013. Average days in accounts payable decreased to 40.0 days at September 30, 2014 from 45.5 days at December 31, 2013 and increased from 38.8 days at September 30, 2013.
Cash used by investing activities decreased by $29,550 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, compared with the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The decrease was predominantly due to a decrease in cash used in the acquisition of businesses of $4,044 and an increase in proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment of $16,250. The Company currently anticipates capital expenditures of $70,000 to $80,000 in 2014. Anticipated capital expenditures reflect investments for capital maintenance and to improve operational effectiveness. Management critically evaluates all proposed capital expenditures and requires each project to increase efficiency, reduce costs, promote business growth, or improve the overall safety and environmental conditions of the Company’s facilities.
Cash used by financing activities increased by $97,970 to $226,708 in the nine months ended September 30, 2014, compared with the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The increase was predominantly due to higher cash dividends paid to shareholders of $22,408 and higher purchases of common shares for treasury of $135,762. The Company currently anticipates share repurchases of approximately $300,000 in 2014.
The Company’s debt levels increased from $19,087 at December 31, 2013 to $88,542 at September 30, 2014. The increase was predominantly due to borrowings of $75,000 against the Company's Credit Agreement. Debt to total invested capital increased to 6.0% at September 30, 2014 from 1.2% at December 31, 2013.
In October 2014, the Company paid a cash dividend of $0.23 per share, or $17,865 to shareholders of record on September 30, 2014.
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Canada — Notice of Reassessment
In July 2012, the Company received a Notice of Reassessment (the "Reassessments") from the Canada Revenue Agency (the “CRA”) in respect to its 2004 to 2010 taxation years to disallow the deductibility of inter-company dividends. The Company appealed the Reassessments to the Tax Court of Canada. As part of the appeals process to the Tax Court of Canada, the Company made a cash deposit with a value of $79,967 as of September 30, 2014.
In September 2014, the Department of Justice Canada consented to a judgment, wholly in the Company's favor. In vacating the reassessment, this tax litigation is concluded. Refund of the cash deposit is currently being processed by the CRA. The Company expects the cash deposit, recorded in Other current assets as of September 30, 2014, plus 1% annual interest to be received in the first quarter of 2015.
Venezuela — Highly Inflationary Economy
Venezuela is a highly inflationary economy under GAAP. As a result, the financial statements of the Company’s Venezuelan operation are reported under highly inflationary accounting rules as of January 1, 2010. Under highly inflationary accounting, the financial statements of the Company’s Venezuelan operation have been remeasured into the Company’s reporting currency and exchange gains and losses from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities are reflected in current earnings. On February 8, 2013, the Venezuelan government announced the devaluation of its currency relative to the U.S. dollar. Effective February 13, 2013 the official rate moved from 4.3 to 6.3 bolivars to the U.S. dollar. The devaluation of the bolivar resulted in a foreign currency transaction loss of $8,081 in Selling, general & administrative expenses and higher Cost of goods sold of $4,117 due to the liquidation of inventory valued at the historical exchange rate.
In January 2014, the Venezuela government announced the formation of the National Center of Foreign Trade (“CENCOEX”) to replace the Commission for the Administration of Currency Exchange (“CADIVI”). Effective January 24, 2014, the exchange rate applicable to the settlement of certain transactions through CENCOEX, including payments of dividends and royalties, changed to utilize the Complementary System of Foreign Currency Administration ("SICAD") auction-based exchange rate (the "SICAD I rate") as opposed to the official rate. In February 2014, the government announced a new market based foreign exchange system, the SICAD II. The exchange rate established through SICAD II fluctuates daily and is significantly higher than both the official rate and the SICAD I rate.
As of March 31, 2014, the Company determined that the rate used in remeasuring the Venezuelan operation's financial statements into U.S. dollars would change to the SICAD I rate as future remittances for dividend payments could be transacted at the SICAD I rate. As of March 31, 2014, the SICAD I rate was 10.7 bolivars to the U.S. dollar, which resulted in a remeasurement loss on the bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position of $17,665 which was recorded in Selling, general & administrative expenses in the three months ended March 31, 2014. Additionally, the Company incurred higher Cost of goods sold of $3,468 during the second quarter of 2014, related to the adoption of the SICAD I rate. The SICAD I rate is determined by periodic auctions which may result in additional losses or gains on a remeasurement of the bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position. While there remains considerable uncertainty as to the nature and volume of transactions that will flow through the various currency exchange mechanisms, the Company has determined that the SICAD I rate remains the most appropriate exchange rate for the Company to utilize in remeasuring the Venezuelan operation's financial statements into U.S. dollars. As of September 30, 2014, the SICAD I rate was 12.0 bolivars to the U.S dollar.
At September 30, 2014, the amount of bolivar requests awaiting government approval to be paid in U.S. dollars at the SICAD I rate include $8,446 for dividend payments, of which $4,386 have been outstanding for more than a year, and $7,915 to be paid at the official rate, of which $6,459 have been outstanding for more than a year.
In the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company’s Venezuela operations contributed $55,969 to Net sales for the Company. Net income included a loss of $8,003, or $0.10 per diluted share from Venezuela. Adjusted net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 included $13,514, or $0.17 per diluted share, from Venezuela. Future impacts to earnings will be dependent upon several factors including, the effect on earnings resulting from translating financial results at a rate other than the official rate, additional remeasurement losses or gains resulting from the fluctuation of the SICAD I rate or the movement to another rate for remeasurement purposes, the amount of monetary assets and liabilities included in the Company’s Venezuela operation’s balance sheet and potential compression to profit margins as a result of changes in raw material sourcing. The bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position was $8,438 at September 30, 2014, including $1,847 of cash and cash equivalents and $38,633 at December 31, 2013, including $50,642 of cash and cash equivalents.
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The Company’s ability to effectively manage sales and profit levels in Venezuela will be impacted by several factors. In addition to those factors previously mentioned, these include the Company’s ability to mitigate the effect of any potential future devaluation and Venezuelan government price or exchange controls. If in the future the Company were to convert bolivars at a rate other than the SICAD I rate or exchange rates are revised, the Company may realize a loss to earnings. For example, a future devaluation in the Venezuelan currency to the SICAD II rate, which was 50.0 as of September 30, 2014, would result in the Company realizing additional charges of approximately $13,000 to Cost of goods sold based on current inventory levels and $7,000 to Selling, general and administrative expenses based upon the current bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position. Further, in January 2014, the Venezuelan government also enacted the "Fair Prices Law" limiting prices and establishing a maximum profit margin on goods and services. The various restrictions on the distribution of foreign currency by the Venezuelan government could also affect the Company’s ability to pay obligations and maintain normal productions levels in Venezuela.
New Accounting Pronouncements
Refer to Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of accounting standards recently adopted or required to be adopted in the future.
Acquisitions
During October 2014, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Easom Automation Systems, Inc. ("Easom"). Easom, based in Detroit, Michigan, is an integrator and manufacturer of automation and positioning solutions, serving heavy fabrication, aerospace and automotive OEMs and suppliers. The acquisition advances the Company's leadership position in automated welding and cutting solutions. Easom has annual sales of approximately $30,000. In addition, during 2014, the Company acquired the remaining interest in its majority-owned joint venture, Harris Soldas Especiais S.A.
During November 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of Robolution GmbH ("Robolution"). Robolution, based outside of Frankfurt, Germany, is a leading European provider of robotic arc welding systems. The acquisition added to the Company's growing automation business and will enable the Company to support automation customers across three continents.
During November 2013, the Company acquired an ownership interest in Burlington Automation Corporation ("Burlington"). Burlington, based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is a leader in the design and manufacture of 3D robotic plasma cutting systems whose products are sold under the brand name Python X®. The acquisition broadens the Company's portfolio of automated cutting and welding process solutions.
Combined revenues for Robolution and Burlington in 2013 were approximately $35,000. In addition, during 2013 the Company acquired a greater interest in its majority-owned joint venture, Lincoln Electric Heli (Zhengzhou) Welding Materials Company Ltd.
Pro forma information related to these acquisitions has not been presented because the impact on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income is not material. Acquired companies are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements as of the date of acquisition.
Debt
The Company has a line of credit totaling $400,000 through the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), which was amended on September 12, 2014. The Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative, negative and financial covenants for credit facilities of this type, including limitations on the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to liens, investments, distributions, mergers and acquisitions, dispositions of assets, transactions with affiliates and a fixed charges coverage ratio and total leverage ratio. As of September 30, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all of its covenants and had $75,000 in outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement has a five-year term and may be increased, subject to certain conditions, by an additional amount up to $100,000. The interest rate on borrowings is based on either LIBOR or the prime rate, plus a spread based on the Company’s leverage ratio, at the Company’s election.
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Forward-looking Statements
The Company’s expectations and beliefs concerning the future contained in this report are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements reflect management’s current expectations and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “guidance” or words of similar meaning. Actual results may differ materially from such statements due to a variety of factors that could adversely affect the Company’s operating results. The factors include, but are not limited to: general economic and market conditions; the effectiveness of operating initiatives; completion of planned divestitures; interest rates; disruptions, uncertainty or volatility in the credit markets that may limit our access to capital; currency exchange rates and devaluations, including in highly inflationary countries such as Venezuela; adverse outcome of pending or potential litigation; actual costs of the Company’s rationalization plans; possible acquisitions; market risks and price fluctuations related to the purchase of commodities and energy; global regulatory complexity; and the possible effects of events beyond our control, such as political unrest, acts of terror and natural disasters, on the Company or its customers, suppliers and the economy in general. For additional discussion, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
There have been no material changes in the Company’s exposure to market risk since December 31, 2013. See “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2014.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2014 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company is subject, from time to time, to a variety of civil and administrative proceedings arising out of its normal operations, including, without limitation, product liability claims, regulatory claims and health, safety and environmental claims. Among such proceedings are the cases described below.
At September 30, 2014, the Company was a co-defendant in cases alleging asbestos induced illness involving claims by approximately 14,758 plaintiffs, which is a net decrease of 42 claims from those previously reported. In each instance, the Company is one of a large number of defendants. The asbestos claimants seek compensatory and punitive damages, in most cases for unspecified sums. Since January 1, 1995, the Company has been a co-defendant in other similar cases that have been resolved as follows: 42,133 of those claims were dismissed, 22 were tried to defense verdicts, seven were tried to plaintiff verdicts (one of which is being appealed), one was resolved by agreement for an immaterial amount and 665 were decided in favor of the Company following summary judgment motions.
In July 2012, the Company received a Notice of Reassessment (the "Reassessments") from the Canada Revenue Agency (the “CRA”) in respect to its 2004 to 2010 taxation years to disallow the deductibility of inter-company dividends. The Company appealed the Reassessments to the Tax Court of Canada. As part of the appeals process to the Tax Court of Canada, the Company made a cash deposit with a value of $80.0 million as of September 30, 2014.
In September 2014, the Department of Justice Canada consented to a judgment, wholly in the Company's favor. In vacating the reassessment, this tax litigation is concluded. Refund of the cash deposit is currently being processed by the CRA. The Company expects the cash deposit, recorded in Other current assets as of September 30, 2014, plus 1% annual interest to be received in the first quarter of 2015.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
In addition to the other information set forth in this report and listed below, the reader should carefully consider the factors discussed in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, which could materially affect the Company’s business, financial condition or future results.
Our ability to complete the divestiture of assets, or interests in assets, may be subject to factors beyond our control, and in certain cases we may be required to retain liabilities for certain matters.
The Company may identify assets for strategic divestitures which would increase capital resources available for other activities and create organizational and operational efficiencies. Various factors could materially affect the ability of the Company to dispose of such assets or complete announced divestitures, including the receipt of approvals of governmental agencies or third parties and the availability of purchasers willing to acquire the interests or purchase the assets on terms and at prices acceptable to the Company.
Sellers typically retain certain liabilities or indemnify buyers for certain matters. The magnitude of any such retained liability or indemnification obligation may be difficult to quantify at the time of the transaction and ultimately may be material. Also, as is typical in divestiture transactions, third parties may be unwilling to release the Company from guarantees or other credit support provided prior to the sale of the divested assets. As a result, after a divestiture, the Company may remain secondarily liable for the obligations guaranteed or supported to the extent that the buyer of the assets fails to perform these obligations.
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ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Issuer purchases of its common shares during the third quarter of 2014 were as follows:

Period |  | Total Number of Shares Repurchased |  | Average Price Paid Per Share |  | Total Number of Shares Repurchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs |  | Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (2)
July 1 - 31, 2014 |  | 319,022 |  | (1) | $ | 68.14 |  |  | 311,650 |  |  | 13,663,364 |
August 1 - 31, 2014 |  | 346,899 |  |  | 68.58 |  |  | 346,899 |  |  | 13,316,465 |
September 1 - 30, 2014 |  | 1,201,283 |  | (1) | 70.37 |  |  | 1,201,121 |  |  | 12,115,344 |
Total |  | 1,867,204 |  |  | 69.66 |  |  | 1,859,670 |  |  |

1 | The above share repurchases include the surrender of 7,372 and 162 shares of the Company's common shares in connection with the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted awards in July and September, respectively.

2 | In July 2013, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program, which increased the total number the Company’s common shares authorized to be repurchased to 45 million shares. Total shares purchased through the share repurchase programs were 32,884,656 shares at a total cost of $842.0 million for a weighted average cost of $25.60 per share through September 30, 2014.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
(a) Exhibits

10.1 |  | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 12, 2014, by and among Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc., The Lincoln Electric Company, Lincoln Electric International Holding Company, J.W. Harris Co., Inc., Techalloy, Inc., Wayne Trail Technologies, Inc., Lincoln Global, Inc., the Lenders and KeyBank National Association (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on September 17, 2014, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).
31.1 |  | Certification of the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
31.2 |  | Certification of the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer) pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
32.1 |  | Certification of the Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer) pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS |  | XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH |  | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL |  | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.LAB |  | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE |  | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
101.DEF |  | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

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

|  | LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
|  | /s/ Vincent K. Petrella
|  | Vincent K. Petrella
|  | Executive Vice President, Chief Financial
|  | Officer and Treasurer
|  | (principal financial and accounting officer)
|  | October 30, 2014

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