Xiangyang Automobile Bearing Share Co. Ltd. (China) said it expects
to report a net loss for 2002, despite earlier reporting an "improved"
third quarter. The company later reported that it has had operating losses
in each of the first three quarters, totaling 7.87 million Yuan
(USD $948,000).
article: Xiangyang's third quarter 2002 report
Xiangyang, state-run, is the largest specialized automotive bearing manufacturer
in China. Renamed from the Xiangyang Bearing Factory in 1993, it has over 5,000
employees producing 2,000 different types of bearings. Production capacity
is approximately 25 million parts per year.
The company's product line includes CV joints, automotive hub assembly units,
water pump bearings, air conditioning bearings, tapered roller and needle
roller bearings, and clutch release bearings.
In 2000, Xiangyang reported a net loss, and again in 2001. 2001's loss
was 56.1 million Yuan (USD $6.95 million).
NOTE: Most, if not all, of the accounting figures reported are the unaudited
representations of management, and are compiled under Chinese accounting standards.
Because of those losses, Xiangyang is now an ST or "special treatment" company on the
Shenzhen A stock exchange. A special treatment company has had two consecutive
years of losses, financial or operating irregularities, or has had its net
asset value drop below the stock's par. The Shenzhen proscribes a +/- 5% daily limit
on the trading range of ST stocks. Xiangyang faces delisting from the
Shenzhen A if it does in fact report a loss for 2002.
Earlier this year, Xiangyang reported that, while its markets are improving,
the company has been unable to take advantage of the situation. Lack of cash
and working capital meant it has been unable to buy sufficient raw materials
and components to maintain production or go after new business.
In August 2001, Xiangyang was implicated in a widespread accounting fraud
investigation triggered by an investigation of its auditors.
read the article
In its latest report, Xiangyang denied reports of operating difficulties,
said it will continue operating as-is, and that no restructuring or other
changes will be made.
Xiangyang's shares recently traded at 4.58 Yuan, down 5% on the day.