10-K 1 a2152241z10-k.htm FORM 10-K
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-K

FOR ANNUAL AND TRANSITION REPORTS
PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

(Mark One)  

ý

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004

or

o

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

For the transition period from                             to                              

Commission file number 1-6479-1


OVERSEAS SHIPHOLDING GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
  13-2637623
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

511 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York
(Address of principal executive offices)

 

10017
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 212-953-4100

Securities registered pursuant to Secion 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Common Stock (par value $1.00 per share)

 

Name of each exchange on which registered
New York Stock Exchange
Pacific Exchange, Inc.

        Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: NONE

        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 ý    No o

        Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o

        Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the     Act). Yes ý    No o

        The aggregate market value of the Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on June 30, 2004, the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second quarter, was $1,537,119,787, based on the closing price of $44.13 per share on the New York Stock Exchange on that date. (For this purpose, all outstanding shares of Common Stock have been considered held by non-affiliates, other than the shares beneficially owned by directors, officers and certain 5% shareholders of the registrant; certain of such persons disclaim that they are affiliates of the registrant.)

        As of February 22, 2005, 39,439,618 shares of Common Stock were outstanding.


DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

        Portions of the registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed by the registrant in connection with its 2005 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by reference in Part III.





TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
   
  Page
PART I        
Item 1.   Business   1
    Overview   1
    Forward-Looking Statements   5
    Operations   5
        Fleet Summary   7
        International Fleet Operations   9
        U.S. Flag Fleet Operations   10
    Competition   11
    Environmental and Security Matters Relating to Bulk Shipping   12
        Domestic Requirements   12
        International Requirements   13
        Insurance   15
        Security Matters   15
    Taxation of the Company   16
    Fleet Listing as of December 31, 2004   18
    Glossary   22
    Available Information   26
Item 2.   Properties   26
Item 3.   Legal Proceedings   26
Item 4.   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders   27
    Executive Officers of the Registrant   27

PART II

 

 

 

 
Item 5.   Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities   28
Item 6.   Selected Financial Data   28
Item 7.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   30
            General   30
            Acquisition of Stelmar Shipping Ltd.   30
            Operations   31
            Critical Accounting Policies   35
            Income from Vessel Operations   39
            Equity in Income of Joint Ventures   46
            Interest Expense   47
            Provision/(Credit) for Federal Income Taxes   47
            Effects of Inflation   48
            Newly Issued Accounting Standard   48
            Liquidity and Sources of Capital   48
            Earnings per Share   52
            Risk Management   53
            Interest Rate Sensitivity   54
Item 7A.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk   55
Item 8.   Financial Statements and Supplementary Data   55
    Management's Report on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting   92
Item 9.   Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure   93
Item 9A.   Controls and Procedures   93
Item 9B.   Other Information   93

PART III

 

 

 

 
Item 10.   Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant   93
Item 11.   Executive Compensation   93
Item 12.   Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management   94
Item 13.   Certain Relationships and Related Transactions   94
Item 14.   Principal Accounting Fees and Services   94

PART IV

 

 

 

 
Item 15.   Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules   94
Signatures   99


PART I

ITEM 1.    BUSINESS

Overview

        Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. ("OSG" or the "Company") is one of the world's leading independent bulk shipping companies engaged primarily in the ocean transportation of crude oil and petroleum products. As of December 31, 2004, the Company's modern fleet consisted of 61 oceangoing vessels that aggregate 11.2 million deadweight tons, of which 51 vessels operated in the international market and ten vessels operated in the U.S. Flag market. OSG is the only major U.S. shipping company with significant operations in both the international and U.S. Flag markets. A glossary of shipping terms (the "Glossary") that should be used as a reference when reading this Annual Report on Form 10-K begins on page 22. Capitalized terms that are used in this Annual Report are either defined when they are first used or in the Glossary.

        On January 20, 2005, OSG acquired Stelmar Shipping Ltd. ("Stelmar"), a leading international provider of petroleum product and crude oil transportation services. Stelmar's modern fleet consists of 40 vessels, aggregating 2.3 million deadweight tons. As a result of the acquisition, OSG became the second largest publicly traded oil tanker company measured by number of vessels and third largest measured by deadweight tons. The acquisition of Stelmar is a transforming event for the Company. The acquisition provides OSG with multiple advantages:

    The addition of the Stelmar fleet will result in OSG being a global leader in both crude and product tanker segments.

    Stelmar's strategic focus of deploying the majority of its vessels on time charters will reduce OSG's predominantly spot market exposure for its VLCCs and Aframaxes.

    The combined companies' customer relationships will span both the crude and the product markets, thus enhancing cross-selling opportunities for the Company.

    The acquisition will provide OSG with the scale to increase operational leverage, while enhancing OSG's transportation offerings to charterers.

    OSG's position as one of the leading shipping companies in the Aframax market will be bolstered.

        Information concerning the Company's business is provided in this Annual Report as of the end of 2004 and, in certain cases, as of the date of this Annual Report (unless noted otherwise) in order to reflect the Stelmar acquisition.

        In July 2004, a joint venture in which the Company has a 49.9% interest, acquired four double hull V Pluses (defined in Glossary on page 22). The four V Pluses, which are the only double hull V Pluses in the world, are capable of carrying up to 3.2 million barrels of crude oil, more than 50% greater than VLCCs, at a lower delivered cost per barrel. These four vessels incorporate many design features intended to extend their trading lives to 40 years and enhance their safety and efficiency in the long haul crude trade.

        In November 2004, the Company and Qatar Gas Transport Company Limited (Nakilat) formed a joint venture that ordered four 216,000 cbm LNG Carriers for an aggregate purchase price of $908 million. The LNG Carriers will, upon delivery in 2007 and 2008, commence 25-year time charters (with options to extend) to Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited (II). The vessels are intended for use on a new project to transport liquefied natural gas from Qatar to the United Kingdom. These state-of-the-art vessels will have twin slow-speed diesel engines and on-board reliquification capability to handle cargo boil-off.

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        In October 2004, Congress passed the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 which, for taxable years beginning in 2005, reinstates the indefinite deferral of United States taxation on foreign shipping income until such income is repatriated to the United States as dividends. From 1987 through 2004, the Company's foreign shipping income was subject to current taxation. The new tax law effectively restores the pre-1987 tax treatment of foreign shipping income beginning in 2005 and places the Company's international fleet on a level playing field with its offshore competitors for the first time since 1986 (see "Taxation of the Company" on page 16).

        In February 2005, the Company signed four agreements with the Maritime Administrator of the U.S. Department of Transportation pursuant to which, in October 2005, it will enter three U.S. Flag Product Carriers and one U.S. Flag Pure Car Carrier into the U.S. Maritime Security Program for ten-year terms (see "U.S. Flag Fleet Operations" on page 10). This transaction coupled with its earlier acquisition of two U.S. Flag Product Carriers in April 2004 marks the Company's first major investment in the U.S. Flag business in a number of years.

        Of the 61 vessels in OSG's fleet at the end of 2004, 56 are tankers engaged in the oil transportation business, of which 49 are Foreign Flag tankers that operate in the international market and seven are U.S. Flag tankers that operate in the U.S. Alaskan and coastwise trades. The Company's five other vessels are engaged in the transportation of dry bulk cargo. Two are chartered-in Foreign Flag Dry Bulk Carriers that operate in the international market, two are chartered-in U.S. Flag Dry Bulk Carriers that operate in the U.S. foreign aid trade, and one is a U.S. Flag Pure Car Carrier. Of the Company's 49 Foreign Flag tankers, four are V Pluses (all of which are owned by a joint venture in which the Company has an interest of 49.9%), 21 are VLCCs (including one vessel owned by a joint venture in which the Company has an interest of 30% and seven which are chartered-in with the Company having a 100% interest in one of these vessels and an average participation interest of 37% in the six other vessels), one is a Suezmax, 17 are Aframaxes (including one vessel owned by a joint venture in which the Company has a 50% interest and three of which are chartered-in with the Company having an average participation interest of 58%) and six are Product Carriers. The Marshall Islands is the principal flag of registry of the Company's Foreign Flag vessels. The Company's U.S. Flag tankers consist of three tankers engaged in the transportation of Alaskan crude oil ("U.S. Flag Crude Tankers") and four Product Carriers.

        The Company charters its vessels either for specific voyages ("voyage charters") at spot rates or for specific periods of time ("time charters") at fixed monthly amounts. From time to time, the Company may charter out its vessels on bareboat charters. Under such bareboat charters, the ships are chartered out for specific periods of time (generally medium or long-term) during which they are manned and operated by our customers.

        In recent years, over 85% of the Company's shipping revenues have been generated by the transportation of crude oil and petroleum products. The balance of the Company's revenues have been derived from the transportation of dry bulk cargoes, primarily grain, coal, and iron ore. The transportation of crude oil accounted for all of the operating income of the Company's joint ventures in each of 2004, 2003 and 2002. The Company's customers include many of the world's largest oil companies.

        Voyage charters constituted 85% of the Company's Time Charter Equivalent revenues in 2004, 79% in 2003 and 70% in 2002. Accordingly, the Company's shipping revenues are significantly affected by prevailing spot rates for voyage charters in the markets in which the Company's vessels operate. Spot market rates are highly volatile. Rates are determined by market forces such as local and worldwide demand for the commodities carried (such as crude oil or petroleum products), volumes of trade, distances that the commodities must be transported, and the amount of available tonnage both at the time such tonnage is required and over the period of projected use. Seasonal trends greatly affect world oil consumption and consequently tanker demand. While trends in consumption vary with season,

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peaks in tanker demand quite often precede seasonal consumption peaks as refiners and suppliers try to anticipate consumer demand. Seasonal peaks in oil demand are principally driven by increased demand prior to Northern Hemisphere winters, as heating oil consumption increases, and increased demand for gasoline prior to the summer driving season in the U.S. Available tonnage is affected over time, by the volume of newbuilding deliveries, the removal (principally through scrapping) of existing vessels from service, and by the greater efficiency of modern tonnage. Scrapping is affected by the level of freight rates, by the level of scrap prices and by international and U.S. governmental regulations that require the maintenance of vessels within certain standards and mandate the retirement of tankers lacking double hulls.

        A major portion of the Company's U.S. Flag fleet is on time or bareboat charter, providing a significant and predictable level of earnings, which is not subject to fluctuations in spot-market rates. The Company's U.S. Flag Crude Tankers are on bareboat charters extending for the remaining useful lives of such vessels with remaining terms ranging from six months to more than one year. Two of the Company's four U.S. Flag Product Carriers are operating on charter arrangements extending through the end of their useful lives. The other two U.S. Flag Product Carriers are operating on time charters that extend to December 2005. The Company's U.S. Flag Pure Car Carrier is operating on a time charter that extends through late 2007. In the Company's international fleet, one VLCC was operating on a time charter at December 31, 2004 that ended in February 2005, the Suezmax is operating under a charter arrangement that extends to June 2005 and two of the Handysize Product Carriers are operating on time charters that extend to February and October 2005. OSG's two Foreign Flag Dry Bulk Carriers commenced three-year time charters in early 2004, at which time these vessels were withdrawn from the pool of Capesize vessels in which they had participated since 2000. In the aggregate, time charter and bareboat charter revenues constituted 15% of the Company's TCE revenues in 2004, 21% in 2003 and 30% in 2002.

        In the international market, the Company has one of the industry's most modern and efficient fleets. As of December 31, 2004, the average age of the Company's four V Pluses was 2.3 years, the 21 VLCCs was 5.4 years and the 17 Aframaxes was 6.5 years. In contrast as of the end of 2004, the average age of the world fleets of VLCCs and Aframaxes was 8.7 years and 10.2 years, respectively. At a time when major customers are demonstrating a clear preference for modern tonnage based on concerns about the environmental risks associated with older vessels, more than 97% (based on deadweight tons, weighted to reflect the Company's interest in chartered-in vessels and vessels owned jointly with others) of OSG's Foreign Flag tanker fleet is double hull or double sided. The young age of the Company's VLCC and Aframax fleets and the Company's technical management expertise has resulted in minimal service disruptions for these vessels.

        To increase vessel utilization and thereby revenues, the Company participates in commercial pools with other owners of modern vessels. By operating a large number of vessels as an integrated transportation system, such pools offer customers greater flexibility and a higher level of service while, at the same time, achieving improved scheduling efficiencies for vessel owners. In December 1999, the Company and other leading ship owning companies formed Tankers International LLC to pool the commercial operation of their modern VLCCs. As of December 31, 2004, Tankers managed 41 VLCCs. The Company also has an Aframax pooling arrangement that consisted of 36 Aframaxes as of December 31, 2004, which generally trade in the Atlantic Basin, North Sea and the Mediterranean. Both of these pools negotiate charters with customers on behalf of the Company, primarily in the spot market. The size and scope of these pools enable them to enhance utilization rates for pool vessels and generate higher effective TCE revenues than are otherwise obtainable in the spot market.

        In recent years, the Company has materially reduced vessel operating costs. The Company has reduced organizational layers to streamline decision making, transferred functions to lower-cost areas, outsourced functions where appropriate, and renegotiated service and supply contracts. Through fully integrated shoreside and shipboard automation, the Company has been able to improve the speed and

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quality of information provided to its customers. All aspects of vessel operations are continuously reviewed to ensure that the Company's vessels conform with best industry practices.

        While the Company's ability to attract and maintain customers is significantly affected by the competitiveness of the rates it charges, OSG has sought to distinguish itself through its emphasis on service, safety and reliability. Through its customer-focused business strategy, the Company is committed to providing comprehensive transportation solutions for its customers' bulk shipping challenges. As a result, the Company has successfully maintained a number of long-term, close customer relationships.

        The Company also believes that the strength of its balance sheet, and the financial flexibility that it affords, distinguishes it from many of its competitors. At December 31, 2004, the Company's liquidity adjusted debt to capital ratio stood at 15.0% compared with 42.6% at December 31, 2001. For this purpose, liquidity adjusted debt is defined as long-term debt reduced by cash, marketable securities and tax adjusted balance in the Capital Construction Fund. The Company's liquidity adjusted debt to capital ratio has decreased significantly even as OSG has made investments in joint ventures and vessels of more than $590 million in the last three years. Giving pro forma effect to the acquisition of Stelmar, which the Company acquired for a total purchase price of approximately $1.35 billion including the assumption of Stelmar's debt, and proceeds from the sale of five Product Carriers in January 2005, the liquidity adjusted debt to capital ratio as of December 31, 2004 would have increased to approximately 50%.

        As of December 31, 2004, the Company had 1,696 employees: 1,530 seagoing personnel and 166 shoreside staff. The Company has collective bargaining agreements with two different maritime unions covering 128 seagoing personnel employed on the Company's U.S. Flag vessels. These agreements are in effect through June 15, 2005 with one of the unions and June 15, 2006 with the other union. Under the collective bargaining agreements, the Company is obligated to make contributions to pension and other welfare programs. OSG believes that it has a satisfactory relationship with its employees.

Acquisition of Stelmar

        On January 20, 2005, OSG completed its acquisition of Stelmar. Accordingly, the operating results of the Stelmar fleet will be reflected in the Company's consolidated financial statements commencing January 21, 2005. Stelmar's 40 vessel fleet consisted of 24 Handysize Product Carriers (15 of which are owned and nine of which are bareboat chartered in), 13 owned Panamaxes and three Aframaxes (one of which is owned and two of which are bareboat chartered in). All of the owned vessels and five of the chartered-in vessels are double hulled, and the remaining six chartered-in vessels are double sided. Thirty-three of Stelmar's 40 vessel fleet are currently employed on time charters that expire between March 2005 and July 2009. The addition of Stelmar's fleet will increase the Company's revenue days by approximately 13,700, of which 60% were fixed as of January 31, 2005.

        As of January 31, 2005, the Company's combined Foreign Flag fleet consisted of 90 Foreign Flag vessels totaling 12.9 million deadweight tons (giving effect to the sale of the Diane in January 2005). The combined Foreign Flag tanker fleet is among the youngest fleets in the industry, and 97% (based on deadweight tons, weighted to reflect the Company's interest in chartered-in vessels and vessels owned jointly with others) of the vessels are double-hulled or double-sided. As of January 31, 2005, the average ages of OSG's Aframax, Panamax and Handysize fleets were 6.8 years, 4.4 years and 9.7 years, respectively, compared with world fleet averages as of December 31, 2004 in these sectors of 10.2 years, 13.9 years and 13.8 years, respectively.

        As of January 31, 2005, five of the 13 Panamaxes participated in the Stelcape Limited ("Stelcape") pool, a pool of 12 double hull Panamaxes formed in April 2004. Of the remaining seven Panamaxes, four are chartered in by the other pool partner from the Company and three are chartered-in by the

4



other pool partner from third parties. Stelcape's vessels generally trade between South and Central America, the U.S. and Caribbean.

        As of January 31, 2005, giving effect to the Company's acquisition of Stelmar, the Company had 2,775 employees: 2,533 seagoing personnel and 242 shoreside staff, primarily in five offices around the world (New York, Newcastle (U.K.), Athens, London and Singapore).

Forward-Looking Statements

        This Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements regarding the outlook for tanker and dry cargo markets, and the Company's prospects, including prospects for certain strategic alliances. There are a number of factors, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements, including changes in production of or demand for oil and petroleum products, either globally or in particular regions; greater than anticipated levels of newbuilding orders or less than anticipated rates of scrapping of older vessels; changes in trading patterns for particular commodities significantly impacting overall tonnage requirements; changes in the rates of growth of the world and various regional economies; risks incident to vessel operation, including discharge of pollutants; unanticipated changes in laws and regulations; increases in costs of operation; the availability to the Company of suitable vessels for acquisition or chartering in on terms it deems favorable; changes in the pooling arrangements in which the Company participates, including withdrawal of participants or termination of such arrangements; the ability to attract and retain customers; the ability of the Company to successfully combine the operations of the Company and Stelmar; and changes affecting the vessel owning joint ventures in which the Company is a party. The Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. Forward- looking statements in this Form 10-K and written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or its representatives after the date of this Form 10-K are qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statement contained in this paragraph and in other reports hereafter filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Operations

        The bulk shipping industry has many distinct market segments based, in large part, on the size and design configuration of vessels required and, in some cases, on the flag of registry. Freight rates in each market segment are determined by a variety of factors affecting the supply and demand for suitable vessels. Tankers and Dry Bulk Carriers are not bound to specific ports or schedules and therefore can respond to market opportunities by moving between trades and geographical areas. The Company has established four reportable business segments: Foreign Flag VLCCs, Aframaxes and Product Carriers, and U.S. Flag Vessels.

        The following chart reflects the percentage of TCE revenues generated by the Company's four reportable segments for each year in the three-year period ended December 31, 2004 and excludes the Company's proportionate share of TCE revenues of joint ventures. Following the acquisition of two U.S. Flag Product Carriers in the second quarter of 2004, the Company revised its reportable segments

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in 2004 to include all U.S. Flag vessels as one reportable segment. Segment information for 2003 and 2002 has been reclassified to conform to the 2004 presentation.

 
  Percentage of TCE Revenues
 
 
  2004
  2003
  2002
 
Foreign Flag              
  VLCCs   58.2 % 43.9 % 29.9 %
  Aframaxes   24.0 % 24.5 % 26.7 %
  Product Carriers   4.8 % 8.2 % 13.1 %
  Other   3.7 % 6.0 % 4.2 %
   
 
 
 
Total Foreign Flag Segments   90.7 % 82.6 % 73.9 %
U.S. Flag   9.3 % 17.4 % 26.1 %
   
 
 
 
Total   100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
   
 
 
 

        The following chart reflects the percentage of income from vessel operations accounted for by each reportable segment. Income from vessel operations is before general and administrative expenses and the Company's share of income from joint ventures:

 
  Percentage of Income from Vessel Operations
 
 
  2004
  2003
  2002
 
Foreign Flag              
  VLCCs   65.2 % 49.2 % 24.5 %
  Aframaxes   25.1 % 26.7 % 35.9 %
  Product Carriers   3.4 % 6.2 % 13.8 %
  Other   0.9 % 6.1 %  
   
 
 
 
Total Foreign Flag Segments   94.6 % 88.2 % 74.2 %
U.S. Flag   5.4 % 11.8 % 25.8 %
   
 
 
 
Total   100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
   
 
 
 

        The increase in the relative contribution of VLCCs and Aframaxes to TCE revenues and income from vessel operations in 2004 compared with both 2003 and 2002 reflects the Company's focus on these two segments. From 2002 to 2004, the revenue days of the Company's VLCCs and Aframaxes increased by 57% and 19%, compared with the respective prior year. In 2004, OSG entered into charter-in arrangements with other pool members covering seven VLCCs and three Aframaxes to take advantage of the current attractive spot market rates. Revenues from Foreign Flag vessels are derived principally from voyage charters and are, therefore, significantly affected by prevailing spot rates. During 2002, spot rates, particularly for VLCCs and Aframaxes, were significantly lower than their levels for 2004 and 2003. In contrast to the Foreign Flag fleet, revenues from U.S. Flag vessels are derived principally from long-term fixed rate charters generating a fixed level of TCE earnings. Accordingly, the relative contribution of the U.S. Flag vessels to consolidated TCE revenues and to consolidated income from vessel operations is dependent on the level of freight rates then existing in the international market, increasing when rates in the international market decrease and decreasing when such rates increase.

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        The following chart reflects the percentage of equity in income of joint ventures by each reportable segment. The joint venture that is operating four V Pluses is included in the VLCC segment because of the similarity in their trade.

 
  Percentage of Equity in Income of Joint Ventures
 
 
  2004
  2003
  2002
 
Foreign Flag              
  VLCCs   74.3 % 69.0 % 29.8 %
  Aframaxes   10.1 % 8.5 % 1.2 %
  Product Carriers        
  Other     0.2 % 0.8 %
   
 
 
 
Total Foreign Flag Segments   84.4 % 77.7 % 31.8 %
U.S. Flag   15.6 % 22.3 % 68.2 %
   
 
 
 
Total   100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
   
 
 
 

        The relative contribution to equity in income of joint ventures of the Company's joint venture VLCCs and one Aframax grew in 2004 compared with 2003 because of the significant increase in spot market rates earned by such vessels relative to the Company's share of incentive hire received from Alaska Tanker Company (U.S. Flag vessels), which does not fluctuate with rates. The increase in spot rates for VLCCs more than offset a reduction in their revenue days.

        In 2004, the Company completed a transaction with its partner covering six joint venture companies, each of which owned a VLCC. This transaction provided for an exchange of joint venture interests that resulted in the Company owning 100% of the Dundee, Sakura I and Tanabe, and the joint venture partner owning 100% of the Edinburgh, Ariake and Hakata. The results of the Dundee, Sakura I and Tanabe are included in the VLCC segment from the effective date of the transaction.

        In July 2004, a joint venture formed with a Tankers pool partner took delivery of four V Pluses. The V Pluses have earned a significant premium to the average rates achieved by the Company's VLCCs.

        For additional information regarding the Company's four reportable segments for the three years ended December 31, 2004, see Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations set forth in Item 7, and Note C to the Company's consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8.

Fleet Summary

        As of December 31, 2004, OSG's Foreign Flag and U.S. Flag operating fleets consisted of 61 vessels, including six vessels owned by joint ventures (four V Pluses, one VLCC and one Aframax) in which the Company has an average interest of 47% and 14 vessels that are chartered in under operating leases. Seven of the chartered-in vessels are VLCCs. The Company has less than a 100% interest in six of the chartered-in VLCCs, with an average participation interest of 37%. Three of the chartered-in vessels are Aframaxes in which the Company has an average participation interest of 58%. In addition, the Company has a participation interest of 40% in the time charter-in of one VLCC, which is scheduled to commence upon its delivery from a shipyard in mid 2005. Four LNG Carriers are scheduled to be delivered in late 2007 and early 2008 to a joint venture in which the Company has a 49.9% interest.

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Tankers and Dry Bulk Vessels

 
  December 31, 2004
  December 31, 2003
  December 31, 2002
Vessel Type

  Vessels
  Dwt
  Vessels
  Dwt
  Vessels
  Dwt
Foreign Flag                        
  V Pluses   4   1,766,694        
  VLCC   21   6,371,081   21   6,335,600   21   6,316,217
  Suezmax   1   147,501   1   147,501   1   147,501
  Aframax   17   1,778,370   13   1,339,961   12   1,227,918
  Panamax Product Carrier   2   128,379   2   128,379   4   260,765
  Handysize Product Carrier   4   159,555   4   159,555   4   159,555
  Capesize Bulk Carrier   2   319,843   2   319,843   2   319,843
   
 
 
 
 
 
  Foreign Flag Tanker and Dry Bulk Vessels   51   10,671,423   43   8,430,839   44   8,431,799

U.S. Flag

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
  Crude Tanker   3   275,904   4   398,664   4   398,664
  Handysize Product Carrier   4   188,810   2   87,030   2   87,030
  Bulk Carrier   2   51,902   2   51,902   2   51,902
  Pure Car Carrier   1   16,141   1   16,141   1   16,141
   
 
 
 
 
 
  U.S. Flag Tanker and Dry Bulk Vessels   10   532,757   9   553,737   9   553,737
   
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign and U.S. Flag Tanker and Dry Bulk Vessels   61   11,204,180   52   8,984,576   53   8,985,536
Foreign Flag Newbuildings on Order                        
  VLCC   1   305,177       1   318,518
  Aframax       1   112,700   2   225,401
   
 
 
 
 
 
Total Tanker and Dry Bulk Vessels, including Newbuildings   62   11,509,357   53   9,097,276   56   9,529,455
   
 
 
 
 
 

LNG Carriers

 
  December 31, 2004
  December 31, 2003
  December 31, 2002
 
  Vessels
  Cbm
  Vessels
  Cbm
  Vessels
  Cbm
LNG Carriers on Order   4   864,800        
   
 
 
 
 
 

        The following chart summarizes the fleet and its tonnage, weighted to reflect the Company's ownership and participation interests in vessels.

 
  December 31, 2004
  December 31, 2003
  December 31, 2002
 
  Vessels
  Dwt
  Vessels
  Dwt
  Vessels
  Dwt
Total Tankers and Dry Bulk Vessels   52.9   8,818,695   47.2   7,669,441   45.9   6,973,157

Total Tankers and Dry Bulk Vessels, including Newbuildings

 

53.3

 

8,940,766

 

48.2

 

7,782,141

 

48.9

 

7,517,076

LNG Carriers on Order

 

2.0

 

431,535 Cbm

 


 


 


 

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        In October 2004, the Company agreed to sell the Diane, one of the Panamax Product Carriers referred to in the tables above. The sale was completed in January 2005.

        In November 2004, the Company agreed to sell and charter back the four Handysize Product Carriers. The sale and charter back for periods from 42 to 48 months was completed in January 2005.

        In February 2005, the Company agreed to sell the Mary Ann, its remaining Panamax Product Carrier.

        The acquisition of Stelmar in January 2005 added 40 vessels to the Company's international flag fleet, comprising 24 Handysize Product Carriers, 13 Panamaxes and three Aframaxes. Giving effect to the acquisition of Stelmar, the international flag fleet totals 90 vessels aggregating 12,860,335 dwt.

International Fleet Operations

        The Company's VLCC and Aframax fleets constitute two of its reportable business segments. In order to enhance vessel utilization and TCE revenues, the Company has placed its VLCCs and Aframaxes in pools that are responsible for the Commercial Management of these vessels.

Tankers International LLC ("Tankers")

        In December 1999, the Company and five other leading tanker companies formed Tankers to pool the commercial operation of their modern VLCC fleets. As of December 31, 2004, Tankers managed a fleet of 41 modern VLCCs of which the Company has contributed 20 vessels, including one ship owned by a joint venture in which the Company has a 30% ownership interest and seven vessels that are chartered-in. The Company has a 100% interest in one of the chartered-in VLCCs and participation interests ranging from 15% to 50% in the six other chartered-in vessels.

        Tankers performs the Commercial Management of its participants' vessels. It collects revenues from customers, pays voyage-related expenses, and distributes TCE revenues to the participants, after deducting administrative fees, according to a formula based upon the relative carrying capacity, speed, and fuel consumption of each vessel. Tankers also Commercially Manages the four V Pluses.

        One of the Tankers pool members is withdrawing its five vessels from the pool during the first four months of 2005. These withdrawals will be offset by the addition of the four V Pluses and three VLCCs during the first nine months of 2005. One of the VLCCs is the Company's Equatorial Lion, which entered the pool in February 2005 at the end of its charter out, and another is a chartered-in vessel in which the Company will hold a 40% participation interest.

        The large number of vessels managed by Tankers, and the COAs into which Tankers has entered, give it the ability to enhance vessel utilization. In recent years, crude oil shipments from West Africa to Asia have expanded, increasing opportunities for vessels otherwise returning in ballast (i.e., without cargo) from Europe and North America to load cargoes in West Africa for delivery in Asia. Such combination voyages are used to maximize vessel utilization by minimizing the distance vessels travel in ballast.

        By consolidating the Commercial Management of its substantial fleet, Tankers is able to offer its customers "one-stop shopping" for high-quality VLCCs and V Pluses. The size of the fleet enables Tankers to become the logistics partner of major customers, providing new and improved tools to help them better manage their shipping programs, inventories, and risk.

Aframax Pool ("Aframax International")

        Since 1996, the Company and PDV Marina S.A., the marine transportation subsidiary of the Venezuelan state-owned oil company, have pooled the Commercial Management of their Aframax fleets. In the past three years, five owners have joined the pool, adding 12 vessels. With 36 vessels that

9



generally trade in the Atlantic Basin, North Sea and the Mediterranean, the Aframax International pool has been able to enhance vessel utilization with backhaul cargoes and COAs, thereby generating higher TCE revenues than would otherwise be attainable in the spot market.

        Upon acquisition of Stelmar, the Company acquired three additional Aframaxes, two of which are chartered in. These three Aframaxes are operating on time charters out that are scheduled to end between September 2005 and February 2006. These vessels will join Aframax International following the expiration of such time charters

Commercially Flexible Fleet of Product Carriers

        As of December 31, 2004, OSG's fleet of six Foreign Flag Product Carriers constitutes one of the Company's reportable business segments. OSG's four Handysize Product Carriers operate in the Atlantic Basin and provide the Company's customers full access to all Boston-area terminals, allowing maximum discharge flexibility. In January 2005, the Company sold and bareboat chartered back these four vessels for an average term of 46 months. In January 2005, the Company also completed the sale of one of its two Panamax Product Carriers. In February 2005, the Company agreed to sell its remaining Panamax Product Carrier.

        The vessels added to the Company's fleet upon the acquisition of Stelmar included 24 Handysize Product Carriers. The Company plans to integrate the Commercial Management of its newly acquired Handysize Product Carriers with its four Handysize Product Carriers. The Company believes that there are currently greater opportunities to enter long-term time charters for its Handysize Product Carriers than for its VLCCs and Aframaxes and, thereby, increase the amount of earnings that is predictable and not subject to spot-market rate fluctuations.

Entrance into LNG Carrier Market

        In November 2004, after a competitive tender process, Qatar Liquefied Gas Company (II) selected a joint venture in which the Company has a 49.9% interest to time charter to it four LNG Carrier newbuildings for twenty-five years, with options to extend. The joint venture, which is between the Company and Qatar Gas Transport Company Limited (Nakilat), ordered four 216,000 cbm LNG Carriers at a total purchase price of $908 million for delivery in 2007 and 2008, at which times the time charters will begin. These state-of-the art vessels will be technically managed by the Company. Through the award of these time charters, the Company is strategically diversifying its business, entering a market that the Company believes offers significant opportunities.

U.S. Flag Fleet Operations

        The Company's U.S. Flag vessels constitute one of the Company's reportable business segments.

        Under the Jones Act, shipping between United States ports, including the movement of Alaskan crude oil, is reserved for U.S. Flag vessels that are built in the U.S. and owned by U.S. companies, more than 75% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens. The three U.S. Flag Crude Tankers and four U.S. Flag Product Carriers operate in trades protected by the Jones Act.

        The Merchant Marine Act of 1936, as amended, requires that preference be given to U.S. Flag vessels, if available at reasonable rates, in the shipment of at least half of all U.S. government-generated cargoes and 75% all of food-aid cargoes. The Company's two U.S. Flag Dry Bulk Carriers generate most of their revenue from these preference trades.

        Since late 1996, the Company's U.S. Flag Pure Car Carrier has participated in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (the "Program"), which ensures that militarily-useful U.S. Flag vessels are available to the U.S. Department of Defense in the event of war or national emergency. Under the Program, the Company receives approximately $2.1 million per year through 2005. In February 2005, the Company

10



signed four agreements with the Maritime Administrator of the Department of Transportation pursuant to which, in October 2005, the Company will enter three U.S. Flag Product Carriers and one U.S. Flag Pure Car Carrier into the Program for ten-year terms. The Company intends to acquire three Foreign Flag Product Carriers that satisfy the requirements of the Program and reflag them to U.S. Flag. The Company's U.S. Flag Pure Car Carrier will continue in the Program through 2007, at which time the Company intends to substitute a modern U.S. Flag Car Carrier into the Program. Under the Program, the Company will receive approximately $2.6 million per year for each vessel through 2008, $2.9 million per year for each vessel from 2009 through 2011, and $3.1 million per year for each vessel from 2012 through 2016, subject in each case to annual Congressional appropriations.

        To encourage private investment in U.S. Flag vessels, the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 permits deferral of taxes on earnings from U.S. Flag vessels deposited into a Capital Construction Fund and amounts earned thereon, which can be used for the construction or acquisition of, or retirement of debt on, qualified U.S. Flag vessels (primarily those limited to foreign, Great Lakes, and noncontiguous- domestic trades). The Company is a party to an agreement under the act. Under the agreement, the general objective is (by use of assets accumulated in the fund) for U.S. Flag vessels to be constructed or acquired. If the agreement is terminated or amounts are withdrawn from the Capital Construction Fund for non-qualified purposes, such amounts will then be subject to federal income taxes. Monies can remain tax-deferred in the fund for a maximum period of 25 years (commencing January 1, 1987 for deposits prior thereto). The Company had approximately $268 million in its Capital Construction Fund as of December 31, 2004. The Company's balance sheet at December 31, 2004 includes a liability of approximately $84 million for deferred taxes on the fund deposits and earnings thereon.

Alaska Tanker Company, LLC ("ATC")

        Building on a more than 30-year relationship between the Company and BP p.l.c. ("BP"), ATC was formed in early 1999 by the Company, BP, and Keystone Shipping Company ("Keystone"), to create the leading provider of marine transportation services in the environmentally sensitive Alaskan crude-oil trade. ATC, which is owned 37.5% by the Company, 37.5% by Keystone, and 25% by BP, manages the vessels carrying BP's Alaskan crude oil, including three of the Company's vessels. The Company's U.S. Flag Crude Tankers are bareboat chartered to ATC, with BP guaranties. Each bareboat charter expires shortly before the date that OPA 90 precludes such single hull tanker from calling on U.S. ports. The three charters expire from June 2005 through March 2006. The bareboat charters will generate TCE revenues of approximately $15.1 million in 2005 and $1.1 million in 2006. The Company's participation in ATC provides the Company with the ability to earn additional income (incentive hire) based upon ATC's meeting certain predetermined performance standards. Such income, which is included in equity in income of joint ventures, amounted to $7.1 million in 2004, $7.6 million in 2003 and $7.8 million in 2002.

        In August 1999, the Company sold the foregoing three vessels (and two others that were subsequently disposed of by the owner in 2000 and 2004) and leased them back as part of an off-balance sheet financing that generated approximately $170 million. On July 1, 2003, the Company consolidated this entity in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 46. For additional information, see Note B to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8. As of December 31, 2004, the balance of bank debt on the books of the entity to which such vessels were sold aggregated $15.5 million. Approximately $10.4 million of such debt is repayable in full from bareboat charter revenues received from ATC, which are guaranteed by BP.

Competition

        The bulk shipping industry is highly competitive and fragmented, with no one shipping group owning or controlling more than 6% of the world tanker fleet. OSG competes with other owners of

11



U.S. and Foreign Flag tankers and dry cargo ships operating on an unscheduled basis similar to the Company.

        OSG's vessels compete with all other vessels of a size and type required by a customer that can be available at the date specified. In the spot market, competition is based primarily on price, although charterers have become more selective with respect to the quality of vessels they hire, with particular emphasis on such factors as age, double hulls, and the reliability and quality of operations. Increasingly, major customers are demonstrating a preference for modern vessels based on concerns about the environmental risks associated with older vessels. Consequently, owners of large modern fleets have gained a competitive advantage over owners of older fleets. In the time charter market, factors such as the age and quality of a vessel and the reputation of the owner and operator tend to be more significant in competing for business.

        In both the VLCC and Aframax market segments, the Company competes against a large number of companies that own or operate vessels in these segments. Competitors include other independent shipowners, oil companies and state owned entities with fleets ranging from one to more than 40 vessels in a particular segment. While some companies operate worldwide, others focus on one or more geographical areas such as the Pacific, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean.

        As of December 31, 2004, OSG's fleet of VLCCs and V Pluses consisted of 25 vessels (8.1 million dwt) of which 24 (7.8 million dwt) are commercially managed through Tankers. As of December 31, 2004, Tankers had a fleet of 41 VLCCs (12.4 million dwt). Tankers' fleet as of December 31, 2004, represents 9.4% of the total world VLCC fleet based on deadweight tons.

        In the VLCC market segment, Tankers competes with more than 90 owners, the largest being Frontline Ltd. (34 vessels, 10.0 million dwt), Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (33 vessels, 9.2 million dwt), VELA International Marine Ltd., the shipping arm of the Saudi Arabian oil company (31 vessels, 9.4 million dwt), Mitsui OSK Lines Ltd. (30 vessels, 8.5 million dwt) and World-Wide Shipping Agency (S) Pte. Ltd. (22 vessels, 6.4 million dwt).

        As of December 31, 2004, Aframax International consisted of 36 Aframaxes (3.8 million dwt), that generally trade in the Atlantic Basin, North Sea and Mediterranean. More than 160 owners operate in the Aframax market segment. The Company's main competitors include Teekay Shipping Corporation (54 vessels, 5.4 million dwt), Malaysian International Shipping Corporation Berhad (36 vessels, 3.7 million dwt), General Maritime Corp. (26 vessels, 2.5 million dwt), Minerva Marine Inc. (15 vessels, 1.6 million dwt), Tsakos Energy Navigation (11 vessels, 1.1 million dwt), and Novorossiysk Shipping Company (11 vessels, 1.2 million dwt).

        In the U.S. Flag trades, the Company competes with other owners of U.S. Flag vessels. Demand for U.S. Flag Product Carriers is closely linked to changes in regional energy demands and in refinery activity. These vessels also compete with pipelines and ocean-going barges, and are affected by the level of imports on Foreign Flag Product Carriers.

Environmental and Security Matters Relating to Bulk Shipping

        Domestic Requirements.    Since 1990, the tanker industry has experienced a more rigorous regulatory environment. Safety and pollution concerns have led to a greater emphasis on vessel quality and to the strengthening of the inspection programs of Classification Societies, governmental authorities and charterers.

        OPA 90 affects all vessel owners shipping oil to, from, or within the United States. Under OPA90, a vessel owner or operator is liable without fault for removal costs and damages, including economic loss without physical damage to property, of up to $1,200 per gross ton of the vessel. When a spill is proximately caused by gross negligence, wilful misconduct or a violation of a federal safety, construction or operating regulation, liability is unlimited. OPA 90 did not pre-empt state law and, therefore, states

12



remain free to enact legislation imposing additional liability. Virtually all coastal states have enacted pollution prevention, liability and response laws, many with some form of unlimited liability.

        OPA 90 phases out the use of tankers having single hulls. OPA 90 requires that tankers over 5,000 gross tons calling at U.S. ports have double hulls if contracted after June 30, 1990, or delivered after January 1, 1994. Furthermore, OPA 90 calls for the elimination of all single hull vessels by the year 2010 on a phase-out schedule that is based on size and age, unless the tankers are retrofitted with double hulls. The law permits then existing single hull tankers to operate until the year 2015 if they discharge at deep water ports, or lighter (i.e., offload cargo) more than 60 miles offshore.

        OSG's one single hull VLCC (in which OSG has a 30% interest) and its single hull Suezmax will not be permitted to trade to U.S. ports after 2009. The Company's 50% owned single hull Aframax is, based on the Company's intention to have the vessel classed as double sided in 2005, required to stop trading to U.S. ports in 2015. The four U.S. Flag Product Carriers, two of which are operated under capital leases expiring in 2011, are not affected by the OPA 90 phase-out schedule. The OPA 90 phase-out dates for the Company's remaining Foreign Flag Product Carriers are subsequent to their respective IMO phase-out dates (see the discussion of International Requirements below). Two of OSG's three U.S. Flag Crude Tankers are required to be phased out in 2005, and one in 2006, at which time each of these tankers will be at the end of its commercial life as an oil tanker.

        OPA 90 also requires owners and operators of vessels calling at U.S. ports to develop contingency plans for reporting and responding to various oil spill scenarios up to a worst case oil spill under adverse weather conditions. The plans must include contractual commitments with clean-up response contractors in order to ensure an immediate response to an oil spill. Furthermore, training programs and drills for vessel, shore and response personnel are required. The Company has developed and filed its vessel response plans with the U.S. Coast Guard and has received approval of such plans. Under U.S. Coast Guard financial responsibility regulations issued pursuant to OPA 90, all vessels entering U.S. waters are required to obtain Certificates of Financial Responsibility ("COFRs") from the U.S. Coast Guard demonstrating financial capability to meet potential oil spill liabilities. All the vessels in the Company's U.S. and Foreign Flag fleets have requisite COFRs.

        International Requirements.    The Company's vessels undergo regular and rigorous in-house safety reviews. They are also routinely inspected by port authorities, Classification Societies, and major oil companies. All of the Company's vessels are certified under the standards reflected in International Standards Organization's 9002 quality assurance program and IMO's International Safety Management safety and pollution prevention protocols. In 2002, our New York office obtained 14001 Certification for Environmental Management Systems. Under the International Safety Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention promulgated by the IMO, vessel operators are required to develop an extensive safety management system for each of the vessels over which they have operational control. The system includes, among other things, the adoption of a safety and environmental protection policy setting forth instructions and procedures for safe operation and describing procedures for dealing with emergencies. The International Safety Management Code requires a certificate of compliance to be obtained both for the vessel manager and for each vessel that it operates. We have obtained such certificates for our shoreside offices and for all of the vessels that we manage.

        MARPOL 73/78 regulations of the IMO require double hulls or equivalent tanker designs for newbuildings ordered after 1993. In addition, the regulations, which were amended in 2001, provided a timetable for the phase out of single hull tankers. This timetable was amended again in December 2003 in response to European Union ("EU") proposals, further accelerating the final phase-out dates for single hull tankers. The new phase-out regime will become effective on April 5, 2005. For Category 1 tankers (pre-MARPOL tankers without segregated ballast tanks, generally built before 1982), the final phase-out date has been brought forward to 2005 from 2007. For Category 2 tankers (MARPOL

13



tankers, generally built after 1982) the final phase out date was brought forward to 2010 from 2015. In addition, a Condition Assessment Scheme ("CAS") will apply to all single hull tankers 15 years or older. Flag states, however, may permit the continued operation of Category 2 tankers beyond 2010, subject to satisfactory CAS results, but only to 2015 or 25 years of age, whichever comes earlier. Category 2 tankers fitted with double bottoms or double sides not used for the carriage of oil will be permitted to trade beyond 2010 to 25 years of age, subject to the approval of the flag state. The latest amendments to MARPOL 73/78 will ban the oldest single hull tankers from worldwide trading by the end of 2005, while most of the remaining single hull tankers will be excluded from the international oil tanker trades by 2010.

        Although flag states may grant life extensions to Category 2 tankers, port states are permitted to deny entry to their ports and offshore terminals to single hull tankers operating under such life extensions after 2010, and to double sided or double bottomed tankers after 2015.

        A new MARPOL Regulation 13H was also introduced, banning the carriage of heavy grade oils in single hull tankers of more than 5,000 dwt after April 5, 2005. This regulation will predominantly affect heavy crude oil from Latin America as well as heavy fuel oil, bitumen, tar and related products. Flag states, however, may permit Category 2 tankers to continue to carry heavy grade oil beyond 2005, subject to satisfactory CAS results.

        EU regulation (EC) No. 417/2002, which was introduced in the wake of the sinking of the Erika off the coast of France in December 1999, provided a timetable for the phase out of the single hull tankers from EU waters. The subsequent sinking of the Prestige off the coast of Spain in November 2002 prompted the EU to implement an immediate ban on the transport of heavy crude oil and heavy fuel oil in single hull tankers loading or discharging at EU ports. In addition, the previous timetable was amended with the introduction of regulation (EC) No. 1726/2003 to further accelerate the phase out of single hull tankers. The new regulation came into force during October 2003 and banned all Category 1 single hull tankers over the age of 23 years immediately, with all Category 1 single hull tankers being phased out by 2005. For Category 2 single hull tankers, the final phase-out date was set at 2010, with double sided or double bottomed tankers permitted to trade until 2015 or until reaching 25 years of age, whichever comes earlier.

        Because OSG's Foreign Flag tanker fleet comprises mainly modern double hull vessels, the impact of the revised EU regulations and the revised and accelerated IMO phase out schedule will be limited. The following table summarizes the impact of such regulations on the Company's single hull and double sided Foreign Flag tankers:

 
   
   
   
  Banned from EU Ports
  IMO Phase Out(1)
Vessel Name

  Vessel Type
  Vessel
Category(5)

  Year
Built

  Year of
Ban

  Age at Date of
Ban

  Year of Phase
Out

  Age at Date of
Phase Out

Crude Tankers                            
FRONT TOBAGO(2)   VLCC   SH   1993   2010   17   2015   22
ECLIPSE(3)   Suezmax   SH   1989   2010   21   2014   25
COMPASS I(4)   Aframax   SH   1992   2015   23   2017   25

Product Carriers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
MARY ANN(3)   Panamax   DS   1986   2011   25   2011   25
URANUS(6)   Handysize   DS   1988   2013   25   2013   25
VEGA(6)   Handysize   DS   1989   2014   25   2014   25
DELPHINA(6)   Handysize   DS   1989   2014   25   2014   25
NEPTUNE(6)   Handysize   DS   1989   2014   25   2014   25

(1)
Assumes that flag state permits continued trading.

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(2)
30% owned.

(3)
100% owned.

(4)
50% owned. Because the cost and impact on cargo carrying capacity necessary to have vessel classed as double sided are minimal and because the Company intends to make such changes, the evaluation of the remaining useful life was made on the basis that the vessel was double sided.

(5)
SH = single hull/segregated ballast tanks; DS = double sided.

(6)
In November 2004, the Company agreed to sell and charter back these vessels for terms ranging from 42 to 48 months. The sales and charter backs were completed in January 2005.

        All six of the double-sided Handysize Product Carriers in the Stelmar fleet are chartered in on leases that expire prior to the date they are affected by the revised EU regulations.

        The Company's three U.S. Flag Crude Tankers and four U.S. Flag Product Carriers participate in the U.S. Jones Act trades and are therefore not affected by the IMO phase-out schedule. The U.S. has not adopted the 2001 amendments to the MARPOL regulations, which were viewed as less restrictive than OPA 90 regulations that were already in place.

        Many users of oil transportation services operating around Europe are showing a willingness to pay a higher freight rate for double hull tankers than for single hull tankers. It is becoming increasingly more difficult to obtain clearance for single hull tankers from many countries and oil terminals.

        Insurance.    Consistent with the currently prevailing practice in the industry, the Company presently carries protection and indemnity ("P&I") insurance coverage for pollution of $1.0 billion per occurrence on every vessel in its fleet. P&I insurance is provided by mutual protection and indemnity associations ("P&I Associations"). The P&I Associations that comprise the International Group insure approximately 90% of the world's commercial tonnage and have entered into a pooling agreement to reinsure each association's liabilities. Each P&I Association has capped its exposure to each of its members at approximately $4.25 billion. As a member of a P&I Association, which is a member of the International Group, the Company is subject to calls payable to the associations based on its claim record as well as the claim records of all other members of the individual Association of which it is a member, and the members of the pool of P&I Associations comprising the International Group. While the Company has historically been able to obtain pollution coverage at commercially reasonable rates, no assurances can be given that such insurance will continue to be available in the future.

        The Company carries marine hull and machinery and war risk insurance, which includes the risk of actual or constructive total loss, for all of our vessels. The vessels are each covered up to at least their fair market value, with deductibles ranging from $100,000 to $185,000 per vessel per incident. The Company is self insured for hull and machinery claims in amounts in excess of the individual vessel deductibles up to a maximum aggregate loss of $2,000,000 per policy year.

        The Company currently maintains loss of hire insurance to cover loss of charter income resulting from accidents or breakdowns of our vessels that are covered under the vessels' marine hull and machinery insurance. Although loss of hire insurance covers up to 120 days lost charter income per vessel per incident, the Company bears the first 27 days lost for each covered incident.

        Security Matters.    As of July 1, 2004, all ships involved in international commerce and the port facilities that interface with those ships must comply with the new International Code for the Security of Ships and of Port Facilities ("ISPS Code"). This includes passenger ships, cargo ships over 500 gross tons, and mobile offshore drilling rigs. The ISPS Code, which was adopted by the IMO in December 2002, provides a set of measures and procedures to prevent acts of terrorism, which threaten the security of passengers and crew and the safety of ships and port facilities. All of OSG's Ship

15



Security Plans for its vessels have been approved by the appropriate regulatory authorities and have been implemented.

Taxation of the Company

        The following summary of the principal United States tax laws applicable to the Company, as well as the conclusions regarding certain issues of tax law, are based on the provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), existing and proposed U.S. Treasury Department regulations, administrative rulings, pronouncements and judicial decisions, all as of the date of this Annual Report. No assurance can be given that changes in or interpretation of existing laws will not occur or will not be retroactive or that anticipated future circumstances will in fact occur. The Company's views should not be considered official, and no assurance can be given that the conclusions discussed below would be sustained if challenged by taxing authorities.

        For 2005, substantially all foreign corporations, including those acquired as a result of the 2005 acquisition of Stelmar, owning or operating vessels will be subsidiaries of OSG International, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company incorporated in the Marshall Islands ("OIN"). These corporations have made or will make special U.S. tax elections under which they will be treated as "branches" of OIN rather than separate corporations for U.S. federal income tax purposes. For 2004, OIN and its subsidiaries contributed substantially all of the Company's pre-tax income.

        As a result of changes made by the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 ("2004 Act"), as discussed below, for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2004, the Company will no longer be required to report in income on a current basis the undistributed foreign shipping income earned by OIN under the "Subpart F" provisions of the Code.

Taxation to OIN of its Shipping Income: In General

        The Company anticipates that OIN will derive substantially all of its gross income from the use and operation of vessels in international commerce and that this income will principally consist of hire from time and voyage charters for the transportation of cargoes and the performance of services directly related thereto, which is referred to herein as "shipping income."

        Shipping income that is attributable to transportation that begins or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in the U.S. will be considered to be 50% derived from sources within the United States. Shipping income attributable to transportation that both begins and ends in the United States will be considered to be 100% derived from sources within the United States. OIN does not engage in transportation that gives rise to 100% U.S. source income. Shipping income attributable to transportation exclusively between non-U.S. ports will be considered to be 100% derived from sources outside the United States. Shipping income derived from sources outside the U.S. will not be subject to any U.S. federal income tax. OIN's vessels will operate in various parts of the world, including to or from U.S. ports. Unless exempt from U.S. taxation under Section 883 of the Code, OIN will be subject to U.S. federal income taxation of 4% of its U.S. source shipping income on a gross basis without the benefit of deductions.

Application of Code Section 883

        Under Section 883 of the Code, OIN will be exempt from the foregoing U.S. taxation of its U.S source shipping income if it is a "controlled foreign corporation" within the meaning of Section 957 of the Code and, under Treasury regulations that were promulgated prior to the enactment of the 2004 Act, more than 50% of OIN's shipping income is includible in the gross income of U.S. persons that own 10% or more of OIN's stock. While OIN is a controlled foreign corporation, as a result of the passage of the 2004 Act the Company will no longer be required to include OIN's undistributed shipping income in its income under Subpart F of the Code. In these circumstances, it is presently

16



unclear whether the IRS will interpret the Treasury regulations as currently written in a manner that may deprive OIN of the benefits of Section 883 of the Code. To the extent OIN is unable to qualify for exemption from tax under Section 883, OIN's U.S. source shipping income will become subject to the 4% gross basis tax regime described below.

Taxation of OIN in Absence of Code Section 883 Exemption

        4% Gross Basis Tax Regime.    To the extent the benefits of Section 883 are unavailable with respect to any item of U.S. source income, OIN's U.S. source shipping income, to the extent not considered to be "effectively connected" with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business, as described below, would be subject to a 4% tax imposed by Section 887 of the Code on a gross basis, without the benefit of deductions. Since under the sourcing rules described above no more than 50% of OIN's shipping income would be treated as being derived from U.S. sources, the maximum effective rate of U.S. federal income tax on OIN's shipping income would never exceed 2% under the 4% gross basis tax regime.

        Net Basis and Branch Profits Tax Regime.    To the extent the benefits of the Section 883 exemption are unavailable and OIN's U.S. source shipping income is considered to be "effectively connected" with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business, any such "effectively connected" U.S. source shipping income, net of applicable deductions, would be subject to U.S. corporate income tax currently imposed at rates up to 35%. The Company believes, however, that none of OIN's U.S. source shipping income will be "effectively connected" with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business. In addition, OIN may be subject to the 30% "branch profits" taxes on earnings effectively connected with the conduct of such trade or business, as determined after allowance for certain adjustments, and on certain interest paid or deemed paid attributable to the conduct of its U.S. trade of business.

        Gain on Sale of Vessels.    From time to time, OIN may cause a vessel to be sold. As a result of OIN vessels calling at U.S. ports and certain services related thereto performed in the U.S., OIN may be viewed as engaged in the conduct of a U.S. trade or business. Therefore, to the extent gain from the sale of a vessel is treated as U.S. source income and exemption from tax proves to be unavailable under Section 883, such gain may be subject to U.S. corporate income tax as "effectively connected" income (determined under rules different from those discussed above) under the net basis and branch tax regime discussed above. To the extent circumstances permit, OIN intends to structure the sale of vessels in a manner so that the gain will not be subject to U.S. corporate income taxation.

Taxation to OSG of OIN's Shipping Income

        For taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 1987 and ending on or before December 31, 2004, the Company, as a 10% shareholder of controlled foreign corporations, was subject to current taxation on the shipping income of its foreign subsidiaries. To make U.S.-controlled shipping companies competitive with foreign-controlled shipping companies, through the passage of the 2004 Act, Congress repealed the current income inclusion by 10% shareholders of the shipping income of controlled foreign corporations. Accordingly, for years beginning on or after January 1, 2005, the Company will not be required to include in income OIN's undistributed shipping income.

        For taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 1976 and ending on or before December 31, 1986, the Company was not required to include in income the undistributed shipping income of its foreign subsidiaries that was reinvested in qualified shipping assets. For taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 1987, the Company is required to include in income the deferred shipping income from this period to the extent that at the end of any year the investment in qualified shipping assets is less than the corresponding amount at December 31, 1986. By virtue of the nature of OIN's business, the Company anticipates that the recognition of this deferred income will be postponed indefinitely. This is discussed in more detail in Note I to the Company's consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8.

17


Fleet Listing as of December 31, 2004

Foreign Flag

  Vessel Name
  Year Built
  Deadweight
Tonnage

  Interest
Percentage

  Hull Type(9)
V Pluses                    
    TI OCEANIA(1)   2003   441,585   49.9 % DH
    TI EUROPE(1)   2002   441,561   49.9 % DH
    TI AFRICA(1)   2002   441,655   49.9 % DH
    TI ASIA(1)   2002   441,893   49.9 % DH
VLCCs                    
    OVERSEAS ROSALYN(1)   2003   317,972   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS MULAN(1)   2002   318,518   100.0 % DH
    TANABE(1)   2002   298,561   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS CHRIS(1)   2001   309,285   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS ANN(1)   2001   309,327   100.0 % DH
    SAKURA I(1)   2001   298,644   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS DONNA(1)   2000   309,498   100.0 % DH
    RAPHAEL(1)   2000   309,614   100.0 % DH
    REGAL UNITY(1)   1997   309,966   100.0 % DH
    EQUATORIAL LION(1)   1997   300,349   100.0 % DH
    SOVEREIGN UNITY(1)   1996   309,892   100.0 % DH
    MAJESTIC UNITY(1)   1996   300,549   100.0 % DH
    CROWN UNITY(1)   1996   300,482   100.0 % DH
    FRONT TOBAGO(1)   1993   259,995   30.0 % SH/SBT

VLCCs Time Chartered-in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    ARDENNE V(1,2)   2004   318,658   40.0 % DH
    SEA FORTUNE(1,2)   2003   298,833   30.0 % DH
    CHARLES EDDIE(1,2)   2002   305,177   40.0 % DH
    C. DREAM(1,2)   2000   298,570   15.0 % DH
    MERIDIAN LION(1,2)   1997   300,579   100.0 % DH
    HAMPSTEAD(1,2)   1996   298,306   50.0 % DH
    KENSINGTON(1,2)   1995   298,306   50.0 % DH
    HULL 5298(1,2)   2005   305,177   40.0 % DH

Suezmaxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    ECLIPSE   1989   147,501   100.0 % SH/SBT

Aframaxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    OVERSEAS CATHY(3)   2004   112,028   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS SOPHIE(3)   2003   112,045   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS PORTLAND(3)   2002   112,139   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS FRAN(3)   2001   112,118   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS JOSEFA CAMEJO(3)   2001   112,200   100.0 % DH
    OVERSEAS SHIRLEY(3)   2001   112,056   100.0 % DH
    ANIA(3)   1994   94,848   100.0 % DH
    ELIANE(3)   1994   94,813   100.0 % DH
    BRAVERY(3)   1994   110,461   100.0 % DH
    PACIFIC RUBY(3)   1994   96,358   100.0 % DH
    PACIFIC SAPPHIRE(3)   1994   96,173   100.0 % DH
    BERYL(3)   1994   94,799   100.0 % DH
                     

18


    REBECCA(3)   1994   94,873   100.0 % DH
    COMPASS I(3)   1992   97,078   50.0 % DS

Aframaxes Time Chartered-In

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    KALUGA(2,3)   2003   115,707   75.0 % DH
    CAPE ASPRO(2,3)   1998   105,337   50.0 % DH
    CAPE AVILA(2,3)   1998   105,337   50.0 % DH

Panamax Product Carriers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    DIANE(4)   1987   64,140   100.0 % DS
    MARY ANN(4)   1986   64,239   100.0 % DS

Handysize Product Carriers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    VEGA(5)   1989   39,711   100.0 % DS
    DELPHINA(5)   1989   39,674   100.0 % DS
    NEPTUNE(5)   1989   40,085   100.0 % DS
    URANUS(5)   1988   40,085   100.0 % DS

Capesize Bulk Carriers Time Chartered-In

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    MATILDE(2)   1997   160,013   100.0 % N/A
    CHRISMIR(2)   1997   159,830   100.0 % N/A
U.S. Flag

  Vessel Name
  Year Built
  Deadweight Tonnage
  Interest
Percentage

  Hull Type(9)
Crude Tankers                    
    OVERSEAS WASHINGTON(6)   1978   91,968   100.0 % DB
    OVERSEAS NEW YORK(6)   1977   91,844   100.0 % DB
    OVERSEAS CHICAGO(6)   1977   92,092   100.0 % DB

Handysize Product Carriers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS(7)   1983   43,643   100.0 % DB
    PUGET SOUND   1983   50,860   100.0 % DB
    S/R GALENA BAY   1982   50,920   100.0 % DB
    OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA(7)   1982   43,387   100.0 % DB
Bulk Carriers                    
    OVERSEAS HARRIETTE(8)   1978   25,951   100.0 % N/A
    OVERSEAS MARILYN(8)   1978   25,951   100.0 % N/A

Pure Car Carriers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    OVERSEAS JOYCE   1987   16,141   100.0 % N/A
LNG Carriers

  Vessel Name
  Year Built
  CBM
  Interest
Percentage

  Hull Type(9)

LNG Carriers on Order

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    HULL 1605   2007   216,200   49.9 % DH
    HULL 1791   2007   216,200   49.9 % DH
    HULL 1606   2008   216,200   49.9 % DH
    HULL 1792   2008   216,200   49.9 % DH

(1)
Commercially managed, or will upon delivery or expiration of time charter, be managed, by Tankers International.

19


(2)
Time Charter-in:
 
  Commencement
  Expiry
Ardenne V   September-04   September-09
Sea Fortune   March-04   March-06
Charles Eddie   August-02   August-05
C. Dream   March-04   March-09
Meridian Lion   June-03   June-11
Hampstead   April-04   April-07
Kensington   May-04   May-07
Hull 5298   5 years from 2005 delivery date
Kaluga   September-04   September-05
Cape Aspro   March-04   February-09
Cape Avila   March-04   February-09
Matilde   December-03   December-10
Chrismir   December-03   December-10
(3)
Commercially managed by Aframax International.

(4)
The Diane was sold and delivered in January 2005. The Company agreed to sell the Mary Ann in February 2005.

(5)
The Vega, Delphina, Neptune and Uranus were sold and delivered in January 2005 and chartered back on a bareboat basis for terms of from 42 to 48 months.

(6)
Vessels subject to securitization financing.

(7)
22-year capital leases expiring 2011.

(8)
Bareboat Charter-in:
 
  Commencement
  Expiry
Overseas Harriette   November-78   November-06
Overseas Marilyn   November-78   November-07
(9)
DH = double hull; SH/SBT = single hull/segregated ballast tanks; DS = double sided; DB = double bottom.

20


Additional Vessels Acquired upon Acquisition of Stelmar, as of February 20, 2005

Foreign Flag

  Vessel Name
  Year Built
  Deadweight
Tonnage

  Interest
Percentage

  Hull Type

Aframaxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    KEYMAR   1993   95,822   100.0 % DH

Aframaxes Time Chartered-In

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    JACAMAR(1)   1999   104,024   100.0 % DH
    TAKAMAR(1)   1998   104,024   100.0 % DH

Panamaxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    REINEMAR   2004   70,313   100.0 % DH
    REGINAMAR   2004   70,313   100.0 % DH
    REYMAR(2)   2004   69,636   100.0 % DH
    CABO SOUNION   2004   69,636   100.0 % DH
    CABO HELLAS   2003   69,636   100.0 % DH
    ROSEMAR   2002   69,629   100.0 % DH
    SILVERMAR   2002   69,609   100.0 % DH
    GOLDMAR   2002   69,684   100.0 % DH
    RUBYMAR   2002   69,599   100.0 % DH
    JADEMAR(2)   2002   69,708   100.0 % DH
    PEARLMAR(2)   2002   69,697   100.0 % DH
    POLYS(2)   1993   68,623   100.0 % DH
    CLELIAMAR(2)   1993   68,626   100.0 % DH

Handysize Product Carriers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    ALCESMAR   2004   46,214   100.0 % DH
    ALCMAR   2004   46,248   100.0 % DH
    ANDROMAR   2004   46,195   100.0 % DH
    ANTIGMAR   2004   46,168   100.0 % DH
    ARIADMAR   2004   46,205   100.0 % DH
    ATALMAR   2004   46,205   100.0 % DH
    AMBERMAR   2002   35,970   100.0 % DH
    PETROMAR   2001   35,768   100.0 % DH
    MAREMAR   1998   47,225   100.0 % DH
    AQUAMAR   1998   47,236   100.0 % DH
    LUXMAR   1998   45,999   100.0 % DH
    LIMAR   1996   46,171   100.0 % DH
    ALMAR   1996   46,169   100.0 % DH
    RIMAR   1998   45,999   100.0 % DH
    NEDIMAR   1996   46,821   100.0 % DH
                     

21



Handysize Product Carriers Time Chartered-In

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
    ERMAR(1)   1989   39,977   100.0 % DS
    FULMAR(1)   1989   39,521   100.0 % DS
    CAMAR(1)   1988   46,100   100.0 % DH
    ALLENMAR(1)   1988   41,570   100.0 % DH
    PRIMAR(1)   1988   39,539   100.0 % DS
    JAMAR(1)   1988   46,100   100.0 % DH
    CITY UNIVERSITY(1)   1987   39,729   100.0 % DS
    CAPEMAR(1)   1987   37,615   100.0 % DS
    COLMAR(1)   1987   39,729   100.0 % DS

(1)
Bareboat Charter-in:
 
  Commencement
  Expiry
Jacamar   January-04   January-11
Takamar   January-04   January-11
Ermar   July-04   July-09
Fulmar   July-04   July-09
Camar   July-04   July-09
Allenmar   July-04   July-09
Primar   July-04   July-09
Jamar   July-04   July-09
City University   July-04   July-09
Capemar   July-04   July-09
Colmar   July-04   July-09
(2)
Commercially managed by Stelcape.

Glossary

Vessel Types Owned by OSG

VLCC   VLCC is the abbreviation for Very Large Crude Carrier, a large crude oil tanker of approximately 200,000 to 320,000 deadweight tons. Modern VLCCs can generally transport two million barrels or more of crude oil. These vessels are mainly used on the longest (long haul) routes from the Arabian Gulf to North America, Europe, and Asia, and from West Africa to the U.S. and Far Eastern destinations.

V Plus

 

A large crude oil tanker of more than 350,000 deadweight tons. Modern V Pluses can transport three million barrels of crude oil and are mainly used on the same long haul routes as VLCCs.

Suezmax

 

A large crude oil tanker of approximately 120,000 to 200,000 deadweight tons. Modern Suezmaxes can generally transport about one million barrels of crude oil.

22



Aframax

 

A medium size crude oil tanker of approximately 80,000 to 120,000 deadweight tons. Because of their size, Aframaxes are able to operate on many different routes, including from Latin America and the North Sea to the U.S. They are also used in lightering (transferring cargo from larger tankers, typically VLCCs, to smaller tankers for discharge in ports from which the larger tankers are restricted). Modern Aframaxes can generally transport from 500,000 to 800,000 barrels of crude oil.

Product Carrier

 

General term that applies to any tanker that is used to transport refined oil products, such as gasoline, jet fuel or heating oil.

Panamax Product Carrier

 

A large size Product Carrier of approximately 50,000 to 80,000 deadweight tons that generally operates on longer routes.

Handysize Product Carrier

 

A small size Product Carrier of approximately 30,000 to 50,000 deadweight tons. This type of vessel generally operates on shorter routes (short haul).

Bostonmax Product Carrier

 

A small size Product Carrier of approximately 39,000 deadweight tons and the largest size capable of accessing all Boston-area terminals.

Capesize Bulk Carrier

 

A large Dry Bulk Carrier (any vessel used to carry non-liquid bulk commodities) with a carrying capacity of more than 80,000 deadweight tons that mainly transports iron ore and coal.

Pure Car Carrier

 

A single-purpose vessel with many decks, designed to carry automobiles, which are driven on and off using ramps.

LNG Carrier

 

LNG is the abbreviation for Liquified Natural Gas. A vessel designed to carry liquefied natural gas, that is, natural gas cooled to -163° centigrade, turning it into a liquid and reducing its volume to 1/600 of its volume in gaseous form.

Operations

 

 

Worldscale

 

Industry name for the Worldwide Tanker Nominal Freight Scale published annually by the Worldscale Association as a rate reference for shipping companies, brokers, and their customers engaged in the bulk shipping of oil in the international markets. Worldscale is a list of calculated rates for specific voyage itineraries for a standard vessel, as defined, using defined voyage cost assumptions such as vessel speed, fuel consumption, and port costs. Actual market rates for voyage charters are usually quoted in terms of a percentage of Worldscale.

Charter

 

Contract entered into with a customer for the use of the vessel for a specific voyage at a specific rate per unit of cargo, or for a specific period of time at a specific rate per unit (day or month) of time.
     

23



Voyage Charter

 

A Charter under which a customer pays a transportation charge for the movement of a specific cargo between two or more specified ports. The shipowner pays all voyage expenses, and all vessel expenses, unless the vessel to which the Charter relates has been time chartered in. The customer is liable for Demurrage, if incurred.

Demurrage

 

Additional revenue paid to the shipowner on its Voyage Charters for delays experienced in loading and/or unloading cargo, which are not deemed to be the responsibility of the shipowner, calculated in accordance with specific Charter terms.

Time Charter

 

A Charter under which a customer pays a fixed daily or monthly rate for a fixed period of time for use of the vessel. Subject to any restrictions in the Charter, the customer decides the type and quantity of cargo to be carried and the ports of loading and unloading. The customer pays all voyage expenses such as fuel, canal tolls, and port charges. The shipowner pays all vessel expenses such as the Technical Management expenses.

Bareboat Charter

 

A Charter under which a customer pays a fixed daily or monthly rate for a fixed period of time for use of the vessel. The customer pays all voyage and vessel expenses. Bareboat charters are usually long term.

Contract of Affreightment or COA

 

COA is the abbreviation for Contract of Affreightment, which is an agreement providing for the transportation of a specific quantity of cargo over a specific time period but without designating specific vessels or voyage schedules, thereby allowing flexibility in scheduling. COAs can either have a fixed rate or a market-related rate. An example would be two shipments of 70,000 tons per month for the next two years at the prevailing spot rate at the time of each loading.

Time Charter Equivalent or TCE

 

TCE is the abbreviation for Time Charter Equivalent. TCE revenues, which is voyage revenues less voyage expenses, serves as an industry standard for measuring and managing fleet revenue and comparing results between geographical regions and among competitors.

Commercial Management or Commercially Managed

 

The management of the employment, or chartering, of a vessel and associated functions, including seeking and negotiating employment for vessels, billing and collecting revenues, issuing voyage instructions, purchasing fuel, and appointing port agents.

Technical Management

 

The management of the operation of a vessel, including physically maintaining the vessels, maintaining necessary certifications, and supplying necessary stores, spares, and lubricating oils. Responsibilities also generally include selecting, engaging and training crew, and arranging necessary insurance coverage.
     

24



Regulations

 

 

Jones Act

 

U.S. law that applies to port-to-port shipments within the continental U.S. and between the continental U.S. and Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and Guam, and restricts such shipments to U.S. Flag Vessels that are built in the U.S. and that are owned by a U.S. company that is more than 75% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens.

U.S. Flag vessel

 

A U.S. Flag vessel must be crewed by U.S. sailors, and owned and operated by a U.S. company.

Foreign Flag vessel

 

A vessel that is registered under a flag other than that of the U.S.

OPA 90

 

OPA 90 is the abbreviation for the U.S. Oil Pollution Act of 1990.

IMO

 

IMO is the abbreviation for International Maritime Organization, an agency of the United Nations, which is the body that is responsible for the administration of internationally developed maritime safety and pollution treaties, including MARPOL 73/78.

MARPOL 73/78

 

International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto, includes regulations aimed at preventing and minimizing pollution from ships by accident and by routine operations.

Miscellaneous

 

 

Deadweight tons or Dwt

 

Dwt is the abbreviation for deadweight tons, representing principally the cargo carrying capacity of a vessel, but including the weight of consumables such as fuel, lube oil, drinking water and stores.

Cubic Meters or Cbm

 

Cbm is the abbreviation for cubic meters, the industry standard for measuring the carrying capacity of a LNG Carrier.

Classification Societies

 

Organizations that establish and administer standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of vessels. As a practical matter, vessels cannot trade unless they meet these standards.

Condition Assessment Scheme

 

An inspection program designed to check and report on the vessel's physical condition and on its past performance based on survey and IMO's International Safety Management audit reports and port state performance records.
     

25



Drydocking

 

An out-of-service period during which planned repairs and maintenance are carried out, including all underwater maintenance such as external hull painting. During the drydocking, certain mandatory Classification Society inspections are carried out and relevant certifications issued. Normally, as the age of a vessel increases, the cost of drydocking increases.

Available Information

        The Company makes available free of charge through its internet website, www.osg.com, its Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to these reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as soon as reasonably practicable after the Company electronically files such material with, or furnishes it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission.

        The Company also makes available on its website, its corporate governance guidelines, its code of business conduct, and charters of the Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee of the Board of Directors.


ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES

        See Item 1.


ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

        On September 11, 2003, the Department of Transport of the Government of Canada commenced an action against the Company's Foreign Flag Product Carrier, the Uranus, charging the vessel with violations of regulations under the Canada Shipping Act with respect to alleged discrepancies in the vessel's oil record book during the period between December 2002 and March 2003. On January 22, 2004, the Department of Transport withdrew all pending charges related to the alleged discrepancies.

        On October 1, 2003, the U.S. Department of Justice served a grand jury subpoena directed at the Uranus and the Company's handling of waste oils. The U.S. Department of Justice has subsequently served related subpoenas requesting documents concerning the Uranus and other vessels in the Company's fleet. Several witnesses have appeared before the grand jury. The Company has been cooperating with the investigation and in the fall of 2004 commenced negotiations with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve the investigation. Such a resolution may involve an acknowledgment by the Company of its responsibility for alleged past record keeping violations of environmental regulations governing the handling of waste oils by some sea staff aboard the Uranus. In the fourth quarter of 2004, the Company made a provision (in the amount of $6.0 million) for anticipated fines, environmental compliance costs, contributions to environmental protection programs and other costs associated with a possible settlement of the investigation. Negotiations with the U.S. Department of Justice are continuing and while management of the Company believes that the total fines and the above referenced costs associated with a settlement of the investigation may range from $6.0 million to $10.0 million, there can be no assurance that a satisfactory settlement can be achieved or that the provision or the estimated range will be sufficient to cover such fines and costs.

        During recent years, the Company has recognized heightened concerns in many jurisdictions over the improper disposal of waste oil from oceangoing vessels and has implemented a number of measures to assure that the Company's vessels comply with all applicable laws in this regard. Beginning in 2002, the Company developed and installed aboard all its vessels an "environmental tag" system that prevents the decoupling of waste lines to bypass pollution control equipment and improperly discharge waste oil

26



at sea. The Company has also developed and begun installing equipment that will automatically monitor and record all data for engine room bilge water and waste oil control and that will prevent tampering with meters that limit waste oil content of discharges. The Company believes that it is the only major tanker corporation to install both an "environmental tag" system and monitors for its fleet. The Company has also substantially enhanced its training and procedures so as to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. It is the Company's policy to comply with all environmental regulations and it believes the actions it has taken are among the best practices in the industry to ensure the proper operation of its vessels.

        The Company is a party, as plaintiff or defendant, to various suits in the ordinary course of business for monetary relief arising principally from personal injuries, collision or other casualty and to claims arising under charter parties. All such personal injury, collision and casualty claims against the Company are fully covered by insurance (subject to deductibles not material in amount). Each of the claims involves an amount which, in the opinion of management, is not material in relation to the consolidated current assets of the Company as shown in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet as at December 31, 2004, set forth in Item 8.


ITEM 4.    SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

        None.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

Name

  Age
  Position Held
  Has Served as Such Since

Morten Arntzen

 

49

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

January 2004

Myles R. Itkin

 

57

 

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

 

June 1995

Robert E. Johnston

 

57

 

Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer

 

October 1998
June 1999

Peter J. Swift

 

61

 

Senior Vice President and Head of Shipping Operations

 

June 1999

        The term of office of each executive officer continues until the first meeting of the Board of Directors of the Company immediately following the next annual meeting of its shareholders, to be held on June 7, 2005, and until the election and qualification of his successor. There is no family relationship between the executive officers.

        During the five years prior to joining the Company in January 2004 as an officer and director, Mr. Morten Arntzen was employed by American Marine Advisors, Inc. as Chief Executive Officer.

27



PART II


ITEM 5.    MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

(a)
The Company's common stock is listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange and the Pacific Exchange, Inc. under the trading symbol OSG. The range of high and low closing sales prices of the Company's common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange for each of the quarters during the last two years are set forth below.

2004

  High
  Low
 
  (In dollars)

First Quarter   38.38   32.82
Second Quarter   44.13   32.23
Third Quarter   50.27   41.01
Fourth Quarter   65.69   51.27
2003

  High
  Low
First Quarter   20.13   15.15
Second Quarter   22.75   17.21
Third Quarter   26.54   21.31
Fourth Quarter   35.89   25.00
(b)
On February 22, 2005, there were 594 shareholders of record of the Company's common stock.

(c)
In June 2003, OSG announced a 16.7% increase in its annual dividend to 70¢ per share from 60¢ per share of common stock. Subsequent thereto, the Company paid two regular quarterly dividends in 2003 and four in 2004 of 17.5¢ per share of common stock. Prior to the above change, the Company paid a quarterly dividend of 15¢ per share of common stock. The payment of cash dividends in the future will depend upon the Company's operating results, cash flow, working capital requirements and other factors deemed pertinent by the Company's Board of Directors.


ITEM 6.    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

        The following unaudited selected consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, and at December 31, 2004 and 2003, are derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company set forth in Item 8, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors. The unaudited selected consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31, 2001 and 2000, and at December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, are derived from audited

28



consolidated financial statements of the Company not appearing in this Annual Report, which have also been audited by Ernst & Young LLP.

 
  2004
  2003
  2002
  2001
  2000
 
 
  (In thousands, except per share amounts)

 
Shipping revenues   $ 810,835   $ 454,120   $ 297,283   $ 469,333   $ 467,618  
Time charter equivalent revenues(a)     789,581     431,136     266,725     381,018     370,081  
Income from vessel operations(b)     463,780     191,107     44,888     130,686     134,066  
Income/(loss) before federal income taxes and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle     481,014     168,153     (20,864 )   154,445     132,989  
Net income/(loss)(c)     401,236     121,309     (17,620 )   101,441     90,391  
Depreciation and amortization     100,088     90,010     80,379     71,671     71,465  
EBITDA(d)     655,248     320,287     112,208     271,151     251,121  
Net cash provided by operating activities     372,122     223,200     13,173     193,025     102,042  
Vessels and capital leases, at net book amount(e)     1,456,365     1,364,773     1,416,774     1,345,719     1,293,958  
Total assets     2,680,798     2,000,686     2,034,842     1,964,275     1,823,913  
Debt—long-term debt and capital lease obligations (exclusive of short-term debt and current portions)(f)     906,183     787,588     985,035     854,929     836,497  
Reserve for deferred federal income taxes—noncurrent     105,424     151,304     134,204     132,170     117,749  
Shareholders' equity   $ 1,426,372   $ 917,075   $ 784,149   $ 813,426   $ 750,167  
Debt/total capitalization     38.8 %   46.2 %   55.7 %   51.2 %   52.7 %

Per share amounts:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Basic net income/(loss)   $ 10.26   $ 3.49   $ (0.51 ) $ 2.97   $ 2.67  
Diluted net income/(loss)   $ 10.24   $ 3.47   $ (0.51 ) $ 2.92   $ 2.63  
Shareholders' equity   $ 36.20   $ 25.54   $ 22.76   $ 23.73   $ 22.07  
Cash dividends paid   $ 0.70   $ 0.65   $ 0.60   $ 0.60   $ 0.60  
Average shares outstanding for basic earnings per share     39,113     34,725     34,395     34,169     33,870  
Average shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share     39,176     34,977     34,395     34,697     34,315  

(a)
Represents shipping revenues less voyage expenses.

(b)
Results for 2001 reflect a restructuring charge of $10,439 to cover costs associated with the reduction of staff at the New York headquarters and the transfer of ship management and administrative functions to the Company's subsidiary in Newcastle, U.K.

(c)
Results for 2004 reflect a $77,423 reduction in deferred tax liabilities recorded on enactment of the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. Results for 2000 include income of $4,152 ($.12 per share) from the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle from the completed-voyage method to the recognition of net voyage revenues ratably over the estimated length of each voyage. Income before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle in 2000 was $86,239, or $2.55 per basic share ($2.51 per diluted share).

(d)
EBITDA represents operating earnings, which is before interest expense, income taxes and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, plus other income/(expense) and depreciation and amortization expense. EBITDA should not be considered a substitute for net income, cash flow from operating activities and other operations or cash flow statement data prepared in

29


    accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States or as a measure of profitability or liquidity. EBITDA is presented to provide additional information with respect to the Company's ability to satisfy debt service requirements, capital expenditure and working capital requirements. While EBITDA is frequently used as a measure of operating results and the ability to meet debt service requirements, it is not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to differences in methods of calculation. The following table reconciles net income/(loss), as reflected in the consolidated statements of operations, to EBITDA:

 
  2004
  2003
  2002
  2001
  2000
 
Net income/(loss)   $ 401,236   $ 121,309   $ (17,620 ) $ 101,441   $ 90,391  
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle                     (4,152 )
Provision/(credit) for federal income taxes     79,778     46,844     (3,244 )   53,004     46,750  
Interest expense     74,146     62,124     52,693     45,035     46,667  
Depreciation and amortization     100,088     90,010     80,379     71,671     71,465  
   
 
 
 
 
 
EBITDA   $ 655,248   $ 320,287   $ 112,208   $ 271,151   $ 251,121  
   
 
 
 
 
 
(e)
Includes vessel held for sale of $9,744 in 2004.

(f)
Amounts do not include debt of joint ventures in which the Company participates.


ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

General

        The Company is one of the largest independent bulk shipping companies in the world. The Company's operating fleet consists of 61 vessels aggregating 11.2 million dwt, including six vessels that are owned by joint ventures in which the Company has an average interest of 47%, and 14 vessels that have been chartered in under operating leases. Seven of the chartered-in vessels are VLCCs. The Company has less than a 100% interest in six of the chartered-in VLCCs, with an average participation interest of 37%. Three of the chartered-in vessels are Aframaxes in which the Company has an average participation interest of 58%. In addition, the Company has a participation interest of 40% in the time charter-in of one VLCC, which is scheduled to commence upon its delivery from a shipyard in mid 2005. Four LNG Carriers are scheduled to be delivered in late 2007 and early 2008 to a joint venture in which the Company has a 49.9% interest.

Acquisition of Stelmar Shipping Ltd.

        On December 13, 2004, OSG announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement to acquire Stelmar Shipping Ltd. ("Stelmar"), a leading international provider of petroleum product and crude oil transportation services with one of the world's largest and most modern Handysize and Panamax tanker fleets. The transaction closed on January 20, 2005. Accordingly, the operating results of the Stelmar fleet will be reflected in the Company's consolidated financial statements commencing January 21, 2005. Under the terms of the merger agreement, holders of Stelmar's common stock received $48.00 per share in cash for an aggregate consideration of approximately $844 million. Taking into account the assumption of Stelmar's outstanding debt, the total purchase price was approximately $1.35 billion. The Company funded the acquisition and the refinancing of Stelmar's debt with $675 million of borrowings under new credit facilities and $675 million of cash and borrowings under long-term credit facilities in existence as of December 31, 2004. Stelmar's 40 vessel fleet consists of 24 Handysize, 13 Panamax and

30


three Aframax tankers. Stelmar's fleet includes two chartered-in Aframax and nine chartered-in Handysize vessels. One hundred percent of the fully owned fleet is double hull. In addition, five of the chartered-in vessels are double hull and the balance are double sided. Stelmar, through its maintenance of a modern fleet and commitment to safety, has earned an excellent reputation for providing high-quality transportation services to major oil companies, oil traders and state-owned oil companies.

        The following discussion of the results of operations does not reflect the impact of the inclusion of the Stelmar vessels.

Operations

        The Company's revenues are highly sensitive to patterns of supply and demand for vessels of the size and design configurations owned and operated by the Company and the trades in which those vessels operate. Rates for the transportation of crude oil and refined petroleum products from which the Company earns a substantial majority of its revenue are determined by market forces such as the supply and demand for oil, the distance that cargoes must be transported, and the number of vessels expected to be available at the time such cargoes need to be transported. The demand for oil shipments is significantly affected by the state of the global economy and level of OPEC's exports. The number of vessels is affected by newbuilding deliveries and by the removal of existing vessels from service, principally because of scrapping. The Company's revenues are also affected by the mix of charters between spot (voyage charter) and long-term (time charter). Because shipping revenues and voyage expenses are significantly affected by the mix between voyage charters and time charters, the Company manages its vessels based on time charter equivalent ("TCE") revenues. Management makes economic decisions based on anticipated TCE rates and evaluates financial performance based on TCE rates achieved.

Overview

        The year 2004 was one of the best years in the history of the tanker industry with freight rates reaching levels not seen since the early 1970s as a result of the increasing significance of China, India and other Asian countries as major oil consumers combined with strong import growth in North America. Sharply rising demand from Asia combined with the growing demand of the world's developed nations, strained oil production and tanker capacity, as evidenced by the record high crude oil prices and tanker freight rates recorded in 2004. OPEC came within 2 million barrels per day
("b/d") of fully utilizing its spare capacity, a large portion of which is located in Saudi Arabia. Current tanker markets have become very tightly balanced as a consequence of the unprecedented levels of world oil demand and production, where even a slight change in any of the factors affecting supply or demand can cause sharp fluctuations in tanker freight rates. War, political uncertainty, bottlenecks caused by inadequate infrastructure, stricter environmental regulations, and natural disasters, such as hurricanes, have all affected the tanker markets in 2004. While rates were extremely volatile throughout the year, average rates across the year were the highest they have been in over 30 years.

        Set forth in the tables below are daily TCE rates that prevailed in markets in which the Company's vessels operated for the periods indicated. In each case, the rates may differ from the actual TCE rates achieved by the Company because of the timing and length of voyages and the portion of revenue generated from long-term charters. It is important to note that the spot market is quoted in Worldscale rates. The conversion of Worldscale rates to the following TCE rates necessarily requires the Company to make certain assumptions as to brokerage commissions, port time, weather delays, port costs, speed and fuel consumption, all of which will vary in actual usage.

31



Foreign Flag VLCC Segment

 
  Spot Market TCE Rates
VLCCs in the Arabian Gulf

 
  Q1-2004
  Q2-2004
  Q3-2004
  Q4-2004
  2004
  2003
  2002
Average   $ 75,200   $ 64,500   $ 72,600   $ 161,800   $ 92,900   $ 47,900   $ 19,000
High   $ 112,400   $ 87,300   $ 104,000   $ 230,700   $ 230,700   $ 96,100   $ 81,500
Low   $ 39,000   $ 40,200   $ 45,200   $ 52,400   $ 39,000   $ 9,200   $ 3,500

        During 2004, rates for VLCCs trading out of the Arabian Gulf averaged $92,900 per day, 94% higher than the average for 2003 and almost five times the average for 2002. The development of VLCC rates over 2004 was extremely positive, with a number of structural, cyclical and extraordinary factors influencing the market.

        The global economic recovery, which began in 2003, gathered pace during 2004, because of strong growth in the U.S. and China. This acceleration in economic activity in the main oil-importing regions of the world helped spur a 3.3% increase in world oil demand over 2003 levels to 82.4 million b/d from 79.8 million b/d. This is the biggest year-to-year increase in world oil demand since 1976. Even Europe, where economic growth has been relatively modest in recent years, experienced its largest annual increase in oil consumption since 1998.

        The increase in demand, coupled with dislocations primarily affecting short haul availabilities, increased the world's dependence on long haul Middle East supplies. OPEC crude oil output increased by 1.9 million b/d to 28.7 million b/d in 2004, the highest level since 1979. About one-third of this increase was due to progress in the recovery of Iraq's oil sector from the effects of the war in 2003. A larger-than-usual portion of Iraq's exports were shipped through its southern ports rather than through its pipeline to the Mediterranean port of Ceyhan, which operated at only 10% of capacity in 2004 due to frequent sabotage. The reported number of VLCC liftings from the Arabian Gulf, by far the largest VLCC loading area, rose by 8.8% in 2004.

        VLCC rates, which rose rapidly in the final quarter of 2003, continued their ascent in the first quarter of 2004, reaching a first quarter high of $112,400 per day. Besides very strong seasonal demand, rates were boosted by severe congestion in Turkey's Bosporus Straits, restricting the number of Suezmaxes available to compete for cargoes from West Africa and the Middle East. The seasonal reduction in global oil demand in the second quarter turned out to be much shorter than expected. This was driven by the rapidly rising energy requirements of newly industrializing economies, such as China, where there has been a tendency for demand to peak ahead of the cooling season, rather than heating season. The growing reliance in China on backup diesel-fired generators, resulted in stockpiling of gasoil in anticipation of summer power outages. The early arrival of summer weather in some areas of China contributed to the second quarter surge in oil demand. Thus, second quarter global oil demand slipped only 1.2 million b/d from the first quarter, 43% less than the average decline of the prior three years. Average VLCC rates fell by just 14% from the first quarter compared with a 41% drop during the corresponding period in 2003.

        In the third quarter, the strength of Asian oil demand was bolstered by a heat wave in Japan, as well as an explosion at a nuclear reactor, which caused several more nuclear power plants to be shut down, increasing Japan's dependency on oil-fired power generation. In the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, a particularly severe hurricane season resulted in a substantial portion of the region's offshore production being shut down, further increasing U.S. dependence on Middle Eastern crude. As a consequence, international oil markets tightened even more and forced crude prices to new highs, prompting OPEC to abandon its production quotas and make extra spot cargoes available during the third and fourth quarters. In the fourth quarter, world oil demand rose to an estimated record 84.2 million b/d, helping to support the rise in VLCC rates to a 30-year high of $230,700 per day. Rates began to drop sharply from these levels in mid-December, triggered by OPEC's announcement that it would reduce

32



production by 1.0 million b/d beginning January 1, 2005 and a relatively mild start to winter. The onset of colder temperatures in mid January demonstrated the volatility characteristic of current tanker markets as a renewed perception that markets were still tightly balanced caused rates once again to turn higher.

        The world VLCC fleet grew to 456 vessels (132.7 million dwt) at December 31, 2004 from 433 vessels (126.1 million dwt) at the start of 2004. VLCC newbuilding deliveries amounted to 29 vessels (8.9 million dwt) in 2004, a slowdown from 37 vessels (11.4 million dwt) in 2003; but, as a result of the strong earnings environment in 2004, scrap sales dropped to just three vessels (1.1 million dwt) in 2004 compared with 30 vessels (10.0 million dwt) in 2003.

        Newbuilding orders totaled 43 vessels (13.0 million dwt) in 2004, marking a slowdown from the 51 vessels (15.5 million dwt) ordered in 2003. This drop in ordering was caused in part by a scarcity of newbuilding berths and longer delivery lead times stemming from high ordering in other bulk shipping sectors (most vessels ordered during 2004 were for delivery in late 2007 and 2008). Much higher newbuilding prices, 43% higher than year-ago levels also discouraged some owners from making new purchases. As of December 31, 2004, the VLCC orderbook totaled 88 vessels (26.8 million dwt), equivalent to 20.2%, based on deadweight tons, of the existing VLCC fleet.

Foreign Flag Aframax Segment

 
  Spot Market TCE Rates
Aframaxes in the Caribbean

 
  Q1-2004
  Q2-2004
  Q3-2004
  Q4-2004
  2004
  2003
  2002
Average   $ 46,800   $ 26,400   $ 30,400   $ 69,900   $ 43,000   $ 31,100   $ 16,100
High   $ 75,000   $ 37,500   $ 60,000   $ 85,000   $ 85,000   $ 70,000   $ 34,000
Low   $ 15,000   $ 14,000   $ 18,000   $ 57,600   $ 14,000   $ 11,000   $ 8,500

        During 2004, rates for Aframaxes operating in the Caribbean averaged $43,000 per day, 38% higher than the average for 2003 and 167% higher than the average for 2002. Aframax rates have benefited from global economic growth and a rise in oil production from key Aframax loading regions. Non-OPEC oil production increased by 1.1 million b/d in 2004 compared with 2003, led by the Former Soviet Union ("FSU"). The FSU increased its oil output by 8.4% relative to 2003, a growth rate slightly below that of the previous two years, and seaborne oil exports by 13.3%, as progress was made on various pipeline and port expansion projects. Aframaxes carried 54% of seaborne FSU exports in 2004, unchanged from 2003, but there has been some repositioning of Aframax tonnage to the Baltic Sea and away from the Black Sea.

        In the Caribbean, Venezuelan output continued to recover from the general strike in December 2002. Average daily output was 10% higher in 2004 compared with 2003, but still 20% short of average 1998 to 2002 pre-strike levels.

        Transit delays in the Bosporus, which tightened availability of Aframaxes in late 2003 and early 2004 with a positive effect on rates, were largely resolved by the second quarter, resulting in increased availability of suitable tonnage and an easing in rates. Aframax freight rates dropped from congestion-inflated highs of $75,000 per day in the first quarter, to an average of $26,400 per day in the second quarter. In the third quarter, the Russian Baltic Sea terminal of Primorsk was expanded and its feeder pipeline capacity increased, allowing larger amounts of oil to be exported. An anticipated early October increase in Russian crude export duties prompted some charterers to take cargoes earlier than initially planned. These events and generally improving employment opportunities boosted average rates to $30,400 per day in the third quarter.

        Seasonally scheduled maintenance by U.S. refiners from late August through mid-September had a softening effect on Aframax rates. Conditions changed abruptly when a series of hurricanes struck the

33



U.S. Southeast. Cargo operations in the U.S. Gulf were disrupted, infrastructure was damaged and a significant amount of production was shut down. Crude oil imports into the U.S. were increased in the fourth quarter to compensate for the lost production and, as a result, Aframax freight rates reached a high of $85,000 per day, rate levels never reached before.

        The world Aframax fleet increased to 627 vessels (62.5 million dwt) as of December 31, 2004 from 601 vessels (59.2 million dwt) at December 31, 2003. Aframax deliveries fell to 51 vessels (5.5 million dwt) in 2004 from 76 vessels (8.2 million dwt) in 2003. Demolitions fell to 26 vessels (2.4 million dwt) in 2004 from 37 vessels (3.3 million dwt) in 2003. The contrast in demolition volumes between the Aframax and VLCC sectors reflects the greater impact of IMO regulations governing the phase out of single hull tonnage on the Aframax fleet.

        Rising newbuilding prices slowed the pace of Aframax ordering to 66 vessels (7.3 million dwt), from record levels of 96 vessels (10.3 million dwt) in 2003. As ordering outweighed deliveries, the Aframax orderbook expanded to 172 vessels (18.7 million dwt) at December 31, 2004, equivalent to 30.0%, based on deadweight tons, of the existing Aframax fleet.

Foreign Flag Product Carrier Segment

 
  Spot Market TCE Rates
Panamaxes in the Pacific and Bostonmaxes in the Caribbean

 
  Q1-2004
  Q2-2004
  Q3-2004
  Q4-2004
  2004
  2003
  2002
Panamax Average   $ 25,200   $ 20,400   $ 24,800   $ 40,500   $ 27,600   $ 19,900   $ 13,100
Panamax High   $ 33,000   $ 28,500   $ 30,000   $ 60,000   $ 60,000   $ 27,000   $ 23,500
Panamax Low   $ 17,500   $ 14,200   $ 22,000   $ 23,000   $ 14,200   $ 10,500   $ 9,000

Bostonmax Average

 

$

29,200

 

$

20,000

 

$

19,100

 

$

29,600

 

$

24,400

 

$

16,000

 

$

10,100
Bostonmax High   $ 34,500   $ 24,500   $ 20,000   $ 35,000   $ 35,000   $ 24,900   $ 15,000
Bostonmax Low   $ 18,900   $ 14,500   $ 17,500   $ 17,000   $ 14,500   $ 10,000   $ 7,200

        Rates for Panamax Product Carriers in the Pacific Region averaged $27,600 per day in 2004, 39% higher than the average for 2003, and more than double the average for 2002. Non-OECD Asia, led by India, has been the focal point for an expansion in refinery capacity in 2004, leading to further expansion in intra-Asian products trade. Similarly, China's massive economic expansion and its burgeoning oil requirements have indirectly boosted product trades in the surrounding non-OECD Asia region. Countering these developments, to some extent, was the gradual restoration of Japan's nuclear power capacity from 2002's safety crisis, reducing Japan's dependence on oil-fired power generation and its need for fuel oil imports.

        The rise in freight rates in the first quarter relative to the prior and comparable year ago quarter, was largely attributable to shipping delays and congestion in the Mediterranean. These problems were caused by a four-day outage at an Algerian refinery and the temporary shutdown of the Suez Canal due to severe weather. Chinese gas oil imports also rose strongly during this period. Following a seasonal dip from $25,200 per day in the first quarter to $20,400 per day in the second quarter, average freight rates built steadily to $40,500 per day in the final quarter of 2004. In addition to the temporary reversion to oil-fired power generation at some plants in the third quarter, due to unexpected outages, Japan experienced unusually hot summer weather, which further raised consumption of fuel oil. These factors and storms in the Far East helped to support freight rates even as China's imports of products declined as a result of government efforts to slow the economy and limit electricity usage. The fourth quarter led to a revival in Chinese demand, including a pickup in product imports.

        The world Panamax Product Carrier fleet at December 31, 2004 increased to 290 vessels (19.1 million dwt) from 273 vessels (17.7 million dwt) at December 31, 2003. In 2004, Panamax deliveries totaled 40 vessels (2.8 million dwt), a significant increase from the 22 vessels (1.6 million dwt)

34



delivered in 2003. Meanwhile, scrap sales slowed to 22 vessels (1.4 million dwt) in 2004 from 29 vessels (1.8 million dwt) the previous year. The orderbook at December 31, 2004 increased to 189 vessels (12.8 million dwt), equivalent to 66.7%, based on deadweight tons, of the existing Panamax fleet. Scrappings of Panamax Product Carriers in 2005, as a result of the impact of IMO regulation 13G are expected to mitigate the impact of scheduled deliveries.

        Rates for Bostonmax Product Carriers operating in the Caribbean averaged $24,400 per day in 2004, 53% higher than in 2003 and 142% higher than in 2002. U.S. petroleum product imports were 8.5% higher than in 2003, based on preliminary data, boosted by several factors. New legislation requiring high specifications for key products such as gasoline in major consuming states constrained domestic output and excluded certain short-haul refiners from the U.S. market. U.S. gasoline demand was strong in just about every quarter in 2004, while demand for diesel oil and jet fuel was generally strong as well. The severe hurricane season in 2004 forced refinery operations on the Gulf Coast to shut down for several weeks in the third and fourth quarters, providing further support for increased product imports. Western Europe's increasing use of diesel oil for its automotive fleet resulted in substantial exportable surpluses of high-specification gasoline. As a result, U.S. product imports from Western Europe increased by 19.1% in the first eleven months of 2004, compared with the same period in 2003, while U.S. product imports from the Arabian Gulf were also up 13.8%. In addition, a healthy backhaul movement of gasoil to Europe limited quality tonnage in the Caribbean.

        The world Handysize Product Carrier fleet (which includes Bostonmax Product Carriers) expanded to 524 vessels (21.5 million dwt) at December 31, 2004 from 491 vessels (19.9 million dwt) at December 31, 2003. Deliveries in 2004 increased to 51 vessels (2.3 million dwt) from 34 vessels (1.6 million dwt) in 2003, and scrappings in 2004 decreased to 24 vessels (0.8 million dwt) from 32 vessels (1.1 million dwt) in 2003. At December 31, 2004, the newbuilding orderbook for Handysize Product Carriers reached 182 vessels (8.3 million dwt), equivalent to 38.4%, based on deadweight tons, of the existing Handysize fleet.

Outlook

        The underlying factors which sent freight rates to much higher levels in 2004 will likely continue to have a positive influence in 2005. The pattern of volatility in freight rates experienced in 2004 is also expected to continue in 2005 because of the closely balanced tanker markets. World economic growth is expected to moderate slightly from 2004, but remain strong. Global oil demand, according to the International Energy Agency, is expected to rise a further 1.7% in 2005 following the exceptionally large 3.3% increase in 2004. Developing economies in Asia will likely continue to be the primary growth engine. The total tanker fleet in 2005 is forecast to grow by 4.3% compared with 5.1% in 2004, as a sizable number of newbuilding deliveries is expected to be partially offset by rising deletions, many of which are mandated under IMO phase out regulations.

Critical Accounting Policies

        The Company's consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require the Company to make estimates in the application of its accounting policies based on the best assumptions, judgments, and opinions of management. Following is a discussion of the accounting policies that involve a higher degree of judgment and the methods of their application. For a description of all of the Company's material accounting policies, see Note A to the Company's consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8.

Revenue Recognition

        The Company generates a majority of its revenue from voyage charters. Within the shipping industry, there are two methods used to account for voyage charter revenue and expenses: (1) ratably

35



over the estimated length of each voyage and (2) completed voyage. The recognition of voyage revenues and expenses ratably over the estimated length of each voyage is the most prevalent method of accounting for voyage revenues and expenses and the method used by OSG. Under each method, voyages may be calculated on either a load-to-load or discharge-to-discharge basis. In applying its revenue recognition method, management believes that the discharge-to-discharge basis of calculating voyages more accurately estimates voyage results than the load-to-load basis. Since, at the time of discharge, management generally knows the next load port and expected discharge port, the discharge-to-discharge calculation of voyage revenues and expenses can be estimated with a greater degree of accuracy. In accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, "Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements," OSG does not begin recognizing voyage revenue until a Charter has been agreed to by both the Company and the customer, even if the vessel has discharged its cargo and is sailing to the anticipated load port on its next voyage.

Vessel Lives and Impairment

        The carrying value of each of the Company's vessels represents its original cost at the time it was delivered or purchased less depreciation calculated using an estimated useful life of 25 years from the date such vessel was originally delivered from the shipyard. In the shipping industry, use of a 25-year life has become the standard. The actual life of a vessel may be different. The Company has evaluated the impact of the revisions to MARPOL Regulation 13G that become effective April 5, 2005 and the new EU regulations that went into force on October 21, 2003 on the economic lives assigned to the tankers in the Company's Foreign Flag fleet. Because the OSG Foreign Flag tanker fleet comprises mainly modern, double hull vessels, the revised regulations only affect one wholly-owned vessel and two vessels currently held in joint ventures. Current regulations will not require any of these single hull or double sided Foreign Flag tankers, except the Front Tobago, to be removed from service prior to attaining 25 years of age, although the trading of such vessels after 2010 could be affected. The revised IMO Regulation G allows the flag state to permit the continued operation of our single hull and double sided tankers beyond 2010. Because such regulations do not explicitly permit single hull and double sided tankers to continue trading beyond 2010, their operation beyond 2010 is not assured. A single hull VLCC, the Front Tobago, which is 30% owned by OSG, will be banned from EU ports beginning in 2010 at the age of 17. The Company's single hull Suezmax will be banned from EU ports in 2010 at the age of 21 years. A 50% owned single hull Aframax tanker, Compass I, will be banned from EU ports in 2015 at the age of 23 years. Because the cost and impact on cargo carrying capacity necessary to have the Compass I classed as double sided are minimal and because the Company intends to make such changes, the evaluation of the remaining useful life of the vessel and the recoverability of its carrying amount was made on the basis that the vessel was double sided. OSG considered the need to reduce the estimated remaining useful lives of its single hull and double sided Foreign Flag tankers because of the EU regulations and the revised and accelerated phase-out schedule agreed to by IMO in December 2003. These new regulations will not prevent any of these vessels, with the exception of the Front Tobago, from trading prior to reaching 25 years of age. Accordingly, the economic life of the Front Tobago was reduced to 2015 in 2003. It was not deemed necessary to reduce the estimated remaining useful lives of any of our other single hull or double sided Foreign Flag tankers. If the economic lives assigned to the tankers prove to be too long because of new regulations or other future events, higher depreciation expense and impairment losses could result in future periods related to a reduction in the useful lives of any affected vessels.

36


        The carrying values of the Company's vessels may not represent their fair market value at any point in time since the market prices of second-hand vessels tend to fluctuate with changes in charter rates and the cost of newbuildings. Historically, both charter rates and vessel values tend to be cyclical. The Company records impairment losses only when events occur that cause the Company to believe that future cash flows for any individual vessel will be less than its carrying value. The carrying amounts of vessels held and used by the Company are reviewed for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a particular vessel may not be fully recoverable. In such instances, an impairment charge would be recognized if the estimate of the undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the vessel and its eventual disposition is less than the vessel's carrying amount. This assessment is made at the individual vessel level since separately identifiable cash flow information for each vessel is available.

        In developing estimates of future cash flows, the Company must make assumptions about future charter rates, ship operating expenses, and the estimated remaining useful lives of the vessels. These assumptions are based on historical trends as well as future expectations. Although management believes that the assumptions used to evaluate potential impairment are reasonable and appropriate, such assumptions are highly subjective.

        We performed an impairment test for our single hull and double sided Foreign Flag tankers, including vessels held in joint ventures, in December 2003, because of the new EU regulations that became effective in October 2003 and the revised and accelerated phase-out schedule agreed to by the IMO in December 2003. For purposes of this analysis, we assumed that the single hull tankers would stop trading in 2015 and the double sided tankers would continue trading until age 25, in accordance with the revised and accelerated phase-out schedule adopted by the IMO. We also assumed that these vessels would achieve lower TCE rates than comparable double hull tankers over their remaining useful lives. Because voyage charter rates are volatile and vessel values vary over time, a probability-weighted approach based on historically-observed TCE rates was used to estimate future cash flows. In all cases, the carrying values of the Company's single hull and double sided Foreign Flag tankers as of December 31, 2003 were less than the sum of the undiscounted cash flows for the respective vessels. Accordingly, no impairment loss was recorded.

        We performed an impairment test for our vessels in December 2002 because of a decrease in the sales price of second-hand vessels, as reported in trade publications, and the downward trend in spot rates that had persisted during 2001 and the first nine months of 2002. A probability-weighted approach based on historically-observed TCE rates was used to estimate future cash flows. In all cases, the carrying values of the Company's vessels were less than the sum of the undiscounted cash flows for the respective vessels. Accordingly, no impairment loss was recorded.

Market Value of Marketable Securities

        In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115 ("FAS 115"), the Company's holdings in marketable securities are classified as available for sale and, therefore, are carried on the balance sheet at fair value (as determined by using period-end sales prices on U.S. or foreign stock exchanges) with changes in carrying value being recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) until the investments are sold. Accordingly, these changes in value are not reflected in the Company's statements of operations. If, however, pursuant to the provisions of FAS 115 and Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 59, the Company determines that a material decline in fair value below the Company's cost basis is other than temporary, the Company records a noncash impairment loss as a charge in the statement of operations in the period in which that determination is made. As a matter of policy, the Company evaluates all material declines in fair value for impairment whenever the fair value of a stock has been below its cost basis for six consecutive months. In the period in which a decline in fair value is determined to be other than temporary, the carrying value of that security is written down to its fair value at the end of such period, thereby establishing a new cost basis. Based on

37



a number of factors, including the magnitude of the drop in market values below the Company's cost bases and the length of time that the declines had been sustained, management concluded that the declines in fair value of securities with aggregate cost bases of $16,187,000 in 2003 and $72,521,000 in 2002 were other than temporary. Accordingly, the Company recorded pre-tax impairment losses of $4,756,000 in 2003 and $42,055,000 in 2002 related to such securities. These impairment losses are reflected in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

        As of December 31, 2004, the Capital Construction Fund held a diversified portfolio of marketable equity securities with an aggregate cost basis of $44,298,000 and an aggregate fair value of $64,378,000. There were no equity securities with unrealized losses as of December 31, 2004. See Note E to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 for additional information on other pre-tax unrealized losses as of December 31, 2004.

Drydocking

        Within the shipping industry, there are three methods that are used to account for drydockings: (1) capitalize drydocking costs as incurred (deferral method) and amortize such costs over the period to the next scheduled drydocking, (2) accrue the estimated cost of the next scheduled drydocking over the period preceding such drydocking, and (3) expense drydocking costs as incurred. Since drydocking cycles typically extend over two and a half years or longer, management believes that the deferral method provides a better matching of revenues and expenses than the expense-as-incurred method. The Company further believes that the deferral method is preferable to the accrual method because estimates of drydocking costs can differ greatly from actual costs and, in fact, anticipated drydockings may not be performed if management decides to dispose of the vessels before their scheduled drydock dates.

Deferred Tax Assets and Valuation Allowance

        The carrying value of the Company's deferred tax assets is based on the assumption that the Company will generate sufficient taxable income in the future to permit the Company to take deductions and use tax-credit carryforwards. During 2002, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $3,640,000 related to capital losses arising from the write-down of certain marketable securities. The valuation allowance was established because the Company believed that a portion of the capital losses might expire unused because the generation of future taxable capital gains was not certain. During 2004 and 2003, the Company reduced the valuation allowance by $934,000 and $2,706,000, respectively, reflecting capital gains recognized in 2004 and increases in the fair value of securities previously written down and the effect of securities sold in 2003. The valuation allowance has been reduced to zero as of December 31, 2004. Each quarter, management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets and assesses the need for a valuation allowance. Any increase in the valuation allowance against deferred tax assets will result in additional income tax expense in the Company's statement of operations.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

        The Company has recorded pension and other postretirement benefit costs based on complex valuations developed by its actuarial consultants. These valuations are based on key estimates and assumptions related to the discount rates used and the rates expected to be earned on investments of plan assets. OSG is required to consider market conditions in selecting a discount rate that is representative of the rates of return currently available on high-quality fixed income investments. A higher discount rate would result in a lower benefit obligation and a lower rate would result in a higher benefit obligation. The expected rate of return on plan assets is management's best estimate of expected returns. A decrease in the expected rate of return will increase future net periodic benefit costs and an increase in the expected rate of return will decrease future benefit costs. With respect to the Company's domestic plans, as of December 31, 2004, management reduced the discount rate to

38



6.2% from 6.7% (following a reduction to 6.7% from 7.4% as of December 31, 2003) and maintained unchanged the expected rate of return on plan assets at 8.75%. Changes in pension and other postretirement benefit costs may occur in the future as a result of changes in these rates.

        Certain of the Company's foreign subsidiaries have pension plans that, in the aggregate, are not significant to the Company's financial position.

Special Purpose Entity ("SPE")

        In 1999, the Company facilitated the creation of an SPE that purchased from and bareboat chartered back to the Company five U.S. Flag Crude Tankers that the Company in turn bareboat chartered to Alaska Tanker Company for the transportation of Alaskan crude oil for BP. The purchase price of $170 million was financed by a term loan from a commercial lender and a substantive equity capital investment by the owner of the SPE. The Company did not guarantee the vessels' residual values or guarantee the SPE's debt. ATC time chartered the vessels to BP under a "hell or highwater" lease through the dates on which they must be removed from service in accordance with OPA 90. The portion of the charter hire payments from BP to ATC representing bareboat charter hire to the Company is sufficient to fully amortize the bank debt of the SPE. Such payments have been assigned to the SPE. On July 1, 2003, the Company consolidated this SPE in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities," ("FIN 46"). Under the provisions of FIN 46, the Company is considered to be the primary beneficiary of the SPE. For additional information, see Note B to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8.

Income from Vessel Operations

        During 2004, TCE revenues increased by $358,445,000, or 83%, to $789,581,000 from $431,136,000 in 2003, resulting from an increase in average daily TCE rates for vessels operating in the spot market and a 2,322 day increase in revenue days. During 2004, approximately 85% of the Company's TCE revenues were derived in the spot market, including vessels in pools that predominantly perform voyage charters, compared with 79% in 2003 and 70% in 2002. In 2004, approximately 15% of TCE revenues were generated from long-term charters compared with 21% in 2003 and 30% in 2002. During 2003, TCE revenues increased by $164,411,000 to $431,136,000 from $266,725,000 in 2002, principally resulting from an increase in average daily TCE rates for vessels operating in the spot market. The reduction in percentage contribution from long-term charters during 2004 compared with 2003 was principally attributable to significant increases in average TCE rates in 2004 for vessels operating in the spot market.

        Reliance on the spot market contributes to fluctuations in the Company's revenue, cash flow, and net income/(loss), but affords the Company greater opportunity to increase income from vessel operations when rates rise. On the other hand, time and bareboat charters provide the Company with a predictable level of revenues.

        During 2004, income from vessel operations increased by $272,673,000, or 143%, to $463,780,000 from $191,107,000 in 2003. The improvement resulted principally from an increase in average daily TCE rates and revenue days for VLCCs and Aframaxes. During 2003, income from vessel operations increased by $146,219,000 to $191,107,000 from $44,888,000 in 2002. This improvement resulted from an increase in average daily TCE rates for all of the Company's Foreign Flag segments (see Note C to

39



the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8 for additional information on the Company's segments).

VLCC Segment:

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
TCE revenues (in thousands)   $ 459,252   $ 189,410   $ 79,714  
Vessel expenses (in thousands)     (36,177 )   (28,093 )   (21,481 )
Time and bareboat charter hire expenses (in thousands)     (42,061 )   (11,386 )   (9,512 )
Depreciation and amortization (in thousands)     (44,984 )   (36,475 )   (30,033 )
   
 
 
 
Income from vessel operations (in thousands)(a)   $ 336,030   $ 113,456   $ 18,688  
   
 
 
 
Average daily TCE rate   $ 75,436   $ 40,725   $ 20,545  
Average number of vessels(b)     14.3     11.8     9.8  
Average number of vessels chartered in under operating leases     2.7     1.2     1.1  
Number of revenue days(c)     6,088     4,651     3,880  
Number of ship-operating days(d)     6,223     4,736     3,972  

(a)
Income from vessel operations by segment is before general and administrative expenses.

(b)
The average is calculated to reflect the addition and disposal of vessels during the year.

(c)
Revenue days represent ship-operating days less days that vessels were not available for employment due to repairs, drydock or lay-up.

(d)
Ship-operating days represent calendar days.

        During 2004, TCE revenues for the VLCC segment increased by $269,842,000, or 142%, to $459,252,000 from $189,410,000 in 2003. This improvement in TCE revenues resulted from an increase of $34,711 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned and an increase in the number of revenue days. All but one of the vessels in the VLCC segment participated in the Tankers pool as of December 31, 2004. Revenue days increased by 1,437 principally for the following reasons, partially offset by an increase of 50 drydock and repair days during which vessels were out of service and a reduction of 222 days attributable to the 2004 sales of two single hull vessels, the Olympia and Dundee:

    the delivery of one newbuilding in mid-February 2003;

    the purchase of the 1997-built double hull Meridian Lion, previously held by a 50% owned joint venture, in April 2003;

    the 2004 exchange of joint venture interests (see Note D to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8), which resulted in the Company owning 100% of the Dundee, Sakura I and Tanabe and the inclusion of such vessels in the VLCC segment from the effective date of the transaction; and

    the participation in the charter-in of six VLCCs, which commenced between February and September 2004.

        The redemption of the other partner's joint venture interest in the Equatorial Lion and Meridian Lion (as described in Note D) and the simultaneous acquisition of the Meridian Lion from the other partner resulted in the inclusion of both vessels in the VLCC segment from the mid-April 2003 effective date of the transaction. The Equatorial Lion, which had, prior to the completion of this transaction, been time chartered in from the joint venture is now owned by a subsidiary of the Company.

        Vessel expenses increased by $8,084,000 to $36,177,000 in 2004 from $28,093,000 in the prior year principally as a result of the vessel additions discussed above. Average daily vessel expenses, however, decreased by $118 per day in 2004 compared with 2003 principally attributable to decreases in repair

40



expenses and crew costs. Time and bareboat charter hire expenses increased by $30,675,000 to $42,061,000 in 2004 from $11,386,000 in 2003 as a result of the inclusion of six additional chartered-in VLCCs, which charters commenced in 2004. The Company's participation interests in seven time chartered-in VLCCs, (which excludes the charter-in of the Meridian Lion, discussed below, in which the Company has a 100% interest) as of December 31, 2004, was equivalent to 2.4 vessels at a weighted average base rate of $28,716 per day. Four of the chartered-in VLCCs provide for profit sharing with the vessels owners when TCE rates exceed the base rates in the charters. In addition, in late-June 2003, the Company entered into a sale-leaseback agreement for one of its VLCCs, the Meridian Lion, which lease is classified as an operating lease. The gain on the sale was deferred and is being amortized over the eight-year term of the lease as a reduction of time and bareboat charter hire expenses. The sale-leaseback transaction increased time charter hire expenses by approximately $2,250,000 per quarter, commencing in the third quarter of 2003. Depreciation and amortization increased by $8,509,000 to $44,984,000 from $36,475,000 in 2003 as a result of the vessel additions discussed above.

        During 2003, TCE revenues for the VLCC segment increased by $109,696,000, or 138%, to $189,410,000 from $79,714,000 in 2002. This improvement in TCE revenues resulted from an increase of $20,180 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned and an increase in the number of revenue days. The increase in revenue days resulted principally from the delivery of two newbuilding VLCCs (one in April 2002 and another in mid-February 2003) and the April 2003 purchase of the Meridian Lion. Vessel expenses increased by $6,612,000 to $28,093,000 in 2003 from $21,481,000 in the prior year principally as a result of the Equatorial Lion becoming wholly owned in April 2003 and an increase in ship-operating days. Average daily vessel expenses increased by $524 per day in 2003 compared with 2002, principally attributable to increases in damage repair expenses and insurance premiums. Time and bareboat charter hire expenses increased by $1,874,000 to $11,386,000 in 2003 from $9,512,000 in 2002 as a result of the sale-leaseback agreement discussed above and the inclusion of a 40% participation interest in a chartered-in VLCC (Charles Eddie) partially offset by the termination of the charter in of the Equatorial Lion from a joint venture. Depreciation and amortization increased by $6,442,000 to $36,475,000 from $30,033,000 in 2002 as a result of the vessel additions discussed above.

Aframax Segment:

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
TCE revenues (in thousands)   $ 189,267   $ 105,739   $ 71,121  
Vessel expenses (in thousands)     (26,179 )   (21,927 )   (21,131 )
Time and bareboat charter hire expenses (in thousands)     (8,106 )        
Depreciation and amortization (in thousands)     (25,502 )   (22,261 )   (22,554 )
   
 
 
 
Income from vessel operations (in thousands)   $ 129,480   $ 61,551   $ 27,436  
   
 
 
 
Average daily TCE rate   $ 38,848   $ 26,389   $ 17,389  
Average number of vessels     12.9     11.2     11.5  
Average number of vessels chartered in under operating leases     1.0          
Number of revenue days     4,872     4,007     4,090  
Number of ship-operating days     5,097     4,083     4,187  

        During 2004, TCE revenues for the Aframax segment increased by $83,528,000, or 79%, to $189,267,000 from $105,739,000 in 2003. This improvement in TCE revenues resulted from an increase of $12,459 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned and an increase in revenue days, partially offset by an increase of 149 drydock and repair days during which vessels were out of service. All of the vessels in the Aframax segment participate in the Aframax International pool. The increase in revenue days of 865 resulted principally from the delivery of two newbuilding Aframaxes (one in October 2003 and one in January 2004) and the Company's participation interest in three time chartered-in vessels, which charters commenced in 2004. TCE revenues for 2004 reflect a loss of $3,126,000 generated by forward freight agreements compared with a loss of $3,229,000 in 2003. Although the Company entered into these forward freight agreements to convert a portion of its

41



variable revenue stream from Aframax International to a fixed rate, certain of such forward freight agreements did not qualify as effective cash flow hedges under FAS 133. Vessel expenses increased by $4,252,000 to $26,179,000 in 2004 from $21,927,000 in the prior year principally as a result of the vessel additions discussed above. Average daily vessel expenses, however, decreased by $234 per day in 2004 compared with 2003, principally due to reductions in crew costs and loss of hire insurance premiums. Time and bareboat charter hire expenses for 2004 reflects the Company's participation interests in three chartered-in Aframaxes. Depreciation and amortization increased by $3,241,000 to $25,502,000 from $22,261,000 in the prior year as a result of the vessel additions discussed above.

        During 2003, TCE revenues for the Aframax segment increased by $34,618,000, or 49%, to $105,739,000 from $71,121,000 in 2002. This improvement in TCE revenues resulted from an increase of $9,000 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned partially offset by a decrease in revenue days. The decrease in revenue days resulted from the sale of two single hull Aframaxes in the third quarter of 2002 partially offset by the delivery of two newbuilding Aframaxes (one in February 2002 and one in October 2003) and the purchase, in the third quarter of 2002, of a 1994-built double hull Aframax. TCE revenues for 2003 reflect a loss of $3,229,000 generated by forward freight agreements compared with a loss of $697,000 in 2002. Vessel expenses increased marginally by $796,000 to $21,927,000 in 2003 from $21,131,000 in the prior year. Average daily vessel expenses increased by $324 per day in 2003 compared with 2002, principally due to increases in insurance premiums and repair costs.

Product Carrier Segment:

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
TCE revenues (in thousands)   $ 38,125   $ 35,124   $ 35,053  
Vessel expenses (in thousands)     (12,678 )   (13,143 )   (14,686 )
Time and bareboat charter hire expenses (in thousands)              
Depreciation and amortization (in thousands)     (7,797 )   (7,671 )   (9,807 )
   
 
 
 
Income from vessel operations (in thousands)   $ 17,650   $ 14,310   $ 10,560  
   
 
 
 
Average daily TCE rate   $ 18,391   $ 15,653   $ 12,226  
Average number of vessels     6.0     6.4     8.0  
Average number of vessels chartered in under operating leases              
Number of revenue days     2,073     2,244     2,867  
Number of ship-operating days     2,196     2,350     2,920  

        During 2004, TCE revenues for the Product Carrier segment increased by $3,001,000, or 9%, to $38,125,000 from $35,124,000 in 2003. This increase in TCE revenues resulted from an increase of $2,738 per day in the average daily TCE rate partially offset by a decrease in revenue days attributable to the sale of two (Lucy and Suzanne) of the segment's vessels late in the first quarter of 2003. Vessel expenses decreased marginally by $465,000 to $12,678,000 in 2004 from $13,143,000 in 2003 as a result of the vessel sales. Average daily vessel expenses, however, increased by $180 per day in 2004 compared with 2003, principally attributable to an increase in crew costs and the timing of delivery of stores. Depreciation and amortization increased slightly by $126,000 to $7,797,000 from $7,671,000 in 2003. Increased drydock amortization on the Bostonmaxes was substantially offset by the impact of the vessel sales.

        The Panamax Product Carrier, Diane, which was under contract of sale at December 31, 2004, was delivered to buyers in early January 2005. In November 2004, the Company entered into sale-leaseback agreements, which closed in January 2005, for its four Bostonmax Product Carriers. The leases will be classified as operating leases. The sale-leaseback transactions will increase bareboat charter expenses by approximately $1,300,000 per quarter, with a corresponding decrease in depreciation of approximately $800,000 per quarter. In February 2005, the Company agreed to sell the remaining Panamax Product Carrier, Mary Ann. The sale is expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2005.

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        As of December 31, 2004, two of the four Bostonmaxes and the remaining Panamax Product Carrier were operating on time charters (extending to February and October 2005 for the Bostonmaxes and February 2005 for the Panamax).

        During 2003, TCE revenues for the Product Carrier segment increased slightly by $71,000, or less than 1%, to $35,124,000 from $35,053,000 in 2002. TCE revenues were stable despite a decrease in revenue days attributable to the sale of two vessels in the first quarter of 2003 because of an increase of $3,427 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned. Vessel expenses decreased by $1,543,000 to $13,143,000 in 2003 from $14,686,000 in 2002 as a result of the vessel sales. Average daily vessel expenses, however, increased by $563 per day in 2003 compared with 2002, principally attributable to increases in crew and repair costs. Depreciation and amortization decreased by $2,136,000 to $7,671,000 from $9,807,000 in 2002 as a result of the vessel sales.

Other Foreign Flag:

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
TCE revenues (in thousands)   $ 29,174   $ 26,007   $ 11,296  
Vessel expenses (in thousands)     (7,645 )   (3,326 )   (2,728 )
Time and bareboat charter hire expenses (in thousands)     (13,354 )   (1,616 )   (1,569 )
Depreciation and amortization (in thousands)     (3,443 )   (6,901 )   (7,001 )
   
 
 
 
Income from vessel operations (in thousands)   $ 4,732   $ 14,164   $ (2 )
   
 
 
 
Average daily TCE rate   $ 26,025   $ 22,615   $ 9,978  
Average number of vessels     1.0     2.9     3.0  
Average number of vessels chartered in under operating leases     2.1     0.3     0.3  
Number of revenue days     1,121     1,150     1,132  
Number of ship-operating days     1,147     1,173     1,188  

        As of December 31, 2004, the Company also owns and operates one Foreign Flag Suezmax and two Foreign Flag Dry Bulk Carriers, all on time charter. The two Dry Bulk Carriers commenced three-year time charters in early 2004, at which time they were withdrawn from the pool of Capesize vessels in which they had participated since 2000. In November 2004, the Company entered into an agreement with the charterer of its Suezmax, Eclipse, the effect of which was to convert the bareboat charter to a time charter with profit sharing between the Company and the charterer when rates earned on third-party voyages exceed a base rate. Because the initial settlement period for calculating profit sharing does not end until March 2005, the Company did not recognize any revenues above the base rate in 2004.

        TCE revenues increased by $3,167,000, or 12%, to $29,174,000 in 2004 from $26,007,000 in 2003 principally because of an increase of $3,410 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned. Vessel expenses, excluding the reserve for the Department of Justice investigation, and depreciation and amortization decreased and time and bareboat charter hire expenses increased in 2004 compared with 2003 principally because of the December 2003 sale-leaseback agreements for the two Dry Bulk Carriers.

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        TCE revenues increased by $14,711,000, or 130%, to $26,007,000 in 2003 from $11,296,000 in 2002 principally because of an increase of $12,637 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned. Vessel expenses increased by $598,000 to $3,326,000 in 2003 from $2,728,000 in 2002.

U.S. Flag Segment:

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
TCE revenues (in thousands)   $ 73,763   $ 74,856   $ 69,541  
Vessel expenses (in thousands)     (25,491 )   (23,389 )   (24,591 )
Time and bareboat charter hire expenses (in thousands)     (2,029 )   (7,471 )   (14,278 )
Depreciation and amortization (in thousands)     (18,362 )   (16,702 )   (10,984 )
   
 
 
 
Income from vessel operations (in thousands)   $ 27,881   $ 27,294   $ 19,688  
   
 
 
 
Average daily TCE rate   $ 21,549   $ 23,161   $ 21,530  
Average number of vessels     6.4     6.7     5.3  
Average number of vessels chartered in under operating leases     3.1     2.3     4.0  
Number of revenue days     3,423     3,232     3,230  
Number of ship-operating days     3,471     3,285     3,396  

        As of December 31, 2004, the U.S. Flag segment consisted of the following:

    three Crude Tankers, which are bareboat chartered at fixed rates to Alaska Tanker Company, LLC ("ATC")

    four Product Carriers, which are on time or bareboat charter;

    one Pure Car Carrier, which is on time charter; and

    two Bulk Carriers that transport U.S. foreign aid grain cargoes on voyage charters.

        TCE revenues decreased by $1,093,000, or 1%, to $73,763,000 in 2004 from $74,856,000 in 2003 because of a decrease of $1,612 per day in the average daily TCE rate, partially offset by an increase in revenue days. Revenue days increased due to the purchase of two Product Carriers, the Puget Sound and Galena Bay in April 2004, offset by the sale of Crude Tanker, Overseas Boston, in February 2004. The Puget Sound and Galena Bay were, at the time of their acquisition, operating on bareboat charters that extend to December 2009. In October 2004, the Company entered into an agreement with the charterer of the Puget Sound to convert the bareboat charter to a time charter for the balance of the charter period. The agreement also provides for profit sharing with the charterer when rates earned on third party voyages exceed the base rate, as defined in the agreement. Because the agreement provides that profit sharing be determined annually each December 31, the Company's share, if any, of TCE revenues in excess of the base rate will not be recognized in the financial statements until December of each year. Vessel expenses increased by $2,102,000 to $25,491,000 in 2004 from $23,389,000 in 2003. Average daily expenses increased by $224 per day in 2004 compared with 2003, principally due to increases in crew costs. On July 1, 2003, in accordance with the provisions of FIN 46, the Company consolidated the special purpose entity that owns the Crude Tankers. The consolidation of the special purpose entity eliminated time and bareboat charter hire expenses, which were net of amortization of the deferred gain on the 1999 sale-leaseback transaction, and increased depreciation and amortization because these vessels are now included in the consolidated balance sheet. In addition, time and bareboat charter hire expense increased because of the charter extensions on the two Bulk Carriers, Overseas Harriette and Overseas Marilyn, that commenced in the fourth quarter of 2003 at the expiry of 25-year capital leases. Depreciation and amortization increased by $1,660,000 to $18,362,000 in 2004 from $16,702,000 in 2003 because of the purchase of the two Product Carriers, partially offset by decreases attributable to the sale of the Overseas Boston and the expiry of capital leases and the related charter extensions on the two Bulk Carriers.

44


        TCE revenues increased by $5,315,000, or 8%, to $74,856,000 in 2003 from $69,541,000 in 2002 because of an increase of $1,631 per day in the average daily TCE rate earned. Vessel expenses decreased by $1,202,000 to $23,389,000 in 2003 from $24,591,000 in 2002 because of the sale of a Bulk Carrier in June 2002. Time and bareboat charter hire expenses decreased by $6,807,000 to $7,471,000 in 2003 from $14,278,000 in 2002 because the consolidation of the special purpose entity described above eliminated time and bareboat charter hire expenses, partially offset by the impact of the charter extensions on the Overseas Harriette and Overseas Marilyn. Depreciation and amortization increased by $5,718,000 to $16,702,000 in 2003 from $10,984,000 in 2002 because of the consolidation of the special purpose entity in 2003 and increased amortization of drydock costs on the Overseas Harriette and Overseas Marilyn.

        Since December 1996, the U.S. Flag Pure Car Carrier has received payments of $2,100,000 per year under the U.S. Maritime Security Program, which continues through late 2005.

General and Administrative Expenses

        During 2004, general and administrative expenses increased by $12,325,000 to $51,993,000 from $39,668,000 in 2003 principally because of the following reasons:

    an increase of $4,756,000 in incentive compensation paid to shore-based staff;

    consulting fees in connection with special projects aggregating $2,820,000;

    a settlement loss of $4,077,000 recognized in connection with the payment of the former chief executive officer's unfunded, nonqualified pension plan obligation;

    consultation services aggregating $733,000, performed by the former chief executive officer in accordance with an agreement dated June 23, 2003 (see Note O to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8); and

    costs of $1,759,000 incurred in 2004 (an increase of $897,000 compared with 2003) in connection with certain investigations by the Department of Transport of the Government of Canada and the U.S. Department of Justice (see Note P to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8).

        These increases were partially offset by:

    2003 bonus payments aggregating $1,940,000, in recognition of the substantial completion of the Company's five-year cost reduction program;

    severance related payments aggregating approximately $2,008,000, recognized in 2003 in connection with the January 2003 resignation of a senior vice president and the retirement of the Company's former CEO; and

    a reserve for an expected loss of $544,000 on the sublease of overseas office space.

        During 2003, general and administrative expenses increased by $8,186,000 to $39,668,000 from $31,482,000 in 2002 principally because of the following reasons:

    severance payments and additional compensation compared with 2002 aggregating $1,615,000 recognized in connection with the January 2003 resignation of a senior vice president and the retirement of the Company's former CEO;

    2003 bonus payments aggregating $1,940,000 in recognition of the substantial completion of the Company's five year cost reduction program;

45


    increases in the cost of certain benefit plans for domestic shore-based employees aggregating $2,431,000. Such increase reflects a gain of $1,090,000 recognized in 2002 as a reduction of the 2002 net periodic benefit cost;

    costs of $862,000 incurred in connection with certain investigations by the Department of Transport of the Government of Canada and the U.S. Department of Justice; and

    a reserve for an expected loss on the sublease of overseas office space.

Equity in Income of Joint Ventures

        During 2004, equity in income of joint ventures increased by $11,634,000 to $45,599,000 from $33,965,000 in 2003, due to an increase in average daily TCE rates earned by the joint venture vessels operating in the spot market, partially offset by a reduction in revenue days. The reduction in revenue days was attributable to the termination of joint ventures covering six vessels in the first quarter of 2004, partially offset by the delivery of the four V Pluses in July 2004 to a joint venture in which the Company has a 49.9% interest.

        During 2003, equity in income of joint ventures increased by $22,558,000 to $33,965,000 from $11,407,000 in 2002, principally due to a significant increase in average daily TCE rates earned by the joint venture vessels, which more than offset the impact of a reduction in revenue days. The reduction in revenue days was attributable to the termination in April 2003 of the joint venture with a major oil company and our acquisition of their 50% interest in two VLCCs (see Note D to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8). These two vessels have been included in the VLCC segment since April 2003. Equity in income of joint ventures for 2003 reflects the Company's share ($2,566,000) of a loss on disposal recognized in connection with the redemption of the oil company's interest in the joint venture in exchange for 100% of the stock of one of the venture's two vessel-owning subsidiaries.

        The following table is a summary of the Company's interest in its joint ventures, excluding ATC (see discussion below), and OSG's proportionate share of the revenue days for the respective vessels. Revenue days are adjusted for OSG's percentage ownership in order to state the revenue days on a basis comparable to that of a wholly-owned vessel. The ownership percentages reflected below are averages as of December 31 of each year. The Company's actual ownership percentages for these joint ventures ranged from 30% to 50%:

 
  2004
  2003
  2002
 
 
  Revenue
Days

  % of
Ownership

  Revenue
Days

  % of
Ownership

  Revenue
Days

  % of
Ownership

 
V Pluses operating in the spot market   320   49.9 %   0.0 %   0.0 %
VLCCs operating in the spot market   130   30.0 % 1,137   47.1 % 997   37.1 %
Two VLCCs owned jointly with a major oil company operating on long-term charters     0.0 % 104   0.0 % 365   50.0 %
One Aframax participating in Aframax International pool   181   50.0 % 181   50.0 % 165   50.0 %
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total   631   46.6 % 1,422   47.4 % 1,527   40.6 %
   
 
 
 
 
 
 

        Additionally, the Company has a 37.5% interest in ATC, a company that has operated U.S. Flag tankers to transport Alaskan crude oil for BP. ATC earns additional income (in the form of incentive hire paid by BP) based on meeting certain predetermined performance standards. Such income is included in the U.S. Flag segment.

46



Interest Expense

        The components of interest expense are as follows (in thousands):

In thousands for the year ended December 31,

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
Interest before impact of swaps and capitalized interest   $ 58,379   $ 51,791   $ 43,798  
Impact of swaps     15,968     14,320     13,844  
Capitalized interest     (201 )   (3,987 )   (4,949 )
   
 
 
 
Interest expense   $ 74,146   $ 62,124   $ 52,693  
   
 
 
 

        Interest expense increased by $12,022,000 to $74,146,000 in 2004 from $62,124,000 in 2003 as a result of (a) an increase of $35,216,000 in the average amount of debt outstanding, (b) an increase in average interest rates because of the impact of the issuance of $200,000,000 of ten-year notes with a coupon of 8.25% in March 2003 offset by the application of the resulting proceeds to repay amounts outstanding under floating-rate credit facilities, and (c) a decrease of $3,786,000 in interest capitalized in connection with vessel construction. The average paid on floating-rate debt in 2004 was relatively unchanged from the 2003 average rate of 2.6%. The impact of floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps that qualify as cash flow hedges increased interest expense by $15,968,000 in 2004 compared with an increase of $14,320,000 in 2003.

        Interest expense increased by $9,431,000 to $62,124,000 in 2003 from $52,693,000 in 2002 because of (a) the impact of the issuance of ten-year senior unsecured notes with a coupon of 8.25% and the application of the resulting proceeds to repay amounts outstanding under floating-rate credit facilities, and (b) a decrease of $962,000 in interest capitalized in connection with vessel construction. Such increases were partially offset by decreases in the average amount of debt outstanding of $23,959,000 and in the average rate paid on floating-rate debt of 40 basis points to 2.6% in 2003 from 3.0% in 2002. The impact of this decline in rates was substantially offset by the impact of floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps that increased interest expense by $14,320,000 in 2003 compared with an increase of $13,844,000 in 2002.

        Interest expense for 2004 and 2003 includes $1,700,000 and $1,336,000, respectively, attributable to the special purpose entity that owns the U.S. Flag Crude Tankers, which was consolidated effective July 1, 2003 (see Note B to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8).

Provision/(Credit) for Federal Income Taxes

        The income tax provisions are based on pre-tax income/(loss), adjusted to reflect items that are not subject to tax and the dividends received deduction.

        The effective tax rate (provision for income taxes divided by income before federal income taxes) for 2004, before consideration of the impact of the reduction of deferred tax liabilities discussed below, was 32.7%. The increase in the effective tax rate for 2004 compared with 2003 reflects a reduction in the relative contribution to pre-tax income of income not subject to U.S. income taxes. The provisions for income taxes for 2004 and 2003 reflect reductions in the valuation allowance of $3,640,000 that was established in 2002 against the deferred tax asset resulting from the write-down of certain marketable securities. The reductions in the valuation allowance reflect capital gains recognized in 2004 and increases in fair values of securities previously written down and the effect of securities sold in 2003. The valuation allowance was established because the Company was not certain that the full amount of the deferred tax asset could be realized through the generation of capital gains in the future. The reductions in the valuation allowance were $934,000 in 2004 and $2,706,000 in 2003.

        On October 22, 2004, the President of the U.S. signed into law the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. The Jobs Creation Act reinstates tax deferral for OSG's foreign shipping income for years

47



beginning after December 31, 2004. Effective January 1, 2005, the earnings from shipping operations of the Company's foreign subsidiaries will not be subject to U.S. income taxation as long as such earnings have not been repatriated to the U.S. Because the Company intends to permanently reinvest these earnings in foreign operations, no provision for U.S. income taxes on such earnings of its foreign shipping subsidiaries will be required after December 31, 2004.

        As of December 31, 2004, the Company had $77,423,000 of net deferred tax liabilities attributable to expected future U.S. income taxes on the shipping income of its foreign shipping subsidiaries. Because of the enactment of the Jobs Creation Act and because foreign earnings will be permanently reinvested, the Company no longer expects that these deferred tax liabilities will be paid. In accordance with the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes," the Company reduced its deferred tax liabilities by $77,423,000 with a corresponding reduction in income tax expense in the fourth quarter of 2004.

        Because the shipping income of its foreign shipping subsidiaries constitutes a significant majority of income before federal income taxes, the Company expects that its effective tax rate will be significantly reduced for periods commencing January 1, 2005. Had the tax deferral on foreign shipping income contained in the Jobs Creations Act been effective for 2004, the Company believes that the provision for federal income taxes would have been substantially eliminated. This may not, however, be indicative of the relative contribution of the Company's U.S. and foreign operations to income before federal income taxes in future years.

Effects of Inflation

        The Company does not believe that inflation has had or is likely, in the foreseeable future, to have a significant impact on vessel operating expenses, drydocking expenses and general and administrative expenses.

Newly Issued Accounting Standard

        On December 16, 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No. 123(R) ("FAS 123R"), "Share-Based Payment," amending Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("FAS 123") and requiring that all share-based payments to employees be recognized in the financial statements. Generally, the approach to accounting for share-based payments in FAS 123R is similar to the approach described in FAS 123, however, pro forma footnote disclosure will no longer be an alternative to financial statement recognition. This statement becomes effective in the first interim or annual period beginning after June 15, 2005. The Company expects to adopt the new statement effective January 1, 2005, using the modified-prospective transition method described in the statement. Under this method, the Company will be required to recognize compensation expense over the remaining vesting period for all awards that remain unvested as of January 1, 2005. As permitted by FAS 123, the Company currently accounts for share-based payments to employees using the intrinsic value method in Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 and, as such, generally recognized no compensation cost for employee stock grants. The Company believes based on the levels of share-based payments granted in the past, that the adoption of FAS 123R will not have a material effect on its earnings or financial position or its operating and financing cash flows.

Liquidity and Sources of Capital

        Working capital at December 31, 2004 was approximately $445,000,000 compared with $40,000,000 at December 31, 2003 and $77,000,000 at December 31, 2002. Current assets are highly liquid, consisting principally of cash, interest-bearing deposits, investments in marketable securities and receivables. Unbilled voyage receivables at December 31, 2004 aggregated $135,967,000 compared with

48



$45,877,000 at December 31, 2003. As of December 31, 2004, such balance included the Company's share of unremitted pool earnings of $95,509,000 ($29,870,000 at December 31, 2003) due from Tankers International and $34,623,000 ($13,499,000 at December 31, 2003) due from Aframax International. The increase in amounts due from each of the pools is a direct result of both a significant increase in TCE rates earned by the VLCCs and Aframaxes in the fourth quarter of 2004 ($109,578 per day for VLCCs and $57,579 per day for Aframaxes) compared with the comparable quarter of 2003 ($37,586 per day for VLCCs and $23,616 per day for Aframaxes) and an increase in the number of vessels participating in these two pools during the fourth quarter of 2004 (15.5 VLCCs and 14.75 Aframaxes) compared with the 2003 period (12.4 VLCCs and 11.7 Aframaxes). In addition, the Company maintains a Capital Construction Fund with a market value of approximately $268,000,000 at December 31, 2004. Net cash provided by operating activities approximated $372,000,000 in 2004 compared with $223,000,000 in 2003 and $13,000,000 in 2002. Net cash provided by operating activities in 2002 reflects $24,500,000 of payments with respect to estimated 2001 federal income taxes. Current financial resources, together with cash anticipated to be generated from operations, are expected to be adequate to meet financial requirements in the next year. The Company's reliance on the spot market contributes to fluctuations in cash flows from operating activities. Any decrease in the average TCE rates earned by the Company's vessels in periods subsequent to December 31, 2004, compared with the actual TCE rates achieved during 2004, will have a negative comparative impact on the amount of cash provided by operating activities.

        In January 2004, pursuant to a Form S-3 shelf registration filed on January 13, 2004, the Company sold 3,200,000 shares of its common stock at a price of $36.13 per share, after underwriting discounts and commissions of $0.47 per share, thereby generating proceeds of $115,513,000, after deducting expenses. In February 2004, pursuant to the existing shelf registration, the Company issued $150,000,000 principal amount of senior unsecured notes. The notes, which are due in February 2024 and may not be redeemed prior to maturity, have a coupon of 7.5%. The Company received proceeds of approximately $146,605,000, after deducting expenses. The proceeds from these offerings were used for general corporate purposes.

        The indentures pursuant to which the Company's senior unsecured notes were issued require the Company to secure the senior unsecured notes equally and comparably with any indebtedness under existing revolving credit facilities in the event OSG is required to secure the debt outstanding under such credit facilities as a result of a downgrade in the credit rating of the Company's senior unsecured debt.

        In July and November 2004, the Company concluded two new seven-year unsecured revolving credit facilities aggregating $255,000,000. The terms, conditions and financial covenants contained in these agreements are more favorable than those contained in the long-term revolving credit facility that matures in December 2006. Borrowings under both of the new facilities bear interest at a rate based on LIBOR plus a margin. In 2004, in consideration of entering into these two new revolving credit facilities, the Company reduced the amount available under the facility maturing in December 2006 to $200,000,000 from $350,000,000.

        In August 2004, the Company amended one of its floating rate secured term loans. The amendment to the secured loan extended its maturity date by two years to 2016, reduced required principal payments by approximately $390,000 per annum and added a $20,000,000 short-term credit facility.

        At December 31, 2004, OSG had $785,000,000 of long-term unsecured credit availability, of which $586,000,000 was unused. The Company's five long-term revolving credit facilities mature in 2006 ($200,000,000), 2008 ($30,000,000), 2009 ($300,000,000) and 2011 ($255,000,000). In addition, the Company also had two short-term credit facilities aggregating $65,000,000, all of which was unused at December 31, 2004.

49



        The Company was in compliance with all of the financial covenants contained in the Company's debt agreements as of December 31, 2004. Existing financing agreements impose operating restrictions and establish minimum financial covenants. Failure to comply with any of the covenants in existing financing agreements could result in a default under those agreements and under other agreements containing cross-default provisions. A default would permit lenders to accelerate the maturity of the debt under these agreements and to foreclose upon any collateral securing that debt. Under those circumstances, the Company might not have sufficient funds or other resources to satisfy its obligations.

        In addition, the secured nature of a portion of OSG's debt, together with the limitations imposed by financing agreements on the ability to secure additional debt and to take other actions, might impair the Company's ability to obtain other financing.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

        As of December 31, 2004, the joint ventures in which OSG participates had total bank debt outstanding of $297,069,000 of which the Company has guaranteed $94,810,000. The balance of the joint venture debt is nonrecourse to the Company.

        In November 2004, the Company formed a joint venture whereby companies in which OSG holds a 49.9% interest ordered four 216,000 cbm LNG Carriers. Upon delivery in 2007 and 2008, these vessels will commence 25-year time charters to Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited (II). The aggregate construction cost for such newbuildings of $908,000,000 will be financed by the joint venture through long-term bank financing and partner contributions. OSG has advanced $90,635,000 to such joint venture as of December 31, 2004, representing its share of working capital and the first installment under the construction contracts. The aggregate unpaid costs of $726,500,000 will be funded through bank financing that will be nonrecourse to the partners.

Aggregate Contractual Obligations

        A summary of the Company's long-term contractual obligations as of December 31, 2004 follows:

 
  2005
  2006
  2007
  2008
  2009
  Beyond 2009
  Total
 
  (In thousands)

Long-term debt(1)   $ 84,303   $ 79,986   $ 74,055   $ 73,256   $ 172,458   $ 1,002,069   $ 1,486,127
Obligations under capital leases(1)     9,692     9,692     9,692     9,692     9,692     16,985     65,445
Operating lease obligations (chartered-in vessels)(2)     63,691     52,250     42,848     38,690     30,595     30,461     258,535
Operating lease obligations (office space)     1,755     3,990     2,817     2,594     2,594     31,933     45,683
Purchase of Stelmar(3)     844,047                         844,047
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Total   $ 1,003,488   $ 145,918   $ 129,412   $ 124,232   $ 215,339   $ 1,081,448   $ 2,699,837
   
 
 
 
 
 
 

(1)
Amounts shown include contractual interest obligations. The interest obligations for floating rate debt ($409,698,000 as of December 31, 2004) have been estimated based on the fixed rates stated in related floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps, where applicable, or the LIBOR rate at December 31, 2004 of 2.6%. The Company is a party to floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps covering notional amounts aggregating approximately $387,661,000 at December 31, 2004 that effectively convert the Company's interest rate exposure from a floating rate based on LIBOR to an average fixed rate of 6.25%.

(2)
As of December 31, 2004, the Company had chartered in 17 vessels on leases that are accounted for as operating leases. The Company's participation interest in eight VLCCs (excluding the 100%

50


    interest in the Meridian Lion) and three Aframaxes averaged 35% and 58%, respectively. Certain of these leases provide the Company with various renewal and purchase options.

(3)
Represents amount paid to acquire Stelmar's common stock on January 20, 2005. Amount shown excludes Stelmar's outstanding debt, which was assumed as of the date of the transaction and subsequently refinanced.

        In addition to the above long-term contractual obligations the Company has certain obligations as of December 31, 2004 related to an unfunded supplemental pension plan and an unfunded postretirement health care plan as follows:

 
  2005
  2006
  2007
  2008
  2009
 
  (In thousands)

Supplemental pension plan obligations(1)   $ 76   $ 76   $ 76   $ 76   $ 76
Postretirement health care plan obligations(2)   $ 284   $ 295   $ 303   $ 312   $ 317

(1)
Obligations are included herein only if the retirement of a covered individual is known as of December 31, 2004. Amounts shown herein exclude obligations payable by the Company's defined benefit plan for domestic shore-based employees, which was overfunded as of December 31, 2004.

(2)
Amounts are estimated based on the 2004 cost taking the assumed health care cost trend rate for 2005 to 2009 into consideration. See Note M to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8. Because of the subjective nature of the assumptions made, actual premiums paid in future years may differ significantly from the estimated amounts.

        In January 2005, the Company concluded two new debt agreements aggregating $675,000,000. The proceeds from these borrowings were used in funding the acquisition of Stelmar and the refinancing of its debt. One of the agreements is a $500,000,000 seven-year unsecured revolving credit agreement. Borrowings under this facility bear interest at a rate based on LIBOR and the terms, conditions and financial covenants contained therein are comparable to those contained in the Company's existing long-term facilities. The other agreement is a $175,000,000 term loan secured by five of Stelmar's Handysize Product Carriers. The secured loan has a term of twelve years (with an average life of 8 years) and bears interest at a rate based on LIBOR.

        OSG has used interest rate swaps to convert a portion of its debt from a floating rate to a fixed rate based on management's interest-rate outlook at various times. These agreements contain no leverage features and have various maturity dates from August 2005 to August 2014.

        OSG finances vessel additions with cash provided by operating activities and long-term borrowings. In 2004, 2003 and 2002, cash used for vessel additions approximated $59,000,000, $87,000,000 and $153,000,000, respectively. In July 2002, the Company prepaid approximately $47,600,000 of progress payments for two newbuildings to realize the benefit of a contractually-provided discount. OSG expects to finance vessel commitments from working capital, cash anticipated to be generated from operations, existing long-term credit facilities, and additional long-term debt, as required. The amounts of working capital and cash generated from operations that may, in the future, be utilized to finance vessel commitments are dependent on the rates at which the Company can charter its vessels. Such charter rates are volatile.

EBITDA

        EBITDA represents operating earnings, which is before interest expense and income taxes, plus other income/(expense) and depreciation and amortization expense. EBITDA should not be considered a substitute for net income, cash flow from operating activities and other operations or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States or as a measure of profitability or liquidity. EBITDA is presented to provide additional

51



information with respect to the Company's ability to satisfy debt service, capital expenditure and working capital requirements. While EBITDA is frequently used as a measure of operating results and the ability to meet debt service requirements, it is not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to differences in methods of calculation. The following table reconciles net income/(loss), as reflected in the consolidated statements of operations set forth in Item 8, to EBITDA:

In thousands for the year ended December 31,

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
Net income/(loss)   $ 401,236   $ 121,309   $ (17,620 )
Provision/(credit) for federal income taxes     79,778     46,844     (3,244 )
Interest expense     74,146     62,124     52,693  
Depreciation and amortization     100,088     90,010     80,379  
   
 
 
 
EBITDA   $ 655,248   $ 320,287   $ 112,208  
   
 
 
 

Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges

        The ratios of earnings to fixed charges for 2004 and 2003 were 6.6X and 2.9X, respectively. The deficiency of earnings necessary to cover fixed charges for 2002 was $34,220,000. The ratio of earnings to fixed charges has been computed by dividing the sum of (a) pretax income for continuing operations, (b) fixed charges (reduced by the amount of interest capitalized during the period) and (c) amortization expense related to capitalized interest, by fixed charges. Fixed charges consist of all interest (both expensed and capitalized), including amortization of debt issuance costs, and the interest portion of time and bareboat charter hire expenses.

Earnings per Share

        The following table presents comparative per share amounts for net income, adjusted for the effects of vessel sales and securities transactions, including write-downs in the carrying value of certain securities pursuant to FAS 115:

For the year ended December 31,

  2004
  2003
  2002
 
Basic net income/(loss) per share   $ 10.26   $ 3.49   $ (0.51 )
(Gain)/loss on sale of vessels*     (0.48 )   0.13     0.02  
(Gain)/loss on securities transactions**     (0.14 )   (0.18 )   0.73  
   
 
 
 
    $ 9.64   $ 3.44   $ 0.24  
   
 
 
 

*
Based on amounts reported in Note N to the consolidated financial statements set forth in Item 8, reduced by federal income taxes calculated at 35%.

**
Represents the sum of realized gain on sale of securities and write-down of marketable securities (as reported in Note N), reduced by federal income taxes calculated at 35%, as adjusted by the change in the valuation allowance.

        Net income adjusted for the effect of vessel sales and securities transactions is presented to provide additional information with respect to the Company's ability to compare from period to period vessel operating revenues and expenses and general and administrative expenses without gains and losses from disposals of assets and investments. While net income/(loss) adjusted for the effect of vessel sales and securities transactions is frequently used by management as a measure of the vessels operating performance in a particular period it is not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to differences in methods of calculation. Net income/(loss) adjusted for the effect of vessel sales and securities transactions should not be considered an alternative to net

52


income/(loss) or other measurements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

Risk Management

        The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates, which could impact its results of operations and financial condition. The Company manages this exposure to market risk through its regular operating and financing activities and, when deemed appropriate, through the use of derivative financial instruments. The Company manages its ratio of fixed to floating rate debt with the objective of achieving a mix that reflects management's interest rate outlook at various times. To manage this mix in a cost-effective manner, the Company, from time-to-time, enters into interest rate swap agreements, in which it agrees to exchange various combinations of fixed and variable interest rates based on agreed upon notional amounts. The Company uses such derivative financial instruments as risk management tools and not for speculative or trading purposes. In addition, derivative financial instruments are entered into with a diversified group of major financial institutions in order to manage exposure to nonperformance on such instruments by the counterparties.

        The shipping industry's functional currency is the U.S. dollar. All of the Company's revenues and most of its operating costs are in U.S. dollars.

        The following tables provide information about the Company's derivative financial instruments and other financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. For investment securities and debt obligations, the tables present principal cash flows and related weighted average interest rates by expected maturity dates. Additionally, the Company has assumed that its fixed income securities are similar enough to aggregate those securities for presentation purposes. For interest rate swaps, the tables present notional amounts and weighted average interest rates by contractual maturity dates. Notional amounts are used to calculate the contractual cash flows to be exchanged under the contracts.

53



Interest Rate Sensitivity

Principal (Notional) Amount (dollars in millions) by Expected Maturity and Average Interest (Swap) Rate

At December 31, 2004

  2005
  2006
  2007
  2008
  2009
  Beyond
2009

  Total
  Fair Value at
Dec. 31, 2004

 
Assets                                                  
Fixed income securities   $ 20.7   $ 7.5   $ 3.4   $ 2.6   $ 9.4   $ 53.8   $ 97.4   $ 97.4  
  Average interest rate     2.3 %   3.8 %   3.1 %   4.3 %   4.1 %   5.4 %            

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, including current portion:                                                  
    Fixed rate   $ 7.7   $ 8.7   $ 9.3   $ 10.0   $ 10.7   $ 479.8   $ 526.2   $ 543.9  
    Average interest rate     8.2 %   8.4 %   8.5 %   8.6 %   8.7 %   8.4 %            
    Variable rate   $ 22.0   $ 16.8   $ 11.6   $ 11.6   $ 111.6   $ 236.1   $ 409.7   $ 409.7  
    Average spread over LIBOR     1.1 %   0.7 %   0.8 %   0.8 %   0.9 %   0.5 %            

Interest Rate Swaps