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LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A. - Annual Report: 2010 (Form 10-K)

logitech_10k.htm


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

FORM 10-K
 
x         ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010
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: 0-29174
_______________

LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Canton of Vaud, Switzerland None
(State or other jurisdiction (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organization) Identification No.)

Logitech International S.A.
Apples, Switzerland
c/o Logitech Inc.
6505 Kaiser Drive
Fremont, California 94555
(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)
(510) 795-8500
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
_______________

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
Registered Shares par value CHF 0.25 per share The NASDAQ Global Select Market
SIX Swiss Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
___________________
 
     Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes x No o
     Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o No x
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No o
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data file required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o No o
     Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the 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. x
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
      Large accelerated filer x Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o Smaller reporting company o
     (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o No x
     The aggregate market value of the voting shares held by non-affiliates of the registrant, based upon the closing sale price of the shares on September 25, 2009, the last business day of the registrant’s second fiscal quarter on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, was approximately $2,430,631,788. For purposes of this disclosure, voting shares held by persons known to the Registrant to beneficially own more than 5% of the Registrant’s shares and shares held by officers and directors of the Registrant have been excluded because such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.
     As of May 3, 2010, there were 175,458,482 shares of the Registrant’s share capital outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
     Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated herein by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K to the extent stated herein. Such proxy statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the registrant’s fiscal year ended March 31, 2010.




TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
Page
Part I
    Item 1. Business 4
    Item 1A. Risk Factors 22
    Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments 30
    Item 2. Properties 31
    Item 3. Legal Proceedings 32
    Item 4. (Removed and Reserved) 32
 
Part II
    Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases
       of Equity Securities 33
    Item 6. Selected Financial Data 37
    Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 38
    Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 61
    Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 63
    Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial
       Disclosure 63
    Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 63
    Item 9B. Other Information 64
 
Part III      
    Item 10.   Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 65
    Item 11. Executive Compensation 65
    Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder
       Matters 65
    Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 66
    Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 66
 
Part IV
    Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 66
 
Signatures 69
 
Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 71
 
Exhibits  

     In this document, unless otherwise indicated, references to the “Company” or “Logitech” are to Logitech International S.A., its consolidated subsidiaries and predecessor entities. Unless otherwise specified, all references to U.S. dollar, dollar or $ are to the United States dollar, the legal currency of the United States of America. All references to CHF are to the Swiss franc, the legal currency of Switzerland.
 
     Logitech, the Logitech logo, and the Logitech products referred to herein are either the trademarks or the registered trademarks of Logitech. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
 
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FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
 
     This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements based on beliefs of our management as of the filing date of this Form 10-K. These forward-looking statements include statements related to:
  • our business strategy for fiscal year 2011 and beyond considering current and future general economic conditions;
     
  • our business and product plans for fiscal year 2011 and evolving consumer demand trends affecting our products; and
     
  • the sufficiency of our cash and cash equivalents, cash generated from operations, and available borrowings under our bank lines of credit to fund capital expenditures and working capital needs for the foreseeable future.
     Factors that might affect these forward-looking statements include, among other things:
  • worldwide economic and business conditions, particularly in retail consumer markets, and our ability to implement our business strategy during uncertain market conditions;
     
  • general market trends for peripherals for personal computers and other digital platforms and market acceptance of our products;
     
  • the impact of our acquisition of LifeSize Communications on our current operations and future performance;
     
  • the impact of a failure to successfully innovate in our current and emerging product categories and identify new features or product opportunities;
     
  • the effect of pricing, product, marketing and other initiatives by our competitors and our reaction to them on our sales, gross margins, operating expenses and profitability;
     
  • consumer demand for our products and our ability to accurately forecast such demand;
     
  • our ability to match production levels with product demand and to successfully coordinate worldwide manufacturing and distribution of our products.
     Forward-looking statements also include, among others, those statements including the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “should,” “will” and similar language. These statements reflect our views and assumptions as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. All forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed under Item 1A “Risk Factors,” as well as elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and in our other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to the forward-looking statements or reflect events or circumstances after the date of this document.
 
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PART I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
 
Company Overview
 
     Logitech is a world leader in personal peripherals for computers and other digital platforms. We develop and market innovative products in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home-entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices. With our acquisition of LifeSize Communications, Inc. in December 2009, we entered the market for enterprise video conferencing products and services. Our products combine essential core technologies, continuing innovation, and award-winning industrial design.
 
     For the PC, our products include mice, trackballs, keyboards, interactive gaming controllers, multimedia speakers, headsets, webcams, 3D control devices and lapdesks. Our Internet communications products include webcams, headsets, video communications services, and digital video security systems for a home or small business. Our LifeSize division offers scalable high-definition (“HD”) video communication products, support and services. Our digital music products include speakers, earphones, and custom in-ear monitors. For home entertainment systems, we offer the Harmony line of advanced remote controls and the Squeezebox and Transporter wireless music solutions for the home. For gaming consoles, we offer a range of gaming controllers, including racing wheels, wireless guitar and drum controllers, and microphones, as well as other accessories.
 
     We sell our peripheral products to a network of retail distributors and resellers and to original equipment manufacturers, or OEMs. We sell our LifeSize products and services to distributors, value-added resellers, OEMs and direct enterprise customers. The large majority of our revenues are derived from sales of our personal peripheral products for use by consumers.
 
     For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010, we generated net sales of $2.0 billion, operating income of $78.4 million, net income of $65.0 million, employed approximately 10,000 employees and conducted business in approximately 100 countries.
 
     Logitech was founded in Switzerland in 1981, and Logitech International S.A. has been the parent holding company of Logitech since 1988. Logitech International S.A. is a Swiss holding company with its registered office in Apples, Switzerland, which conducts its business through subsidiaries in the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. Shares of Logitech International S.A. are listed on both the Nasdaq Global Select Market, under the trading symbol LOGI, and the SIX Swiss Exchange, under the trading symbol LOGN. References in this Form 10-K to the “Company,” “Logitech,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refer to Logitech International S.A. and its consolidated subsidiaries.
 
     Logitech operates in two industry segments, personal peripherals and video conferencing. Our personal peripherals segment encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of personal peripherals for personal computers and other digital platforms. Our research and product management teams are organized along product lines, and are responsible for product strategy, industrial design and development, and technological innovation. Our global marketing and sales organization helps define product opportunities and bring our products to market, and is responsible for building the Logitech brand and consumer awareness of our products. This organization is comprised of retail and OEM sales and marketing groups. Our retail sales and marketing activities are organized into three geographic regions: Americas (including North and South America), Europe-Middle East-Africa (“EMEA”), and Asia Pacific. Our OEM sales team is a worldwide organization with representatives in each of our three regions. Our OEM customers include the majority of the world’s largest PC manufacturers. Our video conferencing segment encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of LifeSize video conferencing products and services for the enterprise and small-to-medium business markets. The LifeSize segment maintains a separate marketing and sales organization. The LifeSize product development and product management organizations are separate, but coordinated with our personal peripherals business, particularly our webcam and video communications groups. Based on financial measurements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 as evaluated by Logitech’s Chief Executive Officer, the LifeSize operating segment does not meet the quantitative threshold for separate disclosure of financial information required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
 
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     A summary of our net sales and long-lived assets by geographic region can be found in Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 15, which is incorporated herein by reference. A discussion of factors potentially affecting our operations is set forth in Item 1A Risk Factors, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
     Since 1994, we have had our own manufacturing operations in Suzhou, China, which currently handle approximately half of our total production of peripheral products. We outsource the remaining production to contract manufacturers and original design manufacturers located in Asia. Both our in-house and outsourced manufacturing is managed by our worldwide operations group. The worldwide operations group also supports the business units and marketing and sales organizations through management of distribution centers and of the product supply chain, and the provision of technical support, customer relations and other services. Our LifeSize video communications products are manufactured in Malaysia under contract with a third-party manufacturer.
 
Industry Overview
 
     Affordable prices and wider availability of business, consumer, education, and communication applications have created a very large installed base of desktop and notebook personal computers. We believe that market penetration of PCs, Mac computers and other information access devices, already high in developed countries, will eventually increase worldwide.
 
     In addition, continuing growth in processing power and communications bandwidth, the increased accessibility of digital content, and the pervasive access and use of the Internet, create opportunities for new applications, new users and dramatically richer interactions between users and digital information. These developments create new demands by users who want to take full advantage of the increased processing power, new applications and new technologies in an intuitive, productive, comfortable and convenient manner.
 
     Today’s desktop and notebook PCs and Mac computers have evolved into affordable multimedia appliances or “digital hubs” capable of creating and manipulating vast amounts of graphics, sound and video. Logitech believes the expanded capabilities of PCs and Mac computers and the large installed base present a significant opportunity for companies that provide innovative personal peripheral products for the computer, since basic input devices alone do not fully enable many of the newest applications, or are not as convenient or comfortable as the peripheral upgrades and add-ons sold separately from the basic PC or Mac computer. We believe the potential demand for our products grows as consumers demand more function-rich personal peripheral tools, and as the PC or Mac computer play an increasing role in the new digital lifestyle.
 
     In addition, we believe that trends established in the consumer technology market – such as brand identity, affordability, ease of installation and use as well as visual appeal – have become important aspects of the purchase decision when buying a desktop or notebook PC or Mac computer and personal peripherals.
 
     We also believe that similar industry dynamics and personal peripheral device opportunities exist for non-PC platforms that are connected to the Internet, such as home-entertainment systems, smartphones, tablets and video conferencing platforms. As these additional platforms deliver new functionality, increased processing power and growing communications capabilities, we expect demand to increase for add-on, complementary devices connected to these platforms. The product expertise Logitech has developed around the PC extends to these other platforms as well and provides further opportunity for growth and leverage.
 
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     In the video conferencing industry, we believe there is potential for growth in the sales of video communications products and services both in the enterprise markets and among consumers. The technological and economic trends creating this growth include the increased availability of high-bandwidth internet connections in enterprises and homes, improvements in video processing speeds, wide geographic distribution of employees, customers and families, and a desire to lower travel costs. These trends also generate increased interest in the video conferencing market by large, well-financed competitors, such as Cisco Systems, Inc. and Hewlett-Packard Company and, as a result, we expect competition in the industry to further intensify.
 
Consumer Behavior and Customer Experience Strategy
 
     The impact of the global macroeconomic recession on buying behavior in consumer electronics has been significant. In the current environment, we believe that consumers have become more discerning and more value-oriented and are increasingly moving online both to research and purchase products. Our strategy is to continue to stay close to consumers and adapt rapidly to their changing needs, which is exemplified by our greater emphasis on integrating consumer insights into our product and marketing strategies. We believe that a deeper understanding of the consumer is one of the major drivers that has enabled Logitech to emerge stronger from the downturn.
 
     The mission of our customer experience organization is to focus on understanding and improving the consumer’s overall experience with Logitech products. This group’s goal is to ensure optimal levels of experience in all Logitech products and at each consumer touch point. We use metrics and consumer feedback mechanisms to drive meaningful and measurable improvements in our products. We believe that these improvements increase consumer loyalty over time. In addition, by focusing on maximizing the number of consumers who actively recommend Logitech products, we are fueling brand preference within and across our many product categories. This is especially important because we believe today’s consumer exhibits increasing skepticism toward manufacturers, yet is more trusting of personal recommendations.
 
Business Strategy
 
     Logitech’s objective is to strengthen our leadership in the market for personal peripherals, linking people to the digital world wherever and whenever they need to access digital information for work or play. Our current business is focused on the installed and still-growing base of desktop, notebook and netbook PCs and Mac computers by offering innovative personal peripherals to address needs for comfort and productivity as well as entertainment and communication. Historically, the PC has been the main interface to the digital world and the Internet. As access to digital information expands beyond the PC platform, we are also extending our vision to the living room, meeting room and other platforms as access points to the Internet and the digital world. We believe that the market for PC personal peripherals will continue to present significant opportunities. However, we are increasingly focusing our efforts on other platforms and devices that will allow consumers to easily access information, communicate conveniently, and enjoy multiple media.
 
     In addition, as part of our corporate strategy, we plan to increase investments in and realign resources to focus on certain market adjacencies, geographic markets or new categories, including video communications and the China market. We also plan to increase our investment in applications and peripherals for open platforms, which do not require direct collaboration and agreement with the platform owner.
 
     We continually evaluate our product offerings and our strategic direction in light of current global economic conditions, changing consumer trends, and the evolving nature of the interface between the consumer and the digital world.
 
Product Strategy
 
     We have placed an increasing emphasis on strengthening the competitiveness of our entry level products. We have always participated at the entry level, but given the increased price sensitivity among a growing number of consumers and what we believe is a resulting shift by consumers to lower priced products, we are taking action to ensure that we are also the consumer’s first choice at lower price points.
 
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     Beyond the entry level, we have heightened our focus on providing the consumer with the strongest possible overall value across all price points. Our goal, using the lessons we have learned from our customer experience initiatives, is to maximize the product’s benefits and the value the consumer associates with those benefits. Maximizing the consumer’s perceived value of our products is one of the guiding principles of our product strategy above the entry level.
 
     To capitalize on the many opportunities in the growing digital marketplace, Logitech’s product strategy focuses on personal peripherals around four platforms or environments: the PC, the living room, the meeting room, and other platforms.
 
The PC
 
     Logitech continues to provide new, more innovative, high-performance PC and Mac computer navigation devices. In addition, we are also a leading brand for video imaging products, keyboards and PC audio products.
 
The Living Room
 
     The dramatic proliferation of digital content available for the home provides a significant source of new opportunities for Logitech. We believe that the new digital home – with a broad and evolving selection of digital entertainment and information content available from multiple sources, and the innovation in affordably priced digital-technology equipment – will over time allow us to play a significant role in the home entertainment experience for a much wider audience.
 
     Our product portfolio includes a line of advanced remote controls for home entertainment, the Squeezebox network music system that allows people to enjoy digital music in any room of the house, the diNovo Mini keyboard and the WiLife video security solution. These products represent part of our strategy to pursue new opportunities in the digital home environment, positioning Logitech at the convergence of consumer electronics and personal computing in the digital home. Logitech also offers a broad spectrum of products to enhance gaming consoles. We continue to innovate and develop new product offerings focused around the TV screen.
 
The Meeting Room
 
     With our acquisition of LifeSize in December 2009, we entered the video conferencing market. LifeSize represents our focused investment in the growth of the video communications market, as well as an opportunity to gain greater access to enterprise customers. Together, Logitech and LifeSize plan to pursue existing and new relationships with unified communications, collaboration and voice-over Internet protocol (“VoIP”) industry partners and competitors to drive the development of an open eco-system for interoperable video communications.
 
Other Platforms
 
     The significant growth of smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices that have the same or better processing capability as computers from a few years ago provides opportunities for Logitech to support these increasingly powerful platforms. Our current product portfolio includes portable digital music players and the Ultimate Ears line-up of earphones. We believe there will be additional demand for complementary personal peripherals for mobile and small form factor devices.
 
Geographic Expansion
 
     We believe that the market penetration for Logitech products is low in developing markets such as China, India, Latin America and Eastern Europe. We are committing resources to capitalize on the growth opportunities in key emerging countries, including securing new channel partners, strengthening relationships with existing partners, expanding our sales force and investing in product and marketing initiatives. As part of our business strategy, we plan to selectively increase investments and realign resources in certain key geographic markets, such as China.
 
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Manufacturing
 
     To effectively respond to rapidly changing demand and to leverage economies of scale, we intend to continue our hybrid model of in-house manufacturing and third-party contract manufacturers to supply our products. Through our high-volume manufacturing operations for personal peripherals located in Suzhou, China, we believe we have been able to maintain strong quality process controls and have realized significant cost efficiencies. Our Suzhou operation provides for increased production capacity and greater flexibility in responding to product demand. Further, by outsourcing the manufacturing of certain products, we seek to reduce volatility in production volumes as well as improve time to market.
 
Technological Innovation
 
     Logitech seeks to fulfill the increasing demand for interfaces between people and the expanding digital world across multiple platforms and user environments. The interface evolves as platforms, user models and our target markets evolve. As access to digital information has expanded, we have extended our focus to the living room, the meeting room, and other platforms, in addition to the PC, as access points to the Internet and the digital world. All of these platforms require interfaces that are customized according to how the devices are used. We believe this expansion of access points provides additional attractive and sizable opportunities for Logitech because the relevance and importance of navigation, interaction, video and audio interfaces and applications remains substantially the same across platforms.
 
     To capitalize on market opportunities for personal peripherals, we recognize that continued investment in product research and development is critical to facilitating innovation of new and improved products and technologies. Beyond updating our existing line of personal peripherals and video conferencing products and services, we intend to continue to lead the development of new technologies and to create product innovations, such as those introduced in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, which include the Logitech Performance Mouse MX, the Logitech Anywhere Mouse MX with Logitech Darkfield Laser Tracking technology, the Logitech Wireless Desktop MK710 with three-year battery life, the Harmony 900 remote with RF technology which lets you control your devices through cabinets, the Webcam Pro 9000 with Zeiss optics and a true 2-megapixel HD sensor, VID software which allows video calling with Logitech webcams, the Z320, Z323, Z520 and Z523 speakers with 360-degree speaker technology, the Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 with built-in high definition speakers, the Ultimate Ears 18 Pro Customer In-Ear Monitors featuring a six-speaker design, and the unifying Nano-receiver, which can connect multiple wireless mice and keyboards. The Nano-receiver was first introduced to the market in the VX Nano mouse and has since proliferated across a wide range of our mice.
 
     Logitech is committed to meeting consumers’ needs for personal peripheral devices and believes that innovation, value and product quality are important elements to gaining market acceptance and strengthening our market position.
 
Products
 
     Logitech operates in two industry segments, personal peripherals and video conferencing. Our personal peripherals segment encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of personal peripherals for personal computers and other digital platforms. We sell our peripheral products to a network of retail distributors and resellers and to original equipment manufacturers, or OEMs. The large majority of our revenues are derived from sales of our personal peripheral products for use by consumers. The video conferencing segment encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of LifeSize video conferencing products and services. We sell our LifeSize products and services to distributors, value-added resellers, OEMs and direct enterprise customers.
 
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Pointing Devices
 
Mice
 
     Logitech offers many varieties of computer mice, sold through retail and OEM channels. Some of our major mice products include:
  • Performance Mouse MX and Anywhere Mouse MX with Logitech Darkfield Laser Tracking, which allows the mouse to be used virtually anywhere including clear glass and high-gloss surfaces.
     
  • Marathon Mouse 750, a wireless mouse that runs up to three years on one set of batteries.
     
  • MX Air Rechargeable Cordless Air Mouse works on the desk or in the air.
     
  • M505 wireless mouse with extended battery life, precise laser tracking, and ambidextrous design.
     
  • M305 wireless mouse with advanced 2.4 GHz connection.
     Our mice products also include an expanded line of gaming mice, including the customizable G9x, which gives PC gamers the ability to modify the mouse for the best personal fit, feel and performance. In addition, we sell both corded and cordless mice designed specifically for OEM customers.
 
Other Pointing Devices
 
     Some of our other pointing devices include:
  • Cordless Optical TrackMan trackball, featuring a “cruise control” scrolling feature and several programmable buttons.
     
  • 3D input devices such as SpaceNavigator, SpaceExplorer, SpaceNavigator for Notebooks, and SpacePilot, sold under the 3Dconnexion brand.
Keyboards and Desktops
 
     Logitech offers a variety of corded and cordless keyboards and desktops (keyboard-and-mouse combinations). Some of our major keyboards and desktops include:
  • Wireless Keyboards K350, K340 and K320, our wireless keyboards with up to a three-year battery life.
     
  • The diNovo Edge keyboard, our award-winning top-of-the-line rechargeable keyboard.
     
  • The diNovo Mini keyboard, combining thumb typing, Windows Media center remote controls and a touchpad.
     
  • The Illuminated Keyboard, a corded keyboard featuring laser-etched, backlighted keys, an ultra-thin 9.3mm design and Logitech PerfectStroke key system.
Notebook Essentials
 
     Logitech offers a range of personal peripherals that help improve the laptop-computing experience. Our products include notebook mice, webcams, speakers, headsets, presentation tools, numeric pads, lapdesks, cooling pads and notebook risers.
 
     Some of our notebook products include:
  • Speaker Lapdesk N700 with built-in high definition speakers, a quiet, efficient fan and an ergonomic design.
     
  • The Notebook Kit MK605 which includes a wireless laser mouse, pivoting riser, and compact, wireless keyboard connected to your notebook through one tiny unifying receiver.
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  • Comfort Lapdesk, a new product category, which is designed for use on the lap to protect the user from laptop heat.
     
  • Cooling Pad N100, introduced in fiscal year 2009, a new category which features a slotted surface that enables airflow around a laptop using the USB-powered fan and can be used on a table or a lap.
Voice and Video Communications
 
Web Cameras
 
     Logitech’s webcam offerings include:
  • WebCam Pro 9000
     
  • Webcam C905
     
  • QuickCam Orbit AF
     
  • Webcam C600, C500 and C250
     Our premium webcams feature lenses designed in an exclusive collaboration with Carl Zeiss, a premium autofocus system, and a true 2-megapixel HD sensor. These webcams also leverage High Quality Video from Skype, a video calling functionality offered through our collaboration with Skype. Our mid-range webcams feature glass lenses, auto focus technology, and RightSound and RightLight2 Technology. These webcams record video at up to 30 frames per second and support the 720p HD video format.
 
     Logitech has also developed Vid, easy-to-use software that enables clear, simple video calling. Vid can be downloaded from the Logitech website and is powered by the Logitech SightSpeed network. Logitech’s entire family of webcams works with most popular video messaging applications, including Skype, Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger and AIM. In addition, our Logitech Video Effects software has become a favorite application for users wishing to record and post video on the Internet.
 
     Logitech also offers the SightSpeed video calling service, as a result of the acquisition of privately-held SightSpeed Inc. in November 2008.
 
Video Security Systems
 
     Logitech’s WiLife video security systems use a PC and special video cameras to provide remote security monitoring of a home or small business. The WiLife solution includes monitoring cameras that use the HomePlug Powerline technology to transfer video over standard electrical wiring. The cameras can record video on a scheduled basis, at all times, or when they detect motion. The video is stored locally on a computer and can be played back locally on the PC. For an additional fee, the solution offers Platinum Digital Video Security which is an internet-based security system with the ability to monitor video feeds remotely on a PC, Windows-based PDAs, or cell phones.
 
Audio
 
Speakers and Earphones
 
     Logitech designs and manufactures a wide variety of multimedia speakers including:
  • Z320, Z323, Z520 and Z523 speakers featuring 360-degree surround sound.
     
  • The Laptop Z205 speaker, a lightweight speaker with an easy-to-attach clip-on design.
     
  • Logitech Z-5500 Digital speakers, which are 5.1-channel multi-platform, 505-watt speakers with a 10-inch subwoofer.
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  • Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 speakers including a rechargeable battery, with a battery-life indicator, an improved traveling case, and an advanced remote control with one-touch access to shuffle and repeat for the iPod.
     
  • Rechargeable Speaker S315i offering up to 20 hours of battery life, that can play your music while it’s plugged in and charging your iPod.
     
  • The Portable Speaker S125i, an easy-to-transport speaker dock with extra bass.
     
  • Z-5 Omnidirectional speakers, USB-powered speakers designed for Mac and PC use which feature omnidirectional acoustics.
     The Ultimate Ears product line offers a range of custom stage earphones for professional musicians and sound engineers, as well as in-ear consumer or universal fit earphones for portable music enthusiasts.
 
     Our line of Ultimate Ears noise-isolating universal fit earphones includes:
  • The TripleFi 10 and TripleFi 10vi with triple armature speakers and voice capability options.
     
  • The SuperFi 5 and 5vi featuring single armature speakers with flexible wearing styles and voice capability options.
     
  • The MetroFi series which includes a range of six earphones priced from $29.99 to $79.99.
     In addition, we design and manufacture a line of Ultimate Ears Custom Stage Earphones including:
  • The UE-18 Pro featuring a unique six-speaker design.
     
  • The UE-10 which has a three-speaker design and flat response for studio mixing and audiophiles.
     
  • The UE-7 Pro for live performance and stage use.
     
  • The UE-4 Pro featuring a dual speaker design for emerging artists.
Streaming Media
 
     Building on our platform and product development expertise, Logitech offers a portfolio of affordable network music systems that make it easier to enjoy and control digital music anywhere in the home. In fiscal year 2010, we expanded our line of streaming music products with the introduction of the Logitech Squeezebox Radio and Logitech Squeezebox Touch. The Squeezebox Radio allows you to connect to your home network, and access internet radio, your personal music collection or subscription services. The Squeezebox Touch, with its 4.3-inch color touch screen, connects to your existing stereo system and speakers and supports sampling rates of up to 24 bits at 96 kHz, delivering rich sound with very little distortion.
 
     To expand the home network music system, Logitech also offers other players, including the Logitech Squeezebox Boom, Logitech Squeezebox Duet network music system, and the hi-end Transporter network music player.
 
PC Headsets
 
     We offer headsets and microphones designed for applications such as PC voice communications, VoIP applications and online gaming. Some of our major products in this category include the ClearChat PC Wireless headset, the ClearChat Pro USB Headset, the USB Headset H360, the Notebook Headset H165, and the USB Desktop Microphone.
 
Gaming
 
PC Game Controllers
 
     Logitech offers a full range of dedicated game controllers for PC gamers including joysticks, steering wheels, gamepads, mice and keyboards, and headsets.
 
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     Our PC gaming products include:
  • Logitech G9x Laser Mouse, a fully customizable mouse including features such as interchangeable grips, on-the-fly, full-speed USB laser tracking, an onboard-memory profiling system, weight tuning, a custom-color LED and the hyper-fast MicroGear Precision Scroll Wheel.
     
  • Logitech G13 advanced gameboard, a CES Innovations Winner in the Electronic Gaming category, featuring a built-in LCD screen, 25 programmable keys and onboard memory.
     
  • Logitech G27 Racing Wheel with several advanced features such as a six-speed gated shifter and clutch pedal, a high-torque, dual-motor force-feedback mechanism, 900 degrees of rotation, an 11-inch wheel, and premium materials such as stainless steel and leather.
Console Game Controllers and Accessories
 
     We offer gaming products for console platforms such as PlayStation2, PlayStation3, PSP (PlayStation Portable), Xbox, Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii. Products include the Wireless Guitar Controller, Wireless Drum Controller, Driving Force GT Wheel and Vantage USB headset for PlayStation 3, and the USB Microphone for all platforms.
 
Gaming Headsets
 
     Our gaming headsets include the Logitech G35 Surround Sound Headset, a CES Innovations Winner, which offers 7.1 channel surround sound, a proprietary ear-enclosing design and three customizable G keys for one-touch command over music, voice morphing and more. The Logitech Gaming Headset G330 features an adjustable behind-the-head design and silicone-lined headband for a comfortable fit.
 
Remote Controls
 
     Our current line of Harmony advanced remote controls uses our patented Smart State Technology. The Logitech family of remotes includes:
  • Harmony One remote features a touch-screen with backlighted buttons positioned in logical zones to make it easy to navigate, even in the dark.
     
  • Harmony 900 remote features a full-color touch screen, intuitive button layout, and RF system allowing you to control your devices through cabinet doors and walls.
     
  • Harmony 1100 features a customizable 3.5-inch color touch-screen and supports optional radio frequency (RF) wireless technology that lets the user control devices through cabinet doors and walls.
     
  • Harmony 700 controls up to six devices from one color LCD screen, and features rechargeable batteries and one-click control for your favorite activities.
     
  • Harmony 600 and Harmony 650 control up to five devices and simplify complex home-entertainment systems by giving you one-click control over your favorite activities.
     
  • Harmony 300 controls up to four devices and requires just one button to watch TV.
Video Conferencing
 
     In December 2009, Logitech acquired LifeSize Communications, Inc., which offers HD video communication solutions that provide a productive, true-to-life experience.
 
     LifeSize products include:
  • Passport, an HD video system that delivers telepresence-quality at a price point that enables broad deployment across an organization.
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  • Express Series, which provides full HD video quality at the lowest possible bandwidth, allowing data-sharing and supporting dual HD display, full HD camera, and phone or microphone options.
     
  • Team Series, providing full HD video quality for natural, realistic interactions, along with ease of use and flexibility for workgroups.
     
  • Room Series, a full HD standards-based system that provides high resolution and strong motion handling with lower latency. The LifeSize Room 220 comes standard with an embedded 8-way continuous multipoint bridge showing four visible sites.
     
  • Conference Series 200 which, with full HD, allows dual streams to share data and documents in full motion and includes an embedded multipoint control unit complete with transcoding.
     LifeSize’s video conferencing solutions include HD video communications products, HD audio conference telephones, hardware infrastructure solutions, video management software, and services to support reliable video and audio communications and help users connect to any network securely and with ease.
 
Competitive Strengths
 
     We believe the key competitive strengths that allow Logitech to be successful and competitive in the markets for personal peripherals include:
  • Our understanding of product definition, technology and industrial design excellence, as demonstrated by the various awards that our product designs continue to receive.
     
  • Our expertise in key engineering disciplines that underlie our products and our continued enhancement of our products through the use of advanced technologies.
     
  • Our continuing to embrace new technologies and standards, with a list of 100 industry “firsts” to our name and a patent portfolio of approximately 400 patents.
     
  • The Logitech brand name and industrial designs which are recognized worldwide as symbols of product quality, innovation, ease of use and price-performance value.
     
  • Our volume manufacturing and distribution capabilities which allow us to maintain strong quality process controls and realize significant cost efficiencies.
     
  • Our global presence, capable of drawing upon the strengths of our global resources, global distribution system and geographical revenue mix.
     
  • Our expertise in a broad array of PC peripherals and video conferencing solutions.
     We believe that we have competed successfully based on these factors. We believe that Logitech’s future lies with our ability to continue to capitalize on these strengths.
 
Research and Development
 
     We believe that continued investment in product research and development is critical to Logitech’s success. Our international structure provides advantages and synergies to our overall product development efforts. We have development centers in the United States, Switzerland, Ireland, Canada, Germany, India and Taiwan.
 
     Our research and development expenses for fiscal years 2010, 2009, and 2008 were $135.8 million, $128.8 million, and $124.5 million. We expect to continue to devote significant resources to research and development, including devices for the digital home, video communications, wireless technologies, power management, user interfaces and device database management to sustain our competitive position.
 
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Marketing, Sales and Distribution
 
Principal Markets
 
     Net sales to unaffiliated customers by geographic region were as follows (in thousands):
 
Year ended March 31,
      2010       2009       2008
EMEA $ 882,635   $ 1,001,337 $ 1,117,060
Americas   729,473 785,862   888,529
Asia Pacific   354,640   421,633   364,907
       Total net sales $ 1,966,748 $ 2,208,832 $ 2,370,496
 
     Revenues from sales to customers in Switzerland, our home domicile, represented a small portion of our total consolidated net sales in fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008. The United States and Germany each represented more than 10% of our total consolidated net sales for fiscal year 2010. In fiscal years 2009 and 2008, no single country other than the United States represented more than 10% of our total consolidated net sales.
 
     In fiscal year 2010, Ingram Micro Inc. and its affiliated entities together accounted for 13% of our net sales; in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, the same customer represented 14% of net sales. No other customer individually accounted for more than 10% of our net sales during fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008. The material terms of our distribution agreements with Ingram Micro and its affiliated entities are summarized as follows:
  • The agreements are non-exclusive in the particular territory and contain no minimum purchase requirements.
     
  • Each agreement may be terminated for convenience at any time by either party. Most agreements provide for termination on 30 days’ written notice from either party, with two Ingram Micro agreements providing for termination on 90 days’ notice.
     
  • We generally offer an allowance for marketing activities equal to a negotiated percentage of sales and volume rebates related to purchase volumes or sales of specific products to specified retailers. These terms vary by agreement.
     
  • Most agreements allow price protection credits to be issued for on–hand or in transit new inventory if we, in our sole discretion, lower the price of the product.
     
  • We grant limited rights to return product, which vary by distributor. Under most of the Ingram Micro agreements, the Ingram Micro entities may return defective products and may return up to 10% of the previous quarter’s purchases, if they place an offsetting order for the amount they returned.
Marketing
 
     Logitech builds awareness of our products and recognition of our brand through targeted advertising, public relations efforts, distinct packaging of our retail products, in-store promotions and merchandising, a Worldwide Web site and other efforts. We also acquire knowledge of our users through customer feedback and market research, including focus groups, product registrations, user questionnaires, primary and multi-client surveys and other techniques. In addition, manufacturers of PCs and other products also receive customer feedback and perform user market research, which sometimes results in requests to Logitech for specific products, features or enhancements.
 
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Sales and Distribution
 
     Logitech sells its personal peripherals through many distribution channels, including distributors, OEMs and regional and national retail chains, including online retailers. We support these retail channels with third-party distribution centers located in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. These centers perform final configuration of products and product localization with local language manuals, packaging, software CDs and power plugs. In addition, Logitech’s distribution mix includes e-commerce in the U.S. as well as e-commerce capabilities in several European countries.
 
     In retail channels, Logitech’s direct sales force sells to distributors and large retailers. Our distributor customers typically resell products to retailers, value-added resellers, and systems integrators with whom Logitech does not have a direct relationship. These distributors in the U.S. include Ingram Micro, Tech Data Corporation and D&H Distributing. In Europe, pan-European distributors include Ingram Micro, Tech Data and Gem Distribution. We also sell to many regional distributors such as Actebis GmbH in Germany, Copaco Dc B.V. in the Netherlands, Vinzeo Informatica, SLU in Spain and Channel Distribution in the United Arab Emirates.
 
     Logitech’s products can be purchased in most major retail chains, where we typically have access to significant shelf space. These chains in the U.S. include Best Buy, Office Depot, Staples, Target and Wal-Mart, and in Europe include Metro Group (MediaMarkt and Saturn), Carrefour Group, Kesa Electricals, Fnac, Dixons Stores Group PLC and most key national consumer electronics chains. Logitech products can also be purchased at the top online e-tailers, which include Amazon.com, TigerDirect.com, Buy.com, CDW, Insight Enterprises, Inc., and others.
 
     Logitech’s OEM products are sold to large OEM customers through a direct sales force, and we support smaller OEM customers through distributors. We count the majority of the world’s largest PC manufacturers among our customers.
 
     Our Life Size division maintains a separate marketing and sales organization that sells LifeSize products and services to distributors, value-added resellers, OEMs and direct enterprise customers. The large majority of LifeSize revenues are derived from sales of products for use by large enterprises, small-to-medium businesses and public healthcare, education and government organizations.
 
     Through our operating subsidiaries, we maintain sales offices or sales representatives in 38 countries.
 
Backlog
 
     We typically have a relatively small amount of orders at the end of our fiscal periods that we have received but have not shipped, which is referred to as backlog. In our experience, the amount of backlog at any particular fiscal period-end is not a meaningful indication of our future business prospects. Our backlog often increases in anticipation of or immediately following new product introductions as retailers anticipate shortages and is often reduced once retailers and customers believe they can obtain sufficient supply. Our net sales in any fiscal year depend primarily on orders booked and shipped in that year, and our customers generally order on an as-needed basis. In addition, our backlog is occasionally subject to cancellation or rescheduling by customers. Therefore, there is a lack of meaningful correlation between backlog at the end of a fiscal year and the following fiscal year’s net sales. Similarly, there is a lack of meaningful correlation between year-over-year changes in backlog as compared with year-over-year changes in net sales. As a result, we believe that backlog information is not material to an understanding of our overall business.
 
Customer Service and Technical Support
 
     Logitech maintains customer service and technical support operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia. Customer service and technical personnel provide support services to retail purchasers of products through telephone, e-mail, facsimile and the Logitech Web site. The Logitech Web site is designed to expedite overall response time while minimizing the resources required for effective customer support. In general, OEMs provide customer service and technical support for their products, including components purchased from suppliers such as Logitech. Logitech provides warranties on our branded products which range from one to five years.
 
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Manufacturing
 
     Logitech’s manufacturing operations consist principally of final assembly and testing. Our high-volume manufacturing facility for personal peripherals products is located in Suzhou, China. The Suzhou facilities are designed to allow production growth as well as flexibility in responding to changing demands for Logitech’s products. We continue to focus on ensuring the efficiency of the Suzhou facilities, through the implementation of quality management and employee involvement programs.
 
     New product launches, process engineering, commodities management, logistics, quality assurance, operations management and management of Logitech’s contract manufacturers occur in Hsinchu, Taiwan, Suzhou, China, Shenzhen, China and Hong Kong, China. Certain components are manufactured to Logitech’s specifications by vendors in Asia, the United States and Europe. We also use contract manufacturers to supplement internal capacity and to reduce volatility in production volumes. In addition, some products, including most keyboards, certain gaming devices and audio products, and video conferencing equipment are manufactured by third-party suppliers to Logitech’s specifications. Retail product localization with local language manuals, packaging, software CDs and power plugs is performed at distribution centers in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.
 
Competition
 
     Our personal peripherals and video conferencing industries are intensely competitive. The personal peripherals industry is characterized by short product life cycles, continual performance enhancements, and rapid adoption of technological and product advancements by competitors in our retail markets, and price sensitivity in the OEM market. We experience aggressive price competition and other promotional activities from our primary competitors and from less-established brands, including brands owned by some retail customers known as house brands, in response to declining consumer demand in both the retail and OEM markets. We may also encounter more competition if any of our competitors in one or more categories decide to enter other categories in which we currently operate.
 
     In addition, we have been expanding the categories of products we sell, and entering new markets, such as the market for enterprise video conferencing. We remain alert to opportunities in new categories and markets. As we do so, we are confronting new competitors, many of which have more experience in the categories or markets and have greater marketing resources and brand name recognition than we have. In addition, because of the continuing convergence of the markets for computing devices and consumer electronics, we expect greater competition in the future from well-established consumer electronics companies in our developing categories, as well as future ones we might enter. Many of these companies have greater financial, technical, sales, marketing and other resources than we have.
 
     We expect continued competitive pressure in both our retail and OEM business, including in the terms and conditions that our competitors offer customers, which may be more favorable than our terms and conditions and may require us to take actions to increase our customer incentive programs, which could impact our revenues and operating margins.
 
     Pointing Devices, Keyboards and Desktops. Microsoft Corporation is our main competitor in our mice, keyboard and desktop product lines. We also experience competition and pricing pressure for corded and cordless mice and desktops from less-established brands, including house brands, which we believe have impacted our market share. The notebook peripheral category is also an area where we face aggressive pricing and promotions, as well as new competitors that have broader notebook product offerings than we do.
 
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     Video. Our competitors for PC Web cameras include Microsoft, Creative Labs, Inc., Royal Philips Electronics NV and Hewlett-Packard. We are encountering aggressive pricing practices and promotions on a worldwide basis, which have impacted our revenues and margins. The worldwide market for PC webcams has been very competitive, and as a result, pricing practices and promotions by our competitors have become more aggressive.
 
     Audio. Competitors in audio devices vary by product line. In the PC, mobile entertainment and communication platform speaker business, competitors include Plantronics, Inc., Altec Lansing LLC, Creative Labs and Bose Corporation. In the PC headset and microphone business, our main competitors include Plantronics and Altec Lansing. We have expanded our audio product portfolio to include network-based audio systems for digital music, an emerging market with several small competitors as well as larger established consumer electronics companies, like Sony Corporation and Philips.
 
     Gaming. Competitors for our interactive entertainment products include Intec, Razer USA Ltd., Performance Designed Products, LLC (Pelican Accessories), Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. and its Saitek brand. Our controllers for PlayStation also compete against controllers offered by Sony.
 
     Remotes. Our competitors for remotes include, among others, Philips, Universal Remote Control, Inc., Universal Electronics Inc., RCA and Sony. We expect that the growth in recent years in consumer demand for personal peripheral devices for home entertainment systems will likely result in increased competition.
 
     Video Conferencing. Our primary competitors in the enterprise video conferencing market are Tandberg ASA and Polycom, Inc. These companies have longer experience and a larger customer installed base than LifeSize. Cisco and Hewlett-Packard also compete with us for sales of higher-end systems. Cisco and Hewlett-Packard have substantially greater financial, sales and marketing, and engineering resources than we do. We also expect Cisco’s recent purchase of Tandberg to further intensify competition. In addition, there are a number of smaller competitors which compete with LifeSize, along with Polycom, Cisco and Hewlett-Packard, for new accounts, OEM relationships, and installations.
 
Intellectual Property and Proprietary Rights
 
     Intellectual property rights that apply to Logitech’s products and services include patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.
 
     We hold various United States patents and pending applications, together with corresponding patents and pending applications from other countries. While we believe that patent protection is important, we also believe that patents are of less competitive significance than factors such as technological expertise and innovation, ease of use, and quality design. No single patent is in itself essential to Logitech as a whole. From time to time we receive claims that we may be infringing on patents or other intellectual property rights of others. Claims are referred to counsel, and current claims are in various stages of evaluation and negotiation. If necessary or desirable, we may seek licenses for certain intellectual property rights. Refer also to the discussion in Item 1A Risk Factors – “We may be unable to protect our proprietary rights. Unauthorized use of our technology may result in the development of products that compete with our products.” and “Claims by others that we infringe their proprietary technology could harm our business.”
 
     To distinguish genuine Logitech products from competing products and counterfeit products, Logitech has used, registered, or applied to register certain trademarks and trade names in the U.S. and in foreign countries and jurisdictions. Logitech enforces its trademark and trade name rights in the U.S. and abroad. In addition, the software for Logitech’s products and services is entitled to copyright protection, and we generally require our customers to obtain a software license before providing them with that software. We also protect details about our products and services as trade secrets through employee training, license and non-disclosure agreements and technical measures.
 
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Environmental Regulation
 
     We are subject to laws and regulations in many jurisdictions regulating the materials used in our products and, increasingly, product related energy consumption, the recycling of our products and of their packaging.
 
     Europe. In Europe we are subject to the European Union’s (“EU”) Directive on the Restriction of Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronics Equipment (“RoHS”). This directive restricts the placement into the EU market of electrical and electronic equipment containing certain hazardous materials including lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium, and halogenated flame-retardants. Most Logitech products are covered by the directive and have been modified, if necessary, to be RoHS compliant. Logitech has an active program to ensure compliance with the RoHS directive and continues to source and introduce the use of RoHS compliant components and manufacturing methods in order to comply with the requirements of the directive.
 
     Logitech is also subject to the Energy-related Products Directive (“ErP”), which aims to encourage manufacturers and importers to produce products designed to minimize overall environmental impact. Under the directive, manufacturers must ensure that their energy-related products comply with applicable requirements, issue a declaration of conformity and mark the product with the ‘CE’ mark. The directive does not have binding requirements for specific products, but does define conditions and criteria for setting, through subsequent implementing measures, requirements regarding environmentally relevant product characteristics. To date the following implementing measures within the ErP directive are active and applicable to Logitech products:
  • Eco-design requirements for standby and off mode electric power consumption of electrical and electronic household and office equipment.
     
  • Eco-design requirements for no-load condition power consumption and average active efficiency of external power supplies.
     Logitech has assessed the applicability of these implementing measures on relevant product lines and has taken steps to ensure that our products meet the requirements. Adoption of the ErP directive will be aligned in all EU member states and conformity will be demonstrated by Logitech in conjunction with current CE conformity marking requirements.
 
     We are also subject to a number of End of Life (“EOL”) Stewardship directives including the EU’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (“WEEE”), the EU Packaging Directive and the EU Battery Directive, which require producers of electrical goods, packaging and batteries to be financially responsible for costs of specified collection, recycling, treatment and disposal of covered products. Where applicable, we have provided for the estimated costs, which are not material, of managing and recycling historical and future waste equipment, packaging and batteries.
 
     Logitech has also assessed the applicability of the European REACH directive (Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restrictions of Chemicals). This directive does not currently impact Logitech due to our current manufacturing structure and product content. If the directive impacts Logitech in the future, we intend to comply with the applicable requirements.
 
     China. In China we are subject to China’s law on Management Methods on the Control of Pollution Caused by Electronic Information Products (“China RoHS”). This is substantially similar to the EU RoHS directive and as such, Logitech products are already compliant. China RoHS requires additional labelling of product that will be shipped in China and Logitech has taken steps to help ensure we comply with these requirements.
 
     United States and Canada. In the U.S., we are subject to, among other laws, Appliance Efficiency Regulations adopted via the U.S. Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. The regulations set out standards for the energy consumption performance of products within the scope of the regulations, which includes some of Logitech’s products. The standards apply to appliances sold or offered for sale throughout the U.S., and Logitech has redesigned or changed products to comply with these regulations. We are also subject to California’s Proposition 65, which requires that clear and reasonable warnings be given to consumers who are exposed to certain chemicals deemed by the state of California to be dangerous, such as lead.
 
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     In Canada, we are subject to laws in various Canadian provinces that impose fees to cover the cost of recycling packaging.
 
     Australia and New Zealand. In Australia and New Zealand, we are subject to the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (“MEPS”) regulations. These regulations set out standards for the energy consumption performance of products within the scope of the regulations, which includes some of Logitech’s products. We have taken steps to modify products to ensure they are in compliance with MEPS.
 
     We expect further laws governing product and packaging recycling to be introduced in other jurisdictions, many or most of which could impose fees to cover recycling costs, the cumulative impact of which could be significant. If such legislation is enacted in other countries, Logitech intends to develop compliance programs as necessary. However, until that time, we are not able to estimate any possible impact.
 
     The effects on Logitech’s business of complying with other government regulations are limited to the cost of allocation of the appropriate resources for agency fees and testing as well as the time required to obtain agency approvals. There are also stewardship costs associated with the end of life collection, recycling and recovery of Logitech products, packaging and batteries where Logitech is recognized as the Steward and participates in relevant schemes. The costs and schedule requirements are industry requirements and therefore do not represent an undue burden relative to Logitech’s competitive position. As regulations change, we will seek to modify our products or processes to address those changes.
 
Seasonality
 
     Our retail personal peripheral product sales are typically seasonal. Sales are generally highest during our third fiscal quarter (October to December), due primarily to the increased demand for our products during the year-end holiday buying season, and to a lesser extent in the fourth fiscal quarter (January to March). Our sales in the first and second quarters can vary significantly as a result of new product introductions and other factors. Accordingly, we believe that year-over-year comparisons are more indicative of variability in our results of operations than current quarter to prior quarter comparisons. The deteriorating retail environment in the second half of fiscal year 2009 resulted in an atypical sales pattern, with sales declining in the second half of fiscal year 2009 compared with the first half.
 
     Our enterprise product sales are generally not seasonal.
 
Materials
 
     We purchase some of our products and the key components used in our products from a limited number of sources. If the supply of these products or key components, such as micro-controllers, optical sensors and LifeSize hardware products, were to be delayed or constrained, or if one or more of our single-source suppliers goes out of business, we might be unable to find a new supplier on acceptable terms, or at all, and our product shipments to our customers could be delayed. Due to the recent global economic downturn, we are subject to a higher risk of insolvency of our key suppliers, possibly resulting in product delays. In addition, lead times for materials, components and products ordered by us or by our contract manufacturers can vary significantly and depend on factors such as contract terms, demand for a component, and supplier capacity. From time to time, we have experienced component shortages and extended lead times on semiconductors, such as micro-controllers and optical sensors, and base metals used in our products. Shortages or interruptions in the supply of components or subcontracted products, or our inability to procure these components or products from alternate sources at acceptable prices in a timely manner, could delay shipment of our products or increase our production costs.
 
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Employees
 
     As of March 31, 2010, we employed 9,944 people. None of Logitech’s U.S. employees are represented by a labor union or are subject to a collective bargaining agreement. Certain foreign countries, such as China, provide by law for employee rights, which include requirements similar to collective bargaining agreements. We believe that our employee relations are good.
 
Executive Officers of the Registrant
 
     The following sets forth certain information regarding our executive officers as of May 26, 2010:
 
Name         Age       Nationality       Position  
Guerrino De Luca 57 Italian Chairman of the Board
Gerald P. Quindlen 50 U.S. President and Chief Executive Officer
Erik Bardman 43 U.S. Sr. Vice President, Finance and Chief
       Financial Officer
Werner Heid 51   German Sr. Vice President, Worldwide Sales and
       Marketing
David Henry   53 U.S. Sr. Vice President, Customer Experience
         and Chief Marketing Officer
Junien Labrousse 52 French Executive Vice President, Products
L. Joseph Sullivan 56 U.S.   Sr. Vice President, Worldwide Operations

     Guerrino De Luca has served as Chairman of the Logitech Board of Directors since January 2008. Previously, Mr. De Luca served as Logitech’s President and Chief Executive Officer from February 1998, when he joined the Company, to January 2008. He has been an executive member of the Board of Directors since June 1998. Prior to joining Logitech, Mr. De Luca served as Executive Vice President of Worldwide Marketing for Apple, Inc. from February 1997 to September 1997, and as President of Claris Corporation, a U.S. personal computing software vendor, from May 1994 to February 1997. Prior to joining Claris, Mr. De Luca held various positions with Apple in the United States and in Europe. Mr. De Luca holds a BS degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Rome, Italy.
 
     Gerald P. Quindlen has been Logitech’s President and Chief Executive Officer since January 2008, previously serving as Logitech’s Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing since he joined the Company in October 2005. From August 1987 to September 2004, Mr. Quindlen worked for Eastman Kodak Company where he was most recently Vice President of Global Sales and Operations for the Consumer and Professional Imaging Division and previously held senior sales or marketing management positions in the United States, Japan and Asia Pacific. From September 2004 to September 2005, Mr. Quindlen was a private consultant. Prior to his 17 year tenure at Eastman Kodak, he worked for Mobil Oil Corporation in engineering. Mr. Quindlen holds a BS degree in chemical engineering from Villanova University in Pennsylvania, and an MBA degree in Finance from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.
 
     Erik Bardman joined Logitech as Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer in October 2009. Prior to joining Logitech, Mr. Bardman served as a financial consultant to Zillion TV, an interactive television service company. Previously, he had been with eBay from 2003 to 2008, most recently as the chief financial officer for eBay Marketplaces, the company’s largest portfolio of businesses. At eBay, Mr. Bardman led a large global team focused on financial strategy, acquisitions, resource allocation and performance analysis. Prior to joining eBay, Mr. Bardman was with General Electric Company for 15 years in a variety of roles, developing broad expertise in consumer financial services, international finance and mergers and acquisitions. Mr. Bardman earned a BA degree from Dickinson College in Pennsylvania, with a major in history and a minor in economics. He is a graduate of GE’s intensive Financial Management Program.
 
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     Werner Heid joined Logitech as Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales & Marketing, in February 2009. Prior to joining Logitech, Mr. Heid was a consultative CEO to private equity firms from 2006 to 2009. Previously, he served as the president and chief executive officer of Iomega Corporation, the provider of consumer and small-business data-storage solutions, from 2001 to 2006. Before joining Iomega, Mr. Heid was the executive vice president of global sales, marketing and service for InFocus Corporation, a leading supplier of multimedia projection systems for consumers and business, from 2000 to 2001. He joined InFocus when it acquired Proxima Corporation, where Mr. Heid served as president from 1998 to 2000. Prior to taking on his leadership role at Proxima, Mr. Heid was with Hewlett-Packard Company for 14 years, in both Europe and the United States. At Hewlett-Packard, he led the business definition and the successful global market launch of the company’s All-In-One and color copier product businesses. Mr. Heid holds a masters degree in electrical engineering from University Karlsruhe in Germany.
 
     David Henry joined Logitech as Senior Vice President, Control Devices Business Unit, in August 2001 and was named Senior Vice President, Customer Experience and Chief Marketing Officer in March 2007. From January 2000 to June 2001, Mr. Henry served as Vice President of Business Development and Product Management of Xigo Inc., a U.S. on-line intelligence software company. From November 1997 to January 2000, Mr. Henry held various positions with Iomega, a U.S. portable storage company. His last position with Iomega was Vice President and General Manager of Magnetic Products. Mr. Henry holds a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering from Union College of New York.
 
     Junien Labrousse joined Logitech as Vice President of the Video Division in 1997. He was named Senior Vice President, Video Business Unit in April 2001, Senior Vice President, Entertainment and Communications in July 2005 and Executive Vice President, Products in March 2007. Prior to joining Logitech, he was Vice President of Engineering from 1995 to 1997 at Winnov LP, a U.S. company engaged in the development and marketing of multimedia products. For more than 10 years he held several engineering and management positions at Royal Philips Electronics NV, a global electronics company, in research and in the semiconductor business division. Mr. Labrousse holds an MS degree in Electrical Engineering from the Ecole Superieure d’Ingenieurs de Marseille, France and an MBA degree from Santa Clara University in California.
 
     L. Joseph Sullivan joined Logitech in October 2005 as Vice President, Operations Strategy, and was appointed Senior Vice President, Worldwide Operations in April 2006. Prior to joining Logitech, Mr. Sullivan was Vice President of Operational Excellence and Quality for Carrier Corporation, a subsidiary of United Technologies, from 2001 to 2005. Previously, he was with ACCO Brands, Inc. in engineering and manufacturing management roles from 1998 to 2001. Mr. Sullivan holds a BS degree in Marketing Management and an MBA degree in Operations Management from Suffolk University in Massachusetts.
 
Available Information
 
     Our Investor Relations Web site is located at http://ir.logitech.com. We post and maintain an archive of our earnings and other press releases, current reports, annual and quarterly reports, earnings release schedule, information regarding annual general meetings, further information on corporate governance, and other information regarding the Company on the Investor Relations Web site. The information we post includes, and in the future will include, filings we make with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 20-F, 6-K, 8-K, our proxy statement related to our annual shareholders’ meeting and any amendments to those reports or statements filed or furnished pursuant to U.S. securities laws. All such filings and information are available free of charge on the web site, and we make them available on the web site as soon as reasonably possible after we file or furnish them with the SEC. The contents of these web sites are not intended to be incorporated by reference into this report or in any other report or document we file and our references to these Web sites are intended to be inactive textual references only.
 
     In addition, Logitech publishes press releases upon occurrence of significant events within Logitech. Shareholders and members of the public may elect to receive e-mails when Logitech issues press releases upon occurrence of significant events within Logitech or other press releases by subscribing through http://ir.logitech.com/alerts.cfm.
 
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     As a Swiss company traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange, and as a company subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, we file reports on transactions in Logitech securities by members of Logitech’s board of directors and executive officers. The reports that we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 3, 4 and 5 may be accessed on our website or on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov, and the reports we file that are published by the SIX Swiss Exchange may be accessed at: http://www.six-exchange-regulation.com/obligations/management_transactions_en.html.
 
     For no charge, a copy of our filings made with the SEC can be requested by contacting our Investor Relations department: Logitech Investor Relations, 6505 Kaiser Drive, Fremont, CA 94555 USA, Main 510-795-8500, email: investorrelations@logitech.com
 
     The public may read and copy any materials the Company files with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
 
     The strength and timing of the anticipated improvement of our business is uncertain, and economic conditions have and could continue to significantly harm our operating results.
 
     The global economic recession has had a significant negative impact on our business. We anticipate that our business and operating results will continue to improve, in part as a result of the steps we have taken in response to general economic conditions. However, the strength and precise timing of future improvement of our business is uncertain. In addition, the recession may continue to have the following negative effects on our business, operating results, and financial condition:
  • Reduced sales to our customers, reflecting current and anticipated lower end-user consumer demand for our products as well as a shift in consumer buying patterns toward lower-priced products.
     
  • Reduced sales, or sales lower than we expect, in our EMEA sales region (which represented 45% of our total net sales in fiscal 2010), as a result of continuing economic uncertainty in Europe and the potential continuing decline in the value of the euro against the U.S. dollar.
     
  • Risk of future customer bankruptcy or business failures, resulting in lower sales levels and increases in bad debt write-offs and receivables reserves.
     
  • Higher costs for customer incentive programs, cooperative marketing arrangements and price protection used to stimulate demand, which lowers our net sales.
     
  • Increased downward pressure on our product prices as we lower prices to stimulate demand or reduce inventory, or as competitors lower prices to gain market share in slow-growing or shrinking markets.
     
  • Product returns in excess of our historical experience rate, resulting in higher returns reserves rates.
     
  • Risk of excess and obsolete inventories.
     
  • Financial distress or bankruptcy of key suppliers, resulting in insufficient product quantities to meet demand for particular products.
     
  • Risk of counterparty failures due to continuing stress on financial institutions, which may negatively impact cash, cash equivalents and investment securities.
     If our business does not improve as we expect, or if global economic conditions deteriorate, our operating results in a given quarter could be below the expectations of financial analysts and investors, which could cause the price of our shares to decline.
 
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     Our operating results are difficult to predict and fluctuations in results may cause volatility in the price of our shares.
 
     Our revenues and profitability are difficult to predict due to the nature of the markets in which we compete and for many other reasons, including the following:
  • Our operating results are highly dependent on the volume and timing of orders received during the quarter, which are difficult to forecast. Customers generally order on an as-needed basis and we typically do not obtain firm, long-term purchase commitments from our customers. As a result, our revenues in any quarter depend primarily on orders booked and shipped in that quarter.
     
  • A significant portion of our quarterly retail sales typically occurs in the last weeks of each quarter, further increasing the difficulty in predicting quarterly revenues and profitability.
     
  • We must incur a large portion of our costs in advance of sales orders, because we must plan research and production, order components, buy tooling equipment, and enter into development, sales and marketing, and other operating commitments prior to obtaining firm commitments from our customers. This makes it difficult for us to rapidly adjust our costs during the quarter in response to a revenue shortfall, which could adversely affect our operating results.
     
  • Fluctuations in currency exchange rates can impact our revenues, expenses and profitability because we report our financial statements in U.S. dollars, whereas a significant portion of our revenues and expenses are in other currencies. We attempt to adjust product prices over time to offset the impact of currency movements. However, the weakness in consumer spending caused by the current global economic recession has limited our ability to increase local currency selling prices, which has negatively affected and may continue to negatively affect our ability to offset the impact of currency fluctuations.
     Because our operating results are difficult to predict, our results may be below the expectations of financial analysts and investors, which could cause the price of our shares to decline.
 
     We may encounter difficulties with our acquisition of LifeSize Communications, and may not realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition.
 
     In December 2009, we acquired LifeSize Communications, Inc., a privately-held company providing high definition video communication solutions. This acquisition is part of the Company’s strategy to acquire, when appropriate, companies that have products, personnel and technologies that complement our strategic direction and roadmap.
 
     Our acquisition of LifeSize involves risks and uncertainties, including:
  • Insufficient future revenues and profitability of LifeSize, which could negatively impact our consolidated results.
     
  • Significant goodwill and intangible assets recorded in connection with the acquisition, which could require an impairment and resulting reduction in consolidated results if future revenues and profitability of LifeSize do not meet expectations.
     
  • Increased or unpredictable resource allocation requirements for LifeSize, which could impact the availability of resources for other Logitech strategic or operational investments.
     
  • Diversion of management’s attention from normal daily operations of the business and the challenges of managing larger and more widespread operations resulting from the acquisition.
     
  • Initial dependence on unfamiliar supply chains, relatively small supply partners, or a limited number of suppliers.
     
  • Exposure to potential product quality issues.
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     In addition, through our acquisition of LifeSize, we have entered the market for enterprise video conferencing. Although we plan to maintain the LifeSize enterprise sales organization, we have little experience with selling to enterprise accounts, or in marketing to large enterprises. We will also be exposed to additional competitors in the video conferencing market, some of which may have greater resources, including technical and engineering resources, than we do. Additionally, as customers complete video conferencing installations, they may require greater levels of service and support than we have provided in the past. Demand for these types of services and support may increase in the future. There can be no assurance that we can provide products, services and support to effectively compete for these market opportunities. Further, provision of greater levels of services and support by us may result in a delay in the timing of revenue recognition.
 
     Any of these and other factors, many of which are out of our control, could prevent us from realizing the anticipated benefits of the acquisition and could adversely affect our business, operating results or financial condition. There can be no assurance that LifeSize product enhancements will be made in a timely fashion or that pre-acquisition due diligence will have identified all possible issues that might arise with respect to LifeSize products.
 
     Acquisitions are inherently risky, and no assurance can be given that our acquisition of LifeSize or other future acquisitions will be successful and will not adversely affect our business, operating results or financial condition.
 
     If we fail to successfully innovate in our current and emerging product categories, our business and operating results could suffer.
 
     The personal peripherals industry is characterized by short product life cycles, frequent new product introductions, rapidly changing technology and evolving industry standards. As a result, we must continually innovate in our current and emerging product categories, introduce new products and technologies, and enhance existing products in order to remain competitive.
 
     The success of our products depends on several factors, including our ability to:
  • identify new features or product opportunities;
     
  • anticipate changes in technology, market trends, and consumer and business demands;
     
  • develop innovative and reliable new products and enhancements in a cost-effective and timely manner; and
     
  • distinguish our products from those of our competitors.
     If we do not execute on these factors successfully, products that we introduce or technologies or standards that we adopt may not gain widespread commercial acceptance, and our business and operating results could suffer. In addition, if we do not continue to distinguish our products, particularly our retail products, through distinctive, technologically advanced features, designs, and services, as well as continue to build and strengthen our brand recognition and our access to distribution channels, our business could be harmed.
 
     If we do not successfully innovate and market products for notebook PCs, tablets and other mobile devices, our business and results of operations may suffer.
 
     We have historically targeted peripherals for the PC platform, a market that is dynamically changing as a result of the declining popularity of desktop PCs and the increasing popularity of notebook PCs and mobile devices, such as netbooks, tablets, mobile phones and smaller form factor devices with computing or web surfing capabilities. In our OEM channel, this shift has adversely affected our sales of OEM mice, which are sold with name-brand desktop PCs. Our OEM mice sales have historically made up the bulk of our OEM sales, and our OEM sales accounted for 10% and 15% of total revenues during fiscal years 2010 and 2009. If the desktop PC market continues to experience slower growth or decline, and if we do not successfully diversify our OEM business, our OEM revenues could be adversely affected.
 
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     In our retail channels, notebook PCs and mobile devices are sold by retailers without peripherals. We believe this creates opportunities to sell products to consumers to help make their devices more productive and comfortable. However, consumer acceptance and demand for peripherals for use with smaller form factor computing devices such as notebook PCs and mobile devices is still uncertain. The increasing popularity of notebook PCs and mobile devices may result in a decreased demand by consumers for keyboards and speakers, which could negatively affect our sales of these products. The increasing popularity of mobile devices has coincided with a steadily decreasing average sales price for computing devices, including for desktop and notebook PCs. As a result, there is a risk that the demand for those of our products that have a relatively high average sales price in relation to the price of a desktop or notebook PC will decline. If we do not successfully innovate and market products designed for notebook PCs and other mobile devices, or if general consumer demand for peripherals for use with notebook PCs and mobile devices does not increase, our business and results of operations could be significantly harmed.
 
     If we do not compete effectively, demand for our products could decline and our business and operating results could be adversely affected.
 
     The personal peripherals and video conferencing industries are intensely competitive.
 
     The personal peripherals industry is characterized by short product life cycles, continual performance enhancements, and rapid adoption of technological and product advancements by competitors in our retail markets, and price sensitivity in the OEM market. We experience aggressive price competition and other promotional activities from our primary competitors and from less-established brands, including brands owned by retail customers known as house brands, in response to declining consumer demand in both the retail and OEM markets. In addition, our competitors may offer customers terms and conditions which may be more favorable than our terms and conditions and may require us to take actions to increase our customer incentive programs, which could impact our revenues and operating margins.
 
     The video conferencing industry is characterized by continual performance enhancements and increasing consolidation. There is heightened interest in the video conferencing market by large, well-financed competitors, such as Cisco Systems, Inc. and Hewlett-Packard Company, and as a result, we expect competition in the industry to further intensify.
 
     In recent years, we have expanded the categories of products we sell, and entered new markets, such as the market for enterprise video conferencing. We remain alert to opportunities in new categories and markets. As we do so, we are confronting new competitors, many of which have more experience in the categories or markets and have greater marketing resources and brand name recognition than we have. In addition, because of the continuing convergence of the markets for computing devices and consumer electronics, we expect greater competition in the future from well-established consumer electronics companies in our developing categories, as well as in future categories we might enter. Many of these companies, such as Microsoft Corporation, Cisco, Sony Corporation, Hewlett-Packard, Polycom, Inc., Tandberg ASA and others, have greater financial, technical, sales, marketing and other resources than we have.
 
     Microsoft is a leading producer of operating systems and applications with which our mice, keyboards and webcams are designed to operate. In addition, Microsoft has significantly greater financial, technical, sales, marketing and other resources than Logitech, as well as greater name recognition and a larger customer base. As a result, Microsoft may be able to improve the functionality of its own peripherals to correspond with ongoing enhancements to its operating systems and software applications before we are able to make such improvements. This ability could provide Microsoft with significant lead-time advantages. In addition, Microsoft may be able to offer pricing advantages on bundled hardware and software products that we may not be able to offer, and may be financially positioned to exert significant downward pressure on product prices and upward pressure on promotional incentives in order to gain market share.
 
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     Pointing Devices, Keyboards and Desktops. Microsoft is our main competitor in the mice, keyboard and desktop product lines. We also experience competition and pricing pressure for corded and cordless mice and desktops from less-established brands, including house brands, which has impacted our market share in some sales geographies and which could potentially further impact our market share. The notebook peripheral category is also an area where we face aggressive pricing and promotions, as well as new competitors that have broader notebook product offerings than we do.
 
     Video. Our competitors for PC Web cameras include Microsoft, Creative Labs, Royal Philips Electronics NV and Hewlett-Packard. We are encountering aggressive pricing practices and promotions on a worldwide basis, which have impacted our revenues and margins. The worldwide market for PC webcams has been very competitive, and as a result, pricing practices and promotions by our competitors have become more aggressive.
 
     Audio. Competitors in audio devices vary by product line. In the PC, mobile entertainment and communication platform speaker business, competitors include Plantronics, Inc., Altec Lansing LLC, Creative Labs, and Bose Corporation. In the PC headset and microphone business, our main competitors include Plantronics and Altec Lansing. We have expanded our audio product portfolio to include network-based audio systems for digital music, an emerging market with several small competitors as well as larger established consumer electronics companies, like Sony and Philips.
 
     Gaming. Competitors for our interactive entertainment products include Intec, Razer USA Ltd., Performance Designed Products, LLC (Pelican Accessories), Mad Catz Interactive, Inc., and its Saitek brand. Our controllers for PlayStation also compete against controllers offered by Sony.
 
     Remotes. Our competitors for remotes include, among others, Philips, Universal Remote Control, Inc., Universal Electronics Inc., RCA and Sony. We expect that the growth in recent years in consumer demand for personal peripheral devices for home entertainment systems will likely result in increased competition.
 
     Video Conferencing. Our primary competitors in the enterprise video conferencing market are Tandberg and Polycom. These companies have longer experience and a larger customer installed base than LifeSize. Cisco and Hewlett-Packard also compete with us for sales of higher-end systems. Cisco and Hewlett-Packard have substantially greater financial, sales and marketing, and engineering resources than we do. In addition, there are a number of smaller competitors which compete with LifeSize, along with Tandberg, Polycom, Cisco and Hewlett-Packard, for new accounts, OEM relationships, and installations.
 
     We also expect Cisco’s recent purchase of Tandberg to further intensify competition. Cisco is a leading producer of networking, switching and other telecommunications infrastructure products and end-points, such as phones, that are frequently used within enterprises. The growth of our LifeSize division depends in part on our ability to increase sales to enterprises with installed bases of Cisco and Tandberg equipment, and to enterprises that may purchase their equipment in the future. We believe the ability of our LifeSize products to interoperate with Cisco and Tandberg equipment, and with the equipment of other telecommunications, video conferencing or telepresence equipment suppliers, to be a key factor in purchasing decisions by current or prospective LifeSize customers. Cisco and Tandberg may be able to improve the functionality of their own videoconferencing equipment to correspond with ongoing enhancements to Cisco’s networking, switching and other telecommunications equipment before we are able to make such improvements, or may restrict the interoperability of their products with ours. This could significantly harm the sales of our LifeSize division. As a result, the growth of our LifeSize division, and the growth of Logitech as a whole, could be significantly harmed.
 
     If we do not compete effectively, demand for our products could decline, our gross margin could decrease, we could lose market share and our revenues could decline.
 
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     If we do not accurately forecast product demand, our business and operating results could be adversely affected.
 
     We use our forecasts of product demand to make decisions regarding investments of our resources and production levels of our products. Although we receive forecasts from our customers, many are not obligated to purchase the forecasted demand. Also, actual sales volumes for individual products in our retail distribution channel can be volatile due to changes in consumer preferences and other reasons. In addition, our retail products have short product life cycles, so a failure to accurately predict high demand for a product can result in lost sales that we may not recover in subsequent periods, or higher product costs if we meet demand by paying higher costs for materials, production and delivery. We could also frustrate our customers and lose shelf space. Our failure to predict low demand for a product can result in excess inventory, lower cash flows and lower margins if we are required to reduce product prices in order to reduce inventories.
 
     Over the past few years, we have expanded the number and types of products we sell, and the geographic markets in which we sell them, and we will endeavor to further expand our product portfolio and sales reach. The growth of our product portfolio and our sales markets has increased the difficulty of accurately forecasting product demand.
 
     We have experienced large differences between our forecasts and actual demand for our products and expect differences to arise in the future. If we do not accurately predict product demand, our business and operating results could be adversely affected.
 
     Our gross margins can vary significantly depending on multiple factors, which can result in unanticipated fluctuations in our operating results.
 
     Our gross margins can vary due to consumer demand, competition, product life cycle, new product introductions, unit volumes, commodity and supply chain costs, geographic sales mix, foreign currency exchange rates, and the complexity and functionality of new product innovations. In particular, if we are not able to introduce new products in a timely manner at the product cost we expect, or if consumer demand for our products is less than we anticipate, or if there are product pricing, marketing and other initiatives by our competitors to which we need to react that lower our margins, then our overall gross margin will be less than we project. For example, in the second half of fiscal year 2009 and the first half of fiscal year 2010, economic uncertainty caused our customers to reduce purchases of our products below what we had forecasted, and also led us to increase our customer incentives to stimulate demand, which significantly lowered our overall gross margin in those periods.
 
     In addition, our gross margins may vary significantly by product line, sales geography and customer type, as well as within product lines. When the mix of products sold shifts from higher margin product lines to lower margin product lines, to lower margin sales geographies, or to lower margin products within product lines, our overall gross margins and our profitability may be adversely affected.
 
     The impact of these factors on gross margins can create unanticipated fluctuations in our operating results, which may cause volatility in the price of our shares.
 
     Our business depends in part on access to third-party platforms or technologies, and if the access is withdrawn, denied, or is not available on terms acceptable to us, or if the platforms or technologies change without notice to us, our business and operating results could be adversely affected.
 
     Our product portfolio includes products designed for use with third-party platforms, such as Apple iPod, Microsoft Xbox, Sony PlayStation, and Nintendo Wii. Our business in these categories relies on our access to the platforms of third parties, which can be withdrawn, denied or not be available on terms acceptable to us.
 
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     Our access to third-party platforms may require paying a royalty, which lowers our product margins, or may otherwise be on terms that are not acceptable to us. In addition, the third-party platforms or technologies used to interact with our product portfolio can change without prior notice to us, which can result in our having excess inventory or lower margins.
 
     If we are unable to access third-party platforms or technologies, or if our access is withdrawn, denied, or is not available on terms acceptable to us, or if the platforms or technologies change without notice to us, our business and operating results could be adversely affected.
 
     Our principal manufacturing operations and third-party contract manufacturers are located in China, which exposes us to risks associated with doing business in that country.
 
     Our principal manufacturing operations and third-party contract manufacturers are located in China. Our manufacturing operations in Suzhou, China could be severely impacted by changes in the interpretation and enforcement of legal standards, by strains on China’s transportation, communications, trade, public health and other infrastructures, by conflicts, embargoes, disagreements or increased tensions between China and Taiwan, by labor unrest, and by other trade customs and practices that are dissimilar to those in the United States and Europe. Interpretation and enforcement of China’s laws and regulations continue to evolve and we expect differences in interpretation and enforcement to continue in the foreseeable future.
 
     Further, we may be exposed to fluctuations in the value of the Chinese renminbi (“CNY”), the local currency of China. Significant future appreciation of the CNY could increase our component and other raw material costs, as well as our labor costs, and could adversely affect our financial results.
 
     We purchase key components and products from a limited number of sources, and our business and operating results could be harmed if supply were delayed or constrained or if there were shortages of required components.
 
     We purchase certain products and key components from a limited number of sources. If the supply of these products or key components, such as micro-controllers, optical sensors and LifeSize hardware products, were to be delayed or constrained, or if one or more of our single-source suppliers goes out of business as a result of adverse global economic conditions, we might be unable to find a new supplier on acceptable terms, or at all, and our product shipments to our customers could be delayed, which could harm our business, financial condition and operating results.
 
     Lead times for materials, components and products ordered by us or by our contract manufacturers can vary significantly and depend on factors such as contract terms, demand for a component, and supplier capacity. From time to time, we have experienced component shortages and extended lead times on semiconductors, such as micro-controllers and optical sensors, and base metals used in our products. Shortages or interruptions in the supply of components or subcontracted products, or our inability to procure these components or products from alternate sources at acceptable prices in a timely manner, could delay shipment of our products or increase our production costs, which could adversely affect our business and operating results.
 
     If we do not successfully coordinate the worldwide manufacturing and distribution of our products, we could lose sales.
 
     Our business requires us to coordinate the manufacture and distribution of our products over much of the world. We rely on third parties to manufacture many of our products, manage centralized distribution centers, and transport our products. If we do not successfully coordinate the timely manufacturing and distribution of our products, we may have insufficient supply of products to meet customer demand and we could lose sales, or we may experience a build-up in inventory.
 
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     A significant portion of our quarterly retail orders and product deliveries generally occur in the last weeks of the fiscal quarter. This places pressure on our supply chain and could adversely impact our revenues and profitability if we are unable to successfully fulfill customer orders in the quarter.
 
     We conduct operations in a number of countries and the effect of business, legal and political risks associated with international operations could significantly harm us.
 
     We conduct operations in a number of countries. There are risks inherent in doing business in international markets, including:
  • difficulties in staffing and managing international operations;
     
  • compliance with laws and regulations, including environmental and tax laws, which vary from country to country and over time, increasing the costs of compliance and potential risks of non-compliance;
     
  • exposure to political and financial instability, leading to currency exchange losses and collection difficulties or other losses;
     
  • exposure to fluctuations in the value of local currencies;
     
  • difficulties or increased costs in establishing sales and distribution channels in unfamiliar markets, with their own market characteristics and competition, particularly in Latin America, Eastern Europe and Asia;
     
  • changes in value-added tax (“VAT”) or VAT reimbursement;
     
  • imposition of currency exchange controls; and
     
  • delays from customs brokers or government agencies.
     Any of these risks could significantly harm our business, financial condition and operating results.
 
     We may be unable to protect our proprietary rights. Unauthorized use of our technology may result in the development of products that compete with our products.
 
     Our future success depends in part on our proprietary technology, technical know-how and other intellectual property. We rely on a combination of patent, trade secret, copyright, trademark and other intellectual property laws, and confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions such as nondisclosure terms and licenses, to protect our intellectual property.
 
     We hold various United States patents and pending applications, together with corresponding patents and pending applications from other countries. It is possible that any patent owned by us will be invalidated, deemed unenforceable, circumvented or challenged, that the patent rights granted will not provide competitive advantages to us, or that any of our pending or future patent applications will not be granted. In addition, other intellectual property laws or our confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions may not adequately protect our intellectual property. Also, others may independently develop similar technology, duplicate our products, or design around our patents or other intellectual property rights. Unauthorized parties have copied and may in the future attempt to copy aspects of our products or to obtain and use information that we regard as proprietary. Any of these events could significantly harm our business, financial condition and operating results.
 
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     Claims by others that we infringe their proprietary technology could harm our business.
 
     We have been expanding the categories of products we sell, and entering new markets, such as the market for enterprise video conferencing. We expect to continue to enter new categories and markets. As we do so, we face an increased risk that claims that we infringe the patent or other intellectual property rights of others, regardless of the merit of the claims, may increase in number and significance. Infringement claims against us may also increase as the functionality of video, voice, data and conferencing products begin to overlap. This risk is heightened by the increase in lawsuits brought by holders of patents that do not have an operating business. Intellectual property lawsuits are subject to inherent uncertainties due to the complexity of the technical issues involved, and we cannot be certain that we will be successful in defending ourselves against intellectual property claims. A successful claimant could secure a judgment that requires us to pay substantial damages or prevents us from distributing certain products or performing certain services. We might also be required to seek a license for the use of such intellectual property, which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms or at all. Alternatively, we may be required to develop non-infringing technology, which could require significant effort and expense and may ultimately not be successful. Any claims or proceedings against us, whether meritorious or not, could be time consuming, result in costly litigation, result in the diversion of significant operational resources, or require us to enter into royalty or licensing agreements, any of which could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.
 
     Product quality issues could adversely affect our reputation and could impact our operating results.
 
     The market for our products is characterized by rapidly changing technology and evolving industry standards. To remain competitive, we must continually introduce new products and technologies. The products that we sell could contain defects in design or manufacture. Defects could also occur in the products or components that are supplied to us. There can be no assurance we will be able to detect and remedy all defects in the hardware and software we sell. Failure to do so could result in product recalls, product redesign efforts, lost revenue, loss of reputation, and significant warranty and other expenses to remedy.
 
     Our effective income tax rates may increase in the future, which could adversely affect our net income.
 
     We operate in multiple jurisdictions and our profits are taxed pursuant to the tax laws of these jurisdictions. Our effective income tax rate may be affected by changes in or interpretations of tax laws in any given jurisdiction, utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, changes in geographical allocation of income and expense, and changes in management’s assessment of matters such as the realizability of deferred tax assets. In the past, we have experienced fluctuations in our effective income tax rate. Our effective income tax rate in a given fiscal year reflects a variety of factors that may not be present in the succeeding fiscal year or years. There is no assurance that our effective income tax rate will not change in future periods. We are currently subject to ongoing audits in various jurisdictions and a material assessment by a governing tax authority could adversely affect our profitability. If our effective income tax rate increases in future periods, our net income could be adversely affected.
 
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
 
     None.
 
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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
 
     The table below represents our principal locations, their approximate square footage and their purposes as of March 31, 2010:
 
Approximate
Square
Location         Purpose       Footage       Ownership
Americas:  
       Fremont, California Americas headquarters, research and 194,000   Leased
       development, product marketing,
       sales management, technical
       support, administration
       Austin, Texas LifeSize Division 54,000 Leased
       Vancouver, Washington Audio Business Unit 38,000 Leased
       Mississauga, Canada Remote Controls Group 20,000 Leased
       Irvine, California Ultimate Ears Group 13,500 Leased
       Draper, Utah Video Security Group 7,000 Leased
       Olive Branch, Mississippi Distribution center 397,000 Contracted(1)
       Mexico City, Mexico Distribution center 17,000 Contracted(1)
EMEA:  
       Romanel-sur-Morges, Switzerland Research and development, product 33,300 Owned
       marketing and technical support
       Morges, Switzerland EMEA headquarters, sales and 62,300 Leased
       marketing management, technical
       support, administration
       Nijmegen, Netherlands Finance, administration, distribution 29,000 Leased
       center support
       Cork, Ireland Finance, administration, research and 18,000 Leased
       development
       Seefeld, Germany Research and development, manufacturing 15,000 Leased
       Oostrum, Netherlands Distribution center 183,000 Contracted(1)
Asia Pacific:  
       Hsinchu, Taiwan Asia Pacific headquarters, mechanical 112,000 Leased
       engineering, new product launches,
       process engineering, commodities
       management, logistics, quality
       assurance, and administration
       Suzhou, China High-volume manufacturing 854,000 Owned
       Suzhou, China Vertical integration, molding operations 277,000 Leased
       Tokyo, Japan Sales, logistics, finance, administration 10,100 Leased
       and human resources
       Bangalore, India LifeSize Business Division research and 9,000 Leased
       development
       Beijing, China Distribution center 57,000 Contracted(1)
       Tokyo, Japan Distribution center 39,000 Contracted(1)
       Hong Kong, China Distribution center 65,000 Contracted(1)
       Singapore, Singapore Distribution center 50,000 Contracted(1)
       Dayuan Township, Taiwan Distribution center 28,000 Contracted(1)
____________________
 
(1)      
Contracted through a third-party warehouse management company

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     Logitech also contracts with various distribution services throughout the world for additional warehouses in which we store inventory.
 
     We also have leased sales offices in more than 60 locations in 38 countries, with various expiration dates from 2010 to 2028.
 
     We believe that Logitech’s manufacturing and distribution facilities are adequate for our ongoing needs and we continue to evaluate the need for facilities to meet current and anticipated future requirements.
 
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
     From time to time, we become involved in claims and legal proceedings which arise in the ordinary course of our business. We are currently subject to several such claims and a small number of legal proceedings. We presently do not believe that the resolution of these claims and legal proceedings will have a material impact on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition.
 
ITEM 4. (REMOVED AND RESERVED)
 
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PART II
 
ITEM 5. 
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
 
     Logitech’s shares are listed and traded on both the SIX Swiss Exchange, where the share price is denominated in Swiss francs, and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, where the share price is denominated in U.S. dollars. Prior to October 2006, Logitech’s American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”) traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, with each ADS representing one registered share. In October 2006, we exchanged Logitech shares for our ADSs on a one-for-one basis, so that the same Logitech shares trade on the Nasdaq Global Select Market as on the SIX Swiss Exchange.
 
     The trading symbol for Logitech shares is LOGI on Nasdaq and LOGN on the SIX Swiss Exchange. As of May 3, 2010, there were 191,606,620 shares issued (including 16,148,138 shares held as treasury stock) held by 20,527 holders of record, and the closing price of our shares was CHF 17.83 ($16.45 based on exchange rates on such date) per share on the SIX Swiss Exchange and $16.44 per share as reported by the Nasdaq Stock Market.
 
     SIX Swiss Exchange
 
     The following table sets forth certain historical share price information for the Company’s shares traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange, as reported by the SIX Swiss Exchange. The U.S. dollar equivalent is based on the noon buying rate on the trading day of the month in which the high or low closing sales price occurred. The noon buying rate is the rate in New York City for cable transfers in selected currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
 
Price per share on the
SIX Swiss Exchange
      High       Low       High       Low
CHF CHF $ $
Quarterly Highs and Lows:
       Fiscal year 2009:
              First quarter 34.22 24.18 32.65 24.13
              Second quarter 30.46 24.56 27.92 22.35
              Third quarter 25.14 14.29 22.43 11.68
              Fourth quarter 18.01 9.00 16.26 7.74
       Fiscal year 2010:
              First quarter 16.80 11.94 14.85 10.41
              Second quarter 20.10 14.30 19.21 13.17
              Third quarter 19.21 16.44 18.95 15.87
              Fourth quarter 19.23 16.40 18.40 15.10

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     Nasdaq Global Select Market
 
     The following table sets forth certain historical share price information for the Company’s shares traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.
 
Price per share on Nasdaq
High Low
      $       $
Quarterly Highs and Lows:      
       Fiscal year 2009:
              First quarter 33.34   24.13
              Second quarter 27.91 21.98
              Third quarter 22.59 11.17
              Fourth quarter 16.11 7.64
       Fiscal year 2010:
              First quarter 15.19 10.64
              Second quarter 19.15 13.32
              Third quarter 18.95 15.85
              Fourth quarter 18.49 15.40

Dividends
 
     Under Swiss law, a corporation may only pay dividends upon a vote of its shareholders. This vote typically follows the recommendation of the corporation’s board of directors. Logitech has not paid dividends since 1996 in order to retain earnings for use in the operation and expansion of the business and, in more recent years, to repurchase its shares.
 
     Dividends paid and similar cash or in-kind distributions made by Logitech to a holder of Logitech shares (including dividends or liquidation proceeds and stock dividends) are subject to a Swiss federal anticipatory tax at a rate of 35%. The anticipatory tax must be withheld by Logitech from the gross distribution, and paid to the Swiss Federal Tax Administration.
 
     A Swiss resident holder and beneficial owner of Logitech shares may qualify for a full refund of the Swiss anticipatory tax withheld from such dividends. A holder and beneficial owner of Logitech shares who is a nonresident of Switzerland, but a resident of a country that maintains a double tax treaty with Switzerland, may qualify for a full or partial refund of the Swiss anticipatory tax withheld from such dividends by virtue of the provisions of the applicable treaty between Switzerland and the country of residence of the holder and beneficial owner of the Logitech shares.
 
     In accordance with the tax convention between the United States and the Swiss Confederation (“Treaty”), a mechanism is provided whereby a United States resident (as determined under the Treaty), and United States corporations, other than U.S. corporations having a “permanent establishment” or a fixed base, as defined in the Treaty, in Switzerland, generally can obtain a refund of the Swiss anticipatory tax withheld from dividends in respect of Logitech shares, to the extent that 15% of the gross dividend is withheld as final withholding tax (i.e. 20% of the gross dividend may generally be refunded). In specific cases, U.S. companies not having a “permanent establishment” or a fixed base in Switzerland owning at least 10% of Logitech registered shares may receive a refund of the Swiss anticipatory tax withheld from dividends to the extent it exceeds 5% of the gross dividend (i.e. 30% of the gross dividend may be refunded). To get the benefit of a refund, holders must beneficially own Logitech shares at the time such dividend becomes due.
 
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Share Repurchases
 
     The following table sets forth certain information related to purchases made by Logitech of its equity securities (in thousands, except per share amounts):
 
     In fiscal year 2010, we repurchased shares pursuant to our buyback program announced in June 2007 authorizing the purchase of $250 million of our shares. The June 2007 program was completed in March 2010. All share repurchases by the Company during fiscal year 2010 were made as part of publicly announced programs. In September 2008, our Board of Directors approved a new share buyback program, which authorizes the Company to invest up to $250 million to purchase its own shares. As of May 27, 2010, we have not started repurchases under the September 2008 program.
 
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Total Shares That May
Number Average Price Paid Yet Be Purchased
of Shares Per Share Under the
Period         Purchased       in USD       in CHF       Program
April 2009       $ 125,746  
May 2009   125,746  
June 2009   125,746
July 2009     125,746
August 2009 3,325 16.82 17.99 69,820
September 2009 2,513 18.04 19.09 24,479
October 2009 24,479
November 2009 24,479
December 2009 24,479
January 2010 24,479
February 2010 230 15.58 16.21 20,896
March 2010 1,357 15.81 17.14
       Total 7,425  
 

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Performance Graph
 
     The information contained in the Performance Graph shall not be deemed to be “soliciting material” or “ filed” with the SEC or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), except to the extent that we specifically incorporate it by reference into a document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or the Exchange Act.
 
     The following graph compares the cumulative total stockholder return on our shares, the Nasdaq Composite Index, and the S&P 500 Information Technology Index. The graph assumes that $100 was invested in our shares, the Nasdaq Composite Index and the S&P 500 Information Technology Index on March 31, 2005, and calculates the annual return through March 31, 2010. The stock price performance on the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.
 
 
March 31,
        2005         2006         2007         2008         2009         2010
Logitech $ 100 $ 131 $ 183 $ 167 $ 68 $ 107
Nasdaq Composite Index $ 100 $ 117 $ 121 $ 114 $ 76 $ 120
S&P 500 Index $ 100 $ 110 $ 120 $ 112 $ 68 $ 99

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
     The financial data below should be read in conjunction with Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” These historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in the future.
 
Year ended March 31,
        2010         2009         2008         2007         2006(1)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Consolidated statements of operations and
       cash flow data:
Net sales $ 1,966,748 $ 2,208,832 $ 2,370,496 $ 2,066,569 $ 1,796,715
Gross profit 626,896 691,226 849,118 709,525 574,110
Operating expenses:
       Marketing and selling 304,788 319,167 324,451 272,264 221,504
       Research and development 135,813 128,755 124,544 108,256 87,953
       General and administrative 106,147 113,103 113,443 98,143 65,742
       Restructuring charges 1,784 20,547
              Total operating expenses 548,532 581,572 562,438 478,663 375,199
Operating income 78,364 109,654 286,680 230,862 198,911
Net income $ 64,957 $ 107,032 $ 231,026 $ 229,848 $ 181,105
Net income per share:
       Basic $ 0.37 $ 0.60 $ 1.27 $ 1.26 $ 1.00
       Diluted $ 0.36 $ 0.59 $ 1.23 $ 1.20 $ 0.92
Shares used to compute net income per share:
       Basic 177,279 178,811 181,362 182,635 181,361
       Diluted 179,340 182,911 187,942 190,991 198,769
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 365,259 $ 200,587 $ 393,079 $ 303,825 $ 152,217

March 31,
        2010         2009         2008         2007         2006(1)
(In thousands)
Consolidated balance sheet data:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 319,944 $ 492,759 $ 482,352 $ 196,197 $ 245,014
Short-term investments $ $ 1,637 $ 3,940 $ 214,625 $
Total assets $ 1,599,678 $ 1,421,530 $ 1,526,932 $ 1,327,463 $ 1,057,064
Long-term debt, net of current maturities $ $ $ $ $ 4
Shareholders’ equity $ 999,715 $ 997,708 $ 960,044 $ 844,524 $ 685,176
____________________
 
(1)        
Net income for fiscal year 2006 does not include the effect of share-based compensation expense, because Logitech changed its method of accounting for share-based compensation expense effective April 1, 2006.
 
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ITEM 7.   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

     The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these statements as a result of certain factors, including those set forth above in Item 1A “Risk Factors,” and below in Item 7A “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.”
 
Overview of Our Company
 
     Logitech is a world leader in personal peripherals for computers and other digital platforms. We develop and market innovative products in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home-entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices. With our acquisition of LifeSize Communications, Inc. in December 2009, we entered the market for enterprise video conferencing products and services. Our products combine essential core technologies, continuing innovation, and award-winning industrial design.
 
     Logitech operates in two industry segments, personal peripherals and video conferencing.
 
     Our personal peripherals segment encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of personal peripherals for personal computers and other digital platforms. Our research and product management teams are organized along product lines, and are responsible for product strategy, industrial design and development, and technological innovation. Our global marketing and sales organization helps define product opportunities and bring our products to market, and is responsible for building the Logitech brand and consumer awareness of our products. This organization is comprised of retail and OEM (original equipment manufacturer) sales and marketing groups. Our retail sales and marketing activities are organized into three geographic regions: Americas (including North and South America), Europe-Middle East-Africa (“EMEA”), and Asia Pacific. Our OEM sales team is a worldwide organization with representatives in each of our three regions. Our OEM customers include the majority of the world’s largest PC manufacturers.
 
     Our video conferencing segment encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of LifeSize video conferencing products and services for the enterprise and small-to-medium business markets. The LifeSize segment maintains a separate marketing and sales organizations. The LifeSize product development and product management organizations are separate, but coordinated with our personal peripherals business, particularly our webcam and video communications groups. Based on the financial measurements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 as evaluated by Logitech’s Chief Executive Officer, the LifeSize operating segment does not meet the quantitative threshold for separate disclosure of financial information required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
 
     For the PC, our products include mice, trackballs, keyboards, interactive gaming controllers, multimedia speakers, headsets, webcams, 3D control devices and lapdesks. Our Internet communications products include webcams, headsets, video communications services, and digital video security systems for a home or small business. Our LifeSize division offers scalable high-definition (“HD”) video communication products, support and services. Our digital music products include speakers, earphones, and custom in-ear monitors. For home entertainment systems, we offer the Harmony line of advanced remote controls and the Squeezebox and Transporter wireless music solutions for the home. For gaming consoles, we offer a range of gaming controllers, including racing wheels, wireless guitar and drum controllers, and microphones, as well as other accessories.
 
     We sell our peripheral products to a network of retail distributors and resellers and to OEMs. Our worldwide retail network for our peripherals includes wholesale distributors, consumer electronics retailers, mass merchandisers, specialty electronics stores, computer and telecommunications stores, value-added resellers and online merchants. Our sales to our retail channels for our peripherals were 89% and 85% of our net sales for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009. The large majority of our revenues have historically been derived from sales of our personal peripheral products for use by consumers.
 
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     We sell our LifeSize products and services to distributors, value-added resellers, OEMs and direct enterprise customers. The large majority of LifeSize revenues have historically been derived from sales to large enterprises, small-to-medium businesses, and public healthcare, education and government organizations.
 
     Our markets are extremely competitive. The personal peripherals market is characterized by short product life cycles, frequent new product introductions, rapidly changing technology, evolving customer demands, and aggressive promotional and pricing practices. We believe that the global economic downturn has further increased competition in our markets, as competitors with larger financial resources, such as Microsoft Corporation, Sony Corporation and others, seek to gain market share by discounting prices or offering more favorable terms to customers, and competitors with smaller financial resources also discount prices or engage in other promotional practices in order to maintain their market share.
 
     The video conferencing market is characterized by continual performance enhancements and increasing consolidation. There is heightened interest in the video conferencing market by large, well-financed competitors, such as Cisco Systems, Inc. and Hewlett-Packard Company, and as a result, we expect competition in the market to further intensify.
 
     We believe continued investment in product research and development is critical to creating the innovation required to strengthen our competitive advantage and to drive future sales growth. We are committed to identifying and meeting current and future customer trends with new and improved product technologies, as well as leveraging the value of the Logitech brand from a competitive, channel partner and consumer experience perspective. We believe innovation and product quality are important to gaining market acceptance and maintaining market leadership.
 
     The broadening of our product lines has been primarily organic. However we also seek to acquire, when appropriate, companies that have products, personnel, and technologies that complement our strategic direction. As access to digital information expands beyond the PC platform, we are also extending our vision to other platforms, such as the living room, meeting room and other platforms as access points to the Internet and the digital world. For example, with our acquisition of LifeSize in December 2009, we entered the video conferencing market. Together, Logitech and LifeSize plan to pursue existing and new relationships with unified communications, collaboration and voice-over Internet protocol (“VoIP”) industry partners and competitors to drive the development of an open eco-system for interoperable video communications. In addition, as part of our corporate strategy, we plan to increase investments in and realign resources to focus on certain market adjacencies, geographic markets or new categories, including video communications and the China market. We also plan to increase our investment in applications and peripherals for open platforms, which do not require direct collaboration and agreement with the platform owner.
 
     We continually evaluate our product offerings and our strategic direction in light of current global economic conditions, changing consumer trends, and the evolving nature of the interface between the consumer and the digital world.
 
Summary of Financial Results
 
     Our total net sales for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 decreased 11% compared with the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. Net sales in the second half of fiscal year 2010 increased 10% over the same period in 2009, after decreasing 30% in the first six months of the year. While not yet resuming the sales levels in fiscal year 2008, the improvement in net sales in the last six months of fiscal year 2010 reflects more stable global economic conditions.
 
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     Retail sales in fiscal year 2010 decreased 8% compared with 2009. Retail unit sales decreased 2%, less than the decrease in sales dollars, reflecting the shift by consumers towards value-priced products as a result of the economic downturn.
 
     Retail sales in our Asia Pacific and EMEA regions decreased 16% and 11% in fiscal year 2010 compared with fiscal year 2009. Retail sales in our Americas region increased 1% in the same period. Retail sales in the last six months of fiscal year 2010 increased in the EMEA and Americas region, and decreased slightly in the Asia Pacific region, indicating an improvement in the sales trend.
 
     OEM sales decreased 38% in fiscal year 2010 compared with fiscal year 2009. OEM units sold decreased 25% in the same period. The substantial decline in OEM sales was related to console microphones, which sold well in the prior fiscal year, but have reached the latter stages of the typical gaming sales cycle in fiscal year 2010.
 
     The sales of LifeSize Communications, Inc., which we acquired on December 11, 2009, are included in our financial results from the date of acquisition to the end of the fiscal year.
 
     Our gross margin for fiscal year 2010 was 31.9% compared with 31.3% in the prior fiscal year, primarily due to the impact of operational efficiencies across our supply chain and a favorable shift in product mix towards products with higher margins.
 
     Net income for the year ended March 31, 2010 was $65.0 million, compared with net income of $107.0 million in fiscal year 2009. The decline in net income in 2010 resulted primarily from the decline in net sales. Net income also included the negative impact of $1.8 million in fiscal year 2010 and $20.5 million in fiscal year 2009 of costs related to the restructuring plan initiated in January 2009 in response to deteriorating global economic conditions.
 
Trends in Our Business
 
     We have a large and varied portfolio of product lines for personal peripherals, grouped in several product families. In addition to changes resulting from general economic trends, we believe that normal increases or decreases in the retail sales level of a product family reflect the innovation we have designed into the product, customer acceptance of the product line, the popularity of the digital platforms the product line relates to, competitive activity in the product family, and the prices at which products are available. Historically, sales of individual product lines rise and fall over time, causing our overall product mix to shift both between and within product lines, and we expect these types of trends to continue.
 
     We have historically targeted peripherals for the PC platform, a market that is dynamically changing as a result of the declining popularity of desktop PCs and the increasing popularity of notebook PCs and mobile devices, such as netbooks, smartphones, tablets and smaller form factor devices with computing or web surfing capabilities. In our retail channels, notebook PCs and mobile devices are sold by retailers without peripherals. We believe this creates opportunities to sell products to consumers to help make their devices more productive and comfortable. However, consumer acceptance and demand for peripherals for use with smaller form factor computing devices such as notebook PCs and mobile devices is still uncertain. The increasing popularity of notebook PCs and mobile devices may result in decreased demand by consumers for personal peripherals, which could negatively affect our business. The increasing popularity of mobile devices has coincided with a steadily decreasing average sales price for computing devices, including for desktop and notebook PCs. As a result, there is a risk that the demand for those of our products that have a relatively high average sales price in relation to the price of a desktop or notebook PC will decline. We believe our future sales growth will be significantly affected by our ability to develop sales and innovations in our current products for notebook PCs and other mobile devices, as well as for emerging product categories which are not PC-dependent.
 
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     In our OEM channel, the shift away from desktop PCs has adversely affected our sales of OEM mice, which are sold with name-brand desktop PCs. Our OEM mice sales have historically made up the bulk of our OEM sales. Our OEM sales accounted for 10% and 15% of total revenues during fiscal years 2010 and 2009. We expect the trend of slowing OEM mice sales to continue.
 
     Most of our revenue comes from sales to our retail channels, which resell to consumers and other retailers. As a result, our customers’ demand for our products depends in substantial part on trends in consumer confidence and consumer spending, as well as the levels of inventory which our customers choose to maintain. We use sell-through data, which represents sales of our products by our retailer customers to consumers and by our distributor customers to retailers, along with other metrics to indicate consumer demand for our products. Sell-through data is subject to limitations due to collection methods and the third-party nature of the data and thus may not be an entirely accurate indicator of actual consumer demand for our products. In addition, the customers supplying sell-through data vary by geographic region and from period to period, but typically represent a majority of our retail sales.
 
     The acquisition of LifeSize in December 2009 expands our video communication product portfolio beyond webcams and video calling into the enterprise meeting room. We believe our video conferencing segment offers significant growth opportunities for our business. However, the segment currently represents a small part of our net sales and will require continuing investments in product development and sales and marketing.
 
     We will continue to evaluate potential acquisitions to enhance the breadth and depth of our expertise in engineering and other functional areas, our technologies and our product offerings. We also intend to continue to invest in video communications, in products for the digital home, and in growing our sales in China by increasing hiring in related engineering and sales and marketing functions.
 
     Although our financial results are reported in U.S. dollars, approximately half of our sales are made in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, such as the euro, British pound, Japanese yen, Chinese renminbi and Canadian dollar. Our product costs are primarily in U.S. dollars and Chinese renminbi. Our operating expenses are incurred in U.S. dollars, euros, Chinese renminbi, Swiss francs, Taiwanese dollars, and, to a lesser extent, 25 other currencies. To the extent that the U.S. dollar significantly increases or decreases in value relative to the currencies in which our sales and operating expenses are denominated, the reported dollar amounts of our sales and expenses may decrease or increase. In fiscal year 2010 the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on our operating income was not material.
 
     Our gross margins vary with the mix of products sold, competitive activity, product life cycle, new product introductions, unit volumes, commodity and supply chain costs, foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, geographic sales mix, and the complexity and functionality of new product introductions. Changes in consumer demand affect the need for us to undertake promotional efforts, such as cooperative marketing arrangements, customer incentive programs or price protection, which alters our product gross margins. Gross margins for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 were 31.9%, compared with 31.3% in fiscal year 2009, primarily due to the impact of operational efficiencies across our supply chain and a favorable shift in product mix towards products with higher margins. We currently anticipate our gross margins to be higher in fiscal year 2011 compared with fiscal year 2010.
 
     Logitech is incorporated in Switzerland but operates in various countries with differing tax laws and rates. A portion of our income before taxes and the provision for income taxes are generated outside of Switzerland. Therefore, our effective income tax rate depends on the amount of profits generated in each of the various tax jurisdictions in which we operate. For fiscal years 2010 and 2009, the income tax provision was $18.7 million and $19.8 million based on effective income tax rates of 22.3% and 15.6%. The change in effective income tax rate between fiscal years 2010 and 2009 is primarily due to the mix of income and losses in the various tax jurisdictions in which the Company operates. We expect future effective income tax rates to fluctuate for similar reasons.
 
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     In the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2009, we implemented a restructuring plan which included a reduction in Logitech’s salaried workforce and other actions aimed at reducing operating expenses. We incurred $20.5 million in pre-tax restructuring charges in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2009 and $1.8 million in the twelve months ended March 31, 2010 related to employee termination costs, contract termination costs and other associated costs. The restructuring plan was expected to generate annual personnel cost savings beginning in fiscal year 2010 of approximately $50 million, and approximately $50 million additional variable cost savings through efforts to limit production costs and operating expenses. The cost savings realized from the restructuring are partially offset in the operating results of fiscal year 2010 by the addition of LifeSize’s operating expenses and by increased spending to support the return to revenue growth.
 
Critical Accounting Estimates
 
     The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Company to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, net sales and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.
 
     We consider an accounting estimate critical if it: (i) requires management to make judgments and estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain; and (ii) is important to an understanding of Logitech’s financial condition and operating results.
 
     We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions that may impact the Company in the future, actual results could differ from those estimates. Management has discussed the development, selection and disclosure of these critical accounting estimates with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
 
     We believe the following accounting estimates are most critical to our business operations and to an understanding of our financial condition and results of operations, and reflect the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
 
Accruals for Customer Programs
 
     We record accruals for product returns, cooperative marketing arrangements, customer incentive programs and pricing programs. The estimated cost of these programs is accrued in the period the Company sells the product or commits to the program as a reduction of revenue or as an operating expense, if we receive a separately identifiable benefit from the customer and can reasonably estimate the fair value of that benefit. Significant management judgment and estimates must be used to determine the cost of these programs in any accounting period.
 
     Returns. The Company grants limited rights to return product. Return rights vary by customer, and range from just the right to return defective product to stock rotation rights to return a limited percentage of the previous quarter’s purchases. Estimates of expected future product returns are recognized at the time of sale based on analyses of historical return trends by customer and by product, inventories owned by and located at distributors and retailers, current customer demand, current operating conditions, and other relevant customer and product information, such as stage of product life-cycle. Return trends are influenced by the timing of the sale, the type of customer, operational policies and procedures, product sell-through, product quality issues, sales levels, market acceptance of products, competitive pressures, new product introductions, product life cycle status, and other factors. Return rates can fluctuate over time, but are sufficiently predictable to allow us to estimate expected future product returns.
 
     Cooperative Marketing Arrangements. The Company’s cooperative marketing arrangements include contractual customer marketing and sales incentive programs. We enter into customer marketing programs with many of our distribution and retail customers allowing customers to receive a credit equal to a set percentage of their purchases of the Company’s products, or a fixed dollar credit for various marketing programs. The objective of these programs is to encourage advertising and promotional events to increase sales of our products. Accruals for the estimated costs of these marketing programs are recorded based on the contractual percentage of product purchased in the period we recognize revenue. The Company also offers rebates and discounts for certain types of sell-through programs. Accruals for these sales incentive programs are recorded at the time of sale, or time of commitment, based on negotiated terms, historical experience and inventory levels in the channel.
 
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     Customer Incentive Programs. Customer incentive programs include volume and consumer rebates. We offer volume rebates to our distribution and retail customers related to purchase volumes or sales of specific products by distributors to specified retailers. Reserves for volume rebates are recognized as a reduction of the sale price at the time of sale. Estimates of required reserves are determined based on negotiated terms, consideration of historical experience, anticipated volume of future purchases, and inventory levels in the channel. Consumer rebates are offered from time to time at the Company’s discretion directly to end-users. Estimated costs of consumer rebates and similar incentives are recorded at the time the incentive is offered, based on the specific terms and conditions. Certain incentive programs, including consumer rebates, require management to estimate the number of customers who will actually redeem the incentive based on historical experience and the specific terms and conditions of particular programs.
 
     Price Protection and Special Pricing. We have contractual agreements with certain of our customers that contain terms allowing price protection credits to be issued in the event of a subsequent price reduction (contractual price protection). At management’s discretion, we also offer special pricing discounts to certain customers. Special pricing discounts are usually offered only for limited time periods or for sales to specific indirect partners. Our decision to make price reductions is influenced by channel inventory levels, product life cycle stage, market acceptance of products, the competitive environment, new product introductions and other factors. Credits are issued for units that customers have on hand or in transit at the date of the price reduction. Reserves for the estimated amounts to be reimbursed to qualifying customers are established quarterly based on planned price reductions, analyses of qualified inventories on hand with distributors and retailers and historical trends by customer and by product.
 
     We regularly evaluate the adequacy of our accruals for product returns, cooperative marketing arrangements, customer incentive programs and pricing programs. Future market conditions and product transitions may require the Company to take action to increase such programs. In addition, when the variables used to estimate these costs change, or if actual costs differ significantly from the estimates, we would be required to record incremental reductions to revenue or increase operating expenses. If, at any future time, the Company becomes unable to reasonably estimate these costs, recognition of revenue might be deferred until products are sold to end-users, which would adversely impact revenue in the period of transition.
 
Investment Securities
 
     Our investment securities portfolio as of March 31, 2010 and 2009 consisted of auction rate securities collateralized by residential and commercial mortgages. The estimated fair value of our investment securities was $1.0 million and $1.6 million at March 31, 2010 and 2009. Estimated fair value was determined by estimating values of the underlying collateral using analogous published indices or by estimating future cash flows, either through discounted cash flow or option pricing methods, incorporating assumptions of default and other future conditions. The investments are classified as available-for-sale, and were reclassified from current to non-current assets as of April 1, 2009, as sale or realization of proceeds from sale is not expected within our normal operating cycle of one year.
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
     We sell our products through a worldwide network of distributors, retailers and OEM customers. Logitech generally does not require any collateral from its customers. However, we seek to control our credit risk through ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition.
 
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     We regularly evaluate the collectibility of our accounts receivable and maintain allowances for doubtful accounts. The allowances are based on management’s assessment of the collectibility of specific customer accounts, including their credit worthiness and financial condition, as well as the Company’s historical experience with bad debts and customer deductions, receivables aging, current economic trends and geographic or country-specific risks and the financial condition of our distribution channel. If management determines that a customer’s accounts receivable balance is uncollectible, recognition of revenue from that customer is deferred until collectibility is reasonably assured.
 
     As of March 31, 2010, one customer represented 14% of total accounts receivable. The customers comprising the ten highest outstanding trade receivable balances accounted for approximately 58% of total accounts receivable as of March 31, 2010. A deterioration of a significant customer’s financial condition could cause actual write-offs to be materially different from the estimated allowance. If any of these customers’ receivable balances should be deemed uncollectible or if actual write-offs are higher than historical experience, we would have to make adjustments to our allowance for doubtful accounts, which could result in an increase in the Company’s operating expenses.
 
Inventory Valuation
 
     The Company must order components for its products and build inventory in advance of customer orders. Further, our industry is characterized by rapid technological change, short-term customer commitments and rapid changes in demand.
 
     We record inventories at the lower of cost or market value and record write-downs of inventories which are obsolete or in excess of anticipated demand or market value. A review of inventory is performed each fiscal quarter that considers factors including the marketability and product life cycle stage, product development plans, component cost trends, demand forecasts and current sales levels. We identify inventory exposures by comparing inventory on hand, in the channel and on order to historical and forecasted sales over six month periods. Inventory on hand which is not expected to be sold or utilized based on review of forecasted sales and utilization is considered excess, and we recognize the write-off in cost of sales at the time of such determination. At the time of loss recognition, a new, lower-cost basis for that inventory is established and subsequent changes in facts and circumstances would not result in an increase in the cost basis. If there were an abrupt and substantial decline in demand for Logitech’s products or an unanticipated change in technological or customer requirements, we may be required to record additional write-downs which could adversely affect gross margins in the period when the write-downs are recorded.
 
Share-Based Compensation Expense
 
     Share-based compensation expense includes compensation expense, reduced for estimated forfeitures, for awards granted after April 1, 2006 based on the grant-date fair value. The grant date fair value for stock options and stock purchase rights is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing valuation model. The grant date fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) which vest upon meeting certain market conditions is estimated using the Monte-Carlo simulation method. The grant date fair value of time-based RSUs is calculated based on the share market price on the date of grant. For stock options and restricted stock assumed by Logitech when LifeSize was acquired, the grant date used to estimate fair value is deemed to be December 11, 2009, the date of acquisition. Compensation expense for awards granted or assumed after April 1, 2006 is recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period of the award. For share-based compensation awards granted prior to but not yet vested as of April 1, 2006, share-based compensation expense is based on the grant-date fair value estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing valuation model reduced for estimated forfeitures, and recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. See Note 13-Employee Benefit Plans in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of share-based compensation.
 
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     Our estimates of share-based compensation expense require a number of complex and subjective assumptions including our stock price volatility, employee exercise patterns, future forfeitures, dividend yield, related tax effects and the selection of an appropriate fair value model. We estimate expected share price volatility based on historical volatility using daily prices over the term of past options, RSUs or purchase offerings, as we consider historical share price volatility as most representative of future volatility. We estimate expected life based on historical settlement rates, which we believe are most representative of future exercise and post-vesting termination behaviors. We use historical data to estimate pre-vesting forfeitures, and we record share-based compensation expense only for those awards that are expected to vest. The dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s history and future expectations of dividend payouts.
 
     The assumptions used in calculating the fair value of share-based compensation expense and related tax effects represent management’s best estimates, but these estimates involve inherent uncertainties and the application of management judgment. As a result, if factors change and we use different assumptions, or if we decide to use a different valuation model, our share-based compensation expense could be materially different in the future from what we have recorded in the current period, which could materially affect our results of operations.
 
Accounting for Income Taxes
 
     Logitech operates in multiple jurisdictions and its profits are taxed pursuant to the tax laws of these jurisdictions. The Company’s effective income tax rate may be affected by the changes in or interpretations of tax laws in any given jurisdiction, utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, changes in geographical mix of income and expense, and changes in management’s assessment of matters such as the ability to realize deferred tax assets. As a result of these considerations, we must estimate income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. This process involves estimating current tax exposure together with assessing temporary differences resulting from different treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included in the consolidated balance sheet.
 
     We assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income, considering all available evidence such as historical levels of income, expectations and risks associated with estimates of future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax strategies. We believe it is more likely than not such assets will be realized; however, ultimate realization could be negatively impacted by market conditions and other variables not known or anticipated at this time. In the event we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our deferred tax assets, an adjustment would be charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. Likewise, if we later determine that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets would be realized, the previously provided valuation allowance would be reversed.
 
     We make certain estimates and judgments about the application of tax law, the expected resolution of uncertain tax positions and other matters surrounding the recognition and measurement of uncertain tax benefits. In the event that uncertain tax positions are resolved for amounts different than our estimates, or the related statutes of limitations expire without the assessment of additional income taxes, we will be required to adjust the amounts of the related assets and liabilities in the period in which such events occur. Such adjustments may have a material impact on our income tax provision and our results of operations.
 
Valuation of Long-Lived Assets
 
     We review long-lived assets, such as investments, property, plant and equipment, and goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment whenever events indicate that the carrying amount of these assets might not be recoverable. Factors considered important which could require us to review an asset for impairment include the following:
  • significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results;
     
  • significant changes in the manner of use of the assets or the strategy for the Company’s overall business;
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  • significant negative industry or economic trends;
     
  • significant decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period; and
     
  • market capitalization relative to net book value.
     Recoverability of investments, property, plant and equipment, and other intangible assets is measured by comparing the projected undiscounted cash flows the asset is expected to generate with its carrying amount. If an asset is considered impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value.
 
     We evaluate goodwill for impairment on an annual basis and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable from our estimated future cash flows. Recoverability of goodwill is measured at the reporting unit level by comparing the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill, to the fair value of the reporting unit. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill is considered impaired, and a second test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss. We continue to maintain discrete financial information for 3Dconnexion and LifeSize, and accordingly determine impairment for the goodwill acquired with these acquisitions at the entity level. All other acquired goodwill is evaluated for impairment at a total enterprise level.
 
     In determining fair value, we consider various factors including estimates of future market growth and trends, forecasted revenue and costs, expected periods over which our assets will be utilized, and other variables. We calculate the Company’s fair value based on the present value of projected cash flows using a discount rate determined by management to be commensurate to the risk inherent in the Company’s current business model. To date, we have not recognized any impairment of goodwill. Logitech bases its fair value estimates on assumptions it believes to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
     In October 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) published Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2009-13, Multiple Deliverable Revenue Arrangements, which addresses the accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements to enable vendors to account for products or services separately rather than as a combined unit. This guidance amends the criteria in ASC Subtopic 605-25, Revenue Recognition—Multiple-Element Arrangements, to establish a selling price hierarchy for determining the selling price of a deliverable, based on vendor specific objective evidence, acceptable third party evidence, or estimates. This guidance also eliminates the residual method of allocation and requires that arrangement consideration be allocated at the inception of the arrangement to all deliverables using the relative selling price method. In addition, the disclosures required for multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements are expanded. ASU 2009-13 is effective for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the appropriate timing for the adoption of ASU 2009-13 and its potential impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
 
     In October 2009, the FASB published ASU 2009-14, Certain Revenue Arrangements That Include Software Elements, to provide guidance for revenue arrangements that include both tangible products and software elements. Under this guidance, tangible products containing software components and non-software components that function together to deliver the product’s essential functionality are excluded from the software revenue guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Subtopic 985-605, Software-Revenue Recognition. In addition, hardware components of a tangible product containing software components are always excluded from the software revenue guidance. ASU 2009-14 is effective for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the appropriate timing for the adoption of ASU 2009-14 and its potential impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
 
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     In January 2010, the FASB published ASU 2010-06, Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurement, which requires additional disclosures regarding the activity in fair value measurements classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. Disclosure of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements is required for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. Early adoption is permitted. We will provide these disclosures beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011, when such activity occurs.
 
     In April 2010, the FASB published ASU 2010-13, Effect of Denominating the Exercise Price of a Share-Based Payment Award in the Currency of the Market in Which the Underlying Equity Security Trades. The ASU provides that a share-based payment award with an exercise price denominated in the currency of a market in which a substantial portion of the entity’s equity shares trades should not be considered to contain a condition that is not a market, performance, or service condition. Therefore, an entity would not classify such an award as a liability if it otherwise qualifies as equity. The ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2010. Earlier adoption is permitted. Our adoption of ASU 2010-13 in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011 will not impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
 
Results of Operations
 
Net Sales
 
     Net sales by channel for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows (in thousands):
 
Change %
Year Ended March 31, 2010 vs 2009 vs
        2010         2009         2008         2009         2008
Net sales by channel:
       Retail $ 1,745,152 $ 1,887,343 $ 2,067,288 (8 )% (9 )%
       OEM 198,364 321,489 303,208 (38 )% 6 %
       LifeSize 23,232 0 % 0 %
              Total net sales $ 1,966,748 $ 2,208,832 $ 2,370,496 (11 )% (7 )%
 

     The decreases in retail sales in fiscal years 2009 and 2010 reflected the global economic downturn. The impact began in the third quarter of fiscal year 2009 and continued through the second quarter of fiscal year 2010. During this period, our retail sales were affected by consumers’ reluctance to spend, their buying preference for lower-price products and their strong response to promotions, as well as our customers’ alignment of inventory levels with the declining consumer demand. Sales of products priced below $40 represented 57% of retail sales in fiscal year 2010, compared with 50% in fiscal year 2009 and 49% in fiscal year 2008. Retail units decreased 2% in fiscal year 2010, compared with a 5% decrease in 2009, indicating the beginnings of economic stabilization. Foreign currency exchange rates did not affect the retail sales decline.
 
     The significant decline in OEM sales for fiscal year 2010 compared with 2009 was attributable to the popularity of our console microphones in fiscal year 2008 and the first three quarters of fiscal year 2009. These products reached the latter stages of the typical gaming sales cycle in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2009. OEM units sold decreased 25% during fiscal year 2010 and increased 2% in fiscal year 2009, compared with the prior fiscal years. Foreign currency exchange rates did not significantly affect the OEM sales decline.
 
     LifeSize net sales represent sales of video conferencing units and related software and services for the period from December 11, 2009, the date of acquisition, to the end of the fiscal year. Although we consider LifeSize a separate operating segment, based on financial measurements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 and our near-term expectations, the LifeSize segment does not meet the quantitative threshold for separate disclosure of financial information required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
 
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     Approximately 51%, 46% and 45% of the Company’s total net sales were denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar in fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008. If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, our constant dollar sales decline would have been 12%. If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, our constant dollar sales decrease would have been 6%.
 
     We refer to our net sales excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates as constant dollar sales. Constant dollar sales are a non-GAAP financial measure, which is information derived from consolidated financial information but not presented in our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our management uses these non-GAAP measures in its financial and operational decision-making, and believes these non-GAAP measures, when considered in conjunction with the corresponding GAAP measures, facilitate a better understanding of changes in net sales. Constant dollar sales are calculated by translating prior period sales in each local currency at the current period’s average exchange rate for that currency.
 
Retail Sales by Region
 
     The following table presents the change in retail sales by region for fiscal year 2010 compared with fiscal year 2009, and fiscal year 2009 compared with fiscal year 2008:
 
Year Ended March 31,
      2010 vs 2009       2009 vs 2008
Change in retail sales by region:
       EMEA (11 )% (11 )%
         Americas 1 %   (15 )%
       Asia Pacific   (16 )%     16 %
              Total retail sales (8 )%   (9 )%  

     Sales in the EMEA region decreased in all product families except audio in fiscal year 2010 compared with 2009, reflecting the effects of the global economic downturn. For the same reason in fiscal year 2009, the EMEA region experienced sales decreases in all product families compared with the prior year. Retail units sold declined 5% and 8% in fiscal years 2010 and 2009 compared with the prior year. In both fiscal years 2010 and 2009, sales in Eastern Europe and other emerging markets were depressed, reflecting the economic downturn, customers’ lack of available credit to finance purchases of inventory, and currency volatility. The percentage decline in retail sell-through in the EMEA region for fiscal year 2010 was less than the decline in sell-in, which indicates comparatively stronger consumer demand for our products than our sales results reflected, as well as a continuance of the realignment of our channel partners’ weeks of supply levels. If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, our EMEA constant dollar retail sales decline would have been 12%. If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, our EMEA constant dollar retail sales decrease would have been 8%.
 
     Retail sales were essentially flat in the Americas region in fiscal year 2010 compared with 2009, reflecting modest economic stability in the region. Sales of pointing devices, keyboards and desktops, and remotes increased. The 15% decrease in sales in fiscal year 2009 compared with 2008 was driven by declines in all product families except video. Total retail units sold in the Americas region in fiscal year 2010 increased 7% over the prior year, an indication of consumers’ preference for value-segment products, compared with a 5% decrease in fiscal year 2009. Retail sell-through in fiscal year 2010 was also essentially flat compared with the prior year, as our channel partners, during the first half of the year, completed the realignment of their weeks of supply levels. Foreign currency exchange rates had no significant effect on retail sales in the Americas region in either fiscal year 2010 or fiscal year 2009.
 
     Retail sales in the Asia Pacific region declined in all product families during fiscal year 2010 compared with 2009, as our channel partners completed their alignment of inventory levels with consumer demand. This alignment activity was also reflected by positive sell-through compared with the sell-in decline. In fiscal year 2009, before the economic downturn affected the region, retail sales increased in all product families compared with the prior year. Correspondingly, total retail units sold in the Asia Pacific region declined 10% in fiscal year 2010 and increased 11% in fiscal year 2009 compared with the prior years. If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, our Asia Pacific constant dollar retail sales decline would have been 17%. If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, our Asia Pacific constant dollar retail sales increase would have been 12%.
 
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Net Retail Sales by Product Family
 
     Net retail sales by product family for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows (in thousands):
 
Change %
Year Ended March 31, 2010 vs 2009 vs
     2010       2009       2008       2009       2008
Net retail sales by product family:                                
       Retail — Pointing Devices $ 528,236 $ 579,775 $ 615,524 (9 )% (6 )%
       Retail — Keyboards & Desktops   329,038 384,809 464,984 (14 )% (17 )%
         Retail — Audio 454,957   445,362 478,455 2 % (7 )%
       Retail — Video   228,344   248,339     238,728   (8 )% 4 %
       Retail — Gaming 107,595   127,052   146,016 (15 )% (13 )%
       Retail — Remotes 96,982 102,006 123,581   (5 )%   (17 )%
              Total net retail sales 1,745,152 1,887,343 2,067,288 (8 )% (9 )%
                               
     Logitech’s Pointing Devices product family includes our mice, trackballs and other pointing devices. Keyboards and desktops (mouse and keyboard combined) include cordless and corded keyboards and desktops. Audio includes speakers and headset products for the PC, the home, and mobile entertainment platforms, and wireless music systems. Our video product family is comprised of PC webcams and WiLife video security systems. Gaming includes console and PC gaming peripherals. The Remotes product family is comprised of our advanced remote controls. Net sales reflect accruals for product returns, cooperative marketing arrangements, customer incentive programs and pricing programs.
 
     Retail — Pointing Devices
 
     Retail unit sales of our pointing devices decreased 2% in both fiscal years 2010 and 2009 compared with the prior fiscal years. Sales of corded mice declined 19% in fiscal year 2010 and 13% in fiscal year 2009, with units decreasing 11% and 8%. Sales of cordless mice decreased 3% in fiscal year 2010 and increased 4% in fiscal year 2009. Unit sales of cordless mice increased 15% in fiscal year 2010 and 10% in fiscal year 2009, driven by sales of our notebook mice, including in 2010 the Performance Mouse MX and the Anywhere Mouse MX, both with Darkfield Laser Tracking, and in 2009 the V450 Nano Cordless Mouse and the V220 Cordless Optical Mouse. The slower decline or higher increase in unit sales compared with dollar sales for cordless and corded mice indicates consumers’ current preference for the value segment of our product lines.
 
     Retail — Keyboards and Desktops
 
     Retail unit sales of keyboards and desktops decreased 11% and 10% during fiscal years 2010 and 2009. Sales of corded keyboards and desktops decreased 11% and 5% in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, while units decreased 17% and 7%. In fiscal year 2010, cordless keyboards and desktops decreased 20% in sales and 5% in units. Sales of the MK300 wireless desktop and the EX 100 cordless desktop were strong, but were offset by declines in sales of the EX 110 cordless desktop. In fiscal year 2009, sales of cordless keyboards and desktops decreased 21%, with a 17% decline in units. Strong sales of our cordless desktops EX 100 and MX 5500 were offset by declines in sales of the MX5000 Laser and EX 110 cordless desktops.
 
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     Retail Audio
 
     Retail audio unit sales increased 11% in fiscal year 2010 and decreased 2% in fiscal year 2009. PC speaker sales decreased 7% in dollars, but increased 7% in units in fiscal year 2010, following a decline of 20% in dollars and 8% in units in fiscal year 2009. The decline in PC speaker sales was primarily attributable to product transitions and the weak demand environment. Sales of our iPod speakers increased 1% in dollars and 8% in units in fiscal year 2010 compared with increases of 22% and 8% in fiscal year 2009. Sales of our PureFi Anywhere 2 speakers made strong contributions to the increases in both fiscal years 2010 and 2009. In fiscal year 2010, the S315i Rechargeable Speaker and the S215i Portable Speaker also made positive contributions to sales. PC headset sales grew 23% in fiscal year 2010 and 9% in fiscal year 2009, with units increasing 22% and 3%. Ultimate Ears products also provided positive contributions to retail audio sales in both fiscal years 2010 and 2009.
 
     Retail Video
 
     Video sales decreased 8% in fiscal year 2010 after increasing 4% in fiscal year 2009, compared with the previous years. Units sold increased 2% and 3% in fiscal years 2010 and 2009. The sales fluctuations were primarily attributable to our WiLife video security products, which sold well in fiscal year 2009, and were negatively affected in fiscal year 2010 by a planned future product transition. Strong sellers in our webcam family included the value-priced C250 and C200 webcams in fiscal year 2010, and our Communicate MP and QuickCam Connect webcams in fiscal year 2009.
 
     Retail Gaming
 
     Retail unit sales of our gaming peripherals decreased 26% in fiscal year 2010, compared with a decrease of 22% in fiscal year 2009. PC gaming sales decreased 12% and 13% in fiscal years 2010 and 2009 compared with the previous year. Unit sales of PC gaming peripherals decreased 25% and 18% in fiscal years 2010 and 2009. In the cyclical manner typical of gaming peripherals, sales of our G25 Racing Wheel, popular in fiscal year 2009, were replaced by our G27 Racing Wheel, with lower sales of the G15 Gaming Keyboard in both years. Console gaming sales declined 27% and 12%, with unit declines of 27% and 28% in fiscal years 2010 and 2009.
 
     Retail Remotes
 
     Retail remote sales decreased 5% in fiscal year 2010 compared with the decline of 17% in fiscal year 2009. Unit sales decreased 14% in fiscal year 2010 compared with an 8% increase in fiscal year 2009, reflecting strong sales of our lower-priced Harmony One remote control and increased promotional activity in both years, and our newer Harmony 900 and Harmony 700 Advanced Universal Remote in fiscal year 2010.
 
Gross Profit
 
     Gross profit for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 was as follows (in thousands):
 
      Change %
  Year Ended March 31, 2010 vs 2009 vs
2010       2009       2008       2009       2008
Net sales $  1,966,748   $  2,208,832   $  2,370,496 (11 )%   (7 )%
Cost of goods sold 1,339,852   1,517,606     1,521,378 (12 )% 0 %
Gross profit $ 626,896   $ 691,226 $ 849,118   (9 )% (19 )%
Gross margin   31.9 % 31.3 % 35.8 %                                

     Gross profit consists of net sales, less cost of goods sold which includes materials, direct labor and related overhead costs, costs of manufacturing facilities, costs of purchasing components from outside suppliers, distribution costs and write-down of inventories.
 
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     The improvement in the gross margin percentage in fiscal year 2010 over fiscal year 2009 was primarily due to operational efficiencies across our supply chain, including lower product costs as well as faster inventory turnover, and a favorable shift in product mix towards products with higher margins. Gross profit in fiscal year 2009 decreased 19% in dollars and declined as a percentage of revenue compared with fiscal year 2008 primarily due to the decline in net sales, an increasingly promotional environment, the mix of products sold, and higher freight and intangible amortization costs.
 
Operating Expenses
 
     Operating expenses for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows (in thousands):
 
Change %
Year Ended March 31, 2010 vs 2009 vs
      2010       2009       2008       2009       2008
Marketing and selling $  304,788 $  319,167 $  324,451 (5 )% (2 )%
       % of net sales 15.5 % 14.4 % 13.7 %
Research and development   135,813 128,755 124,544 5 % 3 %
       % of net sales 6.9 %   5.8 % 5.3 %
  General and administrative 106,147 113,103 113,443 (6 )% 0 %
       % of net sales 5.4 %   5.1 %     4.8 %  
Restructuring charges 1,784 20,547 (91 )% 0 %
       % of net sales 0.1 % 0.9 % 0.0 %
Total operating expenses $ 548,532 $ 581,572 $ 562,438 (6 )%   3 %
       % of net sales 27.9 % 26.3 % 23.7 %                              

     Total operating expenses for fiscal year 2009, excluding the impact of restructuring charges, were comparable to fiscal year 2008. In fiscal year 2010, operating expenses declined less than net sales declined, as the Company continued to invest in product development and other areas to help ensure we were positioned for the resumption of revenue growth when economic conditions improved. We expect to limit future growth in operating expenses below the growth rate in revenues, restraining or reducing non-critical expenses while investing in activities that will sustain and drive revenue growth.
 
     We refer to our operating expenses excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates as constant dollar operating expenses. Constant dollar operating expenses are a non-GAAP financial measure, which is information derived from consolidated financial information but not presented in our financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our management uses these non-GAAP measures in its financial and operational decision-making, and believes these non-GAAP measures, when considered in conjunction with the corresponding GAAP measures, facilitate a better understanding of changes in operating expenses. Constant dollar operating expenses are calculated by translating prior period operating expenses in each local currency at the current period’s average exchange rate for that currency.
 
     Marketing and Selling
 
     Marketing and selling expense consists of personnel and related overhead costs, corporate and product marketing, promotions, advertising, trade shows, customer and technical support and facilities costs.
 
     The decline in marketing and selling expenses in fiscal year 2010 compared with fiscal year 2009 resulted primarily from lower spending in marketing development funds, travel expenses and consulting fees. The decrease in spending between fiscal years 2009 and 2008 was the result of lower spending in advertising, marketing development funds, and travel expenses. These decreases in marketing costs related to the alignment of promotional expenditures with current sales levels and targeted product promotion activities which occurred in fiscal year 2008.
 
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     Personnel costs increased in fiscal years 2010 and 2009 over the preceding fiscal years partially due to the addition of LifeSize sales and marketing personnel in fiscal year 2010 and the WiLife product marketing group in fiscal year 2009, and partially relating to the comparison of periods in which discretionary personnel costs were reduced. Bad debt expense declined significantly in fiscal year 2010 as economic conditions stabilized, after increasing significantly in fiscal year 2009 as a result of customers’ financial difficulties related to the economic downturn.
 
     If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, the percentage decrease in constant dollar marketing and selling expense for fiscal year 2010 would not have changed. The impact of year-over-year exchange rate changes on translation of foreign currency marketing and selling expenses to our U.S. dollar financial statements was not material in fiscal year 2009 compared with fiscal year 2008.
 
     Research and Development
 
     Research and development expense consists of personnel and related overhead costs, contractors and outside consultants, supplies and materials, equipment depreciation and facilities costs, all associated with the design and development of new products and enhancements of existing products.
 
     The increases in research and development expenses in fiscal years 2010 and 2009 resulted from the addition of research and development costs of companies acquired in fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008. Personnel costs were approximately the same in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, but increased in fiscal year 2010 in comparison with fiscal year 2009, when discretionary personnel costs were reduced.
 
     If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, the change in constant dollar research and development expense would have been 5%, the same as the change in U.S. dollars. In fiscal year 2009, exchange rate changes, particularly from the stronger Swiss franc and Taiwanese dollar relative to the U.S. dollar, contributed to the increase in research and development expense.
 
     General and Administrative
 
     General and administrative expense consists primarily of personnel and related overhead and facilities costs for the finance, information systems, executive, human resources and legal functions.
 
     General and administrative expense was approximately the same in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, and declined in fiscal year 2010. The decline in fiscal year 2010 was primarily due to a decrease of 5% in personnel costs, as headcount was reduced, although the headcount reduction was offset by the addition of LifeSize personnel in the fourth fiscal quarter. Personnel costs increased 2% during fiscal year 2009 primarily due to an increase in share-based compensation expense. Decreases in travel and infrastructure expenses in fiscal year 2010 were partially offset by $6.6 million in transaction costs related to the acquisition of LifeSize. Consulting fees and travel expenses decreased in fiscal year 2009 compared with fiscal year 2008 as a result of cost containment efforts.
 
     If foreign currency exchange rates had been the same in fiscal years 2010 and 2009, the percentage decrease in constant dollar general and administrative expense for fiscal year 2010 would have been 7%. Exchange rate changes, particularly from the stronger Swiss franc relative to the U.S. dollar, contributed to the increase in general and administrative expense in fiscal year 2009.
 
     Restructuring Charges
 
     Restructuring charges consist of termination benefits, asset impairment charges, contract termination costs and other charges associated with the restructuring plan initiated in January 2009. In the period from January 2009 to March 31, 2010, we incurred pre-tax restructuring charges of $22.3 million.
 
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     The restructuring plan reduced our salaried workforce by approximately 500 employees, resulting in $17.8 million in termination benefits to those employees. Termination benefits were calculated based on regional benefit practices and local statutory requirements. An additional $3.4 million in pension plan curtailment and settlement costs were incurred in fiscal year 2009 as a result of the terminations. Restructuring charges also included exit costs associated with the closure of existing facilities and write downs of fixed assets that were not placed in service due to the abandonment of the related projects.
 
     The restructuring was completed as of March 31, 2010. The cost savings realized from the restructuring are partially offset in the operating results of fiscal year 2010 by the addition of LifeSize’s operating expenses and by increased spending to support the return to revenue growth.
 
     The following table summarizes restructuring-related activities during fiscal years 2010 and 2009 (in thousands). No restructuring costs were incurred in fiscal year 2008.
 
Contract
Termination Asset Termination
      Total       Benefits       Impairments       Costs       Other
Balance at March 31, 2008 $ $ $ $   $
       Charges 20,547 16,427 556 200 3,364
       Cash payments (12,764 ) (12,579 ) (185 )
       Charges against assets (556 ) (556 )
       Other (3,485 ) (121 )   (3,364 )
       Foreign exchange 52 52  
  Balance at March 31, 2009 $ 3,794 $ 3,779 $ $ 15 $  
       Charges   1,784   1,318   419 47
       Cash payments (5,194 )   (5,098 )   (96 )
       Charges against assets
       Other (86 ) 53       (4 )   (135 )
       Foreign exchange 101     106           (5 )
Balance at March 31, 2010 $ 399 $ 158 $ $ 334 $ (93 )
                                               
Interest Income, Net
 
     Interest income and expense for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows (in thousands):
 
Change %
Year Ended March 31, 2010 vs 2009 vs
     2010       2009       2008       2009       2008
  Interest income $ 2,406 $ 8,648   $ 15,752        (72 )%           (45 )%     
Interest expense   (286 )     (20 ) (244 ) 1330 %     (92 )%
Interest income, net $ 2,120 $ 8,628   $ 15,508 (75 )% (44 )%  
                                             
     Interest income declined in fiscal years 2010 and 2009 compared with 2008 due to lower invested balances and significantly lower interest rates.
 
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Other Income (Expense), Net
 
     Other income and expense for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows (in thousands):
 
     Change %
Year Ended March 31, 2010 vs 2009 vs
2010      2009      2008      2009      2008
Foreign currency exchange gains, net $ 1,720 $ 13,680 $ 10,616   (87 )%   29 %  
Write-down of investments (643 ) (2,727 ) (79,823 )   (76 )%   (97 )%
Gain on sale of investments, net       27,761     0 %   (100 )%
Insurance investment income (loss)   1,221   (2,883 ) 710     (142 )%   (506 )%
  Other, net 841 441 1,362   91 %   (68 )%  
Other income (expense), net $ 3,139 $ 8,511 $ (39,374 )   (63 )% (122 )%
                                             
     Foreign currency exchange gains or losses relate to balances denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of a particular subsidiary, to the sale of currencies, and to gains or losses recognized on foreign exchange forward contracts. The higher foreign exchange gains during fiscal year 2009 were due to gains on sales of euros for U.S. dollars. The gains on currency sales in fiscal year 2010 were offset by losses on foreign exchange forward contracts intended to reduce the short-term effects of foreign currency fluctuations on foreign currency receivables or payables. We do not speculate in currency positions, but we are alert to opportunities to maximize foreign exchange gains.
 
     We recorded write-downs of $0.6 million, $2.7 million and $79.8 million in fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 related to other-than-temporary declines in the estimated fair value of our investment securities. During fiscal year 2008, we also recorded a realized gain of $33.7 million on investments sold as part of a confidential settlement agreement, and a realized loss of $6.0 million on the sale of investments collateralized by corporate debt.
 
     Insurance investment income or loss represents changes in the cash surrender value of Company-owned life insurance contracts related to a management deferred compensation plan offered by one of our subsidiaries.
 
     Other income in fiscal year 2008 also includes a gain of $1.0 million on the sale of our ioPen retail product line.
 
Provision for Income Taxes
 
     The provision for income taxes and effective income tax rate for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows (in thousands):
 
Year Ended March 31,
      2010      2009      2008
Provision for income taxes $ 18,666   $ 19,761   $ 31,788
  Effective income tax rate   22.3 % 15.6 % 12.1 %

     The provision for income taxes consists of income and withholding taxes. Logitech operates in multiple jurisdictions and its profits are taxed pursuant to the tax laws of these jurisdictions. The Company’s effective income tax rate may be affected by the changes in or interpretations of tax laws in any given jurisdiction, utilization of net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, changes in geographical mix of income and expense, and change in management’s assessment of matters such as the ability to realize deferred tax. The increase in the effective income tax rate to 22.3% compared with 15.6% in fiscal year 2009 is due to the mix of income and losses in the various tax jurisdictions in which we operate. The increase in the effective income tax rate to 15.6% in fiscal year 2009 compared with 12.1% in fiscal year 2008 is primarily due to the mix of income and losses in the various tax jurisdictions in which we operate and the decrease in income before income taxes.
 
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     The U.S. Federal research tax credit expired as of December 31, 2009. The U.S. House of Representatives in December 2009 and the U.S. Senate in March 2010 passed different draft legislation which would extend the tax credit for an additional year, however the extension has not yet passed into law as of March 31, 2010. Accordingly, our income tax provision for fiscal year 2010 includes a tax benefit for the Federal research tax credit of $0.9 million calculated through December 31, 2009.
 
     The U.S. state of California has enacted legislation affecting the methodology which must be used by corporate taxpayers to apportion income to California. These changes will become effective for our fiscal year ending March 31, 2012. Although the Company has significant operations in California, we believe these changes will not have a material impact on our results of operations or financial condition.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Cash Balances, Available Borrowings, and Capital Resources
 
     At March 31, 2010, our working capital was $353.4 million, compared with $709.4 million at March 31, 2009. The decrease in working capital over the prior year was due to the cash paid for the acquisition of LifeSize, offset by decreases in accounts receivable and inventories, and increases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
 
     During fiscal year 2010, operating activities provided net cash of $365.3 million, generated from cash collections on accounts receivable, inventory management efforts, and increases in short-term liabilities. We used $427.8 million in investing activities, including $378.6 million for the acquisition of LifeSize, net of cash acquired of $3.7 million, $10.0 million for certain assets of TV Compass, and $39.8 million for investments in tooling, computer hardware, and software. Net cash used in financing activities was $108.2 million, primarily for the repurchase of shares under our share buyback programs and the repayment of short and long-term debt assumed in the LifeSize acquisition, partially offset by proceeds from employee stock purchases and the exercise of stock options.
 
     At March 31, 2010, we had cash and cash equivalents of $319.9 million, comprised of bank demand deposits and short-term time deposits. Cash and cash equivalents are carried at cost, which is equivalent to fair value. In addition, we hold investments consisting of auction rate securities with an estimated fair value of $1.0 million, which are carried in non-current assets, as sale or realization of proceeds from the sale of these securities is not expected within our normal operating cycle of one year. The fair value of these securities at March 31, 2010 was determined by estimating future cash flows, either through discounted cash flow or option pricing methods, incorporating assumptions of default and other future conditions. During fiscal year 2010, we recorded an impairment loss of $0.6 million related to the other-than-temporary decline in the fair value of these securities. Further changes in the fair value of our investment securities would not materially affect our liquidity or capital resources.
 
     The Company has credit lines with several European and Asian banks totaling $151.9 million as of March 31, 2010. As is common for businesses in European and Asian countries, these credit lines are uncommitted and unsecured. Despite the lack of formal commitments from the banks, we believe that these lines of credit will continue to be made available because of our long-standing relationships with these banks and our current financial condition. At March 31, 2010, there were no outstanding borrowings under these lines of credit. There are no financial covenants under these facilities.
 
     We provide various third parties with irrevocable letters of credit in the normal course of business to secure our obligations to pay or perform pursuant to the requirements of an underlying agreement or the provision of goods and services. These standby letters of credit are cancelable only at the option of the beneficiary who is authorized to draw drafts on the issuing bank up to the face amount of the standby letter of credit in accordance with its terms. At March 31, 2010, we had $3.4 million of letters of credit in place, of which $0.3 million was outstanding. These letters of credit related primarily to equipment purchases by a subsidiary in China, and expire between April and June 2010.
 
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     The Company has financed its operating and capital requirements primarily through cash flow from operations and, to a lesser extent, from capital markets and bank borrowings. Our normal short-term liquidity and long-term capital resource requirements are provided from three sources: cash flow generated from operations, cash and cash equivalents on hand, and borrowings, as needed, under our credit facilities.
 
     Based upon our available cash balances and credit lines, and the trend of our historical cash flow generation, we believe we have sufficient liquidity to fund operations for the foreseeable future.
 
Cash Flow from Operating Activities
 
     The following table presents selected financial information and statistics for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 (dollars in thousands):
 
Year Ended March 31,
2010       2009       2008
Accounts receivable, net $ 195,247   $ 213,929 $ 373,619
Inventories $ 219,593 $ 233,467 $ 245,737
Working capital $ 353,370 $ 709,382   $ 723,221
Days sales in accounts receivable (DSO)(1) 33 days   47 days   56 days
Inventory turnover (ITO)(2)   6.1x   5.2x   6.3x
Net cash provided by operating activities $ 365,259 $ 200,587 $ 393,079
____________________

(1)        DSO is determined using ending accounts receivable as of the most recent quarter-end and net sales for the most recent quarter.
(2)   ITO is determined using ending inventories and annualized cost of goods sold (based on the most recent quarterly cost of goods sold).
 
     During fiscal year 2010, the Company’s operating activities generated net cash of $365.3 million, compared with $200.6 million in 2009 and $393.1 million in 2008. The increase in 2010 was due primarily to targeted management of working capital, reflected in the lower DSO and higher ITO.
 
     DSO for fiscal year 2010 improved by 14 days compared with fiscal year 2009 and 23 days over fiscal year 2008, due to improved cash collections and increased order and shipment linearity. Typical payment terms require customers to pay for product sales generally within 30 to 60 days; however, terms may vary by customer type, by country and by selling season. Extended payment terms are sometimes offered to a limited number of customers during the second and third fiscal quarters. The Company does not modify payment terms on existing receivables, but may offer discounts for early payment.
 
     Inventory turnover for fiscal year 2010 increased compared with 2009. Inventory turnover declined between fiscal years 2009 and 2008 because sales decreased at a faster rate than inventory was reduced.
 
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Cash Flow from Investing Activities
 
     Cash flows from investing activities during fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows (in thousands):
 
Year Ended March 31,
2010      2009      2008
Acquisitions and investments, net of cash acquired $ (388,809 ) $ (64,430 ) $ (59,722 )
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (39,834 ) (48,263 ) (57,900 )
Purchases of investment securities       (379,793 )
Sales of investment securities     538,479
Sale of investment     13,308
Proceeds from cash surrender of life insurance policies 813  
Premiums paid on cash surrender value life insurance policies (427 ) (1,151 )
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities $ (427,830 ) $ (113,120 ) $ 53,221

     In fiscal year 2010, we acquired LifeSize Communications for $378.6 million, net of cash acquired of $3.7 million, and certain assets of TV Compass for $10 million. In fiscal year 2009, we acquired the Ultimate Ears companies for $32.3 million, net of cash acquired of $0.2 million, including transaction costs of $0.5 million and excluding a $1.8 million holdback provision which was recorded as a liability in the consolidated financial statements. We also acquired SightSpeed in fiscal year 2009 for $30.9 million in cash including transaction costs of $0.8 million. In addition, we paid $2.0 million for a pre-acquisition contingency recorded during the third quarter of fiscal year 2009 related to our WiLife acquisition and $0.4 million for patent rights acquired pursuant to a patent settlement agreement. In fiscal year 2008, we acquired WiLife, Inc. for $22.0 million, net of cash acquired of $0.1 million and including $0.5 million in transaction costs. We also paid a deferred payment in fiscal year 2008 of $37.7 million to the former shareholders of Intrigue Technologies, Inc., which we acquired in May 2004.
 
     Our purchases of plant and equipment during fiscal years 2010 and 2009 were principally for computer hardware and software purchases, machinery and equipment and normal expenditures for tooling. In fiscal year 2008, we also purchased machinery and equipment for two new production and manufacturing facilities, including a new surface mount technology factory in China, and leasehold improvements for a new office facility in Switzerland. Purchasing activity was lower in fiscal years 2010 and 2009 as we focused our cash outlays on critical capital needs.
 
     During the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, we sold 50% of our investment securities as part of a confidential settlement agreement and received $84.3 million in cash. In addition, we sold our remaining investments collateralized by corporate debt for $28.3 million, at a realized loss of $6.0 million. We also reinvested $130.9 million into short-term bank deposits, which are classified as cash equivalents in the Company’s balance sheet. The balance of the activity in investments related to purchases and sales made during the first quarter of fiscal year 2008. The Company no longer invests in auction rate securities.
 
     We received $11.3 million during fiscal year 2008 from the sale in fiscal year 2007 of the balance of our investment in Anoto Group A.B. We also received $2.0 million from the sale of our ioPen retail product line in fiscal year 2008.
 
     The proceeds from cash surrender and the premiums paid on life insurance relate to investments of a management deferred compensation plan offered by one of the Company’s subsidiaries.
 
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Cash Flow from Financing Activities
 
     The following tables present information on our cash flows from financing activities, including information on our share repurchases during fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008 (in thousands except per share amounts):
 
Year Ended March 31,  
2010         2009         2008  
Purchases of treasury shares $ (126,301 ) $ (78,870 ) $ (219,742 )
Proceeds from sale of shares upon exercise of options  
       and purchase rights 28,917   31,119   50,603
Repayments of debt (13,630 )   (11,739 )
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation 2,814 6,592 15,231
Net cash used in financing activities $ (108,200 ) $ (41,159 ) $ (165,647 )

Year Ended March 31,
2010       2009       2008
Number of shares repurchased 7,425 2,803 7,784
Value of shares repurchased $  126,301   $  78,870 $  219,742
Average price per share $ 17.01 $ 28.14 $ 28.23

     During fiscal year 2010 and 2009, we repurchased 7.4 million and 2.8 million shares for $126.3 million and $78.9 million under our buyback program announced in June 2007. In fiscal year 2008, we repurchased 7.8 million shares for $219.7 million under buyback programs announced in June 2007 and May 2006. The June 2007 buyback program, which was completed in March 2010, and the May 2006 buyback program, which was completed in February 2008, each authorized the purchase of up to $250.0 million in Logitech shares.
 
     In fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008, we received proceeds from the sale of 3.1 million, 3.1 million and 4.7 million shares upon exercise of employee stock options and share purchases under our stock plans. In addition, cash was provided in each of those fiscal years from tax benefits on the exercise of share-based payment awards.
 
     In fiscal year 2010, we repaid $13.6 million of short and long-term debt assumed when we acquired LifeSize Communications. During fiscal year 2008, we repaid in full our short-term debt borrowings of $11.7 million.
 
Cash Outlook
 
     We have financed our operations and capital requirements primarily through cash flow from operations and, to a lesser extent, capital markets and bank borrowings. Our working capital requirements and capital expenditures may increase to support future expansion of Logitech operations. Future acquisitions or expansion of our operations may be significant and may also require the use of cash. In addition, future deterioration of global economic conditions could adversely affect our operations and require the use of cash.
 
     In September 2008, our Board of Directors approved a new share buyback program, which authorizes the Company to invest up to $250 million to purchase its own shares. The September 2008 program is subject to the completion of our current share buyback program of $250 million, which occurred in March 2010. As of May 27, 2010, we have not started repurchases under the September 2008 program.
 
     In the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2009, we initiated a restructuring plan in order to reduce operating expenses and improve financial results in response to deteriorating global economic conditions. We incurred pre-tax restructuring charges of $20.5 million in the three months ended March 31, 2009 and $1.8 million in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 related to employee termination costs, contract termination costs, and other associated costs. The restructuring was completed as of March 31, 2010. The cost savings realized from the restructuring are partially offset in the operating results of fiscal year 2010 by the addition of LifeSize’s operating expenses and by increased spending to support the return to revenue growth.
 
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     In December 2009, we acquired LifeSize Communications, Inc., a privately held company specializing in high definition video communication products and services. In connection with the merger, Logitech agreed to establish a cash and stock option retention and incentive plan for certain LifeSize employees, linked to the achievement of LifeSize performance targets. The duration of the plan’s performance period is two years, from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2011. The total available cash incentive is $9.0 million over the two year performance period. In December 2009, options to purchase 850,000 Logitech shares were issued in connection with the retention and incentive plan.
 
     In November 2007, we acquired WiLife, Inc., a privately held company providing PC-based video cameras for self-monitoring a home or small business. The purchase agreement provides for a possible performance-based payment, payable in the first calendar quarter of 2011. The performance-based payment is based on net revenues attributed to WiLife during calendar year 2010. No payment is due if the applicable net revenues total $40.0 million or less. The maximum performance-based payment is $64.0 million. The total performance-based payment amount, if any, will be recorded in goodwill and will not be known until the end of calendar year 2010. As of March 31, 2010, no amounts were payable towards performance-based payments under our WiLife acquisition agreement.
 
     The U.S. state of California has enacted legislation affecting the methodology which must be used by corporate taxpayers to apportion income to California. These changes will become effective for our fiscal year ending March 31, 2012. Although the Company has significant operations in California, we believe these changes will not have a material impact on our results of operations or financial condition.
 
     The U.S. Internal Revenue Service has initiated an examination of the Company’s U.S. subsidiary for fiscal years 2006 and 2007. The Company is also under examination in other foreign jurisdictions. As of March 31, 2010, we are not able to estimate the potential future liability, if any, which may result from these examinations.
 
     Other contractual obligations and commitments of the Company which require cash are described in the following sections.
 
     Over the past several years, we have been able to generate positive cash flow from our operating activities, including cash from operations of $365.3 million in fiscal year 2010. Despite the uncertain economic environment, we believe that our cash and cash equivalents, cash flow generated from operations, and available borrowings under our bank lines of credit will be sufficient to fund our operations for the foreseeable future.
 
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
 
     As of March 31, 2010, the Company’s outstanding contractual obligations and commitments included: (i) equipment financed under capital leases, (ii) facilities leased under operating lease commitments, (iii) purchase commitments and obligations, (iv) long-term liabilities for income taxes payable, and (v) defined benefit pension plan obligations. The following summarizes our contractual obligations and commitments at March 31, 2010 (in thousands):
 
Payments Due by Period(1)
More
Less than than 5
Total       1 year       1-3 years       4-5 years       years
Operating leases $ 46,696 $ 13,679 $ 17,870   $ 7,644   $ 7,503
Purchase commitments — inventory   183,560 183,560    
Purchase obligations — capital expenditures 12,925 12,925    
Purchase obligations — operating expenses 33,324   33,324  
Other liabilities(2) 164,825    
Total contractual obligations and commitments $ 441,330   $ 243,488 $ 17,870 $ 7,644 $ 7,503
____________________

(1)        The table above does not include the performance based payments that we may have to make as part of our acquisition agreements described above.
 
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(2)      
Other liabilities at March 31, 2010 included $118.9 million related to our income tax liability for uncertain tax positions, $22.1 million in pension liabilities related to our defined benefit pension plans and non-retirement post-employment benefit obligations, of which $0.6 million is payable in the next 12 months, $10.3 million related to a management deferred compensation plan, $5.7 million of royalties payable, $4.4 million in deferred service revenue, and $3.4 million related to various other obligations. As the specific payment dates for most of these obligations are unknown, the related balances have not been reflected in the “Payments Due by Period” section of the table.
 
Operating Leases
 
     The remaining terms on our non-cancelable operating leases expire in various years through 2028. Our asset retirement obligations on these leases as of March 31, 2010 were not material.
 
Purchase Commitments
 
     We expect to continue making capital expenditures in the future to support product development activities and ongoing and expanded operations. At March 31, 2010, fixed purchase commitments for capital expenditures amounted to $12.9 million, and primarily relate to commitments for manufacturing equipment, tooling, computer software and computer hardware. We also have commitments for inventory purchases made in the normal course of business to original design manufacturers, contract manufacturers and other suppliers. At March 31, 2010, fixed purchase commitments for inventory amounted to $183.6 million, which are expected to be fulfilled by December 31, 2010. We also had other commitments of $33.3 million for consulting, marketing arrangements, advertising and other services. Although open purchase commitments are considered enforceable and legally binding, the terms generally allow us the option to reschedule and adjust our requirements based on business needs prior to the delivery of the purchases.
 
Income Taxes Payable
 
     At March 31, 2010, we had $116.5 million in non-current income taxes payable and $2.4 million in current income taxes payable, including interest and penalties, related to our income tax liability for recognized uncertain tax positions. Although we have adequately provided for uncertain tax positions, the provisions on these positions may change as revised estimates are made or the underlying matters are settled or otherwise resolved. Within the next 12 months, we anticipate that it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits may decrease due to the resolution of income tax audits with foreign governments. However, an estimate of such decreases cannot reasonably be made as of March 31, 2010.
 
Defined Benefit Pension Plan Obligations
 
     At March 31, 2010, we had $22.1 million in pension liability related to our defined benefit pension plans and non-retirement post-employment benefit obligations, of which $0.6 million is payable in the next 12 months. See Note 13 – Employee Benefit Plans for more information.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
     The Company has not entered into any transactions with unconsolidated entities whereby we have financial guarantees, subordinated retained interests, derivative instruments or other contingent arrangements that expose us to material continuing risks, contingent liabilities, or any other obligation under a variable interest in an unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit risk support to the Company.
 
Guarantees
 
     The Company has guaranteed the purchase obligations of some of its contract manufacturers and original design manufacturers to certain component suppliers. These guarantees generally have a term of one year and are automatically extended for one or more years as long as a liability exists. The amount of the purchase obligations of these manufacturers varies over time, and therefore the amounts subject to the Company’s guarantees similarly varies. At March 31, 2010, there were no outstanding guaranteed purchase obligations. The maximum potential future payments for three of the five guarantee arrangements is limited to $30.8 million in total. The remaining two guarantees are limited to purchases of specified components from the named suppliers. We do not believe, based on historical experience and information available as of the date of this report, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under these guarantee arrangements.
 
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     Logitech International S.A., the parent holding company, has guaranteed certain contingent liabilities of various subsidiaries related to specific transactions occurring in the normal course of business. The maximum amount of the guarantees was $8.2 million as of March 31, 2010. As of March 31, 2010, $7.6 million was outstanding under these guarantees. The parent holding company has also guaranteed the purchases of one of its subsidiaries under two guarantee arrangements. These guarantees do not specify a maximum amount. As of March 31, 2010, $8.7 million was outstanding under these guarantees.
 
Indemnifications
 
     The Company indemnifies certain of its suppliers and customers for losses arising from matters such as intellectual property rights and safety defects, subject to certain restrictions. The scope of these indemnities varies and may include indemnification for damages and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees. In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with our officers and directors, and the bylaws of our subsidiaries contain similar indemnification obligations to our agents. No amounts have been accrued for indemnification provisions as of March 31, 2010. We do not believe, based on historical experience and information available as of the date of this report, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under these indemnification arrangements.
 
Letters of Credit
 
     We provide various third parties with irrevocable letters of credit in the normal course of business to secure our obligations to pay or perform pursuant to the requirements of an underlying agreement or the provision of goods and services. These standby letters of credit are cancelable only at the option of the beneficiary who is authorized to draw drafts on the issuing bank up to the face amount of the standby letter of credit in accordance with its terms. At March 31, 2010, we had $3.4 million of letters of credit in place, of which $0.3 million was outstanding. These letters of credit relate primarily to equipment purchases by a subsidiary in China, and expire between April and June 2010.
 
Research and Development
 
     For a discussion of the Company’s research and development activities, patents and licenses, please refer to Item 1 “Business”.
 
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
Market Risk
 
     Market risk represents the potential for loss due to adverse changes in the fair value of financial instruments. As a global concern, the Company faces exposure to adverse movements in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. These exposures may change over time as business practices evolve and could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial results.
 
Foreign Currency Exchange Rates
 
     The Company is exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk as it transacts business in multiple foreign currencies, including exposure related to anticipated sales, anticipated purchases and assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Logitech transacts business in over 30 currencies worldwide, of which the most significant to operations are the Chinese renminbi (“CNY”), euro, British pound, Taiwanese dollar, Japanese yen, Mexican peso and Swiss franc. The functional currency of the Company’s operations is primarily the U.S. dollar. To a lesser extent, certain operations use the euro, Swiss franc, Japanese yen or the local currency of the country as their functional currencies. Accordingly, unrealized foreign currency gains or losses resulting from the translation of net assets or liabilities denominated in foreign currencies to the U.S. dollar are accumulated in the cumulative translation adjustment component of other comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity.
 
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     The table below provides information about the Company’s underlying transactions that are sensitive to foreign exchange rate changes, primarily assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency, where the net exposure is greater than $0.5 million at March 31, 2010. The table below represents the U.S. dollar impact on earnings of a 10% appreciation and a 10% depreciation of the functional currency as compared with the transaction currency (in thousands):
 
FX Gain (Loss) FX Gain (Loss)
Net Exposed From 10% From 10%
Long (Short) Appreciation of Depreciation of
Currency Functional Functional
Functional Currency   Transaction Currency      Position      Currency      Currency
U.S. dollar Chinese renminbi $ 35,428 $ (3,221 ) $ 3,936
Euro British pound 22,143 (2,013 ) 2,460
Taiwanese dollar U.S. dollar 17,846 (1,622 ) 1,983  
Japanese yen U.S. dollar (12,769 ) 1,161 (1,419 )
Mexican peso U.S. dollar (6,454 ) 587 (717 )
Euro Swedish krona (1,736 ) 158 (193 )
Euro Swiss franc (1,440 ) 131 (160 )
Euro U.S. dollar (1,072 ) 97 (119 )
Australian dollar U.S. dollar   671 (61 ) 75
U.S. dollar Canadian dollar 583 (53 ) 65
Swiss franc U.S. dollar 503     (46 )   56
$ 53,703 $ (4,882 ) $ 5,967
                   
     Long currency positions represent net assets being held in the transaction currency while short currency positions represent net liabilities being held in the transaction currency.
 
     The Company’s principal manufacturing operations are located in China, with much of its component and raw material costs transacted in CNY. However, the functional currency of its Chinese operating subsidiary is the U.S. dollar as its sales and trade receivables are transacted in U.S. dollars. To hedge against any potential significant appreciation of the CNY, the Company transferred a portion of its cash investments to CNY accounts. At March 31, 2010, net assets held in CNY totaled $35.4 million. The Company continues to evaluate the level of net assets held in CNY relative to component and raw material purchases and interest rates on cash equivalents.
 
     The Company enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge against exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to its subsidiaries’ forecasted inventory purchases. The primary risk managed by using derivative instruments is the foreign currency exchange rate risk. The Company has designated these derivatives as cash flow hedges. Logitech does not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. These hedging contracts generally mature within six months, and are denominated in the same currency as the underlying transactions. Gains and losses in the fair value of the effective portion of the hedges are deferred as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss until the hedged inventory purchases are sold, at which time the gains or losses are reclassified to cost of goods sold. As of March 31, 2010, the notional amounts of foreign exchange forward contracts outstanding related to forecasted inventory purchases were $46.2 million. Deferred realized gains of $1.3 million and deferred unrealized gains of $0.1 million are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss at March 31, 2010, and are expected to be reclassified to cost of goods sold when the related inventory is sold.
 
     The Company also enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to reduce the short-term effects of foreign currency fluctuations on certain foreign currency receivables or payables. These forward contracts generally mature within one to three months. The Company may also enter into foreign exchange swap contracts to economically extend the terms of its foreign exchange forward contracts. The primary risk managed by using forward and swap contracts is the foreign currency exchange rate risk. The gains or losses on foreign exchange forward contracts are recognized in earnings based on the changes in fair value.
 
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     The notional amounts of foreign exchange forward contracts outstanding at March 31, 2010 relating to foreign currency receivables or payables were $15.1 million. Open forward contracts as of March 31, 2010 consisted of contracts in British pounds to purchase euros at a future date at a predetermined exchange rate. The notional amounts of foreign exchange swap contracts outstanding at March 31, 2010 were $38.9 million. Swap contracts outstanding at March 31, 2010 consisted of contracts in British pounds, Japanese yen, Mexican pesos and Canadian dollars. Unrealized net losses on the contracts outstanding at March 31, 2010 were $0.1 million.
 
     If the U.S. dollar had appreciated by 10% compared with the foreign currencies in which we have forward or swap contracts, an unrealized gain of $7.0 million in our forward foreign exchange contract portfolio would have occurred. If the U.S. dollar had depreciated by 10% compared with the foreign currencies in which we have forward or swap contracts, a $7.3 million unrealized loss in our forward foreign exchange contract portfolio would have occurred.
 
Interest Rates
 
     Changes in interest rates could impact the Company’s anticipated interest income on its cash equivalents and investment securities. The Company prepared sensitivity analyses of its interest rate exposures to assess the impact of hypothetical changes in interest rates. Based on the results of these analyses, a 100 basis point decrease or increase in interest rates from the March 31, 2010 and March 31, 2009 period end rates would not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations or cash flows.
 
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
 
     Logitech’s financial statements and supplementary data required by this item are set forth as a separate section of this Form 10-K. See Item 15 (a) for a listing of financial statements provided in the section titled “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”
 
ITEM 9.  
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
 
     None.
 
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
     Logitech’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K, have concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective at a level designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their stated objectives.
 
     Disclosure controls are controls and procedures designed to reasonably assure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under the Exchange Act, such as this Form 10-K, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls are also designed to reasonably assure that this information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
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Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
     Logitech’s management, with oversight by the Board of Directors, is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Logitech’s internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
 
     Logitech’s management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2010. In making this assessment, management used the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of March 31, 2010.
 
     All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective may not prevent or detect misstatements and can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
     The effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2010 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears in Item 15.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
     There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2010 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
 
     None.
 
64
 


PART III
 
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
 
     Information regarding our executive officers is incorporated herein by reference to Part I, Item 1, above.
 
     Other information required by this Item may be found in the definitive Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference. The definitive Proxy Statement will be filed with the Commission within 120 days after our fiscal year end of March 31, 2010 (“the Proxy Statement”).
 
     The Company’s code of ethics policy entitled, “Business Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy of Logitech International S.A.,” covers members of the Company’s board of directors and its executive officers (including the principal executive officer, principal financial officer and controller) as well as all other employees.
 
     The code of ethics addresses, among other things, the following items:
  • Honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;
     
  • Full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that we file with, or submit to, the Commission and in other public communications made by us;
     
  • Compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations;
     
  • The prompt internal reporting to an appropriate person or persons identified in the code of violations of any of the provisions described above; and
     
  • Accountability for adherence to the code.
     Any amendments or waivers of the code of ethics for members of the Company’s board of directors or executive officers will be disclosed in the investor relations section of the Company’s Web site within four business days following the date of the amendment or waiver and will also be disclosed either on a Form 8-K or the Company’s next Form 10-K filing. During fiscal year 2010, no waivers or amendments were made to the code of ethics for any Director or Executive Officer.
 
     Logitech’s code of ethics is available on the Company’s Web site at www.logitech.com, and for no charge, a copy of the Company’s code of ethics can be requested via the following address or phone number:
 
     Logitech
     
Investor Relations 
     6505 Kaiser Drive 
     Fremont, CA 94555 USA 
     Main 510-795-8500
 
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
     The information required by this Item may be found in the Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
 
ITEM 12.  
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
 
     Information with respect to this item may be found in the Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
 
65
 


ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
 
     Information with respect to this item may be found in the Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
 
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
 
     Information with respect to this item may be found in the Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
 
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
 
     (a) The following documents are filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:
 
          1. Financial Statements
 
               Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
               Consolidated Statements of Income – Years Ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
 
               Consolidated Balance Sheets – March 31, 2010 and 2009
 
               Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Years Ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
 
               Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity – Years Ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
 
               Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
               Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data
 
          2. Financial Statement Schedule
 
               Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
 
          3. Exhibits
 
66
 


Index to Exhibits
Exhibit Incorporated by Reference Filed
No.      Exhibit      Form      File No.      Filing Date      Exhibit No.      Herewith
2. 1 Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of November 10, 2009, as amended by the First Amendment to Agreement and Plan of Merger, entered into as of November 16, 2009, both by and among Logitech Inc., Agora Acquisition Corporation, LifeSize Communications, Inc., Shareholder Representative Services LLC, as stockholder representative, and U.S. Bank National Association, as escrow agent. 8-K 0-29174 12/14/09 2.1    
     
3. 1 Articles of Incorporation of Logitech International S.A. as amended 10-Q 0-29174 11/04/08 3.1
     
3. 2   Organizational Regulations of Logitech International S.A. as amended 10-K 0-29174 06/01/09 3.2  
   
10. 1 1996 Stock Plan, as amended** S-8 333-100854 05/27/03 4.2
     
10. 2 Logitech International S.A. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan, as amendedand restated effective September 1, 2009** 8-K 0-29174 09/03/09 10.2
   
10. 3 Representative form of Performance Restricted Stock Unit agreement under the Logitech International S.A. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan** 10-K   0-29174 06/01/09 10.3
       
10. 4 Logitech Inc. Management Deferred Compensation Plan** 10-Q 0-29174 11/04/08 10.1
     
10. 5 1996 Employee Share Purchase Plan (U.S.), as amended**   S-8 333-157038 01/30/09 10.1
     
10. 6 2006 Employee Share Purchase Plan (Non-U.S.), as amended** S-8 333-157038   01/30/09   10.2
     
10. 7 Form of Director and Officer Indemnification Agreement with Logitech International S.A.** 20-F 0-29174 05/21/03 4.1
     
10. 8 Form of Director and Officer Indemnification Agreement with Logitech Inc.** 20-F 0-29174 05/21/03 4.2
   
10. 9 Logitech Management Performance Bonus Plan** 8-K 0-29174 05/13/08 10.1
     
10. 10 Employment Agreement dated December 3, 2008 between Logitech Inc. and Gerald P. Quindlen** 8-K 0-29174 12/09/08 10.1
   
10. 11 Change of Control Severance Agreement dated December 3, 2008 among Logitech International S.A., Logitech Inc. and Gerald P. Quindlen** 8-K 0-29174 12/09/08 10.4
     
10. 12 Employment agreement dated January 28, 2008 between Logitech Inc. and Guerrino De Luca** 10-K 0-29174 05/30/08 10.10
     
10. 13 Change of Control Severance Agreement dated December 3, 2008 among Logitech International S.A., Logitech Inc. and Guerrino De Luca** 8-K 0-29174 12/09/08 10.5
     
10. 14 Form of Employment Agreement dated December 3, 2008 between Logitech Inc. and each of Mark J. Hawkins, David Henry, Junien Labrousse, and L. Joseph Sullivan** 8-K 0-29174 12/09/08 10.2  

67
 


Exhibit Incorporated by Reference Filed
No.       Exhibit       Form       File No.       Filing Date       Exhibit No.       Herewith
10. 15 Form of Change of Control Severance Agreement between Logitech Inc., Logitech International S.A. and executive officers other than the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer** 10-K 0-29174 05/30/08 10.12   
     
10. 16 Offer letter dated December 24, 2008 between Logitech Inc. and Werner Heid** 10-K 0-29174 06/01/09 10.16
     
10. 17 Representative form of stock option agreement (non-executive board members) under the Logitech International S.A. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan** 10-Q 0-29174 11/04/09 10.1
     
10. 18 Representative form of stock option agreement (employees) under the Logitech International S.A. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan** 10-Q 0-29174 11/04/09 10.2
   
10. 19 Representative form of restricted stock unit agreement (non-executive board members) under the Logitech International S.A. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan** 10-Q 0-29174 11/04/09 10.3
     
10. 20 Representative form of restricted stock unit agreement (executives) under the Logitech International S.A. 2006 Stock Incentive Plan** 10-Q 0-29174   11/04/09 10.4  
   
10. 21 Compensation terms for non-executive board members for September 2009 – September 2010 board year** 10-Q 0-29174 11/04/09 10.5
     
10. 22 Executive officer base salary, duties and authority under form of employment agreements dated December 3, 2008** 10-Q 0-29174 11/04/09 10.14.1
       
10. 23 LifeSize Communications, Inc. 2003 Stock Option Plan** S-8   333-163933 12/22/09 10.1
     
10. 24 Offer letter dated September 14, 2009 between Logitech Inc. and Erik K. Bardman** 8-K 0-29174 09/22/09 10.1
   
21. 1 List of subsidiaries of Logitech International S.A.   X
     
23. 1 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm X
     
24. 1 Power of Attorney (incorporated by reference to the signature page of this Annual Report of Form 10-K) X
     
31. 1 Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X
     
31. 2 Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X
   
32. 1 Certification by Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002* X
____________________
 
*      
This exhibit is furnished herewith, but not deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to liability under that section. Such certification will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that we explicitly incorporate it by reference.
**
Indicates management compensatory plan, contract or arrangement.
 
68
 


SIGNATURES
 
     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
      
/S/ GERALD P. QUINDLEN
Gerald P. Quindlen
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
/S/ ERIK K. BARDMAN
Erik K. Bardman
Senior Vice President, Finance and
Chief Financial Officer

May 27, 2010
 
69
 


POWER OF ATTORNEY
 
     KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Gerald P. Quindlen and Erik K. Bardman, jointly and severally, his or her attorney-in-fact, with the power of substitution, for him or her in any and all capacities, to sign any amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K and to file the same, with exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that each of said attorneys-in-fact, or his or her substitute or substitutes, may do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
 
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual Report on Form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
 
Signature       Title       Date
/S/ GERALD P. QUINDLEN   President and Chief Executive Officer May 27, 2010
Gerald P. Quindlen        (Principal Executive Officer)
 
Senior Vice President, Finance and May 27, 2010
/S/ ERIK K. BARDMAN        Chief Financial Officer
Erik K. Bardman        (Principal Financial Officer,
       Principal Accounting Officer)
 
/S/ GUERRINO DE LUCA Chairman of the Board May 27, 2010
Guerrino De Luca  
 
/S/ GERALD P. QUINDLEN Director May 27, 2010
Gerald P. Quindlen  
 
/S/ DANIEL BOREL Director May 27, 2010
Daniel Borel
 
/S/ MATTHEW BOUSQUETTE Director May 27, 2010
Matthew Bousquette
 
/S/ ERH-HSUN CHANG Director May 27, 2010
Erh-Hsun Chang
 
/S/ KEE-LOCK CHUA Director May 27, 2010
Kee-Lock Chua
 
/S/ SALLY DAVIS Director May 27, 2010
Sally Davis
 
/S/ ROBERT MALCOLM Director May 27, 2010
Robert Malcolm
 
/S/ MONIKA RIBAR Director May 27, 2010
Monika Ribar
 
/S/ RICHARD LAUBE Director May 27, 2010
Richard Laube  

70
 


INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
Page
Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 72
Consolidated Statements of Income – Years Ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 73
Consolidated Balance Sheets – March 31, 2010 and 2009 74
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Years Ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 75
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity – Years Ended March 31, 2010, 2009
       and 2008 76
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 77
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data 112

71
 


REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
To the Shareholders of Logitech International S.A.
 
     In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(1) present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Logitech International S.A. and its subsidiaries at March 31, 2010 and March 31, 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2010 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial schedule, and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
 
     As discussed in Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for business combinations effective April 1, 2009.
 
     A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
     Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Jose, California
May 27, 2010

72
 


LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Year ended March 31,  
      2010       2009       2008  
Net sales $ 1,966,748 $ 2,208,832   $ 2,370,496
Cost of goods sold 1,339,852 1,517,606 1,521,378
Gross profit 626,896 691,226 849,118
Operating expenses:
       Marketing and selling
304,788 319,167 324,451
       Research and development
135,813 128,755 124,544
       General and administrative
106,147 113,103 113,443
       Restructuring charges
1,784 20,547
              Total operating expenses
548,532 581,572 562,438
Operating income 78,364 109,654 286,680
Interest income, net 2,120 8,628 15,508
Other income (expense), net 3,139 8,511 (39,374 )
Income before income taxes 83,623 126,793 262,814
Provision for income taxes 18,666 19,761 31,788
Net income $ 64,957 $ 107,032 $ 231,026  
 
Net income per share:
       Basic
$ 0.37 $ 0.60 $ 1.27
       Diluted
$ 0.36 $ 0.59 $ 1.23
 
Shares used to compute net income per share:
       Basic
177,279 178,811 181,362
       Diluted
179,340 182,911 187,942

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
73
 


LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
March 31,
2010 2009
ASSETS            
Current assets:
       Cash and cash equivalents
$ 319,944 $ 492,759
       Short-term investments
1,637
       Accounts receivable
195,247 213,929
       Inventories
219,593 233,467
       Other current assets
58,877 56,884
              Total current assets
793,661 998,676
Property, plant and equipment 91,229 104,132
Goodwill 553,462 242,909
Other intangible assets 95,396 32,109
Other assets 65,930 43,704
                     Total assets
$ 1,599,678 $ 1,421,530
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
       Accounts payable
$ 257,955 $ 157,798
       Accrued liabilities
182,336 131,496
              Total current liabilities
440,291 289,294
Other liabilities 159,672 134,528
                     Total liabilities
599,963 423,822
 
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:
       Shares, par value CHF 0.25 — 191,606,620 issued and authorized and
 
              50,000,000 conditionally authorized at March 31, 2010 and 2009
33,370 33,370
       Additional paid-in capital
14,880 45,012
       Shares in treasury, at cost, 16,435,528 at March 31, 2010
              and 12,124,078 at March 31, 2009
  (382,512 ) (341,454 )
       Retained earnings 1,406,618 1,341,661
       Accumulated other comprehensive loss (72,641 ) (80,881 )
                     Total shareholders’ equity
999,715     997,708
                     Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$ 1,599,678 $ 1,421,530
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
74
 


LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
 
Year ended March 31,
      2010       2009       2008
Cash flows from operating activities:
       Net income
$ 64,957   $ 107,032   $ 231,026
       Non-cash items included in net income:
             Depreciation
56,380 44,021 43,831
             Amortization of other intangible assets
14,515 8,166 5,391
              Share-based compensation expense related to options,
                     restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and stock purchase rights
25,807 24,503 21,040
              Write-down of investments
643 2,727 79,823
              Gain on sale of investments
(27,761 )
              Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation
(2,814 ) (6,592 ) (15,231 )
              Loss (gain) on cash surrender value of life insurance policies
(1,223 ) 2,868 (724 )
              In-process research and development
1,000
              Deferred income taxes and other
(17,895 ) (10,387 ) (2,138 )
       Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
              Accounts receivable
28,489 152,496 (31,212 )
              Inventories
30,942 (9,078 ) (10,230 )
              Other assets
15,038 14,615 (10,725 )
              Accounts payable
94,155 (123,802 ) 61,096
              Accrued liabilities
56,265 (6,982 ) 48,893
                            Net cash provided by operating activities
365,259 200,587 393,079
Cash flows from investing activities:
       Acquisitions and investments, net of cash acquired
(388,809 ) (64,430 ) (59,722 )
       Purchases of property, plant and equipment
(39,834 ) (48,263 ) (57,900 )
       Purchases of investment securities
(379,793 )
       Sales of investment securities
538,479
       Sale of investment
13,308
       Proceeds from cash surrender of life insurance policies
813
       Premiums paid on cash surrender value life insurance policies
(427 ) (1,151 )
                            Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
(427,830 ) (113,120 ) 53,221
Cash flows from financing activities:
       Purchases of treasury shares
(126,301 ) (78,870 ) (219,742 )
       Proceeds from sale of shares upon exercise of options
 
              and purchase rights
28,917 31,119 50,603
       Repayments of debt
(13,630 ) (11,739 )
       Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation
2,814 6,592 15,231
                            Net cash used in financing activities
(108,200 ) (41,159 ) (165,647 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (2,044 ) (35,901 ) 5,502
                            Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
  (172,815 ) 10,407 286,155
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 492,759   482,352 196,197
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period   $ 319,944 $ 492,759   $ 482,352
Supplemental cash flow information:  
       Interest paid
$ 66   $ 143   $ 22
       Income taxes paid
$ 9,436 $ 15,268 $ 11,655

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
75
 


LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(In thousands)
 
Accumulated
Additional other
Registered shares paid-in Treasury shares Retained comprehensive
     Shares      Amount      capital      Shares      Amount      earnings      loss      Total
March 31, 2007 191,606 $ 33,370    $ 72,779    9,364 $ (217,073 ) $ 995,606     $ (40,158 )     $ 844,524
Net income 231,026 231,026
Cumulative translation adjustment 28,006 28,006
Deferred realized hedging loss (992 ) (992 )
Actuarial loss on pension plan,
       net of tax of $31
(6,339 ) (6,339 )
       Total comprehensive income
$ 251,701
 
Change in pension plan measurement date (317 ) (317 )
Adjustment for adoption of accounting requirements
       for uncertain tax positions
8,314 8,314
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options 3,894 3,894
Purchase of treasury shares 7,784 (219,742 ) (219,742 )
Sale of shares upon exercise of options
       and purchase rights
(47,919 ) (4,717 ) 98,522 50,603
Share-based compensation expense 21,067 21,067
March 31, 2008 191,606 $ 33,370 $ 49,821 12,431 $ (338,293 ) $ 1,234,629 $ (19,483 ) $ 960,044
 
Net income 107,032 107,032
Cumulative translation adjustment (55,983 ) (55,983 )
Net deferred hedging gains 216 216
Actuarial loss on pension plan, net of tax of $182 (6,055 ) (6,055 )
Unrealized gain on investment 424 424
       Total comprehensive income
$ 45,634
 
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options 15,253 15,253
Purchase of treasury shares 2,803 (78,870 ) (78,870 )
Sale of shares upon exercise of options
       and purchase rights
(44,590 ) (3,110 ) 75,709 31,119
Share-based compensation expense 24,528 24,528
March 31, 2009 191,606 $ 33,370 $ 45,012 12,124 $ (341,454 ) $ 1,341,661 $ (80,881 ) $ 997,708
 
Net income 64,957 64,957
Cumulative translation adjustment 2,753 2,753
Net deferred hedging gains   1,178 1,178
Actuarial gain on pension plan, net of tax of $122   4,309 4,309
       Total comprehensive income
$ 73,197
 
Tax benefit from exercise of stock options   266       266
Purchase of treasury shares       7,425 (126,301 )   (126,301 )
Sale of shares upon exercise of options          
       and purchase rights
(56,326 ) (3,114 ) 85,243         28,917
Share-based compensation expense 25,928     25,928
March 31, 2010 191,606 $ 33,370 $ 14,880 16,435 $ (382,512 ) $ 1,406,618 $ (72,641 ) $ 999,715
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
76
 


LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
Note 1 — The Company
 
     Logitech is a world leader in personal peripherals for computers and other digital platforms. We develop and market innovative products in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home-entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices. For the PC, our products include mice, trackballs, keyboards, interactive gaming controllers, multimedia speakers, headsets, webcams, 3D control devices and lapdesks. Our Internet communications products include webcams, headsets, video communications services, and digital video security systems for a home or small business. Our LifeSize division offers scalable high-definition video communications products, support and services. Our digital music products include speakers, earphones, and custom in-ear monitors. For home entertainment systems, we offer the Harmony line of advanced remote controls and the Squeezebox and Transporter wireless music solutions for the home. For gaming consoles, we offer a range of gaming controllers, including racing wheels, wireless guitar and drum controllers, and microphones, as well as other accessories.
 
     We sell our peripheral products to a network of retail distributors and resellers (“retail”) and to original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”). We sell our LifeSize products and services to distributors, value-added resellers, OEMs and direct enterprise customers. The large majority of our revenues are derived from sales of our personal peripheral products for use by consumers.
 
     Logitech was founded in Switzerland in 1981, and Logitech International S.A. has been the parent holding company of Logitech since 1988. Logitech International S.A. is a Swiss holding company with its registered office in Apples, Switzerland, which conducts its business through subsidiaries in the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa (“EMEA”) and Asia Pacific. Shares of Logitech International S.A. are listed on both the Nasdaq Global Select Market, under the trading symbol LOGI, and the SIX Swiss Exchange, under the trading symbol LOGN.
 
Note 2 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Basis of Presentation
 
     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Logitech and its subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). In the opinion of management, these financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the periods presented.
 
     Net income for fiscal year 2009 includes $6.7 million in pretax charges related to revenue adjustments, accounting for warranties, accounting for employee benefit accruals and other adjustments from fiscal year 2008. The total pretax charge of $6.7 million was corrected in the first, third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2009. We reviewed the accounting errors utilizing SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 99, Materiality (“SAB 99”) and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, Effects of Prior Year Misstatements on Current Year Financial Statements (“SAB 108”), and determined the impact of the errors to be immaterial to any period presented.
 
     Certain prior year financial statement amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation with no impact on previously reported net income.
 
Fiscal Year
 
     The Company’s fiscal year ends on March 31. Interim quarters are thirteen-week periods, each ending on a Friday. For purposes of presentation, the Company has indicated its quarterly periods as ending on the month end.
 
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Use of Estimates
 
     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, net sales and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions that may impact the Company in the future, actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
Foreign Currencies
 
     The functional currency of the Company’s operations is primarily the U.S. dollar. To a lesser extent, certain operations use the euro, Swiss franc, Japanese yen or the local currency of the country as their functional currencies. The financial statements of the Company’s subsidiaries whose functional currency is other than the U.S. dollar are translated to U.S. dollars using period-end rates of exchange for assets and liabilities and monthly average rates for revenues and expenses. Cumulative translation gains and losses are included as a component of shareholders’ equity in accumulated other comprehensive loss. Gains and losses arising from transactions denominated in currencies other than a subsidiary’s functional currency are reported in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statement of income.
 
Revenue Recognition
 
     Revenues are recognized when all of the following criteria are met:
  • evidence of an arrangement exists between the Company and the customer;
     
  • delivery has occurred and title and risk of loss transfer to the customer;
     
  • the price of the product is fixed or determinable; and
     
  • collectibility of the receivable is reasonably assured.
     Certain video communications products are integrated with software that is essential to the functionality of the equipment. In addition, unspecified software upgrades and enhancements are provided for some of these products during a maintenance period of one year.
 
     The Company uses the residual method to recognize revenue when an agreement includes one or more elements that are more than incidental to the arrangement, to be delivered at a future date. If there is an undelivered element under the arrangement, Logitech defers revenue based on vendor-specific evidence of the fair value of the undelivered element, as determined by the price charged when the element is sold separately. If vendor-specific objective evidence of fair value does not exist for all undelivered elements, the Company defers all revenue until sufficient evidence exists or all elements have been delivered.
 
     Separately priced maintenance contracts and extended service revenue on hardware and software products are recognized ratably over the service period.
 
     Revenues from sales to distributors and authorized resellers are recognized net of estimated product returns and expected payments for cooperative marketing arrangements, customer incentive programs and pricing programs. The estimated cost of these programs is accrued in the period the Company sells the product or commits to the program as a reduction of revenue or as an operating expense, if we receive a separately identifiable benefit from the customer and can reasonably estimate the fair value of that benefit. Significant management judgment and estimates must be used to determine the cost of these programs in any accounting period.
 
     The Company grants limited rights to return product. Return rights vary by customer, and range from just the right to return defective product to stock rotation rights to return a limited percentage of the previous quarter’s purchases. Estimates of expected future product returns are recognized at the time of sale based on analyses of historical return trends by customer and by product, inventories owned by and located at distributors and retailers, current customer demand, current operating conditions, and other relevant customer and product information, such as stage of product life-cycle. Return trends are influenced by the timing of the sale, the type of customer, operational policies and procedures, product sell-through, product quality issues, sales levels, market acceptance of products, competitive pressures, new product introductions, product life cycle status, and other factors. Return rates can fluctuate over time, but are sufficiently predictable to allow us to estimate expected future product returns.
 
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     The Company’s cooperative marketing arrangements include contractual customer marketing and sales incentive programs. We enter into customer marketing programs with many of our distribution and retail customers allowing customers to receive a credit equal to a set percentage of their purchases of the Company’s products, or a fixed dollar credit for various marketing programs. The objective of these programs is to encourage advertising and promotional events to increase sales of our products. Accruals for the estimated costs of these marketing programs are recorded based on the contractual percentage of product purchased in the period we recognize revenue. The Company also offers rebates and discounts for certain types of sell-through programs. Accruals for these sales incentive programs are recorded at the time of sale, or time of commitment, based on negotiated terms, historical experience and inventory levels in the channel.
 
     Customer incentive programs include volume and consumer rebates. The Company offers volume rebates to its distribution and retail customers related to purchase volumes or sales of specific products by distributors to specified retailers. Reserves for volume rebates are recognized as a reduction of the sale price at the time of sale. Estimates of required reserves are determined based on negotiated terms, consideration of historical experience, anticipated volume of future purchases, and inventory levels in the channel. Consumer rebates are offered from time to time at the Company’s discretion directly to end-users. Estimated costs of consumer rebates and similar incentives are recorded at the time the incentive is offered, based on the specific terms and conditions. Certain incentive programs, including consumer rebates, require management to estimate the number of customers who will actually redeem the incentive based on historical experience and the specific terms and conditions of particular programs.
 
     The Company has contractual agreements with certain of its customers that contain terms allowing price protection credits to be issued in the event of a subsequent price reduction (contractual price protection). At management’s discretion, the Company also offers special pricing discounts to certain customers. Special pricing discounts are usually offered only for limited time periods or for sales to specific indirect partners. Management’s decision to make price reductions is influenced by channel inventory levels, product life cycle stage, market acceptance of products, the competitive environment, new product introductions and other factors. Credits are issued for units that customers have on hand or in transit at the date of the price reduction. Reserves for the estimated amounts to be reimbursed to qualifying customers are established quarterly based on planned price reductions, analyses of qualified inventories on hand with distributors and retailers and historical trends by customer and by product.
 
     The Company regularly evaluates the adequacy of the accruals for product returns, cooperative marketing arrangements, customer incentive programs and pricing programs. Future market conditions and product transitions may require the Company to take action to increase such programs. In addition, when the variables used to estimate these costs change, or if actual costs differ significantly from the estimates, the Company would be required to record incremental reductions to revenue or increase operating expenses. If, at any future time, the Company becomes unable to reasonably estimate these costs, recognition of revenue might be deferred until products are sold to end-users, which would adversely impact revenue in the period of transition.
 
     The Company’s shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income for all periods presented.
 
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Research and Development Costs
 
     Costs related to research, design and development of products, which consist primarily of personnel, product design and infrastructure expenses, are charged to research and development expense as they are incurred.
 
Advertising Costs
 
     Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and amounted to $106.4 million, $151.2 million and $188.5 million in fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008. Advertising costs are recorded as either a marketing and selling expense or a deduction from revenue. Advertising costs reimbursed by the Company to a customer must have an identifiable benefit and an estimable fair value in order to be classified as an operating expense. If these criteria are not met, the cost is classified as a reduction of revenue.
 
Cash Equivalents
 
     The Company considers all highly liquid instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
 
Concentration of Credit Risk
 
     Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company maintains cash and cash equivalents with various financial institutions to limit exposure with any one financial institution.
 
     The Company sells to large OEMs, distributors and key retailers and, as a result, maintains individually significant receivable balances with such customers. As of March 31, 2010, one customer represented 14% of total accounts receivable. As of March 31, 2009, two customers represented 18% and 10% of total accounts receivable. Typical payment terms require customers to pay for product sales generally within 30 to 60 days; however terms may vary by customer type, by country and by selling season. Extended payment terms are sometimes offered to a limited number of customers during the second and third fiscal quarters. The Company does not modify payment terms on existing receivables.
 
     The Company’s OEM customers tend to be well-capitalized, multi-national companies, while distributors and key retailers may be less well-capitalized. The Company manages its accounts receivable credit risk through ongoing credit evaluation of its customers’ financial condition. The Company generally does not require collateral from its customers.
 
Allowances for Doubtful Accounts
 
     Allowances for doubtful accounts are maintained for estimated losses resulting from the inability of the Company’s customers to make required payments. The allowances are based on the Company’s regular assessment of the credit worthiness and financial condition of specific customers, as well as its historical experience with bad debts and customer deductions, receivables aging, current economic trends, geographic or country-specific risks and the financial condition of its distribution channels.
 
Inventories
 
     Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is computed on a first-in, first-out basis. The Company records write-downs of inventories which are obsolete or in excess of anticipated demand or market value based on a consideration of marketability and product life cycle stage, product development plans, component cost trends, demand forecasts, historical sales, and assumptions about future demand and market conditions.
 
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Investments
 
     The Company’s investment securities portfolio consists of auction rate securities collateralized by residential and commercial mortgages. The investment securities are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at estimated fair value, which is determined by estimating values of the underlying collateral using analogous published indices or by estimating future cash flows, either through discounted cash flow or option pricing methods, incorporating assumptions of default and other future conditions.
 
     Auction rate securities generally have maturity dates greater than 10 years, with interest rates that typically reset through an auction every 28 days. The markets for the auction rate securities which the Company holds as of March 31, 2010 and 2009 have failed since August 2007 and are not expected to resume in the foreseeable future, if at all. As a result, the investments were reclassified from current to non-current assets as of April 1, 2009, as sale or realization of proceeds from sale is not expected within our normal operating cycle of one year.
 
Property, Plant and Equipment
 
     Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Additions and improvements are capitalized, and maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. The Company capitalizes the cost of software developed for internal use in connection with major projects. Costs incurred during the feasibility stage are expensed, whereas costs incurred during the application development stage are capitalized.
 
     With the exception of tooling, depreciation is provided using the straight-line method. Plant and buildings are depreciated over estimated useful lives from ten to twenty-five years, equipment over useful lives from three to five years, software development over useful lives of three to five years and leasehold improvements over the life of the lease, generally not exceeding five years. Tooling is depreciated over the forecasted life of the tool, not to exceed one year from the time it is placed into production. Depreciation for tooling is calculated based on the forecasted production volume and adjusted quarterly based on actual production. When property and equipment is retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and accumulated depreciation are relieved from the accounts and the net gain or loss is included in the determination of net income.
 
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
 
     The Company’s intangible assets principally include goodwill, acquired technology, trademarks, customer contracts and customer relationships, and other. Intangible assets with finite lives, which include acquired technology, trademarks, customer contracts and customer relationships, and other, are recorded at cost and amortized using the straight-line method over their useful lives ranging from one year to ten years. Intangible assets with indefinite lives, which include goodwill, are recorded at cost and evaluated at least annually for impairment.
 
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
 
     The Company reviews long-lived assets, such as investments, property and equipment, and intangible assets, for impairment whenever events indicate that the carrying amounts might not be recoverable. Recoverability of investments, property and equipment, and other intangible assets is measured by comparing the projected undiscounted net cash flows associated with those assets to their carrying values. If an asset is considered impaired, it is written down to fair value, which is determined based on the asset’s projected discounted cash flows or appraised value, depending on the nature of the asset. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment at least annually.
 
Income Taxes
 
     The Company provides for income taxes using the liability method, which requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and accounting purposes. In estimating future tax consequences, expected future events are taken into consideration, with the exception of potential tax law or tax rate changes.
 
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     The Company’s assessment of uncertain tax positions requires that management make estimates and judgments about the application of tax law, the expected resolution of uncertain tax positions and other matters. In the event that uncertain tax positions are resolved for amounts different than the Company’s estimates, or the related statutes of limitations expire without the assessment of additional income taxes, the Company will be required to adjust the amounts of the related assets and liabilities in the period in which such events occur. Such adjustments may have a material impact on the Company’s income tax provision and its results of operations.
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
     The carrying value of certain of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximates fair value due to their short maturities. The Company’s investment securities are reported at estimated fair value.
 
Net Income per Share
 
     Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average outstanding shares. Diluted net income per share is computed using the weighted average outstanding shares and dilutive share equivalents. Dilutive share equivalents consist of share-based compensation awards, including stock options and restricted stock.
 
     The dilutive effect of in-the-money share-based compensation awards is calculated based on the average share price for each fiscal period using the treasury stock method, which assumes that the amount used to repurchase shares includes the amount the employee must pay for exercising share-based awards, the amount of compensation cost not yet recognized for future service, and the amount of tax impact that would be recorded in additional paid-in capital when the award becomes deductible.
 
Share-Based Compensation Expense
 
     Share-based compensation expense includes compensation expense, reduced for estimated forfeitures, for share-based compensation awards granted after April 1, 2006 based on the grant-date fair value. The grant date fair value for stock options and stock purchase rights is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing valuation model. The grant date fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) which vest upon meeting certain market conditions is estimated using the Monte-Carlo simulation method. The grant date fair value of time-based RSUs is calculated based on the share market price on the date of grant. For stock options and restricted stock assumed by Logitech when LifeSize was acquired, the grant date used to estimate fair value is deemed to be December 11, 2009, the date of acquisition. Compensation expense for awards granted or assumed after April 1, 2006 is recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period of the award, which is generally the vesting term of four years (single-option approach) for stock options and one to four years for RSUs.
 
     For share-based compensation awards granted prior to but not yet vested as of April 1, 2006, share-based compensation expense is based on the grant-date fair value estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing valuation model reduced for estimated forfeitures. Compensation expense for these awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period for each separately vesting portion of the award (multiple-option approach).
 
     Tax benefits resulting from the exercise of stock options are classified as cash flows from financing activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows. Excess tax benefits are realized tax benefits from tax deductions for exercised options in excess of the deferred tax asset attributable to share-based compensation costs for such options.
 
     The Company will recognize a benefit from share-based compensation in paid-in capital only if an incremental tax benefit is realized after all other available tax attributes have been utilized. For income tax footnote disclosure, the Company has elected to offset deferred tax assets against the valuation allowance related to the net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards from accumulated tax benefits. The Company will recognize these tax benefits in paid-in capital when the deduction reduces cash taxes payable. In addition, the Company has elected to account for the indirect benefits of share-based compensation on the research tax credit through the income statement (continuing operations) rather than through paid-in capital.
 
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Comprehensive Income
 
     Comprehensive income is defined as the total change in shareholders’ equity during the period other than from transactions with shareholders. Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income, a component of shareholders’ equity. Other comprehensive income is comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments from those entities not using the U.S. dollar as their functional currency, unrealized gains and losses on marketable equity securities, net deferred gains and losses and prior service costs for defined benefit pension plans, and net deferred gains and losses on hedging activity.
 
Derivative Financial Instruments
 
     The Company enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to reduce the short-term effects of foreign currency fluctuations on certain foreign currency receivables or payables and to provide against exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to its subsidiaries’ forecasted inventory purchases. These forward contracts generally mature within one to six months. The Company may also enter into foreign exchange swap contracts to extend the terms of its foreign exchange forward contracts.
 
     Gains and losses in the fair value of the effective portion of our forward contracts related to forecasted inventory purchases are deferred as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss until the hedged inventory purchases are sold, at which time the gains or losses are reclassified to cost of goods sold. Gains or losses in fair value on forward contracts which offset translation losses or gains on foreign currency receivables or payables are recognized in earnings monthly and are included in other income (expense), net.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
     In October 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) published Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2009-13, Multiple Deliverable Revenue Arrangements, which addresses the accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements to enable vendors to account for products or services separately rather than as a combined unit. This guidance amends the criteria in ASC Subtopic 605-25, Revenue Recognition—Multiple-Element Arrangements, to establish a selling price hierarchy for determining the selling price of a deliverable, based on vendor specific objective evidence, acceptable third party evidence, or estimates. This guidance also eliminates the residual method of allocation and requires that arrangement consideration be allocated at the inception of the arrangement to all deliverables using the relative selling price method. In addition, the disclosures required for multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements are expanded. ASU 2009-13 is effective for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the appropriate timing for the adoption of ASU 2009-13 and its potential impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
 
     In October 2009, the FASB published ASU 2009-14, Certain Revenue Arrangements That Include Software Elements, to provide guidance for revenue arrangements that include both tangible products and software elements. Under this guidance, tangible products containing software components and non-software components that function together to deliver the product’s essential functionality are excluded from the software revenue guidance in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Subtopic 985-605, Software-Revenue Recognition. In addition, hardware components of a tangible product containing software components are always excluded from the software revenue guidance. ASU 2009-14 is effective for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the appropriate timing for the adoption of ASU 2009-14 and its potential impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
 
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     In January 2010, the FASB published ASU 2010-06, Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurement, which requires additional disclosures regarding the activity in fair value measurements classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. Disclosure of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements is required for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. Early adoption is permitted. We will provide these disclosures beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011, when such activity occurs.
 
     In April 2010, the FASB published ASU 2010-13, Effect of Denominating the Exercise Price of a Share-Based Payment Award in the Currency of the Market in Which the Underlying Equity Security Trades. The ASU provides that a share-based payment award with an exercise price denominated in the currency of a market in which a substantial portion of the entity’s equity shares trades should not be considered to contain a condition that is not a market, performance, or service condition. Therefore, an entity would not classify such an award as a liability if it otherwise qualifies as equity. The ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2010. Our adoption of ASU 2010-13 in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011 will not impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
 
Note 3 — Net Income per Share
 
     The computations of basic and diluted net income per share for the Company were as follows (in thousands except per share amounts):
 
Year ended March 31,
      2010       2009       2008
Net income — basic and diluted $ 64,957 $ 107,032 $ 231,026
Weighted average shares — basic   177,279 178,811   181,362
Effect of dilutive stock options 2,061 4,100 6,580
Weighted average shares — diluted 179,340 182,911 187,942
Net income per share — basic $ 0.37 $ 0.60 $ 1.27
Net income per share — diluted $ 0.36 $ 0.59 $ 1.23
 

     During fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008, 15,186,997, 10,567,217 and 3,957,572 share equivalents attributable to outstanding stock options and RSUs were excluded from the calculation of diluted net income per share because the combined exercise price, average unamortized fair value and assumed tax benefits upon exercise of these options and RSUs were greater than the average market price of the Company’s shares, and therefore their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.
 
     Employee equity share options, non-vested shares and similar share-based compensation awards granted by the Company are treated as potential shares in computing diluted net income per share. Diluted shares outstanding include the dilutive effect of in-the-money share-based awards which is calculated based on the average share price for each fiscal period using the treasury stock method. Under the treasury stock method, the amount that the employee must pay for exercising share-based awards, the amount of compensation cost for future service that the Company has not yet recognized, and the amount of tax impact that would be recorded in additional paid-in capital when the award becomes deductible are assumed to be used to repurchase shares. The following table presents the effect of in-the-money share-based awards treated as potential shares in computing diluted earnings per share (in thousands except per share amounts):
 
Year Ended March 31
      2010       2009       2008  
In-the-money employee share-based awards treated as potential shares   6,945     9,313     15,881
Percentage of basic weighted average shares outstanding 3.9 % 5.2 %   8.8 %
Average share price $ 16.06 $ 20.55 $ 28.74

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     The following table illustrates the dilution effect of share-based awards granted, assumed and exercised (in thousands):
 
Year ended March 31
      2010       2009         2008
Basic weighted average shares outstanding as of March 31 177,279 178,811 181,362
Stock options and RSUs granted 3,902 4,239 3,891
Stock options and restricted stock assumed in LifeSize acquisition 1,078  
Stock options and RSUs canceled, forfeited, or expired (1,440 ) (1,163 ) (652 )
Net awards granted and assumed 3,540 3,076 3,239
Grant dilution(1) 2.0 % 1.7 % 1.8 %
Stock options exercised 1,980 2,037 4,162
Exercise dilution(2) 1.1 % 1.1 % 2.3 %
____________________
 
(1)  
The percentage of grant dilution is computed based on net awards granted and assumed as a percentage of basic weighted average shares outstanding.
(2)      
The percentage of exercise dilution is computed based on options exercised as a percentage of basic weighted average shares outstanding.
 
Note 4 — Fair Value Measurements
 
     The Company considers fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Company utilizes the following three-level fair value hierarchy to establish the priorities of the inputs used to measure fair value:
  • Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
     
  • Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted market prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
     
  • Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. This includes certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs.
     The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value as of March 31, 2010 and 2009, classified by the level within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands):
 
March 31, 2010 March 31, 2009
      Level 1       Level 2       Level 3       Level 1       Level 2       Level 3
Cash and cash equivalents $ 319,944    $    $ $ 492,759    $    $
Investment securities   994 1,637
Foreign exchange derivative assets   599           208
Total assets at fair value $ 320,543 $ $ 994 $ 492,967 $ $ 1,637
Foreign exchange derivative liabilities $ 366 $ $ $ 1,849 $ $
Total liabilities at fair value $ 366 $ $ $ 1,849 $ $
 

     Notes 5 and 15 describe the inputs and valuation techniques used to determine fair value.
 
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Note 5 — Cash and Cash Equivalents and Investment Securities
 
     Cash and cash equivalents consist of bank demand deposits and time deposits. The time deposits have terms of less than 30 days. Cash and cash equivalents are carried at cost, which is equivalent to fair value.
 
     The Company’s investment securities portfolio as of March 31, 2010 and 2009 consisted of auction rate securities collateralized by residential and commercial mortgages. The investment securities are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at estimated fair value, which was determined by estimating values of the underlying collateral using analogous published indices or by estimating future cash flows, either through discounted cash flow or option pricing methods, incorporating assumptions of default and other future conditions. Such valuation methods fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
     Auction rate securities generally have maturity dates greater than 10 years, with interest rates that typically reset through an auction every 28 days. All our investment securities as of March 31, 2010 and 2009 have maturity dates in excess of 10 years. Since August 2007, auctions for these investments have failed. As a result, the Company will not be able to realize the proceeds, if any, from these investments until a future auction of these investments is successful or a buyer is found outside of the auction process. Management has determined that sale or realization of proceeds from the sale of these investment securities is not expected within the Company’s normal operating cycle of one year, and hence the investment securities were reclassified from current to non-current assets as of April 1, 2009.
 
     The following table presents the changes in fair value of the Company’s investment securities during fiscal years 2010 and 2009:
 
March 31,
      2010       2009
Beginning balance $ 1,637 $ 3,940  
Write-down (643 ) (2,727 )
Unrealized gain   424
Ending balance $ 994 $ 1,637
 

     The par value of our investment securities portfolio at March 31, 2010 and 2009 was $47.5 million. The write-down of investments related to other-than-temporary declines in the estimated fair value of these investments and is recorded in other income (expense), net. The unrealized gain as of March 31, 2009 related to temporary increases in the fair value and was recorded in other comprehensive income.
 
Note 6 — Acquisitions
 
     The Company changed the manner in which it accounts for business combinations effective April 1, 2009. For business combinations occurring after that date, transaction costs incurred in connection with the acquisition are recognized as an expense rather than included in the cost allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill recognized as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired. Assets and liabilities arising from pre-acquisition contingencies, if any, are recognized at fair value, if available, or at the Company’s best estimate. Resolution of certain tax contingencies and adjustments to valuation allowances related to business combinations, which previously were adjusted to goodwill, are adjusted to income tax expense for all such adjustments after April 1, 2009, regardless of the date of the original business combinations. Adoption of this change had no impact on previously presented financial information.
 
LifeSize
 
     On December 11, 2009, pursuant to a merger agreement signed November 10, 2009, Logitech acquired LifeSize Communications, Inc., an Austin, Texas-based privately-held company specializing in high definition video communication products and services. Logitech expects the acquisition to drive growth in video communication for the enterprise and small-to-medium business markets by leveraging the two companies’ technology expertise, including camera design, firewall traversal, video compression and bandwidth management.
 
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     The total consideration paid to acquire LifeSize was $382.8 million, not including cash acquired of $3.7 million. In addition, Logitech incurred $6.6 million in transaction costs, which are included in operating expenses. Logitech paid $382.3 million in cash to the holders of all outstanding shares of LifeSize capital stock, all vested options issued by LifeSize, and all outstanding warrants to purchase LifeSize stock. As part of the acquisition, Logitech assumed all outstanding unvested LifeSize stock options and unvested restricted stock held by continuing LifeSize employees at December 11, 2009. The assumed options are exercisable for a total of approximately 1.0 million Logitech shares and the assumed restricted stock was exchanged for 0.1 million Logitech shares. The stock options and restricted stock continue to have the same terms and conditions as under LifeSize’s option plan. The fair value attributable to precombination employee services for the stock options assumed, which is part of the consideration paid to acquire LifeSize, was $0.5 million. The weighted average fair value of $12.07 per share for the stock options assumed was determined using a Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing valuation model with the following weighted-average assumptions: expected term of 2.0 years, expected volatility of 57%, and risk-free interest rate of 0.7%.
 
     The total cash consideration paid of $382.3 million included $37.0 million deposited into an escrow account as security for indemnification claims under the merger agreement and $0.5 million deposited in a stockholder representative expense fund. The escrow fund will be disbursed by the escrow trustee to the former holders of LifeSize capital stock, vested options and warrants with 50% to be disbursed in December 2010 and the remaining fifty percent in June 2011, subject in each case to indemnification claims.
 
     In connection with the merger, Logitech also agreed to establish a cash and stock option retention and incentive plan for certain LifeSize employees, linked to the achievement of LifeSize performance targets. The duration of the plan’s performance period is two years, from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2011. The total available cash incentive is $9.0 million over the two year performance period. In December 2009, options to purchase 850,000 Logitech shares were issued in connection with the retention and incentive plan.
 
     The acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the total consideration was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date. Fair values were determined by Logitech management based on information available at the date of acquisition.
 
     The allocation of total consideration to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair value of LifeSize was as follows (in thousands):
 
December 11, Estimated
      2009       Life
Tangible assets acquired $ 33,635
Deferred tax asset, net 8,828
Intangible assets acquired
       Existing technology 30,000   4 years
       Patents and core technology 4,500 3 years
       Trademark/trade name 7,600 5 years
       Customer relationships and other   31,500 5 years
       Goodwill 307,241
423,304
Liabilities assumed    (26,985 )  
Debt assumed (13,505 )
       Total consideration $ 382,814
 

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     The deferred tax asset primarily relates to the tax benefit of a net operating loss carryforward, net of the deferred tax liability related to intangible assets. The existing technology of LifeSize relates to the platform technology used in LifeSize’s high-definition video conferencing systems. The value of the technology was determined based on the present value of estimated expected cash flows attributable to the technology, assuming the highest and best use by a market participant. The patents and core technology represent awarded patents, filed patent applications and core architectures, trade secrets or processes used in LifeSize’s current and planned future products. Trademark/trade name relates to the LifeSize brand names. The value of the patents, core technology and trademark/trade name was estimated by capitalizing the estimated profits saved as a result of acquiring or licensing the asset. Customer relationships and other relates to the ability to sell existing, in-process, and future versions of the technology and services to LifeSize’s existing customer base, valued based on projected discounted cash flows generated from customers in place. The intangible assets acquired are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The goodwill associated with the acquisition is primarily attributable to the opportunities and economies of scale from combining the operations and technologies of Logitech and LifeSize. This goodwill is not subject to amortization and is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. The debt that Logitech assumed as part of the acquisition was repaid in full on December 18, 2009.
 
Unaudited pro forma financial information
 
     The unaudited pro forma financial information in the table below summarizes the combined results of operations of Logitech and LifeSize during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 as though the acquisition took place as of the beginning of each fiscal year. The pro forma financial information also includes certain adjustments such as amortization expense from acquired intangible assets, share-based compensation expense related to unvested stock options and restricted stock assumed, depreciation adjustments from alignment of the companies’ policies related to property, plant and equipment, interest expense related to debt assumed, expense related to retention bonuses, pre-acquisition transaction costs, and the income tax impact of the pro forma adjustments. The pro forma financial information presented below (in thousands except per share amounts) is for informational purposes only and is not indicative of the results of operations that would have been achieved if the acquisition had taken place at the beginning of the periods presented.
 
      2010       2009
(Unaudited)
Net sales $ 2,023   $ 2,282
Net income $ 44 $ 88
Net income per share — basic $ 0.25 $ 0.49
Net income per share — diluted $ 0.25 $ 0.48

TV Compass
 
     On November 27, 2009, Logitech acquired certain assets from TV Compass, Inc., a Chicago, Illinois-based company providing video software and services for the Web and mobile devices. The acquisition has been treated as an acquisition of a business and has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. The total consideration paid of $10.0 million was allocated based on estimated fair values to $4.2 million of identifiable intangible assets, with the balance allocated to goodwill. Fair values were determined by Company management based on information available at the date of acquisition. The intangible assets acquired are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of 6 years. The goodwill results from expected incremental revenue from the use of the acquired technology in enhancing our products. The goodwill is not subject to amortization and is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. In addition, Logitech incurred $0.3 million in transaction costs, which are included in operating expenses.
 
88
 


SightSpeed
 
     In October 2008, the Company acquired SightSpeed Inc., a privately held company providing high-quality Internet video communications services. The acquisition of SightSpeed provided Logitech with video calling technology and a software and services development team that is focused on future video calling initiatives to enable cross-platform video communications.
 
     Total consideration paid was $30.9 million, which includes $0.8 million in transaction costs. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of SightSpeed.
 
     The acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the total consideration was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date. Fair values were determined by Company management based on information available at the date of acquisition. The results of operations of SightSpeed were included in Logitech’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition, and were not material to the Company’s reported results.
 
     The allocation of total consideration, including transaction costs, to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair value of SightSpeed was as follows (in thousands):
 
November 3, Estimated
      2008       Life
Tangible assets acquired    $ 370   
Deferred tax asset, net 6,622
Intangible assets acquired
       Existing technology 800 5 years
       Patents and core technology 2,700   5 years
       Trademark/trade name 200 2 years
       Customer relationships and other 1,200 4.9 years
       In-process research and development 1,000
       Goodwill 18,751
  31,643
Liabilities assumed (756 )
       Total consideration $ 30,887  
 

     The deferred tax asset relates to the tax benefit of a net operating loss carryforward, net of the deferred tax liability related to intangible assets. The existing technology of SightSpeed relates to internet video communications services that allow users to make video calls, computer-to-computer voice calls, and calls to regular telephones with free and prepaid versions. In-process research and development had not reached technological feasibility at the time of the acquisition and had no further alternative uses, and was expensed immediately to research and development expense upon consummation of the acquisition. The value of the technology was determined based on the present value of estimated expected cash flows attributable to the technology. The patents and core technology represent awarded patents, filed patent applications and core architectures used in SightSpeed’s current and planned future products. Trademark/trade name relates to the SightSpeed brand names. The value of the patents, core technology and trademark/trade name was estimated by capitalizing the estimated profits saved as a result of acquiring or licensing the asset. Customer relationships and other relates to the ability to sell existing, in-process, and future versions of the technology to SightSpeed’s existing customer base, valued based on projected discounted cash flows generated from customers in place. The intangible assets acquired are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The goodwill associated with the acquisition is not subject to amortization and is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
 
89
 


Ultimate Ears
 
     In August 2008, the Company acquired the Ultimate Ears companies, a privately held group of companies offering a range of earphones for portable-music enthusiasts as well as a line of custom-fit in-ear monitors for music professionals. The acquisition is part of the Company’s strategy to expand its portfolio of digital audio products, providing more options for portable music listening.
 
     Total consideration paid was $34.5 million, which includes $0.7 million in transaction costs. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, the Company acquired all of the outstanding equity interests of Ultimate Ears for $33.8 million, including a $6.9 million holdback provision relating to potential indemnification claims, of which $6.0 million has been disbursed and $0.9 million is recorded as a liability in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The holdback provision has been included as part of the purchase price allocation below.
 
     The acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the total consideration was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date. Fair values were determined by Company management based on information available at the date of acquisition. The results of operations of Ultimate Ears were included in Logitech’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition, and were not material to the Company’s reported results.
 
     The allocation of total consideration, including transaction costs, to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair value of Ultimate Ears was as follows (in thousands):
 
August 19, Estimated
      2008       Life
Tangible assets acquired   $ 4,132
Intangible assets acquired
       Existing technology 5,900   4 years
       Patents and core technology 1,900   4 years
       Trademark/trade name   2,900 5 years
       Customer relationships and other 2,500 5 years
       Goodwill 25,254
42,586
Liabilities assumed (2,845 )
Deferred tax liability, net (5,235 )
       Total consideration $ 34,506  
 

     The existing technology of Ultimate Ears relates to the technical components used in the in-ear monitors and earplugs. The value of the technology was determined based on the present value of estimated expected cash flows attributable to the technology. The patents and core technology represent awarded patents, filed patent applications and core architectures used in Ultimate Ears’ current and planned future products. Trademark/trade name relates to the Ultimate Ears brand names. The value of the patents, core technology and trademark/trade name was estimated by capitalizing the estimated profits saved as a result of acquiring or licensing the asset. Customer relationships and other relates to Ultimate Ears’ existing customer base, valued based on projected discounted cash flows generated from customers in place. The intangible assets acquired are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The goodwill associated with the acquisition is not subject to amortization and is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. The deferred tax liability relates to the acquired intangible assets which are also not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
 
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WiLife
 
     In November 2007, the Company acquired WiLife, Inc., a privately held company providing PC-based video cameras for self-monitoring a home or a small business. The acquisition is part of the Company’s strategy to expand its presence in digital home products.
 
     Total consideration paid, net of cash acquired of $0.1 million, was $22.1 million, which includes $0.5 million in transaction costs. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of WiLife for $21.7 million in cash, plus a possible performance-based payment, payable in the first calendar quarter of 2011. The performance-based payment is based on net revenues attributed to WiLife during calendar year 2010. No payment is due if the applicable net revenues total $40.0 million or less. The maximum performance-based payment is $64.0 million. The total performance-based payment amount, if any, will be recorded in goodwill and will not be known until the end of calendar year 2010. As of March 31, 2010, no amounts were payable towards performance-based payments under the WiLife acquisition agreement.
 
     The acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the total consideration was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the acquisition date. Fair values were determined by Company management based on information available as of the date of acquisition. The results of operations of WiLife were included in Logitech’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition, and were not material to the Company’s reported results.
 
     The allocation of total consideration to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair value of WiLife is presented in the following table.
 
November 13, Estimated
      2007       Life
Tangible assets acquired    $ 3,432   
Deferred tax asset, net 639  
Intangible assets acquired
       Existing technology 3,000 6 years
       Patents and core technology 3,700   5 years
       Trademark/trade name 1,300 5 years
       Customer relationships and other   200 3 years
       Goodwill 15,855
  28,126
Liabilities assumed (6,016 )
       Total consideration $ 22,110
 

     The deferred tax asset relates to the tax benefit of a net operating loss carryforward, net of the deferred tax liability related to intangible assets. The existing technology relates to the video surveillance cameras and software used in WiLife’s PC-based video security systems. The value of the technology was determined based on the present value of estimated expected cash flows attributable to the technology. The patents and core technology represent awarded patents, filed patent applications and core architectures used in WiLife’s current and planned future products. Trademark/trade name relates to the WiLife brand names. The value of the patents, core technology and trademark/trade name was estimated by capitalizing the estimated profits saved as a result of acquiring or licensing the asset. Customer relationships and other relates to WiLife’s existing customer base, valued based on projected discounted cash flows generated from customers in place. The intangible assets acquired are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The goodwill associated with the acquisition is not subject to amortization and is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
 
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Note 7 — Balance Sheet Components
 
     The following provides the components of certain balance sheet amounts (in thousands):
 
March 31,
      2010         2009  
Accounts receivable:
       Accounts receivable $ 349,722 $ 339,903
       Allowance for doubtful accounts (5,870 ) (6,705 )
       Allowance for returns (23,657 ) (28,705 )
       Cooperative marketing arrangements (17,527 ) (28,567 )
       Customer incentive programs (44,306 ) (36,454 )
       Pricing programs (63,115 ) (25,543 )
  $ 195,247 $ 213,929
Inventories:
       Raw materials $ 31,630 $ 30,959
       Work-in-process 86 19
       Finished goods 187,877 202,489
  $ 219,593 $ 233,467
Other current assets:
       Tax and VAT refund receivables $ 20,305 $ 17,275
       Deferred taxes 27,064 25,546
       Prepaid expenses and other 11,508 14,063
  $ 58,877 $ 56,884
Property, plant and equipment:
       Plant, buildings and improvements $ 58,629 $ 56,211
       Equipment 112,454 108,779
       Computer equipment 53,576 49,532
       Computer software 78,156 60,259
  302,815 274,781
       Less: accumulated depreciation (224,485 ) (188,371 )
  78,330 86,410
       Construction-in-progress 9,751 14,708
       Land 3,148 3,014
  $ 91,229 $ 104,132
Other assets:
       Deferred taxes $ 45,257 $ 27,718
       Cash surrender value of life insurance contracts 11,097 10,685
       Deposits and other 9,576 5,301
  $ 65,930 $ 43,704
Accrued liabilities:
       Accrued personnel expenses $ 51,378 $ 34,373
       Accrued marketing expenses 28,052 21,984
       Accrued freight and duty 12,696 9,048
       Income taxes payable - current 8,875 6,828
       Non-retirement post-employment benefit obligations 2,761 4,899
       Accrued restructuring 399 3,794
       Other accrued liabilities 78,175 50,570
  $ 182,336 $ 131,496
Long-term liabilities:
       Income taxes payable - non-current $ 116,456 $ 101,463
       Obligation for management deferred compensation 10,307 10,499
       Defined benefit pension plan liability 19,343 19,822
       Other long-term liabilities 13,566 2,744
$ 159,672 $ 134,528
 

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     The following table presents the changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts during fiscal years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 (in thousands):
 
March 31,
      2010         2009         2008  
Beginning balance $ 6,705 $ 2,497 $ 3,322
Bad debt expense   (72 ) 5,102 603
Write-offs net of recoveries (763 ) (894 ) (1,428 )
Ending balance $ 5,870 $ 6,705 $ 2,497
 

Note 8 — Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
 
     The following table summarizes the activity in the Company’s goodwill account during fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
March 31,
      2010         2009
Beginning balance $ 242,909 $ 194,383
Additions 313,041 48,526
Other adjustments (2,488 )  
Ending balance $ 553,462 $ 242,909
 

     Additions to goodwill during fiscal year 2010 primarily related to our acquisitions of LifeSize and TV Compass. Logitech will maintain discrete financial information for LifeSize and accordingly, the acquired goodwill related to the LifeSize acquisition will be separately evaluated for impairment. TV Compass’s business was fully integrated into the Company’s existing operations, and discrete financial information for TV Compass is not maintained. Accordingly, the acquired goodwill related to TV Compass is evaluated for impairment at the total enterprise level. The adjustment to goodwill represents an adjustment of the deferred tax asset recognized in connection with the acquisitions of SightSpeed, Inc. and the Ultimate Ears companies.
 
     Additions to goodwill during fiscal year 2009 were primarily related to our acquisitions of SightSpeed and Ultimate Ears, as well as a $2.0 million pre-acquisition contingency related to our WiLife acquisition.
 
     The Company has integrated SightSpeed’s, Ultimate Ears’ and WiLife’s businesses into its existing operations, and discrete financial information for these companies is not maintained. Accordingly, the acquired goodwill is evaluated for impairment at the total enterprise level. The Company maintains discrete financial information for 3DConnexion and LifeSize and determines impairment of the goodwill for these units acquired at the entity level.
 
     The Company performs its annual goodwill impairment test during its fourth fiscal quarter or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment may have occurred. Based on impairment tests performed, there has been no impairment of the Company’s goodwill to date.
 
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     The Company’s acquired other intangible assets subject to amortization were as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31, 2010 March 31, 2009
Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Carrying Gross Carrying Accumulated Net Carrying
      Amount       Amortization       Amount       Amount       Amortization       Amount
Trademark/tradename   $ 32,051   $ (20,421 )   $ 11,630   $ 24,398   $ (18,559 )   $ 5,839  
Technology 87,968   (36,033 ) 51,935   49,268     (26,598 )     22,670
Customer contracts   38,517 (6,686 )   31,831 7,018 (3,418 ) 3,600
$ 158,536 $ (63,140 ) $ 95,396 $ 80,684 $ (48,575 ) $ 32,109
 

     During fiscal year 2010, changes in the gross carrying value of other intangible assets related primarily to our acquisitions of LifeSize and TV Compass. During fiscal year 2009, changes in the gross carrying amount of other intangible assets related to our acquisitions of SightSpeed and Ultimate Ears, patent rights acquired pursuant to a patent settlement agreement, and foreign currency translation adjustments.
 
     For fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008, amortization expense for other intangible assets was $14.5 million, $8.2 million and $5.4 million. The Company expects that annual amortization expense for the fiscal years ending 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 will be $27.1 million, $24.7 million, $21.6 million, $15.5 million and $6.1 million, and $0.4 million thereafter.
 
Note 9 — Financing Arrangements
 
     The Company had several uncommitted, unsecured bank lines of credit aggregating $151.9 million at March 31, 2010. There are no financial covenants under these lines of credit with which the Company must comply. At March 31, 2010, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under these lines of credit.
 
Note 10 — Shareholders’ Equity
 
Share Capital
 
     The Company’s nominal share capital is CHF 47,901,655, consisting of 191,606,620 shares with a par value of CHF 0.25 each, all of which were issued and 16,435,528 of which were held in treasury as of March 31, 2010.
 
     In September 2008, the Company’s shareholders approved an amendment to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation which decreased the conditional capital reserved for potential issuance on the exercise of rights granted under the Company’s employee equity incentive plans from 60,661,860 shares to 25,000,000 shares. The Board of Directors determined that the reduced amount of conditional capital, together with a portion of its shares held in treasury, was adequate to cover employee equity incentives without impacting the ability of the Company to maintain employee equity incentive plans.
 
     In September 2008, the shareholders also approved the creation of conditional capital representing the issuance of up to 25,000,000 shares to cover any conversion rights under a future convertible bond issuance. This conditional capital was created in order to provide financing flexibility for future expansion, investments or acquisitions.
 
Dividends
 
     Pursuant to Swiss corporate law, Logitech International S.A. may only pay dividends in Swiss francs. The payment of dividends is limited to certain amounts of unappropriated retained earnings (CHF 349.3 million or $329.8 million based on exchange rates at March 31, 2010) and is subject to shareholder approval.
 
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Legal Reserves
 
     Under Swiss corporate law, a minimum of 5% of the Company’s annual net income must be retained in a legal reserve until this legal reserve equals 20% of the Company’s issued and outstanding aggregate par value per share capital. These legal reserves represent an appropriation of retained earnings that are not available for distribution and totaled $9.0 million at March 31, 2010 (based on exchange rates at March 31, 2010).
 
     Additionally, under Swiss corporate law, the Company is required to establish a reserve equal to the amount of treasury shares repurchased at year-end. The reserve for treasury shares, which is not available for distribution, totaled $396.3 million at March 31, 2010.
 
Share Repurchases
 
     During fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008, the Company had the following approved share buyback programs in place (in thousands):
 
Approved
Buyback Expiration Amount
Date of Announcement         Amount       Date       Completion Date       Remaining
June 2007   $250,000 June 2010 March 2010 $—
May 2006   $250,000 June 2009 February 2008 $—

     The Company repurchased shares under these buyback programs as follows (in thousands):
 
Amounts Repurchased During Year ended March 31,(1)
Program to date 2010 2009 2008
Date of Announcement         Shares       Amount       Shares       Amount       Shares       Amount       Shares       Amount
June 2007   11,978   $ 250,555 7,425 $ 126,301 2,803 $ 78,870 1,750 $ 45,384
May 2006 8,760   250,968               6,034       174,358
20,738 $ 501,523 7,425 $ 126,301 2,803 $ 78,870 7,784 $ 219,742
 
____________________
 
(1)      
Represents the amount in U.S. dollars, calculated based on exchange rates on the repurchase dates.

     In September 2008, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share buyback program which authorizes the Company to invest up to $250 million to purchase its own shares. The Company has not started repurchases under the September 2008 program.
 
Note 11 — Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
 
     The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss were as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Cumulative translation adjustment $ (63,646 ) $ (66,399 )
Pension liability adjustments, net of tax of $936 and $990 (10,813 )   (15,122 )
Unrealized gain on investments   424   424
Net deferred hedging gains 1,394 216
$ (72,641 ) $ (80,881 )
  
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Note 12 — Restructuring
 
     In January 2009, Logitech initiated a restructuring plan (“2009 Restructuring Plan”) in order to reduce operating expenses and improve financial results in response to deteriorating global economic conditions. We completed a majority of the restructuring activity during the three months ended March 31, 2009. As part of this restructuring plan, the Company reduced its salaried workforce by approximately 500 employees. All charges related to the 2009 Restructuring Plan are presented as restructuring charges in our consolidated statements of income.
 
     The following table summarizes restructuring related activities during fiscal years 2010 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
Contract    
Termination Asset Termination  
      Total       Benefits       Impairments       Costs       Other
Balance at March 31, 2008 $ $   $   $ $
       Charges 20,547   16,427 556 200 3,364
       Cash payments (12,764 ) (12,579 ) (185 )
       Charges against assets (556 ) (556 )
       Other (3,485 ) (121 ) (3,364 )
       Foreign exchange   52 52
Balance at March 31, 2009 $ 3,794 $ 3,779   $ $ 15 $
       Charges 1,784 1,318 419 47
       Cash payments (5,194 ) (5,098 ) (96 )
       Other (86 ) 53 (4 ) (135 )
       Foreign exchange 101 106 (5 )
Balance at March 31, 2010 $ 399 $ 158 $ $ 334 $ (93 )
 

     Termination benefits incurred pursuant to the 2009 Restructuring Plan were calculated based on regional benefit practices and local statutory requirements. Asset impairments were recorded to write down fixed assets that were not placed in service due to the abandonment of the related projects. Contract termination costs related to exit costs associated with the closure of existing facilities. Other charges primarily consisted of pension curtailment and settlement costs of $3.4 million which are reflected in other charges in the preceding table, as the corresponding balance sheet amounts were reflected as a reduction of pension assets. We completed the 2009 Restructuring Plan in fiscal 2010.
 
Note 13 — Employee Benefit Plans
 
Employee Share Purchase Plans and Stock Incentive Plans
 
     As of March 31, 2010, the Company offers the 2006 Employee Share Purchase Plan (Non-U.S.) (“2006 ESPP”), the 1996 Employee Share Purchase Plan (U.S.) (“1996 ESPP”), the 2006 Stock Incentive Plan, and the LifeSize Communications, Inc. 2003 Stock Option Plan. Share-based awards granted to employees and directors include stock options, RSUs granted under the 2006 Stock Incentive Plan and share purchase rights granted under the 2006 ESPP and 1996 ESPP. Shares issued to employees as a result of purchases or exercises under these plans are generally issued from shares held in treasury. As part of the LifeSize acquisition, Logitech assumed all outstanding unvested LifeSize stock options and unvested restricted stock held by continuing LifeSize employees at December 11, 2009. The stock options and restricted stock continue to have the same terms and conditions as under LifeSize’s option plan.
 
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     Under the 1996 ESPP and 2006 ESPP plans, eligible employees may purchase shares at the lower of 85% of the fair market value at the beginning or the end of each six-month offering period. Subject to continued participation in these plans, purchase agreements are automatically executed at the end of each offering period. A total of 16,000,000 shares have been reserved for issuance under both the 1996 and 2006 ESPP plans. As of March 31, 2010, a total of 2,772,075 shares were available for issuance under these plans.
 
     On June 16, 2006, Logitech’s shareholders approved adoption of the 2006 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”) with an expiration date of June 16, 2016. The 2006 Plan provides for the grant to eligible employees and non-employee directors of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and restricted stock units, which are bookkeeping entries reflecting the equivalent of shares. Stock options granted under the 2006 Plan will generally vest over three years for non-executive Directors and over four years for employees. All stock options under this plan will have terms not exceeding ten years and will be issued at exercise prices not less than the fair market value on the date of grant. Awards under the 2006 Plan may be conditioned on continued employment, the passage of time or the satisfaction of performance vesting criteria. An aggregate of 17,500,000 shares was reserved for issuance under the 2006 Plan. As of March 31, 2010, a total of 5,664,605 shares were available for issuance under this plan.
 
     The Company assumed the LifeSize Communications, Inc. 2003 Stock Option Plan as part of its acquisition of LifeSize in December 2009. Under this plan, the Company may issue options to purchase Logitech shares to employees of LifeSize. As of March 31, 2010, a total of 215,813 shares were available for issuance under this plan.
 
     The following table summarizes the share-based compensation expense and related tax benefit recognized for fiscal years 2010 and 2009 (in thousands).
 
Year Ended
March 31,
2010       2009
Cost of goods sold $ 3,073 $ 3,163
Share-based compensation expense included in gross profit 3,073 3,163
 
Operating expenses:
       Marketing and selling 9,201 7,989
       Research and development 4,902 4,488
       General and administrative 8,631 8,863
Share-based compensation expense included in
       operating expenses 22,734 21,340
Total share-based compensation expense related to employee
       stock options, RSUs and employee stock purchases 25,807 24,503
Tax benefit 5,768 3,102
Share-based compensation expense related to employee stock
       options, RSUs and employee stock purchases, net of tax $ 20,039 $ 21,401
 

     As of March 31, 2010 and 2009, $0.9 million and $0.8 million of share-based compensation cost was capitalized to inventory. As of March 31, 2010, total compensation cost related to non-vested stock options not yet recognized was $53.8 million, which is expected to be recognized over the next 31 months on a weighted-average basis.
 
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     The fair value of employee stock options granted and shares purchased under the Company’s employee purchase plans was estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing valuation model applying the following assumptions and values:
 
    Year ended March 31,
    2010       2009       2008       2010       2009       2008
Purchase Plans Stock Option Plans
Dividend yield 0 % 0 % 0 % 0 %   0 %   0 %
Expected life 6 months 6 months 6 months 3.3 years 3.7 years 3.8 years
Expected volatility 59 % 63 % 38 % 47 % 36 % 33 %
Risk-free interest rate 0.19 % 1.23 % 4.23 % 1.64 % 2.40 % 4.01 %

     The dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s history and future expectations of dividend payouts. The Company has not paid dividends since 1996.
 
     The expected option life represents the weighted-average period the stock options or purchase offerings are expected to remain outstanding. The expected life is based on historical settlement rates, which the Company believes are most representative of future exercise and post-vesting termination behaviors.
 
     Expected share price volatility is based on historical volatility using daily prices over the term of past options or purchase offerings. The Company considers historical share price volatility as most representative of future volatility. The risk-free interest rate assumptions are based upon the implied yield of U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues appropriate for the term of the Company’s stock options or purchase offerings.
 
     The Company estimates forfeitures at the time of grant and revises those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. The Company uses historical data to estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures and records share-based compensation expense only for those awards that are expected to vest.
 
     The following table represents the weighted average grant-date fair values of options granted and the expected forfeiture rates:
 
    Year ended March 31,
      2010       2009       2008       2010      2009       2008
Purchase Plans Stock Option Plans
Weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted $ 4.23   $ 5.46   $ 7.63     $ 6.66     $ 6.25     $ 9.14  
Expected forfeitures 0 % 0 % 0 % 9 % 7 % 7 %

     A summary of activity under the share-based compensation plans is as follows (in thousands, except per share data; exercise prices are weighted averages):
 
    Year ended March 31,
2010 2009   2008
      Exercise             Exercise             Exercise
Number Price Number Price Number Price
Outstanding, beginning of year 18,991 $ 18 17,952 $ 17 18,876 $ 12
Granted 3,902 $ 14 4,239 $ 21 3,890 $ 30
Assumed in LifeSize acquisition 1,078 $ 5 $ $
Exercised (1,980 ) $ 8 (2,037 ) $ 9 (4,162 ) $ 9
Cancelled or expired (1,440 ) $ 23 (1,163 ) $ 24 (652 ) $ 21
Outstanding, end of year 20,551 $ 17 18,991 $ 18 17,952 $ 17
Exercisable, end of year 11,303 $ 17 10,981 $ 14 9,934 $ 12
 

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     The total pretax intrinsic value of options exercised during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $15.0 million, $33.2 million and $84.9 million and the tax benefit realized for the tax deduction from options exercised during those periods was $3.9 million, $8.5 million and $22.5 million. The total fair value of options vested as of March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $66.4 million, $57.7 million and $42.9 million.
 
     The following table summarizes significant ranges of outstanding and exercisable options as of March 31, 2010 (in thousands except per share data; exercise prices and contractual lives are weighted averages):
 
    Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
Range of Exercise   Exercise Contractual Aggregate   Exercise   Contractual Aggregate
Prices      Number      Price      Life (years)      Intrinsic Value      Number      Price      Life (years)      Intrinsic Value
$ 1.00 —$11.45      5,910    $ 8    4.6       $ 51,527       4,397    $ 9    3.2       $ 31,656    
$ 11.46 —$16.35      5,546 $ 14 7.6 11,508 1,948 $ 14 4.5 4,827
$ 16.36 —$23.35      5,455 $ 21 7.2 3,083 $ 21 6.3
$ 23.36 —$50.00      3,640 $ 29 7.4 1,875 $ 29 7.3
$ 1.00 —$50.00      20,551 $ 17 6.6   $ 63,035 11,303 $ 17 5.0 $ 36,483

     The aggregate intrinsic value in the preceding table represents the total pretax intrinsic value, based on options with an exercise price less than the Company’s closing price of $16.34 at March 31, 2010, which would have been received by the option holders had these option holders exercised their options as of that date. The total number of fully vested in-the-money options exercisable as of March 31, 2010 was 6,195,058. As of March 31, 2010, 9,247,646 options were unvested, of which 8,385,765 are expected to vest, based on an estimated forfeiture rate of 9%.
 
     During fiscal year 2010, the Company granted 266,560 time-based RSUs to employees and board members pursuant to the 2006 Stock Incentive Plan. These RSUs had a weighted average grant date fair value of $14.83 per unit. The time-based RSUs granted to employees vest in four equal annual installments on the grant date anniversary. The time-based RSUs granted to non-executive board members vest in one annual installment on the grant date anniversary. The Company estimates the fair value of these RSUs based on the share market price on the date of grant. Compensation expense related to time-based RSUs is recognized over the vesting period and is included in the total share-based compensation expense disclosed above. As of March 31, 2010, total compensation cost related to time-based RSUs not yet recognized was $2.2 million, which is expected to be recognized over the next 39 months.
 
     During fiscal years 2010 and 2009, the Company granted 115,000 and 93,750 RSUs to certain senior executives pursuant to the 2006 Stock Incentive Plan. These RSUs had a grant date fair value of $18.18 and $27.90 per unit. The RSUs vest at the end of two years from the grant date upon meeting certain share price performance criteria measured against market conditions. Compensation expense related to these RSUs will be recognized over the two year vesting period and is included in the total share-based compensation expense disclosed above. As of March 31, 2010, total compensation cost not yet recognized related to these RSUs was $1.9 million, which is expected to be recognized over the next 15 months.
 
     The fair value of these RSUs was estimated using the Monte-Carlo simulation model applying the following assumptions:
 
      FY 2010       FY 2009
Grants Grants
Dividend yield 0 %   0 %
Expected life 2 years 2 years
Expected volatility 58 % 41 %
Risk-free interest rate 1.11 % 1.82 %

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     The dividend yield assumption is based on the Company’s history and future expectations of dividend payouts. The expected life of these RSUs is the service period at the end of which the RSUs will vest if the performance conditions are satisfied. The volatility assumption is based on the actual volatility of Logitech’s daily closing share price over a look-back period of two years. The risk free interest rate is derived from the yield on US Treasury Bonds for a two year term.
 
Defined Contribution Plans
 
     Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries have defined contribution employee benefit plans covering all or a portion of their employees. Contributions to these plans are discretionary for certain plans and are based on specified or statutory requirements for others. The charges to expense for these plans for fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008, were $8.2 million, $8.3 million and $7.0 million.
 
Defined Benefit Plans
 
     Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries sponsor defined benefit pension plans or non-retirement post-employment benefits covering substantially all of their employees. Benefits are provided based on employees’ years of service and earnings, or in accordance with applicable employee benefit regulations. The Company’s practice is to fund amounts sufficient to meet the requirements set forth in the applicable employee benefit and tax regulations.
 
     The Company recognizes the underfunded or overfunded status of defined benefit pension plans and non-retirement post-employment benefit obligations as an asset or liability in its statement of financial position, and recognizes changes in the funded status of defined benefit pension plans in the year in which the changes occur through accumulated other comprehensive loss, which is a component of stockholders’ equity. Each plan’s assets and benefit obligations are measured as of March 31.
 
     In fiscal year 2009, the Company added a defined benefit pension plan in Japan, and amended the existing plan in Switzerland. In addition, the restructuring which occurred in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2009 resulted in a curtailment of benefits and a settlement transaction related to the terminated employees who participated in the existing defined benefit pension plans.
 
     The net periodic benefit cost for fiscal years 2010 and 2009 was as follows (in thousands):
 
Year ended March 31,
2010       2009
Service cost $ 3,983   $ 2,814  
Interest cost 1,430 1,520
Expected return on plan assets (1,200 ) (1,488 )
Amortization of net transition obligation 4 5
Amortization of net prior service cost 138
Recognized net actuarial loss 1,239 232
Net periodic benefit cost $ 5,594 $ 3,083
 

     Additional benefit costs of $3.4 million related to the restructuring were recognized in restructuring expenses in fiscal year 2009.
 
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     The changes in projected benefit obligations for fiscal years 2010 and 2009 were as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Projected benefit obligation, beginning of year $ 48,135 $ 51,632
Service cost 3,983 2,814
Interest cost 1,430 1,520
Plan participant contributions 1,848 1,656
Actuarial (gain) loss due to assumption changes (994 ) 3,828
Actuarial loss due to plan experience 916 776
Benefits paid (1,037 ) (1,413 )
Plan amendments 2,590
Settlement/curtailment (9,503 )
Initial adoption of Japanese plan 431
Administrative expense paid (177 ) (183 )
Foreign currency exchange rate changes 3,427 (6,013 )
Projected benefit obligation, end of year $ 57,531     $ 48,135
 

     The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans as of March 31, 2010 and 2009 was $46.3 million and $39.0 million.
 
     The following table presents the changes in the fair value of defined benefit pension plan assets for fiscal years 2010 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year $ 23,415 $ 35,059
Actual return on plan assets 5,267 (4,928 )
Employer contributions 4,137 3,531
Plan participant contributions 1,848 1,656
Benefits paid (864 ) (1,413 )
Settlement (6,580 )
Initial adoption of Japanese plan 244
Administrative expenses paid (177 ) (183 )
Foreign currency exchange rate changes 1,801 (3,971 )
Fair value of plan assets, end of year $ 35,427 $ 23,415
 

     The defined benefit pension plans have the following asset allocations. Investment strategies and allocation decisions are determined by the applicable governmental regulatory agency.
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Equity securities 34.8 %    24.4 %
Debt securities 43.6 % 53.2 %
Real estate 10.7 % 5.3 %
Other 10.9 % 17.1 %
   100.0 %    100.0 %
 

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     The funded status of the defined benefit pension plans is the fair value of plan assets as determined by the governmental regulatory agency less benefit obligations. The funded status of the non-retirement post-employment benefits is the fair value of the benefit obligations. Projected benefit obligations exceeded plan assets for all plans by $22.1 million and $24.7 million as of March 31, 2010 and 2009. Amounts recognized on the balance sheet for the plans were as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Current assets $ 936   $ 990  
Current liabilities (2,761 ) (4,899 )
Non-current liabilities   (19,343 ) (19,822 )
Net liability $ (21,168 ) $ (23,731 )

     Amounts recognized in other comprehensive income related to defined benefit pension plans were as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Net prior service cost $ 2,075 $ 2,077
Net actuarial loss 9,641 14,000
Amortization of net transition obligation 33 35
Accumulated other comprehensive income 11,749 16,112
Deferred tax benefit (936 ) (990 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax $ 10,813 $ 15,122
 

     Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss related to the defined benefit pension plans were as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of year $ 15,122 $ 9,067
Transition obligation recognized (4 ) (5 )
Prior service cost recognized (120 )
Loss recognized (1,276 ) (415 )
Settlement/curtailment loss recognized (6,225 )
Prior service cost occurred 2,443
(Gain) loss occurred (4,143 ) 10,812
Deferred tax expense (benefit) 122 (182 )
Foreign currency exchange rate changes 1,112 (373 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of year $ 10,813 $ 15,122
 

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     The following table presents the amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive loss as of March 31, 2010, which are expected to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in fiscal year 2010 (in thousands):
 
      Amortization of net transition obligation $ 5
Amortization of net prior service costs 142
Amortization of net actuarial loss 362
$ 509
 

     The Company reassesses its benefit plan assumptions on a regular basis. The actuarial assumptions for the pension plans for fiscal years 2010 and 2009 are as follows:
 
      2010 2009
        Benefit Obligation       Periodic Cost       Benefit Obligation       Periodic Cost
Discount rate   2.00% to 3.25%   2.00% to 3.00%   2.00% to 3.00%   2.50% to 3.50%
Estimated rate of
       compensation increase 2.50% to 5.00% 2.50% to 5.00% 2.50% to 4.00% 2.50% to 4.25%
Expected average rate of
       return on plan assets 1.00% to 4.75% 1.00% to 4.25% 1.00% to 4.25% 2.75% to 4.75%

     The discount rate is estimated based on corporate bond yields or securities of similar quality in the respective country, with a duration approximating the period over which the benefit obligations are expected to be paid. The Company bases the compensation increase assumptions on historical experience and future expectations. The expected average rate of return for the Company’s defined benefit pension plans represents the average rate of return expected to be earned on plan assets over the period that the benefit obligations are expected to be paid, based on government bond notes in the respective country, adjusted for corporate risk premiums as appropriate.
 
     The following table reflects the benefit payments that the Company expects the plans to pay in the periods noted (in thousands):
 
      Year ending March 31,    
       2011 $ 3,164
       2012 3,241
       2013 3,264
       2014 3,257
       2015 3,240
       Thereafter 16,098
$ 32,264
 

     The Company expects to contribute approximately $5.9 million to its defined benefit pension plans during fiscal year 2011.
 
Deferred Compensation Plan
 
     One of the Company’s subsidiaries offers a management deferred compensation plan which permits eligible employees to make 100%-vested salary and incentive compensation deferrals within established limits, which are invested in Company-owned life insurance contracts held in a Rabbi Trust. The Company does not make contributions to the plan. The cash surrender value of the insurance contracts was approximately $10.4 million at March 31, 2010 and 2009 and trust cash balances were $0.7 million and $0.3 million at March 31, 2010 and 2009. The fair value of the plan’s assets was included in other assets in the statements of financial position. Expenses and gains or losses related to the insurance contracts are included in other income (expense), net and have not been significant to date. The unsecured obligation to pay the compensation deferred, adjusted to reflect the positive or negative performance of investment measurement options selected by each participant, was approximately $10.3 million and $10.5 million at March 31, 2010 and 2009 and was included in other liabilities. The additional compensation expenses related to investment performance have not been significant to date.
 
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Note 14 — Income Taxes
 
     The Company is incorporated in Switzerland but operates in various countries with differing tax laws and rates. Further, a portion of the Company’s income before taxes and the provision for income taxes are generated outside of Switzerland.
 
     Income before income taxes for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
  Year ended March 31,
      2010       2009       2008
Income before income taxes:            
       Swiss $ 13,352 $ 40,717 $ 145,403
       Non-Swiss 70,271 86,076 117,411
              Total $ 83,623 $ 126,793 $ 262,814
 

The provision for income taxes is summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
  Year ended March 31,
      2010       2009       2008
Current:                
       Swiss $ 1,463 $ 53 $ 2,509  
       Non-Swiss 22,279 32,274 31,055
Deferred:
       Swiss (36 ) (75 )
       Non-Swiss (5,076 ) (12,530 ) (1,701 )
       Total $ 18,666 $ 19,761 $ 31,788
 

     The difference between the provision for income taxes and the expected tax provision at the statutory income tax rate is reconciled below (in thousands):
 
  Year ended March 31,
      2010       2009       2008
Expected tax provision at statutory income tax rates $ 7,108 $ 10,777 $ 22,339
Income taxes at different rates 10,473 9,370 12,245
Research and development tax credits (1,628 ) (2,524 ) (1,572 )
Unrealized investment income (428 ) 1,004 (248 )
Stock compensation 713 618 423
Transaction costs 1,257
Other 1,171 516 (1,399 )
Total provision for income taxes $ 18,666 $ 19,761 $ 31,788
 

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     The Company has negotiated a tax holiday on certain earnings in China which is effective from January 2006 through December 2010. The tax holiday represents a tax exemption aimed to attract foreign technological investment in China. The tax holiday decreased income tax expense by approximately $2.4 million and $4.0 million for fiscal years 2010 and 2009. The benefit of the tax holiday on net income per share (diluted) was approximately $0.01 and $0.02 in fiscal years 2010 and 2009.
 
     The U.S. Federal research tax credit expired as of December 31, 2009. The U.S. House of Representatives in December 2009 and the U.S. Senate in March 2010 passed different draft legislation which would extend the tax credit for an additional year, however the extension has not yet passed into law as of March 31, 2010. Accordingly, the Company’s income tax provision for fiscal year 2010 includes a $0.9 million tax benefit for federal research tax credit calculated through December 31, 2010.
 
     The U.S. state of California has enacted legislation affecting the methodology which must be used by corporate taxpayers to apportion income to California. These changes will become effective for our fiscal year ending March 31, 2012. Although the Company has significant operations in California, we believe these changes will not have a material impact on our results of operations or financial condition.
 
     Deferred income tax assets and liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
Deferred tax assets:      
       Net operating loss carryforwards $ 40,878 $ 8,781
       Tax credit carryforwards 3,367
       Accruals 35,346 35,610
       Depreciation and amortization 11,473 8,100
       Share-based compensation 17,438 11,983
Gross deferred tax assets 108,502 64,474
 
Deferred tax liabilities:
       Acquired intangible assets (37,264 ) (11,462 )
Gross deferred tax liabilities (37,264 ) (11,462 )
Net deferred tax assets $ 71,238 $ 53,012  
 

     The current and deferred tax provision is calculated based on estimates and assumptions that could differ from the actual results reflected in income tax returns filed. Adjustments for differences between the tax provisions and tax returns are recorded when identified, which is generally in the third or fourth quarter of the subsequent year.
 
     Management regularly assesses the ability to realize deferred tax assets recorded in the Company’s entities based upon the weight of available evidence, including such factors as recent earnings history and expected future taxable income. In the event that future taxable income is below management’s estimates or is generated in tax jurisdictions different than projected, the Company could be required to establish a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. This would result in an increase in the Company’s effective tax rate.
 
     Deferred tax assets relating to tax benefits of employee stock option grants and RSUs have been reduced to reflect exercises in fiscal years 2010 and 2009. Some exercises resulted in tax deductions in excess of previously recorded benefits based on the option value at the time of grant (“windfalls”). Although these additional tax benefits are reflected in net operating loss carryforwards, the additional tax benefit associated with the windfall is not recorded until the deduction reduces cash taxes payable. During fiscal years 2010 and 2009, the Company recorded a credit to equity of $0.3 million and $15.3 million.
 
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     As of March 31, 2010, the Company had foreign net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards for income tax purposes of $332.4 million and $22.3 million. Approximately $168.1 million of the net operating loss carryforwards and $20.2 million of the tax credit carryforwards, if realized, will be credited to equity since they have not met the applicable realization criteria. Unused net operating loss carryforwards will expire at various dates in fiscal years 2014 to 2031, and the tax credit carryforwards will begin to expire in fiscal year 2012.
 
     Swiss income taxes and non-Swiss withholding taxes associated with the repatriation of earnings or for other temporary differences related to investments in non-Swiss subsidiaries have not been provided for, as the Company intends to reinvest the earnings of such subsidiaries indefinitely or the Company has concluded that no additional tax liability would arise on the distribution of such earnings. If these earnings were distributed to Switzerland in the form of dividends or otherwise, or if the shares of the relevant non-Swiss subsidiaries were sold or otherwise transferred, the Company may be subject to additional Swiss income taxes and non-Swiss withholding taxes. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred income tax liability related to these earnings is not practicable.
 
     The Company follows a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement.
 
     As of March 31, 2010, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $125.2, of which $101.4 million would affect the effective income tax rate if realized. The Company classified $2.4 million of unrecognized tax benefits as current income taxes payable as the Company anticipates payment within the next 12 months. The remainder of the unrecognized tax benefits is classified as non-current income taxes payable.
 
     The aggregate changes in gross unrecognized tax benefits were as follow (in thousands):
 
Beginning balance as of April 1, 2007 (date of adoption) $ 82,435
Lapse of statute of limitations (1,202 )
Decreases in balances related to tax positions taken during prior periods (6,471 )
Increases in balances related to tax positions taken during the current period 17,885
Balance as of March 31, 2008 $ 92,647
Lapse of statute of limitations (1,978 )
Decreases in balances related to tax positions taken during prior periods
Increases in balances related to tax positions taken during the current period 6,958
Balance as of March 31, 2009 $ 97,627
Lapse of statute of limitations (3,667 )
Decreases in balances related to tax positions taken during prior periods (229 )
Increases in balances related to tax positions taken during the prior period 2,690
Increases in balances related to tax positions taken during the current period 17,207
Balance as of March 31, 2010 $ 113,628
 

     The Company continues to recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax positions in income tax expense. The Company recognized $1.9 million, $1.8 million and $1.6 million in interest and penalties in income tax expense during fiscal years 2010, 2009 and 2008. As of March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the Company had approximately $12.5 million, $10.7 million and $8.8 million of accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions.
 
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     The Company files Swiss and foreign tax returns. For all these tax returns, the Company is generally not subject to tax examinations for years prior to 1999. In fiscal year 2009, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service initiated an examination of the Company’s U.S. subsidiary for fiscal year 2006. During the third quarter of fiscal year 2010, the Internal Revenue Service expanded its examination to include fiscal year 2007. At this time it is not possible to estimate the potential impact that the examination may have on income tax expense. The Company is also under examination in other foreign jurisdictions.
 
     Although the Company has adequately provided for uncertain tax positions, the provisions on these positions may change as revised estimates are made or the underlying matters are settled or otherwise resolved. Within the next 12 months, the Company anticipates that it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits may decrease due to the resolution of income tax audits with foreign governments. However, an estimate of such decreases cannot reasonably be made as of March 31, 2010.
 
Note 15 — Derivative Financial Instruments – Foreign Exchange Hedging
 
Cash Flow Hedges
 
     The Company enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge against exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to its subsidiaries’ forecasted inventory purchases. The primary risk managed by using derivative instruments is the foreign currency exchange rate risk. The Company has designated these derivatives as cash flow hedges. Logitech does not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. These hedging contracts generally mature within six months, and are denominated in the same currency as the underlying transactions. Gains and losses in the fair value of the effective portion of the hedges are deferred as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss until the hedged inventory purchases are sold, at which time the gains or losses are reclassified to cost of goods sold. The Company assesses the effectiveness of the hedges by comparing changes in the spot rate of the currency underlying the forward contract with changes in the spot rate of the currency in which the forecasted transaction will be consummated. If the underlying transaction being hedged fails to occur or if a portion of the hedge does not generate offsetting changes in the foreign currency exposure of forecasted inventory purchases, the Company immediately recognizes the gain or loss on the associated financial instrument in other income (expense). Such losses were immaterial during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009. The notional amounts of foreign exchange forward contracts outstanding related to forecasted inventory purchases were $46.2 million (34.3 million euros) and $21.9 million (17.4 million euros) at March 31, 2010 and 2009. The notional amount represents the future cash flows under contracts to purchase foreign currencies.
 
Other Derivatives
 
     The Company also enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to reduce the short-term effects of foreign currency fluctuations on certain foreign currency receivables or payables. These forward contracts generally mature within one to three months. The Company may also enter into foreign exchange swap contracts to economically extend the terms of its foreign exchange forward contracts. The primary risk managed by using forward and swap contracts is the foreign currency exchange rate risk. The gains or losses on foreign exchange forward contracts are recognized in earnings based on the changes in fair value.
 
     The notional amounts of foreign exchange forward contracts outstanding at March 31, 2010 and 2009 relating to foreign currency receivables or payables were $15.1 million and $8.0 million. Open forward contracts as of March 31, 2010 and 2009 consisted of contracts in British pounds to purchase euros at a future date at a predetermined exchange rate. The notional amounts of foreign exchange swap contracts outstanding at March 31, 2010 and 2009 were $38.9 million and $20.2 million. Swap contracts outstanding at March 31, 2010 consisted of contracts in British pounds, Japanese yen, Mexican pesos and Canadian dollars. Swap contracts outstanding at March 31, 2009 consisted of contracts in Japanese yen, Mexican pesos and British pounds.
 
     The fair value of all our foreign exchange forward contracts and foreign exchange swap contracts is determined based on quoted foreign exchange forward rates. Quoted foreign exchange forward rates are observable inputs that are classified as Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy.
 
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     The following table presents the fair values of the Company’s derivative instruments and their locations on the Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2010 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives
      Fair Value             Fair Value
Location 2010       2009 Location 2010       2009
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
       Cash Flow Hedges Other assets $ 136 $  — Other liabilities $ 10 $ 1,257
136 10 1,257
                                
Derivatives not designated as hedging  
       instruments:  
              Foreign Exchange    
                     Forward Contracts Other assets   11 208   Other liabilities  
              Foreign Exchange  
                     Swap Contracts Other assets 452 Other liabilities   356 592
463 208   356   592
 
$ 599   $ 208 $ 366 $ 1,849
  
     The following table presents the amounts of gains and losses on the Company’s derivative instruments for the years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 and their locations on its Financial Statements (in thousands):
 
Net amount Amount of
of gain/(loss) gain/(loss)
deferred as a Location of reclassified
component of gain/(Loss) from Amount of
accumulated reclassified from accumulated gain/(loss)
other accumulated other other Location of gain/ recognized
comprehensive comprehensive comprehensive (loss) recognized in in income
loss loss into income loss into income income immediately immediately
2010       2009             2010       2009             2010       2009
Derivatives designated as hedging
       instruments:
              Cash Flow Hedges $ 1,178 $ 216 Cost of goods sold $ (5,615 ) $ 1,678 Other income/expense $ (57 ) $ (12 )
1,178 216 (5,615 )   1,678 (57 ) (12 )
 
Derivatives not designated as    
       hedging instruments:      
              Foreign Exchange      
                     Forward Contracts         Other income/expense (831 ) 208
              Foreign Exchange              
                     Swap Contracts Other income/expense (2,306 ) (592 )
(3,137 )   (384 )
 
$ 1,178 $ 216 $ (5,615 ) $ 1,678 $ (3,194 ) $ (396 )
   
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Note 16 — Commitments and Contingencies
 
     The Company leases facilities under operating leases, certain of which require it to pay property taxes, insurance and maintenance costs. Operating leases for facilities are generally renewable at the Company’s option and usually include escalation clauses linked to inflation. Future minimum annual rentals under non-cancelable operating leases at March 31, 2010 are as follows (in thousands):
 
Year ending March 31,
       2011 $ 13,679
       2012 9,666
       2013 8,204
       2014 4,171
       2015 3,473
       Thereafter   7,503
$ 46,696
 
     Rent expense was $16.3 million, $15.5 million and $13.8 million for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008. The Company’s asset retirement obligations for its leased facilities as of March 31, 2010 were not material.
 
     At March 31, 2010, fixed purchase commitments for capital expenditures amounted to $12.9 million, and primarily related to commitments for manufacturing equipment, tooling, computer software and computer hardware. Also, the Company has commitments for inventory purchases made in the normal course of business to original design manufacturers, contract manufacturers and other suppliers. At March 31, 2010, fixed purchase commitments for inventory amounted to $183.6 million, which are expected to be fulfilled by December 31, 2010. The Company also had other commitments totaling $33.3 million for consulting services, marketing arrangements, advertising and other services. Although open purchase orders are considered enforceable and legally binding, the terms generally allow the Company the option to reschedule and adjust its requirements based on the business needs prior to delivery of goods or performance of services.
 
     The Company has guaranteed the purchase obligations of some of its contract manufacturers and original design manufacturers to certain component suppliers. These guarantees generally have a term of one year and are automatically extended for one or more years as long as a liability exists. The amount of the purchase obligations of these manufacturers varies over time, and therefore the amounts subject to Logitech’s guarantees similarly vary. At March 31, 2010, there were no outstanding guaranteed purchase obligations. The maximum total potential future payments under three of the five guarantee arrangements is limited to $30.8 million. The remaining two guarantees are limited to purchases of specified components from the named suppliers. The Company does not believe, based on historical experience and information currently available, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under these guarantee arrangements.
 
     Logitech International S.A., the parent holding company, has guaranteed certain contingent liabilities of various subsidiaries related to specific transactions occurring in the normal course of business. The maximum amount of the guarantees was $8.2 million as of March 31, 2010. As of March 31, 2010, $7.6 million was outstanding under these guarantees. The parent holding company has also guaranteed the purchases of one of its subsidiaries under two guarantee agreements. These guarantees do not specify a maximum amount. As of March 31, 2010, $8.7 million was outstanding under these guarantees.
 
     Logitech indemnifies some of its suppliers and customers for losses arising from matters such as intellectual property rights and product safety defects, subject to certain restrictions. The scope of these indemnities varies, but in some instances, includes indemnification for damages and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees. No amounts have been accrued for indemnification provisions at March 31, 2010. The Company does not believe, based on historical experience and information currently available, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under its indemnification arrangements.
 
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     The Company provides various third parties with irrevocable letters of credit in the normal course of business to secure its obligations to pay or perform pursuant to the requirements of an underlying agreement or the provision of goods and services. These standby letters of credit are cancelable only at the option of the beneficiary who is authorized to draw drafts on the issuing bank up to the face amount of the standby letter of credit in accordance with its terms. At March 31, 2010, the Company had $3.4 million of letters of credit in place, of which $0.3 million was outstanding. These letters of credit relate primarily to equipment purchases by a subsidiary in China, and expire between April and June 2010. At March 31, 2009, The Company had $0.4 million of letters of credit in place, with no balance outstanding.
 
     In November 2007, the Company acquired WiLife, Inc., a privately held company offering PC-based video cameras for self-monitoring a home or a small business. The purchase agreement provides for a possible performance-based payment, payable in the first calendar quarter of 2011. The performance-based payment is based on net revenues attributed to WiLife during calendar 2010. No payment is due if the applicable net revenues total $40.0 million or less. The maximum performance-based payment is $64.0 million. The total performance-based payment amount, if any, will be recorded in goodwill and will not be known until the end of calendar year 2010. As of March 31, 2010, no amounts were payable towards performance-based payments under the WiLife acquisition agreement.
 
     The Company is involved in a number of lawsuits and claims relating to commercial matters that arise in the normal course of business. The Company believes these lawsuits and claims are without merit and intends to vigorously defend against them. However, there can be no assurances that its defenses will be successful, or that any judgment or settlement in any of these lawsuits would not have a material adverse impact on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. The Company’s accruals for lawsuits and claims as of March 31, 2010 were not material.
 
Note 17 — Interest and Other Income
 
     Interest and other income (expense), net was comprised of the following (in thousands):
 
      Year ended March 31,
2010         2009         2008  
Interest income $ 2,406 $ 8,648 $ 15,752
Interest expense (286 ) (20 ) (244 )
Interest income, net $ 2,120 $ 8,628   $ 15,508
 
Foreign currency exchange gains, net $ 1,720   $ 13,680 $ 10,616
Gain on sale of investments, net   27,761
Insurance investment income (loss) 1,221   (2,883 ) 710
  Write-down of investments   (643 ) (2,727 ) (79,823 )
Other, net 841   441   1,362  
Other income (expense), net $ 3,139 $ 8,511 $ (39,374 )
  
Note 18 — Segment Information
 
     The Company operates in two industry segments, personal peripherals and video conferencing, based on product markets and internal organizational structure. The personal peripherals segment encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of personal peripherals for personal computers and other digital platforms. The video conferencing segment consists of the LifeSize division, and encompasses the design, manufacturing and marketing of high-definition video and audio communication products for the enterprise and small-to-medium business markets. The video conferencing operating segment does not meet the quantitative thresholds required for separate disclosure of financial information.
 
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     Net sales by product family, excluding intercompany transactions, were as follows (in thousands):
 
Year ended March 31,
2010      2009      2008
Retail — Pointing Devices $ 528,236 $ 579,775 $ 615,524
Retail — Keyboards & Desktops 329,038   384,809 464,984
Retail — Audio 454,957 445,362 478,455
Retail — Video 228,344 248,339 238,728
Retail — Gaming 107,595   127,052     146,016
Retail — Remotes 96,982 102,006 123,581
OEM 198,364 321,489 303,208
Personal peripherals   1,943,516 2,208,832 2,370,496
LifeSize 23,232
       Total net sales $ 1,966,748 $ 2,208,832 $ 2,370,496
  
     Geographic net sales information in the table below is based on the location of the selling entity. Long-lived assets, primarily fixed assets, are reported below based on the location of the asset.
 
     Net sales to unaffiliated customers by geographic region were as follows (in thousands):
 
      Year ended March 31,
2010       2009       2008
EMEA $ 882,635 $ 1,001,337 $ 1,117,060
  Americas   729,473   785,862   888,529
Asia Pacific 354,640   421,633   364,907
       Total net sales $ 1,966,748 $ 2,208,832 $ 2,370,496
  
     The United States and Germany each represented more than 10% of the Company’s total consolidated net sales for fiscal year 2010. In fiscal years 2009 and 2008, no single country other than the United States represented more than 10% of the Company’s total consolidated net sales. Revenues from sales to customers in Switzerland, our home domicile, represented a small portion of the Company’s total consolidated net sales in all periods presented. In fiscal year 2010, one customer represented 13% of net sales; in fiscal years 2009 and 2008, the same customer represented 14% of net sales. As of March 31, 2010, one customer represented 14% of total accounts receivable. As of March 31, 2009, two customers represented 18% and 10% of total accounts receivable.
 
     Long-lived assets by geographic region were as follows (in thousands):
 
March 31,
2010       2009
EMEA $ 11,053 $ 13,947
Americas 40,165   40,093
Asia Pacific   43,765   53,541
       Total long-lived assets $ 94,983 $ 107,581
  
     Long-lived assets in China and the United States each represented more than 10% of the Company’s total consolidated long-lived assets at March 31, 2010 and 2009.
 
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LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
 
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA
(Unaudited)
 
     The following table contains selected unaudited quarterly financial data for fiscal years 2010 and 2009 (in thousands except per share amounts):
 
Year ended March 31, 2010 Year ended March 31, 2009
First       Second       Third       Fourth       First       Second       Third       Fourth
Net sales $ 326,110   $ 498,093   $ 617,101   $ 525,444 $ 508,711   $ 664,707   $ 627,466   $ 407,948
Gross profit 77,822 151,788 208,964 188,322 173,572 228,074 187,496 102,084
Operating expenses:  
       Marketing and selling 58,938 68,835 87,322 89,693 77,280 84,740 86,046 71,101
       Research and development 31,360 31,825 32,931 39,697 33,259 33,351 32,401 29,744
       General and administrative 21,181 23,739 30,284 30,943 33,309 29,620 26,273 23,901
       Restructuring charges 1,449 45 290 20,547
              Total operating expense 112,928 124,444 150,537 160,623 143,848 147,711 144,720 145,293
Operating income (loss) (35,106 ) 27,344     58,427 27,699 29,724 80,363 42,776       (43,209 )
Net income (loss) $ (37,365 ) $ 20,743   $ 57,086 $ 24,493 $ 29,306   $ 72,311 $ 40,493   $ (35,078 )
Net income (loss) per share*:        
       Basic $ (0.21 )   $ 0.12   $ 0.33 $ 0.14   $ 0.16 $ 0.41 $ 0.23 $ (0.20 )
       Diluted $ (0.21 ) $ 0.11   $ 0.32   $ 0.14 $ 0.16 $ 0.39 $ 0.22 $ (0.20 )
Shares used to compute net  
       income (loss) per share:
       Basic 179,751 178,395 175,426 175,738 179,046 178,630 178,497 179,065
       Diluted 179,751 180,989 177,668 177,967 184,692 183,509 181,145 179,065
____________________

*        Basic and diluted earnings per share are computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly basic and diluted per share information may not equal annual basic and diluted earnings per share.
 
     The following table sets forth certain quarterly financial information as a percentage of net sales:
 
Year ended March 31, 2010 Year ended March 31, 2009
      First     Second     Third     Fourth     First     Second     Third     Fourth
Net sales 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
Gross profit 23.9 30.5 33.9 35.8 34.1 34.3 29.9 25.0
Operating expenses:  
       Marketing and selling 18.1 13.8 14.2 17.1 15.2 12.7 13.7 17.4  
       Research and development   9.6 6.4 5.3 7.6 6.5 5.0 5.2 7.3
       General and administrative 6.5     4.8   4.9 5.9     6.6 4.5 4.2   5.9
       Restructuring charges 0.4             5.0
              Total operating expense 34.6 25.0   24.4 30.6 28.3   22.2 23.1 35.6
Operating income (loss) (10.7 ) 5.5 9.5 5.2 5.8 12.1 6.8 (10.6 )
Net income (loss) (11.5 )% 4.2 % 9.3 % 4.7 % 5.8 % 10.9 % 6.5 % (8.6 )%
 
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Schedule II
 
LOGITECH INTERNATIONAL S.A.
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
For the Fiscal Years Ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 (in thousands)
 
Write-offs
Charged charged to
Balance at (credited) to (recovered Balance at
Fiscal beginning of Income against) end
Year       Description       period       Statement(1)       allowance(1)       of period
2010 Allowance for doubtful accounts   $ 6,705 $ (72 ) $ (763 ) $ 5,870  
2009 Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 2,497 $ 5,102 $ (894 ) $ 6,705
2008 Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 3,322 $ 603 $ (1,428 ) $ 2,497
 
2010 Cooperative marketing arrangements $ 28,567 $ 98,450 $ (109,490 ) $ 17,527
2009 Cooperative marketing arrangements $ 29,511 $ 123,938 $ (124,882 ) $ 28,567
2008 Cooperative marketing arrangements $ 20,251 $ 118,198   $ (108,938 )   $ 29,511
 
2010 Customer incentive programs $ 36,454 $ 101,851   $ (93,999 ) $ 44,306
2009 Customer incentive programs $ 40,847   $ 110,733 $ (115,126 ) $ 36,454
2008 Customer incentive programs $ 30,261 $ 112,069 $ (101,483 ) $ 40,847
 
2010 Reserve for sales returns $ 28,705 $ 78,950 $ (83,998 ) $ 23,657
2009 Reserve for sales returns $ 25,880 $ 83,419 $ (80,594 ) $ 28,705
2008 Reserve for sales returns $ 19,387 $ 87,114 $ (80,621 ) $ 25,880
 
2010 Pricing programs $ 25,543 $ 134,323 $ (96,751 ) $ 63,115
2009 Pricing programs $ 32,052 $ 63,259 $ (69,768 ) $ 25,543
2008 Pricing programs $ 20,775 $ 77,266 $ (65,989 ) $ 32,052
____________________

(1)       Transactions related to certain prior year charges and write-offs have been recharacterized to conform to the current year presentation, with no impact on previously reported beginning and ending balances.
 
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