Filed Pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3).

Registration Statement File No. 333-140997

 

Subject to Completion

Preliminary Prospectus Supplement dated March 19, 2007

 

PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

(To prospectus dated March 1, 2007)

 

10,000,000 Shares

 

 

Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc.

 

       % Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock

 

 

 

 

We are offering 10,000,000 shares of our     % mandatory convertible preferred stock.

 

We will pay annual dividends on each share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock at a rate of       % per share on the liquidation preference thereof of $100 per share. Dividends will accrue and cumulate from the date of issuance and, to the extent that we are legally permitted to pay dividends and our board of directors declares a dividend payable, we will pay dividends in cash, common stock or a combination thereof, on February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1 of each year prior to May 1, 2010, and on May 1, 2010. The first dividend payment will be made on August 1, 2007, in the expected amount of $        per share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock, which reflects the time period from the date of issuance to August 1, 2007.

 

Each share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock has a liquidation preference of $100.00, plus accrued, cumulated and unpaid dividends. Each share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock will automatically convert on May 1, 2010, into between        and        shares of our common stock, subject to anti-dilution adjustments, depending on the average daily closing price per share of our common stock over the 20 trading day period ending on the third trading day prior to such date. At any time prior to May 1, 2010, holders may elect to convert each share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock into        shares of common stock, subject to anti-dilution adjustments.

 

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our mandatory convertible preferred stock. We intend to apply to list our mandatory convertible preferred stock on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to satisfaction of its minimum listing standards. Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FCX.” On March 16, 2007, the last reported sale price of our common stock was $60.71 per share.

 

Concurrently with this offering of mandatory convertible stock, we are offering 35,000,000 shares of our common stock (40,250,000 shares if the underwriters exercise their overallotment option in full). The common stock will be offered pursuant to a separate prospectus supplement. This prospectus supplement shall not be deemed an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of our common stock. This offering is not conditioned upon the successful completion of the common stock offering.

 

Investing in our mandatory convertible preferred stock involves risks. See “Risk Factors” beginning on page S-19 of this prospectus supplement for more information.

 

 

 

 

We have granted the underwriters an option for a period of 30 days to purchase up to 1,500,000 additional shares of our mandatory convertible preferred stock at the public offering price less the underwriting discount to cover overallotments.

 

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

The mandatory convertible preferred stock will be ready for delivery on or about       , 2007.

 

 

 

 

Joint Book-Running Managers

 

 

 

 

 

The date of this prospectus supplement is     , 2007.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

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You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. We have not, and the underwriters have not, authorized any other person to provide you with different information. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. We are not, and the underwriters are not, making an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. You should assume that the information contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement is accurate only as of the date on the front cover of this prospectus supplement and that the information contained or incorporated by reference in the accompanying prospectus is accurate only as of the date on the front cover of the accompanying prospectus. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

 

ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT

 

This document contains two parts. The first part consists of this prospectus supplement, which describes the specific terms of this offering and the securities offered. The second part, the accompanying prospectus, provides more general information, some of which may not apply to this offering. If the description of the offering varies between this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, you should rely on the information in this prospectus supplement.

 

Before purchasing any securities, you should carefully read both this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, together with the additional information described under the heading “Where You Can Find More Information.”

 

Unless otherwise noted, the information in this prospectus supplement assumes that the underwriters’ overallotment option to purchase up to an additional 1,500,000 shares of mandatory convertible preferred stock will not be exercised.

 

INDUSTRY AND OTHER INFORMATION

 

Unless we indicate otherwise, we base the information concerning the mining industry contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus on our general knowledge of and expectations concerning the industry. Our market positions and market shares are based on our estimates using data from various industry sources and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable based on our knowledge of the mining industry. We have not independently verified data from industry sources and cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. In addition, we believe that data regarding the mining industry and our market positions and market shares within such industry provide general guidance but are inherently imprecise. Further, our estimates involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on various factors, including those discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of this prospectus supplement. The information regarding Freeport-McMoRan’s reserves as of December 31, 2006, that is contained in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus, including the documents incorporated by reference herein or therein, has been verified by Independent Mining Consultants, Inc. as experts in mining, geology and reserve determination.

 

PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT SUMMARY

	•	our increased scale of operations, management depth and strengthened cash flows will provide an improved platform from which to capitalize on growth opportunities in the global market;
	•	we will be well-positioned to benefit from the positive copper market at a time when there is a scarcity of large-scale copper development projects combined with strong global demand for copper;

	•	we will have long-lived, geographically diverse ore reserves totaling 77.2 billion pounds of copper, 38.3 million ounces of gold and 1.8 billion pounds of molybdenum, net of minority interests of all joint venture partners and minority owners;
	•	we expect to generate strong cash flows, which will strengthen our financial profile;

	•	our future growth will be supported by a project pipeline with the potential to add nearly one billion pounds of copper production capacity on a consolidated basis by the end of 2009; and
	•	we will have exploration rights with significant potential in copper regions around the world, including Freeport-McMoRan’s prospective acreage in Papua, Indonesia, and Phelps Dodge’s opportunities at its Tenke Fungurume concessions in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

		Consolidated				Net Interest(a)
Production for year ended December 31, 2006:
Copper (billion pounds)			3.6				3.1
Gold (million ounces)			1.8				1.7
Molybdenum (million pounds)			68.2				68.2
Ore reserves as of December 31, 2006:
Copper (billion pounds)			93.6				77.2
Gold (million ounces)			42.4				38.3
Molybdenum (billion pounds)			2.0				1.8
Copper reserves as of December 31, 2006 by geographical region (billion pounds):
Indonesia			38.8				35.2
United States			24.8				24.8
Chile			10.0				6.4
Peru			15.5				8.3
Democratic Republic of Congo			4.5				2.6
Implied ore reserve life (years)(b):
Copper			21				21
Gold			22				22
Molybdenum			25				25

(a)		Reflects the combined company’s equity share, net of the interests of all joint venture partners and minority owners.
(b)		Calculated by dividing ore reserves by estimated production rates.

	•	borrowings under a new $11,500 million senior credit facility, consisting of a $1,500 million revolving credit facility (which refers to our new $1,000 million revolving credit facility and our amended and restated $500 million revolving credit facility), a $2,500 million five-year Tranche A term loan facility and a $7,500 million seven-year Tranche B term loan facility; and
	•	the issuance of $6.0 billion in aggregate principal amount of the notes offered by our prospectus supplement dated March 14, 2007.

Sources of Funds		Amount
		(Dollars
		in millions)
Cash		$	2,500.0
New revolving credit facility(a)			—
New Tranche A term loan facility			2,500.0
New Tranche B term loan facility			7,500.0
8.375% senior notes due 2017			3,500.0
8.25% senior notes due 2015			1,500.0
Senior floating rate notes due 2015			1,000.0
Additional common equity(b)			7,791.0
Total sources		$	26,291.0

Uses of Funds		Amount
		(Dollars
		in millions)
Equity purchased(c)		$	25,791.0
Estimated fees and expenses(d)			500.0
Total uses		$	26,291.0

(a)		Our availability under our revolving credit facility is approximately $1,400.0 million as of the closing of the transactions after giving effect to outstanding letters of credit. Going forward, we may be required to issue additional letters of credit in connection with financial assurances with respect to our reclamation obligations. See “Risk Factors — Risks Related to Phelps Dodge’s Business — Mine closure regulations may impose substantial costs.”
(b)		Reflects the fair value of Freeport-McMoRan common stock issued to Phelps Dodge shareholders as a result of the acquisition calculated by using the weighted average market price of Freeport-McMoRan common stock from November 16, 2006 to November 21, 2006 multiplied by the estimated shares of Freeport-McMoRan stock issued to Phelps Dodge shareholders.
(c)		Based on the weighted average market price of Freeport-McMoRan common stock from November 16, 2006 to November 21, 2006, the cash consideration paid in the acquisition, and the estimated Phelps Dodge common shares outstanding and issuable at December 31, 2006.
(d)		Reflects our estimate of fees and expenses associated with the transactions, including financing fees, estimated change of control costs and related employee benefits and other transaction costs and professional fees.

Issuer		Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc.
Securities offered		10,000,000 shares of       % mandatory convertible preferred stock (11,500,000 shares if the underwriters exercise their overallotment option in full), which we refer to in this prospectus supplement as the “mandatory convertible preferred stock.”
Initial offering price		$       per share of mandatory convertible preferred stock.
Option to purchase additional shares of mandatory convertible preferred stock		To the extent the underwriters sell more than 10,000,000 shares of our mandatory convertible preferred stock, the underwriters have the option to purchase up to 1,500,000 additional shares of our mandatory convertible preferred stock from us at the initial offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions, within 30 days from the date of this prospectus supplement.
Dividends		% per share on the liquidation preference thereof of $100.00 for each share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock per year. Dividends will accrue and cumulate from the date of issuance and, to the extent that we are legally permitted to pay dividends and our board of directors, or an authorized committee of our board of directors, declares a dividend payable, we will pay dividends in cash or, subject to certain limitations in common stock on each dividend payment date. The expected dividend payable on the first dividend payment date is $        per share and on each subsequent dividend payment date is expected to be $        per share. See “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Dividends.”
Dividend payment dates		February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1 of each year prior to the mandatory conversion date (as defined below), and on the mandatory conversion date, commencing on August 1, 2007.
Redemption		Our mandatory convertible preferred stock is not redeemable.
Mandatory conversion date		May 1, 2010.
Mandatory conversion		On the mandatory conversion date, each share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock will automatically convert into shares of our common stock, based on the conversion rate as described below.
		Holders of mandatory convertible preferred stock on the mandatory conversion date will have the right to receive the dividend due on such date (including any accrued, cumulated and unpaid dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock as of the mandatory conversion date), whether or not declared (other than previously declared dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock payable to holders of record as of a prior date), to the extent we are legally permitted to pay such dividends at such time.
Conversion rate		The conversion rate for each share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock will be not more than        shares of common stock and not less than        shares of common stock, depending

		on the applicable market value of our common stock, as described below.
		The “applicable market value” of our common stock is the average of the daily closing price per share of our common stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the third trading day immediately preceding the mandatory conversion date. It will be calculated as described under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Mandatory Conversion.”
		The conversion rate is subject to certain adjustments, as described under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Anti-dilution Adjustments.”
		The following table illustrates the conversion rate per share of our mandatory convertible preferred stock subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments described under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Anti-dilution Adjustments.”

		Applicable Market Value on		Conversion Rate
		less than or equal to $
		between $       and $
		equal to or greater than $

Optional conversion		At any time prior to May 1, 2010, you may elect to convert each of your shares of our mandatory convertible preferred stock at the minimum conversion rate of        shares of common stock for each share of mandatory convertible preferred stock. This conversion rate is subject to certain adjustments as described under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Anti-dilution Adjustments.”
Conversion upon cash acquisition; cash acquisition make-whole amount		If we are the subject of specified cash acquisitions on or prior to May 1, 2010, under certain circumstances we will (i) permit conversion of our mandatory convertible preferred stock during the period beginning on the effective date of the cash acquisition and ending on the date that is 15 days after the effective date at a specified conversion rate determined by reference to the price per share of our common stock paid in such cash acquisition and (ii) pay converting holders an amount equal to the sum of any accumulated and unpaid dividends on shares of our mandatory convertible preferred stock that are converted plus the present value of all remaining dividend payments on such shares through and including May 1, 2010, as described under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Conversion Upon Cash Acquisition; Cash Acquisition Dividend Make-Whole Amount.” The applicable conversion rate will be determined based on the effective date and the price paid per share of our common stock in such transaction.
Anti-dilution adjustments		The formula for determining the conversion rate and the number of shares of common stock to be delivered upon conversion may be adjusted in the event of, among other things, stock dividends or distributions in shares of common stock or subdivisions, splits and

		combinations of our common shares. See “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Anti-dilution Adjustments.”
Liquidation preference		$100.00 per share of mandatory convertible preferred stock, plus an amount equal to the sum of all accrued, cumulated and unpaid dividends.
Voting rights		Except as required by Delaware law and our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, which will include the certificate of designation for the mandatory convertible preferred stock, the holders of mandatory convertible preferred stock will have no voting rights. If dividends payable on the mandatory convertible preferred stock are in arrears for six or more quarterly periods, the holders of the mandatory convertible preferred stock, voting as a single class with the shares of any other preferred stock or securities having similar voting rights (including our Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock, if any, and our outstanding 51/2% Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock) in proportion to their respective liquidation preferences, will be entitled at the next regular or special meeting of our shareholders to elect two directors and the number of directors that comprise our board will be increased by the number of directors so elected. These voting rights and the terms of the directors so elected will continue until such time as the dividend arrearage on the mandatory convertible preferred stock has been paid in full.
		The affirmative consent of holders of at least 662/3% of the outstanding mandatory convertible preferred stock and all other preferred stock or securities having similar voting rights (including our Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock, if any, and our outstanding 51/2% Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock) voting in proportion to the respective liquidation preferences will be required for the issuance of any class or series of stock ranking senior to the mandatory convertible preferred stock as to dividend rights or rights upon liquidation, winding-up or dissolution and for amendments to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation that would adversely affect the rights of holders of the mandatory convertible preferred stock. See “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Voting Rights.”
Ranking		The mandatory convertible preferred stock will rank with respect to dividend rights and rights upon our liquidation, winding-up or dissolution:
		•     senior to all of our common stock and to all of our other capital stock issued in the future unless the terms of that stock expressly provide that it ranks senior to, or on a parity with, the mandatory convertible preferred stock;
		•     on a parity with our Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock, if any, and our outstanding 51/2% Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock, and with any of our capital stock issued in the future, the terms of which expressly provide that it will rank on a parity with the mandatory convertible preferred stock; and

		•     junior to all of our capital stock issued in the future, the terms of which expressly provide that such stock will rank senior to the mandatory convertible preferred stock.
Use of proceeds		We intend to use the net proceeds from the offering to repay outstanding indebtedness under our Tranche A term loan facility and Tranche B term loan facility. See “Use of Proceeds.”
U.S. federal income tax consequences		The material U.S. federal income tax consequences of purchasing, owning and disposing of the mandatory convertible preferred stock and any common stock received upon its conversion are described in “Certain U.S. Federal Tax Considerations.”
Listing		We intend to apply to list the mandatory convertible preferred stock on the New York Stock Exchange, subject to satisfaction of its minimum listing standards.
Book-entry, delivery and form		Initially, the mandatory convertible preferred stock will be represented by one or more permanent global certificates in definitive, fully registered form deposited with a custodian for, and registered in the name of, a nominee of DTC.
Common stock		Our common stock is listed for trading on the NYSE under the symbol “FCX.”
Risk Factors		Investing in our mandatory convertible preferred stock involves substantial risks. You should carefully consider all the information in this prospectus supplement prior to investing in our mandatory convertible preferred stock. In particular, we urge you to carefully consider the factors set forth under “Risk Factors.”

		Years Ended December 31,
		2004				2005				2006
		(Amounts in millions, except per share amounts)
Statement of income data:
Revenues		$	2,371.9			$	4,179.1			$	5,790.5
Costs and expenses			1,668.3				2,001.8				2,921.8
Operating income			703.6				2,177.3				2,868.7
Interest expense, net			148.1				131.6				75.6
Net income applicable to common stock			156.8				934.6				1,396.0
Basic net income per common share			0.86				5.18				7.32
Diluted net income per common share			0.85				4.67				6.63
Basic average shares outstanding			182.3				180.3				190.7
Diluted average shares outstanding			184.9				220.5				221.5
Balance sheet data at end of period:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	552.0			$	763.6			$	907.5
Working capital(a)			762.4				673.8				1,178.6
Total assets			5,087.0				5,550.2				5,389.8
Total debt(b)			1,951.9				1,255.9				680.1
Stockholders’ equity			1,163.6				1,843.0				2,445.1
Other financial data:
Capital expenditures and investments in subsidiaries			142.9				143.0				257.1	(c)
Depreciation and amortization			206.4				251.5				227.6
Cash flow from operating activities(d)			341.4				1,552.5				1,866.4
Cash flow used in investing activities			64.0				134.3				223.5
Cash flow used in financing activities			189.6				1,206.1				1,499.1

		Years Ended December 31,
		2004				2005				2006
Operating data:
PT Freeport Indonesia operating data, net of Rio Tinto’s interest(e):
Copper (recoverable)
Production (000s of pounds)			996,500				1,455,900				1,201,200
Sales (000s of pounds)			991,600				1,456,500				1,201,400
Average realized price per pound		$	1.37			$	1.85			$	3.13
Net cash production cost per pound(f)		$	0.40			$	0.07			$	0.60
Gold (recoverable ounces)
Production			1,456,200				2,789,400				1,731,800
Sales			1,443,000				2,790,200				1,736,000
Average realized price per ounce		$	412.32			$	456.27			$	566.51	(g)
PT Freeport Indonesia, 100% operating data:
Copper (recoverable) (000s of pounds)
Production			1,098,600				1,688,900				1,299,500
Sales			1,092,700				1,689,400				1,300,000
Gold (recoverable ounces)
Production			1,536,600				3,439,600				1,824,100
Ore milled (metric tons per day)			185,100				216,200				229,400
Average ore grade
Copper (percent)			0.87				1.13				0.85
Gold (grams per metric ton)			0.88				1.65				0.85
Gold (ounce per metric ton)			0.028				0.053				0.027
Recovery rates (percent)
Copper			88.6				89.2				86.1
Gold			81.8				83.1				80.9

(a)		Working capital represents current assets less current liabilities.
(b)		Includes current portion of debt and short term borrowings.
(c)		Includes $4.6 million of Phelps Dodge acquisition costs.
(d)		Cash flow from operating activities represents net income before non-cash charges including depreciation and amortization, losses on early extinguishment and conversion of debt, deferred income taxes, minority interests’ share of net income, equity (earnings) losses in PT Smelting and other non-cash costs. Changes in working capital also impact cash flow from operating activities.
(e)		For a description of Rio Tinto’s interests, see Freeport-McMoRan’s annual report on Form 10-K incorporated by reference herein. See “Where You Can Find More Information.”
(f)		For a reconciliation of unit net cash costs to production and delivery costs applicable to sales reported in Freeport-McMoRan’s consolidated financial statements, see Freeport-McMoRan’s annual report on Form 10-K incorporated by reference herein. See “Where You Can Find More Information.”
(g)		Amount was $606.36 before a loss resulting from redemption of Freeport-McMoRan’s Gold-Denominated Preferred Stock, Series II.

		Years Ended December 31,
		2004(a)			2005(b)			2006(c)
		(Amounts in millions, except per share and per pound amounts)
Statement of income data:
Sales and other operating revenues		$	6,415.2		$	8,287.1		$	11,910.4
Operating costs and expenses			4,940.3			6,522.2			7,683.5
Operating income			1,474.9			1,764.9			4,226.9
Interest expense, net of capitalized interest			122.9			62.3			19.0
Net income applicable to common shares			1,032.8			1,549.6			3,017.8
Basic earning per common share			5.53			7.92			14.91
Diluted earnings per common share			5.29			7.69			14.83
Basic weighted average number of common shares outstanding			186.7			195.7			202.4
Diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding			197.7			202.5			203.5
Balance sheet data at end of period:
Cash and cash equivalents		$	1,200.1		$	1,916.7		$	4,947.4
Working capital(d)			1,493.7			2,461.4			4,338.0
Total assets			8,594.1			10,358.0			14,632.3
Total debt			1,096.9			694.5			891.9
Shareholders’ equity			4,343.1			5,601.6			7,690.4
Other financial data:
Capital expenditures and investments, net			317.3			698.2			1,187.8
Depreciation, depletion and amortization			455.5			441.8			448.7
Net cash provided by operating activities			1,700.1			1,769.7			5,079.2
Net cash used in investing activities			291.0			368.0			844.2
Net cash used in financing activities			947.2			685.8			1,213.2

		Years Ended December 31,
		2004			2005			2006
Operating data:
Copper production (million pounds — consolidated basis)(e)			2,521.2			2,456.0			2,437.4
Copper production (million pounds — pro rata basis)(f)			2,163.4			2,084.6			2,012.6
Copper sales from Phelps Dodge’s mines (million pounds — consolidated basis)(g)			2,537.8			2,476.8			2,429.0
Copper sales from Phelps Dodge’s mines (million pounds — pro rata basis)(h)			2,178.2			2,103.2			2,006.2
COMEX copper price per pound(i)		$	1.29		$	1.68		$	3.09
LME copper price per pound(j)		$	1.30		$	1.67		$	3.05
Molybdenum production (million pounds)			57.5			62.3			68.2
Molybdenum sales from Phelps Dodge’s mines (million pounds)			63.1			59.9			68.8
Purchased molybdenum (million pounds)			12.9			12.9			8.3
Total molybdenum sales (million pounds)			76.0			72.8			77.1
Metals Week molybdenum Dealer Oxide mean price per pound(j)		$	16.41		$	31.73		$	24.75

(a)		Reported amounts for 2004 included after-tax, net special charges of $50.4 million, including $44.7 million for environmental provisions; $30.9 million (net of minority interests) for early debt extinguishment costs; $9.9 million for the write-down of two cost-basis investments; $9.6 million for taxes on anticipated foreign dividends; $9.0 million for a deferred tax asset valuation allowance at Phelps Dodge’s Brazilian wire and cable operation; $7.6 million for Phelps Dodge Magnet Wire restructuring activities; $5.9 million for asset impairment charges (included $4.5 million for discontinued operations); and $0.7 million for interest on a Texas franchise tax matter; partially offset by after-tax net special gains of $30.0 million for the reversal of a U.S. deferred tax asset valuation allowance; $15.7 million (net of minority interest) for the reversal of an El Abra deferred tax asset valuation allowance; $10.1 million for the gain on the sale of uranium royalty rights; $7.4 million for environmental insurance recoveries; and $4.7 million for the settlement of historical legal matters.
(b)		Reported amounts for 2005 included after-tax, net special charges of $54.1 million, including $331.8 million for asset impairment charges; tax expense of $88.1 million for foreign dividend taxes; $86.4 million for environmental provisions; $42.6 million associated with discontinued operations in connection with the sale of Columbian Chemicals Company, which is referred to in this document as Columbian, previously disclosed as PDI’s Specialty Chemicals Segment; $41.3 million for early debt extinguishment costs; $34.5 million (net of minority interest) for tax on unremitted foreign earnings; $23.6 million for a tax charge associated with minimum pension liability reversal; $10.1 million for cumulative effect of accounting change; $5.9 million for transaction and employee-related costs associated with the sale of substantially all of Phelps Dodge’s North American magnet wire assets; partially offset by after-tax, net special gains of $388.0 million for the sale of a cost-basis investment; $181.7 million for change in interest gains at Cerro Verde and Ojos del Salado; $15.6 million for legal matters; $11.9 million for the reversal of Phelps Dodge Brazil’s deferred tax asset valuation allowance; $8.5 million for the sale of non-core real estate; $4.0 million for the reversal of U.S. deferred tax asset valuation allowance; $0.4 million for environmental insurance recoveries; and $0.1 million for Phelps Dodge Magnet Wire restructuring activities. The after-tax, net special charges of $42.6 million associated with discontinued operations consisted of $67.0 million (net of minority interests) for a goodwill impairment charge; taxes of $7.6 million associated with the sale and dividends paid in 2005; and $5.0 million for a loss on disposal of Columbian associated with transactions and employee-related costs, partially offset by a deferred income tax effect of $37.0 million.
(c)		Reported amounts for 2006 included after-tax, net special gains of $344.2 million, including $330.7 million for the Inco termination fee; $127.5 million for the reversal of U.S. deferred tax asset valuation allowance; $2.0 million for legal matters; $0.4 million for sale of non-core real estate; and $0.2 million for the reversal of Minera PD Peru deferred tax asset valuation allowance; partially offset by after-tax, net special charges of $54.5 million for environmental provisions; $30.9 million for charges associated with discontinued operations in connection with the sale of Columbian; $9.6 million for asset impairment charges; $7.6 million (net of minority interest) for tax on unremitted foreign earnings; $5.1 million for transaction and employee-related charges and loss on disposal in connection with the sale of North American magnet wire assets; $4.7 million for transaction and employee-related charges and loss on the disposal in connection with the sale of HPC; $3.0 million for a lease termination settlement; and $1.2 million associated with the dissolution of an international wire and cable entity.
(d)		Working capital represents current assets less current liabilities.
(e)		Consolidated basis excludes 15 percent undivided interest in the Morenci, Arizona copper mining complex held by Sumitomo Metal Mining Arizona, Inc.
(f)		Pro rata basis reflects Phelps Dodge’s ownership interests in El Abra (51%), Candelaria (80%), and Morenci (85%) for all periods, Cerro Verde (82.5% through May 2005 and 53.56% thereafter) and Ojos del Salado (100% through December 2005 and 80% thereafter).
(g)		New York Commodity Exchange average spot price per pound — cathodes.
(h)		London Metal Exchange average spot price per pound — cathodes.
(i)		Annual Metals Week molybdenum Dealer Oxide mean price per pound as quoted in Platts Metals Week.

		Pro Forma
		Year Ended
		December 31, 2006
		(Dollars in millions)
Statement of income data:
Revenues(a)		$	17,700.9
Costs and expenses			11,167.3
Operating income			6,533.6
Interest expense, net(b)			1,179.8
Income from continuing operations applicable to common stock(a)			2,991.2
Balance sheet data at end of year:
Cash and cash equivalents(c)		$	3,383.4
Working capital(d)			5,749.6
Total assets			40,613.8
Total debt(e)			14,690.9
Stockholders’ equity			13,108.7
Other financial data:
Capital expenditures and investments in subsidiaries		$	1,499.3
Depreciation, depletion and amortization			1,268.2

(a)		Amounts include charges for mark-to-market losses on Phelps Dodge’s copper price protection program totaling $1,008.9 million in revenues and $766.8 million in income from continuing operations applicable to common stock for the year ended December 31, 2006.
(b)		The pro forma information presented herein assumes a weighted average annual interest rate of 7.5% on the notes, the Tranche A term loan facility and the Tranche B term loan facility. A 0.125% variance in the interest rate on the Tranche A term loan portion of the new senior credit facilities would cause an increase or decrease of $3.1 million in interest expense. A 0.125% variance in the interest rate on the Tranche B term loan portion of the new senior credit facilities would cause an increase or decrease of $9.4 million in interest expense. A 0.125% variance on the weighted average interest rate on the senior floating rate notes due 2015 would cause an increase or decrease of $1.3 million in interest expense.
(c)		At December 31, 2006, Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge had $5,854.9 million of combined unrestricted cash on hand.
(d)		Working capital represents current assets less current liabilities.
(e)		Based on fair value of Phelps Dodge’s debt and includes current portion of debt and short-term borrowings. Pro forma total debt based on book values as of December 31, 2006 was $14,655.5 million.

 

In addition to the other information included or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement, including the matters addressed in “Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements,” you should carefully consider the risk factors set forth below before making an investment in our mandatory convertible preferred stock offered by this prospectus supplement. In addition, you should read and consider the risk factors associated with each of the businesses of Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge because these risk factors may also affect the operations and financial results reported by the combined company. See “Where You Can Find More Information.”

 

Risks Related to our Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock

 

Our holding company structure may impact your ability to receive dividends or payments on the mandatory convertible preferred stock.

 

We are a holding company with no material assets other than the capital stock of our subsidiaries. As a result, our ability to repay our indebtedness and pay dividends is dependent on the generation of cash flow by our subsidiaries and their ability to make such cash available to us, by dividend, debt repayment or otherwise. Our subsidiaries do not have any obligation to pay amounts due on the mandatory convertible preferred stock or to make funds available for that purpose. In addition, our subsidiaries may not be able to, or be permitted to, make distributions to enable us to make payments in respect of our indebtedness or pay dividends. Each of our subsidiaries is a distinct legal entity and, under certain circumstances, legal and contractual restrictions, as well as the financial condition and operating requirements of our subsidiaries, may limit our ability to obtain cash from our subsidiaries. Our rights to participate in any distribution of our subsidiaries’ assets upon their liquidation, reorganization or insolvency would generally be subject to the prior claims of the subsidiaries’ creditors, including any trade creditors and preferred shareholders.

 

We may not be able to pay cash dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock.

 

Some of our existing indentures and our new senior credit facilities limit, and any indentures and other financing agreements that we enter into in the future will likely limit, our ability to pay cash dividends on our capital stock, including the mandatory convertible preferred stock. Specifically, under certain of our existing indentures, we may pay cash dividends and make other distributions on or in respect of our capital stock, including the mandatory convertible preferred stock, only if certain financial tests are met. In the event that any of our indentures or other financing agreements in the future restrict our ability to pay cash dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock, we will be unable to pay cash dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock unless we can refinance amounts outstanding under those agreements. In addition, to the extent we make dividend payments in shares of our common stock in connection with certain conversions, the amount of such dividend payments in stock could be capped if our stock price is lower than $     . See “Description of the Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Method of Payment of Dividends” and “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Conversion Upon Cash Acquisition; Cash Acquisition Dividend Make-Whole Amount.”

 

Under Delaware law, cash dividends on capital stock may only be paid from “surplus” or, if there is no “surplus,” from the corporation’s net profits for the then current or the preceding fiscal year. Unless we continue to operate profitably, our ability to pay cash dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock would require the availability of adequate “surplus,” which is defined as the excess, if any, of our net assets (total assets less total liabilities) over our capital. Further, even if adequate surplus is available to pay cash dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock, we may not have sufficient cash to pay dividends on the mandatory convertible preferred stock.

 

A holder of our mandatory convertible preferred stock may realize some or all of a decline in the market value of our common shares.

 

The market value of our common shares on the mandatory conversion date may be less than the market price corresponding to the maximum conversion rate, which we call the initial price, in which case

holders of our mandatory convertible preferred stock will receive shares of our common stock on the mandatory conversion date with a market value per share that is less than the initial price. Accordingly, a holder of mandatory convertible preferred stock assumes the entire risk that the market value of our common stock may decline. Any decline in the market price of shares of our common stock and related decline in value of the mandatory convertible preferred stock may be substantial.

 

Purchasers of our mandatory convertible preferred stock may not realize any or all of the benefit of an increase in the market price of shares of our common stock.

 

The market value of our common stock that you will receive upon mandatory conversion of our mandatory convertible preferred stock on the mandatory conversion date will exceed the stated amount of $100.00 per mandatory convertible preferred stock only if the applicable market value of our common stock as defined under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Mandatory Conversion” equals or exceeds the threshold appreciation price of $     . The threshold appreciation price represents an appreciation of approximately     % over the initial price. This means that the opportunity for equity appreciation provided by an investment in our mandatory convertible preferred stock is less than that provided by a direct investment in shares of our common stock.

 

If the applicable market value of our common stock exceeds the initial price but is less than the threshold appreciation price, a holder of our mandatory convertible preferred stock will realize no equity appreciation on our common stock. Furthermore, if the applicable market value of our common stock exceeds the threshold appreciation price, the value of the common stock received upon conversion will be approximately     % of the value of the common stock that could be purchased with $      at the time of this offering.

 

The opportunity for equity appreciation provided by an investment in our mandatory convertible preferred stock is less than that provided by a direct investment in our common stock.

 

The adjusted applicable market value of our common stock on May 1, 2010, must exceed the threshold appreciation price of $      before a holder of our mandatory convertible preferred stock will realize any equity appreciation in connection with a mandatory conversion. Therefore, the opportunity for equity appreciation provided by an investment in our mandatory convertible preferred stock is less than that provided by a direct investment in our common stock.

 

The trading price of our common stock will directly affect the trading price for our mandatory convertible preferred stock.

 

The trading price of our common stock will directly affect the trading price of our mandatory convertible preferred stock. It is impossible to predict whether the price of our common stock will rise or fall. This may result in greater volatility in the market price of the mandatory convertible preferred stock than would be expected for nonconvertible preferred stock. From December 31, 2005 to December 31, 2006, the reported high and low closing sales prices for our common stock ranged from a low of $31.52 per share to a high of $72.20 per share. The market price of our common stock will likely continue to fluctuate in response to a number of factors including the following, many of which are beyond our control:

 

 

 

Market conditions can also affect the capital markets generally, including the New York Stock Exchange, and the price of our common stock. These conditions may result in volatility in the level of, and fluctuations in, the trading prices of stocks generally and sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the market that could be unrelated or disproportionate to changes in operating performance. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the market prices of our mandatory convertible preferred stock and our common stock.

 

Anti-takeover provisions in our charter documents and Delaware law may make an acquisition of us more difficult.

 

Anti-takeover provisions in our charter documents and Delaware law may make an acquisition of us more difficult. These provisions:

 

 

In addition, because we are incorporated in Delaware, we are governed by the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which may prohibit large stockholders from consummating a merger with, or acquisition of, us.

 

These provisions may deter an acquisition of us that might otherwise be attractive to stockholders.

 

You may suffer dilution of the shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of our mandatory convertible preferred stock.

 

The number of shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of our mandatory convertible preferred stock is subject to adjustment only for share splits and combinations, share dividends and specified other transactions. The number of shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion is not subject to adjustment for other events, such as employee stock option grants, offerings of our common stock for cash or in connection with acquisitions, or other transactions which may reduce the price of our common stock. The terms of our mandatory convertible preferred stock do not restrict our ability to offer common stock in the future or to engage in other transactions that could dilute our common stock. We have no obligation to consider the interests of the holders of our mandatory convertible preferred stock in engaging in any such offering or transaction.

 

Purchasers of our mandatory convertible preferred stock may suffer dilution of our mandatory convertible preferred stock upon the issuance of a new series of preferred stock ranking equally with the mandatory convertible preferred stock sold in this offering.

 

The terms of our mandatory convertible preferred stock will not restrict our ability to offer a new series of preferred stock that ranks equally with our mandatory convertible preferred stock in the future or to engage in other transactions that could dilute our mandatory convertible preferred stock. We have no obligation to consider the interests of the holders of our mandatory convertible preferred stock in engaging in any such offering or transaction.

 

Holders of convertible preferred stock will have no rights as a common shareholder until they acquire our common stock.

 

Until you acquire shares of our common stock upon conversion, you will have no rights with respect to our common stock, including voting rights (except as required by applicable state law and as described under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Voting Rights”), rights to respond to tender offers and rights to receive any dividends or other distributions on our common stock. To exercise any voting rights described under “Description of Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock — Voting Rights”, you may only request that we call a special meeting of the holders of our preferred stock and you may not call a meeting directly. Upon conversion, you will be entitled to exercise the rights of a holder of common stock only as to matters for which the record date occurs after the conversion date. For example, in the event that an amendment is proposed to our certificate of incorporation or bylaws requiring stockholder approval, and the record date for determining the stockholders of record entitled to vote on the amendment occurs prior to the conversion date, you will not be entitled to vote on the amendment, although you will nevertheless be subject to any changes in the powers, preferences or special rights of our common stock.

 

Our mandatory convertible preferred stock will rank junior to all of our and our subsidiaries’ liabilities in the event of a bankruptcy, liquidation or winding up of our assets.

 

In the event of bankruptcy, liquidation or winding up, our assets will be available to pay obligations on our mandatory convertible preferred stock only after all of our liabilities have been paid. In addition, our mandatory convertible preferred stock will effectively rank junior to all existing and future liabilities of our subsidiaries and the capital stock (other than common stock) of our subsidiaries held by third parties. The rights of holders of our mandatory convertible preferred stock to participate in the assets of our subsidiaries upon any liquidation or reorganization of any subsidiary will rank junior to the prior claims of that subsidiary’s creditors and preferred and minority equity holders. In the event of bankruptcy, liquidation or winding up, there may not be sufficient assets remaining, after paying our and our subsidiaries’ liabilities, to pay amounts due on any or all of our mandatory convertible preferred stock then outstanding. At December 31, 2006, we had total outstanding debt of $680.1 million.

 

A portion of the net proceeds of this offering will be received by affiliates of certain of our underwriters. This may present a conflict of interest.

 

Under our new senior secured credit facilities, JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. is administrative agent and collateral agent, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated is syndication agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated are joint bookrunners and joint lead arrangers. Affiliates of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated are also lenders under the new senior secured credit facilities. We intend to use the net proceeds from this offering to repay outstanding indebtedness under our new senior secured credit facilities by repaying a portion of the Tranche A term loan facility and Tranche B term loan facility.

 

These affiliations may present a conflict of interest since Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. may have an interest in the successful completion of this offering in addition to the underwriting discounts and commissions they would receive. This offering is therefore being made using a “qualified independent underwriter” in compliance with Rule 2710(h) of the Conduct Rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., which is intended to address potential conflicts of interest involving underwriters. See the information under the heading “Underwriters” for a more detailed description of the independent underwriting procedures that are being used in connection with the offering.

 

You may be subject to tax upon an adjustment to the conversion rate of the mandatory convertible preferred stock even though you do not receive a corresponding cash distribution.

 

The conversion rate of the mandatory convertible preferred stock is subject to adjustment in certain circumstances, including the payment of certain cash dividends. If the conversion rate is adjusted as a result of a distribution that is taxable to our common stockholders, such as a cash dividend, you will be deemed to have

received for U.S. federal income tax purposes a taxable dividend to the extent of our earnings and profits without the receipt of any cash. If you are a non-U.S holder (as defined in “Certain U.S. Federal Tax Considerations”), such deemed dividend may be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax (currently at a 30% rate, or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable treaty), which may be set off against subsequent payments on the mandatory convertible preferred stock. See “Certain U.S. Federal Tax Considerations.”

 

Resales of shares of Freeport-McMoRan common stock following the transactions and future issuances of equity or equity-linked securities by Freeport-McMoRan may cause the market price of shares of Freeport-McMoRan common stock to fall.

 

As of February 28, 2007, Freeport-McMoRan had 197,375,324 shares of common stock outstanding, 23,506,613 shares authorized for issuance upon conversion of preferred stock and convertible notes, and 7,087,689 shares authorized for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding options or the vesting of restricted stock units. In connection with the closing of the acquisition, Freeport-McMoRan issued 137,042,000 shares of common stock and assumed options exercisable for approximately 1.0 million shares. The issuance of those new shares, our mandatory convertible preferred stock offered hereby (including approximately           shares issuable upon conversion of such shares), the concurrent common stock offering, and the sale of additional shares that may become eligible for sale in the public market from time to time upon the exercise of options (including Freeport-McMoRan options that have replaced Phelps Dodge options) could have the effect of depressing the market price for shares of Freeport-McMoRan common stock. Also, because many former Phelps Dodge shareholders are also shareholders of Freeport-McMoRan, some may decide to sell rather than hold the additional shares of Freeport-McMoRan common stock they will receive in the transactions. The sale of those shares could also have the effect of depressing the market price for shares of Freeport-McMoRan common stock.

 

Risks Related to the Combined Company

 

Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition and prevent us from fulfilling our obligations under our outstanding indebtedness.

 

The combined company incurred significant debt to fund a portion of the cash consideration payable to the Phelps Dodge shareholders in the acquisition. As of December 31, 2006, on a pro forma basis giving effect to the transactions, the issuance of the mandatory convertible preferred stock offered hereby, the concurrent common stock offering and the use of proceeds from the issuance of mandatory convertible preferred stock and common stock to reduce outstanding debt, the outstanding principal amount of our indebtedness would have been approximately $14.7 billion (excluding unused availability under our revolving credit facility of approximately $1.4 billion after giving effect to outstanding letters of credit). Our level of indebtedness could have important consequences. For example, it could:

 

 

In addition, we may need to incur additional indebtedness in the future in the ordinary course of business. The terms of our new senior credit facilities and other agreements governing our indebtedness allow us to incur additional debt subject to certain limitations. If new debt is added to current debt levels, the risks described above could intensify. Furthermore, if future debt financing is not available to us when required or is not available on acceptable terms, we may be unable to grow our business, take advantage of business opportunities, respond to competitive pressures or refinance maturing debt, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. Moreover, the combined company’s ability to satisfy financial tests or utilize third-party guarantees for financial assurance with respect to reclamation obligations may be adversely impacted if its credit ratings were downgraded below investment grade.

 

The agreements governing our indebtedness contain various covenants that limit our discretion in the operation of our business and also require us to meet financial maintenance tests and other covenants. The failure to comply with such tests and covenants could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

The agreements governing our indebtedness contain various covenants, including those that restrict our ability to:

 

 

In addition, our new senior credit facilities require that we meet certain financial tests at any time that borrowings are outstanding under our new revolving credit facility, including a leverage ratio test and a secured leverage ratio test. During periods in which copper, gold or molybdenum prices or production volumes, or other conditions reflect the adverse impact of cyclical market trends or other factors, we may not be able to comply with the applicable financial covenants.

 

Any failure to comply with the restrictions of our new senior credit facilities or any agreement governing our other indebtedness may result in an event of default under those agreements. Such default may allow the creditors to accelerate the related debt, which acceleration may trigger cross-acceleration or cross-default provisions in other debt. Our assets and cash flow may not be sufficient to fully repay borrowings under our outstanding debt instruments, either upon maturity or, if accelerated, upon an event of default.

 

If, when required, we are unable to repay, refinance or restructure our indebtedness under, or amend the covenants contained in, our new senior credit agreements, or if a default otherwise occurs, the lenders

under our new senior credit facilities could elect to terminate their commitments thereunder, cease making further loans, declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued interest and other fees, to be immediately due and payable, institute foreclosure proceedings against those assets that secure the borrowings under our new senior credit facilities and prevent us from making payments on the notes. Any such actions could force us into bankruptcy or liquidation, and we cannot provide any assurance that we could repay our obligations under the notes in such an event.

 

We need significant amounts of cash to service our indebtedness. If we are unable to generate a sufficient amount of cash to service our indebtedness, our financial condition and results of operations could be negatively impacted.

 

We need significant amounts of cash in order to service and repay our indebtedness. Our ability to generate cash in the future will be, to a certain extent, subject to general economic, financial, competitive and other factors that may be beyond our control. In addition, our ability to borrow funds in the future to service our debt will depend on covenants in our new senior credit facilities, indentures and other debt agreements we may have in the future. Future borrowings may not be available to us under our new senior credit facilities or from the capital markets in amounts sufficient to enable us to pay our obligations as they mature or to fund other liquidity needs. If we are not able to obtain such borrowings or generate cash flow from operations in an amount sufficient to enable us to service and repay our indebtedness, we will need to refinance our indebtedness or be in default under the agreements governing our indebtedness. Such refinancing may not be available on favorable terms or at all. The inability to service, repay and/or refinance our indebtedness could negatively impact our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Declines in the market prices of copper, gold and molybdenum could adversely affect the combined company’s earnings and cash flows.

 

The earnings and cash flows of the combined company will be affected significantly by the market prices of copper and, to a lesser extent, gold and molybdenum. The world market prices of these commodities have fluctuated historically and will be affected by numerous factors beyond the control of the combined company. Many financial analysts who follow the metals markets are predicting that copper prices will decline significantly from their current, historically high, levels over the next few years. A decline in the world market price of one or more of these commodities could adversely affect the combined company’s earnings and cash flows and therefore could adversely affect its ability to repay its debt and depress its stock price.

 

World copper prices have historically fluctuated widely. During the two years ended December 31, 2006, the daily closing prices on the London spot market ranged from $1.39 to $3.99 per pound for copper. World copper prices are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:

 

 

World gold prices have historically fluctuated widely. During the two years ended December 31, 2006, the daily closing prices on the London spot market ranged from $411 to $726 per ounce for gold. World gold prices are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:

 

 

Molybdenum prices also fluctuate widely, even more so than copper. Molybdenum demand depends heavily on the global steel industry, which uses the metal as a hardening and corrosion inhibiting agent. Approximately 80 percent of molybdenum production is used in this application. The remainder is used in specialty chemical applications such as catalysts, water treatment agents and lubricants. Approximately 65 percent of global molybdenum production is a by-product of copper mining, which is relatively insensitive to molybdenum prices. During the past 15 years, Platts Metals Week molybdenum Dealer Oxide prices per pound have ranged from a high of $40.00 to a low of $1.82. During the two years ended December 31, 2006, Platts Metals Week molybdenum Dealer Oxide price ranged from $20.50 to $40.00 per pound. Molybdenum prices are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including:

 

 

Increased energy and other production costs could reduce the combined company’s profitability and cash flow.

 

Each of Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge has experienced increases in production costs in recent years primarily as a result of higher energy costs and costs of other consumables, higher mining costs and higher labor costs (including pension and health-care costs).

 

Energy represents a significant portion of the production costs for the combined company’s operations. The principal sources of energy for the combined company’s operations are electricity, purchased petroleum products, natural gas and coal. The combined company will pay more for its energy needs during times of progressively higher energy prices. As energy is a significant portion of its production costs, if the combined company is unable to procure sufficient energy at reasonable prices in the future, it could adversely affect its profits and cash flow.

 

In addition to energy, the combined company’s production costs will be affected by the prices of commodities it consumes or uses in its operations, such as sulfuric acid, grinding media, steel, reagents, liners, explosives and diluents. The prices of such commodities are influenced by supply and demand trends affecting the copper industry in general and other factors, many of which are outside the combined company’s control,

and are at times subject to volatile price movements. Increases in the cost of these commodities could make production at certain of the combined company’s operations less profitable, even in an environment of relatively high copper prices. Increases in the costs of commodities that the combined company consumes or uses may also significantly affect the capital costs of new projects.

 

The volume and grade of the ore reserves that the combined company recovers and its rate of production may be more or less than anticipated.

 

The combined company’s ore reserve amounts are determined in accordance with established mining industry practices and standards, but are estimates of the mineral deposits that can be recovered economically and legally based on currently available data. Ore bodies may not conform to standard geological expectations, and estimates may change as new data becomes available. Because ore bodies do not contain uniform grades of minerals, the combined company’s metal recovery rates will vary from time to time. There are also uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of ore reserves and copper recovered from stockpiles. The quantity of copper contained in mill and leach stockpiles is based upon surveyed volumes of mined material and daily production records. The volume and grade of ore reserves recovered, rates of production and recovered copper from stockpiles may be less than anticipated. Additionally, as the determination of ore reserves is based, in part, on historical selling prices, a prospective decrease in such prices may result in a reduction in reported and economically recoverable ore reserves. These factors may result in variations in the volumes of minerals that the combined company can sell from period to period.

 

Some ore reserves may become unprofitable to develop if there are unfavorable long-term market price fluctuations in copper, gold or molybdenum, or if there are significant increases in operating or capital costs. In addition, ore reserves are depleted as mined.

 

Our ability to replenish our ore reserves is important to our long-term viability. The combined company’s exploration programs may not result in the discovery of additional mineral deposits that can be mined profitably.

 

The combined company’s business is subject to operational risks.

 

Mines by their nature are subject to many operational risks and factors that are generally outside of the combined company’s control and could impact its business, operating results and cash flows. These operational risks and factors include, but are not limited to:

 

 

 

The combined company will operate on a broader geographical scope than either Freeport-McMoRan or Phelps Dodge has operated individually, and will be exposed to a broader range of political, social and geographic risks than either company has been exposed to on an individual basis.

 

Freeport-McMoRan’s primary operating assets are located in Indonesia. Accordingly, the business of the combined company may be adversely affected by Indonesian political, economic and social uncertainties, in addition to the usual risks associated with conducting business in a foreign country. Because Phelps Dodge does not have any significant operations in Indonesia, these risks are different from and in addition to those to which the business of Phelps Dodge has historically been exposed. See “Risk Factors — Risks Related to Freeport-McMoRan’s Business” below.

 

Phelps Dodge conducts mining operations in the United States, Chile and Peru and has a significant development project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (which is expected to begin production by early 2009). Accordingly, the business of the combined company may be adversely affected by political, economic and social uncertainties in these countries, in addition to the usual risks associated with conducting business in a foreign country. Because Freeport-McMoRan has no significant operations in any of these countries, these risks are different from and in addition to those to which the business of Freeport-McMoRan has historically been exposed. See “Risk Factors — Risks Related to Phelps Dodge’s Business” below.

 

Movements in foreign currency exchange rates or interest rates could negatively affect the combined company’s operating results.

 

Substantially all of the combined company’s revenues and a significant portion of its costs will be denominated in U.S. dollars; however, some of its costs, and certain of its asset and liability accounts, will be denominated in Indonesian rupiah, Chilean pesos, Peruvian nuevos soles and other foreign currencies. As a result, the combined company will be generally less profitable when the U.S. dollar weakens in relation to these foreign currencies. From time to time, the combined company may implement currency hedges intended to reduce its exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. However, its hedging strategies may not be successful, and any of its unhedged foreign exchange payments will continue to be subject to market fluctuations.

 

Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge may experience difficulties in integrating their businesses, which could cause the combined company to fail to realize many of the anticipated potential benefits of the transactions.

 

Achieving the anticipated benefits of the transactions will depend in part upon whether our two companies integrate our businesses in an efficient and effective manner. We may not be able to accomplish this integration process smoothly or successfully. The difficulties of combining the two companies’ businesses potentially will include, among other things:

 

 

An inability to realize the full extent of the anticipated benefits of the acquisition, as well as any delays encountered in the transition process, could have an adverse effect upon the revenues, level of expenses and operating results of the combined company.

 

The combined company will depend on its senior management team and other key employees, and the loss of any of these employees could adversely affect the combined company’s business.

 

The success of the combined company after the acquisition will depend in part upon the ability of Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge to retain senior management and other key employees of both companies. Competition for qualified personnel can be very intense. In addition, senior management and key employees may depart because of issues relating to the uncertainty or difficulty associated with the integration of the companies or a desire not to remain with the combined company. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that Freeport-McMoRan or Phelps Dodge will be able to retain senior management and key employees to the same extent that they have been able to do so in the past.

 

The impact of purchase accounting could adversely affect the combined company’s earnings.

 

Purchase accounting will require the combined company to allocate the price paid in the transaction to Phelps Dodge’s assets on the basis of their fair values at the time the transaction closed. Those adjustments are expected to result in significant increases in the carrying values of certain acquired assets, including, based on preliminary estimates, increases of $3.4 billion in metal inventories and $11.6 billion in property, plant, equipment and development costs, as reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet contained elsewhere in this document. The increased value of property, plant, equipment and development costs will increase the combined company’s depreciation expense, which will reduce reported earnings but have no effect on cash flows.

 

A decline in the market price of commodities produced by the combined company could result in a write down of metal inventories to recoverable values and the recognition of impairment charges to property, plant, equipment and development costs. In addition, the increased value of metal inventories would cause the combined company’s cost of goods sold to increase in the year those inventories are recognized as sold. If the combined company changes the historical method of accounting for Phelps Dodge’s metal inventories from the current method of last-in, first-out, this increase in the combined company’s cost of goods would occur in the near term. These factors would have the effect of reducing reported earnings, although they would have no effect on cash flows.

 

In addition, the preliminary estimate of goodwill associated with the transaction is approximately $7.8 billion, as reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet contained elsewhere in this document. The combined company will annually assess this amount for impairment. If the combined company concludes that the goodwill associated with the transaction is impaired, the amount of the impairment would reduce the combined company’s reported earnings but would have no effect on cash flows.

 

Risks Related to Freeport-McMoRan’s Business

 

Because Freeport-McMoRan’s primary operating assets are located in the Republic of Indonesia, Freeport-McMoRan’s business may be adversely affected by Indonesian political, economic and social uncertainties, in addition to the usual risks associated with conducting business in a foreign country.

 

Indonesia has faced political, economic and social uncertainties, including separatist movements and civil and religious strife in a number of provinces. In particular, several separatist groups are opposing Indonesian rule over the province of Papua, where Freeport-McMoRan’s mining operations are located, and have sought political independence for the province. In response, Indonesia enacted regional autonomy laws, which became effective January 1, 2001. The manner in which the new laws are being implemented and the degree of political and economic autonomy that they may bring to individual provinces, including Papua, are uncertain and are ongoing issues in Indonesian politics. In Papua, there have been sporadic attacks on civilians by separatists and sporadic but highly publicized conflicts between separatists and the Indonesian military.

Social, economic and political instability in Papua could materially and adversely affect us if this instability results in damage to our property or interruption of our activities.

 

Maintaining a good working relationship with the Indonesian government is important to Freeport-McMoRan because all of Freeport-McMoRan’s mining operations are located in Indonesia and are conducted pursuant to a Contract of Work with the Indonesian government. Accordingly, Freeport-McMoRan is also subject to the risks associated with conducting business in and with a foreign country, including the risk of forced modification of existing contracts; changes in the country’s laws and policies, including those relating to taxation, royalties, divestment, imports, exports and currency and the risk of having to submit to the jurisdiction of a foreign court or arbitration panel or having to enforce the judgment of a foreign court or arbitration panel against a sovereign nation within its own territory. In addition, Freeport-McMoRan is subject to the risk of expropriation. Freeport-McMoRan’s insurance does not cover losses caused by expropriation.

 

In February 2006, a group of illegal gold panners engaged in conflict with Indonesian police and PT Freeport Indonesia security personnel when they were requested to leave an area near Freeport-McMoRan’s milling facilities. Following the incident, the illegal panners blocked the road leading to the Grasberg mine and mill in protest and Freeport-McMoRan temporarily suspended mining and milling operations as a precautionary measure. The panners also vandalized some of Freeport-McMoRan’s light vehicles and offices near this area, causing approximately $2 million in damages. Freeport-McMoRan’s port facilities continued to operate during the disruption and concentrate shipments were not affected. The panners, mostly Papuans from outside Freeport-McMoRan’s area of operations, presented a list of aspirations, primarily relating to their desire to share in the benefits of Freeport-McMoRan’s existing initiatives and programs provided for the Papuans who are the traditional residents of Freeport-McMoRan’s operations area. Mining and milling operations resumed after an approximate four-day outage. During the incident at Freeport-McMoRan’s mine and mill, protestors in Jakarta vandalized the entrance floor of the office building housing Freeport-McMoRan’s Indonesian headquarters and staged a three-day rally outside the building. The Indonesian police handled this matter, which did not disrupt Freeport-McMoRan’s administrative functions or damage any of Freeport-McMoRan’s facilities.

 

Freeport-McMoRan cannot predict if there will be additional incidents similar to the February 2006 protests or other incidents that could disrupt Freeport-McMoRan’s operations. If there were additional protests or other incidents at Freeport-McMoRan’s mine and mill facilities, it could adversely affect Freeport-McMoRan’s business and profitability in ways that Freeport-McMoRan cannot predict at this time.

 

In addition to the usual risks encountered in the mining industry, Freeport-McMoRan faces additional risks because Freeport-McMoRan’s operations are located on difficult terrain in a very remote area.

 

Freeport-McMoRan’s mining operations are located in steeply mountainous terrain in a very remote area in Indonesia. Because of these conditions, Freeport-McMoRan has had to overcome special engineering difficulties and develop extensive infrastructure facilities. In addition, the area receives considerable rainfall, which has led to periodic floods and mudslides. The mine site is also in an active seismic area and has experienced earth tremors from time to time. In addition to these special risks, Freeport-McMoRan is also subject to the usual risks associated with the mining industry, such as the risk of encountering unexpected geological conditions that may result in cave-ins and flooding of mine areas. Freeport-McMoRan’s insurance may not sufficiently cover an unexpected natural or operating disaster.

 

On October 9, 2003, a slippage of material occurred in a section of the Grasberg open pit, resulting in eight fatalities. On December 12, 2003, a debris flow involving a relatively small amount of loose material occurred in the same section of the open pit resulting in only minor property damage. All material involved in the affected mining areas was removed. The events caused Freeport-McMoRan to alter its short-term mine sequencing plans, which adversely affected Freeport-McMoRan’s 2003 and 2004 production. While Freeport-McMoRan resumed normal production activities in the second quarter of 2004, no assurance can be given that similar events will not occur in the future.

 

On March 23, 2006, a mud/topsoil slide involving approximately 75,000 metric tons of material occurred from a mountain ridge above service facilities supporting PT Freeport Indonesia’s mining facilities.

Regrettably, three contract workers were fatally injured in the event. The material damaged a mess hall and an adjacent area. As a result of investigations by PT Freeport Indonesia and the Indonesian Department of Energy and Mineral Resources, Freeport-McMoRan conducted geotechnical studies to identify any potential hazards to facilities from slides. The existing early warning system for potential slides, based upon rainfall and other factors, has also been expanded. PT Freeport Indonesia recorded a charge of $1.9 million ($1.0 million to net income) in the first quarter of 2006 for damages related to this event. The event did not directly involve operations within the Grasberg open-pit mine or PT Freeport Indonesia’s milling operations.

 

The terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, subsequent attacks in Indonesia and the potential for additional future terrorist acts and other recent events have created economic and political uncertainties that could materially and adversely affect Freeport-McMoRan’s business.

 

On August 31, 2002, three people were killed and 11 others were wounded in an ambush by a group of unidentified assailants. The assailants shot at several vehicles transporting international contract teachers from Freeport-McMoRan’s school in Tembagapura, their family members, and other contractors to PT Freeport Indonesia on the road near Tembagapura, the mining town where the majority of PT Freeport Indonesia’s personnel reside. Freeport-McMoRan, along with the U.S. government, the central Indonesian government, the Papuan provincial and local governments, and leaders of the local people residing in the area of Freeport-McMoRan’s operations condemned the attack. Indonesian authorities and the U.S. FBI investigated the incident, which resulted in the U.S. indictment of an alleged operational commander of the Free Papua Movement/National Freedom Force. In January 2006, Indonesian Police, accompanied by FBI agents, arrested the alleged operational commander in the Free Papua Movement/National Freedom Force and 11 other Papuans. In November 2006, verdicts and sentencing were announced for seven of the accused in the August 2002 shooting, including a life sentence for the confessed leader of the attack.

 

On October 12, 2002, a bombing killed 202 people in the Indonesian province of Bali, which is 1,500 miles west of Freeport-McMoRan’s mining and milling operations. Indonesian authorities arrested 35 people in connection with this bombing and 29 of those arrested have been tried and convicted. On August 5, 2003, 12 people were killed and over 100 others were injured by a car bomb detonated outside of the JW Marriott Hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia. On September 9, 2004, 11 people were killed and over 200 others injured by a car bomb detonated in front of the Australian embassy in Jakarta. On October 1, 2005, three suicide bombers killed 19 people and wounded over 100 others in Bali. The same international terrorist organizations are suspected in each of these incidents. In November 2005, Indonesian Police raided a house in East Java that resulted in the death of other accused terrorists linked to the bombings discussed above. Freeport-McMoRan’s mining and milling operations were not interrupted by these incidents but their corporate office in Jakarta had to relocate for several months following the bombing in front of the Australian embassy.

 

We cannot predict whether there will be additional incidents similar to the recent shooting or bombings. If there were to be additional separatist, terrorist or other violence in Indonesia, it could materially and adversely affect Freeport-McMoRan’s business and profitability in ways that we cannot predict at this time.

 

Terrorist attacks and other events have caused uncertainty in the world’s financial and insurance markets and may significantly increase global political, economic and social instability, including in Indonesia. In addition to the Bali, JW Marriott Hotel and Australian embassy bombings, there have been anti-American demonstrations in certain sections of Indonesia reportedly led by radical Islamic activists. Radical activists have also threatened to attack foreign interests and have called for the expulsion of U.S. and British citizens and companies from Indonesia.

 

It is possible that further acts of terrorism may be directed against the U.S. domestically or abroad, and such acts could be directed against properties and personnel of companies such as our. The attacks and the resulting economic and political uncertainties, including the potential for further terrorist acts, have negatively impacted insurance markets. Moreover, while Freeport-McMoRan’s property and business interruption insurance covers damages to insured property directly caused by terrorism, this insurance does not cover

damages and losses caused by war. Terrorism and war developments may materially and adversely affect Freeport-McMoRan’s business and profitability in ways that we cannot predict at this time.

 

Freeport-McMoRan’s Contracts of Work are subject to termination if Freeport-McMoRan does not comply with its contractual obligations, and if a dispute arises, Freeport-McMoRan may have to submit to the jurisdiction of a foreign court or arbitration panel.

 

PT Freeport Indonesia’s Contracts of Work and other Contracts of Work in which Freeport-McMoRan has an interest were entered into under Indonesia’s 1967 Foreign Capital Investment Law, which provides guarantees of remittance rights and protection against nationalization. Freeport-McMoRan’s Contracts of Work can be terminated by the Government of Indonesia if Freeport-McMoRan does not satisfy our contractual obligations, which include the payment of royalties and taxes to the government and the satisfaction of certain mining, environmental, safety and health requirements.

 

At times, certain government officials and others in Indonesia have questioned the validity of contracts entered into by the Government of Indonesia prior to May 1998 (i.e., during the Suharto regime, which lasted over 30 years), including PT Freeport Indonesia’s Contract of Work, which was signed in December 1991. Freeport-McMoRan cannot assure you that the validity of, or their compliance with, the Contracts of Work will not be challenged for political or other reasons. PT Freeport Indonesia’s Contract of Work and Freeport-McMoRan’s other Contracts of Work require that disputes with the Indonesian government be submitted to international arbitration. Notwithstanding that provision, if a dispute arises under the Contracts of Work, Freeport-McMoRan faces the risk of having to submit to the jurisdiction of a foreign court or arbitration panel, and if Freeport-McMoRan prevails in such a dispute, Freeport-McMoRan will face the additional risk of having to enforce the judgment of a foreign court or arbitration panel against Indonesia within its own territory.

 

Indonesian government officials have periodically undertaken reviews regarding Freeport-McMoRan’s compliance with Indonesian environmental laws and regulations and the terms of the Contracts of Work. In 2006, the Government of Indonesia created a joint team for “Periodic Evaluation on Implementation of the PT-FI Contract of Work (COW)” to conduct a periodic evaluation every five years. The team consists of five working groups, whose members are from relevant ministries or agencies, covering production, state revenues, community development, environmental issues and security issues. Freeport-McMoRan has conducted numerous working meetings with these groups. The joint team has indicated that it will issue its report shortly. While Freeport-McMoRan believes that it complies with the Contract of Work in all material respects, Freeport-McMoRan cannot assure you that the report will conclude that it is complying with all of the provisions of PT Freeport Indonesia’s Contract of Work. Separately, the Indonesian House of Representatives created a working committee on PT Freeport Indonesia. Members of this group have also visited Freeport-McMoRan’s operations and held a number of hearings in Jakarta. Freeport-McMoRan will continue to work with these groups to respond to their questions about Freeport-McMoRan’s operations and its compliance with PT Freeport Indonesia’s Contract of Work.

 

Any suspension of required activities under Freeport-McMoRan’s Contracts of Work requires the consent of the Indonesian government.

 

Freeport-McMoRan’s Contracts of Work permit Freeport-McMoRan to suspend certain contractually required activities, including exploration, for a period of one year by making a written request to the Indonesian government. These requests are subject to the approval of the Indonesian government and are renewable annually. If Freeport-McMoRan does not request a suspension or is denied a suspension, then Freeport-McMoRan is required to continue its activities under the Contract of Work or potentially be declared in default. Moreover, if a suspension continues for more than one year for reasons other than force majeure and the Indonesian government has not approved such continuation, then the government would be entitled to declare a default under the Contract of Work.

 

Freeport-McMoRan suspended its field exploration activities outside of Block A in recent years due to safety and security issues and regulatory uncertainty relating to a possible conflict between its mining and

exploration rights in certain forest areas and an Indonesian Forestry law enacted in 1999 prohibiting open-pit mining in forest preservation areas. In 2001, Freeport-McMoRan requested and received from the Government of Indonesia, formal temporary suspensions of its obligations under the Contracts of Work in all areas outside of Block A. Recent Indonesian legislation permits open-pit mining in PT Freeport Indonesia’s Block B area, subject to certain requirements. Following an assessment of these requirements and a review of security issues, in 2007 Freeport-McMoRan plans to resume exploration activities in certain prospective Contract of Work areas outside of Block A.

 

Freeport-McMoRan’s mining operations create difficult and costly environmental challenges, and future changes in environmental laws, or unanticipated environmental impacts from Freeport-McMoRan’s operations, could require it to incur increased costs.

 

Mining operations on the scale of Freeport-McMoRan’s operations in Papua involve significant environmental risks and challenges. Freeport-McMoRan’s primary challenge is to dispose of the large amount of crushed and ground rock material, called tailings, that results from the process by which Freeport-McMoRan physically separates the copper-, gold- and silver-bearing materials from the ore that it mines. Freeport-McMoRan’s tailings management plan uses the river system near its mine to transport the tailings to the lowlands where the tailings and natural sediments are deposited in a controlled area contained within a levee system that will be regenerated. We incurred aggregate costs relating to tailings management of $12.8 million in 2006, $8.7 million in 2005 and $11.8 million in 2004.

 

Another major environmental challenge is managing overburden, which is the rock that must be moved aside in the mining process in order to reach the ore. In the presence of air, water and naturally occurring bacteria, some overburden can cause acid rock drainage, or acidic water containing dissolved metals which, if not properly managed, can have a negative impact on the environment.

 

Certain Indonesian governmental officials have from time to time raised issues with respect to Freeport-McMoRan’s tailings and overburden management plans, including a suggestion that Freeport-McMoRan implement a pipeline system rather than its river deposition system for tailings disposal. Because Freeport-McMoRan’s mining operations are remotely located in steep mountainous terrain and in an active seismic area, a pipeline system would be costly, difficult to construct and maintain, more prone to catastrophic failure and involve significant potentially adverse environmental issues. An external panel of qualified experts, as directed in Freeport-McMoRan’s 300K ANDAL (the Environmental Impact Assessment document submitted to the Indonesian government and approved in 1997), conducted detailed reviews and analyses of a number of technical studies. They concluded that all significant impacts identified were in line with the 300K ANDAL predictions, and that the current system of riverine tailings management was appropriate considering all site-specific factors. For these reasons, Freeport-McMoRan does not believe that a pipeline system is necessary or practical.

 

In March 2006, the Indonesian Ministry of Environment announced the preliminary results of its PROPER environmental management audit, acknowledging the effectiveness of PT Freeport Indonesia’s environmental management practices in some areas while making several suggestions for improvement in others. Freeport-McMoRan is working with the Ministry of Environment to address the issues raised as it completes the audit process.

 

Freeport-McMoRan anticipates that it will continue to spend significant financial and managerial resources on environmental compliance. In addition, changes in Indonesian environmental laws or unanticipated environmental impacts from Freeport-McMoRan’s operations could require Freeport-McMoRan to incur significant unanticipated costs.

 

Freeport-McMoRan does not expect to mine all of its ore reserves before the initial term of its Contract of Work expires.

 

All of Freeport-McMoRan’s current proven and probable ore reserves, including the Grasberg deposit, are located in Block A. The initial term of Freeport-McMoRan’s Contract of Work covering these ore reserves expires at the end of 2021. Freeport-McMoRan can extend this term for two successive 10-year periods,

subject to the approval of the Indonesian government, which under Freeport-McMoRan’s Contract of Work cannot be withheld or delayed unreasonably. Freeport-McMoRan’s ore reserves reflect estimates of minerals that can be recovered through the end of 2041 (i.e., through the expiration of the two 10-year extensions) and its current mine plan has been developed, and its operations are based on the assumption that Freeport-McMoRan will receive the two 10-year extensions. As a result, Freeport-McMoRan will not mine all of its ore reserves during the current term of its Contract of Work, and there can be no assurance that the Indonesian government will approve the extensions. Prior to the end of 2021, Freeport-McMoRan expects to mine approximately 39 percent of aggregate proven and probable recoverable ore at December 31, 2006, representing approximately 45 percent of PT Freeport Indonesia’s share of recoverable copper reserves and approximately 59 percent of its share of recoverable gold reserves.

 

Risks Related to Phelps Dodge’s Business

 

Phelps Dodge’s copper price protection programs may cause significant volatility in its financial performance.

 

Phelps Dodge’s copper price protection programs have and may continue to cause significant volatility in its financial performance. At December 31, 2006, Phelps Dodge had in place zero-premium copper collars (consisting of both put and call options) for approximately 486 million pounds of its expected 2007 copper sales. For 2007, the annual average London Metals Exchange (LME) call strike price (ceiling) for its zero-premium copper collars is $2.002 per pound. At December 31, 2006, Phelps Dodge also had in place copper put options for approximately 730 million pounds of its expected 2007 copper sales, with an annual average LME put strike price (floor) of $0.95 per pound for 2007. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, transactions under these copper price protection programs do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and are adjusted to fair market value based on the forward-curve price and implied volatility as of the last day of the reporting period, with the gain or loss recorded in revenues. These adjustments represent non-cash events as the contracts are settled in cash only after the end of the relevant year based on the annual average LME copper price. For the year ended December 31, 2006, the pre-tax charges arising from Phelps Dodge’s 2006 and 2007 copper price protection programs reduced operating income by approximately $1,009 million.

 

Phelps Dodge’s business is subject to complex and evolving laws and regulations and environmental and regulatory compliance may impose substantial costs.

 

Phelps Dodge’s global operations are subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations relating to improving or maintaining environmental quality. Environmental laws often require parties to pay for remedial action or to pay damages regardless of fault and may also often impose liability with respect to divested or terminated operations, even if the operations were terminated or divested many years ago. The federal Clean Air Act has had a significant impact, particularly on Phelps Dodge’s smelter and power plants. Phelps Dodge also has potential liability for certain sites it currently operates or formerly operated and for certain third-party sites under the federal Superfund law and similar state laws. Phelps Dodge is also subject to claims for natural resource damages where the release of hazardous substances is alleged to have injured natural resources.

 

Phelps Dodge’s mining operations and exploration activities, both inside and outside the United States, are subject to extensive laws and regulations governing prospecting, development, production, exports, taxes, labor standards, occupational health, waste disposal, protection and remediation of the environment, protection of endangered and protected species, mine safety, toxic substances and other matters. Mining also is subject to risks and liabilities associated with pollution of the environment and disposal of waste products occurring as a result of mineral exploration and production. Compliance with these laws and regulations imposes substantial costs and subjects Phelps Dodge to significant potential liabilities.

 

The laws and regulations that apply to Phelps Dodge are complex and are continuously evolving in the jurisdictions in which Phelps Dodge conducts business. Costs associated with environmental and regulatory compliance have increased over time, and Phelps Dodge expects these costs to continue to increase in the

future. In addition, the laws and regulations that apply to Phelps Dodge may change in ways that could otherwise have an adverse effect on its operations or financial results. The costs of environmental obligations may exceed the reserves that Phelps Dodge has established for such liabilities.

 

Mine closure regulations may impose substantial costs.

 

Phelps Dodge’s operations in the United States are subject to various federal and state mine closure and mined-land reclamation laws. The requirements of these laws vary depending upon the jurisdiction. Over the last several years, there have been substantial changes in these laws and regulations in the states in which Phelps Dodge’s mines are located, as well as changes in the regulations promulgated by the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for mining operations located on unpatented mining claims located on federal public lands. The amended BLM regulations governing mined-land reclamation for mining on federal lands will likely increase Phelps Dodge’s regulatory obligations and compliance costs over time with respect to mine closure reclamation. As estimated costs increase, Phelps Dodge’s mines are required to post increasing amounts of financial assurance to ensure the availability of funds to perform future closure and reclamation.

 

The amount of financial assurance that has been provided for our Chino, Tyrone and Cobre mines, pursuant to an agreement Phelps Dodge reached with two New Mexico state agencies, totaled approximately $495 million at December 31, 2006. Up to 70 percent of such financial assurance is in the form of third-party guarantees issued by Phelps Dodge on behalf of its operating subsidiaries and the balance, or approximately 30 percent, is provided in the form of trust funds, real property collateral and letters of credit. The actual amount required for financial assurance is subject to the completion of additional permitting procedures, final agency determinations and the results of administrative appeals, all of which could result in some changes to the closure and reclamation plans and further increases in the cost estimates and its related financial assurance obligations. In addition, Phelps Dodge’s Arizona mining operations have obtained approval of reclamation plans for its mined land and approval of financial assurance totaling approximately $174 million, but applications for approval of closure plans for groundwater quality protection are pending for some portions of its mines. Phelps Dodge also has approved mined-land reclamation plans and financial assurance in place for its two Colorado mines totaling approximately $81 million.

 

Most of the financial assurance provided for Phelps Dodge’s southwestern U.S. mines requires a demonstration that it meets financial tests showing Phelps Dodge’s capability to perform the required closure and reclamation. Demonstrations of financial capability have been made for all of the financial assurance for Phelps Dodge’s Arizona mines. The financial tests required for continued use of the financial capability demonstrations and third-party guarantees include maintaining an investment-grade rating on its senior debt securities. If, in the future, Phelps Dodge’s or the combined company’s credit rating for senior unsecured debt falls below investment grade, a portion of Phelps Dodge’s financial assurance requirements might be required to be supplied in another form, such as letters of credit, real property collateral or cash.

 

Phelps Dodge has reduced its use of surety bonds in support of financial assurance obligations in recent years due to significantly increasing costs and because many surety companies require a significant level of collateral supporting the bonds. If remaining surety bonds are unavailable at commercially reasonable terms, the combined company could be required to post other collateral or cash or cash equivalents directly in support of financial assurance obligations.

 

In addition, Phelps Dodge’s international mines are subject to various mine closure and mined-land reclamation laws. There have recently been significant changes in closure and reclamation programs in Peru and Chile.

 

Phelps Dodge’s operations outside the United States are subject to the risks of doing business in foreign countries.

 

In 2006, Phelps Dodge’s international operations provided approximately 39 percent of its consolidated sales (including sales through PDMC’s U.S. based sales company) and Phelps Dodge’s international operations (including international exploration) contributed approximately 54 percent of its consolidated operating income. Due to the current development of the Tenke Fungurume project in the

Democratic Republic of Congo and expansion projects at Cerro Verde and El Abra, Phelps Dodge expects international operations to increase as a percentage of sales and operating income in future years. Phelps Dodge fully consolidates the results of certain of its domestic and international mining operations in which it owns less than a 100 percent interest (and reports the minority interest). During 2006, Phelps Dodge’s minority partners in its South American mines were entitled to approximately 212,400 tons, or 38 percent, of Phelps Dodge’s international copper production.

 

Phelps Dodge’s international activities are conducted in Canada, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa, and are subject to certain political and economic risks, including but not limited to:

 

 

This prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus, including the documents incorporated by reference herein and therein, contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Such forward-looking information about Freeport-McMoRan, Phelps Dodge and the combined company after completion of the transactions is intended to be covered by the safe harbor to “forward-looking statements” provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be made directly in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus or may be incorporated in this prospectus supplement or the accompanying prospectus by reference to other documents and may include statements for the period following the completion of this transaction. Representatives of Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge may also make forward-looking statements. When used in this document, the words “anticipates,” “may,” “can,” “plans,” “feels,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “projects,” “intends,” “likely,” “will,” “should,” “to be” and any similar expressions and any other statements that are not historical facts, in each case as they relate to Freeport-McMoRan or Phelps Dodge, the management of either such company or the transactions are intended to identify those assertions as forward-looking statements. In making any of those statements, the person making them believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. However, any such statement may be influenced by factors that could cause actual outcomes and results to be materially different from those projected or anticipated. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including the risks described in this prospectus supplement under “Risk Factors,” that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements.

 

Some other risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to:

 

 

The actual results or performance by Freeport-McMoRan, and issues relating to the transactions, could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, any forward-looking statements relating to those matters. Accordingly, no assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what impact they will have on the results of operations or financial condition of the combined company or the transactions. Except as required by law, we are under no obligation, and expressly disclaim any obligation, to update, alter or otherwise revise any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

We estimate the net proceeds from the issuance and sale of the     % mandatory convertible preferred stock, after deducting underwriting discounts and estimated offering expenses, will be approximately $           ($           if the underwriters exercise their overallotment option in full) at an assumed public offering price of $        per share of mandatory convertible preferred stock. We intend to use the net proceeds to repay outstanding indebtedness under (i) our Tranche A term loan facility due March 2012 with an interest rate currently of LIBOR plus 1.50% and (ii) our Tranche B term loan facility due March 2014 with an interest rate of LIBOR plus 1.75%. The Tranche A term loan facility and the Tranche B term loan facility were used to fund a portion of the acquisition and related transaction costs. See “Prospectus Supplement Summary — Sources and Uses.” Under our new senior secured credit facilities, JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. is administrative agent and collateral agent, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated is syndication agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated are joint bookrunners and joint lead arrangers. Affiliates of J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated are also lenders under the new senior secured credit facilities.

 

The following table shows Freeport-McMoRan’s cash and cash equivalents and capitalization as of December 31, 2006, on an as reported basis, and cash and cash equivalents and capitalization on a pro forma basis to reflect the transactions, the issuance of the mandatory convertible preferred stock offered hereby, our concurrent public offering of 35,000,000 shares of common stock (assuming no exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option) and the use of net proceeds from the mandatory convertible preferred stock and common stock offerings to reduce outstanding indebtedness under the Tranche A term loan facility and the Tranche B term loan facility on a pro rata basis, although Freeport-McMoRan may elect to apply the net proceeds differently. This table is unaudited and should be read in conjunction with “Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Statements,” “Selected Consolidated Historical Financial and Operating Data of Freeport-McMoRan,” “Selected Consolidated Historical Financial and Operating Data of Phelps Dodge,” and the financial statements and related notes of Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge, which are included elsewhere or incorporated by reference in this prospectus supplement.

 

 

Our common stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “FCX.” The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low closing prices per share of the common stock on the New York Stock Exchange.

 

 

On March 16, 2007, the last reported sale price of our common stock on the New York Stock Exchange was $60.71 per share. As of February 12, 2007, there were approximately 8,100 holders of record of our common stock.

 

In February 2003, the Board of Directors initiated a cash dividend for FCX’s common stock of $0.09 per share quarterly beginning May 1, 2003. In October 2003, the Board authorized an increase in the cash dividend to an annual rate of $0.80 per share and increased the dividend again in October 2004 to an annual rate of $1.00 per share. In December 2004, the Board authorized a supplemental common stock dividend of $0.25 per share, and during 2005 the Board authorized three supplemental dividends of $0.50 per share paid on March 31, 2005, September 30, 2005 and December 30, 2005. In November 2005, the Board authorized an increase in our annual common stock dividend to $1.25 per share (from $1.00 per share) payable quarterly ($0.3125 per share) beginning with the February 1, 2006 dividend payment. In 2006, the Board authorized four supplemental dividends totaling $3.50 per share. Freeport-McMoRan expects to continue its regular annual common stock dividend of $1.25 per share and to discontinue its practice of paying supplemental dividends for the foreseeable future.

 

Below is a summary of the common stock cash dividends declared and paid during 2006 and 2005:

 

 

Freeport-McMoRan paid the first quarterly payment of its annual dividend of $0.3125 per share on February 1, 2007. The declaration and payment of dividends is at the discretion of our Board and will depend on our financial results, cash requirements, future prospects and other factors deemed relevant by the Board. The amount of our current quarterly cash dividend ($0.3125 per share) on our common stock and the possible payment of additional future supplemental cash dividends will depend upon many factors, including, but not limited to, our cash flows and financial position, future prospects, copper and gold prices, general economic and market conditions, and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors. In addition, since we are a holding company, our ability to pay cash dividends depends in large measure on our subsidiaries’ ability to make distributions of cash or property to us. Payment of dividends on our common stock and purchases of common stock are also subject to limitations under our 101/8% senior notes due 2010, 67/8% senior notes due 2014, 8.25% senior notes due 2015, 8.375% senior notes due 2017, senior floating rate notes due 2015, and, in certain circumstances, our new senior credit facilities. Further, we are restricted by certain of our borrowing arrangements from paying cash dividends in certain circumstances without the prior written consent of the lenders.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements presented herein, which have been prepared by the management of Freeport-McMoRan, are derived from the historical consolidated financial statements of Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements are prepared using the purchase method of accounting, with the transactions, the issuance of our mandatory convertible preferred stock offered hereby, the concurrent common stock offering and the use of proceeds from the issuance of common stock and mandatory convertible preferred stock to reduce outstanding debt assumed to have occurred on January 1, 2006, for statement of income purposes and on December 31, 2006, for balance sheet purposes using accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, referred to as U.S. GAAP. The pro forma adjustments to reflect fair value of Phelps Dodge’s net reported assets and other purchase accounting adjustments are based on available data as of December 31, 2006. At the effective time of the acquisition, the pre-combination shareholders of Freeport-McMoRan owned approximately 59 percent (62 percent on a fully diluted basis) of the combined company and the pre-combination shareholders of Phelps Dodge owned approximately 41 percent (38 percent on a fully diluted basis). In addition to considering these relative shareholdings, Freeport-McMoRan also considered the proposed composition and terms of the board of directors, the proposed structure and members of the executive management team of Freeport-McMoRan and the premium paid by Freeport-McMoRan to acquire Phelps Dodge, in determining the accounting acquirer. Based on the weight of these factors, Freeport-McMoRan management concluded that Freeport-McMoRan was the accounting acquirer.

 

The pro forma amounts have been developed from (i) the audited consolidated financial statements of Freeport-McMoRan contained in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 and (ii) the audited consolidated financial statements of Phelps Dodge contained in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, each of which were prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and are incorporated by reference herein.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not purport to represent what the actual consolidated results of operations or the consolidated financial position of Freeport-McMoRan would have been had the combination occurred on the dates assumed, nor are they necessarily indicative of future consolidated results of operations or consolidated financial position. In this regard, the reader should note that the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements do not give effect to (i) any integration costs that may be incurred as a result of the acquisition, (ii) synergies, operating efficiencies and cost savings that are expected to result from the acquisition, (iii) benefits expected to be derived from the combined company’s growth projects or brownfield expansions or (iv) changes in commodities prices subsequent to the dates of such unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

 

Freeport-McMoRan has not yet developed formal plans for combining the two companies’ operations. Accordingly, additional liabilities may be incurred in connection with the business combination and any ultimate restructuring. These additional liabilities and costs have not been contemplated in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements because information necessary to reasonably estimate such costs and to formulate detailed restructuring plans is not available to Freeport-McMoRan. The allocation of the purchase price to acquired assets and liabilities in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements are based on management’s preliminary internal valuation estimates. Such allocations will be finalized based on valuation and other studies to be performed by management with the services of outside valuation specialists after the closing of the business combination. Accordingly, the purchase price allocation adjustments and related impacts on the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements are preliminary and are subject to revision, which may be material, after the closing of the business combination.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the separate historical consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes of Freeport-McMoRan and Phelps Dodge incorporated by reference into this prospectus supplement. See “Where you can find more information.”

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2006

 

 

See accompanying notes to these pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2006