Commission file number 1-4304

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (214) 689-4300

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

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

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes  ☑      No  o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes  o      No  ☑

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  ☑      No  o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes  o      No  ☑

The aggregate market value of the common stock on February 28, 2015 , held by non-affiliates of the registrant, based on the closing price per share on February 27, 2015, on the New York Stock Exchange was approximately $1,731,054,070 . (For purposes of determination of this amount, only directors, executive officers and 10% or greater stockholders have been deemed affiliates.)

The number of shares outstanding of common stock as of October 28, 2015 was 116,361,758 .

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

Portions of the following document are incorporated by reference into the listed Part of Form 10-K:

Registrant's definitive proxy statement for the 2016 annual meeting of stockholders - Part III

COMMERCIAL METALS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains 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"). Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors. For a discussion of important factors that could cause our results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements, please refer to Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors" and Part II, Item 7 "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" below.

GENERAL

Commercial Metals Company ("CMC") together with its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company," "we," "our" or "us") manufacture, recycle and market steel and metal products, related materials and services through a network including steel mills, commonly referred to as "minimills," steel fabrication and processing facilities, construction-related product warehouses, metal recycling facilities and marketing and distribution offices in the United States and in strategic international markets.

We were incorporated in 1946 in the State of Delaware. Our predecessor company, a metals recycling business, has existed since approximately 1915. We maintain our corporate office at 6565 North MacArthur Boulevard in Irving, Texas, 75039, telephone number (214) 689-4300. Our fiscal year ends August 31, and any reference in this Form 10-K to any year refers to the fiscal year ended August 31 of that year unless otherwise noted.

Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to these reports will be made available free of charge through the Investor Relations section of our website, http://www.cmc.com, as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The information contained on our website or available by hyperlink from our website is not incorporated into this Annual Report on Form 10-K or other documents we file with, or furnish to, the SEC.

We have five business segments operating across two geographic divisions. Our CMC Americas Division includes three segments: Americas Recycling, Americas Mills and Americas Fabrication. Our CMC International Division includes two segments: International Mill and International Marketing and Distribution. Financial information for the last three fiscal years concerning our five business segments and the geographic areas of our operations is incorporated herein by reference from Note 21, Business Segments to the consolidated financial statements, which are contained in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

CMC AMERICAS DIVISION OPERATIONS

AMERICAS RECYCLING

Our Americas Recycling segment processes scrap metals for use as a raw material by manufacturers of new metal products. This segment operates 27 scrap metal processing facilities with 14 locations in Texas, five locations in Florida, two locations in Missouri and one location each in Georgia , Kansas , Louisiana , North Carolina , Oklahoma and Tennessee .

We purchase ferrous and nonferrous metals, processed and unprocessed, from a variety of sources in a variety of forms for our metal processing facilities. Sources of metal for processing include manufacturing and industrial plants, metal fabrication plants, electric utilities, machine shops, factories, railroads, refineries, shipyards, ordinance depots, demolition businesses, automobile salvage firms and wrecking firms. Collectively, small scrap metal collection firms are a major supplier.

Our scrap metal processing facilities typically consist of an office and a warehouse building located on several acres of land that we use for receiving, sorting, processing and storing metals. Our warehouse buildings are equipped with specialized equipment for processing both ferrous and nonferrous metal. Several of our scrap metal processing facilities use a small portion of their site or a nearby location to display and sell metal products that may be reused for their original purpose without further processing. We equip our larger metal processing facilities with various equipment, such as scales, shears, baling presses, briquetting machines, conveyors and magnetic separators, which enable these facilities to efficiently process large volumes of scrap metals.

One of our metal processing facilities has extensive equipment that segregates metallic content from large quantities of insulated wire. To facilitate processing, shipping and receiving, we equip our ferrous metal processing facilities with presses, shredders or hydraulic shears to prepare and compress scrap metal for easier handling. We use cranes to handle scrap metals for processing and to load material for shipment. We primarily transport processed ferrous metal to consumers by open gondola railcar; therefore many of our metal processing facilities have rail access. When water access is available, we also transport processed ferrous metal via barge.

Americas Recycling operates four large shredding machines, two in Texas , one in Florida , and one in Oklahoma , capable of pulverizing obsolete automobiles or other sources of scrap metal. We have three additional shredders, two operated by our Americas Mills segment and one operated by our International Mill segment. With the exception of precious metals, our scrap metal processing facilities recycle and process practically all types of metal.

We sell scrap metals to steel mills and foundries, aluminum sheet and ingot manufacturers, brass and bronze ingot makers, copper refineries and mills, secondary lead smelters, specialty steel mills, high temperature alloy manufacturers and other consumers. Ferrous metal is the primary raw material for electric arc furnaces, such as those operated by our Americas Mills segment and other minimills. Some minimills periodically supplement purchases of ferrous metal with direct reduced iron and pig iron for certain product lines. Our Irving, Texas office coordinates the sale of substantially all scrap metals from our metal processing facilities to our customers. We negotiate export sales through our global network of offices as well as through our Irving, Texas office.

We are not materially dependent on any single source for the scrap metal we purchase. One customer represented 12% of our Americas Recycling segment's net sales in fiscal 2015, compared to 16% and 14% in fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively. Our recycling business competes with other scrap metal processors and primary nonferrous metal producers, both in the U.S. and internationally, for sales of nonferrous materials. Consumers of nonferrous metals frequently can utilize primary or "virgin" ingot processed by mining companies instead of nonferrous metals. The prices of nonferrous metals are closely related to, but generally are less than, the prices of primary or "virgin" ingot.

This segment's level of exports during a period is dependent on the level of demand and supply in the various markets we serve. Additionally, for certain commodities the primary markets are outside of the United States. We exported 6% of our ferrous scrap tonnage and 22% of our nonferrous scrap tonnage during fiscal 2015. This compares to ferrous scrap tonnage exports of 4% and nonferrous scrap tonnage exports of 24% during fiscal 2014. The increase in the percentage of ferrous scrap tonnage exported was due to a change in customer mix of certain products in addition to higher production from our expanded downstream sorting operations. The decrease in the percentage of nonferrous scrap tonnage exported was due to declining export demand, primarily in China.

AMERICAS MILLS

Our Americas Mills segment includes our five steel mills, commonly referred to as "minimills," two scrap metal shredders and ten scrap metal processing facilities that directly support the steel minimills; and a railroad salvage operation.

Our five steel minimills, located in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, South Carolina and Texas, produce one or more of steel reinforcing bar ("rebar"), angles, flats, rounds, small beams, fence post sections and other shapes. We utilize a fleet of trucks that we own or lease as well as private haulers to transport finished products from the minimills to our customers and to our steel fabrication facilities. To minimize the cost of our products, to the extent feasibly consistent with market conditions and working capital demands, we prefer to operate all of our minimills at or near full capacity. Market conditions such as increases in quantities of competing imported steel, production rates at U.S. competitors, customer inventory levels or a decrease in non-residential construction activity may reduce demand for our products and limit our ability to operate the minimills at full capacity. Through our operations and capital improvements, we strive to increase productivity and capacity at the minimills and to enhance our product mix. Because the steel mill business is capital intensive, we make substantial capital expenditures on a regular basis to remain competitive with other low cost producers. Over the past three fiscal years, we have spent approximately $136.2 million, or 45%, of our total capital expenditures on projects within our Americas Mills segment.

The following table compares the amount of steel melted, rolled and shipped by our five steel minimills in the past three fiscal years:

Descriptions of minimill capacity, particularly rolling capacity, are highly dependent on the specific product mix manufactured. Our minimills roll many different types and sizes of products in their range depending on market conditions including pricing and demand. Our estimated annual capacity for finished goods of approximately 2.9 million short tons assumes a typical product mix and will vary with the products we actually produce.

Our Alabama, South Carolina and Texas minimills each consist of:

Our Alabama minimill primarily manufactures products that are larger in size relative to products manufactured by our other steel minimills. These larger size products include mid-size structural steel products such as equal and unequal leg angles, channels and flats. This minimill does not produce rebar. Our Alabama minimill sells primarily to service centers; however, it also sells to customers in the construction, manufacturing and fabricating industries. The Alabama minimill primarily ships its products to customers located in the Southeast, Midwest and Northeastern regions of the United States. The minimill also services customers in California, Nevada and Texas.

Our minimill in Arizona utilizes a "continuous continuous" design where metal flows uninterrupted from melting to casting to rolling. It is more compact than existing, larger capacity steel minimills, and production is dedicated to a limited product range. This minimill primarily produces rebar; however, it also manufactures fence post sections. Our Arizona minimill sells primarily to customers in the construction and fabricating industries. It also sells to service centers. The Arizona minimill ships its products to customers located in the Southwest region of the United States, primarily Arizona and California as well as Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico. In addition to the minimill, we operate a rebar fabrication facility located on the same site.

Our South Carolina minimill manufactures a full line of bar size products, primarily rebar. This minimill also manufactures angles, channels, flats, rounds, squares, and fence post sections. Our South Carolina minimill sells primarily to customers in the rebar fabrication industry; however, it also sells to service centers, manufacturers of original equipment, and the agricultural industry. The South Carolina minimill ships its products to customers primarily located in the Southeast and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, which include the states from Florida through southern New England. In addition to the minimill, we operate a recycling yard, a steel fence post plant, and an alloy briquetting facility located on or near the same site.

Our Texas minimill manufactures a full line of bar size products, including rebar, angles, rounds, channels, flats, and special sections used primarily in building highways, reinforcing concrete structures and manufacturing. This minimill sells primarily to the construction, energy and petrochemical industries; however, it also sells to service centers and manufacturers of original equipment. The Texas minimill primarily ships its products to customers located in Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. It also ships products to approximately 20 other states and Central America. In addition to the minimill, we operate a rebar fabrication facility, a shredder and downstream sorting equipment located on the same site.

The primary raw material that our Alabama, Arizona, South Carolina and Texas minimills use is ferrous scrap metal. This segment operates ten metal processing facilities with four located in South Carolina , four located in Texas , and two located in Alabama , which directly support the minimills. This segment also includes two shredders. We believe the supply of ferrous metal is adequate to meet our future needs, but it has historically been subject to significant price fluctuations which have occurred more rapidly over the last several years. All four of these minimills consume large amounts of electricity and natural gas. We have not had any significant curtailments, and we believe that energy supplies are adequate. The supply and demand of regional and national energy and the extent of applicable regulatory oversight of rates charged by providers affect the prices we pay for electricity and natural gas.

Our smaller Arkansas minimill does not have a melt shop or continuous casting equipment. The Arkansas minimill manufacturing process begins with a reheating furnace capable of utilizing billets acquired either from our other minimills or from unrelated suppliers or used rail, primarily salvaged from railroad abandonments. The remainder of the manufacturing process utilizes a rolling mill, cooling bed, finishing equipment and support facilities similar to, but on a smaller scale than, those at our other minimills. The Arkansas minimill primarily manufactures fence post stock, small diameter rebar and bed frame angles with some flats, angles and squares. Our Arkansas minimill primarily sells to customers in the construction and manufacturing industries. Since our Arkansas minimill does not have melting facilities, the minimill depends on an adequate supply of competitively priced billets or used rail. The availability of these raw materials fluctuates with the level of excess billet production by our minimills or that offered for sale by steel producers and for rail, the pace of railroad abandonments, rail replacement by railroads, demand for used rail from competing domestic and foreign rail rerolling mills.

One customer represented 10% of our Americas Mills segment's net sales in fiscal 2015. No single customer represented 10% or more of our Americas Mills segment's net sales in fiscal 2014 and 2013. Due to the nature of certain stock products we sell in the Americas Mills segment, we do not have a long lead time between receipt of an order and the delivery of product. We generally fill orders for stock products from inventory or with products near completion. As a result, we do not believe that backlog levels are a significant factor in the evaluation of these operations. Backlog for our Americas Mills minimills at August 31, 2015 was approximately $222.8 million, compared to $256.2 million at August 31, 2014 .

On July 27, 2015, we announced a plan to build a new minimill in Durant, Oklahoma. This new minimill will mirror the "continuous continuous" design of the existing minimill in Arizona. We believe that this addition to our portfolio of highly efficient, customer focused and cost effective steel production facilities should allow us to better serve a growing North Texas market as well as expand into markets in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma. At this facility, we plan to produce low cost, high quality steel products, which we expect will complement our existing manufacturing capability to better serve our customers. We believe that this new minimill will also complement our existing recycling and fabrication footprint, enhancing our ability to further leverage our raw material supply chain and optimize product mix within our existing operations. We expect the Oklahoma minimill to be commissioned in the fall of 2017. The direct and indirect investment is expected to be in excess of approximately $250 million. We expect that this investment will be funded from internally generated capital.

In the first quarter of 2014, we sold all of the outstanding capital stock of our wholly owned copper tube manufacturing operation, Howell Metal Company ("Howell"), for $58.5 million, of which $3.2 million was held in escrow as of August 31, 2015 , subject to customary purchase price adjustments. During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we made a $3.0 million working capital adjustment, which is included in our estimated pre-tax gain of $23.8 million. Howell was previously an operating segment included in the Americas Mills reporting segment. We have included Howell in discontinued operations for all periods presented.

AMERICAS FABRICATION

Our Americas Fabrication segment consists of our steel fabrication facilities that bend, weld, cut and fabricate steel, primarily rebar; warehouses that sell or rent products for the installation of concrete; facilities that produce steel fence posts; and facilities that heat-treat steel to strengthen and provide flexibility.

Steel Fabrication

Through our Americas Fabrication segment we operate 42 facilities that we consider to be engaged in the various aspects of steel fabrication. Most of the facilities engage in general fabrication of reinforcing and structural steel, with four facilities fabricating only steel fence posts. We obtain steel for these facilities from our own minimills and directly from third-party steel vendors. In addition, we utilize our marketing and distribution business to purchase steel from other steel manufacturers.

We conduct steel fabrication activities in 14 locations in Texas , four in California and South Carolina , two each in Colorado , Florida , Illinois , Louisiana , North Carolina and Virginia , and one each in Arizona , Arkansas , Georgia , Mississippi , Nevada , New Mexico , Tennessee and Utah .

Fabricated steel products are used primarily in the construction of commercial and non-commercial buildings, hospitals, convention centers, industrial plants, power plants, highways, bridges, arenas, stadiums, and dams. Generally, we sell fabricated steel in response to a bid solicitation from a construction contractor or from a project owner. Typically, the contractor or the owner of the project awards the job based on the competitive prices of the bids and does not negotiate with the bidders individually.

We have a steel post manufacturing operation located at our Arkansas minimill. Additionally, at our Arkansas minimill and our facilities in San Marcos, Texas, Brigham City, Utah, and Cayce, South Carolina, we fabricate fence post stock into studded "T" metal fence posts.

Backlog in our steel fabrication operations was approximately $767.9 million at August 31, 2015 , compared to $759.7 million at August 31, 2014 . We do not consider other backlogs in the Americas Fabrication segment to be material.

Construction Services

Our Construction Services business unit sells and rents construction-related products and equipment to concrete installers and other businesses in the construction industry. We have 18 locations in Texas , five in Louisiana and one in Oklahoma where we store and sell these products, which, with the exception of a small portion of steel products, are purchased from third-party suppliers.

Impact Metals

We provide heat-treated steel products through CMC Impact Metals. CMC Impact Metals is one of North America's premier producers of high strength steel products. We operate facilities in Alabama and Pennsylvania, which manufacture armor plate for military vehicles, high strength bar for the truck trailer industry and special bar quality steel for the energy market. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, we closed a facility in Youngstown, Ohio. CMC Impact Metals works closely with our Alabama minimill, our distribution business and other steel mills that sell specialized heat-treated steel for customer specific use.

No single customer accounted for 10% or more of our Americas Fabrication segment's net sales in fiscal 2015 , 2014 and 2013.

CMC INTERNATIONAL DIVISION OPERATIONS

INTERNATIONAL MILL

Our International Mill segment is comprised of all mill, recycling and fabrication operations located in Poland. Our subsidiary, CMC Poland Sp. z.o.o. ("CMCP"), owns a steel minimill and conducts its mill operations in Zawiercie, Poland. Our Poland steel minimill operates equipment similar to the equipment operated by our U.S. steel minimills. This segment's operations are conducted through: two rolling minimills that produce primarily rebar and high quality merchant products; a specialty rod finishing mill; our scrap processing facilities; and four steel fabrication facilities primarily for rebar and wire mesh.

Our Poland minimill operates a flexible rolling mill designed to allow efficient and flexible production of a range of medium section merchant bar products. This rolling mill has a second finishing end designed to produce higher grade wire rod. This rolling mill complements the facility's other rolling mill dedicated primarily to rebar production. Our Poland minimill operation has annual rolling capacity of approximately 1.3 million short tons.

Our Poland minimill is a significant manufacturer of rebar, merchant bar and wire rod in Central Europe, selling primarily to fabricators, manufacturers, distributors and construction companies. The majority of sales are to customers within Poland. However, the Poland minimill also exports to the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and other countries. Ferrous metal, the principal raw material used by our Poland minimill, electricity, natural gas and other necessary raw materials for the steel manufacturing process are generally readily available, although they are subject to significant price fluctuations. A large capacity scrap metal shredding facility similar to the largest shredder we operate in the United States is located at the Poland minimill.

Our international fabrication operations have expanded downstream captive uses for a portion of the rebar and wire rod manufactured at the Poland minimill. We conduct rebar fabrication activities in Zawiercie, Żyrardów and Głogów Małopolski, Poland. These three rebar fabrication facilities are similar to those operated by our U.S. fabrication facilities and sell fabricated rebar to contractors for incorporation into construction projects. In addition to fabricated rebar, these facilities sell fabricated mesh, assembled rebar cages and other rebar by-products.

Additionally, we operate a fabrication facility in Dąbrowa Górnicza, Poland that produces welded steel mesh, cold rolled wire rod and cold rolled rebar. This operation enables our international fabrication operations to supplement sales of fabricated rebar by

also offering wire mesh to customers which include metals service centers and construction contractors. We maintain a presence in the Polish fabrication market but we also sell to neighboring countries such as the Czech Republic, Germany and Slovakia.

Backlog in our international fabrication operations was approximately $16.8 million at August 31, 2015 compared to $30.4 million at August 31, 2014 . Our Poland minimill generally fills orders for stock products from inventory or with products near completion. As a result, we do not believe that backlog levels are a significant factor in the evaluation of these operations. Backlog for our Poland minimill at August 31, 2015 was approximately $25.3 million compared to $49.0 million at August 31, 2014 . No single customer represented 10% or more of our International Mill segment's net sales in fiscal 2015 and 2014. One customer represented 10% of our International Mill segment's net sales in fiscal 2013.

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION

Our International Marketing and Distribution segment includes international operations for the sales, distribution and processing of steel products, ferrous and nonferrous metals and other industrial products. Additionally, this segment includes two of our marketing and distribution divisions headquartered in the United States, CMC Cometals and CMC Cometals Steel, and a recycling facility in Singapore. We buy and sell primary and secondary metals, fabricated metals, semi-finished, long and flat steel products and other industrial products. During the past year, our International Marketing and Distribution facilities sold approximately 3.1 million short tons of steel products in addition to raw materials. We market and distribute these products through our global network of offices and processing facilities.

We purchase steel products, industrial minerals, ores, metal concentrates and ferroalloys from producers in the U.S. and international markets. We utilize long-term contracts, spot market purchases and trading transactions to purchase materials. To obtain favorable long-term supply agreements, we occasionally offer assistance to producers by arranging structured finance transactions to suit their objectives.

We sell our products to customers, primarily manufacturers, in the steel, nonferrous metals, metal fabrication, chemical, refractory, construction and transportation industries. We sell directly to our customers through and with the assistance of our offices in Irving, Texas; Fort Lee, New Jersey; Sydney and Melbourne, Australia; Singapore; Bangkok, Thailand; Luxembourg; Kürten, Germany; Cardiff, United Kingdom; Temse, Belgium; Hong Kong; Beijing, Guangzhou and Shanghai, China. We have representative offices in Moscow and Malaysia, and we have agents located in significant international markets. Our network of offices shares information regarding the demand for our materials, assists with negotiation and performance of contracts and other services for our customers and identifies and maintains relationships with our sources of supply.

In most transactions, we act as a principal by taking title and ownership of the products. We are at times designated as a marketing representative, sometimes exclusively, by product suppliers, and on occasion we act as a broker for these products. We buy and sell these products in almost all major markets throughout the world where permitted by United States companies.

As opposed to companies that trade commodity futures contracts and frequently do not take delivery, we market physical products. As a result of sophisticated global communications, our customers and suppliers often have easy access to quoted market prices, although such price quotes are not always indicative of actual transaction prices. Therefore, to distinguish ourselves, we focus on value-added services for both sellers and buyers. Our services include actual physical market pricing and trend information (in contrast to market information from more speculative metal exchange futures), technical information and assistance, financing, transportation and shipping (including chartering of vessels), storage, warehousing, just-in-time delivery, insurance, hedging and the ability to consolidate smaller purchases and sales into larger, more cost efficient transactions. We perform these services in the normal course of business, and these services are included in the transaction price as there is no separate revenue stream for each service. We limit exposure to price fluctuations by generally offsetting purchases with concurrent sales. We also enter into foreign currency exchange contracts as economic hedges of sales and purchase commitments denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar or the functional currency of our international subsidiaries. In general, we do not enter into derivative contracts for speculative or trading purposes.

This segment also operates a recycling facility in Singapore. The facility is similar to those operated by our Americas Recycling segment but on a smaller scale and is operated as part of the International Marketing and Distribution segment due to its oversight by managers in this segment.

We believe we are one of the largest marketers of imported steel in Australia. Despite focused efforts and substantial progress to stabilize and improve the results of the Australian distribution business, we determined that achieving acceptable financial returns would take additional time and investment. In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company made the decision to exit its steel distribution business in Australia. On July 31, 2015, we completed the sale of six locations that were a part of our Australian steel distribution business. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 , we ceased all operations at three other locations that

were part of our Australian steel distribution business. As of August 31, 2015 , one location of the Australian steel distribution business remained for sale and continued to be classified as held for sale. We have included the results of the sale and the activity related to our Australian steel distribution businesses in discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of earnings for all periods presented.

In fiscal 2014, we decided to exit our steel trading business headquartered in Zug, Switzerland. Severance and other exit costs incurred by the Company in connection with this decision were immaterial.

During fiscal 2013, we completed the sale of our 11% ownership interest in Trinecke Zelezarny, a.s. ("Trinecke"), a Czech Republic joint-stock company, for $29.0 million resulting in a pre-tax gain of $26.1 million .

For financial data on the above segments, see Note 21, Business Segments, to the consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

SEASONALITY

Many of our minimills and fabrication facilities serve customers in the construction industry. Due to the increase in construction during the spring and summer months, our net sales are generally higher in the third and fourth quarters than in the first and second quarters of our fiscal year.

COMPETITION

The nonferrous recycling industry is fragmented in the United States. However, we believe our Americas Recycling segment is one of the largest entities engaged in the recycling of nonferrous metals in the United States. We are also a major regional processor of ferrous metal. The metal processing business is subject to cyclical fluctuations based upon the availability and price of unprocessed scrap metal and the demand for steel and nonferrous metals. In our Americas Recycling segment, we compete primarily on price and on the services we provide to scrap suppliers and generators. The price offered for scrap metal is the principle competitive factor in acquiring material from smaller scrap metals collection firms. Industrial generators of scrap metal may also consider factors other than price, such as supplying appropriate collection containers, timely removal, reliable documentation including accurate and detailed purchase records with customized reports, the ability to service multiple locations, insurance coverage, and the buyer's financial strength.

Our Americas Mills segment competes with regional, national and foreign manufacturers of steel. We produce a significant percentage of the total domestic output of rebar and merchant bar. We do not produce a significant percentage of the total U.S. output of our other products. However, we are considered a substantial supplier in the geographic areas near our facilities. We compete primarily on the services we provide to our customers and on the price and quality of our products. See "Risk Factors - Risks Related to Our Industry" below.

Our Americas Fabrication segment competes with regional and national suppliers. We believe that we are among the largest fabricators of rebar in the United States. We also believe that we are the largest manufacturer of steel fence posts in the United States. We compete primarily on price in addition to the value added services we provide to our customers.  While price is the principle competitive factor, we also compete on speed of delivery, ability to service large projects, and technical capability. 

Our International Mill segment competes with several large manufacturers of rebar and wire rod in Central and Eastern Europe, primarily on the basis of price, quality and product availability. We also compete on delivery times utilizing our global supply chain of steel producers and logistic partners. We believe we are the largest producer of merchant bars and the second largest producer of rebar and wire rod in Poland.

Our International Marketing and Distribution segment operates in a highly competitive sector. We compete primarily on the price, quality and reliability of our products, our financing alternatives and the additional services we provide. In this business, we compete with other U.S. and foreign trading companies, some of which are larger and may have access to greater financial resources. In addition, some of our competitors may be able to pursue business without restriction by the laws of the United States. We also compete with industrial consumers who purchase directly from suppliers, and from importers and manufacturers of semi-finished ferrous and nonferrous metals. We believe G.A.M., our steel distribution facility in Australia, is one of the largest independent distributors of those products in Victoria, Australia.

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

A significant factor in our business is our compliance with environmental laws and regulations. See Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors - Risks Related to Our Industry" below. Compliance with and changes in various environmental requirements and environmental risks applicable to our industry may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Occasionally, we may be required to clean up or take certain remediation action with regard to sites we use or formerly used in our operations. We may also be required to pay for a portion of the cleanup or remediation cost at sites we never owned or at sites which we never operated, if we are found to have arranged for treatment or disposal of hazardous substances on the sites. Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act ("CERCLA" or "Superfund") and analogous state statutes, we could be responsible for both the costs of cleanup as well as for associated natural resource damages. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA"), or equivalent state agency, has named us as a potentially responsible party ("PRP") at several federal Superfund sites or similar state sites. In some cases, these agencies allege that we are one of many PRPs responsible for the cleanup of a site because we sold scrap metals to or otherwise disposed of materials at the site. With respect to the sale of scrap metals, we contend that an arm's length sale of valuable scrap metal for use as a raw material in a manufacturing process that we do not control should not constitute "an arrangement for disposal or treatment of hazardous substances" as defined under Federal law. In 2000, the Superfund Recycling Equity Act was signed into law which, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, provides legitimate sellers of scrap metal for recycling with some relief from Superfund liability under Federal law. Despite Congress' clarification of the intent of the Federal law, some state laws and environmental agencies still seek to impose such liability. We believe efforts to impose such liability are contrary to public policy objectives and legislation encouraging recycling and promoting the use of recycled materials, and we continue to support clarification of state laws and regulations consistent with Congress' action.

New federal, state and local laws, regulations and the varying interpretations of such laws by regulatory agencies and the judiciary impact how much money we spend on environmental compliance. In addition, uncertainty regarding adequate control levels, testing and sampling procedures, new pollution control technology and cost benefit analysis based on market conditions impact our future expenditures in order to comply with environmental requirements. We cannot predict the total amount of capital expenditures or increases in operating costs or other expenses that may be required as a result of environmental compliance. We also do not know if we can pass such costs on to our customers through product price increases. During fiscal 2015 , we incurred environmental costs including disposal, permits, license fees, tests, studies, remediation, consultant fees and environmental personnel expense of approximately $31.7 million . In addition, during fiscal 2015 , we estimate that we spent approximately $10.4 million on capital expenditures for environmental projects. We believe that our facilities are in material compliance with currently applicable environmental laws and regulations. We anticipate capital expenditures for new environmental control facilities during fiscal 2016 to be approximately $28.2 million .

EMPLOYEES

As of August 31, 2015 , the Company had the following number of employees:

Certain of our employees belong to unions for collective bargaining purposes, including (i) employees at one metal processing facility and five fabrication facilities within the CMC Americas division and (ii) approximately 40% of the employees in our International Mill segment. We believe that our labor relations are generally good to excellent and that our work force is highly motivated.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

Our Board of Directors typically elects officers at its first meeting after our annual meeting of stockholders. Our executive officers continue to serve for terms set from time to time by our Board of Directors in its discretion. The table below sets forth the name,

current position and offices, age and period served for each of our executive officers.

Joseph Alvarado was hired by the Company in April 2010, as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. From 2004 to 2007, Mr. Alvarado served as President and Chief Operating Officer at Lone Star Technologies, Inc., a Dallas, Texas-based company and manufacturer and marketer of alloy and carbon welded oil country tubular goods and line pipe. In 2007, U.S. Steel, a steel producer, acquired Lone Star Technologies, Inc. and named him President, U.S. Steel Tubular Products. After joining CMC in 2010, he was named President and Chief Operating Officer in April 2011, and in June 2011, he was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer effective September 2011. He was appointed to our Board of Directors on September 1, 2011 and was named Chairman of the Board of Directors on January 1, 2013.

Adam B. Batchelor joined the Company as Director of Financial Planning and Analysis in August 2011. He was appointed Senior Director in September 2012 and Vice President of Strategy and Planning in August 2013. Prior to joining the Company, he was with Oliver Wyman, a global management consulting firm, from 2003 to 2009, and with Wingate Partners, a Dallas-based private equity firm, from 2009 to 2011 .

Carey J. Dubois was appointed Vice President and Treasurer in January 2012. Prior to joining CMC, Mr. Dubois served as Vice President and Treasurer for Peabody Energy Corporation, a coal mining and trading company, from December 2010 to January 2012. From April 2005, he held the positions of Corporate Treasurer, Vice President of Finance, and Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Smithfield Foods, Inc., an international pork producer, processor and marketer.

In July 2012, John Elmore joined the Company as Senior Vice President and President of CMC International Division. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Elmore was Group Director of Jindal Steel and Power, a leading international company in the steel, power, mining, oil and gas and infrastructure sectors straddling across Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and Georgia from November 2009. Previously, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of Minnesota Steel Industries, from March 2005 to December 2007.

Terry Hatten was appointed Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer in December 2013. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Hatten was Senior Vice President of Human Resources for General Nutrition Centers, Inc. (GNC), a specialty retailer of health and wellness products, from 2012 to 2013. From 2009 to 2012, Mr. Hatten was appointed Senior Vice President of Human Resources for Dean Foods Company, a food and beverage company.

Adam R. Hickey was appointed Vice President and Controller of the Company in April 2012. Mr. Hickey joined the Company in February 2004 as a Senior Accountant. Since 2004, Mr. Hickey has held various positions within the Company, including Manager of Cost & Planning, Assistant Controller and Controller of CMC Americas Division.

Paul K. Kirkpatrick was appointed Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary in October 2013. Mr. Kirkpatrick joined the Company in December 2009 as Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary, and in February 2013, he was appointed Vice President, Corporate Secretary and Assistant General Counsel. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Kirkpatrick was an attorney at Haynes and Boone, LLP, a law firm based in Dallas, Texas.

Tracy L. Porter was appointed Senior Vice President of the Company and President of CMC Americas Division in July 2010. Mr. Porter served as Vice President of the Company and President of CMC Americas Division from April 2010 to July 2010. In the 19 years preceding July 2010, Mr. Porter has held various positions within the Company, including General Manager of CMC

Steel Arkansas at Magnolia, Arkansas, head of the Company's Rebar Fabrication Division, and Interim President of CMC Americas Division.

Barbara R. Smith joined the Company in May 2011 as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining the Company, Ms. Smith served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Gerdau Ameristeel Corporation, a mini-mill steel producer, since July 2007, after joining Gerdau Ameristeel as Treasurer in July 2006. From February 2005 to July 2006, she served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of FARO Technologies, Inc., a developer and manufacturer of 3-D measurement and imaging systems. From 1981 to 2005, Ms. Smith was employed by Alcoa Inc., a producer of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina, where she held various financial leadership positions including Vice President of Finance for Alcoa's Aerospace, Automotive & Commercial Transportation Group, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Alcoa Fujikura Ltd. and Director of Internal Audit.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

There are inherent risks and uncertainties associated with our business that could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. Set forth below are descriptions of those risks and uncertainties that we currently believe to be material, but the risks and uncertainties described below are not the only risks and uncertainties that could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. If any of these risks actually occurs, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

RISKS RELATED TO OUR INDUSTRY

Our industry and the industries we serve are vulnerable to global economic conditions, including the slow recovery from the recent recession and the risk of a recession relapse.

Metals industries and commodity products have historically been vulnerable to significant declines in consumption, global overcapacity and product pricing during prolonged periods of economic downturn. Our business supports cyclical industries such as commercial, residential and government construction, energy, metals service center, petrochemical and original equipment manufacturing. We may experience significant fluctuations in demand for our products from these industries based on the global or regional economic conditions, energy prices, consumer demand and decisions by governments to fund infrastructure projects such as highways, schools, energy plants and airports. Although the residential housing market is not a significant direct factor in our business, related commercial and infrastructure construction activities, such as shopping centers, schools and roads, could be adversely impacted by a prolonged slump in new housing construction. Our business, results of operations and financial condition are adversely affected when the industries we serve suffer a prolonged downturn or anemic growth. Because we do not have unlimited backlogs, our business, results of operations and financial condition are promptly affected by short-term economic fluctuations.

Seven years removed from the worldwide economic downturn that began in 2008, we have begun to see some improvement in general economic and manufacturing activity, but the economic outlook remains uncertain both in the United States and globally. In addition, uncertainties in Europe regarding the financial sector and sovereign debt and the potential impact on banks in other regions of the world have continued to weigh on global and domestic growth. These situations continue to contribute to weaker end-markets and depressed demand, which could stifle improving customer confidence and adversely affect demand for our products and further adversely affect our business. Although we believe that the long-term prospects for the steel industry remain bright, we are unable to predict the duration of current economic conditions that are contributing to reduced demand for our products compared to pre-recession levels. Future economic downturns or a prolonged period of slow growth or economic stagnation could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We are vulnerable to the economic conditions in the regions in which our operations are concentrated.

Our geographic concentration in the southern and southwestern United States as well as Central Europe, Australia, China and the Middle East exposes us to the local market conditions in these regions. Economic downturns in these areas or decisions by governments that have an impact on the level and pace of overall economic activity in one of these regions could adversely affect demand for our products and, consequently, our sales and profitability. As a result, our financial results are substantially dependent upon the overall economic conditions in these areas.

Rapid and significant changes in the price of metals could adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Prices for most metals in which we deal have experienced increased volatility over the last several years, and such increased price

volatility impacts us in several ways. Some of our operations, such as our fabrication operations, may benefit from rapidly decreasing steel prices as their material cost for previously contracted fixed price work declines. Others, such as our Americas Mills and International Mill segments, would likely experience reduced margins and may be forced to liquidate high cost inventory at reduced margins or losses until prices stabilize. Sudden increases could have the opposite effect. Overall, we believe that rapid substantial price changes are not to our industry's benefit. Our customer and supplier base would be impacted due to uncertainty as to future prices. A reluctance to purchase inventory in the face of extreme price decreases or to sell quickly during a period of rapid price increases would likely reduce our volume of business. Marginal industry participants or speculators may attempt to participate to an unhealthy extent during a period of rapid price escalation with a substantial risk of contract default if prices suddenly reverse. Risks of default in contract performance by customers or suppliers as well as an increased risk of bad debts and customer credit exposure could increase during periods of rapid and substantial price changes.

Excess capacity in our industry could increase the level of steel imports into the United States, resulting in lower domestic prices, which would adversely affect our sales, margins and profitability.

Global steel-making capacity exceeds demand for steel products in some regions around the world. Rather than reducing employment by rationalizing capacity with consumption, steel manufacturers in these countries (often with local government assistance or subsidies in various forms) have traditionally periodically exported steel at prices significantly below their home market prices, which prices may not reflect their costs of production or capital. For example, steel production in China, the world's largest producer and consumer of steel, has continued to exceed Chinese demand. This rising excess capacity in China has resulted in a further increase in imports of artificially low-priced steel and steel products to the United States and world steel markets. A continuation of this trend or a significant decrease in China's rate of economic expansion could result in increasing steel imports from China. Excessive imports of steel into the United States have exerted, and may continue to exert, downward pressure on U.S. steel prices, which negatively affects our ability to increase our sales, margins, and profitability. The excess capacity may create downward pressure on our steel prices which would adversely affect our sales, margins and profitability and could subject us to possible renegotiation of contracts or increases in bad debt.

We believe the downward pressure on, and periodically depressed levels of, U.S. steel prices in some recent years have been further exacerbated by imports of steel involving dumping and subsidy abuses by foreign steel producers. While some tariffs and quotas are periodically put into effect for certain steel products imported from a number of countries that have been found to have been unfairly pricing steel imports to the U.S., there is no assurance that tariffs and quotas will always be levied, even if otherwise justified, and even when imposed many of these are only short-lived. When such tariffs or duties expire or if others are further relaxed or repealed, or if relatively higher U.S. steel prices make it attractive for foreign steelmakers to export their steel products to the U.S., despite the presence of duties or tariffs, the resurgence of substantial imports of foreign steel could create downward pressure on U.S. steel prices.

Excess capacity has also led to greater protectionism as is evident in raw material and finished product border tariffs put in place by China, Brazil and other countries. Such protectionism could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Compliance with and changes in environmental compliance requirements and remediation requirements could result in substantially increased capital requirements and operating costs; violations of environmental requirements could result in costs that have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Existing laws or regulations, as currently interpreted or reinterpreted in the future, and future laws and regulations, may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Compliance with environmental laws and regulations is a significant factor in our business. We are subject to local, state, federal and international environmental laws and regulations concerning, among other matters, waste disposal, air emissions, waste and storm water effluent and disposal and employee health. Federal and state regulatory agencies can impose administrative, civil and criminal penalties and may seek injunctive relief impacting continuing operations for non-compliance with environmental requirements.

New facilities that we may build, especially steel minimills, like our proposed minimill in Durant, Oklahoma, are required to obtain several environmental permits before significant construction or commencement of operations. Delays in obtaining permits or unanticipated conditions in such permits could delay the project or increase construction costs or operating expenses. Our manufacturing and recycling operations produce significant amounts of by-products, some of which are handled as industrial waste or hazardous waste. For example, our minimills generate electric arc furnace dust ("EAF dust"), which the EPA and other regulatory authorities classify as hazardous waste. EAF dust and other industrial waste and hazardous waste require special handling, recycling or disposal.

In addition, the primary feed materials for the shredders operated by our scrap metal recycling facilities are automobile hulks and obsolete household appliances. Approximately 20% of the weight of an automobile hull consists of unrecyclable material known as shredder fluff. After the segregation of ferrous and saleable nonferrous metals, shredder fluff remains. We, along with others in the recycling industry, interpret Federal regulations to require shredder fluff to meet certain criteria and pass a toxic leaching test to avoid classification as a hazardous waste. We also endeavor to remove hazardous contaminants from the feed material prior to shredding. As a result, we believe the shredder fluff we generate is not normally considered or properly classified as hazardous waste. If the laws, regulations or testing methods change with regard to EAF dust or shredder fluff or other by-products, we may incur additional significant costs.

Changes to National Ambient Air Quality Standards ("NAAQS") or other requirements on our air emissions could make it more difficult to obtain new permits or to modify existing permits and could require changes to our operations or emissions control equipment. Such difficulties and changes could result in operational delays and capital and on-going compliance expenditures.

Legal requirements are changing frequently and are subject to interpretation. New laws, regulations and changing interpretations by regulatory authorities, together with uncertainty regarding adequate pollution control levels, testing and sampling procedures, new pollution control technology and cost/benefit analysis based on market conditions are all factors that may increase our future expenditures to comply with environmental requirements. Accordingly, we are unable to predict the ultimate cost of future compliance with these requirements or their effect on our operations. We cannot predict whether such costs would be able to be passed on to customers through product price increases. Competitors in various regions or countries where environmental regulation is less restrictive, subject to different interpretation or generally not enforced, may enjoy a competitive advantage.

We may also be required to conduct additional cleanup (and pay for associated natural resource damages) at sites where we have already participated in remediation efforts or to take remediation action with regard to sites formerly used in connection with our operations. We may be required to pay for a portion or all of the costs of cleanup or remediation at sites we never owned or on which we never operated if we are found to have arranged for treatment or disposal of hazardous substances on the sites. In cases of joint and several liability, we may be obligated to pay a disproportionate share of cleanup costs if other responsible parties are financially insolvent.

We are involved and may in the future become involved in various environmental matters that may result in fines, penalties or judgments being assessed against us or liability imposed upon us which we cannot presently estimate or reasonably foresee and which may have a material impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Under CERCLA or similar state statutes, we may have obligations to conduct investigation and remediation activities associated with alleged releases of hazardous substances or to reimburse the EPA (or state agencies as applicable) for such activities and to pay for natural resource damages associated with alleged releases. We have been named a PRP at several federal and state Superfund sites because the EPA or an equivalent state agency contends that we and other potentially responsible scrap metal suppliers are liable for the cleanup of those sites as a result of having sold scrap metal to unrelated manufacturers for recycling as a raw material in the manufacture of new products. We are involved in litigation or administrative proceedings with regard to several of these sites in which we are contesting, or at the appropriate time may contest, our liability. In addition, we have received information requests with regard to other sites which may be under consideration by the EPA as potential CERCLA sites.

We are presently participating in PRP organizations at several sites, which are paying for certain remediation expenses. Although we are unable to estimate precisely the ultimate dollar amount of exposure to loss in connection with various environmental matters or the effect on our consolidated financial position, we make accruals as warranted. In addition, although we do not believe that a reasonably possible range of loss in excess of amounts accrued for pending lawsuits, claims or proceedings would be material to our financial statements, additional developments may occur, and due to inherent uncertainties, including evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent shortcomings of the estimation process, the uncertainties involved in litigation and other factors, the amounts we ultimately are required to pay could vary significantly from the amounts we accrue, and this could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Increased regulation associated with climate change and greenhouse gas emissions could impose significant additional costs on both our steelmaking and metals recycling operations.

The U.S. government and various governmental agencies have introduced or are contemplating regulatory changes in response to the potential impact of climate change. International treaties or agreements may also result in increasing regulation of greenhouse gas emissions, including the introduction of carbon emissions trading mechanisms. Any such regulation regarding climate change and greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions could impose significant costs on our steelmaking and metals recycling operations and on the operations of our customers and suppliers, including increased energy, capital equipment, environmental monitoring and reporting and other costs in order to comply with current or future laws or regulations concerning and limitations imposed on our

operations by virtue of climate change and GHG emissions laws and regulations. The potential costs of "allowances," "offsets" or "credits" that may be part of potential cap-and-trade programs or similar future regulatory measures are still uncertain. Any adopted future climate change and GHG regulations could negatively impact our ability (and that of our customers and suppliers) to compete with companies situated in areas not subject to such limitations. From a medium and long-term perspective, as a result of these regulatory initiatives, we may see an increase in costs relating to our assets that emit significant amounts of greenhouse gases. These regulatory initiatives will be either voluntary or mandatory and may impact our operations directly or through our suppliers or customers. Until the timing, scope and extent of any future regulation becomes known, we cannot predict the effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition, but such effect could be materially adverse to our business, results of operations and financial condition.

RISKS RELATED TO OUR COMPANY

Potential limitations on our ability to access credit, or the ability of our customers and suppliers to access credit, may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition .

If our access to credit is limited or impaired, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely impacted. Our senior unsecured debt is rated by Standard & Poor's Corporation and Moody's Investors Service. In determining our credit ratings, the rating agencies consider a number of both quantitative and qualitative factors. These factors include earnings (loss), fixed charges such as interest, cash flows, total debt outstanding, off-balance sheet obligations and other commitments, total capitalization and various ratios calculated from these factors. The rating agencies also consider predictability of cash flows, business strategy and diversity, industry conditions and contingencies. Any downgrades in our credit ratings may make raising capital more difficult, increase the cost and affect the terms of future borrowings, affect the terms under which we purchase goods and services and limit our ability to take advantage of potential business opportunities. We could also be adversely affected if our banks refused to honor their contractual commitments or ceased lending.

We are also exposed to risks associated with the creditworthiness of our customers and suppliers. In certain markets, we have experienced a consolidation among those entities to whom we sell. This consolidation has resulted in an increased credit risk spread among fewer customers, often without a corresponding strengthening of their financial status. If the availability of credit to fund or support the continuation and expansion of our customers' business operations is curtailed or if the cost of that credit is increased, the resulting inability of our customers or of their customers to either access credit or absorb the increased cost of that credit could adversely affect our business by reducing our sales or by increasing our exposure to losses from uncollectible customer accounts. The consequences of such adverse effects could include the interruption of production at the facilities of our customers, the reduction, delay or cancellation of customer orders, delays or interruptions of the supply of raw materials we purchase, and bankruptcy of customers, suppliers or other creditors. Any of these events may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The potential impact of our customers' non-compliance with existing commercial contracts and commitments, due to insolvency or for any other reason, may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Most consumers of the metals products we sell have been negatively impacted by the recession and the continued slow recovery therefrom. Due to their economic hardship or the contraction in their operations or due to the fact that the prices for many of the products we sell have declined since the customers entered into the contracts with us, some of our customers have sought to renegotiate or cancel their existing purchase commitments. In addition, some of our customers have breached previously agreed upon contracts to buy our products by refusing delivery of the products.

Where appropriate, we have and will in the future pursue litigation to recover our damages resulting from customer contract defaults. We also use credit insurance both in the United States and internationally to mitigate the risk of customer insolvency. However, it is possible that we may not be capable of recovering all of our insured losses if the insurers with whom our accounts receivable are insured experience significant losses threatening their viability. Additionally, credit insurance policies typically have relatively short policy periods and require pre-approval of customers with maximum insured limits established by the customer. If credit insurers incur large losses, the insurance may be more difficult and more costly to secure and may be on less favorable terms. In addition, a significant amount of our accounts receivable are considered to be open account uninsured accounts receivable. A large number of our customers defaulting on existing contractual obligations to purchase our products could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

There can be no assurance that we will repurchase shares of our common stock at all or in any particular amounts.

On October 28, 2014, we announced that our Board of Directors had authorized the Company to repurchase up to $100.0 million of shares of our common stock. The stock markets in general have experienced substantial price and trading fluctuations, which

have resulted in volatility in the market prices of securities that often are unrelated or disproportionate to changes in operating performance. These broad market fluctuations may adversely affect the trading price of our common stock. Price volatility over a given period may also cause the average price at which we repurchase our own common stock to exceed the stock's price at a given point in time. In addition, significant changes in the trading price of our common stock and our ability to access capital on terms favorable to us could impact our ability to repurchase shares of our common stock. The timing and amount of any repurchases will be determined by the Company's management based on its evaluation of market conditions, capital allocation alternatives and other factors beyond our control. Our share repurchase program may be modified, suspended, extended or terminated by the Company at any time and without notice. Any failure to repurchase stock after we have announced our intention to do so may negatively impact investor confidence in us, thereby negatively impacting our stock price.

The agreements governing our notes and our other debt contain financial covenants and impose restrictions on our business.

The indenture governing our 6.50% notes due 2017, 7.35% notes due 2018 and 4.875% notes due 2023 contains restrictions on our ability to create liens, sell assets, enter into sale and leaseback transactions and consolidate or merge. In addition to these restrictions, our credit facility contains covenants that restrict our ability to, among other things, enter into transactions with affiliates and guarantee the debt of some of our subsidiaries. Our credit facility also requires that we meet certain financial tests and maintain certain financial ratios, including a maximum debt to capitalization and interest coverage ratios.

Other agreements that we may enter into in the future may contain covenants imposing significant restrictions on our business that are similar to, or in addition to, the covenants under our existing agreements. These restrictions may affect our ability to operate our business and may limit our ability to take advantage of potential business opportunities as they arise.

Our ability to comply with these covenants may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. The breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under the indenture governing the notes or under our other debt agreements. An event of default under our debt agreements would permit some of our lenders to declare all amounts borrowed from them to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest. If we were unable to repay debt to our secured lenders or if we incur secured debt in the future, these lenders could proceed against the collateral securing that debt. In addition, acceleration of our other indebtedness may cause us to be unable to make interest payments on the notes.

Increases in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

An increase in the value of the U.S. dollar may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition, and in particular, the increased strength of the U.S. dollar as compared to China's renminbi or the euro could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. A strong U.S. dollar makes imported metal products less expensive, resulting in more imports of steel products into the United States by our foreign competitors, while a weak U.S. dollar may have the opposite impact on imports. With the exception of exports of nonferrous scrap metal by our Americas Recycling segment, we have not recently been a significant exporter of metal products from our United States operations. Economic difficulties in some large steel-producing regions of the world, resulting in lower local demand for steel products, have historically encouraged greater steel exports to the United States at depressed prices which can be exacerbated by a strong dollar. As a result, our products that are made in the United States may become relatively more expensive as compared to imported steel, which has had and in the future could have a negative impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

A strong U.S. dollar may also hamper our international marketing and distribution business. Weak local currencies limit the amount of U.S. dollar denominated products that we can import for our international operations and limit our ability to be competitive against local producers selling in local currencies.

The U.S. dollar, as with most global currencies, are subject to daily price volatility based on several factors including changes in local government interest rates, macro events and developments, currency manipulation by governments in countries where they buy or sell foreign currencies to strengthen or weaken the local currency or in those instances where local governments fix the pricing of their currencies versus having floating exchange rates.

Operating internationally carries risks and uncertainties which could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Our foreign operations generated approximately 22% of our fiscal 2015 net sales. We have significant facilities in Poland and Australia. Our marketing and trading offices are located in most major markets of the world, and our suppliers and customers are located throughout the world. Our marketing and distribution segment relies on substantial international shipments of materials and products in the ordinary course of its business. Our stability, growth and profitability are subject to a number of risks inherent in doing business internationally in addition to the currency exchange risk discussed above, including:

These factors may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We rely on the availability of large amounts of electricity and natural gas for our minimill operations. Disruptions in delivery or substantial increases in energy costs, including crude oil prices, could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Minimills melt steel scrap in electric arc furnaces and use natural gas to heat steel billets for rolling into finished products. As large consumers of electricity and gas, often the largest in the geographic area where our minimills are located, we must have dependable delivery of electricity and natural gas in order to operate. Accordingly, we are at risk in the event of an energy disruption. Prolonged black-outs or brown-outs or disruptions caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes would substantially disrupt our production. While we have not suffered prolonged production delays due to our inability to access electricity or natural gas, several of our competitors have experienced such occurrences. Prolonged substantial increases in energy costs would have an adverse effect on the costs of operating our minimills and would negatively impact our gross margins unless we were able to fully pass through the additional expense to our customers. Our finished steel products are typically delivered by truck. Rapid increases in the price of fuel attributable to increases in crude oil prices would increase our costs and adversely affect many of our customers' financial results, which in turn could result in reduced margins and declining demand for our products. Rapid increases in fuel costs may also negatively impact our ability to charter ships for international deliveries at anticipated freight rates, thereby decreasing our margins on those transactions or causing our customers to look for alternative sources.

The loss of or inability to hire key employees may adversely affect our ability to successfully manage our operations and meet our strategic objectives.

Our future success depends, in large part, on the continued service of our officers and other key employees and our ability to continue to attract and retain additional highly qualified personnel. These employees are integral to our success based on their expertise and knowledge of our business and products. We compete for such personnel with other companies, including public and private company competitors who may periodically offer more favorable terms of employment. The loss or interruption of the services of a number of our key employees could reduce our ability to effectively manage our operations due to the fact that we may not be able to find appropriate replacement personnel in a timely manner should the need arise.

We may have difficulty competing with companies that have a lower cost structure or access to greater financial resources.

We compete with regional, national and foreign manufacturers and traders. Consolidation among participants in the steel manufacturing and recycling industries has resulted in fewer competitors but several of which are significantly larger than us. Some of our larger competitors have greater financial resources and more diverse businesses than us. Some of our foreign competitors may be able to pursue business opportunities without regard to certain of the laws and regulations with which we must comply, such as environmental regulations. These companies may have a lower cost structure and more operating flexibility, and consequently they may be able to offer better prices and more services than we can. There is no assurance that we will be able to compete successfully with these companies. Any of these factors could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Information technology interruptions and breaches in data security could adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We rely on computers, information and communications technology and related systems and networks in order to operate our business, including to store sensitive data such as intellectual property, our own proprietary business information and that of our customers, suppliers and business partners and personally identifiable information of our employees. Increased global information technology security requirements, vulnerabilities, threats and a rise in sophisticated and targeted computer crime pose a risk to the security of our systems, networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of our data. Our systems and networks are also subject to damage or interruption from power outages, telecommunications failures, employee error and other similar events. Any of these or other events could result in system interruption, the disclosure, modification or destruction of proprietary and other key information, legal claims or proceedings, production delays or disruptions to operations including processing transactions and reporting financial results and could adversely impact our reputation and our operating results. We have taken steps to address these concerns and have implemented internal control and security measures to protect our systems and networks from security breaches; however, there can be no assurance that a system or network failure, or security breach, will not impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Our minimills require continuous capital investments that we may not be able to sustain.

We must make regular substantial capital investments in our steel minimills to maintain the minimills, lower production costs and remain competitive. We cannot be certain that we will have sufficient internally generated cash or acceptable external financing to make necessary substantial capital expenditures in the future. The availability of external financing depends on many factors outside of our control, including capital market conditions and the overall performance of the economy. If funding is insufficient, we may be unable to develop or enhance our minimills, take advantage of business opportunities and respond to competitive pressures.

Scrap and other supplies for our business are subject to significant price fluctuations and limited availability, which may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

At any given time, we may be unable to obtain an adequate supply of critical raw materials with a price and other terms acceptable to us. We depend on ferrous scrap, the primary feedstock for our steel minimills, and other supplies such as graphite electrodes and ferroalloys for our steel minimill operations. The price of scrap and other supplies has historically been subject to significant fluctuation, and we may not be able to adjust our product prices to recover the costs of rapid increases in material prices, especially over the short-term and in our domestic fabrication segment's fixed price contracts. The profitability of our steel minimill operations and domestic fabrication segments would be adversely affected if we are unable to pass on to our customers increased raw material and supply costs. Changing process could potentially impact the volume of scrap metal available to us and the volume and realized margins of processed metal we sell.

The purchase prices for automobile bodies and various other grades of obsolete and industrial scrap, as well as the selling prices for processed and recycled scrap metals we utilize in our own manufacturing process or we resell to others, are highly volatile. A prolonged period of low scrap prices or a fall in scrap prices could reduce our ability to obtain, process and sell recycled material, which could have a material adverse effect on our metals recycling operations business, results of operations and financial condition. Our ability to respond to changing recycled metal selling prices may be limited by competitive or other factors during periods of low scrap prices, when the supply of scrap may decline considerably, as scrap generators hold onto their scrap in the hope of getting higher prices later; conversely, increased foreign demand for scrap due to economic expansion in countries such as China, India, Brazil and Turkey can result in an outflow of available domestic scrap as well as higher scrap prices that cannot always be passed on to domestic scrap consumers, further reducing the available domestic scrap flows and scrap margins all of which could adversely affect our sales and profitability.

Our Arkansas mill does not have melting capacity, so it is dependent on an adequate supply of competitively priced used rail. The availability of used rail fluctuates with the pace of railroad abandonments, rail replacement by railroads in the United States and abroad and demand for used rail from other domestic and foreign rail rerolling mills. Price increases for used rail could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The availability and process of raw materials may also be negatively affected by new laws and regulations, allocations by suppliers, interruptions in production, accidents or natural disasters, changes in exchange rates, worldwide price fluctuations, and the availability and cost of transportation. If we were unable to obtain adequate and timely deliveries of our required raw materials, we may be unable to timely manufacture significant quantities of our products.

Unexpected equipment failures may lead to production curtailments or shutdowns, which may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Interruptions in our production capabilities would adversely affect our production costs, steel available for sale and earnings for the affected period. Our manufacturing processes are dependent upon critical pieces of steel-making equipment, such as our furnaces, continuous casters and rolling equipment, as well as electrical equipment, such as transformers. This equipment may, on occasion, be out of service as a result of unanticipated failures. We have experienced, and may in the future experience, material plant shutdowns or periods of reduced production as a result of such equipment failures. In addition to equipment failures, our facilities are also subject to the risk of catastrophic loss due to unanticipated events such as fires, explosions or violent weather conditions.

Competition from other materials may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

In many applications, steel competes with other materials, such as aluminum and plastics (particularly in the automobile industry), cement, composites, glass and wood. Increased use of or additional substitutes for steel products could adversely affect future market prices and demand for steel products.

Hedging transactions may expose us to losses or limit our potential gains.

Our product lines and worldwide operations expose us to risks associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices and interest rates. As part of our risk management program, we use financial instruments, including metals commodity futures, natural gas forward contracts, freight forward contracts, foreign currency exchange forward contracts and interest rate swap contracts. While intended to reduce the effects of the fluctuations, these transactions may limit our potential gains or expose us to losses. If our counterparties to such transactions or the sponsors of the exchanges through which these transactions are offered, such as the London Metal Exchange, fail to honor their obligations due to financial distress, we would be exposed to potential losses or the inability to recover anticipated gains from these transactions.

We enter into the foreign currency exchange forward contracts as economic hedges of trade commitments or anticipated commitments denominated in currencies other than the functional currency to mitigate the effects of changes in currency rates. These foreign exchange commitments are dependent on timely performance by our counterparties. Their failure to perform could result in our having to close these hedges without the anticipated underlying transaction and could result in losses if foreign currency exchange rates have changed.

We are subject to litigation and legal compliance risks which could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We are involved in various litigation matters, including regulatory proceedings, administrative proceedings, governmental investigations, environmental matters and construction contract disputes. The nature of our operations also exposes us to possible litigation claims in the future. Because of the uncertain nature of litigation and coverage decisions, we cannot predict the outcome of these matters. These matters could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Litigation is very costly, and the costs associated with prosecuting and defending litigation matters could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Although we are unable to estimate precisely the ultimate dollar amount of exposure to loss in connection with litigation matters, we make accruals as warranted. However, the amounts that we accrue could vary significantly from the amounts we actually pay, due to inherent uncertainties and the inherent shortcomings of the estimation process, the uncertainties involved in litigation and other factors. See Part I, Item 3, Legal Proceedings, for a description of our current significant legal proceedings.

As noted above, existing laws or regulations, as currently interpreted or reinterpreted in the future, and future laws and regulations, may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. See "Compliance with and changes in environmental compliance requirements and remediation requirements could result in substantially increased capital requirements and operating costs; violations of environmental requirements could result in costs that have a material adverse effect on our financial condition" above for a description of such risks relating to environmental laws and regulations. In addition to such environmental laws and regulations, complex foreign and U.S. laws and regulations that apply to our international operations, including without limitation the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar laws in other countries, which generally prohibit companies and those acting on their behalf from making improper payments to foreign government officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business, regulations related to import-export controls, the Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctions program and antiboycott provisions, may increase our cost of doing business in international jurisdictions and expose us and our employees to elevated risk. While we believe that we have adopted appropriate risk management and compliance programs, the nature of our operations means that legal and compliance risks will continue to exist. A negative outcome in an unusual or significant legal proceeding or compliance investigation could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Some of our operations present significant risk of injury or death.

The industrial activities conducted at our facilities present significant risk of serious injury or death to our employees, customers or other visitors to our operations, notwithstanding our safety precautions, including our material compliance with Federal, state and local employee health and safety regulations, and we may be unable to avoid material liabilities for injuries or deaths. We maintain workers' compensation insurance to address the risk of incurring material liabilities for injuries or deaths, but there can be no assurance that the insurance coverage will be adequate or will continue to be available on the terms acceptable to us, or at all, which could result in material liabilities to us for any injuries or deaths.

Health care legislation could result in substantially increased costs and adversely affect our workforce.

Recently enacted health care mandates may cause us to evaluate the scope of health benefits offered to our workforce and the method in which they are delivered, and increase our and our employees' costs. If we are not able to offer a competitive level of benefits, our ability to hire and retain qualified personnel may be adversely affected. Higher health care costs may result in (i) an inability to reinvest sufficient capital in our operations, (ii) an inability to sustain dividends, (iii) lowered debt ratings and (iv) an increase in the cost of capital, all of which may have a negative effect on the price of our common stock and a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

Americas Mills

Our Alabama steel minimill is located on approximately 70 acres of land, and it includes several buildings that occupy approximately 600,000 square feet. Our Arizona steel minimill is located on approximately 230 acres of land, and the buildings occupy approximately 320,000 square feet. Our Arkansas steel minimill is located on approximately 120 acres of land, and the buildings occupy approximately 240,000 square feet. Our South Carolina steel minimill is located on approximately 140 acres of land, and

the buildings occupy approximately 760,000 square feet. Our Texas steel minimill is located on approximately 660 acres of land, and its facilities include several buildings that occupy approximately 870,000 square feet.

Americas Recycling

Our U.S. scrap metal processing facilities occupy approximately 740 acres of land, approximately 40 acres of which we lease.

Americas Fabrication

We conduct steel fabrication at 42 locations, which occupy approximately 420 acres of land, approximately 10 acres of which we lease. Additionally, we conduct our construction services in 24 locations, which occupy approximately 80 acres of land, approximately 50 acres of which we lease. Finally, CMC Impact Metals occupies two locations covering approximately 110 acres of land that we own.

International Mill

CMCP 's steel manufacturing operations are located in Zawiercie in South Central Poland about 40 kilometers from Katowice. CMCP and its subsidiaries lease approximately 98% of the 2 million square meters of land utilized for its principal operations with the remaining portion owned. The land is leased from the State of Poland under contracts with 99 year terms that are considered to create a right of perpetual usufruct. The leases expire beginning in 2089 through 2100. The principal operations are conducted in buildings having an area of approximately 260,000 square meters. The real estate is also developed with over 130 other buildings, including warehouses, administrative offices, workshops, a garage, transformer stations, pumping stations, gas stations, boiler houses, gate houses and certain structures leased to unrelated parties and CMCP subsidiaries. Other much smaller tracts of land are leased or owned, including those utilized by scrap processing facilities and downstream fabrication shops across Poland. Our international fabrication operations utilize approximately 136,000 square meters of land, which is either owned or subject to a perpetual usufruct.

International Marketing and Distribution

We own one warehouse building utilized by our operations in Australia which is located on leased real estate. We lease one warehouse facility located in Australia as well as our Australian headquarters, marketing and administration offices. We lease one warehouse facility near Houston, Texas which handles and stores material for one of our marketing and distribution divisions headquartered in the U.S. Our UK distribution operation leases a warehouse building for inventory storage as well as sales and administrative offices. The remaining trading offices operate out of leased spaces. Additionally, this segment operates a recycling facility in Singapore, which is located on approximately two acres of leased land.

Corporate

We lease the office space occupied by our corporate headquarters.

The leases on the leased properties described above will expire on various dates and, with the exception of the CMCP leases described above, generally expire over the next ten years. Several of the leases have renewal options. We have had little difficulty in the past renewing such leases prior to their expiration. We estimate our minimum annual rental obligation for real estate operating leases in effect at August 31, 2015 , to be paid during fiscal 2016 , to be approximately $14.0 million.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and government investigations, including environmental matters.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company recorded a $45.5 million benefit as a result of a termination of a contract with a customer and is included in net sales on the Company's consolidated statements of earnings for fiscal 2015.

We have received notices from the EPA or state agencies with similar responsibility that we and numerous other parties are considered PRPs and may be obligated under CERCLA, or similar state statutes, to pay for the cost of remedial investigation, feasibility studies and ultimately remediation to correct alleged releases of hazardous substances at ten locations. The notices refer to the following locations, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we ever conducted operations: the Sapp Battery Site in Cottondale, Florida, the Interstate Lead Company Site in Leeds, Alabama, the Ross Metals Site in Rossville, Tennessee, the Li Tungsten Site in Glen Cove, New York, the Peak Oil Site in Tampa, Florida, the R&H Oil Site in San Antonio, Texas, the SoGreen/Parramore Site in Tifton, Georgia, the Jensen Drive site in Houston, Texas, and the Industrial Salvage site in Corpus Christi, Texas. We may contest our designation as a PRP with regard to certain sites, while at other sites we are participating

with other named PRPs in agreements or negotiations that have resulted or that we expect will result in agreements to remediate the sites. During 2010, we acquired a 70% interest in the real property at Jensen Drive as part of the remediation of that site. We have periodically received information requests from government environmental agencies with regard to other sites that are apparently under consideration for designation as listed sites under CERCLA or similar state statutes. Often we do not receive any further communication with regard to these sites, and as of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we do not know if any of these inquiries will ultimately result in a demand for payment from us.

The EPA notified us and other alleged PRPs that under Section 106 of CERCLA, we and the other PRPs could be subject to a maximum fine of $25,000 per day and the imposition of treble damages if we and the other PRPs refuse to clean up the Peak Oil, Sapp Battery and SoGreen/Parramore sites as ordered by the EPA. We are presently participating in PRP organizations at these sites, which are paying for certain site remediation expenses. We do not believe that the EPA will pursue any fines against us if we continue to participate in the PRP groups or if we have adequate defenses to the EPA's imposition of fines against us in these matters.

We believe that adequate provisions have been made in the financial statements for the potential impact of any loss in connection with the above-described legal proceedings and environmental matters. Management believes that the outcome of the proceedings mentioned, and other miscellaneous litigation and proceedings now pending, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

Not applicable.

PART II

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

MARKET AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION

The table below summarizes the high and low sales prices reported on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") for a share of CMC common stock and the quarterly cash dividends per share that CMC paid for the past two fiscal years.

PRICE RANGE

OF COMMON STOCK

CMC common stock is traded on the NYSE. The number of stockholders of record of CMC common stock at October 28, 2015 was 3,658.

EQUITY COMPENSATION PLANS

Information about our equity compensation plans as of August 31, 2015 was as follows:

STOCK PERFORMANCE GRAPH

The following graph compares the cumulative total return of CMC common stock during the five year period beginning September 1, 2010 and ending August 31, 2015 with the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index (the "S&P 500") and the Standard & Poor's Steel Industry Group Index (the "S&P Steel Group"). Each index assumes $100 invested at the close of trading August 31, 2010, and reinvestment of dividends.

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

The following table provides information about purchases by the Company during the quarter ended August 31, 2015 of equity securities that are registered by the Company pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act.

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial data for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2015 . The selected consolidated financial data presented below should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" set forth in Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes set forth in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

__________________________

* Excludes divisions classified as discontinued operations.

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

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to general economic conditions, our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and business and our expectations or beliefs concerning future events, including share repurchases and expectations regarding the new Oklahoma minimill. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by phrases such as we or our management "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "intends," "plans to," "ought," "could," "will," "should," "likely," "appears," "projects," "forecasts," "outlook" or other similar words or phrases. There are inherent risks and uncertainties in any forward-looking statements. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

Our forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and beliefs as of the time this Annual Report on Form 10-K is filed with the SEC or, with respect to any document incorporated by reference, as of the time such document was prepared. Although we believe that our expectations are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct, and actual results may vary materially. These factors include those described in Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update, amend or clarify any forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events, new information or circumstances or any other changes. Some of the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include the following:

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

OVERVIEW

Our business is organized into the following five segments: Americas Recycling, Americas Mills, Americas Fabrication, International Mill and International Marketing and Distribution.

Americas Recycling

Our Americas Recycling segment processes scrap metals for use as a raw material by manufacturers of new metal products. This segment operates 27 scrap metal processing facilities with 14 locations in Texas , five locations in Florida , two locations in Missouri and one location each in Georgia , Kansas , Louisiana , North Carolina , Oklahoma and Tennessee .

Americas Mills

Our Americas Mills segment is comprised of the following: (i) our five steel mills, commonly referred to as "minimills," that collectively produce reinforcing bar ("rebar"), angles, flats, rounds, small beams, fence post sections and other shapes; (ii) two scrap metal shredders and ten processing facilities that directly support the steel minimills; and (iii) a railroad salvage company.

In October 2013, we sold all of the outstanding capital stock of our wholly owned copper tube manufacturing operation, Howell Metal Company ("Howell"), for $58.5 million, of which $3.2 million was held in escrow as of August 31, 2015 , subject to customary purchase price adjustments. During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we made a $3.0 million working capital adjustment, which is included in our estimated pre-tax gain of $23.8 million. Howell was previously an operating segment included in the Americas Mills reporting segment. We have included Howell in discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Americas Fabrication

Our Americas Fabrication segment consists of our steel fabrication facilities that bend, weld, cut and fabricate steel, primarily rebar; warehouses that sell or rent products for the installation of concrete; facilities that produce steel fence posts; and facilities that heat-treat steel to improve strength and provide flexibility.

International Mill

Our International Mill segment is comprised of all of our mill, recycling and fabrication operations located in Poland. Our subsidiary, CMC Poland Sp. z.o.o., owns a steel minimill and conducts its mill operations in Zawiercie, Poland. This segment's operations primarily produce rebar, high quality merchant products and wire rod. In addition, this segment operates ferrous scrap processing facilities that directly support the Poland minimill and four steel fabrication facilities primarily for reinforcing bar and mesh.

International Marketing and Distribution

Our International Marketing and Distribution segment includes international operations for the sales, distribution and processing of primary and secondary metals, fabricated metals, semi-finished, long and flat steel products and other industrial products. Additionally, this segment includes two of our marketing and distribution divisions headquartered in the United States, CMC Cometals and CMC Cometals Steel, and a recycling facility in Singapore. We market and distribute products through our global network of offices and processing facilities. Our customers use these products in a variety of industries.

During the first quarter of 2015 , we decided to exit our steel distribution business in Australia and determined that the decision to exit this business met the definition of a discontinued operation. Therefore, this business has been recast as a discontinued operation for all periods presented. The Australian steel distribution business was previously an operating segment in the International Marketing and Distribution reporting segment. On July 31, 2015, we completed the sale of six locations that were a part of our Australian steel distribution business. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 , we ceased all operations at three other locations that were part of our Australian steel distribution business. As of August 31, 2015 , one location of our Australian steel distribution business remained for sale and continued to be classified as held for sale.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014, we made the decision to exit our steel trading business headquartered in Zug, Switzerland. In connection with this decision, severance and other exit costs incurred by the Company were not material.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion of our results of operations is based on our continuing operations and excludes any results of our discontinued operations.

Consolidated Results of Operations

_________________________

* Excludes divisions classified as discontinued operations.

** Last-in, first-out inventory valuation method.

+ Non-GAAP financial measure.

Adjusted EBITDA

In the table above, we have included financial statement measures that were not derived in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). We use adjusted EBITDA (earnings from continuing operations before net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests, interest expense, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and impairment charges) as a non-GAAP financial measure. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to net earnings or as a better measure of liquidity than net cash flows from operating activities, as determined by GAAP. However, we believe that adjusted EBITDA provides relevant and useful information that is often used by analysts, creditors and other interested parties in our industry. In calculating adjusted EBITDA, we exclude our largest recurring non-cash charge, depreciation and amortization, as well as impairment charges, which are also non-cash. Adjusted EBITDA provides a core operational performance measurement that compares results without the need to adjust for federal, state and local taxes which have considerable variation between U.S. jurisdictions. Tax regulations in international operations add additional complexity. We also exclude interest expense in our calculation of adjusted EBITDA. The results are, therefore, without consideration of financing alternatives of capital employed. Adjusted EBITDA is part of a debt compliance test in certain of our debt agreements and is the target benchmark for our annual and long-term cash incentive performance plans for management. Adjusted EBITDA may be inconsistent with similar measures presented by other companies.

Reconciliations of earnings from continuing operations to adjusted EBITDA are provided below:

As noted above, our adjusted EBITDA does not include net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests, interest expense, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and impairment charges. Because we have borrowed money in order to finance our operations, interest expense is a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate revenues. The payment of income taxes

is a necessary element of our operations. Because we use capital assets, depreciation and amortization are also necessary elements of our costs. Impairment charges, when necessary, accelerate the write-off of fixed assets that otherwise would have been accomplished by periodic depreciation charges. Therefore, any measures that exclude these elements have material limitations. To compensate for these limitations, we believe that it is appropriate to consider both net earnings determined in accordance with GAAP as well as adjusted EBITDA to evaluate our performance. Further, we separately analyze any significant fluctuations in interest expense, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and impairment charges.

Adjusted Operating Profit

The other non-GAAP financial measure included in the table above is adjusted operating profit. We use adjusted operating profit to compare and evaluate the financial performance of our segments. Adjusted operating profit is the sum of our earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, interest expense and discounts on sales of accounts receivable. For added flexibility, we may sell certain accounts receivable both in the U.S. and internationally. We consider sales of receivables as an alternative source of liquidity to finance our operations, and we believe that removing these costs provides a clearer perspective of our operating performance. Adjusted operating profit may be inconsistent with similar measures presented by other companies.

Reconciliations of earnings from continuing operations to adjusted operating profit are provided below:

Fiscal Year 2015 Compared to Fiscal Year 2014

Summary

Net sales for fiscal 2015 decreased $801.8 million , or 12% , compared to fiscal 2014 . The decrease in net sales was primarily due to a decrease in tons shipped and a decrease in average selling prices across our Americas Recycling, Americas Mills, International Mill and International Marketing and Distribution segments. The decrease in net sales also reflects unfavorable foreign currency impacts of approximately $105.4 million and $38.6 million in fiscal 2015 for our International Mill and International Marketing and Distribution segments, respectively, while changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies did not have a material impact on these segments' net sales in fiscal 2014 . In contrast, our Americas Fabrication segment reported an increase in net sales due to an increase in tons shipped and average composite selling price. In general, the strong U.S. dollar, increased import pressure in the U.S. and Poland, as well as excess global capacity during the current fiscal year adversely impacted our net sales.

Adjusted operating profit for fiscal 2015 increased $91.1 million , or 39% , compared to fiscal 2014 primarily driven by our Americas Mills, Americas Fabrication and International Marketing and Distribution segments. Our Americas Mills segment benefited from a 9% improvement in average metal margin during fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 primarily due to a decrease in the average cost of ferrous scrap consumed, which more than offset a decrease in the average selling price for this segment. Our Americas Fabrication segment primarily benefited from a 12% expansion in the average metal margin during fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 . During fiscal 2015 , our International Marketing and Distribution segment primarily benefited from a $45.5 million contract termination benefit, partially offset by a $12.4 million inventory write-down. In contrast, our Americas Recycling and International Mill segments reported decreases in adjusted operating profit for fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 . During fiscal 2015 , our Americas Recycling segment was adversely impacted by a squeeze on the average metal margin for both ferrous and nonferrous material and a $7.3 million goodwill impairment charge. For our International Mill segment, a 19% decrease in the average metal margin, coupled with a $3.5 million unfavorable foreign currency impact, resulted in a decrease in adjusted operating profit for fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 , which was partially offset by cost savings due to the commissioning of a new electric arc furnace during the third quarter of fiscal 2014 .

We reported pre-tax LIFO income of $79.3 million in fiscal 2015, a favorable change of $92.9 million compared to $13.6 million pre-tax LIFO expense in fiscal 2014. The favorable change in pre-tax LIFO primarily resulted from decreasing prices across all of our segments, as inventory levels in the aggregate were down slightly.

Effective September 1, 2014, we changed our method of determining our interim LIFO inventory reserve from the complete quarterly LIFO valuation method to the expected annual LIFO valuation method. Under the expected annual LIFO valuation method, interim LIFO expense or income is based on management's current estimates of inventory costs and quantities at fiscal year end, and that annual estimate is recorded ratably over the remainder of the fiscal year. We updated our estimate at each fiscal quarter end, resulting in pre-tax LIFO income of $6.2 million, $72.5 million and $37.1 million for the three months ended November 30, 2014, February 28, 2015 and May 31, 2015, respectively. The actual full fiscal year LIFO result differed from management's estimates of inventory costs and quantities during the interim periods. Accordingly, we recorded pre-tax LIFO expense of $36.5 million for the three months ended August 31, 2015 , resulting in pre-tax LIFO income, as discussed above, of $79.3 million for fiscal 2015 .

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses from continuing operations in fiscal 2015 decreased $5.7 million compared to fiscal 2014 . During fiscal 2014 , selling, general and administrative expenses included a pre-tax charge of approximately $4 million that was incurred in connection with our final settlement of the Standard Iron Works v. ArcelorMittal et al. lawsuit. Additionally, during fiscal 2015 , insurance costs and program and discount fees related to our accounts receivable securitization programs decreased compared to fiscal 2014 . These decreases in selling, general and administrative expenses were partially offset by a decrease in gains realized on sales of fixed assets during fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 .

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate from continuing operations for the year ended August 31, 2015 was 34.0% compared to 28.1% for the year ended August 31, 2014 . In fiscal 2015 , our income tax rate benefited from income earned from operations in countries which have lower statutory income tax rates than the United States, notably Poland. However, the portion of such income earned in fiscal 2015 was less than in the prior year, thus providing less benefit to our effective income tax rate than in fiscal 2014 . We realized a benefit under Section 199 of the Internal Revenue Code (the "Code") related to U.S. production activity income, which was larger than the benefit for fiscal 2014 , driven primarily by the increase in U.S. production related income in fiscal 2015 . Additionally, during fiscal 2015 we had a non-deductible loss on assets segregated to fund our nonqualified benefit restoration plan ("BRP Plan"). Compared to the BRP adjustment in fiscal 2014 , which was a non-taxable gain, this also caused our effective tax rate to increase year over year.

As noted above, in fiscal 2014 , the income tax rate of 28.1% benefited from a higher portion of the Company's global operating income earned from operations in countries with lower statutory income tax rates than the United States, including Poland. Additionally, our state and local tax expense in fiscal 2014 was reduced, benefiting the effective tax rate, as we were able to release valuation allowances recorded against certain deferred tax assets for net operating losses in various states due to previous losses in our Americas Fabrication reporting segment.

We intend to indefinitely reinvest all undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries. While not expected, if a repatriation occurs in the future, we would be required to provide for income taxes on repatriated earnings from our non-U.S. subsidiaries. Determination of the unrecognized deferred income tax liability related to the undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries is not practicable because of the complexities with its hypothetical calculation.

Fiscal Year 2014 Compared to Fiscal Year 2013

Summary

Net sales for fiscal 2014 increased $189.4 million, or 3%, compared to fiscal 2013 . The increase in net sales was primarily due to an increase in tons shipped and an increase in average selling prices for our Americas Mills segment. Our Americas Fabrication and International Marketing and Distribution segments also reported an increase in net sales over fiscal 2013, while our Americas Recycling segment reported a decline in net sales. In general, economic activity in the U.S. increased during the current fiscal year while weak global economies adversely impacted results for some of our operations within our International division.

Adjusted operating profit for fiscal 2014 decreased $1.5 million compared to fiscal 2013 , with adjusted operating profit decreasing for three of our reporting segments and increasing for two of our reporting segments. Our Americas Recycling segment was adversely impacted by a squeeze on average metal margin for ferrous material and increased employee-related expenses when compared to fiscal 2013 . Margin compression on both rebar and structural fabrication products, coupled with increased employee-related expenses had an adverse impact on adjusted operating profit for Americas Fabrication compared to fiscal 2013 . International Marketing and Distribution was adversely impacted by an unfavorable change in pre-tax LIFO. Additionally, during fiscal 2013 , we completed the sale of our 11% ownership interest in Trinecke Zelezarny, a.s. ("Trinecke"), a Czech Republic joint-stock company, for $29.0 million resulting in a pre-tax gain of $26.1 million , which did not repeat in fiscal 2014 . This gain was recorded in our International Marketing and Distribution segment. In contrast, our Americas Mills and International Mill segments reported an increase in adjusted operating profit. Americas Mills primarily benefited from increased volumes on flat metal margins. International Mill primarily benefited from improved metal margins and cost savings due to the commissioning of a new electric arc furnace during fiscal 2014.

We reported an unfavorable change in pre-tax LIFO of $66.5 million from $52.9 million in pre-tax LIFO income reported in fiscal 2013 to $13.6 million in pre-tax LIFO expense reported in fiscal 2014 . The unfavorable change in pre-tax LIFO primarily resulted from increasing prices in our Americas Mills and Americas Fabrication segments as well as one of our marketing and distribution divisions headquartered in the U.S. within the International Marketing and Distribution segment during fiscal 2014 , as compared to decreasing prices overall during fiscal 2013 .

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses from continuing operations in fiscal 2014 increased $9.4 million compared to fiscal 2013 . The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses in fiscal 2014 was due to an increase in employee-related expenses and a pre-tax charge of approximately $4 million that was incurred in connection with our final settlement of the Standard Iron Works v. ArcelorMittal et al. lawsuit compared to fiscal 2013 . Partially offsetting the increases to selling, general and administrative expenses in fiscal 2014 were reductions in shareholder expenses and in our allowance for doubtful accounts as well

as an increase in gains realized on sales of fixed assets. Additionally, a $4.8 million loss on extinguishment of debt was recorded in fiscal 2013 .

Interest Expense

Interest expense from continuing operations for fiscal 2014 increased $8.6 million to $77.0 million compared to fiscal 2013 due to the issuance of additional long-term notes in May 2013, which increased our overall long-term debt balance by $130 million in fiscal 2013 .

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate from continuing operations for the year ended August 31, 2014 was 28.1% compared to 35.6% for the year ended August 31, 2013 . In fiscal 2014 , the income tax rate benefited from income from operations in countries which have lower statutory income tax rates than the United States, notably Poland, which has a statutory rate of 19%. In addition, we realized a benefit under Section 199 of the Code related to U.S. production activity income and had a non-taxable net holding gain on assets segregated to fund our nonqualified BRP plan. In fiscal 2014 , we released $3.0 million of valuation allowances previously recorded against net operating losses generated in various states due to previous losses in our Americas Fabrication reporting segment. The valuation allowances were released due to taxable income generated by this segment in both fiscal 2014 and 2013 .

In fiscal 2013 , the relatively higher income tax rate of 35.6% was largely due to an increase in valuation allowances recorded against net operating losses generated by our non-U.S. operations, notably unfavorable results reported by our Australian operations during fiscal 2013 , which led these operations to a three year cumulative loss position. As a result, we determined that it was more likely than not that the deferred tax assets associated with the Australian operations would not be realized; as such, we established a $14.5 million valuation allowance for these operations in fiscal 2013 .

Segments

Unless otherwise indicated, all dollar amounts below are from continuing operations and calculated before income taxes. Financial results for our reportable segments are consistent with the basis and manner in which we internally disaggregate financial information for the purpose of making operating decisions. See Note 21, Business Segments, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Fiscal Year 2015 Compared to Fiscal Year 2014

Americas Recycling

Net sales in fiscal 2015 decreased $344.4 million , or 25% , compared to fiscal 2014 primarily due to a decrease in the average ferrous selling price of $70 per short ton coupled with a 15% decrease in ferrous tons shipped. Ferrous scrap prices were depressed during fiscal 2015 due to a strong U.S. dollar, strong flow of imported steel and historically low iron ore pricing. Additionally, the average nonferrous selling price declined $358 per short ton and nonferrous tons shipped decreased 3% . The strengthening of the U.S. dollar weakened export demand and dampened nonferrous average selling prices.

Adjusted operating loss in fiscal 2015 increased $15.4 million compared to fiscal 2014 primarily due to the decline in average ferrous and nonferrous selling prices discussed above, which outweighed a decrease in both average ferrous and nonferrous material cost and compressed average ferrous and nonferrous metal margins by 5% and 11%, respectively, compared to fiscal 2014 . Additionally, for fiscal 2015 , labor and employee benefit expenses increased approximately 7% per short ton as a result of a decrease in total tons shipped compared to fiscal 2014 . Furthermore, this segment recorded goodwill impairment charges of $7.3 million as a result of the Company's annual goodwill impairment analysis in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 . However, an $8.1 million favorable change in pre-tax LIFO during fiscal 2015 partially offset the average metal margin pressure discussed above. The favorable change in pre-tax LIFO was primarily the result of prices decreasing at a faster pace during fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 , partially offset by lower inventory quantities.

Americas Mills

Net sales in fiscal 2015 decreased $149.5 million , or 8% , compared to fiscal 2014 due to a 3% decrease in total shipments and a $38 per short ton decrease in the average selling price compared to fiscal 2014 as a result of continued import pressures in the U.S. Shipments of our higher priced finished products, including rebar and merchants, remained flat while our lower priced billet shipments decreased approximately 74 thousand short tons compared to fiscal 2014 .

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2015 increased $56.6 million , or 23% , compared to fiscal 2014 . During fiscal 2015 , the average cost of ferrous scrap consumed decreased $66 per short ton compared to fiscal 2014 , which more than offset the decreases in total shipments and average selling price discussed above and increased average metal margins by 9%. Additionally, this segment recorded a favorable change in pre-tax LIFO of $57.6 million compared to fiscal 2014 due to lower raw material cost components throughout inventory in fiscal 2015 compared to inventory price increases in fiscal 2014 . However, labor and employee benefit expenses increased 5% per short ton in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 partially due to the reduction in tons shipped discussed above. Furthermore, repairs and maintenance expense increased $12.1 million in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 due to routine maintenance and equipment enhancements conducted in the normal course of business.

Americas Fabrication

Net sales in fiscal 2015 increased $86.8 million , or 6% , compared to fiscal 2014 due to a 2% increase in shipments coupled with a $15 per short ton increase in the average composite selling price compared to fiscal 2014 . The increase in shipments during fiscal 2015 was primarily the result of an increase in non-residential construction spending in the United States compared to fiscal 2014 .

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2015 increased $33.0 million compared to fiscal 2014 due to the increases in shipments and average composite selling price noted above combined with a 2% decrease in average composite material cost, which resulted in a 12% increase in average composite metal margin compared to fiscal 2014 . Additionally, this segment recorded a favorable change in pre-tax LIFO of $17.2 million compared to fiscal 2014 . The favorable change in pre-tax LIFO was triggered by lower material costs across all product lines in fiscal 2015 compared to increasing inventory prices in fiscal 2014 . However, labor and employee benefit expenses increased 9% per short ton compared to fiscal 2014 in order to fulfill current activity levels.

International Mill

Net sales in fiscal 2015 decreased $196.9 million , or 24% , compared to fiscal 2014 due to a 5% decline in shipments coupled with a 21% decline in average selling price. The decrease in average selling price for fiscal 2015 was a result of increased import pressure in Poland compared to fiscal 2014 . Additionally, the decrease in net sales for fiscal 2015 reflected an unfavorable foreign currency impact of approximately $105.4 million. Changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies did not have a material impact on this segment's net sales in fiscal 2014 .

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2015 decreased $13.1 million compared to fiscal 2014 due to a 19% decrease in average metal margin in fiscal 2015 as a result of a $125 per short ton decrease in average selling price which outpaced a $77 per short ton decrease in the average cost of ferrous scrap consumed. Partially offsetting the decrease in average metal margin for fiscal 2015 , utilities and repairs and maintenance expense decreased by $24.6 million compared to fiscal 2014 primarily due to efficiencies gained from the commissioning of a new, state-of-the-art electric arc furnace in the third quarter of fiscal 2014. For fiscal 2015 , freight expenses also decreased 29% per short ton compared to fiscal 2014 primarily due to a decrease in exports in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014. For fiscal 2015 and 2014 , adjusted operating profit reflected an unfavorable foreign currency impact of approximately $3.5 million and $4.6 million, respectively.

International Marketing and Distribution

Net sales in fiscal 2015 decreased $222.9 million , or 11% , compared to fiscal 2014 . The decrease in net sales for fiscal 2015 was primarily due to decreases in volumes and the average selling price for our Asian operations and decreases in volumes for our Australian operations which surpassed a modest increase in the average selling price for our Australian operations compared to fiscal 2014 . An economic slowdown in China coupled with a reduction in China's consumption of raw materials has largely driven a collapse in commodity prices in the Asia-Pacific region as well as in other markets globally. Partially offsetting the decrease in net sales, this segment recorded a $45.5 million benefit as a result of a termination of a contract with a customer, which was recorded in net sales for this segment. Furthermore, the decrease in net sales for fiscal 2015 reflected an unfavorable foreign currency impact of $38.6 million. Changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies did not have a material impact on this segment's net sales in fiscal 2014 .

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2015 increased $33.9 million  compared to fiscal 2014 . The improvement in adjusted operating profit resulted from a $45.5 million contract termination benefit and a favorable change in pre-tax LIFO of $10.0 million. The favorable change in pre-tax LIFO was due to price decreases in fiscal 2015 , compared to price increases in fiscal 2014 , partially offset by lower inventory quantities. Contrasting the improvement in adjusted operating profit, this segment recorded a $12.4 million inventory write-down during fiscal 2015 . Adjusted operating profit for this segment was also unfavorably impacted by foreign currency transaction losses, partially offset by gains on foreign exchange derivative instruments, resulting in a net decrease in adjusted operating profit of $8.3 million . The transaction losses were primarily due to the movements of the euro and zloty in relation to the U.S. dollar and movements of the U.S. dollar in relation to the British pound. Such transactions did not have a material impact on adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014. Furthermore, during fiscal 2015 , the changes in this segment's costs of goods sold reflected a favorable foreign currency impact of $40.1 million. Changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies did not have a material impact on this segment's adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 .

Corporate

Corporate expenses in fiscal 2015 increased $5.5 million to $77.8 million compared to fiscal 2014 primarily as a result of a decrease in earnings on BRP assets and a decrease in inter-company interest charged to our other operating segments, which were partially offset by decreased pension and BRP expense.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS DATA

Despite focused efforts and substantial progress to stabilize and improve the results of our Australian steel distribution business, we determined that achieving acceptable financial returns would take additional time and investment. In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we decided to exit our steel distribution business in Australia and determined that the decision to exit this business met the definition of a discontinued operation. As a result, our steel distribution business in Australia has been presented as a discontinued operation for all periods. On July 31, 2015, we completed the sale of six locations that were a part of our Australian steel distribution business. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 , we ceased all operations at three other locations that were part of our Australian steel distribution business. As of August 31, 2015 , one location of the Australian steel distribution business remained for sale and continued to be classified as held for sale. The expenses associated with exiting this business were not material for the year ended August 31, 2015 . Our Australian steel distribution business was previously an operating segment in the International Marketing and Distribution segment.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, we decided to sell all of the outstanding capital stock of Howell. In October 2013, the Company completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of Howell for $58.5 million, of which $3.2 million was held in escrow as of August 31, 2015 . During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we made a $3.0 million working capital adjustment, which is included in our estimated pre-tax gain of $23.8 million. We sold the remaining assets of our copper tube manufacturing operation for $1.1 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 with an immaterial impact to the consolidated statements of earnings. We have included Howell in discontinued operations for all periods presented. Howell was previously an operating segment included in the Americas Mills reporting segment.

Fiscal Year 2014 Compared to Fiscal Year 2013

Americas Recycling

Net sales in fiscal 2014 decreased $24.7 million , or 2% , compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to a 4% per short ton decline in average nonferrous selling prices.

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 decreased $ 6.4 million compared to fiscal 2013 , primarily due to the decline in net sales discussed above outpacing a $21.6 million decrease in cost of goods sold. The decrease in adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 was also attributed to a 5% increase in selling, general and administrative expenses as a result of an increase in this segment's labor and other variable employee-related expenses compared to fiscal 2013 . In fiscal 2014 , ferrous tons shipped increased 1% while average ferrous selling price was flat and average ferrous material cost increased $2 per short ton, resulting in a 2% ferrous metal margin squeeze compared to fiscal 2013 . The contraction in ferrous metal margin was due to a lower availability in the scrap markets in which we operate and pressure from falling iron ore prices. Adding additional pressure to adjusted operating profit, pre-tax LIFO income decreased $5.0 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 . The lower pre-tax LIFO income in fiscal 2014 was mostly due to flat inventory pricing and lower volumes, while in fiscal 2013 inventory pricing declined overall. Partially offsetting the decrease in adjusted operating profit, nonferrous material cost declined at a faster pace than the decline in average nonferrous selling price, on stable tons shipped, and resulted in nonferrous metal margins expanding 6% in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 . The expansion in nonferrous metal margin was due to an increase in demand for certain products such as aluminum and stainless steel primarily due to demand from manufacturers in the U.S. and Europe.

Americas Mills

Net sales in fiscal 2014 increased $171.8 million , or 9% , compared to fiscal 2013 due to an 8% increase in total shipments and a $6 per short ton increase in average selling prices across all product groups. The increases in shipments and average selling prices were due to stronger construction activity and capacity improvements in U.S. steelmaking. Shipments of our higher priced finished products, including rebar and merchant, increased 202 thousand short tons while our lower priced billet shipments increased twelve thousand short tons compared to fiscal 2013 .

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 increased $43.4 million , or 21% , compared to fiscal 2013 , primarily due to the increase in total shipments discussed above. There were no material changes in product mix affecting the change in adjusted operating profit. Average total conversion costs improved $3 per short ton further contributing to the improvement in adjusted operating profit. Average metal margin in fiscal 2014 was essentially flat compared to fiscal 2013 as a result of the average cost of ferrous scrap consumed increasing at the same rate as the increase in average selling prices. Adjusted operating profit was impacted by an 8% increase in cost of goods sold, including a $16.0 million unfavorable change in pre-tax LIFO due to price increases in fiscal 2014 , compared to price decreases in fiscal 2013 . Furthermore, the increase in cost of goods sold in fiscal 2014 included a 5% increase in freight expense per ton shipped. Utility expenses increased approximately $6.5 million, and alloy expenses increased approximately $5.9 million primarily due to the increase in tons melted. The increases in utility and alloy costs were partially offset by approximately a $2 per short ton decrease in electrode rates. Selling, general and administrative expense related to this segment increased 9% in fiscal 2014 as a result of an increase in labor and other employee-related expenses and further offset the increase in adjusted operating profit compared to fiscal 2013 .

Americas Fabrication

Net sales in fiscal 2014 increased $94.8 million , or 7% , compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to a 10% increase in rebar tons shipped, which outpaced a 2% decline in our composite average selling price. The increase in rebar tons shipped is the result of an improvement in the non-residential construction market during fiscal 2014 and growth of our backlog over time.

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 decreased $21.8 million compared to fiscal 2013 . The decrease in adjusted operating profit was impacted by margin compression on rebar and structural fabrication products due to a decline in the average selling price and an increase in average material costs, coupled with flat volumes for structural products. An increased availability of lower priced, import products and competitive price pressures were the primary drivers of lower average selling prices. Conversely, higher operating rates by U.S. mills resulted in higher average material costs. In addition, a 13% increase in employee-related expenses, resulting from the increase in rebar shipments, also contributed to the decline in adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 . Furthermore, an unfavorable change in pre-tax LIFO of $12.8 million was primarily due to increasing input prices in fiscal 2014 compared to decreasing prices in fiscal 2013 .

International Mill

Net sales in fiscal 2014 decreased $2.9 million , or less than 1%, compared to fiscal 2013 due to a 3% decline in shipments offset by a 3% increase in average selling prices. Changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies did not have a material impact on International Mill's net sales in fiscal 2014 or fiscal 2013 .

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 increased $29.7 million compared to fiscal 2013 due to an 11% increase in average metal margin in fiscal 2014 as a result of a $16 per short ton increase in average selling prices coupled with a $9 per short ton decrease in the average cost of ferrous scrap consumed. The average selling prices and average metal margin in fiscal 2014 improved as the negative effects of the value-added tax circumvention schemes that impacted this segment in prior years have continued to subside. Further contributing to the increase in adjusted operating profit, direct utility costs decreased 10% in fiscal 2014 when compared to fiscal 2013 due to lower tons melted and rolled and, to a lesser extent, efficiencies gained by the commissioning of our new electric arc furnace in Poland. Adjusted operating profit was unfavorably impacted in fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 by $4.6 million and $3.2 million, respectively, as a result of changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies.

International Marketing and Distribution

Net sales in fiscal 2014 increased $26.4 million , or 1% , compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to an increase in volumes for our Asian and European operations, which more than offset decreases in the average selling price per short ton at these same divisions. Changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies did not have a material impact on this segment's net sales in fiscal 2014 or 2013 .

Adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 decreased $39.3 million  compared to fiscal 2013 primarily due to an unfavorable change in pre-tax LIFO of $32.8 million due to price increases in fiscal 2014 compared to price decreases in 2013 . Additionally, adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2013 included a $26.1 million gain on the sale of our 11% ownership interest in Trinecke. These unfavorable impacts to adjusted operating profit were partially offset by volume and margin increases at our European operations, as well as volume increases at our Asian operations that overcame a margin decrease for this division. Changes in the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies did not have a material impact on this segment's adjusted operating profit in fiscal 2014 or 2013 .

Corporate

Our corporate expenses increased $5.9 million in fiscal 2014 to $72.3 million compared to fiscal 2013 primarily as a result of an increase in variable employee benefits and other employee-related expenses.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS DATA

Despite focused efforts and substantial progress to stabilize and improve the results of our Australian steel distribution business, we determined that achieving acceptable financial returns would take additional time and investment. In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we decided to exit our steel distribution business in Australia and determined that the decision to exit this business met the definition of a discontinued operation. As a result, our steel distribution business in Australia has been presented as a discontinued operation for all periods. The Australian steel distribution business was previously an operating segment in the International Marketing and Distribution reporting segment.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 , we decided to sell all of the outstanding capital stock of Howell. In October 2013, we completed the sale of all of the outstanding capital stock of Howell for $58.5 million, of which $3.2 million was held in escrow as of August 31, 2014 . During the second quarter of fiscal 2014 , we made a $3.0 million working capital adjustment, which is included in our estimated pre-tax gain of $23.8 million. We sold the remaining assets of our copper tube manufacturing operation for $1.1 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 with an immaterial impact to the consolidated statements of earnings. We have included Howell in discontinued operations for all periods presented. Howell was previously an operating segment included in the Americas Mills reporting segment.

OUTLOOK

Non-residential construction spending, which is our primary end use market in the U.S., was up 24% year over year in August. However, we believe our operations will continue to face pressure from historically high steel import activity into the U.S. and Poland, a strong U.S. dollar and continued weakness in the scrap markets. We believe the increased import activity is a result of unfair trading practices by certain foreign producers. While recent legislation passed by the U.S. government has improved the trading landscape, further legislation is necessary to bring global steel trading to a more level playing field. Additionally, we believe that China's inability to consume all of their production will continue to cause a negative effect around the world. In light of these market difficulties, we remain committed to managing the items within our control, namely reducing selling, general and administrative expenses, improving working capital, cost savings through supply chain optimization and prudent allocation of capital.

Our first quarter of the fiscal year historically has been a seasonally slower period as the construction season winds down before the onset of the winter months. We believe that our Americas Mills operations remain strong, and the backlog in our Americas Fabrication business is good.

Fiscal 2015 Liquidity and Capital Resources

See Note 11, Credit Arrangements, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.

While we believe the lending institutions participating in our credit arrangements are financially capable, it is important to note that the banking and capital markets periodically experience volatility that may limit our ability to raise capital. Additionally, changes to our credit rating by any rating agency may negatively impact our ability to raise capital and manage our financing costs.

The table below reflects our sources, facilities and availability of liquidity as of August 31, 2015 :

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* We believe we have access to additional financing and refinancing, if needed.

We have $400 million of 6.50% Senior Notes due July 2017 (the "2017 Notes"), $500 million of 7.35% Senior Notes due August 2018 (the "2018 Notes") and $330 million of 4.875% Senior Notes due May 2023 (the "2023 Notes" and together with the 2017 Notes and the 2018 Notes, the "Notes"). The Notes require interest only payments until maturity. We expect cash from operations to be sufficient to meet all interest and principal payments due within the next twelve months, and we believe we will be able to obtain additional financing or to refinance these notes when they mature.

CMC Poland Sp. z.o.o. ("CMCP") has uncommitted credit facilities of PLN 215.0 million ( $56.9 million ) with several banks with expiration dates ranging from November 2015 to March 2016 . We intend to renew the uncommitted credit facilities upon expiration. During fiscal 2015 , CMCP had total borrowings of $49.6 million and total repayments of $49.6 million under these facilities. At August 31, 2015 , no material amounts were outstanding under these facilities.

On June 26, 2014, we entered into a fourth amended and restated credit agreement (the "Credit Agreement") for a revolving credit facility of $350.0 million and a maturity date of June 26, 2019 , replacing the third amended and restated $300.0 million revolving credit facility with a maturity date of December 27, 2016 . The maximum availability under the Credit Agreement can be increased to $500.0 million . The Company's obligation under its Credit Agreement is secured by its inventory. Consistent with our previous revolving credit facility, the Credit Agreement's capacity includes $50.0 million for the issuance of stand-by letters of credit and was reduced by outstanding stand-by letters of credit, which totaled $23.4 million at August 31, 2015 .

Under the Credit Agreement, we are required to comply with certain financial and non-financial covenants, including covenants to maintain: (i) an interest coverage ratio (consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest expense, as each is defined in the Credit Agreement) of not less than 2.50 to 1.00 and (ii) a debt to capitalization ratio (consolidated funded debt to total capitalization, as each is defined in the Credit Agreement) that does not exceed 0.60 to 1.00. In addition, beginning on the date three months prior to each maturity date of the 2017 Notes and the 2018 Notes and each day thereafter that the 2017 Notes and the 2018 Notes are outstanding, we will be required to maintain liquidity of at least $150 million in excess of each of the outstanding aggregate principal amounts of the 2017 Notes and 2018 Notes. Loans under the Credit Agreement bear interest based on the Eurocurrency rate, a base rate, or the LIBOR rate. At August 31, 2015 , our interest coverage ratio was 5.76 to 1.00 and our debt to capitalization ratio was 0.49 to 1.00.

At August 31, 2015 , we were in compliance with all of the covenants contained in our debt agreements.

Our foreign operations generated approximately 22% of our net sales in fiscal 2015 , and as a result, our foreign operations had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $43.7 million and $42.0 million at August 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Historically, our U.S. operations have generated the majority of our cash, which has been used to fund the cash needs of our U.S. operations as well as our foreign operations. Additionally, our U.S. operations have access to the $350 million Credit Agreement described above and the $200.0 million sale of receivable program described below. We intend to indefinitely reinvest all undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries. While not expected, if a repatriation occurs in the future, we would be required to provide for income taxes on repatriated earnings from our non-U.S. subsidiaries. Determination of the unrecognized deferred income tax liability related to the undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries is not practicable because of the complexities with its hypothetical calculation.

We regularly maintain a substantial amount of accounts receivable. We actively monitor our accounts receivable, and based on market conditions and customers' financial condition, we record allowances as soon as we believe accounts are uncollectible. Continued pressure on the liquidity of our customers could result in additional allowances as we make our assessments in the future. We use credit insurance both in the U.S. and internationally to mitigate the risk of customer insolvency. We estimate that the amount of credit insured receivables (and those covered by export letters of credit) was approximately 35% of total receivables at August 31, 2015 .

For added flexibility, we may sell certain accounts receivable both in the U.S. and internationally. See Note 5, Sales of Accounts Receivable, to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our U.S. sale of accounts receivable program contains certain cross-default provisions whereby a termination event could occur if we default under certain of our credit arrangements. Additionally, our sales of accounts receivable program contains covenants that are consistent with the covenants contained in the Credit Agreement.

We utilize documentary letter of credit programs whereby we assign certain trade accounts payable associated with trading transactions entered into by our marketing and distribution divisions. These letters of credit allow for payment at a future date and are used as an additional source of working capital financing. These letters of credit are issued under uncommitted lines of credit, which are in addition to and separate from our contractually committed revolving credit arrangements and are not included in our overall liquidity analysis. We had $41.5 million and $125.1 million of documentary letters of credit outstanding at August 31, 2015 and August 31, 2014 , respectively. The decrease in documentary letters of credit in fiscal 2015 resulted in a use of cash of $80.5 million for financing activities. The amount of documentary letters of credit outstanding during the period can fluctuate as a result of the level of activity and volume of materials purchased during the period as well as a result of their length and timing to maturity.

On October 27, 2014, CMC's Board of Directors authorized a new share repurchase program under which we may repurchase up to $100.0 million of CMC's outstanding common stock. This new program replaced the existing program, which was terminated by CMC's Board of Directors in connection with the approval of the new program. We intend to repurchase shares from time to time for cash in open market transactions or in privately-negotiated transactions in accordance with applicable federal securities laws. The timing and the amount of repurchases, if any, will be determined by management based on an evaluation of market conditions, capital allocation alternatives and other factors. The new share repurchase program does not require us to acquire any dollar amount or number of shares of CMC's common stock and may be modified, suspended, extended or terminated at any time without prior notice. Under the new share repurchase program, CMC purchased 2,902,218 shares during the year ended August 31, 2015 and had remaining authorization to purchase $58.2 million of its common stock at August 31, 2015 .

Cash Flows

Our cash flows from operating activities result primarily from sales of steel and related products, and to a lesser extent, sales of nonferrous metal products and other raw materials used in steel manufacturing. We have a diverse and generally stable customer base. From time to time, we use futures or forward contracts to mitigate the risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, natural gas prices and interest rates. See Note 12, Derivatives and Risk Management, to the consolidated financial statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Fiscal 2015 Compared to Fiscal 2014

During fiscal 2015 , net cash flows from operating activities increased $176.5 million compared to fiscal 2014 . Net earnings increased $26.1 million during fiscal 2015 compared to the prior fiscal year. For fiscal 2015 , deferred income taxes decreased $9.1 million compared to fiscal 2014 . However, the decrease in deferred income taxes was more than offset by a $22.9 million decrease in net gain on sale of subsidiary, cost method investment and other, as net earnings in fiscal 2014 included a $23.8 million pre-tax gain on the sale of Howell. In addition, for fiscal 2015 , write-downs of inventory and asset impairments increased $11.9 million and $11.1 million , respectively, compared to fiscal 2014 . There were no other material fluctuations of non-cash items or items included in net earnings for which the cash effects did not relate to operating activities for fiscal 2015 . Cash from operating assets and liabilities increased $109.3 million during fiscal 2015 compared to the prior fiscal year. The significant components of change within operating assets and liabilities were as follows:

Accounts receivable - Cash from accounts receivable was $206.6 million for fiscal 2015 , compared to cash used by accounts receivable of $143.4 million for fiscal 2014 . This cash inflow improved as net sales during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 were $462.3 million lower than the same period in the prior fiscal year. In addition, net sales during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 were $169.0 million greater than the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 . However, days sales outstanding increased seven days to 56 days at August 31, 2015 from 49 days at August 31, 2014 .

Advance payments on sale of accounts receivables programs, net - Cash used by advance payments on sale of accounts receivable programs, net during fiscal 2015 was $117.8 million , compared to cash from advance payments on sale of accounts receivable programs, net of $121.0 million in the prior fiscal year. This cash outflow was due to net repayments on our U.S. and international sale of accounts receivable programs of $55.0 million and $64.3 million, respectively, during fiscal 2015 , compared to net proceeds of $55.0 million and $66.0 million, respectively, during fiscal 2014 .

Inventories - Cash from inventories during fiscal 2015 was $50.7 million , compared to cash used by inventories during fiscal 2014 of $177.3 million . This cash inflow was primarily the result of a decrease in inventory levels for our International Marketing and Distribution segment in fiscal 2015 compared to an increase in inventory levels for this segment in fiscal 2014 . Days sales in inventories increased one day to 54 days at August 31, 2015 from 53 days at August 31, 2014 .

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other payables - Cash used by accounts payable, accrued expenses and other payables during fiscal 2015 was $180.5 million , compared to cash from accounts payable, accrued expenses and other payables of $90.6 million during fiscal 2014 . This cash outflow was due to a decrease in trade payables resulting from reduced inventory costs, primarily caused by falling commodity prices, and timing of payments.

Net cash flows used by investing activities increased $29.6 million during fiscal 2015 compared to the prior fiscal year. The largest factor contributing to the use of cash by investing activities in fiscal 2015 was a decrease in proceeds from the sale of a subsidiary of $24.8 million , of which $52.6 million related to the proceeds from the sale of Howell during fiscal 2014 . Additionally, net cash flows used by investing activities increased during fiscal 2015 due to a $17.8 million increase in capital expenditures compared to fiscal 2014 . These increases in cash used by investing activities were partially offset by a $15.7 million reduction in cash used for acquisitions, as there were no acquisitions during fiscal 2015 .

We estimate that our fiscal 2016 capital budget will be between $200 million and $230 million. We expect that our capital spending will be funded from internally generated capital. We regularly assess our capital spending and reevaluate our requirements based on current and expected results.

Net cash flows used by financing activities increased $146.3 million during fiscal 2015 compared to the prior fiscal year. The increase in net cash flows used by financing activities primarily resulted from a $92.2 million decrease in the level of usage of documentary letters of credit during fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 . The amount of documentary letters of credit outstanding during the period can fluctuate as a result of the level of activity and volume of materials purchased during the period as well as a result of their length and timing to maturity. Additionally, net cash flows used by financing activities increased during fiscal 2015 due to a $41.8 million increase in purchases of CMC common stock under our new share repurchase program, as well as a $14.3 million decrease in the release of restricted cash, primarily related to an $18.0 million release of restricted cash from fiscal 2014 that had been serving as collateral for letters of credit obligations for our Australian operations.

Fiscal 2014 Compared to Fiscal 2013

Net cash flows from operating activities were $136.9 million and $147.7 million in fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 , respectively. The $10.8 million decline in cash flows from operations is primarily due to the following:    

Net cash flows used by investing activities increased $1.1 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 . For the year ended August 31, 2014 , we invested $101.7 million in capital expenditures and $15.7 million in acquisitions offset by $52.6 million of proceeds from the sale of Howell in October 2013 and $17.6 million of proceeds from sales of other long-lived assets.

Net cash flows used by financing activities were $34.4 million in fiscal 2014 compared to net cash flows from financing activities of $15.0 million in fiscal 2013 . The increase in net cash flows used by financing activities in fiscal 2014 was driven by a decrease in proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt, as we received $330.0 million from the issuance of our 2023 Notes in fiscal 2013 , and we did not issue any long-term debt in fiscal 2014 . This decrease in cash proceeds was partially offset by a $197.2 million decrease in repayments on long-term debt, as we used $205.3 million of the proceeds from the issuance of the 2023 Notes to purchase all of our outstanding 2013 Notes in fiscal 2013 . Additionally, in fiscal 2014 , we had an $18.0 million release of restricted cash that had been serving as collateral for letters of credit obligations for our Australian subsidiary, compared to an increase in restricted cash of $18.6 million in fiscal 2013 . Further offsetting the increase in net cash flows used by financing activities in fiscal 2014 , we had net short-term borrowings of $6.3 million in fiscal 2014 , compared to net short-term repayments of $19.5 million in fiscal 2013 . In fiscal 2014 , we also had an increase in documentary letters of credit of $11.8 million , compared to a decrease in documentary letters of credit of $6.2 million in fiscal 2013 . The amount of documentary letters of credit outstanding during the period can fluctuate as a result of the level of activity and volume of materials purchased during the period as well as a result of their length and timing to maturity.

Contractual Obligations

The following table represents our contractual obligations as of August 31, 2015 :

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* We have not discounted the cash obligations in this table.

We provide certain eligible executives benefits pursuant to a nonqualified BRP Plan equal to amounts that would have been available under the tax qualified plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), but for limitations of ERISA, tax laws and regulations. The deferred compensation liability under the BRP Plan was $72.3 million at August 31, 2015 and is included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. We generally expect to fund future contributions with cash flows from operating activities, but we are not required to do so. We did not include estimated payments related to the BRP Plan in the above contractual obligation table. Refer to Note 17, Employees' Retirement Plans, to the consolidated financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

A certain number of employees, primarily outside of the U.S., participate in defined benefit plans maintained in accordance with local regulations. At August 31, 2015 , our liability related to the unfunded status of the defined benefit plans was $1.5 million . We generally expect to fund future contributions with cash flows from operating activities. We did not include estimated payments related to defined benefit plans in the table above. Refer to Note 17, Employees' Retirement Plans to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Our other noncurrent liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets include deferred tax liabilities, gross unrecognized tax benefits and the related gross interest and penalties. As of August 31, 2015 , we had noncurrent deferred tax liabilities of $55.8 million . In addition, as of August 31, 2015 , we had gross unrecognized tax benefits of $10.5 million and an additional $4.2 million for gross interest and penalties classified as noncurrent liabilities. At this time, we are unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of the timing of payments in individual years in connection with these tax liabilities; therefore, such amounts are not included in the above contractual obligations table.

Other Commercial Commitments

We maintain stand-by letters of credit to provide support for certain transactions that governmental agencies, our insurance providers and suppliers request. At August 31, 2015 , we had committed $23.4 million under these arrangements.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

For added flexibility, we sell certain accounts receivable both in the U.S. and internationally. We utilize proceeds from the sales of the trade accounts receivables as an alternative to short-term borrowings, effectively managing our overall borrowing costs and providing an additional source of working capital. We account for sales of the trade accounts receivables as true sales and the trade accounts receivable balances that are sold are removed from the consolidated balance sheets. The cash advances received are reflected as cash provided by operating activities on our consolidated statements of cash flows. See Note 5, Sales of Accounts Receivable, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Contingencies

See Note 18, Commitments and Contingencies, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments because of some of these matters. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation related loss contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal counsel. We record liabilities for litigation related losses when a loss is probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss. We evaluate the measurement of recorded liabilities each reporting period based on the current facts and circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final resolution of litigation related loss contingencies may differ materially from the estimated liability recorded at a particular balance sheet date. Changes in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur. We do not believe that any currently pending legal proceedings to which we are a party will have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition.

Environmental and Other Matters

The information set forth in Note 18, Commitments and Contingencies, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K is hereby incorporated by reference.

General

We are subject to federal, state and local pollution control laws and regulations in all locations where we have operating facilities. We anticipate that compliance with these laws and regulations will involve continuing capital expenditures and operating costs.

Our original business is and one of our core businesses for over nine decades has been metals recycling. In the present era of conservation of natural resources and ecological concerns, we are committed to sound ecological and business conduct. Certain governmental regulations regarding environmental concerns, however well-intentioned, may expose us and our industry to potentially significant risks. We believe that recycled materials are commodities that are diverted by recyclers, such as us, from the solid waste streams because of their inherent value. Commodities are materials that are purchased and sold in public and private markets and commodities exchanges every day around the world. They are identified, purchased, sorted, processed and sold in accordance with carefully established industry specifications.

Solid and Hazardous Waste

We currently own or lease, and in the past we have owned or leased, properties that have been used in our operations. Although we have used operating and disposal practices that are standard in the industry at the time, wastes may have been disposed of or released on or under the properties or on or under locations where such wastes have been taken for disposal. We are currently involved in the investigation and remediation of several such properties. State and federal laws applicable to wastes and contaminated properties have gradually become stricter over time. Under new laws, we could be required to remediate properties impacted by previously disposed wastes. We have been named as a potentially responsible party ("PRP") at a number of contaminated sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations. There is no guarantee that the EPA or individual states will not adopt more stringent requirements for the handling of, or make changes to the exemptions upon which we rely for, the wastes that we generate. Any such change could result in an increase in our costs to manage and dispose of waste which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of our operations and financial condition.

We generate wastes, including hazardous wastes, that are subject to the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and comparable state and local statutes where we operate. These statutes, regulations and laws may limit our disposal options with respect to certain wastes.

Superfund

The EPA, or an equivalent state agency, has notified us that we are considered a PRP at several sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations. We may be obligated under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 ("CERCLA"), or similar state statutes, to conduct remedial investigation, feasibility studies, remediation and/or removal of alleged releases of hazardous substances or to reimburse the EPA for such activities and pay costs for associated damages to natural resources. We are involved in litigation or administrative proceedings with regard to several of these sites in which we are contesting, or at the appropriate time we may contest, our liability. In addition, we have received information requests with regard to other sites which may be under consideration by the EPA as potential CERCLA sites. Because of various factors, including the ambiguity of the regulations, the difficulty of identifying the responsible parties for any particular site, the complexity of determining the relative liability among them, the uncertainty as to the most desirable remediation techniques and the amount of damages and cleanup costs and the extended time periods over which such costs may be incurred, we cannot reasonably estimate our ultimate costs of compliance with CERCLA. Based on currently available information, which is in many cases preliminary and incomplete, we had $1.0 million and $0.7 million accrued as of August 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, in connection with CERCLA sites. We have accrued for these liabilities based upon our best estimates. The amounts paid and the expenses incurred on these sites for the years ended August 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 were not material. Historically, the amounts that we have ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material.

Clean Water Act

The Clean Water Act ("CWA") imposes restrictions and strict controls regarding the discharge of wastes into waters of the United States, a term broadly defined, or into publicly owned treatment works. These controls have become more stringent over time, and it is probable that additional restrictions will be imposed in the future. Permits must generally be obtained to discharge pollutants into federal waters or into publicly owned treatment works; comparable permits may be required at the state level. The CWA and many state statutes provide for civil, criminal and administrative penalties for unauthorized discharges of pollutants. In addition, the EPA's regulations and comparable state statutes may require us to obtain permits to discharge storm water runoff. In the event of an unauthorized discharge or non-compliance with permit requirements, we may be liable for penalties and costs.

Clean Air Act

Our operations are subject to regulations at the federal, state and local level for the control of emissions from sources of air pollution. New and modified sources of air pollutants are often required to obtain permits prior to commencing construction, modification or operations. Major sources of air pollutants are subject to more stringent requirements, including the potential need for additional permits and to increase scrutiny in the context of enforcement. The EPA has been implementing its stationary emission control program through expanded enforcement of the New Source Review Program. Under this program, new or modified sources may be required to construct emission sources using what is referred to as the Best Available Control Technology, or in any areas that are not meeting national ambient air quality standards, using methods that satisfy requirements for Lowest Achievable Emission Rate. Additionally, the EPA has implemented and is continuing to implement new, more stringent standards for National Ambient Air Quality Standards including fine particulate matter. Compliance with new standards could require additional expenditures.

We incurred environmental expenses of $ 31.7 million , $34.5 million and $30.1 million for fiscal 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The expenses included the cost of disposal, environmental personnel at various divisions, permit and license fees, accruals and payments for studies, tests, assessments, remediation, consultant fees, baghouse dust removal and various other expenses. In addition, during fiscal 2015 , we spent $ 10.4 million in capital expenditures related to costs directly associated with environmental compliance. We accrued environmental liabilities of $4.3 million and $ 6.2 million as of August 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, of which $2.4 million and $2.3 million were classified as other long-term liabilities as of August 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively.

Dividends

We have paid quarterly cash dividends in each of the past 204 consecutive quarters. We paid dividends in fiscal 2015 at the rate of $0.12 per share of common stock for each quarter.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preceding discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and related disclosure of contingent liabilities. We evaluate the appropriateness of these estimates and assumptions, including those related to the valuation allowances for receivables, the carrying value of non-current assets, reserves for environmental obligations and income taxes, on an ongoing basis. Estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Accordingly, actual results in future periods could differ materially from these estimates. Significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements apply to the following critical accounting policies:

Revenue Recognition and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

We recognize sales when title passes to the customer either when goods are shipped or when they are delivered based on the terms of the sale, there is persuasive evidence of an agreement, the price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. When we estimate that a contract with one of our customers will result in a loss, we accrue the calculated loss as soon as it is probable and estimable. We account for certain fabrication projects based on the percentage of completion accounting method, based primarily on contract cost incurred to date compared to total estimated contract cost. Changes in revenue attributed to the changes in the estimated total contract cost, or loss, if any, are recognized in the period in which they are determined. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts to reflect our estimate of the uncollectability of accounts receivable. These reserves are based on historical trends, current market conditions and customers' financial condition.

Income Taxes

We determine the income tax expense related to continuing operations to be the income tax consequences of amounts reported in continuing operations without regard to the income tax consequences of other components of the financial statements, such as other comprehensive income or discontinued operations. The amount of income tax expense or benefit to be allocated to the other components is the incremental effect that those pre-tax amounts have on the total income tax expense or benefit. If there is more than one financial statement component other than continuing operations, the allocation is made on a pro-rata basis in accordance with each component's incremental income tax effects.

In fiscal 2015 , total income taxes of $83.2 million were allocated to continuing operations and $0.4 million of income tax benefit was allocated to discontinued operations. The continuing operations income tax rate differs from the income tax rate for discontinued operations because the loss from discontinued operations is principally composed of losses in Australia, a jurisdiction in which we believe it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets related to such losses will not be realized. As such, there is no income tax benefit associated with the Australian losses in discontinued operations. The nominal income tax in discontinued operations represents tax benefit related to the non-Australian components of discontinued operations. There were no additional financial statement components.

We periodically assess the likelihood of realizing our deferred tax assets based on the amount of deferred tax assets that we believe is more likely than not to be realized. We base our judgment of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets primarily on historical earnings, our estimate of current and expected future earnings, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies, and current and future ownership changes.

Our effective income tax rate may fluctuate on a quarterly basis due to various factors, including, but not limited to, total earnings and the mix of earnings by jurisdiction, the timing of changes in tax laws, and the amount of income tax provided for uncertain income tax positions. We establish income tax liabilities to reduce some or all of the income tax benefit of any of our income tax positions at the time we determine that the positions become uncertain based upon one of the following: (1) the tax position is not "more likely than not" to be sustained, (2) the tax position is "more likely than not" to be sustained, but for a lesser amount, or (3) the tax position is "more likely than not" to be sustained, but not in the financial period in which the tax position was originally taken. Our evaluation of whether or not a tax position is uncertain is based on the following: (1) we presume the tax position will be examined by the relevant taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information, (2) the technical merits of a tax position are derived from authorities such as legislation and statutes, legislative intent, regulations, rulings and case law and their applicability to the facts and circumstances of the tax position, and (3) each tax position is evaluated without considerations of the possibility of offset or aggregation with other tax positions taken. We adjust these income tax liabilities when our judgment changes as a result of new information. Any change will impact income tax expense in the period in which such determination is made.

Inventory Cost

We determine inventory cost for most U.S. inventories by the last-in, first-out method, or LIFO. We calculate our LIFO reserve by using quantities and costs at period end and recording the resulting LIFO income or expense in its entirety. At August 31, 2015 and 2014 , 51% and 44% , respectively, of the Company's total net inventories were valued at LIFO. LIFO inventory reserves were $119.5 million and $198.8 million at August 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. We determine inventory cost for our International Mill segment by the weighted average cost method. The cost for our remaining international and U.S. inventories is determined by the FIFO method. We record all inventories at the lower of their cost or market value.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2016 , we are considering changing the inventory costing method for all of our LIFO inventories to other inventory costing methods currently used by the Company.

Elements of cost in finished goods inventory in addition to the cost of material include depreciation, amortization, utilities, consumable production supplies, maintenance, production, wages and transportation costs. Additionally, the costs of departments that support production, including materials management and quality control, are allocated to inventory.

Goodwill

We perform our goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year or when changes in circumstances indicate an impairment event may have occurred by estimating the fair value of each reporting unit compared to its carrying value. Our reporting units represent an operating segment or a reporting level below an operating segment.

Additionally, the reporting units are aggregated based on similar economic characteristics, nature of products and services, nature of production processes, type of customers and distribution methods. We use a discounted cash flow model and a market approach to calculate the fair value of our reporting units. The model includes a number of significant assumptions and estimates regarding future cash flows including discount rates, volumes, prices, capital expenditures and the impact of current market conditions. These estimates could be materially impacted by adverse changes in market conditions.

As a result of the goodwill impairment tests in fiscal year 2015 , we recorded a goodwill impairment charge of $7.3 million related to our Americas Recycling segment. The annual goodwill impairment analysis did not result in any impairment charges at any of our other reporting units. As of August 31, 2015 and 2014 , one of our reporting units within our Americas Fabrication segment comprised $51.3 million of our total goodwill and the fair value exceeded the carrying value by 18% at August 31, 2015. For all other reporting units with significant goodwill amounts as of August 31, 2015, the excess of the fair value over carrying value of each reporting unit was substantial.

We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using a weighting of fair values derived from the income and market approaches.  Under the income approach, we determine the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows.  Cash flow projections are based on management's estimates of revenue growth rates and operating margins, taking into account industry and market conditions.  The discount rate is based on a weighted average cost of capital adjusted for the relevant risk associated with the characteristics of our business.  The market approach, on the other hand, estimates fair value based on market multiples of revenue and earnings derived from comparable publicly-traded companies with similar operating and investment characteristics as the reporting unit.

As noted above, at August 31, 2015, the excess of one of our reporting segments within our Americas Fabrication segment exceeded the carrying value by 18%.  The future occurrence of a potential indicator of impairment could include matters such as: a decrease in expected net earnings, adverse equity market conditions, a decline in current market multiples, a decline in our common stock price, a significant adverse change in legal factors or the general business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, a significant downturn in non-residential construction markets in the United States, and continued levels of imported steel into the United States.  In the event of significant adverse changes of the nature described above, it may be necessary for us to recognize a non-cash impairment of goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

See Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.

Long-Lived Assets

We evaluate the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets whenever a change in circumstances indicates that the carrying value may not be recoverable from the undiscounted future cash flows from operations. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group include, but are not limited to, a significant decrease in the market price of the asset, a significant adverse change in the extent or manner that the asset is used or in its physical condition, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of original expectation for the acquisition or construction of the asset, a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a projection or forecast of continuing losses associated with the use of the asset, and a more-likely-than-not expectation that the asset will be sold or disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. If an impairment exists, the net book values are reduced to fair values as warranted. Our U.S. and international minimills, fabrication and recycling businesses are capital intensive. Some of the estimated values for assets that we currently use in our operations are based upon judgments and assumptions of future undiscounted cash flows that the assets will produce. If these assets were for sale, our estimates of their values could be significantly different because of market conditions, specific transaction terms and a buyer's different viewpoint of future cash flows. Also, we depreciate property, plant and equipment on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Depreciable lives are based on our estimate of the assets' economical useful lives. To the extent that an asset's actual life differs from our estimate, there could be an impact on depreciation expense or a gain/loss on the disposal of the asset in a later period. We expense major maintenance costs as incurred.

Contingencies

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments in connection with some of these matters. While we are unable to estimate the ultimate dollar amount of exposure or loss in connection with these matters, we make accruals when a loss is assessed to be probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The amounts we accrue could vary substantially from amounts we pay due to several factors including the following: evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent shortcomings of the estimation process, and the uncertainties involved in litigation. We believe that we have adequately provided in our consolidated financial statements for the impact of these contingencies. We also believe that the outcomes will not materially affect our results of operations, our financial position or our cash flows.

Other Accounting Policies and New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market Risk

Approach to Mitigating Market Risk

See Note 12, Derivatives and Risk Management, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for disclosure regarding our approach to mitigating market risk and for summarized market risk information for the preceding fiscal year. Also, see Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The following types of derivative instruments were outstanding or utilized during fiscal 2015 , in accordance with our risk management program. All of the instruments are highly liquid and were not entered into for trading purposes.

Currency Exchange Forwards

We enter into currency exchange forward contracts as economic hedges of international trade commitments denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of CMC or its subsidiaries. No single foreign currency poses a primary risk to us. Fluctuations that cause temporary disruptions in one market segment tend to open opportunities in other segments.

Commodity Prices

We base pricing in some of our sales and purchase contracts on metal commodity futures exchange quotes, which we determine at the beginning of the contract. Due to the volatility of the metal commodity indices, we enter into metal commodity futures contracts for copper, aluminum and zinc. These futures mitigate the risk of unanticipated declines in gross margin due to the volatility of the commodities' prices on these contractual commitments. Physical transaction quantities will not match exactly with standard commodity lot sizes, leading to minimal gains and losses from ineffectiveness.

Natural Gas

We enter into natural gas forward contracts as economic hedges of our Americas Mills operations based on anticipated consumption of natural gas in order to mitigate the risk of unanticipated increases in operating cost due to the volatility of natural gas prices. As of August 31, 2015 , we had no open natural gas forward contract commitments.

Freight

We occasionally enter into freight forward contracts when sales commitments to customers include a fixed price freight component in order to mitigate the effect of the volatility of ocean freight rates. As of August 31, 2015 , we had no open freight forward contract commitments.

Interest Rates

We may enter into interest rate swap contracts to maintain a portion of our debt obligations at variable interest rates. These interest rate swap contracts, under which we agree to pay variable rates of interest and receive fixed rates of interest, are designated as fair value hedges of fixed rate debt. As of August 31, 2015 , we had no outstanding interest rate swap transactions.

The following tables provide certain information regarding the foreign exchange and commodity financial instruments discussed above.

Gross foreign currency exchange contract commitments as of August 31, 2015 :

 _________________ 

(1) Substantially all foreign currency exchange contracts mature within one year. The range of hedge rates represents functional to foreign currency conversion rates.

(2) Chinese yuan

(3) New Zealand dollar

(4) Thai baht

Commodity contract commitments as of August 31, 2015 :