UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-Q
(Mark One)
x | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2011
OR
o | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
Commission File Number: 001-12941
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INCORPORATED
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Delaware | 94-3240473 |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) |
100 Pine Street, Suite 560, San Francisco, California | |
(Address of principal executive office) | (zip code) |
(415) 693-9500
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class | | Name of each exchange on which registered | |
| Common Stock $0.01 par value | | NYSE Amex | |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No o
Indicate by check mark whether the 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 Section 232.405, during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No 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 12b02 of the Exchange Act.
| Large accelerated filer: o | Accelerated filer: o |
| Non-accelerated filer: o | Smaller reporting company: x |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes o No x
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) | |
| | |
ITEM 1 | CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: | |
| | |
| Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets | 1 |
| | |
| Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations | 2 |
| | |
| Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows | 3 |
| | |
| Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements | 4-16 |
| | |
ITEM 2 | MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS | 17-20 |
| | |
ITEM 3 | QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK | 20 |
| | |
ITEM 4 | CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES | 20 |
| | |
| PART II – OTHER INFORMATION | |
| | |
ITEM 1 | LEGAL PROCEEDINGS | 20 |
| | |
ITEM 1A | RISK FACTORS | 20 |
| | |
ITEM 1B | UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS | 20 |
| | |
ITEM 2 | CHANGES IN SECURITIES | 20 |
| | |
ITEM 3 | DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES | 21 |
| | |
ITEM 4 | SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS | 21 |
| | |
ITEM 5 | OTHER INFORMATION | 21 |
| | |
ITEM 6 | EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K | 21 |
| | |
| SIGNATURES | 22 |
All other items called for by the instructions to Form 10-Q have been omitted because the items are not applicable or the relevant information is not material.
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INCORPORATED
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
March 31, 2011 and 2010
(unaudited)
| | March 31, 2011 | | December 31, 2010 | |
ASSETS | | | | | | |
Cash and cash equivalents | | $ | 589,944 | | | $ | 269,911 | |
Marketable securities | | | 175 | | | | 191 | |
Investments | | | 190,000 | | | | 190,000 | |
Prepaid expenses | | | 27,500 | | | | 7,500 | |
Accounts receivable | | | 76,821 | | | | 61,686 | |
Allowance for doubtful accounts | | | - | | | | - | |
Net accounts receivable | | | 76,821 | | | | 61,686 | |
Notes receivable: | | | | | | | | |
Mortgage notes receivable | | | 1,038,234 | | | | 1,046,284 | |
Allowance for loan losses | | | (20,000 | ) | | | (20,000 | ) |
Net notes receivable | | | 1,018,234 | | | | 1,026,284 | |
Real estate owned | | | 3,448,746 | | | | 4,048,746 | |
Other assets | | | 26,272 | | | | 29,128 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total assets | | $ | 5,377,692 | | | $ | 5,633,446 | |
| | | | | | | | |
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
Liabilities | | | | | | | | |
Senior mortgage debt | | $ | 2,112,947 | | | $ | 2,112,947 | |
Other liabilities | | | 114,943 | | | | 195,286 | |
Total liabilities | | | 2,227,890 | | | | 2,308,233 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Stockholders’ equity | | | | | | | | |
Preferred stock, $.01 par value;1,600,000 shares authorized; | | | | |
213,820 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2010 | | | | 2,138 | |
Additional paid in capital - preferred stock | | | - | | | | 5,509,728 | |
Less treasury stock: 16,919 preferred shares at | | | | | | | | |
December 31, 2010 at cost | | | - | | | | (229,179 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Common stock, $.01 par value; 2,000,000 shares authorized; | | | | |
746,558 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2011 and | | | | |
500,432 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2010 | | | | 5,005 | |
Additional paid in capital - common stock | | | 14,695,922 | | | | 9,415,696 | |
Less treasury stock: 148,950 common shares at | | | | | | | | |
March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 at cost | | | (1,829,141 | ) | | | (1,829,141 | ) |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | | | (548 | ) | | | (532 | ) |
Accumulated deficit | | | (9,723,897 | ) | | | (9,548,502 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Total stockholders’ equity | | | 3,149,802 | | | | 3,325,213 | |
| | | | | | | | |
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | | $ | 5,377,692 | | | $ | 5,633,446 | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
1
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INCORPORATED
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2011 and 2010
(unaudited)
| | Three Months Eneded | |
| | March 31 | | | | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
REVENUES | | | | | | |
Interest income | | $ | 18,875 | | | $ | 31,167 | |
Rental income | | | 28,250 | | | | 17,350 | |
Other income | | | 881 | | | | 255 | |
Total revenues | | | 48,006 | | | | 48,772 | |
| | | | | | | | |
EXPENSES | | | | | | | | |
Provision for loan losses | | | --- | | | | 10,000 | |
Expenses of real estate owned | | | 1,645 | | | | 43,714 | |
Impairment of real estate owned | | | --- | | | | 57,645 | |
Wages and salaries | | | 78,244 | | | | 94,463 | |
Non-income taxes | | | 34,223 | | | | 1,750 | |
General and administrative | | | 133,103 | | | | 70,426 | |
Total expenses | | | 247,215 | | | | 277,998 | |
| | | | | | | | |
LOSS FROM OPERATIONS | | | (199,209 | ) | | | (229,226 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
Gain (loss) on sale of real estate owned | | | 23,814 | | | | --- | |
Gain (loss) on securities transactions | | | --- | | | | (36,131 | ) |
Gain (loss) on investments | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Total other income (loss), net | | | 23,814 | | | | (36,131 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
NET INCOME (LOSS) | | $ | (175,395 | ) | | $ | (265,357 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
PREFERRED DIVIDENDS | | | --- | | | | --- | |
| | | | | | | | |
NET INCOME (LOSS) AVAILABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS | | $ | (175,395 | ) | | $ | (265,357 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
NET INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE - BASIC | | $ | (0.29 | ) | | $ | (0.76 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
NET INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE - DILUTED | | $ | (0.29 | ) | | $ | (0.76 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
DIVIDENDS PAID PER PREFERRED SHARE | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | |
DIVIDENDS PAID PER COMMON SHARE | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
2
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INCORPORATED
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2011 and 2010
(unaudited)
| | Three Months Ended | |
| | | | | March 31 | |
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES | | | | | | |
Net loss | | $ | (175,395 | ) | | $ | (265,357 | ) |
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities | | | | | |
Depreciation | | | - | | | | 11,895 | |
Deferred carry cost | | | - | | | | (12,143 | ) |
Realized loss on sale of REO | | | (23,814 | ) | | | - | |
Stock based compensation expense | | | - | | | | 6,949 | |
Provision for loan losses | | | - | | | | 10,000 | |
Change in allowance for doubtful accounts | | | - | | | | - | |
Impairment of real estate owned | | | - | | | | 57,645 | |
Realized loss on sale of marketable securities | | | - | | | | - | |
Change in operating assets and liabilities | | | | | | | | |
Change in prepaid expenses | | | (20,000 | ) | | | - | |
Change in accounts receivable | | | (15,135 | ) | | | 1,636 | |
Change in other assets | | | 2,856 | | | | 2,970 | |
Change in other liabilities | | | (19,124 | ) | | | (68,384 | ) |
Net cash used in operating activities | | | (250,612 | ) | | | (254,789 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES | | | | | | | | |
Proceeds from marketable securities | | | - | | | | - | |
Proceeds from real estate owned | | | 562,595 | | | | - | |
Purchase of investments | | | - | | | | - | |
Capital improvements on real estate owned | | | - | | | | (12,015 | ) |
Principal collected on mortgage notes receivable | | | 8,050 | | | | 10,239 | |
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | | | 570,645 | | | | (1,776 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | | | | | | | | |
Payments of senior mortgage loans payable | | | - | | | | 50,000 | |
Issuance of Common Stock | | | - | | | | - | |
Issuance of Common Stock - APIC | | | - | | | | - | |
Payments of Company loans payable | | | - | | | | - | |
Purchase of treasury stock | | | - | | | | (1,443 | ) |
Net cash provided by financing activities | | | - | | | | 48,557 | |
| | | | | | | | |
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | | | 320,033 | | | | (208,008 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD | | | 269,911 | | | | 227,944 | |
| | | | | | | | |
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD | | $ | 589,944 | | | $ | 19,936 | |
| | | | | | | | |
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: | | | | | | | | |
Cash paid for interest and senior mortgage interest expense | | $ | - | | | $ | 555 | |
Cash paid for taxes | | $ | 1,600 | | | $ | 150 | |
| | | | | | | | |
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES | | | | | |
Foreclosures, net of reserves | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
Assumption of senior debt upon foreclosure | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
Write-offs of uncollectible loans | | $ | - | | | $ | - | |
Conversion of preferred stock to common stock | | $ | 5,282,687 | | | $ | - | |
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
3
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
References to the “Company” refer to Eastern Light Capital, Incorporated (the “Trust”) – a Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”) – and WrenCap Funding Corporation (“WCFC”), collectively. The Trust was incorporated in Delaware on December 12, 1995. On July 2, 2008, the Trust – formerly known as Capital Alliance Income Trust, Ltd – was renamed Eastern Light Capital, Incorporated.
On April 15, 1997, the Trust formed a taxable REIT subsidiary, Capital Alliance Funding Corporation. On April 20, 2007, the subsidiary was renamed to WrenCap Funding Corporation. Both the Trust and WCFC are incorporated in Delaware. The Trust owns all of WCFC’s common and preferred shares and the Trust and WCFC are consolidated in the Company’s financial statements. Prior to December 29, 2006, the Company was externally advised by Capital Alliance Advisors, Inc. (“Former Manager”). On December 29, 2006, the Former Manager was terminated and the Company became self-administered and self-advised.
As of January 1, 2011, the Trust’s net Preferred Stock shares outstanding were 196,901. On February 12, 2011, both the common and preferred stockholders approved the conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock into Common Stock. The conversion was subsequently approved by the Company’s Board of Directors, filed with the Delaware Secretary of State, and the NYSE Amex approved the listing of 246,126 additional common shares. As of March 31, 2011, there were 597,608 net common shares outstanding.
In the opinion of the management of the Company, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments, consisting of normal, recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the consolidated financial information included therein. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The results of operations for the three month period ended March 31, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year.
2. | Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies |
Principles of consolidation. The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Trust and its wholly owned subsidiary, WCFC. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Basis of accounting. The Company prepares its condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Use of estimates. The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, at the dates of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The most significant estimates are the allowance for loan losses and the valuation of real estate owned.
Cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased. The Company deposits cash in financial institutions insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. At times, the Company’s account balances may exceed the insured limits. The Company has not experienced losses on these accounts and management believes the Company is not exposed to significant risks on such accounts.
Marketable securities. Marketablesecurities are classified as either trading or available-for-sale. Trading securities represent investments in exchange listed securities that are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term. Available-for-sale securities represent investments in exchange listed securities which the Trust intends to hold for an indefinite period of time.
4
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
2. Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Investments. The Company purchased an investment in a privately held corporation during 2010. The investment amounted to $190,000 at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. The investment is accounted for under the cost method as the Company has no significant influence over the corporation.
Allowance for doubtful accounts. Management reviews its accounts receivable periodically and the Company establishes an allowance for receivables that may not be collectible. Management exercises judgment in establishing the allowance and the Company’s actual losses may differ from the estimate.
Fair Value Measurements The Company determines the fair values of its assets and liabilities based on the fair value hierarchy established in ASC Topic 820. The standard describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value (Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3). Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. An active market is a market in which transactions occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs reflect the Company’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability (including assumptions about risk). Unobservable inputs are developed based on the best information available in the circumstances and may include the Company’s own data
Mortgage notes receivable. Mortgage notes receivable are carried at their origination value less any amortized principal. Management regularly reviews the asset securing the mortgage as well as the borrower’s payment history and ability to repay the mortgage.
Real estate owned. Real estate owned results from foreclosure of mortgage notes receivable and at time of foreclosure is recorded at the lower of carrying amount plus any senior indebtedness or fair value of the property minus estimated costs to sell. Management may elect to lease foreclosed real estate owned in lieu of immediately marketing it for sale. Subsequent to foreclosure, the foreclosed asset value is periodically reviewed and adjusted to fair value if a decline has occurred. Income and expenses related to real estate owned are recorded as rental income, interest expense and operating expenses of real estate owned and are included in the consolidated statements of operations. Depreciation is taken on the leased real estate owned.
Revenue recognition. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with the terms of the loans. Management reviews the likelihood that a loan will be repaid when the payment of principal or interest is delinquent over two payments. For these delinquent loans, Management may establish an allowance for loan losses to protect against principal losses in the loan portfolio and an allowance for doubtful accounts to protect against losses from accrued interest. If the mortgage’s collateral is considered insufficient to satisfy the outstanding balance, after estimated foreclosure and selling costs, additional interest is not accrued. Loan origination income and extension fees are deferred and recognized over the remaining life of the loan as interest income on the interest method. Rental income is recognized as it is earned.
Allowance for loan loss reserve. Management reviews its loan loss provision regularly and the Company maintains an allowance for losses on mortgage notes receivable at an amount that management believes is sufficient to protect against potential losses inherent in the loan portfolio. A provision for loan losses is based on management’s evaluation of an amount that is adequate to absorb losses inherent in the existing loan portfolio. The evaluation, which includes a review of all loans on which full collection may not be reasonably assumed, considers among other matters, general economic conditions, the fair value of underlying collateral, past loan loss experience, borrower economic resources, trends in loan delinquency and other factors that warrant recognition in providing for an adequate loan loss allowance. The Company’s actual losses may differ from the estimate. Notes receivable deemed uncollectible are written off. The Company does not accrue interest income on impaired loans.
5
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
2. Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Concentration of credit risk. The Company holds numerous mortgage notes receivable. These notes are secured by deeds of trust on residential properties located primarily in California, which results in a concentration of credit risk. The value of the loan portfolio may be affected by changes in the economy or other conditions of the geographical area. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, one loan representing approximately 12% of the loan portfolio is a deed of trust on a residential property not in California.
Stock-based compensation. The Company measures the cost of a recipient’s services received in exchange for an award of an equity instrument based on the award's fair value on the grant date and recognizes the cost over the period during which the recipient is required to provide service in exchange for the award, generally the vesting period.
Earnings (Loss) Per Share. In accordance with ASC No. 260 “Earnings Per Share,” the Company presents both basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share. Basic earnings (loss) per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock, where such exercise or conversion would result in a lower (higher) earnings (loss) per share amount. At March 31, 2011, options to purchase shares of common stock below their fair market value trading price are not considered in the diluted earnings per share calculation due to their anti-dilution effect.
The Company presents both basic and diluted earnings per share. Basic earnings per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities of other contracts to issued common stock were exercised or converted into common stock, where such exercise or conversion would result in a lower earnings per share amount.
Income Taxes. The Trust has elected to be taxed as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). A REIT is generally not subject to federal income tax on taxable income which is distributed to its stockholders, provided that at least 90% of taxable income is distributed and provided that certain other requirements are met. Certain assets of the Company that produce non-qualifying income are held in taxable REIT subsidiaries. Unlike other subsidiaries of a REIT, the income of a taxable REIT subsidiary is subject to federal and state income taxes. Even as a REIT, the Company may be subject to certain state and local taxes on its income and property, and to federal income and excise taxes on its undistributable taxable income. For three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company expensed $34,193 and $150, respectively, for payment of such taxes. Since 2005, the Company incurred taxable losses, also known as Net Operating Losses (“NOL”). NOL’s may allow the Company to retain future taxable income equal to the cumulative amount of its NOL balance. The Internal Revenue Service waives mandatory dividend payments until prior year’s allowable NOLs are recovered.
The Company has evaluated its current tax positions and has concluded that as of March 31, 2011, the Company does not have any significant uncertain tax positions for which a liability would be necessary.
Reclassifications. Certain 2010 amounts may have been reclassified to conform to the 2011 presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on reported net income (loss) or income (loss) per share.
6
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
2. Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies (continued)
Recently accounting pronouncements. In July 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-20, Disclosures about the Credit quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses. This ASU requires significant new disclosures about the allowance for credit losses and the credit quality of financing receivables. The requirements are intended to enhance transparency regarding credit losses and the credit quality of loan and lease receivables by disclosing an evaluation of (i) the nature of credit risk inherent in the entity’s portfolio of financing receivables, (ii) how that risk is analyzed and assessed in arriving at the allowance for credit losses and (iii) the changes and reasons for those changes in the allowance for credit losses. Under this statement, allowance for credit losses and fair value are to be disclosed by portfolio segment, while credit quality information, impaired financing receivables and nonaccrual status are to be presented by class of financing receivables. Disclosure of the nature and extent, the financial impact and segment information of troubled debt restructurings will also be required. The disclosures are to be presented at the level of disaggregation that management uses when assessing and monitoring the portfolio’s risk and performance. ASU 2010-20 became effective for the Company’s financial statements as of December 31, 2010, as it relates to disclosures required as of the end of a reporting period. Disclosures that relate to activity during a reporting period became effective for the Company’s financial statements that include periods beginning on or after January 1, 2011.
On April 5, 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-12, A Creditor’s Determination of Whether Restructuring is a Troubled Debt Restructuring, providing guidance to lenders for evaluating where a modification or restructuring of a loan as a Troubled Debt Restructuring (TDR). ASU 2011-12 provides expanded guidance on whether: 1) the lender has granted a “concession” and 2) whether the borrower is experiencing “financial difficulties.” The ASU is effective for the first interim or annual period beginning after June 15, 2011 (i.e. the third quarter of 2011) and is required to be applied retroactively for all modifications and restructuring activities in 2011. This ASU ends the FASB’s deferral of the additional disclosures about TDR activities required by ASU 2010-20.
Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). For the three months ended March 31, 2011, the loss in accumulated other comprehensive income is $16. Trading securities are reported at fair value with realized and unrealized gains and losses reported in the statements of operations. Available-for-sale securities consist of exchange traded REIT securities whereas trading securities consist of exchange traded non-REIT securities. Both accounts utilize exchange listed derivative securities to enhance performance and to hedge against risk. The trading account also shorts exchange listed securities, including derivative securities.
As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the trading securities accounts balance were $0, and the available for sale securities account balance was $175 and $191, respectively. Realized gains and losses on sales of both trading and available-for-sale securities are determined on an average cost basis and are reported in the statements of operations.
The accounts utilize margin borrowings and are separately maintained. The equity balance in the account is sufficient to offset the risk from a potential margin call. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, both the trading securities account and the available-for-sale securities account had no borrowings.
Accounts receivable consists of accrued interest on mortgage notes receivable, other amounts due from borrowers and a receivable from a custodial account. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, accounts receivable were $76,821 and $61,686, respectively. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, Management believes that an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0 is adequate protection against the collectability of the receivables as well as the costs associated with possible legal action.
7
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
| Mortgage notes receivable |
Reconciliation of the mortgage notes receivable balances for the periods ended March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 follows:
| | Three months March 31, 2011 | | | Twelve months Dec. 31, 2010 | |
Balance, beginning of period | | $ | 1,046,284 | | | $ | 2,690,737 | |
Additions during period: | | | | | | | | |
Originations | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Deductions during period: | | | | | | | | |
Collections of principal | | | (8,050 | ) | | | (35,925 | ) |
Repayments | | | --- | | | | (332,084 | ) |
Write-offs of uncollectible loans | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Foreclosures | | | --- | | | | (1,276,444 | ) |
Balance, as reported in Balance Sheet | | $ | 1,038,234 | | | $ | 1,046,284 | |
The mortgage notes receivable represent home equity loans secured by deeds of trust on one-to-four unit residential real estate. The Company is subject to the risks inherent in lending including the risk of borrower default and bankruptcy. Mortgage notes receivable are stated at the principal outstanding. Interest on the mortgages is due monthly and unamortized principal is usually due as a balloon payment at loan maturity. For the three months ended March 31, 2011 and during 2010, no mortgage notes receivable were modified.
As of March 31, 2011, the mortgage notes receivable portfolio totaled $1,038,234 with an average loan size of $129,779, an average weighted yield of 7.90%, a weighted average adjusted maturity of 21 months and a weighted average combined loan-to-value ratio of 61% (based upon the collateral’s appraisal value at funding). First deeds of trust comprised 81% of the portfolio’s dollar value and second deeds of trust comprised 19%. As of December 31, 2010, the mortgage notes receivable portfolio totaled $1,046,284 with an average loan size of $130,786, an average weighted yield of 8.04%, a weighted average adjusted maturity of 23 months and a weighted average combined loan-to-value ratio of 61% (based upon the collateral’s appraisal value at funding). First deeds of trust comprised 81% of the portfolio’s dollar value and second deeds of trust comprised 19%. The mortgage loans are concentrated in California.
Geographical Distribution:
The following table sets forth the geographical distribution of the Trust’s Mortgage Investment Business servicing portfolio as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
| | March 31, 2011 | | | Dec. 31, 2010 | |
State | | Number of loans | | | $-% of Portfolio | | | Number of loans | | | $-% of Portfolio | |
CA | | | 7 | | | | 88% | | | | 7 | | | | 88% | |
Other | | | 1 | | | | 12% | | | | 1 | | | | 12% | |
Totals: | | | 8 | | | | 100% | | | | 8 | | | | 100% | |
8
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
| Mortgage notes receivable (continued) |
The following table sets forth loan credit quality information as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
| March 31, 2011 | | Dec. 31, 2010 |
| Loans | Principal | Percent | | Loans | Principal | Percent |
First trust deeds | 5 | $ 840,565 | 81% | | 5 | $ 848,513 | 81% |
Second trust deeds | 3 | 197,669 | 19% | | 3 | 197,771 | 19% |
Third trust deeds | 0 | --- | 0% | | 0 | --- | 0% |
Total secured loans | 8 | 1,038,234 | 100% | | 8 | 1,046,284 | 100% |
Liens due other lenders at loan closing | | 702,029 | | | | 702,029 | |
Total debt | | $1,740,263 | | | | $1,748,313 | |
Appraised property value at loan closing | | $3,456,900 | | | | $3,456,900 | |
Percent of total debt to appraised values (LTV) at loan closing (1) | | 50.34% | | | | 50.58% | |
(1) | Based on appraised values and liens due other lenders at loan closing. The loan to value computation does not take into account subsequent increases or decreases in security property values following the loan closing nor does it include decreases or increases of the amount owing on senior liens to other lenders by payments or interest accruals, if any. Property values likely have changed, particularly over the last three years, and the portfolio’s current loan to value ratio likely is higher than this historical ratio. |
The following table sets forth mortgage notes receivable information summarized by property type as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
| | March 31, 2011 | | | Dec. 31, 2010 | |
| | Loans | | Principal | | Percent | | | Loans | | Principal | | Percent | |
Single family | | 8 | | | $1,038,234 | | 100% | | | 8 | | | $1,046,284 | | 100% | |
Multi-family | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | |
Commercial | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | |
Land | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | |
Total secured loans | | 8 | | | $1,038,234 | | 100% | | | 8 | | | $1,046,284 | | 100% | |
Single family properties include owner-occupied and non-owner occupied single family homes (1-4 unit residential buildings), condominium units, and townhouses. From time to time, loan originations in one sector or property type become more active due to prevailing market conditions. The current concentration of the Company’s loan portfolio is single family detached homes. No condominium loans were outstanding as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010.
9
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
| Mortgage notes receivable (continued) |
The following table sets forth scheduled loan maturity information summarized by year as of March 31:
| | March 31, 2011 | |
| | Loans | | Principal | | Percent | |
2011 | | 3 | | | $347,691 | | 34% | |
2012 | | 2 | | | 319,844 | | 31% | |
2013 | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | |
2014 | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | |
2015 | | 0 | | | --- | | 0% | |
Thereafter | | 2 | | | 345,199 | | 33% | |
Total future maturities | | 7 | | | 1,012,734 | | 98% | |
Matured at March 31, 2011 | | 1 | | | 25,500 | | 2% | |
Total secured loans | | 8 | | | $1,038,234 | | 100% | |
It is the Company’s experience that loans may be repaid or refinanced before, at or after the contractual maturity date. For matured loans, the Company may continue to accept payments while pursuing collection of amounts owed from borrowers. Therefore, the above tabulation for scheduled maturities is not a forecast of future cash receipts.
10
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
| Mortgage notes receivable (continued) |
The following is a summary of the Trust’s mortgage notes receivable balance at March 31, 2011:
Principal outstanding | Interest rate | Final maturity date | Monthly payment | Lien Priority | Face amount of mortgage(s) | Carrying amount of mortgage(s) | Amount of delinquent principal (Note A) |
| | | | | | | |
Individual loans greater than $499,999: | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Loans from $400,000-$499,999 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Loans from $300,000-$399,999 | 6.25 % | 0 months | $2,000 | 1st | 359,000 | 324,372 | --- |
Loans from $200,000-$299,999 | 6.375% to 8% | 10 to 286 months | $5,435 | 1st | 632,243 | 492,875 | --- |
Loans from $100,000- 199,999 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Loans up to $99,999 | 7.00% to 12.125% | 0 to115 months | $2,713 | 1st & 2nd | 407,377 | 220,987 | 23,318 |
Total Mortgage Notes Receivable at March 31, 2011 | | $ 1,398,620 | $1,038,234 | $ 23,318 |
(A) Delinquent loans are loans where the monthly interest payments in arrears are more than 60 days overdue. As of March 31, 2011, there were two (2) loans totaling $23,318 of principal that were delinquent. Interest has not been accrued on these delinquent loans.
11
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
| Mortgage notes receivable (continued) |
The following is a summary of the Trust’s mortgage notes receivable balance at December 31, 2010:
Principal outstanding | Interest rate | Final maturity date | Monthly payment | Lien Priority | Face amount of mortgage(s) | Carrying amount of mortgage(s) | Amount of delinquent principal (Note A) |
| | | | | | | |
Individual loans greater than $499,999: | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Loans from $400,000-$499,999 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Loans from $300,000-$399,999 | 6.25 % | 1 month | $2,000 | 1st | 359,000 | 325,294 | --- |
Loans from $200,000-$299,999 | 6.375% to 8% | 13 to 289 months | $5,435 | 1st | 632,243 | 499,901 | --- |
Loans from $100,000- 199,999 | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Loans up to $99,999 | 7.00% to 12.125% | 0 to118 months | $2,713 | 1st & 2nd | 407,377 | 221,089 | 23,318 |
Total Mortgage Notes Receivable at December 31, 2010 | | $ 1,398,620 | $1,046,284 | $ 23,318 |
(A) Delinquent loans are loans where the monthly interest payments in arrears are more than 60 days overdue. As of December 31, 2010, there were two (2) loans totaling $23,318 of principal that were delinquent. Interest has not been accrued on these delinquent loans.
12
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
6. | Allowance for loan losses |
The allowance for loan losses is primarily based on the fair value of the related collateral since all loans subject to this estimate are collateral dependent. Management believes a $20,000 loan loss reserve is adequate protection against potential losses inherent in the mortgage notes receivable balances as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. Actual losses may differ from the estimate.
A reconciliation of the allowance for loan losses for the periods ended March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 follows:
| | Three months March 31, 2011 | | | Twelve months Dec. 31, 2010 | |
Provision for loan losses | | $ | --- | | | $ | 12,709 | |
Write-offs of uncollectible loans (net) | | | --- | | | | (302,709 | ) |
Total adjustments to allowance | | | --- | | | | (290,000 | ) |
Balance, beginning of period | | | 20,000 | | | | 310,000 | |
Balance, end of period | | $ | 20,000 | | | $ | 20,000 | |
As of December 31, 2010, the Company owned six properties. During 2011, the company sold one property. As of March 31, 2011, the Company owned five properties. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the senior mortgage’s principal balances are $2,112,947. Management may elect to lease real estate assets in lieu of immediately marketing real estate owned assets for sale.
A reconciliation of the real estate owned account shows its cash and non-cash activities for the periods ended March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
| | Three months March 31, 2011 | | | Twelve months Dec. 31, 2010 | |
Balance, beginning of period | | $ | 4,048,746 | | | $ | 6,714,174 | |
Additions: | | | | | | | | |
Foreclosed mortgage notes, net of reserve (non-cash) | | | --- | | | | 1,276,444 | |
Assumptions of senior debt upon foreclosure, net of repayments | | | --- | | | | 545,025 | |
Capital improvements | | | --- | | | | 12,015 | |
Deductions: | | | | | | | | |
Repayment of senior debt | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Write-downs of property (non-cash) | | | (61,219 | ) | | | (457,645 | ) |
Proceeds from sale of real estate owned (net of closing costs) | | | (562,595 | ) | | | (3,926,520 | ) |
Gain (loss) on real estate owned | | | 23,814 | | | | (93,048 | ) |
Depreciation . | | | --- | | | | (21,699 | ) |
Balance, end of period | | $ | 3,448,746 | | | $ | 4,048,746 | |
8. | Fair Value Measurements |
The following table presents information about the Company’s assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of March 31, 2011:
| | March 31, 2011 | | | Level 1 | | | Level 2 | | | Level 3 | |
Asset: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Marketable securities – Available for sale | | $ | 175 | | | $ | 175 | | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Mortgage notes receivable (non-recurring) | | | --- | | | | --- | | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Real estate owned (non-recurring) | | | --- | | | | --- | | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Total | | $ | 175 | | | $ | 175 | | | $ | --- | | | $ | --- | |
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
8. | Fair Value Measurements (continued) |
The following table presents information about the Company’s assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2010:
| | 2010 | | | Level 1 | | | Level 2 | | | Level 3 | |
Asset: | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Marketable securities – Available for sale | | $ | 191 | | | $ | 191 | | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Mortgage notes receivable (non-recurring) | | | --- | | | | --- | | | | --- | | | | --- | |
Real estate owned (non-recurring) | | $ | 1,903,437 | | | | --- | | | | --- | | | $ | 1,903,437 | |
Total | | $ | 1,903,628 | | | $ | 191 | | | $ | --- | | | $ | 1,903,437 | |
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of assets and liabilities:
Cash and cash equivalents. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets approximate fair value due to the short term nature of these accounts.
Available-for-sale and trading securities (included in marketable securities). These investments are reported on the balance sheets based on quoted market prices.
Mortgage notes receivable. The fair value of non-impaired loans is estimated based upon projected cash flows discounted at the estimated current interest rates at which similar loans would be made. The applicable amount of the allowance for loan losses along with accrued interest and advances related thereto should also be considered in evaluating the fair value versus the carrying value. For loans in which a specific allowance is established based on the fair value of the collateral, the Company records the loan as nonrecurring Level 2 if the fair value of the collateral is based on an observable market price or a current appraised value. If an appraised value is not available or the fair value of the collateral is considered impaired below the appraised value and there is no observable market price, the Company records the loan as nonrecurring Level 3.
Real estate owned. At the time of foreclosure, real estate owned is recorded at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan, plus any senior indebtedness, or at the property’s estimated fair value, less estimated costs to sell, as applicable. The Company periodically compares the carrying value of real estate to expected undiscounted future cash flows for the purpose of assessing the recoverability of the recorded amounts. If the carrying value exceeds future undiscounted cash flows, the assets are reduced to estimated fair value.
Senior mortgage debt and loan commitments. The carrying amount equals fair value. All amounts, including interest payable, are subject to immediate repayment.
Senior mortgage debt is the estimated financing liability attached to a real estate asset acquired by the foreclosure of the Company’s junior financing. The senior mortgage debt’s balance and terms are often unavailable at the time of foreclosure. Because the Company is not the legal borrower, the senior mortgage debt’s agents assert that this information can not be disclosed on account of the borrower’s privacy rights. Different jurisdictions often have different privacy regulations and disclosure of the legal borrower’s obligations is complicated by competing, if not conflicting jurisdictional claims of the note, property, borrower, servicing agent, senior debt owner, new property owner and federal regulations.
The Company must also proceed cautiously in disclosing its position as the new property owner to the senior mortgage debt’s owner or agents. Many notes have acceleration clauses that may be activated by transfer, sale or foreclosure on the property. Although California law is generally written to prevent a senior mortgage debt from acceleration on account of foreclosure, every situation is different and the costs of defending the notes accelerated maturity could easily exceed the potential recovery from monetizing the foreclosed asset’s estimated residual equity. Due to the frequency of senior loan modifications and the frequency of misleading or inaccurate information provided by former owners or agents, the Company does not provide the individual terms or balances of its REO senior mortgage debt.
14
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
10. | Related party transactions |
On March 26, 2010, the Company entered into a stockholder loan in the amount of $50,000. The loan’s interest rate was 9.99%. The borrowing was repaid on May 4, 2010.
11. | Common and treasury stock |
The Trust has the power to redeem or prohibit the transfer of a sufficient number of Common Shares or the exercise of warrants and/or options that would result in a violation of the Trust’s shareholding requirements. The Bylaws provide that only with the explicit approval of the Trust’s Board of Directors may a stockholder own more than 9.8% of the total outstanding shares.
As of January 1, 2011, the Trust’s net Preferred Stock shares outstanding were 196,901. On February 12, 2011, both the common and preferred stockholders approved the conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock into Common Stock. The conversion was subsequently approved by the Company’s Board of Directors, filed with the Delaware Secretary of State and the NYSE Amex approved the listing of 246,126 additional common shares. As of March 31, 2011, there were 597,608 net common shares outstanding.
The following table represents a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings per common share for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010:
| | 2011 | | | 2010 | |
Numerator: | | | | | | |
Net income (loss) | | $ | (175,395 | ) | | $ | (265,357 | ) |
Preferred dividends | | | - | | | | - | |
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders | | $ | (175,395 | ) | | $ | (265,357 | ) |
Denominator: | | | | | | | | |
Basic weighted average shares | | | 597,608 | | | | 351,315 | |
Dilutive effect of options | | | - | | | | - | |
Diluted weighted average shares | | | 597,608 | | | | 351,315 | |
Basic earnings per common share | | $ | (0.29 | ) | | $ | (0.76 | ) |
Diluted earnings per common share | | $ | (0.29 | ) | | $ | (0.76 | ) |
13. | Legal proceedings and contingencies |
Legal proceedings
The Company is involved in one legal proceeding as of March 31, 2011.
During January 2010, a former borrower filed an appeal of a previously dismissed case. The former borrower continued to allege that the Company made a fraudulent loan by cross collateralizing two separate properties. The cross collateralization was necessary to grant the borrower the desired loan amount, since there was insufficient equity in the primary property offered as collateral. The appeal was dismissed in the first quarter of 2011.
During June 2010, the Company was named a defendant in a complaint alleging damages for multiple violations associated with ELC’s foreclosure on improved real estate encapsulating the plaintiff’s unimproved real estate interest in a Deed of Trust. The Company believes the plaintiff’s actions are without merit and will seek dismissal of all complaints and reimbursement for reasonable legal costs and fees.
15
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
March 31, 2011 (Unaudited)
13. | Legal proceedings and contingencies (continued) |
Noncompliance with Exchange Listing Requirement
The NYSE Amex continued listing standard requires total stockholder equity of $6,000,000. The NYSE Amex has allowed the Company until November 7, 2011 to secure compliance. While the Company is working towards compliance, there is no assurance that it will be able to satisfy the $6,000,000 stockholder equity standard or that the NYSE Amex will not accelerate the compliance date.
16
PART I – ITEM 2
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements made in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are "forward-looking statements" (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) regarding the plans and objectives of management for future operations. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements of Eastern Light Capital, Incorporated (the "Company") to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included herein are based on current expectations that involve numerous risks and uncertainties. The Company's plans and objectives are based, in part, on assumptions involving the continued expansion of business. Assumptions relating to the foregoing involve judgments with respect to, among other things, future economic, competitive and market conditions and future business decisions, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although the Company believes its assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, any of the assumptions could prove inaccurate and, therefore, there can be no assurance the forward-looking statements included in this Annual Report will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other person that the objectives and plans of the Company will be achieved.
Forward-looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods, or by the use of forward-looking terms such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “anticipate”, or similar terms. Actual results could materially differ from those in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors.
Preparation of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements is based upon the operating results of Eastern Light Capital, Incorporated (the “Trust”) and WrenCap Funding Corporation (“WCFC”). Management’s discussion and analysis of the results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 follows:
OVERVIEW
In May of 1997, the Trust registered its common shares with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933. On September 30, 1998, the initial public offering of Common Shares was completed. Since October 1, 1998, the common shares have been publicly traded.
During the fourth quarter of 2006, the Company’s shareholders voted to terminate the outside manager (“Former Manager”) and initiate internal management. The transition agreement with the Former Manager required the Company to remove the name “Capital Alliance” from the Trust’s name by June 30, 2008 and from CAFC’s name by April 30, 2007. On April 20, 2007, the Company’s 100% owned taxable subsidiary changed its name from Capital Alliance Funding Corporation (“CAFC”) to WrenCap Funding Corporation (“WCFC”). On July 2, 2008, the Trust changed its name to Eastern Light Capital, Incorporated.
The current real estate market is characterized by both a lack of available credit and declining residential property valuations. Due to these conditions the Company’s focus on selling real estate owned (“REO”) is highly challenging. The current conditions are expected to extend through calendar year 2011.
Mortgage investment loans are reported as mortgage notes receivable and held until prepayment, maturity or foreclosure. As of March 31, 2011, the Mortgage Investment Business portfolio totaled $1,038,234, consisting of 8 loans, of which 2 loans totaling $23,318 or 2% of the portfolio loan value were delinquent over 60 days. As of May 15, 2011, none of the delinquent loans was brought current or paid off and two loans totaling $23,318 or 2% of the March 31, 2011 portfolio balance remained delinquent. As of March 31, 2011, the Trust held five properties as real estate for sale. During 2011, the Company is focusing on liquidating its REO assets. The monetization of REO assets is an important source of liquidity for the Company in 2011.
17
As of December 31, 2010, the Mortgage Investment Business portfolio totaled $1,046,284, consisting of 8 loans, of which 2 loans totaling $23,318 or 2% of the portfolio loan value were delinquent over 60 days. As of December 31, 2010, the Trust held six properties as real estate for sale.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The accounting and reporting policies of the Company are in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The Company’s significant accounting policies are described in the notes to the consolidated financial statements as contained in the Company’s 2010 Form 10-K as filed with the SEC on April 15, 2011. Certain accounting policies require management to make significant estimates and assumptions, which have a material impact on the carrying value of certain assets and liabilities, and the Company considers these to be critical accounting policies. The estimates and assumptions used are based on historical experience and other factors, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ significantly from these estimates and assumptions, which could have a material impact on the carrying value of assets and liabilities at the balance sheet dates and results of operations for the reporting periods. There have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies as disclosed in 2010 Form 10-K.
Operating Strategy.
Mortgage investment loans are reported as mortgage notes receivable and are held until prepayment, maturity, sale, or foreclosure. The Company owns non-conforming mortgage loans on one-to-four unit residential properties secured by first and second deeds of trust. These loans are primarily secured by California real estate. The Company seeks to maximize the value of its loan portfolio through active asset management.
The Company is reviewing its current investment policies to include other REIT permissible assets, instead of residential mortgage loans. The Company may also consider relinquishing its REIT status to enhance shareholder value.
Loan Origination. During 2010 and the three months ended March 31, 2011, the Company did not make or acquire any new loans. Prospectively, loans may be internally originated or acquired from unaffiliated third parties.
Asset Management. Asset management is mortgage loan servicing and REO dispositions. Loan servicing consists of collecting payments from borrowers, making required advances, accounting for principal and interest payments, holding borrowed proceeds in escrow until fulfillment of mortgage loan requirements, contacting delinquent borrowers, and in the event of unremedied defaults performing other administrative duties including supervising foreclosures.
Only mortgage loans owned by the Company are serviced. The Company does not acquire loan servicing rights or maintain a loan’s servicing rights at disposition. REO dispositions include all of the supervisory and administrative processes of preparing a foreclosed asset for sale.
Loan Portfolio and Allowance for Loan Losses. As of March 31, 2011, the Company’s loan portfolio included 8 loans totaling $1,038,234 of which two loans totaling $23,318 representing 2% of the loan portfolio were delinquent over two payments. In assessing the collectibility of these delinquent mortgage loans, management has established a loan loss reserve of $20,000, if it is necessary to foreclose upon the mortgage loans.
As of December 31, 2010, the Company’s loan portfolio included 8 loans totaling $1,046,284 of which 2 loans totaling $23,318 representing 2% of the loan portfolio were delinquent over two payments. In assessing the collectibility of these delinquent mortgage loans, management had established a loan loss reserve of $20,000, if it is necessary to foreclose upon the mortgage loans.
The Company may issue loan commitments on a conditional basis and will fund such loans upon removal of all conditions. The Trust did not have any commitments to fund loans as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010.
18
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The historical information presented herein is not necessarily indicative of future operations.
Three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010. Revenues for the first quarter decreased to $48,006 as compared to $48,772 for the same period in the prior year. The decrease in revenue was due to a decrease in interest income of $12,292 and an increase in rental income of $10,900. The decrease in interest income was the result of a smaller loan portfolio. The increase in rental income was the result of renting out more properties. During the three months ended March 31, 2011, one REO sold. During the three months ended March 31, 2010, no REO sold.
Expenses for the third quarter decreased $30,783 to $247,215 as compared to $277,998 for the same period in the prior year. The decrease in expenses primarily resulted from a decrease of $10,000 in provisions for loan losses. Wages and salaries decreased $16,219 from $94,463 to $78,244 in the current period due to fewer employees and reduced bonuses.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Management believes that the cash flows from operations, mortgage loans that are paid off, real estate owned that is sold, credit facilities that may be obtained during 2011 and the sale of investment mortgages will be sufficient to meet the liquidity needs of the Company’s business for the next twelve months.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2011
As of January 1, 2011, the Trust had $269,991 of cash and cash equivalents. After taking into effect the various transactions discussed below, cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2011 were $589,944. The following summarizes the changes in net cash used in operating activities, and net cash provided by investing activities.
The principal source of the Trust’s increased liquidity was from investing activities. The primary use of cash was operating activities.
Net cash used by the operating activities during the year ended March 31, 2011 was $250,612. Net cash used from operating activities was primarily the result of the $175,395 net loss for the quarter. Other uses included, a change in prepaid expenses used $20,000, a change in accounts receivable used $15,135, and a change in other liabilities used $19,124.
Net cash of $570,645 was provided by investing activities. Proceeds from real estate owned provided $562,595 and principal collected on mortgage notes receivable provided 8,050.
No cash was used or provided by financing activities.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2010
As of January 1, 2010, the Trust had $227,944 of cash and cash equivalents. After taking into effect the various transactions discussed below, cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2010 were $19,936. The following summarizes the changes in net cash used in operating activities, and net cash used by investing activities and net cash provided in financing activities.
The Trust’s liquidity decreased in the three months ended March 31, 2010. The principal source of the Trust’s liquidity was from financing activities and the primary use of cash was operating and investing activities.
Net cash used in operating activities during the period ended March 31, 2010 was $254,789. Net cash used from operating activities was primarily the result of the net loss for the quarter.
Net cash of $1,776 was used by investing activities. Capital improvements on real estate owned used $12,015, and Principal collected on mortgage notes receivable provided $10,239.
19
Net cash provided in financing activities was $48,557. Payments of senior mortgage loans payable of $50,000 and treasury stock purchases of $1,443 were the uses of cash from financing activities.
PART I – ITEM 3
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company is not required to provide the information required by this item as it is a smaller reporting company.
PART I – ITEM 4
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
(A) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Based on management's evaluation (with the participation of our CEO and Principal Accounting Officer), as of the end of the period covered by this report, our CEO and Principal Accounting Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”)), are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
(B) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Legal Proceedings are described in Note 13 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements which is included in the Form 10-Q under the caption “Legal Proceedings and Contingencies”.
ITEM 1A RISK FACTORS
The Company is not required to provide the information required by this item as it is a smaller reporting company.
ITEM 1B UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2 CHANGES IN SECURITIES
On February 12, 2011, the Common and Preferred stockholders approved the conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock into Common Stock. The conversion was subsequently approved by the company’s Board of Directors, filed with the Delaware Secretary of State and the NYSE Amex approved the listing of 246,126 additional common shares.
20
ITEM 3 DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None
ITEM 4 SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
On February 12, 2011, both the Common and Preferred shareholders approved a shareholder proposal to convert each Series A Preferred Shares into 1.25 Common Shares. The results of the shareholder vote follows:
| | For | | | Against | | | Abstain | |
Common | | | 177,138 | | | | 200 | | | | 792 | |
Preferred | | | 136,592 | | | | 17,854 | | | | 625 | |
ITEM 5 OTHER INFORMATION
None
ITEM 6 EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits
Exhibit No.
3.1 | Certificate of Incorporation and Amendment No. 1 (1) |
3.2 | Bylaws of the Registrant (1) |
3.3 | Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Incorporation (3) |
4.1 | Form of Stock Certificate of Common Shares of the Registrant (2) |
10.2 | Form of Indemnity Agreement between the Registrant and its Directors and Officers (1) |
24.7 | Power of Attorney of Richard J. Wrensen (4) |
31.1 | Sarbanes Certification of Richard J. Wrensen |
31.2 | Sarbanes Certification of Andrea Barney |
32.1 | Sarbanes Certification |
(1) | These exhibits were previously contained in Registrant’s Registration Statement filed on Form S-11 with the Commission on September 9, 1996, and are incorporated by reference herein. |
(2) | These exhibits were previously contained in Amendment No. 1 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement filed on Form S-11 with the Commission on January 15, 1997, and are incorporated by reference herein. |
(3) | These exhibits were previously contained in Form 10-Q for the period ending June 30, 1997 filed with the Commission on August 14, 1997, and are incorporated by reference herein. |
(4) | This exhibit was previously contained in Form 10-K for the period ending December 31, 1998 filed with the Commission on April 10, 1999, and is incorporated by reference herein. |
(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
Form 8-K was filed on:
· | February 1, 2011 due to the press release announcing that the shareholder voting period was extended. |
· | February 14, 2011 due to the press release of February 11, 2011 announcing the shareholders approval of the Preferred Stock conversion. |
· | February 17, 2011 announcing that Eastern Light Capital has received an extension to fulfill a NYSE Amex compliance listing requirement. |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
EASTERN LIGHT CAPITAL, INCORPORATED
| | |
| | |
Date: May 23, 2011 | /s/ Richard J. Wrensen | |
| Richard J. Wrensen | |
| President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| /s/ Andrea Barney | |
| | |
| Principal Accounting Officer and Controller | |
| | |
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