UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarter Ended June 30, 2008 | Commission File Number 001-12629 |
NATIONAL HOLDINGS CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| Delaware | | 36-4128138 |
| (State or other jurisdiction of | | (I.R.S. Employer |
| incorporation or organization) | | Identification No.) |
120 Broadway, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10271
(Address including zip code of principal executive offices)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (212) 417-8000
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨
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 definition of “accelerated filer”, “large accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (check one).
| | Large Accelerated Filer ¨ | Accelerated Filer ¨ |
| | | |
| | Non-Accelerated Filer ¨ | Smaller Reporting Company x |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2). YES ¨ NO x
As of August 11, 2008 there were 16,421,538 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.
NATIONAL HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
| | | June 30, | | September 30, | |
| | | 2008 | | 2007 | |
| | | (unaudited) | | (see note below) | |
| | | | | | |
ASSETS | | | | | | | |
| CASH | | $ | 5,464,000 | | $ | 4,957,000 | |
| DEPOSITS WITH CLEARING ORGANIZATIONS | | | 402,000 | | | 402,000 | |
| RECEIVABLES FROM BROKER-DEALERS AND CLEARING ORGANIZATIONS | | | 3,639,000 | | | 4,739,000 | |
| OTHER RECEIVABLES, net of allowance for uncollectible accounts of $467,000 at June 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007, respectively | | | 534,000 | | | 784,000 | |
| ADVANCES TO REGISTERED REPRESENTATIVES | | | 4,469,000 | | | 4,010,000 | |
| SECURITIES OWNED | | | | | | | |
| Marketable, at market value | | | 341,000 | | | 1,191,000 | |
| FIXED ASSETS, net | | | 300,000 | | | 304,000 | |
| SECURED DEMAND NOTE | | | 500,000 | | | 500,000 | |
| OTHER ASSETS | | | 1,144,000 | | | 396,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL ASSETS | | $ | 16,793,000 | | $ | 17,283,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| PAYABLE TO BROKER-DEALERS AND CLEARING ORGANIZATIONS | | $ | 35,000 | | $ | 1,115,000 | |
| SECURITIES SOLD, BUT NOT YET PURCHASED, at market | | | 306,000 | | | 77,000 | |
| ACCOUNTS PAYABLE, ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES | | | 5,239,000 | | | 7,907,000 | |
| CONVERTIBLE PROMISSORY NOTES PAYABLE, net of debt discount of $1,159,000 at June 30, 2008 | | | 4,841,000 | | | - | |
| NOTES PAYABLE, net of debt discounts of $65,000 and $138,000 at June 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007, respectively | | | 935,000 | | | 862,000 | |
| TOTAL LIABILITIES | | | 11,356,000 | | | 9,961,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| SUBORDINATED BORROWINGS | | | 500,000 | | | 500,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY | | | | | | | |
| Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 200,000 shares authorized; 50,000 shares designated as Series A and 20,000 shares designated as Series B Series A 9% cumulative convertible preferred stock, $.01 par value, 50,000 shares authorized; 37,550 shares issued and outstanding (liquidation preference: $3,755,000) at June 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007 | | | - | | | - | |
| Series B 9% cumulative convertible preferred stock, $.01 par value, 20,000 shares authorized; 0 shares issued and outstanding (liquidation preference: $0) at June 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007 | | | - | | | - | |
| Common stock, $.02 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized; 8,622,628 and 8,602,628 shares issued and outstanding, at June 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007, respectively | | | 172,000 | | | 172,000 | |
| Additional paid-in capital | | | 21,474,000 | | | 19,919,000 | |
| Accumulated deficit | | | (16,709,000 | ) | | (13,269,000 | ) |
| TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY | | | 4,937,000 | | | 6,822,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY | | $ | 16,793,000 | | $ | 17,283,000 | |
Note: The balance sheet at September 30, 2007 has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date.
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
| | | Three Months Ended | | Nine Months Ended | |
| | | June 30, | | June 30, | | June 30, | | June 30, | |
| | | 2008 | | 2007 | | 2008 | | 2007 | |
| REVENUES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Commissions | | $ | 11,428,000 | | $ | 10,761,000 | | $ | 34,644,000 | | $ | 27,705,000 | |
| Net dealer inventory gains | | | 3,202,000 | | | 3,051,000 | | | 11,035,000 | | | 10,109,000 | |
| Investment banking | | | 1,210,000 | | | 4,278,000 | | | 1,277,000 | | | 7,945,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Total commission and fee revenues | | | 15,840,000 | | | 18,090,000 | | | 46,956,000 | | | 45,759,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Interest and dividends | | | 837,000 | | | 649,000 | | | 2,647,000 | | | 2,010,000 | |
| Transfer fees and clearing services | | | 1,105,000 | | | 1,029,000 | | | 3,378,000 | | | 3,045,000 | |
| Other | | | 897,000 | | | 461,000 | | | 2,347,000 | | | 1,314,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL REVENUES | | | 18,679,000 | | | 20,229,000 | | | 55,328,000 | | | 52,128,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| EXPENSES: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Commissions | | | 14,695,000 | | | 14,017,000 | | | 43,449,000 | | | 36,193,000 | |
| Employee compensation and related expenses | | | 1,786,000 | | | 2,168,000 | | | 6,334,000 | | | 5,430,000 | |
| Clearing fees | | | 541,000 | | | 444,000 | | | 1,676,000 | | | 1,162,000 | |
| Communications | | | 299,000 | | | 419,000 | | | 907,000 | | | 1,247,000 | |
| Occupancy and equipment costs | | | 831,000 | | | 614,000 | | | 2,564,000 | | | 2,090,000 | |
| Professional fees | | | 546,000 | | | 318,000 | | | 1,597,000 | | | 1,835,000 | |
| Interest | | | 176,000 | | | 252,000 | | | 319,000 | | | 461,000 | |
| Taxes, licenses, registration | | | 123,000 | | | 134,000 | | | 330,000 | | | 476,000 | |
| Other administrative expenses | | | 591,000 | | | 302,000 | | | 1,590,000 | | | 1,182,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| TOTAL EXPENSES | | | 19,588,000 | | | 18,668,000 | | | 58,766,000 | | | 50,076,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| NET (LOSS) INCOME | | | (909,000 | ) | | 1,561,000 | | | (3,438,000 | ) | | 2,052,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Preferred stock dividends | | | (84,000 | ) | | (109,000 | ) | | (253,000 | ) | | (317,000 | ) |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders | | $ | (993,000 | ) | $ | 1,452,000 | | $ | (3,691,000 | ) | $ | 1,735,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| NET (LOSS) INCOME PER COMMON SHARE | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Basic: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders | | $ | (0.12 | ) | $ | 0.26 | | $ | (0.43 | ) | $ | 0.32 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Diluted: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders | | $ | (0.12 | ) | $ | 0.14 | | $ | (0.43 | ) | $ | 0.20 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Weighted average number of shares outstanding | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Basic | | | 8,622,628 | | | 5,543,151 | | | 8,611,602 | | | 5,388,225 | |
| Diluted | | | 8,622,628 | | | 10,817,779 | | | 8,611,602 | | | 10,220,264 | |
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
| | | Nine Months Ended | |
| | | June 30, 2008 | | June 30, 2007 | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES | | | | | | | |
| Net (loss) income | | $ | (3,438,000 | ) | $ | 2,052,000 | |
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | | | | | | | |
| Depreciation and amortization | | | 146,000 | | | 111,000 | |
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | | | 15,000 | | | 27,000 | |
| Amortization of note discount | | | 98,000 | | | 237,000 | |
| Compensatory element of common stock option issuances | | | 361,000 | | | 85,000 | |
| Changes in assets and liabilities | | | | | | | |
| Restricted cash | | | - | | | (9,000 | ) |
| Deposits with clearing organizations | | | - | | | (51,000 | ) |
| Receivables from broker-dealers, clearing organizations and others | | | 891,000 | | | (731,000 | ) |
| Securities owned: marketable, at market value | | | 850,000 | | | (442,000 | ) |
| Securities owned: non-marketable, at fair value | | | - | | | 402,000 | |
| Other assets | | | (133,000 | ) | | (408,000 | ) |
| Payables | | | (3,748,000 | ) | | 2,947,000 | |
| Securities sold, but not yet purchased, at market | | | 229,000 | | | 53,000 | |
| Net cash (used in) provided operating activities | | | (4,729,000 | ) | | 4,273,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES | | | | | | | |
| Purchase of fixed assets | | | (142,000 | ) | | (83,000 | ) |
| | | | | | | | |
| CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | | | | | | | |
| Net proceeds from issuance of convertible notes payable | | | 6,000,000 | | | - | |
| Net proceeds from issuance of notes payable | | | - | | | 1,000,000 | |
| Cash payment of deferred financing costs | | | (181,000 | ) | | (22,000 | ) |
| Payment of notes payable | | | - | | | (850,000 | ) |
| Dividends paid | | | - | | | (75,000 | ) |
| Deferred merger costs | | | (449,000 | ) | | - | |
| Exercise of stock options | | | 8,000 | | | 14,000 | |
| Exercise of warrants | | | - | | | 489,000 | |
| Net cash provided by financing activities | | | 5,378,000 | | | 556,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| NET INCREASE IN CASH | | | 507,000 | | | 4,746,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| CASH BALANCE | | | | | | | |
| Beginning of the period | | | 4,957,000 | | | 1,441,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| End of the period | | $ | 5,464,000 | | $ | 6,187,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION | | | | | | | |
| Cash paid during the period for: | | | | | | | |
| Interest | | $ | 162,000 | | $ | 192,000 | |
| Income taxes | | $ | 37,000 | | $ | - | |
| Series B preferred stock dividends | | $ | - | | $ | 75,000 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF NONCASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES | | | | | | | |
| Warrants issued in connection with debt | | $ | 1,184,000 | | $ | 195,000 | |
| Series A Preferred stock dividends | | $ | - | | $ | 317,000 | |
| Common stock issued to holders of convertible notes | | $ | - | | $ | 1,024,413 | |
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.
NATIONAL HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2008
(UNAUDITED)
NOTE 1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements of National Holdings Corporation (“National Holdings” or the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial statements and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and disclosures required for annual financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The condensed consolidated financial statements as of June 30, 2008 and for the periods ended June 30, 2008 and June 30, 2007 are unaudited. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the fiscal year. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related footnotes included thereto in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007.
NOTE 2. CONSOLIDATION
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of National Holdings and its wholly owned subsidiaries. National Securities Corporation (“National Securities”) is a Washington corporation organized in 1947. National Securities conducts a national securities brokerage business through its main offices in Seattle, Washington and New York, New York. The Company’s business includes securities brokerage for individual and institutional clients, market-making trading activities, asset management and corporate finance services. National Securities is an introducing broker and clears all transactions through clearing organizations on a fully disclosed basis. National Asset Management, Inc. (“NAM”), a Washington corporation, is a federally-registered investment adviser that provides asset management advisory services to high net worth clients for a fee based upon a percentage of assets managed. National Insurance Corporation (“National Insurance”), a Washington corporation, provides fixed insurance products to its clients, including life insurance, disability insurance, long term care insurance and fixed annuities. National Insurance commenced business operations during the second quarter of fiscal year 2007 that have been diminimus. National Securities Futures Corporation (“National Futures”), National Holdings Mortgage Corporation (“National Mortgage”), and National Group Benefits Corporation (“National Group Benefits”), each a Washington corporation, have not commenced active business operations. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
NOTE 3. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”). SFAS 141(R) replaces SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations”, and is effective for the Company for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. SFAS 141(R) requires the new acquiring entity to recognize all assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transactions; establishes an acquisition-date fair value for acquired assets and liabilities; and fully discloses to investors the financial effect the acquisition will have. The Company is evaluating the impact of this pronouncement on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“SFAS 160”). SFAS 160 requires all entities to report minority interests in subsidiaries as equity in the consolidated financial statements, and requires that transactions between entities and non-controlling interests be treated as equity. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008, and earlier adoption is prohibited. The Company is evaluating the impact of this pronouncement on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161 "Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 "("SFAS 161"). SFAS 161 changes the disclosure requirements for derivative instruments and hedging activities. Entities are required to provide enhanced disclosures about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity's financial position, financial performance and cash flows. The guidance in SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008, with early application encouraged. This Statement encourages, but does not require, comparative disclosures for earlier periods at initial adoption. At this time, management is evaluating the implications of SFAS 161 and its impact on the condensed consolidated financial statements has not yet been determined.
NOTE 4. INCOME TAXES
Effective October 1, 2007, the Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109" ("FIN 48"). FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and a measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. For those benefits to be recognized, a tax position must be more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities. Differences between tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and the benefit recognized and measured pursuant to the interpretation are referred to as "unrecognized benefits". A liability is recognized (or amount of net operating loss carry forward or amount of tax refundable is reduced) for an unrecognized tax benefit because it represents an enterprise's potential future obligation to the taxing authority for a tax position that was not recognized as a result of applying the provisions of FIN 48.
In accordance with FIN 48, interest costs related to unrecognized tax benefits are required to be calculated (if applicable) and would be classified as “Interest” expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Penalties would be recognized as a component of "Other administrative expenses".
In many cases the Company's uncertain tax positions are related to tax years that remain subject to examination by relevant tax authorities. The Company files income tax returns in the United States (federal) and in various state and local jurisdictions. In most instances, the Company is no longer subject to federal, state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005.
The adoption of the provisions of FIN 48 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial position and results of operations. As of June 30, 2008, no liability for unrecognized tax benefits was required to be recorded. The Company recognized a deferred tax asset of approximately $5.4 million as of June 30, 2008, primarily relating to net operating loss carryovers of approximately $13.0 million, available to offset future taxable income through 2025.
The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. The Company considers projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. At present, the Company does not have a sufficient history of income to conclude that it is more likely than not that the Company will be able to realize all of its tax benefits in the near future and therefore a valuation allowance was established in the full value of the deferred tax asset. A valuation allowance will be maintained until sufficient positive evidence exists to support the reversal of any portion or all of the valuation allowance net of appropriate reserves.
NOTE 5. STOCK BASED COMPENSATION
Effective October 1, 2005, the Company adopted FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 123R “Share Based Payment”. This statement is a revision of SFAS Statement No. 123, and supersedes APB Opinion No. 25, and its related implementation guidance. SFAS 123R addresses all forms of share based payment (“SBP”) awards including shares issued under employee stock purchase plans, stock options, restricted stock and stock appreciation rights. Under SFAS 123R, SBP awards will result in a charge to operations that will be measured at fair value on the awards grant date, based on the estimated number of awards expected to vest over the service period. During the nine months ended June 30, 2007, the Company granted 720,000 stock options with a fair value of approximately $574,000. A charge of approximately $55,000 and $85,000 was recorded in the three and nine months ended June 30, 2007, respectively, relating to the amortization of the fair value associated with stock option grants. During the nine months ended June 30, 2008, the Company granted 180,000 stock options with a fair value of approximately $201,000. A charge of approximately $149,000 and $361,000 was recorded in the three and nine months ended June 30, 2008, respectively, relating to the amortization of the fair value associated with stock option grants. The Company did not make any stock option grants in the three months ended June 30, 2007 or June 30, 2008.
The Black-Scholes option valuation model is used to estimate the fair value of the options granted. The model includes subjective input assumptions that can materially affect the fair value estimates. The model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and that are fully transferable. For example, the expected volatility is estimated based on the most recent historical period of time equal to the weighted average life of the options granted. Options issued under the Company's option plans have characteristics that differ from traded options. In management's opinion, this valuation model does not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of the fair value of its employee stock options. Principal assumptions used in applying the Black-Scholes model along with the results from the model were as follows:
| | | 2008 | | 2007 | |
| Assumptions: | | | | | | | |
| Risk-free interest rate | | | 1.47% - 2.19 | % | | 4.40 | % |
| | | | | | | | |
| Expected life, in years | | | 3.0 | | | 3.0 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| Expected volatility | | | 81 | % | | 83 | % |
A summary of the stock option activity as of June 30, 2008, and changes during the nine month period then ended is presented below:
| | | | | | | Weighted | | | |
| | | | | Weighted | | Average | | | |
| | | | | Average | | Remaining | | Aggregate | |
| | | | | Exercise | | Contractual | | Intrinsic | |
| | | Shares | | Price | | Term | | Value | |
| Outstanding at September 30, 2007 | | | 2,007,000 | | $ | 1.62 | | | 3.64 | | $ | 2,359,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Granted | | | 180,000 | | $ | 2.10 | | | 4.70 | | $ | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Exercised | | | (20,000 | ) | $ | 0.40 | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Expired | | | (75,000 | ) | $ | 2.00 | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Outstanding at June 30, 2008 | | | 2,092,000 | | $ | 1.66 | | | 3.04 | | $ | 537,875 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Exerciseable at June 30, 2008 | | | 1,293,250 | | $ | 1.40 | | | 2.39 | | $ | 499,250 | |
As of June 30, 2008, there was $774,000 of total unrecognized deferred compensation costs related to share-based compensation arrangements that will be amortized over periods ranging from six months to four years. The Company expects that future forfeitures will be diminimus.
A summary of the status of the Company’s non-vested shares as of June 30, 2008, and changes during the nine month period then ended is presented below:
| | | | | Weighted | |
| | | | | Average | |
| | | | | Grant Date | |
| Nonvested Shares | | Shares | | Fair Value | |
| Nonvested at September 30, 2007 | | | 900,000 | | $ | 0.95 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| Granted | | | 180,000 | | $ | 2.10 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| Vested | | | (206,250 | ) | $ | 0.71 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| Expired | | | (75,000 | ) | $ | 2.00 | |
| | | | | | | | |
| Nonvested at June 30, 2008 | | | 798,750 | | $ | 1.20 | |
NOTE 6. SECURITIES OWNED AND SECURITIES SOLD, BUT NOT YET PURCHASED
The following table shows the quoted market values of securities owned by the Company, and securities sold but not yet purchased by the Company, as of June 30, 2008:
| | | Securities held | | Securities sold, but | |
| | | for resale | | not yet purchased | |
| Corporate stocks | | $ | 320,000 | | $ | 35,000 | |
| Corporate bonds | | | 21,000 | | | - | |
| Government obligations | | | - | | | - | |
| | | $ | 341,000 | | $ | 35,000 | |
NOTE 7. CONTINGENCIES
In September 2006, the former chairman and chief executive officer of the Company, Steven A. Rothstein, commenced an arbitration against the current chairman and chief executive officer of the Company, Mark Goldwasser, in the matter Rothstein et al. vs. Goldwasser, FINRA No. 06-04000. Rothstein is alleging fraud and inequitable conduct relating to his attempts to sell his investment in the Company in calendar year 2001, and is seeking approximately $5,750,000 in damages. The Company is indemnifying Mr. Goldwasser in this action for any adverse award up to $1,000,000. The Company and Mr. Goldwasser believe this action is without merit, and intend to vigorously defend this action. As of June 30, 2008, the outcome of this arbitration is not determinable and accordingly the Company has not established a provision for this matter.
The Company is a defendant in various other arbitrations and administrative proceedings, lawsuits and claims seeking in the aggregate damages of approximately $800,000. The Company believes such claims are substantially without merit, and estimates that its liability, primarily for attorney representation, will be less than $200,000 (exclusive of unspecified punitive damages related to certain claims and inclusive of expected insurance coverage). These matters arise in the normal course of business. The Company intends to vigorously defend itself in these actions, and believes that the eventual outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company. However, the ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be determined at this time. The amounts related to such matters that are reasonably estimable and which have been accrued at June 30, 2008 and 2007, is $40,000 and $97,000 (primarily legal fees), respectively, and have been included in “Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities” in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition. The Company has included in “Professional fees” litigation and FINRA related expenses of $170,000 and $121,000 for the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $660,000 and $1,254,000 for the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 and 2007, respectively.
NOTE 8. DIVIDENDS ON CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCK
The holders of the Company’s Series A convertible preferred stock, that are convertible into the Company’s common stock at $1.25 per share, are entitled to receive dividends on a quarterly basis at a rate of 9% per annum, per share. Such dividends are cumulative and accrue whether or not declared by the Company’s Board of Directors, but are payable only when, as and if declared by the Company’s Board of Directors. At June 30, 2008, the accumulated unpaid dividends on the Company’s 37,550 issued and outstanding shares of Series A preferred stock were $422,000.
NOTE 9. INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE
Basic income (loss) per share is computed on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted income (loss) per share is computed on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the potential dilution that would occur if securities or other contracts to issue common shares were exercised or converted.
The following table sets forth the components used in the computation of basic and diluted income per common share:
| | | Three Months Ended | | Six Months Ended | |
| | | June 30, 2008 | | June 30, 2007 | | June 30, 2008 | | June 30, 2007 | |
| Numerator: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net income (loss) | | $ | (909,000 | ) | $ | 1,561,000 | | $ | (3,438,000 | ) | $ | 2,052,000 | |
| Preferred stock dividends | | | (84,000 | ) | | (109,000 | ) | | (253,000 | ) | | (317,000 | ) |
| Numerator for basic earnings per share | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| – net income (loss) attributable to | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| common stockholders - as reported | | | (993,000 | ) | | 1,452,000 | | | (3,691,000 | ) | | 1,735,000 | |
| Effect of dilutive securities: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Interest on convertible notes | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| Preferred stock dividends | | | - | | | 109,000 | | | - | | | 317,000 | |
| Numerator for basic earnings per share | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| – net income (loss) attributable to | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| common stockholders - as adjusted | | $ | (993,000 | ) | $ | 1,561,000 | | $ | (3,691,000 | ) | $ | 2,052,000 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Denominator: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Denominator for basic earnings per | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| share–weighted average shares | | | 8,622,628 | | | 5,543,151 | | | 8,611,602 | | | 5,388,225 | |
| Effect of dilutive securities: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Stock options | | | - | | | 404,669 | | | - | | | 229,609 | |
| Warrants | | | - | | | 532,626 | | | - | | | 265,097 | |
| Assumed conversion of: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Series A Preferred Stock | | | - | | | 3,004,000 | | | - | | | 3,004,000 | |
| Series B Preferred Stock | | | - | | | 1,333,333 | | | - | | | 1,333,333 | |
| Notes | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| Dilutive potential common shares | | | - | | | 5,274,628 | | | - | | | 4,832,039 | |
| Denominator for diluted earnings per | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| share–adjusted weighted-average | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| shares and assumed conversions | | | 8,622,628 | | | 10,817,779 | | | 8,611,602 | | | 10,220,264 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Net income available to | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| common stockholders | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Basic: | | $ | (0.12 | ) | $ | 0.26 | | $ | (0.43 | ) | $ | 0.32 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Diluted: | | $ | (0.12 | ) | $ | 0.14 | | $ | (0.43 | ) | $ | 0.20 | |
For both the three and nine month periods ended June 30, 2008, 10,014,750 common share equivalents were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. For the three and nine month periods ended June 30, 2007, 2,048,486 and 2,491,075, respectively, common share equivalents were excluded from the calculation of diluted net loss per share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive.
The following table sets forth the common share equivalents that were excluded from the calculation:
| | | Three Months Ended | | Six Months Ended | |
| | | June 30, 2008 | | June 30, 2007 | | June 30, 2008 | | June 30, 2007 | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Stock options | | | 2,092,000 | | | 1,202,331 | | | 2,092,000 | | | 1,377,391 | |
| Warrants | | | 1,543,750 | | | 846,155 | | | 1,543,750 | | | 1,113,684 | |
| Assumed conversion of: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Series A Preferred Stock | | | 3,004,000 | | | - | | | 3,004,000 | | | - | |
| Series B Preferred Stock | | | - | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| Notes | | | 3,375,000 | | | - | | | 3,375,000 | | | - | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Dilutive potential common shares | | | 10,014,750 | | | 2,048,486 | | | 10,014,750 | | | 2,491,075 | |
NOTE 10. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE, ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities as of June 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007, respectively, consist of the following:
| | | June 30, 2008 | | September 30, 2007 | |
| | | | | | |
| Commissions payable | | $ | 2,921,000 | | $ | 5,128,000 | |
| Deferred clearing fee credits | | | 606,000 | | | 828,000 | |
| Telecommunications vendors payable | | | 266,000 | | | 366,000 | |
| Legal payable | | | 40,000 | | | 84,000 | |
| Deferred rent payable | | | 283,000 | | | 133,000 | |
| Other vendors | | | 1,123,000 | | | 1,368,000 | |
| Total | | $ | 5,239,000 | | $ | 7,907,000 | |
NOTE 11. NOTES PAYABLE
In February 2008, National Securities and the holder of a $500,000 secured demand note that was scheduled to mature on March 1, 2008, extended the term of the secured demand note to March 1, 2009.
NOTE 12. PRIVATE PLACEMENT OF 10% CONVERTIBLE PROMISSORY NOTES
On March 31, 2008, the Company completed a financing transaction under which an investor made an investment in the Company by purchasing a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $3.0 million, with a warrant to purchase 375,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.50 per share. The promissory note matures in March 2012, is convertible into common stock at a price of $2.00 per share and has a stated interest rate of 10% per annum. The Company accounted for this transaction by applying Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") No 98-5 "Accounting for Convertible Securities with Beneficial Conversion Features or Contingently Adjustable Conversion Ratios" and EITF No. 00-27 "Application of Issue No. 98-5 to Certain Convertible Instruments", and the relative fair value of the warrant of approximately $395,000 was calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Valuation Model. This amount has been recorded as a debt discount that will be charged to interest expense over the life of the promissory note.
On June 30, 2008, the Company completed a financing transaction under which the same investor made an additional investment in the Company by purchasing a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $3.0 million, with a warrant to purchase 468,750 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share. The promissory note matures in June 2012, is convertible into common stock at a price of $1.60 per share and has a stated interest rate of 10% per annum. Under accounting guidance provided by EITF No 98-5 and EITF No. 00-27 the relative fair value of the warrant was calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Valuation Model. The Company also recorded an additional debt discount for the beneficial conversion feature of the instrument. These amounts, totaling approximately $789,000, have been recorded as a debt discount that will be charged to interest expense over the life of the promissory note.
The Company and the investor entered into registration rights agreements, wherein the Company has agreed to file a registration statement for the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the note and exercise of the warrant within ninety (90) days of the effective date of the proposed merger with vFinance, Inc. (See Note 15), and to cause the registration statement to be declared effective within one hundred eighty (180) days of the effective date of such merger. Should the Company fail to either file the registration statement or have it declared effective within such time limits then as liquidated damages the interest rate of the note shall increase 1% per annum for each month the applicable failure is not cured, up to a maximum of 15%.
The investment was made by St. Cloud Capital Partners II, L.P. (“St. Cloud II”), whose managing partner is Marshall S. Geller, a member of the Company's board of directors. Robert W. Lautz, Jr., a Managing Director of St. Cloud, became a member of the Board of Directors of the Company concurrent with the closing of the June 2008 financing transaction. The Company incurred legal fees and other costs related to these capital transactions of approximately $101,000 and $75,000, respectively, that were capitalized and will be amortized to interest expense over the life of the promissory notes.
NOTE 13. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
In the three and nine months ended June 30, 2008 the Company received proceeds of $0 and $8,000, respectively, from the exercise of outstanding stock options to acquire 20,000 shares of common stock. In July 2008 the Company received proceeds of $9,000 from the exercise of outstanding stock options to acquire 10,000 shares of common stock.
NOTE 14. NET CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS
National Securities, as a registered broker-dealer, is subject to the SEC’s Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 that requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. National Securities has elected to use the alternative standard method permitted by the rule. This requires that National Securities maintain minimum net capital equal to the greater of $250,000 or a specified amount per security based on the bid price of each security for which National Securities is a market maker. At June 30, 2008, National Securities’ net capital exceeded the requirement by $1,610,000.
Advances, dividend payments and other equity withdrawals from the Company’s subsidiary are restricted by the regulations of the SEC and other regulatory agencies. These regulatory restrictions may limit the amounts that a subsidiary may dividend or advance to the Company.
NOTE 15. MERGER AGREEMENT
In November 2007, the Company entered into a definitive merger agreement with vFinance, Inc., a publicly traded company with two wholly owned subsidiaries which are also registered broker-dealers with a similar business to National Securities. Effective as of 12:01 a.m. (EDT) July 1, 2008 (the “Effective Date”), the merger was completed. On the Effective Date each of the 55,635,066 shares of vFinance common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Date was exchanged for 0.14 shares of Company common stock, or approximately 7,788,910 shares of Company common stock. The closing price of the Company’s common stock, as quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board, on June 30, 2008 was $1.75 per share. Each option and warrant to purchase shares of vFinance common stock outstanding prior to the Effective Date was converted into options or warrants, as applicable, to acquire the number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock determined by multiplying (i) the number of vFinance shares of common stock underlying each outstanding vFinance stock option or warrant immediately prior to the Effective Date of the Merger by (ii) 0.14, at an exercise price per share of the Company’s Common Stock equal to (i) the exercise price per share of each stock option or warrant otherwise purchasable pursuant to the vFinance stock option divided by (ii) 0.14.
The Company has capitalized approximately $449,000 of costs associated with this merger that have been included in “Other Assets” in the condensed consolidated statements of financial condition as of June 30, 2008. Upon the completion of the merger, these costs were included as part of the purchase price.
NOTE 16. LIQUIDITY
During the nine months ended June 30, 2008, the Company incurred a net loss of $3,438,000. The Company has historically satisfied its capital needs with cash generated from operations or from financing activities. On March 31, 2008 and June 30, 2008, the Company issued convertible promissory notes in the aggregate principal amount of $6.0 million (See Note 12). As a result of the merger with vFinance (See Note 15), the Company’s capital requirements to fund its business will change. There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in meeting these requirements. The Company will also be responsible for the outstanding commitments and contingencies of vFinance. However, the Company believes that it will have sufficient funds to maintain its current level of business activities, including those of vFinance, during fiscal year 2008. If market conditions should weaken, the Company would need to consider curtailing certain of its business activities, reducing its fixed overhead costs and/or seek additional sources of financing.
NOTE 17. SUBSIDIARIES
In July 1994, National Securities formed a wholly owned subsidiary, National Asset Management, Inc., a Washington corporation ("NAM"). NAM is a federally registered investment adviser providing asset management advisory services to high net worth clients for a fee based upon a percentage of assets managed. In March 2008, all of the issued and outstanding stock of NAM was transferred from National Securities to the Company.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements. This Quarterly Report may contain certain statements of a forward-looking nature relating to future events or future business performance. Any such statements that refer to the Company’s estimated or anticipated future results or other non-historical facts are forward-looking and reflect the Company’s current perspective of existing trends and information. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that cannot be predicted or quantified and, consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, risks and uncertainties detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 10, 2007. Any forward-looking statements contained in or incorporated into this Quarterly Report speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Three Months Ended June 30, 2008 Compared to Three Months Ended June 30, 2007
The Company’s third quarter of fiscal year 2008 resulted in a decrease in revenues, and an increase in expenses compared to the same period last year. As a result, the Company reported a net loss of $909,000 compared with net income of $1,561,000 for the third quarter of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively.
| | | Three Months Ended | | | | | |
| | | June 30, | | Increase (Decrease) | |
| | | 2008 | | 2007 | | Amount | | Percent | |
| Commissions | | $ | 11,428,000 | | $ | 10,761,000 | | $ | 667,000 | | | 6 | % |
| Proprietary trading | | | 3,236,000 | | | 2,876,000 | | | 360,000 | | | 13 | % |
| Market making | | | (60,000 | ) | | 89,000 | | | (149,000 | ) | | (167 | )% |
| Mark-ups and mark-downs | | | 26,000 | | | 86,000 | | | (60,000 | ) | | (70 | )% |
| Net dealer inventory gains | | | 3,202,000 | | | 3,051,000 | | | 151,000 | | | 5 | % |
| Investment banking | | | 1,210,000 | | | 4,278,000 | | | (3,068,000 | ) | | (72 | )% |
| Interest and dividends | | | 837,000 | | | 649,000 | | | 188,000 | | | 29 | % |
| Transfer fees and clearance services | | | 1,105,000 | | | 1,029,000 | | | 76,000 | | | 7 | % |
| Other | | | 897,000 | | | 461,000 | | | 436,000 | | | 95 | % |
| | | $ | 18,679,000 | | $ | 20,229,000 | | $ | (1,550,000 | ) | | (8 | )% |
Total revenues decreased $1,550,000, or 8%, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 to $18,679,000 from $20,229,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. This decrease is due to a decline in investment banking revenue. During the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, total trading volume decreased 3%, compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The decrease in trading volume is due to an increase in annuity and insurance commissions which do not generate trading tickets. Trading volume in this period related to retail brokerage also decreased 3%. Commission revenue increased $667,000, or 6%, to $11,428,000 from $10,761,000 during the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same period in fiscal year 2007. Net dealer inventory gains, which includes profits on proprietary trading, market making activities and customer mark-ups and mark-downs, increased $151,000, or 5%, to $3,202,000 from $3,051,000 during the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same period in fiscal year 2007. The increase is due to increased trading activity in foreign securities partially offset set by a decline in market making activities and customer mark-ups and mark-downs. During the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, revenues from proprietary trading increased $360,000, or 13%, to $3,236,000 from $2,876,000 in the same period of fiscal year 2007 and revenues from customer mark-ups and mark-downs decreased $60,000, or 70%, to $26,000 from $86,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The Company realized a loss from market making activities in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.
Investment banking revenue decreased $3,068,000, or 72%, to $1,210,000 from $4,278,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The Company did not complete any investment banking transactions in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008, and received only fee income. Interest and dividend income increased $188,000, or 29%, to $837,000 from $649,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same period last year. The increase in interest income is attributable to an increase in the amount of debit balances in National Securities’ customer accounts from the same period last year. Transfer fees increased $76,000, or 7%, to $1,105,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from $1,029,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase is consistent with the increase in commission revenue.
Other revenue, consisting of asset management fees, miscellaneous transaction fees, trading fees and other investment income, increased $436,000, or 95%, to $897,000 from $461,000 during the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase is due to an increase in fee based assets under management.
In comparison with the 8% decrease in total revenues, total expenses increased 5%, or $920,000, to $19,588,000 for the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to $18,668,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase in total expenses is primarily the result of greater commission expense.
| | | Three Months Ended | | | | | |
| | | June 30, | | Increase (Decrease) | |
| | | 2008 | | 2007 | | Amount | | Percent | |
| Commission expense related to: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Commission revenue | | $ | 10,766,000 | | $ | 9,891,000 | | $ | 875,000 | | | 9 | % |
| Net dealer inventory gains | | | 2,856,000 | | | 2,471,000 | | | 385,000 | | | 16 | % |
| Investment banking | | | 1,073,000 | | | 1,655,000 | | | (582,000 | ) | | (35 | )% |
| Commissions | | | 14,695,000 | | | 14,017,000 | | | 678,000 | | | 5 | % |
| Employee compensation | | | 1,786,000 | | | 2,168,000 | | | (382,000 | ) | | (18 | )% |
| Clearing fees | | | 541,000 | | | 444,000 | | | 97,000 | | | 22 | % |
| Communications | | | 299,000 | | | 419,000 | | | (120,000 | ) | | (29 | )% |
| Occupancy and equipment costs | | | 831,000 | | | 614,000 | | | 217,000 | | | 35 | % |
| Professional fees | | | 546,000 | | | 318,000 | | | 228,000 | | | 72 | % |
| Interest | | | 176,000 | | | 252,000 | | | (76,000 | ) | | (30 | )% |
| Taxes, licenses and registration | | | 123,000 | | | 134,000 | | | (11,000 | ) | | (8 | )% |
| Other administrative expenses | | | 591,000 | | | 302,000 | | | 289,000 | | | 96 | % |
| | | $ | 19,588,000 | | $ | 18,668,000 | | $ | 920,000 | | | 5 | % |
Commission expense, which includes expenses related to commission revenue, net dealer inventory gains and investment banking, increased $678,000, or 5%, to $14,695,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from $14,017,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. Commission expense related to commission revenue increased $875,000, or 9%, to $10,766,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from $9,891,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007; commission expense related to net dealer inventory gains increased $385,000, or 16%, to $2,856,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from $2,471,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007; and commission expense related to investment banking decreased $582,000, or 35%, to $1,073,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from $2,471,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. Commission expense as a percentage of commissions and related revenues decreased to 79% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from 80% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. Commission expense as a percentage of net dealer inventory gains increased to 89% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from 81% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. This increase is attributable to changes in the securities traded, and their related commission payouts. Commission expense as a percentage of investment banking revenues increased to 89% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from 39% in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. This increase is attributable to the type and size of the particular investment banking transactions completed in the respective quarters. Commission expense includes the amortization of advances to registered representatives of $240,000 and $371,000 for the third quarter of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively. These amounts fluctuate based upon the amounts of advances outstanding and the time period for which the registered representatives have agreed to be affiliated with National Securities.
Employee compensation expense decreased $382,000, or 18%, to $1,786,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from $2,168,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The decrease is attributable bonuses paid based on profits in fiscal year 2007, offset in part by new employees hired during fiscal years 2008 and 2007, and salary increases for certain employees. Overall, combined commission and employee compensation expense, as a percentage of revenue increased to 88% from 80% in the third quarter of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively.
Clearing fees increased $97,000, or 22%, to $541,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 from $444,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase in clearing fees is attributable to the increase in commission revenue and net dealer inventory gains in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 as compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The greater increase in clearing fees as compared to the increase in commission revenue is attributable to lower average commission revenue per ticket in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.
Communications expense decreased $120,000, or 29%, to $299,000 from $419,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The decrease is due to the Company’s ability to acquire certain of these services at a lower price. Occupancy costs increased $217,000, or 35%, to $831,000 from $614,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase in occupancy expense is primarily due to annual rent increases contained in the Company’s office leases, higher operating expenses and a new office lease. Professional fees increased $228,000, or 72%, to $546,000 from $318,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase in professional fees is primarily a result of legal fees and costs incurred to settle certain arbitrations in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008.
Interest expense decreased $76,000, or 30%, to $176,000 from $252,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The decrease in interest expense is attributable to the acceleration of amortization on the Company’s convertible notes that were converted to common stock in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007, partially offset by interest on new convertible notes issued in fiscal year 2008. Taxes, licenses and registration decreased $11,000, or 8%, to $123,000 from $134,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The decrease in taxes, licenses and registration is due to lower registration fees paid on behalf of brokers in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. Other administrative expenses increased $289,000, or 96%, to $591,000 from $302,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The increase in other administrative expenses is attributable to recruiting costs associated with new registered representatives.
The Company reported a net loss of $909,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 compared to net income of $1,561,000 in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The net loss attributable to common stockholders in the third quarter of fiscal year 2008 was $993,000, or $.12 per common share, as compared to the diluted earnings attributable to common stockholders of $1,452,000, or $.14 per common share, in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007. The net income attributable to common stockholders reflects $84,000 and $109,000 of cumulative preferred stock dividends on the Company’s preferred stock for the third quarter of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively.
Nine Months Ended June 30, 2008 Compared to Nine Months Ended June 30, 2007
The Company’s first nine months of fiscal year 2008 resulted in an increase in revenues, and a greater increase in expenses compared to the same period last year. As a result, the Company reported a net loss of $3,438,000 compared with net income of $2,052,000 for the first nine months of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively.
| | | Nine Months Ended | | | | | |
| | | June 30, | | Increase (Decrease) | |
| | | 2008 | | 2007 | | Amount | | Percent | |
| Commissions | | $ | 34,644,000 | | $ | 27,705,000 | | $ | 6,939,000 | | | 25 | % |
| Proprietary trading | | | 10,915,000 | | | 9,174,000 | | | 1,741,000 | | | 19 | % |
| Market making | | | 83,000 | | | 704,000 | | | (621,000 | ) | | (88 | )% |
| Mark-ups and mark-downs | | | 37,000 | | | 231,000 | | | (194,000 | ) | | (84 | )% |
| Net dealer inventory gains | | | 11,035,000 | | | 10,109,000 | | | 926,000 | | | 9 | % |
| Investment banking | | | 1,277,000 | | | 7,945,000 | | | (6,668,000 | ) | | (84 | )% |
| Interest and dividends | | | 2,647,000 | | | 2,010,000 | | | 637,000 | | | 32 | % |
| Transfer fees and clearance services | | | 3,378,000 | | | 3,045,000 | | | 333,000 | | | 11 | % |
| Other | | | 2,347,000 | | | 1,314,000 | | | 1,033,000 | | | 79 | % |
| | | $ | 55,328,000 | | $ | 52,128,000 | | $ | 3,200,000 | | | 6 | % |
Total revenues increased $3,200,000, or 6%, in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 to $55,328,000 from $52,128,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. This increase is due to an increase in commissions. During the first nine months of fiscal year 2008, total trading volume increased 18%, compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The increase in revenues and trading volume is due to an increase in the number of registered representatives associated with the Company, offset in part by a decline in market making activities. Trading volume in this period related to retail brokerage increased 24%. Commission revenue increased $6,939,000, or 25%, to $34,644,000 from $27,705,000 during the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same period in fiscal year 2007. Net dealer inventory gains, which includes profits on proprietary trading, market making activities and customer mark-ups and mark-downs, increased $926,000, or 9%, to $11,035,000 from $10,109,000 during the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same period in fiscal year 2007. The increase is due to increased trading activity in foreign securities partially offset set by a decline in market making activities and customer mark-ups and mark-downs. During the first nine months of fiscal year 2008, revenues from proprietary trading increased $1,741,000, or 19%, to $10,915,000 from $9,174,000 in the same period of fiscal year 2007, revenues from market making activities decreased $621,000, or 88%, to $83,000 from $704,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007, and revenues from customer mark-ups and mark-downs decreased $194,000, or 84%, to $37,000 from $231,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007.
Investment banking revenue decreased $6,668,000, or 84%, to $1,277,000 from $7,945,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared with the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The Company did not complete any investment banking transactions in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008, and received only fee income. Interest and dividend income increased $637,000, or 32%, to $2,647,000 from $2,010,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared with the same period last year. The increase in interest income is attributable to an increase in the amount of debit balances in National Securities’ customer accounts from the same period last year, and an adjustment of the interest sharing agreement with one of the Company’s clearing firms. Transfer fees increased $333,000, or 11%, to $3,378,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from $3,045,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The increase is primarily due to the higher trading volume experienced during the first quarter of fiscal year 2008.
Other revenue, consisting of asset management fees, miscellaneous transaction fees, trading fees and other investment income, increased $1,033,000, or 79%, to $2,347,000 from $1,314,000 during the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The increase is due to an increase in fee based assets under management.
In comparison with the 6% increase in total revenues, total expenses increased 17%, or $8,690,000, to $58,766,000 for the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to $50,076,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The increase in total expenses is primarily the result of greater commission expense and employee compensation.
| | | Nine Months Ended | | | | | |
| | | June 30, | | Increase (Decrease) | |
| | | 2008 | | 2007 | | Amount | | Percent | |
| Commission expense related to: | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Commission revenue | | $ | 32,956,000 | | $ | 24,853,000 | | $ | 8,103,000 | | | 33 | % |
| Net dealer inventory gains | | | 9,420,000 | | | 7,839,000 | | | 1,581,000 | | | 20 | % |
| Investment banking | | | 1,073,000 | | | 3,501,000 | | | (2,428,000 | ) | | (69 | )% |
| Commissions | | | 43,449,000 | | | 36,193,000 | | | 7,256,000 | | | 20 | % |
| Employee compensation | | | 6,334,000 | | | 5,430,000 | | | 904,000 | | | 17 | % |
| Clearing fees | | | 1,676,000 | | | 1,162,000 | | | 514,000 | | | 44 | % |
| Communications | | | 907,000 | | | 1,247,000 | | | (340,000 | ) | | (27 | )% |
| Occupancy and equipment costs | | | 2,564,000 | | | 2,090,000 | | | 474,000 | | | 23 | % |
| Professional fees | | | 1,597,000 | | | 1,835,000 | | | (238,000 | ) | | (13 | )% |
| Interest | | | 319,000 | | | 461,000 | | | (142,000 | ) | | (31 | )% |
| Taxes, licenses and registration | | | 330,000 | | | 476,000 | | | (146,000 | ) | | (31 | )% |
| Other administrative expenses | | | 1,590,000 | | | 1,182,000 | | | 408,000 | | | 35 | % |
| | | $ | 58,766,000 | | $ | 50,076,000 | | $ | 8,690,000 | | | 17 | % |
Commission expense, which includes expenses related to commission revenue, net dealer inventory gains and investment banking, increased $7,256,000, or 20%, to $43,449,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from $36,193,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. Commission expense related to commission revenue increased $8,103,000, or 33%, to $32,956,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from $24,853,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007; commission expense related to net dealer inventory gains increased $1,581,000, or 20%, to $9,420,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from $7,839,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007; and commission expense related to investment banking decreased $2,428,000, or 69%, to $1,073,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from $3,501,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. Commission expense as a percentage of commissions and related revenues increased to 80% in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from 76% in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. This increase is attributable to changes in the production of particular brokers, not all of who are paid at the same commission rate and higher payouts for certain registered representatives recently affiliated with the Company. Commission expense as a percentage of net dealer inventory gains increased to 85% in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from 78% in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. This increase is attributable to changes in the securities traded, and their related commission payouts. Commission expense as a percentage of investment banking revenues increased to 84% in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from 44% in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. This increase is attributable to the type and size of the particular investment banking transactions completed in the respective periods. Commission expense includes the amortization of advances to registered representatives of $1,044,000 and $947,000 for the first nine months of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively. These amounts fluctuate based upon the amounts of advances outstanding and the time period for which the registered representatives have agreed to be affiliated with National Securities.
Employee compensation expense increased $904,000, or 17%, to $6,334,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from $5,430,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The increase is attributable to new employees hired during fiscal years 2008 and 2007, and salary increases for certain employees. Overall, combined commission and employee compensation expense, as a percentage of revenue increased to 90% from 80% in the first nine months of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively.
Clearing fees increased $514,000, or 44%, to $1,676,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 from $1,162,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The increase in clearing fees is attributable to the increase in commission revenue and net dealer inventory gains in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 as compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The greater increase in clearing fees as compared to the increase in commission revenue is attributable to lower average commission revenue per ticket in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008.
Communications expense decreased $340,000, or 27%, to $907,000 from $1,247,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The decrease is due to the Company’s ability to acquire certain of these services at a lower price. Occupancy costs increased $474,000, or 23%, to $2,564,000 from $2,090,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The increase in occupancy expense is primarily due to annual rent increases contained in the Company’s office leases, higher operating expenses and a new office lease. Professional fees decreased $238,000, or 13%, to $1,597,000 from $1,835,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The decrease in professional fees is primarily a result of greater legal fees and costs incurred to settle certain arbitrations in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007.
Interest expense decreased $142,000, or 31%, to $319,000 from $461,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The decrease in interest expense is attributable to the acceleration of amortization on the Company’s convertible notes that were converted to common stock in the third quarter of fiscal year 2007, partially offset by interest on new convertible notes issued in fiscal year 2008. Taxes, licenses and registration decreased $146,000, or 31%, to $330,000 from $476,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The decrease in taxes, licenses and registration is due to lower registration fees paid on behalf of brokers in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. Other administrative expenses increased $408,000, or 35%, to $1,590,000 from $1,182,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The other administrative expenses increase is attributable to an increase in marketing and other promotional expenses in the first quarter of fiscal year 2008 and recruiting costs associated with new registered representatives.
The Company reported a net loss of $3,438,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 compared to net income of $2,052,000 in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The net loss attributable to common stockholders in the first nine months of fiscal year 2008 was $3,691,000, or $.43 per common share, as compared to the diluted earnings attributable to common stockholders of $1,735,000, or $.20 per common share, in the first nine months of fiscal year 2007. The net income attributable to common stockholders reflects $253,000 and $317,000 of cumulative preferred stock dividends on the Company’s preferred stock for the third quarter of fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
National Securities, as a registered broker-dealer, is subject to the SEC’s Uniform Net Capital Rule 15c3-1 that requires the maintenance of minimum net capital. National Securities has elected to use the alternative standard method permitted by the rule. This requires that National Securities maintain minimum net capital equal to the greater of $250,000 or a specified amount per security based on the bid price of each security for which National Securities is a market maker. At June 30, 2008, National Securities’ net capital exceeded the requirement by $1,610,000.
Advances, dividend payments and other equity withdrawals from the Company’s broker-dealer subsidiary are restricted by the regulations of the SEC and other regulatory agencies. These regulatory restrictions may limit the amounts that a broker-dealer subsidiary may dividend or advance to the Company.
The Company extends unsecured credit in the normal course of business to its brokers. The determination of the appropriate amount of the reserve for uncollectible accounts is based upon a review of the amount of credit extended, the length of time each receivable has been outstanding, and the specific individual brokers from whom the receivables are due.
The objective of liquidity management is to ensure that the Company has ready access to sufficient funds to meet commitments, fund deposit withdrawals and efficiently provide for the credit needs of customers.
In April 2005, National Securities entered into a clearing agreement with National Financial Services LLC (“NFS”) that became effective in June 2005. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2007, NFS paid National Securities a $750,000 general business credit that is being amortized over an eight year period ending November 2014, corresponding with the expiration date of the clearing agreement. In the second quarter of fiscal year 2007, NFS provided National Securities a $250,000 clearing fee waiver that is being amortized over a two year period ending December 2008, corresponding with the time period that certain performance standards were to be achieved. The clearing agreement includes a termination fee if National Securities terminates the agreement without cause. In June 2005, National Securities entered into a clearing agreement with Penson Financial Services, Inc. (“Penson”) for the purpose of providing clearing services that are not provided by NFS. Additionally, in June 2007, National Securities entered into a clearing agreement with Legent Clearing LLC (“Legent”) for the purpose of providing clearing services that are not provided by NFS and to maintain a pre-existing clearing relationship for brokers newly associated with National Securities. The Company believes that the overall effect of its clearing relationships has been beneficial to the Company’s cost structure, liquidity and capital resources.
In February 2007, the Company completed a financing transaction under which certain investors made an investment in the Company by purchasing 10% promissory notes in the principal amount of $1.0 million, with warrants to purchase an aggregate of 250,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $1.40 per share. The promissory notes mature in February 2009, and have a stated interest rate of 10% per annum. The relative fair value of the warrants was calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Valuation Model. The Company recorded a debt discount of approximately $195,000 that will be charged to interest expense over the life of the promissory notes. The investment included $500,000 by Christopher C. Dewey and $250,000 by St. Cloud Capital Partners, L.P. (“St. Cloud”). Mr. Dewey, and Marshall S. Geller, the Co-Founder and Senior Managing Partner of St. Cloud, are each members of the Company’s board of directors. The Company incurred legal fees and other costs related to this capital transaction in the amount of $22,000 that were capitalized and will be amortized to interest expense over the life of the promissory notes. The Company used $850,000 of the proceeds to pay in full promissory notes that had maturity dates in February 2007.
In February 2008, National Securities and the holder of a $500,000 secured demand note that was scheduled to mature on March 1, 2008, extended the term of the secured demand note to March 1, 2009.
On March 31, 2008, the Company completed a financing transaction under which an investor made an investment in the Company by purchasing a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $3.0 million, with a warrant to purchase 375,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.50 per share. The promissory note matures in March 2012, is convertible into common stock at a price of $2.00 per share and has a stated interest rate of 10% per annum. The Company accounted for this transaction by applying EITF No 98-5 and EITF No. 00-27, and the relative fair value of the warrant of approximately $395,000 was calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Valuation Model. This amount has been recorded as a debt discount that will be charged to interest expense over the life of the promissory note.
On June 30, 2008, the Company completed a financing transaction under which the same investor made an additional investment in the Company by purchasing a convertible promissory note in the principal amount of $3.0 million, with a warrant to purchase 468,750 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $2.00 per share. The promissory note matures in June 2012, is convertible into common stock at a price of $1.60 per share and has a stated interest rate of 10% per annum. Under accounting guidance provided by EITF No 98-5 and EITF No. 00-27 the relative fair value of the warrant was calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Valuation Model. The Company also recorded an additional debt discount for the beneficial conversion feature of the instrument. These amounts, totaling approximately $789,000, have been recorded as a debt discount that will be charged to interest expense over the life of the promissory note.
The Company and the investor entered into registration rights agreements, wherein the Company has agreed to file a registration statement for the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the note and exercise of the warrant within ninety (90) days of the effective date of the merger with vFinance, and to cause the registration statement to be declared effective within one hundred eighty (180) days of the effective date of such merger. Should the Company fail to either file the registration statement or have it declared effective within such time limits then as liquidated damages the interest rate of the note shall increase 1% per annum for each month the applicable failure is not cured, up to a maximum of 15%. The investment was made by an affiliate of St. Cloud, whose managing partner is Marshall S. Geller, a member of the Company's board of directors. Robert W. Lautz, Jr., a Managing Director of St. Cloud, became a member of the Board of Directors of the Company concurrent with the closing of the June 2008 financing transaction. The Company incurred legal fees and other costs related to these capital transactions of approximately $101,000 and $75,000, respectively, that were capitalized and will be amortized to interest expense over the life of the promissory notes.
In the three and nine months ended June 30, 2008 the Company received proceeds of $0 and $8,000, respectively, from the exercise of outstanding stock options. In July 2008 the Company received proceeds of $9,000 from the exercise of outstanding stock options.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company's primary market risk arises from the fact that it engages in proprietary trading and historically made dealer markets in equity securities. Accordingly, the Company may be required to maintain certain amounts of inventories in order to facilitate customer order flow. The Company may incur losses as a result of price movements in these inventories due to changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, equity prices and other political factors. The Company is not subject to direct market risk due to changes in foreign exchange rates. However, the Company is subject to market risk as a result of changes in interest rates and equity prices, which are affected by global economic conditions. The Company manages its exposure to market risk by limiting its net long or short positions. Trading and inventory accounts are monitored daily by management and the Company has instituted position limits.
Credit risk represents the amount of accounting loss the Company could incur if counterparties to its proprietary transactions fail to perform and the value of any collateral proves inadequate. Although credit risk relating to various financing activities is reduced by the industry practice of obtaining and maintaining collateral, the Company maintains more stringent requirements to further reduce its exposure. The Company monitors its exposure to counterparty risk on a daily basis by using credit exposure information and monitoring collateral values. The Company maintains a credit committee, which reviews margin requirements for large or concentrated accounts and sets higher requirements or requires a reduction of either the level of margin debt or investment in high-risk securities or, in some cases, requiring the transfer of the account to another broker-dealer.
The Company monitors its market and credit risks daily through internal control procedures designed to identify and evaluate the various risks to which the Company is exposed. There can be no assurance, however, that the Company's risk management procedures and internal controls will prevent losses from occurring as a result of such risks.
The following table shows the quoted market values of marketable securities owned ("long") by the Company, securities sold but not yet purchased ("short") the Company, and net positions as of June 30, 2008:
| | | Long | | Short | | Net | |
| Corporate stocks | | $ | 320,000 | | $ | 35,000 | | $ | 285,000 | |
| Corporate bonds | | | 21,000 | | | - | | | 21,000 | |
| Government obligations | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| | | $ | 341,000 | | $ | 35,000 | | $ | 306,000 | |
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. Based on the evaluation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) required by the Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b), the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were adequate and effective to ensure that material information relating to the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries would be made known to them by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report on Form 10-Q was being prepared.
Changes in internal controls. There were no significant changes in the Company’s internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect those controls and procedures subsequent to the date of our evaluation nor any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in such disclosure controls and procedures requiring corrective actions.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
During the quarter ended June 30, 2008, there were no significant developments in the Company’s legal proceedings. For a detailed discussion of the Company’s legal proceedings, please refer to Note 7 herein, and the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There are no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2007.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Previously reported in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 2, 2008.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The Company held a special meeting of shareholders on June 12, 2008. Proxies were solicited by the Company pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. At the special meeting, the Company’s shareholders approved the proposal to amend the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to increase the authorized common stock, $0.02 par value, of the Company from 30,000,000 to 50,000,000 shares. The number of shares voted “for”, “against” and “abstain” was as follows:
| | | For | | Against | | Abstain | |
| In Person | | | - | | | - | | | - | |
| By Proxy | | | 9,665,649 | | | 47,645 | | | 15,562 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Total | | | 9,665,649 | | | 47,645 | | | 15,562 | |
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
| 31.1 | Chief Executive Officer’s Certificate pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| 31.2 | Chief Financial Officer’s Certificate pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| 32.1 | Chief Executive Officer’s Certificate pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| 32.2 | Chief Financial Officer’s Certificate pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
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 thereunto duly authorized.
NATIONAL HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY
| By: | /s/ Mark Goldwasser | |
| | Mark Goldwasser |
| | Chief Executive Officer |
| August 13, 2008 | By: | s/ Alan B. Levin | |
| | Alan B. Levin |
| | Chief Financial Officer |
