The following table displays the activity of the 2012 Restructuring reserve account during the nine months ended September 30, 2012:
In June 2005, the Company committed to a plan to discontinue the operations of the Company’s securities research and brokerage segment. Accordingly, the operating results relating to this segment, which are limited to certain professional fees, have been segregated from continuing operations and reported as a separate line item in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations and cash flows. There were no cash flows from discontinued operations from investing or financing activities for the periods presented.
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto.
Overview
TheStreet, Inc., together with its wholly owned subsidiaries (“TheStreet”, “we”, “us” or the “Company”), is a leading digital financial media company whose collection of digital services provides users, subscribers and advertisers with a variety of content and tools through a range of online, social media, tablet and mobile channels. Our mission is to provide actionable ideas from the world of investing, finance and business in order to break down information barriers, level the playing field and help all individuals and organizations grow their wealth. With a robust suite of digital services, TheStreet offers the tools and insights needed to make informed decisions about earning, investing, saving and spending money. Since its inception in 1996, TheStreet believes it has distinguished itself from other financial media companies with its journalistic excellence, unbiased approach and interactive multimedia coverage of the financial markets, economy, industry trends, investment and financial planning.
On September 11, 2012, we acquired The Deal, LLC, a digital platform that delivers sophisticated coverage of the mergers and acquisitions environment, primarily through The Deal Pipeline, a leading provider of transactional information services. The Deal Pipeline was created for organizations seeking to generate deal flow, improve client intelligence and enhance market knowledge and provides full access to 100-plus pieces of proprietary commentary, analysis and data produced every day by The Deal’s editors. We believe this acquisition will advance our strategic objectives by increasing both subscribers and content. We believe that The Deal’s marquee customer base of 40,000 professionals, including senior-level bankers, law firm partners, private equity partners and hedge fund notables, will provide us with an additional source of recurring revenue with high renewals and attractive margins. The purchase price was approximately $5.8 million, of which $0.6 million was placed in escrow to secure indemnity obligations and we assumed net liabilities approximating $5.0 million.
Our business operations were recently disrupted by super storm Sandy, which had a significant impact on the Northeast. Our headquarters are located on Wall Street in New York City and we were unable to access our offices for several days. The NYSE was closed for two full trading days due to the storm which also had an impact on other financial services companies located in the Northeast and elsewhere. Although we maintain business interruption insurance which may cover a portion of the losses incurred by us during this time, there is no assurance that it will do so and there may be secondary effects of the storm on our business in the fourth quarter.
We report revenue in two categories: subscription services and media. Subscription services, previously referred to as premium services, is comprised of subscriptions, licenses and fees for access to securities investment information, rate services and transactional information pertaining to the mergers and acquisitions environment. Media, previously referred to as marketing services, is comprised of fees charged for the placement of advertising and sponsorships within our services.
Critical Accounting Estimates
Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). The preparation of these financial statements 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 date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically and the effects of revisions are reflected in the condensed consolidated financial statements in the period they are deemed to be necessary. Significant estimates made in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include, but are not limited to, the following:
| |
• | incentive cash compensation, |
• | useful lives of intangible assets, |
• | useful lives of fixed assets, |
• | the carrying value of goodwill, intangible assets and marketable securities, |
• | allowances for doubtful accounts and deferred tax assets, |
• | accrued expense estimates, |
• | reserves for estimated tax liabilities, |
• | estimates in connection with the allocation of the purchase price of The Deal, LLC to the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, |
• | certain estimates and assumptions used in the calculation of the fair value of equity compensation issued to employees, and |
• | restructuring charges. |
17
We perform annual impairment tests of goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives at the end of the third quarter of each year or when circumstances arise that indicate a possible impairment might exist. Based upon an annual impairment test performed as of September 30, 2012, no impairment was indicated as the Company’s fair value exceeded its book value by approximately 13%. The fair value of the Company’s goodwill was estimated using a market approach, based upon actual prices of the Company’s Common Stock and the estimated fair value of the Company’s outstanding Preferred Shares. The fair value of the Company’s outstanding Preferred Shares requires significant judgments, including the estimation of the amount of time until a liquidation event occurs as well as an appropriate cash flow discount rate. Further, in assigning a fair value to the Company’s Preferred Stock, the Company also considered that the preferred shareholders are entitled to receive a $55 million liquidation preference upon liquidation or dissolution of the Company or upon any change of control event. Additionally, the holders of the Preferred Shares are entitled to receive dividends and to vote as a single class together with the holders of the Common Stock on an as-converted basis and provided certain preferred share ownership levels are maintained, are entitled to representation on the Company’s board of directors and may unilaterally block issuance of certain classes of capital stock, the purchase or redemption of certain classes of capital stock, including Common Stock (with certain exceptions) and any increases in the per-share amount of dividends payable to the holders of the Common Stock.A decrease in the price of the Company’s Common Stock, or changes in the estimated value of the Company’s preferred shares, could materially affect the determination of the fair value and could result in an impairment charge to reduce the carrying value of goodwill, which could be material to the Company’s financial position and results of operations.
During 2011 and the three months ended March 31, 2012, the Company accrued quarterly expenses related to its full year cash incentive compensation on a straight-line basis based on the Company’s estimate of expected full year cash incentive compensation. Beginning with the three months ended June 30, 2012, the Company accrued cash incentive compensation expense based upon achievement of periodic performance objectives and full year expectations.
A summary of our critical accounting policies and estimates can be found in our 2011 Form 10-K.
Results of Operations
Comparison of Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011
Revenue
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the Three Months Ended September 30, | | | | |
| |
| | | | |
| | 2012 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | 2011 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | Percent Change | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Revenue: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Subscription services | | $ | 9,101,050 | | | 78 | % | $ | 9,994,184 | | | 70 | % | | -9 | % |
Media | | | 2,496,705 | | | 22 | % | | 4,346,907 | | | 30 | % | | -43 | % |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| | | | |
Total revenue | | $ | 11,597,755 | | | 100 | % | $ | 14,341,091 | | | 100 | % | | -19 | % |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| | | | |
Subscription services. Subscription service revenue is comprised of subscriptions, licenses and fees for access to securities investment information, rate services and transactional information pertaining to the mergers and acquisitions environment. Revenue is recognized ratably over the contract period.
Subscription services revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2012 decreased by 9% when compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011. This decrease is primarily the result of an 18% decrease in the weighted-average number of subscriptions during the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011, partially offset by an 8% increase in the average revenue recognized per subscription during the three months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011, combined with approximately $0.4 million of revenue related to the operations of The Deal, LLC (“The Deal”), which was acquired on September 11, 2012. The decrease in the weighted-average number of subscriptions during the period is primarily the result of reduced acquisitions of new subscribers to our products. The increase in the average revenue recognized per subscription during the period is primarily the result of the mix of products sold and higher product pricing.
Media. Media revenue is comprised of fees charged for the placement of advertising and sponsorships within our services.
Media revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2012 decreased by 43% when compared to the three months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in media revenue was primarily the result of reduced demand from both repeat advertisers as well as new advertisers.
18
Operating Expense
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the Three Months Ended September 30, | | | | |
| |
| | | | |
| | 2012 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | 2011 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | Percent Change | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Operating expense: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of services | | $ | 5,699,275 | | | 49 | % | $ | 6,274,741 | | | 44 | % | | -9 | % |
Sales and marketing | | | 2,717,794 | | | 23 | % | | 4,640,908 | | | 32 | % | | -41 | % |
General and administrative | | | 3,143,160 | | | 27 | % | | 3,750,475 | | | 26 | % | | -16 | % |
Depreciation and amortization | | | 1,295,197 | | | 11 | % | | 1,326,484 | | | 9 | % | | -2 | % |
Restructuring and other charges | | | 3,046,104 | | | 26 | % | | — | | | — | | | N/A | |
Gain on disposition of assets | | | 14,011 | | | 0 | % | | — | | | — | | | N/A | |
| |
|
| | | | |
|
| | | | | | | |
Total operating expense | | $ | 15,915,541 | | | | | $ | 15,992,608 | | | | | | -0 | % |
| |
|
| | | | |
|
| | | | | | | |
Cost of services. Cost of services expense includes compensation, benefits, outside contributor costs related to the creation of our content, licensed data and the technology required to publish our content.
Cost of services expense decreased by approximately $0.6 million, or 9%, over the periods. The decrease was primarily the result of reduced compensation expense due to a 34% decrease in average headcount (excluding the impact of headcount of The Deal), combined with lower costs related to data used on the Company’s Web sites and computer services and supplies, the aggregate of which decreased by approximately $1.4 million. These cost decreases were partially offset by increased revenue share payments made to certain distribution partners, the use of nonemployee content providers, as the company has shifted its strategy more towards a contributor/freelance model with fewer full time editorial staff, as well as costs associated with the operations of The Deal since its acquisition, the aggregate of which increased by approximately $0.9 million. Although the dollar amount of cost of services expense decreased over the periods, cost of services expense as a percentage of revenue increased to 49% in the three months ended September 30, 2012, from 44% in the prior year period, as our cost cutting initiatives did not completely offset the decline in revenue.
Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expense consists primarily of compensation expense for the direct sales force, marketing services, and customer service departments, advertising and promotion expenses and credit card processing fees.
Sales and marketing expense decreased by approximately $1.9 million, or 41%, over the periods. The decrease was primarily the result of reduced compensation expense due to a 32% decrease in average headcount (excluding the impact of headcount of The Deal) combined with lower advertising and promotion related spending, recruiting fees and travel and entertainment costs, the aggregate of which decreased by approximately $2.1 million. These cost decreases were partially offset by increased advertisement serving costs and consulting fees, as well as costs associated with the operations of The Deal since its acquisition, the aggregate of which increased by approximately $0.3 million. Sales and marketing expense includes approximately $0.0 million and $0.1 million of barter expense in the three month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Sales and marketing expense as a percentage of revenue decreased to 23% in the nine months ended September 30, 2012, from 32% in the prior year period resulting from our cost cutting initiatives.
General and administrative. General and administrative expense consists primarily of compensation for general management, finance and administrative personnel, occupancy costs, professional fees, insurance and other office expenses.
General and administrative expense decreased by approximately $0.6 million, or 16%, over the periods. The decrease was primarily the result of reduced compensation expense due to a 20% decrease in average headcount (excluding the impact of headcount of The Deal), combined with lower professional fees and occupancy costs, the aggregate sum of which decreased by approximately $1.1 million. These cost decreases were partially offset by increased costs related to the Company’s acquisition and subsequent operation of The Deal since its acquisition, the aggregate of which increased by approximately $0.5 million. General and administrative expense as a percentage of revenue increased to 27% in the three months ended September 30, 2012, from 26% in the prior year period as our cost cutting initiatives did not completely offset the decline in revenue.
19
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased by approximately $0.0 million, or 2%, over the periods. Depreciation and amortization expense as a percentage of revenue increased to 11% in the three months ended September 30, 2012, from 9% in the prior year period.
Restructuring and other charges. In March 2012, the Company began a targeted reduction in force and committed to terminate use of certain vendor services and assets reflecting previously capitalized costs. The actions were taken after a review of the Company’s cost structure with the goal of better aligning the cost structure with the Company’s revenue base. These restructuring efforts continued through the third quarter of 2012 resulting in restructuring and other charges from continuing operations of approximately $0.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2012. Additionally, as a result of the Company’s acquisition of The Deal, the Company discontinued the use of The Deal’s office space and implemented a reduction in force to eliminate redundant positions, resulting in restructuring and other charges from continuing operations of approximately $3.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2012. These activities were offset by a reduction to previously estimated restructuring and other charges resulting in a net credit of approximately $0.3 million.
Net Interest Income
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the Three Months Ended September 30, | | | | |
| | | Percent Change | |
| |
| | |
| | 2012 | | 2011 | | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Net interest income | | $ | 91,271 | | $ | 155,123 | | | -41 | % |
| |
|
| |
|
| | | | |
The decrease in net interest income is primarily the result of lower interest rates on bank deposits combined with reduced cash balances.
Net Loss
Net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2012 totaled approximately $4.2 million, or $0.13 per basic and diluted share, compared to net loss totaling approximately $1.5 million, or $0.05 per basic and diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2011. The increase in the net loss is largely the result of restructuring and other charges recorded during the three months ended September 30, 2012 that approximated $3.0 million. Net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2012 also included a net loss of approximately $0.1 million related to the operations of The Deal since its acquisition.
Comparison of Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011
Revenue
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | | | | |
| |
| | | | |
| | 2012 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | 2011 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | Percent Change | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Revenue: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Subscription services | | $ | 27,140,853 | | | 74 | % | $ | 29,678,616 | | | 68 | % | | -9 | % |
Media | | | 9,753,885 | | | 26 | % | | 13,812,144 | | | 32 | % | | -29 | % |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| | | | |
Total revenue | | $ | 36,894,738 | | | 100 | % | $ | 43,490,760 | | | 100 | % | | -15 | % |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| | | | |
20
Subscription services. Subscription services revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 decreased by 9% when compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2011. This decrease is primarily the result of a 15% decrease in the weighted-average number of subscriptions during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2011, partially offset by a 7% increase in the average revenue recognized per subscription during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2011, combined with approximately $0.4 million of revenue related to the operations of The Deal since its acquisition. The decrease in the weighted-average number of subscriptions during the period is primarily the result of reduced acquisitions of new subscribers to our products. The increase in the average revenue recognized per subscription during the period is primarily the result of the mix of products sold and higher product pricing.
Media. Media revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 decreased by 29% when compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2011. The decrease in media revenue was primarily the result of reduced demand from both repeat advertisers as well as new advertisers.
Operating Expense
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | | | | |
| |
| | | | |
| | 2012 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | 2011 | | Percent of Total Revenue | | Percent Change | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Operating expense: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Cost of services | | $ | 17,834,336 | | | 48 | % | $ | 20,036,270 | | | 46 | % | | -11 | % |
Sales and marketing | | | 10,076,902 | | | 27 | % | | 13,122,182 | | | 30 | % | | -23 | % |
General and administrative | | | 10,242,852 | | | 28 | % | | 12,159,579 | | | 28 | % | | -16 | % |
Depreciation and amortization | | | 3,740,649 | | | 10 | % | | 4,492,525 | | | 10 | % | | -17 | % |
Restructuring and other charges | | | 6,039,797 | | | 16 | % | | — | | | — | | | N/A | |
Gain on disposition of assets | | | (205,989 | ) | | -1 | % | | — | | | — | | | N/A | |
| |
|
| | | | |
|
| | | | | | | |
Total operating expense | | $ | 47,728,547 | | | | | $ | 49,810,556 | | | | | | -4 | % |
| |
|
| | | | |
|
| | | | | | | |
Cost of services. Cost of services expense decreased by approximately $2.2 million, or 11%, over the periods. The decrease was primarily the result of reduced compensation expense due to a 23% decrease in average headcount (excluding the impact of headcount of The Deal), combined with lower costs related to computer services and supplies, data used on the Company’s Web sites and consulting fees, the aggregate of which decreased by approximately $3.3 million. These cost decreases were partially offset by increased costs related to revenue share payments made to certain distribution partners, the use of nonemployee content providers, as the company has shifted its strategy more towards a contributor/freelance model with fewer full time editorial staff, as well as costs associated with the operations of The Deal since its acquisition, the aggregate of which increased by approximately $1.1 million. Although the dollar amount of cost of services expense decreased over the periods, cost of services expense as a percentage of revenue increased to 48% in the nine months ended September 30, 2012, from 46% in the prior year period, as our cost cutting initiatives did not completely offset the decline in revenue.
Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expense decreased by approximately $3.0 million, or 23%, over the periods. The decrease was primarily the result of reduced compensation expense due to a 16% decrease in average headcount (excluding the impact of headcount of The Deal), combined with reductions in advertising and promotion related spending, travel and entertainment costs, credit card processing fees, recruiting charges and public relations costs, the aggregate of which decreased by approximately $3.3 million. These cost decreases were partially offset by costs associated with the operations of The Deal since its acquisition as well as increased advertisement serving costs, the aggregate of which increased by approximately $0.2 million. Sales and marketing expense includes approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million of barter expense in the nine month periods ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Sales and marketing expense as a percentage of revenue decreased to 27% in the nine months ended September 30, 2012, from 30% in the prior year period resulting from our cost cutting initiatives.
21
General and administrative. General and administrative expense decreased by approximately $1.9 million, or 16%, over the periods. The decrease was primarily the result of reduced compensation expense due to a 14% decrease in average headcount (excluding the impact of headcount of The Deal), combined with lower professional fees (inclusive of those relating to a review of certain accounting matters in our former Promotions.com subsidiary), occupancy, training and consulting costs, the aggregate sum of which decreased by approximately $2.3 million. These cost decreases were partially offset by increased recruiting fees, combined with costs related to the Company’s acquisition and subsequent operation of The Deal since its acquisition, the aggregate of which increased by approximately $0.5 million. General and administrative expense as a percentage of revenue approximated 28% in the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the same as in the prior year period, as our cost cutting initiatives were offset by the decline in revenue.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased by approximately $0.8 million, or 17%, over the periods. The decrease is largely attributable to reductions to the estimated useful lives of certain capitalized Web site development in the prior year period. Depreciation and amortization expense as a percentage of revenue approximated 10% in the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the same as in the prior year period.
Restructuring and other charges. In March 2012, the Company began a targeted reduction in force and committed to terminate use of certain vendor services and assets reflecting previously capitalized costs. The actions were taken after a review of the Company’s cost structure with the goal of better aligning the cost structure with the Company’s revenue base. These restructuring efforts continued during the second and third quarters of 2012 resulting in restructuring and other charges from continuing operations of approximately $3.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Additionally, as a result of the Company’s acquisition of The Deal, the Company discontinued the use of The Deal’s office space and implemented a reduction in force to eliminate redundant positions, resulting in restructuring and other charges from continuing operations of approximately $3.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2012. These activities were offset by a reduction to previously estimated restructuring and other charges resulting in a net credit of approximately $0.3 million.
Gain on disposition of assets. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012, the Company sold certain assets resulting in a gain of approximately $0.2 million.
Net Interest Income
| | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the Nine Months Ended September 30, | | Percent Change | |
| |
| | |
| | 2012 | | 2011 | | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Net interest income | | $ | 295,216 | | $ | 529,898 | | | -44 | % |
| |
|
| |
|
| | | | |
The decrease in net interest income is primarily the result of lower interest rates on bank deposits combined with reduced cash balances.
Net Loss
Net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 totaled $10.5 million, or $0.32 per basic and diluted share, compared to net loss totaling $5.8 million, or $0.18 per basic and diluted share, for the nine months ended September 30, 2011. The increase in the net loss is largely the result of restructuring and other charges recorded during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 that approximated $6.0 million. Net loss for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 also included a net loss of approximately $0.1 million related to the operations of The Deal since its acquisition.
22
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We generally have invested in money market funds and other short-term, investment grade instruments that are highly liquid and of high quality, with the intent that such funds are available for sale for operating purposes. As of September 30, 2012, our cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities, and restricted cash amounted to approximately $61.5 million, representing 54% of total assets. Our cash and cash equivalents primarily consisted of money market funds and checking accounts. Our marketable securities consisted of approximately $39.8 million of liquid short-term U.S. Treasuries, government agencies, certificates of deposit (insured up to FDIC limits), investment grade corporate and municipal bonds, and corporate floating rate notes, with a maximum maturity of three years. Marketable securities also include two auction rate securities issued by the District of Columbia with a fair value of approximately $1.5 million that mature in the year 2038. Our total cash-related position is as follows:
| | | | | | | |
| | September 30, 2012 | | December 31, 2011 | |
| |
| |
| |
Cash and cash equivalents | | $ | 19,669,082 | | $ | 44,865,191 | |
Current and noncurrent marketable securities | | | 39,842,918 | | | 28,789,603 | |
Current and noncurrent restricted cash | | | 1,961,370 | | | 1,660,370 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Total cash and cash equivalents, current and noncurrent marketable securities and current and noncurrent restricted cash | | $ | 61,473,370 | | $ | 75,315,164 | |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Financial instruments that subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash. We maintain all of our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash in six domestic financial institutions and we perform periodic evaluations of the relative credit standing of these institutions.
Cash generated from operations was not sufficient to cover our expenses during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2012. Net cash used in operating activities for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2012 totaled approximately $5.8 million, as compared to net cash provided by operating activities totaling approximately $3.3 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2011. The decline in net cash provided by operating activities is primarily related to the following:
| | |
| • | an increase in the net loss from continuing operations combined with reduced noncash expenses; and |
| | |
| • | a decrease in the growth of deferred revenue resulting from reduced subscription sales. |
Net cash used in investing activities of approximately $16.9 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2012 was primarily the result of approximately $10.8 million of the net purchases of marketable securities, the purchase of The Deal, LLC of approximately $5.4 million, combined with approximately $0.9 million of capital expenditures, partially offset by the proceeds from the disposition of assets of approximately $0.2 million.
Net cash used in financing activities of approximately $2.5 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2012 primarily consisted of cash dividends paid and the purchase of treasury stock by retaining shares issuable upon the vesting of restricted stock units in connection with minimum tax withholding requirements, partially offset by cash received from the sale of the Company’s Common Stock.
We have a total of approximately $2.0 million of cash that serves as collateral for outstanding letters of credit, and which cash is therefore restricted. The letters of credit serve as security deposits for our office space in New York City. As one of the lease agreements allows for a reduction in the amount of the security deposit as of November 2012, a portion of the restricted cash has been classified as a current asset.
We believe that our current cash and cash equivalents will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs for at least the next 12 months. We are committed to cash expenditures in an aggregate amount of approximately $2.7 million through September 30, 2013, primarily related to operating leases. Additionally, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.025 per share of Common Stock and preferred stock (on a common share equivalent basis) during each of the first two quarters of 2012, which resulted in cash expenditures of approximately $1.8 million. Our Board of Directors has suspended the dividend payment for the third quarter of 2012 but will continue thereafter to review the dividend payment each quarter. There can be no assurance that we will pay this cash dividend in the future.
23
As of December 31, 2011, we had approximately $141 million of federal and state net operating loss carryforwards. Based on operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and nine-month projections, management expects to generate a tax loss in 2012 and no tax benefit has been recorded. We maintain a full valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets as management concluded that it was more likely than not that we would not realize the benefit of our deferred tax assets by generating sufficient taxable income in future years. We expect to continue to provide a full valuation allowance until, or unless, we can sustain a level of profitability that demonstrates our ability to utilize these assets.
In accordance with Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, the ability to utilize the Company’s net operating loss carryforwards could be limited in the event of a change in ownership and as such a portion of the existing net operating loss carryforwards may be subject to limitation. Such an ownership change would create an annual limitation on the usage of the Company’s net operating loss carryforward. The ultimate realization of net operating loss carryforwards is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods following an ownership change. As such, a portion of the existing net operating loss carryforwards may be subject to limitation. During the year ended December 31, 2009, the Company acquired approximately $3 million of net operating loss carryforwards when it acquired the stock of Kikucall, Inc. In accordance with Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, the usage of the Kikucall, Inc. net operating loss carryforward could be limited.
Treasury Stock
In December 2000, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $10 million worth of our Common Stock, from time to time, in private purchases or in the open market. In February 2004, our Board of Directors approved the resumption of the stock repurchase program (the “Program”) under new price and volume parameters, leaving unchanged the maximum amount available for repurchase under the Program. However, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock, voting separately as a single class, is necessary in order for us to be able to repurchase our Common Stock (except for the purchase or redemption from employees, directors and consultants pursuant to agreements providing us with repurchase rights upon termination of their service with us), unless after such purchase we have unrestricted cash (net of all indebtedness for borrowed money, purchase money obligations, promissory notes or bonds) equal to at least two times the product obtained by multiplying the number of shares of Series B Preferred Stock outstanding at the time such dividend is paid by the liquidation preference. During the nine months ended September 30, 2012 we did not purchase any shares of Common Stock under the Program. Since inception of the Program, we have purchased a total of 5,453,416 shares of Common Stock at an aggregate cost of approximately $7.3 million. In addition, pursuant to the terms of the Company’s 1998 Stock Incentive Plan and our 2007 Performance Incentive Plan, and certain procedures adopted by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors, in connection with the exercise of stock options by certain of our employees, and the issuance of shares of Common Stock in settlement of vested restricted stock units, we may withhold shares in lieu of payment of the exercise price and/or the minimum amount of applicable withholding taxes then due. Through September 30, 2012, we have withheld an aggregate of 1,082,695 shares which have been recorded as treasury stock. In addition, we received an aggregate of 208,270 shares as partial settlement of the working capital and debt adjustment from the acquisition of Corsis Technology Group II LLC, 104,055 of which were received in October 2008 and 104,215 of which were received in September 2009, and 3,338 shares as partial settlement of a working capital adjustment related to our acquisition of Kikucall, Inc., which shares we received in March 2011. These shares have been recorded as treasury stock.
24
| |
Item 3. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. |
We believe that our market risk exposures are immaterial as we do not have instruments for trading purposes, and reasonable possible near-term changes in market rates or prices will not result in material near-term losses in earnings, material changes in fair values or cash flows for all instruments.
We maintain all of our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash in six domestic financial institutions, and we perform periodic evaluations of the relative credit standing of these institutions. However, no assurances can be given that the third party institutions will retain acceptable credit ratings or investment practices.
| |
Item 4. | Controls and Procedures. |
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures: The Company carried out an evaluation, as required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Exchange Act, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this report (the “Evaluation Date”). Based on such evaluation, such officers have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and to provide reasonable assurance that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
In addition, the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has determined that during the period covered by this report, that there were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, these internal controls over financial reporting.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
| |
Item 1. | Legal Proceedings. |
As previously disclosed, the Company conducted a review of the accounting of its former Promotions.com subsidiary, which subsidiary we sold in December 2009. As a result of this review, in February 2010 the Company filed a Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2008 and a Form 10-Q/A for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, respectively, to restate and correct certain previously-reported financial information as well as filed Forms 10-Q for the quarters ended June 30, 2009 and September 30, 2009, respectively. Thereafter, the SEC commenced an investigation regarding the matter. We are cooperating fully with the SEC. The investigation could result in the SEC seeking various penalties and relief including, without limitation, civil injunctive relief and/or civil monetary penalties or administrative relief.
The Company is party to other legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business or otherwise, none of which other proceedings is deemed material.
In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the information set forth in Part 1, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, which we filed with the SEC on March 7, 2012.
25
| |
Item 2. | Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds. |
In December 2000, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $10 million of the Company’s Common Stock, from time to time, in private purchases or in the open market. In February 2004, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the resumption of the stock repurchase program (the “Program”) under new price and volume parameters, leaving unchanged the maximum amount available for repurchase under the Program. The Program does not have a specified expiration date and is subject to certain limitations. During the third quarter of 2012, the Company made no repurchases. As of September 30, 2012, $2,678,878 remained available for purchases under the Program. The terms of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock restrict the Company’s ability to repurchase shares of Common Stock and as a result, the Company does not expect to repurchase any shares of Common Stock under the Program in the near future.
| |
Item 3. | Defaults Upon Senior Securities. |
Not applicable.
| |
Item 4. | Mine Safety Disclosures |
Not applicable.
| |
Item 5. | Other Information. |
Not applicable.
26
The following exhibits are filed herewith or are incorporated by reference to exhibits previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission:
| | | |
Exhibit Number | | Description | |
| |
| |
| | |
31.1 | | Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of CEO. |
31.2 | | Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of CFO. |
32.1 | | Section 1350 Certification of CEO. |
32.2 | | Section 1350 Certification of CFO. |
| | |
**101.INS | | XBRL Instance Document |
**101.SCH | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
**101.CAL | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Document |
**101.DEF | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definitions Document |
**101.LAB | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Document |
**101.PRE | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Document |
| | |
| ** | Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, this interactive data file is deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections |
27
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
THESTREET, INC.
| | | | |
Date: November 9, 2012 | By: | | /s/ Elisabeth DeMarse | |
| |
|
| |
| Name: | Elisabeth DeMarse | |
| Title: | Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) | |
|
Date: November 9, 2012 | By: | | /s/ Thomas Etergino | |
| |
|
| |
| Name: | Thomas Etergino | |
| Title: | Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer) | |
28
EXHIBIT INDEX
The following exhibits are filed herewith or are incorporated by reference to exhibits previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission:
| | | |
Exhibit Number | | Description | |
| |
| |
| | |
31.1 | | Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of CEO. |
31.2 | | Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of CFO. |
32.1 | | Section 1350 Certification of CEO. |
32.2 | | Section 1350 Certification of CFO. |
| | |
**101.INS | | XBRL Instance Document |
**101.SCH | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
**101.CAL | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Document |
**101.DEF | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definitions Document |
**101.LAB | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Document |
**101.PRE | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Document |
| | |
| ** | Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, this interactive data file is deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections |
29