Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019
or
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission file number: 001-36437
Dorian LPG Ltd.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Marshall Islands
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
27 Signal Road, Stamford, CT
(Address of principal executive offices)
66-0818228
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
06902
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (203) 674-9900
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:
Title of Each Class
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share
Trading Symbol
LPG
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
New York Stock Exchange
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:
None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ◻No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ◻No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12
months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒
No ◻
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T
(§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ◻
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to
the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.
☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth
company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Accelerated filer ☒
Emerging growth company ☒
Large accelerated filer ◻
Smaller reporting company ◻
Non-accelerated filer ◻
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial
accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ◻No ☒
The aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates, based upon the closing price of common stock as reported on the New York Stock
Exchange as of September 30, 2018, was approximately $281,969,698. For this purpose, all outstanding shares of common stock have been considered held by non-affiliates,
other than the shares beneficially owned by directors, officers and shareholders of 10% or more of the registrant’s outstanding common shares, without conceding that any of
the excluded parties are "affiliates" of the registrant for purposes of the federal securities laws. As of May 24, 2019, there were 55,167,708 shares of the registrant’s common
stock outstanding.
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I.
ITEM 1.
ITEM 1A.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 4.
PART II.
ITEM 5.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 7.
ITEM 7A.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9B.
PART III.
ITEM 10.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 14.
PART IV.
BUSINESS
RISK FACTORS
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
PROPERTIES
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
OTHER INFORMATION
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDERS MATTERS
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR
INDEPENDENCE
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
1
25
47
47
48
48
49
50
54
70
71
71
72
72
73
76
81
84
87
88
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995, including analyses and other information based on forecasts of future results and estimates of amounts not yet determinable
and statements relating to our future prospects, developments and business strategies. Forward-looking statements are identified
by their use of terms and phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,”
“predict,” “project,” “will” and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions.
The forward-looking statements in this report are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn,
upon further assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained
in our records and other data available from third parties. Although we believe that these assumptions were reasonable when
made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies that are difficult or
impossible to predict and are beyond our control, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or accomplish these expectations,
beliefs or projections.
In addition to important factors and matters discussed elsewhere in this report, and in the documents incorporated by
reference herein, important factors that, in our view, could cause our actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the
forward-looking statements include:
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
our future operating or financial results;
our acquisitions, business strategy and expected capital spending or operating expenses;
shipping trends, including changes in charter rates, scrapping rates and vessel and other asset values;
factors affecting supply of and demand for liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, shipping;
changes in trading patterns that impact tonnage requirements;
potential costs and continuing uncertainty relating to the unsolicited proposal of BW LPG Limited to acquire the
Company and the dissident director slate proposal by BW LPG Limited and its affiliates (“BW”), following the
withdrawal of those proposals on October 8, 2018 (the “BW Proposal”);
changes in rules and regulations applicable to the LPG shipping industry, including, without limitation, legislation
adopted by international organizations such as the International Maritime Organization and the European Union or
by individual countries;
charterers’ increasing emphasis on environmental and safety concerns;
general economic conditions and specific economic conditions in the oil and natural gas industry and the countries
and regions where LPG is produced and consumed;
potential turmoil in the global financial markets;
the supply of and demand for LPG, which is affected by the production levels and price of oil, refined petroleum
products and natural gas, including production from United States shale fields;
completion of infrastructure projects to support marine transportation of LPG, including export terminals and
pipelines;
changes to the supply and demand for LPG vessels as a result of the expansion of the Panama Canal;
oversupply of or limited demand for LPG vessels comparable to ours or higher specification vessels ;
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·
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competition in the LPG shipping industry;
our ability to profitably employ our vessels, including vessels participating in the Helios Pool (defined below);
our ability to realize the expected benefits from our recently time chartered-in vessel;
our continued ability to enter into profitable long-term time charters;
future purchase prices of newbuildings and secondhand vessels and timely deliveries of such vessels (if any);
our ability to compete successfully for future chartering opportunities and newbuilding opportunities (if any);
the failure of our or the Helios Pool’s significant customers to perform their obligations to us or to the Helios Pool;
the performance of the Helios Pool;
the loss or reduction in business from our or the Helios Pool’s significant customers;
our financial condition and liquidity, including our ability to obtain financing in the future to fund capital
expenditures, acquisitions and other general corporate purposes, the terms of such financing and our ability to
comply with covenants set forth in our existing and future financing arrangements;
our ability to repay or refinance our existing debt and settling of interest rate swaps (if any);
our costs, including crew wages, insurance, provisions, repairs and maintenance, and general and administrative
expenses;
changes in our operating expenses, including dry-docking and insurance costs and bunker prices, as applicable;
our dependence on key personnel;
the availability of skilled workers and the related labor costs;
the effects of new products and new technology in our industry;
operating hazards in the maritime transportation industry, including accidents, political events, piracy or acts by
terrorists, which may cause potential disruption of shipping routes;
the adequacy of our insurance coverage in the event of a catastrophic event;
compliance with and changes to governmental, tax, environmental and safety laws and regulations;
changes in domestic and international political and geopolitical conditions, including the imposition of tariffs or
otherwise on LPG or LPG products;
fluctuations in currencies and interest rates;
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compliance with the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, the United Kingdom Bribery Act 2010,
or other applicable regulations relating to bribery;
the volatility of the price of our common shares; and
other factors detailed in this report and from time to time in our periodic reports.
Actual results could differ materially from expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements if one or more of
the underlying assumptions or expectations proves to be inaccurate or is not realized. You should thoroughly read this report with
the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from and worse than what we expect. Other sections of
this report include additional factors that could adversely impact our business and financial performance. Moreover, we operate in
an evolving environment. New risk factors and uncertainties emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management
to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any
factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking
statements. We qualify all of the forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.
We caution readers of this report not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking
statements contained herein are made only as of the date of this report, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
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ITEM 1. BUSINES S
PART I
Unless
otherwise
indicated,
references
to
"Dorian,"
the
"Company,"
"we,"
"our,"
"us,"
or
similar
terms
refer
to
Dorian
LPG
Ltd.
and
its
subsidiaries
and
predecessors.
The
terms
"Predecessor"
and
"Predecessor
Business"
refer
to
the
owning
companies
of
the
four
vessels
that
comprised
our
initial
fleet,
prior
to
their
acquisition
by
us.
We
use
the
term
"VLGC"
to
refer
to
very
large
gas
carriers.
We
use
the
term
"LPG"
to
refer
to
liquefied
petroleum
gas
and
we
use
the
term
"cbm"
to
refer
to
cubic
meters
in
describing
the
carrying
capacity
of
our
vessels.
Unless
otherwise
indicated,
all
references
to
"U.S.
dollars,"
"USD,"
and
"$"
in
this
report
are
to
the
lawful
currency
of
the
United
States
of
America
and
references
to
"Norwegian
Krone"
and
"NOK"
are
to
the
lawful
currency
of
Norway.
Overview
Dorian was incorporated on July 1, 2013 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, is headquartered in the
United States and is engaged in the transportation of LPG. Specifically, Dorian and its subsidiaries are focused on owning and
operating VLGCs in the LPG shipping industry. Our founding executives have managed vessels in the LPG shipping market since
2002. Our fleet currently consists of twenty-three VLGCs, including our nineteen new fuel-efficient 84,000 cbm ECO-design
VLGCs, or our ECO VLGCs, three 82,000 cbm VLGCs, and one time chartered-in VLGC. The twenty-two VLGCs in our fleet,
excluding our time chartered-in vessel, have an aggregate carrying capacity of approximately 1.8 million cbm and an average age
of 4.9 years as of May 24, 2019. Two of our ECO VLGCs are fitted with exhaust gas cleaning systems (commonly referred to as
“scrubbers”) to reduce sulfur emissions. We have entered into contracts for an additional ten of our VLGCs to be fitted with
scrubbers. We provide in-house commercial and technical management services for all of our vessels, including our vessels
deployed in the Helios Pool, which may also receive commercial management services from Phoenix (defined below).
Sixteen of our ECO VLGCs were constructed at Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd., or Hyundai, and three of our ECO
VLGCs were constructed at Daewoo Shipping and Marine Engineering Ltd, or Daewoo. Our nineteen ECO VLGCs, which
incorporate fuel efficiency and certain custom features, were delivered to us between July 2014 and February 2016, seventeen of
which were delivered during calendar year 2015 or later.
On April 1, 2015, we and Phoenix Tankers Pte. Ltd., or Phoenix, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mitsui OSK Lines
Ltd., an unaffiliated third party, began operation of Helios LPG Pool LLC, or the Helios Pool, a joint venture owned 50% by us
and 50% by Phoenix. We believe that the operation of certain of our VLGCs in this pool allows us to achieve better market
coverage and utilization. Vessels entered into the Helios Pool are commercially managed jointly by Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd., our
wholly-owned subsidiary, and Phoenix. The members of the Helios Pool share in the net pool revenues generated by the entire
group of vessels participating in the pool, weighted according to certain technical vessel characteristics, and net pool revenues are
distributed as variable rate time charter hire to each participant. The vessels entered into the Helios Pool may operate either in the
spot market, pursuant to contracts of affreightment, or COAs, or on time charters of two years' duration or less. We and Phoenix
have agreed that the Helios Pool will have a right of first refusal to operate each VLGC of our respective fleets not employed on a
time charter of more than two years duration. As of May 24, 2019, the Helios Pool operated twenty-eight VLGCs, including
nineteen vessels from our fleet, four Phoenix vessels, and five time chartered-in vessels.
1
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Our Fleet
The following table sets forth certain information regarding our fleet as of May 24, 2019:
Capacity
(Cbm)
Shipyard
Year Built
ECO
Vessel
(1)
Employment
Charter
Expiration
(2)
(3)
(3)
(3)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
Dorian VLGCs
Captain
Markos
NL
Captain
John
NP
Captain
Nicholas
ML
Comet
Corsair
Corvette
Cougar
Concorde
Cobra
Continental
Constitution
Commodore
Cresques
Constellation
Cheyenne
Clermont
Cratis
Chaparral
Copernicus
Commander
Challenger
Caravelle
Total
(3)
82,000
82,000
82,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
1,842,000
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Daewoo
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Daewoo
Hyundai
Daewoo
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
2006
2007
2008
2014
2014
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2016
Time chartered-in VLGC
Laurel
Prime
(11)
83,305
Mitsubishi
2018
—
—
—
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
(5)
(8)
(9)
(6)
(7)
(7)
(7)
(7)
(7)
(7)
(7)
Time Charter
Pool-TCO
Pool
Time Charter
Pool
Pool
Pool
Time Charter
Pool
Pool
Pool
Pool
Pool
Pool
Pool-TCO
Pool
Pool
Pool-TCO
Pool
Time Charter
Pool
Pool
(7)
(7)
(7)
(7)
(6)
(7)
(7)
(6)
(7)
(7)
(10)
Q4 2019
Q1 2020
—
Q3 2019
—
—
—
Q1 2020
—
—
—
—
—
—
Q2 2019
—
—
Q4 2019
—
Q4 2020
—
—
Pool
(7)
—
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)
(11)
Represents vessels with very low revolutions per minute, long ‑
stroke, electronically controlled engines, larger propellers, advanced hull
design, and low friction paint.
Represents calendar year quarters.
Operated pursuant to a bareboat chartering agreement. See Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included herein.
VLGC fitted with scrubber.
Currently on time charter with an oil major that began in December 2014.
“Pool-TCO” indicates that the vessel is operated in the Helios Pool on a time charter out to a third party and receives as charter hire a portion
of the net revenues of the pool calculated according to a formula based on the vessel’s pro rata performance in the pool.
“Pool” indicates that the vessel operates in the Helios Pool on voyage charters with third parties and receives as charter hire a portion of the net
revenues of the pool calculated according to a formula based on the vessel’s pro rata performance in the pool.
Currently on time charter with an oil major that began in July 2014.
Currently on time charter with a major oil company that began in March 2019.
Currently on time charter with a major oil company that began in November 2015.
Currently time chartered-in to our fleet with an expiration during the first calendar quarter of 2020.
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The LPG Shipping Industry
International seaborne LPG transportation services are generally provided by two types of operators: LPG distributors
and traders and independent shipowners. Traditionally the main trading route in our industry has been the transport of LPG from
the Arabian Gulf to Asia. With the emergence of the United States as a major LPG export hub, the United States Gulf to Asia has
become an important trade route. Vessels are generally operated under time charters, bareboat charters, spot charters, or COAs.
LPG distributors and traders use their fleets not only to transport their own LPG, but also to transport LPG for third-party
charterers in direct competition with independent owners and operators in the tanker charter market. We operate in markets that
are highly competitive and based primarily on supply and demand of available vessels. Generally, we compete for charters based
upon charter rate, customer relationships, operating expertise, professional reputation and vessel specifications (size, age and
condition). We also believe that our in-house technical and commercial management allows us to provide superior customer
service and reliability that enhances our relationships with our charterers. Our industry is subject to strict environmental
regulation, including the treatment of ballast water and greenhouse gas emissions regulations, and we believe our modern, ECO-
class fleet and our high level of crew training and vessel maintenance make us a preferred provider of VLGC tonnage.
Our Customers
Our customers, either directly or through the Helios Pool, include or have included global energy companies such as
Exxon Mobil Corp., China International United Petroleum & Chemicals Co., Ltd., Royal Dutch Shell plc, Equinor ASA, Total
S.A., and Sunoco LP, commodity traders such as Geogas Trading S.A., Glencore plc, Itochu Corporation and the Vitol Group and
importers such as E1 Corp., Indian Oil Corporation, SK Gas Co. Ltd., Astomos Energy Corporation and Oriental Energy
Company Ltd . See “Item 7. Management Discussion and Analysis—Overview” for a discussion of our customers that accounted
for more than 10% of our total revenues and “Item 1A. Risk Factors—We expect to be dependent on a limited number of
customers for a material part of our revenues, and failure of such customers to meet their obligations could cause us to suffer
losses or negatively impact our results of operations and cash flows.” For the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
approximately 75.9%, 67.1% and 69.1% of our revenues, respectively, were generated through the Helios Pool as net pool
revenues—related parties. See “Item 1A. Risk Factors—We and the Helios Pool operate exclusively in the LPG shipping
industry. Due to our lack of diversification and the lack of diversification of the Helios Pool, adverse developments in the LPG
shipping industry may adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results.”
We intend to continue to pursue a balanced chartering strategy by employing our vessels on a mix of multi-year time
charters, some of which may include a profit-sharing component, shorter-term time charters, spot market voyages and COAs.
Four of our vessels are currently on fixed time charters outside of the Helios Pool with an average remaining term of 1.3 years as
of May 24, 2019, and three of our VLGCs are on Pool-TCO within the Helios Pool. See “Our Fleet” above for more information .
Further, each of our vessels serves the same type of customer, has similar operations and maintenance requirements, and
operates in the same regulatory environment. Based on this, we have determined that we operate in one reportable segment, the
international transportation of LPG. Furthermore, when we charter a vessel to a charterer, the charterer is free to trade the vessel
worldwide and, as a result, the disclosure of geographic information is impracticable.
Competition
LPG carrier capacity is primarily a function of the size of the existing world fleet, the number of newbuildings being
delivered and the scrapping of older vessels. According to industry sources, as of May 24, 2019, there were 1,447 LPG capable
carriers with an aggregate capacity of approximately 34.04 million cbm. As of such date, a further 78 LPG capable carriers with
an aggregate carrying capacity of roughly 4.0 million cbm were on order for delivery by the end of 2021, equivalent to 11.8% of
the existing fleet in capacity terms. In contrast to oil tankers and drybulk carriers, according to industry sources, the number of
shipyards with LPG carrier experience is more limited. In the VLGC sector in which we operate, as of May 24, 2019, there were
277 vessels with an aggregate carrying capacity of 22.73 million cbm in the world fleet with 43 vessels on order for delivery by
the end of 2021.
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Table of Contents
Our largest competitors for VLGC shipping services include BW LPG Limited, or BWLPG, Avance Gas Holding Ltd.,
or Avance, Petredec, and Astomos Energy Corporation. According to industry sources, there were approximately 64 owners in the
worldwide VLGC fleet as of May 24, 2019, with the top ten owners possessing 48% of the total fleet on a vessel count basis.
Competition for the transportation of LPG depends on the price, location, size, age, condition and acceptability of the vessel to the
charterer. We believe we own and operate the youngest and second largest fleet in the VLGC size segment, which, in our view,
enhances our position relative to that of our competitors. But see “Item 1A. Risk Factors—We will face substantial competition in
trying to expand relationships with existing customers and obtain new customers.”
Seasonality
Liquefied gases are primarily used for industrial and domestic heating, as chemical and refinery feedstock,
as transportation fuel and in agriculture. The LPG shipping market historically has been stronger in the spring and summer
months in anticipation of increased consumption of propane and butane for heating during the winter months. In addition,
unpredictable weather patterns in these months tend to disrupt vessel scheduling and the supply of certain commodities. Demand
for our vessels therefore may be stronger in our quarters ending June 30 and September 30 and relatively weaker during our
quarters ending December 31 and March 31, although 12-month time charter rates tend to smooth out these short-term
fluctuations and recent LPG shipping market activity has not yielded the expected seasonal results. To the extent any of our time
charters expire during the typically weaker fiscal quarters ending December 31 and March 31, it may not be possible to re-charter
our vessels at similar rates. As a result, we may have to accept lower rates or experience off-hire time for our vessels, which may
adversely impact our business, financial condition and operating results.
Employees
As of March 31, 2019, we employed 70 persons in our offices in the United States, Greece, Denmark and the United
Kingdom. In addition to our shore-based employees, we had approximately 494 seafaring staff serving on our commercially-
managed vessels. Seafarers are sourced from seafarer recruitment and placement service agencies and are employed with short-
term employment contracts.
Classification, Inspection and Maintenance
Every large commercial seagoing vessel must be "classed" by a classification society. A classification society certifies
that a vessel is "in class," signifying that the vessel has been built and maintained in accordance with the rules of the classification
society and the vessel's country of registry and the international conventions of which that country is a member. In addition,
where surveys are required by international conventions and corresponding laws and ordinances of a flag state, the classification
society will undertake them on application or by official order, acting on behalf of the authorities concerned.
For maintenance of the class certificate, regular and special surveys of hull, machinery, including the electrical plant and
any special equipment classed, are required to be performed by the classification society, to ensure continuing compliance. The
classification societies provide guidelines applicable to LPG vessels relating to extended intervals for drydocking. Vessels are
generally drydocked at least once during a five-year class cycle for inspection of the underwater parts and for repairs related to
inspections unless an extension of the drydocking to seven and one-half years is granted by the classification society and the
vessel is not older than 20 years of age. Vessels under five years of age can waive drydocking provided the vessel is inspected
underwater. If any defects are found, the classification surveyor will issue a "recommendation" which must be rectified by the
shipowner within prescribed time limits. The classification society also undertakes on request of the flag state other surveys and
checks that are required by the regulations and requirements of that flag state. These surveys are subject to agreements made in
each individual case and/or to the regulations of the country concerned. Every vessel is also required to be drydocked every 30 to
36 months for inspection of the underwater parts of the vessel. If any vessel does not maintain its class and/or fails any annual
survey, intermediate survey, drydocking or special survey, the vessel will be unable to carry cargo between ports and will be
unemployable and uninsurable which could cause us to be in violation of certain covenants in our loan agreements and financing
arrangements. Any such inability to carry cargo or be employed, or any such violation of covenants, could have a material
adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
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Table of Contents
Most insurance underwriters make it a condition for insurance coverage that a vessel be certified as "in class" by a
classification society, which is a member of the International Association of Classification Societies, or the IACS. In December
2013, the IACS adopted harmonized Common Structure Rules that align with International Maritime Organization, the United
Nations agency for maritime safety and the prevention of pollution by vessels, or the IMO, goal standards. Our VLGCs are
currently classed with either Lloyd's Register, the American Bureau of Shipping, or ABS, or Det Norske Veritas, all members of
the IACS. All of the vessels in our fleet have been awarded International Safety Management, or ISM, certification and are
currently "in class."
We also carry out inspections of the ships on a regular basis; both at sea and while the vessels are in port. The results of
these inspections are documented in a report containing recommendations for improvements to the overall condition of the vessel,
maintenance, safety and crew welfare. Based in part on these evaluations, we create and implement a program of continual
maintenance and improvement for our vessels and their systems.
Safety, Management of Ship Operations and Administration
Safety is our top operational priority. Our vessels are operated in a manner intended to protect the safety and health of
the crew, the general public and the environment. We actively manage the risks inherent in our business and are committed to
preventing incidents that threaten safety, such as groundings, fires and collisions. We are also committed to reducing emissions
and waste generation. We have established key performance indicators to facilitate regular monitoring of our operational
performance. We set targets on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement, and we review performance indicators every
three months to determine if remedial action is necessary to reach our targets. Our shore staff performs a full range of technical,
commercial and business development services for us. This staff also provides administrative support to our operations in finance,
accounting and human resources.
Risk of Loss and Insurance
The operation of any vessel, including LPG carriers, has inherent risks. These risks include mechanical failure, personal
injury, collision, property loss, vessel or cargo loss or damage and business interruption due to political circumstances in foreign
countries or hostilities. In addition, there is always an inherent possibility of marine disaster, including explosions, spills and other
environmental mishaps, and the liabilities arising from owning and operating vessels in international trade. We believe that our
present insurance coverage is adequate to protect us against the accident related risks involved in the conduct of our business and
that we maintain appropriate levels of environmental damage and pollution insurance coverage consistent with standard industry
practice. However, not all risks can be insured, and there can be no guarantee that any specific claim will be paid, or that we will
always be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable rates.
We have obtained hull and machinery insurance on all our vessels against marine and war risks, which include the risks
of damage to our vessels, salvage or towing costs, and actual or constructive total loss. However, our insurance policies contain
deductible amounts for which we are responsible. We have also arranged additional total loss coverage for each vessel. This
coverage, which is called hull interest and freight interest coverage, provides us additional coverage in the event of the total loss
of a vessel.
We have also obtained loss of hire insurance to protect us against loss of income in the event one of our vessels cannot
be employed due to damage that is covered under the terms of our hull and machinery insurance (marine and war risks). Under
our loss of hire policies, our insurer will pay us an agreed daily rate in respect of each VLGC in excess of 14 days for marine risks
and zero days for war risks for the time that the vessel is out of service as a result of damage, for a maximum of 180 days.
We have also obtained protection and indemnity insurance, which covers our third-party legal liabilities in connection
with our shipping activities, and is provided by mutual protection and indemnity associations, or P&I clubs. This insurance
includes third-party liability and other expenses related to the injury or death of crew members, passengers and other third parties,
loss or damage to cargo, claims arising from collisions with other vessels or from contact with jetties or wharves and other
damage to other third-party property, including pollution arising from oil or other substances,
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and other related costs, including wreck removal. Subject to the capping discussed below, our coverage, except for pollution, is
unlimited.
Our current protection and indemnity insurance coverage for pollution is $1.0 billion per vessel per incident. The
thirteen P&I clubs that comprise the International Group of Protection and Indemnity Clubs, or the International Group, insure
approximately 90% of the world's commercial tonnage and have entered into a pooling agreement to reinsure each association's
liabilities. Each P&I club has capped its exposure in this pooling agreement so that the maximum claim covered by the pool and
its reinsurance would be approximately $5.45 billion per accident or occurrence. We are a member of three P&I clubs: The
Standard Club Ireland DAC, The United Kingdom Mutual Steamship Assurance Association (Europe) Limited and The London
Steam ‑
Ship Owners' Mutual Insurance Association Limited. As a member of these P&I clubs, we are subject to a call for
additional premiums based on the clubs' claims record, as well as the claims record of all other members of the P&I clubs
comprising the International Group. However, our P&I clubs have reinsured the risk of additional premium calls to limit our
additional exposure. This reinsurance is subject to a cap, and there is the risk that the full amount of the additional call would not
be covered by this reinsurance.
Environmental and Other Regulation in the Shipping Industry
General
Government regulation and laws significantly affect the ownership and operation of our fleet. We are subject to
international conventions and treaties, national, state and local laws and regulations in force in the countries in which our vessels
may operate or are registered relating to safety and health and environmental protection including the storage, handling, emission,
transportation and discharge of hazardous and non-hazardous materials, and the remediation of contamination and liability for
damage to natural resources. Compliance with such laws, regulations and other requirements entails significant expense,
including vessel modifications and implementation of certain operating procedures.
A variety of government and private entities subject our vessels to both scheduled and unscheduled inspections. These
entities include the local port authorities (applicable national authorities such as the United States Coast Guard (“USCG”), harbor
master or equivalent), classification societies, flag state administrations (countries of registry) and charterers, particularly terminal
operators. Certain of these entities require us to obtain permits, licenses, certificates and other authorizations for the operation of
our vessels. Failure to maintain necessary permits or approvals could require us to incur substantial costs or result in the
temporary suspension of the operation of one or more of our vessels.
Increasing environmental concerns have created a demand for vessels that conform to stricter environmental standards.
We are required to maintain operating standards for all of our vessels that emphasize operational safety, quality maintenance,
continuous training of our officers and crews and compliance with United States and international regulations. We believe that the
operation of our vessels is in substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations and that our vessels have
all material permits, licenses, certificates or other authorizations necessary for the conduct of our operations. However, because
such laws and regulations frequently change and may impose increasingly stricter requirements, we cannot predict the ultimate
cost of complying with these requirements, or the impact of these requirements on the resale value or useful lives of our vessels.
In addition, a future serious marine incident that causes significant adverse environmental impact could result in additional
legislation or regulation that could negatively affect our profitability.
International Maritime Organization
The International Maritime Organization, the United Nations agency for maritime safety and the prevention of pollution
by vessels (the “IMO”), has adopted the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified
by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto, collectively referred to as MARPOL 73/78 and herein as “MARPOL,” the International
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea of 1974 (“SOLAS Convention”), and the International Convention on Load Lines of
1966 (the “LL Convention”). MARPOL establishes environmental standards relating to oil leakage or spilling, garbage
management, sewage, air emissions, handling and disposal of noxious liquids and the handling of harmful substances in packaged
forms. MARPOL is applicable to drybulk, tanker and LNG carriers,
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among other vessels, and is broken into six Annexes, each of which regulates a different source of pollution. Annex I relates to oil
leakage or spilling; Annexes II and III relate to harmful substances carried in bulk in liquid or in packaged form, respectively;
Annexes IV and V relate to sewage and garbage management, respectively; and Annex VI, lastly, relates to air emissions. Annex
VI was separately adopted by the IMO in September of 1997.
Vessels that transport gas, including LPG carriers and FSRUs, are also subject to regulation under the International Code
for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk, or the IGC Code, published by the IMO. The
IGC Code provides a standard for the safe carriage of LPG and certain other liquid gases by prescribing the design and
construction standards of vessels involved in such carriage. The completely revised and updated IGC Code entered into force in
2016, and the amendments were developed following a comprehensive five-year review and are intended to take into account the
latest advances in science and technology. Compliance with the IGC Code must be evidenced by a Certificate of Fitness for the
Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk. Non-compliance with the IGC Code or other applicable IMO regulations may subject a
shipowner or a bareboat charterer to increased liability, may lead to decreases in available insurance coverage for affected vessels
and may result in the denial of access to, or detention in, some ports. We believe that each of our vessels is in compliance with the
IGC Code.
Air Emissions
In September of 1997, the IMO adopted Annex VI to MARPOL to address air pollution from vessels. Effective May
2005, Annex VI sets limits on sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from all commercial vessel exhausts and prohibits
“deliberate emissions” of ozone depleting substances (such as halons and chlorofluorocarbons), emissions of volatile compounds
from cargo tanks, and the shipboard incineration of specific substances. Annex VI also includes a global cap on the sulfur content
of fuel oil and allows for special areas to be established with more stringent controls on sulfur emissions, as explained below.
Emissions of “volatile organic compounds” from certain vessels, and the shipboard incineration (from incinerators installed after
January 1, 2000) of certain substances (such as polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs) are also prohibited. We believe that all our
vessels are currently compliant in all material respects with these regulations.
The MEPC entered into force in July 2010 and adopted amendments to Annex VI regarding emissions of sulfur oxide,
nitrogen oxide, particulate matter and ozone depleting substances. The amended Annex VI seeks to further reduce air pollution
by, among other things, implementing a progressive reduction of the amount of sulfur contained in any fuel oil used on board
ships. On October 27, 2016, at its 70th session, the MEPC agreed to implement a global 0.5% m/m sulfur oxide emissions limit
(reduced from 3.50%) starting from January 1, 2020 (the “IMO 2020 Cap”). This limitation can be met by using low-sulfur
compliant fuel oil, alternative fuels, or certain exhaust gas cleaning systems. Once the cap becomes effective, ships will be
required to obtain bunker delivery notes and International Air Pollution Prevention (“IAPP”) Certificates from their flag states
that specify sulfur content. Additionally, at MEPC 73, amendments to Annex VI to prohibit the carriage of bunkers above 0.5%
sulphur on ships were adopted and will take effect March 1, 2020. These regulations subject ocean-going vessels to stringent
emissions controls, and may cause us to incur substantial costs.
Sulfur content standards are even stricter within certain “Emission Control Areas,” or (“ECAs”). As of January 1, 2015,
ships operating within an ECA were not permitted to use fuel with sulfur content in excess of 0.1%. Amended Annex VI
establishes procedures for designating new ECAs. Currently, the IMO has designated four ECAs, including specified portions of
the Baltic Sea area, North Sea area, North American area and United States Caribbean area. Ocean-going vessels in these areas
will be subject to stringent emission controls and may cause us to incur additional costs. Other areas in China are subject to local
regulations that impose stricter emission controls. If other ECAs are approved by the IMO, or other new or more stringent
requirements relating to emissions from marine diesel engines or port operations by vessels are adopted by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) or the states where we operate, compliance with these regulations could entail
significant capital expenditures or otherwise increase the costs of our operations.
Amended Annex VI also establishes new tiers of stringent nitrogen oxide emissions standards for marine diesel engines,
depending on their date of installation. At the MEPC meeting held from March to April 2014, amendments to Annex VI were
adopted which address the date on which Tier III Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) standards in ECAs will go into effect. Under the
amendments, Tier III NOx standards apply to ships that operate in the North American and U.S.
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Caribbean Sea ECAs designed for the control of NOx produced by vessels with a marine diesel engine installed and constructed
on or after January 1, 2016. Tier III requirements could apply to areas that will be designated for Tier III NOx in the future. At
MEPC 70 and MEPC 71, the MEPC approved the North Sea and Baltic Sea as ECAs for nitrogen oxide for ships built after
January 1, 2021. The EPA promulgated equivalent (and in some senses stricter) emissions standards in late 2009. As a result of
these designations or similar future designations, we may be required to incur additional operating or other costs.
As determined at the MEPC 70, the new Regulation 22A of MARPOL Annex VI became effective as of March 1, 2018
and requires ships above 5,000 gross tonnage to collect and report annual data on fuel oil consumption to an IMO database, with
the first year of data collection commencing on January 1, 2019. The IMO intends to use such data as the first step in its roadmap
(through 2023) for developing its strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships, as discussed further below.
As of January 1, 2013, MARPOL made mandatory certain measures relating to energy efficiency for ships. All ships are
now required to develop and implement Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plans (“SEEMPS”), and new ships must be
designed in compliance with minimum energy efficiency levels per capacity mile as defined by the Energy Efficiency Design
Index (“EEDI”). Under these measures, by 2025, all new ships built will be 30% more energy efficient than those built in 2014.
We may incur costs to comply with these revised standards. Additional or new conventions, laws and regulations may be
adopted that could require the installation of expensive emission control systems and could adversely affect our business, results
of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
Safety
Management
System
Requirements
The SOLAS Convention was amended to address the safe manning of vessels and emergency training drills. The
Convention of Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims (the “LLMC”) sets limitations of liability for a loss of life or personal
injury claim or a property claim against ship owners. We believe that our vessels are in substantial compliance with SOLAS and
LLMC standards.
Under Chapter IX of the SOLAS Convention, or the International Safety Management Code for the Safe Operation of
Ships and for Pollution Prevention (the “ISM Code”), our operations are also subject to environmental standards and
requirements. The ISM Code requires the party with operational control of a vessel to develop an extensive safety management
system that includes, among other things, the adoption of a safety and environmental protection policy setting forth instructions
and procedures for operating its vessels safely and describing procedures for responding to emergencies. We rely upon the safety
management system that we and our technical management team have developed for compliance with the ISM Code. The failure
of a vessel owner or bareboat charterer to comply with the ISM Code may subject such party to increased liability, may decrease
available insurance coverage for the affected vessels and may result in a denial of access to, or detention in, certain ports.
The ISM Code requires that vessel operators obtain a safety management certificate for each vessel they operate. This
certificate evidences compliance by a vessel’s management with the ISM Code requirements for a safety management system. No
vessel can obtain a safety management certificate unless its manager has been awarded a document of compliance, issued by each
flag state, under the ISM Code. We have obtained applicable documents of compliance for our offices and safety management
certificates for all of our vessels for which the certificates are required by the IMO. The document of compliance and safety
management certificate are renewed as required.
Regulation II-1/3-10 of the SOLAS Convention governs ship construction and stipulates that ships over 150 meters in
length must have adequate strength, integrity and stability to minimize risk of loss or pollution. Goal-based standards
amendments in SOLAS regulation II-1/3-10 entered into force in 2012.
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Amendments to the SOLAS Convention Chapter VII apply to vessels transporting dangerous goods and require those
vessels be in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (“IMDG Code”). Effective January 1, 2018, the
IMDG Code includes (1) updates to the provisions for radioactive material, reflecting the latest provisions from the International
Atomic Energy Agency, (2) new marking, packing and classification requirements for dangerous goods, and (3) new mandatory
training requirements.
The IMO has also adopted the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for
Seafarers (“STCW”). As of February 2017, all seafarers are required to meet the STCW standards and be in possession of a valid
STCW certificate. Flag states that have ratified SOLAS and STCW generally employ the classification societies, which have
incorporated SOLAS and STCW requirements into their class rules, to undertake surveys to confirm compliance.
Furthermore, recent action by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee and United States agencies indicate that
cybersecurity regulations for the maritime industry are likely to be further developed in the near future in an attempt to combat
cybersecurity threats. For example, cyber-risk management systems must be incorporated by ship-owners and managers by 2021.
This might cause companies to create additional procedures for monitoring cybersecurity, which could require additional
expenses and/or capital expenditures. The impact of such regulations is hard to predict at this time.
Pollution
Control
and
Liability
Requirements
The IMO has negotiated international conventions that impose liability for pollution in international waters and the
territorial waters of the signatories to such conventions. For example, the IMO adopted an International Convention for the
Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (the “BWM Convention”) in 2004. The BWM Convention
entered into force on September 9, 2017. The BWM Convention requires ships to manage their ballast water to remove, render
harmless, or avoid the uptake or discharge of new or invasive aquatic organisms and pathogens within ballast water and
sediments. The BWM Convention’s implementing regulations call for a phased introduction of mandatory ballast water exchange
requirements, to be replaced in time with mandatory concentration limits, and require all ships to carry a ballast water record book
and an international ballast water management certificate.
On December 4, 2013, the IMO Assembly passed a resolution revising the application dates of BWM Convention so that
the dates are triggered by the entry into force date and not the dates originally in the BWM Convention. This, in effect, makes all
vessels delivered before the entry into force date “existing vessels” and allows for the installation of ballast water management
systems on such vessels at the first International Oil Pollution Prevention (“IOPP”) renewal survey following entry into force of
the convention. The MEPC adopted updated guidelines for approval of ballast water management systems (G8) at MEPC 70. At
MEPC 71, the schedule regarding the BWM Convention’s implementation dates was also discussed and amendments were
introduced to extend the date existing vessels are subject to certain ballast water standards. Ships over 400 gross tons generally
must comply with a “D-1 standard,” requiring the exchange of ballast water only in open seas and away from coastal waters. The
“D-2 standard” specifies the maximum amount of viable organisms allowed to be discharged, and compliance dates vary
depending on the IOPP renewal dates. Depending on the date of the IOPP renewal survey, existing vessels must comply with the
D-2 standard on or after September 8, 2019. For most ships, compliance with the D-2 standard will involve installing on-board
systems to treat ballast water and eliminate unwanted organisms. Ballast water management systems, which include systems that
make use of chemical, biocides, organisms or biological mechanisms, or which alter the chemical or physical characteristics of
the ballast water, must be approved in accordance with IMO Guidelines (Regulation D-3). Costs of compliance with these
regulations may be substantial.
Once mid-ocean ballast water treatment requirements become mandatory under the BWM Convention, the cost of
compliance could increase for ocean carriers and may have a material effect on our operations. However, many countries already
regulate the discharge of ballast water carried by vessels from country to country to prevent the introduction of invasive and
harmful species via such discharges. The U.S., for example, requires vessels entering its waters from another country to conduct
mid-ocean ballast exchange, or undertake some alternate measure, and to comply with certain reporting requirements. Currently,
sixteen of our VLGCs are in compliance with the BWM Convention guidelines. Ballast water management systems, or BWMS,
are expected to be installed on the remaining six VLGCs not equipped with BWMS
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between July 2019 and July 2023 for approximately $0.8 million per vessel. We have entered into contracts for two of our
VLGCs to be fitted with BWMS.
The IMO also adopted the International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution Damage (the “Bunker
Convention”) to impose strict liability on ship owners (including the registered owner, bareboat charterer, manager or operator)
for pollution damage in jurisdictional waters of ratifying states caused by discharges of bunker fuel. The Bunker Convention
requires registered owners of ships over 1,000 gross tons to maintain insurance for pollution damage in an amount equal to the
limits of liability under the applicable national or international limitation regime (but not exceeding the amount calculated in
accordance with the LLMC). With respect to non-ratifying states, liability for spills or releases of oil carried as fuel in ship’s
bunkers typically is determined by the national or other domestic laws in the jurisdiction where the events or damages occur.
The Protocol Relating to Intervention on the High Seas in Cases of Pollution by Substances other than Oil 1973 (the
“Intervention Protocol”) applies if there is a casualty involving a ship carrying LNG or LPG. The Intervention Protocol grants
coastal states the right to intervene to prevent, mitigate or eliminate the danger of ‘substances other than oil’, including LNG and
LPG, after consulting with other states affected and independent IMO-approved experts. The cost of such measures can usually be
recovered by the governmental authority against the shipowner under national law
Ships are required to maintain a certificate attesting that they maintain adequate insurance to cover an incident. In
jurisdictions, such as the United States where the Bunker Convention has not been adopted, various legislative schemes or
common law govern, and liability is imposed either on the basis of fault or on a strict-liability basis.
Anti‑Fouling
Requirements
In 2001, the IMO adopted the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships, or the
“Anti-fouling Convention.” The Anti-fouling Convention, which entered into force on September 17, 2008, prohibits the use of
organotin compound coatings to prevent the attachment of mollusks and other sea life to the hulls of vessels. Vessels of over 400
gross tons engaged in international voyages will also be required to undergo an initial survey before the vessel is put into service
or before an International Anti-fouling System Certificate is issued for the first time; and subsequent surveys when the anti-
fouling systems are altered or replaced. We have obtained Anti-fouling System Certificates for all of our VLGCs that are subject
to the Anti-fouling Convention.
Compliance
Enforcement
Noncompliance with the ISM Code or other IMO regulations may subject the ship owner or bareboat charterer to
increased liability, may lead to decreases in available insurance coverage for affected vessels and may result in the denial of
access to, or detention in, some ports. The USCG and European Union authorities have indicated that vessels not in compliance
with the ISM Code by applicable deadlines will be prohibited from trading in U.S. and European Union ports, respectively. As of
the date of this report, each of our vessels is ISM Code certified. However, there can be no assurance that such certificates will be
maintained in the future. The IMO continues to review and introduce new regulations. It is impossible to predict what additional
regulations, if any, may be passed by the IMO and what effect, if any, such regulations might have on our operations.
Hazardous
Substances
In 1996, the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damages in Connection with the Carriage of
Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea, or HNS, was adopted and subsequently amended by the 2010 Protocol, or the 2010
HNS Convention. Our LPG vessels may also become subject to the HNS Convention if it is entered into force. The 2010 HNS
Convention creates a regime of liability and compensation for damage from HNS, including liquefied gases. The 2010 HNS
Convention introduces strict liability for the shipowner and covers pollution damage as well as the risks of fire and explosion,
including loss of life or personal injury and damage to property. The 2010 HNS Convention sets up a two -
tier system of
compensation composed of compulsory insurance taken out by shipowners and
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an HNS Fund which comes into play when the insurance is insufficient to satisfy a claim or does not cover the incident. Under the
2010 HNS Convention, if damage is caused by bulk HNS, claims for compensation will first be sought from the shipowner up to
a maximum of 100 million Special Drawing Rights, or SDR. If the damage is caused by packaged HNS or by both bulk and
packaged HNS, the maximum liability is 115 million SDR. Once the limit is reached, compensation will be paid from the HNS
Fund up to a maximum of 250 million SDR. The 2010 HNS Convention has not come into effect. It will come into force eighteen
months after the date on which certain consent and administrative requirements are satisfied. While a majority of the necessary
number of states has indicated their consent to be bound by the 2010 HNS Convention, the required minimum has not been met.
We cannot estimate the costs that may be needed to comply with any such requirements that may be adopted with any certainty at
this time.
In 2012, MEPC adopted a resolution amending the International Code for the Construction of Equipment of Ships
Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk, or the IBC Code. The provisions of the IBC Code are mandatory under MARPOL and
the SOLAS Convention. These amendments, which entered into force in June 2014, pertain to revised international certificates of
fitness for the carriage of dangerous chemicals in bulk and identifying new products that fall under the IBC Code. In May 2014,
additional amendments to the IBC Code were adopted that became effective in January 2016. These amendments pertain to the
installation of stability instruments and cargo tank purging. Our ECO VLGCs are equipped with stability instruments and cargo
tank purging. We may need to make certain minor financial expenditures to comply with these amendments for our three modern
82,000 cbm VLGCs.
United States Regulations
The
U.S.
Oil
Pollution
Act
of
1990
and
the
Comprehensive
Environmental
Response,
Compensation
and
Liability
Act
The U.S. Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (“OPA”) established an extensive regulatory and liability regime for the protection
and cleanup of the environment from oil spills. OPA affects all “owners and operators” whose vessels trade or operate within the
U.S., its territories and possessions or whose vessels operate in U.S. waters, which includes the U.S.’s territorial sea and its 200
nautical mile exclusive economic zone around the U.S. The U.S. has also enacted the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”), which applies to the discharge of hazardous substances other than oil, except in
limited circumstances, whether on land or at sea. OPA and CERCLA both define “owner and operator” in the case of a vessel as
any person owning, operating or chartering by demise, the vessel. Both OPA and CERCLA impact our operations.
Under OPA, vessel owners and operators are “responsible parties” and are jointly, severally and strictly liable (unless the
spill results solely from the act or omission of a third party, an act of God or an act of war) for all containment and clean-up costs
and other damages arising from discharges or threatened discharges of oil from their vessels, including bunkers (fuel). OPA
defines these other damages broadly to include:
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
v)
vi)
injury to, destruction or loss of, or loss of use of, natural resources and related assessment costs;
injury to, or economic losses resulting from, the destruction of real and personal property;
loss of subsistence use of natural resources that are injured, destroyed or lost;
net loss of taxes, royalties, rents, fees or net profit revenues resulting from injury, destruction or loss of real or
personal property, or natural resources;
lost profits or impairment of earning capacity due to injury, destruction or loss of real or personal property or
natural resources; and
net cost of increased or additional public services necessitated by removal activities following a discharge of
oil, such as protection from fire, safety or health hazards, and loss of subsistence use of natural resources.
OPA contains statutory caps on liability and damages; such caps do not apply to direct cleanup costs. Effective
December 21, 2015, the USCG adjusted the limits of OPA liability for a tank vessel, other than a single-hull tank vessel, over
3,000 gross tons liability to the greater of $2,200 per gross ton or $18,796,800 (subject to periodic adjustment for inflation), and
for non-tank vessels, edible oil tank vessels, and any oil spill response vessels, to the greater of $1,100 per gross ton or $939,800.
These limits of liability do not apply if an incident was proximately caused by the violation of an
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applicable U.S. federal safety, construction or operating regulation by a responsible party (or its agent, employee or a person
acting pursuant to a contractual relationship), or a responsible party's gross negligence or willful misconduct. The limitation on
liability similarly does not apply if the responsible party fails or refuses to (i) report the incident where the responsible party
knows or has reason to know of the incident; (ii) reasonably cooperate and assist as requested in connection with oil removal
activities; or (iii) without sufficient cause, comply with an order issued under the Federal Water Pollution Act (Section 311 (c),
(e)) or the Intervention on the High Seas Act.
CERCLA contains a similar liability regime whereby owners and operators of vessels are liable for cleanup, removal and
remedial costs, as well as damages for injury to, or destruction or loss of, natural resources, including the reasonable costs
associated with assessing the same, and health assessments or health effects studies. There is no liability if the discharge of a
hazardous substance results solely from the act or omission of a third party, an act of God or an act of war. Liability under
CERCLA is limited to the greater of $300 per gross ton or $5.0 million for vessels carrying a hazardous substance as cargo and
the greater of $300 per gross ton or $500,000 for any other vessel. These limits do not apply (rendering the responsible person
liable for the total cost of response and damages) if the release or threat of release of a hazardous substance resulted from willful
misconduct or negligence, or the primary cause of the release was a violation of applicable safety, construction or operating
standards or regulations. The limitation on liability also does not apply if the responsible person fails or refused to provide all
reasonable cooperation and assistance as requested in connection with response activities where the vessel is subject to OPA.
OPA and CERCLA each preserve the right to recover damages under existing law, including maritime tort law. OPA
and CERCLA both require owners and operators of vessels to establish and maintain with the USCG evidence of financial
responsibility sufficient to meet the maximum amount of liability to which the particular responsible person may be subject.
Vessel owners and operators may satisfy their financial responsibility obligations by providing a proof of insurance, a surety
bond, qualification as a self-insurer or a guarantee. We comply and plan to comply going forward with the USCG’s financial
responsibility regulations by providing applicable certificates of financial responsibility.
The 2010 Deepwater
Horizon
oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico resulted in additional regulatory initiatives or statutes,
including higher liability caps under OPA, new regulations regarding offshore oil and gas drilling, and a pilot inspection program
for offshore facilities. However, several of these initiatives and regulations have been or may be revised. For example, the U.S.
Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement’s (“BSEE”) revised Production Safety Systems Rule (“PSSR”), effective
December 27, 2018, modified and relaxed certain environmental and safety protections under the 2016 PSSR. Additionally, the
BSEE released proposed changes to the Well Control Rule , which could roll back certain reforms regarding the safety of drilling
operations, and the U.S. President proposed leasing new sections of U.S. waters to oil and gas companies for offshore drilling,
expanding the U.S. waters that are available for such activity over the next five years. The effects of these proposals are currently
unknown. Compliance with any new requirements of OPA and future legislation or regulations applicable to the operation of our
vessels could impact the cost of our operations and adversely affect our business.
OPA specifically permits individual states to impose their own liability regimes with regard to oil pollution incidents
occurring within their boundaries, provided they accept, at a minimum, the levels of liability established under OPA and some
states have enacted legislation providing for unlimited liability for oil spills. Many U.S. states that border a navigable waterway
have enacted environmental pollution laws that impose strict liability on a person for removal costs and damages resulting from a
discharge of oil or a release of a hazardous substance. These laws may be more stringent than U.S. federal law. Moreover, some
states have enacted legislation providing for unlimited liability for discharge of pollutants within their waters, although in some
cases, states which have enacted this type of legislation have not yet issued implementing regulations defining vessel owners’
responsibilities under these laws. We intend to comply with all applicable state regulations in the ports where our vessels call.
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We currently maintain pollution liability coverage insurance in the amount of $1 billion per incident for each of our
vessels. If the damages from a catastrophic spill were to exceed our insurance coverage, it could have an adverse effect on our
business and results of operation.
Other
United
States
Environmental
Initiatives
The U.S. Clean Air Act of 1970 (including its amendments of 1977 and 1990) (“CAA ”) requires the EPA to promulgate
standards applicable to emissions of volatile organic compounds and other air contaminants. Our vessels are subject to vapor
control and recovery requirements for certain cargoes when loading, unloading, ballasting, cleaning and conducting other
operations in regulated port areas. The CAA also requires states to draft State Implementation Plans, or SIPs, designed to attain
national health-based air quality standards in each state. Although state-specific, SIPs may include regulations concerning
emissions resulting from vessel loading and unloading operations by requiring the installation of vapor control equipment. Our
vessels operating in such regulated port areas with restricted cargoes are equipped with vapor recovery systems that satisfy these
existing requirements .
The U.S. Clean Water Act (“CWA ”) prohibits the discharge of oil, hazardous substances and ballast water in U.S.
navigable waters unless authorized by a duly-issued permit or exemption, and imposes strict liability in the form of penalties for
any unauthorized discharges. The CWA also imposes substantial liability for the costs of removal, remediation and damages and
complements the remedies available under OPA and CERCLA. In 2015, the EPA expanded the definition of “waters of the
United States” (“WOTUS”), thereby expanding federal authority under the CWA. Following litigation on the revised WOTUS
rule, in December 2018, the EPA and Department of the Army proposed a revised, limited definition of “waters of the United
States.” The effect of this proposal on U.S. environmental regulations is still unknown.
The EPA and the USCG have also enacted rules relating to ballast water discharge, compliance with which requires the
installation of equipment on our vessels to treat ballast water before it is discharged or the implementation of other port facility
disposal arrangements or procedures at potentially substantial costs, and/or otherwise restrict our vessels from entering U.S.
Waters. The EPA will regulate these ballast water discharges and other discharges incidental to the normal operation of certain
vessels within United States waters pursuant to the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (“VIDA”), which was signed into law on
December 4, 2018 and will replace the 2013 Vessel General Permit (“VGP”) program (which authorizes discharges incidental to
operations of commercial vessels and contains numeric ballast water discharge limits for most vessels to reduce the risk of
invasive species in U.S. waters, stringent requirements for exhaust gas scrubbers, and requirements for the use of environmentally
acceptable lubricants ) and current Coast Guard ballast water management regulations adopted under the U.S. National Invasive
Species Act (“NISA”), such as mid-ocean ballast exchange programs and installation of approved USCG technology for all
vessels equipped with ballast water tanks bound for U.S. ports or entering U.S. waters. VIDA establishes a new framework for the
regulation of vessel incidental discharges under Clean Water Act (CWA), requires the EPA to develop performance standards for
those discharges within two years of enactment, and requires the U.S. Coast Guard to develop implementation, compliance, and
enforcement regulations within two years of EPA’s promulgation of standards. Under VIDA, all provisions of the 2013 VGP and
USCG regulations regarding ballast water treatment remain in force and effect until the EPA and U.S. Coast Guard regulations
are finalized. Non-military , non-recreational vessels greater than 79 feet in length must continue to comply with the requirements
of the VGP, including submission of a Notice of Intent (“NOI”) or retention of a PARI form and submission of annual reports.
We have submitted NOIs for our vessels where required. Compliance with the EPA, U.S. Coast Guard and state regulations could
require the installation of ballast water treatment equipment on our vessels or the implementation of other port facility disposal
procedures at potentially substantial cost, or may otherwise restrict our vessels from entering U.S. waters.
European Union Regulations
In October 2009, the European Union amended a directive to impose criminal sanctions for illicit ship-source discharges
of polluting substances, including minor discharges, if committed with intent, recklessly or with serious negligence and the
discharges individually or in the aggregate result in deterioration of the quality of water. Aiding and abetting the discharge of a
polluting substance may also lead to criminal penalties. The directive applies to all types of vessels, irrespective of their flag, but
certain exceptions apply to warships or where human safety or that of the ship is in
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danger. Criminal liability for pollution may result in substantial penalties or fines and increased civil liability claims. Regulation
(EU) 2015/757 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 29 April 2015 (amending EU Directive 2009/16/EC) governs
the monitoring, reporting and verification of carbon dioxide emissions from maritime transport, and, subject to some exclusions,
requires companies with ships over 5,000 gross tonnage to monitor and report carbon dioxide emissions annually starting on
January 1, 2018, which may cause us to incur additional expenses.
The European Union has adopted several regulations and directives requiring, among other things, more frequent
inspections of high-risk ships, as determined by type, age, and flag as well as the number of times the ship has been detained. The
European Union also adopted and extended a ban on substandard ships and enacted a minimum ban period and a definitive ban
for repeated offenses. The regulation also provided the European Union with greater authority and control over classification
societies, by imposing more requirements on classification societies and providing for fines or penalty payments for organizations
that failed to comply. Furthermore, the EU has implemented regulations requiring vessels to use reduced sulfur content fuel for
their main and auxiliary engines. The EU Directive 2005/33/EC (amending Directive 1999/32/EC) introduced requirements
parallel to those in Annex VI relating to the sulfur content of marine fuels. In addition, the EU imposed a 0.1% maximum sulfur
requirement for fuel used by ships at berth in EU ports.
International Labour Organization
The International Labour Organization is a specialized agency of the UN that has adopted the Maritime Labor
Convention 2006, or the MLC 2006. A Maritime Labor Certificate and a Declaration of Maritime Labor Compliance is required
to ensure compliance with the MLC 2006 for all ships above 500 gross tons in international trade. We believe that all our vessels
are in substantial compliance with and are certified to meet MLC 2006.
Greenhouse Gas Regulation
Currently, the emissions of greenhouse gases from international shipping are not subject to the Kyoto Protocol to the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which entered into force in 2005 and pursuant to which adopting
countries have been required to implement national programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions with targets extended through
2020. International negotiations are continuing with respect to a successor to the Kyoto Protocol, and restrictions on shipping
emissions may be included in any new treaty. In December 2009, more than 27 nations, including the U.S. and China, signed the
Copenhagen Accord, which includes a non-binding commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The 2015 United Nations
Climate Change Conference in Paris resulted in the Paris Agreement, which entered into force on November 4, 2016 and does not
directly limit greenhouse gas emissions from ships. On June 1, 2017, the U.S. President announced that the United States intends
to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. The timing and effect of such action has yet to be determined, but the Paris Agreement
provides for a four-year exit process.
At MEPC 70 and MEPC 71, a draft outline of the structure of the initial strategy for developing a comprehensive IMO
strategy on reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from ships was approved. In accordance with this roadmap, in April 2018,
nations at the MEPC 72 adopted an initial strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships. The initial strategy identifies
“levels of ambition” to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including (1) decreasing the carbon intensity from ships through
implementation of further phases of the EEDI for new ships; (2) reducing carbon dioxide emissions per transport work, as an
average across international shipping, by at least 40% by 2030, pursuing efforts towards 70% by 2050, compared to
2008 emission levels; and (3) reducing the total annual greenhouse emissions by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 while
pursuing efforts towards phasing them out entirely. The initial strategy notes that technological innovation, alternative fuels
and/or energy sources for international shipping will be integral to achieve the overall ambition. These regulations could cause us
to incur additional substantial expenses.
The EU made a unilateral commitment to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions from its member states from 20% of
1990 levels by 2020. The EU also committed to reduce its emissions by 20% under the Kyoto Protocol’s second period from 2013
to 2020. Starting in January 2018, large ships calling at EU ports are required to collect and publish data on carbon dioxide
emissions and other information.
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In the United States, the EPA issued a finding that greenhouse gases endanger the public health and safety, adopted
regulations to limit greenhouse gas emissions from certain mobile sources, and proposed regulations to limit greenhouse gas
emissions from large stationary sources. However, in March 2017, the U.S. President signed an executive order to review and
possibly eliminate the EPA’s plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The EPA or individual U.S. states could enact environmental
regulations that would affect our operations.
Any passage of climate control legislation or other regulatory initiatives by the IMO, the EU, the U.S. or other countries
where we operate, or any treaty adopted at the international level to succeed the Kyoto Protocol or Paris Agreement, that restricts
emissions of greenhouse gases could require us to make significant financial expenditures which we cannot predict with certainty
at this time. Even in the absence of climate control legislation, our business may be indirectly affected.
Vessel Security Regulations
Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 in the United States, there have been a variety of initiatives intended to
enhance vessel security such as the U.S. Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (“MTSA”). To implement certain portions
of the MTSA, the USCG issued regulations requiring the implementation of certain security requirements aboard vessels
operating in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States and at certain ports and facilities, some of which are regulated
by the EPA.
Similarly, Chapter XI-2 of the SOLAS Convention imposes detailed security obligations on vessels and port authorities
and mandates compliance with the International Ship and Port Facilities Security Code (“the ISPS Code ”). The ISPS Code is
designed to enhance the security of ports and ships against terrorism. To trade internationally, a vessel must attain an International
Ship Security Certificate (“ISSC ”) from a recognized security organization approved by the vessel’s flag state. Ships operating
without a valid certificate may be detained, expelled from, or refused entry at port until they obtain an ISSC. The various
requirements, some of which are found in the SOLAS Convention , include, for example, on-board installation of automatic
identification systems to provide a means for the automatic transmission of safety-related information from among similarly
equipped ships and shore stations, including information on a ship’s identity, position, course, speed and navigational status; on-
board installation of ship security alert systems, which do not sound on the vessel but only alert the authorities on shore; the
development of vessel security plans; ship identification number to be permanently marked on a vessel’s hull; a continuous
synopsis record kept onboard showing a vessel's history including the name of the ship, the state whose flag the ship is entitled to
fly, the date on which the ship was registered with that state, the ship's identification number, the port at which the ship is
registered and the name of the registered owner(s) and their registered address; and compliance with flag state security
certification requirements.
The USCG regulations, intended to align with international maritime security standards, exempt non-U.S. vessels from
MTSA vessel security measures, provided such vessels have on board a valid ISSC that attests to the vessel’s compliance with the
SOLAS Convention security requirements and the ISPS Code. Future security measures could have a significant financial impact
on us. We intend to comply with the various security measures addressed by MTSA, the SOLAS Convention and the ISPS Code.
The cost of vessel security measures has also been affected by the escalation in the frequency of acts of piracy against
ships, notably off the coast of Somalia, including the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea area. Substantial loss of revenue and other
costs may be incurred as a result of detention of a vessel or additional security measures, and the risk of uninsured losses could
significantly affect our business. Costs are incurred in taking additional security measures in accordance with Best Management
Practices to Deter Piracy, notably those contained in the BMP4 industry standard.
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Taxation
The following is a discussion of the material Marshall Islands and United States federal income tax considerations
relevant to a United States Holder and a Non-United States Holder, each as defined below, with respect to the common shares.
This discussion does not purport to deal with the tax consequences of owning our common shares to all categories of investors,
some of which, such as financial institutions, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, tax exempt
organizations, insurance companies, persons holding our common stock as part of a hedging, integrated, conversion or
constructive sale transaction or a straddle, traders in securities that have elected the mark to market method of accounting for their
securities, persons liable for alternative minimum tax, persons who are investors in partnerships or other pass through entities for
United States federal income tax purposes or hold our common shares through an applicable partnership interest, dealers in
securities or currencies, United States Holders whose functional currency is not the United States dollar, investor that are required
to recognize income for U.S. federal income tax purposes no later than when such income is included on an “applicable financial
statement” and investors that own, actually or under applicable constructive ownership rules, 10% or more of our shares of
common stock, may be subject to special rules. This discussion deals only with holders who purchase and hold the common
shares as a capital asset. You are encouraged to consult your own tax advisors concerning the overall tax consequences arising in
your own particular situation under United States federal, state, local or non-United States law of the ownership of common
shares.
Marshall Islands Tax Considerations
In the opinion of Seward & Kissel LLP, the following are the material Marshall Islands tax consequences of our
activities to us and of our common shares to our shareholders. We are incorporated in the Marshall Islands. Under current
Marshall Islands law, we are not subject to tax on income or capital gains, and no Marshall Islands withholding tax will be
imposed upon payments of dividends by us to our shareholders.
United States Federal Income Tax Considerations
In the opinion of Seward & Kissel LLP, the following are the material United States federal income tax consequences to
us of our activities and to United States Holders and Non-United States Holders, each as defined below, of the common shares.
The following discussion of United States federal income tax matters is based on the United States Internal Revenue Code of
1986 as in effect as of the date hereof, or the Code, judicial decisions, administrative pronouncements, and existing and proposed
regulations issued by the United States Department of the Treasury, or the Treasury Regulations, all of which are subject to
change, possibly with retroactive effect. The discussion below is based, in part, on the description of our business as described in
this report and assumes that we conduct our business as described herein.
United States Federal Income Taxation of Operating Income: In General
We anticipate that we will earn substantially all our income from the hiring of vessels for use on a time or spot charter
basis, including through the Helios Pool, and from the performance of services directly related to those uses, all of which we refer
to as "shipping income."
Unless we qualify for an exemption from United States federal income taxation under the rules of Section 883 of the
Code, or Section 883, as discussed below, a foreign corporation such as the Company will be subject to United States federal
income taxation on its "shipping income" that is treated as derived from sources within the United States, to which we refer as
"United States source shipping income." For United States federal income tax purposes, "United States source shipping income"
includes 50% of shipping income that is attributable to transportation that begins or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in
the United States.
Shipping income attributable to transportation exclusively between non ‑
United States ports will be considered to be
100% derived from sources entirely outside the United States. Shipping income derived from sources outside the United States
will not be subject to any United States federal income tax.
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Shipping income attributable to transportation exclusively between United States ports is considered to be 100% derived
from United States sources. However, we are not permitted by United States law to engage in the transportation of cargoes that
produces 100% United States source shipping income.
Unless we qualify for the exemption from tax under Section 883, our gross United States source shipping income would
be subject to a 4% tax imposed without allowance for deductions as described below.
Exemption
of
Operating
Income
from
United
States
Federal
Income
Taxation
Under Section 883 and the Treasury Regulations thereunder, a foreign corporation will be exempt from United States
federal income taxation of its United States source shipping income if:
1)
2)
it is organized in a "qualified foreign country" which is one that grants an "equivalent exemption" from tax to
corporations organized in the United States in respect of each category of shipping income for which exemption
is being claimed under Section 883; and
one of the following tests is met:
A)
B)
more than 50% of the value of its shares is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by "qualified
shareholders," which as defined includes individuals who are "residents" of a qualified foreign
country, to which we refer as the "50% Ownership Test"; or
its shares are "primarily and regularly traded on an established securities market" in a qualified foreign
country or in the United States, to which we refer as the "Publicly ‑
Traded Test."
The Republic of The Marshall Islands, the jurisdiction where we and our ship ‑
owning subsidiaries are incorporated,
has been officially recognized by the United States Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, as a qualified foreign country that grants
the requisite "equivalent exemption" from tax in respect of each category of shipping income we earn and currently expect to earn
in the future. Therefore, we will be exempt from United States federal income taxation with respect to our United States source
shipping income if we satisfy either the 50% Ownership Test or the Publicly ‑
Traded Test.
We believe that we satisfy the Publicly ‑
Traded Test, a factual determination made on an annual basis, with respect to
our taxable year ended March 31, 2019, and we expect to continue to do so for our subsequent taxable years, and we intend to
take this position for United States federal income tax reporting purposes. We do not currently anticipate circumstances under
which we would be able to satisfy the 50% Ownership Test.
Publicly
‑
Traded
Test
The Treasury Regulations under Section 883 provide, in pertinent part, that shares of a foreign corporation will be
considered to be "primarily traded" on an established securities market in a country if the number of shares of each class of stock
that are traded during any taxable year on all established securities markets in that country exceeds the number of shares in each
such class that are traded during that year on established securities markets in any other single country. The Company's common
shares, which constitute its sole class of issued and outstanding stock is "primarily traded" on the New York Stock Exchange, or
the NYSE, an established securities market for these purposes.
Under the Treasury Regulations, our common shares will be considered to be "regularly traded" on an established
securities market if one or more classes of our shares representing more than 50% of our outstanding stock, by both total
combined voting power of all classes of stock entitled to vote and total value, are listed on such market, to which we refer as the
"listing threshold." Since all of our common shares are listed on the NYSE, we expect to satisfy the listing threshold.
The Treasury Regulations also require that with respect to each class of stock relied upon to meet the listing threshold,
(i) such class of stock traded on the market, other than in minimal quantities, on at least 60 days during the taxable year or one ‑
sixth of the days in a short taxable year, which we refer to as the "trading frequency test"; and (ii) the
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aggregate number of shares of such class of stock traded on such market during the taxable year must be at least 10% of the
average number of shares of such class of stock outstanding during such year or as appropriately adjusted in the case of a short
taxable year, which we refer to as the "trading volume" test. We anticipate that we will satisfy the trading frequency and trading
volume tests. Even if this were not the case, the Treasury Regulations provide that the trading frequency and trading volume tests
will be deemed satisfied if, as is expected to be the case with our common shares, such class of stock is traded on an established
securities market in the United States and such shares are regularly quoted by dealers making a market in such shares.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Treasury Regulations provide, in pertinent part, that a class of shares will not be
considered to be "regularly traded" on an established securities market for any taxable year in which 50% or more of the vote and
value of the outstanding shares of such class are owned on more than half the days during the taxable year by persons who each
own 5% or more of the vote and value of such class of outstanding stock, to which we refer as the "5% Override Rule."
For purposes of being able to determine the persons who actually or constructively own 5% or more of the vote and
value of our common shares, or "5% Shareholders," the Treasury Regulations permit us to rely on those persons that are identified
on Schedule 13G and Schedule 13D filings with the Commission, as owning 5% or more of our common shares. The Treasury
Regulations further provide that an investment company which is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, will not be treated as a 5% Shareholder for such purposes.
In the event the 5% Override Rule is triggered, the Treasury Regulations provide that the 5% Override Rule will
nevertheless not apply if we can establish that within the group of 5% Shareholders, qualified shareholders (as defined for
purposes of Section 883) own sufficient number of shares to preclude non ‑
qualified shareholders in such group from owning
50% or more of our common shares for more than half the number of days during the taxable year.
We believe that we satisfy the Publicly ‑
Traded Test and will not be subject to the 5% Override Rule for taxable year
ended March 31, 2019 and we also expect to continue to do so for our subsequent taxable years. However, there are factual
circumstances beyond our control that could cause us to lose the benefit of the Section 883 exemption. For example, we may no
longer qualify for Section 883 exemption for a particular taxable year if 5% Shareholders were to own, in the aggregate, 50% or
more of our outstanding common shares on more than half the days of the taxable year, unless we could establish that within the
group of 5% Shareholders, qualified shareholders own sufficient number of our shares to preclude the non-qualified shareholders
in such group from owning 50% or more of our common shares for more than half the number of days during the taxable year.
Under the Treasury Regulations, we would have to satisfy certain substantiation requirements regarding the identity of our
shareholders. These requirements are onerous and there is no assurance that we would be able to satisfy them. Given the factual
nature of the issues involved, we can give no assurances in regards of our or our subsidiaries' qualification for the Section 883
exemption.
Taxation
in
Absence
of
Section
883
Exemption
If the benefits of Section 883 are unavailable, our United States source shipping income would be subject to a 4% tax
imposed by Section 887 of the Code on a gross basis, without the benefit of deductions, or the "4% gross basis tax regime," to the
extent that such income is not considered to be "effectively connected" with the conduct of a United States trade or business, as
described below. Since under the sourcing rules described above, no more than 50% of our shipping income would be treated as
being United States source shipping income, the maximum effective rate of United States federal income tax on our shipping
income would never exceed 2% under the 4% gross basis tax regime.
To the extent our United States source shipping income is considered to be "effectively connected" with the conduct of a
United States trade or business, as described below, any such "effectively connected" United States source shipping income, net
of applicable deductions, would be subject to United States federal income tax, currently imposed at a rate of 21%. In addition,
we would generally be subject to the 30% "branch profits" tax on earnings effectively connected with the conduct of such trade or
business, as determined after allowance for certain adjustments, and on certain interest paid or deemed paid attributable to the
conduct of our United States trade or business.
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Our United States source shipping income would be considered "effectively connected" with the conduct of a United
States trade or business only if:
· we have, or are considered to have, a fixed place of business in the United States involved in the earning of United
States source shipping income; and
·
substantially all of our United States source shipping income is attributable to regularly scheduled transportation,
such as the operation of a vessel that follows a published schedule with repeated sailings at regular intervals
between the same points for voyages that begin or end in the United States.
We do not intend to have, or permit circumstances that would result in having, any vessel sailing to or from the United
States on a regularly scheduled basis. Based on the foregoing and on the expected mode of our shipping operations and other
activities, it is anticipated that none of our United States source shipping income will be "effectively connected" with the conduct
of a United States trade or business.
United States Taxation of Gain on Sale of Vessels
Regardless of whether we qualify for exemption under Section 883, we will not be subject to United States federal
income tax with respect to gain realized on a sale of a vessel, provided the sale is considered to occur outside of the United States
under United States federal income tax principles. In general, a sale of a vessel will be considered to occur outside of the United
States for this purpose if title to the vessel, and risk of loss with respect to the vessel, pass to the buyer outside of the United
States. It is expected that any sale of a vessel by us will be considered to occur outside of the United States.
United States Federal Income Taxation of United States Holders
As used herein, the term "United States Holder" means a holder that for United States federal income tax purposes is a
beneficial owner of common shares and is an individual United States citizen or resident, a United States corporation or other
United States entity taxable as a corporation, an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation
regardless of its source, or a trust if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary jurisdiction over the administration
of the trust and one or more United States persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust.
If a partnership holds the common shares, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the
partner and upon the activities of the partnership. If you are a partner in a partnership holding the common shares, you are
encouraged to consult your tax advisor.
Distributions
Subject to the discussion of passive foreign investment companies below, any distributions made by us with respect to
our common shares to a United States Holder will generally constitute dividends to the extent of our current or accumulated
earnings and profits, as determined under United States federal income tax principles. Distributions in excess of such earnings and
profits will be treated first as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of the United States Holder's tax basis in its common
shares and thereafter as capital gain. Because we are not a United States corporation, United States Holders that are corporations
will generally not be entitled to claim a dividends-received deduction with respect to any distributions they receive from us.
Dividends paid with respect to our common shares will generally be treated as foreign source dividend income and will generally
constitute "passive category income" for purposes of computing allowable foreign tax credits for United States foreign tax credit
purposes.
Dividends paid on our common shares to certain non ‑
corporate United States Holders will generally be treated as
"qualified dividend income" that is taxable to such United States Holders at preferential tax rates provided that (1) the common
shares are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States (such as the NYSE, on which our common
shares will be traded), (2) the shareholder has owned the common stock for more than 60 days in the 121 ‑
day period beginning
60 days before the date on which the common stock becomes ex ‑
dividend, and (3) we are not a passive
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foreign investment company for the taxable year during which the dividend is paid or the immediately preceding taxable year.
There is no assurance that any dividends paid on our common shares will be eligible for these preferential rates in the
hands of such non ‑
corporate United States Holders, although, as described above, we expect such dividends to be so eligible
provided an eligible non ‑
corporate United States Holder meets all applicable requirements and we are not a passive foreign
passive investment company in the taxable year during which the dividend is paid or the immediately preceding taxable year. Any
dividends paid by us which are not eligible for these preferential rates will be taxed as ordinary income to a non ‑
corporate
United States Holder.
Special rules may apply to any "extraordinary dividend"—generally, a dividend in an amount which is equal to or in
excess of 10% of a shareholder's adjusted tax basis in a common share—paid by us. If we pay an "extraordinary dividend" on our
common shares that is treated as "qualified dividend income," then any loss derived by certain non ‑
corporate United States
Holders from the sale or exchange of such common shares will be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of such dividend.
Sale,
Exchange
or
Other
Disposition
of
Common
Shares
Assuming we do not constitute a passive foreign investment company for any taxable year, a United States Holder
generally will recognize taxable gain or loss upon a sale, exchange or other disposition of our common shares in an amount equal
to the difference between the amount realized by the United States Holder from such sale, exchange or other disposition and the
United States Holder's tax basis in such shares. Such gain or loss will be treated as long ‑
term capital gain or loss if the United
States Holder's holding period is greater than one year at the time of the sale, exchange or other disposition. Such capital gain or
loss will generally be treated as United States source income or loss, as applicable, for United States foreign tax credit purposes.
Long ‑
term capital gains of certain non ‑
corporate United States Holders are currently eligible for reduced rates of taxation. A
United States Holder's ability to deduct capital losses is subject to certain limitations.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Status and Significant Tax Consequences
Special United States federal income tax rules apply to a United States Holder that holds shares in a foreign corporation
classified as a "passive foreign investment company," or a PFIC, for United States federal income tax purposes. In general, we
will be treated as a PFIC with respect to a United States Holder if, for any taxable year in which such holder holds our common
shares, either
·
·
at least 75% of our gross income for such taxable year consists of passive income (e.g., dividends, interest, capital
gains and rents derived other than in the active conduct of a rental business); or
at least 50% of the average value of our assets during such taxable year produce, or are held for the production of,
passive income.
For purposes of determining whether we are a PFIC, we will be treated as earning and owning our proportionate share of
the income and assets, respectively, of any of our ship ‑
owning subsidiaries in which we own at least 25% of the value of the
subsidiary's stock. Income earned, or deemed earned, by us in connection with the performance of services would not constitute
passive income. By contrast, rental income would generally constitute "passive income" unless we were treated under specific
rules as deriving our rental income in the active conduct of a trade or business.
We believe that income we earn from the voyage charters, and also from time charters, for the reasons discussed below,
will be treated as active income for PFIC purposes and as a result, we intend to take the position that we satisfy the 75% income
test for our taxable year ended March 31, 2019.
As of the date of this Annual Report, we have taken delivery of all of the vessels under our newbuilding contracts.
Accordingly, based on our current and anticipated operations, we do not believe that we will be treated as a PFIC for our
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taxable year ended March 31, 2019, or subsequent taxable years, and we intend to take such position for our United States federal
income tax reporting purposes. Our belief is based principally on the position that the gross income we derive from our voyage or
time chartering activities should constitute services income, rather than rental income. Accordingly, such income should not
constitute passive income, and the assets that we own and operate in connection with the production of such income, in particular,
the vessels, should not constitute passive assets for purposes of determining whether we are a PFIC. There is substantial legal
authority supporting this position consisting of case law and IRS pronouncements concerning the characterization of income
derived from time charters as services income for other tax purposes. However, there is also authority which characterizes time
charter income as rental income rather than services income for other tax purposes. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that
the IRS or a court of law will accept this position, and there is a risk that the IRS or a court of law could determine that we are a
PFIC. In addition, although we intend to conduct our affairs in a manner to avoid being classified as a PFIC with respect to any
taxable year, we cannot assure you that the nature of our operations will not change in the future.
As discussed more fully below, for any taxable year in which we are, or were to be treated as, a PFIC, a United States
Holder would be subject to different taxation rules depending on whether the United States Holder makes an election to treat us as
a "Qualified Electing Fund," which election we refer to as a "QEF election." As an alternative to making a QEF election, a United
States Holder should be able to make a "mark ‑
to ‑
market" election with respect to our common shares, as discussed below. A
United States holder of shares in a PFIC will be required to file an annual information return containing information regarding the
PFIC as required by applicable Treasury Regulations. We intend to promptly notify our shareholders if we determine we are a
PFIC for any taxable year.
Taxation
of
United
States
Holders
Making
a
Timely
QEF
Election
If a United States Holder makes a timely QEF election, which United States Holder we refer to as an "Electing Holder,"
the Electing Holder must report for United States federal income tax purposes its pro rata share of our ordinary earnings and net
capital gain, if any, for each of our taxable years during which we are a PFIC that ends with or within the taxable year of the
Electing Holder, regardless of whether distributions were received from us by the Electing Holder. No portion of any such
inclusions of ordinary earnings will be treated as "qualified dividend income." Net capital gain inclusions of certain non ‑
corporate United States Holders would be eligible for preferential capital gains tax rates. The Electing Holder's adjusted tax basis
in the common shares will be increased to reflect any income included under the QEF election. Distributions of previously taxed
income will not be subject to tax upon distribution but will decrease the Electing Holder's tax basis in the common shares. An
Electing Holder would not, however, be entitled to a deduction for its pro rata share of any losses that we incur with respect to
any taxable year. An Electing Holder would generally recognize capital gain or loss on the sale, exchange or other disposition of
our common shares. A United States Holder would make a timely QEF election for our common shares by filing one copy of IRS
Form 8621 with his United States federal income tax return for the first year in which he held such shares when we were a PFIC.
If we take the position that we are not a PFIC for any taxable year, and it is later determined that we were a PFIC for such taxable
year, it may be possible for a United States Holder to make a retroactive QEF election effective for such year. If we determine
that we are a PFIC for any taxable year, we will provide each United States Holder with all necessary information required for the
United States Holder to make the QEF election and to report its pro rata share of our ordinary earnings and net capital gain, if any,
for each of our taxable years during which we are a PFIC that ends with or within the taxable year of the Electing Holder as
described above.
Taxation
of
United
States
Holders
Making
a
"Mark
‑
to
‑
Market"
Election
Alternatively, for any taxable year in which we determine that we are a PFIC, and, assuming as we anticipate will be the
case, our shares are treated as "marketable stock," a United States Holder would be allowed to make a "mark ‑
to ‑
market"
election with respect to our common shares, provided the United States Holder completes and files IRS Form 8621 in accordance
with the relevant instructions and related Treasury Regulations. If that election is made, the United States Holder generally would
include as ordinary income in each taxable year the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the common shares at the end of the
taxable year over such Holder's adjusted tax basis in the common shares. The United States Holder would also be permitted an
ordinary loss in respect of the excess, if any, of the United States Holder's adjusted tax basis in the common shares over its fair
market value at the end of the taxable year, but only to the extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of
the mark ‑
to ‑
market election. A United States Holder's tax
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basis in his common shares would be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss amount recognized. In a year when we are a
PFIC, any gain realized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of our common shares would be treated as ordinary income,
and any loss realized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of the common shares would be treated as ordinary loss to the
extent that such loss does not exceed the net mark ‑
to ‑
market gains previously included by the United States Holder.
Taxation
of
United
States
Holders
Not
Making
a
Timely
QEF
or
Mark
‑
to
‑
Market
Election
For any taxable year in which we determine that we are a PFIC, a United States Holder who does not make either a QEF
election or a "mark ‑
to ‑
market" election for that year, whom we refer to as a "Non ‑
Electing Holder," would be subject to
special rules with respect to (i) any excess distribution (i.e., the portion of any distributions received by the Non ‑
Electing
Holder on the common shares in a taxable year in excess of 125% of the average annual distributions received by the Non ‑
Electing Holder in the three preceding taxable years, or, if shorter, the Non ‑
Electing Holder's holding period for the common
shares), and (ii) any gain realized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of our common shares. Under these special rules:
·
·
·
the excess distribution or gain would be allocated ratably over the Non ‑
Electing Holder's aggregate holding period for
the common shares;
the amount allocated to the current taxable year, and any taxable year prior to the first taxable year in which we were a
PFIC, would be taxed as ordinary income and would not be "qualified dividend income"; and
the amount allocated to each of the other taxable years would be subject to tax at the highest rate of tax in effect for the
applicable class of taxpayer for that year, and an interest charge for the deemed tax deferral benefit would be imposed
with respect to the resulting tax attributable to each such other taxable year.
United States Federal Income Taxation of "Non ‑
‑
United States Holders"
As used herein, the term "Non ‑
United States Holder" means a holder that, for United States federal income tax
purposes, is a beneficial owner of common shares (other than a partnership) that is not a United States Holder.
If a partnership holds our common shares, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the
partner and upon the activities of the partnership. If you are a partner in a partnership holding our common shares, you are
encouraged to consult your tax advisor.
Dividends
on
Common
Shares
Subject to the discussion of backup withholding below, a Non ‑
United States Holder generally will not be subject to
United States federal income or withholding tax on dividends received from us with respect to our common shares, unless:
·
·
the dividend income is effectively connected with the Non ‑
United States Holder's conduct of a trade or business in the
United States; or
the Non ‑
United States Holder is an individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the
taxable year of receipt of the dividend income and other conditions are met.
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Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition of Common Shares
Subject to the discussion of backup withholding below, a Non ‑
United States Holder generally will not be subject to
United States federal income or withholding tax on any gain realized upon the sale, exchange or other disposition of our common
shares, unless:
·
·
the gain is effectively connected with the Non ‑
United States Holder's conduct of a trade or business in the United
States; or
the Non ‑
United States Holder is an individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more during the
taxable year of disposition and other conditions are met.
Income or Gains Effectively Connected with a United States Trade or Business
If the Non ‑
United States Holder is engaged in a United States trade or business for United States federal income tax
purposes, dividends on our common shares and gain from the sale, exchange or other disposition of our common shares, that are
effectively connected with the conduct of that trade or business (and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, is attributable
to a United States permanent establishment), will generally be subject to regular United States federal income tax in the same
manner as discussed in the previous section relating to the taxation of United States Holders. In addition, in the case of a
corporate Non ‑
United States Holder, its earnings and profits that are attributable to the effectively connected income, which are
subject to certain adjustments, may be subject to an additional branch profits tax at a rate of 30%, or at a lower rate as may be
specified by an applicable United States income tax treaty.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
In general, dividend payments, or other taxable distributions, and the payment of the gross proceeds on a sale of our
common shares, made within the United States to a non ‑
corporate United States Holder will be subject to information
reporting. Such payments or distributions may also be subject to backup withholding if the non ‑
corporate United States Holder:
·
·
·
fails to provide an accurate taxpayer identification number;
is notified by the IRS that it has have failed to report all interest or dividends required to be shown on its federal income
tax returns; or
in certain circumstances, fails to comply with applicable certification requirements.
Non ‑
United States Holders may be required to establish their exemption from information reporting and backup
withholding with respect to dividends payments or other taxable distribution on our common shares by certifying their status on
an appropriate IRS Form W ‑
8. If a Non ‑
United States Holder sells our common shares to or through a United States office of
a broker, the payment of the proceeds is subject to both United States backup withholding and information reporting unless the
Non‑United States Holder certifies that it is a non ‑
United States person, under penalties of perjury, or it otherwise establish an
exemption. If a Non ‑
United States Holder sells our common shares through a Non ‑
United States office of a Non ‑
United
States broker and the sales proceeds are paid outside the United States, then information reporting and backup withholding
generally will not apply to that payment. However, United States information reporting requirements, but not backup withholding,
will apply to a payment of sales proceeds, even if that payment is made outside the United States, if a Non ‑
United States
Holder sells our common shares through a Non ‑
United States office of a broker that is a United States person or has some other
contacts with the United States. Such information reporting requirements will not apply, however, if the broker has documentary
evidence in its records that the Non‑United States Holder is not a United States person and certain other conditions are met, or the
Non‑United States Holder otherwise establishes an exemption.
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Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Rather, a refund may generally be obtained of any amounts withheld under
backup withholding rules that exceed the taxpayer's United States federal income tax liability by filing a timely refund claim with
the IRS.
Individuals who are United States Holders (and to the extent specified in applicable Treasury regulations, Non ‑
United
States Holders and certain United States entities) who hold "specified foreign financial assets" (as defined in Section 6038D of the
Code) are required to file IRS Form 8938 with information relating to the asset for each taxable year in which the aggregate value
of all such assets exceeds $75,000 at any time during the taxable year or $50,000 on the last day of the taxable year (or such
higher dollar amount as prescribed by applicable Treasury Regulations). Specified foreign financial assets would include, among
other assets, our common shares, unless the common shares are held in an account maintained with a United States financial
institution. Substantial penalties apply to any failure to timely file IRS Form 8938, unless the failure is shown to be due to
reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect. Additionally, in the event an individual United States Holder (and to the extent
specified in applicable Treasury Regulations, a Non ‑
United States Holder or a United States entity) that is required to file IRS
Form 8938 does not file such form, the statute of limitations on the assessment and collection of United States federal income
taxes of such holder for the related tax year may not close until three years after the date that the required information is filed.
United States Holders (including United States entities) and Non ‑
United States Holders are encouraged consult their own tax
advisors regarding their reporting obligations in respect of our common shares.
Available Information
Our website is located at www.dorianlpg.com. Information on our website does not constitute a part of this annual
report. Our goal is to maintain our website as a portal through which investors can easily find or navigate to pertinent information
about us, including our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, proxy
statements, and any other reports, after we file them with the Commission. The public may obtain a copy of our filings, free of
charge, through our corporate internet website as soon as reasonably practicable after we have electronically filed such material
with, or furnished it to, the Commission. Additionally, these materials, including this annual report and the accompanying
exhibits are available from the Commission’s website http://www.sec.gov.
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Table of Contents
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
The
following
risks
relate
principally
to
us
and
our
business
and
the
industry
in
which
we
operate.
Other
risks
relate
principally
to
the
securities
markets
and
ownership
of
our
common
shares.
Any
of
the
risk
factors
described
below
could
significantly
and
negatively
affect
our
business,
financial
condition
and
results
of
operations
and
our
ability
to
pay
dividends,
and
lower
the
trading
price
of
our
common
shares.
Risks Relating to Our Company
We and the Helios Pool operate exclusively in the LPG shipping industry. Due to our lack of diversification and the lack of
diversification of the Helios Pool, adverse developments in the LPG shipping industry may adversely affect our business,
financial condition and operating results.
We currently rely exclusively on the cash flow generated from the vessels in our fleet, all of which are VLGCs operating
in the LPG shipping industry (including through the Helios Pool). Unlike some other shipping companies, which have vessels of
varying sizes that can carry different cargoes, such as containers, dry bulk, crude oil and oil products, we depend and may to
continue to depend exclusively on VLGCs transporting LPG. Similarly, the Helios Pool also depends exclusively on the cash flow
generated from VLGCs operating in the LPG shipping industry. Our lack of diversification and the lack of diversification of the
Helios Pool make us vulnerable to adverse developments in the LPG shipping industry, which would have a significantly greater
impact on our business, financial condition and operating results than such lack of diversification would if we or the Helios Pool
owned and operated more diverse assets or engaged in more diverse lines of business.
The downturn in spot market charter rates that began in 2016 had, and any future downturn in rates may have, a negative
effect on our revenues, results of operations and cash flows; similarly, seasonal fluctuations have had in the past and may
have in the future a negative effect on our revenues, results of operations and cash flows.
As of the date of this annual report, nineteen vessels from our fleet, including our time chartered-in vessel, operate in the
Helios Pool, which employs vessels on short-term time charters, COAs, or in the spot market, the latter of which exposes us to
fluctuations in spot market charter rates. We also employ four of our VLGCs on fixed time charters outside of the Helios Pool. As
these fixed time charters expire, we may employ these vessels in the spot market.
Generally, VLGC spot market rates are highly seasonal, typically demonstrating strength in the second and third
calendar quarters as suppliers build inventory for high consumption during the northern hemisphere winter. However, 12-month
time charter rates tend to smooth out these short-term fluctuations and recent LPG shipping market activity has not yielded the
expected seasonal results. The successful operation of our vessels in the competitive and highly volatile spot charter market
depends on, among other things, obtaining profitable spot charters, which depends greatly on vessel supply and demand and
minimizing, to the extent possible, time spent waiting for charters and time spent traveling unladen to retrieve cargo.
In recent periods spot charter rates have fallen to such levels that the related yields from these rates total less than the
operating costs of vessels. For example, the Baltic Exchange Liquid Petroleum Gas Index, an index published daily by the Baltic
Exchange for the spot market rate for the benchmark Ras Tanura Chiba route (expressed as U.S. dollars per metric ton), averaged
$34.702 for the year ended March 31, 2019 compared to an average of $52.296 for the 10-year period ended March 31, 2018. If
spot charter rates decline in the future, or remain depressed, then we may not be able to profitably operate our vessels trading in
the spot market or participating in the Helios Pool; meet our obligations, including payments on indebtedness; or pay dividends.
Further, although our four fixed time charters outside of the Helios Pool generally provide reliable revenues, they also
limit the portion of our fleet available for spot market voyages during an upswing in the market, when spot market voyages might
be more profitable. Conversely, when the current charters for the three vessels in our fleet on fixed time charters expire (or if such
charters are terminated early), we may not be able to re-charter these vessels at similar or higher
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rates, or at all. As a result, we may have to accept lower rates or experience off hire time for our vessels, which would adversely
impact our revenues, results of operations and financial condition.
We and/or our pool managers may not be able to successfully secure employment for our vessels or vessels in the Helios Pool,
which could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
As of May 24, 2019, nineteen of our vessels, including our time chartered-in vessel, are operating within the Helios
Pool, which employs vessels on short-term time charters, COAs, or in the spot market, and four of our vessels are on fixed time
charters outside of the Helios Pool that expire between the third calendar quarter of 2019 and the fourth calendar quarter of 2020.
We cannot assure you that we will be successful in finding employment for our vessels in the spot market, on time charters or
otherwise, or that any employment will be at profitable rates. Moreover, as vessels entered into the Helios Pool are commercially
managed by our wholly-owned subsidiary and Phoenix, we also cannot assure you that we or they will be successful in finding
employment for the vessels in the Helios Pool or that any employment will be profitable. Any inability to locate suitable
employment for our vessels or the vessels in the Helios Pool could affect our general financial condition, results of operation and
cash flow as well as the availability of financing.
We face substantial competition in trying to expand relationships with existing customers and obtain new customers.
The process of obtaining new charter agreements is highly competitive and generally involves an intensive screening and
competitive bidding process, which, in certain cases, extends for several months. Contracts are awarded based upon a variety of
factors, including:
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
the location, size, age, and condition of a vessel;
the operator's industry relationships, experience and reputation for customer service, quality operations and
safety;
the quality, experience and technical capability of the crew;
the experience of the crew with the operator and type of vessel;
the operator's relationships with shipyards and the ability to get suitable berths;
the operator's construction management experience, including the ability to obtain on ‑
time delivery of new
vessels according to customer specifications;
the operator's willingness to accept operational risks pursuant to the charter, such as allowing termination of the
charter for force majeure events; and
the competitiveness of the bid in terms of overall price.
Our vessels, and the vessels operating in the Helios Pool, operate in a highly competitive market and we expect
substantial competition for providing transportation services from a number of companies (both LPG vessel owners and
operators). We anticipate that an increasing number of maritime transport companies, including many with strong reputations and
extensive resources and experience, have entered or will enter the LPG shipping market. Our existing and potential competitors
may have significantly greater financial resources than us. In addition, competitors with greater resources may have larger fleets,
or could operate larger fleets through consolidations, acquisitions, newbuildings or pooling of their vessels with other companies,
and, therefore, may be able to offer a more competitive service than us or the Helios Pool, including better charter rates. We
expect competition from a number of experienced companies providing contracts for gas transportation services to potential LPG
customers, including state-sponsored entities and major energy companies affiliated with the projects requiring shipping services.
As a result, we (including the Helios Pool) may be unable to expand our relationships with existing customers or to obtain new
customers on a profitable basis, if at all, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and
operating results.
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Table of Contents
We and the Helios Pool are subject to risks with respect to counterparties, and failure of such counterparties to meet their
obligations could cause us to suffer losses or negatively impact our results of operations and cash flows.
We have entered into, and expect to enter into in the future, various contracts, including charter agreements, COAs,
shipbuilding contracts, credit facilities and financing arrangements that subject us to counterparty risks. Similarly, the Helios Pool
has entered into, and expects to enter into in the future, various contracts, including charters and COAs, that subject it to
counterparty risks. The ability and willingness of our and the Helios Pool’s counterparties to perform their obligations under any
contract will depend on a number of factors that are beyond our control and may include, among other things, general economic
conditions, the condition of the maritime and LPG industries, the overall financial condition of the counterparty, charter rates for
specific types of vessels, and various expenses. For example, a reduction of cash flow resulting from declines in world trade or
the lack of availability of debt or equity financing may result in a significant reduction in the ability of our charterers or the Helios
Pool’s charterers to make required charter payments. In addition, in depressed market conditions, charterers and customers may
no longer need a vessel that is then under charter or contract or may be able to obtain a comparable vessel at lower rates. As a
result, charterers and customers may seek to renegotiate the terms of their existing charter agreements or avoid their obligations
under those contracts. Should a counterparty fail to honor its obligations under agreements with us or the Helios Pool, we could
sustain significant losses and a significant reduction in the charter hire we earn from the Helios Pool, which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We expect to be dependent on a limited number of customers for a material part of our revenues, and failure of such
customers to meet their obligations could cause us to suffer losses or negatively impact our results of operations and cash
flows.
For the year ended March 31, 2019, the Helios Pool and one other individual charterer accounted for 76% and 14% of
our total revenues, respectively. Within the Helios Pool, two charterers each represented 10% of net pool revenues—related party
for the year ended March 31, 2019. We expect that a material portion of our revenues will continue to be derived from a limited
number of customers. The ability of each of our customers to perform their obligations under a contract with us will depend on a
number of factors that are beyond our control. Should the aforementioned customers fail to honor their obligations under
agreements with us or the Helios Pool, we could sustain material losses that could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Increased toll charges at the Panama Canal may have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
In June 2016, the expansion of the Panama Canal, or the Canal, was completed. The new locks allow the Canal to
accommodate significantly larger vessels, including VLGCs, which we operate. Since the completion of the Canal, transit from
the United States Gulf to Asia, an important trade route for our customers, has been shortened by approximately 15 days
compared to transiting via the Cape of Good Hope. According to industry sources, over 90% of the US-to-Asia LPG voyages had
switched to the Canal by November 2016. In response, Panamanian authorities increased tolls for VLGCs crossing the Canal by
approximately 29% in October 2017. If Panamanian authorities increase rates further for our VLGCs to cross the Canal and it is
not reflected in charter rates, it may have an adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows.
Our indebtedness and financial obligations may adversely affect our operational flexibility and financial condition.
As of March 31, 2019, we had outstanding indebtedness of $710.1 million, of which $658.0 million is hedged or fixed.
Amounts owed under our current credit facility and financing arrangements, and any future credit facilities or financing
arrangements, will require us to dedicate a part of our cash flow from operations to paying interest and principal payments, as
applicable. These payments will limit funds available for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, dividends, and other
purposes and may also limit our ability to undertake further equity or debt financing in the future. Our indebtedness and
obligations under our financing arrangements also increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions,
limits our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in the industry, and places us at a disadvantage to other, less
leveraged, competitors.
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Our credit facility bears interest at variable rates and we anticipate that any future credit facilities will also bear interest
at variable rates. Increases in prevailing rates could increase the amounts that we would have to pay to our lenders or financing
counterparties, even though the outstanding principal amount remains the same, and our net income and available cash flows
would decrease as a result.
We expect our earnings and cash flow to vary from year to year mainly due to the cyclical nature of the LPG shipping
industry. If we do not generate or reserve enough cash flow from operations to satisfy our debt or financing obligations, we may
have to undertake alternative financing plans, such as:
·
seeking to raise additional capital;
·
refinancing or restructuring our debt or financing obligations;
·
selling our VLGCs; and/or
·
reducing or delaying capital investments.
However, these alternative financing plans, if necessary, may not be sufficient to allow us to meet our debt or financing
obligations. If we are unable to meet our debt or financing obligations and we default on our obligations under our debt agreement
or financing arrangements, our lenders could elect to declare our outstanding borrowings and certain other amounts owed,
together with accrued interest and fees, to be immediately due and payable and foreclose on the vessels securing that debt, and
our counterparties may seek to repossess the vessels subject to our debt agreement or financing arrangements.
Our existing and future debt agreements contain and are expected to contain restrictive covenants that may limit our liquidity
and corporate activities, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Our debt agreement and financing arrangements contain, and any future debt agreements or financing arrangements are
expected to contain, customary covenants and event of default clauses, including cross ‑
default provisions and restrictive
covenants and performance requirements, which may affect operational and financial flexibility. Such restrictions could affect,
and in many respects limit or prohibit, among other things, our ability to pay dividends, incur additional indebtedness, create
liens, sell assets, or engage in mergers or acquisitions. These restrictions could limit our ability to plan for or react to market
conditions or meet extraordinary capital needs or otherwise restrict corporate activities. There can be no assurance that such
restrictions will not adversely affect our ability to finance our future operations or capital needs.
Our agreements relating to the $758 million debt facility that we entered into in March 2015 with a group of banks and
financial institutions , which are secured by, among other things, sixteen of our VLGCs, require us to maintain specified financial
ratios and satisfy financial covenants. In May 2017, we entered into an agreement to amend the $758 million debt facility, which,
included the relaxation of certain covenants under the debt financing facility. Collectively, we refer to the $758 million debt
facility and its amendments as the 2015 Debt Facility, and the aforementioned May 2017 amendment as the 2015 Debt Facility
Amendment. As of March 31, 2019, we were in compliance with the financial covenants for the 2015 Debt Facility.
In addition, the 2015 Debt Facility generally subjects payment of dividends by us to our shareholders and payment of
dividends by our subsidiaries to us to no event of default. Further, the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment temporarily restricts us
from paying dividends and repurchasing shares of our common stock until the earlier of (i) the date upon which we complete a
common stock offering with net proceeds of at least $50.0 million and (ii) May 31, 2019.
As a result of the restrictions in our debt agreement and financing arrangements, or similar restrictions in our future debt
agreements or financing arrangements, we may need to seek permission from our lenders or counterparties in order to engage in
certain corporate actions. Our lenders' or counterparties’ interests may be different from ours and we
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may not be able to obtain their permission when needed or at all. This may prevent us from taking actions that we believe are in
our best interest, which may adversely impact our revenues, results of operations and financial condition.
A failure by us to meet our payment and other obligations, including our financial and value to loan covenants, could
lead to defaults under our current or future secured loan agreements. In addition, a default under one of our current or future credit
facilities could result in the cross-acceleration of our other indebtedness. Our lenders could then accelerate our indebtedness and
foreclose on our fleet.
The market values of our vessels may decrease, which could cause us to breach covenants in our loan agreements or record an
impairment loss, or negatively impact our ability to enter into future financing arrangements, and as a result could have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our existing debt agreement, which is secured by, among other things, liens on the vessels in our fleet contains various
financial covenants, including requirements relating our financial condition, operating performance and liquidity. For example,
we are required to maintain a minimum ratio of the market value of the vessels securing a loan to the principal amount
outstanding under such loan. The market value of LPG carriers is sensitive to, among other things, changes in the LPG carrier
charter markets, with vessel values deteriorating when LPG carrier charter rates fall and improving when charter rates are
anticipated to rise. While the market values of LPG carriers generally have increased since the economic slowdown in 2008-2009,
they still remain below the reported high levels achieved in 2014-2015. LPG vessel values remain subject to significant
fluctuation. A decline in the fair market values of our vessels could result in our not being in compliance with these loan
covenants. Furthermore, if the value of our vessels deteriorates and our estimated future cash flows decrease, we may have to
record an impairment adjustment in our financial statements or we may be unable to enter into future financing arrangements
acceptable to us or at all, which would adversely affect our financial results and further hinder our ability to raise capital.
If we are unable to comply with any of the restrictions and covenants in our debt agreement, or in current or future debt
financing agreements, and we are unable to obtain a waiver or amendment from our lenders or counterparties for such
noncompliance, a default could occur under the terms of those agreements. Our ability to comply with these restrictions and
covenants, including meeting financial ratios and tests, is dependent on our future performance and may be affected by events
beyond our control. If a default occurs under these agreements, lenders could terminate their commitments to lend or in some
circumstances accelerate the outstanding loans and declare all amounts borrowed due and payable. Our vessels serve as security
under our debt agreement. If our lenders were to foreclose their liens on our vessels in the event of a default, such foreclosure
could impair our ability to continue our operations. In addition, our current debt agreement contains, and future debt agreements
are expected to contain, cross-default provisions, meaning that if we are in default under certain of our current or future debt
obligations, amounts outstanding under our current or other future debt agreements may also be in default, accelerated and
become due and payable. If any of these events occur, we cannot guarantee that our assets will be sufficient to repay in full all of
our outstanding indebtedness, and we may be unable to find alternative financing. Even if we could obtain alternative financing,
that financing might not be on terms that are favorable or acceptable to us. In addition, if we find it necessary to sell our vessels at
a time when vessel prices are low, we will recognize losses and a reduction in our earnings, which could affect our ability to raise
additional capital necessary for us to comply with our debt agreement.
We are exposed to volatility in the London Interbank Offered Rate and we have and we intend to selectively enter into
derivative contracts, which can result in higher than market interest rates and charges against our income .
The amounts outstanding under our existing credit facility have been advanced at a floating rate based on the London
Interbank Offered Rate, or LIBOR, and changes in LIBOR could affect the amount of interest payable on our debt, and, in turn,
could have an adverse effect on our earnings and cash flow. In recent years, LIBOR has been at relatively low levels, but it may
rise in the future. Our financial condition could be materially adversely affected if LIBOR rises, although only $52.1 million of
our debt with a floating rate based on LIBOR of $496.6 million, or 10.5%, is unhedged as of May 24, 2019.
Recently, however, there is uncertainty relating to the LIBOR calculation process which may result in the phasing out of
LIBOR in the future, and lenders have insisted on provisions that entitle the lenders, in their discretion, to replace
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published LIBOR as the base for the interest calculation with their cost-of-funds rate. If we are required to agree to such a
provision in future loan agreements, our lending costs could increase significantly, which would also have an adverse effect on
our profitability, earnings and cash flow.
In addition, the banks currently reporting information used to set LIBOR will likely stop such reporting after 2021, when
their commitment to reporting information ends. The Alternative Reference Rate Committee, or "Committee", a committee
convened by the U.S. Federal Reserve that includes major market participants, has proposed an alternative rate to replace U.S.
Dollar LIBOR: the Secured Overnight Financing Rate, or "SOFR." The impact of such a transition away from LIBOR would be
significant for us because of our substantial indebtedness.
We have entered into and may selectively in the future enter into derivative contracts to hedge our overall exposure to
interest rate risk related to our credit facility. Entering into swaps and derivatives transactions is inherently risky and presents
various possibilities for incurring significant expenses. The derivatives strategies that we employ currently and in the future may
not be successful or effective, and we could, as a result, incur substantial additional interest costs or losses.
Investments in forward freight derivative instruments could result in losses.
From time to time, we may take hedging or speculative positions in derivative instruments, including freight forward
agreements, or FFAs. Upon settlement, if an FFA contracted charter rate is less than the average of the rates, as reported by an
identified index, for the specified route and period, the seller of the FFA is required to pay the buyer an amount equal to the
difference between the contracted rate and the settlement rate, multiplied by the number of days in the specified period.
Conversely, if the contracted rate is greater than the settlement rate, the buyer is required to pay the seller the settlement sum. If
we take positions in FFAs or other derivative instruments and do not correctly anticipate charter rate movements over the
specified route and time period, we could suffer losses in the settling or termination of the FFA. This could adversely affect our
results of operations and cash flows.
Because we generate all of our revenues in U.S. dollars but incur a portion of our expenses in other currencies, exchange rate
fluctuations could adversely affect our results of operations.
We generate all of our revenues in U.S. dollars and the majority of our expenses are also in U.S. dollars. However, a
portion of our overall expenses is incurred in other currencies, particularly Euro, Singapore Dollar, Danish Krone, Japanese Yen,
British Pound Sterling, and Norwegian Krone. Changes in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the other currencies, in particular
the Euro, or the amount of expenses we incur in other currencies could cause fluctuations in our net income. See “Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk.”
If we fail to manage our growth properly, we may incur significant expenses and losses.
As and when market conditions permit, we may prudently grow our fleet. Acquisition opportunities may arise from time
to time, and any such acquisition could be significant. Successfully consummating and integrating acquisitions will depend on:
·
·
·
·
·
·
locating and acquiring suitable vessels at a suitable price;
identifying and completing acquisitions or joint ventures;
integrating any acquired vessels or businesses successfully with our existing operations;
hiring, training and retaining qualified personnel and crew to manage and operate our growing business and fleet;
expanding our customer base; and
obtaining required financing.
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Certain acquisition and investment opportunities may not result in the consummation of a transaction. Any acquisition
could involve the payment by us of a substantial amount of cash, the incurrence of a substantial amount of debt or the issuance of
a substantial amount of equity. In addition, we may not be able to obtain acceptable terms for the required financing for any such
acquisition or investment that arises.
Growing a business by acquisition presents numerous risks such as undisclosed liabilities and obligations, difficulty in
obtaining additional qualified personnel, managing relationships with customers and suppliers and integrating newly acquired
vessels into existing infrastructures. Moreover, acquiring any business is subject to risks related to incorrect assumptions
regarding the future results of acquired operations or assets or expected cost reductions or other synergies expected to be realized
as a result of acquiring operations or assets.
Additionally, the expansion of our fleet may impose significant additional responsibilities on our management and staff,
including the management and staff of our in-house commercial and technical managers, and may necessitate that we increase the
number of our personnel. Further, there is the risk that we may fail to successfully and timely integrate the operations or
management of any acquired businesses or assets and the risk of diverting management's attention from existing operations or
other priorities. If we fail to consummate and integrate our acquisitions in a timely and cost ‑
effective manner, our financial
condition, results of operations and ability to pay dividends, if any, to our shareholders could be adversely affected. Moreover, we
cannot predict the effect, if any, that any announcement or consummation of an acquisition would have on the trading price of our
common shares.
An inability to effectively time investments in and divestments of vessels could prevent the implementation of our business
strategy and negatively impact our results of operations and financial condition.
Our strategy is to own and operate a fleet large enough to provide global coverage, but not larger than what the demand
for our services can support over a longer period by both contracting newbuildings and through acquisitions and divestitures in
the second-hand market. Our business is influenced by the timing of investments and/or divestments and contracting of
newbuildings. If we are unable to identify the optimal timing of such investments, divestments or contracting of newbuildings in
relation to the shipping value cycle due to capital restraints, or otherwise, this could have a material adverse effect on our
competitive position, future performance, results of operations, cash flows and financial position.
If our fleet grows in size, we may need to improve our operations and financial systems and recruit additional staff and crew;
if we cannot improve these systems or recruit suitable employees, our business and results of operations may be adversely
affected.
As and when market conditions permit, we intend to continue to prudently grow our fleet over the long term. We have
and may continue to have to invest in upgrading our operating and financial systems. In addition, we may have to recruit
additional well ‑
qualified seafarers and shoreside administrative and management personnel. We may not be able to hire suitable
employees to the extent we continue to expand our fleet. Our vessels require technically skilled staff with specialized training. If
our crewing agents are unable to employ such technically skilled staff, they may not be able to adequately staff our vessels. If we
are unable to operate our financial and operations systems effectively or we are unable to recruit suitable employees as we expand
our fleet, our results of operation and our ability to expand our fleet may be adversely affected.
We may be unable to attract and retain key management personnel and other employees in the shipping industry without
incurring substantial expense as a result of rising crew costs, which may negatively affect the effectiveness of our
management and our results of operations.
The successful development and performance of our business depends on our ability to attract and retain skilled
professionals with appropriate experience and expertise. The loss of the services of any of our senior management or key
personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations.
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Additionally, obtaining voyage and time charters with leading industry participants depends on a number of factors,
including the ability to man vessels with suitably experienced, high-quality masters, officers and crew. In recent years, the limited
supply of and increased demand for well-qualified crew has created upward pressure on crewing costs, which we generally bear
under our time and spot charters. Increases in crew costs may adversely affect our profitability. In addition, if we cannot retain
sufficient numbers of quality on-board seafaring personnel, our fleet utilization will decrease, which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
Our directors and officers may in the future hold direct or indirect interests in companies that compete with us.
Our directors and officers have a history of involvement in the shipping industry and some of them currently, and some
of them may in the future, directly or indirectly, hold investments in companies that compete with us. In that case, they may face
conflicts between their own interests and their obligations to us.
We cannot provide assurance that our directors and officers will not be influenced by their interests in or affiliation with
other shipping companies, or our competitors, and seek to cause us to take courses of action that might involve risks to our other
shareholders or adversely affect us or our shareholders. However, we have written policies in place to address such situations if
they arise.
Our business and operations involve inherent operating risks, and our insurance and indemnities from our customers may not
be adequate to cover potential losses from our operations.
Our vessels are subject to a variety of operational risks caused by adverse weather conditions, mechanical failures,
human error, war, terrorism, piracy, or other circumstances or events. We procure hull and machinery insurance, protection and
indemnity insurance, which includes environmental damage and pollution insurance coverage, and war risk insurance for our
fleet. While we endeavor to be adequately insured against all known risks related to the operation of our ships, there remains the
possibility that a liability may not be adequately covered and we may not be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage for our
fleet in the future. The insurers may also not pay particular claims. Even if our insurance coverage is adequate, we may not be
able to timely obtain a replacement vessel in the event of a loss. There can be no assurance that such insurance coverage will
remain available at economic rates. Furthermore, such insurance coverage will contain deductibles, limitations and exclusions,
which are standard in the shipping industry and may increase our costs or lower our revenue if applied in respect of any claim.
We may be unable to procure adequate insurance coverage at commercially reasonable rates in the future.
We may not be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable rates in the future during adverse insurance
market conditions. For example, more stringent environmental regulations have led in the past to increased costs for, and in the
future may result in the lack of availability of, insurance against risks of environmental damage or pollution. A marine disaster
could exceed our insurance coverage, which could harm our business, financial condition and operating results. Any uninsured or
underinsured loss could harm our business and financial condition. In addition, our insurance may be voidable by the insurers as a
result of certain of our actions, such as our vessels failing to maintain certification with applicable maritime self-regulatory
organizations.
Changes in the insurance markets attributable to terrorist attacks may also make certain types of insurance more difficult
for us to obtain. In addition, upon renewal or expiration of our current policies, the insurance that may be available to us may be
significantly more expensive than our existing coverage.
Because we obtain some of our insurance through protection and indemnity associations, we may be required to make
additional premium payments.
Although we believe we carry protection and indemnity insurance consistent with industry standards, all risks may not
be adequately insured against, and any particular claim may not be paid. Any claims covered by insurance would be subject to
deductibles, and since it is possible that a large number of claims may be brought, the aggregate amount of
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these deductibles could be material. Certain of our insurance coverage is maintained through mutual protection and indemnity
associations, and as a member of such associations we may be required to make additional payments, or calls, over and above
budgeted premiums if member claims exceed association reserves. These calls will be in amounts based on our claim records, as
well as the claim records of other members of the protection and indemnity associations through which we receive insurance
coverage for tort liability, including pollution-related liability. In addition, our protection and indemnity associations may not
have enough resources to cover claims made against them. Our payment of these calls could result in significant expense to us,
which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows, financial condition, and ability to
pay dividends.
We may incur increasing costs for the drydocking, maintenance or replacement of our vessels as they age, and, as our vessels
age, the risks associated with older vessels could adversely affect our ability to obtain profitable charters.
The drydocking of our vessels requires significant capital expenditures and loss of revenue while our vessels are off ‑
hire. Any significant increase in the number of days of off ‑
hire due to such drydocking or in the costs of any repairs could have
a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. Although we do not anticipate
that more than one vessel will be out of service at any given time, we may underestimate the time required to drydock our vessels,
or unanticipated problems may arise.
In addition, although all of our vessels were built within the past thirteen years, we estimate that our vessels have a
useful life of 25 years. In general, the costs of maintaining a vessel in good operating condition increase with the age of the
vessel. Older vessels are typically less fuel-efficient than more recently constructed vessels due to improvements in engine
technology. Cargo insurance rates increase with the age of a vessel, making older vessels less desirable to charterers.
As our vessels become older, we may have to replace such vessels upon the expiration of their useful lives. Unless we
maintain reserves or are able to borrow or raise funds for vessel replacement, we will be unable to replace such older vessels. The
inability to replace the vessels in our fleet upon the expiration of their useful lives could have a material adverse effect on our
business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. Any reserves set aside for vessel replacement will not be
available for the payment of dividends to shareholders.
If we purchase secondhand vessels, we will be exposed to increased costs which could adversely affect our earnings.
We may acquire secondhand vessels in the future, and while we typically inspect secondhand vessels prior to purchase,
such inspection does not provide us with the same knowledge about their condition that we would have had if these vessels had
been built for and operated exclusively by us. A secondhand vessel may have conditions or defects that we were not aware of
when we bought the vessel and which may require us to incur costly repairs to the vessel. These repairs may require us to put a
vessel into drydock, which would reduce our fleet utilization and increase our operating costs.
Certain shareholders have a substantial ownership stake in us, and their interests could conflict with the interests of our other
shareholders.
According to information contained in public filings, Kensico Capital Management; BW Euroholdings Ltd., an affiliate
of BW Group Ltd.; Wellington Management Group LLP; John C. Hadjipateras, our Chief Executive Officer, President and
Chairman of the Board of Directors; and SeaDor Holdings, an affiliate of SEACOR Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:CKH), as of May 24,
2019, own, or may be deemed to beneficially own, 14.5%, 14.2%, 11.5%, 10.9% and 9.4%, respectively, of our total shares
outstanding. Kensico Capital Management, John C. Hadjipateras and an affiliate of SeaDor Holdings are represented on our
Board of Directors. As a result of substantial ownership interest along with their or their affiliates’ participation on the Board of
Directors, SeaDor Holdings, Kensico Capital Management, and John C. Hadjipateras (our “Principal Shareholders”) currently
have the ability to influence certain actions requiring shareholders' approval , including increasing or decreasing the authorized
share capital, the election of directors, declaration of dividends, the appointment of management, and other policy decisions.
While any future transaction with our Principal Shareholders or other significant shareholders c ould benefit us, their interests
could at times conflict with the interests of our other shareholders. For example, BW LPG Ltd., an affiliate of BW Group
Ltd., made an unsolicited proposal during FY 2019 to acquire all of our outstanding common stock and, along with its affiliates,
commenced a proxy contest to replace three
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members of our board of directors with nominees proposed by BW. In June 2018, our board of directors, after a thorough review
and in consultation with financial and legal advisors, unanimously declined the BW Proposal after concluding that the proposal
was not in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. The BW Proposal was subsequently withdrawn on October 8,
2018. We incurred $10.0 million of expenses related to the BW Proposal during the year ended March 31, 2019. Conflicts of
interest may also arise between us and our Principal Shareholders or their affiliates, which may result in the conclusion of
transactions on terms not determined by market forces. Any such conflicts of interest could adversely affect our business,
financial condition and results of operations, and the trading price of our common shares. Moreover, the concentration of
ownership may delay, deter or prevent acts that would be favored by our other shareholders or deprive shareholders of an
opportunity to receive a premium for their shares as part of a sale of our business. Similarly, this concentration of share ownership
may adversely affect the trading price of our shares because investors may perceive disadvantages in owning shares in a company
with concentrated ownership .
United States tax authorities could treat us as a "passive foreign investment company," which could have adverse United
States federal income tax consequences to United States holders.
A foreign corporation will be treated as a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes if either (1) at least 75% of
its gross income for any taxable year consists of "passive income" or (2) at least 50% of the average value of the corporation's
assets produce or are held for the production of "passive income." For purposes of these tests, "passive income" generally
includes dividends, interest, and gains from the sale or exchange of investment property and rents and royalties other than rents
and royalties which are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of a trade or business. For purposes
of these tests, income derived from the performance of services generally does not constitute "passive income." United States
shareholders of a PFIC are subject to an adverse United States federal income tax regime with respect to the income derived by
the PFIC, the distributions they receive from the PFIC and the gain, if any, they derive from the sale or other disposition of their
shares in the PFIC.
Whether we will be treated as a PFIC for our taxable year 2019 and subsequent taxable years will depend upon the
nature and extent of our operations. In this regard, we intend to treat the gross income we derive from our voyage and time
chartering activities as services income, rather than rental income. Accordingly, such income should not constitute passive
income, and the assets that we own and operate in connection with the production of such income, in particular, our vessels,
should not constitute passive assets for purposes of determining whether we are a PFIC. There is substantial legal authority
supporting this position consisting of case law and the United States Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, pronouncements
concerning the characterization of income derived from time charters as services income for other tax purposes. However, there is
also authority which characterizes time charter income as rental income rather than services income for other tax purposes.
Accordingly, no assurance can be given that the IRS or a court of law will accept this position, and there is a risk that the IRS or a
court of law could determine that we are a PFIC. In addition, although we intend to conduct our affairs in a manner to avoid being
classified as a PFIC with respect to any taxable year, we cannot assure you that the nature of our operations will not change in the
future.
For any taxable year in which we are, or were to be treated as, a PFIC, United States shareholders would face adverse
United States federal income tax consequences. Under the PFIC rules, unless a shareholder makes an election available under the
Code (which election could itself have adverse consequences for such shareholders, as discussed below under "Item 1. Business
—Taxation—United States Federal Income Tax Considerations—United States Federal Income Taxation of United States
Holders"), excess distributions and any gain from the disposition of such shareholder's common shares would be allocated ratably
over the shareholder's holding period of the common shares and the amounts allocated to the taxable year of the excess
distribution or sale or other disposition and to any year before we became a PFIC would be taxed as ordinary income. The amount
allocated to each other taxable year would be subject to tax at the highest rate in effect for individuals or corporations, as
appropriate, for that taxable year, and an interest charge would be imposed with respect to such tax. See "Item 1. Taxation—
United States Federal Income Tax Considerations—United States Federal Income Taxation of United States Holders" for a more
comprehensive discussion of the United States federal income tax consequences to United States shareholders if we are treated as
a PFIC.
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We may have to pay tax on United States source shipping income, which would reduce our earnings.
Under the Code, 50% of the gross shipping income of a corporation that owns or charters vessels, as we and our
subsidiaries do, that is attributable to transportation that begins or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in the United States
may be subject to a 4%, or an effective 2%, United States federal income tax without allowance for deduction, unless that
corporation qualifies for exemption from tax under Section 883 of the Code and the applicable Treasury Regulations promulgated
thereunder.
We believe that we qualify , and we expect to qualify, for exemption under Section 883 for our taxable year ended
March 31, 2019 and our subsequent taxable years and we intend to take this position for United States federal income tax return
reporting purposes. However, there are factual circumstances beyond our control that could cause us to lose the benefit of this tax
exemption and thereby become subject to United States federal income tax on our United States source shipping income. For
example, we would no longer qualify for exemption under Section 883 of the Code for a particular taxable year if certain "non ‑
qualified" shareholders with a 5% or greater interest in our common shares owned, in the aggregate, 50% or more of our
outstanding common shares for more than half the days during the taxable year. Due to the factual nature of the issues involved,
there can be no assurances on that we or any of our subsidiaries will qualify for exemption under Section 883 of the Code.
If we or our subsidiaries were not entitled to exemption under Section 883 of the Code for any taxable year based on our
failure to satisfy the publicly ‑
traded test, we or our subsidiaries would be subject for such year to an effective 2% United States
federal income tax on the gross shipping income we or our subsidiaries derive during the year that is attributable to the transport
of cargoes to or from the United States. The imposition of this taxation would have a negative effect on our business and would
decrease our earnings available for distribution to our shareholders.
Risks Relating to our Industry
The cyclical nature of the demand for LPG transportation may lead to significant changes in charter rates, vessel utilization
and vessel values, which may adversely affect our revenues, profitability and financial condition.
Historically, the LPG shipping market has been cyclical with attendant volatility in profitability, charter rates and vessel
values. The degree of charter rate volatility among different types of gas carriers has varied widely. Because many factors
influencing the supply of, and demand for, vessel capacity are unpredictable, the timing, direction and degree of changes in the
LPG shipping market are also not predictable. If charter rates decline, our earnings may decrease, particularly with respect to our
vessels deployed in the spot market, including through the Helios Pool, but also with respect to our other vessels when their
charters expire, as they may not be rechartered on favorable terms when compared to the terms of the expiring charters.
Accordingly, a decline in charter rates could have an adverse effect on our revenues, profitability, liquidity, cash flow and
financial position.
Future growth in the demand for LPG carriers and charter rates will depend on economic growth in the world economy
and demand for LPG product transportation that exceeds the capacity of the growing worldwide LPG carrier fleet. We believe
that the future growth in demand for LPG carriers and the charter rate levels for LPG carriers will depend primarily upon the
supply and demand for LPG, particularly in the economies of China, India, Japan, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and the United
States and upon seasonal and regional changes in demand and changes to the capacity of the world fleet. The capacity of the
world LPG shipping fleet appears likely to increase in the near term. Economic growth may be limited in the near term, and
possibly for an extended period, as a result of global economic conditions, or otherwise, which could have an adverse effect on
our business and results of operations.
The factors affecting the supply of and demand for LPG carriers are outside of our control, and the nature, timing and
degree of changes in industry conditions are unpredictable.
The factors that influence demand for our vessels include:
·
global or regional economic, political or geopolitical conditions, particularly in LPG consuming regions;
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changes in global or general industrial activity specifically in the plastics and chemical industries;
changes in the cost of oil and natural gas from which LPG is derived;
changes in the consumption of LPG or natural gas due to availability of new, alternative energy sources or changes
in the price of LPG or natural gas relative to other energy sources or other factors making consumption of LPG or
natural gas less attractive;
supply of and demand for LPG products;
the development and location of production facilities for LPG products;
regional imbalances in production and demand of LPG products;
the distance LPG and LPG products are to be moved by sea;
· worldwide production of natural gas;
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availability of competing LPG vessels;
availability of alternative transportation means, including pipelines for LPG, which are currently few in number,
linking production areas and industrial and residential areas consuming LPG, or the conversion of existing non ‑
petroleum gas pipelines to petroleum gas pipelines in those markets;
changes in seaborne and other transportation patterns;
development and exploitation of alternative fuels and non - conventional hydrocarbon production;
governmental regulations, including environmental or restrictions on offshore transportation of natural gas;
local and international political, economic and weather conditions;
domestic and foreign tax policies; and
accidents, severe weather, natural disasters and other similar incidents relating to the natural gas industry.
The factors that influence the supply of vessel capacity include:
·
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the number of newbuilding deliveries (including the equivalent of 13% of the capacity of the existing LPG capable
carrier fleet expected to be delivered by the end of calendar 2020);
the scrapping rate of older vessels;
LPG vessel prices , including financing costs and the price of steel, other raw materials and vessel equipment ;
the availability of shipyards to build LPG vessels when demand is high;
changes in environmental and other regulations that may limit the useful lives of vessels;
technological advances in LPG vessel design and capacity; and
the number of vessels that are out of service.
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A significant decline in demand for the seaborne transport of LPG or a significant increase in the supply of LPG vessel
capacity without a corresponding growth in LPG vessel demand could cause a significant decline in prevailing charter rates,
which could materially adversely affect our financial condition and operating results and cash flow.
A shift in consumer demand from LPG towards other energy sources or changes to trade patterns may have a material adverse
effect on our business.
Substantially all of our earnings are related to the LPG industry. A shift in the consumer demand from LPG towards
other energy resources such as oil, wind energy, solar energy, or water energy will affect the demand for our LPG carriers. This
could have a material adverse effect on our future performance, results of operations, cash flows and financial position.
Seaborne trading and distribution patterns are primarily influenced by the relative advantage of the various sources of
production, locations of consumption, pricing differentials and seasonality. Changes to the trade patterns of LPG may have a
significant negative or positive impact on the demand for our vessels. This could have a material adverse effect on our future
performance, results of operations, cash flows and financial position.
The market values of our vessels may fluctuate significantly. When the market values of our vessels are low, we may incur a
loss on sale of a vessel or record an impairment charge, which may adversely affect our earnings and possibly lead to defaults
under our loan agreements or under future loan agreements we may enter into.
Vessel values are both cyclical and volatile, and may fluctuate due to a number of different factors, including general
economic and market conditions affecting the shipping industry; sophistication and condition of the vessels; types and sizes of
vessels; competition from other shipping companies; the availability of other modes of transportation; increases in the supply of
vessel capacity; charter rates; the cost and delivery of newbuildings; governmental or other regulations; supply of and demand for
LPG products; prevailing freight rates; and the need to upgrade secondhand and previously owned vessels as a result of charterer
requirements, technological advances in vessel design or equipment or otherwise. In addition, as vessels grow older, they
generally decline in value.
Due to the cyclical nature of the market, if for any reason we sell any of our owned vessels at a time when prices are
depressed and before we have recorded an impairment adjustment to our financial statements, the sale may be for less than the
vessel's carrying value in our financial statements, resulting in a loss and reduction in earnings. Furthermore, if vessel values
experience significant declines and our estimated future cash flows decrease, we may have to record an impairment adjustment in
our financial statements, which could adversely affect our financial results. If the market value of our fleet declines, we may not
be in compliance with certain provisions of our loan agreements and we may not be able to refinance our debt or obtain additional
financing or pay dividends, if any. If we are unable to pledge additional collateral, our lenders could accelerate our debt and
foreclose on our vessels.
Our revenues, operations and future growth could be adversely affected by a decrease in the supply of or demand for LPG or
natural gas.
In recent years, there has been a strong supply of natural gas and an increase in the construction of plants and projects
involving natural gas, of which LPG is a byproduct. If the supply of natural gas decreases, we may see a concurrent reduction in
the production of LPG and resulting lesser demand and lower charter rates for our vessels and the vessels in the Helios Pool,
which could ultimately have a material adverse impact on our revenues, operations and future growth. Additionally, changes in
environmental or other legislation establishing additional regulation or restrictions on LPG production and transportation,
including the adoption of climate change legislation or regulations, or legislation in the United States placing additional regulation
or restrictions on LPG production from shale gas could result in reduced demand for LPG shipping.
The IMO 2020 Cap has and is likely to require further retrofitting of vessels and may cause us to incur significant costs or
damage to our vessels.
In October 2016, the IMO set January 1, 2020 as the implementation date for vessels to comply with the IMO 2020 Cap,
which cuts sulfur levels from the current level of 3.5% to 0.5%. The interpretation of "fuel oil used on board"
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includes use in main engine, auxiliary engines and boilers. We may comply with this regulation by (i) using 0.5% sulfur fuels on
board, which is likely to be available around the world by 2020 but likely at a higher cost and with potential damage to our
vessels depending on the quality and compatibility of available compliant sulfur fuel oils; (ii) installing scrubbers for cleaning of
the exhaust gas; or (iii) by retrofitting vessels to be powered by liquefied natural gas or LPG, which may be a viable option
subject to compliant fuel pricing. Our operations and the performance of our vessels, and as a result our results of operations, cash
flows and financial position, may be negatively affected to the extent that compliant sulfur fuel oils are unavailable, of low or
inconsistent quality, or if de-bunkering facilities are unavailable to permit our vessels to accept compliant fuels when required.
Two of our ECO VLGCs are fitted with exhaust gas cleaning systems (commonly referred to as “scrubbers”) to reduce sulfur
emissions. We have entered into contracts for an additional ten of our VLGCs to be fitted with scrubbers. Costs of compliance
with these regulatory changes may be significant and may have a material adverse effect on our future performance, results of
operations, cash flows and financial position.
General economic, political and regulatory conditions could materially adversely affect our business, financial position and
results of operations, as well as our future prospects.
The global economy remains subject to downside risks, including substantial sovereign debt burdens in countries
throughout the world, the United Kingdom’s pending exit from the EU, or “Brexit,” continuing turmoil and hostilities in the
Middle East, Afghanistan and other geographic areas and the refugee crisis in Europe and the Middle East. There has historically
been a strong link between the development of the world economy and demand for LPG shipping. Accordingly, an extended
negative outlook for the world economy could reduce the overall demand for our services. More specifically, LPG is used as a
feedstock in cyclical businesses, such as the manufacturing of plastics and in the petrochemical industry, that were adversely
affected by the economic downturn and, accordingly, continued weakness and any further reduction in demand in those industries
could adversely affect the LPG shipping industry. In particular, an adverse change in economic conditions affecting China, India,
Japan or Southeast Asia generally could have a negative effect on the demand for LPG products, thereby adversely affecting our
business, financial position and results of operations, as well as our future prospects. Additionally, Brexit, or similar events in
other jurisdictions, could impact global markets, including foreign exchange and securities markets; any resulting changes in
currency exchange rates, tariffs, treaties and other regulatory matters could in turn adversely impact our business and operations.
Further, governments may turn to trade barriers to protect their domestic industries against foreign imports, thereby
depressing shipping demand. In particular, leaders in the United States have indicated the United States may seek to implement
more protective trade measures. President Trump was elected on a platform promoting trade protectionism. The results of the
presidential election have thus created significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the United States, China and
other exporting countries, including with respect to trade policies, treaties, government regulations and tariffs. For example, on
January 23, 2017, President Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a
global trade agreement intended to include the United States, Canada, Mexico, Peru and a number of Asian countries. Further,
President Trump has called for substantial changes to foreign trade policy with China and has recently raised, and has proposed to
further raise in the future, tariffs on several Chinese goods in order to reverse what he perceives as unfair trade practices that have
negatively impacted U.S. businesses. China has retaliated with increased tariffs on U.S. goods, including a proposed 25% tariff on
imports of American propane. Protectionist developments, or the perception they may occur, may have a material adverse effect
on global economic conditions, and may significantly reduce global trade. Moreover, increasing trade protectionism may cause an
increase in (a) the cost of goods exported from regions globally, particularly the Asia-Pacific region, (b) the length of time
required to transport goods and (c) the risks associated with exporting goods. Such increases may significantly affect the quantity
of goods to be shipped, shipping time schedules, voyage costs and other associated cost. Most recently, in January 2019, the
United States announced expanded sanctions against Venezuela, which may have an effect on its oil output and in turn affect
global oil supply. We are unable to assess the potential for future action by the United States government that could significantly
disrupt the LPG market in the United States and elsewhere .
Separately, as a result of the ongoing economic turmoil in Greece and the related austerity measures implemented by the
Greek government, our operations in Greece may be subjected to new regulations that may require us to incur new or additional
compliance or other administrative costs and may require that we pay to the Greek government new taxes or other fees. We also
face the risk that strikes, work stoppages, civil unrest and violence within Greece may disrupt our shoreside operations located in
Greece.
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The state of global financial markets and general economic conditions may adversely impact our ability to obtain financing or
refinance our credit facility on acceptable terms, which may hinder or prevent us from operating or expanding our business.
There has been a steady decline in the traditional sources of finance for the shipping industry due to heavy losses
incurred in the aftermath of the 2008-2009 financial crisis. As a result of the disruptions in the credit markets and higher capital
requirements, many lenders have increased margins on lending rates, enacted tighter lending standards, required more restrictive
terms (including higher collateral ratios for advances, shorter maturities and smaller loan amounts), or refused to refinance
existing debt on terms similar to current debt or at all. New banking regulations, including tightening of capital requirements and
the resulting policies adopted by lenders, could further reduce lending activities. We may experience difficulties obtaining
financing commitments or be unable to fully draw on the capacity under our credit facilities committed in the future or refinance
our credit facilities when our facilities mature if our lenders are unwilling to extend financing to us or unable to meet their
funding obligations due to their own liquidity, capital or solvency issues. We cannot be certain that financing will be available
when needed on acceptable terms or at all. In the absence of available financing, we may be unable to satisfy our obligations, take
advantage of business opportunities or respond to competitive pressures.
Our operating results are subject to seasonal fluctuations, which could affect our operating results and the amount of
available cash with which we can pay dividends.
We operate our LPG carriers in markets that have historically exhibited seasonal variations in demand and, as a result, in
charter hire rates. The LPG shipping market is typically stronger in the spring and summer months in anticipation of increased
consumption of propane and butane for heating during the winter months, although 12-month time charter rates tend to smooth
out these short-term fluctuations and recent LPG shipping market activity has not yielded the expected seasonal results. In
addition, unpredictable weather patterns in these months tend to disrupt vessel scheduling and supplies of certain commodities.
As a result, our revenues may be stronger in fiscal quarters ended June 30 and September 30, and conversely, our revenues may
be weaker during the fiscal quarters ended December 31 and March 31. This seasonality could materially affect our quarterly
operating results.
Future technological innovation could reduce our charter hire income and the value of our vessels.
The charter hire rates and the value and operational life of a vessel are determined by a number of factors including the
vessel's efficiency, operational flexibility and physical life. Efficiency includes speed, fuel economy and the ability to load and
discharge cargo quickly. Flexibility includes the ability to enter harbors, utilize related docking facilities and pass through canals
and straits. The length of a vessel's physical life is related to its original design and construction, its maintenance and the impact
of the stress of operations. We believe that our fleet is among the youngest and most eco ‑
friendly fleet of all our competitors.
However, if new LPG carriers are built that are more efficient or more flexible or have longer physical lives than our vessels,
competition from these more technologically advanced vessels could adversely affect the amount of charter hire payments we
receive for our vessels and the resale value of our vessels could significantly decrease. Similarly, if the vessels of the other
participants in the Helios Pool fleet become outdated, the amount of charter hire payments to the Helios Pool may be adversely
affected. As a result of the foregoing, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.
Changes in fuel, or bunker, prices may adversely affect profits.
While we do not bear the cost of fuel, or bunkers, under time and bareboat charters, including for our vessels employed
on time charters through the Helios Pool, fuel is a significant expense in our shipping operations when vessels are off-hire or
deployed under spot charters. Changes in the price of fuel may adversely affect our profitability. The price and supply of fuel is
unpredictable and fluctuates based on events outside our control, including geopolitical developments, supply and demand for oil
and gas, actions by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and other oil and gas producers, war and unrest in oil
producing countries and regions, regional production patterns and environmental concerns. Further, fuel may become much more
expensive in the future, including as a result of the IMO 2020 Cap, which may reduce profitability.
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We are subject to regulation and liability, including environmental laws, which could require significant expenditures and
adversely affect our financial conditions and results of operations.
Our business and the operation of our VLGCs are subject to complex laws and regulations and materially affected by
government regulation, including environmental regulations in the form of international conventions and national, state and local
laws and regulations in force in the jurisdictions in which the vessels operate, as well as in the country or countries in which the
vessels operate, as well as in the country or countries of their registration.
These regulations include, but are not limited to OPA90 that establishes an extensive regulatory and liability regime for
the protection and cleanup of the environment from oil spills and applies to any discharges of oil from a vessel, including
discharges of fuel oil and lubricants, the CAA, the CWA, and requirements of the USCG and the EPA, and the MTSA, and
regulations of the IMO, including MARPOL, the Bunker Convention, the IMO International Convention of Load Lines of 1966,
as from time to time amended, and the SOLAS Convention. To comply with these and other regulations we may be required to
incur additional costs to modify our vessels, meet new operating maintenance and inspection requirements, develop contingency
plans for potential spills, and obtain insurance coverage. We are also required by various governmental and quasi-governmental
agencies to obtain permits, licenses, certificates and financial assurances with respect to our operations. These permits, licenses,
certificates and financial assurances may be issued or renewed with terms that could materially and adversely affect our
operations. Because these laws and regulations are often revised, we cannot predict the ultimate cost of complying with them or
the impact they may have on the resale prices or useful lives of our vessels. However, a failure to comply with applicable laws
and regulations may result in administrative and civil penalties, criminal sanctions or the suspension or termination of our
operations. Additional laws and regulations may be adopted which could limit our ability to do business or increase the cost of
our doing business and which could materially adversely affect our operations. For example, a future serious incident, such as the
April 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico may result in new regulatory initiatives.
The operation of our vessels is affected by the requirements set forth in the ISM Code. The ISM Code requires ship
owners and bareboat charterers to develop and maintain an extensive "Safety Management System" that includes, among other
things, the adoption of a safety and environmental protection policy setting forth instructions and procedures for safe operation
and describing procedures for dealing with emergencies. The failure of a ship owner or bareboat charterer to comply with the ISM
Code may subject the owner or charterer to increased liability, may decrease available insurance coverage for the affected vessels,
or may result in a denial of access to, or detention in, certain ports. In our case, noncompliance with the ISM Code may result in
breach of our loan covenants. Currently, each of the vessels in our fleet is ISM Code certified. Because these certifications are
critical to our business, we place a high priority on maintaining them. Nonetheless, there is the possibility that such certifications
may not be renewed.
We currently maintain, for each of our vessels, pollution liability insurance coverage in the amount of $1.0 billion per
incident. In addition, we carry hull and machinery and protection and indemnity insurance to cover the risks of fire and explosion.
Under certain circumstances, fire and explosion could result in a catastrophic loss. We believe that our present insurance coverage
is adequate, but not all risks can be insured, and there is the possibility that any specific claim may not be paid, or that we will not
always be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable rates. If the damages from a catastrophic spill exceeded our
insurance coverage, the effect on our business would be severe and could possibly result in our insolvency.
Recent action by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee and United States agencies indicate that cybersecurity
regulations for the maritime industry are likely to be further developed in the near future in an attempt to combat cybersecurity
threats. This might cause companies to cultivate additional procedures for monitoring cybersecurity, which could require
additional expenses and/or capital expenditures. However, the impact of such regulations is hard to predict at this time.
The IMO has imposed updated guidelines for ballast water management systems specifying the maximum amount of
viable organisms allowed to be discharged from a vessel’s ballast water. Depending on the date of the IOPP renewal survey,
existing vessels constructed before September 8, 2017 must comply with the updated D-2 standard on or after September 8,
2019. For most vessels, compliance with the D-2 standard will involve installing on-board systems to treat
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ballast water and eliminate unwanted organisms. Currently, sixteen of our VLGCs are in compliance with the updated guidelines.
Ballast water management systems, or BWMS, are expected to be installed on the remaining six VLGCs between July 2019 and
July 2023 for approximately $0.8 million per vessel. We have entered into contracts for two of our VLGCs to be fitted with
BWMS.
Furthermore, United States regulations are currently changing. Although the 2013 Vessel General Permit (“VGP”)
program and U.S. National Invasive Species Act (“NISA”) are currently in effect to regulate ballast discharge, exchange and
installation, the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (“VIDA”), which was signed into law on December 4, 2018, requires that the
U.S. Coast Guard develop implementation, compliance, and enforcement regulations regarding ballast water within two
years. The new regulations could require the installation of new equipment, which may cause us to incur substantial costs.
We believe that regulation of the shipping industry will continue to become more stringent and compliance with such
new regulations will be more expensive for us and our competitors. Substantial violations of applicable requirements or a
catastrophic release from one of our vessels could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of
operations.
Climate change and greenhouse gas restrictions may adversely impact our operations and markets.
Due to concern over the risk of climate change, a number of countries and the IMO have adopted, or are considering the
adoption of, regulatory frameworks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These regulatory measures may include, among others,
adoption of cap and trade regimes, carbon taxes, increased efficiency standards, and incentives or mandates for renewable energy.
Compliance with changes in laws, regulations and obligations relating to climate change could increase our costs related to
operating and maintaining our vessels and require us to install new emission controls, acquire allowances or pay taxes related to
our greenhouse gas emissions, or administer and manage a greenhouse gas emissions program. Revenue generation and strategic
growth opportunities could also be adversely affected by compliance with such changes.
Our vessels may call on ports located in countries that are subject to sanctions and embargoes imposed by the United States or
other governments, which could lead to monetary penalties and/or adversely affect our reputation and the market for our
common shares.
Since January 1, 2010, none of our vessels has called on ports located in countries subject to countrywide U.S. sanctions
and countries identified by the United States government as state sponsors of terrorism, such as Iran, Sudan, North Korea and
Syria. The United States sanctions and embargo laws and regulations vary in their application, as they do not all apply to the same
covered persons or proscribe the same activities, and such sanctions and embargo laws and regulations may be amended or
strengthened over time.
Although we believe that we are in compliance with all applicable sanctions and embargo laws and regulations and
intend to maintain such compliance, there can be no assurance that we will be in compliance in the future, particularly as the
scope of certain laws may vary or may be subject to changing interpretations and charterers may violate contractual and legal
restrictions on their operations of the vessels. Any such violation could result in fines or other penalties for us and could result in
some investors deciding, or being required, to divest their interest, or not to invest, in the Company. Additionally, some investors
may decide to divest their interest, or not to invest, in the Company simply because we do business with companies that do
business in sanctioned countries. Moreover, our charterers may violate applicable sanctions and embargo laws and regulations as
a result of actions that do not involve us or our vessels, and those violations could in turn negatively affect our reputation.
Investor perception of the value of our common shares may also be adversely affected by the consequences of war, the effects of
terrorism, civil unrest and governmental actions in these and surrounding countries.
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Our vessels are subject to periodic inspections by a classification society.
The hull and machinery of every commercial vessel must be classed by a classification society authorized by its country
of registry. The classification society certifies that a vessel is safe and seaworthy in accordance with the applicable rules and
regulations of the country of registry of the vessel and SOLAS. Our VLGCs are currently classed with either Lloyd's Register,
ABS or Det Norske Veritas.
A vessel must undergo annual surveys, intermediate surveys and special surveys. In lieu of a special survey, a vessel's
machinery may be on a continuous survey cycle, under which the machinery would be surveyed periodically over a five ‑
year
period. Our vessels are on special survey cycles for hull inspection and continuous survey cycles for machinery inspection. Every
vessel is also required to be drydocked every two to three years for inspection of the underwater parts of such vessel. However,
for vessels not exceeding 15 years that have means to facilitate underwater inspection in lieu of drydocking, the drydocking can
be skipped and be conducted concurrently with the special survey.
If a vessel does not maintain its class and/or fails any annual survey, intermediate survey or special survey, the vessel
will be unable to trade between ports and will be unemployable, and we could be in violation of covenants in our loan agreements
and insurance contracts or other financing arrangements. This would adversely impact our operations and revenues.
Maritime claimants could arrest our vessels, which could interrupt our cash flow.
Crew members, suppliers of goods and services to a vessel, shippers of cargo and others may be entitled to a maritime
lien against that vessel for unsatisfied debts, claims or damages. In many jurisdictions, a maritime lien holder may enforce its lien
by arresting or attaching a vessel through foreclosure proceedings. The arrest or attachment of one or more of our vessels could
interrupt our cash flow and require us to pay large sums of funds to have the arrest lifted.
In addition, in some jurisdictions, such as South Africa, under the "sister ship" theory of liability, a claimant may arrest
both the vessel which is subject to the claimant's maritime lien and any "associated" vessel, which is any vessel owned or
controlled by the same owner. Claimants could try to assert "sister ship" liability against one vessel in our fleet for claims relating
to another of our ships or, possibly, another vessel managed by one of our shareholders holding more than 5% of our common
stock or entities affiliated with them.
Governments could requisition our vessels during a period of war or emergency, resulting in loss of revenues.
The government of a vessel's registry could requisition for title or seize our vessels. Requisition for title occurs when a
government takes control of a vessel and becomes the owner. A government could also requisition our vessels for hire.
Requisition for hire occurs when a government takes control of a vessel and effectively becomes the charterer at dictated charter
rates. Generally, requisitions occur during a period of war or emergency. Government requisition of one or more of our vessels
could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.
The operation of ocean-going vessels is inherently risky, and an incident resulting in significant loss or environmental
consequences involving any of our vessels could harm our reputation and business.
The operation of an ocean-going vessel carries inherent risks. Our vessels and their cargoes are at risk of being damaged
or lost because of events such as marine disasters, bad weather, mechanical failures, grounding, fire, explosions, collisions,
human error, war, terrorism, piracy, cargo loss, latent defects, acts of God and other circumstances or events. Changing economic,
regulatory and political conditions in some countries, including political and military conflicts, have from time to time resulted in
attacks on vessels, mining of waterways, piracy, terrorism, labor strikes and boycotts. Damage to the environment could also
result from our operations, particularly through spillage of fuel, lubricants or other chemicals and substances used in operations,
or extensive uncontrolled fires. These hazards may result in death or injury to persons, loss of revenues or property,
environmental damage, higher insurance rates, damage to our customer relationships, market disruptions, delay or rerouting, any
of which may also subject us to litigation. As a result, we could be exposed to
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substantial liabilities not recoverable under our insurances. Further, the involvement of our vessels in a serious accident could
harm our reputation as a safe and reliable vessel operator and lead to a loss of business.
If our vessels suffer damage, they may need to be repaired at a drydocking facility. The costs of drydock repairs are
unpredictable and may be substantial. We may have to pay drydocking costs that our insurance does not cover at all or in full. The
loss of earnings while these vessels are being repaired and repositioned, as well as the actual cost of these repairs, may adversely
affect our business and financial condition. In addition, space at drydocking facilities is sometimes limited and not all drydocking
facilities are conveniently located. We may be unable to find space at a suitable drydocking facility or our vessels may be forced
to travel to a drydocking facility that is not conveniently located to our vessels' positions. The loss of earnings while these vessels
are forced to wait for space or to travel or be towed to more distant drydocking facilities may adversely affect our business,
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We may be subject to litigation that could have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition.
We are currently not involved in any litigation matters that are expected to have a material adverse effect on our
business or financial condition. Nevertheless, we anticipate that we could be involved in litigation matters from time to time in the
future. The operating hazards inherent in our business expose us to litigation, including personal injury litigation, environmental
litigation, contractual litigation with clients, intellectual property litigation, tax or securities litigation, and maritime lawsuits
including the possible arrest of our vessels. We cannot predict with certainty the outcome or effect of any claim or other litigation
matter. Any future litigation may have an adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and our ability to
pay dividends, because of potential negative outcomes, the costs associated with prosecuting or defending such lawsuits, and the
diversion of management's attention to these matters. Additionally, our insurance may not be applicable or sufficient to cover the
related costs in all cases or our insurers may not remain solvent.
Acts of piracy on ocean-going vessels could adversely affect our business.
Acts of piracy have historically affected ocean-going vessels trading in regions of the world such as the South China
Sea, the Strait of Malacca, the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, the Red Sea, off the coast of West Africa, including the Gulf of
Guinea, and in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Somalia. Sea piracy incidents continue to occur. If these piracy attacks occur in
regions in which our vessels are deployed and are characterized by insurers as "war risk" zones or Joint War Committee "war and
strikes" listed areas, premiums payable for such coverage, for which we are responsible with respect to vessels employed on spot
charters, but not vessels employed on bareboat or time charters, could increase significantly and such insurance coverage may be
more difficult to obtain. In addition, costs to employ onboard security guards could increase in such circumstances. We may not
be adequately insured to cover losses from these incidents, which could have a material adverse effect on us. In addition,
detention hijacking as a result of an act of piracy against our vessels, or an increase in cost, or unavailability of insurance for our
vessels, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our operations outside the United States expose us to global risks, such as political conflict and terrorism, which may interfere
with the operation of our vessels and could have a material adverse impact on our operating results, revenues and costs.
We are an international company and primarily conduct our operations outside the United States. Changing economic,
political and governmental conditions in the countries where we are engaged in business or where our vessels are registered affect
us. In the past, political conflicts resulted in attacks on vessels, mining of waterways and other efforts to disrupt shipping. As a
result of the military response of the United States and other nations to threats of terrorism as well as the ongoing conflicts in
Syria and Afghanistan, the likelihood of future acts of terrorism may increase, and our vessels may face higher risks of being
attacked. In addition, future hostilities or other political instability in regions where our vessels trade could affect our trade
patterns and adversely affect our operations and performance. Hostilities in or closure of major waterways in the Middle East or
Black Sea region could adversely affect the availability of and demand for crude oil and petroleum products, as well as LPG, and
negatively affect our investment and our customers' investment decisions over an extended period of time. In addition, sanctions
against oil exporting countries such as Iran, Russia, Sudan
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and Syria may also impact the availability of crude oil, petroleum products and LPG and which would increase the availability of
applicable vessels thereby impacting negatively charter rates.
Terrorist attacks, or the perception that LPG or natural gas facilities or oil refineries and LPG carriers are potential
terrorist targets, could materially and adversely affect the continued supply of LPG. Concern that LPG and natural gas facilities
may be targeted for attack by terrorists has contributed to a significant community and environmental resistance to the
construction of a number of natural gas facilities, primarily in North America. If a terrorist incident involving a gas facility or gas
carrier did occur, the incident may adversely affect necessary LPG facilities or natural gas facilities currently in operation.
Furthermore, future terrorist attacks could result in increased volatility of the financial markets in the United States and globally
and could result in an economic recession in the United States or the world. Any of these occurrences could have a material
adverse impact on our operating results, revenues and costs.
If labor or other interruptions are not resolved in a timely manner, such interruptions could have a material adverse effect on
our financial condition.
We employ masters, officers and crews to man our vessels. If not resolved in a timely and cost-effective manner,
industrial action or other labor unrest or any other interruption arising from incidents of whistleblowing whether proven or not,
could prevent or hinder our operations from being carried out as we expect and could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
Information technology failures and data security breaches, including as a result of cybersecurity attacks, could negatively
impact our results of operations and financial condition, subject us to increased operating costs, and expose us to litigation.
We rely on our computer systems and network infrastructure across our operations, including on our vessels. Despite our
implementation of security and back-up measures, all of our technology systems are vulnerable to damage, disability or failures
due to physical theft, fire, power loss, telecommunications failure, operational error, or other catastrophic events. Our technology
systems are also subject to cybersecurity attacks including malware, other malicious software, phishing email attacks, attempts to
gain unauthorized access to our data, the unauthorized release, corruption or loss of our data, loss or damage to our data delivery
systems, and other electronic security breaches. In addition, as we continue to grow the volume of transactions in our businesses,
our existing IT systems infrastructure, applications and related functionality may be unable to effectively support a larger scale
operation, which can cause the information being processed to be unreliable and impact our decision-making or damage our
reputation with customers.
Despite our efforts to ensure the integrity of our systems and prevent future cybersecurity attacks, it is possible that our
business, financial and other systems could be compromised, especially because such attacks can originate from a wide variety of
sources including persons involved in organized crime or associated with external service providers. Those parties may also
attempt to fraudulently induce employees, customers or other users of our systems to disclose sensitive information in order to
gain access to our data or use electronic means to induce the company to enter into fraudulent transactions. A successful cyber-
attack could materially disrupt our operations, including the safety of our vessel operations. Past and future occurrences of such
attacks could damage our reputation and our ability to conduct our business, impact our credit and risk exposure decisions, cause
us to lose customers or revenues, subject us to litigation and require us to incur significant expense to address and remediate or
otherwise resolve these issues, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows.
Further, data protection laws apply to us in certain countries in which we do business. Specifically, the EU General Data
Protection Regulation, or GDPR, which was applicable beginning May 2018, increases penalties up to a maximum of 4% of
global annual turnover for breach of the regulation. The GDPR requires mandatory breach notification, the standard for which is
also followed outside the EU (particularly in Asia). Non-compliance with data protection laws could expose us to regulatory
investigations, which could result in fines and penalties. In addition to imposing fines, regulators may also issue orders to stop
processing personal data, which could disrupt operations. We could also be subject to litigation from persons or corporations
allegedly affected by data protection violations. Violation of data protection laws is a criminal offence in some countries, and
individuals can be imprisoned or fined. Any violation of these laws or harm to our reputation could have a material adverse effect
on our earnings, cash flows and financial condition.
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Risks Relating to Our Common Shares
The price of our common shares may be highly volatile.
The market price of our common shares has and may continue to fluctuate significantly in response to many factors,
such as actual or anticipated fluctuations in our operating results and those of other public companies in the LPG shipping or
related industries, market conditions in the LPG shipping industry, changes in financial estimates by securities analysts,
significant sales of our shares by us or our shareholders, economic and regulatory trends, general market conditions, rumors and
other factors, many of which are beyond our control. An adverse development in the market price for our common shares could
also negatively affect our ability to issue new equity to fund our activities.
Our board of directors may not declare dividends.
We have not paid any dividends since our inception in July 2013. In general, the terms of our credit facility do not
permit us to pay dividends if there is a default or a breach of a loan covenant. Further, under the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment,
we are temporarily restricted from paying dividends and repurchasing shares of our common stock until the earlier of (i) the date
upon which we complete a common stock offering with net proceeds of at least $50.0 million and (ii) May 31, 2019.
In the future, we will evaluate the potential level and timing of dividends as soon as profits and cash flows allow.
However, the timing and amount of any dividend payments will always be subject to the discretion of our board of directors and
will depend on, among other things, earnings, capital expenditure commitments, market prospects, current capital expenditure
programs, investment opportunities, the provisions of Marshall Islands law affecting the payment of distributions to shareholders,
and the terms and restrictions of our existing and future credit facilities. The LPG shipping industry is highly volatile, and we
cannot predict with certainty the amount of cash, if any, that will be available for distribution as dividends in any period. Also,
there may be a high degree of variability from period to period in the amount of cash that is available for the payment of
dividends.
We may incur expenses or liabilities or be subject to other circumstances in the future that reduce or eliminate the
amount of cash that we have available for distribution as dividends, including as a result of the risks described herein. Our growth
strategy contemplates that we will primarily finance our acquisitions of additional vessels through debt financings or the net
proceeds of future equity issuances on terms acceptable to us. If financing is not available to us on acceptable terms, our board of
directors may determine to finance or refinance acquisitions with cash from operations, which would reduce the amount of any
cash available for the payment of dividends.
The Republic of Marshall Islands laws also generally prohibit the payment of dividends other than from surplus
(retained earnings and the excess of consideration received for the sale of shares above the par value of the shares) or while a
company is insolvent or would be rendered insolvent by the payment of such a dividend. We may not have sufficient surplus in
the future to pay dividends and our subsidiaries may not have sufficient funds or surplus to make distributions to us. We can give
no assurance that dividends will be paid at all.
We are a holding company and depend on the ability of our subsidiaries to distribute funds to us in order to satisfy our
financial obligations and to make dividend payments.
We are a holding company and our subsidiaries conduct all of our operations and own all of our operating assets. As a
result, our ability to satisfy our financial obligations and to pay dividends, if any, to our shareholders depends on the ability of our
subsidiaries to generate profits available for distribution to us. The ability of a subsidiary to make these distributions could be
affected by a claim or other action by a third party, including a creditor, the terms of our financing arrangements or by the law of
its jurisdiction of incorporation which regulates the payment of dividends.
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We may issue additional shares in the future, which could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.
We may issue additional shares of our common stock in the future without shareholder approval, in a number of
circumstances, including in connection with, among other things, future vessel acquisitions or repayment of outstanding
indebtedness. Our issuance of additional shares would have the following effects: our existing shareholders' proportionate
ownership interest in us will decrease; the amount of cash available for dividends payable per share may decrease; the relative
voting strength of each previously outstanding share may be diminished; and the market price of our shares may decline.
A future sale of shares by major shareholders may reduce the share price.
As of the date of this report and based on information contained in documents publicly filed by our Principal
Shareholders, our Principal Shareholders own an aggregate of 19.2 million common shares, or approximately 35% of our
outstanding common shares, and two other major shareholders own, in aggregate, approximately 25% of our outstanding common
shares. Sales or the possibility of sales of substantial amounts of our common shares by any of our Principal Shareholders or other
major shareholders could adversely affect the market price of our common shares.
We are incorporated in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, which does not have a well-developed body of corporate law.
We are incorporated in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, which does not have a well-developed body of corporate or
case law. As a result, shareholders may have fewer rights and protections under Marshall Islands law than under a typical
jurisdiction in the United States. Our corporate affairs are governed by our articles of incorporation and bylaws and by the
Marshall Islands Business Corporations Act, or BCA. The provisions of the BCA resemble provisions of the corporation laws of a
number of states in the United States. However, there have been few judicial cases in the Republic of the Marshall Islands
interpreting the BCA. The rights and fiduciary responsibilities of directors under the law of the Republic of the Marshall Islands
are not as clearly established as the rights and fiduciary responsibilities of directors under statutes or judicial precedent in
existence in certain United States jurisdictions. Shareholder rights may differ as well. While the BCA does specifically
incorporate the non-statutory law, or judicial case law, of the State of Delaware and other states with substantially similar
legislative provisions, we cannot predict whether Marshall Islands courts would reach the same conclusions as United States
courts. Therefore, our public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in the face of actions by the
management, directors or controlling shareholders than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a United States
jurisdiction.
It may be difficult to enforce a United States judgment against us, our officers and our directors because we are a foreign
corporation.
We are incorporated in the Republic of the Marshall Islands and most of our subsidiaries are organized in the Republic
of the Marshall Islands. Substantially all of our assets and those of our subsidiaries are located outside the United States. As a
result, our shareholders should not assume that courts in the countries in which we or our subsidiaries are incorporated or where
our assets or the assets of our subsidiaries are located (1) would enforce judgments of United States courts obtained in actions
against us or our subsidiaries based upon the civil liability provisions of applicable United States federal and state securities laws
or (2) would enforce, in original actions, liabilities against us or our subsidiaries based upon these laws.
We are an "emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure
requirements applicable to emerging growth companies make our common shares less attractive to investors.
We are an "emerging growth company," as defined in the JOBS Act, and we may take advantage of certain exemptions
from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not "emerging growth companies." We
cannot determine if investors will find our common stock less attractive because we rely on these exemptions. If some investors
find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our share
price may be more volatile.
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In addition, under the JOBS Act, our independent registered public accounting firm is not required to attest to the
effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes‑Oxley Act of 2002 for so
long as we are an emerging growth company. For as long as we take advantage of the reduced reporting obligations, the
information that we provide shareholders may be different from information provided by other public companies, which could
impact the trading price of our shares.
Our organizational documents contain anti ‑
‑
takeover provisions.
Several provisions of our articles of incorporation and our bylaws could make it difficult for our shareholders to change
the composition of our board of directors in any one year, preventing them from changing the composition of management. In
addition, the same provisions may discourage, delay or prevent a merger or acquisition that shareholders may consider favorable.
These provisions include:
·
·
·
·
·
·
authorizing our board of directors to issue "blank check" preferred shares without shareholder approval;
providing for a classified board of directors with staggered, three ‑
year terms;
authorizing the removal of directors only for cause;
limiting the persons who may call special meetings of shareholders;
establishing advance notice requirements for nominations for election to our board of directors or for proposing matters
that can be acted on by shareholders at shareholder meetings; and
restricting business combinations with interested shareholders.
We were subject to a disruptive unsolicited acquisition proposal and proxy contest.
BW made an unsolicited proposal during FY 2019 to acquire all of our outstanding common stock and, along with its
affiliates, commenced a proxy contest to replace three members of our board of directors with nominees proposed by BW. The
BW Proposal was subsequently withdrawn on October 8, 2018. Significant costs were incurred in connection with the BW
Proposal and additional related costs may be incurred in the future. Further, ongoing uncertainty arising out of the BW Proposal
may disrupt our business and operations by potentially causing the loss of current and prospective employees, counterparties, and
other constituencies important to our success, which could negatively impact our business and financial results. The price of our
common stock could be subject to price fluctuations due to such ongoing uncertainty .
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS .
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES .
VLGCs are our principal physical properties and are more fully described in "Our Fleet" in "Item 1. Business." We do
not own any real estate. We lease office space at 27 Signal Road, Stamford, Connecticut, 06902, USA; River House, 143-145
Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3AB, UK; Nybrogade 12, Copenhagen 1203, Denmark; and 24 Poseidonos Avenue, 17674,
Kallithea, Greece.
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Table of Contents
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS .
We have not been involved in any legal proceedings that we believe may have a material effect on our business,
financial position, results of operations or liquidity, and we are not aware of any proceedings that are pending or threatened that
may have a material effect on our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity. From time to time we are and
expect to be subject to legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of our business, such as personal injury and property
casualty claims. These claims, even if lacking merit, could result in the expenditure of significant financial and managerial
resources.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES .
Not applicable.
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Table of Contents
PART I I
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUIT Y, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
Our common shares have traded on the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, since May 9, 2014, under the symbol
"LPG." As of May 24, 2019, we had 163 registered holders of our common shares, including Cede & Co., the nominee for the
Depository Trust Company. This number excludes shareholders whose stock is held in nominee or street name by brokers.
Stock Repurchase Program
See Note 10 to our consolidated financial statements included herein for a discussion of our stock repurchase program
that expired on December 31, 2016.
Equity Compensation Plans
The information set forth in this Amendment under "Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and
Management and Related Stockholder Matters—Equity Compensation Plan Information" is incorporated herein by reference.
Taxation
Please see “Item 1. Business—Taxation” for a discussion of certain tax considerations related to holders of our common shares.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The table below sets forth information regarding our purchases of our common stock during the quarterly period ended
March 31, 2019:
Period
January 1 to 31, 2019
February 1 to 28, 2019
March 1 to 31, 2019
Total
Total
Number
of Shares
Purchased
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs
Maximum Dollar
Value of Shares
that May Yet Be
Purchased Under the
Plan or Programs
— $
—
22,287
22,287 $
—
—
5.75
5.75
— $
—
—
— $
—
—
—
—
Purchases of our common stock during the quarterly period ended March 31, 2019 represent our shares of common stock
withheld in satisfaction of tax withholding obligations upon vesting of employee restricted equity awards.
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Table of Contents
Stock Performance Graph
The performance graph below shows the cumulative total return to shareholders of our common stock relative to the
cumulative total returns of the Russell 2000 Index and the Dorian Peer Group Index (defined below). The graph tracks the
performance of a $100 investment in our common stock and in each of the indices (with the reinvestment of dividends) from May
7, 2014 (the date our common stock was listed on the New York Stock Exchange) to March 31, 2019. The stock price
performance included in this graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.
The Dorian Peer Group Index is a self-constructed peer group that consists of the following direct competitors on a line-
of-business basis: BWLPG, NVGS and Avance. NVGS’s common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange, while the
common stock of Avance and BWLPG trade on the Oslo Stock Exchange. For the purposes of the below comparison, the
cumulative total returns for Avance and BWLPG were converted into U.S. dollars based on the relevant NOK to one USD
exchange rate prevailing on the dates listed below.
Dorian LPG Ltd. ("LPG")
Russell 2000 Index ("RTY Index")
Peer Index
NOK to USD exchange conversion rate
5/7/14
3/31/15
3/31/16
3/31/17
3/31/18
3/31/19
100.00
100.00
100.00
5.9098
68.58
114.41
73.33
8.0608
49.47
103.24
62.47
8.2685
55.42
130.27
53.12
8.5985
54.84
129.94
53.13
7.8413
33.79
148.57
42.96
8.6267
This performance graph shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the Commission for purposes of
Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liabilities under
that Section, and shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of
1933, as amended, or the Securities Act.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA .
The following table presents selected historical financial and other data of Dorian LPG Ltd. and its subsidiaries for the
periods indicated. The selected historical financial data of Dorian LPG Ltd. as of March 31, 2019 and 2018, and for the years
ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017 has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, all
included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this annual report. The selected
50
Table of Contents
historical financial data of Dorian LPG Ltd. and its subsidiaries as of March 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 and for the years ended
March 31, 2016 and 2015 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto not appearing
in this Form 10-K. The following table should be read together with and are qualified in its entirety by reference to such financial
statements, which have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles, or U.S. GAAP,
and with “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
(in U.S. dollars, except fleet data)
Statement of Operations Data
Revenues
Expenses
Voyage expenses
Charter hire expenses
Vessel operating expenses
Management fees—related party
Impairment
Depreciation and amortization
General and administrative expenses
Professional and legal fees related to the BW Proposal
Loss on disposal of assets
Total expenses
Other income—related parties
Operating income/(loss)
Other income/(expenses)
Interest and finance costs
Interest income
Unrealized gain/(loss) on derivatives
Realized gain/(loss) on derivatives
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
Other loss, net
Total other income/(expenses), net
Net income/(loss)
Earnings/(loss) per common share—basic and diluted
Other Financial Data
Adjusted EBITDA
Fleet Data
Calendar days
Time chartered-in days
Available days
Operating days
Fleet utilization
Average Daily Results
Time charter equivalent rate
(7)(8)
Daily vessel operating expenses
(5)(8)
(6)(8)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(9)
Year ended
March 31, 2019
158,032,485
$
Year ended
March 31, 2018
$
159,334,760
Year ended
March 31, 2017
167,447,171
$
Year ended
Year ended
March 31, 2016 March 31, 2015
104,129,149
289,207,829
$
$
1,697,883
237,525
66,880,568
—
—
65,201,151
24,434,246
10,022,747
—
168,474,120
2,479,599
(7,962,036)
(40,649,231)
1,755,259
(7,816,401)
3,788,123
—
(61,619)
(42,983,869)
(50,945,905)
(0.93)
64,408,989
$
$
$
8,030
10
7,997
7,189
89.9 %
21,746
8,329
$
$
2,213,773
—
64,312,644
—
—
65,329,951
26,186,332
—
—
158,042,700
2,549,325
3,841,385
(35,658,045)
440,059
8,421,531
(1,328,886)
4,117,364
(234,094)
(24,242,071)
(20,400,686)
(0.38)
74,515,790
$
$
$
8,030
—
8,028
7,153
89.1 %
21,966
8,009
$
$
2,965,978
—
66,108,062
—
—
65,057,487
21,732,864
—
—
155,864,391
2,410,542
13,993,322
(28,971,942)
137,556
27,491,333
(13,797,478)
—
(294,606)
(15,435,137)
(1,441,815)
(0.03)
83,279,670
$
$
$
8,030
—
7,976
7,464
93.6 %
12,064,682
—
47,119,990
—
—
42,591,942
29,836,029
—
1,125,395
132,738,038
1,945,396
158,415,187
(12,757,013)
148,360
(8,917,503)
(6,858,126)
—
(342,523)
(28,726,805)
129,688,382
2.29
204,865,215
$
$
$
5,491
—
5,406
5,031
93.1 %
22,037
8,233
$
$
55,087
8,581
$
$
22,081,856
—
21,256,165
1,125,000
1,431,818
14,093,744
14,145,086
—
—
74,133,669
93,929
30,089,409
(289,090)
418,597
1,331,954
(5,291,157)
—
(998,931)
(4,828,627)
25,260,782
0.45
47,346,202
1,986
—
1,925
1,652
85.8 %
49,665
10,703
$
$
$
$
$
(in U.S. dollars)
Balance Sheet Data
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash—non-current
Total assets
Current portion of long-term debt
Long-term debt—net of current portion and deferred financing fees
(10)
Total liabilities
Total shareholders’ equity
As of
March 31, 2019
$
30,838,684
35,633,962
1,625,370,017
63,968,414
As of
March 31, 2018
103,505,676
$
25,862,704
1,736,110,156
65,067,569
As of
March 31, 2017
17,018,552
$
50,874,146
1,746,234,880
65,978,785
As of
March 31, 2016
$
46,411,962
50,812,789
1,842,178,176
66,265,643
632,122,372
712,687,459
912,682,558
$
694,035,583
776,696,794
959,413,362
$
683,985,463
770,233,162
976,001,718
$
746,354,613
856,578,939
985,599,237
$
As of
March 31, 2015
204,821,183
33,210,000
1,099,101,270
15,677,553
171,369,658
225,887,011
873,214,259
$
$
(1)
Adjusted EBITDA is an unaudited non-U.S. GAAP financial measure and represents net income/(loss) before interest
and finance costs, unrealized (gain)/loss on derivatives, realized (gain)/loss on derivatives, gain on early extinguishment
of debt, stock-based compensation expense, impairment, and depreciation and amortization and is used as a
supplemental financial measure by management to assess our financial and operating performance. We believe that
adjusted EBITDA assists our management and investors by increasing the comparability of our performance from period
to period. This increased comparability is achieved by excluding the potentially disparate effects between periods of
derivatives, interest and finance costs, gain on early extinguishment of debt, stock-based compensation expense,
impairment, and depreciation and amortization expense, which items are affected by various and possibly changing
financing methods, capital structure and historical cost basis and which items may significantly affect net income/(loss)
between periods. We believe that including adjusted EBITDA as
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Table of Contents
a financial and operating measure benefits investors in selecting between investing in us and other investment
alternatives.
Adjusted EBITDA has certain limitations in use and should not be considered an alternative to net income/(loss),
operating income/(loss), cash flow from operating activities or any other measure of financial performance presented in
accordance with GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA excludes some, but not all, items that affect net income/(loss). Adjusted
EBITDA as presented below may not be computed consistently with similarly titled measures of other companies and,
therefore, might not be comparable with other companies.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of net income/(loss) to Adjusted EBITDA (unaudited) for the periods
presented:
(in U.S. dollars)
Net loss
Interest and finance costs
Unrealized (gain)/loss on derivatives
Realized (gain)/loss on derivatives
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
Stock-based compensation expense
Impairment
Depreciation and amortization
Adjusted EBITDA
Year ended
Year ended
Year ended
Year ended
Year ended
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
March 31, 2016
March 31, 2015
$
$
(50,945,905)
40,649,231
7,816,401
(3,788,123)
—
5,476,234
—
65,201,151
64,408,989
$
$
(20,400,686)
35,658,045
(8,421,531)
1,328,886
(4,117,364)
5,138,489
—
65,329,951
74,515,790
$
$
(1,441,815)
28,971,942
(27,491,333)
13,797,478
—
4,385,911
—
65,057,487
83,279,670
$
$
129,688,382
12,757,013
8,917,503
6,858,126
—
4,052,249
—
42,591,942
204,865,215
$
$
25,260,782
289,090
(1,331,954)
5,291,157
—
2,311,565
1,431,818
14,093,744
47,346,202
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
We define calendar days as the total number of days in a period during which vessels that were both commercially and
technically managed were in our fleet. Calendar days are an indicator of the size of the fleet over a period and affect both
the amount of revenues and the amount of expenses that are recorded during that period.
We define time chartered-in days as the aggregate number of days in a period during which we time chartered-in vessels.
We define available days as the sum of calendar days and time chartered-in days (collectively representing our
commercially-managed vessels) less aggregate off hire days associated with scheduled maintenance, which include
major repairs, drydockings, vessel upgrades or special or intermediate surveys. We use available days to measure the
aggregate number of days in a period that our vessels should be capable of generating revenues.
We define operating days as available days less the aggregate number of days that the commercially-managed vessels in
our fleet are off‑hire for any reason other than scheduled maintenance. We use operating days to measure the number of
days in a period that our operating vessels are on hire (refer to 8 below ) .
We calculate fleet utilization by dividing the number of operating days during a period by the number of available days
during that period. An increase in non-scheduled off hire days would reduce our operating days, and, therefore, our fleet
utilization. We use fleet utilization to measure our ability to efficiently find suitable employment for our vessels.
Time charter equivalent rate, or TCE rate, is a non-U.S. GAAP measure of the average daily revenue performance of a
vessel. TCE rate is a shipping industry performance measure used primarily to compare period‑to‑period changes in a
shipping company’s performance despite changes in the mix of charter types (such as time charters, voyage charters)
under which the vessels may be employed between the periods. Our method of calculating TCE rate is to divide revenue
net of voyage expenses by operating days for the relevant time period, which may not be calculated the same by other
companies.
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The following table sets forth a reconciliation of revenues to TCE rate (unaudited) for the periods presented:
(in U.S. dollars, except operating days)
Numerator:
Revenues
Voyage expenses
Time charter equivalent
Pool adjustment*
Time charter equivalent excluding pool
adjustment*
Denominator:
Operating days
TCE rate:
Time charter equivalent rate
TCE rate excluding pool adjustment*
$
$
$
$
$
Year ended
March 31, 2019
Year ended
March 31, 2018
Year ended
Year ended
Year ended
March 31, 2017
March 31, 2016
March 31, 2015
158,032,485
(1,697,883)
156,334,602
$
$
—
159,334,760
(2,213,773)
157,120,987
(1,857,575)
156,334,602
$
155,263,412
$
$
$
167,447,171
(2,965,978)
164,481,193
$
$
289,207,829
(12,064,682)
277,143,147
$
$
104,129,149
(22,081,856)
82,047,293
—
—
—
164,481,193
$
277,143,147
$
82,047,293
7,189
21,746
21,746
$
$
7,153
7,464
21,966
21,706
$
$
22,037
22,037
$
$
5,031
55,087
55,087
$
$
1,652
49,665
49,665
* TCE rate adjusted for the effect of a reallocation of pool profits in accordance with the pool participation agreements due to favorable speed
and consumption performance for our vessels operating in the Helios Pool.
(8)
We determine operating days for each vessel based on the underlying vessel employment, including our vessels in the
Helios Pool, or the Company Methodology. If we were to calculate operating days for each vessel within the Helios Pool
as a variable rate time charter, or the Alternate Methodology, our operating days and fleet utilization would be increased
with a corresponding reduction to our TCE rate. Operating data using both methodologies is as follows:
Company Methodology:
Operating Days
Fleet Utilization
Time charter equivalent
Alternate Methodology:
Operating Days
Fleet Utilization
Time charter equivalent
Year ended
March 31, 2019
Year ended
March 31, 2018
Year ended
March 31, 2017
Year ended
March 31, 2016
Year ended
March 31, 2014
7,189
89.9 %
21,746
7,991
99.9 %
19,564
$
$
7,153
89.1 %
21,966
8,028
100.0 %
19,572
$
$
7,464
93.6 %
22,037
7,975
100.0 %
20,625
$
$
5,031
93.1 %
55,087
5,291
97.9 %
52,380
$
$
1,652
85.8 %
49,665
1,652
85.8 %
49,665
$
$
We believe that Our Methodology using the underlying vessel employment provides more meaningful insight into
market conditions and the performance of our vessels.
(9)
(10)
Daily vessel operating expenses are calculated by dividing vessel operating expenses by calendar days for the relevant
time period.
Long-term debt is net of deferred financing fees of $14.0 million, $16.1 million, $20.1 million, $23.7 million, and $13.3
million as of March 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively.
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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS.
You should read the following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with our
consolidated financial statements and related notes included herein. Among other things, those financial statements include more
detailed information regarding the basis of presentation for the following information. The financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and are presented in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated. The following discussion
contains forward ‑
looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. As a result of many factors, such as those set forth
under "Item 1A—Risk Factors," "Forward ‑
Looking Statements" and elsewhere in this report, our actual results may differ
materially from those anticipated in these forward ‑
looking statements.
Overview
We are a Marshall Islands corporation, headquartered in the United States, focused on owning and operating VLGCs.
Our fleet currently consists of twenty-three VLGCs, including nineteen new fuel-efficient 84,000 cbm ECO VLGCs, three 82,000
cbm VLGCs, and one time chartered-in VLGC.
Our nineteen ECO VLGCs, which incorporate fuel efficiency and emission-reducing technologies and certain custom
features, were acquired by us for an aggregate purchase price of $1.4 billion and delivered to us between July 2014 and February
2016, seventeen of which were delivered during calendar year 2015 or later.
On April 1, 2015, Dorian and Phoenix began operations of the Helios Pool, which entered into pool participation
agreements for the purpose of establishing and operating, as charterer, under a variable rate time charter to be entered into with
owners or disponent owners of VLGCs, a commercial pool of VLGCs whereby revenues and expenses are shared. The vessels
entered into the Helios Pool may operate either in the spot market, pursuant to COAs or on time charters of two years' duration or
less . As of May 24, 2019, nineteen of our twenty-three VLGCs, including our time chartered-in vessel, were deployed in the
Helios Pool.
Our customers, either directly or through the Helios Pool, include or have included global energy companies such as
Exxon Mobil Corp., China International United Petroleum & Chemicals Co., Ltd., Royal Dutch Shell plc, Equinor ASA, Total
S.A., and Sunoco LP, commodity traders such as Geogas Trading S.A., Glencore plc, Itochu Corporation and the Vitol Group and
importers such as E1 Corp., Indian Oil Corporation, SK Gas Co. Ltd. Astomos Energy Corporation, and Oriental Energy
Company Ltd . For the year ended March 31, 2019, the Helios Pool and one other individual charterer accounted for 76% and
14% of our total revenues, respectively, and within the Helios Pool, two charterers each represented 10% of net pool revenues—
related party. For the year ended March 31, 2018, the Helios Pool and two other individual charterers represented 67%, 13% and
11% of our total revenues, respectively, and within the Helios Pool, one charterer represented 28% of net pool revenues—related
party. For the year ended March 31, 2017, the Helios Pool and two other individual charterers accounted for 69%, 13%, and 10%
of our total revenues, respectively, and within the Helios Pool, two charterers represented 26% and 13%, respectively of net pool
revenues—related party. See “Item 1A. Risk Factors—We operate exclusively in the LPG shipping industry. Due to our lack of
diversification and the lack of diversification of the Helios Pool, adverse developments in the LPG shipping industry may
adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results” and “Item 1A. Risk Factors—We expect to be dependent
on a limited number of customers for a material part of our revenues, and failure of such customers to meet their obligations could
cause us to suffer losses or negatively impact our results of operations and cash flows.”
We continue to pursue a balanced chartering strategy by employing our vessels on a mix of multi-year time charters,
some of which may include a profit-sharing component, shorter-term time charters, spot market voyages and COAs. Four of our
vessels are currently on fixed time charters outside of the Helios Pool. See “Item 1. Business—Our Fleet” above for more
information.
On August 5, 2015, we publicly announced that our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million
of our common stock, which authorization expired on December 31, 2016. W e repurchased a total of 3,342,035 shares of our
common stock for approximately $33.7 million under this program through its expiration.
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Vessel Deployment—Spot Voyages, Time Charters, COAs, and Pooling Arrangements
We seek to employ our vessels in a manner that maximizes fleet utilization and earnings upside through our chartering
strategy in line with our goal of maximizing shareholder value and returning capital to shareholders when appropriate, taking into
account fluctuations in freight rates in the market and our own views on the direction of those rates in the future. As of May 24,
2019, nineteen of our twenty-three VLGCs, including our time chartered-in vessel, were employed in the Helios Pool, which
includes time charters with a term of less than two years.
A spot market voyage charter is generally a contract to carry a specific cargo from a load port to a discharge port for an
agreed upon freight per ton of cargo or a specified total amount. Under spot market voyage charters, we pay voyage expenses
such as port and fuel costs. A time charter is generally a contract to charter a vessel for a fixed period of time at a set daily or
monthly rate. Under time charters, the charterer pays voyage expenses such as port and fuel costs. Vessels operating on time
charters provide more predictable cash flows, but can yield lower profit margins than vessels operating in the spot market during
periods characterized by favorable market conditions. Vessels operating in the spot market generate revenues that are less
predictable but may enable us to capture increased profit margins during periods of improvements in tanker rates although we are
exposed to the risk of declining tanker rates and lower utilization. Pools generally consist of a number of vessels which may be
owned by a number of different ship owners which operate as a single marketing entity in an effort to produce freight efficiencies.
Pools typically employ experienced commercial charterers and operators who have close working relationships with customers
and brokers while technical management is typically the responsibility of each ship owner. Under pool arrangements, vessels
typically enter the pool under a time charter agreement whereby the cost of bunkers and port expenses are borne by the charterer (
i.e.
, the pool) and operating costs, including crews, maintenance and insurance are typically paid by the owner of the vessel.
Pools, in return, typically negotiate charters with customers primarily in the spot market. Since the members of a pool typically
share in the revenue generated by the entire group of vessels in the pool, and since pools operate primarily in the spot market,
including the pools in which we participate, the revenue earned by vessels placed in spot market related pools is subject to the
fluctuations of the spot market and the ability of the pool manager to effectively charter its fleet. We believe that vessel pools can
provide cost-effective commercial management activities for a group of similar class vessels and potentially result in lower
waiting times.
COAs relate to the carriage of multiple cargoes over the same route and enables the COA holder to nominate different
ships to perform individual voyages. It constitutes a number of voyage charters to carry a specified amount of cargo during the
term of the COA, which usually spans a number of years. All of the vessel's operating, voyage and capital costs are borne by the
ship owner.
On April 1, 2015, Dorian and Phoenix began operation of the Helios Pool, which is a pool of VLGC vessels. We
believe that the operation of certain of our VLGCs in this pool allows us to achieve better market coverage and utilization.
Vessels entered into the Helios Pool are commercially managed jointly by Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd., our wholly-owned subsidiary,
and Phoenix. The members of the Helios Pool share in the net pool revenues generated by the entire group of vessels in the pool,
weighted according to certain technical vessel characteristics, and net pool revenues (see Note 2 to our consolidated financial
statements included herein) are distributed as variable rate time charter hire to each participant. The vessels entered into the
Helios Pool may operate either in the spot market, COAs, or on time charters of two years' duration or less. As of May 24, 2019,
the Helios Pool operated twenty-eight VLGCs, including nineteen vessels from our fleet, four Phoenix vessels, and five time
chartered-in vessels.
For further description of our business, please see “Item 1. Business” above.
Important Financial and Operational Terms and Concepts
We use a variety of financial and operational terms and concepts in the evaluation of our business and operations
including the following:
Vessel Revenues. Our revenues are driven primarily by the number of vessels in our fleet, the number of days during
which our vessels operate and the amount of daily rates that our vessels earn under our charters, which, in turn, are affected by a
number of factors, including levels of demand and supply in the LPG shipping industry; the age, condition
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and specifications of our vessels; the duration of our charters; the timing of when the profit-sharing arrangements are earned; the
amount of time that we spend positioning our vessels; the availability of our vessels, which is related to the amount of time that
our vessels spend in drydock undergoing repairs and the amount of time required to perform necessary maintenance or upgrade
work; and other factors affecting rates for LPG vessels.
We generate revenue by providing seaborne transportation services to customers pursuant to three types of contractual
relationships:
Pooling
Arrangements
. As from April 1, 2015, we began operation of the Helios Pool. Net pool revenues—related party
for each vessel is determined in accordance with the profit-sharing terms specified within the pool agreement for the
Helios Pool. In particular, the pool manager aggregates the revenues and voyage expenses of all of the pool participants
and Helios Pool general and administrative expenses and distributes the net earnings to participants based on:
·
·
pool points (vessel attributes such as cargo carrying capacity, fuel consumption, and speed are taken into
consideration); and
number of days the vessel participated in the Helios Pool in the period. We recognize pool revenue on a monthly
basis, when the vessel has participated in the Helios Pool during the period and the amount of pool revenue for the
month can be estimated reliably. We receive estimated vessel earnings based on the known number of days the
vessel has participated in the Helios Pool, the contract terms, and the estimated monthly pool revenue. We receive
a report from the Helios Pool that identifies the number of days the vessel participated in the Helios Pool, the total
pool points for the period, the total net pool revenues—related party for the period, and the calculated share of pool
revenue for the vessel. We review the report for consistency with each vessel’s pool agreement and vessel
management records.
For the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, approximately 75.9%, 67.1% and 69.1% of our revenue,
respectively, was generated through the Helios Pool as net pool revenues—related party.
Voyage
Charters.
A voyage charter, or spot charter, is a contract for transportation of a specified cargo between two or
more designated ports. This type of charter is priced on a current or "spot" market rate, typically on a price per ton of
product carried. Under voyage charters, we are responsible for all of the voyage expenses in addition to providing the
crewing and other vessel operating services. Revenues for voyage charters are more volatile as they are typically tied to
prevailing market rates at the time of the voyage. Our gross revenue under voyage charters are generally higher than
under comparable time charters so as to compensate us for bearing all voyage expenses. As a result, our revenue and
voyage expenses may vary significantly depending on our mix of time charters and voyage charters. For the years ended
March 31, 2018, and 2017, approximately 1.3% and 0.8%, respectively, of our revenue was generated pursuant to
voyage charters from our VLGCs not in the Helios Pool. None of our revenue was generated pursuant to voyage charters
from our VLGCs not in the Helios Pool for the year ended March 31, 2019.
Time
Charters.
A time charter is a contract under which a vessel is chartered for a defined period of time at a fixed
daily or monthly rate. Under time charters, we are responsible for providing crewing and other vessel operating services,
the cost of which is intended to be covered by the fixed rate, while the customer is responsible for substantially all of the
voyage expenses, including bunker fuel consumption, port expenses and canal tolls. LPG is typically transported under a
time charter arrangement, with terms ranging up to seven years. In addition, we may also have profit-sharing
arrangements with some of our customers that provide for additional payments above a floor monthly rate (usually up to
an agreed ceiling) based on the actual, average daily rate quoted by the Baltic Exchange for VLGCs on the benchmark
Ras Tanura ‑
Chiba route over an agreed time period converted to a TCE monthly rate. For the years ended
March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, approximately 23.9%, 31.5% and 29.5%, respectively, of our revenue was generated
pursuant to time charters from our VLGCs not in the Helios Pool.
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Other
Revenues,
net.
Other revenues, net represent income from charterers, including the Helios Pool, relating to
reimbursement of expenses such as costs for security guards and war risk insurance for voyages operating in high risk
areas. For the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, approximately 0.2%, 0.1% and 0.6%, respectively, of our
revenue was generated pursuant to other revenues, net.
Calendar Days. We define calendar days as the total number of days in a period during which each vessel in our fleet
was commercially and technically managed. Calendar days are an indicator of the size of the fleet over a period and affect both
the amount of revenues and the amount of expenses that are recorded during that period.
Time Chartered-in Days. We define time chartered-in days as the aggregate number of days in a period during which
we time chartered-in vessels.
Available Days. We define available days as the sum of calendar days and time chartered-in days (collectively
representing our commercially-managed vessels) less aggregate off hire days associated with scheduled maintenance, which
include major repairs, drydockings, vessel upgrades or special or intermediate surveys. We use available days to measure the
aggregate number of days in a period that our vessels should be capable of generating revenues.
Operating Days. We define operating days as available days less the aggregate number of days that the commercially-
managed vessels in our fleet are off‑hire for any reason other than scheduled maintenance. We use operating days to measure the
number of days in a period that our operating vessels are on hire.
Drydocking. We must periodically drydock each of our vessels for any major repairs and maintenance and for
inspection of the underwater parts of the vessel that cannot be performed while the vessels are operating and for any
modifications to comply with industry certification or governmental requirements. The classification societies provide guidelines
applicable to LPG vessels relating to extended intervals for drydocking. Generally, we are required to drydock a vessel once every
five years unless an extension of the drydocking to seven and one-half years is granted by the classification society and the vessel
is not older than 20 years of age. We capitalize costs directly associated with the drydockings that extend the life of the vessel and
amortize these costs on a straight-line basis over the period through the date the next survey is scheduled to become due under the
"Deferral" method permitted under U.S. GAAP. Costs incurred during the drydocking period which relate to routine repairs and
maintenance are expensed as incurred. The number of drydockings undertaken in a given period and the nature of the work
performed determine the level of drydocking expenditures.
Fleet Utilization. We calculate fleet utilization by dividing the number of operating days during a period by the number
of available days during that period. An increase in non ‑
scheduled off ‑
hire days would reduce our operating days, and
therefore, our fleet utilization. We use fleet utilization to measure our ability to efficiently find suitable employment for our
vessels.
Time Charter Equivalent Rate. TCE rate is a measure of the average daily revenue performance of a vessel. TCE rate
is a shipping industry performance measure used primarily to compare period ‑
to ‑
period changes in a shipping company’s
performance despite changes in the mix of charter types (such as time charters, voyage charters) under which the vessels may be
employed between the periods. Our method of calculating TCE rate is to divide revenue net of voyage expenses by operating days
for the relevant time period.
Voyage Expenses. Voyage expenses are all expenses unique to a particular voyage, including bunker fuel consumption,
port expenses, canal fees, charter hire commissions, war risk insurance and security costs. Voyage expenses are typically paid by
us under voyage charters and by the charterer under time charters, including our VLGCs chartered to the Helios Pool.
Accordingly, we generally only incur voyage expenses for our own account when performing voyage charters or during
repositioning voyages between time charters for which no cargo is available or travelling to or from drydocking. We generally
bear all voyage expenses under voyage charters and, as such, voyage expenses are generally greater under voyage charters than
time charters. As a result, our voyage expenses may vary significantly depending on our mix of time charters and voyage charters.
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Charter Hire Expenses. We hire certain vessels from third-party owners or operators for a contracted period and rate
in order to charter the vessels to our customers. Charter hire expenses include vessel operating lease expense incurred to charter-
in these vessels.
Vessel Operating Expenses. Vessel operating expenses are expenses that are not unique to a specific voyage. Vessel
operating expenses are paid by us under each of our charter types. Vessel operating expenses include crew wages and related
costs, the costs for lubricants, insurance, expenses relating to repairs and maintenance, the cost of spares and consumable stores,
tonnage taxes and other miscellaneous expenses. Our vessel operating expenses will increase with the expansion of our fleet and
are subject to change because of higher crew costs, higher insurance premiums, unexpected repair expenses and general inflation.
Furthermore, we expect maintenance costs will increase as our vessels age.
Daily Vessel Operating Expenses. Daily vessel operating expenses are calculated by dividing vessel operating
expenses by calendar days for the relevant time period.
Depreciation and Amortization. We depreciate our vessels on a straight ‑
line basis using an estimated useful life of
25 years from initial delivery from the shipyard and after considering estimated salvage values.
We amortize the cost of deferred drydocking expenditures on a straight ‑
line basis over the period through the date the
next drydocking/special survey is scheduled to become due.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses principally consist of the costs incurred in
the corporate administration of the vessel and non ‑
vessel owning subsidiaries. We have granted restricted stock awards to
certain of our officers, directors, employees and non-employee consultants that vest over various periods (see Note 11 to our
consolidated financial statements included herein). Granting of restricted stock results in an increase in expenses. Compensation
expense for employees is measured at the grant date based on the estimated fair value of the awards and is recognized over the
vesting period and for nonemployees is re-measured at the end of each reporting period based on the estimated fair value of the
awards on that date and is recognized over the vesting period.
Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires us to make estimates
in the application of our accounting policies based on our best assumptions, judgments and opinions. On a regular basis,
management reviews the accounting policies, assumptions, estimates and judgments to ensure that our consolidated financial
statements are presented fairly and in accordance with U.S. GAAP. However, because future events and their effects cannot be
determined with certainty, actual results could differ from our assumptions and estimates, and such differences could be material.
Accounting estimates and assumptions discussed in this section are those that we consider to be the most critical to an
understanding of our financial statements because they inherently involve significant judgments and uncertainties. For a
description of our material accounting policies, see Note 2 of our consolidated financial statements included herein.
Net pool revenues—related party. Net pool revenues—related party for each vessel in the pool is determined in
accordance with the profit-sharing terms specified within the pool agreement. In particular, the pool manager calculates the net
pool revenues using gross revenues less voyage expenses of all the pool vessels and less the general and administrative expenses
of the pool and distributes the net pool revenues as time charter hire to participants based on:
·
·
pool points (vessel attributes such as cargo carrying capacity, fuel consumption, and construction characteristics are
taken into consideration); and
number of days the vessel participated in the pool in the period.
We recognize net pool revenues—related party on a monthly basis, when the vessel has participated in the pool during
the period and the amount of net pool revenues for the month can be estimated reliably.
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Vessel Depreciation. The cost of our vessels less their estimated residual value is depreciated on a straight ‑
line basis
over the vessels' estimated useful lives. We estimate the useful life of each of our vessels to be 25 years from the date the vessel
was originally delivered from the shipyard. Based on the current market and the types of vessels we have in our fleet, the residual
values of our vessels are based upon a value of approximately $400 per lightweight ton. An increase in the useful life of our
vessels or in their residual value would have the effect of decreasing the annual depreciation charge and extending it into later
periods. An increase in the useful life of a vessel may occur as a result of superior vessel maintenance performed, favorable ocean
going and weather conditions the vessel is subjected to, superior quality of the shipbuilding or yard, or high freight market rates,
which result in owners scrapping the vessels later due to the attractive cash flows. A decrease in the useful life of our vessels or in
their residual value would have the effect of increasing the annual depreciation charge and possibly result in an impairment
charge. A decrease in the useful life of a vessel may occur as a result of poor vessel maintenance performed, harsh ocean going
and weather conditions the vessel is subjected to, or poor quality of the shipbuilding or yard. If regulations place limitations over
the ability of a vessel to trade on a worldwide basis, we will adjust the vessel's useful life to end at the date such regulations
preclude such vessel's further commercial use.
Impairment of long ‑
‑
lived assets. We review our vessels and other fixed assets for impairment when events or
circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. In addition, we compare independent appraisals
to our carrying value for indicators of impairment to our vessels. When such indicators are present, an asset is tested for
recoverability by comparing the estimate of future undiscounted net operating cash flows expected to be generated by the use of
the asset over its remaining useful life and its eventual disposition to its carrying amount. An impairment charge is recognized if
the carrying value is in excess of the estimated future undiscounted net operating cash flows. The impairment loss is measured
based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair market value of the asset. The new lower cost basis would result in a
lower annual depreciation than before the impairment.
Our estimates of fair market value assume that our vessels are all in good and seaworthy condition without need for
repair and if inspected would be certified in class without notations of any kind. Our estimates are based on information available
from various industry sources, including:
·
·
·
·
·
reports by industry analysts and data providers that focus on our industry and related dynamics affecting vessel
values;
news and industry reports of similar vessel sales;
approximate market values for our vessels or similar vessels that we have received from shipbrokers, whether
solicited or unsolicited, or that shipbrokers have generally disseminated;
offers that we may have received from potential purchasers of our vessels; and
vessel sale prices and values of which we are aware through both formal and informal communications with
shipowners, shipbrokers, industry analysts and various other shipping industry participants and observers.
As we obtain information from various industry and other sources, our estimates of fair market value are inherently
uncertain. In addition, vessel values are highly volatile; as such, our estimates may not be indicative of the current or future fair
market value of our vessels or prices that we could achieve if we were to sell them.
As of March 31, 2019, independent appraisals of the commercially and technically-managed VLGCs in our fleet had
indicators of impairment on twenty-one of our VLGCs in accordance with ASC 360 Property,
Plant,
and
Equipment
. We
determined estimated net operating cash flows for these VLGCs by applying various assumptions regarding future time charter
equivalent revenues net of commissions, operating expenses, scheduled drydockings, expected offhire and scrap values. These
assumptions were based on historical data as well as future expectations. We estimated spot market rates by obtaining the trailing
10-year historical average spot market rates, as published by maritime industry researchers. Estimated outflows for operating
expenses and drydocking expenses were based on historical and budgeted costs and were adjusted for assumed inflation.
Utilization was based on our historical levels achieved in the spot market and estimates of a residual value consistent with scrap
rates used in management's evaluation of scrap value. Such estimates and
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assumptions regarding expected net operating cash flows require considerable judgment and were based upon historical
experience, financial forecasts and industry trends and conditions. Therefore, based on this analysis, we concluded that no
impairment charge was necessary because we believe the vessel carrying values are recoverable. No impairment charges were
recognized for the year ended March 31, 2019.
In addition, we performed a sensitivity analysis as of March 31, 2019 to determine the effect on recoverability of
changes in TCE rates. The sensitivity analysis suggests that we would not incur an impairment charge on any of the commercially
and technically-managed VLGCs in our fleet if daily TCE rates based on the 10-year historical average spot market rates were
reduced by 30%. An impairment charge of approximately $104.1 million on twenty-one of our VLGCs would be triggered by a
reduction of 40% in the 10-year historical average spot market rates. The amount, if any, and timing of any impairment charges
we may recognize in the future will depend upon the then current and expected future charter rates and vessel values, which may
differ materially from those used in our estimates as of March 31, 2019.
As of March 31, 2018, independent appraisals of our VLGC fleet had indicators of impairment in accordance with ASC
360 Property,
Plant,
and
Equipment
. Based on the methodology described above on assessing our long-lived assets for
impairment, we concluded that no impairment charges were required for the year ended March 31, 2018.
In addition, we performed a sensitivity analysis as of March 31, 2018 to determine the effect on recoverability of
changes in TCE rates. The sensitivity analysis suggests that we would not incur an impairment charge on any of our twenty-two
VLGCs if daily TCE rates based on the 10-year historical average spot market rates were reduced by 30%. An impairment charge
of approximately $131.7 million on our twenty-two VLGCs would be triggered by a reduction of 40% in the 10-year historical
average spot market rates.
For the year ended March 31, 2017, independent appraisals of four of our VLGCs had indicators of impairment in
accordance with ASC 360 Property,
Plant,
and
Equipment
. Based on the methodology described above on assessing our long-
lived assets for impairment, we concluded that no impairment charges were required for the year ended March 31, 2017.
In addition, we performed a sensitivity analysis as of March 31, 2017 to determine the effect on recoverability of
changes in daily TCE rates. The sensitivity analysis suggests that we would not incur an impairment charge on any of our VLGCs
if daily TCE rates based on the 10-year historical average spot market rates were reduced by 30%. An impairment charge of
approximately of approximately $245.7 million on nineteen of our twenty-two VLGCs would be triggered by a reduction of 40%
in the 10-year historical average spot market rates.
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The table set forth below indicates the carrying value of each commercially and technically-managed vessel in our fleet
as of March 31, 2019 and 2018 at which times none of the vessels listed in the table below was being held for sale:
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
Vessels
Captain
Nicholas
ML
Captain
John
NP
Captain
Markos
NL
Comet
Corsair
Corvette
Cougar
Concorde
Cobra
Continental
Constitution
Commodore
Cresques
Constellation
Clermont
Cheyenne
Cratis
Commander
Chaparral
Copernicus
Challenger
Caravelle
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
(3)(4)
Capacity
(Cbm)
Year
Built
2008
2007
2006
2014
2014
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2016
82,000
82,000
82,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
1,842,000
Date of
Acquisition/
Delivery
Purchase Price/
Original Cost
7/29/2013
7/29/2013
7/29/2013
7/25/2014
9/26/2014
1/2/2015
6/15/2015
6/24/2015
6/26/2015
7/23/2015
8/20/2015
8/28/2015
9/1/2015
9/30/2015
10/13/2015
10/22/2015
10/30/2015
11/5/2015
11/20/2015
11/25/2015
12/11/2015
2/25/2016
$
$
68,156,079
64,955,636
61,421,882
75,276,432
80,906,292
84,262,500
80,427,640
81,168,031
80,467,667
80,487,197
80,517,226
80,468,889
82,960,176
78,649,026
80,530,199
80,503,271
83,186,333
78,056,729
80,516,187
83,333,085
80,576,863
81,119,450
1,727,946,790
(1)
(2)
March 31, 2018
$
Carrying value at Carrying value at
March 31, 2019
52,616,033
$
48,956,358
46,134,600
62,970,641
68,008,719
71,284,086
69,351,372
70,068,424
69,551,652
70,029,640
70,019,705
70,010,625
72,395,327
69,050,978
70,442,436
70,490,868
73,076,664
68,827,114
70,747,136
73,448,543
70,969,909
72,070,278
$ 1,480,521,108
54,421,743
51,617,234
48,641,643
65,330,899
70,636,171
74,342,267
72,259,846
73,000,787
72,418,718
72,651,500
72,923,580
72,922,347
75,162,541
71,589,117
73,357,167
73,404,513
75,867,200
71,333,532
73,661,925
76,246,304
73,887,234
75,010,087
$ 1,540,686,355
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Our vessels are stated at carrying values (refer to our accounting policy in Note 2 to our consolidated financial
statements included herein) including deferred drydocking costs and, as of March 31, 2019, the carrying value of twenty-
one of our vessels exceeded their estimated market value. On an aggregate fleet basis, the estimated market value of our
vessels was lower than their carrying value as of March 31, 2019 by $103.8 million. No impairment was recorded during
the year ended March 31, 2019 as we believe that the carrying value of our vessels is fully recoverable.
Our vessels are stated at carrying values (refer to our accounting policy in Note 2 to our consolidated financial
statements included herein) including deferred drydocking costs and, as of March 31, 2018, the carrying value of each of
our vessels exceeded their estimated market value. On an aggregate fleet basis, the estimated market value of our vessels
was lower than their carrying value as of March 31, 2018 by $131.7 million. No impairment was recorded during the
year ended March 31, 2018 as we believe that the carrying value of our vessels is fully recoverable.
VLGCs for which we believe, as of March 31, 2019, that the estimated fair value is lower than the VLGCs’ carrying
value. We believe that the aggregate carrying value of these vessels exceeds their aggregate estimated fair value by
$104.1 million as of March 31, 2019. However, as described above, the estimated net operating cash flows for each of
the VLGCs was higher than the carrying amount and consequently, no impairment loss was recognized.
VLGCs for which we believe, as of March 31, 2018, that the estimated fair value is lower than the VLGCs’ carrying
value. We believe that the aggregate carrying value of these vessels exceeds their aggregate estimated fair value by
$131.7 million as of March 31, 2018. However, as described above, the estimated net operating cash flows for each of
the VLGCs was higher than the carrying amount and consequently, no impairment loss was recognized.
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Drydocking and special survey costs. We must periodically drydock each of our vessels to comply with industry
standards, regulatory requirements and certifications. The classification societies provide guidelines applicable to LPG vessels
relating to extended intervals for drydocking. Generally, we are required to drydock a vessel once every five years unless an
extension of the drydocking to seven and one-half years is granted by the classification society and the vessel is not older than 20
years of age.
Drydocking costs are accounted under the deferral method whereby the actual costs incurred are deferred and are
amortized on a straight ‑
line basis over the period through the date the next drydocking is scheduled to become due. Costs
deferred include expenditures incurred relating to shipyard costs, hull preparation and painting, inspection of hull structure and
mechanical components, steelworks, machinery works, and electrical works. Drydocking costs do not include vessel operating
expenses such as replacement parts, crew expenses, provisions, luboil consumption, and insurance during the drydock period.
Expenses related to regular maintenance and repairs of our vessels are expensed as incurred, even if such maintenance and repair
occurs during the same time period as our drydocking.
If a drydocking is performed prior to the scheduled date, the remaining unamortized balances are immediately written
off. Unamortized balances of vessels that are sold are written ‑
off and included in the calculation of the resulting gain or loss in
the period of the vessel's sale. The nature of the work performed and the number of drydockings undertaken in a given period
determine the level of drydocking expenditures.
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments. We use derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risks. The fair
value of our interest rate swap agreements is the estimated amount that we would receive or pay to terminate the agreements at
the reporting date, taking into account current interest rates and the current credit worthiness of both us and the swap
counterparties. The estimated amount is the present value of estimated future cash flows, being equal to the difference between
the benchmark interest rate and the fixed rate in the interest rate swap agreement, multiplied by the notional principal amount of
the interest rate swap agreement at each interest reset date.
The fair value of our interest swap agreements at the end of each period are most significantly affected by the interest
rate implied by the LIBOR interest yield curve, including its relative steepness. Interest rates have experienced significant
volatility in recent years in both the short and long term. While the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements are typically
more sensitive to changes in short ‑
term rates, significant changes in the long ‑
term benchmark interest rates also materially
impact our interest.
The fair value of our interest swap agreements is also affected by changes in our own and our counterparty specific
credit risk included in the discount factor. Our estimate of our counterparty's credit risk is based on the credit default swap spread
of the relevant counterparty which is publicly available. The process of determining our own credit worthiness requires significant
judgment in determining which source of credit risk information most closely matches our risk profile, which includes
consideration of the margin we would be able to secure for future financing. A 10% increase / decrease in our own or our
counterparty credit risk would not have had a significant impact on the fair value of our interest rate swaps.
The LIBOR interest rate yield curve and our specific credit risk are expected to vary over the life of the interest rate
swap agreements. The larger the notional amount of the interest rate swap agreements outstanding and the longer the remaining
duration of the interest rate swap agreements, the larger the impact of any variability in these factors will be on the fair value of
our interest rate swaps. We economically hedge the interest rate exposure on a significant amount of our long ‑
term debt and for
long durations. As such, we have experienced, and we expect to continue to experience, material variations in the period ‑
to ‑
period fair value of our derivative instruments.
Although we measure the fair value of our derivative instruments utilizing the inputs and assumptions described above,
if we were to terminate the interest rate swap agreements at the reporting date, the amount we would pay or receive to terminate
the derivative instruments may differ from our estimate of fair value. If the estimated fair value differs from the actual termination
amount, an adjustment to the carrying amount of the applicable derivative asset or liability would be recognized in earnings for
the current period. Such adjustments have been and could be material in the future.
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Results of Operations
For the year ended March 31, 2019 as compared to the year ended March 31, 2018
Revenues
The following table compares revenues for the years ended March 31:
Net pool revenues—related party
Time charter revenues
Voyage charter revenues
Other revenues, net
Total
$
$
2019
120,015,771
37,726,214
—
290,500
158,032,485
$
$
2018
106,958,576
50,176,166
2,068,491
131,527
159,334,760
$
$
Increase /
(Decrease)
Percent
Change
13,057,195
(12,449,952)
(2,068,491)
158,973
(1,302,275)
12.2 %
(24.8)%
NM
120.9 %
(0.8)%
Revenues, which represent net pool revenues— related party , time charters, voyage charters and other revenues earned
by our vessels, were $158.0 million for the year ended March 31, 2019, a decrease of $1.3 million, or 0.8%, from $159.3 million
for the year ended March 31, 2018. TCE rates of $21,746 for the year ended March 31, 2019 decreased from $21,966 for the year
ended March 31, 2018. During the year ended March 31, 2018, the board of the Helios Pool approved a reallocation of pool
profits in accordance with the pool participation agreements. This reallocation resulted in a $260 increase in our fleet’s overall
TCE rates for the year ended March 31, 2018 due mainly to favorable speed and consumption performance of our VLGCs
operating in the Helios Pool compared to other VLGCs operating in the Helios Pool. Excluding this reallocation, TCE rates
increased slightly by $40 when comparing the year ended March 31, 2019 with the year ended March 31, 2018. The increased
spot market rate was partially offset by increased bunker costs and other voyage expenses, which are deducted from gross
revenues when calculating TCE rates. The Baltic Exchange Liquid Petroleum Gas Index, an index published daily by the Baltic
Exchange for the spot market rate for the benchmark Ras Tanura-Chiba route (expressed as U.S. dollars per metric ton), averaged
$34.702 during the year ended March 31, 2019 compared to an average of $27.455 for the year ended March 31, 2018. The
increase in net pool revenues—related party was primarily due to the increased spot market rate and an additional vessel being
redelivered off time charter and into the Helios Pool in the year ended March 31, 2019. The decrease in time charter revenues
during the year ended March 31, 2019 compared to the year ended March 31, 2018 was primarily due to the expiration of a time
charter and subsequent redelivery into the Helios Pool in the year ended March 31, 2019.
Voyage Expenses
Voyage expenses were $1.7 million during the year ended March 31, 2019 , a decrease of $0.5 million, or 23.3%, from
$2.2 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 . Voyage expenses are all expenses unique to a particular voyage, including
bunker fuel consumption, port expenses, canal fees, charter hire commissions, war risk insurance and security costs. Voyage
expenses are typically paid by us under voyage charters, by the charterer under time charters, and by the pool for our vessels
chartered to the Helios Pool. Accordingly, we mainly incur voyage expenses for voyage charters or during repositioning voyages
between time charters for which no cargo is available or traveling to or from drydocking. The decrease for the year ended March
31, 2019 when compared to the year ended March 31, 2018 was mainly attributable to a reduction of voyage charters from our
VLGCs outside of the Helios Pool.
Vessel Operating Expenses
Vessel operating expenses were $66.9 million during the year ended March 31, 2019 , or $8,329 per vessel per calendar
day, which is calculated by dividing vessel operating expenses by calendar days for the relevant time period for the vessels that
were in our fleet. This was an increase of $2.6 million, or 4.0%, from $64.3 million, or $8,009 per vessel per calendar day, for the
year ended March 31, 2018. The increase in vessel operating expenses was primarily the result of a $3.5 million, or $431 per
vessel per calendar day, increase in spares, stores, and repairs and maintenance costs, and a $0.3 million purchase of coolant for
one of our VLGCs coming off drydock in July 2018, resulting in an increase of $40 per vessel per calendar day. Partially
offsetting the increases was a reduction of crew wages and related costs of $1.2 million, or $144 per vessel per calendar day .
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General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses were $24.4 million for the year ended March 31, 2019 , a decrease of $1.8 million,
or 6.7%, from $26.2 million for the year ended March 31, 2018. The decrease was mainly due to a $1.5 million decrease in
professional and legal fees unrelated to the BW Proposal, and a $0.6 million decrease in salaries, wages and benefits, partially
offset by an increase of $0.3 million in stock-based compensation. The decrease in salaries, wages and benefits was primarily due
to $0.4 million decrease in cash bonuses to various employees during the year ended March 31, 2019 compared to the year ended
March 31, 2018.
Professional and Legal Fees Related to the BW Proposal
BW made an unsolicited proposal to acquire all of our outstanding common stock and, along with its affiliates,
commenced a proxy contest to replace three members of our board of directors with nominees proposed by BW. BW’s unsolicited
proposal and proxy contest were subsequently withdrawn on October 8, 2018. Professional and legal fees related to the BW
Proposal were $10.0 million for the year ended March 31, 2019.
Interest and Finance Costs
Interest and finance costs amounted to $40.6 million for the year ended March 31, 2019 , an increase of $4.9 million
from $35.7 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 . The increase of $4.9 million during the year ended March 31, 2019 was
mainly due to an increase of $9.2 million in interest incurred on our long-term debt, primarily resulting from (i) an increase in
LIBOR, (ii) an increase in margin on the 2017 Bridge Loan that we repaid in June 2018, and (iii) the fixed interest rates on the
refinancings of the Corsair
, Concorde
, Corvette
, Captain
John
NP
, Captain
Markos
NL
, and Captain
Nicholas
ML
,
during the year ended March 31, 2019 being higher than floating rates on our long-term debt during the year ended March 31,
2018, partially offset by a decrease in average indebtedness . Average indebtedness, excluding deferred financing fees, decreased
from $754.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 to $747.2 million for the year ended March 31, 2019. As of March 31,
2019, the outstanding balance of our long-term debt, excluding deferred financing fees, was $710.1 million. Partially offsetting
the increases was a reduction of $4.4 million in amortization of deferred financing fees primarily resulting from the accelerated
amortization of deferred financing fees from the refinancings of the Corsair
, Concorde
, and Corvette
during the year ended
March 31, 2018, along with the amortization of the 2017 Bridge Loan deferred financing fees that did not recur during the year
ended March 31, 2019 .
Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Derivatives
Unrealized loss on derivatives amounted to approximately $7.8 million for the year ended March 31, 2019 compared to
an unrealized gain of $8.4 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 . The unfavorable $16.2 million change is attributable to
changes in the fair value of our interest rate swaps caused by changes in forward LIBOR yield curves and reductions in notional
amounts.
Realized Gain/(Loss) on Derivatives
Realized gain/(loss) on derivatives amounted to a realized gain of approximately $3.8 million for the year ended
March 31, 2019, compared to a realized loss of $1.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2018. The favorable $5.1 million
change is attributable to increases in floating LIBOR resulting in realized gains on interest rate swaps related to the 2015 Debt
Facility.
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
Gain on early extinguishment of debt amounted to $4.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 and was attributable
to the repayment of the RBS Loan Facility, net of deferred financing fees. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements
included herein for further details on the repayment of the RBS Loan Facility. There was no gain on early extinguishment of debt
for the year ended March 31, 2019.
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For the year ended March 31, 2018 as compared to the year ended March 31, 2017
Revenues
The following table compares revenues for the years ended March 31:
Net pool revenues—related party
Time charter revenues
Voyage charter revenues
Other revenues, net
Total
$
$
2018
106,958,576
50,176,166
2,068,491
131,527
159,334,760
$
$
2017
115,753,153
49,474,510
1,296,952
922,556
167,447,171
$
$
Increase /
(Decrease)
Percent
Change
(8,794,577)
701,656
771,539
(791,029)
(8,112,411)
(7.6)%
1.4 %
59.5 %
(85.7)%
(4.8)%
Revenues, which represent net pool revenues— related party , time charters, voyage charters and other revenues earned
by our vessels, were $159.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2018, a decrease of $8.1 million, or 4.8%, from $167.4 million
for the year ended March 31, 2017. TCE rates of $21,966 for the year ended March 31, 2018 were relatively flat when compared
to $22,037 for the year ended March 31, 2017. During the year ended March 31, 2018, the board of the Helios Pool approved a
reallocation of pool profits in accordance with the pool participation agreements. This reallocation resulted in a $260 increase in
our fleet’s overall TCE rates for the year ended March 31, 2018 due mainly to favorable speed and consumption performance of
our VLGCs operating in the Helios Pool compared to other VLGCs operating in the Helios Pool. Excluding this reallocation, TCE
rates declined $331 when comparing the year ended March 31, 2018 with the year ended March 31, 2017. Spot market rates were
slightly higher when comparing the year ended March 31, 2018 with the year ended March 31, 2017. The Baltic Exchange Liquid
Petroleum Gas Index, an index published daily by the Baltic Exchange for the spot market rate for the benchmark Ras Tanura-
Chiba route (expressed as U.S. dollars per metric ton), averaged $27.455 during the year ended March 31, 2018 compared to an
average of $26.243 for the year ended March 31, 2017. Increased bunker costs and other voyage expenses, which are deducted
from gross revenues when calculating TCE rates, drove the decline in TCE rates (excluding the reallocation). This slight decline
in TCE rates coupled with a reduction in utilization from 93.6% during the year ended March 31, 2017 to 89.1% during the year
ended March 31, 2017 drove the reduction in revenues.
Voyage Expenses
Voyage expenses were $2.2 million during the year ended March 31, 2018 , a decrease of $0.8 million, or 25.4%, from
$3.0 million for the year ended March 31, 2017 . Voyage expenses are all expenses unique to a particular voyage, including
bunker fuel consumption, port expenses, canal fees, charter hire commissions, war risk insurance and security costs. Voyage
expenses are typically paid by us under voyage charters and by the charterer under time charters, including our vessels chartered
to the Helios Pool. Accordingly, we mainly incur voyage expenses for voyage charters or during repositioning voyages between
time charters for which no cargo is available or traveling to or from drydocking. The decrease for the year ended March 31, 2018
when compared to the year ended March 31, 2017 was mainly attributable to a reduction in port charges and other related
expenses and decreases in war risk insurance and security costs due to a reduction of transits in high-risk areas.
Vessel Operating Expenses
Vessel operating expenses were $64.3 million during the year ended March 31, 2018 , or $8,009 per vessel per calendar
day, which is calculated by dividing vessel operating expenses by calendar days for the relevant time period for the vessels that
were in our fleet. This was a decrease of $1.8 million, or 2.7%, from $66.1 million, or $8,233 per vessel per calendar day, for the
year ended March 31, 2017. The decrease in vessel operating expenses was primarily the result of a reduction in crew related
costs of $0.9 million, or $115 per vessel per calendar day, when comparing the year ended March 31, 2018 with the year ended
March 31, 2017, along with a $0.9 million, or $113 per vessel per calendar day, reduction in insurance costs.
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Table of Contents
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses were $26.2 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 , an increase of $4.5
million, or 20.5%, from $21.7 million for the year ended March 31, 2017. The increase was mainly due to an increase of $3.3
million in salaries, wages and benefits and an increase of $0.8 million in stock-based compensation. The increase in salaries,
wages and benefits was primarily due to $2.3 million in cash bonuses to various employees that were approved by the
Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors and expensed and paid during the year ended March 31, 2018. We had no
significant expense for cash bonuses during the year ended March 31, 2017 since cash bonuses of $3.0 million to various
employees paid during the year ended March 31, 2017 were approved by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors
and expensed prior to the year ended March 31, 2017. Additionally, we incurred a $0.5 million financial advisory fee during the
year ended March 31, 2018 that we did not incur during the year ended March 31, 2017. Other general and administrative
expenses were comparable during the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017.
Interest and Finance Costs
Interest and finance costs amounted to $35.7 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 , an increase of $6.7 million
from $29.0 million for the year ended March 31, 2017 . The increase of $6.7 million during the year ended March 31, 2018 was
mainly due to (i) an increase of $3.8 million resulting from the accelerated amortization of deferred financing fees from the
refinancings of the Corsair
, Concorde
, and Corvette
(see Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements for more details on
these refinancings) along with the amortization of the 2017 Bridge Loan deferred financing fees during the year ended March 31,
2018, (ii) an increase of $2.7 million in interest incurred on our long-term debt, primarily resulting from an increase in LIBOR
and the fixed interest rates on the Corsair Japanese Financing (defined below), Concorde Japanese Financing (defined below) and
Corvette Japanese Financing (defined below) during the year ended March 31, 2018 being higher than floating rates on our long-
term debt during the year ended March 31, 2017, partially offset by a decrease in average indebtedness, and (iii) an increase of
$0.2 million in loan expenses. Average indebtedness, excluding deferred financing fees, decreased from $810.4 million for the
year ended March 31, 2017 to $754.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2018. As of March 31, 2018, the outstanding balance
of our long-term debt, excluding deferred financing fees, was $775.2 million.
Unrealized Gain on Derivatives
Unrealized gain on derivatives amounted to approximately $8.4 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 compared to
$27.5 million for the year ended March 31, 2017 . The $19.1 million decrease was primarily attributable to changes in the fair
value of our interest rate swaps caused by changes in forward LIBOR yield curves, reductions in notional amounts, and an $8.1
million unrealized gain as a result of the termination of interest rate swaps related to our since repaid loan facility with the Royal
Bank of Scotland, or the RBS Loan Facility, during the year ended March 31, 2017 that did not recur during the year ended
March 31, 2018.
Realized Loss on Derivatives
Realized loss on derivatives amounted to approximately $1.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2018, a decrease of
$12.5 million, or 90.4%, from a realized loss of $13.8 million for the year ended March 31, 2017. The decrease is attributable to
(i) the realized loss on interest rate swaps related to the termination of the RBS Loan Facility during the year ended March 31,
2017 that did not recur during the year ended March 31, 2018, (ii) the realized loss on interest rate swaps related to our since
repaid RBS Loan Facility prior to their termination during the year ended March 31, 2017 that did not recur during the year ended
March 31, 2018 and (iii) a decrease in realized loss on interest rate swaps related to the 2015 Debt Facility primarily resulting
from increases in floating LIBOR.
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
Gain on early extinguishment of debt amounted to $4.1 million for the year ended March 31, 2018 and was attributable
to the repayment of the RBS Loan Facility, net of deferred financing fees. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements
included herein for further details on the repayment of the RBS Loan Facility. There was no gain on early extinguishment of debt
for the year ended March 31, 2017.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our business is capital intensive, and our future success depends on our ability to maintain a high ‑
quality fleet. As of
March 31, 2019, we had cash and cash equivalents of $30.8 million and restricted cash of $35.6 million.
Our primary sources of capital during the year ended March 31, 2019 were (i) $8.9 million in cash generated from
operations, (ii) $21.7 million in proceeds from the refinancing of the CJNP,
(iii) $20.6 million in proceeds from the refinancing of
the CMNL
, and (iv) $22.9 million in proceeds from the refinancing of the CNML.
Proceeds from the refinancings of the CJNP
,
CMNL
and CNML
increased our unrestricted cash after we prepaid the 2017 Bridge Loan (described below).
On June 4, 2018, we prepaid $22.3 million of the 2017 Bridge Loan’s then outstanding principal using cash on hand prior to the
closing of the CJNP Japanese Financing. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included herein for further
details on the pr epayment of the 2017 Bridge Loan.
On June 11, 2018, we entered into the CJNP Japanese Financing. The refinancing proceeds of $21.7 million increased
our unrestricted cash after we prepaid $22.3 million of the 2017 Bridge Loan on June 4, 2018 using cash on hand prior to the
closing of the CJNP Japanese Financing. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included herein for further
details on the refinancing of the Captain
John
NP
.
On June 20, 2018, we prepaid the remaining 2017 Bridge Loan’s outstanding principal of $44.6 million (related to the
Captain
Nicholas
ML
and the Captain
Markos
NL
) using cash on hand prior to the closing of the CMNL Japanese Financing and
the CNML Japanese Financing. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included herein for further details on the
pr epayment of the 2017 Bridge Loan
On June 25, 2018, we entered into the CMNL Japanese Financing. The refinancing proceeds of $20.6 million increased
our unrestricted cash after we prepaid $21.2 million of the 2017 Bridge Loan on June 20, 2018 using cash on hand prior to the
closing of the CMNL Japanese Financing. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included herein for further
details on the refinancing of the Captain
Markos
NL
.
On June 26, 2018, we entered into the CNML Japanese Financing. The refinancing proceeds of $22.9 million increased
our unrestricted cash after we prepaid $23.4 million of the 2017 Bridge Loan on June 20, 2018 using cash on hand prior to the
closing of the CNML Japanese Financing. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included herein for further
details on the refinancing of the Captain
Nicholas
ML
.
As of March 31, 2019, the outstanding balance of our long-term debt, net of deferred financing fees of $14.0 million,
was $696.1 million including $64.0 million of principal on our long-term debt scheduled to be repaid within the next twelve
months.
Operating expenses, including expenses to maintain the quality of our vessels in order to comply with international
shipping standards and environmental laws and regulations, the funding of working capital requirements, long-term debt
repayments, and financing costs represent our short ‑
term, medium ‑
term and long ‑
term liquidity needs as of
March 31, 2019. Along with the proceeds from the refinancings of the Captain
John
NP
, Captain
Markos
NL,
and Captain
Nicholas
ML
, we anticipate satisfying our liquidity needs for at least the next twelve months with cash on hand and cash from
operations. We may also seek additional liquidity through alternative sources of debt financings and/or through equity financings
by way of private or public offerings. However, if these sources are insufficient to satisfy our short-term liquidity needs, or to
satisfy our future medium-term or long-term liquidity needs, we may need to seek alternative sources of financing and/or
modifications of our existing credit facility and financing arrangements. There is no assurance that we will be able to obtain any
such financing or modifications to our existing credit facility and financing arrangements on terms acceptable to us, or at all.
Our dividend policy will also impact our future liquidity position. Marshall Islands law generally prohibits the payment
of dividends other than from surplus or while a company is insolvent or would be rendered insolvent by the
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Table of Contents
payment of such a dividend. In addition, under the terms of the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment, we are temporarily restricted
from paying dividends and repurchasing shares of our common stock until the earlier of (i) the date upon which we complete a
common stock offering with net proceeds of at least $50.0 million and (ii) May 31, 2019.
As part of our growth strategy, we will continue to consider strategic opportunities, including the acquisition of
additional vessels. We may choose to pursue such opportunities through internal growth or joint ventures or business acquisitions.
We expect to finance the purchase price of any future acquisitions either through internally generated funds, public or private debt
financings, public or private issuances of additional equity securities or a combination of these forms of financing.
Cash Flows
The following table summarizes our cash and cash equivalents provided by/(used in) operating, financing and investing
activities for the periods presented:
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
March 31, 2019
$
8,883,433
(4,520,304)
(67,005,777)
(62,895,734)
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
$
$
57,249,103
(437,037)
4,671,658
61,475,682
$
$
52,103,768
(1,919,665)
(79,318,882)
(29,332,053)
$
Operating Cash Flows. Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended March 31, 2019 was $8.9 million
compared with $57.2 million for the year ended March 31, 2018. The decrease is primarily related to an operating loss in the year
ended March 31, 2019 and changes in working capital, mainly from amounts due from the Helios Pool as distributions from the
Helios Pool are impacted by the timing of the completion of voyages and spot market rates.
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended March 31, 2018 was $57.2 million compared with $52.1
million for the year ended March 31, 2017. The increase is primarily related to the timing of changes in working capital from a
reduction in amounts due from the Helios Pool.
Net cash flow from operating activities depends upon our overall profitability, market rates for vessels employed on
voyage charters, charter rates agreed to for time charters, the timing and amount of payments for drydocking expenditures and
unscheduled repairs and maintenance, fluctuations in working capital balances and bunker costs.
Investing Cash Flows. Net cash used in investing activities was $4.5 million for the year ended March 31, 2019,
compared with net cash used in investing activities of $0.4 million for the year ended March 31, 2018. For the year ended
March 31, 2019, net cash used in investing activities was comprised of our capital expenditures of $4.0 million and $0.5 million
in purchases of investment securities.
Net cash used in investing activities was $0.4 million for the year ended March 31, 2018, compared with net cash used
in investing activities of $1.9 million for the year ended March 31, 2017. For the year ended March 31, 2018, net cash used in
investing activities comprised primarily of our capital expenditures. For the year ended March 31, 2017, net cash used in
investing activities comprised primarily of $1.9 million of payments for capitalized costs related to our fleet.
Financing Cash Flows. Net cash used in financing activities was $67.0 million for the year ended March 31, 2019,
compared with net cash provided by financing activities of $4.7 million for the year ended March 31, 2018. For the year ended
March 31, 2019, net cash used in financing activities consisted of repayments of long-term debt of $130.2 million, treasury stock
repurchases of $1.3 million, and payment of debt financing costs of $0.6 million, partially offset by proceeds from long-term debt
borrowings of $65.1 million related to the CJNP Japanese Financing, CMNL Japanese Financing, and CNML Japanese
Financing.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $4.7 million for the year ended March 31, 2018, compared with net cash
used in financing activities of $79.3 million for the year ended March 31, 2017. For the year ended March 31, 2018, net cash
provided by financing activities consisted of long-term debt borrowings of $261.0 million related to the
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2017 Bridge Loan, Corsair Japanese Financing, Concorde Japanese Financing, and Corvette Japanese Financing, partially offset
by repayments of long-term debt of $252.0 million, payment of debt financing costs of $3.1 million, and treasury stock
repurchases of $1.2 million. For the year ended March 31, 2017, net cash used in financing activities consisted of repayments of
long-term debt of $66.3 million, treasury stock repurchases of $13.0 million and debt financing costs of $0.1 million.
Capital Expenditures. LPG transportation is a capital ‑
intensive business, requiring significant investment to maintain
an efficient fleet and to stay in regulatory compliance.
We are generally required to complete a special survey for a vessel once every five years unless an extension of the
drydocking to seven and one-half years is granted by the classification society and the vessel is not older than 20 years of age.
Intermediate surveys are performed every two and one-half years after the first special survey. Drydocking each vessel takes
approximately 10 to 20 days. We spend significant amounts for scheduled drydocking (including the cost of classification society
surveys) for each of our vessels.
As our vessels age and our fleet expands, our drydocking expenses will increase. We estimate the current cash outlay for
a VLGC special survey to be approximately $1.0 million per vessel (excluding any capital improvements to the vessel that may
be made during such drydockings) and the cost of an intermediate survey to be between $100,000 and $200,000 per vessel.
Ongoing costs for compliance with environmental regulations are primarily included as part of our drydocking and classification
society survey costs. Additionally, ballast water management systems are expected to be installed on six VLGCs between July
2019 and July 2023 for approximately $0.8 million per vessel. We have entered into contracts to purchase ballast water
management systems on two of our VLGCs Further, in October 2016, the International Maritime Organization (the “IMO”) set
January 1, 2020 as the implementation date for vessels to comply with its low sulfur fuel oil requirement, which cuts sulfur levels
from 3.5% to 0.5%. We may comply with this regulation by (i) consuming compliant fuels on board (0.5% sulfur), which is likely
to be more readily available globally by 2020, but likely at a higher cost; (ii) continuing to consume high-sulfur fuel oil by
installing scrubbers for cleaning of the exhaust gases to levels at or below compliance with regulations (0.5% sulfur); or (iii) by
retrofitting vessels to be powered by liquefied natural gas or LPG, which may be a viable option subject to the pricing of
compliant low-sulfur fuel (0.5% sulfur). Such costs of compliance with the IMO’s low sulfur fuel oil requirement may be
significant. Currently, two of our VLGCs are equipped with scrubbers and we have entered into contracts to purchase scrubbers
on ten of our VLGCs, in which we have $10.9 million in remaining contractual commitments as of March 31, 2019. We are not
aware of any other future regulatory changes or environmental laws that we expect to have a material impact on our current or
future results of operations that we have not already considered. Please see "Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our
Company—We may incur increasing costs for the drydocking, maintenance or replacement of our vessels as they age, and, as our
vessels age, the risks associated with older vessels could adversely affect our ability to obtain profitable charters.”
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Table of Contents
Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of March 31, 2019:
(1)
Long‑term debt obligations
Interest payments
Remaining payments on scrubber purchases
Remaining payments on BWMS purchases
Remaining payments on office leases
Total
(2)
Payments due by period
Total
710,096,616
152,761,030
10,914,511
1,004,800
920,137
875,697,094
$
$
Less than
1 Year
63,968,414
30,111,407
9,785,394
1,004,800
422,604
105,292,619
$
$
More than
1 to 3 Years
3 to 5 Years
$
$
266,719,593
52,149,096
231,722
$
103,333,596
32,537,558
897,395
$
—
—
485,120
319,585,531
12,413
136,780,962
$
$
5 Years
276,075,013
37,962,969
—
—
—
314,037,982
(1)
(2)
Our interest commitment on our 2015 Debt Facility is calculated based on an assumed LIBOR rate of 2.60% (the three ‑
month LIBOR rate
as of March 31, 2019), plus the applicable margin for the respective period as per the loan agreements and the estimated net settlement of the
related interest rate swaps.
Our United Kingdom, Denmark, and Greece office lease payments were translated into U.S. dollars using foreign currency equivalent rates of
British Pound Sterling 1.31, Danish Krone 0.15, and Euro 1.12, respectively, as of March 31, 2019.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We currently do not have any off ‑
balance sheet arrangements.
Description of Our Debt Obligations
See Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements included herein for a description of our debt obligations.
Compliance with New Accounting Standards
We have elected to “opt out” of the extended transition period relating to the exemption from new or revised financial
accounting standards under the JOBS Act and, as a result, we will comply with new or revised financial accounting standards on
the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for non ‑
emerging growth companies. Section 107 of the
JOBS Act provides that our decision to opt out of the extended transition period for complying with new or revised financial
accounting standards is irrevocable.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Refer to Note 2 of our consolidated financial statements included herein.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE S ABOUT MARKET RISK.
We are exposed to various market risks, including changes in interest rates, foreign currency fluctuations, and inflation.
Interest Rate Risk
The LPG shipping industry is capital intensive, requiring significant amounts of investment. Much of this investment is
provided in the form of long-term debt. Our debt agreement contains interest rates that fluctuate with LIBOR. We have entered
into interest rate swap agreements to hedge a majority of our exposure to fluctuations of interest rate risk associated with our 2015
Debt Facility. We have hedged $250.0 million of non-amortizing principal and $194.6 million of amortizing principal of the 2015
Debt Facility as of March 31, 2019 and thus increasing interest rates could adversely impact our future earnings. For the 12
months following March 31, 2019, a hypothetical increase or decrease of 20 basis points in the underlying LIBOR rates would
result in an increase or decrease of our interest expense on our unhedged
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interest-bearing debt by approximately $0.1 million assuming all other variables are held constant. See Notes 9 and 18 to our
audited consolidated financial statements included herein for a description of our debt obligations and interest rate swaps,
respectively.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
Our primary economic environment is the international LPG shipping market. This market utilizes the U.S. dollar as its
functional currency. Consequently, our revenues are in U.S. dollars and the majority of our operating expenses are in U.S. dollars.
However, we incur some of our expenses in other currencies, particularly Euro, Singapore Dollar, Danish Krone, Japanese Yen,
British Pound Sterling, and Norwegian Krone. The amount and frequency of some of these expenses, such as vessel repairs,
supplies and stores, may fluctuate from period to period. Depreciation in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies
will increase the cost of us paying such expenses. For the year ended March 31, 2019, 19% of our expenses (excluding
depreciation and amortization, interest and finance costs and gain/loss on derivatives), were in currencies other than the U.S.
dollar, and as a result we expect the foreign exchange risk associated with these operating expenses to be immaterial. We do not
have foreign exchange exposure in respect of our credit facility and interest rate swap agreements, as these are denominated in
U.S. dollars.
The portion of our business conducted in other currencies could increase in the future, which could expand our exposure
to losses arising from currency fluctuations.
Inflation
Certain of our operating expenses, including crewing, insurance and drydocking costs, are subject to fluctuations caused
by market forces. Crewing costs in particular have risen over the past number of years as a result of a shortage of trained crews.
Please see "Item 1A. Risk Factors—We may be unable to attract and retain key management personnel and other employees in
the shipping industry without incurring substantial expense as a result of rising crew costs, which may negatively affect the
effectiveness of our management and our results of operations." A shortage of qualified officers makes it more difficult to crew
our vessels and may increase our operating costs. If this shortage were to continue or worsen, it may impair our ability to operate
and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results. Inflationary pressures on bunker (fuel
and oil) costs could have a material effect on our future operations if the number of vessels employed on voyage charters
increases. In the case of any vessels that are time ‑
chartered to third parties, it is the charterers who pay for the fuel. If our
vessels are employed under voyage charters, freight rates are generally sensitive to the price of fuel. However, a sharp rise in
bunker prices may have a temporary negative effect on our results since freight rates generally adjust only after prices settle at a
higher level. Please see "Item 1A. Risk Factors—Changes in fuel, or bunker, prices may adversely affect profits.”
Forward Freight Agreements
From time to time, we may take hedging or speculative positions in derivative instruments, including FFAs. The usage
of such derivatives can lead to fluctuations in our reported results from operations on a period-to-period basis. During the year
ended March 31, 2019, we had no open FFA positions.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DAT A.
The financial information required by this Item is set forth on pages F-1 to F-28 and is filed as part of this annual report.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENT S WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL
DISCLOSURE.
None.
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ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES .
Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated
the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)
under the Exchange Act, as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Based on this evaluation, our
management concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2019. Our disclosure controls
and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the
reports that it files or submits to the Commission under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within
the time periods specified in Commission rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our
management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions
regarding required disclosure.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining an adequate system of internal control over financial
reporting, as defined in the Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act. Our management conducted an evaluation of our
effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal
Control—Integrated
Framework
(2013)
issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Our internal control over
financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that: (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are
recorded as necessary to permit preparation of our financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that our receipts and
expenditures are being made in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (iii) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a
material effect on the financial statements. Because of the inherent limitations of internal controls over financial reporting,
misstatements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the
internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because
of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Based on the
evaluation, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of March 31, 2019.
In accordance with the Jumpstart Our Businesses Startups Act of 2012 as an emerging growth company, we are exempt
from the requirement to obtain an attestation report from our independent registered public accounting firm on the assessment of
our internal controls pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer or persons
performing similar functions has determined that no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as that term is defined
in Rules 13(a)-15(f) and 15(d)-15(f) of the Exchange Act) occurred during the fourth fiscal quarter of our fiscal year ended
March 31, 2019 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial
reporting.
Limitation on Effectiveness of Controls and Procedures
In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and our internal control over financial reporting, management
recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of
achieving the desired control objectives. In addition, the design of disclosure controls and our internal control over financial
reporting must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints and that management is required to apply its judgment in
evaluating the benefits of possible controls and procedures relative to their costs.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION .
None
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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICER S AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.
Class III Directors — Terms expiring at the Company’s 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders
PART II I
John C. Hadjipateras , 68, has served as Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors and as our President and Chief
Executive Officer and as President of Dorian LPG (USA) LLC since our inception in July 2013. Mr. Hadjipateras has been
actively involved in the management of shipping companies since 1972. From 1972 to 1992, Mr. Hadjipateras was the Managing
Director of Peninsular Maritime Ltd. in London and subsequently served as President of Eagle Ocean Transport Inc. (“Eagle
Ocean”), which provides chartering, sale and purchase, protection and indemnity insurance and shipping finance services.
Mr. Hadjipateras has served as a member of the boards of the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee and of the Council of
INTERTANKO, and has been a member of the Baltic Exchange since 1972 and of the American Bureau of Shipping since 2011.
Mr. Hadjipateras also served on the Board of Advisors of the Faculty of Languages and Linguistics of Georgetown University and
is a trustee of Kidscape, a leading U.K. charity organization. Mr. Hadjipateras was a director of SEACOR Holdings Inc., a global
provider of marine transportation equipment and logistics services, from 2000 to 2013. We believe that Mr. Hadjipateras’
expertise in the maritime and shipping industries provides him the qualifications and skills to serve as a member of our Board of
Directors.
Malcolm McAvity , 68, has served as a director of the Company since January 2015 and is currently the Chairman of the
nominating and corporate governance committee (the “Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee”) and a member of the
compensation committee (the “Compensation Committee”). Mr. McAvity formerly served as Vice Chairman of Phibro LLC, one
of the world’s leading international commodities trading firms, from 1986 through 2012. Mr. McAvity has held various positions
trading crude oil and other commodities. Mr. McAvity earned a BA from Stanford University and an MBA from Harvard
University. We believe that Mr. McAvity’s experience in commodities trading provides him the qualifications and skills to serve
as a member of our Board of Directors.
Class I Directors — Terms expiring at the Company’s 2020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders
Thomas J. Coleman , 52, has served as a director of the Board since September 2013 and is currently the Lead
Independent Director, Chairman of the Compensation Committee and a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee. Mr. Coleman has served as co-Founder and co-President of Kensico Capital Management Corporation (“Kensico”)
since 2000. Mr. Coleman is also the co-principal of each of Kensico’s affiliates. Prior to working with Kensico and its affiliates,
Mr. Coleman was employed by Halo Capital Partners (“Halo”). Prior to his employment at Halo, Mr. Coleman founded and
served as Chief Executive Officer and a director of PTI Holding Inc. from 1990 until 1995. From October 2012 until January
2014, Mr. Coleman served as a director of WebMD. From February 2011 until its sale in January 2012, Mr. Coleman served as a
director of Tekelec, a publicly traded global provider of core network solutions. We believe that Mr. Coleman’s deep knowledge
of corporate finance provides him the qualifications and skills to serve as a member of our Board of Directors.
Christina Tan , 66, has served as a director of the Company since May 1, 2015 and is currently a member of the audit
committee (the “Audit Committee”) and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Ms. Tan is an Executive Director of
the MT Maritime Management Group (“MTM Group”), a position she has held since 1991. Ms. Tan has been an officer with the
MTM Group for over 30 years, performing in a variety of capacities, including finance and chartering, and was also a board
member of Northern Shipping Funds from 2008 to 2015, at which point she remained as a member of the Limited Partnership
Advisory Committee (LPAC). For eight years prior to joining MTM Group, Ms. Tan was Vice President of Finance and Trading
for Socoil Corporation, a major Malaysian palm oil refiner and trading company. Ms. Tan earned a BA in Economics and
Mathematics from Western State College of Colorado. We believe that Ms. Tan’s long-standing experience in the shipping
industry and in maritime investments provide her the qualifications and skills to serve as a member of our Board of Directors.
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Class II Directors — Terms expiring at the Company’s 2021 Annual Meeting of Shareholders
Øivind Lorentzen , 68, has served as a director of the Company since July 2013 and is currently the Chairman of the
Audit Committee. Mr. Lorentzen is currently Managing Director of Northern Navigation, LLC. Mr. Lorentzen has been Non-
Executive Vice Chairman of SEACOR Holdings Inc. since early 2015, prior to which he was its Chief Executive Officer. From
1990 until September 2010, Mr. Lorentzen was President of Northern Navigation America, Inc., an investment management and
ship-owning agency company concentrating in specialized marine transportation and ship finance. From 1979 to 1990,
Mr. Lorentzen was Managing Director of Lorentzen Empreendimentos S.A., an industrial and shipping group in Brazil, and he
served on its board of directors until December 2005. From 2001 to 2008, Mr. Lorentzen was Chairman of NFC Shipping Funds,
a leading private equity fund in the maritime industry. Mr. Lorentzen is a director of Blue Danube, Inc., a privately owned inland
marine service provider, and the Lead Director of Genessee & Wyoming Inc., an owner and operator of short line and regional
freight railroads. Mr. Lorentzen earned his undergraduate degree at Harvard College and his MBA from Harvard Business
School. Mr. Lorentzen’s expertise in the maritime and shipping industries provides him the important qualifications and skills to
serve as a member of our Board of Directors.
John C. Lycouris , 69, has served as Chief Executive Officer of Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and a director of the Company
since our inception in July 2013. In 1993, Mr. Lycouris joined Eagle Ocean. At Eagle Ocean, Mr. Lycouris has attended to a
multitude of sale and purchase contracts and pre- and post-delivery financing of newbuilding and secondhand vessels in the
tanker, LPG, and dry bulk sectors. Before joining Eagle Ocean, Mr. Lycouris served as Director of Peninsular Maritime Ltd., a
ship brokerage firm, which he joined in 1974, and managed the Finance and Accounts departments. Mr. Lycouris is a member of
the Lloyd’s Register North American Advisory Committee and a member of the DNV GL North American Committee.
Mr. Lycouris graduated from Cornell University, where he earned an MBA, and from Ithaca College with a BS. Mr. Lycouris’s
successful leadership and executive experience, along with his deep knowledge of the commercial, technical and operational
aspects of shipping in general and LPG shipping in particular, provide him the qualifications and skills to serve as a member of
our Board of Directors.
Ted Kalborg , 68, has served as a director of the Company since December 12, 2014 and is currently a member of the
Audit Committee and Compensation Committee. Mr. Kalborg is the founder of the Tufton Group, a fund management group he
founded in 1985 that specializes in the shipping and energy sectors. The group manages hedge funds and private equity funds. Mr.
Kalborg’s primary focus has been corporate reorganizations. Mr. Kalborg holds a BA from Stockholm School of Economics and
received an MBA from Harvard Business School. Mr. Kalborg’s diversified experience in the oil drilling, shipping, and
investment industries, his specialty in maritime and transportation fund management, and his extensive background serving as
director of several other companies equip him with the qualifications and skills to act as a member of our Board of Directors.
Information about Executive Officers Who Are Not Directors
Theodore B. Young , 51, has served as our Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Principal Financial and Accounting
Officer since July 2013, as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Dorian LPG (USA) LLC since July 2013, and as head of
corporate development for Eagle Ocean from 2011 to 2013. From 2004 to 2011, Mr. Young was a Senior Managing Director and
member of the Investment Committee at Irving Place Capital (“IPC”), where he worked on investments in the industrial,
transportation and business services sectors. Prior to joining IPC, Mr. Young was a principal at Harvest Partners, a New York-
based middle market buyout firm, from 1997 to 2004. There, Mr. Young was active in industrial and transportation transactions.
Prior to his career in private equity, Mr. Young was an investment banker with Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. and SBC Warburg
Dillon Read and its predecessors in New York, Zurich, and London. Mr. Young holds an AB from Dartmouth College and an
MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a major in accounting.
Alexander C. Hadjipateras , 39, has served as our Executive Vice President of Business Development since July 2013
and is the son of John C. Hadjipateras, the Chairman of the Board of Directors and President and Chief Executive Officer of the
Company. Mr. Alexander C. Hadjipateras’ main areas of focus are business development, vessel sale and purchase, and assisting
in the management of the Company’s operations in Athens, Greece. Since joining Eagle Ocean in 2006, Mr. Alexander C. been
involved in its newbuilding program at Sumitomo Shipyard in Japan and Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea and has also
participated in its Aframax spot chartering. Prior to joining Eagle Ocean, Mr.
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Alexander C. Hadjipateras worked as a Business Development Manager at Avenue A/ Razorfish, a leading digital consultancy
and advertising agency based in San Francisco. Mr. Alexander C. Hadjipateras has served as a director of the Helios Pool since
2018, a director on the Members Committee of the UK P&I Club since 2016, and a director on the Greek Shipping Corporation
Committee (GSCC) since 2018. Mr. Alexander C. Hadjipateras graduated from Georgetown University with a BA in history in
2001.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee, established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act, currently consists of
Messrs. Lorentzen and Kalborg and Ms. Tan, with Mr. Lorentzen serving as its chairperson. The Audit Committee meets a
minimum of four times a year, and periodically meets with the Company’s management, internal auditors and independent
external auditors separately from the Board.
Under the Audit Committee charter, the Audit Committee assists the Board in overseeing the quality of the Company’s
financial statements and its financial reporting practices. To that end, the Audit Committee has direct responsibility for the
appointment, replacement, compensation, retention, termination and oversight of the work of the independent registered public
accounting firm engaged to prepare an audit report, to perform other audits and to perform review or attest services for us. The
Audit Committee confers directly with the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee also
assesses the outside auditors’ qualifications and independence. The Audit Committee is responsible for the pre-approval of all
audit and non-audit services performed by our independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee acts on
behalf of the Board in reviewing the scope of the audit of the Company’s financial statements and results thereof. Our Chief
Financial Officer has direct access to the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee also oversees the operation of our internal
controls covering the integrity of our financial statements and reports, compliance with laws, regulations and corporate policies,
and the qualifications, performance and independence of our independent registered public accounting firm. Based on this
oversight, the Audit Committee advises the Board on the adequacy of the Company’s internal controls, accounting systems,
financial reporting practices and the maintenance of the Company’s books and records. The Audit Committee is also responsible
for determining whether any waiver of our Code of Ethics will be permitted and for reviewing and determining whether to
approve any related party transactions required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K. Annually, the Audit
Committee recommends that the Board request shareholder ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public
accounting firm. The responsibilities and activities of the Audit Committee are further described in the Audit Committee charter.
Our Board of Directors has determined that the Audit Committee consists entirely of directors who meet the
independence requirements of the NYSE listing standards and Rule 10A-3 of the Exchange Act. The Board has also determined
that each member of the Audit Committee has sufficient knowledge and understanding of the Company’s financial statements to
serve on the Audit Committee and is financially literate within the meaning of the NYSE listing standards as interpreted by the
Board. The Board has further determined that Messrs. Kalborg and Lorentzen and Ms. Tan satisfy the definition of “audit
committee financial expert” as defined under federal securities laws.
Code of Conduct and Ethics
We have adopted a Code of Ethics applicable to officers, directors and employees (the “Code of Ethics”), which fulfills
applicable guidelines issued by the Commission.
website at
http://www.dorianlpg.com/investor-center/corporate-governance/. We will also provide a hard copy of our Code of Ethics free of
charge upon written request to Dorian LPG Ltd. c/o Dorian LPG (USA) LLC, 27 Signal Road, Stamford, Connecticut 06902. Any
waiver that is granted, and the basis for granting the waiver, will be publicly communicated as appropriate, including through
posting on our website, as soon as practicable. We granted no waivers under our Code of Ethics during the fiscal year ended
March 31, 2019. We intend to post any amendments to and any waivers of our Code of Ethics on our website within four business
days.
Ethics can be found on our
Code of
Our
Shareholder Nominations
There have been no material changes to the procedures by which security holders may recommend nominees to our
board of directors.
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Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our directors and executive officers, and beneficial owners of more than ten
percent of any class of our registered equity securities including our common stock, to file with the Commission initial reports of
beneficial ownership and reports of changes in beneficial ownership of common stock and other equity securities of the
Company, and to provide the Company with a copy of those reports.
To the Company’s knowledge, based solely on a review of copies of such reports furnished to the Company, and written
representations that no reports were required, during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, all Section 16(a) filing requirements
applicable to the Company’s officers, directors, and greater than ten percent beneficial owners were complied with.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATIO N.
Introduction
Our named executive officers, consisting of our principal executive officer and our two most highly compensated
executive officers other than our principal executive officer for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 are:
·
·
·
John C. Hadjipateras, our Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chairman of the Board of Directors;
John C. Lycouris, Chief Executive Officer of Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and a Director on our Board of Directors; and
Theodore B. Young, our Chief Financial Officer.
Mr. Lycouris is employed and compensated by our subsidiary Dorian LPG (USA) LLC but is considered one of our
executive officers because he performs policy making functions for us.
As an emerging growth company, we have opted to comply with the executive compensation rules applicable to “smaller
reporting companies,” as such term is defined under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, which require compensation
disclosure for our principal executive officer and our next two most highly compensated executive officers other than our
principal executive officer (collectively, the “named executive officers”). Also, as an emerging growth company, we are not
required to include, and have not included, a compensation discussion and analysis (CD&A) of our executive compensation
programs in this Amendment.
Summary Compensation Table
The table below sets forth the compensation earned by our named executive officers during the years indicated.
Name and Principal Position
John Hadjipateras
Chief
Executive
Officer
(4)
John Lycouris
(5)
Chief
Executive
Officer,
Dorian
LPG
(USA)
LLC
Theodore B. Young
Chief
Financial
Officer
Fiscal
Year
Ended
March 31,
2019
2018
$
$
2019
2018
2019
2018
$
$
$
$
Salary
Bonus
(1)
Stock
Awards
(2)
All Other
Compensation
(3)
550,000 $
550,000 $
301,500 $
601,500 $
540,892 $
549,000 $
450,000 $
450,000 $
201,500 $
251,500 $
167,200 $
219,600 $
400,000 $
400,000 $
201,500 $
251,500 $
167,200 $
201,300 $
8,250 $
8,100 $
8,250 $
8,100 $
8,250 $
8,100 $
Total
1,400,642
1,708,600
826,950
929,200
776,950
860,900
(1) Represents cash bonuses to each of the named executive officers awarded by the Compensation Committee.
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(2) The amounts set forth next to each award represent the aggregate grant date fair value of awards computed in accordance with FASB ASC
Topic 718. The assumptions used in calculating the grant date fair value reported in these columns are set forth in Note 11 to our consolidated
financial statements included herein.
(3) The amounts set forth represent contributions by the Company to each of the named executive officer’s 401(k) defined contribution plan.
(4) As our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Hadjipateras does not receive any additional compensation for his services as a director.
(5) As the Chief Executive Officer of our subsidiary, Dorian LPG (USA) LLC, Mr. Lycouris does not receive any additional compensation for his
services as a director.
Narrative Disclosure to the Summary Compensation Table
Dorian (Hellas) S.A. (“DHSA”) formerly provided technical, crew, commercial management, insurance and accounting
services to our vessels and had agreements to outsource certain of these services to Eagle Ocean Transport Inc. (“Eagle Ocean
Transport”), which is 100% owned by Mr. John C. Hadjipateras, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.
Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and its subsidiaries entered into an agreement with DHSA, retroactive to July 2014 and
superseding an agreement between Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd. and DHSA, for the provision by Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and its
subsidiaries of certain chartering and marine operation services to DHSA, for which income was earned and included in “Other
income-related parties” totaling $0.2 million, $0.4 million and $0.4 million for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017,
respectively. As of March 31, 2019, $1.2 million was due from DHSA and included in “Due from related parties.” As of March
31, 2018, $0.9 million was due from DHSA and included in “Due from related parties.”
Eagle Ocean Transport incurs office-related costs on behalf of us, for which we reimbursed Eagle Ocean Transport less
than $0.1 million, $0.1 million and $0.4 million for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. Such expenses
are reimbursed based on their actual cost.
None of our members of senior management, including Mr. Hadjipateras, Mr. Lycouris and Mr. Young, are subject to an
employment agreement with us or our subsidiaries.
Equity Compensation
On June 30, 2014, Mr. Hadjipateras, Mr. Lycouris and Mr. Young received 350,000 shares, 185,000 and 90,000 shares
of restricted stock, respectively, vesting in equal installments on the third, fourth and fifth anniversary of the grant date. On June
15, 2016, Mr. Hadjipateras, Mr. Lycouris and Mr. Young received 75,000 shares, 30,000 and 27,500 shares of restricted stock,
respectively, vesting in equal installments on the grant date and the first, second and third anniversary of the grant date. On June
15, 2017, Mr. Hadjipateras, Mr. Lycouris and Mr. Young received 75,000 shares, 30,000 and 27,500 shares of restricted stock,
respectively, vesting in equal installments on the grant date and the first, second and third anniversary of the grant date. On June
15, 2018, Mr. Hadjipateras, Mr. Lycouris and Mr. Young received 64,700 shares, 20,000 shares and 20,000 shares of restricted
stock, respectively, vesting in equal installments on the grant date and the first, second and third anniversary of the grant date. All
restricted shares of a named executive officer will vest (i) if such named executive officer’s employment terminates other than for
Cause (as defined in the Severance and CIC Plan (defined below)—see “—2014 Executive Severance and Change in Control
Severance Plan” below) or on account of death or Disability or (ii) upon a Change of Control (as defined in the Equity Incentive
Plan (defined below) and related restricted stock award agreements) that occurs while such named executive officer is still
employed with us.
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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End
The following table sets forth certain information concerning outstanding equity awards as of March 31, 2019, for each
named executive officer:
Stock Awards
Name
Grant Date
Number of shares or units of stock that
have not vested
John C. Hadjipateras
John C. Lycouris
Theodore B. Young
6/15/2018
6/15/2017
6/15/2016
6/30/2014
6/15/2018
6/15/2017
6/15/2016
6/30/2014
6/15/2018
6/15/2017
6/15/2016
6/30/2014
48,525
37,500
18,750
116,666
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
15,000
15,000
7,500
61,666
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
15,000
13,750
6,875
30,000
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
Market value of shares or units of stock
that have not vested
311,531
240,750
120,375
748,996
(1)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
96,300
96,300
48,150
395,896
96,300
88,275
44,138
192,600
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
Fair market value of our common stock on March 31, 2019. The amount listed in this column represents the product of the closing market
price of the Company’s stock as of March 31, 2019 ($6.42) multiplied by the number of shares of stock subject to the award.
Granted on June 15, 2018 and vested or vests ratably on each of the grant date and first, second and third anniversaries of the date of
grant.
Granted on June 15, 2017 and vested or vests ratably on each of the grant date and first, second and third anniversaries of the date of
grant.
Granted on June 15, 2016 and vested or vests ratably on each of the grant date and first, second and third anniversaries of the date of
grant.
Granted on June 30, 2014 and vested or vests ratably on each of the third, fourth and fifth anniversaries of the date of grant.
Director
Compensation
We pay each non-executive director annual compensation of $100,000 (50% in cash and 50% as an equity award in a
form determined by our Compensation Committee), paid quarterly in arrears. The chairman of the Compensation Committee, the
Audit Committee and the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee each receive additional annual cash compensation of
$15,000. Further, any director serving on a committee of the Board, other than a chairman of a committee, receives additional
annual cash compensation of $10,000 per committee.
Each director is also reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attending meetings of the board of
directors or committees. Each director will be fully indemnified by us for actions associated with being a director to the extent
permitted under Marshall Islands law. Further, none of the members of our board of directors will receive any benefits upon
termination of their directorship positions. Our directors are eligible to receive awards under an equity incentive plan that we
adopted prior to the completion of our initial public offering and which is described below under “—2014 Equity Incentive Plan.”
Our Compensation Committee reviews director compensation annually and makes recommendations to the Board with respect to
compensation and benefits provided to the members of the Board. Our Corporate Governance Guidelines provide that director
compensation should be fair and equitable to enable the Company to attract qualified members to serve on its Board.
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The following table provides certain information concerning the compensation earned by each of our non-employee
directors serving on our Board for the year ended March 31, 2019, for services rendered in all capacities:
Name
Thomas J. Coleman
Ted Kalborg
Øivind Lorentzen
Malcolm McAvity
Christina Tan
____________________
Fees earned or paid in
cash ($)
(1)
Stock Awards ($)
(2)
Total ($)
80,000
72,500
57,500
75,000
70,000
45,412
45,412
45,412
45,412
45,412
125,412
117,912
102,912
120,412
115,412
(1) Represents cash compensation earned for services rendered as a director for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019.
(2) Represents equity compensation for services rendered as a director for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019. The value of each stock award
equals the grant date fair values of $7.64, $7.97, $5.83, and $6.42 per share on June 29, 2018, September 28, 2018, December 31, 2018 and
March 29, 2019, respectively .
2014 Equity Incentive Plan
Our 2014 equity incentive plan (the “2014 Equity Incentive Plan”), which was unanimously adopted by our Board of
Directors in April 2014, was approved by a shareholder vote at the 2015 annual meeting of shareholders. Pursuant to the terms of
the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan, we expect that directors, officers, and employees (including any prospective officer or employee)
of the Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates, and consultants and service providers to (including persons who are employed
by or provide services to any entity that is itself a consultant or service provider to) the Company and its subsidiaries and
affiliates, as well as entities wholly-owned or generally exclusively controlled by such persons, may be eligible to receive stock
appreciation rights, stock awards, restricted stock units and performance compensation awards that the plan administrator
determines are consistent with the purposes of the plan and the interests of the Company. The maximum number of shares of
common stock that may be granted under the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan shall not exceed 2,850,000 in the aggregate. In June
2014, we granted 655,000 shares of restricted stock to certain of our officers. In March 2015, we granted 274,000 shares of
restricted stock to certain of our directors, employees and non-employee consultants, of which 8,506 shares were subsequently
forfeited by a former employee and are again available for issuance. In June 2016, we issued 250,000 shares of restricted stock to
certain of our executive officers and employees, of which 3,054 shares were subsequently forfeited by three former employees
and are again available for issuance. In June 2016, we granted 6,950 shares of stock to certain of our directors. In September
2016, we granted 10,130 shares of stock to certain of our directors. In December 2016, we granted 10,434 shares of stock to
certain of our directors and non-employee consultants. In March 2017, we granted 7,194 shares of stock to certain of our directors
and non-employee consultants. In June 2017, we issued 259,800 shares of restricted stock to certain of our executive officers and
employees, of which 3,018 shares were subsequently forfeited by a former employee and are again available for issuance. In June
2017, we granted 8,664 shares of stock to certain of our directors and non-employee consultants. In September 2017, we granted
10,062 shares of stock to certain of our directors. In December 2017, we granted 9,714 shares of stock to certain of our directors
and non-employee consultants. In March 2018, we granted 9,720 shares of stock to certain of our directors and non-employee
consultants. In June 2018, we issued 200,000 shares of restricted stock to certain of our executive officers and employees, of
which 50,000 restricted shares vested on the grant date. In June 2018, we granted 9,552 shares of stock to certain of our directors
and non-employee consultants. In September 2018, we granted 9,582 shares of stock to certain of our directors and non-employee
consultants. In December 2018, we granted 10,416 shares of stock to certain of our directors and non-employee consultants. In
March 2019, we granted 12,804 shares of stock to certain of our directors and non-employee consultants. As of May 24, 2019,
there were 641,013 shares of restricted stock that were issued and outstanding, but not yet vested. As of that date, there were
1,110,556 shares of common stock remaining available for future grants under the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan.
Upon a “Change in Control” (as defined in the 2014 Equity Inventive Plan) of the Company, all unvested restricted stock
awards granted under the 2014 Equity Inventive Plan and related restricted stock award agreements will become fully vested.
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Retirement Benefits
We provide retirement plan benefits, discussed in this section below, that we believe are customary in our industry. We provide
them to remain competitive in retaining talent and attracting new talent to join us.
401(k)
Savings
Plan
We provide all qualifying full-time employees with the opportunity to participate in our tax-qualified 401(k) savings
plan. The plan allows employees to defer receipt of earned salary, up to tax law limits, on a tax-advantaged basis. Accounts may
be invested in a wide range of mutual funds. Up to tax law limits, we provide a 3% of salary safe harbor contribution for U.S.
employees.
Pension
Benefits
Our Greece-based employees have a statutory required defined benefit pension plan according to provisions of Greek
law 4093/2012 covering all eligible employees.
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
We contribute to retirement accounts for certain United Kingdom and Denmark-based employees based on a percentage
of their annual salaries.
2014 Executive Severance and Change in Control Severance Plan
Except as set forth under “―2014 Equity Incentive Plan” above and as provided under our Executive Severance and
Change in Control Severance Plan (the “Severance and CIC Plan”), none of our members of senior management, including Mr.
Hadjipateras, Mr. Lycouris and Mr. Young, will receive any benefits as a result of change in control.
We adopted our Severance and CIC Plan in June 2014, under which we expect that certain executive officers of the
Company and our subsidiaries and affiliates, may be eligible to receive severance benefits in connection with termination by the
Company without Cause (as defined below) or termination by such officer for Good Reason (as defined below). Mr. Hadjipateras,
Mr. Lycouris and Mr. Young are participants to the Severance and CIC Plan. A dismissed officer may be eligible for additional
severance benefits when dismissed during the period within two years following a change in control of the Company, or in certain
cases, during the six-month period prior to a “Change in Control” (as generally defined under the Equity Incentive Plan with the
addition of any transaction the board determines to be a Change in Control).
In the event of termination without Cause or for Good Reason, officers subject to the Severance and CIC Plan will be
eligible to receive a lump-sum payment equal to two times the sum of such officer’s base salary plus bonus, a pro rata annual
bonus for the year of termination, a cash payment equal to 18 months of COBRA continuation coverage and one year’s
outplacement services (not to exceed $10,000). Should such termination take place within two years following a Change in
Control of the Company, or in certain cases, during the six-month period prior to a Change in Control (the “CIC Termination
Period”), all outstanding equity awards of a terminated officer subject to the Severance and CIC Plan shall vest and the lump-sum
payment to the officer will be increased to 2.99 times the sum of the officer’s base salary plus bonus. The participant will receive
payments and pay the excise tax or the payments will be reduced so that no excise tax applies, whatever puts the participant in a
better after-tax position. For purposes of the Severance and CIC Plan, “Cause” is generally defined to mean: (i) the willful and
continued failure to substantially perform his or her duties, (ii) the willful engaging in illegal conduct or gross misconduct which
is demonstrably and materially injurious to the Company or its affiliates, (iii) engaging in conduct or misconduct that materially
harms the reputation or financial position of the Company, (iv) the participant (x) obstructs or impedes, (y) endeavors to
influence, obstruct or impede or (z) fails to materially cooperate with, an investigation, (v) the participant withholds, removes,
conceals, destroys, alters or by other means falsifies any material which is requested in connection with an investigation, (vi)
conviction of, or the entering of a plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or (vii) being found liable in any SEC or other civil or
criminal securities law action. For purposes of the Severance and CIC Plan, “Good Reason” generally means (A) with respect to
the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, a material diminution in the nature and scope of
the participant’s
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duties, responsibilities or status, (B) a material diminution in current annual base salary or annual performance bonus target
opportunities; or (C) an involuntary relocation to a location more than 25 miles from a participant’s principal place of business,
provided that, during the CIC Termination Period, “Good Reason” shall mean (A) (1) any material change in the duties,
responsibilities or status (including reporting responsibilities); provided, however, that good reason shall not be deemed to occur
upon a change in duties, responsibilities (other than reporting responsibilities) or status that is solely and directly a result of the
Company no longer being a publicly traded entity or (2) a material and adverse change in titles or offices (including, if applicable,
membership on the board); (B) a more than 10% reduction in the participant’s rate of annual base salary or annual performance
bonus or equity incentive compensation target opportunities (including any material and adverse change in the formula for such
targets) as in effect immediately prior to such change in control; (C) the failure to continue in effect any employee benefit plan,
compensation plan, welfare benefit plan or fringe benefit plan in which the participant is participating immediately prior to such
change in control or the taking of any action by the Company, in each case which would materially adversely affect the
participant, unless the participant is permitted to participate in other plans providing the participant with materially equivalent
benefits in the aggregate; (D) the failure of the Company to obtain the assumption of the Company’s obligations under the plan
from any successor; (E) an involuntary relocation of the principal place of business to a location more than 25 miles from the
principal place of business immediately prior to such change in control; or (F) a material breach by the Company of the terms of
an employment agreement.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
During our last fiscal year, Messrs. Coleman, Kalborg and McAvity served on the Compensation Committee. Each of
them is not, nor have any of them ever been, an officer or employee of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. In addition, during
the last fiscal year, no executive officer of the Company served as a member of the board of directors or the compensation
committee of any other entity that has one or more executive officers serving on our Board or our Compensation Committee.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNER S AND MANAGEMENT AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
The following table sets forth certain information known to the Company regarding the beneficial ownership of its
common stock as of May 24, 2019 unless otherwise indicated below by (i) each person, group or entity known by the Company to
be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of its common stock, (ii) each of our directors and director
nominees, (iii) each of our named executive officers and (iv) all of our executive officers and directors as a group. Unless
otherwise stated, the address of each named executive officer and director is c/o Dorian LPG Ltd., c/o Dorian LPG (USA) LLC,
27 Signal Road, Stamford, Connecticut 06902.
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner
5% Shareholders
Common Shares Beneficially Owned
(1)
Percent of Class Beneficially Owned
(2)
(4)
Kensico Capital Management Corp.
BW Group Ltd
Wellington Management Group LLP
SEACOR Holdings Inc.
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP
(6)
(7)
(3)
(5)
Directors and Executive Officers
(8)
(9)
(10)
Thomas J. Coleman
John C. Hadjipateras
John C. Lycouris
Theodore B. Young
Christina Tan
Alexander C. Hadjipateras
Ted Kalborg
Øivind Lorentzen
Malcolm McAvity
(11)
(12)
All directors and executive officers as a
group (9 persons)
(13)
8,014,837
7,826,560
6,333,772
5,200,000
3,177,510
8,034,610
6,016,180
490,513
141,994
84,863
74,817
39,773
38,920
19,773
14,648,332
81
14.5 %
14.2 %
11.5 %
9.4 %
5.8 %
14.6 %
10.9 %
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
26.6 %
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____________________
* The percentage of shares beneficially owned by such director or executive officer does not exceed one percent of the outstanding shares of
common stock.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote on matters on which common shareholders are eligible to vote. Beneficial ownership
described in the table above has been obtained by the Company only from public filings and information provided to the Company by the
listed shareholders for inclusion herein. Beneficial ownership is required to be determined by the shareholder in accordance with the rules
under the Exchange Act and consists of either or both voting or investment power with respect to securities. Except as otherwise indicated by
footnote, and subject to community property laws where applicable, the persons named in the table have reported that they have sole voting
and sole investment power with respect to all shares of common stock shown as beneficially owned by them.
Percentages based on a total of 55,167,708 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting as of May 24,
2019.
According to filings made with the Commission on July 14, 2014 and June 6, 2014, Kensico possesses shared voting and dispositive power
over 8,014,837 shares. According to filings made with the Commission on July 14, 2014 and June 6, 2014, the principal business address of
Kensico is 55 Railroad Avenue, 2nd Floor, Greenwich CT, 06830. Kensico provides investment management services to certain affiliated
funds, including Kensico Partners, L.P., Kensico Associates, L.P., Kensico Offshore Fund Master, Ltd. and Kensico Offshore Fund II Master,
Ltd. (collectively, the “Investment Funds”). As Kensico’s co-presidents, Mr. Coleman and Michael B. Lowenstein may be deemed to be
controlling persons of Kensico. By virtue of these relationships, Messrs. Coleman and Lowenstein may be deemed to beneficially own the
entire number of Dorian shares held by the Investment Funds; however, each disclaims beneficial ownership of any Dorian shares, and
proceeds thereof, except to the extent of his pecuniary interest therein. Kensico may have made additional transactions in our common stock
since its most recent filings with the Commission. Accordingly, the information presented may not reflect all of the shares currently
beneficially owned by Kensico.
According to a filing made with the Commission on October 8, 2018, BW Euroholdings Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BW Group
Ltd. (the “BW Group”), possesses shared voting and dispositive power over 7,826,460 shares and BW LPG Limited, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of BW Group possesses shared voting and dispositive power over 100 shares. According to a filing made with the Commission on
October 8, 2018, the principal registered address of the BW Group is Mapletree Business City, #18-01, 10 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore
117438. The Sohmen Family Foundation (the “Foundation”) holds 93.25% of the BW Group. The BW Group and/or the Foundation may
have, either by way of their subsidiaries or on their own, made additional transactions in our common stock since their most recent filings
with the Commission. Accordingly, the information presented may not reflect all of the shares currently beneficially owned by the BW Group
or the Foundation.
According to a filing made with the Commission on February 12, 2018, Wellington Management Group LLP (“Wellington Management
Group”) possesses shared voting power over 4,488,439 shares and shared dispositive power over 6,333,772 shares. According to the filing
made with the Commission on February 12, 2018, all shares are owned of record by clients of one or more investment advisers directly or
indirectly owned by Wellington Management Group. Those clients have the right to receive, or the power to direct the receipt of, dividends
from, or the proceeds from the sale of, such securities. No such client is known to have such right or power with respect to more than 5% of
this class of shares. According to the filing made with the Commission on February 12, 2018, the principal business address of Wellington
Management Group is c/o Wellington Management Company LLP, 280 Congress Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02210. Wellington
Management Group may have made additional transactions in our common stock since its most recent filing with the Commission.
Accordingly, the information presented may not reflect all of the shares currently beneficially owned by Wellington Management Group.
According to the filing made with the Commission on January 30, 2018, SEACOR Holdings Inc. (“SEACOR”) possesses sole voting and
dispositive power over 5,200,000 shares. According to the filing made with the Commission on January 30, 2018, the principal business
address of SEACOR is 2200 Eller Drive, PO Box 13038, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. SEACOR indirectly holds the shares by way of its
wholly-owned subsidiary, SeaDor Holdings LLC (“SeaDor Holdings”), which directly holds the shares. SEACOR may have, either by way of
its subsidiary or on its own, made additional transactions in our common stock since its most recent filing with the Commission. Accordingly,
the information presented may not reflect all of the shares currently beneficially owned by SEACOR.
According to the filing made with the Commission on February 8, 2019, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP possesses shared voting power over
3,033,993 shares and shared dispositive power over 3,177,510 shares. According to the filing made with the Commission on February 8,
2019, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP furnishes investment advice to four investment companies registered under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, and serves as investment manager or sub-adviser to certain other commingled funds, group trusts and separate accounts (such
investment companies, trusts and accounts, collectively referred to as the “Funds”). In certain cases, subsidiaries of Dimensional Fund
Advisors LP may act as an adviser or sub-adviser to certain Funds. In its role as investment advisor, sub-adviser and/or manager,
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP or its subsidiaries (collectively, “Dimensional”) may possess voting and/or investment power over the
securities that are owned by the Funds, and may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of the securities held by the Funds. However, all shares
are owned by the Funds. The Funds have the right to receive, or the power to direct the receipt of, dividends from, or the proceeds from the
sale of, such securities. To the knowledge of Dimensional, the interest of any one such Fund does not exceed 5% of the class of securities.
According to the filing made with the Commission on February 8, 2019, the principal business address of Dimensional is Building One, 6300
Bee Cave Road, Austin, Texas 78746. Dimensional may have made additional transactions in our common stock since its most recent
filing with the Commission. Accordingly, the information presented may not reflect all of the shares currently beneficially owned by
Dimensional.
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(8)
According to filings made with the Commission, Mr. Coleman beneficially owns 19,773 Dorian common shares. According to filings made
with the Commission, Mr. Coleman serves as co-President of Kensico alongside Mr. Lowenstein. As a controlling person of Kensico, Mr.
Coleman thus may be deemed to also beneficially own the entire number of the Company’s common shares held by the Investment Funds
discussed above. Mr. Coleman disclaims beneficial ownership of the reported Dorian shares held by the Investment Funds, and the proceeds
thereof, except to the extent of any pecuniary interest therein.
(9) Mr. Hadjipateras possesses sole voting power over 1,952,178 shares, shared voting power over 4,064,002 shares, sole dispositive power over
1,952,178 shares and shared dispositive power over 176,080 shares. Specifically, Mr. Hadjipateras may be deemed to beneficially own
(i) 1,952,178 shares over which he has sole voting and dispositive power; (ii) 26,166 shares by virtue of pledges of such shares given under
funding and security agreements with each of Theodore B. Young and Alexander J. Ciaputa, pursuant to which Mr. Hadjipateras may be
deemed to share the power to vote and dispose of such shares; (iii) 125,000 shares through Mr. Hadjipateras’ spouse, 4,250 shares through
Mr. Hadjipateras’ children, and 20,664 through the LMG Trust (Mr. Hadjipateras and his wife are trustees of the LMG Trust and the
beneficiary of the LMG Trust is one of their children), pursuant to which Mr. Hadjipateras may be deemed to share the power to vote and
dispose of such shares; and (iv) 3,887,922 shares by virtue of a revocable proxy granted to Mr. Hadjipateras by each of Mark C. Hadjipateras,
Angeliki C. Hadjipateras, Aikaterini C. Hadjipateras, Konstantinos Markakis, Olympia Kedrou, Chrysanthi Xyla, Scott M. Sambur, as
Trustee of the Kyveli Trust, and George J. Dambassis, pursuant to which Mr. Hadjipateras may be deemed to share the power to vote such
shares. Mr. Hadjipateras disclaims beneficial ownership of the reported Dorian shares, and the proceeds thereof, except to the extent of any
pecuniary interest therein.
(10) Mr. Lycouris beneficially owns 210,485 common shares. Mr. Lycouris may also be deemed to indirectly beneficially own 280,028 common
of our common shares through the Kyveli Trust, of which Mr. Lycouris and other members of his family are beneficiaries. Mr. Lycouris
disclaims all beneficial ownership of the common shares beneficially owned by the Kyveli Trust except to the extent of his pecuniary interest
therein.
(11) According to filings made with the Commission, Mr. Young has pledged 13,083 shares to John C. Hadjipateras as security under a funding
and security agreement.
(12) According to filings made with the Commission, Mr. Kalborg beneficially owns 19,773 Dorian common shares. According to filings made
with the Commission, Christmas Common Investments Ltd., of which Kalborg Trust is the sole shareholder, currently holds 20,000 common
shares (the “Trust Shares”). Mr. Kalborg and other members of his family are the beneficiaries of the Kalborg Trust and Mr. Kalborg may be
deemed to also beneficially own the Trust Shares. Mr. Kalborg disclaims all beneficial ownership of the Trust Shares except to the extent of
his pecuniary interest therein.
(13) To avoid double counting: (i) the 280,028 common shares that may be deemed to be indirectly beneficially owned by Mr. Lycouris through
the Kyveli Trust and Mr. Hadjipateras by virtue of a revocable proxy (see Notes 8 and 9 above) are included only once in the total and (ii) the
13,083 common shares that may be deemed to be beneficially owned by Theodore B. Young and John C. Hadjipateras (see Notes 8 and 10
above) are included only once in the total.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
The following table shows information relating to the number of shares authorized for issuance under our equity compensation
plans as of March 31, 2019.
March 31, 2019
Equity
compensation
plans
Approved by shareholders
Not approved by shareholders
Total
_________________
Number of securities to be
issued upon exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
Weighted average exercise
price of outstanding
options, warrants and
rights
Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation plans
—
—
—
—
—
—
1,110,556
(1)
–
1,110,556
(1)
Represents available shares for future issuance under the 2014 Equity Incentive Plan as of March 31, 2019. See “—2014 Equity Incentive
Plan” above.
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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTION S, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
We describe below transactions and series of similar transactions, since the beginning of our last fiscal year, to which we
were and are a party, in which:
·
·
the amounts involved exceeded or will exceed $120,000; and
any of our directors, executive officers or holders of more than 5% of our common stock, or an affiliate or
immediate family member thereof, had or will have a direct or indirect material interest.
Except as noted otherwise, the Audit Committee or the Board of Directors approved or ratified each arrangement
described below (other than arrangements that were entered into prior to the adoption of the related party transaction policy by the
Board of Directors).
Business Relationships and Related Person Transactions Policy
We have policies and procedures in place regarding referral of related person transactions to our Audit Committee for
consideration and approval. Compensation matters involving any related persons are reviewed and approved by our
Compensation Committee. Our Chief Financial Officer, in consultation with our outside counsel, is primarily responsible for the
development and implementation of processes and controls to obtain information from the directors and executive officers with
respect to related person transactions and for determining, based on the relevant facts and circumstances, whether a related person
has a direct or indirect material interest in the transaction. Under our policy, transactions that (i) involve directors, director
nominees, executive officers, significant shareholders or other “related persons” in which the Company is or will be a participant
and (ii) are of the type that must be disclosed under the Commission’s rules must be referred by the Chief Financial Officer, after
consultation with our outside counsel, to our Audit Committee for the purpose of determining whether such transactions are in the
best interests of the Company. Under our policy, it is the responsibility of the individual directors, director nominees, executive
officers and holders of five percent or more of the Company’s common stock to promptly report to our Chief Financial Officer all
proposed or existing transactions in which the Company and they, or any related person of theirs, are parties or participants. The
Chief Financial Officer (or the Chief Executive Officer, in the event the transaction in question involves the Chief Financial
Officer or a related person of the Chief Financial Officer) is then required to furnish to the chairperson of the Audit Committee
reports relating to any transaction that, in the Chief Financial Officer’s judgment with advice of outside counsel, may require
reporting pursuant to the Commission’s rules or may otherwise be the type of transaction that should be brought to the attention
of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee considers material facts and circumstances concerning the transaction in question,
consults with counsel and other advisors as it deems advisable and makes a determination or recommendation to the Board of
Directors and appropriate officers of the Company with respect to the transaction in question. In its review, the Audit Committee
considers the nature of the related person’s interest in the transaction, the material terms of the transaction, the relative importance
of the transaction to the related person, the relative importance of the transaction to the Company and any other matters deemed
important or relevant. Upon receipt of the Audit Committee’s recommendation, the Board of Directors or officers, excluding in
all such instances the related party, take such action as deemed appropriate and necessary in light of their respective
responsibilities under applicable laws and regulations.
Related Party Transactions
Shareholders
Agreement
Pursuant to the shareholders agreement dated November 26, 2013 (the “Shareholder Agreement”), SeaDor Holdings
(which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEACOR) and Dorian Holdings LLC (which is owned by Astromar LLC, of which Mr.
John C. Hadjipateras, our Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, is a shareholder and director) have the right, subject
to certain terms and conditions, to require us, on up to three separate occasions beginning 180 days following the closing of our
initial public offering, to register under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, our common shares held by them for offer and
sale to the public, including by way of underwritten public offering (provided that each such shareholder shall be entitled to
request one additional demand registration to the extent such shareholder has not been included or did not participate in any
demand registration). In addition, SeaDor Holdings and Dorian Holdings
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LLC may require us to make available shelf registration statements permitting sales of shares into the market from time to time
over an extended period. SeaDor Holdings and Dorian Holdings LLC also have the ability to exercise certain piggyback
registration rights permitting participation in certain registrations of common shares by us. All expenses relating to our
registration will be borne by us. On July 10, 2015, the Commission declared effective our registration statement on Form S-3 that
permits SeaDor Holdings and Dorian Holdings LLC, or their respective donees, pledgees, transferees or other successors in
interest, to offer their shares for resale from time to time pursuant to the Shareholders Agreement.
Registration
Rights
Agreement
We entered into a registration rights agreement dated June 3, 2014 (the “Registration Rights Agreement”) with Kensico
granting Kensico the right, subject to certain terms and conditions, to require us, on up to three separate occasions beginning 180
days following the closing of our initial public offering, to register under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, our common
shares held by Kensico for offer and sale to the public, including by way of an underwritten public offering. In addition, the
registration rights agreement grants Kensico the right to require us to make available shelf registration statements permitting sales
of shares into the market from time to time over an extended period, and to exercise certain piggyback registration rights
permitting participation in certain registrations of common shares by us. All expenses relating to our registration have been and
will be borne by us. On July 10, 2015, the Commission declared effective our registration statement on Form S-3 that permits
Kensico to offer its shares for resale from time to time, pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement.
Management
Agreements
As of July 1, 2014, vessel management services and the associated agreements for our fleet were transferred from DHSA
and are now provided through our wholly owned subsidiaries Dorian LPG (USA) LLC, Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd. and Dorian LPG
Management Corp. Prior to the management transfer, DHSA had agreements with Eagle Ocean, a company 100% owned by Mr.
John C. Hadjipateras, the Chairman of the Board, our President and our Chief Executive Officer , to provide certain of the vessel
management services for our fleet.
In connection with the agreements for the management transfer, Eagle Ocean transferred a certain number of employees
and selected assets to our wholly-owned subsidiaries. Eagle Ocean continues to incur related travel costs for certain transitioned
employees as well as office-related costs, for which we reimbursed Eagle Ocean less than $0.1 million for the fiscal year ended
March 31, 2019.
Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and its subsidiaries entered into an agreement with DHSA, retroactive to July 2014 and
superseding an agreement between Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd. and DHSA, for the provision by Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and its
subsidiaries of certain chartering and marine operation services to DHSA, for which income was earned and included in other
income totaling $0.2 million for the year ended March 31, 2019.
As of March 31, 2019, $1.2 million was due from DHSA.
Arrangements
Involving
Family
Members
In respect of the year ended March 31, 2019, we paid $396,500 in salary and cash bonus to Mr. Alexander C.
Hadjipateras, a son of Mr. John C. Hadjipateras, the Chairman of the Board, our President and our Chief Executive Officer, for
his service as Executive Vice President of Business Development of Dorian LPG (USA) LLC. In the year ended March 31, 2019,
Mr. Alexander C. Hadjipateras was also eligible to participate in all benefit programs generally available to employees, including
supplemental health care benefits for coverage outside of the United States, and his compensation is commensurate with that of
his peers.
In respect of the year ended March 31, 2019, we paid $169,000 in salary and cash bonus to Peter Hadjipateras, a son of
Mr. John C. Hadjipateras, the Chairman of the Board, our President and our Chief Executive Officer, for his service as Corporate
Development Manager. In the year ended March 31, 2019, Mr. Peter Hadjipateras was also eligible to participate in all benefit
programs generally available to employees and his compensation is commensurate with that of his peers.
85
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For further information regarding our transactions with related parties, please see Note 3 to our audited consolidated
financial statements included herein.
Director Independence
The Board of Directors has determined that, as of the date hereof, each of the following members of our Board of
Directors is an “independent director” as defined under the applicable NYSE standards, Commission rules and the Company’s
Corporate Governance Guidelines: Messrs. Thomas J. Coleman, Ted Kalborg, Øivind Lorentzen and Malcolm McAvity, and Ms.
Christina Tan. Therefore, our Board of Directors has satisfied its objective as set forth in the Company’s Corporate Governance
Guidelines as well as NYSE listing standards, requiring that at least a majority of the Board consist of independent directors. As
required under the NYSE listing standards, in making its determinations, our Board of Directors has considered whether any
director has a direct or indirect material relationship with us that could compromise his or her ability to exercise independent
judgment in carrying out his or her responsibilities. In addition, our Board of Directors considered a series of certain specific
transactions, relationships and arrangements expressly enumerated in the NYSE independence definition. Specifically, a member
of our Board of Directors may be considered independent if such member:
·
·
·
·
·
·
has not been employed by the Company within the last three years (other than as interim Chairman of the Board of
Directors or interim Chief Executive Officer);
does not have an immediate family member who is, or has been, employed by the Company as an executive officer
within the last three years;
has not received, and does not have an immediate family member who has received, more than $120,000 in direct
compensation from the Company during any twelve-month period within the last three years, other than for services
as a member of the Board of Directors or compensation for prior service (including pension or other forms of
deferred compensation for prior service, provided such compensation is not contingent in any way on continued
service); provided that, compensation received by a director for former service as an interim Chairman or Chief
Executive Officer or other executive officer need not be considered in determining independence under this test;
provided further that, compensation received by an immediate family member for service as an employee of the
Company (other than an executive officer) need not be considered in determining independence under this test;
(A) is not a current partner or employee of a firm that is the Company’s internal or external auditor; (B) does not
have an immediate family member who is a current partner of a firm that is the Company’s internal or external
auditor; (C) does not have an immediate family member who is a current employee of a firm that is the Company’s
internal or external auditor and personally works on the Company’s audit; and (D) is not, and has not been within
the last three years, and does not have an immediate family member who is, or has been within the last three years, a
partner or employee of a firm that is the Company’s internal or external auditor and personally worked on
Company’s audit within such time;
is not, and has not been within the last three years, and does not have an immediate family member who is, or has
been within the last three years, employed as an executive officer of a public company where any of the Company’s
present executive officers at the same time serves or served as a member of such public company’s compensation
committee; and
is not, and has not been within the last three years, an employee of a significant customer or supplier of the
Company, including any company that has made payments to, or received payments from, the Company for
property or services in an amount which, in any of the last three fiscal years, exceeds the greater of $1 million, or
2% of such other company’s consolidated gross revenues, and does not have an immediate family member who is,
or has been within the last three years, an executive officer of such a significant customer or supplier; provided that
contributions to not- for-profit organizations shall not be considered payments for purposes of this test.
After careful review of the categorical tests enumerated under the NYSE independence definition, the individual
circumstances of each director with regard to each director’s business and personal activities and relationships as they may
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relate to us and our management, the Board has concluded that each of the aforementioned directors has no relationship with the
Company that would interfere with such director’s exercise of independent judgment in carrying out his responsibilities as a
director of the Company.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES .
The following table presents fees for professional services rendered by Deloitte Certified Public Accountants S.A.
(“Deloitte”), our independent registered public accounting firm, for the years ended March 31, 2019 and 2018. Deloitte did not
bill us for other services during those periods.
(1)
Audit fees
All other fees
Total
(2)
2019
2018
$
$
420,376
3,828
424,204
$
$
407,859
-
407,859
_____________________
(1) Audit fees consist of aggregate fees for professional services, including out-of-pocket expenses, provided in connection with the audits of our
consolidated financial statements, reviews of interim financial statements included in filings with the Commission, including services
performed in connection with our registration statements on Form S-3 filed with the Commission in June 2015 and December 2015, services
performed in connection with our prospectus supplement filed with the Commission in August 2017 pursuant to rule 424(b)(5), and other audit
services required for SEC or other regulatory filings and related comfort letters, consents and assistance with and review of documents filed
with the Commission.
(2) All other fees consist of a subscription for accounting research software.
Audit
Committee
Pre-Approval
Policies
and
Procedures
The Audit Committee charter sets forth our policy regarding retention of the independent auditors, giving the Audit
Committee responsibility for the appointment, replacement, compensation, evaluation and oversight of the work of the
independent auditors. As part of this responsibility, our Audit Committee pre-approves the audit and non-audit services performed
by our independent auditors in order to assure that they do not impair the auditor’s independence from the Company. The Audit
Committee has adopted a policy which sets forth the procedures and the conditions pursuant to which services proposed to be
performed by the independent auditors may be pre-approved.
There were no non-audit services provided by our independent registered public accounting firm during the fiscal year
ended March 31, 2019.
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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE S.
PART I V
1.
Financial Statements
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2019 and 2018
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
2.
Financial Statement Schedules
All schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable, not required or the information is included elsewhere in the Financial
Statements or Notes thereto.
3.
Exhibits
See accompanying Exhibit Index included after the signature page of this Report for a list of exhibits filed or furnished with or
incorporated by reference in this annual report.
88
Table of Contents
Exhibit Number
3.1
3.2
3.3
4.1
10.1*
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8*
10.9
EXHIBIT INDEX
Articles of Incorporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Registration
Statement on Form F-1 (Registration Number 333-194434), filed with the Commission on March 7,
2014.
Description
Bylaws, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form F-1
(Registration Number 333- 194434), filed with the Commission on March 7, 2014.
Amendment to Articles of Incorporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Company's
Registration Statement on Form F-1/A (Registration Number 333-194434), filed with the Commission
on April 28, 2014.
Form of Common Share Certificate, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's
Registration Statement on Form F-1 (Registration Number 333-194434), filed with the Commission on
March 7, 2014.
Equity Incentive Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Registration
Statement on Form F-1/A (Registration Number 333-194434), filed with the Commission on April 28,
2014.
Shareholders Agreement between Dorian LPG Ltd., Scorpio Tankers Inc., SeaDor Holdings LLC and
Dorian Holdings LLC, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Registration
Statement on Form F-1/A (Registration Number 333-194434), filed with the Commission on March 31,
2014.
Registration Rights Agreement by and between Dorian LPG Ltd. and Kensico Capital Management
Corporation, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K
filed with the Commission on May 31, 2016.
Form of Vessel Management Agreement with Dorian LPG Management Corp., incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.21 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Commission on
July 30, 2014.
Form of General Agency Agreement with Dorian LPG Management Corp., incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.22 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Commission on July 30,
2014.
Administrative, Advisory and Support Services Agreement between Dorian LPG Ltd. and Dorian LPG
(USA) LLC, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.24 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F
filed with the Commission on July 30, 2014.
$758 million Facility Agreement, dated March 23, 2015, between by and among Dorian LPG Finance
LLC, as borrower, the Company, as facility guarantor, certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of the
Company as upstream guarantors, ABN Amro Capital USA LLC, Citibank N.A., London Branch, ING
Bank N.V., London Branch, and DVB Bank SE, as bookrunners, and the lenders party to the agreement,
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the
Commission on June 4, 2015.
2014 Executive Severance and Change in Control Severance Plan, incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.11 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Commission on May 31, 2016.
Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s
Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on June 22, 2016.
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Table of Contents
10.10
10.11
10.12
21.1
23.1
23.2
31.1
31.2
32.1 †
Amendment No. 1 dated June 15, 2015 to the facility agreement originally dated March 23, 2015 by and
among Dorian LPG Finance LLC, as borrower, the Company, as facility guarantor, certain wholly-
owned subsidiaries of the Company as upstream guarantors, ABN Amro Capital USA LLC, Citibank
N.A., London Branch, ING Bank N.V., London Branch, and DVB Bank SE, as bookrunners, and the
lenders party to the agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company’s Annual
Report on Form 10-K filed with the Commission on June 14, 2017.
Side Letter dated February 1, 2016 to the facility agreement originally dated March 23, 2015 by and
among Dorian LPG Finance LLC, as borrower, the Company, as facility guarantor, certain wholly-
owned subsidiaries of the Company as upstream guarantors, ABN Amro Capital USA LLC, Citibank
N.A., London Branch, ING Bank N.V., London Branch, and DVB Bank SE, as bookrunners, and the
lenders party to the agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company’s Annual
Report on Form 10-K filed with the Commission on June 14, 2017.
Amendment No. 2 dated May 31, 2017 to the facility agreement originally dated March 23, 2015, as
amended, by and among Dorian LPG Finance LLC, as borrower, the Company, as facility guarantor,
certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company as upstream guarantors, ABN Amro Capital USA
LLC, Citibank N.A., London Branch, ING Bank N.V., London Branch, and DVB Bank SE, as
bookrunners, and the lenders party to the agreement, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the
Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on June 1, 2017.
List of Subsidiaries.
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
Consent of Seward & Kissel LLP.
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as
adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as
adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certifications of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2 †
Certifications of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS
XBRL Document.
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema.
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Calculation Linkbase.
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Definition Linkbase.
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Label Linkbase.
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Presentation Linkbase.
† This certification is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act or otherwise subject to the
liability of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the Exchange
Act.
* Indicates management contract or compensatory plan.
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Table of Contents
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
Date: May 29, 2019
SIGNATURES
Dorian LPG Ltd.
(Registrant)
/s/ John C. Hadjipateras
John C. Hadjipateras
President and Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following
persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature
Capacity
/s/ John C. Hadjipateras
John C. Hadjipateras
/s/ Theodore B. Young
Theodore B. Young
/s/ John C. Lycouris
John C. Lycouris
/s/ Thomas J. Coleman
Thomas J. Coleman
/s/ Ted Kalborg
Ted Kalborg
/s/ Øivind Lorentzen
Øivind Lorentzen
/s/ Malcolm McAvity
Malcolm McAvity
/s/ Christina Tan
Christina Tan
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
(Principal Executive Officer)
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
Director
91
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DORIAN LPG LTD.
INDEX TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2019 and 2018
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
F-1
F-2
F-3
F-4
F-5
F-6
Table of Contents
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIR M
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Dorian LPG Ltd.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Dorian LPG Ltd. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of
March 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the
three years in the period ended March 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In
our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of March 31,
2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 2019,
in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in
accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the
audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error
or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial
reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for
the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly,
we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to
error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis,
evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting
principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial
statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ Deloitte Certified Public Accountants S.A.
Athens, Greece
May 29, 2019
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2013.
F-1
Table of Contents
Dorian LPG Ltd.
Consolidated Balance Sheet s
(Expressed in United States Dollars, except for number of shares)
As of
March 31, 2019
As of
March 31, 2018
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade receivables, net and accrued revenues
Due from related parties
Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Total current assets
Fixed assets
Vessels, net
Other fixed assets, net
Total fixed assets
Other non-current assets
Deferred charges, net
Derivative instruments
Due from related parties—non-current
Restricted cash—non-current
Other non-current assets
Total assets
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Current liabilities
Trade accounts payable
Accrued expenses
Due to related parties
Deferred income
Current portion of long-term debt
Total current liabilities
Long-term liabilities
Long-term debt—net of current portion and deferred financing fees
Other long-term liabilities
Total long-term liabilities
Total liabilities
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders’ equity
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none issued nor outstanding
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 450,000,000 shares authorized, 58,882,515 and 58,640,161 shares
issued, 55,167,708 and 55,090,165 shares outstanding (net of treasury stock), as of March 31, 2019
and March 31, 2018, respectively
Additional paid-in-capital
Treasury stock, at cost; 3,714,807 and 3,549,996 shares as of March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018,
respectively
Retained earnings
Total shareholders’ equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
30,838,684
1,384,118
44,455,643
2,111,637
3,798,987
82,589,069
1,478,520,314
160,283
1,478,680,597
2,000,794
6,448,498
19,800,000
35,633,962
217,097
1,625,370,017
7,212,580
3,436,116
489,644
4,258,683
63,968,414
79,365,437
632,122,372
1,199,650
633,322,022
712,687,459
103,505,676
336,162
26,880,720
2,012,907
2,471,415
135,206,880
1,539,111,833
203,678
1,539,315,511
1,574,522
14,264,899
19,800,000
25,862,704
85,640
1,736,110,156
6,329,193
4,702,808
345,515
5,564,557
65,067,569
82,009,642
694,035,583
651,569
694,687,152
776,696,794
—
—
588,826
863,583,692
(36,484,561)
84,994,601
912,682,558
1,625,370,017
$
586,402
858,109,882
(35,223,428)
135,940,506
959,413,362
1,736,110,156
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-2
Table of Contents
Dorian LPG Ltd.
Consolidated Statements of Operation s
(Expressed in United States Dollars, except for number of shares)
Revenues
Net pool revenues—related party
Time charter revenues
Voyage charter revenues
Other revenues, net
Total revenues
Expenses
Voyage expenses
Charter hire expenses
Vessel operating expenses
Depreciation and amortization
General and administrative expenses
Professional and legal fees related to the BW Proposal
Total expenses
Other income—related parties
Operating income/(loss)
Other income/(expenses)
Interest and finance costs
Interest income
Unrealized gain/(loss) on derivatives
Realized gain/(loss) on derivatives
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
Other loss, net
Total other income/(expenses), net
Net loss
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic and diluted
March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 March 31, 2017
Year ended
$
120,015,771 $
37,726,214
—
290,500
158,032,485
106,958,576 $
50,176,166
2,068,491
131,527
159,334,760
1,697,883
237,525
66,880,568
65,201,151
24,434,246
10,022,747
168,474,120
2,479,599
(7,962,036)
2,213,773
—
64,312,644
65,329,951
26,186,332
—
158,042,700
2,549,325
3,841,385
(40,649,231)
1,755,259
(7,816,401)
3,788,123
—
(61,619)
(42,983,869)
(50,945,905) $
(35,658,045)
440,059
8,421,531
(1,328,886)
4,117,364
(234,094)
(24,242,071)
(20,400,686) $
$
115,753,153
49,474,510
1,296,952
922,556
167,447,171
2,965,978
—
66,108,062
65,057,487
21,732,864
—
155,864,391
2,410,542
13,993,322
(28,971,942)
137,556
27,491,333
(13,797,478)
—
(294,606)
(15,435,137)
(1,441,815)
54,513,118
54,039,886
54,079,139
Loss per common share—basic and diluted
$
(0.93) $
(0.38) $
(0.03)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-3
Table of Contents
Balance, April 1, 2016
Net loss for the period
Restricted share award issuances
Stock-based compensation
Purchase of treasury stock
Balance, March 31, 2017
Net loss for the period
Restricted share award issuances
Stock-based compensation
Purchase of treasury stock
Balance, March 31, 2018
Net loss for the period
Restricted share award issuances
Stock-based compensation
Purchase of treasury stock
Balance, March 31, 2019
Dorian LPG Ltd.
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equit y
(Expressed in United States Dollars, except for number of shares)
Number of
common
shares
58,057,493
—
284,708
—
—
58,342,201
—
297,960
—
—
58,640,161
—
242,354
—
—
58,882,515
$
$
Common
stock
580,575
—
2,847
—
—
583,422
—
2,980
—
—
586,402
—
2,424
—
—
588,826
$
$
Treasury
stock
(20,943,816)
—
—
—
(12,953,453)
(33,897,269)
—
—
—
(1,326,159)
(35,223,428)
—
—
—
(1,261,133)
(36,484,561)
Additional
paid-in
capital
848,179,471
—
(2,847)
4,797,749
—
852,974,373
—
(2,980)
5,138,489
—
$
858,109,882 $
—
(2,424)
5,476,234
—
$
863,583,692 $
Retained
Earnings
157,783,007
(1,441,815)
—
—
—
156,341,192
(20,400,686)
—
—
—
135,940,506 $
(50,945,905)
—
—
—
84,994,601 $
Total
985,599,237
(1,441,815)
—
4,797,749
(12,953,453)
976,001,718
(20,400,686)
—
5,138,489
(1,326,159)
959,413,362
(50,945,905)
—
5,476,234
(1,261,133)
912,682,558
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-4
Table of Contents
Dorian LPG Ltd.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow s
(Expressed in United States Dollars)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating
activities:
Depreciation and amortization
Amortization of financing costs
Unrealized (gain)/loss on derivatives
Stock-based compensation expense
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
Unrealized foreign currency (gain)/loss, net
Other non-cash items, net
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Trade receivables, net and accrued revenue
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Due from related parties
Inventories
Other non-current assets
Trade accounts payable
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Due to related parties
Payments for drydocking costs
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Vessel-related capital expenditures
Purchases of investment securities
Payments to acquire other fixed assets
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt borrowings
Repayment of long-term debt borrowings
Purchase of treasury stock
Financing costs paid
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities
Effects of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at the beginning of the period
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at the end of the period
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for interest
Financing costs included in liabilities
March 31, 2019
Year ended
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
$
(50,945,905)
$
(20,400,686)
$
(1,441,815)
65,201,151
3,136,051
7,816,401
5,476,234
—
303,835
(48,182)
(1,047,956)
(537,549)
(17,574,923)
(98,730)
(131,457)
793,925
(2,999,444)
144,129
(604,147)
8,883,433
(3,972,815)
(499,690)
(47,799)
(4,520,304)
65,137,500
(130,205,069)
(1,310,064)
(628,144)
(67,005,777)
(253,086)
(62,895,734)
129,368,380
66,472,646
36,906,567
595,138
$
$
$
$
$
$
65,329,951
7,506,509
(8,421,531)
5,138,489
(4,117,364)
(63,761)
144,545
(325,132)
(579,981)
15,576,280
567,835
(10,171)
(561,808)
(2,406,945)
334,353
(461,480)
57,249,103
(297,534)
—
(139,503)
(437,037)
261,000,000
(251,994,382)
(1,220,535)
(3,113,425)
4,671,658
(8,042)
61,475,682
67,892,698
129,368,380
27,958,102
142,434
$
$
$
65,057,487
3,709,421
(27,491,333)
4,385,911
—
222,281
305,774
96,287
343,902
9,847,359
(292,669)
19,802
743,993
(1,172,349)
(697,048)
(1,533,235)
52,103,768
(1,911,182)
—
(8,483)
(1,919,665)
—
(66,265,644)
(12,953,453)
(99,785)
(79,318,882)
(197,274)
(29,332,053)
97,224,751
67,892,698
24,537,376
—
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-5
Table of Contents
Dorian LPG Ltd.
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Expressed in United States Dollars)
1. Basis of Presentation and General Information
Dorian LPG Ltd. (“Dorian”) was incorporated on July 1, 2013 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, is
headquartered in the United States and is engaged in the transportation of liquefied petroleum gas (“LPG”) worldwide through the
ownership and operation of LPG tankers. Dorian LPG Ltd. and its subsidiaries (together “we,” “us,” “our,” or the “Company”)
are focused on owning and operating very large gas carriers (“VLGCs”), each with a cargo carrying capacity of greater than
80,000 cbm. As of March 31, 2019, our fleet consists of twenty-three VLGCs, including nineteen fuel-efficient 84,000 cbm ECO-
design VLGCs (“ECO VLGCs”), three 82,000 cbm VLGCs, and one time chartered-in VLGC. Two of our ECO VLGCs are fitted
with exhaust gas cleaning systems (commonly referred to as “scrubbers”) to reduce sulfur emissions. We have entered into
contracts for an additional ten of our VLGCs to be fitted with scrubbers.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted
in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and include the accounts of Dorian LPG Ltd. and its subsidiaries.
On April 1, 2015, Dorian and Phoenix Tankers Pte. Ltd. (“Phoenix”) began operations of Helios LPG Pool LLC (the
“Helios Pool”), which entered into pool participation agreements for the purpose of establishing and operating, as charterer, under
variable rate time charters to be entered into with owners or disponent owners of VLGCs, a commercial pool of VLGCs whereby
revenues and expenses are shared. See Note 3 below for further description of the Helios Pool relationship.
Our subsidiaries, which are all wholly-owned and all are incorporated in Republic of the Marshall Islands (unless
otherwise indicated below), as of March 31, 2019 are listed below.
Vessel Owning Subsidiaries
Subsidiary
CMNL LPG Transport LLC
CJNP LPG Transport LLC
CNML LPG Transport LLC
Comet LPG Transport LLC
Corsair LPG Transport LLC
Corvette LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Shanghai LPG Transport LLC
Concorde LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Houston LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Sao Paulo LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Ulsan LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Amsterdam LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Dubai LPG Transport LLC
Constellation LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Monaco LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Barcelona LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Geneva LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Cape Town LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Tokyo LPG Transport LLC
Commander LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Explorer LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Exporter LPG Transport LLC
Type of
vessel
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
VLGC
F-6
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
Vessel’s name
Captain
Markos
NL
Captain
John
NP
Captain
Nicholas
ML
Comet
Corsair
Corvette
Cougar
Concorde
Cobra
Continental
Constitution
Commodore
Cresques
Constellation
Cheyenne
Clermont
Cratis
Chaparral
Copernicus
Commander
Challenger
Caravelle
Built
2006
2007
2008
2014
2014
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2015
2016
CBM
(1)
82,000
82,000
82,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
84,000
Table of Contents
Management Subsidiaries
Subsidiary
Dorian LPG Management Corp.
Dorian LPG (USA) LLC (incorporated in USA)
Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd. (incorporated in UK)
Dorian LPG Finance LLC
Occident River Trading Limited (incorporated in UK)
Dorian LPG (DK) ApS (incorporated in Denmark)
(1) CBM: Cubic meters, a standard measure for LPG tanker capacity
(2) Operated pursuant to a bareboat charter agreement. Refer to Notes 9 below for further information
Customers
For the year ended March 31, 2019, the Helios Pool and one other individual charterer accounted for 76% and 14% of our
total revenues, respectively. For the year ended March 31, 2018, the Helios Pool and two other individual charterers represented
67%, 13% and 11% of our total revenues, respectively. For the year ended March 31, 2017, the Helios Pool and two other
individual charterers accounted for 69%, 13% and 10% of our total revenues, respectively.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
(a) Principles of consolidation: The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company
and its wholly‑owned subsidiaries. Income and expenses of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the period are
included in the consolidated statements of operations from the effective date of acquisition and up to the effective date of
disposal, as appropriate. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
(b) Use of estimates: The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP 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 revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
(c) Other comprehensive income/(loss): We follow the accounting guidance relating to comprehensive income, which
requires separate presentation of certain transactions that are recorded directly as components of shareholders’ equity.
We have no other comprehensive income/(loss) items and, accordingly, comprehensive income/(loss) equals net
income/(loss) for the periods presented and thus we have not presented this in the consolidated statement of operations
or in a separate statement.
(d) Foreign currency translation: Our functional currency is the U.S. Dollar. Foreign currency transactions are measured
and recorded in the functional currency using the exchange rate in effect at the date of the transaction. As of balance
sheet date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are
adjusted to reflect the exchange rate at the balance sheet date and any gains or losses are included in the statement of
operations. For the periods presented, we had no foreign currency derivative instruments.
(e) Cash and cash equivalents: We consider highly liquid investments such as time deposits and certificates of deposit with
an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
(f) Trade receivables, net and accrued revenues: Trade receivables, net and accrued revenues, reflect receivables from
vessel charters, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. At each balance sheet date, all potentially uncollectible
accounts are assessed individually for purposes of determining the appropriate provision for doubtful accounts.
Provision for doubtful accounts for the periods presented was zero.
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(g) Due from related parties: Due from related parties reflect receivables from the Helios Pool and other related parties.
Distributions of earnings due from the Helios Pool are classified as current and working capital contributed to the Helios
Pool is classified as non-current.
(h) Inventories: Inventories consist of bunkers on board the vessels when vessels are unemployed or are operating under
voyage charters and lubricants and stores on board the vessels. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost
is determined by the first in, first out method.
(i) Vessels, net: Vessels, net are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation and impairment charges. The costs of the
vessels acquired as part of a business acquisition are recorded at their fair value on the date of acquisition. The cost of
vessels purchased consists of the contract price, less discounts, plus any direct expenses incurred upon acquisition,
including improvements, commission paid, delivery expenses and other expenditures to prepare the vessel for her initial
voyage. The initial purchase of LPG coolant for the refrigeration of cargo is also capitalized. Allocated interest costs
incurred during construction are capitalized. Subsequent expenditures for conversions and major improvements are also
capitalized when they appreciably extend the life, increase the earning capacity or improve the efficiency or safety of the
vessels. Repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.
(j) Impairment of long‑‑lived assets: We review our vessels “held and used” for impairment whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. When the estimate of future
undiscounted cash flows, excluding interest charges, expected to be generated by the use of the asset is less than its
carrying amount, the asset is evaluated for an impairment loss. Measurement of the impairment loss is based on the fair
value of the asset.
(k) Vessel depreciation: Depreciation is computed using the straight ‑line method over the estimated useful life of the
vessels, after considering the estimated salvage value. Each vessel’s salvage value is equal to the product of its
lightweight tonnage and estimated scrap rate. Management estimates the useful life of its vessels to be 25 years from the
date of initial delivery from the shipyard. Second hand vessels are depreciated from the date of their acquisition through
their remaining estimated useful life.
(l) Drydocking and special survey costs: Drydocking and special survey costs are accounted under the deferral method
whereby the actual costs incurred are deferred and are amortized on a straight‑line basis over the period through the date
the next survey is scheduled to become due. The classification societies provide guidelines applicable to LPG vessels
relating to extended intervals for drydocking. Generally, we are required to drydock each of our vessels every five years
until it reaches 15 years of age unless an extension of the drydocking to seven and one-half years is requested and
granted by the classification society and the vessel is not older than 20 years of age. Costs deferred are limited to actual
costs incurred at the yard and parts used in the drydocking or special survey. Costs deferred include expenditures
incurred relating to shipyard costs, hull preparation and painting, inspection of hull structure and mechanical
components, steelworks, machinery works, and electrical works. If a survey is performed prior to the scheduled date, the
remaining unamortized balances are immediately written off. Unamortized balances of vessels that are sold are
written‑off and included in the calculation of the resulting gain or loss in the period of the vessel’s sale. The
amortization charge is presented within Depreciation and amortization in the consolidated statement of operations.
(m) Financing costs: Financing costs incurred for obtaining new loans and credit facilities are deferred and amortized to
interest expense over the respective term of the loan or credit facility using the effective interest rate method. Any
unamortized balance of costs relating to loans repaid or refinanced is expensed in the period the repayment or
refinancing is made, subject to the accounting guidance regarding Debt—Modifications and Extinguishments. Any
unamortized balance of costs related to credit facilities repaid is expensed in the period. Any unamortized balance of
costs relating to credit facilities refinanced are deferred and amortized over the term of the respective credit facility in
the period the refinancing occurs, subject to the provisions of the accounting guidance relating to Debt—Modifications
and Extinguishments. The unamortized financing costs are reflected as a reduction of Long-term debt—net of current
portion and deferred financing fees in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
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(n) Restricted cash: Restricted cash represents minimum liquidity to be maintained with certain banks under our borrowing
arrangements and pledged cash deposits. The restricted cash is classified as non-current in the event that its obligation is
not expected to be terminated within the next twelve months as they are long-term in nature.
(o) Revenues and expenses: Revenue is recognized when an agreement exists, the vessel is made available to the charterer
or services are provided, the charter hire is determinable and collection of the related revenue is reasonably assured.
(p) Net pool revenues: As from April 1, 2015, we began operation of a pool. Net pool revenues—related party for each
vessel in the pool is determined in accordance with the profit-sharing terms specified within the pool agreement. In
particular, the pool manager calculates the net pool revenues using gross revenues less voyage expenses of all the pool
vessels and less the general and administrative expenses of the pool and distributes the net pool revenues as time charter
hire to participants based on:
·
pool points (vessel attributes such as cargo carrying capacity, fuel consumption, and speed are taken into
consideration); and
·
number of days the vessel participated in the pool in the period.
We recognize net pool revenues—related party on a monthly basis, when the vessel has participated in the pool during
the period and the amount of net pool revenues for the month can be estimated reliably.
(q) Time charter revenues: Time charter revenues are recorded ratably over the term of the charter as service is provided.
Time charter revenues received in advance of the provision of charter service are recorded as deferred income and
recognized when the charter service is rendered. Deferred income or accrued revenue also may result from straight‑line
revenue recognition in respect of charter agreements that provide for varying charter rates. Deferred income and accrued
revenue amounts that will be recognized within the next twelve months are presented as current, with amounts to be
recognized thereafter presented as non‑current. Revenues earned through the profit-sharing arrangements in the time
charters represent contingent rental revenues that are recognized when earned and amounts are reasonably assured based
on estimates provided by the charterer.
(r) Voyage charter revenues: Under a voyage charter, the revenues are recognized on a pro‑rata basis over the duration of
the voyage determined on a load-to-discharge port basis. In the event a vessel is acquired or sold while a voyage is in
progress, the revenue recognized is based on an allocation formula agreed between the buyer and the seller. Demurrage
income represents payments by the charterer to the vessel owner when loading or discharging time exceeds the
stipulated time in the voyage charter and is recognized when earned and collection is reasonably assured. Despatch
expense represents payments by us to the charterer when loading or discharging time is less than the stipulated time in
the voyage charter and is recognized as incurred. Voyage charter revenue relating to voyages in progress as of the
balance sheet date are accrued and presented in Trade receivables and accrued revenue in the accompanying
consolidated balance sheet.
(s) Commissions: Charter hire commissions to brokers or managers, if any, are deferred and amortized over the related
charter period and are included in Voyage expenses.
(t) Charter hire expenses: Charter hire expenses in relation to vessels that we may occasionally charter in from third parties
are recorded ratably over the term of the charter as service is provided. Charter hire expenses paid in advance of the
provision of charter service are recorded as a current asset and recognized when the charter service is rendered. Deferred
expenses also may result from straight-line recognition in respect of charter agreements that provide for varying charter
rates. Deferred expense amounts that will be recognized within the next twelve months are presented as current, with
amounts to be recognized thereafter presented as noncurrent.
(u) Vessel operating expenses: Vessel operating expenses are accounted for as incurred on the accrual basis. Vessel
operating expenses include crew wages and related costs, the cost of insurance, expenses relating to repairs
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and maintenance, the cost of spares and consumable stores and other miscellaneous expenses.
(v) Repairs and maintenance: All repair and maintenance expenses, including underwater inspection costs are expensed in
the period incurred. Such costs are included in Vessel operating expenses.
(w) Stock-based compensation : Stock-based payments to employees and directors are determined based on their grant
date fair values and are amortized against income over the vesting period. The fair value is considered to be the closing
price recorded on the grant date. We account for restricted stock award forfeitures upon occurrence.
(x) Stock repurchases : We record the repurchase of our shares of common stock at cost based on the settlement date of the
transaction. These shares are classified as treasury stock, which is a reduction to shareholders’ equity. Treasury shares
are included in authorized and issued shares, but excluded from outstanding shares.
(y) Segment reporting: Each of our vessels serve the same type of customer, have similar operations and maintenance
requirements, operate in the same regulatory environment, and are subject to similar economic characteristics. Based on
this, we have determined that it operates in one reportable segment, the international transportation of liquid petroleum
gas with its fleet of vessels. Furthermore, when we charter a vessel to a charterer, the charterer is free to trade the vessel
worldwide and, as a result, the disclosure of geographic information is impracticable.
(z) Derivative instruments: All derivatives are stated at their fair value, as either a derivative asset or a liability. The fair
value of the interest rate derivatives is based on a discounted cash flow analysis and their fair value changes are
recognized in current period earnings. When the derivatives do qualify for hedge accounting, depending upon the nature
of the hedge, changes in fair value of the derivatives are either recognized in current period earnings or in other
comprehensive income/(loss) (effective portion) until the hedged item is recognized in the consolidated statements of
operations. For the periods presented, no derivatives were accounted for as accounting hedges.
(aa) Fair value of financial instruments: In accordance with the requirements of accounting guidance relating to Fair Value
Measurements, the Company classifies and discloses its assets and liabilities carried at fair value in one of the following
three categories:
Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.
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(bb) Recent accounting pronouncements:
Accounting Pronouncements Adopted During the Year Ended March 31, 2019
In November 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued accounting guidance to require that
a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts
generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. The pronouncement is effective for fiscal years
beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years and are applied using a
retrospective transition method to each period presented. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash
equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets that sum to the total of the
same amounts shown in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows:
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash—non-current
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
$
$
30,838,684
35,633,962
66,472,646
$
$
103,505,676
25,862,704
129,368,380
$
$
17,018,552
50,874,146
67,892,698
$
$
46,411,962
50,812,789
97,224,751
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
March 31, 2016
In August 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance addressing specific cash flow statement issues with the objective
of reducing the existing diversity in practice. The pronouncement is effective for fiscal years beginning after December
15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The implementation of this guidance did not have a material
effect on our condensed consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB amended its accounting guidance for revenue recognition. The fundamental principles of the
new guidance are that companies should recognize revenue in a manner that reflects the timing of the transfer of services
to customers and consideration that a company expects to receive for the services provided. The amended guidance
introduces a five-step process to achieve the fundamental principles and, in doing so, more judgment and estimates may
be required within the revenue recognition process than are required under existing U.S. GAAP. It also provides further
guidance on applying collectability criterion to assess whether a contract is valid and represents a substantive transaction
on the basis of whether a customer has the ability and intention to pay the promised consideration. The amended
guidance requires additional disclosures necessary for the financial statement users to understand the nature, amount,
timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. In August 2015, the FASB
voted to defer the effective date by one year for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2017 and interim
periods within that reporting period and permit early adoption of the standard, but not before the beginning of 2017. The
amended guidance shall be applied either retrospectively to each period presented or as a cumulative effect adjustment
as of the date of adoption. Under the amended guidance, voyage charter revenues are recognized based on load-to-
discharge basis as compared to the previously used discharge-to-discharge basis, provided an agreed non-cancellable
charter between the Company and the charterer is in existence, the charter rate is fixed and determinable, and
collectability is reasonably assured. Additionally, voyage expenses related to voyage charters, including bunkers and
port expenses, are deferred until load port and expensed on a load-to-discharge basis under the amended guidance. There
are no modifications under the amended guidance for our method of recognizing net pool revenues—related party and
time charter revenues. We adopted the amended guidance beginning April 1, 2018. The adoption of the amended
guidance did not have any material impact on our consolidated financial statements for the year ended March 31, 2019
or for prior periods, given our revenues were primarily generated by pool and time charter arrangements and there were
no voyage charter arrangements in progress as of March 31, 2019 or 2018. The amended guidance may impact the
timing with which voyage charter revenues will be recognized in future periods.
Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
In February 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance to update the requirements of financial accounting and
reporting for lessees and lessors. The updated guidance, for lease terms of more than 12 months, will require a dual
approach for lessee accounting under which a lessee would account for leases as finance leases or operating leases. Both
finance leases and operating leases will result in the lessee recognizing a right-of-use asset and a corresponding lease
liability. For finance leases, the lessee would recognize interest expense and amortization of
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the right-of-use asset, and for operating leases, the lessee would recognize a straight-line total lease expense. Lessor
accounting remains largely unchanged from current U.S. GAAP. The new standard requires a modified retrospective
transition approach for all leases existing at, or entered into after, the date of initial application, with an option to use
certain transition relief. In July 2018, the FASB issued amended guidance to provide entities with relief from the cost of
implementing certain aspects of the new leasing guidance. Entities may elect not to recast comparative periods presented
when transitioning to the new leasing guidance and, furthermore, lessors may elect not to separate lease and nonlease
components when certain conditions are met. The pronouncement is effective prospectively for public business entities
for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within that reporting period. Early adoption
is permitted for all entities. Effective April 1, 2019, we are adopting the new guidance and applying the modified
retrospective approach to the most current period presented. We currently have operating leases for our offices in
Stamford, Connecticut, USA; London, United Kingdom; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Athens, Greece. Additionally, we
time charter-in one VLGC. Refer to Note 17 for further description of our commitments under leasing arrangements. We
also expect that our time charter arrangements will be subject to the requirements of the new lease guidance as we will
be regarded as the lessor under these arrangements. Since (i) we do not believe that our office operating leases are
material, (ii) our time-charter-in VLGC is under 12 months, and (iii) lessor accounting remains largely unchanged from
current U.S. GAAP, we do not believe that the adoption of the amended guidance will have a material impact on our
financial statements.
3. Transactions with Related Parties
Dorian
(Hellas)
S.A.
Dorian (Hellas) S.A. (“DHSA”) formerly provided technical, crew, commercial management, insurance and accounting
services to our vessels and had agreements to outsource certain of these services to Eagle Ocean Transport Inc. (“Eagle Ocean
Transport”), which is 100% owned by Mr. John C. Hadjipateras, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.
Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and its subsidiaries entered into an agreement with DHSA, retroactive to July 2014 and
superseding an agreement between Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd. and DHSA, for the provision by Dorian LPG (USA) LLC and its
subsidiaries of certain chartering and marine operation services to DHSA, for which income was earned and included in “Other
income-related parties” totaling $0.2 million, $0.4 million and $0.4 million for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017,
respectively. As of March 31, 2019, $1.2 million was due from DHSA and included in “Due from related parties.” As of
March 31, 2018, $0.9 million was due from DHSA and included in “Due from related parties.”
Eagle Ocean Transport incurs office-related costs on behalf of us, for which we reimbursed Eagle Ocean Transport less than $0.1
million, $0.1 million and $0.4 million for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. Such expenses are
reimbursed based on their actual cost.
Helios
LPG
Pool
LLC
(“Helios
Pool”)
On April 1, 2015, Dorian and Phoenix began operations of the Helios Pool, which entered into pool participation agreements for
the purpose of establishing and operating, as charterer, under variable rate time charters to be entered into with owners or
disponent owners of VLGCs, a commercial pool of VLGCs whereby revenues and expenses are shared. We hold a 50% interest in
the Helios Pool as a joint venture with Phoenix and all significant rights and obligations are equally shared by both parties. All
profits of the Helios Pool are distributed to the pool participants based on pool points assigned to each vessel as variable charter
hire and, as a result, there are no profits available to the equity investors as a share of equity. We have determined that the Helios
Pool is a variable interest entity as it does not have sufficient equity at risk. We do not consolidate the Helios Pool because we are
not the primary beneficiary and do not have a controlling financial interest. In consideration of Accounting Standards
Codification (“ASC”) 810-10-50-4e, the significant factors considered and judgments made in determining that the power to
direct the activities of the Helios Pool that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance are shared, in that all
significant performance activities which relate to approval of pool policies and strategies related to pool customers and the
marketing of the pool for the procurement of customers for the pool vessels, addition of new pool vessels and the pool cost
management, require unanimous board
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consent from a board consisting of two members from each joint venture investor. Further, in accordance with the guidance in
ASC 810-10-25-38D, the Company and Phoenix are not related parties as defined in ASC 850 nor are they de facto agents
pursuant to ASC 810-10, the power over the significant activities of the Helios Pool is shared, and no party is the primary
beneficiary in the Helios Pool, or has a controlling financial interest. As of March 31, 2019, the Helios Pool operated twenty-eight
VLGCs, including nineteen vessels from our fleet (including one vessel time chartered-in from an unrelated party), four Phoenix
vessels and five time chartered-in vessels.
As of March 31, 2019, we had net receivables from the Helios Pool of $62.5 million (net of an amount due to Helios Pool of $0.5
million which is reflected under “Due to related Parties”), including $19.8 million of working capital contributed for the operation
of our vessels in the pool. As of March 31, 2018, we had receivables from the Helios Pool of $45.4 million (net of an amount due
to Helios Pool of $0.3 million which is reflected under “Due to related Parties”), including $19.8 million of working capital
contributed for the operation of our vessels in the pool. Our maximum exposure to losses from the pool as of March 31, 2019 is
limited to the receivables from the pool. The Helios Pool does not have any third-party debt obligations. The Helios Pool has
entered into commercial management agreements with each of Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd. and Phoenix as commercial managers and
has appointed both commercial managers as the exclusive commercial managers of pool vessels. Fees for commercial
management services provided by Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd. are included in “Other income-related parties” in the consolidated
statement of operations and were $2.2 million, $2.2 million and $2.1 million for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017,
respectively. Additionally, we received a fixed reimbursement of expenses such as costs for security guards and war risk
insurance for vessels operating in high risk areas from the Helios Pool, for which we earned $0.3 million, $0.1 million and $0.9
million for the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 respectively, and are included in “Other revenues, net” in the
consolidated statement of operations.
Through our vessel owning subsidiaries, we have chartered vessels to the Helios Pool during the years ended March 31, 2019,
2018 and 2017. The time charter revenue from the Helios Pool is variable depending upon the net results of the pool, operating
days and pool points for each vessel. The Helios Pool enters into voyage and time charters with external parties and receives
freight and related revenue and, where applicable, incurs voyage costs such as bunkers, port costs and commissions. At the end of
each month, the Helios Pool calculates net pool revenues using gross revenues, less voyage expenses of all pool vessels, less fixed
time charter hire for any time chartered-in vessels, less the general and administrative expenses of the pool. Net pool revenues,
less any amounts required for working capital of the Helios Pool, are distributed, to the extent they have been collected from
third-party customers of the Helios Pool, as variable rate time charter hire for the relevant vessel to participants based on pool
points (vessel attributes such as cargo carrying capacity, fuel consumption, and speed are taken into consideration) and number of
days the vessel participated in the pool in the period. We recognize net pool revenues on a monthly basis, when each relevant
vessel has participated in the pool during the period and the amount of net pool revenues for the month can be estimated reliably.
Revenue earned from the Helios Pool is presented in Note 12.
Consulting
A former member of our board of directors, who resigned as a director effective May 1, 2015, provided certain chartering and
commercial services to the Company, its subsidiaries, and the Predecessor Companies since the formation of the Predecessor
Companies. This individual entered into a consulting agreement in May 2015, which was amended in June 2016, that provided
for, among other things, an annual fee for services rendered of $120,000. This agreement was terminated effective April 1, 2018.
Related to this consulting agreement, we expensed $0.1 million for each of the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017,
respectively. No such expenses were incurred for the year ended March 31, 2019.
4. Inventories
Our inventories by type were as follows:
Lubricants
Victualing
Bonded stores
Total
March 31, 2019
1,699,316
287,795
124,526
2,111,637
$
$
F-13
March 31, 2018
$
1,600,692
297,014
115,201
2,012,907
$
Table of Contents
5. Vessels, Net
Balance, April 1, 2017
Other additions
Depreciation
Balance, March 31, 2018
Other additions
Depreciation
Balance, March 31, 2019
Cost
1,728,769,295 $
218,685
—
1,728,987,980 $
4,005,830
—
1,732,993,810 $
Accumulated
depreciation
Net book Value
(125,300,048) $
—
(64,576,099)
(189,876,147) $
—
(64,597,349)
(254,473,496) $
1,603,469,247
218,685
(64,576,099)
1,539,111,833
4,005,830
(64,597,349)
1,478,520,314
$
$
$
Additions to vessels, net mainly consisted of the installment payments on the purchase of scrubbers for ten of our
VLGCs and other capital improvements to our VLGCs during the year ended March 31, 2019. Our vessels, with a total carrying
value of $1,478.5 million and $1,539.1 million as of March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, are first‑priority mortgaged as
collateral for our long-term debt (refer to Note 9 below). No impairment loss was recorded for the periods presented.
6. Other Fixed Assets, Net
Other fixed assets, net were $0.2 million and $0.2 million as of March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018, respectively, and
represent leasehold improvements, software and furniture and fixtures at cost. Accumulated depreciation on other fixed assets, net
was $0.3 million as of March 31, 2019 and $0.6 million as of March 31, 2018.
7. Deferred Charges, Net
The analysis and movement of deferred charges, net is presented in the table below:
Balance, April 1, 2017
Additions
Amortization
Other
Balance, March 31, 2018
Additions
Amortization
Balance, March 31, 2019
8. Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses comprised of the following:
Accrued voyage and vessel operating expenses
Accrued professional services
Accrued loan and swap interest
Accrued employee-related costs
Accrued board of directors' fees
Other
Total
$
$
$
F-14
Drydocking
costs
1,884,174 $
185,050
(488,309)
(6,393)
1,574,522 $
955,372
(529,100)
2,000,794 $
Equity
offering costs
Total deferred
charges, net
— $
52,546
—
(52,546)
— $
—
—
— $
1,884,174
237,596
(488,309)
(58,939)
1,574,522
955,372
(529,100)
2,000,794
March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018
$
$
1,684,336
400,984
394,532
867,514
88,750
—
3,436,116
$
$
1,580,468
1,230,069
804,913
992,427
88,750
6,181
4,702,808
Table of Contents
9. Long‑‑Term Debt
Description of our Debt Obligations
2015 Debt Facility
In March 2015, we entered into a $758 million debt financing facility with four separate tranches (collectively, with the
amendment described below, the “2015 Debt Facility”). Commercial debt financing (“Commercial Financing”) of $249 million
was provided by ABN AMRO Capital USA LLC (“ABN”); ING Bank N.V., London Branch, ("ING"); DVB Bank SE ("DVB");
Citibank N.A., London Branch (“Citi”); and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, New York Branch, ("CBA") (collectively the
"Commercial Lenders"), while the Export Import Bank of Korea ("KEXIM") directly provided $204 million of financing
(“KEXIM Direct Financing”). The remaining $305 million of financing was provided under tranches guaranteed by KEXIM of
$202 million (“KEXIM Guaranteed”) and insured by the Korea Trade Insurance Corporation ("K-sure") of $103 million (“K-sure
Insured”). Financing under the KEXIM guaranteed and K-sure insured tranches are provided by certain Commercial Lenders;
Deutsche Bank AG; and Santander Bank, N.A. The debt financing is secured by, among other things, sixteen of our ECO VLGCs,
and represents a loan-to-contract cost ratio before fees of approximately 55%.
The 2015 Debt Facility contains various covenants providing for, among other things, maintenance of certain financial
ratios and certain limitations on payment of dividends, investments, acquisitions and indebtedness. A commitment fee was
payable on the average daily unused amount under the 2015 Debt Facility of 40% of the margin on each tranche. Certain terms of
the borrowings under each tranche of the 2015 Debt Facility are as follows:
Tranche 1
Tranche 2
Tranche 3
Tranche 4
Commercial Financing
KEXIM Direct Financing
KEXIM Guaranteed
K-sure Insured
Term
7 years
12 years
12 years
12 years
(3)
(3)
(3)
(1)
Interest Rate Description
London InterBank Offered Rate
(“LIBOR”) plus a margin
LIBOR plus a margin of 2.45%
LIBOR plus a margin of 1.40%
LIBOR plus a margin of 1.50%
(4)
Interest Rate at
March 31, 2019
(2)
5.36 %
5.06 %
4.01 %
4.11 %
(1) The interest rate of the 2015 Debt Facility on Tranche 1 is determined in accordance with the agreement as three- or six- month LIBOR plus the
applicable margin and the interest rate on Tranches 2, 3 and 4 is determined in accordance with the agreement as three- month LIBOR plus the
applicable margin for the respective tranches.
(2) The set LIBOR rate in effect as of March 31, 2019 was 2.61%.
(3) The KEXIM Direct Financing, KEXIM Guaranteed, and K-Sure tranches have put options to call for the prepayment on the final payment date of
the Commercial Financing tranche subject to specific notifications and commitments for refinancing/renewal of the Commercial Financing tranche.
(4) The Commercial Financing tranche margin over LIBOR is 2.75% and is reduced to 2.50% if 50% or more but less than 75% of the vessels financed
in the 2015 Debt Facility are employed under time charters as defined in the agreement and to 2.25% if 75% or more of the vessels financed in the
2015 Debt Facility are employed under time charters as defined in the agreement. As of March 31, 2019, the set margin was 2.75%.
The 2015 Debt Facility is secured by, among other things, (i) first priority Bahamian mortgages on the vessels financed;
(ii) first priority assignments of all of the financed vessels’ insurances, earnings, requisition compensation, and management
agreements; (iii) first priority security interests in respect of all issued shares or limited liability company interests of the
borrowers and vessel-owning guarantors; (iv) first priority charter assignments of all of the financed vessels’ long-term charters;
(v) assignments of the interests of any ship manager in the insurances of the financed vessels; (vi) an assignment by the borrower
of any bank, deposit or certificate of deposit opened in accordance with the facility; and (vii) a guaranty by the Company
guaranteeing the obligations of the borrower and other guarantors under the facility agreement. The 2015 Debt Facility further
provides that the facility is to be secured by assignments of the borrower’s rights under any hedging contracts in connection with
the facility, but such assignments have not been entered into at this time.
The 2015 Debt Facility also contains customary covenants that require us to maintain adequate insurance coverage,
properly maintain the vessels and to obtain the lender’s prior consent before changes are made to the flag, class or management of
the vessels, or entry into a new line of business. The loan facility includes customary events of default,
F-15
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including those relating to a failure to pay principal or interest, breaches of covenants, representations and warranties, a cross-
default to certain other debt obligations and non-compliance with security documents, and customary restrictions from paying
dividends if an event of default has occurred and is continuing, or if an event of default would result therefrom.
On May 31, 2017, we entered into an agreement to amend the 2015 Debt Facility (the “2015 Debt Facility
Amendment”). The 2015 Debt Facility Amendment includes the relaxation of certain covenants under the debt financing facility;
the release of $26.8 million of restricted cash as of the date of the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment that was applied towards the
next two debt principal payments, interest and certain fees; and certain other modifications. Fees related to the 2015 Debt Facility
Amendment totaled approximately $1.1 million.
The following financial covenants, some of which were relaxed under the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment, are the most
restrictive from the 2015 Debt Facility with which the Company is required to comply, calculated on a consolidated basis,
determined and defined according to the provisions of the loan agreement:
·
The ratio of current assets and long-term restricted cash divided by current liabilities, excluding current portion
of long-term debt, shall always be greater than 1.00;
· Maintain minimum shareholders’ equity at all times equal to the aggregate of (i) $400,000,000, (ii) 50% of any
new equity raised after loan agreement date and (iii) 25% of the positive net income for the immediately
preceding financial year;
· Minimum interest coverage ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated net interest expense must be
maintained greater than or equal to (i) 1.25 at all times prior to and through March 31, 2018, (ii) 1.50 at all
times from April 1, 2018 through March 31, 2019, and (iii) 2.50 at all times thereafter; and
·
·
The ratio of consolidated net debt to consolidated total capitalization shall not exceed 0.60 to 1.00;
Fair market value of the mortgaged ships plus any additional security over the outstanding loan balance shall be
at least (i) 125% at all times prior to and through March 31, 2018, (ii) 130% at all times from April 1, 2018
through March 31, 2019, (iii) 135% at all times thereafter.
The following negative covenant was added under the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment:
· Restrictions on dividends and stock repurchases until the earlier of (i) an Approved Equity Offering (defined
below) and (ii) the second anniversary of the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment Date; and
The 2015 Debt Facility Amendment also includes a provision for the reduction of the minimum balance held as restricted cash.
The minimum balance of the restricted cash deposited under the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment is or was:
·
·
·
·
the lesser of $18.0 million and $1.0 million per mortgaged vessel under the 2015 Debt Facility at all times from
the date of the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment (“2015 Debt Facility Amendment Date”) through six months
after the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment Date;
the lesser of $29.0 million and $1.6 million per mortgaged vessel under the 2015 Debt Facility at all times from
six months from the 2015 Debt Facility Amendment Date through the first anniversary of the 2015 Debt
Facility Amendment Date;
the lesser of $40.0 million and $2.2 million per mortgaged vessel under the 2015 Debt Facility at all times
thereafter; and
if we complete a common stock offering of at least $50.0 million, including fees (an “Approved Equity
Offering”), the restricted cash shall be calculated as an amount at least equal to 5% of the total principal
F-16
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of the 2015 Debt Facility outstanding, but at no time less than the lesser of $20.0 million and $1.1 million per
mortgaged vessel under the 2015 Debt Facility.
The 2015 Debt Facility permits the lenders to accelerate the indebtedness if, without the prior written consent of the lenders,
(i) one-third of our common shares are owned by any shareholder other than certain entities, directors or officers listed in the
agreement; (ii) there are certain changes to our board of directors; or (iii) Mr. John C. Hadjipateras ceases to serve on our board of
directors.
2017 Bridge Loan
On June 8, 2017, we entered into a $97.0 million bridge loan agreement (the “2017 Bridge Loan”) with DNB Capital
LLC. The principal amount of the 2017 Bridge Loan was due on or before August 8, 2018 (the “Original Maturity Date”) and
initially accrued interest on the outstanding principal amount at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.50% for the period ended December 7,
2017; LIBOR plus 4.50% for the period from December 8 until March 7, 2018; LIBOR plus 6.50% for the period March 8, 2018
until June 7, 2018, and LIBOR plus 8.50% from June 8, 2018 until the Original Maturity Date.
The proceeds of the 2017 Bridge Loan were used to repay in full our bank debt provided by Royal Bank of Scotland plc.
associated with each of the Captain
John
NP
, Captain
Markos
NL
and the Captain
Nicholas
ML
(the “RBS Loan Facility”), at
96% of the then outstanding principal amount. The remaining proceeds were used to pay accrued interest, legal, arrangement and
advisory fees related to the 2017 Bridge Loan.
The 2017 Bridge Loan was initially secured by, among other things, (i) first priority mortgages on the VLGCs that were
financed under the RBS Loan Facility and the Corsair
, (ii) first assignments of all freights, earnings and insurances relating to
these four VLGCs, and (iii) pledges of membership interests of the borrowers.
On November 7, 2017, we prepaid $30.1 million of the 2017 Bridge Loan’s then outstanding principal with proceeds
from the Corsair Japanese Financing (defined below) and the security interests related to the Corsair
were released under the
facility. Refer to “Corsair Japanese Financing” below for further details.
On December 8, 2017, we entered into an agreement to amend the Original Maturity Date and margin on the 2017
Bridge Loan for a fee of $0.2 million. The remaining outstanding principal amount of the 2017 Bridge Loan is due on or before
December 31, 2018 (the “Amended Maturity Date”) and accrues interest on the outstanding principal amount at a rate of LIBOR
plus 2.50% for the period ending March 31, 2018; LIBOR plus 6.50% for the period April 1, 2018 until June 30, 2018, and
LIBOR plus 8.50% from July 1, 2018 until the Amended Maturity Date.
On June 4, 2018, we prepaid $22.3 million of the 2017 Bridge Loan’s then outstanding principal using cash on hand
prior to the closing of the CJNP Japanese Financing (defined below). On June 20, 2018, we prepaid the remaining 2017 Bridge
Loan’s outstanding principal of $44.6 million ($21.2 million related to the Captain
Nicholas
ML
and $23.4 million related to the
Captain
Markos
NL
) using cash on hand prior to the closing of the CMNL Japanese Financing (defined below) and the CNML
Japanese Financing (defined below).
Corsair Japanese Financing
On November 7, 2017, we refinanced a 2014-built VLGC, the Corsair
, pursuant to a memorandum of agreement and a
bareboat charter agreement (“Corsair Japanese Financing”). In connection therewith, we transferred the Corsair
to the buyer for
$65.0 million and, as part of the agreement, Corsair LPG Transport LLC, our wholly-owned subsidiary, bareboat chartered the
vessel back for a period of 12 years, with purchase options from the end of year 2 onwards through a mandatory buyout by 2029 .
We continue to technically manage, commercially charter, and operate the Corsair
. We received $52.0 million in cash as part of
the transaction with $13.0 million to be retained by the buyer as a deposit (the “Corsair Deposit”), which can be used by us
towards the repurchase of the vessel either pursuant to an early buyout option or at the end of the 12-year bareboat charter term.
The refinancing proceeds of $52.0 million were used to prepay $30.1 million of the 2017 Bridge Loan’s then outstanding
principal amount. The remaining proceeds were used to pay legal fees associated with this transaction and for general corporate
purposes. The Corsair Japanese Financing is treated as a
F-17
Table of Contents
financing transaction and the VLGC continues to be recorded as an asset on our balance sheet. This debt financing has a fixed
interest rate of 4.9%, not including financing costs of $0.1 million, monthly broker commission fees of 1.25% over the 12-year
term on interest and principal payments made, broker commission fees of 1% of the purchase option price excluding the Corsair
Deposit, and a monthly fixed straight-line principal obligation of approximately $0.3 million over the 12-year term with a balloon
payment of $13.0 million.
Concorde Japanese Financing
On January 31, 2018, we refinanced a 2015-built VLGC, the Concorde
, pursuant to a memorandum of agreement and a
bareboat charter agreement. In connection therewith, we transferred the Concorde
to the buyer for $70.0 million and, as part of
the agreement, Concorde LPG Transport LLC, our wholly-owned subsidiary, bareboat chartered the vessel back for a period of 13
years, with purchase options from the end of year 3 onwards through a mandatory buyout by 2031 . We continue to technically
manage, commercially charter, and operate the Concorde
. We received $56.0 million in cash as part of the transaction with $14.0
million to be retained by the buyer as a deposit (the “Concorde Deposit”), which can be used by us towards the repurchase of the
vessel either pursuant to an early buyout option or at the end of the 13-year bareboat charter term. The refinancing proceeds of
$56.0 million were used to prepay $35.1 million of the 2015 Debt Facility’s then outstanding principal amount. Pursuant to the
2015 Debt Facility Amendment and in conjunction with this prepayment, $1.6 million of restricted cash was released under the
2015 Debt Facility. The remaining proceeds were, or will be, used to pay legal fees associated with this transaction and for
general corporate purposes. This transaction is treated as a financing transaction and the Concorde
continues to be recorded as an
asset on our balance sheet. This debt financing has a fixed interest rate of 4.9%, not including financing costs of $0.1 million,
monthly broker commission fees of 1.25% over the 13-year term on interest and principal payments made, broker commission
fees of 1% of an exercised purchase option excluding the Concorde Deposit, and a monthly fixed straight-line principal obligation
of approximately $0.3 million over the 13-year term with a balloon payment of $14.0 million.
Corvette Japanese Financing
On March 16, 2018, we refinanced a 2015-built VLGC, the Corvette
, pursuant to a memorandum of agreement and a
bareboat charter agreement. In connection therewith, we transferred the Corvette
to the buyer for $70.0 million and, as part of the
agreement, Corvette LPG Transport LLC, our wholly-owned subsidiary, bareboat chartered the vessel back for a period of 13
years, with purchase options from the end of year 3 onwards through a mandatory buyout by 2031 . We continue to technically
manage, commercially charter, and operate the Corvette
. We received $56.0 million in cash as part of the transaction with $14.0
million to be retained by the buyer as a deposit (the “Corvette Deposit”), which can be used by us towards the repurchase of the
vessel either pursuant to an early buyout option or at the end of the 13-year bareboat charter term. The refinancing proceeds of
$56.0 million were used to prepay $33.7 million of the 2015 Debt Facility’s then outstanding principal amount. Pursuant to the
2015 Debt Facility Amendment and in conjunction with this prepayment, $1.6 million of restricted cash was released under the
2015 Debt Facility. The remaining proceeds were, or will be, used to pay legal fees associated with this transaction and for
general corporate purposes. This transaction is treated as a financing transaction and the Corvette
continues to be recorded as an
asset on our balance sheet. This debt financing has a fixed interest rate of 4.9%, not including financing costs of $0.1 million,
monthly broker commission fees of 1.25% over the 13-year term on interest and principal payments made, broker commission
fees of 1% of an exercised purchase option excluding the Corvette Deposit, and a monthly fixed straight-line principal obligation
of approximately $0.3 million over the 13-year term with a balloon payment of $14.0 million.
CJNP Japanese Financing
On June 11, 2018, we refinanced our 2007-built VLGC, the Captain
John
NP
, pursuant to a memorandum of agreement
and a bareboat charter agreement (the “CJNP Japanese Financing”). In connection therewith, we transferred the Captain
John
NP
to the buyer for $48.3 million and, as part of the agreement, CJNP LPG Transport LLC, our wholly-owned subsidiary, bareboat
chartered the vessel back for a period of 6 years, with purchase options from the end of year 2 through a mandatory buyout by
2024 . We continue to technically manage, commercially charter, and operate the Captain
John
NP
. We received $21.7 million,
which increased our unrestricted cash, as part of the transaction with $26.6 million to be retained by the buyer as a deposit (the
“CJNP Deposit”), which can be used by us towards the repurchase of the vessel either pursuant to an early buyout option or at the
end of the 6-year bareboat charter term. This transaction is treated
F-18
Table of Contents
as a financing transaction and the Captain
John
NP
continues to be recorded as an asset on our balance sheet. This debt financing
has a fixed interest rate of 6.0%, not including financing costs of $0.1 million, monthly broker commission fees of 1.25% over the
6-year term on interest and principal payments made, broker commission fees of 0.5% paid upon the delivery of the Captain
John
NP
to the buyer, broker commission fees of 0.5% payable on the repurchase of the Captain
John
NP
, and a monthly fixed
straight-line principal obligation of approximately $0.1 million over the 6-year term with a balloon payment of $13.0 million.
CMNL Japanese Financing
On June 25, 2018, we refinanced our 2006-built VLGC, the Captain
Markos
NL
, pursuant to a memorandum of
agreement and a bareboat charter agreement (the “CMNL Japanese Financing”). In connection therewith, we transferred the
Captain
Markos
NL
to the buyer for $45.8 million and, as part of the agreement, CMNL LPG Transport LLC, our wholly-owned
subsidiary, bareboat chartered the vessel back for a period of 7 years, with purchase options from the end of year 2 through a
mandatory buyout by 2025 . We continue to technically manage, commercially charter, and operate the Captain
Markos
NL
. We
received $20.6 million, which increased our unrestricted cash, as part of the transaction with $25.2 million to be retained by the
buyer as a deposit (the “CMNL Deposit”), which can be used by us towards the repurchase of the vessel either pursuant to an
early buyout option or at the end of the 7-year bareboat charter term. This transaction is treated as a financing transaction and the
Captain
Markos
NL
continues to be recorded as an asset on our balance sheet. This debt financing has a fixed interest rate of
6.0%, not including financing costs of $0.1 million, monthly broker commission fees of 1.25% over the 7-year term on interest
and principal payments made, broker commission fees of 0.5% paid upon the delivery of the Captain
Markos
NL
to the buyer,
broker commission fees of 0.5%. payable on the repurchase of the Captain
Markos
NL
, and a monthly fixed straight-line
principal obligation of approximately $0.1 million over the 7-year term with a balloon payment of $11.0 million.
CNML Japanese Financing
On June 26, 2018, we refinanced our 2008-built VLGC, the Captain
Nicholas
ML
, pursuant to a memorandum of
agreement and a bareboat charter agreement (the “CNML Japanese Financing”). In connection therewith, we transferred the
Captain
Nicholas
ML
to the buyer for $50.8 million and, as part of the agreement, CNML LPG Transport LLC, our wholly-
owned subsidiary, bareboat chartered the vessel back for a period of 7 years, with purchase options from the end of year 2 through
a mandatory buyout by 2025 . We continue to technically manage, commercially charter, and operate the Captain
Nicholas
ML
.
We received $22.9 million, which increased our unrestricted cash, as part of the transaction with $27.9 million to be retained by
the buyer as a deposit (the “CNML Deposit”), which can be used by us towards the repurchase of the vessel either pursuant to an
early buyout option or at the end of the 7-year bareboat charter term. This transaction is treated as a financing transaction and the
Captain
Nicholas
ML
continues to be recorded as an asset on our balance sheet. This debt financing has a fixed interest rate of
6.0%, not including financing costs of $0.1 million, monthly broker commission fees of 1.25% over the 7-year term on interest
and principal payments made, broker commission fees of 0.5%, paid upon the delivery of the Captain
Nicholas
ML
to the buyer,
broker commission fees of 0.5%, payable on the repurchase of the Captain
Nicholas
ML
, and a monthly fixed straight-line
principal obligation of approximately $0.1 million over the 7-year term with a balloon payment of $13.0 million.
F-19
Table of Contents
Debt Obligations
The table below presents our debt obligations:
2015 Debt Facility
Commercial Financing
KEXIM Direct Financing
KEXIM Guaranteed
K-sure Insured
Total 2015 Debt Facility
Japanese Financings
Corsair Japanese Financing
Concorde Japanese Financing
Corvette Japanese Financing
CJNP Japanese Financing
CMNL Japanese Financing
CNML Japanese Financing
Total Japanese Financings
2017 Bridge Loan
Total debt obligations
Less: deferred financing fees
Debt obligations—net of deferred financing fees
Presented as follows:
Current portion of long-term debt
Long-term debt—net of current portion and deferred financing fees
Total
Deferred Financing Fees
The analysis and movement of deferred financing fees is presented in the table below:
Balance, April 1, 2017
Additions
Amortization
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
Balance, March 31, 2018
Additions
Amortization
Balance, March 31, 2019
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
175,687,613
125,860,144
130,366,568
64,706,170
496,620,495
47,395,833
51,961,538
52,500,000
20,506,250
19,446,131
21,666,369
213,476,121
—
710,096,616
14,005,830
696,090,786
63,968,414
632,122,372
696,090,786
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
187,989,229
141,004,162
145,348,064
72,313,416
546,654,871
50,645,833
55,192,308
55,730,769
—
—
—
161,568,910
66,940,405
775,164,186
16,061,034
759,103,152
65,067,569
694,035,583
759,103,152
Financing
costs
20,138,480
3,255,859
(7,506,509)
173,204
16,061,034
1,080,847
(3,136,051)
14,005,830
$
$
$
Additions represent financing costs associated with the Corsair Japanese Financing, Concorde Japanese Financing, Corvette
Japanese Financing, CJNP Japanese Financing, CMNL Japanese Financing, and CNML Japanese Financing (collectively the
“Japanese Financings”) and the 2017 Bridge Loan for the years ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, which have been deferred and
are amortized over the life of the respective agreements and are included as part of interest expense in the consolidated
statements of operations.
F-20
Table of Contents
Future Cash Payments for Debt
The minimum annual principal payments, in accordance with the loan agreements, required to be made after March 31,
2019 are as follows:
Year ending March 31:
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
Total
10. Common Stock
$
$
63,968,414
63,968,412
202,751,181
51,666,798
51,666,798
276,075,013
710,096,616
Under the articles of incorporation effective July 1, 2013, the Company’s authorized capital stock consists of
500,000,000 registered shares, par value $0.01 per share, of which 450,000,000 are designated as common share and 50,000,000
shares are designated as preferred shares.
Each holder of common shares is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. Subject to
preferences that may be applicable to any outstanding shares of preferred stock, holders of common shares are entitled to share
equally in any dividends, which the Company’s board of directors may declare from time to time, out of funds legally available
for dividends. Upon dissolution, liquidation or winding‑up, the holders of common shares will be entitled to share equally in all
assets remaining after the payment of any liabilities and the liquidation preferences on any outstanding preferred stock. Holders of
common shares do not have conversion, redemption or pre‑emptive rights.
In August 2015, we established a stock repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of our
common stock, which expired on December 31, 2016. We repurchased a total of 3,342,035 shares of our common stock for
approximately $33.7 million under this program through its expiration. Purchases under the program were made at our discretion
in the form of open market repurchase programs, privately negotiated transactions, accelerated share repurchase programs or a
combination of these methods.
Refer to Note 11 below for shares granted under the equity incentive plan during the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018,
and 2017.
11. Stock-Based Compensation Plans
In April 2014, we adopted an equity incentive plan, which we refer to as the Equity Incentive Plan, under which we
expect that directors, officers, and employees (including any prospective officer or employee) of the Company and its subsidiaries
and affiliates, and consultants and service providers to (including persons who are employed by or provide services to any entity
that is itself a consultant or service provider to) the Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates, as well as entities wholly ‑
owned or generally exclusively controlled by such persons, may be eligible to receive non ‑
qualified stock options, stock
appreciation rights, stock awards, restricted stock units and performance compensation awards that the plan administrator
determines are consistent with the purposes of the plan and the interests of the Company. We have reserved 2,850,000 of our
common shares for issuance under the Equity Incentive Plan, subject to adjustment for changes in capitalization as provided in the
Equity Incentive Plan in April 2014. The plan is administered by our compensation committee.
During the year ended March 31, 2019 , we granted 200,000 shares of restricted stock to certain of our officers and
employees. One-fourth of these restricted shares vested immediately on the grant date, one-fourth vested one year after grant date,
one-fourth will vest two years after grant date, and one-fourth will vest three years after grant date. The restricted shares were
valued at their grant date fair market value and expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting periods.
F-21
Table of Contents
During the year ended March 31, 2018 , we granted 259,800 shares of restricted stock to certain of our officers and
employees. One-fourth of these restricted shares vested immediately on the grant date, one-fourth will vest one year after grant
date, one-fourth will vest two years after grant date, and one-fourth will vest three years after grant date. The restricted shares
were valued at their grant date fair market value and expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting periods.
During the year ended March 31, 2017 , we granted 250,000 shares of restricted stock to certain of our officers and
employees. One-fourth of these restricted shares vested immediately on the grant date, one-fourth vested one year after grant date,
one-fourth will vest two years after grant date, and one-fourth will vest three years after grant date. The restricted shares were
valued at their grant date fair market value and expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting periods.
During the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we granted 35,295, 31,800 and 31,770 shares of stock,
respectively, to our non-executive directors, which were valued and expensed at their grant date fair market value.
During the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, we granted 7,059, 6,360 and 2,938 shares of stock,
respectively, to a non-employee consultant, which were valued and expensed at their grant date fair market value.
Our stock-based compensation expense was $5.5 million, $5.1 million and $4.4 million for the years ended
March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively, and is included within general and administrative expenses in our accompanying
consolidated statements of operations. Unrecognized compensation cost as of March 31, 2019 was $2.8 million and the expense
will be recognized over a remaining weighted average life of 1.20 years.
A summary of the activity of our restricted shares as of March 31, 2019 and 2018 and changes during the year ended
March 31, 2019 and 2018, are as follows:
Incentive Share Awards
Unvested as of April 1, 2017
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Unvested as of March 31, 2018
Granted
Vested
Unvested as of March 31, 2019
12. Revenues
Revenues comprise the following:
Net pool revenues—related party
Time charter revenues
Voyage charter revenues
Other revenues, net
Total revenues
Numbers of Shares
Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
1,114,625
297,960
(481,538)
(12,703)
918,344
242,354
(519,685)
641,013
$
$
$
17.72
7.36
15.42
10.39
15.67
8.10
14.76
13.54
Year ended
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2019
$
120,015,771
37,726,214
$
—
290,500
158,032,485
$
$
106,958,576 $
50,176,166
2,068,491
131,527
159,334,760 $
March 31, 2017
115,753,153
49,474,510
1,296,952
922,556
167,447,171
Net pool revenues—related party depend upon the net results of the Helios Pool, and the operating days and pool points
for each vessel. Refer to Notes 2 and 3 above for further information.
Other revenues, net represent income from charterers relating to reimbursement of voyage expenses such as costs for
security guards and war risk insurance.
F-22
Table of Contents
13. Voyage Expenses
Voyage expenses comprise the following:
Bunkers
Port charges and other related expenses
Brokers’ commissions
Security cost
War risk insurances
Other voyage expenses
Total
14. Vessel Operating Expenses
Vessel operating expenses comprise the following:
March 31, 2019
Year ended
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
$
$
756,354
167,230
440,955
277,487
13,052
42,805
1,697,883
$
$
817,676 $
539,605
631,659
117,368
12,310
95,155
2,213,773 $
804,371
886,651
684,302
390,330
40,704
159,620
2,965,978
Crew wages and related costs
Spares and stores
Insurance
Repairs and maintenance costs
Lubricants
Miscellaneous expenses
Total
15. Interest and Finance Costs
Interest and finance costs is comprised of the following:
March 31, 2019
Year ended
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
$
$
41,649,202
10,625,997
3,452,874
5,594,957
3,206,445
2,351,093
66,880,568
$
$
42,807,373
8,730,107
3,758,485
4,028,775
2,677,177
2,310,727
64,312,644
$
$
43,724,030
9,432,845
4,668,838
3,867,993
2,742,944
1,671,412
66,108,062
Interest incurred
Amortization of financing costs
Other financing costs
Total
16. Income Taxes
March 31, 2019
Year ended
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
$
$
36,638,171
3,136,051
875,009
40,649,231
$
$
27,422,693
7,506,509
728,843
35,658,045
$
$
24,695,674
3,709,421
566,847
28,971,942
Dorian LPG Ltd. and its vessel-owning subsidiaries are incorporated in the Marshall Islands and under the laws of the
Marshall Islands, are not subject to tax on income or capital gains and no Marshall Islands withholding tax will be imposed on
dividends paid by the Company to its shareholders. Dorian LPG Ltd. and its vessel-owning subsidiaries are also subject to United
States federal income taxation in respect of Shipping Income, unless exempt from United States federal income taxation.
If Dorian LPG Ltd. and its vessel-owning subsidiaries do not qualify for the exemption from tax under Section 883 of
the Code, Dorian LPG Ltd. and its subsidiaries will be subject to a 4% tax on its “United States source shipping income,” imposed
without the allowance for any deductions. For these purposes, “United States source shipping income” means 50% of the
Shipping Income derived by Dorian LPG Ltd. and its vessel-owning subsidiaries that is attributable to transportation that begins
or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in the United States.
For our fiscal years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we believe that we qualified, and we expect to qualify, for
exemption under Section 883 and as a consequence, our gross United States source shipping income will not be subject to a 4%
gross basis tax.
F-23
Table of Contents
17. Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments under Contracts for Scrubber Purchases
During the year ended March 31, 2019, we entered into contracts to purchase scrubbers to reduce sulfur emissions on ten of our
VLGCs. We had the following contractual commitments related to the scrubbers purchases:
Less than one year
One to three years
Three to five years
Total
March 31, 2019
9,785,394
231,722
897,395
10,914,511
$
$
Commitments under Contracts for BWMS Purchases
During the year ended March 31, 2019, we entered into contracts to purchase ballast water management systems (“BWMS”) on
two of our VLGCs. We had the following contractual commitments related to the BWMS purchases:
Less than one year
Total
Operating Leases
March 31, 2019
1,004,800
1,004,800
$
$
Operating lease rent expense was as follows:
Operating lease rent expense
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
$
471,425
$
426,155
$
415,928
Year ended
We had the following commitments as a lessee under operating leases relating to our United States, Greece, United
Kingdom, and Denmark offices:
Less than one year
One to three years
Three to five years
Total
Time Charter-in
$
$
March 31, 2019
422,604
485,120
12,413
920,137
Charter hire expenses for the VLGC time chartered in were as follows:
Charter hire expenses
March 31, 2019
$
237,525
$
Year ended
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
—
$
—
We had the following time charter-in commitments relating to one VLGC:
Less than one year
Total
March 31, 2019
7,535,000
7,535,000
$
$
F-24
Table of Contents
Fixed Time Charter Commitments
We had the following future minimum fixed time charter hire receipts based on non-cancelable long-term fixed time
charter contracts:
Less than one year
One to three years
Total
Other
March 31, 2019
29,100,613
27,505,752
56,606,365
$
$
From time to time we expect to be subject to legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of business, principally
personal injury and property casualty claims. Such claims, even if lacking in merit, could result in the expenditure of significant
financial and managerial resources. We are not aware of any claim, which is reasonably possible and should be disclosed or
probable and for which a provision should be established in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
18. Financial Instruments and Fair Value Disclosures
Our principal financial assets consist of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash amounts due from related parties,
trade accounts receivable and derivative instruments. Our principal financial liabilities consist of long-term debt, accounts
payable, amounts due to related parties and accrued liabilities.
(a) Concentration of credit risk: Financial instruments, which may subject us to significant concentrations of credit risk,
consist principally of amounts due from our charterers, including the receivables from Helios Pool, cash and cash
equivalents, and restricted cash. We limit our credit risk with amounts due from our charterers, including those through
the Helios Pool, by performing ongoing credit evaluations of our charterers’ financial condition and generally do not
require collateral from our charterers. We limit our credit risk with our cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash by
placing it with highly-rated financial institutions.
(b) Interest rate risk: Our long-term bank loans are based on LIBOR and hence we are exposed to movements thereto. We
entered into interest rate swap agreements in order to hedge a majority of our variable interest rate exposure related to
the 2015 Debt Facility.
The principal terms of our interest rate swaps are as follows:
Interest rate swap
2015 Debt Facility - Citibank
2015 Debt Facility - ING
2015 Debt Facility - CBA
2015 Debt Facility - Citibank
2015 Debt Facility - Citibank
2015 Debt Facility - Citibank
(3)
(2)
(1)
(4)
(5)
(6)
Transaction
Date
September 2015
September 2015
October 2015
October 2015
June 2016
June 2016
Termination
Date
March 2022
March 2022
March 2022
March 2022
March 2022
March 2022
Fixed
interest rate
1.933 %
2.002 %
1.428 %
1.380 %
1.213 %
1.161 %
Nominal value Nominal value
March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018
200,000,000
50,000,000
60,025,000
90,037,500
59,276,849
24,358,290
483,697,639
200,000,000
50,000,000
48,800,000
73,200,000
51,429,047
21,133,439
444,562,486
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
Non-amortizing with a final settlement of $200 million in March 2022.
Non-amortizing with a final settlement of $50 million in March 2022.
Reduces quarterly by $2.8 million with a final settlement of $17.9 million due in March 2022.
Reduces quarterly by $4.2 million with a final settlement of $26.9 million due in March 2022.
Reduces quarterly by $2.0 million with a final settlement of $29.9 million due in March 2022.
Reduces quarterly by $0.8 million with a final settlement of $12.3 million due in March 2022.
F-25
Table of Contents
(c) Fair value measurements: Interest rate swaps are stated at fair value, which is determined using a discounted cash flow
approach based on market‑based LIBOR swap yield rates. LIBOR swap rates are observable at commonly quoted
intervals for the full terms of the swaps and, therefore, are considered Level 2 items in accordance with the fair value
hierarchy. The fair value of the interest rate swap agreements approximates the amount that we would have to pay or
receive for the early termination of the agreements. The following table summarizes the location on the balance sheet of
the financial assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value on a recurring basis, which comprise our financial
derivatives all of which are considered Level 2 items in accordance with the fair value hierarchy:
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Interest rate swap agreements
Other non-current assets
Derivative instruments
$
6,448,498 $
Long-term liabilities
Other non-current assets Long-term liabilities
Derivative instruments Derivative instruments
— $
14,264,899 $
Derivative instruments
—
The effect of derivative instruments within the consolidated statement of operations for the periods presented is as
follows:
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Interest Rate Swap—Change in fair value
Interest Rate Swap—Realized gain/(loss)
Gain/(loss) on derivatives, net
Location of gain/(loss) recognized
Unrealized gain/(loss) on derivatives
Realized gain/(loss) on derivatives
$
March 31, 2019
$
March 31, 2018
(7,816,401) $
3,788,123
(4,028,278) $
8,421,531
(1,328,886)
7,092,645
$
$
March 31, 2017
27,491,333
(13,797,478)
13,693,855
As of March 31, 2019 and March 31, 2018, no fair value measurements for assets or liabilities under Level 1 or Level 3
were recognized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets with the exception of cash and cash equivalents,
restricted cash, and securities. We did not have any assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis
during the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.
(d) Book values and fair values of financial instruments. In addition to the derivatives that we are required to record at
fair value on our balance sheet (see (c) above) and securities that are included in other current assets in our balance sheet
that we record at fair value, we have other financial instruments that are carried at historical cost. These financial
instruments include trade accounts receivable, amounts due from related parties, cash and cash equivalents, restricted
cash, accounts payable, amounts due to related parties and accrued liabilities for which the historical carrying value
approximates the fair value due to the short-term nature of these financial instruments. Cash and cash equivalents,
restricted cash and securities are considered Level 1 items. We have long-term bank debt for which we believe the
carrying value approximates their fair value as the loans bear interest at variable interest rates, being LIBOR, which is
observable at commonly quoted intervals for the full terms of the loans, and hence are considered as Level 2 items in
accordance with the fair value hierarchy. We also have long-term debt related to the Corsair Japanese Financing,
Concorde Japanese Financing, Corvette Japanese Financing, CJNP Japanese Financing, CMNL Japanese Financing, and
CNML Japanese Financing (collectively the “Japanese Financings”) that incur interest at a fixed-rate with the initial
principal amount amortized to the purchase obligation price of each vessel. The Japanese Financings are considered
Level 2 items in accordance with the fair value hierarchy and the fair value of each is based on a discounted cash flow
analysis using current observable interest rates. The following table summarizes the carrying value and estimated fair
value of the Japanese Financings as of:
Corsair Japanese Financing
Concorde Japanese Financing
Corvette Japanese Financing
CJNP Japanese Financing
CMNL Japanese Financing
CNML Japanese Financing
March 31, 2019
March 31, 2018
Carrying Value
Fair Value
Carrying Value
Fair Value
$
$
47,395,833
51,961,538
52,500,000
20,506,250
19,446,131
21,666,369
45,901,900
50,176,288
50,671,689
20,918,881
19,862,056
22,137,090
$
$
50,645,833
55,192,308
55,730,769
—
—
—
50,645,833
55,192,308
55,730,769
—
—
—
F-26
Table of Contents
19. Retirement Plans
U.S. Defined Contribution Plan
Qualifying full-time employees based in the United States participate in our 401(k) retirement plan and may contribute a
portion of their annual compensation to the plan on a tax-advantaged basis, in accordance with applicable tax law limits. On
behalf of all participants in the plan, we provide a safe harbor contribution subject to certain limitations. Employee contributions
and our safe harbor contributions are vested at all times. We recognized and paid compensation expense associated with the safe
harbor contributions totaling $0.1 million for each of the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
Greek Defined Benefit Plan
Our employees based in Greece have a required statutory defined benefit pension plan according to provisions of Greek
law 2112/20 covering all eligible employees (the “Greek Plan”). We recognized compensation expense and recorded a
corresponding liability associated with our projected benefit obligation to the Greek Plan totaling $0.1 million for each of the
years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
U.K. and Danish Retirement Accounts
We contribute to retirement accounts for certain employees based in the United Kingdom and Denmark- based on a
percentage of their annual salaries. For each of the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, we recognized compensation
expense of $0.1 million related to these contributions.
20. Earnings/(Loss) Per Share (“EPS”)
Basic EPS represents net income/(loss) attributable to common shareholders divided by the weighted average number of
common shares outstanding during the measurement period. Our restricted stock shares include rights to receive dividends that
are subject to the risk of forfeiture if service requirements are not satisfied, thus these shares are not considered participating
securities and are excluded from the basic weighted-average shares outstanding calculation. Diluted EPS represent net
income/(loss) attributable to common shareholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding
during the measurement period while also giving effect to all potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding during the
period.
The calculations of basic and diluted EPS for the periods presented were as follows:
(In U.S. dollars except share data)
Numerator:
Net loss
Denominator:
Basic and diluted weighted average number of common shares
outstanding
EPS:
Basic and diluted weighted average number of common shares
outstanding
March 31, 2019
Year ended
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2017
$
(50,945,905)
$
(20,400,686) $
(1,441,815)
54,513,118
54,039,886
54,079,139
$
(0.93) $
(0.38) $
(0.03)
For the years ended March 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, there were 641,013, 918,334 and 1,114,625 shares of unvested
restricted stock, respectively, excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because the effect of their inclusion would be anti-
dilutive.
F-27
Table of Contents
21. Selected Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited)
The following tables summarize the 2019 and 2018 quarterly results:
Revenues
Operating income/(loss)
Net loss
Loss per common share, basic and diluted
Revenues
Operating income/(loss)
Net income/(loss)
Earnings/(loss) per common share, basic and diluted
Three months ended
June 30, 2018
Three months ended
September 30, 2018
Three months ended
December 31, 2018
Three months ended
March 31, 2019
$
$
27,644,282 $
(13,165,173)
(20,596,558)
(0.38)
$
40,807,542
(318,702)
(8,177,120)
(0.15)
$
$
55,113,295
9,313,290
(6,218,652)
(0.11)
$
$
34,467,366
(3,791,451)
(15,953,575)
(0.29)
Three months ended
June 30, 2017
Three months ended
September 30, 2017
Three months ended
December 31, 2017
Three months ended
March 31, 2018
$
$
41,025,472 $
(293,446)
(6,689,970)
(0.12)
$
34,729,021
(3,534,720)
(11,915,136)
(0.22)
$
$
44,545,589
$
6,996,104
1,670,415
0.03
$
39,034,678
673,447
(3,465,995)
(0.06)
F-28
Exhibit 21.1
Subsidiary
Dorian LPG Management Corp.
Dorian LPG Finance LLC
Dorian LPG (USA) LLC
Dorian LPG (UK) Ltd
Occident River Trading Limited
Dorian LPG (DK) ApS
CNML LPG Transport LLC
CJNP LPG Transport LLC
CMNL LPG Transport LLC
Comet LPG Transport LLC
Corsair LPG Transport LLC
Corvette LPG Transport LLC
Concorde LPG Transport LLC
Constellation LPG Transport LLC
Commander LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Houston LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Shanghai LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Sao Paulo LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Ulsan LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Amsterdam LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Dubai LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Monaco LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Barcelona LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Geneva LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Cape Town LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Tokyo LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Explorer LPG Transport LLC
Dorian Exporter LPG Transport LLC
Exhibit 21.1
Country of Incorporation
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
United States (Delaware)
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Denmark
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-200714 on Form S-3 of our
report dated May 29, 2019, relating to the consolidated financial statements of Dorian LPG Ltd. appearing
in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Dorian LPG Ltd. for the year ended March 31, 2019.
Exhibit 23.1
/s/ Deloitte Certified Public Accountants S.A.
Athens, Greece
May 29, 2019
Exhibit 23.2
Consent of Counsel
Reference is made to the annual report on Form 10-K of Dorian LPG Ltd. (the “ Company ”) for the fiscal year
ended March 31, 2019 (the “ Annual Report ”) and the registration statement of the Company on Form S-3 with Registration
No. 333-200714, including the prospectus contained therein (the “ Registration Statement ”). We hereby consent to (i) the
filing of this letter as an exhibit to the Annual Report, which is incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement and
(ii) each reference to us and the discussions of advice provided by us in the Annual Report under the section “Item 1.
Business—Taxation” and to the incorporation by reference of the same in the Registration Statement, in each case, without
admitting we are “experts” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the rules and regulations of the
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission promulgated thereunder with respect to any part of the Registration Statement.
Exhibit 23.2
/s/ Seward & Kissel LLP
New York, New York
May 29, 2019
Exhibit 31.1
Exhibit 31.1
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Executive Officer
I, John C. Hadjipateras, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Dorian LPG Ltd.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in
all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of and for, the
periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed
under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated
subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report
is being prepared;
(b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and
the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles;
(c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our
conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by
this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during
the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that
has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial
reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons
performing the equivalent functions):
(a)
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial
reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and
report financial information; and
(b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Dated: May 29, 2019
/s/ John C. Hadjipateras
John C. Hadjipateras
Chief Executive Officer
Exhibit 31.2
Exhibit 31.2
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Financial Officer
I, Theodore B. Young, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Dorian LPG Ltd.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in
all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of and for, the
periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed
under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated
subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report
is being prepared;
(b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and
the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles;
(c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our
conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by
this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during
the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that
has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial
reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons
performing the equivalent functions):
(a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial
reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and
report financial information; and
(b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Dated: May 29, 2019
/s/ Theodore B. Young
Theodore B. Young
Chief Financial Officer
Exhibit 32.1
Exhibit 32.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the annual report of Dorian LPG Ltd. (the “Company”), on Form 10-K for the period ended March
31, 2019, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, John Hadjipateras,
Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, to the best of my knowledge, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) under the
Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002, that:
1.
2.
the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of
1934; and
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of
operations of the Company.
Dated: May 29, 2019
/s/ John C. Hadjipateras
John C. Hadjipateras
Chief Executive Officer
Exhibit 32.2
Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the annual report of Dorian LPG Ltd. (the “Company”), on Form 10-K for the period ended March
31, 2019, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), I, Theodore B. Young,
Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, to the best of my knowledge, pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) under the
Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 and 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002, that:
1.
2.
the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act of
1934; and
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of
operations of the Company.
Dated: May 29, 2019
/s/ Theodore B. Young
Theodore B. Young
Chief Financial Officer