Nicholas Financial, Inc.
2011 Annual Report
www.NicholasFinancial.com
From the President ....................................................................... 1
Form 10-K Annual Report ..................................................... Insert
NFI Shareholder Information ............................ Inside Back Cover
Nicholas Financial, Inc. is a specialty (cid:2) nance company that provides direct consumer loans and purchases
installment sales contracts from some 3,000 automobile dealers in the Southeast and Midwest. The Company
conducts its automobile (cid:2) nance business through 56 branch of(cid:2) ces in 14 states. Nicholas Financial also offers
and (cid:2) nances extended warranties, roadside assistance plans, and credit life, accident, and health insurance to
its borrowers. The Company’s stock has been publicly traded since 1987. It is listed on the NASDAQ-GS
Global Select Market under the symbol, NICK. The NASDAQ Global Select Market includes companies which
have (cid:2) nancial and liquidity requirements that are higher than those of any other market.
Quote:
“Nicholas Financial represents what it truly means to be a NASDAQ listed company. The visionaries,
the game changers, those who dream to do more... Dream and do are not just two words, they are one thought,
because we believe that when you know how to take a vision and turn it into reality theres nothing you can’t do...
You can dream of 25 years in business of like Nicholas Financial, or you can Dream It and Do It”
- Eric Bernbach, Vice President, NASDAQ OMX
COVER PHOTO. . .
The Story BEHIND THE COVER . . .
Michael Marika
Bruce Jenks
Eugene Bodo
George Markowski
Ralph Finkenbrink
Bryan Lawrence
P.J. Vosotas
Lorie Marika
Raymond Behar
On August 4th, 2010 an enthusiastic band of
Nicholas Financial Board Members, employees,
business associates, shareholders and supporters
(pictured left) traveled to New York City to “Ring the
Closing Bell” at the NASDAQ OMX Market Site in
Times Square. During his remarks, President & CEO Peter
Vosotas thanked the company’s employees, shareholders,
bankers, customers and some 3,000 client automotive
dealers, whom Mr. Vosotas called “the Bedrock & Heart
Stephen Bragin
Peter Vosotas
Susan Behar
Michele Vosotas
Sandi McKenna
Paula Vosotas
Doug Marohn
of American entrepenuership”.
F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T
This year marked our 26th year in business and
our 24th year as a publicly traded company. We had
a great year. Virtually every aspect of our business
was working smoothly and we are extremely proud
of the performance that our employees delivered
during the past fiscal year. Today Nicholas Financial
has grown to 56 branch offices in 14 states.
As of March 31, 2011 we had $372,950,000 in gross
receivables outstanding. In each sequential quarter
during the year, we reported increased revenues,
reduced credit
losses and
increased profits.
Year over year our common stock share price
rose 61% from $7.57 to $12.20. By virtually every
measure we had an excellent year. I reported this
very same thing last year and we hope to repeat the
same results next year.
Our Company achieved outstanding
financial
results by recording its 21st consecutive year of
record revenues. Net income for the year ended March
31, 2011 increased 55% to $16,805,000 as compared to
$10,865,000 for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010.
Earnings per share increased 52% to $1.41 as
compared to $0.93. Revenue for the year increased
Peter L. Vosotas
Chairman, CEO & President
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11% to $62,774,000 as compared to $56,472,000.
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Shareholder’s equity grew 18% to $115,213,000
Ten Year Revenue History
(in $ Millions)
Page 1
F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T
from $97,437,000. These
results were
Our plan is to open branch locations in a
primarily driven by an increase in revenues
large metro area in states that we believe are
and a reduction in the charge off rate.
favorable
to
our
specialty
vehicle
and
During the 2011 fiscal year, we added four
new locations to our branch office network.
With the addition of these new offices,
the Company now operates 56 branches in
14 states. We will continue to evaluate
additional markets for future branch locations,
and subject to market conditions, we may
open several new branch locations during the
consumer finance business. We intend to stick
to this recipe that has been tested over the past
21 years. We remain convinced that providing
auto and light truck financing for Americans who
for any numbers of reasons, find themselves with
poor credit, will be a strong business for years to
come as long as cars and trucks remain the main
form of transportation.
coming year.
For many years
I have made
the same
statement
regarding our
accomplishments:
“Our consistent financial performance hasn’t
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happened by accident. It is the result of many
people working very hard over a long period
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Ten Year Net Income History
(in $ Millions)
of time. The automobiles of our employees are
usually the first to arrive in the parking lot
each morning and invariably the last to drive
away at night.” To the credit of our employees,
this statement rings as true today as when
it was first written. We, like all companies,
have a challenge to find good, hardworking,
and qualified people. When we do, we try
Page 2
F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T
our best to keep those who work hard and
fiduciary responsibilities. They take their
produce results.
responsibilities to heart. We are fortunate
We
reward our
employees with decent
benefits,
including
performance-based
bonuses and excellent career opportunities.
Our ability to mold and retain a veteran team is
one of the primary reasons for our success.
to have been able to attract these talented
individuals. Charlie Neal, Scott Fink and
Stephen Bragin are terrific board members.
They have taken the time to know our business
and to give us excellent business guidance.
Several of our senior managers, accounting
We are very proud of all our employees
staff and data processing staff have been with the
whose dedication, talent and loyalty have
Company since its inception in the late 1980’s.
made Nicholas an
important
force
in
automobile financing. We are grateful for
We
look
forward with optimism
toward
the coming year. Any company that can say,
“Our potential market is over $250 billion dollars
a year and growing”, should be excited about its
business prospects. Our intention is to continue
our strategy of controlled growth by increasing
our existing branch loan portfolio and build-
ing new branch offices. We intend to continue
growing our company organically. However,
we will stay alert
to possible acquisition
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opportunities that may come to our attention.
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The independent members of our Board of
Directors have always diligently embraced their
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Earnings Per Share History
(Diluted - in $ Dollars)
Page 3
F R O M T H E P R E S I D E N T
the support of our customers, bankers, vendors
To all of you who have invested in Nicholas,
and shareholders. We remain determined to
we wish to thank you for having continued
increase the value of our publicly traded stock.
faith in our Company. On behalf of our Board
We are convinced that our shareholders will be
of Directors and our employees, we thank you
rewarded if we continue to build the net worth of our
for the confidence that you have entrusted
Company each year as we have done for the past
in us.
21 consecutive years.
On a final note we were thrilled to be invited
to ring the closing bell for the Nasdaq Market
System last August. It was a great honor for us
as we like many other bell ringers have very
Peter L. Vosotas
humble beginnings. What a wonderful event
President & Chief Executive Officer
for our company to take part in. All of our
customer, suppliers and employees made this
June, 2011
thrilling experience possible. I cannot thank
them enough.
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Ten Year Net Worth History
(in $ Millions)
Page 4
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM 10-K
(cid:95)(cid:3)ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011
(cid:133)(cid:3) TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to .
Commission file number: 0-26680
NICHOLAS FINANCIAL, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
British Columbia, Canada
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
2454 McMullen Booth Road, Building C
8736-3354
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
Clearwater, Florida 33759
(Address of Principal Executive Offices, Including Zip Code)
(727) 726-0763
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: Common Stock, no par value
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange 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 (cid:133) No (cid:95)
Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. (cid:133)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act 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 (cid:95) No (cid:133)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File
required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
Registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes (cid:95) No (cid:133)
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to
the best of the 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. (cid:133)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting
company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer (cid:133)(cid:3)
Accelerated filer
(cid:95)(cid:3)
Non-accelerated filer (cid:133)(cid:3)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes (cid:133) No (cid:95)
As of June 9, 2011, 11,825,968 shares of the Registrant’s Common Stock, no par value, were outstanding.
At September 30, 2010, the aggregate market value of the Registrant’s Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was approximately
$79,106,000.
Smaller reporting company (cid:95)(cid:3)
Portions of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement and Information Circular for the 2011 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders currently
scheduled to be held on August 9, 2011, expected to be filed with the Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A on or about July 6, 2011, are
incorporated by reference in Part III, Items 10 through 14, of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
NICHOLAS FINANCIAL, INC.
FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT
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
Item 15.
Business ........................................................................................................................................................
Risk Factors...................................................................................................................................................
Unresolved Staff Comments .........................................................................................................................
Properties ......................................................................................................................................................
Legal Proceedings .........................................................................................................................................
[Removed and Reserved]
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 Stockholder Matters......
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence ..............................................
Principal Accountant Fees and Services .......................................................................................................
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules ................................................................................................
Page No.
2
9
14
15
15
16
18
20
28
28
47
47
49
49
49
49
49
49
50
Forward-Looking Information
This Annual Report on Form 10-K (“Report”) contains various forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such statements are based on management’s beliefs
and assumptions, as well as information currently available to management. When used in this document, the words “anticipate,”
“estimate,” “expect,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although Nicholas Financial, Inc.,
including its subsidiaries (collectively the “Company”), believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are
reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such statements are subject to certain risks,
uncertainties and assumptions, including but not limited to the risk factors discussed herein under “Item 1A – Risk Factors.” Should
one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary
materially from those anticipated, estimated or expected. Among the key factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from
those projected in forward-looking statements include fluctuations in the economy, the degree and nature of competition, fluctuations
in interest rates, the availability of capital at acceptable rates and terms, demand for consumer financing in the markets served by the
Company, the Company’s products and services, increases in the default rates experienced on retail installment sales contracts
(“Contracts”), regulatory changes in the Company’s existing and future markets, and the Company’s ability to expand its business,
including its ability to identify and complete acquisitions and integrate the operations of acquired businesses, to recruit and retain
qualified employees, to expand into new markets and to maintain profit margins in the face of increased pricing competition. All
forward-looking statements included in this Report are based on information available to the Company on the date hereof, and the
Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statement. Prospective investors should also consult the risk
factors described from time to time in the Company’s filings made with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”),
including its reports on Forms 10-Q, 8-K and 10-K and annual reports to shareholders.
1
Item 1. Business
General
PART I
Nicholas Financial, Inc. (“Nicholas Financial-Canada”) is a Canadian holding company incorporated under the laws of British
Columbia in 1986. The business activities of Nicholas Financial-Canada are conducted through its two wholly-owned subsidiaries
formed pursuant to the laws of the State of Florida, Nicholas Financial, Inc. (“Nicholas Financial”) and Nicholas Data Services, Inc.,
(“NDS”). Nicholas Financial is a specialized consumer finance company engaged primarily in acquiring and servicing Contracts for
purchases of new and used automobiles and light trucks. To a lesser extent, Nicholas Financial also makes direct loans and sells
consumer-finance related products. NDS is engaged in supporting and updating industry-specific computer application software for
small businesses located primarily in the Southeast United States. Nicholas Financial’s financing activities accounted for more than
99% of the Company’s consolidated revenues for each of the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. NDS’s activities
accounted for less than 1% of consolidated revenues during the same periods.
Nicholas Financial-Canada, Nicholas Financial and NDS are hereafter collectively referred to as the “Company”. All financial
information herein is designated in United States dollars.
The Company’s principal executive offices are located at 2454 McMullen Booth Road, Building C, Clearwater, Florida 33759, and its
telephone number is (727) 726-0763.
Available Information
The Company’s filings with the SEC, including annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, definitive proxy
statements on Schedule 14A, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports filed pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, are made available free of charge through the Investor Relations section of the Company’s
Internet website at http://www.nicholasfinancial.com as soon as reasonably practicable after the Company electronically files such
material with, or furnishes it to, the SEC. Copies of any materials the Company files with the SEC can also be obtained free of charge
through the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov, at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C.
20549, or by calling the SEC’s Office of Investor Education and Assistance at 1-800-732-0330.
Growth Strategy
The Company’s principal goals are to increase its profitability and its long-term shareholder value through greater penetration in its
current markets and controlled geographic expansion into new markets. The Company seeks to expand its automobile financing
program in all fourteen states — Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, North
Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia — in which it currently operates by increasing the business generated at its
existing branch locations and by targeting certain geographic locations within these states where it believes there is a sufficient market
for its automobile financing program. The Company’s strategy is to monitor these markets and ultimately decide if and where it will
open additional branch locations. Since April 1, 2010, the Company has opened four new branches, of which two are in states (Illinois
and Missouri) where branches did not previous exist. The Company did not close any branches during the same period. The Company
will continue to evaluate any branch locations that do not meet its minimum profitability targets and may elect to close one or more of
these branches in the future. As of the date of this Report, the Company has no plans to close any branches within the fiscal year
ending March 31, 2012, although no assurances can be given that it will not do so. The Company also continues to analyze other
markets in states in which it does not currently operate for expansion opportunities. Although the Company has not made any bulk
purchases of Contracts in well over a decade, if the opportunity arises, the Company may consider possible acquisitions of portfolios
of seasoned Contracts from dealers in bulk transactions as a means of further penetrating its existing markets or expanding its presence
in targeted geographic locations. The Company cannot provide any assurances, however, that it will be able to further expand in either
its current markets or any targeted new markets.
The downturn in economic market conditions beginning in 2008 has had a significant impact on the Company’s direct consumer loan
business. The Company is licensed for direct consumer loans within Florida and North Carolina. The Company does not expect to see
growth in its direct loan portfolio within these states until market conditions further improve and stabilize. In addition, the Company is
currently not seeking to expand its direct consumer loan business into additional states.
2
Automobile Finance Business – Contracts
The Company is engaged in the business of providing financing programs, primarily on behalf of purchasers of new and used cars and
light trucks who meet the Company’s credit standards, but who do not meet the credit standards of traditional lenders, such as banks
and credit unions, because of the age of the vehicle being financed or the customer’s job instability or credit history. Unlike traditional
lenders, which look primarily to the credit history of the borrower in making lending decisions and typically finance new automobiles,
the Company is willing to purchase Contracts for purchases made by borrowers who do not have a good credit history and for older
model and high mileage automobiles. In making decisions regarding the purchase of a particular Contract the Company considers the
following factors related to the borrower: place and length of residence; current and prior job status; history in making installment
payments for automobiles; current income; and credit history. In addition, the Company examines its prior experience with Contracts
purchased from the dealer from which the Company is purchasing the Contract, and the value of the automobile in relation to the
purchase price and the term of the Contract.
The Company’s automobile finance programs are currently conducted in fourteen states through a total of 56 branch offices,
consisting of nineteen in Florida, seven in Ohio, six in each of North Carolina and Georgia, three in each of Kentucky and Indiana,
two in each of Alabama, Tennessee, Michigan and Virginia and one in each of Maryland, South Carolina, Illinois, and Missouri. As of
March 31, 2011 the Company had non-exclusive agreements with approximately 4,000 dealers, of which approximately 1,700 are
active, for the purchase of individual Contracts that meet the Company’s financing criteria. The Company considers a dealer
agreement to be active if the Company has purchased a Contract thereunder in the last six months. Each dealer agreement requires the
dealer to originate Contracts in accordance with the Company’s guidelines. Once a Contract is purchased by the Company the dealer
is no longer involved in the relationship between the Company and the borrower, other than through the existence of limited
representations and warranties of the dealer in favor of the Company.
Customers under the Contracts typically make down payments, in the form of cash or trade-in, ranging from 5% to 20% of the sale
price of the vehicle financed. The balance of the purchase price of the vehicle plus taxes, title fees and, if applicable, premiums for
extended service Contracts, accident and health insurance and/or credit life insurance, are generally financed over a period of 12 to 72
months. Accident and health insurance coverage enables the customer to make required payments under the Contract in the event the
borrower becomes unable to work because of illness or accident and credit life insurance pays the borrower’s obligations under the
Contract upon his or her death.
The Company purchases Contracts from automobile dealers at a negotiated price that is less than the original principal amount being
financed (the discount) by the purchaser of the automobile. The amount of the discount depends upon factors such as the age and
value of the automobile and the creditworthiness of the customer. The Company will pay more (i.e., purchase the Contract at a smaller
discount from the original principal amount) for Contracts as the credit risk of the customer improves. In certain markets, competition
more significantly impacts the discount that the Company can charge. The Contracts purchased by the Company have been purchased
at discounts that range from 1% to 15% of the original principal amount of the Contract. In addition to the discount, the Company
charges the dealer a processing fee of $75 per Contract purchased. As of March 31, 2011, the Company’s loan portfolio consisted
exclusively of Contracts purchased without recourse to the dealer. Although all the Contracts in the Company’s loan portfolio were
acquired without recourse, each dealer remains potentially liable to the Company for liabilities arising from certain representations and
warranties made by the dealer with respect to compliance with applicable federal and state laws and valid title to the vehicle.
The Company’s policy is to only purchase a Contract after the dealer has provided the Company with the requisite proof that the
Company has a first priority lien on the financed vehicle (or the Company has, in fact, perfected such first priority lien), that the
customer has obtained the required collision insurance naming the Company as loss payee and that the Contract has been fully and
accurately completed and validly executed. Once the Company has received and approved all required documents, it pays the dealer
for the Contract and commences servicing the Contract.
The Company requires the owner of the vehicle to obtain and maintain collision insurance, naming the Company as the loss payee,
with a deductible of not more than $500. Both the Company and the dealers offer purchasers of vehicles certain other “add-on
products.” These products are offered by the dealer on behalf of the Company or on behalf of the dealership at the time of sale. They
consist of a roadside assistance plan, extended warranty protection, gap insurance, credit life insurance, credit accident and health
insurance, and credit property insurance. If the purchaser so desires, the cost of these products may be included in the amount financed
under the Contract.
3
Contract Procurement
The Company currently purchases Contracts in the states listed in the table below. The Contracts purchased by the Company are
predominately for used vehicles; for the periods shown below, approximately 2% were for new vehicles. The average model year
collateralizing the portfolio as of March 31, 2011 was a 2005 vehicle. The dollar amounts shown in the table below represent the
Company’s finance receivables, net of unearned interest on Contracts purchased:
State
Maximum
allowable
interest rate (1)
Fiscal year ended March 31,
2011
2010
2009
Alabama .................................................................
(2)
$ 5,492,379 $
4,094,540 $
3,448,113
Florida .................................................................... 18-30% (3)
48,498,785
46,471,616
43,733,812
Georgia................................................................... 18-30% (3)
16,122,285
13,439,117
11,255,611
Illinois ....................................................................
Indiana....................................................................
(2)
21%
901,154 —
—
9,402,834
6,731,647
7,131,943
Kentucky ................................................................ 18-25% (3)
9,817,729
8,238,952
6,108,872
Maryland ................................................................
Michigan ................................................................
Missouri..................................................................
24%
25%
(2)
1,750,863
943,390
1,787,966
5,775,566
3,796,999
3,102,467
1,052,326 —
—
North Carolina........................................................ 18-29% (3)
14,621,001
11,779,435
10,926,757
Ohio........................................................................
South Carolina........................................................
Tennessee...............................................................
Virginia ..................................................................
25%
(2)
(2)
(2)
20,626,860
18,176,574
17,028,665
3,052,435
2,064,958
2,374,384
5,621,920
2,410,273
2,027,994
4,414,838
3,459,237
4,400,675
Total .......................................................................
$ 147,150,975 $
121,606,738 $
113,327,259
(1) The maximum allowable interest rates by state are subject to change and are governed by the individual states the Company
conducts business in.
(2) None of these states currently imposes a maximum allowable interest rate with respect to the types and sizes of Contracts the
Company purchases. The maximum rate which the Company will typically charge any customer in each of these states is 29%
per annum.
(3) The maximum allowable interest rate in each of these states varies depending upon the model year of the vehicle being financed.
In addition, Georgia does not currently impose a maximum allowable interest rate with respect to Contracts over $5,000.
The following table presents selected information on Contracts purchased by the Company, net of unearned interest:
Fiscal year ended March 31,
Contracts
2011
2010
2009
$
Purchases ................................................................... $ 147,150,975
23.57%
Weighted APR...........................................................
8.78%
Average discount .......................................................
Weighted average term (months)...............................
49
Average loan.............................................................. $ 9,804
Number of contracts ..................................................
15,009
$
121,606,738
$
23.55%
9.11%
48
9,422
12,907
$
113,327,259
24.06%
9.14%
48
9,340
12,134
4
Direct Loans
The Company currently originates direct loans in Florida and North Carolina. Direct loans are loans originated directly between the
Company and the consumer. These loans are typically for amounts ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 and are generally secured by a lien
on an automobile, watercraft or other permissible tangible personal property. The average loan made to date by the Company had an
initial principal balance of approximately $3,000. The Company does not expect the average loan size to increase significantly within
the foreseeable future. The majority of direct loans are originated with current or former customers under the Company’s automobile
financing program. The typical direct loan represents a significantly better credit risk than our typical Contract due to the customer’s
historical payment history with the Company. The Company does not have a direct loan license in Alabama, Illinois, Indiana,
Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, or Virginia, and none is presently required in Georgia (as
long as the direct loan is greater than $3,000). The Company is currently not pursuing direct loans in Georgia. Typically, the Company
allows for a seasoning process to occur in a new market prior to determining whether to pursue a direct loan license there. The
Company does not expect to pursue a direct loan license in any other state during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012. The size of
the loan and maximum interest rate that can be charged vary from state to state. In deciding whether or not to make a loan, the
Company considers the individual’s credit history, job stability, income and impressions created during a personal interview with a
Company loan officer. Additionally, because most of the direct consumer loans made by the Company to date have been made to
borrowers under Contracts previously purchased by the Company, the payment history of the borrower under the Contract is a
significant factor in making the loan decision. The Company’s direct loan program was implemented in April 1995 and currently
accounts for approximately 2% of annual consolidated revenues for the Company. As of March 31, 2011, loans made by the Company
pursuant to its direct loan program constituted approximately 2% of the aggregate principal amount of the Company’s loan portfolio.
In connection with its direct loan program, the Company also offers health and accident insurance coverage and credit life insurance to
customers. Customers in approximately 72% of the 1,792 direct loan transactions outstanding as of March 31, 2011 had elected to
purchase insurance coverage offered by the Company. The cost of this insurance is included in the amount financed by the customer.
The following table presents selected information on direct loans originated by the Company, net of unearned interest:
Direct loan originations
2011
2010
2009
$
Originations ....................................................................... $ 4,723,871
26.52%
Weighted APR...................................................................
Weighted average term (months).......................................
24
Average loan...................................................................... $ 2,856
Number of contracts ..........................................................
1,654
$
3,708,998
$
25.93%
26
2,705
1,371
$
4,326,599
27.09%
24
2,565
1,687
Fiscal year ended March 31,
Underwriting Guidelines
The Company’s typical customer has a credit history that fails to meet the lending standards of most banks and credit unions. Among
the credit problems experienced by the Company’s customers that resulted in a poor credit history are: unpaid revolving credit card
obligations; unpaid medical bills; unpaid student loans; prior bankruptcy; and evictions for nonpayment of rent. The Company
believes that its customer profile is similar to that of its direct competitors.
Prior to its approval of the purchase of a Contract, the Company is provided with a standardized credit application completed by the
consumer which contains information relating to the consumer’s background, employment, and credit history. The Company also
obtains credit reports from Equifax, TRW and/or TransUnion, which are independent credit reporting services. The Company verifies
the consumer’s employment history, income and residence. In most cases, consumers are interviewed by telephone by a Company
application processor. The Company also considers the customer’s prior payment history with the Company, if any, as well as the
collateral value of the vehicle being financed.
The Company has established internal buying guidelines to be used by its Branch Managers and internal underwriters when
purchasing Contracts. Any Contract that does not meet these guidelines must be approved by the senior management of the Company.
The Company currently has District Managers charged with managing the specific branches in a defined geographic area. In addition
to a variety of administrative duties, the District Managers are responsible for monitoring their assigned branches’ compliance with
the Company’s underwriting standards.
The Company uses essentially the same criteria in analyzing a direct loan as it does in analyzing the purchase of a Contract. Lending
decisions regarding direct loans are made based upon a review of the customer’s loan application, credit history, job stability, income,
in-person interviews with a Company loan officer and the value of the collateral offered by the borrower to secure the loan. To date,
since the majority of the Company’s direct loans have been made to individuals whose automobiles have been financed by the
Company, the customer’s payment history under his or her existing or past Contract is a significant factor in the lending decision.
5
After reviewing the information included in the Contract or direct loan application and taking the other factors into account, a
Company employee categorizes the customer using internally developed credit classifications of “1,” indicating higher
creditworthiness, through “5,” indicating lower creditworthiness. In the absence of other factors, such as a favorable payment history
on a Contract held by the Company, the Company generally makes direct loans only to individuals rated in categories “3” or better.
Contracts are financed for individuals who fall within all five acceptable rating categories utilized, “1” through “5”. Usually a
customer who falls within the two highest categories (i.e., “1” or “2”) is purchasing a two to four-year old, low mileage used
automobile from the inventory of a new car or franchise dealer, while a customer in either of the two lowest categories (i.e., “4” or
“5”) is purchasing an older, high mileage automobile from an independent used automobile dealer.
The Company utilizes its Loss Prevention and Recovery Department (the “LPR”) to perform on-site audits of branch compliance with
Company underwriting guidelines. LPR audits Company branches on a schedule that is variable depending on the size of the branch,
length of time a branch has been open, current tenure of the Branch Manager, previous branch audit score and current and historical
branch profitability. LPR reports directly to the Accounting and Administrative Management of the Company. The Company believes
that an independent review and audit of its branches that is not tied to the sales function of the Company is imperative in order to
assure the information obtained is impartial.
Monitoring and Enforcement of Contracts
The Company requires all customers under Contracts to obtain and maintain collision insurance covering damage to the vehicle.
Failure to maintain such insurance constitutes a default under the Contract, and the Company may, at its discretion, repossess the
vehicle. To reduce potential loss due to insurance lapse, the Company has the contractual right to force place its own collateral
protection insurance policy, which covers loss due to physical damage to vehicles not covered by any insurance policy of any
respective customer.
The Company’s Management Information Services personnel maintain a number of reports to monitor compliance by customers with
their obligations under Contracts and direct loans made by the Company. These reports may be accessed on a real-time basis
throughout the Company by management personnel, including Branch Managers and staff, at computer terminals located in the main
office and each branch office. These reports include delinquency aging reports, customer promises reports, vehicle information
reports, purchase reports, dealer analysis reports, static pool reports, and repossession reports.
A delinquency report is an aging report that provides basic information regarding each account and indicates accounts that are past
due. The report includes information such as the account number, address of the customer, home and work phone numbers of the
customer, original term of the Contract, number of remaining payments, outstanding balance, due dates, date of last payment, number
of days past due, scheduled payment amount, amount of last payment, total past due, and special payment arrangements or
agreements.
Any account that is less than 120 days old is included on the delinquency report on the first day that the Contract is contractually past
due. Once an account becomes 30 days past due, repossession proceedings are implemented unless the customer provides the
Company with an acceptable explanation for the delinquency and displays a willingness and the ability to make the payment, and
commits to a plan to return the account to current status. When an account is 60 days past due, the Company ceases recognition of
income on the Contract and repossession proceedings are initiated. At 120 days delinquent, if the vehicle has not yet been repossessed,
the account is written off. Once a vehicle has been repossessed, the related loan balance no longer appears on the delinquency report.
Instead, the vehicle appears on the Company’s repossession report and is sold, either at auction or to an automobile dealer.
When an account becomes delinquent, the Company immediately contacts the customer to determine the reason for the delinquency
and to determine if appropriate arrangements for payment can be made. If payment arrangements acceptable to the Company can be
made, the information is entered in its database and is used to generate a “Promises Report,” which is utilized by the Company’s
collection staff for account follow up.
The Company prepares a repossession report that provides information regarding repossessed vehicles and aids the Company in
disposing of repossessed vehicles. In addition to information regarding the customer, this report provides information regarding the
date of repossession, date the vehicle was sold, number of days it was held in inventory prior to sale, year and make and model of the
vehicle, mileage, payoff amount on the Contract, NADA book value, Black Book value, suggested sale price, location of the vehicle,
original dealer and condition of the vehicle, and notes other information that may be helpful to the Company.
The Company also prepares a dealer analysis report that provides information regarding each dealer from which it purchases
Contracts. This report allows the Company to analyze the volume of business done with each dealer and the terms on which it has
purchased Contracts from the dealer.
6
The Company’s policy is to aggressively pursue legal remedies to collect deficiencies from customers. Delinquency notices are sent to
customers and oral requests for payment are made beginning when an account becomes 11 days delinquent. When an account
becomes 30 days delinquent and the customer has not made payment arrangements acceptable to the Company or has failed to respond
to the requests for payment, a repossession request form is prepared by the responsible branch office employee for approval by the
Branch Manager for the vicinity in which the borrower lives. Once the repossession request has been approved, first by the Branch
Manager and second by the applicable District Manager, it must then be approved by the Director of Loss Recovery. The repossessor
delivers the vehicle to a secure location specified by the Company. The Company maintains relationships with several licensed
repossession firms that repossess vehicles for fees that range from $250 to $500 for each vehicle repossessed. As required by
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina,
Tennessee and Virginia law, the customer is notified by certified letter that the vehicle has been repossessed and that to regain the
vehicle, he or she must make arrangements satisfactory to the Company and pay the amount owed under the Contract within ten days
after delivery of the letter.
The minimum requirement for return of the vehicle is payment of all past due amounts under the Contract and all expenses associated
with the repossession incurred by the Company. If satisfactory arrangements for return of the vehicle are not made within the statutory
period, the Company then sends title to the vehicle to the applicable state title transfer department, which then registers the vehicle in
the name of the Company. The Company then either sells the vehicle to a dealer or has it transported to an automobile auction for sale.
On average, approximately 30 days lapse between the time the Company takes possession of a vehicle and the time it is sold to a
dealer or at auction. When the Company determines that there is a reasonable likelihood of recovering part or all of any deficiency
against the customer under the Contract, it pursues legal remedies available to it, including lawsuits, judgment liens and wage
garnishments. Historically, the Company has recovered approximately 10-15% of deficiencies from such customers. Proceeds from
the disposition of the vehicles are not included in calculating the foregoing percentage range.
Marketing and Advertising
The Company’s Contract marketing efforts currently are directed exclusively toward automobile dealers. The Company attempts to
meet dealers’ needs by offering highly-responsive, cost-competitive and service-oriented financing programs. The Company relies on
its District and Branch Managers to solicit agreements for the purchase of Contracts with automobile dealers located within a 25-mile
radius of each branch office. The Branch Manager provides dealers with information regarding the Company and the general terms
upon which the Company is willing to purchase Contracts. The Company presently has no plans to implement any other forms of
advertising, such as radio or newspaper advertisements, for the purchase of Contracts
The Company solicits customers under its direct loan program primarily through direct mailings, followed by telephone calls, to
individuals who have a good credit history with the Company in connection with Contracts purchased by the Company.
Computerized Information System
The Company utilizes integrated computer systems developed by NDS to assist in responding to customer inquiries and to monitor the
performance of its Contract and direct loan portfolio and the performance of individual customers under Contracts. All Company
personnel are provided with real-time access to information from a single shared database. The Company has created specialized
programs to automate the tracking of Contracts and direct loans from inception. The Company’s computer network encompasses both
its corporate headquarters and its branch office locations. See “Monitoring and Enforcement of Contracts” above for a summary of the
different reports prepared by the Company.
Competition
The consumer finance industry is highly fragmented and highly competitive. There are numerous financial service companies that
provide consumer credit in the markets served by the Company, including banks, other consumer finance companies, and captive
finance companies owned by automobile manufacturers and retailers. Many of these companies have significantly greater resources
than the Company. The Company does not believe that increased competition for the purchase of Contracts will cause a material
reduction in the interest rate payable by an individual purchaser of an automobile for the foreseeable future. However, increased
competition for the purchase of Contracts will enable automobile dealers to shop for the best price, thereby giving rise to an erosion in
the discount from the initial principal amounts at which the Company would be willing to purchase Contracts.
The Company’s target market consists of persons who are generally unable to obtain traditional used car financing because of their
credit history or the vehicle’s mileage or age. The Company has been able to expand its automobile finance business in the non-prime
credit market by offering to purchase Contracts on terms that are competitive with those of other companies which purchase
automobile receivables in that market segment. Because of the daily contact that many of its employees have with automobile dealers
located throughout the market areas served by it, the Company is generally aware of the terms upon which its competitors are offering
to purchase Contracts. The Company’s policy is to modify its terms, if necessary, to remain competitive. However, the Company will
not sacrifice credit quality, its purchasing criteria or prudent business practices in order to meet the competition.
7
The Company’s ability to compete effectively with other companies, offering similar financing arrangements, depends upon
maintaining close business relationships with dealers of new and used vehicles. No single dealer out of the approximately 1,700
dealers that the Company currently has active Contractual relationships with accounted for over 1% of its business volume for any of
the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 or 2009.
Regulation
The Company’s financing operations are subject to regulation, supervision and licensing under various federal, state and local statutes
and ordinances. Additionally, the procedures that the Company must follow in connection with the repossession of vehicles securing
Contracts are regulated by each of the states in which the Company does business. To date, the Company’s operations have been
conducted exclusively in the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, North
Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Accordingly, the laws of such states, as well as applicable federal law,
govern the Company’s operations. Compliance with existing laws and regulations has not had a material adverse effect on the
Company’s operations to date. The Company’s management believes that the Company maintains all requisite licenses and permits
and is in material compliance with all applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations. The Company periodically reviews its
branch office practices in an effort to ensure such compliance. The following constitute certain of the existing federal, state and local
statutes and ordinances with which the Company must comply:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
State consumer regulatory agency requirements. Pursuant to regulations of the state of Florida governing the Company’s
financing business activities, the Florida Department of Banking and Finance periodically conducts an on-site audit of
each of the Company’s Florida branches to monitor compliance with applicable regulations. These regulations govern,
among other matters, licensure requirements, requirements for maintenance of proper records, payment of required fees,
maximum interest rates that may be charged on loans to finance used vehicles and proper disclosure to customers
regarding financing terms. Pursuant to North Carolina law, the Company’s direct loan activities in that state are subject to
similar periodic on-site audits by the North Carolina Office of the Commissioner of Banks.
State licensing requirements. The Company maintains a Sales Finance Company License with the Florida Department of
Banking and Finance, as well as consumer loan licenses in Florida and North Carolina. In addition, each of the dealers
that the Company does business with is required to maintain a Retail Installment Seller’s License with each state in which
it operates.
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (“FDCPA”) and applicable state law
counterparts prohibit the Company from contacting customers during certain times and at certain places, from using
certain threatening practices and from making false implications when attempting to collect a debt.
Truth in Lending Act. The Truth in Lending Act (“TILA”) requires the Company and the dealers it does business with to
make certain disclosures to customers, including the terms of repayment, the total finance charge and the annual
percentage rate charged on each Contract or direct loan.
Equal Credit Opportunity Act. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (“ECOA”) prohibits creditors from discriminating
against loan applicants on the basis of race, color, sex, age or marital status. Pursuant to Regulation B promulgated under
the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, creditors are required to make certain disclosures regarding consumer rights and advise
consumers whose credit applications are not approved of the reasons for the rejection.
Fair Credit Reporting Act. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (“FCRA”) requires the Company to provide certain information
to consumers whose credit applications are not approved on the basis of a report obtained from a consumer-reporting
agency.
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (“GLBA”) requires the Company to maintain privacy with
respect to certain consumer data in its possession and to periodically communicate with consumers on privacy matters.
Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act requires the Company to reduce the
interest rate charged on each loan to customers who have subsequently joined, enlisted, been inducted or called to active
military duty.
Electronic Funds Transfer Act. The Electronic Funds Transfer Act (“EFTA”) prohibits the Company from requiring its
customers to repay a loan or other credit by electronic funds transfer (“EFT”), except in limited situations which do not
apply to the Company. The Company is also required to provide certain documentation to its customers when an EFT is
initiated and to provide certain notifications to its customers with regard to preauthorized payments.
8
•
•
•
Telephone Consumer Protection Act. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act prohibits telephone solicitation calls to a
customer’s home before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. In addition, if the Company makes a telephone solicitation call to a
customer’s home, the representative making the call must provide his or her name, the Company’s name, and a telephone
number or address at which the Company’s representative may be contacted. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act
also requires that the Company maintain a record of any requests by customers not to receive future telephone
solicitations, which must be maintained for five years.
Bankruptcy. Federal bankruptcy and related state laws may interfere with or affect the Company’s ability to recover
collateral or enforce a deficiency judgment.
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act 0f 2010 (“Dodd-Frank Act”). Title X of the Dodd-Frank
Act created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”), which, effective July 21, 2011, will have authority to
issue and enforce regulations under the federal “enumerated consumer laws,” including (subject to certain statutory
limitations) FDCPA, TILA, ECOA, FCRA, GLBA and EFTA.
Employees
The Company’s management and various support functions are centralized at the Company’s Corporate Headquarters in Clearwater,
Florida. As of March 31, 2011 the Company employed a total of 291 persons, 3 of whom work for NDS and 288 of whom work for
Nicholas Financial. None of the Company’s employees are subject to a collective bargaining agreement, and the Company considers
its relations with its employees generally to be good.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
The following factors, as well as other factors not set forth below, may adversely affect the business, operations, financial
condition or results of operations of the Company (sometimes referred to in this section as “we” “us” or “our”).
Our profitability and future growth depend on our continued access to bank financing.
The profitability and growth of our business currently depend on our ability to access bank debt at competitive rates. We currently
depend on a $140.0 million line of credit facility with a financial institution to finance our purchases of Contracts and fund our direct
loans. This line of credit currently has a maturity date of November 30, 2011 and is secured by substantially all our assets. At March
31, 2011, we had approximately $118.0 million outstanding under the line of credit and approximately $22.0 million available for
additional borrowing.
The availability of our credit facility depends, in part, on factors outside of our control, including regulatory capital treatment for
unfunded bank lines of credit and the availability of bank loans in general. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that this credit facility will
continue to be available beyond the current maturity date on reasonable terms or at all. If we are unable to renew or replace our credit
facility or find alternative financing at reasonable rates, we may be forced to liquidate. We will continue to depend on the availability
of our line of credit, together with cash from operations, to finance our future operations.
The terms of our indebtedness impose significant restrictions on us.
Our existing outstanding indebtedness restricts our ability to, among other things:
•
•
•
•
sell or transfer assets;
incur additional debt;
repay other debt;
pay dividends;
• make certain investments or acquisitions;
•
•
•
repurchase or redeem capital stock;
engage in mergers or consolidations; and
engage in certain transactions with subsidiaries and affiliates.
In addition, our line of credit facility requires us to comply with certain financial ratios and covenants and to satisfy specified financial
tests, including maintenance of asset quality and portfolio performance tests. Our ability to continue to meet those financial ratios and
tests could be affected by events beyond our control. Failure to meet any of these covenants, financial ratios or financial tests could
result in an event of default under our line of credit facility.
9
If an event of default occurs under this credit facility, the lender may take one or more of the following actions:
•
increase our borrowing costs;
•
•
•
restrict our ability to obtain additional borrowings under the facility;
accelerate all amounts outstanding under the facility; or
enforce its interests against collateral pledged under the facility.
If our lender accelerates our debt payments, our assets may not be sufficient to fully repay the debt.
We will require a significant amount of cash to service our indebtedness and meet our other liquidity needs.
Our ability to make payments on or to refinance our indebtedness and to fund our operations and planned capital expenditures depends
on our future operating performance. Our primary cash requirements include the funding of:
• Contract purchases and direct loans;
•
•
•
•
•
interest payments under our line of credit facility and other indebtedness;
capital expenditures for technology and facilities;
ongoing operating expenses;
planned expansions by opening additional branch offices; and
any required income tax payments.
In addition, because we expect to continue to require substantial amounts of cash for the foreseeable future, we may seek additional
debt or equity financing. The type, timing and terms of the financing we select will be dependent upon our cash needs, the availability
of other financing sources and the prevailing conditions in the financial markets. There is no assurance that any of these sources will
be available to us at any given time or that the terms on which these sources may be available will be favorable. Our inability to obtain
such additional financing on reasonable terms could adversely impact our ability to grow.
Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition.
We currently have a substantial amount of outstanding indebtedness. Our ability to make payments on, or to refinance, our
indebtedness will depend on our future operating performance, including our ability to access additional debt and equity financing,
which, to a certain extent, is subject to economic, financial, competitive and other factors beyond our control.
Our high level of indebtedness could have important consequences for our business. For example,
• we may be unable to satisfy our obligations under our outstanding indebtedness;
• we may find it more difficult to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, and general corporate
needs;
• we may have to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash resources to the payments on our outstanding indebtedness,
thereby reducing the funds available for operations and future business opportunities; and
• we may be more vulnerable to adverse general economic and industry conditions.
We may incur substantial additional debt in the future. If new debt is added to our current levels, the risks described above could
intensify.
We may experience high delinquency rates in our loan portfolios, which could reduce our profitability.
Our profitability depends, to a material extent, on the performance of Contracts that we purchase. Historically, we have experienced
higher delinquency rates than traditional financial institutions because a large portion of our loans are to non-prime borrowers, who
are unable to obtain financing from traditional sources due to their credit history. Although we attempt to mitigate these high credit
risks with our underwriting standards and collection procedures, these standards and procedures may not offer adequate protection
against the risk of default, especially in periods of economic uncertainty and high unemployment such as have existed over much of
the past several years. In the event of a default, the collateral value of the financed vehicle usually does not cover the outstanding loan
balance and costs of recovery. Higher than anticipated delinquencies and defaults on our Contracts would reduce our profitability.
In addition, in the event we were to make any bulk purchases of seasoned Contracts, we may experience higher than normal
delinquency rates with respect to these loan portfolios due to our inability to apply our underwriting standards to each loan comprising
the acquired portfolios. We would similarly attempt to mitigate the high credit risks associated with these loans, although no
assurances can be given that we would be able to do so.
10
We depend upon our relationships with our dealers.
Our business depends in large part upon our ability to establish and maintain relationships with reputable dealers who originate the
Contracts we purchase. Although we believe we have been successful in developing and maintaining such relationships, such
relationships are not exclusive, and many of them are not longstanding. There can be no assurances that we will be successful in
maintaining such relationships or increasing the number of dealers with whom we do business, especially in light of higher than
normal dealership closures as a result of the recent economic downturn, or that our existing dealer base will continue to generate a
volume of Contracts comparable to the volume of such Contracts historically generated by such dealers.
Our success depends upon our ability to implement our business strategy.
Our financial position depends on management’s ability to execute our business strategy. Key factors involved in the execution of our
business strategy include achievement of the desired Contract purchase volume, the use of effective risk management techniques and
collection methods, continued investment in technology to support operating efficiency, and continued access to significant funding
and liquidity sources. Our failure or inability to execute any element of our business strategy could materially adversely affect our
business and financial condition.
Our business is highly dependent upon general economic conditions.
We are subject to changes in general economic conditions that are beyond our control. During periods of economic slowdown or high
unemployment, such as has existed for much of the past several years, delinquencies, defaults, repossessions and losses generally
increase. These periods also may be accompanied by decreased consumer demand for automobiles and declining values of
automobiles securing outstanding loans, which weakens collateral coverage on our loans and increases the amount of a loss we would
experience in the event of default. Because we focus on non-prime borrowers, the actual rates of delinquencies, defaults, repossessions
and losses on these loans are higher than those experienced in the general automobile finance industry and could be more dramatically
affected by a general economic downturn. In addition, during an economic slowdown or recession, our servicing costs may increase
without a corresponding increase in our servicing income. While we seek to manage the higher risk inherent in loans made to non-
prime borrowers through our underwriting criteria and collection methods, no assurances can be given that these criteria or methods
will afford adequate protection against these risks. Any sustained period of increased delinquencies, defaults, repossessions or losses
or increased servicing costs could adversely affect our business and financial condition.
Recent economic developments may continue to adversely affect our business and financial condition.
Over the past several years, the United States has experienced a period of economic uncertainty and high unemployment that has, and
may continue to, adversely affect our business and financial condition. High unemployment and a continued lack of available credit
have contributed to delinquencies and losses above our historical averages.
Additionally, fluctuating gasoline prices, unstable real estate values, resets of adjustable rate mortgages and other factors have
adversely impacted consumer confidence and disposable income. These conditions have increased loss frequency, decreased consumer
demand for automobiles and weakened collateral values on certain types of vehicles. Because we focus predominately on sub-prime
borrowers, the actual rates of delinquencies, defaults, repossessions and losses on Contracts are higher than those experienced in the
general automobile finance industry and have been materially affected by the recent economic downturn. If economic and credit
conditions do not continue to improve, our business and financial condition could be further adversely affected.
The auction proceeds we receive from the sale of repossessed vehicles and other recoveries are subject to fluctuation due to
economic and other factors beyond our control.
If we repossess a vehicle securing a Contract, we typically have it transported to an automobile auction for sale. Auction proceeds
from the sale of repossessed vehicles and other recoveries are usually not sufficient to cover the outstanding balance of the Contract,
and the resulting deficiency is charged off. In addition, there is, on average, approximately a 30-day lapse between the time we
repossess a vehicle and the time it is sold by a dealer or at auction. The proceeds we receive from such sales depend upon various
factors, including the supply of, and demand for, used vehicles at the time of sale. Such supply and demand are dependent on many
factors. For example, the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act of 2009, which provided incentives to replace older vehicles
with new, fuel-efficient vehicles in the second half of 2009, has resulted in a temporary reduction in the supply of used vehicles, thus
temporarily bolstering used automobile prices. At the same time, during periods of economic slowdown or recession, the demand for
used cars may soften, resulting in decreased auction proceeds to us from the sale of repossessed automobiles. Furthermore, depressed
wholesale prices for used automobiles may result from significant liquidations of rental or fleet inventories, and from increased
volume of trade-ins due to promotional financing programs offered by new vehicle manufacturers. Decreased auction proceeds to us
resulting from sales of used automobiles at depressed prices will result in losses and, in turn, reduced profitability.
11
An increase in market interest rates may reduce our profitability.
Our long-term profitability may be directly affected by the level of and fluctuations in interest rates. Sustained, significant increases in
interest rates may adversely affect our liquidity and profitability by reducing the interest rate spread between the rate of interest we
receive on our Contracts and interest rates that we pay under our outstanding line of credit facility. As interest rates increase, our gross
interest rate spread on new originations will generally decline since the rates charged on the Contracts originated or purchased from
dealers generally are limited by statutory maximums, restricting our opportunity to pass on increased interest costs. We monitor the
interest rate environment and previously had interest rate swap agreements relating to a portion of our outstanding debt with maturities
ranging from July 2, 2010 through February 2, 2011. Each of these agreements effectively converted a portion of our floating-rate debt
to a fixed-rate, thus reducing the impact of interest rate changes on our interest expense. As of March 31, 2011, we had no interest
rate swap agreements in place. We are currently evaluating interest rate swap pricing and we may or may not enter into interest rate
swap agreements in the future.
Our growth depends upon our ability to retain and attract a sufficient number of qualified employees.
To a large extent, our growth strategy depends on the opening of new offices that focus primarily on purchasing Contracts and making
direct loans in markets we have not previously served. Future expansion of our office network depends, in part, upon our ability to
attract and retain qualified and experienced office managers and the ability of such managers to develop relationships with dealers that
serve those markets. We generally do not open a new office until we have located and hired a qualified and experienced individual to
manage the office. Typically, this individual will be familiar with local market conditions and have existing relationships with dealers
in the area to be served. Although we believe that we can attract and retain qualified and experienced personnel as we proceed with
planned expansion into new markets, no assurance can be given that we will be successful in doing so. Competition to hire personnel
possessing the skills and experience required by us could contribute to an increase in our employee turnover rate. High turnover or an
inability to attract and retain qualified personnel could have an adverse effect on our origination, delinquency, default and net loss
rates and, ultimately, our financial condition.
The loss of one of our key executives could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our growth and development to date have been largely dependent upon the services of Peter L. Vosotas, our Chairman of the Board,
President and Chief Executive Officer, Ralph T. Finkenbrink, our Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President-Finance, and
Douglas W. Marohn, our Senior Vice President-Branch Operations. We do not maintain key-man life insurance policies on these
executives. Although we believe that we have sufficient additional experienced management personnel to accommodate the loss of
any key executive, the loss of services of one or more of these executives could have a material adverse effect on our business and
financial condition.
We are subject to risks associated with litigation.
As a consumer finance company, we are subject to various consumer claims and litigation seeking damages and statutory penalties,
based upon, among other things:
•
•
usury laws;
disclosure inaccuracies;
• wrongful repossession;
•
•
•
•
•
violations of bankruptcy stay provisions;
certificate of title disputes;
fraud;
breach of contract; and
discriminatory treatment of credit applicants.
Some litigation against us could take the form of class action complaints by consumers. As the assignee of Contracts originated by
dealers, we may also be named as a co-defendant in lawsuits filed by consumers principally against dealers. The damages and
penalties claimed by consumers in these types of actions can be substantial. The relief requested by the plaintiffs varies but may
include requests for compensatory, statutory and punitive damages. No assurances can be given that we will not experience material
financial losses in the future as a result of litigation or other legal proceedings.
12
The Dodd-Frank Act authorizes the newly created CFPB to adopt rules that could potentially have a material adverse effect
on our operations and financial performance.
Title X of the Dodd-Frank Act establishes the CFPB, which is scheduled to become operational as of July 21, 2011. Under the Dodd-
Frank Act, the CFPB will have regulatory, supervisory and enforcement powers over providers of consumer financial products, such
as Contracts and the direct loans that we offer, including explicit supervisory authority to examine and require registration of
installment lenders such as ourselves. Included in the powers afforded to the CFPB is the authority to adopt rules describing specified
acts and practices as being “unfair,” “deceptive” or “abusive,” and hence unlawful. Although the Dodd-Frank Act expressly provides
that the CFPB has no authority to establish usury limits, some consumer advocacy groups have suggested that certain forms of
alternative consumer finance products, such as installment loans, should be a regulatory priority and it is possible that at some time in
the future the CFPB could propose and adopt rules making such lending or other products that we may offer materially less profitable
or impractical. Further, the CFPB may target specific features of loans by rulemaking that could cause us to cease offering certain
products. Any such rules could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operation and financial condition. The CFPB
could also adopt rules imposing new and potentially burdensome requirements and limitations with respect to any of our current or
future lines of business, which could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial performance.
In addition to the Dodd-Frank Act’s grant of regulatory powers to the CFPB, the Dodd-Frank Act gives the CFPB authority to pursue
administrative proceedings or litigation for violations of federal consumer financial laws. In these proceedings, the CFPB can obtain
cease and desist orders (which can include orders for restitution or rescission of contracts, as well as other kinds of affirmative relief)
and monetary penalties ranging from $5,000 per day for minor violations of federal consumer financial laws (including the CFPB’s
own rules) to $25,000 per day for reckless violations and $1 million per day for knowing violations. If we are subject to such
administrative proceedings, litigation, orders or monetary penalties in the future, this could have a material adverse effect on our
operations and financial performance. Also, where a company has violated Title X of the Dodd-Frank Act or CFPB regulations under
Title X, the Dodd-Frank Act empowers state attorneys general and state regulators to bring civil actions for the kind of cease and
desist orders available to the CFPB (but not for civil penalties). If the CFPB or one or more state officials believe we have violated the
foregoing laws, they could exercise their enforcement powers in ways that would have a material adverse effect on us.
We are subject to many laws and governmental regulations, and any material violations of or changes in these laws or
regulations could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and business operations.
Our financing operations are subject to regulation, supervision and licensing under various federal, state and local statutes and
ordinances. Additionally, the procedures that we must follow in connection with the repossession of vehicles securing Contracts are
regulated by each of the states in which we do business. The various federal, state and local statutes, regulations, and ordinances
applicable to our business govern, among other things:
•
•
•
licensing requirements;
requirements for maintenance of proper records;
payment of required fees to certain states;
• maximum interest rates that may be charged on loans to finance new and used vehicles;
•
•
•
•
•
•
debt collection practices;
proper disclosure to customers regarding financing terms;
privacy regarding certain customer data;
interest rates on loans to customers;
telephone solicitation of direct loan customers; and
collection of debts from loan customers who have filed bankruptcy.
We believe that we maintain all material licenses and permits required for our current operations and are in substantial compliance
with all applicable local, state and federal regulations. Our failure, or failure by dealers who originate the Contracts we purchase, to
maintain all requisite licenses and permits, and to comply with other regulatory requirements, could result in consumers having rights
of rescission and other remedies that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition. Furthermore, any changes in
applicable laws, rules and regulations, such as the passage of the Dodd-Frank Act and the creation of the CFPB, may make our
compliance therewith more difficult or expensive or otherwise adversely affect our financial condition.
13
Our Chief Executive Officer holds a significant percentage of our common stock and may take actions adverse to your
interests.
Peter L. Vosotas, our Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer, owned approximately 14.0% of our common
stock as of June 1, 2011. As a result, he may be able to influence matters requiring shareholder approval, including the election and
removal of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions, such as mergers, consolidations and sales of assets. This
concentration of ownership could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control or impeding a merger or
consolidation, takeover or other business combination, which could cause the market price of our common stock to fall or prevent you
from receiving a premium in such transaction.
Our stock is lightly traded, which may limit your ability to resell your shares.
The average daily trading volume of our shares on the NASDAQ Global Select Market for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 was
approximately 10,850 shares. Thus, our common stock is thinly traded. Thinly traded stock can be more volatile than stock trading in
an active public market. Factors such as our financial results, the introduction of new products and services by us or our competitors,
and various factors affecting the consumer-finance industry generally may have a significant impact on the market price of our
common stock. In recent years, the stock market has experienced a high level of price and volume volatility, and market prices for the
stocks of many companies, including ours, have experienced wide price fluctuations that have not necessarily been related to their
operating performance. Therefore, our shareholders may not be able to sell their shares at the volumes, prices, or times that they
desire.
We operate in a competitive market.
The non-prime consumer-finance industry is highly competitive. There are numerous financial service companies that provide
consumer credit in the markets served by us, including banks, credit unions, other consumer finance companies and captive finance
companies owned by automobile manufacturers and retailers. Many of these competitors have substantially greater financial resources
than us. In addition, our competitors often provide financing on terms more favorable to automobile purchasers or dealers than we
offer. Many of these competitors also have long-standing relationships with automobile dealerships and may offer dealerships or their
customers other forms of financing, including dealer floor-plan financing and leasing, which are not provided by us. Providers of non-
prime consumer financing have traditionally competed primarily on the basis of:
•
•
•
•
interest rates charged;
the quality of credit accepted;
the flexibility of loan terms offered; and
the quality of service provided.
Our ability to compete effectively with other companies offering similar financing arrangements depends on maintaining close
relationships with dealers of new and used vehicles. We may not be able to compete successfully in this market or against these
competitors.
We have focused on a segment of the market composed of consumers who typically do not meet the more stringent credit
requirements of traditional consumer financing sources and whose needs, as a result, have not been addressed consistently by such
financing sources. If, however, other providers of consumer financing were to assert a significantly greater effort to penetrate our
targeted market segment, we may have to reduce our interest rates and fees in order to maintain our market share. Any reduction in
our interest rates or fees could have an adverse impact on our profitability or financial condition.
We may experience problems with our integrated computer systems or be unable to keep pace with developments in
technology.
We use various technologies in our business, including telecommunication, data processing, and integrated computer systems.
Technology changes rapidly. Our ability to compete successfully with other financing companies may depend on our ability to
efficiently and cost-effectively implement technological changes. Moreover, to keep pace with our competitors, we may be required to
invest in technological changes that do not necessarily improve our profitability.
We utilize integrated computer systems to respond to customer inquiries and to monitor the performance of our Contract and direct
loan portfolios and the performance of individual customers under our Contracts and direct loans. Problems with our systems’
operations could adversely impact our ability to monitor our portfolios or collect amounts due under our Contracts and direct loans,
which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None
14
Item 2. Properties
The Company leases its Corporate Headquarters and branch office facilities. The Company’s Headquarters, located at 2454 McMullen
Booth Road, Building C, in Clearwater, Florida, consist of approximately 15,000 square feet of office space at an annual rate of
approximately $20.00 per square foot. The current lease relating to this space expires in March 2013.
Each of the Company’s 56 branch offices located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan,
Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia consists of approximately 1,200 square feet of office space.
These offices are located in office parks, shopping centers or strip malls and are occupied pursuant to leases with an initial term of one
to five years at annual rates ranging from approximately $10.00 to $35.00 per square foot. The Company believes that these facilities
and additional or alternate space available to it are adequate to meet its needs for the foreseeable future.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
The Company currently is not a party to any pending legal proceedings other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business,
none of which, if decided adversely to the Company, would, in the opinion of management, have a material adverse affect on the
Company’s financial condition or results of operations.
Item 4. [Note: Item Removed and Reserved]
15
PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
The Company’s common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “NICK.”
On November 10, 2009, the Board of Directors declared a 10% stock dividend on December 7, 2009 to shareholders of record on
November 20, 2009. As a result of this stock dividend, an entry of approximately $6.5 million was made to reflect the re-capitalization
of shareholders’ equity from retained earnings to common stock. This amount was derived from the quoted market value per share at
the date of declaration ($6.10) times the number of shares issued as a result of the 10% stock dividend.
The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices of the Company’s common stock for the fiscal years ended March 31,
2011 and 2010, respectively. All of the pricing information contained in the table below reflects the 10% stock dividend completed on
December 7, 2009.
Fiscal year ended March 31, 2011
First Quarter................................................................................................ $ 9.20 $ 7.40
Second Quarter ........................................................................................... $ 9.60 $ 7.90
Third Quarter .............................................................................................. $ 10.60 $ 8.54
Fourth Quarter ............................................................................................ $ 12.98 $ 10.01
High
Low
Fiscal year ended March 31, 2010
First Quarter................................................................................................ $
Second Quarter ........................................................................................... $
Third Quarter .............................................................................................. $
Fourth Quarter ............................................................................................ $
5.25 $
6.81 $
7.60 $
7.85 $
2.35
4.69
5.45
6.66
High
Low
As of June 1, 2011, there were approximately 2,000 holders of record of the Company’s common stock.
The Company did not pay any cash dividends during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011 or 2010. The Company is currently
evaluating the possibility of instituting a stock buyback, cash dividend, or a stock dividend; however no assurances can be given that
any of these events will occur. Any payment of future cash dividends and the amounts thereof will be dependent upon the Company’s
earnings, financial requirements, and other factors deemed relevant by the Board of Directors. In addition, the Company’s $140.0
million line of credit facility contains certain covenants which may restrict the Company’s ability to pay cash dividends, including a
requirement that the lender pre-approve the declaration and payment of any cash dividend.
There are no Canadian foreign exchange controls or laws that would affect the remittance of dividends or other payments to the
Company’s non-Canadian resident shareholders. There are no Canadian laws that restrict the export or import of capital, other than the
Investment Canada Act (Canada), which requires the notification or review of certain investments by non-Canadians to establish or
acquire control of a Canadian business. The Company is not a Canadian business as defined under the Investment Canada Act because
it has no place of business in Canada, has no individuals employed in Canada in connection with its business, and has no assets in
Canada used in carrying on its business.
Canada and the United States of America are signatories to the Canada-United States Tax Convention Act, 1984 (the “Tax Treaty”).
The Tax Treaty contains provisions governing the tax treatment of interest, dividends, gains and royalties paid to or received by a
person residing in the United States. The Tax Treaty also contains provisions to prevent the occurrence of double taxation, essentially
by permitting the taxpayer to claim a tax credit for taxes paid in the foreign jurisdiction.
Dividends paid to the Company from its U.S. subsidiaries’ current and accumulated earnings and profits will be subject to a U.S.
withholding tax of 5%. The gross dividends (i.e., before payment of the withholding tax) must be included in the Company’s net
income. However, under certain circumstances, the Company may be allowed to deduct the dividends in the calculation of its
Canadian taxable income. If the Company has no other foreign (i.e., non-Canadian) non-business income, no relief is available in that
case to recover the withholding taxes previously paid.
16
A 15% Canadian withholding tax applies to dividends paid by the Company to a U.S. shareholder that is an individual. The U.S.
shareholder must include the gross amount of the dividends in his net income to be taxed at the regular rates. A foreign tax credit will
be available to the extent of the lesser of:
(i) withholding taxes paid (up to a maximum of 15% of certain foreign income from property); and
(ii)
the U.S. taxes payable in respect to that foreign income.
Alternatively, an individual can claim the foreign withholding taxes paid as a deduction in the computation of income for tax
purposes. If the withholding taxes paid exceed 15% of the foreign income from property, such excess must be deducted in computing
net income.
Dividends paid to a corporate U.S. shareholder that owns less than 10% of the Company’s voting shares are also subject to a Canadian
withholding tax of 15%.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
The following table sets forth certain information, as of March 31, 2011, with respect to compensation plans under which equity
securities of the Company were authorized for issuance:
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
Plan Category
Equity Compensation Plans Approved by
Security Holders.................................
Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved
by Security Holders............................
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
(Excluding Securities
Reflected in Column (a))
(a)
(b)
(c)
661,255
$5.47
291,775
None
Not Applicable
None
TOTAL..........................................
661,255
$5.47
291,775
17
Performance Graph
Set forth below is a graph comparing the cumulative total return on the Company’s Common shares for the five-year period ended
March 31, 2011, with that of an overall stock market (NASDAQ Composite) and the Company’s peer group index (SNL Autofinance
Index). The stock performance graph assumes that the value of the investment in each of the Company’s Common shares, the
NASDAQ Composite Index and the SNL Autofinance Index was $100 on April 1, 2006 and that all dividends were reinvested.
The graph displayed below is presented in accordance with SEC requirements. Shareholders are cautioned against drawing any
conclusions from the data contained therein, as past results are not necessarily indicative of future performance. This graph in no way
reflects the Company’s forecast of future financial performance.
03/31/2006
03/31/2007
03/31/2008
03/31/2009
03/31/2010
03/31/2011
Nicholas Financial, Inc. ............................................ $
NASDAQ Composite ...............................................
SNL Autofinance Index ............................................
100.00 $
100.00
100.00
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
47.09 $
85.18 $
103.50
83.31
97.41
40.22
20.00 $
66.33
30.17
63.56 $ 102.43
118.86
102.49
122.13
90.23
The following tables present selected consolidated financial data of the Company as of and for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011,
2010, 2009, 2008 and 2007. The selected consolidated financial data have been derived from our consolidated financial statements.
All historical share and per share amounts have been restated for all periods presented to reflect a 10% stock dividend paid on
December 7, 2009 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on November 20, 2009.
You should read the selected consolidated financial data below in conjunction with “Item 7 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto that are
included elsewhere in this Report.
18
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
Fiscal Year ended March 31,
Statement of Operations Data
Interest income on finance receivables ...... $ 62,719,904
Sales ......................................................
53,622
62,773,526
$
Interest expense .....................................
Provision for credit losses......................
Salaries and employee benefits..............
Change in fair value of interest rate
swaps................................................
Other expenses.......................................
5,599,951
4,610,221
16,430,763
(495,136)
9,280,923
35,426,722
Operating income before income taxes .....
Income tax expense ...............................
27,346,804
10,541,620
Net income ............................................ $ 16,805,184
Earnings per share – basic: .................... $ 1.45
Weighted average shares
$
$
56,403,536
68,117
56,471,653
5,169,736
11,321,849
14,380,695
(1,034,869)
8,984,047
38,821,458
17,650,195
6,785,634
10,864,561
0.95
$
$
53,032,438
69,933
53,102,371
5,384,532
16,386,070
13,349,523
1,530,005
8,900,260
45,550,390
7,551,981
2,834,418
50,007,510
75,287
50,082,797
6,310,465
7,730,805
12,572,039
—
$ 46,590,436
118,938
46,709,374
5,535,599
3,627,065
11,994,082
—
7,903,660
34,516,969
6,815,053
27,971,799
15,565,828
5,893,652
18,737,575
7,157,816
$
$
4,717,563
0.42
$
$
9,672,176
$ 11,579,759
0.88
$ 1.06
outstanding.............................
11,607,341
11,470,318
11,273,811
11,002,756
10,922,938
Earnings per share – diluted: ................. $ 1.41
$
0.93
$
0.41
$
0.85
$ 1.02
Weighted average shares
outstanding.............................
11,893,518
11,689,123
11,440,313
11,328,547
11,318,090
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
As of and for the Fiscal Year ended March 31,
Balance Sheet Data
Total assets ............................................ $ 243,643,125
Finance receivables, net.........................
230,163,854
Line of credit .........................................
118,000,000
Shareholders’ equity ..............................
115,213,468
Operating Data
7.34%
Return on average assets........................
Return on average equity .......................
15.81%
Gross portfolio yield (1) ........................ 24.99%
Pre-tax yield (1)..................................... 10.77%
Total delinquencies over 30 days............... 2.21%
Write-off to liquidation (1) .................... 6.17%
Net charge-off percentage (1) ................ 4.65%
Automobile Finance Data & Direct
Loan Origination
Contracts purchased/direct loans
$
214,136,073
202,439,754
107,274,971
97,437,283
$
$
197,782,175
186,694,369
102,030,195
85,017,713
189,837,825
179,043,344
99,937,198
78,576,439
$ 173,019,248
164,364,715
94,012,099
69,806,985
5.28 %
11.91 %
25.23 %
7.51 %
3.16 %
9.87 %
7.37 %
2.43%
5.77%
25.57%
4.50%
4.20%
12.39%
9.93%
5.33 % 7.18%
13.04 % 18.08%
26.18 % 27.01%
8.22 % 10.89%
3.45 % 2.18%
9.08 % 6.72%
8.24 % 6.30%
originated.......................................... $ 151,874,846
$
Average discount ................................... 8.78%
Weighted average contractual rate (1) ... 23.66%
Number of branch locations................... 56
125,315,736
$
117,653,858
$
126,661,703
$
128,865,697
9.11 %
23.62 %
52
9.14%
24.17%
48
8.32 % 8.45%
24.32 % 23.99%
47
47
(1)
Operations—Overview.”
See definitions on page 20 under “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
19
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Overview
Nicholas Financial-Canada is a Canadian holding company incorporated under the laws of British Columbia in 1986. Nicholas
Financial-Canada conducts its business activities through two wholly-owned Florida corporations: Nicholas Financial, which
purchases and services Contracts, makes direct loans and sells consumer-finance related products; and NDS, which supports and
updates certain computer application software. Nicholas Financial accounted for more than 99% of the Company’s consolidated
revenue for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009. Nicholas Financial-Canada, Nicholas Financial and Nicholas Data
Services are collectively referred to herein as the “Company”.
The Company’s consolidated revenues increased for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 to $62.8 million as compared to $56.5 million
and $53.1 million for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The Company’s consolidated net income increased
for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 to $16.8 million as compared to $10.9 million and $4.7 million for the fiscal years ended March
31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The Company’s earnings were positively impacted by a decrease in the net charge-off percentage to
4.65% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 as compared to 7.37% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. The Company believes
the decrease in the charge-off percentage was primarily attributable to the following factors: the increased market value of auctioned cars,
the continued application of stricter underwriting guidelines, and the continued allocation of additional resources focused on collections.
The Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act of 2009 (“CARS”) established a voluntary vehicle trade-in and purchase program
pursuant to which owners of vehicles were eligible to receive a credit of either $3,500 or $4,500 in connection with the purchase of a new
vehicle from a participating dealer, depending upon how the trade-in and acquired vehicles fit within the program criteria, including the
amount of improved fuel efficiency. The program reduced the supply of used cars in the market, resulting in increases in the market value
of used cars. The Company’s underwriting guidelines were changed in 2009 to increase the minimum income required by any applicant
before loan approval can even be contemplated. The Company also reduced the maximum advance to any dealer, raised the minimum
ENH beacon score, and reduced the maximum amount that can be financed.
As discussed in note 6 (“Interest Rate Swap Agreements”) to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this
Report, the Company made an economic decision which resulted in undesignating the interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges during
the third quarter of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. Under accounting rules this has introduced volatility to the statement of
income for changes in the fair value of interest rate swaps that historically have been captured in accumulated comprehensive income
or loss in the statement of shareholders’ equity. The Company held the interest rate swaps through their entire terms and as of and
since March 31, 2011 does not have any outstanding. Accordingly, over the term of each interest rate swap agreement, the unrealized
gains and losses from changes in the fair value of interest rate swaps, which are now recorded in the change in fair value of interest
rate swaps line item of the statement of income, has offset to $0 and cumulatively has no impact on retained earnings.
Portfolio Summary
Fiscal Year ended March 31,
2011
2010
2009
Average finance receivables, net of unearned interest (1) ........
$ 250,962,519
Average indebtedness (2) .........................................................
$ 113,833,641
Interest and fee income on finance receivables (3)...................
Interest expense ........................................................................
$ 62,719,904
$ 5,599,951
Net interest and fee income on finance receivables..................
$ 57,119,953
$
$
$
$
$
223,547,537
106,985,830
56,403,536
5,169,736
51,223,800
$
$
$
$
$
207,402,047
103,126,653
53,032,438
5,384,532
47,647,906
Weighted average contractual rate (4) ......................................
23.66%
Average cost of borrowed funds (2) .........................................
4.92%
23.62%
4.83%
25.23%
24.99%
2.23%
2.31%
1.84%
20.92%
5.06%
17.86%
24.17%
5.22%
25.57%
2.60%
7.90%
15.07%
Gross portfolio yield (5) ...........................................................
Interest expense as a percentage of average finance receivables,
net of unearned interest.........................................................
Provision for credit losses as a percentage of average finance
receivables, net of unearned interest ....................................
Net portfolio yield (5)...............................................................
Marketing, salaries, employee benefits, depreciation and
administrative expenses as a percentage of average finance
receivables, net of unearned interest (6) ..............................
10.15%
10.35%
10.57%
Pre-tax yield as a percentage of average finance receivables,
net of unearned interest (7) ..................................................
10.77%
Write-off to liquidation (8) .......................................................
Net charge-off percentage (9)...................................................
6.17%
4.65%
7.51%
9.87%
7.37%
4.50%
12.39%
9.93%
20
(1) Average finance receivables, net of unearned interest, represents the average of gross finance receivables, less unearned interest
throughout the period.
(2) Average indebtedness represents the average outstanding borrowings under the Line. Average cost of borrowed funds represents
interest expense as a percentage of average indebtedness.
Interest and fee income on finance receivables does not include revenue generated by NDS.
(3)
(4) Weighted average contractual rate represents the weighted average annual percentage rate (“APR”) of all Contracts purchased
and direct loans originated during the period.
(5) Gross portfolio yield represents interest and fee income on finance receivables as a percentage of average finance receivables,
net of unearned interest. Net portfolio yield represents interest and fee income on finance receivables minus (a) interest expense
and (b) the provision for credit losses as a percentage of average finance receivables, net of unearned interest.
(6) Administrative expenses included in the calculation above are net of administrative expenses associated with NDS which
approximated $216,000, $213,000, and $316,000 during the fiscal years ended 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
(7) Pre-tax yield represents net portfolio yield minus operating expenses as a percentage of average finance receivables, net of
unearned interest.
(8) Write-off to liquidation percentage is defined as net charge-offs divided by liquidation. Liquidation is defined as beginning
receivable balance plus current period purchases minus voids and refinances minus ending receivable balance.
(9) Net charge-off percentage represents net charge-offs divided by average finance receivables, net of unearned interest,
outstanding during the period.
Critical Accounting Policy
The Company’s critical accounting policy relates to the allowance for credit losses. It is based on management’s opinion of an amount
that is adequate to absorb losses in the existing portfolio. The allowance for credit losses is established through allocations of dealer
discount and a provision for loss based on management’s evaluation of the risk inherent in the loan portfolio, the composition of the
portfolio, specific impaired loans and current economic conditions. Such evaluation considers, among other matters, the estimated net
realizable value or the fair value of the underlying collateral, economic conditions, historical loan loss experience, management’s
estimate of probable credit losses and other factors that warrant recognition in providing for an adequate credit loss allowance.
Because of the nature of the customers under the Company’s Contracts and its direct loan program, the Company considers the
establishment of adequate reserves for credit losses to be imperative. The Company segregates its Contracts into static pools for
purposes of establishing reserves for losses. All Contracts purchased by a branch during a fiscal quarter comprise a static pool. The
Company pools Contracts according to branch location because the branches purchase Contracts in different geographic markets. This
method of pooling by branch and quarter allows the Company to evaluate the different markets where the branches operate. The pools
also allow the Company to evaluate the different levels of customer income, stability and credit history, and the types of vehicles
purchased in each market. Each such static pool consists of the Contracts purchased by a branch office during the fiscal quarter.
Contracts are purchased from many different dealers and are all purchased on an individual Contract by Contract basis. Individual
Contract pricing is determined by the automobile dealerships and is generally the lesser of state maximum interest rates or the
maximum interest rate which the customer will accept. In certain markets, competitive forces will drive down Contract rates from the
maximum rate to a level where an individual competitor is willing to buy an individual Contract. The Company only buys Contracts
on an individual basis and never purchases Contracts in batches, although the Company may consider portfolio acquisitions as part of
its growth strategy.
The Company has detailed underwriting guidelines it utilizes to determine which Contracts to purchase. These guidelines are specific
and are designed to cause all of the Contracts that the Company purchases to have common risk characteristics. The Company utilizes
its District Managers to evaluate their respective branch locations for adherence to these underwriting guidelines. The Company also
utilizes an internal audit department to assure adherence to its underwriting guidelines. The Company utilizes the branch model, which
allows for Contract purchasing to be done on the branch level. Each Branch Manager may interpret the guidelines differently, and as a
result, the common risk characteristics tend to be the same on an individual branch level but not necessarily compared to another
branch.
A dealer discount represents the difference between the finance receivable, net of unearned interest, of a Contract, and the amount of
money the Company actually pays for the Contract. The discount negotiated by the Company is a function of the credit quality of the
customer, the wholesale value of the vehicle, and competition in any given market. The automotive dealer accepts these terms by
executing a dealer agreement with the Company. The entire amount of discount is related to credit quality and is considered to be part
of the allowance for credit losses. The Company utilizes a static pool approach to track portfolio performance. A static pool retains an
amount equal to 100% of the discount as an allowance for credit losses.
21
Subsequent to the purchase, if the reserve for credit losses is determined to be inadequate for a static pool which is not fully liquidated,
then an additional charge to income through the provision is used to reestablish adequate reserves. If a static pool is fully liquidated
and has any remaining reserves, the excess discounts are immediately recognized into income and the excess provision is immediately
reversed during the period. For static pools not fully liquidated that are determined to have excess discounts, such excess amounts are
accreted into income over the remaining life of the static pool. For static pools not fully liquidated that are deemed to have excess
reserves, such excess amounts are reversed against provision for credit losses during the period.
In analyzing a static pool, the Company considers the performance of prior static pools originated by the branch office, the
performance of prior Contracts purchased from the dealers whose Contracts are included in the current static pool, the credit rating of
the customers under the Contracts in the static pool, and current market and economic conditions. Each static pool is analyzed monthly
to determine if the loss reserves are adequate and adjustments are made if they are determined to be necessary.
Fiscal 2011 Compared to Fiscal 2010
Interest and Fee Income on Finance Receivables
Interest income on finance receivables, predominantly finance charge income, increased 11% to $62.7 million in fiscal 2011 from
$56.4 million in fiscal 2010. The average finance receivables, net of unearned interest, totaled $251.0 million for the fiscal year ended
March 31, 2011, an increase of 12% from $223.5 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. The primary reason average
finance receivables, net of unearned interest increased was the increase in the receivable base of several existing branches and the
development of new markets in Georgia, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri. The gross finance receivable balance increased 15% to $373.0
million at March 31, 2011 from $325.4 million at March 31, 2010. The primary reason interest income increased was the increase in
the outstanding loan portfolio. The gross portfolio yield decreased to 24.99% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 from 25.23%
for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. The net portfolio yield increased to 20.92% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 from
17.86% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. The gross portfolio yield decreased due to a lower weighted APR on contracts
purchased during fiscal year 2011. The net portfolio yield increased primarily due to the decrease in provisions for credit losses.
Marketing, Salaries, Employee Benefits, Depreciation, and Administrative Expenses
Marketing, salaries, employee benefits, depreciation, and administrative expenses increased to $25.7 million for the fiscal year ended
March 31, 2011 from $23.3 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. This increase of 10% was primarily attributable to
additional staffing at existing branches. Marketing, salaries, employee benefits, depreciation, and administrative expenses as a
percentage of average finance receivables, net of unearned interest, decreased to 10.15% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011
from 10.35% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010.
Interest Expense
Interest expense increased to $5.6 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 as compared to $5.2 million for the fiscal year
ended March 31, 2010. The following table summarizes the Company’s average cost of borrowed funds for the fiscal years ended
March 31:
Variable interest under the line of credit facility.................................................
Settlements under interest rate swap agreements ................................................
Credit spread under the line of credit facility......................................................
0.53%
0.70%
3.69%
0.41%
2.32%
2.10%
Average cost of borrowed funds .........................................................................
4.92%
4.83%
2011
2010
The primary reason that the Company’s average cost of funds increased was an increase in pricing under its line of credit facility,
mainly offset by the effects of the Company’s interest rate swap agreements.
On January 12, 2010, the Company executed a new line of credit facility. At this time, the pricing changed from 162.5 basis points
above 30-day LIBOR to 300 basis points above 30-day LIBOR, with a 1% floor on LIBOR. The average cost of borrowings in future
periods will continue to be impacted by such pricing increases. For a further discussion regarding the Company’s line of credit, see
note 5 (“Line of Credit”) to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Report.
The weighted average notional amount of interest rate swaps was $23.3 million at a weighted average fixed rate of 3.80% during the
fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 as compared to $67.8 million at 3.95% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. For a further
discussion regarding the effect of our interest rate swap agreements, see note 6 (“Interest Rate Swap Agreements”) to our audited
consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Report.
22
Analysis of Credit Losses
As of March 31, 2011, the Company had 1,147 active static pools. The average pool upon inception consisted of 63 Contracts with
aggregate finance receivables, net of unearned interest, of approximately $610,000.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the changes in the allowance for credit losses on Contracts for the fiscal years ended
March 31:
2011
2010
Balance at beginning of year....................................................... $ 30,408,578
Discounts acquired on new volume.............................................
12,919,492
Current year provision.................................................................
4,484,284
Losses absorbed ..........................................................................
(14,036,888)
Recoveries...................................................................................
2,255,683
Discounts accreted ......................................................................
(135,700)
$
24,926,076
11,087,231
11,189,432
(18,404,659)
1,962,496
(351,998)
Balance at end of year ................................................................. $ 35,895,449
$
30,408,578
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the changes in the allowance for credit losses on direct loans for the fiscal years
ended March 31:
Balance at beginning of year.................................................................. $ 382,869
Current year provision............................................................................
125,937
Losses absorbed .....................................................................................
(173,970)
Recoveries..............................................................................................
43,582
$
513,067
132,417
(324,521)
61,906
Balance at end of year ............................................................................ $ 378,418
$
382,869
2011
2010
The average dealer discount associated with new volume for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 was 8.78% and 9.11%,
respectively.
The provision for credit losses decreased to $4.6 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 from $11.3 million for the fiscal
year ended March 31, 2010, largely due to the decrease in the net charge-off rate to 4.65% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 as
compared to 7.37% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010.
The Company’s losses as a percentage of liquidation decreased to 6.17% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 as compared to
9.87% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. The Company has seen improvements in the quality of its Contracts due to an
increase in auction prices, reduced competition, and an increased focus on collections. In addition, auction proceeds from repossessed
vehicles reduce the amount of the write-off which drives down the write-off to liquidation percentage. During the fiscal years ended
March 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, auction proceeds from the sale of repossessed vehicles averaged approximately 52%, 45%, and 40%,
respectively, of the related principal balance.
Recoveries as a percentage of charge-offs were approximately 17.90% and 12.02% for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011 and
2010, respectively. Historically, recoveries as a percentage of charge-offs have fluctuated from period to period, and the Company
does not attribute this increase to any particular change in operational strategy or economic event.
The delinquency percentage for Contracts more than thirty days past due as of March 31, 2011 decreased to 2.21% from 3.16% as of
March 31, 2010. The delinquency percentage for direct loans more than thirty days past due as of March 31, 2011 decreased to 1.13%
from 3.06% as of March 31, 2010. The delinquency percentage decreases were attributable to the continued allocation of additional
resources focused on collections, and the continued application of stricter underwriting guidelines. The Company utilizes a static pool
approach to analyzing portfolio performance and looks at specific static pool performance and recent trends as leading indicators of
the future performance of its portfolio.
The Company considers the following factors to assist in determining the appropriate loss reserve levels: unemployment rates;
competition; the number of bankruptcy filings; the results of internal branch audits; consumer sentiment; consumer spending;
economic growth (i.e., changes in GDP); the condition of the housing sector; and other leading economic indicators. The Company
continues to evaluate reserve levels on a pool-by-pool basis during each reporting period.
23
While unemployment rates have stabilized, they remain elevated, which will make it difficult for additional improvement in loss rates.
The longer term outlook for portfolio performance will depend on overall economic conditions, the unemployment rate, the rationale
or irrational behavior of the Company’s competitors, and the Company’s ability to monitor, manage and implement its underwriting
philosophy in additional geographic areas as it strives to continue its expansion.
Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes increased to approximately $10.5 million in fiscal year 2011 from approximately $6.8 million in fiscal
year 2010 primarily as a result of higher pretax income. The Company’s effective tax rate increased to 38.51% in fiscal 2011 from
38.45% in fiscal 2010. The primary reason for this increase was an increase in the amount of taxable income subject to higher
graduated tax rates associated with federal income taxes.
Fiscal 2010 Compared to Fiscal 2009
Interest and Fee Income on Finance Receivables
Interest income on finance receivables, predominantly finance charge income, increased 6% to $56.4 million in fiscal 2010 from $53.0
million in fiscal 2009. The average finance receivables, net of unearned interest, totaled $223.5 million for the fiscal year ended March
31, 2010, an increase of 8% from $207.4 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. The primary reason average finance
receivables, net of unearned interest increased was the increase in the receivable base of several existing branches and the
development of new markets in Ohio, North Carolina, Indiana and Virginia. The gross finance receivable balance increased 9% to
$325.4 million at March 31, 2010 from $297.9 million at March 31, 2009. The primary reason interest income increased was the
increase in the outstanding loan portfolio. The gross portfolio yield decreased from 25.57% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009
to 25.23% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. The net portfolio yield increased from 15.07% for the fiscal year ended March 31,
2009 to 17.86% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. The gross portfolio yield decreased due to a lower weighted APR on
contracts purchased during fiscal year 2010. The net portfolio yield increased primarily due to the decrease in provisions for credit
losses.
Marketing, Salaries, Employee Benefits, Depreciation, and Administrative Expenses
Marketing, salaries, employee benefits, depreciation, and administrative expenses increased to $23.3 million for the fiscal year ended
March 31, 2010 from $22.2 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. This increase of 5% was primarily attributable to
additional staffing at existing branches. Marketing, salaries, employee benefits, depreciation, and administrative expenses as a
percentage of average finance receivables, net of unearned interest, decreased from 10.57% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009
to 10.35% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010.
Interest Expense
Interest expense decreased to $5.2 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 as compared to $5.4 million for the fiscal year
ended March 31, 2009. The following table summarizes the Company’s average cost of borrowed funds for the fiscal years ended
March 31:
Variable interest under the line of credit facility.................................................
Settlements under interest rate swap agreements ................................................
Credit spread under the line of credit facility......................................................
0.41%
2.32%
2.10%
Average cost of borrowed funds .........................................................................
4.83%
2.10%
1.49%
1.63%
5.22%
2010
2009
The primary reason the Company’s average cost of funds decreased was the change in the weighted-average 30-day LIBOR rate
which decreased to 0.29% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 as compared to 2.12% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009.
The reduction in 30-day LIBOR rates was offset in part by the Company’s interest rate swap agreements, which converted a portion of
the Company’s floating rate debt to fixed rate debt, as well as an increase in the credit spread under a new credit facility executed in
the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010.
The weighted average notional amount of interest rate swaps was $67.8 million at a weighted average fixed rate of 3.95% during the
fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 as compared to $80.0 million at 4.03% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. For a further
discussion regarding the effect of our interest rate swap agreements, see note 6 (“Interest Rate Swap Agreements”) to our audited
consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Report.
24
On January 12, 2010, the Company executed a new line of credit facility. At this time, the pricing changed from 162.5 basis points
above 30-day LIBOR to 300 basis points above 30-day LIBOR with a 1% floor on LIBOR. The average cost of borrowings in future
periods will continue to be impacted by the pricing increases. For a further discussion regarding the Company’s line of credit, see note
5 (“Line of Credit”) to our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Report.
Analysis of Credit Losses
As of March 31, 2010, the Company had 1,055 active static pools. The average pool upon inception consisted of 60 Contracts with
aggregate finance receivables, net of unearned interest, of approximately $563,000.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the changes in the allowance for credit losses on Contracts for the fiscal years ended
March 31:
2010
2009
Balance at beginning of year....................................................... $
Discounts acquired on new volume.............................................
Current year provision.................................................................
Losses absorbed ..........................................................................
Recoveries...................................................................................
Discounts accreted ......................................................................
24,926,076 $
11,087,231
11,189,432
(18,404,659)
1,962,496
(351,998)
20,112,260
10,227,382
15,680,590
(22,143,156)
1,857,202
(808,202)
Balance at end of year ................................................................. $
30,408,578 $
24,926,076
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the changes in the allowance for credit losses on direct loans for the fiscal years
ended March 31:
Balance at beginning of year................................................................. $
Current year provision...........................................................................
Losses absorbed ....................................................................................
Recoveries.............................................................................................
513,067 $
132,417
(324,521)
61,906
335,057
705,480
(590,154)
62,684
Balance at end of year ........................................................................... $
382,869 $
513,067
2010
2009
The average dealer discount associated with new volume for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 was 9.11% and 9.14%,
respectively.
The provision for credit losses decreased to $11.3 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 from $16.4 million for the fiscal
year ended March 31, 2009, largely due to the decrease in the net charge-off rate to 7.37% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 as
compared to 9.93% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009.
The Company’s losses as a percentage of liquidation decreased to 9.87% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010 as compared to
12.39% for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. Since the inception of its revised underwriting guidelines, the Company has seen
improvements in the quality of its Contracts. During comparable liquidation cycles, the default rate for static pools originated since the
revision of underwriting guidelines has decreased when compared to the preceding year’s performance.
Recoveries as a percentage of charge-offs were approximately 12% and 9% for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009,
respectively. Recovery rates are influenced by general economic conditions and, as a result, the Company experienced increased
recovery rates for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010. Historically, recoveries as a percentage of charge-offs have fluctuated from
period to period, and the Company does not attribute this increase to any particular change in operational strategy or economic event.
The delinquency percentage for Contracts more than thirty days past due as of March 31, 2010 decreased to 3.16% from 4.21% as of
March 31, 2009. The delinquency percentage for direct loans more than thirty days past due as of March 31, 2010 decreased to 3.06%
from 3.86% as of March 31, 2009. The delinquency percentage decreases were attributable to the allocation of additional resources
focused on collections, and the application of stricter underwriting guidelines. The Company utilizes a static pool approach to
analyzing portfolio performance and looks at specific static pool performance and recent trends as leading indicators of the future
performance of its portfolio.
25
The Company considers the following factors to assist in determining the appropriate loss reserve levels: unemployment rates; the
number of bankruptcy filings; the results of internal branch audits; consumer sentiment; consumer spending; economic growth (i.e.,
changes in GDP); the condition of the housing sector; and other leading economic indicators. The Company continues to evaluate
reserve levels on a pool-by-pool basis during each reporting period. While the Company is encouraged with the decline in net charge-
offs and delinquency percentages for these periods, from a historical perspective, charge-off rates and delinquencies remain high;
leading to an increase in the overall allowance for credit losses as a percentage of finance receivables. While unemployment rates have
stabilized, they remain elevated which will make it difficult for additional improvement. The longer term outlook for portfolio
performance will depend on overall economic conditions, the unemployment rate and the Company’s ability to monitor, manage and
implement its underwriting philosophy in additional geographic areas as it strives to continue its expansion.
Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes increased to approximately $6.8 million in fiscal year 2010 from approximately $2.8 million in fiscal
year 2009 primarily as a result of higher pretax income. The Company’s effective tax rate increased from 37.53% in fiscal 2009 to
38.45% in fiscal 2010. The primary reason for this increase was an increase in the amount of taxable income subject to higher
graduated tax rates associated with federal income taxes.
26
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company’s cash flows are summarized as follows:
Fiscal Year ended March 31,
2011
2010
2009
Cash provided by (used in):
Operations ........................................................... $ 21,357,624
Investing activities -
(primarily purchase of Contracts)........................
Financing activities .............................................
(32,670,442)
11,796,464
$
21,325,918 $
21,665,478
(27,277,523 )
5,752,924
(24,234,910)
2,004,556
Net (decrease) increase in cash ..................................... $ 483,646
$
(198,681 ) $
(564,876)
The Company’s primary use of working capital during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011 was the funding of the purchase of
Contracts which are financed substantially through borrowings under the Company’s Line. During 2010, the Company increased the
size of the Line and extended the maturity date to November 30, 2011. The Line is secured by all of the assets of Nicholas Financial.
The Company may borrow the lesser of $140.0 million or amounts based upon formulas principally related to a percentage of eligible
finance receivables, as defined. Borrowings under the Line may be under various LIBOR pricing options plus 300 basis points with a
1% floor on LIBOR or at the prime rate. Prime rate based borrowings are generally less than $5.0 million. As of March 31, 2011, the
amount outstanding under the Line was approximately $118.0 million and the amount available under the Line was approximately
$22.0 million.
The Company will continue to depend on the availability of the Line, together with cash from operations, to finance future operations.
Amounts outstanding under the Line have increased by approximately $10.7 million and $5.0 million during the fiscal years ended
March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The growth of the Line is principally related to funding the purchase of Contracts and is
consistent with the growth of finance receivables. The amount of debt the Company incurs from time to time under these financing
mechanisms depends on the Company’s need for cash and ability to borrow under the terms of the Line. The Company believes that
borrowings available under the Line as well as cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet its short-term funding needs.
The Line requires compliance with certain debt covenants including financial ratios, asset quality and other performance tests. The
Company is currently in compliance with all of its debt covenants but, during the current economic slowdown, a breach of one or
more of these covenants could occur prior to the maturity date of the Line, which is November 30, 2011. The Company’s consortium
of lenders could place the Company in default if certain covenants were breached and take one or more of the following actions:
increase the Company’s borrowing costs; restrict the Company’s ability to obtain additional borrowings under the Line; accelerate all
amounts outstanding under the Line; or enforce its interests against collateral securing the Line. The Company believes its lenders will
continue to allow it to operate in the event of a condition of default; however no assurance can be given that this would occur.
The Company has entered into interest rate swap agreements, each of which effectively converts a portion of the Company’s floating-
rate debt to a fixed-rate, thus reducing the impact of interest rate changes on the Company’s interest expense. As of March 31, 2011,
all swap agreements have matured. Approximately 47% Company’s borrowings under the Line were subject to interest rate swap
agreements as of March 31, 2010. The decrease is attributable to management’s ongoing evaluation of interest rate swap agreements
necessary to meet the Company’s objective to minimize the cost of borrowings in light of current and expected future interest rates
under the Line.
Impact of Inflation
The Company is affected by inflation primarily through increased operating costs and expenses including increases in interest rates.
Inflationary pressures on operating costs and expenses have been offset by the Company’s continued emphasis on stringent operating
and cost controls.
27
Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes the Company’s material obligations as of March 31, 2011.
Payments Due by Period
Total
Less than
1 year
1 to 3
years
3 to 5
years
More than
5 years
Operating leases............................................................. $
Line of credit .................................................................
Interest on line of credit1 ...............................................
2,799,049 $ 1,452,576 $
118,000,000 118,000,000
—
3,540,017 3,540,017 —
1,308,663 $ 37,810 $
—
—
Total............................................................................... $ 124,339,066 $ 122,992,593 $
1,308,663 $ 37,810 $
—
—
—
—
Interest on outstanding borrowings under the Line as of March 31, 2011 is based on an effective interest rate of 4.50% and
1
the Company’s current credit line, which matures on November 30, 2011. The effective interest rate used in the above table does not
contemplate the possibility of entering into interest rate swap agreements in the future. It also does not contemplate that the Company
expects to extend the maturity date to November 30, 2012 during the next three months.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Market risks relating to the Company’s operations result primarily from changes in interest rates. The Company does not engage in
speculative or leveraged transactions, nor does it hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes.
Interest Rate Risk
Management’s objective is to minimize the cost of borrowing through an appropriate mix of fixed and floating rate debt. Derivative
financial instruments, such as interest rate swap agreements, may be used for the purpose of managing fluctuating interest rate
exposures that exist from ongoing business operations. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009, the Company undesignated all of
its interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges. The Company does not use interest rate swaps for speculative purposes. Such instruments
continue to be intended for use as economic hedges. As of March 31, 2011, the Company did not have any interest rate swap
agreements. The Company is currently evaluating interest rate swap pricing and may or may not enter into interest rate swap
agreements in the future.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
The following financial statements are filed as part of this Report (see pages 29-47)
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm...........................................................................................
29
Audited Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets..........................................................................................................................................
Consolidated Statements of Income ...............................................................................................................................
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity .........................................................................................................
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows ........................................................................................................................
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements ..................................................................................................................
30
31
32
33
34
28
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
Nicholas Financial, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Nicholas Financial, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of
March 31, 2011 and 2010 and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years
in the three-year period ended March 31, 2011. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the
consolidated financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
the Company as of March 31, 2011 and 2010 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year
period ended March 31, 2011, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2011, based on criteria established in the Internal Control-
Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated
June 14, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion.
Atlanta, Georgia
June 14, 2011
29
Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
March 31,
2011
2010
Assets
Cash .................................................................................................................................................. $ 2,017,540
Finance receivables, net....................................................................................................................
230,163,854
Assets held for resale........................................................................................................................
1,055,140
Prepaid expenses and other assets ....................................................................................................
680,615
Property and equipment, net.............................................................................................................
771,311
Deferred income taxes ......................................................................................................................
8,954,665
$
1,533,894
202,439,754
1,070,131
782,422
661,093
7,648,779
Total assets ....................................................................................................................................... $ 243,643,125
$ 214,136,073
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Line of credit .................................................................................................................................... $ 118,000,000
Drafts payable...................................................................................................................................
1,878,609
Accounts payable and accrued expenses ..........................................................................................
7,209,387
Income taxes payable........................................................................................................................
233,754
Deferred revenues.............................................................................................................................
1,107,907
Interest rate swaps ............................................................................................................................
-
$ 107,274,971
941,207
6,140,965
420,819
1,137,150
783,678
Total liabilities..................................................................................................................................
128,429,657
116,698,790
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, no par: 5,000,000 shares authorized; none issued.........................................
Common stock, no par: 50,000,000 shares authorized; 11,806,660 and 11,718,870 shares
-
-
issued, respectively.............................................................................................................
Accumulated other comprehensive loss..................................................................................
Retained earnings....................................................................................................................
26,337,731
-
88,875,737
Total shareholders’ equity ................................................................................................................
115,213,468
25,544,820
(178,090)
72,070,553
97,437,283
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity.......................................................................................... $ 243,643,125
$ 214,136,073
See accompanying notes.
30
Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
Fiscal Year ended March 31,
2011
2010
2009
Revenue:
Interest and fee income on finance receivables ..................................................... $ 62,719,904 $ 56,403,536 $ 53,032,438
Sales.......................................................................................................................
69,933
53,622
68,117
62,773,526
56,471,653
53,102,371
Expenses:
Cost of sales...........................................................................................................
Marketing ..............................................................................................................
Salaries and employee benefits..............................................................................
Administrative .......................................................................................................
Provision for credit losses......................................................................................
Depreciation ..........................................................................................................
Interest expense .....................................................................................................
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps ............................................................
12,866
1,224,484
16,430,763
7,776,887
4,610,221
266,686
5,599,951
(495,136)
18,288
1,205,596
14,380,695
7,438,113
11,321,849
322,050
5,169,736
(1,034,869)
17,497
1,248,190
13,349,523
7,278,679
16,386,070
355,894
5,384,532
1,530,005
35,426,722
38,821,458
45,550,390
Operating income before income taxes ...........................................................................
Income tax expense .........................................................................................................
27,346,804
10,541,620
17,650,195
6,785,634
7,551,981
2,834,418
Net income ...................................................................................................................... $ 16,805,184
$ 10,864,561 $
4,717,563
Earnings per share:
Basic ...................................................................................................................... $ 1.45
Diluted ................................................................................................................... $ 1.41
$
$
0.95 $
0.93 $
0.42
0.41
See accompanying notes.
31
Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
Balance at March 31, 2008 .............................
Issuance of common stock under stock
options .......................................................
Issuance of restricted and performance share
awards........................................................
Excess tax benefit on share awards, net..........
Share-based compensation .............................
Net income .....................................................
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
reclassified into earnings ...........................
Balance at March 31, 2009 .............................
Issuance of common stock under stock
options .......................................................
Issuance of restricted share awards, net of
forfeitures...................................................
Issuance of performance share awards ...........
Excess tax benefit on share awards, net..........
Share-based compensation .............................
Net income .....................................................
Stock dividend ................................................
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
reclassified into earnings ...........................
Balance at March 31, 2010 .............................
Issuance of common stock under stock
options .......................................................
Issuance of restricted share awards, net of
forfeitures...................................................
Issuance of performance share awards ...........
Excess tax benefit on share awards, net..........
Share-based compensation .............................
Net income .....................................................
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Common Stock
Shares
Amount
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
Retained
Earnings
Total
Shareholders’
Equity
11,252,965 $ 17,204,883 $
(1,610,891) $ 62,982,447 $ 78,576,439
151,855
193,055
-
-
193,055
6,325
-
-
-
-
26,312
649,372
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
4,717,563
-
26,312
649,372
4,717,563
-
11,411,145 $ 18,073,622 $
-
854,972
854,972
(755,919) $ 67,700,010 $ 85,017,713
-
165,825
269,206
-
-
269,206
127,600
14,300
-
-
-
-
-
-
257,600
450,374
-
6,494,018
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
10,864,561
(6,494,018)
-
-
257,600
450,374
10,864,561
-
-
11,718,870 $ 25,544,820 $
-
577,829
577,829
(178,090) $ 72,070,553 $ 97,437,283
-
26,090 55,610 -
-
55,610
54,000 -
7,700 -
-
-
-
-
-
76,973 -
660,328 -
-
-
-
-
-
-
16,805,184
-
-
76,973
660,328
16,805,184
reclassified into earnings ...........................
-
-
178,090
-
178,090
Balance at March 31, 2011 .............................
11,806,660 $ 26,337,731 $ -
$ 88,875,737
$ 115,213,468
See accompanying notes.
32
Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Fiscal Year ended March 31,
2011
2010
2009
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income............................................................................................................ $ 16,805,184
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating
$
10,864,561 $
4,717,563
activities:
Depreciation ................................................................................................
Gain on sale of property and equipment .....................................................
Provision for credit losses ...........................................................................
Deferred income taxes.................................................................................
Share-based compensation ..........................................................................
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps..................................................
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
266,686
(25,792)
4,610,221
(1,417,788)
660,328
(495,136)
Prepaid expenses and other assets .....................................................
Accounts payable and accrued expenses ...........................................
Income taxes payable.........................................................................
Deferred revenues..............................................................................
101,807
1,068,422
(187,065)
(29,243)
322,050
(10,032)
11,321,849
(1,217,391)
450,374
(1,034,869)
(65,291)
587,285
214,368
(106,986)
355,894
(16,763)
16,386,070
(2,309,977)
649,372
1,530,005
(56,515)
(250,014)
892,979
(233,136)
Net cash provided by operating activities .............................................................
21,357,624
21,325,918
21,665,478
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchase and origination of finance contracts ......................................................
Principal payments received .................................................................................
Decrease (increase) in assets held for resale.........................................................
Purchase of property and equipment.....................................................................
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment.....................................................
(134,049,373)
101,715,052
14,991
(393,782)
42,670
(110,184,843)
83,117,609
(11,650)
(208,671)
10,032
(103,378,183)
79,341,088
71,702
(295,272)
25,755
Net cash used in investing activities .....................................................................
(32,670,442)
(27,277,523)
(24,234,910)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net proceeds from line of credit ...........................................................................
Increase (decrease) in drafts payable ....................................................................
Proceeds from exercise of stock options...............................................................
Excess tax benefits from exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted share
10,725,029
937,402
55,610
awards and issuance of performance share awards ..........................................
78,423
Net cash provided by financing activities .............................................................
11,796,464
Net increase (decrease) in cash.............................................................................
Cash, beginning of year ........................................................................................
483,646
1,533,894
5,244,776
(34,033)
269,206
272,975
5,752,924
(198,681)
1,732,575
2,092,997
(457,983)
193,055
176,487
2,004,556
(564,876)
2,297,451
Cash, end of year .................................................................................................. $ 2,017,540
$
1,533,894 $
1,732,575
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing and financing activities:
Decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss for change in fair value of
interest rate swaps ............................................................................................ $ 178,090
Shortfall of tax benefits from vesting of restricted share awards and issuance of
performance share awards................................................................................ $ (1,450)
$
$
577,829 $
854,972
(15,375) $
(150,175)
See accompanying notes.
33
Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
1. Organization
Nicholas Financial, Inc. (“Nicholas Financial – Canada”) is a Canadian holding company incorporated under the laws of British
Columbia with two wholly-owned United States subsidiaries, Nicholas Data Services, Inc. (“NDS”) and Nicholas Financial, Inc.
(“NFI”). NDS is engaged principally in the development, marketing and support of computer application software. NFI is a
specialized consumer finance company engaged primarily in acquiring and servicing automobile finance installment contracts
(“Contracts”) for purchases of new and used automobiles and light trucks. To a lesser extent, NFI also offers direct loans and sells
consumer-finance related products. Both NDS and NFI are based in Florida, U.S.A. The accompanying consolidated financial
statements are stated in U.S. dollars and are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America (“GAAP”).
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Nicholas Financial – Canada and its wholly owned subsidiaries, NDS
and NFI, collectively referred to as (the “Company”). All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
Stock Dividend
On November 10, 2009 the Boards of Directors declared a 10% stock dividend on December 7, 2009 to shareholders of record on
November 20, 2009. As a result of this stock dividend, an entry of approximately $6.5 million was made to reflect the re-capitalization
of shareholders’ equity from retained earnings to common stock. This amount was derived from the quoted market value of the shares
at the date of declaration ($6.10) times the number of shares issued as a result of the 10% stock dividend. All references in the
consolidated financial statements and notes to the number of shares outstanding, per share amounts, and share awards of the
Company’s common shares have been restated to reflect the effect of the stock dividend for all periods presented.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with 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
consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could
differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change relate to the determination of the
allowance for credit losses on finance receivables and the net realizable value of assets held for resale.
Finance Receivables
Finance receivables are recorded at cost, net of unearned interest and the allowance for credit losses. The amount of unearned interest,
discounts and allowance for credit losses as of March 31, 2011 and March 31, 2010 are approximately $142,786,000 and
$122,980,000, respectively.
Allowance for Credit Losses
The allowance for credit losses is increased by charges against earnings and decreased by charge-offs (net of recoveries). In addition
to the charges against earnings, the reserve for credit losses has been established using dealer discounts to absorb potential credit
losses. A dealer discount represents the difference between the finance receivable, net of unearned interest, of a Contract, and the
amount of money the Company actually pays for the Contract. The entire amount of the discount is related to credit quality and is
considered to be part of the credit loss reserve. The Company aggregates Contracts into static pools consisting of Contracts purchased
during a three-month period for each branch location. Management’s periodic evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance is based on
the Company’s past loan experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s
ability to repay, the estimated value of any underlying collateral, and current economic conditions. As conditions change, the
Company’s level of provisioning and/or allowance may change as well.
Assets Held for Resale
Assets held for resale are stated at net realizable value and consist primarily of automobiles that have been repossessed by the
Company and are awaiting final disposition. Costs associated with repossession, transport and auction preparation expenses are
reported under operating expenses in the period in which they were incurred.
34
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are recorded at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged
to expense as incurred. Depreciation of property and equipment is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful
lives of the assets as follows:
Automobiles
Equipment
Furniture and fixtures
Leasehold improvements
Drafts Payable
3 years
5 years
7 years
Lesser of lease term or useful life (generally 6 - 7 years)
Drafts payable represent checks disbursed for loan purchases which have not yet been funded. Amounts generally clear within two
business days of period end and then increase the line of credit or reduce cash.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax
consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and
liabilities and their respective tax bases along with operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, if any. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences
are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rate is recognized in income
in the period that includes the enactment date.
The Company recognizes tax benefits from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be
sustained on examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the
consolidated financial statements from any such position would be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty
percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. It is the Company’s policy to recognize interest and penalties accrued on
any uncertain tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. The Company does not have any accrued interest or penalties
associated with any unrecognized tax benefits, nor has the Company recognized any related interest or penalties during the three years
ended March 31, 2011.
The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. Federal jurisdiction and various State jurisdictions. The Company is currently under
an Internal Revenue Service audit for fiscal year ending March 31, 2010. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. Federal tax
examinations for years before 2010. State jurisdictions that remain subject to examination range from 2006 to 2010. The Company
does not believe there will be any material changes in our unrecognized tax positions over the next 12 months.
Revenue Recognition
Interest income on finance receivables is recognized using the effective interest method. Accrual of interest income on finance
receivables is suspended when a loan is contractually delinquent for 60 days or more or the collateral is repossessed, whichever is
earlier. As of March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 the amount of gross finance receivables not accruing interest was approximately
$2,035,000, $2,580,000 and $3,608,000, respectively.
The amount of future unearned income is computed as the product of the Contract rate, the Contract term, and the Contract amount.
Deferred revenues consist primarily of commissions received from the sale of ancillary products. These products include automobile
warranties, roadside assistance programs, accident and health insurance, credit life insurance and forced placed automobile insurance.
These commissions are amortized over the life of the contract using the interest method.
The Company’s net fees charged for processing a loan are recognized as an adjustment to the yield and are amortized over the life of
the loan using the interest method.
The Company attributes its entire dealer discount to a reserve for credit losses. After the analysis of purchase date accounting is
complete, any remaining potentially uncollectable amounts would be contemplated in estimating the allowance for loan losses.
Sales relate principally to telephone support agreements and the sale of business forms to the Company’s customer base. The
aforementioned sales of NDS represent less than 1% of the Company’s consolidated revenues.
35
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the reported net income for the period by the weighted average number of shares of
common stock outstanding. Diluted earnings per share includes the effect of dilutive options and other share awards. Basic and diluted
earnings per share have been computed as follows:
Fiscal Year ended March 31,
2011
2010
2009
Numerator for earnings per share – net income .................... $ 16,805,184
$
10,864,561 $
4,717,563
Denominator:
Denominator for basic earnings per share – weighted
average shares.........................................................
Effect of dilutive securities:
11,607,341
11,470,318
11,273,811
Stock options and other share awards................
Denominator for diluted earnings per share ................
286,177
11,893,518
218,805
11,689,123
166,502
11,440,313
Earnings per share – basic .................................................... $ 1.45
$
Earnings per share – diluted.................................................. $ 1.41 $
0.95 $
0.93 $
0.42
0.41
Diluted earnings per share does not include the effect of certain stock options as their impact would be anti-dilutive. Approximately
28,500, 331,650, and 435,050 stock options were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for the years ended
March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 respectively, because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.
Share-Based Payments
The grant date fair value of share awards is recognized in earnings over the requisite service period (presumptively the vesting period).
The Company estimates the fair value of option awards using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The risk-free interest rate is
based upon a U.S. Treasury instrument with a life that is similar to the expected term of the options. Expected volatility is based upon
the historical volatility for the previous period equal to the expected term of the options. The expected term is based upon the average
life of previously issued options. The expected dividend yield is based upon the current yield on date of grant. The fair value of non-
vested restricted and performance shares is measured at the market price of a share on a grant date.
The pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb future tax deficiencies is based on increases to shareholders’ equity related to tax
benefits from share-based compensation, combined with the tax on the cumulative incremental compensation costs previously
included in pro forma net income disclosures as if the Company had applied the fair-value method to all awards.
Fair Value Measurements
The Company measures specific assets and liabilities at fair value, which is an exit price, representing the price that would be received
to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The
Company utilizes market data or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability under a three-tier fair
value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers include: Level 1, defined as observable inputs
such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or
indirectly observable; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs about which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an
entity to develop its own assumptions. See note 7 – “Fair Value Disclosures”.
Financial Instruments and Concentrations
The Company’s financial instruments consist of cash, finance receivables, accrued interest, line of credit, interest rate swap
agreements and accounts payable. Financial instruments that are exposed to concentrations of credit risk are primarily finance
receivables and cash.
The Company operates in fourteen states through its fifty-six branch locations. Florida represents 33% of the finance receivables total
as of March 31, 2011. Ohio represents 14%, Georgia represents 11% and North Carolina represents 10% of the finance receivables
total as of March 31, 2011. Of the remaining ten states, no one state represents more than 7% of the total finance receivables. The
Company provides credit during the normal course of business and performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers. The
Company maintains reserves for potential credit losses which, when realized, have been within the range of management’s
expectations. The Company perfects a primary security interest in all vehicles financed as a form of collateral.
36
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
From time to time the Company maintains deposits with banks, which exceed the $250,000 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
insured limit. Historically, the Company has not experienced any loss of cash due to such concentration of credit risk.
Interest Rate Swaps
Interest rate swap agreements are reported as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet at fair value. For interest rate
swap agreements designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges, gains or losses on the effective portion of the hedge are initially
included as a component of other comprehensive income and are subsequently reclassified into earnings when interest on the related
debt is paid. For interest rate swap agreements which are not designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges, the changes in the fair
value are recorded in earnings. The Company does not use interest rate swaps for speculative purposes. See note 6 – “Interest Rate
Swap Agreements”.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is composed entirely of previous mark-to-market adjustments of designated and
qualifying cash flow hedges, net of the related tax effect.
Statements of Cash Flows
Cash paid for income taxes for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was approximately $12,068,000, $7,516,000 and
$4,075,000, respectively. Cash paid for interest for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was approximately $5,720,000,
$5,056,000 and $5,433,000, respectively.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
During the year, the Company adopted recent accounting guidance for improving disclosures about an entity’s allowance for loan
losses and the credit quality of its loans. The guidance requires additional disclosure to facilitate financial statement users’ evaluation
of the nature of credit risk inherent in the entity’s loan portfolio, how that risk is analyzed and assessed in arriving at the allowance for
loan losses, and the changes and reasons for those changes in the allowance for loan losses (see note 4).
Other recent accounting pronouncements issued by the FASB (including its EITF), the AICPA, and the SEC, did not have a material
impact on the Company’s present or future consolidated financial statements.
3. Finance Receivables
Finance receivables consist of Contracts and direct consumer loans (“direct loans”), each of which comprise a portfolio segment. Each
portfolio segment consists of smaller balance homogeneous loans which are collectively evaluated for impairment.
The Company purchases individual Contracts from new and used automobile dealers in its markets. There is no relationship between
the Company and the dealer with respect to a given contract once the assignment of that contract is complete. The dealer has no vested
interest in the performance of any installment contract the Company purchases. The Company charges-off receivables when an
individual account has become more than 120 days contractually delinquent. In the event of repossession the charge-off will occur in
the month in which the vehicle was repossessed.
Contracts included in finance receivables are detailed as follows as of fiscal years ended March 31:
Indirect finance receivables, gross contract.............................. $ 368,099,418
Unearned interest......................................................................
(105,622,007)
$
320,579,222 $
(91,385,145)
291,034,770
(84,579,409)
Indirect finance receivables, net of unearned interest...............
Allowance for credit losses ......................................................
262,477,411
(35,895,449)
229,194,077
(30,408,578)
206,455,361
(24,926,076)
Indirect finance receivables, net ............................................... $ 226,581,962
$
198,785,499 $
181,529,285
2011
2010
2009
37
3. Finance Receivables (continued)
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the changes in the allowance for credit losses on Contracts for the fiscal years ended
March 31:
2011
2010
2009
Balance at beginning of year ........................................ $ 30,408,578
Discounts acquired on new volume ..............................
12,919,492
Provision for credit losses.............................................
4,484,284
Losses absorbed ............................................................
(14,036,888)
Recoveries ....................................................................
2,255,683
Discounts accreted ........................................................
(135,700)
$
$
24,926,076
11,087,231
11,189,432
(18,404,659 )
1,962,496
(351,998 )
20,112,260
10,227,382
15,680,590
(22,143,156)
1,857,202
(808,202)
Balance at end of year................................................... $ 35,895,449
$
30,408,578
$
24,926,076
The Company purchases Contracts from automobile dealers at a negotiated price that is less than the original principal amount being
financed by the purchaser of the automobile. The Contracts are predominately for used vehicles. As of March 31, 2011, the average
model year of vehicles collateralizing the portfolio was a 2004 vehicle. The average loan to value ratio, which expresses the amount of
the Contract as a percentage of the value of the automobile, is approximately 90%. A dealer discount represents the difference
between the finance receivable, net of unearned interest, of a Contract, and the amount of money the Company actually pays for the
Contract. The discount negotiated by the Company is a function of the credit quality of the customer, the wholesale value of the
vehicle, and competition in any given market. In making decisions regarding the purchase of a particular Contract the Company
considers the following factors related to the borrower: place and length of residence; current and prior job status; history in making
installment payments for automobiles; current income; and credit history. In addition, the Company examines its prior experience with
Contracts purchased from the dealer from which the Company is purchasing the Contract, and the value of the automobile in relation
to the purchase price and the term of the Contract. The entire amount of discount is related to credit quality and is considered to be
part of the allowance for credit losses. The Company utilizes a static pool approach to track portfolio performance. A static pool
retains an amount equal to 100% of the discount as an allowance for credit losses. Subsequent to the purchase, if the allowance for
credit losses is determined to be inadequate for a static pool, then an additional charge to income through the provision is used to
maintain adequate reserves based on management’s evaluation of the risk inherent in the loan portfolio, the composition of the
portfolio, and current economic conditions. Such evaluation, considers among other matters, the estimated net realizable value or the
fair value of the underlying collateral, economic conditions, historical loan loss experience, management’s estimate of probable credit
losses and other factors that warrant recognition in providing for an adequate allowance for credit losses.
The average dealer discount associated with new volume for fiscal years ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 was 8.78% and 9.11%,
respectively. The terms of the Contracts range from 12 to 72 months and bear a weighted average effective interest rate of 23.57% and
23.55% as of March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
Direct loans are also included in finance receivables and are detailed as follows as of fiscal years ended March 31:
2011
2010
2009
Direct finance receivables, gross contract.................... $ 4,850,865
Unearned interest .........................................................
(890,555)
$
4,840,381 $
(803,257)
Direct finance receivables, net of unearned interest ....
Allowance for credit losses..........................................
3,960,310
(378,418)
4,037,124
(382,869)
6,890,705
(1,212,554)
5,678,151
(513,067)
Direct finance receivables, net..................................... $ 3,581,892
$
3,654,255 $
5,165,084
The terms of the direct loans range from 6 to 48 months and bear a weighted average effective interest rate of 26.52% and 25.93% as
of March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
38
3. Finance Receivables (continued)
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of the changes in the allowance for credit losses on direct loans for the fiscal years
ended March 31:
2011
2010
2009
Balance at beginning of year .................................... $ 382,869 $
Provision for credit losses.........................................
Losses absorbed ........................................................
Recoveries ................................................................
125,937
(173,970)
43,582
513,067 $
132,417
(324,521)
61,906
335,057
705,480
(590,154)
62,684
Balance at end of year............................................... $ 378,418
$
382,869 $
513,067
Direct loans are loans originated directly between the Company and the consumer. These loans are typically for amounts ranging from
$1,000 to $8,000 and are generally secured by a lien on an automobile, watercraft or other permissible tangible personal property. The
majority of direct loans are originated with current or former customers under the Company’s automobile financing program. The
typical direct loan represents a significantly better credit risk than Contracts due to the customer’s historical payment history with the
Company. In deciding whether or not to make a loan, the Company considers the individual’s credit history, job stability, income and
impressions created during a personal interview with a Company loan officer. Additionally, because most of the direct loans made by
the Company to date have been made to borrowers under Contracts previously purchased by the Company, the payment history of the
borrower under the Contract is a significant factor in making the loan decision. As of March 31, 2011, loans made by the Company
pursuant to its direct loan program constituted approximately 2% of the aggregate principal amount of the Company’s loan portfolio.
Changes in the allowance for credit losses for both Contracts and direct loans were driven by current economic conditions and credit loss
trends over several reporting periods which are useful in estimating future losses and overall portfolio performance.
The following table is an assessment of the credit quality by creditworthiness as of March 31. A performing account is defined as an
account that is less than 60 days past due. A non-performing account is defined as an account that is contractually delinquent for 60
days or more and the accrual of interest income is suspended. When an account is 120 days contractually delinquent, the account is
written off.
Non-bankrupt accounts
Bankrupt accounts
Total
Performing accounts
Non-performing accounts
Total
2011
2010
Contracts
$367,685,305
414,113
$368,099,418
Direct Loans
$4,844,683
6,182
$4,850,865
Contracts
$320,432,095
147,127
$320,579,222
Direct Loans
$4,839,973
408
$4,840,381
$366,081,821
2,017,597
$368,099,418
$4,833,310
17,555
$4,850,865
$318,047,978
2,531,244
$320,579,222
$4,791,134
49,247
$4,840,381
39
3. Finance Receivables (continued)
The following tables present certain information regarding the delinquency rates experienced by the Company with respect to
Contracts and under its direct consumer loan program:
Contracts
Gross Balance
Outstanding
30 – 59 days
60 – 89 days
90 + days
Total
Delinquencies
March 31, 2011............................................ $ 368,099,418 $ 6,106,211
$ 1,468,079
1.66% 0.40%
$ 549,518
0.15% 2.21%
$ 8,123,808
March 31, 2010............................................. $ 320,579,222 $ 7,613,284
$ 1,752,638
$ 778,606
$ 10,144,528
2.37%
0.55%
0.24%
3.16%
March 31, 2009.............................................. $ 291,034,770 $ 8,737,694
$ 2,666,484
$ 848,608
$ 12,252,786
3.00%
0.92%
0.29%
4.21%
Direct Loans
Gross Balance
Outstanding
30 – 59 days
60 – 89 days
90 + days
Total
March 31, 2011............................................. $ 4,850,865 $ 37,399 $ 5,636
0.77% 0.11%
$ 11,919
0.25% 1.13%
$ 54,954
March 31, 2010.............................................. $
4,840,381 $
March 31, 2009.............................................. $
6,890,705 $
98,854
$
2.04%
34,864
$
0.72%
14,383
$
0.30%
148,101
3.06%
173,517
$
2.52%
49,780
$
0.72%
42,672
$
0.62%
265,969
3.86%
4. Property and Equipment
Property and equipment as of March 31, 2011 and 2010 is summarized as follows:
Cost
Accumulated
Depreciation
Net Book
Value
2011
Automobiles................................................................................ $ 612,914 $ 470,253 $ 142,661
Equipment...................................................................................
322,991
Furniture and fixtures .................................................................
96,112
Leasehold improvements ............................................................
209,547
930,151 607,160
498,325 402,213
987,729 778,182
$ 3,029,119 $ 2,257,808 $ 771,311
2010
Automobiles................................................................................ $
Equipment...................................................................................
Furniture and fixtures .................................................................
Leasehold improvements ............................................................
605,852 $
727,583
475,127
917,515
466,266 $
520,790
364,243
713,685
139,586
206,793
110,884
203,830
$
2,726,077 $
2,064,984 $
661,093
5. Line of Credit
Prior to January 12, 2010, the Company had a $115,000,000 line of credit facility expiring on November 30, 2010. Under this former
facility, the Company could borrow the lesser of the $115,000,000 or amounts based upon formulas principally related to a percentage
of eligible finance receivables, as defined. Borrowings under the former facility could be under various LIBOR pricing options plus
162.5 basis points or at the prime rate.
40
5. Line of Credit (continued)
On January 12, 2010, the Company executed a new agreement with its consortium of lenders that increases the size of the line of
credit facility (the “Line”) from $115,000,000 to $140,000,000, subject to formulas principally related to a percentage of eligible
finance receivables, as defined. The pricing of the Line, which expires on November 30, 2011, is 300 basis points above 30-day
LIBOR (4.00% as of March 31, 2011 and 2010) with a 1% floor on LIBOR or at the prime rate. Prime rate borrowings are generally
less than $5.0 million. Pledged as collateral for this credit facility are all of the assets of the Company. As of March 31, 2011, the
outstanding amount of the credit facility was approximately $118,000,000 and the amount available under the line of credit was
approximately $22,000,000. The facility requires compliance with certain financial ratios and covenants and satisfaction of specified
financial tests, including maintenance of asset quality and performance tests. Dividends require consent in writing by the agent and
majority lenders under the facility. As of March 31, 2011, the Company was in full compliance with all debt covenants.
6. Interest Rate Swap Agreements
The Company utilizes interest rate swap agreements to manage exposure to variability in expected cash flows attributable to interest
rate risk. The swap agreements convert a portion of the Company’s floating rate debt to a fixed rate, more closely matching the
interest rate characteristics of the Company’s finance receivables. As of March 31, 2011, all interest rate swap agreements had
matured. The following table summarizes the activity in the Company’s notional amounts of interest rate swap agreements for fiscal
years ended March 31:
Notional amounts at beginning of year ......................... $
New contracts ...............................................................
Matured contracts .........................................................
Notional amounts at end of year ................................... $
50,000,000 $
-
(50,000,000)
- $
80,000,000 $
-
(30,000,000)
50,000,000 $
80,000,000
10,000,000
(10,000,000)
80,000,000
2011
2010
2009
These interest rate swaps were previously designated as cash flow hedges. Based on credit market events that transpired in October
2008, the Company made an economic decision to elect the prime rate pricing option available under the Line for the month of
October 2008. As a result, the critical terms of the interest rate swaps and hedged interest payments were no longer identical, and the
Company undesignated its interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges. Consequently, beginning in October 2008 changes in the fair value
of interest rate swaps (unrealized gains and losses) are recorded in earnings. Unrealized losses previously recorded in accumulated
other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified into earnings as interest payments on the Line affect earnings over the remaining
term of the respective swap agreements. The Company did not use interest rate swaps for speculative purposes and they were only
intended for use as economic hedges.
The locations and amounts of gains (losses) recognized in income are detailed as follows for the fiscal years ended March 31:
2011
2010
2009
Periodic change in fair value of interest rate swaps............. $ 783,678
Losses reclassified from accumulated other
$
1,971,082 $
(958,039)
comprehensive loss .........................................................
(288,542)
495,136
(936,213)
1,034,869
(571,966)
(1,530,005)
Periodic settlement differentials included in interest
expense............................................................................
(801,048)
Loss recognized in income .................................................. $ (305,912) $
(2,485,232)
(1,450,363) $
(1,540,348)
(3,070,353)
Before maturing, interest rate swap agreements were recorded at fair value, which was approximately $784,000 as of March 31, 2010.
Changes in the fair value of interest rate swaps were recorded in the change in fair value of interest rate swaps line item of the
consolidated statements of income.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss as of March 31, 2010 of approximately $178,000, represents the after-tax effect of the
derivative losses prior to October 2008 when the swaps were designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges. As of March 31, 2011,
there is no remaining accumulated other comprehensive loss to be reclassified and affect net earnings.
Net realized gains and losses from the swap agreements were recorded in the interest expense line item of the consolidated statement
of income.
41
6. Interest Rate Swap Agreements (continued)
The following table summarizes the average variable rates received and average fixed rates paid under the swap agreements as of
March 31:
Average variable rate received
Average fixed rate paid
2011
0.29%
3.80%
2010
0.30%
3.95%
As noted above, these unrealized losses previously recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss while interest rate swaps were
designated as cash flow hedges will be reclassified into earnings as interest payments on the Line affect earnings over the remaining
term of the respective swap agreements.
The following table reconciles net income with comprehensive income for the fiscal years ended March 31:
2011
2010
2009
Net income ............................................................................. $ 16,805,184
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps, net of tax
$
10,864,561 $
4,717,563
expense of $0, $0, and $301,586, respectively - through
October 6, 2008.................................................................
Reclassification adjustment for loss included in net income,
net of tax expense of $110,452, $358,384 and $218,949,
respectively - after October 6, 2008 ..................................
-
-
501,955
178,090
577,829
353,017
Comprehensive income.......................................................... $ 16,983,274 $
11,442,390 $
5,572,535
7. Fair Value Disclosures
Assets and Liabilities Recorded at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The Company estimates the fair value of interest rate swap agreements based on the estimated net present value of the future cash
flows using a forward interest rate yield curve in effect as of the measurement period, adjusted for nonperformance risk, if any,
including a quantitative and qualitative evaluation of both the Company’s credit risk and the counterparty’s credit risk. Accordingly,
the Company classifies interest rate swap agreements as Level 2.
Description
Interest rate swap agreements:
Fair Value Measurement Using
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Fair
Value
March 31, 2011 .................................... $
March 31, 2010 ..................................... $
- $
- $
- $
783,678 $
- $ -
783,678
- $
Due to the uncertainty inherent in the valuation process, such estimates of fair value may differ significantly from the values that
would have been used had a ready market for the interest rate swaps existed.
Financial Instruments Not Measured at Fair Value
The Company’s financial instruments, other than the interest rate swap agreements, consist of cash, finance receivables, accrued
interest, the Line, and accounts payable. For each of these financial instruments the carrying value approximates fair value. The
carrying value of cash approximates the fair value due to the nature of these accounts. Finance receivables, net approximates fair value
based on the price paid to acquire indirect loans. The price paid reflects competitive market interest rates and purchase discounts for
the Company’s chosen credit grade in the economic environment. This market is highly liquid as the Company acquires individual
loans on a daily basis from dealers. The initial terms of the indirect finance receivables range from 12 to 72 months. The initial terms
of the direct finance receivables range from 6 to 48 months. In addition, there have been minimal changes in interest rates and
purchase discounts related to these types of loans. If liquidated outside of the normal course of business, the amount received may not
be the carrying value. The interest rate for the line of credit is a variable rate based on LIBOR pricing options. Any new or renewed
credit facility would contain pricing that is comparable to the Company’s current credit facility. Based on these market conditions, the
fair value of the line of credit was estimated to remain at $118 million as of March 31, 2011. Accrued interest is paid monthly. As a
result of the short-term nature of this activity, the carrying value of the accrued interest approximates fair value.
42
7. Fair Value Disclosures (continued)
Assets and Liabilities Recorded at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
The Company may be required, from time to time, to measure certain assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. The
Company does not currently have any assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.
8. Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes consists of the following for the years ended March 31:
Current:
Federal......................................................................... $ 10,272,425
State.............................................................................
1,686,983
$
6,870,420 $
1,132,605
Total current ......................................................
11,959,408
8,003,025
4,392,629
751,766
5,144,395
2011
2010
2009
Deferred:
Federal.........................................................................
State.............................................................................
(1,217,796)
(199,992)
(1,045,103)
(172,288)
(1,972,413)
(337,564)
Total deferred ....................................................
(1,417,788)
(1,217,391)
(2,309,977)
Income tax expense............................................................... $ 10,541,620
$
6,785,634 $
2,834,418
The net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and
the amounts used for income tax purposes are reflected in deferred income taxes. Significant components of the Company’s deferred
tax assets consist of the following as of March 31:
Allowance for credit losses not currently deductible for tax purposes. $ 8,150,912 $
Unrealized mark-to-market losses on interest rate swaps.....................
Share-based compensation ...................................................................
Other items ...........................................................................................
-
543,624
260,129
6,801,987
299,992
329,228
217,572
2011
2010
$ 8,954,665 $
7,648,779
The provision for income taxes reflects an effective U.S tax rate, which differs from the corporate tax rate for the following reasons:
Provision for income taxes at Federal statutory rate.................. $ 9,571,378
Increase resulting from:
$
6,177,568 $
2,643,194
State income taxes, net of Federal benefit........................
Other.................................................................................
966,544
3,698
624,206
(16,140)
269,231
(78,007)
2011
2010
2009
$ 10,541,620
$
6,785,634 $
2,834,418
9. Share-Based Payments
The Company has share awards outstanding under three share-based compensation plans (the “Equity Plans”). The Company believes
that such awards better align the interests of its employees with those of its shareholders. Under the shareholder-approved 1998
Employee Stock Option Plan and Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan (collectively the “1998 Plans”) the Board of Directors
was authorized to grant option awards for up to 1,551,000 common shares to employees and directors. On August 9, 2006, the
Company’s shareholders approved the Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”) for employees and non-
employee directors. Under the 2006 Plan, the Board of Directors is authorized to grant total share awards for up to 1,072,500 common
shares. The 2006 Plan replaced the 1998 Plans; accordingly no additional option awards may be granted under the 1998 Plans. In
addition to option awards, the 2006 Plan provides for restricted stock and performance share awards.
43
9. Share-Based Payments (continued)
Option awards previously granted to employees and directors under the 1998 Plans generally vest ratably based on service over a five
and three-year period, respectively, and generally have a contractual term of ten years. Vesting and contractual terms for option
awards under the 2006 Plan are essentially the same as those of the 1998 Plans. Restricted stock awards generally cliff vest over a
three-year period based on service conditions. The annual vesting of performance share awards is contingent upon the attainment of
company-wide performance goals including annual revenue growth and operating income targets. There are no post-vesting
restrictions for share awards.
The Company funds share awards from authorized but unissued shares and does not purchase shares to fulfill the obligations of the
plans. Cash dividends, if any, are not paid on unvested performance shares or unexercised options, but are paid on unvested restricted
stock awards.
The fair value of each option granted is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the
following weighted-average assumptions:
Risk-free interest rate...........................................................................
Weighted average expected original term............................................
Expected volatility ...............................................................................
Expected dividend yield.......................................................................
1.88%
5 years
49%
0.00%
2.02%
2.24%
5 years
5 years
47%
0.00%
42%
0.00%
2011
2010
2009
A summary of option activity under the Equity Plans as of March 31, 2011, and changes during the year are presented below.
Options
Shares
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
Outstanding at March 31, 2010....................................................
Granted ........................................................................................
Exercised .....................................................................................
Forfeited ......................................................................................
$
5.17
666,930
28,500
$ 9.51
(26,090) $ 2.13
(8,085) $ 6.22
Outstanding at March 31, 2011....................................................
661,255
$ 5.47
6.00
$ 4,447,318
Exercisable at March 31, 2011 ....................................................
459,872
$ 5.20
5.31 $ 3,218,507
The Company granted 28,500, 92,400, and 133,100 options with a weighted average fair value of $4.19, $1.55 and $1.35 during the
years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended
March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was approximately $168,000, $716,000 and $487,000, respectively.
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011, 26,090 options were exercised at exercise prices ranging from $1.67 to $5.60 per share.
During the same period 8,085 options were forfeited at exercise prices ranging from $2.77 to $10.21 per share.
Cash received from options exercised during the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 totaled approximately $56,000,
$269,000 and $193,000, respectively. Related income tax benefits during the same periods totaled approximately $64,000, $273,000
and $176,000, respectively. Such amounts are included in proceeds from exercise of stock options and income tax benefit related
thereto under cash flows from financing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. As of March 31, 2011, there was
approximately $482,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to options granted under the Plan. That cost is expected to be
recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2 years.
44
9. Share-Based Payments (continued)
A summary of the status of the Company’s non-vested restricted shares under the 2006 Plan as of March 31, 2011, and changes during
the year then ended is presented below.
Restricted Share Awards
Non-vested at March 31, 2010 .....................................................
Granted.........................................................................................
Vested ..........................................................................................
Forfeited.......................................................................................
Non-vested at March 31, 2011 .....................................................
Shares
2.50
$
133,100
54,000
$ 8.80
(2,200) $ 10.21
$ -
-
$ 4.25 1.19 $ 2,255,780
184,900
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
The Company awarded 54,000 restricted shares with a weighted average grant date fair value of $8.80 during the fiscal year ended
March 31, 2011.
As of March 31, 2011, there was approximately $397,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested restricted
share awards granted under the 2006 Plan. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1
year.
A summary of the status of the Company’s non-vested performance shares under the 2006 Plan as of March 31, 2011, and changes
during the year then ended is presented below.
Performance Share Awards
Non-vested at March 31, 2010 ..............................................................
Granted..................................................................................................
Vested ...................................................................................................
Forfeited................................................................................................
Non-vested at March 31, 2011 ..............................................................
Shares
12,650
-
(11,000)
(1,650)
-
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
$
6.18
$ -
6.18
$
$
6.18
$ -
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
-
$ -
The Company awarded no performance shares during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011.
As of March 31, 2011, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested performance share awards granted under
the 2006 Plan.
10. Employee Benefit Plans
The Company has a 401(k) retirement plan under which all employees are eligible to participate. Employee contributions are
voluntary and subject to Internal Revenue Service limitations. The Company matches, based on annually determined factors,
employee contributions provided the employee completes certain levels of service annually. For the plan years 2011 and 2010, the
Board of Directors suspended the Company’s matching. The Board will re-evaluate the Company’s matching policy for plan year
2012 later this year. For the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, the Company recorded expenses of approximately
$7,000, $7,000, and $10,000, respectively, related to this plan.
45
11. Commitments and Contingencies
The Company leases corporate and branch offices under operating lease agreements which provide for annual minimum rental
payments as follows:
Fiscal Year ending March 31:
2012 .............................................................................................................. $
2013 ..............................................................................................................
2014 ..............................................................................................................
2015 ..............................................................................................................
2016 ..............................................................................................................
1,452,576
1,069,961
238,702
21,435
16,375
2,799,049
$
Rent expense for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 was approximately $1,599,000, $1,421,000, and $1,366,000,
respectively. The Company recognizes rent expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, taking into account, when
applicable, lessor incentives for tenant improvements, periods where no rent payment is required and escalations in rent payments over
the term of the lease.
The Company is not a party to any pending legal proceedings other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business, none of
which, if decided adversely to the Company, in the opinion of management, would have a material adverse affect on the Company’s
financial position.
12. Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)
First
Quarter
Fiscal Year ended March 31, 2011
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Fourth
Quarter
Total revenue....................................................... $ 14,952,147
Interest expense ...................................................
1,539,373
Provision for credit losses ...................................
1,595,661
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps..........
(244,365)
Non-interest expense ...........................................
6,249,175
$ 15,731,853
1,449,757
1,711,873
(137,828)
6,241,584
$ 15,995,350
1,382,950
1,201,172
(95,756)
6,244,376
$ 16,094,176
1,227,871
101,515
(17,187)
6,976,551
Operating income before income taxes ...............
Income tax expense .............................................
5,812,303
2,236,465
6,466,467
2,484,123
7,262,608
2,787,788
7,805,426
3,033,244
Net income .......................................................... $ 3,575,838 $ 3,982,344
$ 4,474,820
$ 4,772,182
Earnings per share:
Basic .......................................................... $ 0.31
$ 0.34
$ 0.39
$ 0.41
Diluted ....................................................... $ 0.30
$ 0.34
$ 0.38
$ 0.40
First
Quarter
Fiscal Year ended March 31, 2010
Second
Quarter
Third
Quarter
Total revenue....................................................... $
Interest expense ...................................................
Provision for credit losses ...................................
Change in fair value of interest rate swaps..........
Non-interest expense ...........................................
13,693,714 $
1,272,677
3,322,956
(297,304)
5,714,669
14,157,720 $
1,293,561
3,253,959
(235,078)
5,921,361
14,365,042 $
1,079,044
3,019,586
(264,501)
5,788,008
Operating income before income taxes ...............
Income tax expense .............................................
3,680,716
1,416,817
3,923,917
1,491,915
4,742,905
1,833,767
Fourth
Quarter
14,255,177
1,524,454
1,725,348
(237,986)
5,940,704
5,302,657
2,043,135
Net income .......................................................... $
2,263,899 $
2,432,002 $
2,909,138 $
3,259,522
Earnings per share:
Basic .......................................................... $
Diluted ....................................................... $
0.20 $
0.20 $
0.21 $
0.21 $
0.25 $
0.25 $
0.28
0.28
46
Item 9. Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure information required to be disclosed in its reports filed
pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported
within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Such information is accumulated and communicated to management,
including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required
disclosure. The Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that the
Company’s disclosure controls and procedures or internal controls will prevent all possible error and fraud. A control system, no
matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system
are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be
considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide
absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected.
The Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the
effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of March
31, 2011. Based upon this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded the Company’s
disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2011.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such
term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process
designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of
financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The Company’s management, including our Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial
reporting as of March 31, 2011, the end of the fiscal year covered by this Report, based on the criteria set forth in Internal Control-
Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on
management’s evaluation under the framework in Internal Control-Integrated Framework, management has concluded that the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of March 31, 2011.
Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the effectiveness of our internal control
over financial reporting as of March 31, 2011, as stated in their report, which is included below.
June 14, 2011
Peter L. Vosotas
Chairman of the Board, President
and Chief Executive Officer
Ralph T. Finkenbrink
Senior Vice President-Finance
and Chief Financial Officer
Change in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
No change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting occurred during the Company’s last fiscal quarter that has
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
47
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
Nicholas Financial, Inc.
We have audited Nicholas Financial, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of March 31,
2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations
of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over
financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the
accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over
financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over
financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness
of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in
the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed 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. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the
maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the
company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in
accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding
prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect
on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections
of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in
conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31,
2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by COSO.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the
consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows of the Company,
and our report dated June 14, 2011, expressed an unqualified opinion.
Atlanta, Georgia
June 14, 2011
48
Item 9B. Other Information
None.
PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information to be set forth under the captions “Proposal 1: Election of a Director,” “Board of Directors,” “Executive Officers and
Compensation” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the definitive Proxy Statement and Information
Circular for the 2011 Annual General Meeting of Members of the Company, which will be filed on or about July 6, 2011 (the “Proxy
Statement”), is incorporated herein by reference.
The Company has adopted a written code of ethics applicable to its chief executive officer, chief financial officer, principal accounting
officer and persons performing similar functions. The text of this code of ethics is filed as Exhibit 14 to this Report. A copy of the
code of ethics is also posted on the Company’s web site at www.nicholasfinancial.com. The Company intends to satisfy the disclosure
requirements under Item 5.05 of the SEC’s Current Report on Form 8-K regarding amendments to, or waivers from, the code of ethics
by posting such information on the Company’s web site at www.nicholasfinancial.com. The Company is not including the information
contained on or available through its web site as a part of, or incorporating such information by reference into, this Report.
Item 11. Executive Compensation, Compensation Interlocks and Insider Participation
The information to be set forth under the captions “Executive Officers and Compensation” and “Board of Directors” in the Proxy
Statement is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information to be set forth under the caption “Voting Shares and Ownership of Management and Principal Holders” in the Proxy
Statement is incorporated herein by reference. See also “Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters
and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities – Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans” on page 16 of this
Report for certain information relating to the Company’s equity compensation plans.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, Director Independence and Board of Directors
The information to be set forth under the captions “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” in the Proxy Statement is
incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information to be set forth under the caption “Proposal 2: Appointment of Independent Auditors” in the Proxy Statement is
incorporated herein by reference.
49
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this Report:
PART IV
(1) Financial Statements
See Part II, Item 8, of this Report:
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
All financial schedules are omitted as the required information is not applicable or the information is presented in
the consolidated financial statements or related notes.
(3) Exhibits
Exhibit
No.
3.1
3.2
4
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.9
Description
Articles of Nicholas Financial, Inc. (1)
Notice of Articles of Nicholas Financial, Inc. (2)
Form of Common Stock Certificate (3)
Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated January 12, 2010 (4)
Nicholas Financial, Inc. Employee Stock Option Plan (5)*
Nicholas Financial, Inc. Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan (6)*
Employment Contract, dated November 22, 1999, between Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Ralph Finkenbrink, Senior Vice
President of Finance (7)*
Employment Contract, dated March 16, 2001, between Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Peter L. Vosotas, President and Chief
Executive Officer (8)*
Summary of Fiscal 2011/2012 Annual Incentive Programs*
Form of Dealer Agreement and Schedule thereto listing dealers that are parties to such agreements
Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan (9) *
Form of Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan Stock Option Award (10)*
10.10
Form of Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Award (11)*
10.11
Form of Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan Performance Share Award (12)*
14
21
23
24
Code of Ethics for Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers
Subsidiaries of Nicholas Financial, Inc. (13)
Consent of Dixon Hughes PLLC
Powers of Attorney (included on signature page hereto)
31.1
Certification of President and Chief Executive Officer
31.2
Certification of Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
32.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350
32.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350
50
*
officer of the Company participated.
(1)
Represents a management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement in which a director or named executive
Incorporated by reference to Appendix B to the Company’s Proxy Statement and Information Circular for the 2006 Annual
General Meeting of Shareholders filed with the SEC on June 30, 2006 (File No. 0-26680).
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the SEC on May 24,
2007 (SEC File No. 0-26680).
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended March 31,
2004, as filed with the SEC on June 29, 2004.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Amendment No. 1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q/A for the
fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2009 filed with the SEC on March 23, 2010.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the SEC on June 30,
1999 (SEC File No. 333-81967).
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the SEC on June 30,
1999 (SEC File No. 333-81961).
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-2 (Reg. No. 333-113215) filed
with the SEC on March 2, 2004.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-2 (Reg. No. 333-113215) filed
with the SEC on March 2, 2004.
Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Company’s Proxy Statement and Information Circular for the 2006 Annual
General Meeting of Shareholders filed with the SEC on June 30, 2006.
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the SEC on May 24,
2007 (Reg. No. 333-143245).
(11) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the SEC on May 24,
2007 (Reg. No. 333-143245).
(12) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-8 filed with the SEC on May 24,
2007 (Reg. No. 333-143245).
(13) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 21 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended March 31,
2004, as filed with the SEC on June 29, 2004.
51
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.
SIGNATURES
Dated: June 14, 2011
NICHOLAS FINANCIAL, INC.
By: /s/ Peter L. Vosotas
Peter L. Vosotas
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Peter L.
Vosotas and Ralph T. Finkenbrink, and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution
and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this Report,
and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and any other documents in connection therewith, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to perform each and every act
and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in
person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact and agents or either of them, or their substitutes, may lawfully do
or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
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
Title
Date
/s/ Peter L. Vosotas
Peter L. Vosotas
/s/ Ralph T. Finkenbrink
Ralph T. Finkenbrink
/s/ Stephen Bragin
Stephen Bragin
/s/ Alton R. Neal
Alton R. Neal
/s/ Scott Fink
Scott Fink
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
June 14, 2011
Sr. Vice President – Finance, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Accounting
Officer and Director
June 14, 2011
Director
Director
Director
June 14, 2011
June 14, 2011
June 14, 2011
52
Exhibit No.
EXHIBIT INDEX
Description
3.1
3.2
4
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
10.9
10.10
10.11
14
21
23
24
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
Articles of Nicholas Financial, Inc.*
Notice of Articles of Nicholas Financial, Inc.*
Form of Common Stock Certificate*
Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated January 12, 2010*
Nicholas Financial, Inc. Employee Stock Option Plan*
Nicholas Financial, Inc. Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan*
Employment Contract, dated November 22, 1999, between Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Ralph Finkenbrink, Senior
Vice President of Finance*
Employment Contract, dated March 16, 2001, between Nicholas Financial, Inc. and Peter L. Vosotas, President and
Chief Executive Officer*
Summary of Fiscal 2011/2012 Annual Incentive Bonus Programs
Form of Dealer Agreement and Schedule thereto listing dealers that are parties to such agreements
Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan*
Form of Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan Stock Option Award*
Form of Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Award*
Form of Nicholas Financial, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan Performance Share Award*
Code of Ethics for Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers
Subsidiaries of Nicholas Financial, Inc.*
Consent of Dixon Hughes PLLC
Powers of Attorney (included on signature page hereto)
Certification of President and Chief Executive Officer
Certification of Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350
*
Incorporated by reference.
THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
S H A R E H O L D E R
I N F O R M A T I O N
Corporate Of(cid:2) ces:
Independent Auditors:
Nicholas Financial, Inc.
2454 McMullen Booth Road
Clearwater, Florida 33759
Directors:
Peter L. Vosotas
Chairman, CEO & President
Stephen Bragin
Audit Committee Member
Compensation Committee Member
Former Owner, Florida Produce Co.
Scott Fink
Audit Committee Member
Compensation Committee Member
Owner,
Multiple Franchise Auto Dealerships
Ralph T. Finkenbrink
Senior Vice President & CFO
Corporate Secretary
Alton R. "Charlie" Neal
Audit Committee Chairman
Compensation Committee Member
Former Partner,
Johnson, Blakely, Pope, Bokor,
Ruppel & Burns
9
6
.
9
4
3
.
8
4
4
.
7
1
9
.
6 6
1
.
6
3
0
.
5
6
0
.
4
3
0
.
3
3
5
.
2
6
0
.
2
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
Ten Year Book Value Per Share History
(in $ Dollars)
Dixon Hughes
Atlanta, Georgia
General Counsel:
Foley & Lardner
Chicago, Illinois
Transfer Agent & Registrar:
Computershare Investor Services
Vancouver, BC, Canada V6C 3B9
Stock Information:
Listed on the NASDAQ Global Select
Market System
Trading Symbol: NICK
Corporate Of(cid:2) cers:
Ralph T. Finkenbrink
Senior Vice President & CFO
Peter L. Vosotas
CEO & President
Notice To Shareholders:
The Company will supply to any
owner of Common Stock, upon
written request to the Company at the
above address and without charge,
a copy of the Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended
March 31, 2011, which has been
filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.
The Annual Report and Form 10-K
are also available on the Company's
internet website at:
www.nicholas(cid:2) nancial.com
The Annual Meeting is on August 9,
2011 at 10:00 am, at the Innisbrook
Resort Island Course Club House in
Palm Harbor, FL:
Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club
36750 U.S. Highway 19 North
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(800) 456-2000
Ringing the NASDAQ Closing Bell, August 4, 2010
NICHOLAS FINANCIAL, INC.
2454 McMullen Booth Road
Building C
Clearwater, Florida 33759 USA
- (727) 726-0763
Telephone
Fax
- (727) 726-2140
www.NicholasFinancial.com