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PRA Group, Inc.

praa · NASDAQ Financial Services
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Sector Financial Services
Industry Financial - Credit Services
Employees 2991
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FY2019 Annual Report · PRA Group, Inc.
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fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   14/20/2020   12:52:26 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   24/20/2020   12:52:27 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   34/20/2020   12:52:27 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   44/20/2020   12:52:27 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   54/20/2020   12:52:28 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   64/20/2020   12:52:28 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   74/20/2020   12:52:29 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   84/20/2020   12:52:29 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   94/20/2020   12:52:30 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   104/20/2020   12:52:30 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   114/20/2020   12:52:31 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   124/20/2020   12:52:31 PMfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   134/20/2020   12:52:32 PM2018Form10-Kfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   144/20/2020   12:52:32 PM2018Form10-Kfp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   14/20/2020   12:52:33 PMU(cid:49)ITED STATES SECURITIES A(cid:49)D EXCHA(cid:49)GE COMMISSIO(cid:49)

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K 

Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 

Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Delaware

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

75-3078675

(I.R.S. Employer Identification (cid:49)o.)

For the transition period from ________ to ________

Commission File (cid:49)umber: 000-50058 

PRA Group, Inc. 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

120 Corporate Boulevard, (cid:49)orfolk, Virginia 23502 

(888) 772-7326 

(Address of principal executive offices, zip code, telephone number)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Trading Symbol(s)

(cid:49)ame of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share

PRAA

(cid:49)ASDAQ Global Select Market

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: (cid:49)one

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15 (d) of the Act. Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been 
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to 
Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). 
Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company 
or emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer", "smaller reporting company" and "emerging 
growth  company"  in  Rule  12b-2  of  the  Exchange  Act.  (Check  one):  Large  accelerated  filer  
filer  

  Smaller reporting company  

Emerging growth company  

   Accelerated  filer  

   (cid:49)on-accelerated 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying 
with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

The aggregate market value of the common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 28, 2019 was $1,255,667,779 based on the 
$28.14 closing price as reported on the (cid:49)ASDAQ Global Select Market.

The number of shares of the registrant's Common Stock outstanding as of February 25, 2020 was 45,416,258.

Documents incorporated by reference: Portions of the Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are 
incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   2

4/20/2020   12:52:33 PM

U(cid:49)ITED STATES SECURITIES A(cid:49)D EXCHA(cid:49)GE COMMISSIO(cid:49)
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K 
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 

Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from ________ to ________
Commission File (cid:49)umber: 000-50058 

PRA Group, Inc. 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

75-3078675

(I.R.S. Employer Identification (cid:49)o.)

120 Corporate Boulevard, (cid:49)orfolk, Virginia 23502 
(888) 772-7326 

(Address of principal executive offices, zip code, telephone number)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share

Trading Symbol(s)
PRAA

(cid:49)ame of each exchange on which registered
(cid:49)ASDAQ Global Select Market

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: (cid:49)one

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15 (d) of the Act. Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been 
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to 
Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). 
Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company 
or emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer", "smaller reporting company" and "emerging 
   (cid:49)on-accelerated 
growth  company"  in  Rule  12b-2  of  the  Exchange  Act.  (Check  one):  Large  accelerated  filer  
filer  

  Smaller reporting company  

Emerging growth company  

   Accelerated  filer  

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying 
with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  

   (cid:49)o  

The aggregate market value of the common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 28, 2019 was $1,255,667,779 based on the 
$28.14 closing price as reported on the (cid:49)ASDAQ Global Select Market.

The number of shares of the registrant's Common Stock outstanding as of February 25, 2020 was 45,416,258.

Documents incorporated by reference: Portions of the Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are 
incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   3

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Table of Contents

continued

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Executive Compensation

Stockholder Matters

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

Form 10-K Summary

Part III

Item 10.

Item 11.

Item 12.

Item 13.

Item 14.

Part IV

Item 15.

Item 16.

Signatures

80

80

80

80

80

80

82

83

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.

Table of Contents

Business

Risk Factors

Unresolved Staff Comments

Properties

Legal Proceedings

Mine Safety Disclosure

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

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Income Statements

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1 – General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

2 – Finance Receivables, net

3 – Investments

4 – Leases

5 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net

6 – Borrowings

7 – Property and Equipment, net

8 – Fair Value

9 – Derivatives

10 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

11 – Share-Based Compensation

12 – Earnings Per Share

13 – Income Taxes

14 – Commitments and Contingencies

15 – Retirement Plans

16 – Redeemable (cid:49)oncontrolling interest

17 – Sales of Subsidiaries

Item 9.

Item 9A.

Item 9B.

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

Controls and Procedures

Other Information

5

9

17

17

17

18

19

21

24

40

42

43

45

46

47

48

49

50

50

57

59

60

61

62

66

66

69

70

70

72

73

75

76

76

77

78

78

80

2

3

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   4

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Table of Contents

Business

Risk Factors

Unresolved Staff Comments

Properties

Legal Proceedings

Mine Safety Disclosure

of Equity Securities

Selected Financial Data

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.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Table of Contents

continued

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

Form 10-K Summary

Part III

Item 10.

Item 11.

Item 12.

Item 13.

Item 14.

Part IV

Item 15.

Item 16.

Signatures

80

80

80

80

80

80

82

83

5

9

17

17

17

18

19

21

24

40

42

43

45

46

47

48

49

50

50

57

59

60

61

62

66

66

69

70

70

72

73

75

76

76

77

78

78

80

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Income Statements

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1 – General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

2 – Finance Receivables, net

10 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

5 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net

7 – Property and Equipment, net

3 – Investments

4 – Leases

6 – Borrowings

8 – Fair Value

9 – Derivatives

11 – Share-Based Compensation

12 – Earnings Per Share

13 – Income Taxes

14 – Commitments and Contingencies

15 – Retirement Plans

16 – Redeemable (cid:49)oncontrolling interest

17 – Sales of Subsidiaries

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

Item 9.

Item 9A.

Item 9B.

Controls and Procedures

Other Information

2

3

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   5

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Cautionary Statements Pursuant to Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking 
statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our results to differ materially from those expressed or 
implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, 
including statements regarding overall cash collection trends, operating cost trends, liquidity and capital needs and other statements 
of expectations, beliefs, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends, and similar expressions concerning matters that 
are not historical facts. The risks, uncertainties and assumptions referred to above may include the following:

• 

• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 
• 

• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 

a  deterioration  in  the  economic  or  inflationary  environment  in  the Americas  or  Europe,  including  the  interest  rate 
environment;
changes in the credit or capital markets, which affect our ability to borrow money or raise capital;
our ability to replace our portfolios of nonperforming loans with additional portfolios sufficient to operate efficiently and 
profitably;
our ability to purchase nonperforming loans at appropriate prices;
our ability to collect sufficient amounts on our nonperforming loans to fund our operations;
the possibility that we could recognize significant decreases in our estimate of future recoveries on nonperforming loans;
changes in, or interpretations of, federal, state, local, or international laws, including bankruptcy and collection laws, or 
changes in the administrative practices of various bankruptcy courts, which could negatively affect our business or our 
ability to collect on nonperforming loans;
changes in accounting standards and their interpretations;
our ability to manage risks associated with our international operations;
changes in tax laws and interpretations regarding earnings of our domestic and international operations;
the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("Tax Act") including interpretations and determinations by tax authorities;
the possibility that we could incur goodwill or other intangible asset impairment charges;
adverse effects from the exit of the United Kingdom ("UK") from the European Union ("EU");
our loss contingency accruals may not be adequate to cover actual losses;
adverse outcomes in pending litigation or administrative proceedings;
the possibility that class action suits and other litigation could divert management's attention and increase our expenses;
the possibility that we could incur business or technology disruptions or cyber incidents;
disruptions of business operations caused by the under performance or failure of information technology infastructure, 
networks or telephone systems;
our ability to collect and enforce our nonperforming loans may be limited under federal, state, and international laws, 
regulations, and policies;
our ability to comply with existing and new regulations of the collection industry, the failure of which could result in 
penalties, fines, litigation, damage to our reputation, or the suspension or termination of or required modification to our 
ability to conduct our business;
investigations, reviews, or enforcement actions by governmental authorities, including the Consumer Financial Protection 
Bureau ("CFPB"), which could result in changes to our business practices, negatively impact our portfolio acquisitions 
volume, make collection of account balances more difficult, or expose us to the risk of fines, penalties, restitution payments, 
and litigation;
the possibility that compliance with complex and evolving international and United States ("U.S.") laws and regulations 
that apply to our international operations could increase our cost of doing business in international jurisdictions;
our ability to comply with data privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR");
our ability to retain, expand, renegotiate or replace our credit facilities and our ability to comply with the covenants under 
our financing arrangements;
our ability to raise the funds necessary to repurchase our convertible senior notes or to settle conversions in cash;
our ability to refinance our indebtedness, including our outstanding convertible senior notes;
changes in interest or exchange rates, which could reduce our net income, and the possibility that future hedging strategies 
may not be successful;
the possibility that the adoption of future accounting standards could negatively impact our business;
default by or failure of one or more of our counterparty financial institutions could cause us to incur significant losses;
uncertainty about the future of the London Inter-Bank Offer Rate ("LIBOR") may adversely affect our business; and
the risk factors discussed herein and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").

You should carefully consider the factors listed above and review the "Risk Factors" section beginning on page 9, as well 

as the "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" section beginning on page 24 

and the "Business" section beginning on page 5.

Our forward-looking statements could be wrong in light of these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The future 

events, developments or results described in, or implied by, this Form 10-K could turn out to be materially different. Except as 

required by law, we assume no obligation to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements after the date of this Form 

10-K and you should not expect us to do so.

Investors should also be aware that while we do, from time to time, communicate with securities analysts and others, we do 

not, by policy, selectively disclose to them any material nonpublic information or other confidential commercial information. 

Accordingly, investors should not assume that we agree with any statement or report issued by any analyst regardless of the content 

of the statement or report. We do not, by policy, confirm forecasts or projections issued by others. Thus, to the extent that reports 

issued by securities analysts contain any projections, forecasts, or opinions, such reports are not our responsibility.

Item 1. Business.

General

PART I

Headquartered in (cid:49)orfolk, Virginia and incorporated in Delaware, we are a global financial and business services company 

with operations in the Americas, Europe, and Australia.

Our primary business is the purchase, collection, and management of portfolios of nonperforming loans. The accounts we 

purchase  are primarily the unpaid obligations  of individuals owed to credit grantors, which include banks and other types of 

consumer, retail, and auto finance companies. We purchase portfolios of nonperforming loans at a discount in two broad categories: 

Core and Insolvency. Our Core operation specializes in purchasing and collecting nonperforming loans, which we purchased since 

either the credit grantor and/or other third-party collection agencies have been unsuccessful in collecting the full balance owed.  

Our Insolvency operation consists primarily of purchasing and collecting on nonperforming loan accounts where the customer is 

involved in a bankruptcy proceeding or the equivalent in some European countries. We also provide fee-based services on class 

action claims recoveries and by servicing consumer bankruptcy accounts in the U.S.

We have one reportable segment based on similarities among the operating units, including the nature of the products and 

services, the nature of the production processes, the types or classes of customers for our products and services, the methods used 

to distribute our products and services, and the nature of the regulatory environment.

We were initially formed as Portfolio Recovery Associates, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company, on March 20, 1996.  

We formed Portfolio Recovery Associates, Inc. in August 2002 in order to become a publicly traded company and our common 

stock began trading on the (cid:49)asdaq Global Select Market ("(cid:49)asdaq") on (cid:49)ovember 8, 2002.  We changed our legal name to PRA 

Group, Inc. on October 23, 2014.

We acquired Aktiv Kapital AS ("Aktiv"), a (cid:49)orway-based company specializing in the purchase, collection, and management 

of portfolios of nonperforming loans throughout Europe and Canada, on July 16, 2014. On April 26, 2016, we acquired DTP S.A. 

("DTP"), a Polish-based debt collection company, further building our in-house collection efforts in Poland.

We expanded into South America on August 3, 2015 by acquiring 55% of the equity interest in RCB Investimentos S.A. 

("RCB"), a servicing platform for nonperforming loans in Brazil.  On December 20, 2018, we entered into a strategic partnership 

with Banco Bradesco S.A. (“Bradesco”), under which Bradesco purchased 79% of our interest in RCB's servicing platform with 

PRA Group retaining an 11.7% equity interest. The sale did not impact the nonperforming loan purchasing business that we have 

established in Brazil in partnership with the previous owners of RCB, as it was not part of the sale to Bradesco. 

On March 1, 2019, we entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire the majority of the assets of a business in Canada, 

which was consolidated through our current Canadian business.  

Additionally, we are planning to begin operations in Australia in the future, leveraging an entity we set up in 2011. 

You should assume that the information appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K ("Form 10-K") is accurate only as 
of the date it was issued. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

Inc. and its subsidiaries.

All references in this Form 10-K to the "PRA Group," "our," "we," "us," the "Company" or similar terms are to PRA Group, 

4

5

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   6

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Cautionary Statements Pursuant to Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking 

statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our results to differ materially from those expressed or 

implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, 

including statements regarding overall cash collection trends, operating cost trends, liquidity and capital needs and other statements 

of expectations, beliefs, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends, and similar expressions concerning matters that 

are not historical facts. The risks, uncertainties and assumptions referred to above may include the following:

a  deterioration  in  the  economic  or  inflationary  environment  in  the Americas  or  Europe,  including  the  interest  rate 

environment;

profitably;

changes in the credit or capital markets, which affect our ability to borrow money or raise capital;

our ability to replace our portfolios of nonperforming loans with additional portfolios sufficient to operate efficiently and 

our ability to purchase nonperforming loans at appropriate prices;

our ability to collect sufficient amounts on our nonperforming loans to fund our operations;

the possibility that we could recognize significant decreases in our estimate of future recoveries on nonperforming loans;

changes in, or interpretations of, federal, state, local, or international laws, including bankruptcy and collection laws, or 

changes in the administrative practices of various bankruptcy courts, which could negatively affect our business or our 

ability to collect on nonperforming loans;

changes in accounting standards and their interpretations;

our ability to manage risks associated with our international operations;

changes in tax laws and interpretations regarding earnings of our domestic and international operations;

the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("Tax Act") including interpretations and determinations by tax authorities;

the possibility that we could incur goodwill or other intangible asset impairment charges;

adverse effects from the exit of the United Kingdom ("UK") from the European Union ("EU");

our loss contingency accruals may not be adequate to cover actual losses;

adverse outcomes in pending litigation or administrative proceedings;

the possibility that class action suits and other litigation could divert management's attention and increase our expenses;

the possibility that we could incur business or technology disruptions or cyber incidents;

disruptions of business operations caused by the under performance or failure of information technology infastructure, 

our ability to collect and enforce our nonperforming loans may be limited under federal, state, and international laws, 

our ability to comply with existing and new regulations of the collection industry, the failure of which could result in 

penalties, fines, litigation, damage to our reputation, or the suspension or termination of or required modification to our 

networks or telephone systems;

regulations, and policies;

ability to conduct our business;

• 

investigations, reviews, or enforcement actions by governmental authorities, including the Consumer Financial Protection 

Bureau ("CFPB"), which could result in changes to our business practices, negatively impact our portfolio acquisitions 

volume, make collection of account balances more difficult, or expose us to the risk of fines, penalties, restitution payments, 

and litigation;

the possibility that compliance with complex and evolving international and United States ("U.S.") laws and regulations 

that apply to our international operations could increase our cost of doing business in international jurisdictions;

our ability to comply with data privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR");

our ability to retain, expand, renegotiate or replace our credit facilities and our ability to comply with the covenants under 

our ability to raise the funds necessary to repurchase our convertible senior notes or to settle conversions in cash;

our ability to refinance our indebtedness, including our outstanding convertible senior notes;

changes in interest or exchange rates, which could reduce our net income, and the possibility that future hedging strategies 

our financing arrangements;

may not be successful;

the possibility that the adoption of future accounting standards could negatively impact our business;

default by or failure of one or more of our counterparty financial institutions could cause us to incur significant losses;

uncertainty about the future of the London Inter-Bank Offer Rate ("LIBOR") may adversely affect our business; and

the risk factors discussed herein and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

You should carefully consider the factors listed above and review the "Risk Factors" section beginning on page 9, as well 
as the "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" section beginning on page 24 
and the "Business" section beginning on page 5.

Our forward-looking statements could be wrong in light of these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The future 
events, developments or results described in, or implied by, this Form 10-K could turn out to be materially different. Except as 
required by law, we assume no obligation to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements after the date of this Form 
10-K and you should not expect us to do so.

Investors should also be aware that while we do, from time to time, communicate with securities analysts and others, we do 
not, by policy, selectively disclose to them any material nonpublic information or other confidential commercial information. 
Accordingly, investors should not assume that we agree with any statement or report issued by any analyst regardless of the content 
of the statement or report. We do not, by policy, confirm forecasts or projections issued by others. Thus, to the extent that reports 
issued by securities analysts contain any projections, forecasts, or opinions, such reports are not our responsibility.

Item 1. Business.

General

PART I

Headquartered in (cid:49)orfolk, Virginia and incorporated in Delaware, we are a global financial and business services company 

with operations in the Americas, Europe, and Australia.

Our primary business is the purchase, collection, and management of portfolios of nonperforming loans. The accounts we 
purchase  are primarily the unpaid obligations  of individuals owed to credit grantors, which include banks and other types of 
consumer, retail, and auto finance companies. We purchase portfolios of nonperforming loans at a discount in two broad categories: 
Core and Insolvency. Our Core operation specializes in purchasing and collecting nonperforming loans, which we purchased since 
either the credit grantor and/or other third-party collection agencies have been unsuccessful in collecting the full balance owed.  
Our Insolvency operation consists primarily of purchasing and collecting on nonperforming loan accounts where the customer is 
involved in a bankruptcy proceeding or the equivalent in some European countries. We also provide fee-based services on class 
action claims recoveries and by servicing consumer bankruptcy accounts in the U.S.

We have one reportable segment based on similarities among the operating units, including the nature of the products and 
services, the nature of the production processes, the types or classes of customers for our products and services, the methods used 
to distribute our products and services, and the nature of the regulatory environment.

We were initially formed as Portfolio Recovery Associates, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company, on March 20, 1996.  
We formed Portfolio Recovery Associates, Inc. in August 2002 in order to become a publicly traded company and our common 
stock began trading on the (cid:49)asdaq Global Select Market ("(cid:49)asdaq") on (cid:49)ovember 8, 2002.  We changed our legal name to PRA 
Group, Inc. on October 23, 2014.

We acquired Aktiv Kapital AS ("Aktiv"), a (cid:49)orway-based company specializing in the purchase, collection, and management 
of portfolios of nonperforming loans throughout Europe and Canada, on July 16, 2014. On April 26, 2016, we acquired DTP S.A. 
("DTP"), a Polish-based debt collection company, further building our in-house collection efforts in Poland.

We expanded into South America on August 3, 2015 by acquiring 55% of the equity interest in RCB Investimentos S.A. 
("RCB"), a servicing platform for nonperforming loans in Brazil.  On December 20, 2018, we entered into a strategic partnership 
with Banco Bradesco S.A. (“Bradesco”), under which Bradesco purchased 79% of our interest in RCB's servicing platform with 
PRA Group retaining an 11.7% equity interest. The sale did not impact the nonperforming loan purchasing business that we have 
established in Brazil in partnership with the previous owners of RCB, as it was not part of the sale to Bradesco. 

On March 1, 2019, we entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire the majority of the assets of a business in Canada, 

which was consolidated through our current Canadian business.  

Additionally, we are planning to begin operations in Australia in the future, leveraging an entity we set up in 2011. 

You should assume that the information appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K ("Form 10-K") is accurate only as 

All references in this Form 10-K to the "PRA Group," "our," "we," "us," the "Company" or similar terms are to PRA Group, 

of the date it was issued. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

Inc. and its subsidiaries.

4

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(cid:49)onperforming Loan Portfolio Acquisitions

Fee-Based Services

To identify buying opportunities, we maintain an extensive marketing effort with our senior officers contacting known and 
prospective sellers of nonperforming loans. From these sellers, we have aquired a variety of nonperforming loans including Visa® 
and MasterCard® credit cards, private label and other credit cards, installment loans, lines of credit, deficiency balances of various 
types, legal judgments, and trade payables.  Sellers of nonperforming loans include major banks, credit unions, consumer finance 
companies, retailers, utilities, automobile finance companies, and other debt owners.  The price at which we purchase portfolios 
depends on the age of the portfolio, whether it is a Core or Insolvency portfolio, geographic distribution, the seller's selection 
criteria, our historical experience with a certain asset type or credit grantor, and other similar factors.

We purchase portfolios of nonperforming loans from credit grantors through auctions and negotiated sales. In an auction 
process, the seller will assemble a portfolio of nonperforming loans and will seek purchase prices from specifically invited potential 
purchasers. In a privately negotiated sale process, the credit grantor will contact one or more purchasers directly, receive a bid, 
and negotiate the terms of sale. In either case, typically, invited purchasers will have already successfully completed a qualification 
process that can include the seller's review of any or all of the following: the purchaser's experience, reputation, financial standing, 
operating procedures, business practices, and compliance oversight.

We purchase portfolios of  nonperforming loans through either single portfolio transactions, referred to as spot sales, or 
through the pre-arranged purchase of multiple portfolios over time, referred to as forward flow sales. Under a forward flow contract, 
we agree to purchase statistically similar nonperforming loan portfolios from credit grantors on a periodic basis, at a negotiated 
price over a specified time period, generally from three to twelve months.

(cid:49)onperforming Loan Portfolio Collection Operations

Call Center Operations

In higher volume markets, our collection efforts leverage internally staffed call centers. In some newer markets or in markets 
that have less consistent debt purchasing patterns, most notably outside the U.S., we may utilize external vendors to do some of 
this work. Whether the accounts are being worked internally or externally, we utilize our proprietary analysis to proportionally 
direct work efforts to those customers most likely to pay. The analysis driving those decisions relies on models and variables that 
have the highest correlation to profitable collections from call activity.

Compliance

Legal Recovery - Core Portfolios

An important component of our collections effort involves our legal recovery operations and the judicial collection of balances 
from customers who, in general, we believe have the ability, but not the willingness, to resolve their obligations. There are some 
markets in which the collection process follows a prescribed, time-sensitive and sequential set of legal actions, but in the majority 
of  instances, we use models and analysis to select those accounts reflecting a high propensity to pay in a legal environment. 
Depending on the characteristics of the receivable and the applicable local collection laws, we determine whether to commence 
legal action to judicially collect on the receivable. The legal process can take an extended period of time and can be costly, but 
when accounts are selected properly, it also usually generates net cash collections that likely would not have been realized otherwise. 
We  use  a  combination  of  internal  staff  (attorney  and  support)  and  external  staff  to  pursue  legal  collections  under  certain 
circumstances, as we deem appropriate. 

Insolvency Operations

Insolvency Operations in the U.S. manages customer filings under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code on debtor accounts derived 
from two sources: (1) our purchased pools of bankrupt nonperforming loans and (2) our Core purchased pools of nonperforming 
loans that have filed for bankruptcy protection after being purchased by us. We file proofs of claim ("POCs") or claim transfers 
and actively manage these accounts through the entire life cycle of the bankruptcy proceeding to substantiate our claims and ensure 
that we participate in any distributions to creditors. Outside of the U.S., similar insolvency work is primarily outsourced to third 
parties.

Insolvency accounts in the U.S. are typically those filed under Chapter 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, have an associated 
payment plan that generally ranges from three to five years in duration, and can be purchased at any stage in the bankruptcy plan 
life cycle. Portfolios sold close to the filing of the bankruptcy plan will generally take months to generate cash flow; however, 
aged portfolios sold years after the filing of the bankruptcy plan will typically generate cash flows immediately.  (cid:49)on-U.S. insolvency 
accounts may have some slight differences, but generally operate in a similar manner. In Canada, we purchase consumer proposal, 
consumer credit counseling and bankrupt accounts. In the UK, we purchase individual voluntary arrangements, company voluntary 
arrangements, trust deeds, and bankrupt accounts. In Germany, we purchase consumer bankruptcies, which may also consist of 
small business loans with a personal guarantee.

In addition to the purchase, collection, and management of portfolios of nonperforming loans, we provide fee-based services 

including class action claims recovery purchasing and servicing through Claims Compensation Bureau, LLC ("CCB") and third-

party servicing of bankruptcy accounts in the U.S.

Cash collections in the Americas tend to be higher in the first half of the year due to the high volume of income tax refunds 

received by individuals in the U.S., and trend lower as the year progresses. Customer payment patterns in all of the countries in 

which we operate can be affected by seasonal employment trends, income tax refunds, and holiday spending habits.

Seasonality

Competition

Purchased portfolio competition is derived from both third-party contingent fee collection agencies and other purchasers of 

debt that manage their own nonperforming loans or outsource such servicing. Our primary competitors in our fee-based business 

are providers of outsourced receivables management services. Regulatory complexity and burdens, combined with seller preference 

for experienced portfolio purchasers, create significant barriers to successful entry for new competitors particularly in the U.S. 

While both markets remain competitive, the contingent fee industry is more fragmented than the purchased portfolio industry.

We face bidding competition in our purchase of nonperforming loans and in obtaining placements for our fee-based businesses. 

We also compete on the basis of reputation, industry experience, and performance. We believe that our competitive strengths 

include our disciplined and proprietary underwriting process, the extensive data set we have developed since our founding in 1996, 

our  ability  to  bid  on  portfolios  at  appropriate  prices,  our  capital  position,  our  reputation  from  previous  portfolio  purchase 

transactions, our ability to close transactions in a timely fashion, our strong relationships with credit grantors, our team of well-

trained  collectors  who  provide  quality  customer  service  while  complying  with  applicable  collection  laws,  and  our  ability  to 

efficiently and effectively collect on various asset types.

Our  approach  to  compliance  is  multifaceted  and  comprehensive  and  is  overseen  by  both  the  Board  of  Directors  and 

management.  Our compliance management system includes policies and procedures, training, monitoring, and consumer complaint 

response.   In addition, our compliance expectations extend to our service providers.  Our compliance management system is 

predicated on the following:

• 

our Code of Conduct, which applies to all directors, officers, and employees, is available at the Investor Relations page 

of our website at www.pragroup.com;

compliance and ethics training for our directors, officers, and employees;

• 

• 

a confidential telephone and email hotline and web-based portals to report suspected compliance violations, fraud, financial 

reporting, accounting, and auditing matters, and other acts that may be illegal and/or unethical; 

• 

regular testing by our compliance and internal audit departments of controls embedded in business processes designed to 

foster compliance with laws, regulations, and internal policy; and

• 

regular evaluation of the legislative and regulatory environment and monitoring of statutory and regulatory changes and 

relevant case law, so that operations personnel are aware of and in compliance with the laws and judicial decisions that 

may impact their job duties. 

Regulation

We are subject to a variety of federal, state, local, and international laws that establish specific guidelines and procedures 

that debt collectors must follow when collecting customer accounts, including laws relating to the collection, use, retention, security, 

and transfer of personal information.  It is our policy to comply with applicable federal, state, local, and international laws in all 

our activities even though there are inconsistencies between jurisdictions and frequent changes in these laws and regulations, 

including their interpretation and application.  Our failure to comply with these laws could result in enforcement action against 

us, the payment of significant fines and penalties, restrictions upon our operations, or our inability to recover amounts owed to us.  

Significant laws and regulations applicable to our business include the following:

•  Fair Debt Collection Practices Act ("FDCPA"), which imposes certain obligations and restrictions on the practices of 

debt collectors, including specific restrictions regarding the time, place and manner of the communications. 

6

7

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4/20/2020   12:52:33 PM

To identify buying opportunities, we maintain an extensive marketing effort with our senior officers contacting known and 

prospective sellers of nonperforming loans. From these sellers, we have aquired a variety of nonperforming loans including Visa® 

and MasterCard® credit cards, private label and other credit cards, installment loans, lines of credit, deficiency balances of various 

types, legal judgments, and trade payables.  Sellers of nonperforming loans include major banks, credit unions, consumer finance 

companies, retailers, utilities, automobile finance companies, and other debt owners.  The price at which we purchase portfolios 

depends on the age of the portfolio, whether it is a Core or Insolvency portfolio, geographic distribution, the seller's selection 

criteria, our historical experience with a certain asset type or credit grantor, and other similar factors.

We purchase portfolios of nonperforming loans from credit grantors through auctions and negotiated sales. In an auction 

process, the seller will assemble a portfolio of nonperforming loans and will seek purchase prices from specifically invited potential 

purchasers. In a privately negotiated sale process, the credit grantor will contact one or more purchasers directly, receive a bid, 

and negotiate the terms of sale. In either case, typically, invited purchasers will have already successfully completed a qualification 

process that can include the seller's review of any or all of the following: the purchaser's experience, reputation, financial standing, 

operating procedures, business practices, and compliance oversight.

We purchase portfolios of  nonperforming loans through either single portfolio transactions, referred to as spot sales, or 

through the pre-arranged purchase of multiple portfolios over time, referred to as forward flow sales. Under a forward flow contract, 

we agree to purchase statistically similar nonperforming loan portfolios from credit grantors on a periodic basis, at a negotiated 

price over a specified time period, generally from three to twelve months.

(cid:49)onperforming Loan Portfolio Collection Operations

Call Center Operations

In higher volume markets, our collection efforts leverage internally staffed call centers. In some newer markets or in markets 

that have less consistent debt purchasing patterns, most notably outside the U.S., we may utilize external vendors to do some of 

this work. Whether the accounts are being worked internally or externally, we utilize our proprietary analysis to proportionally 

direct work efforts to those customers most likely to pay. The analysis driving those decisions relies on models and variables that 

have the highest correlation to profitable collections from call activity.

Legal Recovery - Core Portfolios

An important component of our collections effort involves our legal recovery operations and the judicial collection of balances 

from customers who, in general, we believe have the ability, but not the willingness, to resolve their obligations. There are some 

markets in which the collection process follows a prescribed, time-sensitive and sequential set of legal actions, but in the majority 

of  instances, we use models and analysis to select those accounts reflecting a high propensity to pay in a legal environment. 

Depending on the characteristics of the receivable and the applicable local collection laws, we determine whether to commence 

legal action to judicially collect on the receivable. The legal process can take an extended period of time and can be costly, but 

when accounts are selected properly, it also usually generates net cash collections that likely would not have been realized otherwise. 

We  use  a  combination  of  internal  staff  (attorney  and  support)  and  external  staff  to  pursue  legal  collections  under  certain 

circumstances, as we deem appropriate. 

Insolvency Operations

Insolvency Operations in the U.S. manages customer filings under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code on debtor accounts derived 

from two sources: (1) our purchased pools of bankrupt nonperforming loans and (2) our Core purchased pools of nonperforming 

loans that have filed for bankruptcy protection after being purchased by us. We file proofs of claim ("POCs") or claim transfers 

that we participate in any distributions to creditors. Outside of the U.S., similar insolvency work is primarily outsourced to third 

parties.

Insolvency accounts in the U.S. are typically those filed under Chapter 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, have an associated 

payment plan that generally ranges from three to five years in duration, and can be purchased at any stage in the bankruptcy plan 

life cycle. Portfolios sold close to the filing of the bankruptcy plan will generally take months to generate cash flow; however, 

aged portfolios sold years after the filing of the bankruptcy plan will typically generate cash flows immediately.  (cid:49)on-U.S. insolvency 

accounts may have some slight differences, but generally operate in a similar manner. In Canada, we purchase consumer proposal, 

consumer credit counseling and bankrupt accounts. In the UK, we purchase individual voluntary arrangements, company voluntary 

arrangements, trust deeds, and bankrupt accounts. In Germany, we purchase consumer bankruptcies, which may also consist of 

small business loans with a personal guarantee.

(cid:49)onperforming Loan Portfolio Acquisitions

Fee-Based Services

In addition to the purchase, collection, and management of portfolios of nonperforming loans, we provide fee-based services 
including class action claims recovery purchasing and servicing through Claims Compensation Bureau, LLC ("CCB") and third-
party servicing of bankruptcy accounts in the U.S.

Seasonality

Cash collections in the Americas tend to be higher in the first half of the year due to the high volume of income tax refunds 
received by individuals in the U.S., and trend lower as the year progresses. Customer payment patterns in all of the countries in 
which we operate can be affected by seasonal employment trends, income tax refunds, and holiday spending habits.

Competition

Purchased portfolio competition is derived from both third-party contingent fee collection agencies and other purchasers of 
debt that manage their own nonperforming loans or outsource such servicing. Our primary competitors in our fee-based business 
are providers of outsourced receivables management services. Regulatory complexity and burdens, combined with seller preference 
for experienced portfolio purchasers, create significant barriers to successful entry for new competitors particularly in the U.S. 
While both markets remain competitive, the contingent fee industry is more fragmented than the purchased portfolio industry.

We face bidding competition in our purchase of nonperforming loans and in obtaining placements for our fee-based businesses. 
We also compete on the basis of reputation, industry experience, and performance. We believe that our competitive strengths 
include our disciplined and proprietary underwriting process, the extensive data set we have developed since our founding in 1996, 
our  ability  to  bid  on  portfolios  at  appropriate  prices,  our  capital  position,  our  reputation  from  previous  portfolio  purchase 
transactions, our ability to close transactions in a timely fashion, our strong relationships with credit grantors, our team of well-
trained  collectors  who  provide  quality  customer  service  while  complying  with  applicable  collection  laws,  and  our  ability  to 
efficiently and effectively collect on various asset types.

Compliance

Our  approach  to  compliance  is  multifaceted  and  comprehensive  and  is  overseen  by  both  the  Board  of  Directors  and 
management.  Our compliance management system includes policies and procedures, training, monitoring, and consumer complaint 
response.   In addition, our compliance expectations extend to our service providers.  Our compliance management system is 
predicated on the following:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

our Code of Conduct, which applies to all directors, officers, and employees, is available at the Investor Relations page 
of our website at www.pragroup.com;

compliance and ethics training for our directors, officers, and employees;

a confidential telephone and email hotline and web-based portals to report suspected compliance violations, fraud, financial 
reporting, accounting, and auditing matters, and other acts that may be illegal and/or unethical; 

regular testing by our compliance and internal audit departments of controls embedded in business processes designed to 
foster compliance with laws, regulations, and internal policy; and

regular evaluation of the legislative and regulatory environment and monitoring of statutory and regulatory changes and 
relevant case law, so that operations personnel are aware of and in compliance with the laws and judicial decisions that 
may impact their job duties. 

and actively manage these accounts through the entire life cycle of the bankruptcy proceeding to substantiate our claims and ensure 

Regulation

We are subject to a variety of federal, state, local, and international laws that establish specific guidelines and procedures 
that debt collectors must follow when collecting customer accounts, including laws relating to the collection, use, retention, security, 
and transfer of personal information.  It is our policy to comply with applicable federal, state, local, and international laws in all 
our activities even though there are inconsistencies between jurisdictions and frequent changes in these laws and regulations, 
including their interpretation and application.  Our failure to comply with these laws could result in enforcement action against 
us, the payment of significant fines and penalties, restrictions upon our operations, or our inability to recover amounts owed to us.  
Significant laws and regulations applicable to our business include the following:

•  Fair Debt Collection Practices Act ("FDCPA"), which imposes certain obligations and restrictions on the practices of 

debt collectors, including specific restrictions regarding the time, place and manner of the communications. 

6

7

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   9

4/20/2020   12:52:33 PM

•  Fair Credit Reporting Act ("FCRA"), which obligates credit information providers to verify the accuracy of information 

Available Information

provided to credit reporting agencies and investigate consumer disputes concerning the accuracy of such information. 

•  Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, which requires that certain financial institutions, including collection agencies, develop policies 
to protect the privacy of consumers' private financial information and provide notices to consumers advising them of their 
privacy policies.

•  Electronic Funds Transfer Act, which regulates electronic fund transfer transactions, including a consumer’s right to stop 

payments on a pre-approved fund transfer and right to receive certain documentation of the transaction. 

We make available on or through our website, www.pragroup.com, certain reports that we file with or furnish to the SEC in 

accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). These include our Annual Reports on 

Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, our Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or 

furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act ("SEC Filings"). We make this information available on our 

website free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file the information with or furnish it to the SEC. 

The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers 

that file electronically with the SEC at: www.sec.gov.

• 

• 

Telephone Consumer Protection Act ("TCPA"), which, along with similar state laws, places certain restrictions on users 
of certain automated dialing equipment and pre-recorded messages that place telephone calls to consumers.

The information contained on, or that can be accessed through our website, is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of 

this Form 10-K or incorporated into any of our other SEC Filings.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act ("SCRA"), which gives U.S. military service personnel relief from credit obligations they 
may have  incurred prior  to entering  military  service and  may also  apply  in certain circumstances  to obligations  and 
liabilities incurred by a servicemember while serving on active duty. 

at:

Reports filed with, or furnished to, the SEC are also available free of charge upon request by contacting our corporate office 

•  Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which provides standards to protect the confidentiality of patients' 

personal healthcare and financial information in the U.S. 

•  U.S. Bankruptcy Code, which prohibits certain contacts with consumers after the filing of bankruptcy petitions and dictates 
what types of claims will or will not be allowed in a bankruptcy proceeding including how such claims may be discharged.

•  Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires that telecommunications companies operating in the U.S. take steps to 
ensure functionally equivalent services are available for their consumers with disabilities, and requires accommodation 
of consumers with disabilities, such as the implementation of telecommunications relay services.

•  U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act ("FCPA"), United Kingdom Bribery Act ("UK Bribery Act") and Similar Laws. Our 
operations outside the U.S. are subject to various U.S. and international laws and regulations, such as the FCPA and the 
UK Bribery Act, which prohibit corrupt payments to governmental officials and certain other individuals.  The FCPA 
prohibits U.S. companies and their agents and employees from providing anything of value to a foreign official for the 
purposes of influencing any act or decision of these individuals in order to obtain an unfair advantage or help obtain or 
retain business. Although similar to the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act is broader in scope and covers bribes given to or 
received by any person with improper intent. 

•  Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the "Dodd-Frank Act"), which restructured the regulation 
and supervision of the financial services industry in the U.S. and created the CFPB.  The CFPB has rulemaking, supervisory, 
and enforcement authority over larger consumer debt collectors. The Dodd-Frank Act, along with the Unfair, Deceptive, 
or Abusive Acts or Practices ("UDAAP") provisions included therein, and the Federal Trade Commission Act, prohibit 
unfair, deceptive, and/or abusive acts and practices.  

• 

International data protection and privacy laws, which include relevant country specific legislation in the United Kingdom 
and other European countries where we operate that regulate the processing of information relating to individuals, including 
the  obtaining,  holding,  use  or  disclosure  of  such  information;  the  Personal  Information  Protection  and  Electronic 
Documents Act, which aims to protect personal information that is collected, used or disclosed in certain circumstances 
for purposes of electronic commerce in Canada; and the EU GDPR, which regulates the processing and free movement 
of personal data within the EU and transfer of such data outside the EU. 

•  Consumer Credit Act 1974 (and its related regulations), Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations of 1999 and 
the Financial Conduct Authority's consumer credit conduct of business rules, which apply to our international operations 
and govern consumer credit agreements. 

In addition, certain of our EU subsidiaries are subject to capital adequacy and liquidity requirements.

Employees

As of December 31, 2019, we employed 4,412 full-time equivalents globally. Management considers our employee relations 
to  be  good. While  none  of  our  (cid:49)orth American  employees  are  represented  by  a  union  or  covered  by  a  collective  bargaining 
agreement, in Europe we work closely with a number of works councils, and in countries where it is the customary local practice, 
such as Finland and Spain, we have collective bargaining agreements.

PRA Group, Inc.

Attn: Investor Relations

120 Corporate Boulevard, Suite 100

(cid:49)orfolk, Virginia 23502

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

An investment in our Company involves risk, including the possibility that the value of the investment could fall substantially. 

The following are risks that could materially affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, cash flows, 

and the value of, and return on, an investment in our Company.

Risks related to our operations and industry

A deterioration in the economic or inflationary environment in the Americas or Europe could have an adverse effect on our business 

and results of operations.

Our performance may be adversely affected by economic, political or inflationary conditions in any market in which we 

operate. These conditions  could include regulatory  developments, changes  in global or domestic economic policy, legislative 

changes, the sovereign debt crises experienced in several European countries and the uncertainty regarding the EU’s future as a 

result of the UK's departure from the EU. Deterioration in economic conditions, or a significant rise in inflation could cause personal 

bankruptcy and insolvency filings to increase, and the ability of consumers to pay their debts could be adversely affected. This 

may in turn adversely impact our business and financial results. Deteriorating economic conditions could also adversely impact 

the businesses to which we provide fee-based services, which could reduce our fee income and cash flow.

If global credit market conditions and the stability of global banks deteriorate, it could negatively impact the generation of 

comprehensive receivable buying opportunities which could adversely affect our business, financial results, and ability to succeed 

in international markets. If conditions in major credit markets deteriorate, the amount of consumer or commercial lending and 

financing could be reduced, thus decreasing the volume of nonperforming loans available for our purchase.

Other factors associated with the economy that could influence our performance include the financial stability of the lenders 

on our bank loans and credit facilities and our access to capital and credit. The financial turmoil that adversely affected the banking 

system and financial markets during the last domestic recession resulted in the tightening of credit markets. Although there has 

since been improvement, a worsening of current conditions could have a negative impact on our business, including a decrease in 

the value of our financial investments and the insolvency of lending institutions, including the lenders providing our bank loans 

and credit facilities, resulting in our difficulty in or inability to obtain credit. These and other economic factors could have an 

adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

We may not be able to continually replace our nonperforming loans with additional portfolios sufficient to operate efficiently and 

profitably, and/or we may not be able to purchase nonperforming loans at appropriate prices.

To operate profitably, we must purchase and service a sufficient amount of nonperforming loans to generate revenue that 

exceeds our expenses. Fixed costs such as salaries and other compensation expense constitute a significant portion of our overhead 

and, if we do not replace the nonperforming loan portfolios we service with additional portfolios, we may have to reduce the 

number of our collection personnel. We would then have to rehire collection staff if we subsequently obtain additional portfolios. 

These practices could lead to negative consequences such as:

8

9

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   10

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•  Fair Credit Reporting Act ("FCRA"), which obligates credit information providers to verify the accuracy of information 

Available Information

provided to credit reporting agencies and investigate consumer disputes concerning the accuracy of such information. 

•  Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, which requires that certain financial institutions, including collection agencies, develop policies 

to protect the privacy of consumers' private financial information and provide notices to consumers advising them of their 

privacy policies.

•  Electronic Funds Transfer Act, which regulates electronic fund transfer transactions, including a consumer’s right to stop 

payments on a pre-approved fund transfer and right to receive certain documentation of the transaction. 

We make available on or through our website, www.pragroup.com, certain reports that we file with or furnish to the SEC in 
accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). These include our Annual Reports on 
Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, our Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or 
furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act ("SEC Filings"). We make this information available on our 
website free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file the information with or furnish it to the SEC. 
The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers 
that file electronically with the SEC at: www.sec.gov.

• 

Telephone Consumer Protection Act ("TCPA"), which, along with similar state laws, places certain restrictions on users 

of certain automated dialing equipment and pre-recorded messages that place telephone calls to consumers.

The information contained on, or that can be accessed through our website, is not, and shall not be deemed to be, a part of 

this Form 10-K or incorporated into any of our other SEC Filings.

• 

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act ("SCRA"), which gives U.S. military service personnel relief from credit obligations they 

may have  incurred prior  to entering  military  service and  may also  apply  in certain circumstances  to obligations  and 

liabilities incurred by a servicemember while serving on active duty. 

at:

Reports filed with, or furnished to, the SEC are also available free of charge upon request by contacting our corporate office 

•  Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which provides standards to protect the confidentiality of patients' 

personal healthcare and financial information in the U.S. 

•  U.S. Bankruptcy Code, which prohibits certain contacts with consumers after the filing of bankruptcy petitions and dictates 

what types of claims will or will not be allowed in a bankruptcy proceeding including how such claims may be discharged.

•  Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires that telecommunications companies operating in the U.S. take steps to 

ensure functionally equivalent services are available for their consumers with disabilities, and requires accommodation 

of consumers with disabilities, such as the implementation of telecommunications relay services.

•  U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act ("FCPA"), United Kingdom Bribery Act ("UK Bribery Act") and Similar Laws. Our 

operations outside the U.S. are subject to various U.S. and international laws and regulations, such as the FCPA and the 

UK Bribery Act, which prohibit corrupt payments to governmental officials and certain other individuals.  The FCPA 

prohibits U.S. companies and their agents and employees from providing anything of value to a foreign official for the 

purposes of influencing any act or decision of these individuals in order to obtain an unfair advantage or help obtain or 

retain business. Although similar to the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act is broader in scope and covers bribes given to or 

received by any person with improper intent. 

•  Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the "Dodd-Frank Act"), which restructured the regulation 

and supervision of the financial services industry in the U.S. and created the CFPB.  The CFPB has rulemaking, supervisory, 

and enforcement authority over larger consumer debt collectors. The Dodd-Frank Act, along with the Unfair, Deceptive, 

or Abusive Acts or Practices ("UDAAP") provisions included therein, and the Federal Trade Commission Act, prohibit 

unfair, deceptive, and/or abusive acts and practices.  

• 

International data protection and privacy laws, which include relevant country specific legislation in the United Kingdom 

and other European countries where we operate that regulate the processing of information relating to individuals, including 

the  obtaining,  holding,  use  or  disclosure  of  such  information;  the  Personal  Information  Protection  and  Electronic 

Documents Act, which aims to protect personal information that is collected, used or disclosed in certain circumstances 

for purposes of electronic commerce in Canada; and the EU GDPR, which regulates the processing and free movement 

of personal data within the EU and transfer of such data outside the EU. 

•  Consumer Credit Act 1974 (and its related regulations), Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations of 1999 and 

the Financial Conduct Authority's consumer credit conduct of business rules, which apply to our international operations 

and govern consumer credit agreements. 

In addition, certain of our EU subsidiaries are subject to capital adequacy and liquidity requirements.

Employees

As of December 31, 2019, we employed 4,412 full-time equivalents globally. Management considers our employee relations 

to  be  good. While  none  of  our  (cid:49)orth American  employees  are  represented  by  a  union  or  covered  by  a  collective  bargaining 

agreement, in Europe we work closely with a number of works councils, and in countries where it is the customary local practice, 

such as Finland and Spain, we have collective bargaining agreements.

PRA Group, Inc.
Attn: Investor Relations
120 Corporate Boulevard, Suite 100
(cid:49)orfolk, Virginia 23502

Item 1A. Risk Factors.

An investment in our Company involves risk, including the possibility that the value of the investment could fall substantially. 
The following are risks that could materially affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, cash flows, 
and the value of, and return on, an investment in our Company.

Risks related to our operations and industry

A deterioration in the economic or inflationary environment in the Americas or Europe could have an adverse effect on our business 
and results of operations.

Our performance may be adversely affected by economic, political or inflationary conditions in any market in which we 
operate. These conditions  could include regulatory  developments, changes  in global or domestic economic policy, legislative 
changes, the sovereign debt crises experienced in several European countries and the uncertainty regarding the EU’s future as a 
result of the UK's departure from the EU. Deterioration in economic conditions, or a significant rise in inflation could cause personal 
bankruptcy and insolvency filings to increase, and the ability of consumers to pay their debts could be adversely affected. This 
may in turn adversely impact our business and financial results. Deteriorating economic conditions could also adversely impact 
the businesses to which we provide fee-based services, which could reduce our fee income and cash flow.

If global credit market conditions and the stability of global banks deteriorate, it could negatively impact the generation of 
comprehensive receivable buying opportunities which could adversely affect our business, financial results, and ability to succeed 
in international markets. If conditions in major credit markets deteriorate, the amount of consumer or commercial lending and 
financing could be reduced, thus decreasing the volume of nonperforming loans available for our purchase.

Other factors associated with the economy that could influence our performance include the financial stability of the lenders 
on our bank loans and credit facilities and our access to capital and credit. The financial turmoil that adversely affected the banking 
system and financial markets during the last domestic recession resulted in the tightening of credit markets. Although there has 
since been improvement, a worsening of current conditions could have a negative impact on our business, including a decrease in 
the value of our financial investments and the insolvency of lending institutions, including the lenders providing our bank loans 
and credit facilities, resulting in our difficulty in or inability to obtain credit. These and other economic factors could have an 
adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

We may not be able to continually replace our nonperforming loans with additional portfolios sufficient to operate efficiently and 
profitably, and/or we may not be able to purchase nonperforming loans at appropriate prices.

To operate profitably, we must purchase and service a sufficient amount of nonperforming loans to generate revenue that 
exceeds our expenses. Fixed costs such as salaries and other compensation expense constitute a significant portion of our overhead 
and, if we do not replace the nonperforming loan portfolios we service with additional portfolios, we may have to reduce the 
number of our collection personnel. We would then have to rehire collection staff if we subsequently obtain additional portfolios. 
These practices could lead to negative consequences such as:

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• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

low employee morale;

fewer experienced employees; 

higher training costs; 

disruptions in our operations; 

loss of efficiency; and 

excess costs associated with unused space in our facilities.

The availability of nonperforming loan portfolios at prices that generate an appropriate return on our investment depends on 

a number of factors both within and outside of our control, including the following:

• 

• 

• 

the continuation of high levels of consumer debt obligations;

sales of nonperforming loan portfolios by debt owners; and

competitive factors affecting potential purchasers and credit grantors of receivables.

Furthermore, heightened regulation of the credit card and consumer lending industry or changing credit origination strategies 
may result in decreased availability of credit to consumers, potentially leading to a future reduction in nonperforming loans available 
for purchase from debt owners. Conversely, lower regulatory barriers with respect to debt buyers could lead to increased participants 
in the debt collection industry, which could, in turn, impact the supply of nonperforming loans available for purchase. We cannot 
predict how our ability to identify and purchase nonperforming loans and the quality of those nonperforming loans would be 
affected if there were a shift in lending practices, whether caused by changes in the regulations or accounting practices applicable 
to debt owners or debt buyers, a sustained economic downturn or otherwise.

Moreover, there can be no assurance that debt owners will continue to sell their nonperforming loans consistent with recent 
levels or at all, or that we will be able to bid competitively for those portfolios. Because of the length of time involved in collecting 
on acquired portfolios and the variability in the timing of our collections, we may not be able to identify trends and make changes 
in our purchasing strategies in a timely manner. If we are unable to maintain our business or adapt to changing market needs as 
well as our current or future competitors, we may experience reduced access to nonperforming loan portfolios at appropriate prices 
and, therefore, reduced profitability.

Currently, a number of large banks  that historically sold nonperforming loans in the U.S., including sellers of bankrupt 
accounts,  are  not  selling  such  debt.    Should  these  conditions  worsen,  it  could  negatively  impact  our  ability  to  replace  our 
nonperforming loans with additional portfolios sufficient to operate profitably.

We may not be able to collect sufficient amounts on our nonperforming loans to fund our operations.

tribunals and works councils;

Our principal business consists of purchasing and liquidating nonperforming loans that consumers or others have failed to 
pay. The debt owners have typically made numerous attempts to recover on their receivables, often using a combination of in-
house recovery efforts and third-party collection agencies. These nonperforming loans are difficult to collect, and we may not 
collect a sufficient amount to cover our investment and the costs of running our business.

Our collections may decrease if certain types of insolvency proceedings and bankruptcy filings involving liquidations increase.

Various economic trends and potential changes to existing legislation may contribute to an increase in the amount of personal 
bankruptcy and insolvency filings. Under certain of these filings, a debtor's assets may be sold to repay creditors, but because most 
of the receivables we collect through our collections operations are unsecured, we typically would not be able to collect on those 
receivables. Although our insolvency collections business could benefit from an increase in personal bankruptcies and insolvencies, 
we cannot ensure that our collections operations business would not decline with an increase in personal insolvencies or bankruptcy 
filings or changes in related regulations or practices. If our actual collection experience with respect to a nonperforming or insolvent 
bankrupt receivables portfolio is significantly lower than the total amount we projected when we acquired the portfolio, our financial 
condition and results of operations could be adversely impacted.

Changes in accounting standards and their interpretations could adversely affect our operating results.

U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP"), as issued and amended by the Financial Accounting Standards 
Board  ("FASB"),  is  subject  to  interpretation  by  the  SEC,  and  various  other  bodies  that  promulgate  and  interpret  appropriate 

10

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accounting principles. These principles and related implementation guidelines and interpretations can be highly complex and 

involve subjective estimates. A change in these principles or interpretations could have a significant effect on our reported financial 

results.  For example, in June 2016 the FASB issued Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") (cid:49)o. 2016-13, Financial Instruments 

- Credit Losses (Topic 326): “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (“ASU 2016-13”), which requires the 

measurement of expected credit losses for financial instruments held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current 

conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts.  Furthermore, in (cid:49)ovember 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-11, “Codification 

Improvements  to  Topic  326,  Financial  Instruments  -  Credit  Losses”  (“ASU  2019-11”),  which  amends  the  Purchase  Credit 

Deteriorated ("PCD") financial asset guidance in ASU 2016-13 to clarify that expected recoveries of amounts previously written 

off and expected to be written off should be included in the valuation account and should not exceed the aggregate of amounts 

previously written off and expected to be written off by an entity.  ASU 2019-11 clarifies that a negative allowance is recognized 

when an entity determines, after a full or partial writeoff of the amortized cost basis, that it will recover all or a portion of the basis.

ASU 2016-13 and ASU 2019-11 supersede ASC 310-30, "Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit 

Quality" ("ASC 310-30"), which we currently follow to account for income recognized on our finance receivables, and are effective 

for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2020.  ASU 2016-13 and ASU 2019-11 represent a significant significant change from 

existing  U.S.  GAAP and  are expected  to  result  in  material  changes  to  the  Company’s  accounting for  its  finance  receivables. 

Implementation efforts are nearly complete, including finalizing the accounting processes, fulfillment of additional data needs for 

new disclosures and reporting requirements, and drafting accounting and internal control policies and procedures.  ASU 2016-13 

and ASU 2019-11, amendments thereof, and amendments to new and existing accounting standards could have an adverse effect 

on our financial condition and results of operations.

Our international operations expose us to risks which could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

A significant portion of our operations is conducted outside the U.S. This could expose us to adverse economic, industry and 

political conditions that may have a negative impact on our ability to manage our existing operations or pursue alternative strategic 

transactions, which could have a negative effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The global nature of our operations expands the risks and uncertainties described elsewhere in this section, including the 

following: 

changes in local political, economic, social and labor conditions in the markets in which we operate;

foreign exchange controls on currency conversion and the transfer of funds that might prevent us from repatriating cash 

earned in countries outside the U.S. in a tax-efficient manner;

• 

currency  exchange  rate  fluctuations,  currency  restructurings,  inflation  or  deflation,  and  our  ability  to  manage  these 

fluctuations through a foreign exchange risk management program;

• 

different employee/employer relationships, laws and regulations, union recognition and the existence of employment 

laws and regulations imposed by international governments, including those governing data security, sharing and transfer;

potentially  adverse tax  consequences  resulting from  changes  in  tax  laws  in  the  jurisdictions  in  which we  operate  or 

challenges to our interpretations and application of complex international tax laws;

• 

logistical, communications and other challenges caused by distance and cultural and language differences, each making 

it harder to do business in certain jurisdictions; 

risks related to crimes, strikes, riots, civil disturbances, terrorist attacks, wars and natural disasters; 

volatility of global credit markets and the availability of consumer credit and financing in our international markets;

uncertainty as to the enforceability of contract and intellectual property rights under local laws;

the potential of forced nationalization of certain industries, or the impact on creditors' rights, consumer disposable income 

levels, flexibility and availability of consumer credit, and the ability to enforce and collect aged or charged-off debts 

stemming from international governmental actions, whether through austerity or stimulus measures or initiatives, intended 

to control or influence macroeconomic factors such as wages, unemployment, national output or consumption, inflation, 

investment, credit, finance, taxation or other economic drivers;

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

low employee morale;

fewer experienced employees; 

higher training costs; 

disruptions in our operations; 

loss of efficiency; and 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

excess costs associated with unused space in our facilities.

The availability of nonperforming loan portfolios at prices that generate an appropriate return on our investment depends on 

a number of factors both within and outside of our control, including the following:

the continuation of high levels of consumer debt obligations;

sales of nonperforming loan portfolios by debt owners; and

competitive factors affecting potential purchasers and credit grantors of receivables.

Furthermore, heightened regulation of the credit card and consumer lending industry or changing credit origination strategies 

may result in decreased availability of credit to consumers, potentially leading to a future reduction in nonperforming loans available 

for purchase from debt owners. Conversely, lower regulatory barriers with respect to debt buyers could lead to increased participants 

in the debt collection industry, which could, in turn, impact the supply of nonperforming loans available for purchase. We cannot 

predict how our ability to identify and purchase nonperforming loans and the quality of those nonperforming loans would be 

affected if there were a shift in lending practices, whether caused by changes in the regulations or accounting practices applicable 

to debt owners or debt buyers, a sustained economic downturn or otherwise.

Moreover, there can be no assurance that debt owners will continue to sell their nonperforming loans consistent with recent 

levels or at all, or that we will be able to bid competitively for those portfolios. Because of the length of time involved in collecting 

on acquired portfolios and the variability in the timing of our collections, we may not be able to identify trends and make changes 

in our purchasing strategies in a timely manner. If we are unable to maintain our business or adapt to changing market needs as 

well as our current or future competitors, we may experience reduced access to nonperforming loan portfolios at appropriate prices 

and, therefore, reduced profitability.

Currently, a number of large banks  that historically sold nonperforming loans in the U.S., including sellers of bankrupt 

accounts,  are  not  selling  such  debt.    Should  these  conditions  worsen,  it  could  negatively  impact  our  ability  to  replace  our 

nonperforming loans with additional portfolios sufficient to operate profitably.

We may not be able to collect sufficient amounts on our nonperforming loans to fund our operations.

Our principal business consists of purchasing and liquidating nonperforming loans that consumers or others have failed to 

pay. The debt owners have typically made numerous attempts to recover on their receivables, often using a combination of in-

house recovery efforts and third-party collection agencies. These nonperforming loans are difficult to collect, and we may not 

collect a sufficient amount to cover our investment and the costs of running our business.

Our collections may decrease if certain types of insolvency proceedings and bankruptcy filings involving liquidations increase.

Various economic trends and potential changes to existing legislation may contribute to an increase in the amount of personal 

bankruptcy and insolvency filings. Under certain of these filings, a debtor's assets may be sold to repay creditors, but because most 

of the receivables we collect through our collections operations are unsecured, we typically would not be able to collect on those 

receivables. Although our insolvency collections business could benefit from an increase in personal bankruptcies and insolvencies, 

we cannot ensure that our collections operations business would not decline with an increase in personal insolvencies or bankruptcy 

filings or changes in related regulations or practices. If our actual collection experience with respect to a nonperforming or insolvent 

bankrupt receivables portfolio is significantly lower than the total amount we projected when we acquired the portfolio, our financial 

condition and results of operations could be adversely impacted.

Changes in accounting standards and their interpretations could adversely affect our operating results.

U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP"), as issued and amended by the Financial Accounting Standards 

Board  ("FASB"),  is  subject  to  interpretation  by  the  SEC,  and  various  other  bodies  that  promulgate  and  interpret  appropriate 

accounting principles. These principles and related implementation guidelines and interpretations can be highly complex and 
involve subjective estimates. A change in these principles or interpretations could have a significant effect on our reported financial 
results.  For example, in June 2016 the FASB issued Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") (cid:49)o. 2016-13, Financial Instruments 
- Credit Losses (Topic 326): “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (“ASU 2016-13”), which requires the 
measurement of expected credit losses for financial instruments held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current 
conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts.  Furthermore, in (cid:49)ovember 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-11, “Codification 
Improvements  to  Topic  326,  Financial  Instruments  -  Credit  Losses”  (“ASU  2019-11”),  which  amends  the  Purchase  Credit 
Deteriorated ("PCD") financial asset guidance in ASU 2016-13 to clarify that expected recoveries of amounts previously written 
off and expected to be written off should be included in the valuation account and should not exceed the aggregate of amounts 
previously written off and expected to be written off by an entity.  ASU 2019-11 clarifies that a negative allowance is recognized 
when an entity determines, after a full or partial writeoff of the amortized cost basis, that it will recover all or a portion of the basis.

ASU 2016-13 and ASU 2019-11 supersede ASC 310-30, "Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit 
Quality" ("ASC 310-30"), which we currently follow to account for income recognized on our finance receivables, and are effective 
for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2020.  ASU 2016-13 and ASU 2019-11 represent a significant significant change from 
existing  U.S.  GAAP and  are expected  to  result  in  material  changes  to  the  Company’s  accounting for  its  finance  receivables. 
Implementation efforts are nearly complete, including finalizing the accounting processes, fulfillment of additional data needs for 
new disclosures and reporting requirements, and drafting accounting and internal control policies and procedures.  ASU 2016-13 
and ASU 2019-11, amendments thereof, and amendments to new and existing accounting standards could have an adverse effect 
on our financial condition and results of operations.

Our international operations expose us to risks which could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

A significant portion of our operations is conducted outside the U.S. This could expose us to adverse economic, industry and 
political conditions that may have a negative impact on our ability to manage our existing operations or pursue alternative strategic 
transactions, which could have a negative effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The global nature of our operations expands the risks and uncertainties described elsewhere in this section, including the 

following: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

changes in local political, economic, social and labor conditions in the markets in which we operate;

foreign exchange controls on currency conversion and the transfer of funds that might prevent us from repatriating cash 
earned in countries outside the U.S. in a tax-efficient manner;

currency  exchange  rate  fluctuations,  currency  restructurings,  inflation  or  deflation,  and  our  ability  to  manage  these 
fluctuations through a foreign exchange risk management program;

different employee/employer relationships, laws and regulations, union recognition and the existence of employment 
tribunals and works councils;

laws and regulations imposed by international governments, including those governing data security, sharing and transfer;

potentially  adverse tax  consequences  resulting from  changes  in  tax  laws  in  the  jurisdictions  in  which we  operate  or 
challenges to our interpretations and application of complex international tax laws;

logistical, communications and other challenges caused by distance and cultural and language differences, each making 
it harder to do business in certain jurisdictions; 

risks related to crimes, strikes, riots, civil disturbances, terrorist attacks, wars and natural disasters; 

volatility of global credit markets and the availability of consumer credit and financing in our international markets;

uncertainty as to the enforceability of contract and intellectual property rights under local laws;

the potential of forced nationalization of certain industries, or the impact on creditors' rights, consumer disposable income 
levels, flexibility and availability of consumer credit, and the ability to enforce and collect aged or charged-off debts 
stemming from international governmental actions, whether through austerity or stimulus measures or initiatives, intended 
to control or influence macroeconomic factors such as wages, unemployment, national output or consumption, inflation, 
investment, credit, finance, taxation or other economic drivers;

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• 

• 

• 

• 

the presence of varying levels of business corruption in international markets and the effect of various anti-corruption 
and other laws on our international operations;

the impact on our day-to-day operations and our ability to staff our international operations given our changing labor 
conditions and long-term trends towards higher wages in developed and emerging international markets as well as the 
potential impact of union organizing efforts;

potential damage to our reputation due to non-compliance with international and local laws; and

the complexity and necessity of using non-U.S. representatives, consultants and other third-party vendors.

Any one of these factors could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The impact of worldwide tax audits, changes to international or domestic tax laws, the issuance of new tax guidance, and the 
results of operations could have an adverse tax effect on our financial condition.

Our tax filings are subject to audit by domestic and international tax authorities. These audits may result in assessments of 
additional taxes, adjustments to the timing of taxable income or deductions, or re-allocations of income among tax jurisdictions.  
Any one of these factors could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

In addition, many countries in the EU and around the world have adopted and/or proposed changes to current tax laws.  
Further, organizations such as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development have published actions that, if adopted 
by countries where we do business, could increase our tax obligations in those countries. Due to the scale of our U.S. and international 
business activities, many of these enacted and proposed changes to the taxation of our activities could increase our worldwide 
effective tax rate potentially harming our financial position and results of operations.

While the Tax Act was enacted during December 2017, we still expect to see future regulatory, administrative or legislative 
guidance. To the extent any future guidance differs from our current interpretation of the law, it could have a material effect on 
our financial position and results of operations.  The Tax Act included a broad range of tax reform provisions affecting businesses, 
including the elimination of U.S. federal income taxes on dividends from international subsidiaries; requiring a current inclusion 
in U.S. federal taxable income of certain earnings of controlled international corporations referred to as Global Intangible Low-
Taxed Income (“GILTI”); creating the base erosion anti-abuse tax, a new minimum tax; creating a new limitation on deductible 
interest expense; and increased limitations on the deductibility of executive compensation.  

Our future tax expense could be affected by changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, 
changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, or changes in tax laws or their interpretation. The determination of 
the provision for income taxes and other tax liabilities regarding our global operations requires significant judgment. Although 
we believe our estimates are reasonable, the ultimate tax outcome may differ from the amounts recorded in our financial statements 
and may adversely affect our financial results in the period(s) for which such determination is made.

Goodwill or other intangible asset impairment charges could negatively impact our net income and stockholders' equity.

We have recorded a significant amount of goodwill as a result of our acquisitions. Goodwill is not amortized, but is tested 
for impairment at the reporting unit level. Goodwill is required to be tested for impairment annually and between annual tests if 
events or circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. 
There are numerous risks that may cause the fair value of a reporting unit to fall below its carrying amount, which could lead to 
the recognition of goodwill impairment. These risks include, but are not limited to, adverse changes in macroeconomic conditions, 
the business climate, or the market for the entity's products or services; significant variances between actual and expected financial 
results;  negative  or  declining  cash  flows;  lowered  expectations of future  results; failure  to realize  anticipated  synergies  from 
acquisitions; significant expense increases; a more likely-than-not expectation of selling or disposing all or a portion of a reporting 
unit; the loss of key personnel; an adverse action or assessment by a regulator; or a sustained decrease in the Company's share 
price.

Our goodwill impairment testing involves the use of estimates and the exercise of judgment, including judgments regarding 
expected future business performance and market conditions. Significant changes in our assessment of such factors, including the 
deterioration of market conditions, could affect our assessment of the fair value of one or more of our reporting units and could 
result in a goodwill impairment charge in a future period.

Other intangible assets, such as client and customer relationships, non-compete agreements and trademarks, are amortized. 
Risks such as those that could lead to the recognition of goodwill impairment, could also lead to the recognition of other intangible 
asset impairment.

The UK's exit from the EU could adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

On June 23, 2016, the UK voted to leave the EU (commonly referred to as "Brexit"). Although Brexit occurred on January 

31, 2020, there remains significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the UK and the EU and the impact of the 

UK's withdrawal from the EU including its affect on business activity, impact on foreign currency, political stability and economic, 

regulatory, and financial market conditions in the UK, the EU and globally.

As of December 31, 2019, the total estimated remaining collections ("ERC") of our UK portfolios constituted approximately 

23% of our consolidated ERC. Our British pound assets are predominantly funded by British pound liabilities. However, British 

pound net income and retained earnings could be affected when translated back to the U.S. dollar, positively or negatively, by 

foreign exchange volatility in the short term resulting from the uncertainty of Brexit. In the longer term, any impact from Brexit on 

our business, results of operations and financial condition will depend on the final terms negotiated by the UK and the EU, including 

arrangements concerning taxes and financial services regulation.

Our loss contingency accruals may not be adequate to cover actual losses.

We are involved in judicial, regulatory, and arbitration proceedings or investigations concerning matters arising from our 

business activities. We believe that we have adopted reasonable compliance policies and procedures and believe we have meritorious 

defenses in all material litigation pending against us. However, there can be no assurance as to the ultimate outcome. We establish 

accruals for potential liability arising from legal proceedings when it is probable that such liability has been incurred and the 

amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We may still incur legal costs for a matter even if we have not accrued a liability. 

In addition, actual losses may be higher than the amount accrued for a certain matter, or in the aggregate. An unfavorable resolution 

of a legal proceeding or claim could adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity. For more 

information, refer to the "Litigation and Regulatory Matters" section of (cid:49)ote 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included 

in Item 8 of this Form 10-K ("(cid:49)ote 14").

Class action suits and other litigation could divert our management's attention from operating our business and increase our 

expenses.

Credit grantors, nonperforming loan purchasers and third-party collection agencies and attorneys in the consumer credit 

industry are frequently subject to putative class action lawsuits and other litigation. Claims include failure to comply with applicable 

laws and regulations and improper or deceptive origination and servicing practices. An unfavorable outcome in a class action suit 

or other litigation could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity. Even when we 

prevail or the basis for the litigation is groundless, considerable time, energy and resources may be needed to respond, and such 

class action lawsuits or other litigation could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity.

A cyber incident could disrupt our operations, compromise or corrupt our confidential information or damage our reputation, all 

of which could negatively impact our business and financial results.

Our business is highly dependent on our ability to process and monitor a large number of transactions across markets and in 

multiple  currencies.  As  we  expand  geographically,  maintaining  the  security  of  our  information  technology  systems  and 

infrastructure becomes more significant and difficult.  As our reliance on technology has increased, so have the risks posed to our 

systems, some of which are internal and others we have outsourced.  The three primary risks we face from a cyber incident are 

operational  disruption,  reputational  damage  and  the  exposure  of  private  data  such  as  customer  information,  our  employees' 

personally identifiable information, or proprietary business information such as underwriting and collections methodologies.  

Although we take protective steps, including upgrading our systems and networks with intrusion and detection prevention 

systems, monitoring firewalls to safeguard critical business applications and supervising third party providers that have access to 

our systems, our computer systems, software and networks may still be vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses or 

other malicious code, and other events that could have a security impact.  We have implemented solutions, processes, and procedures 

to help mitigate these risks, but these measures, as well as our organization's increased awareness of our risk of a cyber incident 

do not guarantee that our business, reputation or financial results will not be impacted negatively by such an incident. Should such 

a cyber incident occur, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to notify affected consumers, modify our 

protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures. Additionally, we may be subject to fines, 

penalties, litigation costs and settlements and financial losses that may not be fully covered by our cyber insurance.

12

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• 

the presence of varying levels of business corruption in international markets and the effect of various anti-corruption 

The UK's exit from the EU could adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

and other laws on our international operations;

• 

the impact on our day-to-day operations and our ability to staff our international operations given our changing labor 

conditions and long-term trends towards higher wages in developed and emerging international markets as well as the 

potential impact of union organizing efforts;

• 

• 

potential damage to our reputation due to non-compliance with international and local laws; and

the complexity and necessity of using non-U.S. representatives, consultants and other third-party vendors.

Any one of these factors could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The impact of worldwide tax audits, changes to international or domestic tax laws, the issuance of new tax guidance, and the 

results of operations could have an adverse tax effect on our financial condition.

Our tax filings are subject to audit by domestic and international tax authorities. These audits may result in assessments of 

additional taxes, adjustments to the timing of taxable income or deductions, or re-allocations of income among tax jurisdictions.  

Any one of these factors could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

In addition, many countries in the EU and around the world have adopted and/or proposed changes to current tax laws.  

Further, organizations such as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development have published actions that, if adopted 

by countries where we do business, could increase our tax obligations in those countries. Due to the scale of our U.S. and international 

business activities, many of these enacted and proposed changes to the taxation of our activities could increase our worldwide 

effective tax rate potentially harming our financial position and results of operations.

While the Tax Act was enacted during December 2017, we still expect to see future regulatory, administrative or legislative 

guidance. To the extent any future guidance differs from our current interpretation of the law, it could have a material effect on 

our financial position and results of operations.  The Tax Act included a broad range of tax reform provisions affecting businesses, 

including the elimination of U.S. federal income taxes on dividends from international subsidiaries; requiring a current inclusion 

in U.S. federal taxable income of certain earnings of controlled international corporations referred to as Global Intangible Low-

Taxed Income (“GILTI”); creating the base erosion anti-abuse tax, a new minimum tax; creating a new limitation on deductible 

interest expense; and increased limitations on the deductibility of executive compensation.  

Our future tax expense could be affected by changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, 

changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, or changes in tax laws or their interpretation. The determination of 

the provision for income taxes and other tax liabilities regarding our global operations requires significant judgment. Although 

we believe our estimates are reasonable, the ultimate tax outcome may differ from the amounts recorded in our financial statements 

and may adversely affect our financial results in the period(s) for which such determination is made.

Goodwill or other intangible asset impairment charges could negatively impact our net income and stockholders' equity.

We have recorded a significant amount of goodwill as a result of our acquisitions. Goodwill is not amortized, but is tested 

for impairment at the reporting unit level. Goodwill is required to be tested for impairment annually and between annual tests if 

events or circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. 

There are numerous risks that may cause the fair value of a reporting unit to fall below its carrying amount, which could lead to 

the recognition of goodwill impairment. These risks include, but are not limited to, adverse changes in macroeconomic conditions, 

the business climate, or the market for the entity's products or services; significant variances between actual and expected financial 

results;  negative  or  declining  cash  flows;  lowered  expectations of future  results; failure  to realize  anticipated  synergies  from 

acquisitions; significant expense increases; a more likely-than-not expectation of selling or disposing all or a portion of a reporting 

unit; the loss of key personnel; an adverse action or assessment by a regulator; or a sustained decrease in the Company's share 

price.

Our goodwill impairment testing involves the use of estimates and the exercise of judgment, including judgments regarding 

expected future business performance and market conditions. Significant changes in our assessment of such factors, including the 

deterioration of market conditions, could affect our assessment of the fair value of one or more of our reporting units and could 

result in a goodwill impairment charge in a future period.

Other intangible assets, such as client and customer relationships, non-compete agreements and trademarks, are amortized. 

Risks such as those that could lead to the recognition of goodwill impairment, could also lead to the recognition of other intangible 

asset impairment.

12

On June 23, 2016, the UK voted to leave the EU (commonly referred to as "Brexit"). Although Brexit occurred on January 
31, 2020, there remains significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the UK and the EU and the impact of the 
UK's withdrawal from the EU including its affect on business activity, impact on foreign currency, political stability and economic, 
regulatory, and financial market conditions in the UK, the EU and globally.

As of December 31, 2019, the total estimated remaining collections ("ERC") of our UK portfolios constituted approximately 
23% of our consolidated ERC. Our British pound assets are predominantly funded by British pound liabilities. However, British 
pound net income and retained earnings could be affected when translated back to the U.S. dollar, positively or negatively, by 
foreign exchange volatility in the short term resulting from the uncertainty of Brexit. In the longer term, any impact from Brexit on 
our business, results of operations and financial condition will depend on the final terms negotiated by the UK and the EU, including 
arrangements concerning taxes and financial services regulation.

Our loss contingency accruals may not be adequate to cover actual losses.

We are involved in judicial, regulatory, and arbitration proceedings or investigations concerning matters arising from our 
business activities. We believe that we have adopted reasonable compliance policies and procedures and believe we have meritorious 
defenses in all material litigation pending against us. However, there can be no assurance as to the ultimate outcome. We establish 
accruals for potential liability arising from legal proceedings when it is probable that such liability has been incurred and the 
amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We may still incur legal costs for a matter even if we have not accrued a liability. 
In addition, actual losses may be higher than the amount accrued for a certain matter, or in the aggregate. An unfavorable resolution 
of a legal proceeding or claim could adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity. For more 
information, refer to the "Litigation and Regulatory Matters" section of (cid:49)ote 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included 
in Item 8 of this Form 10-K ("(cid:49)ote 14").

Class action suits and other litigation could divert our management's attention from operating our business and increase our 
expenses.

Credit grantors, nonperforming loan purchasers and third-party collection agencies and attorneys in the consumer credit 
industry are frequently subject to putative class action lawsuits and other litigation. Claims include failure to comply with applicable 
laws and regulations and improper or deceptive origination and servicing practices. An unfavorable outcome in a class action suit 
or other litigation could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity. Even when we 
prevail or the basis for the litigation is groundless, considerable time, energy and resources may be needed to respond, and such 
class action lawsuits or other litigation could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows and liquidity.

A cyber incident could disrupt our operations, compromise or corrupt our confidential information or damage our reputation, all 
of which could negatively impact our business and financial results.

Our business is highly dependent on our ability to process and monitor a large number of transactions across markets and in 
multiple  currencies.  As  we  expand  geographically,  maintaining  the  security  of  our  information  technology  systems  and 
infrastructure becomes more significant and difficult.  As our reliance on technology has increased, so have the risks posed to our 
systems, some of which are internal and others we have outsourced.  The three primary risks we face from a cyber incident are 
operational  disruption,  reputational  damage  and  the  exposure  of  private  data  such  as  customer  information,  our  employees' 
personally identifiable information, or proprietary business information such as underwriting and collections methodologies.  

Although we take protective steps, including upgrading our systems and networks with intrusion and detection prevention 
systems, monitoring firewalls to safeguard critical business applications and supervising third party providers that have access to 
our systems, our computer systems, software and networks may still be vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses or 
other malicious code, and other events that could have a security impact.  We have implemented solutions, processes, and procedures 
to help mitigate these risks, but these measures, as well as our organization's increased awareness of our risk of a cyber incident 
do not guarantee that our business, reputation or financial results will not be impacted negatively by such an incident. Should such 
a cyber incident occur, we may be required to expend significant additional resources to notify affected consumers, modify our 
protective measures or to investigate and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures. Additionally, we may be subject to fines, 
penalties, litigation costs and settlements and financial losses that may not be fully covered by our cyber insurance.

13

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The underperformance or failure of our information technology infrastructure, networks or telephone systems could result in loss 
in productivity, loss of competitive advantage and business disruption.

Investigations,  reviews, or enforcement actions by governmental authorities may result in changes to our business practices; 

negatively impact our receivables portfolio acquisition volume; make collection of receivables more difficult; or expose us to the 

We depend on effective information and telephone systems to operate our business.  We have also acquired and expect to 
acquire additional systems as a result of business acquisitions.  Significant resources are required to maintain or enhance our 
existing information and telephone systems and to replace obsolete systems. Although we are continually upgrading, streamlining, 
and integrating our systems and have invested in strategies to prevent a failure, our systems are susceptible to outages due to natural 
disasters, power loss, computer viruses, security breaches, hardware or software vulnerabilities, disruptions, and similar events.   
Failure to adequately implement or maintain effective and efficient information systems with sufficiently advanced technological 
capabilities, or our failure to efficiently and effectively consolidate our information systems to eliminate redundant or obsolete 
applications, could cause us to lose our competitive advantage, divert management’s time, result in a loss of productivity or disrupt 
business operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  

Risks associated with governmental regulation and laws

Our ability to collect and enforce our nonperforming loans may be limited under federal, state and international laws, regulations 
and policies.

The businesses conducted by our operating subsidiaries are subject to licensing and regulation by governmental and regulatory 
bodies in the many jurisdictions in which we operate. Federal and state laws and the laws and regulations of the international 
countries in which we operate may limit our ability to collect on and enforce our rights with respect to our nonperforming loans 
regardless of any act or omission on our part. Some laws and regulations applicable to credit issuers may preclude us from collecting 
on nonperforming loans we acquire if the credit issuer previously failed to comply with applicable laws in generating or servicing 
those receivables. Collection laws and regulations also directly apply to our business. Such laws and regulations are extensive and 
subject to change. A variety of state, federal and international laws and regulations govern the collection, use, retention, transmission, 
sharing and security of consumer data. Consumer protection and privacy protection laws, changes in the ways that existing rules 
or laws are interpreted or enforced and any procedures that may be implemented as a result of regulatory consent orders may 
adversely affect our ability to collect on our nonperforming loans and may harm our business. Our failure to comply with laws or 
regulations applicable to us could limit our ability to collect on our receivables, which could reduce our profitability and harm our 
business.

Failure to comply with government regulation of the collections industry could result in penalties, fines, litigation, damage to our 
reputation or the suspension or termination of our ability to conduct our business.

The collections industry throughout the markets in which we operate is governed by various laws and regulations, many of 
which require us to be a licensed debt collector. Our industry is also at times investigated by regulators and offices of state attorneys 
general,  and  subpoenas  and  other  requests  or  demands  for  information  may  be  issued  by  governmental  authorities  who  are 
investigating debt collection activities. These investigations may result in enforcement actions, fines and penalties, or the assertion 
of private claims and lawsuits. If any such investigations result in findings that we or our vendors have failed to comply with 
applicable laws and regulations, we could be subject to penalties, litigation losses and expenses, damage to our reputation, or the 
suspension or termination of, or required modification to, our ability to conduct collections, which would adversely affect our 
business, results of operations and financial condition. 

In a number of jurisdictions, we must maintain licenses to purchase or own debt, and/or to perform debt recovery services 
and must satisfy related bonding requirements.  Our failure to comply with existing licensing requirements, changing interpretations 
of existing requirements, or adoption of new licensing requirements, could restrict our ability to collect in certain jurisdictions, 
subject us to increased regulation, increase our costs, or adversely affect our ability to purchase, own and/or collect our receivables.

Some laws, among other things, also may limit the interest rate and the fees that a credit grantor may impose on our consumers, 
limit the time in which we may file legal actions to enforce consumer accounts, and require specific account information for certain 
collection activities. In addition, local requirements and court rulings in various jurisdictions also may affect our ability to collect.

Regulations and statutes applicable to our industry further provide that, in some cases, consumers cannot be held liable for, 
or their liability may be limited with respect to, charges to their debt or credit card accounts that resulted from unauthorized use 
of their credit. These laws, among others, may limit our ability to recover amounts owing with respect to the receivables, whether 
or not we committed any wrongful act or omission in connection with the account. 

If we fail to comply with any applicable laws and regulations discussed above, such failure could result in penalties, litigation 
losses and expenses, damage to our reputation, or otherwise impact our ability to conduct collections efforts, which could adversely 
affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

risk of fines, penalties, restitution payments and litigation.

Our debt collection activities and business practices are subject to review from time to time by various governmental authorities 

and regulators, including the CFPB, which may commence investigations, reviews, or enforcement actions, or reviews targeted 

at businesses in the financial services industry. These investigations or reviews may involve governmental authority consideration 

of  individual  consumer  complaints,  or  could  involve  a  broader  review  of  our  debt  collection  policies  and  practices.  Such 

investigations or reviews could lead to assertions by governmental authorities that we are not complying with applicable laws or 

regulations. In such circumstances, authorities may request or seek to impose a range of remedies that could involve potential 

compensatory or punitive damage claims, fines, restitution payments, sanctions or injunctive relief, that if agreed to or granted, 

could require us to make payments or incur other expenditures that could have an adverse effect on our financial position. The 

CFPB has the authority to obtain cease and desist orders (which can include orders for restitution or rescission of contracts, as 

well as other kinds of affirmative relief), recover costs, and impose monetary penalties (ranging from $5,000 per day to over $1 

million per day, depending on the nature and gravity of the violation). In addition, where a company has violated Title X of the 

Dodd-Frank Act or CFPB regulations implemented thereunder, the Dodd-Frank Act empowers state attorneys general and other 

state regulators to bring civil actions to remedy violations under state law. Government authorities could also request or seek to 

require us to cease certain of our practices or institute new practices. (cid:49)egative publicity relating to investigations or proceedings 

brought by governmental authorities could have an adverse impact on our reputation, harm our ability to conduct business with 

industry participants, and result in financial institutions reducing or eliminating sales of receivables portfolios to us which would 

harm our business and negatively impact our results of operations. Moreover, changing or modifying our internal policies or 

procedures, responding to governmental inquiries and investigations and defending lawsuits or other proceedings could require 

significant efforts on the part of management and result in increased costs to our business. In addition, such efforts could divert 

management's full attention from our business operations. All of these factors could have an adverse effect on our business, results 

of operations, and financial condition.

The CFPB has issued civil investigative demands to many companies that it regulates and periodically examines practices 

regarding the collection of consumer debt. On September 9, 2015, Portfolio Associates, LLC ("PRA"), our wholly owned subsidiary, 

entered into a consent order with the CFPB settling a previously disclosed investigation of certain debt collection practices of PRA 

(the "Consent Order").  Among other things, the Consent Order required PRA to: (i) vacate 837 judgments obtained after the 

applicable statute of limitations, refund $860,607 in payments received on account of such judgments and waive the remaining 

$3.4 million in judgment balances; (ii) refund $18.2 million in Litigation Department Calls Restitution, as defined in the Consent 

Order; and (iii) pay an $8.0 million civil money penalty to the CFPB. Although we have implemented the requirements of the 

Consent Order, there can be no assurance that additional litigation or new industry regulations currently under consideration by 

the CFPB would not have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.  In addition, the CFPB 

monitors our compliance with the Consent Order and could make a determination that we have failed to adhere to our obligations. 

Such a determination could result in additional inquiries, penalties or liabilities, which could have an adverse effect on our business, 

results of operations, and financial condition.

Compliance with complex and evolving international and U.S. laws and regulations that apply to our international operations 

could increase our cost of doing business in international jurisdictions.

We operate on a global basis with offices and activities in a number of jurisdictions throughout the Americas and Europe. 

We  face  increased  exposure  to  risks  inherent  in  conducting  business  internationally,  including  compliance  with  complex 

international and U.S. laws and regulations that apply to our international operations, which could increase our cost of doing 

business in international jurisdictions. These laws and regulations include those related to taxation and anti-corruption laws such 

as the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act and other local laws prohibiting corrupt payments to governmental officials. Given the complexity 

of these laws, there is a risk that we may inadvertently breach certain provisions of these laws, such as through the negligent 

behavior of an employee or our failure to comply with certain formal documentation requirements. Violations of these laws and 

regulations by us, any of our employees or our third-party vendors, either inadvertently or intentionally, could result in fines and 

penalties, criminal sanctions, restrictions on our operations and limits on our ability to offer our products and services in one or 

more countries. Violations of these laws could also adversely affect our business, brand, international expansion efforts, ability to 

attract and retain employees and results of operations. 

The regulation of data privacy in the U.S and globally could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and 

financial condition by increasing our compliance costs.

The  regulation of data privacy, including interpretations and determinations by regulatory authorities in the U.S. and in the 

countries in which we operate, continues to evolve.  It is not possible to predict the effect of such rigorous data protection regulations 

over time.  For example, the EU and UK adopted the GDPR, which impacts our European operations. On May 25, 2018 the GDPR 

14

15

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The underperformance or failure of our information technology infrastructure, networks or telephone systems could result in loss 

in productivity, loss of competitive advantage and business disruption.

We depend on effective information and telephone systems to operate our business.  We have also acquired and expect to 

acquire additional systems as a result of business acquisitions.  Significant resources are required to maintain or enhance our 

existing information and telephone systems and to replace obsolete systems. Although we are continually upgrading, streamlining, 

and integrating our systems and have invested in strategies to prevent a failure, our systems are susceptible to outages due to natural 

disasters, power loss, computer viruses, security breaches, hardware or software vulnerabilities, disruptions, and similar events.   

Failure to adequately implement or maintain effective and efficient information systems with sufficiently advanced technological 

capabilities, or our failure to efficiently and effectively consolidate our information systems to eliminate redundant or obsolete 

applications, could cause us to lose our competitive advantage, divert management’s time, result in a loss of productivity or disrupt 

business operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.  

Risks associated with governmental regulation and laws

Our ability to collect and enforce our nonperforming loans may be limited under federal, state and international laws, regulations 

and policies.

The businesses conducted by our operating subsidiaries are subject to licensing and regulation by governmental and regulatory 

bodies in the many jurisdictions in which we operate. Federal and state laws and the laws and regulations of the international 

countries in which we operate may limit our ability to collect on and enforce our rights with respect to our nonperforming loans 

regardless of any act or omission on our part. Some laws and regulations applicable to credit issuers may preclude us from collecting 

on nonperforming loans we acquire if the credit issuer previously failed to comply with applicable laws in generating or servicing 

those receivables. Collection laws and regulations also directly apply to our business. Such laws and regulations are extensive and 

subject to change. A variety of state, federal and international laws and regulations govern the collection, use, retention, transmission, 

sharing and security of consumer data. Consumer protection and privacy protection laws, changes in the ways that existing rules 

or laws are interpreted or enforced and any procedures that may be implemented as a result of regulatory consent orders may 

adversely affect our ability to collect on our nonperforming loans and may harm our business. Our failure to comply with laws or 

regulations applicable to us could limit our ability to collect on our receivables, which could reduce our profitability and harm our 

business.

Failure to comply with government regulation of the collections industry could result in penalties, fines, litigation, damage to our 

reputation or the suspension or termination of our ability to conduct our business.

The collections industry throughout the markets in which we operate is governed by various laws and regulations, many of 

which require us to be a licensed debt collector. Our industry is also at times investigated by regulators and offices of state attorneys 

general,  and  subpoenas  and  other  requests  or  demands  for  information  may  be  issued  by  governmental  authorities  who  are 

investigating debt collection activities. These investigations may result in enforcement actions, fines and penalties, or the assertion 

of private claims and lawsuits. If any such investigations result in findings that we or our vendors have failed to comply with 

applicable laws and regulations, we could be subject to penalties, litigation losses and expenses, damage to our reputation, or the 

suspension or termination of, or required modification to, our ability to conduct collections, which would adversely affect our 

business, results of operations and financial condition. 

In a number of jurisdictions, we must maintain licenses to purchase or own debt, and/or to perform debt recovery services 

and must satisfy related bonding requirements.  Our failure to comply with existing licensing requirements, changing interpretations 

of existing requirements, or adoption of new licensing requirements, could restrict our ability to collect in certain jurisdictions, 

subject us to increased regulation, increase our costs, or adversely affect our ability to purchase, own and/or collect our receivables.

Some laws, among other things, also may limit the interest rate and the fees that a credit grantor may impose on our consumers, 

limit the time in which we may file legal actions to enforce consumer accounts, and require specific account information for certain 

collection activities. In addition, local requirements and court rulings in various jurisdictions also may affect our ability to collect.

Regulations and statutes applicable to our industry further provide that, in some cases, consumers cannot be held liable for, 

or their liability may be limited with respect to, charges to their debt or credit card accounts that resulted from unauthorized use 

of their credit. These laws, among others, may limit our ability to recover amounts owing with respect to the receivables, whether 

or not we committed any wrongful act or omission in connection with the account. 

If we fail to comply with any applicable laws and regulations discussed above, such failure could result in penalties, litigation 

losses and expenses, damage to our reputation, or otherwise impact our ability to conduct collections efforts, which could adversely 

affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Investigations,  reviews, or enforcement actions by governmental authorities may result in changes to our business practices; 
negatively impact our receivables portfolio acquisition volume; make collection of receivables more difficult; or expose us to the 
risk of fines, penalties, restitution payments and litigation.

Our debt collection activities and business practices are subject to review from time to time by various governmental authorities 
and regulators, including the CFPB, which may commence investigations, reviews, or enforcement actions, or reviews targeted 
at businesses in the financial services industry. These investigations or reviews may involve governmental authority consideration 
of  individual  consumer  complaints,  or  could  involve  a  broader  review  of  our  debt  collection  policies  and  practices.  Such 
investigations or reviews could lead to assertions by governmental authorities that we are not complying with applicable laws or 
regulations. In such circumstances, authorities may request or seek to impose a range of remedies that could involve potential 
compensatory or punitive damage claims, fines, restitution payments, sanctions or injunctive relief, that if agreed to or granted, 
could require us to make payments or incur other expenditures that could have an adverse effect on our financial position. The 
CFPB has the authority to obtain cease and desist orders (which can include orders for restitution or rescission of contracts, as 
well as other kinds of affirmative relief), recover costs, and impose monetary penalties (ranging from $5,000 per day to over $1 
million per day, depending on the nature and gravity of the violation). In addition, where a company has violated Title X of the 
Dodd-Frank Act or CFPB regulations implemented thereunder, the Dodd-Frank Act empowers state attorneys general and other 
state regulators to bring civil actions to remedy violations under state law. Government authorities could also request or seek to 
require us to cease certain of our practices or institute new practices. (cid:49)egative publicity relating to investigations or proceedings 
brought by governmental authorities could have an adverse impact on our reputation, harm our ability to conduct business with 
industry participants, and result in financial institutions reducing or eliminating sales of receivables portfolios to us which would 
harm our business and negatively impact our results of operations. Moreover, changing or modifying our internal policies or 
procedures, responding to governmental inquiries and investigations and defending lawsuits or other proceedings could require 
significant efforts on the part of management and result in increased costs to our business. In addition, such efforts could divert 
management's full attention from our business operations. All of these factors could have an adverse effect on our business, results 
of operations, and financial condition.

The CFPB has issued civil investigative demands to many companies that it regulates and periodically examines practices 
regarding the collection of consumer debt. On September 9, 2015, Portfolio Associates, LLC ("PRA"), our wholly owned subsidiary, 
entered into a consent order with the CFPB settling a previously disclosed investigation of certain debt collection practices of PRA 
(the "Consent Order").  Among other things, the Consent Order required PRA to: (i) vacate 837 judgments obtained after the 
applicable statute of limitations, refund $860,607 in payments received on account of such judgments and waive the remaining 
$3.4 million in judgment balances; (ii) refund $18.2 million in Litigation Department Calls Restitution, as defined in the Consent 
Order; and (iii) pay an $8.0 million civil money penalty to the CFPB. Although we have implemented the requirements of the 
Consent Order, there can be no assurance that additional litigation or new industry regulations currently under consideration by 
the CFPB would not have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.  In addition, the CFPB 
monitors our compliance with the Consent Order and could make a determination that we have failed to adhere to our obligations. 
Such a determination could result in additional inquiries, penalties or liabilities, which could have an adverse effect on our business, 
results of operations, and financial condition.

Compliance with complex and evolving international and U.S. laws and regulations that apply to our international operations 
could increase our cost of doing business in international jurisdictions.

We operate on a global basis with offices and activities in a number of jurisdictions throughout the Americas and Europe. 
We  face  increased  exposure  to  risks  inherent  in  conducting  business  internationally,  including  compliance  with  complex 
international and U.S. laws and regulations that apply to our international operations, which could increase our cost of doing 
business in international jurisdictions. These laws and regulations include those related to taxation and anti-corruption laws such 
as the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act and other local laws prohibiting corrupt payments to governmental officials. Given the complexity 
of these laws, there is a risk that we may inadvertently breach certain provisions of these laws, such as through the negligent 
behavior of an employee or our failure to comply with certain formal documentation requirements. Violations of these laws and 
regulations by us, any of our employees or our third-party vendors, either inadvertently or intentionally, could result in fines and 
penalties, criminal sanctions, restrictions on our operations and limits on our ability to offer our products and services in one or 
more countries. Violations of these laws could also adversely affect our business, brand, international expansion efforts, ability to 
attract and retain employees and results of operations. 

The regulation of data privacy in the U.S and globally could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and 
financial condition by increasing our compliance costs.

The  regulation of data privacy, including interpretations and determinations by regulatory authorities in the U.S. and in the 
countries in which we operate, continues to evolve.  It is not possible to predict the effect of such rigorous data protection regulations 
over time.  For example, the EU and UK adopted the GDPR, which impacts our European operations. On May 25, 2018 the GDPR 

14

15

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updated data privacy compliance obligations, which required us to adapt our business practices accordingly.  Financial penalties 
for noncompliance with the GDPR can be significant.  It is also the  case that the U.S. federal government and states within the 
U.S. have enacted or are considering legislation to enact data privacy protections.  Data privacy regulations could result in increased 
costs of  conducting business to maintain compliance with such regulations. Although we take significant steps to protect the 
security of our data and the personal data of our customers, we may be required to expend significant resources to comply with 
regulations if third parties improperly obtain and use such data.

Risks associated with indebtedness

We utilize bank loans, credit facilities and convertible notes to finance our business activities, which could negatively impact our 
liquidity and business operations if we are unable to retain, renegotiate, expand or replace our bank loans and credit facilities or 
raise the necessary funds to repurchase our convertible notes.  

As described in (cid:49)ote 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, our sources of liquidity 
include a (cid:49)orth American credit facility, a European multicurrency revolving credit facility and convertible senior notes.  The 
credit facilities contain financial and other restrictive covenants, including restrictions on how we operate our business and our 
ability to pay dividends to our stockholders. Failure to satisfy any one of these covenants could result in negative consequences 
including the following: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

acceleration of outstanding indebtedness;

exercise by our lenders of rights with respect to the collateral pledged under certain of our outstanding indebtedness;

our inability to continue to purchase nonperforming loans needed to operate our business; or

our inability to secure alternative financing on favorable terms, if at all.

If we are unable to retain, renegotiate, expand or replace our credit facilities, including as a result of failure to satisfy the 

restrictive covenants contained in them, our liquidity and business operations could be impacted negatively.  

As referenced above, we have indebtedness in the form of Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020 and 2023 (collectively the 
"(cid:49)otes") and may not have the ability to raise the funds necessary to repurchase the (cid:49)otes upon a fundamental change or to settle 
conversions in cash.  Our ability to make scheduled payments of the principal of, to pay interest on, or to refinance our indebtedness, 
including the (cid:49)otes, or to make cash payments in connection with any conversion of the (cid:49)otes depends on our future performance, 
which could be negatively impacted by economic, financial, competitive and other factors beyond our control.  Our ability to 
refinance our indebtedness will depend on the capital markets and our financial condition at that time. We may not be able to 
engage in any of  these activities or engage in these activities on desirable terms, which could result in a default on our debt 
obligations.  In addition, in the event the conditional conversion features of the (cid:49)otes are triggered, holders of the (cid:49)otes are entitled 
to convert the (cid:49)otes into shares of our common stock at any time during specified periods at their option, subject to the terms of 
the indenture governing the (cid:49)otes. Upon conversion, unless we elect to deliver solely shares of our common stock to settle such 
conversion (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional shares of our common stock), we will be required to make 
cash payments in respect of the (cid:49)otes. However, we may not have enough available cash or be able to obtain financing at the time 
we are required to repurchase (cid:49)otes surrendered to settle conversions in cash, and our ability to repurchase the (cid:49)otes or pay cash 
upon conversion may be limited by law. Any issuance of shares of our common stock upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes would dilute 
the ownership interest of our stockholders.

We may be restricted from paying cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes, repurchasing the (cid:49)otes for cash when required and repaying 
the (cid:49)otes at maturity or upon acceleration following an event of default under the (cid:49)otes unless we repay all amounts outstanding 
under, and terminate, our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement. Additionally, our future indebtedness may contain limitations on our 
ability to pay cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes and on our ability to repurchase the (cid:49)otes.

The terms of our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement prohibit us from paying cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes, repurchasing 
the  (cid:49)otes  for  cash  when  required upon the  occurrence  of  a  fundamental  change and  repaying the  (cid:49)otes  at  maturity  or  upon 
acceleration following an event of default under the indenture governing the (cid:49)otes if a default or an event of default exists on the 
date of such required payment, repurchase or repayment, as applicable, or certain other conditions are not met, including pro forma 
compliance with the financial covenants and having “Sufficient Liquidity” (described below). As a result, we will be restricted 
from making such payments unless the default or event of default under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement is cured or waived, 
such conditions are met and/or we repay all amounts then outstanding under, and terminate, our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement.

16

In addition, under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement our ability to settle conversions of the (cid:49)otes in cash requires that 

immediately prior to any such conversion, our cash and cash equivalents (including our availability under our domestic and multi-

currency revolving facilities under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement) be at least 115% of the sum of the principal amount of 

the (cid:49)otes to be paid in cash (“Sufficient Liquidity”). The terms of any additional indebtedness incurred as permitted by our (cid:49)orth 

American Credit Agreement may contain similar or more onerous restrictions than the foregoing.

Our failure to repurchase (cid:49)otes, to pay, when due, cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes or repay the (cid:49)otes at maturity or upon 

acceleration following an event of default under the indenture governing the (cid:49)otes would constitute a default under the indenture 

governing the (cid:49)otes. A default under the indenture may constitute a default under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement.

Changes in interest rates could increase our interest expense and reduce our net income.

Our revolving credit facilities bear interest at variable rates. Increases in interest rates could increase our interest expense 

which would, in turn, lower our earnings. From time to time, we may enter into hedging transactions to mitigate our interest rate 

risk on all or a portion of our debt. Hedging strategies rely on assumptions and projections. If these assumptions and projections 

prove to be incorrect or our hedges do not adequately mitigate the impact of changes in interest rates, we may experience volatility 

in our earnings that could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Default by or failure of one or more of our counterparty financial institutions could cause us to incur significant losses. 

As part of our risk management activities, we enter into transactions involving derivative financial instruments, including, 

among others, forward contracts and interest rate swap contracts, with various financial institutions. In addition, we have significant 

amounts of cash and cash equivalents on deposit or in accounts with banks or other financial institutions in the U.S. and abroad. 

As a result, we are exposed to the risk of default by, or failure of, counterparty financial institutions. The risk of counterparty 

default or failure may be heightened during economic downturns and periods of uncertainty in the financial markets. If one of our 

counterparties were to become insolvent or file for bankruptcy, our ability to recover losses incurred as a result of default or to 

retrieve our assets that are deposited or held in accounts with such counterparty may be limited by the counterparty's liquidity or 

the applicable laws governing the insolvency or bankruptcy proceedings.

Uncertainty about the future of the LIBOR may adversely affect our business.

LIBOR is a reference rate used for over $110 trillion of financial contracts on a global basis. We  incorporate LIBOR in both 

our bank loan and derivative hedging agreements.  Due to reforms coming out of the 2008 financial crisis, LIBOR is scheduled 

to sunset at the end of 2021 and be replaced by an Alternative Reference Rate ("ARR").  A number of regulatory institutions are 

involved in coordinating this transition including the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, the U.S. Federal Reserve, the SEC, 

and the FASB.  Key industry-wide issues regarding the transition are still unresolved; these include the fact that a term structure 

(1 month, 3 month, 6 month, etc.) for the ARR has not yet been developed and a way to ensure neither borrowers nor lenders gain 

an unfair advantage has yet to be finalized.  It is unknown whether proposed alternative reference rates will attain market acceptance 

as replacements for LIBOR or whether the outstanding issues related to them will be satisfactorily resolved.  As a result, while we 

do not expect the impact to have a significant effect on our cost of capital, financial results, and cash flows, the final impact cannot 

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

yet be determined.

(cid:49)one.

Item 2. Properties.

leased).  

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

Our  corporate  headquarters  and  primary  domestic  operations  facilities  are  located  in  (cid:49)orfolk,  Virginia.  In  addition,  at 

December 31, 2019, we had operational centers in the Americas (13 leased and 3 owned), Europe (12 leased) and Australia (1 

We and our subsidiaries are from time to time subject to a variety of  routine legal and regulatory claims,  inquiries and 

proceedings, most of which are incidental to the ordinary course of our business. We initiate lawsuits against customers and are 

occasionally countersued by them in such actions. Also, customers, either individually, as members of a class action, or through 

a governmental entity on behalf of customers, may initiate litigation against us in which they allege that we have violated a state 

or federal law in the process of collecting on an account. From time to time, other types of lawsuits are brought against us.

Refer to (cid:49)ote 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for information regarding 

legal proceedings in which we are involved.

17

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updated data privacy compliance obligations, which required us to adapt our business practices accordingly.  Financial penalties 

for noncompliance with the GDPR can be significant.  It is also the  case that the U.S. federal government and states within the 

U.S. have enacted or are considering legislation to enact data privacy protections.  Data privacy regulations could result in increased 

costs of  conducting business to maintain compliance with such regulations. Although we take significant steps to protect the 

security of our data and the personal data of our customers, we may be required to expend significant resources to comply with 

regulations if third parties improperly obtain and use such data.

Risks associated with indebtedness

We utilize bank loans, credit facilities and convertible notes to finance our business activities, which could negatively impact our 

raise the necessary funds to repurchase our convertible notes.  

As described in (cid:49)ote 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, our sources of liquidity 

include a (cid:49)orth American credit facility, a European multicurrency revolving credit facility and convertible senior notes.  The 

credit facilities contain financial and other restrictive covenants, including restrictions on how we operate our business and our 

ability to pay dividends to our stockholders. Failure to satisfy any one of these covenants could result in negative consequences 

including the following: 

acceleration of outstanding indebtedness;

• 

• 

• 

• 

exercise by our lenders of rights with respect to the collateral pledged under certain of our outstanding indebtedness;

our inability to continue to purchase nonperforming loans needed to operate our business; or

our inability to secure alternative financing on favorable terms, if at all.

If we are unable to retain, renegotiate, expand or replace our credit facilities, including as a result of failure to satisfy the 

restrictive covenants contained in them, our liquidity and business operations could be impacted negatively.  

As referenced above, we have indebtedness in the form of Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020 and 2023 (collectively the 

"(cid:49)otes") and may not have the ability to raise the funds necessary to repurchase the (cid:49)otes upon a fundamental change or to settle 

conversions in cash.  Our ability to make scheduled payments of the principal of, to pay interest on, or to refinance our indebtedness, 

including the (cid:49)otes, or to make cash payments in connection with any conversion of the (cid:49)otes depends on our future performance, 

which could be negatively impacted by economic, financial, competitive and other factors beyond our control.  Our ability to 

refinance our indebtedness will depend on the capital markets and our financial condition at that time. We may not be able to 

engage in any of  these activities or engage in these activities on desirable terms, which could result in a default on our debt 

obligations.  In addition, in the event the conditional conversion features of the (cid:49)otes are triggered, holders of the (cid:49)otes are entitled 

to convert the (cid:49)otes into shares of our common stock at any time during specified periods at their option, subject to the terms of 

the indenture governing the (cid:49)otes. Upon conversion, unless we elect to deliver solely shares of our common stock to settle such 

conversion (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional shares of our common stock), we will be required to make 

cash payments in respect of the (cid:49)otes. However, we may not have enough available cash or be able to obtain financing at the time 

we are required to repurchase (cid:49)otes surrendered to settle conversions in cash, and our ability to repurchase the (cid:49)otes or pay cash 

upon conversion may be limited by law. Any issuance of shares of our common stock upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes would dilute 

the ownership interest of our stockholders.

We may be restricted from paying cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes, repurchasing the (cid:49)otes for cash when required and repaying 

the (cid:49)otes at maturity or upon acceleration following an event of default under the (cid:49)otes unless we repay all amounts outstanding 

under, and terminate, our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement. Additionally, our future indebtedness may contain limitations on our 

ability to pay cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes and on our ability to repurchase the (cid:49)otes.

The terms of our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement prohibit us from paying cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes, repurchasing 

acceleration following an event of default under the indenture governing the (cid:49)otes if a default or an event of default exists on the 

date of such required payment, repurchase or repayment, as applicable, or certain other conditions are not met, including pro forma 

compliance with the financial covenants and having “Sufficient Liquidity” (described below). As a result, we will be restricted 

from making such payments unless the default or event of default under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement is cured or waived, 

such conditions are met and/or we repay all amounts then outstanding under, and terminate, our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement.

16

liquidity and business operations if we are unable to retain, renegotiate, expand or replace our bank loans and credit facilities or 

Changes in interest rates could increase our interest expense and reduce our net income.

In addition, under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement our ability to settle conversions of the (cid:49)otes in cash requires that 
immediately prior to any such conversion, our cash and cash equivalents (including our availability under our domestic and multi-
currency revolving facilities under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement) be at least 115% of the sum of the principal amount of 
the (cid:49)otes to be paid in cash (“Sufficient Liquidity”). The terms of any additional indebtedness incurred as permitted by our (cid:49)orth 
American Credit Agreement may contain similar or more onerous restrictions than the foregoing.

Our failure to repurchase (cid:49)otes, to pay, when due, cash upon conversion of the (cid:49)otes or repay the (cid:49)otes at maturity or upon 
acceleration following an event of default under the indenture governing the (cid:49)otes would constitute a default under the indenture 
governing the (cid:49)otes. A default under the indenture may constitute a default under our (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement.

Our revolving credit facilities bear interest at variable rates. Increases in interest rates could increase our interest expense 
which would, in turn, lower our earnings. From time to time, we may enter into hedging transactions to mitigate our interest rate 
risk on all or a portion of our debt. Hedging strategies rely on assumptions and projections. If these assumptions and projections 
prove to be incorrect or our hedges do not adequately mitigate the impact of changes in interest rates, we may experience volatility 
in our earnings that could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Default by or failure of one or more of our counterparty financial institutions could cause us to incur significant losses. 

As part of our risk management activities, we enter into transactions involving derivative financial instruments, including, 
among others, forward contracts and interest rate swap contracts, with various financial institutions. In addition, we have significant 
amounts of cash and cash equivalents on deposit or in accounts with banks or other financial institutions in the U.S. and abroad. 
As a result, we are exposed to the risk of default by, or failure of, counterparty financial institutions. The risk of counterparty 
default or failure may be heightened during economic downturns and periods of uncertainty in the financial markets. If one of our 
counterparties were to become insolvent or file for bankruptcy, our ability to recover losses incurred as a result of default or to 
retrieve our assets that are deposited or held in accounts with such counterparty may be limited by the counterparty's liquidity or 
the applicable laws governing the insolvency or bankruptcy proceedings.

Uncertainty about the future of the LIBOR may adversely affect our business.

LIBOR is a reference rate used for over $110 trillion of financial contracts on a global basis. We  incorporate LIBOR in both 
our bank loan and derivative hedging agreements.  Due to reforms coming out of the 2008 financial crisis, LIBOR is scheduled 
to sunset at the end of 2021 and be replaced by an Alternative Reference Rate ("ARR").  A number of regulatory institutions are 
involved in coordinating this transition including the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, the U.S. Federal Reserve, the SEC, 
and the FASB.  Key industry-wide issues regarding the transition are still unresolved; these include the fact that a term structure 
(1 month, 3 month, 6 month, etc.) for the ARR has not yet been developed and a way to ensure neither borrowers nor lenders gain 
an unfair advantage has yet to be finalized.  It is unknown whether proposed alternative reference rates will attain market acceptance 
as replacements for LIBOR or whether the outstanding issues related to them will be satisfactorily resolved.  As a result, while we 
do not expect the impact to have a significant effect on our cost of capital, financial results, and cash flows, the final impact cannot 
yet be determined.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.

(cid:49)one.

Item 2. Properties.

Our  corporate  headquarters  and  primary  domestic  operations  facilities  are  located  in  (cid:49)orfolk,  Virginia.  In  addition,  at 
December 31, 2019, we had operational centers in the Americas (13 leased and 3 owned), Europe (12 leased) and Australia (1 
leased).  

the  (cid:49)otes  for  cash  when  required upon the  occurrence  of  a  fundamental  change and  repaying the  (cid:49)otes  at  maturity  or  upon 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

We and our subsidiaries are from time to time subject to a variety of  routine legal and regulatory claims,  inquiries and 
proceedings, most of which are incidental to the ordinary course of our business. We initiate lawsuits against customers and are 
occasionally countersued by them in such actions. Also, customers, either individually, as members of a class action, or through 
a governmental entity on behalf of customers, may initiate litigation against us in which they allege that we have violated a state 
or federal law in the process of collecting on an account. From time to time, other types of lawsuits are brought against us.

Refer to (cid:49)ote 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for information regarding 

legal proceedings in which we are involved.

17

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Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

(cid:49)ot applicable.

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 

PART II

Securities.

Common Stock

Stock Performance

Our common stock is traded on (cid:49)asdaq under the symbol "PRAA." Based on information provided by our transfer agent 

and registrar, as of February 14, 2020, there were 46 holders of record.  

The  following  graph  and  subsequent  table  compare  from  December  31,  2014  to  December 31,  2019,  the  cumulative 

stockholder returns assuming an initial investment of $100 in our common stock (PRAA), the stocks comprising the  (cid:49)asdaq 

Financial 100 (IXF) and the stocks comprising the (cid:49)asdaq Global Market Composite Index ((cid:49)QGM) at the beginning of the 

period. Any dividends paid during the five-year period are assumed to be reinvested.

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)asdaq Financial 100

(cid:49)asdaq Global Market Composite Index

Ticker

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

PRAA $

IXF

$

(cid:49)QGM $

100

100

100

$

$

$

60

106

100

$

$

$

68

135

96

$

$

$

57

155

120

$

$

$

42

142

112

$

$

$

63

184

155

The comparisons of stock performance shown above are not intended to forecast or be indicative of possible future performance 

of our common stock. We do not make or endorse any predictions as to our future stock performance.

Dividend Policy

Our board of directors sets our dividend policy. We do not currently pay regular dividends on our common stock and did 

not pay dividends in the three years ended December 31, 2019; however, our board of directors may determine in the future to 

declare or pay dividends on our common stock. Under the terms of (cid:49)orthern American Credit Agreement, cash dividends may not 

exceed $20 million in any fiscal year without the consent of our lenders. Any future determination as to the declaration and payment 

of dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on then existing conditions, including our results 

of operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions, capital requirements, business prospects, and other factors that our board 

of directors may consider relevant.

18

19

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Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

(cid:49)ot applicable.

PART II

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 
Securities.

Common Stock

Our common stock is traded on (cid:49)asdaq under the symbol "PRAA." Based on information provided by our transfer agent 

and registrar, as of February 14, 2020, there were 46 holders of record.  

Stock Performance

The  following  graph  and  subsequent  table  compare  from  December  31,  2014  to  December 31,  2019,  the  cumulative 
stockholder returns assuming an initial investment of $100 in our common stock (PRAA), the stocks comprising the  (cid:49)asdaq 
Financial 100 (IXF) and the stocks comprising the (cid:49)asdaq Global Market Composite Index ((cid:49)QGM) at the beginning of the 
period. Any dividends paid during the five-year period are assumed to be reinvested.

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)asdaq Financial 100

(cid:49)asdaq Global Market Composite Index

Ticker

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

PRAA $

IXF

$

(cid:49)QGM $

100

100

100

$

$

$

60

106

100

$

$

$

68

135

96

$

$

$

57

155

120

$

$

$

42

142

112

$

$

$

63

184

155

The comparisons of stock performance shown above are not intended to forecast or be indicative of possible future performance 

of our common stock. We do not make or endorse any predictions as to our future stock performance.

Dividend Policy

Our board of directors sets our dividend policy. We do not currently pay regular dividends on our common stock and did 
not pay dividends in the three years ended December 31, 2019; however, our board of directors may determine in the future to 
declare or pay dividends on our common stock. Under the terms of (cid:49)orthern American Credit Agreement, cash dividends may not 
exceed $20 million in any fiscal year without the consent of our lenders. Any future determination as to the declaration and payment 
of dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on then existing conditions, including our results 
of operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions, capital requirements, business prospects, and other factors that our board 
of directors may consider relevant.

18

19

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Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

(cid:49)one.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

For information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans see (cid:49)ote 11 to our Consolidated 

Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Share Repurchase Programs 

(cid:49)one.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data.

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial 

Condition and Results of Operations" included in Item 7 of this Form 10-K and our Consolidated Financial Statements and the 

related notes thereto included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with 

the current period presentation. 

Consolidated Income Statements, Operating and Other Financial Data

$ in thousands, except per share amounts

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

Years Ended December 31,

Income recognized on finance receivables

$

998,361

$

891,899

$

795,435

$

845,142

$

894,491

24,916

7,855

828,206

77,381

8,080

930,603

64,383

12,513

971,387

(24,025)

(33,425)

(11,898)

(98,479)

(29,369)

Compensation and employee services

273,033

258,846

268,345

15,769

2,951

1,017,081

310,441

55,261

134,156

55,812

63,513

44,057

17,854

17,464

46,811

745,369

247,687

—

(141,918)

11,954

(364)

117,359

19,680

97,679

11,521

$1.90

$1.89

45,387

45,577

14,916

1,441

908,256

319,400

42,941

104,988

33,854

61,492

43,224

16,906

19,322

47,444

689,571

185,260

26,575

(121,078)

(944)

(316)

89,497

13,763

75,734

10,171

$1.45

$1.44

45,280

45,413

43,351

76,047

35,530

62,792

33,132

14,823

19,763

44,103

602,574

213,734

48,474

(98,041)

(1,104)

(2,790)

160,273

(10,852)

171,125

6,810

$3.60

$3.59

45,671

45,823

47,717

84,485

44,922

63,098

33,771

15,710

24,359

39,466

612,374

219,750

—

(80,864)

2,564

(5,823)

135,627

43,577

92,050

5,795

$1.86

$1.86

46,316

46,388

53,393

76,063

32,188

65,155

33,113

14,714

19,874

68,829

631,674

310,344

—

(60,336)

7,514

—

257,522

89,391

168,131

205

$3.49

$3.47

48,128

48,405

$

86,158

$

65,563

$

164,315

$

86,255

$

167,926

Income Statement Data:

Revenues:

Fee income

Other revenue

Total revenues

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Operating expenses:

Legal collection fees

Legal collection costs

Agency fees

Outside fees and services

Communication

Rent and occupancy

Depreciation and amortization

Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses

Income from operations

Other income and (expense):

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

Interest expense, net

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

Other

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense/(benefit)

(cid:49)et income

Adjustment for net income attributable to

noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)et income per share attributable to PRA Group, Inc.:

Weighted average number of shares outstanding:

Basic

Diluted

Basic

Diluted

Operating and Other Financial Data:

Cash receipts

Cash Efficiency Ratio (1)

Acquisitions of finance receivables, at cost (2)

Full-time equivalents at period end

$

$

1,857,040

1,640,121

1,537,521

1,569,367

1,603,878

59.9%

58.0%

60.8%

61.0%

60.6%

1,289,327

4,412

1,117,997

5,377

1,108,959

5,154

947,331

4,019

963,811

3,799

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

(1)  Calculated by dividing cash receipts less operating expenses by cash receipts.

(2)  Represents cash paid for finance receivables through the ordinary course of business as well as the acquisition date finance receivable portfolios that were 

acquired through our business acquisitions.

20

21

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Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

Item 6. Selected Financial Data.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

For information regarding securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans see (cid:49)ote 11 to our Consolidated 

Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Share Repurchase Programs 

(cid:49)one.

(cid:49)one.

The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial 
Condition and Results of Operations" included in Item 7 of this Form 10-K and our Consolidated Financial Statements and the 
related notes thereto included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with 
the current period presentation. 

Consolidated Income Statements, Operating and Other Financial Data
$ in thousands, except per share amounts

Income Statement Data:
Revenues:

Income recognized on finance receivables
Fee income
Other revenue
Total revenues

$

2019

998,361
15,769
2,951
1,017,081

Years Ended December 31,
2017

2018

2016

$

$

891,899
14,916
1,441
908,256

$

795,435
24,916
7,855
828,206

$

845,142
77,381
8,080
930,603

2015

894,491
64,383
12,513
971,387

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Operating expenses:

Compensation and employee services
Legal collection fees
Legal collection costs
Agency fees
Outside fees and services
Communication
Rent and occupancy
Depreciation and amortization
Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses
Income from operations
Other income and (expense):
Gain on sale of subsidiaries
Interest expense, net
Foreign exchange gain/(loss)
Other
Income before income taxes
Income tax expense/(benefit)
(cid:49)et income

Adjustment for net income attributable to
noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)et income per share attributable to PRA Group, Inc.:

Basic
Diluted

Weighted average number of shares outstanding:

Basic
Diluted

Operating and Other Financial Data:

Cash receipts
Cash Efficiency Ratio (1)
Acquisitions of finance receivables, at cost (2)
Full-time equivalents at period end

(24,025)

(33,425)

(11,898)

(98,479)

(29,369)

310,441
55,261
134,156
55,812
63,513
44,057
17,854
17,464
46,811
745,369
247,687

—
(141,918)
11,954
(364)
117,359
19,680
97,679

319,400
42,941
104,988
33,854
61,492
43,224
16,906
19,322
47,444
689,571
185,260

26,575
(121,078)
(944)
(316)
89,497
13,763
75,734

11,521

10,171

273,033
43,351
76,047
35,530
62,792
33,132
14,823
19,763
44,103
602,574
213,734

48,474
(98,041)
(1,104)
(2,790)
160,273
(10,852)
171,125

6,810

258,846
47,717
84,485
44,922
63,098
33,771
15,710
24,359
39,466
612,374
219,750

—
(80,864)
2,564
(5,823)
135,627
43,577
92,050

5,795

268,345
53,393
76,063
32,188
65,155
33,113
14,714
19,874
68,829
631,674
310,344

—
(60,336)
7,514
—
257,522
89,391
168,131

205

$

86,158

$

65,563

$

164,315

$

86,255

$

167,926

$1.90
$1.89

45,387
45,577

$1.45
$1.44

45,280
45,413

$3.60
$3.59

45,671
45,823

$1.86
$1.86

46,316
46,388

$3.49
$3.47

48,128
48,405

$

$

1,857,040

59.9%

1,289,327
4,412

$

$

1,640,121

58.0%

1,117,997
5,377

$

$

1,537,521

60.8%

1,108,959
5,154

$

$

1,569,367

61.0%

947,331
4,019

$

$

1,603,878

60.6%

963,811
3,799

(1)  Calculated by dividing cash receipts less operating expenses by cash receipts.
(2)  Represents cash paid for finance receivables through the ordinary course of business as well as the acquisition date finance receivable portfolios that were 

acquired through our business acquisitions.

20

21

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Cash and cash equivalents

Finance receivables, net

Total assets

Borrowings

Total equity

Key Balance Sheet Data
Amounts in thousands

As of December 31,

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

$

119,774

$

98,695

$

120,516

$

94,287

$

71,372

3,514,165

4,423,891

2,808,425

1,227,013

3,084,777

3,909,559

2,473,656

1,123,969

2,776,199

3,700,972

2,170,182

1,140,717

2,309,513

3,165,157

1,784,101

918,321

2,202,113

2,990,567

1,717,129

839,747

Quarterly Income Statement Data
Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts

Dec 31,
2019

Sep 30,
2019

Jun 30,
2019

Mar 31,
2019

Dec 31,
2018

Sep 30,
2018

Jun 30,
2018

Mar 31,
2018

Revenues:

Income recognized on finance
receivables
Fee income
Other revenue

Total revenues

$

262,835

$

247,471

$

249,219

$

238,836

$

231,029

$

223,228

$

219,018

$

218,624

4,297
2,001
269,133

2,391
152
250,014

2,707
131
252,057

6,374
667
245,877

4,686
1,027
236,742

2,561
99
225,888

2,342
158
221,518

5,327
157
224,108

(cid:49)et allowance charges

(12,598)

(4,136)

(1,196)

(6,095)

(21,381)

(8,285)

(2,834)

(925)

Operating expenses:

Compensation and employee
services

Legal collection fees
Legal collection costs
Agency fees
Outside fees and services
Communication
Rent and occupancy
Depreciation and amortization
Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses
Income from operations

Other income and (expense):

Gain on sale of subsidiaries
Interest expense, net
Foreign exchange gain/(loss)
Other

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense
(cid:49)et income

Adjustment for net income
attributable to
noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to
PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)et income per share attributable to
PRA Group, Inc.:
Basic
Diluted

Weighted average number of shares
outstanding:
Basic
Diluted

$

$
$

75,671

13,822
34,411
15,979
15,239
9,722
4,586
4,123
12,198
185,751
70,784

—
(36,046)
595
(241)

35,092

4,073
31,019

75,317

14,083
31,395
12,788
16,733
10,310
4,414
4,046
12,102
181,188
64,690

—
(35,864)
5,406
(19)

34,213

6,665
27,548

79,808

14,297
33,121
13,013
16,293
10,824
4,491
4,723
10,926
187,496
63,365

—
(36,027)
(311)
248

27,275

5,075
22,200

79,645

13,059
35,229
14,032
15,248
13,201
4,363
4,572
11,585
190,934
48,848

—
(33,981)
6,264
(352)

20,779

3,867
16,912

79,123

11,501
33,281
9,088
17,068
10,645
4,319
5,092
13,030
183,147
32,214

26,575
(33,549)
(4,553)
(381)

20,306

1,980
18,326

78,350

10,428
30,769
8,350
15,701
10,240
4,270
4,776
10,602
173,486
44,117

—
(30,624)
626
222

14,341

1,789
12,552

80,690

10,343
18,695
8,138
14,565
10,782
4,003
4,525
11,628
163,369
55,315

—
(31,124)
1,690
(400)

25,481

3,857
21,624

81,237

10,669
22,243
8,278
14,158
11,557
4,314
4,929
12,184
169,569
53,614

—
(25,781)
1,293
243

29,369

6,137
23,232

3,678

2,577

3,581

1,685

3,384

2,625

2,036

2,126

27,341

$

24,971

$

18,619

$

15,227

$

14,942

$

9,927

$

19,588

$

21,106

0.60
0.60

$
$

0.55
0.55

$
$

0.41
0.41

$
$

0.34
0.34

$
$

0.33
0.33

$
$

0.22
0.22

$
$

0.43
0.43

$
$

0.47
0.47

45,413
45,748

45,410
45,645

45,387
45,495

45,338
45,419

45,304
45,394

45,302
45,440

45,283
45,449

45,231
45,370

Quarterly Balance Sheet Data

Amounts in thousands

Dec 31,

2019

Sep 30,

2019

Jun 30,

2019

Mar 31,

2019

Dec 31,

2018

Sep 30,

2018

Jun 30,

2018

Mar 31,

2018

Cash and cash equivalents

$

119,774

$

90,000

$

105,496

$

102,102

$

98,695

$

114,176

$

71,570

$

101,418

56,176

55,204

85,911

85,082

45,173

21,750

80,541

87,764

3,514,165

3,238,813

3,230,949

3,177,229

3,084,777

2,823,622

2,734,673

2,771,408

46,157

16,809

61,453

54,136

—

5,522

32,721

9,067

8,912

63,724

55,010

—

17,369

27,296

14,688

12,163

60,944

53,364

—

18,914

31,650

14,308

10,271

59,377

53,788

—

22,523

37,639

480,794

465,572

489,293

480,518

464,116

519,045

519,811

544,293

$ 4,423,891

$ 4,118,280

$ 4,165,414

$ 4,106,334

$ 3,909,559

$ 3,659,971

$ 3,598,318

$ 3,702,789

10,606

17,918

63,225

56,501

68,972

4,497

31,263

88,925

4,046

85,390

73,377

15,808

23,479

60,697

56,847

70,723

4,757

36,380

84,753

624

95,441

74,428

13,770

11,323

66,401

51,484

72,817

5,219

32,751

74,950

372

100,742

76,750

107,840

18,082

15,472

61,619

54,463

70,550

5,247

35,970

77,838

389

74,308

95,314

$

4,258

$

3,469

$

3,279

$

5,682

$

6,110

$

3,773

$

5,090

$

2,330

79,396

15,080

81,445

13,408

78,852

466

85,137

23,872

108,367

114,979

120,990

140,224

146,410

—

—

—

Interest-bearing deposits

106,246

112,024

82,666

79,282

82,613

90,769

2,808,425

2,567,086

2,618,382

2,586,409

2,473,656

2,194,687

2,133,997

2,150,873

26,211

29,607

27,307

25,789

7,370

8,474

8,061

15,146

3,196,878

2,967,432

3,009,622

2,974,096

2,779,257

2,502,059

2,449,303

2,514,537

Redeemable noncontrolling interest

—

4,535

4,935

6,199

6,333

6,955

8,322

9,697

Assets

Investments

Finance receivables, net

Other receivables, net

Income taxes receivable

Deferred tax asset, net

Property and equipment, net

Right-of-use assets

Goodwill

Intangible assets, net

Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities and Equity

Liabilities:

Accounts payable

Accrued expenses

Income taxes payable

Deferred tax liability, net

Lease liabilities

Borrowings

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Equity:

Common stock

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other

comprehensive loss

Total stockholders' equity -

PRA Group, Inc.

454

67,321

454

64,631

454

61,705

454

59,091

453

60,303

453

58,713

453

56,410

453

54,271

1,362,631

1,335,290

1,310,319

1,291,700

1,276,473

1,261,531

1,251,604

1,232,016

(261,018)

(305,956)

(252,124)

(248,521)

(242,109)

(213,078)

(209,167)

(155,687)

1,169,388

1,094,419

1,120,354

1,102,724

1,095,120

1,107,619

1,099,300

1,131,053

(cid:49)oncontrolling interests

57,625

51,894

30,503

23,315

28,849

43,338

41,393

47,502

Total equity

1,227,013

1,146,313

1,150,857

1,126,039

1,123,969

1,150,957

1,140,693

1,178,555

Total liabilities

and equity

$ 4,423,891

$ 4,118,280

$ 4,165,414

$ 4,106,334

$ 3,909,559

$ 3,659,971

$ 3,598,318

$ 3,702,789

22

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Cash and cash equivalents

Finance receivables, net

Total assets

Borrowings

Total equity

Key Balance Sheet Data

Amounts in thousands

As of December 31,

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

$

119,774

$

98,695

$

120,516

$

94,287

$

71,372

3,514,165

4,423,891

2,808,425

1,227,013

3,084,777

3,909,559

2,473,656

1,123,969

2,776,199

3,700,972

2,170,182

1,140,717

2,309,513

3,165,157

1,784,101

918,321

2,202,113

2,990,567

1,717,129

839,747

Quarterly Income Statement Data

Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts

Dec 31,

2019

Sep 30,

2019

Jun 30,

2019

Mar 31,

2019

Dec 31,

2018

Sep 30,

2018

Jun 30,

2018

Mar 31,

2018

Revenues:

Income recognized on finance

receivables

Fee income

Other revenue

Total revenues

$

262,835

$

247,471

$

249,219

$

238,836

$

231,029

$

223,228

$

219,018

$

218,624

4,297

2,001

2,391

152

2,707

131

6,374

667

4,686

1,027

2,561

99

2,342

158

5,327

157

269,133

250,014

252,057

245,877

236,742

225,888

221,518

224,108

(cid:49)et allowance charges

(12,598)

(4,136)

(1,196)

(6,095)

(21,381)

(8,285)

(2,834)

(925)

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

—

—

—

—

—

—

Interest expense, net

(36,046)

(35,864)

(36,027)

(33,981)

(30,624)

(31,124)

(25,781)

Operating expenses:

Compensation and employee

services

Legal collection fees

Legal collection costs

Agency fees

Outside fees and services

Communication

Rent and occupancy

Depreciation and amortization

Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses

Income from operations

Other income and (expense):

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

Other

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense

(cid:49)et income

Adjustment for net income

attributable to

noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)et income per share attributable to

PRA Group, Inc.:

Weighted average number of shares

Basic

Diluted

outstanding:

Basic

Diluted

$

$

$

75,671

13,822

34,411

15,979

15,239

9,722

4,586

4,123

12,198

185,751

70,784

75,317

14,083

31,395

12,788

16,733

10,310

4,414

4,046

12,102

181,188

64,690

79,808

14,297

33,121

13,013

16,293

10,824

4,491

4,723

10,926

187,496

63,365

79,645

13,059

35,229

14,032

15,248

13,201

4,363

4,572

11,585

190,934

48,848

595

(241)

35,092

4,073

31,019

5,406

(19)

34,213

6,665

27,548

(311)

248

27,275

5,075

22,200

6,264

(352)

20,779

3,867

16,912

79,123

11,501

33,281

9,088

17,068

10,645

4,319

5,092

13,030

183,147

32,214

26,575

(33,549)

(4,553)

(381)

20,306

1,980

18,326

78,350

10,428

30,769

8,350

15,701

10,240

4,270

4,776

10,602

173,486

44,117

—

626

222

14,341

1,789

12,552

80,690

10,343

18,695

8,138

14,565

10,782

4,003

4,525

11,628

163,369

55,315

1,690

(400)

25,481

3,857

21,624

81,237

10,669

22,243

8,278

14,158

11,557

4,314

4,929

12,184

169,569

53,614

1,293

243

29,369

6,137

23,232

3,678

2,577

3,581

1,685

3,384

2,625

2,036

2,126

27,341

$

24,971

$

18,619

$

15,227

$

14,942

$

9,927

$

19,588

$

21,106

0.60

0.60

$

$

0.55

0.55

$

$

0.41

0.41

$

$

0.34

0.34

$

$

0.33

0.33

$

$

0.22

0.22

$

$

0.43

0.43

$

$

0.47

0.47

45,413

45,748

45,410

45,645

45,387

45,495

45,338

45,419

45,304

45,394

45,302

45,440

45,283

45,449

45,231

45,370

Quarterly Balance Sheet Data
Amounts in thousands

Dec 31,
2019

Sep 30,
2019

Jun 30,
2019

Mar 31,
2019

Dec 31,
2018

Sep 30,
2018

Jun 30,
2018

Mar 31,
2018

Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

$

119,774

$

90,000

$

105,496

$

102,102

$

98,695

$

114,176

$

71,570

$

101,418

Investments

Finance receivables, net

Other receivables, net

Income taxes receivable

Deferred tax asset, net

Property and equipment, net

Right-of-use assets

Goodwill

Intangible assets, net

Other assets

Total assets

Liabilities and Equity

Liabilities:

Accounts payable

Accrued expenses

Income taxes payable

Deferred tax liability, net

Lease liabilities

56,176

55,204

85,911

85,082

45,173

21,750

80,541

87,764

3,514,165

3,238,813

3,230,949

3,177,229

3,084,777

2,823,622

2,734,673

2,771,408

10,606

17,918

63,225

56,501

68,972

15,808

23,479

60,697

56,847

70,723

13,770

11,323

66,401

51,484

72,817

18,082

15,472

61,619

54,463

70,550

46,157

16,809

61,453

54,136

—

9,067

8,912

63,724

55,010

—

14,688

12,163

60,944

53,364

—

14,308

10,271

59,377

53,788

—

480,794

465,572

489,293

480,518

464,116

519,045

519,811

544,293

4,497

31,263

4,757

36,380

5,219

32,751

5,247

35,970

5,522

32,721

17,369

27,296

18,914

31,650

22,523

37,639

$ 4,423,891

$ 4,118,280

$ 4,165,414

$ 4,106,334

$ 3,909,559

$ 3,659,971

$ 3,598,318

$ 3,702,789

$

4,258

$

3,469

$

3,279

$

5,682

$

6,110

$

3,773

$

5,090

$

2,330

88,925

4,046

85,390

73,377

84,753

624

95,441

74,428

74,950

372

100,742

76,750

107,840

77,838

389

79,396

15,080

81,445

13,408

78,852

466

85,137

23,872

108,367

114,979

120,990

140,224

146,410

74,308

95,314

—

—

—

82,666

79,282

82,613

90,769

Interest-bearing deposits

106,246

112,024

Borrowings

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

2,808,425

2,567,086

2,618,382

2,586,409

2,473,656

2,194,687

2,133,997

2,150,873

26,211

29,607

27,307

25,789

7,370

8,474

8,061

15,146

3,196,878

2,967,432

3,009,622

2,974,096

2,779,257

2,502,059

2,449,303

2,514,537

Redeemable noncontrolling interest

—

4,535

4,935

6,199

6,333

6,955

8,322

9,697

Equity:

Common stock

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other
comprehensive loss

Total stockholders' equity -
PRA Group, Inc.

454

67,321

454

64,631

454

61,705

454

59,091

453

60,303

453

58,713

453

56,410

453

54,271

1,362,631

1,335,290

1,310,319

1,291,700

1,276,473

1,261,531

1,251,604

1,232,016

(261,018)

(305,956)

(252,124)

(248,521)

(242,109)

(213,078)

(209,167)

(155,687)

1,169,388

1,094,419

1,120,354

1,102,724

1,095,120

1,107,619

1,099,300

1,131,053

(cid:49)oncontrolling interests

57,625

51,894

30,503

23,315

28,849

43,338

41,393

47,502

Total equity

1,227,013

1,146,313

1,150,857

1,126,039

1,123,969

1,150,957

1,140,693

1,178,555

Total liabilities
and equity

$ 4,423,891

$ 4,118,280

$ 4,165,414

$ 4,106,334

$ 3,909,559

$ 3,659,971

$ 3,598,318

$ 3,702,789

22

23

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Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Results of Operations

Overview

We are a global financial and business services company with operations in the Americas, Europe, and Australia. Our primary 

business is the purchase, collection, and management of portfolios of nonperforming loans.

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the current period presentation. 

Revenues:

Frequently Used Terms

We use the following terminology throughout this document:

• 

• 
• 
• 
• 

• 

• 

• 
• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

"Amortization rate" refers to cash collections applied to principal on finance receivables as a percentage of total cash 
collections.
"Buybacks" refers to purchase price refunded by the seller due to the return of ineligible accounts.
"Cash collections" refers to collections on our owned finance receivables portfolios.
"Cash receipts" refers to collections on our owned finance receivables portfolios plus fee income.
"Core" accounts or portfolios refer to accounts or portfolios that are nonperforming loans and are not in an insolvent status 
upon acquisition. These accounts are aggregated separately from insolvency accounts.
"Estimated remaining collections" or "ERC" refers to the sum of all future projected cash collections on our owned finance 
receivables portfolios.
"Insolvency" accounts or portfolios refer to accounts or portfolios of receivables that are in an insolvent status when we 
purchase them and as such are purchased as a pool of insolvent accounts. These accounts include Individual Voluntary 
Arrangements ("IVAs"), Trust Deeds in the UK, Consumer Proposals in Canada and bankruptcy accounts in the U.S., 
Canada, Germany and the UK. 
"Principal amortization" refers to cash collections applied to principal on finance receivables.
"Purchase price" refers to the cash paid to a seller to acquire nonperforming loans, plus certain capitalized costs, less 
buybacks.
"Purchase  price  multiple"  refers  to  the  total  estimated  collections  (as  defined  below)  on  owned  finance  receivables 
portfolios divided by purchase price.
"Total estimated collections" or "TEC" refers to actual cash collections, including cash sales, plus estimated remaining 
collections on our finance receivables portfolios.
"Portfolio purchases" refers to all portfolios purchased in the normal course of business and excludes those purchased via 
business acquisitions.
"Portfolio acquisitions" refers to all portfolios added as a result of a purchase, but also includes portfolios added as a result 
of a business acquisition. 

Unless otherwise specified, references to 2019, 2018 and 2017 are for the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 

2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

The results of operations include the financial results of the Company and all of our subsidiaries.  The following table sets 

forth consolidated income statement amounts as a percentage of total revenues for the periods indicated (dollars in thousands):

2019

2018

2017

Income recognized on finance

receivables

Fee income

Other revenue

Total revenues

$

998,361

98.2% $

891,899

98.2% $

795,435

96.0%

15,769

2,951

1.5

0.3

1,017,081

100.0

14,916

1,441

908,256

1.6

0.2

100.0

24,916

7,855

828,206

3.0

0.9

100.0

(cid:49)et allowance charges

(24,025)

(2.4)

(33,425)

(3.7)

(11,898)

(1.4)

Operating expenses:

Compensation and employee services

273,033

33.0

Legal collection fees

Legal collection costs

Agency fees

Outside fees and services

Communication

Rent and occupancy

Depreciation and amortization

Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses

Income from operations

Other income and (expense):

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

Interest expense, net

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

Other

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense/(benefit)

(cid:49)et income

310,441

55,261

134,156

55,812

63,513

44,057

17,854

17,464

46,811

745,369

247,687

11,954

(364)

117,359

19,680

97,679

11,521

86,158

$

30.5

5.4

13.2

5.5

6.2

4.3

1.8

1.7

4.6

73.2

24.4

1.2

(0.1)

11.5

1.9

9.6

1.1

319,400

42,941

104,988

33,854

61,492

43,224

16,906

19,322

47,444

689,571

185,260

(944)

(316)

89,497

13,763

75,734

10,171

65,563

—

—

26,575

(141,918)

(14.0)

(121,078)

35.2

4.7

11.6

3.7

6.8

4.8

1.9

2.1

5.1

75.9

20.4

2.9

(13.3)

(0.1)

(0.1)

9.8

1.5

8.3

1.1

43,351

76,047

35,530

62,792

33,132

14,823

19,763

44,103

602,574

213,734

48,474

(98,041)

(1,104)

(2,790)

160,273

(10,852)

171,125

6,810

5.2

9.2

4.3

7.6

4.0

1.8

2.4

5.3

72.8

25.8

5.9

(11.8)

(0.1)

(0.3)

19.4

(1.3)

20.7

0.8

19.9%

Adjustment for net income attributable to

noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

8.5% $

7.2% $

164,315

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Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Results of Operations

Overview

We are a global financial and business services company with operations in the Americas, Europe, and Australia. Our primary 

business is the purchase, collection, and management of portfolios of nonperforming loans.

The results of operations include the financial results of the Company and all of our subsidiaries.  The following table sets 

forth consolidated income statement amounts as a percentage of total revenues for the periods indicated (dollars in thousands):

2019

2018

2017

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the current period presentation. 

Revenues:

Income recognized on finance
receivables

Fee income

Other revenue

Total revenues

$

998,361

98.2% $

891,899

98.2% $

795,435

96.0%

15,769

2,951

1.5

0.3

1,017,081

100.0

14,916

1,441

908,256

1.6

0.2

100.0

24,916

7,855

828,206

3.0

0.9

100.0

(cid:49)et allowance charges

(24,025)

(2.4)

(33,425)

(3.7)

(11,898)

(1.4)

Operating expenses:

Compensation and employee services

Legal collection fees

Legal collection costs

Agency fees

Outside fees and services

Communication

Rent and occupancy

Depreciation and amortization

Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses

Income from operations

Other income and (expense):

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

Interest expense, net

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

Other

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense/(benefit)

(cid:49)et income

Adjustment for net income attributable to
noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

310,441

55,261

134,156

55,812

63,513

44,057

17,854

17,464

46,811

745,369

247,687

30.5

5.4

13.2

5.5

6.2

4.3

1.8

1.7

4.6

73.2

24.4

319,400

42,941

104,988

33,854

61,492

43,224

16,906

19,322

47,444

689,571

185,260

—

—

26,575

(141,918)

(14.0)

(121,078)

11,954

(364)

117,359

19,680

97,679

11,521

86,158

$

1.2

(0.1)

11.5

1.9

9.6

1.1

8.5% $

(944)

(316)

89,497

13,763

75,734

10,171

65,563

273,033

33.0

35.2

4.7

11.6

3.7

6.8

4.8

1.9

2.1

5.1

75.9

20.4

2.9

(13.3)

(0.1)

(0.1)

9.8

1.5

8.3

1.1

43,351

76,047

35,530

62,792

33,132

14,823

19,763

44,103

602,574

213,734

48,474

(98,041)

(1,104)

(2,790)

160,273

(10,852)

171,125

6,810

7.2% $

164,315

5.2

9.2

4.3

7.6

4.0

1.8

2.4

5.3

72.8

25.8

5.9

(11.8)

(0.1)

(0.3)

19.4

(1.3)

20.7

0.8

19.9%

Frequently Used Terms

We use the following terminology throughout this document:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

"Amortization rate" refers to cash collections applied to principal on finance receivables as a percentage of total cash 

collections.

"Buybacks" refers to purchase price refunded by the seller due to the return of ineligible accounts.

"Cash collections" refers to collections on our owned finance receivables portfolios.

"Cash receipts" refers to collections on our owned finance receivables portfolios plus fee income.

"Core" accounts or portfolios refer to accounts or portfolios that are nonperforming loans and are not in an insolvent status 

upon acquisition. These accounts are aggregated separately from insolvency accounts.

"Estimated remaining collections" or "ERC" refers to the sum of all future projected cash collections on our owned finance 

receivables portfolios.

"Insolvency" accounts or portfolios refer to accounts or portfolios of receivables that are in an insolvent status when we 

purchase them and as such are purchased as a pool of insolvent accounts. These accounts include Individual Voluntary 

Arrangements ("IVAs"), Trust Deeds in the UK, Consumer Proposals in Canada and bankruptcy accounts in the U.S., 

"Principal amortization" refers to cash collections applied to principal on finance receivables.

"Purchase price" refers to the cash paid to a seller to acquire nonperforming loans, plus certain capitalized costs, less 

"Purchase  price  multiple"  refers  to  the  total  estimated  collections  (as  defined  below)  on  owned  finance  receivables 

"Total estimated collections" or "TEC" refers to actual cash collections, including cash sales, plus estimated remaining 

collections on our finance receivables portfolios.

"Portfolio purchases" refers to all portfolios purchased in the normal course of business and excludes those purchased via 

"Portfolio acquisitions" refers to all portfolios added as a result of a purchase, but also includes portfolios added as a result 

business acquisitions.

of a business acquisition. 

Canada, Germany and the UK. 

buybacks.

portfolios divided by purchase price.

Unless otherwise specified, references to 2019, 2018 and 2017 are for the years ended December 31, 2019, December 31, 

2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

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Cash Collections

Cash collections were as follows for the periods indicated:

(Amounts in millions)
   Americas Core
   Americas Insolvency
   Europe Core
   Europe Insolvency
Total cash collections
Cash collections adjusted (1)
Cash collections on fully amortized pools
Cash collections on pools on cost recovery
(cid:49)et finance receivables on cost recovery at year-end

Year Ended December 31,
2018

2017

2019
$ 1,141.5
180.9
480.1
38.8
$ 1,841.3

$ 1,841.3
47.1
13.5
33.7

$

945.2
207.8
443.4
28.8
$ 1,625.2

$ 1,595.5
54.0
35.8
48.0

$

860.9
222.5
407.0
22.2
$ 1,512.6

$ 1,518.7
57.6
37.7
166.6

Variances

2019 vs. 2018
196.3
$
(26.9)
36.7
10.0
216.1

$

2018 vs. 2017
84.3
$
(14.7)
36.4
6.6
112.6

$

$

$

245.8
(6.9)
(22.3)
(14.3)

76.8
(3.6)
(1.9)
(118.6)

(1) Cash collections adjusted refers to 2018 cash collections remeasured using 2019 exchange rates and 2017 cash collections remeasured using 
2018 exchange rates.

(cid:49)et Allowance Charges

Cash collections were $1,841.3 million in 2019, an increase of $216.1 million or 13.3%, compared to $1,625.2 million in 
2018.  The increase was largely due to our U.S. legal collections increasing $91.1 million, or 30.6%, due primarily to the increase 
in the number of accounts placed in the legal channel, and our U.S. call center and other collections increasing $48.6 million, or 
8.5%, due primarily to higher Americas Core portfolio purchasing in 2018. Additionally, as a result of increased portfolio purchasing 
in South America and the acquisition of a business in Canada in the first quarter of 2019, Americas Core outside the U.S. cash 
collections increased $56.6 million or 73.8%.  Furthermore, our Europe Core cash collections increased $36.7 million or 8.3%, 
due primarily to increased portfolio purchasing, the consolidation of a Polish fund in the third quarter of 2018, and operational 
improvements. These increases were partially offset by a decline of $26.9 million, or 13.0%, in Americas Insolvency cash collections 
caused mainly by investment volumes in the U.S. not offsetting the runoff of our older portfolios.

Cash collections were $1,625.2 million in 2018, an increase of $112.6 million or 7.4%, compared to $1,512.6 million in 
2017. The increase was largely due to U.S. call center collections increasing 15.7%, due primarily to record U.S. Core portfolio 
purchasing in 2018 and 2017, and U.S. legal collections increasing 8.0%. Additionally, Europe Core and Europe Insolvency cash 
collections increased 8.9% and 29.7%, respectively. The increase in Europe Core cash collections was primarily the result of 
increased portfolio purchasing in the fourth quarter of 2017 and 2018. These increases were partially offset by a 6.6% decline in 
Americas Insolvency cash collections caused mainly by a decline in portfolio buying in 2018 and the continued runoff of our older 
portfolios.

Revenues

Total revenues were $1,017.1 million in 2019, $908.3 million in 2018, and $828.2 million in 2017.

A summary of how our revenues were generated during the years indicated is as follows (amounts in thousands):

Cash collections
Principal amortization
Income recognized on finance receivables
Fee income
Other revenue
Total revenues

Income Recognized on Finance Receivables

2019
1,841,271
(842,910)
998,361
15,769
2,951
1,017,081

$

$

2018
1,625,205
(733,306)
891,899
14,916
1,441
908,256

$

$

2017
1,512,605
(717,170)
795,435
24,916
7,855
828,206

$

$

Income recognized on finance receivables was $998.4 million in 2019, an increase of $106.5 million or 11.9% compared to 
$891.9 million in 2018. The increase was primarily the result of  the impact of recent Americas and Europe Core purchasing, 
sustained  over-performance  and  related  yield  increases  on  pools  broadly  across  all  geographies,  recent  increased  portfolio 
purchasing in South America, and the acquisition of a business in Canada in the first quarter of 2019. 

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Income recognized on finance receivables was $891.9 million in 2018, an increase of $96.5 million or 12.1% compared to 

$795.4  million in  2017. The increase was primarily  the result  of  overperformance on  select Americas Core  and Europe Core 

portfolios which resulted in several yield increases on certain pools and the impact of record Americas Core purchasing in 2017 

and 2018. This was partially offset by a decline in our Americas Insolvency revenue caused mainly by a decline in Americas 

Insolvency portfolio purchasing in 2018 and the continued runoff of our older portfolios.

Fee income was $15.8 million in 2019, $14.9 million in 2018, and $24.9 million in 2017.  The decrease of $10.0 million or 

40.2% in 2018 was primarily due to the sale of our government services businesses and the sale of PRA Location Services, LLC 

Fee Income

("PLS") in 2017.

Other Revenue

Other revenue was $3.0 million in 2019, an increase of $1.6 million or 114.3% compared to $1.4 million in 2018, primarily 

reflecting the variability of our CCB business.  Other revenue was $1.4 million in 2018, a decrease of $6.5 million or 82.3% 

compared to $7.9 million in 2017, primarily due to a decrease in revenue earned on our investments.

(cid:49)et allowance charges are recorded for decreases in expected cash flows or a change in timing of cash flows which would 

otherwise require a reduction in the stated yield on a pool of accounts. In 2019, we recorded net allowance charges of $24.0 million

consisting of $24.5 million on our Americas Core portfolios, primarily on vintages purchased between 2013-2015 and $0.6 million 

on our European portfolios partially offset by net allowance reversals of $1.1 million on our Americas Insolvency portfolios.  In 

2018, we recorded net allowance charges of $33.4 million consisting of $31.0 million on our Americas Core portfolios, primarily 

on vintages impacted most by the Consent Order and purchased between 2013-2015, $0.4 million on our Americas Insolvency 

portfolios, and $2.0 million on our European portfolios. In 2017, we recorded net allowance charges of $11.9 million consisting 

of $7.4 million on our Americas Core portfolios, $1.5 million on our Americas Insolvency portfolios, and $3.0 million on our 

European portfolios. 

Operating Expenses

Compensation and Employee Services

Total operating expenses were $745.4 million in 2019, $689.6 million in 2018, and $602.6 million in 2017. 

Compensation and employee service expenses were $310.4 million in 2019, a decrease of $9.0 million or 2.8% compared 

to $319.4 million in 2018. The decrease in compensation expense was primarily attributable to a reduction in the U.S. call center 

workforce,  as  we  balance  the  volume  between  the  legal  collection  channel  and  call  centers  and  realize  the  impact  of  recent 

investments  in  technology. Total  full-time  equivalents  decreased  17.9%  to  4,412  as  of  December 31,  2019  from  5,377  as  of 

December 31, 2018.  Additionally, this category was impacted by the result of the sale of RCB operating platform in December 

2018, which shifted certain expenses from fixed to variable and are now recorded as agency fees. 

Compensation 

and 

employee 

service 

expenses 

were $319.4 

million in 2018, an increase of $46.4 

million or 17.0% compared to $273.0 million in 2017. Compensation expense increased primarily as a result of larger average 

staff sizes due mainly to the expansion of our domestic collector workforce, partially offset by a decrease resulting from the sale 

of our government services businesses and PLS in 2017. Total full-time equivalents increased 4.3% to 5,377 as of December 31, 

2018 from 5,154 as of December 31, 2017.

Legal Collection Fees

Legal collection fees represent contingent fees incurred for the cash collections generated by our independent third-party 

attorney network. Legal collection fees were $55.3 million in 2019, $42.9 million in 2018, and $43.4 million in 2017.  The  increase

of $12.4 million or 28.9% in 2019 was primarily due to a 44.5% increase in external legal cash collections in the U.S.

Legal Collection Costs

Legal collection costs primarily consist of costs paid to courts where a lawsuit is filed for the purpose of attempting to collect 

on an account. Legal collection costs were $134.2 million in 2019, an increase of $29.2 million or 27.8%, compared to $105.0 

million in 2018. The increase was primarily due to additional court costs related to the expansion of the number of accounts placed 

in the legal channel in the U.S.  This expansion was the result of a change in the nature of the accounts purchased, the regulatory 

environment and consumer behavior.

Income recognized on finance receivables was $891.9 million in 2018, an increase of $96.5 million or 12.1% compared to 
$795.4  million in  2017. The increase was primarily  the result  of  overperformance on  select Americas Core  and Europe Core 
portfolios which resulted in several yield increases on certain pools and the impact of record Americas Core purchasing in 2017 
and 2018. This was partially offset by a decline in our Americas Insolvency revenue caused mainly by a decline in Americas 
Insolvency portfolio purchasing in 2018 and the continued runoff of our older portfolios.

Fee Income

Fee income was $15.8 million in 2019, $14.9 million in 2018, and $24.9 million in 2017.  The decrease of $10.0 million or 
40.2% in 2018 was primarily due to the sale of our government services businesses and the sale of PRA Location Services, LLC 
("PLS") in 2017.

Other Revenue

Other revenue was $3.0 million in 2019, an increase of $1.6 million or 114.3% compared to $1.4 million in 2018, primarily 
reflecting the variability of our CCB business.  Other revenue was $1.4 million in 2018, a decrease of $6.5 million or 82.3% 
compared to $7.9 million in 2017, primarily due to a decrease in revenue earned on our investments.

(1) Cash collections adjusted refers to 2018 cash collections remeasured using 2019 exchange rates and 2017 cash collections remeasured using 

(cid:49)et Allowance Charges

2018 exchange rates.

(cid:49)et allowance charges are recorded for decreases in expected cash flows or a change in timing of cash flows which would 
otherwise require a reduction in the stated yield on a pool of accounts. In 2019, we recorded net allowance charges of $24.0 million
consisting of $24.5 million on our Americas Core portfolios, primarily on vintages purchased between 2013-2015 and $0.6 million 
on our European portfolios partially offset by net allowance reversals of $1.1 million on our Americas Insolvency portfolios.  In 
2018, we recorded net allowance charges of $33.4 million consisting of $31.0 million on our Americas Core portfolios, primarily 
on vintages impacted most by the Consent Order and purchased between 2013-2015, $0.4 million on our Americas Insolvency 
portfolios, and $2.0 million on our European portfolios. In 2017, we recorded net allowance charges of $11.9 million consisting 
of $7.4 million on our Americas Core portfolios, $1.5 million on our Americas Insolvency portfolios, and $3.0 million on our 
European portfolios. 

Operating Expenses

Total operating expenses were $745.4 million in 2019, $689.6 million in 2018, and $602.6 million in 2017. 

Compensation and Employee Services

Compensation and employee service expenses were $310.4 million in 2019, a decrease of $9.0 million or 2.8% compared 
to $319.4 million in 2018. The decrease in compensation expense was primarily attributable to a reduction in the U.S. call center 
workforce,  as  we  balance  the  volume  between  the  legal  collection  channel  and  call  centers  and  realize  the  impact  of  recent 
investments  in  technology. Total  full-time  equivalents  decreased  17.9%  to  4,412  as  of  December 31,  2019  from  5,377  as  of 
December 31, 2018.  Additionally, this category was impacted by the result of the sale of RCB operating platform in December 
2018, which shifted certain expenses from fixed to variable and are now recorded as agency fees. 

Cash collections were as follows for the periods indicated:

Cash Collections

(Amounts in millions)

   Americas Core

   Americas Insolvency

   Europe Core

   Europe Insolvency

Total cash collections

Cash collections adjusted (1)

Cash collections on fully amortized pools

Cash collections on pools on cost recovery

(cid:49)et finance receivables on cost recovery at year-end

Year Ended December 31,

Variances

2019

2018

2017

2019 vs. 2018

2018 vs. 2017

$ 1,141.5

$

$

180.9

480.1

38.8

47.1

13.5

33.7

945.2

207.8

443.4

28.8

54.0

35.8

48.0

$

$

$

860.9

222.5

407.0

22.2

57.6

37.7

166.6

196.3

$

(26.9)

$

$

36.7

10.0

216.1

245.8

(6.9)

(22.3)

(14.3)

84.3

(14.7)

36.4

6.6

112.6

76.8

(3.6)

(1.9)

(118.6)

$ 1,841.3

$ 1,625.2

$ 1,512.6

$ 1,841.3

$ 1,595.5

$ 1,518.7

Cash collections were $1,841.3 million in 2019, an increase of $216.1 million or 13.3%, compared to $1,625.2 million in 

2018.  The increase was largely due to our U.S. legal collections increasing $91.1 million, or 30.6%, due primarily to the increase 

in the number of accounts placed in the legal channel, and our U.S. call center and other collections increasing $48.6 million, or 

8.5%, due primarily to higher Americas Core portfolio purchasing in 2018. Additionally, as a result of increased portfolio purchasing 

in South America and the acquisition of a business in Canada in the first quarter of 2019, Americas Core outside the U.S. cash 

collections increased $56.6 million or 73.8%.  Furthermore, our Europe Core cash collections increased $36.7 million or 8.3%, 

due primarily to increased portfolio purchasing, the consolidation of a Polish fund in the third quarter of 2018, and operational 

improvements. These increases were partially offset by a decline of $26.9 million, or 13.0%, in Americas Insolvency cash collections 

caused mainly by investment volumes in the U.S. not offsetting the runoff of our older portfolios.

Cash collections were $1,625.2 million in 2018, an increase of $112.6 million or 7.4%, compared to $1,512.6 million in 

2017. The increase was largely due to U.S. call center collections increasing 15.7%, due primarily to record U.S. Core portfolio 

purchasing in 2018 and 2017, and U.S. legal collections increasing 8.0%. Additionally, Europe Core and Europe Insolvency cash 

collections increased 8.9% and 29.7%, respectively. The increase in Europe Core cash collections was primarily the result of 

increased portfolio purchasing in the fourth quarter of 2017 and 2018. These increases were partially offset by a 6.6% decline in 

Americas Insolvency cash collections caused mainly by a decline in portfolio buying in 2018 and the continued runoff of our older 

Total revenues were $1,017.1 million in 2019, $908.3 million in 2018, and $828.2 million in 2017.

A summary of how our revenues were generated during the years indicated is as follows (amounts in thousands):

portfolios.

Revenues

Cash collections

Principal amortization

Income recognized on finance receivables

Fee income

Other revenue

Total revenues

Income Recognized on Finance Receivables

2019

2018

2017

$

1,841,271

$

1,625,205

$

1,512,605

(842,910)

998,361

15,769

2,951

(733,306)

891,899

14,916

1,441

$

1,017,081

$

908,256

$

(717,170)

795,435

24,916

7,855

828,206

Income recognized on finance receivables was $998.4 million in 2019, an increase of $106.5 million or 11.9% compared to 

$891.9 million in 2018. The increase was primarily the result of  the impact of recent Americas and Europe Core purchasing, 

sustained  over-performance  and  related  yield  increases  on  pools  broadly  across  all  geographies,  recent  increased  portfolio 

purchasing in South America, and the acquisition of a business in Canada in the first quarter of 2019. 

Legal Collection Fees

Legal collection fees represent contingent fees incurred for the cash collections generated by our independent third-party 
attorney network. Legal collection fees were $55.3 million in 2019, $42.9 million in 2018, and $43.4 million in 2017.  The  increase
of $12.4 million or 28.9% in 2019 was primarily due to a 44.5% increase in external legal cash collections in the U.S.

Legal Collection Costs

Legal collection costs primarily consist of costs paid to courts where a lawsuit is filed for the purpose of attempting to collect 
on an account. Legal collection costs were $134.2 million in 2019, an increase of $29.2 million or 27.8%, compared to $105.0 
million in 2018. The increase was primarily due to additional court costs related to the expansion of the number of accounts placed 
in the legal channel in the U.S.  This expansion was the result of a change in the nature of the accounts purchased, the regulatory 
environment and consumer behavior.

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million in 2018, an increase of $46.4 
expenses 
million or 17.0% compared to $273.0 million in 2017. Compensation expense increased primarily as a result of larger average 
staff sizes due mainly to the expansion of our domestic collector workforce, partially offset by a decrease resulting from the sale 
of our government services businesses and PLS in 2017. Total full-time equivalents increased 4.3% to 5,377 as of December 31, 
2018 from 5,154 as of December 31, 2017.

Compensation 

were $319.4 

employee 

service 

and 

Legal  collection  costs  were $105.0  million in 2018, an increase of $29.0  million or 38.2%,  compared 

to $76.0 
million in 2017. The increase was primarily due to additional court costs related to the expansion of the number of accounts brought 
into the legal channel in the U.S.  This expansion was the result of a change in the nature of the accounts purchased, the regulatory 
environment and consumer behavior.

Interest expense, net was $121.1 million in 2018, an increase of $23.1 million or 23.6% compared to $98.0 million in 2017. 

The increase was primarily due to higher levels of average borrowings outstanding and higher average interest rates.

Interest expense, net consisted of the following in 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Stated interest on debt obligations and unused line

fees

Coupon interest on convertible debt

Amortization of convertible debt discount

Amortization of loan fees and other loan costs

Change in fair value on derivatives

Interest income

Interest expense, net

(cid:49)et Foreign Currency Transaction Gains/(Losses)

Twelve Months Ended December 31,

Variances

2019

2018

2017

2019 vs. 2018

2018 vs. 2017

$

94,841

$

83,983

$

71,656

$

10,858

$

12,327

20,700

12,398

10,589

5,636

(2,246)

20,700

11,725

10,332

(2,532)

(3,130)

15,870

8,583

9,569

(2,025)

(5,612)

—

673

257

8,168

884

4,830

3,142

763

(507)

2,482

$

141,918

$

121,078

$

98,041

$

20,840

$

23,037

(cid:49)et foreign currency transaction gains/(losses) were $12.0 million, $(0.9) million, and $(1.1) million in 2019, 2018, and 

2017, respectively. In any given period, we may incur foreign currency transaction losses or gains from transactions in currencies 

other  than  the  functional  currency. The  $12.9  million  increase  in  2019  was  primarily  related  to  gains  on  U.S.  Dollar  linked 

investments held in Brazil and foreign currency gains in Europe.  

Other Expense

Income Tax Expense/(Benefit)

Other expense was $0.4 million in 2019, $0.3 million in 2018, and $2.8 million in 2017. In 2017, we incurred an other-than-

temporary impairment charge of $1.7 million on one of our investments in private equity funds. Additionally, during 2017 we 

incurred a $1.0 million expense related to a performance guarantee on a Polish investment fund.

Income tax expense/(benefit) was $19.7 million, $13.8 million, and $(10.9) million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

The increase from 2018 to 2019 was primarily driven by GILTI, which is included in the tax impact on international earnings 

disclosed in (cid:49)ote 13. The change from 2017 to 2018 was primarily attributable to a $73.8 million after-tax benefit recorded in 

2017 as a result of the revaluation of our net deferred tax liability per the Tax Act.

The effective tax rate increased from 15.4% in 2018 to 16.8% in 2019 primarily due to the GILTI taxes in the US.  The 

effective tax rate for 2018 increased and the 2017 effective tax rate decreased compared to their respective prior years due to the 

revaluation of the deferred tax liability per the Tax Act.  Our effective tax rate will vary from period to period due to these types 

of items.

Agency Fees

Agency fees primarily represent third-party collection fees.  Agency fees were $55.8 million in 2019, an increase of $21.9 
million or 64.6% compared to $33.9 million in 2018. The increase was primarily due to the sale of the RCB operating platform, 
which shifted certain expenses from fixed to variable and are now recorded as agency fees, the acquisition of a business in Canada 
in the first quarter of 2019, and higher volumes of servicing activity in areas where we utilize third-party collection agencies.

  Agency  fees  were $33.9  million in 2018,  a decrease of $1.6  million or 4.5%  compared  to $35.5  million in 2017. 
The decrease was primarily due to the impact of the sale of PLS partially offset by an increase in third-party collection fees incurred 
by our international operations.

Outside Fees and Services

Outside fees and services expenses were $63.5 million in 2019, an increase of $2.0 million or 3.3% compared to $61.5 
million in 2018. The increase was primarily the result of higher consulting fees and higher fees related to an increased number of 
debit card transactions, mostly offset by a decrease in litigation expenses.

Outside  fees  and  services  expenses  were $61.5  million in 2018, a decrease of $1.3  million or 2.1% compared  to $62.8 
million in 2017. The decrease was primarily the result of a decline in corporate legal expenses, due largely to legal costs not 
associated with normal operations incurred during 2017. This was partially offset by an increase in payment processing and debit 
card transactions and increased consulting fees.

Communication

Communication expenses primarily represent postage and telephone related expenses incurred as a result of our collection 
efforts. Communication expenses were $44.1 million in  2019, $43.2 million in 2018, and  $33.1 million in 2017.  The $10.1 
million increase in 2018 was driven primarily by higher letter and call volume associated with record portfolio purchasing of 
Americas Core portfolios in 2017 and 2018 and additional U.S. collectors operating during 2018.

Rent and Occupancy

Rent and occupancy expenses were $17.9 million in 2019, $16.9 million in 2018, and $14.8 million in 2017. The $2.1 
million increase in 2018 was primarily due to the opening of two new call centers in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2017 as well 
as the expansion of our European facilities.

Depreciation and Amortization

Depreciation and amortization expense was $17.5 million in 2019, $19.3 million in 2018, and $19.8 million in 2017.  The  
$1.8 million or 9.3% decrease in 2019 was primarily due to the sale of the RCB operating platform which shifted certain expenses 
from fixed to variable partially offset by the addition of certain capital software projects.

Other Operating Expenses

Other  operating  expenses  were  $46.8  million  in  2019,  $47.4  million  in  2018,  and  $44.1  million  in  2017.    The  $3.3 
million increase in 2018 was primarily due to an increase in corporate technology and software related expenses partially offset 
by a decrease as a result of the sale of our government services businesses and the sale of PLS in 2017.

Gain on Sale of Subsidiaries

We did not have any sales of subsidiaries during 2019. In 2018, we sold 79% of our interest in RCB's servicing platform 
which resulted in a gain of $26.6 million.  In 2017, we sold our government services businesses and PLS which resulted in a 
combined gain of $48.5 million.

Interest Expense, (cid:49)et

Interest expense, net was $141.9 million in 2019, an increase of $20.8 million or 17.2% compared to $121.1 million in 2018. 
The increase was primarily due to higher levels of average borrowings to fund increased portfolio acquisitions paired with slightly 
higher interest rates and the impact of changes in the fair value of our derivatives.

28

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Legal  collection  costs  were $105.0  million in 2018, an increase of $29.0  million or 38.2%,  compared 

to $76.0 

Interest expense, net was $121.1 million in 2018, an increase of $23.1 million or 23.6% compared to $98.0 million in 2017. 

million in 2017. The increase was primarily due to additional court costs related to the expansion of the number of accounts brought 

The increase was primarily due to higher levels of average borrowings outstanding and higher average interest rates.

into the legal channel in the U.S.  This expansion was the result of a change in the nature of the accounts purchased, the regulatory 

Interest expense, net consisted of the following in 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Stated interest on debt obligations and unused line
fees

Coupon interest on convertible debt

Amortization of convertible debt discount

Amortization of loan fees and other loan costs

Change in fair value on derivatives

Interest income

Interest expense, net

(cid:49)et Foreign Currency Transaction Gains/(Losses)

Twelve Months Ended December 31,

Variances

2019

2018

2017

2019 vs. 2018

2018 vs. 2017

$

94,841

$

83,983

$

71,656

$

10,858

$

12,327

20,700

12,398

10,589

5,636

(2,246)

20,700

11,725

10,332

(2,532)

(3,130)

15,870

8,583

9,569

(2,025)

(5,612)

—

673

257

8,168

884

4,830

3,142

763

(507)

2,482

$

141,918

$

121,078

$

98,041

$

20,840

$

23,037

(cid:49)et foreign currency transaction gains/(losses) were $12.0 million, $(0.9) million, and $(1.1) million in 2019, 2018, and 
2017, respectively. In any given period, we may incur foreign currency transaction losses or gains from transactions in currencies 
other  than  the  functional  currency. The  $12.9  million  increase  in  2019  was  primarily  related  to  gains  on  U.S.  Dollar  linked 
investments held in Brazil and foreign currency gains in Europe.  

Other Expense

Other expense was $0.4 million in 2019, $0.3 million in 2018, and $2.8 million in 2017. In 2017, we incurred an other-than-
temporary impairment charge of $1.7 million on one of our investments in private equity funds. Additionally, during 2017 we 
incurred a $1.0 million expense related to a performance guarantee on a Polish investment fund.

Income Tax Expense/(Benefit)

Income tax expense/(benefit) was $19.7 million, $13.8 million, and $(10.9) million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
The increase from 2018 to 2019 was primarily driven by GILTI, which is included in the tax impact on international earnings 
disclosed in (cid:49)ote 13. The change from 2017 to 2018 was primarily attributable to a $73.8 million after-tax benefit recorded in 
2017 as a result of the revaluation of our net deferred tax liability per the Tax Act.

The effective tax rate increased from 15.4% in 2018 to 16.8% in 2019 primarily due to the GILTI taxes in the US.  The 
effective tax rate for 2018 increased and the 2017 effective tax rate decreased compared to their respective prior years due to the 
revaluation of the deferred tax liability per the Tax Act.  Our effective tax rate will vary from period to period due to these types 
of items.

environment and consumer behavior.

Agency Fees

Agency fees primarily represent third-party collection fees.  Agency fees were $55.8 million in 2019, an increase of $21.9 

million or 64.6% compared to $33.9 million in 2018. The increase was primarily due to the sale of the RCB operating platform, 

which shifted certain expenses from fixed to variable and are now recorded as agency fees, the acquisition of a business in Canada 

in the first quarter of 2019, and higher volumes of servicing activity in areas where we utilize third-party collection agencies.

  Agency  fees  were $33.9  million in 2018,  a decrease of $1.6  million or 4.5%  compared  to $35.5  million in 2017. 

The decrease was primarily due to the impact of the sale of PLS partially offset by an increase in third-party collection fees incurred 

by our international operations.

Outside Fees and Services

Outside fees and services expenses were $63.5 million in 2019, an increase of $2.0 million or 3.3% compared to $61.5 

million in 2018. The increase was primarily the result of higher consulting fees and higher fees related to an increased number of 

debit card transactions, mostly offset by a decrease in litigation expenses.

Outside  fees  and  services  expenses  were $61.5  million in 2018, a decrease of $1.3  million or 2.1% compared  to $62.8 

million in 2017. The decrease was primarily the result of a decline in corporate legal expenses, due largely to legal costs not 

associated with normal operations incurred during 2017. This was partially offset by an increase in payment processing and debit 

card transactions and increased consulting fees.

Communication

Communication expenses primarily represent postage and telephone related expenses incurred as a result of our collection 

efforts. Communication expenses were $44.1 million in  2019, $43.2 million in 2018, and  $33.1 million in 2017.  The $10.1 

million increase in 2018 was driven primarily by higher letter and call volume associated with record portfolio purchasing of 

Americas Core portfolios in 2017 and 2018 and additional U.S. collectors operating during 2018.

Rent and occupancy expenses were $17.9 million in 2019, $16.9 million in 2018, and $14.8 million in 2017. The $2.1 

million increase in 2018 was primarily due to the opening of two new call centers in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2017 as well 

Rent and Occupancy

as the expansion of our European facilities.

Depreciation and Amortization

Depreciation and amortization expense was $17.5 million in 2019, $19.3 million in 2018, and $19.8 million in 2017.  The  

$1.8 million or 9.3% decrease in 2019 was primarily due to the sale of the RCB operating platform which shifted certain expenses 

from fixed to variable partially offset by the addition of certain capital software projects.

Other  operating  expenses  were  $46.8  million  in  2019,  $47.4  million  in  2018,  and  $44.1  million  in  2017.    The  $3.3 

million increase in 2018 was primarily due to an increase in corporate technology and software related expenses partially offset 

by a decrease as a result of the sale of our government services businesses and the sale of PLS in 2017.

We did not have any sales of subsidiaries during 2019. In 2018, we sold 79% of our interest in RCB's servicing platform 

which resulted in a gain of $26.6 million.  In 2017, we sold our government services businesses and PLS which resulted in a 

Other Operating Expenses

Gain on Sale of Subsidiaries

combined gain of $48.5 million.

Interest Expense, (cid:49)et

Interest expense, net was $141.9 million in 2019, an increase of $20.8 million or 17.2% compared to $121.1 million in 2018. 

The increase was primarily due to higher levels of average borrowings to fund increased portfolio acquisitions paired with slightly 

higher interest rates and the impact of changes in the fair value of our derivatives.

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Supplemental Performance Data

Finance Receivables Portfolio Performance

The following tables show certain data related to our finance receivables portfolios. Certain adjustments, as noted in the 
footnotes to these tables, have been made to reduce the impact of foreign currency fluctuations on ERC and purchase price multiples.

The accounts represented in the insolvency tables are those portfolios of accounts that were in an insolvency status at the 
time of purchase. This contrasts with accounts in our Core portfolios that file for bankruptcy/insolvency protection after we purchase 
them, which continue to be tracked in their corresponding Core portfolio. Core customers sometimes file for bankruptcy/insolvency 
protection subsequent to our purchase of the related Core portfolio. When this occurs, we adjust our collection practices to comply 
with bankruptcy/insolvency rules and procedures; however, for accounting purposes, these accounts remain in the original Core 
portfolio. Insolvency accounts may be dismissed voluntarily or involuntarily subsequent to our purchase of the Insolvency portfolio. 
Dismissal occurs when the terms of the bankruptcy are not met by the petitioner. When this occurs, we are typically free to pursue 
collection outside of bankruptcy procedures; however, for accounting purposes, these accounts remain in the original Insolvency 
pool.

Purchase price multiples can vary over time due to a variety of factors, including pricing competition, supply levels, age of 
the receivables acquired, and changes in our operational efficiency. For example, increased pricing competition during the 2005 
to 2008 period negatively impacted purchase price multiples of our Core portfolio compared to prior years. Conversely, during 
the 2009 to 2011 period, additional supply occurred as a result of the economic downturn. This created unique and advantageous 
purchasing opportunities, particularly within the Insolvency market, relative to the prior four years. Purchase price multiples can 
also vary among types of finance receivables. For example, we generally incur lower collection costs on our Insolvency portfolio 
compared with our Core portfolio. This allows us, in general, to pay more for an Insolvency portfolio and experience lower purchase 
price multiples, while generating similar net income margins when compared with a Core portfolio.

When  competition  increases  and/or  supply  decreases,  pricing  often  becomes  negatively  impacted  relative  to  expected 

collections, and yields tend to trend lower. The opposite tends to occur when competition decreases and/or supply increases.

Within a given portfolio type, to the extent that lower purchase price multiples are the result of more competitive pricing and 
lower net yields, this will generally lead to higher amortization rates and lower profitability. As portfolio pricing becomes more 
favorable on a relative basis, our profitability will tend to increase. Profitability within given Core portfolio types may also be 
impacted by the age and quality of the receivables, which impact the cost to collect those accounts. Fresher accounts, for example, 
typically carry lower associated collection expenses, while older accounts and lower balance accounts typically carry higher costs 
and, as a result, require higher purchase price multiples to achieve the same net profitability as fresher paper.

Revenue recognition under ASC 310-30 is driven by estimates of the amount and timing of collections as well as the timing 
of those collections. We record new portfolio acquisitions based on our best estimate of the cash flows expected at acquisition, 
which reflects the uncertainties inherent in the acquisition of nonperforming loans and the results of our underwriting process. 
Subsequent to the initial booking, as we gain collection experience and confidence with a pool of accounts, we regularly update 
ERC. As a result, our estimate of total collections has often increased as pools have aged. These processes have tended to cause 
the ratio of ERC to purchase price for any given year of buying to gradually increase over time. Thus, all factors being equal in 
terms of pricing, one would typically tend to see a higher collection to purchase price ratio from a pool of accounts that was six 
years from acquisition than a pool that was just two years from acquisition.

We hold a beneficial interest in certain pools of finance receivables in Europe. Revenue recognition is under ASC Topic 
310-20, "Receivables - (cid:49)onrefundable Fees and Other Costs" where we compute a life-to-date yield on a retrospective basis and 
apply it to the ERC of the portfolio. Revenue on these pools is included in income recognized on finance receivables. In addition, 
these portfolios are included in the tables below as they perform economically similar to finance receivables accounted for under 
ASC 310-30.

The numbers presented in the following tables represent gross cash collections and do not reflect any costs to collect; therefore, 
they may not represent relative profitability. Due to all the factors described above, readers should be cautious when making 
comparisons of purchase price multiples among periods and between types of receivables.

Purchase Price Multiples

as of December 31, 2019

Amounts in thousands

Purchase Period Purchase Price (1)(2)

Americas Core

1996-2009

$

930,026 $

9,279 $

42,102 $

2,885,906 $

(cid:49)et Finance 

Receivables (3)

ERC-Historical 

Period Exchange 

Rates (4)

Total Estimated 

Collections (5)

ERC-Current 

Period Exchange 

Rates (6)

Current

Estimated

Purchase Price

Multiple

Original 

Estimated 

Purchase Price 

Multiple (7)

Subtotal

Americas Insolvency

1996-2009

5,002,100

1,594,787

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

148,193

209,602

254,076

390,826

405,169

443,779

453,158

533,442

655,548

578,281

397,453

208,942

180,432

251,395

227,834

148,689

63,170

92,264

275,257

97,879

123,039

20,409

20,334

796,762

419,909

348,270

246,752

345,256

512,702

10,876

19,226

41,858

38,409

45,586

75,588

3,485

7,707

16,011

33,648

55,033

93,385

139,380

242,129

460,797

533,933

—

—

—

—

—

756

5,783

17,433

95,421

74,459

114,892

308,744

1,903,531

—

—

188,892

161,210

190,927

157,850

269,292

488,468

306

3,083

12,507

24,417

39,424

74,258

28,669

48,551

60,711

94,733

152,639

226,865

354,399

521,715

852,246

1,048,207

3,430,837

917

1,181

973

953

2,143

3,598

9,917

22,491

121,498

93,120

144,228

401,019

3,831,856

875

431

823,116

345,214

333,375

232,858

407,945

730,704

1,061

5,970

18,160

28,931

46,969

93,518

535,684

739,158

680,352

931,194

929,179

965,671

1,081,376

1,167,831

1,338,876

1,191,940

12,447,167

835,958

546,872

370,103

392,377

354,923

218,044

87,773

116,896

348,811

127,257

157,675

3,556,689

16,003,856

40,542

24,995

2,278,261

748,127

578,421

351,216

522,374

779,136

18,155

29,294

60,651

47,604

56,199

98,439

310%

361%

353%

268%

238%

229%

218%

239%

219%

204%

206%

210%

262%

205%

156%

156%

147%

139%

127%

127%

130%

128%

199%

123%

286%

178%

166%

142%

151%

152%

167%

152%

145%

124%

123%

130%

42,102

28,669

48,551

60,711

94,733

150,012

226,755

349,699

519,181

848,727

1,053,332

3,422,472

917

1,181

973

953

2,143

3,578

9,917

22,501

121,498

93,120

144,279

401,060

3,823,532

709

343

704,192

314,643

332,857

229,035

413,728

739,345

941

5,262

18,272

28,707

47,240

95,509

195,931

2,930,783

6,754,315

238%

247%

245%

226%

211%

204%

205%

201%

193%

202%

206%

178%

184%

155%

136%

133%

124%

125%

123%

125%

127%

128%

187%

119%

208%

160%

167%

144%

148%

152%

129%

139%

130%

128%

123%

130%

2,710,394

1,456,639

2,874,518

5,323,072

2,734,852

Subtotal

Total Americas

Europe Core

2,066,354

7,068,454

2018 (8)

2019

Subtotal

Europe Insolvency

Subtotal

Total Europe

231,543

2,941,937

153,995

1,610,634

194,609

3,069,127

310,342

5,633,414

Total PRA Group $

10,010,391 $

3,514,165 $

6,900,983 $

21,637,270 $

(1) 

Includes the acquisition date finance receivables portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions.

(2)  For our non-U.S. amounts, Purchase Price is presented at the exchange rate at the end of the quarter in which the pool was purchased. In addition, any 

purchase price adjustments that occur throughout the life of the pool are presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.

(3)  For our non-U.S. amounts, (cid:49)et Finance Receivables are presented at the December 31, 2019 exchange rate.

(4)  For our non-U.S. amounts, ERC-Historical Period Exchange Rates is presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.

(5)  For our non-U.S. amounts, TEC is presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.

(6)  For our non-U.S. amounts, ERC-Current Period Exchange Rates is presented at the December 31, 2019 exchange rate.

(7)  The Original Purchase Price Multiple represents the purchase price multiple at the end of the year of acquisition.

(8) 

Includes a $34.9 million finance receivables portfolio addition in the third quarter of 2018 relating to the accounting consolidation of a Polish investment 

fund.

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Supplemental Performance Data

Finance Receivables Portfolio Performance

The following tables show certain data related to our finance receivables portfolios. Certain adjustments, as noted in the 

footnotes to these tables, have been made to reduce the impact of foreign currency fluctuations on ERC and purchase price multiples.

The accounts represented in the insolvency tables are those portfolios of accounts that were in an insolvency status at the 

time of purchase. This contrasts with accounts in our Core portfolios that file for bankruptcy/insolvency protection after we purchase 

them, which continue to be tracked in their corresponding Core portfolio. Core customers sometimes file for bankruptcy/insolvency 

protection subsequent to our purchase of the related Core portfolio. When this occurs, we adjust our collection practices to comply 

with bankruptcy/insolvency rules and procedures; however, for accounting purposes, these accounts remain in the original Core 

portfolio. Insolvency accounts may be dismissed voluntarily or involuntarily subsequent to our purchase of the Insolvency portfolio. 

Dismissal occurs when the terms of the bankruptcy are not met by the petitioner. When this occurs, we are typically free to pursue 

collection outside of bankruptcy procedures; however, for accounting purposes, these accounts remain in the original Insolvency 

pool.

Purchase price multiples can vary over time due to a variety of factors, including pricing competition, supply levels, age of 

the receivables acquired, and changes in our operational efficiency. For example, increased pricing competition during the 2005 

to 2008 period negatively impacted purchase price multiples of our Core portfolio compared to prior years. Conversely, during 

the 2009 to 2011 period, additional supply occurred as a result of the economic downturn. This created unique and advantageous 

purchasing opportunities, particularly within the Insolvency market, relative to the prior four years. Purchase price multiples can 

also vary among types of finance receivables. For example, we generally incur lower collection costs on our Insolvency portfolio 

compared with our Core portfolio. This allows us, in general, to pay more for an Insolvency portfolio and experience lower purchase 

price multiples, while generating similar net income margins when compared with a Core portfolio.

When  competition  increases  and/or  supply  decreases,  pricing  often  becomes  negatively  impacted  relative  to  expected 

collections, and yields tend to trend lower. The opposite tends to occur when competition decreases and/or supply increases.

Within a given portfolio type, to the extent that lower purchase price multiples are the result of more competitive pricing and 

lower net yields, this will generally lead to higher amortization rates and lower profitability. As portfolio pricing becomes more 

favorable on a relative basis, our profitability will tend to increase. Profitability within given Core portfolio types may also be 

impacted by the age and quality of the receivables, which impact the cost to collect those accounts. Fresher accounts, for example, 

typically carry lower associated collection expenses, while older accounts and lower balance accounts typically carry higher costs 

and, as a result, require higher purchase price multiples to achieve the same net profitability as fresher paper.

Revenue recognition under ASC 310-30 is driven by estimates of the amount and timing of collections as well as the timing 

of those collections. We record new portfolio acquisitions based on our best estimate of the cash flows expected at acquisition, 

which reflects the uncertainties inherent in the acquisition of nonperforming loans and the results of our underwriting process. 

Subsequent to the initial booking, as we gain collection experience and confidence with a pool of accounts, we regularly update 

ERC. As a result, our estimate of total collections has often increased as pools have aged. These processes have tended to cause 

the ratio of ERC to purchase price for any given year of buying to gradually increase over time. Thus, all factors being equal in 

terms of pricing, one would typically tend to see a higher collection to purchase price ratio from a pool of accounts that was six 

years from acquisition than a pool that was just two years from acquisition.

We hold a beneficial interest in certain pools of finance receivables in Europe. Revenue recognition is under ASC Topic 

310-20, "Receivables - (cid:49)onrefundable Fees and Other Costs" where we compute a life-to-date yield on a retrospective basis and 

apply it to the ERC of the portfolio. Revenue on these pools is included in income recognized on finance receivables. In addition, 

these portfolios are included in the tables below as they perform economically similar to finance receivables accounted for under 

ASC 310-30.

The numbers presented in the following tables represent gross cash collections and do not reflect any costs to collect; therefore, 

they may not represent relative profitability. Due to all the factors described above, readers should be cautious when making 

comparisons of purchase price multiples among periods and between types of receivables.

Purchase Price Multiples
as of December 31, 2019
Amounts in thousands

Purchase Period Purchase Price (1)(2)
Americas Core

(cid:49)et Finance 
Receivables (3)

ERC-Historical 
Period Exchange 
Rates (4)

Total Estimated 
Collections (5)

ERC-Current 
Period Exchange 
Rates (6)

Current
Estimated
Purchase Price
Multiple

Original 
Estimated 
Purchase Price 
Multiple (7)

$

310%
361%
353%
268%
238%
229%
218%
239%
219%
204%
206%

238%
247%
245%
226%
211%
204%
205%
201%
193%
202%
206%

42,102
28,669
48,551
60,711
94,733
150,012
226,755
349,699
519,181
848,727
1,053,332
3,422,472

917
1,181
973
953
2,143
3,598
9,917
22,491
121,498
93,120
144,228
401,019
3,831,856

—
—
—
—
—
756
5,783
17,433
95,421
74,459
114,892
308,744
1,903,531

397,453
208,942
180,432
251,395
227,834
148,689
63,170
92,264
275,257
97,879
123,039
2,066,354
7,068,454

930,026 $
148,193
209,602
254,076
390,826
405,169
443,779
453,158
533,442
655,548
578,281
5,002,100

42,102 $
28,669
48,551
60,711
94,733
152,639
226,865
354,399
521,715
852,246
1,048,207
3,430,837

9,279 $
3,485
7,707
16,011
33,648
55,033
93,385
139,380
242,129
460,797
533,933
1,594,787

2,885,906 $
535,684
739,158
680,352
931,194
929,179
965,671
1,081,376
1,167,831
1,338,876
1,191,940
12,447,167

1996-2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Subtotal
Americas Insolvency
1996-2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Subtotal
Total Americas
Europe Core
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018 (8)
2019
Subtotal
Europe Insolvency
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Subtotal
Total Europe
Total PRA Group $
(1) 
(2)  For our non-U.S. amounts, Purchase Price is presented at the exchange rate at the end of the quarter in which the pool was purchased. In addition, any 

941
5,262
18,272
28,707
47,240
95,509
195,931
2,930,783
6,754,315
Includes the acquisition date finance receivables portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions.

835,958
546,872
370,103
392,377
354,923
218,044
87,773
116,896
348,811
127,257
157,675
3,556,689
16,003,856

917
1,181
973
953
2,143
3,578
9,917
22,501
121,498
93,120
144,279
401,060
3,823,532

18,155
29,294
60,651
47,604
56,199
98,439
310,342
5,633,414
21,637,270 $

10,876
19,226
41,858
38,409
45,586
75,588
231,543
2,941,937
10,010,391 $

306
3,083
12,507
24,417
39,424
74,258
153,995
1,610,634
3,514,165 $

1,061
5,970
18,160
28,931
46,969
93,518
194,609
3,069,127
6,900,983 $

709
343
704,192
314,643
332,857
229,035
413,728
739,345
2,734,852

40,542
24,995
2,278,261
748,127
578,421
351,216
522,374
779,136
5,323,072

875
431
823,116
345,214
333,375
232,858
407,945
730,704
2,874,518

20,409
20,334
796,762
419,909
348,270
246,752
345,256
512,702
2,710,394

—
—
188,892
161,210
190,927
157,850
269,292
488,468
1,456,639

210%
262%
205%
156%
156%
147%
139%
127%
127%
130%
128%

178%
184%
155%
136%
133%
124%
125%
123%
125%
127%
128%

199%
123%
286%
178%
166%
142%
151%
152%

187%
119%
208%
160%
167%
144%
148%
152%

129%
139%
130%
128%
123%
130%

167%
152%
145%
124%
123%
130%

purchase price adjustments that occur throughout the life of the pool are presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.

(3)  For our non-U.S. amounts, (cid:49)et Finance Receivables are presented at the December 31, 2019 exchange rate.
(4)  For our non-U.S. amounts, ERC-Historical Period Exchange Rates is presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.
(5)  For our non-U.S. amounts, TEC is presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.
(6)  For our non-U.S. amounts, ERC-Current Period Exchange Rates is presented at the December 31, 2019 exchange rate.
(7)  The Original Purchase Price Multiple represents the purchase price multiple at the end of the year of acquisition.
(8) 

Includes a $34.9 million finance receivables portfolio addition in the third quarter of 2018 relating to the accounting consolidation of a Polish investment 
fund.

30

31

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Portfolio Financial Information
For the Year Ended December 31, 2019
Amounts in thousands

The following table, which excludes any proceeds from cash sales of finance receivables, illustrates historical cash collections, 

by year, on our portfolios.

Cash

(cid:49)et Allowance 
Charges/
(Reversals) (3) (cid:49)et Revenue (3)(4)

(cid:49)et Finance 
Receivables as of 
December 31, 2019 (5)

9,279
3,485
7,707
16,011
33,648
55,033
93,385
139,380
242,129
460,797
533,933
1,594,787

$

Collections (3) Gross Revenue (3) Amortization (3)

(3,700) $
40
755
(370)
6,325
8,317
9,247
3,364
265
254
34
24,531

397,453
208,942
180,432
251,395
227,834
148,689
63,170
92,264
275,257
97,879
123,039
2,066,354
7,068,454

652
663
743
1,870
2,862
15,785
16,657
19,918
80,906
27,438
13,449
180,943
1,322,450

4,173 $
1,112
1,967
3,936
10,378
17,639
31,123
52,390
127,961
165,817
46,987
463,483

18,705 $
8,050
13,915
14,300
20,152
29,384
43,222
84,836
128,294
195,828
96,807
653,493

15,005 $
8,090
14,670
13,930
26,477
37,701
52,469
88,200
128,559
196,082
96,841
678,024

19,178 $
9,202
16,637
17,866
36,855
55,340
83,592
140,590
256,520
361,899
143,828
1,141,507

930,026 $
148,193
209,602
254,076
390,826
405,169
443,779
453,158
533,442
655,548
578,281
5,002,100

Purchase Period Purchase Price (1)(2)
Americas Core
1996-2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Subtotal
Americas Insolvency
1996-2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Subtotal
Total Americas
Europe Core
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018 (6)
2019
Subtotal
Europe Insolvency
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Subtotal
Total Europe
Total PRA Group $
(1) 
(2)  For our non-U.S. amounts, Purchase Price is presented at the exchange rate at the end of the quarter in which the pool was purchased. In addition, any 

—
(72)
(42)
522
—
—
408
644
24,025 $
Includes the acquisition date finance receivables portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions.

10,876
19,226
41,858
38,409
45,586
75,588
231,543
2,941,937
10,010,391 $

1,547
3,904
10,664
9,240
8,422
4,985
38,762
518,821
1,841,271 $

652
663
743
1,870
2,862
9,476
6,221
5,299
20,754
8,210
5,264
62,014
740,038

652
663
743
1,870
2,862
9,166
6,221
6,759
20,754
8,210
5,264
63,164
716,657

—
—
—
—
—
6,309
10,436
14,619
60,152
19,228
8,185
118,929
582,412

—
—
—
—
—
310
—
(1,460)
—
—
—
(1,150)
23,381

907
1,889
4,161
2,300
2,552
2,095
13,904
258,323
998,361 $

640
2,015
6,503
6,940
5,870
2,890
24,858
260,498
842,910 $

907
1,961
4,203
1,778
2,552
2,095
13,496
257,679
974,336 $

20,409
20,334
796,762
419,909
348,270
246,752
345,256
512,702
2,710,394

1,450
820
123,296
36,174
25,683
12,424
26,645
17,691
244,183

1,450
820
121,450
32,821
28,594
14,239
27,309
17,736
244,419

1,450
901
172,885
66,074
57,989
44,085
88,699
47,976
480,059

—
81
51,435
33,253
29,395
29,846
61,390
30,240
235,640

—
—
(1,846)
(3,353)
2,911
1,815
664
45
236

—
—
—
—
—
756
5,783
17,433
95,421
74,459
114,892
308,744
1,903,531

306
3,083
12,507
24,417
39,424
74,258
153,995
1,610,634
3,514,165

—
—
188,892
161,210
190,927
157,850
269,292
488,468
1,456,639

purchase price adjustments that occur throughout the life of the pool are presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.

(3)  For our non-U.S. amounts, amounts are presented using the average exchange rates during the current reporting period.
(4)  (cid:49)et Revenue refers to income recognized on finance receivables, net of allowance charges/(reversals).  
(5)  For our non-U.S. amounts, net finance receivables are presented at the December 31, 2019 exchange rate.
(6) 

Includes a $34.9 million finance receivables portfolio addition in the third quarter of 2018 relating to the accounting consolidation of a Polish investment 
fund.

32

33

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Cash Collections by Year, By Year of Purchase (1)

as of December 31, 2019

Amounts in thousands

Cash Collections

47,076

113,554

109,873

61,971

174,461

56,901

82,014

152,908

173,589

101,614

55,946

108,513

146,198

247,849

92,660

Purchase

Period

Purchase 

Price (2)(3)

1996-

2009

Americas Core

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Total

1996-2009 $

930,026 $1,647,666 $ 295,679 $ 253,544 $ 201,640 $ 146,383 $ 101,829 $

71,173 $

45,734 $

30,452 $

23,272 $

19,178 $ 2,836,550

Subtotal

5,002,100

1,647,666

342,755

429,069

542,875

656,508

752,995

844,768

837,196

860,927

945,179

1,141,507

9,001,445

Americas Insolvency

1996-2009

204,343

147,101

156,704

145,418

39,486

104,499

125,020

15,218

66,379

17,388

109,259

121,717

82,752

103,610

52,528

56,980

101,873

85,816

94,141

82,596

37,045

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

38,110

73,793

97,267

194,026

253,448

116,951

—

—

—

—

7,617

43,649

76,915

80,079

81,679

50,880

3,395

—

—

—

—

3,175

2,347

45,760

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

4,297

2,954

24,515

48,711

59,981

120,789

170,311

228,432

138,723

—

—

—

3,629

5,008

35,996

60,715

63,386

44,313

17,892

18,869

—

—

—

2,198

1,326

246,365

100,263

40,368

—

—

—

3,921

4,366

6,175

—

—

—

15,587

31,991

40,042

78,880

114,219

185,898

256,531

107,327

—

—

11,140

21,622

27,797

56,449

82,244

126,605

194,605

278,733

122,712

—

9,202

16,637

17,866

36,855

55,340

83,592

140,590

256,520

361,899

143,828

2,234

2,425

3,726

29,337

47,781

37,350

20,143

30,426

49,093

—

—

2,038

1,239

86,156

78,915

17,894

—

—

3,207

5,013

12,703

1,233

—

—

1,103

1,352

1,584

4,284

21,948

28,759

19,769

25,047

97,315

6,700

—

1,996

1,331

80,858

72,603

56,033

24,326

—

2,620

4,783

12,856

7,862

642

—

652

663

743

1,870

2,862

15,785

16,657

19,918

80,906

27,438

13,449

1,450

901

66,074

57,989

44,085

88,699

47,976

1,547

3,904

10,664

9,240

8,422

4,985

507,017

690,607

619,641

836,462

768,222

741,478

730,449

642,580

484,611

143,828

835,040

545,692

369,129

391,424

352,780

214,132

77,856

94,260

227,314

34,138

13,449

37,097

22,752

379,111

249,875

118,012

113,025

47,976

15,597

21,020

42,398

18,335

9,064

4,985

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

5

—

—

—

—

—

5

2,066,354

204,343

186,587

276,421

354,205

469,866

458,451

344,214

249,808

222,515

207,861

180,943

3,155,214

7,068,454

1,852,009

529,342

705,490

897,080

1,126,374

1,211,446

1,188,982

1,087,004

1,083,442

1,153,040

1,322,450

12,156,659

11,604

8,995

7,068

5,641

8,540

153,180

291,980

220,765

206,255

172,885

1,291,430

2,941,937

11,604

16,063

167,366

350,513

404,982

429,163

472,165

518,821

2,370,677

7,251

14,462

22,156

28,763

38,762

111,399

$10,010,391 $1,852,009 $ 529,342 $ 705,490 $ 908,684 $1,142,437 $1,378,812 $1,539,495 $1,491,986 $1,512,605 $1,625,205 $1,841,271 $14,527,336

(1)  For our non-U.S. amounts, cash collections are presented using the average exchange rates during the cash collection period. 

(2) 

Includes the acquisition date finance receivables portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions. 

(3)  For our non-U.S. amounts, Purchase Price is presented at the exchange rate at the end of the quarter in which the portfolio was purchased. In addition, any 

purchase price adjustments that occur throughout the life of the pool are presented at the period end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.

(4) 

Includes a $34.9 million finance receivables portfolio addition in the third quarter of 2018 relating to the accounting consolidation of a Polish investment 

148,193

209,602

254,076

390,826

405,169

443,779

453,158

533,442

655,548

578,281

397,453

208,942

180,432

251,395

227,834

148,689

63,170

92,264

275,257

97,879

123,039

20,409

20,334

796,762

419,909

348,270

246,752

345,256

512,702

10,876

19,226

41,858

38,409

45,586

75,588

231,543

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Subtotal

Total

Americas

Europe Core

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018 (4)

2019

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Subtotal

Total

Europe

Total PRA

Group

fund. 

Subtotal

2,710,394

Europe Insolvency

11,604

16,063

167,361

343,262

390,520

407,007

443,402

480,059

2,259,278

Portfolio Financial Information

For the Year Ended December 31, 2019

Amounts in thousands

Purchase Period Purchase Price (1)(2)

Collections (3) Gross Revenue (3) Amortization (3)

(Reversals) (3) (cid:49)et Revenue (3)(4)

Cash

(cid:49)et Allowance 

Charges/

(cid:49)et Finance 

Receivables as of 

December 31, 2019 (5)

Americas Core

1996-2009

$

930,026 $

19,178 $

15,005 $

4,173 $

(3,700) $

18,705 $

Subtotal

5,002,100

1,141,507

Americas Insolvency

1996-2009

Subtotal

Total Americas

Europe Core

2,066,354

7,068,454

180,943

1,322,450

148,193

209,602

254,076

390,826

405,169

443,779

453,158

533,442

655,548

578,281

397,453

208,942

180,432

251,395

227,834

148,689

63,170

92,264

275,257

97,879

123,039

20,409

20,334

796,762

419,909

348,270

246,752

345,256

512,702

10,876

19,226

41,858

38,409

45,586

75,588

231,543

2,941,937

9,202

16,637

17,866

36,855

55,340

83,592

140,590

256,520

361,899

143,828

652

663

743

1,870

2,862

15,785

16,657

19,918

80,906

27,438

13,449

1,450

901

172,885

66,074

57,989

44,085

88,699

47,976

1,547

3,904

10,664

9,240

8,422

4,985

38,762

518,821

8,090

14,670

13,930

26,477

37,701

52,469

88,200

128,559

196,082

96,841

678,024

652

663

743

1,870

2,862

9,476

6,221

5,299

20,754

8,210

5,264

62,014

740,038

1,450

820

121,450

32,821

28,594

14,239

27,309

17,736

907

1,889

4,161

2,300

2,552

2,095

13,904

258,323

1,112

1,967

3,936

10,378

17,639

31,123

52,390

127,961

165,817

46,987

463,483

—

—

—

—

—

6,309

10,436

14,619

60,152

19,228

8,185

118,929

582,412

—

81

51,435

33,253

29,395

29,846

61,390

30,240

640

2,015

6,503

6,940

5,870

2,890

24,858

260,498

40

755

(370)

6,325

8,317

9,247

3,364

265

254

34

24,531

—

—

—

—

—

310

—

—

—

—

(1,460)

(1,150)

23,381

—

—

(1,846)

(3,353)

2,911

1,815

664

45

236

—

(72)

(42)

522

—

—

408

644

8,050

13,915

14,300

20,152

29,384

43,222

84,836

128,294

195,828

96,807

653,493

652

663

743

1,870

2,862

9,166

6,221

6,759

20,754

8,210

5,264

63,164

716,657

1,450

820

123,296

36,174

25,683

12,424

26,645

17,691

244,183

907

1,961

4,203

1,778

2,552

2,095

13,496

257,679

2,710,394

480,059

244,419

235,640

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2018 (6)

2019

Subtotal

Europe Insolvency

Subtotal

Total Europe

fund.

Total PRA Group $

10,010,391 $

1,841,271 $

998,361 $

842,910 $

24,025 $

974,336 $

(1) 

Includes the acquisition date finance receivables portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions.

(2)  For our non-U.S. amounts, Purchase Price is presented at the exchange rate at the end of the quarter in which the pool was purchased. In addition, any 

purchase price adjustments that occur throughout the life of the pool are presented at the period-end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.

(3)  For our non-U.S. amounts, amounts are presented using the average exchange rates during the current reporting period.

(4)  (cid:49)et Revenue refers to income recognized on finance receivables, net of allowance charges/(reversals).  

(5)  For our non-U.S. amounts, net finance receivables are presented at the December 31, 2019 exchange rate.

(6) 

Includes a $34.9 million finance receivables portfolio addition in the third quarter of 2018 relating to the accounting consolidation of a Polish investment 

9,279

3,485

7,707

16,011

33,648

55,033

93,385

139,380

242,129

460,797

533,933

1,594,787

—

—

—

—

—

756

5,783

17,433

95,421

74,459

114,892

308,744

1,903,531

—

—

188,892

161,210

190,927

157,850

269,292

488,468

1,456,639

306

3,083

12,507

24,417

39,424

74,258

153,995

1,610,634

3,514,165

The following table, which excludes any proceeds from cash sales of finance receivables, illustrates historical cash collections, 

by year, on our portfolios.

Cash Collections by Year, By Year of Purchase (1)
as of December 31, 2019
Amounts in thousands

Cash Collections

Purchase
Period

Purchase 
Price (2)(3)

1996-
2009

Americas Core

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Total

1996-2009 $

930,026 $1,647,666 $ 295,679 $ 253,544 $ 201,640 $ 146,383 $ 101,829 $

71,173 $

45,734 $

30,452 $

23,272 $

19,178 $ 2,836,550

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

148,193

209,602

254,076

390,826

405,169

443,779

453,158

533,442

655,548

578,281

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

47,076

113,554

109,873

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

61,971

174,461

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

56,901

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

82,014

152,908

173,589

101,614

—

—

—

—

—

—

55,946

108,513

146,198

247,849

92,660

—

—

—

—

—

38,110

73,793

97,267

194,026

253,448

116,951

—

—

—

—

24,515

48,711

59,981

120,789

170,311

228,432

138,723

—

—

—

15,587

31,991

40,042

78,880

114,219

185,898

256,531

107,327

—

—

11,140

21,622

27,797

56,449

82,244

126,605

194,605

278,733

122,712

—

9,202

16,637

17,866

36,855

55,340

83,592

140,590

256,520

361,899

143,828

507,017

690,607

619,641

836,462

768,222

741,478

730,449

642,580

484,611

143,828

Subtotal

5,002,100

1,647,666

342,755

429,069

542,875

656,508

752,995

844,768

837,196

860,927

945,179

1,141,507

9,001,445

Americas Insolvency

1996-2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

397,453

208,942

180,432

251,395

227,834

148,689

63,170

92,264

275,257

97,879

123,039

204,343

147,101

156,704

145,418

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

39,486

104,499

125,020

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

15,218

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

66,379

17,388

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

109,259

121,717

82,752

103,610

52,528

—

—

—

—

—

—

56,980

101,873

85,816

94,141

82,596

37,045

—

—

—

—

—

7,617

43,649

76,915

80,079

81,679

50,880

3,395

—

—

—

—

3,629

5,008

35,996

60,715

63,386

44,313

17,892

18,869

—

—

—

2,234

2,425

3,726

29,337

47,781

37,350

20,143

30,426

49,093

—

—

1,103

1,352

1,584

4,284

21,948

28,759

19,769

25,047

97,315

6,700

—

652

663

743

1,870

2,862

15,785

16,657

19,918

80,906

27,438

13,449

835,040

545,692

369,129

391,424

352,780

214,132

77,856

94,260

227,314

34,138

13,449

Subtotal

2,066,354

204,343

186,587

276,421

354,205

469,866

458,451

344,214

249,808

222,515

207,861

180,943

3,155,214

7,068,454

1,852,009

529,342

705,490

897,080

1,126,374

1,211,446

1,188,982

1,087,004

1,083,442

1,153,040

1,322,450

12,156,659

Subtotal

2,710,394

Europe Insolvency

Total
Americas
Europe Core

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017
2018 (4)
2019

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Subtotal

Total
Europe

Total PRA
Group

20,409

20,334

796,762

419,909

348,270

246,752

345,256

512,702

10,876

19,226

41,858

38,409

45,586

75,588

231,543

2,941,937

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

11,604

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

8,995

7,068

5,641

8,540

3,175

2,347

—

—

—

—

—

—

153,180

291,980

—

—

—

—

—

45,760

—

—

—

—

2,198

1,326

246,365

100,263

40,368

—

—

—

2,038

1,239

1,996

1,331

1,450

901

37,097

22,752

220,765

206,255

172,885

1,291,430

86,156

78,915

17,894

—

—

80,858

72,603

56,033

24,326

—

66,074

57,989

44,085

88,699

47,976

379,111

249,875

118,012

113,025

47,976

11,604

16,063

167,361

343,262

390,520

407,007

443,402

480,059

2,259,278

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

5

—

—

—

—

—

5

4,297

2,954

—

—

—

—

3,921

4,366

6,175

—

—

—

3,207

5,013

12,703

1,233

—

—

2,620

4,783

12,856

7,862

642

—

1,547

3,904

10,664

9,240

8,422

4,985

15,597

21,020

42,398

18,335

9,064

4,985

7,251

14,462

22,156

28,763

38,762

111,399

11,604

16,063

167,366

350,513

404,982

429,163

472,165

518,821

2,370,677

$10,010,391 $1,852,009 $ 529,342 $ 705,490 $ 908,684 $1,142,437 $1,378,812 $1,539,495 $1,491,986 $1,512,605 $1,625,205 $1,841,271 $14,527,336

32

33

(1)  For our non-U.S. amounts, cash collections are presented using the average exchange rates during the cash collection period. 
(2) 
(3)  For our non-U.S. amounts, Purchase Price is presented at the exchange rate at the end of the quarter in which the portfolio was purchased. In addition, any 

Includes the acquisition date finance receivables portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions. 

(4) 

purchase price adjustments that occur throughout the life of the pool are presented at the period end exchange rate for the respective quarter of purchase.
Includes a $34.9 million finance receivables portfolio addition in the third quarter of 2018 relating to the accounting consolidation of a Polish investment 
fund. 

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   35

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Estimated Remaining Collections

Collections Productivity (U.S. Portfolio)

The following chart shows our ERC of $6,754.3 million at December 31, 2019 by geographical region (amounts in 

The following table displays certain collections productivity measures.

millions).

Cash Collections per Collector Hour Paid

U.S. Portfolio

Call center and other cash collections (1)

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

$

$

$

$

$

139

139

124

128

121

101

107

104

161

129

125

112

168

167

177

153

143

141

145

139

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter

(1)  Represents total  cash  collections  less  internal  legal  cash  collections,  external  legal  cash  collections  and  Insolvency cash 

collections from trustee-administered accounts.

Portfolio Acquisitions

The following graph shows the purchase price of our portfolios by year since 2009.  It also includes the acquisition date 

finance receivable portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions.

Seasonality

Cash collections in the Americas tend to be higher in the first half of the year due to the high volume of income tax refunds 
received by individuals in the U.S., and trend lower as the year progresses. Customer payment patterns in all of the countries in 
which we operate can be affected by seasonal employment trends, income tax refunds, and holiday spending habits.

Cash Collections

The following table displays our quarterly cash collections by geography and portfolio type, for the periods indicated.

Cash Collections by Geography and Type
Amounts in thousands

2019

2018

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Americas Core

$ 276,639

$ 279,902

$ 294,243

$ 290,723

$ 233,937

$ 231,253

$ 233,752

$ 246,237

Americas Insolvency

40,801

45,759

49,770

44,613

48,000

48,518

56,063

55,280

Europe Core

126,649

118,917

117,635

116,858

113,154

102,780

109,359

118,109

Europe Insolvency

12,520

8,639

8,626

8,977

7,618

6,731

7,460

6,954

Total Cash Collections

$ 456,609

$ 453,217

$ 470,274

$ 461,171

$ 402,709

$ 389,282

$ 406,634

$ 426,580

The following table provides additional details on the composition of our U.S. Core cash collections for the periods indicated.

U.S. Core Portfolio Cash Collections by Source
Amounts in thousands

2019

2018

The following table displays our quarterly portfolio acquisitions for the periods indicated.

Portfolio Acquisitions by Geography and Type

Amounts in thousands

2019

2018

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Americas Core

$ 118,153

$ 168,185

$ 121,996

$ 169,189

$172,511

$ 170,426

$ 182,768

$ 131,427

Americas Insolvency

Europe Core

Europe Insolvency

22,650

218,919

42,613

26,311

64,728

19,772

26,092

136,344

4,715

48,243

94,283

7,134

52,871

231,810

33,661

17,151

45,754

4,159

16,651

19,403

2,577

13,436

18,000

5,392

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Total Portfolio Acquisitions

$ 402,335

$ 278,996

$ 289,147

$ 318,849

$ 490,853

$ 237,490

$ 221,399

$ 168,255

Call Center and Other
Collections
External Legal
Collections
Internal Legal
Collections
Total U.S.-Core Cash
Collections

$ 139,399

$ 149,782

$ 160,479

$ 169,753

$ 134,543

$ 137,325

$ 143,527

$ 155,448

58,831

64,301

63,490

57,419

47,410

41,935

40,631

38,891

33,944

35,679

38,065

37,018

30,724

32,064

32,532

33,423

$ 232,174

$ 249,762

$ 262,034

$ 264,190

$ 212,677

$ 211,324

$ 216,690

$ 227,762

34

35

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Estimated Remaining Collections

millions).

The following chart shows our ERC of $6,754.3 million at December 31, 2019 by geographical region (amounts in 

The following table displays certain collections productivity measures.

Collections Productivity (U.S. Portfolio)

Cash Collections per Collector Hour Paid
U.S. Portfolio

Call center and other cash collections (1)

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

$

$

139

139

124

128

$

121

101

107

104

$

161

129

125

112

$

168

167

177

153

143

141

145

139

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter

(1)  Represents total  cash  collections  less  internal  legal  cash  collections,  external  legal  cash  collections  and  Insolvency cash 

collections from trustee-administered accounts.

Portfolio Acquisitions

The following graph shows the purchase price of our portfolios by year since 2009.  It also includes the acquisition date 

finance receivable portfolios that were acquired through our business acquisitions.

Seasonality

Cash Collections

Cash collections in the Americas tend to be higher in the first half of the year due to the high volume of income tax refunds 

received by individuals in the U.S., and trend lower as the year progresses. Customer payment patterns in all of the countries in 

which we operate can be affected by seasonal employment trends, income tax refunds, and holiday spending habits.

The following table displays our quarterly cash collections by geography and portfolio type, for the periods indicated.

Cash Collections by Geography and Type

Amounts in thousands

2019

2018

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Americas Core

$ 276,639

$ 279,902

$ 294,243

$ 290,723

$ 233,937

$ 231,253

$ 233,752

$ 246,237

Americas Insolvency

40,801

45,759

49,770

44,613

48,000

48,518

56,063

55,280

Europe Core

126,649

118,917

117,635

116,858

113,154

102,780

109,359

118,109

Europe Insolvency

12,520

8,639

8,626

8,977

7,618

6,731

7,460

6,954

Total Cash Collections

$ 456,609

$ 453,217

$ 470,274

$ 461,171

$ 402,709

$ 389,282

$ 406,634

$ 426,580

The following table provides additional details on the composition of our U.S. Core cash collections for the periods indicated.

U.S. Core Portfolio Cash Collections by Source

Amounts in thousands

2019

2018

Call Center and Other

Collections

External Legal

Collections

Internal Legal

Collections

Total U.S.-Core Cash

Collections

$ 139,399

$ 149,782

$ 160,479

$ 169,753

$ 134,543

$ 137,325

$ 143,527

$ 155,448

58,831

64,301

63,490

57,419

47,410

41,935

40,631

38,891

33,944

35,679

38,065

37,018

30,724

32,064

32,532

33,423

$ 232,174

$ 249,762

$ 262,034

$ 264,190

$ 212,677

$ 211,324

$ 216,690

$ 227,762

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Total Portfolio Acquisitions

$ 402,335

$ 278,996

$ 289,147

$ 318,849

$ 490,853

$ 237,490

$ 221,399

$ 168,255

The following table displays our quarterly portfolio acquisitions for the periods indicated.

Portfolio Acquisitions by Geography and Type
Amounts in thousands

2019

2018

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Americas Core

$ 118,153

$ 168,185

$ 121,996

$ 169,189

$172,511

$ 170,426

$ 182,768

$ 131,427

Americas Insolvency

Europe Core

Europe Insolvency

22,650

218,919

42,613

26,311

64,728

19,772

26,092

136,344

4,715

48,243

94,283

7,134

52,871

231,810

33,661

17,151

45,754

4,159

16,651

19,403

2,577

13,436

18,000

5,392

34

35

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Portfolio Acquisitions by Stratifications (U.S. Only)

The following table categorizes our quarterly U.S. portfolio acquisitions for the periods indicated into major asset type and 

delinquency category. Since our inception in 1996, we have acquired more than 54 million customer accounts in the U.S.  

of 2019. 

In December 2018, we sold 79% of our interest in RCB's servicing platform which provided us with approximately $40 

million of net cash proceeds. We received 25% of the proceeds on December 20, 2018 and the remaining 75% in the first quarter 

U.S. Portfolio Acquisitions by Major Asset Type
Amounts in thousands

2019

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

2018

Q4

Major Credit Cards
Private Label Credit
Cards
Consumer Finance

Auto Related

Total

$ 30,337

24.3% $ 50,500

40.1% $ 39,468

28.2% $ 43,440

27.0% $ 65,025

32.5%

85,351

68.4%

72,714

57.7%

2,046

6,991

1.7%

5.6%

2,090

638

1.7%

0.5%

70,536

28,649

1,407

50.4% 84,515

52.6% 100,633

50.3%

20.4%

2,424

1.5%

2,619

1.3%

1.0% 30,358

18.9%

31,892

15.9%

$124,725

100.0% $125,942 100.0% $ 140,060 100.0% $160,737 100.0% $200,169

100.0%

U.S. Portfolio Acquisitions by Delinquency Category
Amounts in thousands

2019

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

2018

Q4

Fresh (1)
Primary (2)
Secondary (3)
Tertiary (3)
Other (4)
Total Core

$ 35,330

34.6% $ 27,600

27.1% $

33,288

29.3% $ 51,212

45.6% $ 61,730

5,796

5.7%

52,899

51.8%

4,409

3,641

4.3%

3.6%

17,658

50,082

6,483

—

17.3%

49.2%

6.4%

—%

40,027

34,920

5,733

—

35.1%

30.6%

5.0%

—%

19,725

35,857

4,435

1,265

17.5%

31.9%

3.9%

1.1%

39,690

45,878

—

—

42.0%

26.9%

31.1%

—%

—%

102,075

100.0%

101,823

100.0%

113,968

100.0%

112,494

100.0%

147,298

100.0%

Insolvency

22,650

Total

$ 124,725

24,119

$ 125,942

26,092

$ 140,060

48,243

$ 160,737

52,871

$ 200,169

(1)  Fresh accounts are typically past due 120 to 270 days, charged-off by the credit originator and are either being sold prior to 

any post-charge-off collection activity or placement with a third-party for the first time.

(2)  Primary accounts are typically 360 to 450 days past due and charged-off and have been previously placed with one contingent 

fee servicer.

(3)  Secondary and tertiary accounts are typically more than 660 days past due and charged-off and have been placed with two or 

three contingent fee servicers.

(4)  Other accounts are typically two to three years or more past due and charged-off and have previously been worked by four 

or more contingent fee servicers.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We manage our liquidity to help provide access to sufficient funding to meet our business needs and financial obligations. 
As  of  December 31,  2019,  cash  and  cash  equivalents  totaled  $119.8  million.  Of  the  cash  and  cash  equivalent  balance  as  of 
December 31,  2019, $109.7  million consisted  of  cash  on hand  related to international  operations  with indefinitely  reinvested 
earnings. See the "Undistributed Earnings of International Subsidiaries" section below for more information. 

At December 31, 2019, we had approximately $2.8 billion in borrowings outstanding with $474.6 million of availability 
under  all  of  our  credit  facilities  (subject  to  the  borrowing  base  and  applicable  debt  covenants).  Considering  borrowing  base 
restrictions, as of December 31, 2019, the amount available to be drawn was $271.1 million. Of the $474.6 million of borrowing 
availability, $122.5 million was available under our European credit facility, and  $349.2 million was available under our (cid:49)orth 
American credit facility.  Of the $271.1 million available considering borrowing base restrictions, $121.8 million was available 
under our European credit facility, and $146.5 million was available under our (cid:49)orth American credit facility. For more information, 
see (cid:49)ote 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

An additional funding source for our Europe operations is interest-bearing deposits. Per the terms of our European credit 
facility, we are permitted to obtain interest-bearing deposit funding of up to SEK 1.2 billion (approximately $128.4 million as of 
December 31, 2019). Interest-bearing deposits as of December 31, 2019 were $106.2 million. 

We determined that we were in compliance with the covenants of our financing arrangements as of December 31, 2019.

We have the ability to slow the purchase of finance receivables if necessary, with low impact to current year cash collections. 

For example, we invested $1,289.3 million in portfolio acquisitions in 2019. The portfolios acquired in 2019 generated $210.2 

million of cash collections, representing only 11.4% of 2019 cash collections. 

Contractual obligations over the next year are primarily related to debt maturities and purchase commitments. Our (cid:49)orth 

American credit facility expires in May 2022. Our European credit facility expires in February 2021. Of our $425.0 million in 

long-term debt outstanding at December 31, 2019, $10.0 million in principal is due within one year. Additionally, the $287.5 

million principal amount of the 3.00% Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020  is due August 1, 2020. Based upon our current availability 

considering borrowing base restrictions in (cid:49)orth America ($146.5 million), our cash on hand, our current ability to negotiate 

extensions or renew our lines of credit and to secure additional financing in the open market, and our strong operating cash flows, 

we believe that we have the ability to settle this instrument in cash at maturity.

We have in place forward flow commitments for the purchase of nonperforming loans primarily over the next 12 months 

with a maximum purchase price of $497.5 million, as of December 31, 2019. The $497.5 million includes $226.0 million for the 

Americas and $271.5 million for Europe. We may also enter into new or renewed forward flow commitments and close on spot 

transactions in addition to the aforementioned forward flow agreements. 

On May 10, 2017, we reached a settlement with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) in regard to the IRS assertion that tax 

revenue recognition using the cost recovery method did not clearly reflect taxable income. In accordance with the settlement, our 

tax accounting method to recognize finance receivables revenue changed effective with tax year 2017. Under the new method, a 

portion of the annual collections amortizes principal and the remaining portion is taxable income. The revenue related to the 

difference in timing between the new method and the cost recovery method will be included evenly into our tax filings over four 

years effective with tax year 2017. We estimate the related tax payments to be approximately $9.3 million per quarter through the 

year 2020.  (cid:49)o interest or penalties were assessed as part of the settlement.

We believe that funds generated from operations and from cash collections on finance receivables, together with existing 

cash and available borrowings under our revolving credit facilities will be sufficient to finance our operations, planned capital 

expenditures, forward flow purchase commitments, and additional portfolio purchases during the next twelve months. Business 

acquisitions, adverse outcomes in pending litigation or higher than expected levels of portfolio purchasing could require additional 

The following table summarizes our cash flow activity for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts 

financing from other sources.

Cash Flows Analysis

in thousands):

Total cash provided by (used in):

Operating activities

Investing activities

Financing activities

Effect of exchange rate on cash

Operating Activities

2019

2018

2017

$

133,388

$

80,866

$

(441,190)

339,523

(6,609)

(387,251)

294,926

(10,362)

15,475

(294,960)

295,698

10,016

(cid:49)et increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

$

25,112

$

(21,821) $

26,229

The change in our cash flows from operating activities in 2019 was primarily due to cash collections recognized as revenue 

offset by cash paid for operating expenses, interest, and income taxes.  Key drivers of operating activities were adjusted for (i) 

non-cash items included in net income such as provisions for unrealized gains and losses, depreciation and amortization, deferred 

taxes, hedged derivatives, and stock-based compensation and (ii) changes in the balances of operating assets and liabilities, which 

can vary significantly in the normal course of business due to the amount and timing of payments. 

36

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Portfolio Acquisitions by Stratifications (U.S. Only)

The following table categorizes our quarterly U.S. portfolio acquisitions for the periods indicated into major asset type and 

delinquency category. Since our inception in 1996, we have acquired more than 54 million customer accounts in the U.S.  

U.S. Portfolio Acquisitions by Major Asset Type

Amounts in thousands

2019

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

2018

Q4

2018

Q4

Major Credit Cards

$ 30,337

24.3% $ 50,500

40.1% $ 39,468

28.2% $ 43,440

27.0% $ 65,025

32.5%

Private Label Credit

Cards

Consumer Finance

Auto Related

Total

85,351

68.4%

72,714

57.7%

50.4% 84,515

52.6% 100,633

50.3%

2,046

6,991

1.7%

5.6%

2,090

638

1.7%

0.5%

20.4%

2,424

1.5%

2,619

1.3%

1.0% 30,358

18.9%

31,892

15.9%

70,536

28,649

1,407

$124,725

100.0% $125,942 100.0% $ 140,060 100.0% $160,737 100.0% $200,169

100.0%

U.S. Portfolio Acquisitions by Delinquency Category

Amounts in thousands

2019

Q4

Q3

Q2

Q1

Fresh (1)

Primary (2)

Tertiary (3)

Other (4)

Total Core

Insolvency

Total

$ 35,330

34.6% $ 27,600

27.1% $

33,288

29.3% $ 51,212

45.6% $ 61,730

5,796

5.7%

Secondary (3)

52,899

51.8%

4,409

3,641

4.3%

3.6%

17,658

50,082

6,483

—

17.3%

49.2%

6.4%

—%

40,027

34,920

5,733

—

35.1%

30.6%

5.0%

—%

19,725

35,857

4,435

1,265

17.5%

31.9%

3.9%

1.1%

39,690

45,878

—

—

42.0%

26.9%

31.1%

—%

—%

102,075

100.0%

101,823

100.0%

113,968

100.0%

112,494

100.0%

147,298

100.0%

22,650

$ 124,725

24,119

$ 125,942

26,092

$ 140,060

48,243

$ 160,737

52,871

$ 200,169

(1)  Fresh accounts are typically past due 120 to 270 days, charged-off by the credit originator and are either being sold prior to 

any post-charge-off collection activity or placement with a third-party for the first time.

(2)  Primary accounts are typically 360 to 450 days past due and charged-off and have been previously placed with one contingent 

(3)  Secondary and tertiary accounts are typically more than 660 days past due and charged-off and have been placed with two or 

(4)  Other accounts are typically two to three years or more past due and charged-off and have previously been worked by four 

fee servicer.

three contingent fee servicers.

or more contingent fee servicers.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We manage our liquidity to help provide access to sufficient funding to meet our business needs and financial obligations. 

As  of  December 31,  2019,  cash  and  cash  equivalents  totaled  $119.8  million.  Of  the  cash  and  cash  equivalent  balance  as  of 

December 31,  2019, $109.7  million consisted  of  cash  on hand  related to international  operations  with indefinitely  reinvested 

earnings. See the "Undistributed Earnings of International Subsidiaries" section below for more information. 

At December 31, 2019, we had approximately $2.8 billion in borrowings outstanding with $474.6 million of availability 

under  all  of  our  credit  facilities  (subject  to  the  borrowing  base  and  applicable  debt  covenants).  Considering  borrowing  base 

restrictions, as of December 31, 2019, the amount available to be drawn was $271.1 million. Of the $474.6 million of borrowing 

availability, $122.5 million was available under our European credit facility, and  $349.2 million was available under our (cid:49)orth 

American credit facility.  Of the $271.1 million available considering borrowing base restrictions, $121.8 million was available 

under our European credit facility, and $146.5 million was available under our (cid:49)orth American credit facility. For more information, 

see (cid:49)ote 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

An additional funding source for our Europe operations is interest-bearing deposits. Per the terms of our European credit 

facility, we are permitted to obtain interest-bearing deposit funding of up to SEK 1.2 billion (approximately $128.4 million as of 

December 31, 2019). Interest-bearing deposits as of December 31, 2019 were $106.2 million. 

In December 2018, we sold 79% of our interest in RCB's servicing platform which provided us with approximately $40 
million of net cash proceeds. We received 25% of the proceeds on December 20, 2018 and the remaining 75% in the first quarter 
of 2019. 

We determined that we were in compliance with the covenants of our financing arrangements as of December 31, 2019.

We have the ability to slow the purchase of finance receivables if necessary, with low impact to current year cash collections. 
For example, we invested $1,289.3 million in portfolio acquisitions in 2019. The portfolios acquired in 2019 generated $210.2 
million of cash collections, representing only 11.4% of 2019 cash collections. 

Contractual obligations over the next year are primarily related to debt maturities and purchase commitments. Our (cid:49)orth 
American credit facility expires in May 2022. Our European credit facility expires in February 2021. Of our $425.0 million in 
long-term debt outstanding at December 31, 2019, $10.0 million in principal is due within one year. Additionally, the $287.5 
million principal amount of the 3.00% Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020  is due August 1, 2020. Based upon our current availability 
considering borrowing base restrictions in (cid:49)orth America ($146.5 million), our cash on hand, our current ability to negotiate 
extensions or renew our lines of credit and to secure additional financing in the open market, and our strong operating cash flows, 
we believe that we have the ability to settle this instrument in cash at maturity.

We have in place forward flow commitments for the purchase of nonperforming loans primarily over the next 12 months 
with a maximum purchase price of $497.5 million, as of December 31, 2019. The $497.5 million includes $226.0 million for the 
Americas and $271.5 million for Europe. We may also enter into new or renewed forward flow commitments and close on spot 
transactions in addition to the aforementioned forward flow agreements. 

On May 10, 2017, we reached a settlement with the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) in regard to the IRS assertion that tax 
revenue recognition using the cost recovery method did not clearly reflect taxable income. In accordance with the settlement, our 
tax accounting method to recognize finance receivables revenue changed effective with tax year 2017. Under the new method, a 
portion of the annual collections amortizes principal and the remaining portion is taxable income. The revenue related to the 
difference in timing between the new method and the cost recovery method will be included evenly into our tax filings over four 
years effective with tax year 2017. We estimate the related tax payments to be approximately $9.3 million per quarter through the 
year 2020.  (cid:49)o interest or penalties were assessed as part of the settlement.

We believe that funds generated from operations and from cash collections on finance receivables, together with existing 
cash and available borrowings under our revolving credit facilities will be sufficient to finance our operations, planned capital 
expenditures, forward flow purchase commitments, and additional portfolio purchases during the next twelve months. Business 
acquisitions, adverse outcomes in pending litigation or higher than expected levels of portfolio purchasing could require additional 
financing from other sources.

Cash Flows Analysis

The following table summarizes our cash flow activity for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts 

in thousands):

Total cash provided by (used in):

Operating activities

Investing activities

Financing activities

Effect of exchange rate on cash

2019

2018

2017

$

133,388

$

80,866

$

(441,190)

339,523

(6,609)

(387,251)

294,926

(10,362)

15,475

(294,960)

295,698

10,016

(cid:49)et increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

$

25,112

$

(21,821) $

26,229

Operating Activities

The change in our cash flows from operating activities in 2019 was primarily due to cash collections recognized as revenue 
offset by cash paid for operating expenses, interest, and income taxes.  Key drivers of operating activities were adjusted for (i) 
non-cash items included in net income such as provisions for unrealized gains and losses, depreciation and amortization, deferred 
taxes, hedged derivatives, and stock-based compensation and (ii) changes in the balances of operating assets and liabilities, which 
can vary significantly in the normal course of business due to the amount and timing of payments. 

36

37

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(cid:49)et cash provided by operating activities increased $52.5 million or 65.0% in 2019 mainly driven by higher net income of 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

$21.9 million and a $26.6 million gain on sale in 2018 of RCB. 

Investing Activities

Cash used in investing activities is normally driven by acquisitions of nonperforming loans and purchases of investments.  
Cash provided by investing activities is mainly driven by cash collections applied on finance receivables and proceeds from the 
sale of investments and subsidiaries.  

(cid:49)et cash used in investing activities increased $53.9 million or 13.9% in 2019,  primarily from a $125.6 million increase in 
acquisitions of finance receivables, $57.6 million of cash used related to a business acquisition in the first quarter of 2019, a $40.7 
million increase in  purchases of investments, and $17.5 million related to the consolidation of a Polish investment fund in 2018.  
These  activities were partially offset by a $109.6 million increase in collections applied to principal on finance receivables, a 
$49.1 million increase in proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, and $26.3 million in proceeds in the first quarter of 
2019 from the sale of RCB in the fourth quarter of 2018.   

Financing Activities

Cash for financing activities is normally provided by draws on our lines of credit and proceeds from debt offerings.  Cash 

used in financing activities is primarily driven by principal payments on our lines of credit and long-term debt. 

Cash provided by financing activities increased $44.6 million or 15.1%  primarily from a $603.2 million increase in proceeds 
from our lines of credit, a $36.1 million increase from interest bearing deposits, and a $32.3 million increase in net contributions 
from noncontrolling interests, partially offset by a $628.1 million increase in payments on our lines of credit and long term debt.

Undistributed Earnings of International Subsidiaries

recognized immediately.

We intend to use predominantly all of our accumulated and future undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries to 
expand  operations  outside  the  U.S.;  therefore,  such  undistributed  earnings  of  international  subsidiaries  are  considered  to  be 
indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. Accordingly, no provision for income tax or withholding tax has been provided thereon. 
If management's intentions change and eligible undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries are repatriated, we could be 
subject to additional income taxes and withholding taxes. This could result in a higher effective tax rate in the period in which 
such a decision is made to repatriate accumulated or future undistributed international earnings. The amount of cash on hand related 
to international operations with indefinitely reinvested earnings was $109.7 million and $78.6 million as of December 31, 2019 
and 2018, respectively. Refer to the (cid:49)ote 13 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for 
further information related to our income taxes and undistributed international earnings.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2019 as defined by Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-

K promulgated under the Exchange Act.

Contractual Obligations

Our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2019 were as follows (amounts in thousands):

Contractual Obligations

Operating leases
Revolving credit (1)
Long-term debt (2)
Purchase commitments (3)
Employment agreements

Derivatives

Total

Payments due by period

Total

Less than 1
year

1 - 3 years

3 - 5 years

More than 5
years

$

95,373

$

11,846

$

20,702

$

13,411

$

49,414

1,936,402

1,260,070

506,907

7,988

83,533

1,847,611

3,535

1,723

337,161

497,503

7,927

571,871

351,038

9,404

61

—

—

—

—

—

$

23,663

$ 3,830,403

$

$

10,294

$

10,222

948,264

$ 2,459,871

$

$

3,047

371,031

$

$

100

51,237

(1)  Includes estimated interest and unused line fees due on our revolving credit facilities and assumes that the outstanding balances 

on the revolving credit facilities remain constant from the December 31, 2019 balances to maturity.
(2)  Includes scheduled interest and principal payments on our term loans and convertible senior notes.
(3)  Reflects  the  maximum  remaining  amount  to  be  purchased  under  forward  flow  and  other  contracts  for  the  purchase  of 

nonperforming loans in the amount of $506.9 million.

38

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Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. Our significant accounting policies are 

discussed in (cid:49)ote 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. Our significant accounting 

policies  are fundamental  to understanding  our  results  of  operations  and  financial condition  because they  require that  we  use 

estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities.

Three of these policies are considered to be critical because they are important to the portrayal of our financial condition 

and results, and because they require management to make judgments and estimates that are difficult, subjective, and complex 

regarding matters that are inherently uncertain.

We base our estimates on historical experience, current trends and various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable 

under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities 

that  are not readily  apparent from  other sources. If  these estimates  differ  significantly from  actual results,  the impact on our 

consolidated financial statements may be material.

Management has reviewed these critical accounting policies with the Audit Committee of our board of directors.

Revenue Recognition - Finance Receivables

We account for the vast majority of our investment in finance receivables under the guidance of ASC 310-30. Revenue 

recognition for finance receivables accounted for under ASC 310-30 involves the use of estimates and the exercise of judgment 

on the part of management. These estimates include projections of the quantity and timing of future cash flows and economic lives 

of our pools of finance receivables. Significant changes in such estimates could result in increased revenue via yield increases 

which  are  recognized  prospectively  or  increased  allowance  charges  resulting  from  decreased  cash  flow  estimates  which  are 

We implement the accounting for income recognized on finance receivables under ASC 310-30 as follows:

We create each accounting pool using our projections of estimated cash flows and expected economic life. We then compute 

the effective yield that fully amortizes the pool over a reasonable expectation of its economic life based on the current projections 

of estimated cash flows. As actual cash flow results are recorded, we review each pool watching for trends, actual performance 

versus projections and curve shape (a graphical depiction of the timing of cash flows). We then re-forecast future cash flows 

utilizing our proprietary analytical models.

Significant judgment is used in evaluating whether variances in actual performance are due to changes in the total amount 

or changes in the timing of expected cash flows. Significant changes in either may result in yield increases or allowance charges 

if necessary for the pool's amortization period to fall within a reasonable expectation of its economic life.

Refer to (cid:49)ote 1 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item  8 of this  Form 10-K under Recently Issued 

Accounting Standards (cid:49)ot Yet Adopted for further information on revenue recognition of expected credit losses for loans effective 

January 1, 2020.

Valuation of Acquired Intangibles and Goodwill

In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 350, "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other" ("ASC 350"), we amortize intangible assets 

over their estimated useful lives. Goodwill, pursuant to ASC 350, is not amortized but rather evaluated for impairment annually 

and more frequently if indicators of potential impairment exist. Goodwill is reviewed for potential impairment at the reporting 

unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment.

Goodwill is evaluated for impairment either under the qualitative assessment option or the two-step test approach depending 

on facts and circumstances of a reporting unit, including the excess of fair value over carrying amount in the last valuation or 

changes in business environment. If we qualitatively determine it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is 

greater than its carrying amount, the two-step impairment test is unnecessary. Otherwise, goodwill is evaluated for impairment 

using the two-step test, where the carrying amount of a reporting unit is compared to its fair value in Step 1; if the fair value exceeds 

the carrying amount, Step 2 is unnecessary. If the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, this could indicate 

potential impairment and Step 2 of the goodwill evaluation process is required to determine if goodwill is impaired and to measure 

the amount of impairment loss to recognize, if any. When Step 2 is necessary, the fair value of individual assets and liabilities is 

determined using valuations (which in some cases may be based in part on third-party valuation reports), or other observable 

sources of fair value, as appropriate. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, the excess is recognized 

as an impairment loss.

39

$21.9 million and a $26.6 million gain on sale in 2018 of RCB. 

Investing Activities

Cash used in investing activities is normally driven by acquisitions of nonperforming loans and purchases of investments.  

Cash provided by investing activities is mainly driven by cash collections applied on finance receivables and proceeds from the 

sale of investments and subsidiaries.  

(cid:49)et cash used in investing activities increased $53.9 million or 13.9% in 2019,  primarily from a $125.6 million increase in 

acquisitions of finance receivables, $57.6 million of cash used related to a business acquisition in the first quarter of 2019, a $40.7 

million increase in  purchases of investments, and $17.5 million related to the consolidation of a Polish investment fund in 2018.  

These  activities were partially offset by a $109.6 million increase in collections applied to principal on finance receivables, a 

$49.1 million increase in proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, and $26.3 million in proceeds in the first quarter of 

2019 from the sale of RCB in the fourth quarter of 2018.   

Financing Activities

Cash for financing activities is normally provided by draws on our lines of credit and proceeds from debt offerings.  Cash 

used in financing activities is primarily driven by principal payments on our lines of credit and long-term debt. 

Cash provided by financing activities increased $44.6 million or 15.1%  primarily from a $603.2 million increase in proceeds 

from our lines of credit, a $36.1 million increase from interest bearing deposits, and a $32.3 million increase in net contributions 

from noncontrolling interests, partially offset by a $628.1 million increase in payments on our lines of credit and long term debt.

Undistributed Earnings of International Subsidiaries

We intend to use predominantly all of our accumulated and future undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries to 

expand  operations  outside  the  U.S.;  therefore,  such  undistributed  earnings  of  international  subsidiaries  are  considered  to  be 

indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. Accordingly, no provision for income tax or withholding tax has been provided thereon. 

If management's intentions change and eligible undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries are repatriated, we could be 

subject to additional income taxes and withholding taxes. This could result in a higher effective tax rate in the period in which 

such a decision is made to repatriate accumulated or future undistributed international earnings. The amount of cash on hand related 

to international operations with indefinitely reinvested earnings was $109.7 million and $78.6 million as of December 31, 2019 

and 2018, respectively. Refer to the (cid:49)ote 13 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for 

further information related to our income taxes and undistributed international earnings.

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2019 as defined by Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

K promulgated under the Exchange Act.

Contractual Obligations

Contractual Obligations

Operating leases

Revolving credit (1)

Long-term debt (2)

Purchase commitments (3)

Employment agreements

Derivatives

Total

Payments due by period

Total

Less than 1

year

1 - 3 years

3 - 5 years

More than 5

years

$

95,373

$

11,846

$

20,702

$

13,411

$

49,414

1,936,402

1,260,070

506,907

7,988

83,533

1,847,611

3,535

1,723

337,161

497,503

7,927

571,871

351,038

9,404

61

—

—

—

—

—

$

23,663

$ 3,830,403

$

$

10,294

$

10,222

3,047

948,264

$ 2,459,871

371,031

$

$

$

$

100

51,237

(1)  Includes estimated interest and unused line fees due on our revolving credit facilities and assumes that the outstanding balances 

on the revolving credit facilities remain constant from the December 31, 2019 balances to maturity.

(2)  Includes scheduled interest and principal payments on our term loans and convertible senior notes.

(3)  Reflects  the  maximum  remaining  amount  to  be  purchased  under  forward  flow  and  other  contracts  for  the  purchase  of 

nonperforming loans in the amount of $506.9 million.

38

(cid:49)et cash provided by operating activities increased $52.5 million or 65.0% in 2019 mainly driven by higher net income of 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. Our significant accounting policies are 
discussed in (cid:49)ote 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. Our significant accounting 
policies  are fundamental  to understanding  our  results  of  operations  and  financial condition  because they  require that  we  use 
estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities.

Three of these policies are considered to be critical because they are important to the portrayal of our financial condition 
and results, and because they require management to make judgments and estimates that are difficult, subjective, and complex 
regarding matters that are inherently uncertain.

We base our estimates on historical experience, current trends and various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable 
under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities 
that  are not readily  apparent from  other sources. If  these estimates  differ  significantly from  actual results,  the impact on our 
consolidated financial statements may be material.

Management has reviewed these critical accounting policies with the Audit Committee of our board of directors.

Revenue Recognition - Finance Receivables

We account for the vast majority of our investment in finance receivables under the guidance of ASC 310-30. Revenue 
recognition for finance receivables accounted for under ASC 310-30 involves the use of estimates and the exercise of judgment 
on the part of management. These estimates include projections of the quantity and timing of future cash flows and economic lives 
of our pools of finance receivables. Significant changes in such estimates could result in increased revenue via yield increases 
which  are  recognized  prospectively  or  increased  allowance  charges  resulting  from  decreased  cash  flow  estimates  which  are 
recognized immediately.

We implement the accounting for income recognized on finance receivables under ASC 310-30 as follows:

We create each accounting pool using our projections of estimated cash flows and expected economic life. We then compute 
the effective yield that fully amortizes the pool over a reasonable expectation of its economic life based on the current projections 
of estimated cash flows. As actual cash flow results are recorded, we review each pool watching for trends, actual performance 
versus projections and curve shape (a graphical depiction of the timing of cash flows). We then re-forecast future cash flows 
utilizing our proprietary analytical models.

Significant judgment is used in evaluating whether variances in actual performance are due to changes in the total amount 
or changes in the timing of expected cash flows. Significant changes in either may result in yield increases or allowance charges 
if necessary for the pool's amortization period to fall within a reasonable expectation of its economic life.

Refer to (cid:49)ote 1 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item  8 of this  Form 10-K under Recently Issued 
Accounting Standards (cid:49)ot Yet Adopted for further information on revenue recognition of expected credit losses for loans effective 
January 1, 2020.

Our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2019 were as follows (amounts in thousands):

Valuation of Acquired Intangibles and Goodwill

In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 350, "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other" ("ASC 350"), we amortize intangible assets 
over their estimated useful lives. Goodwill, pursuant to ASC 350, is not amortized but rather evaluated for impairment annually 
and more frequently if indicators of potential impairment exist. Goodwill is reviewed for potential impairment at the reporting 
unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below an operating segment.

Goodwill is evaluated for impairment either under the qualitative assessment option or the two-step test approach depending 
on facts and circumstances of a reporting unit, including the excess of fair value over carrying amount in the last valuation or 
changes in business environment. If we qualitatively determine it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is 
greater than its carrying amount, the two-step impairment test is unnecessary. Otherwise, goodwill is evaluated for impairment 
using the two-step test, where the carrying amount of a reporting unit is compared to its fair value in Step 1; if the fair value exceeds 
the carrying amount, Step 2 is unnecessary. If the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, this could indicate 
potential impairment and Step 2 of the goodwill evaluation process is required to determine if goodwill is impaired and to measure 
the amount of impairment loss to recognize, if any. When Step 2 is necessary, the fair value of individual assets and liabilities is 
determined using valuations (which in some cases may be based in part on third-party valuation reports), or other observable 
sources of fair value, as appropriate. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, the excess is recognized 
as an impairment loss.

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We determine the fair value of a reporting unit by applying the approaches prescribed under the fair value measurement 
accounting framework: the income approach and the market approach. Depending on the availability of public data and suitable 
comparables, we may or may not use the market approach or we may emphasize the results from the approach differently. Under 
the income approach, we estimate the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows and 
a residual terminal value. Cash flow projections are based on management's estimates of revenue growth rates, operating margins, 
necessary working capital, and capital expenditure requirements, taking into consideration industry and market conditions. The 
discount rate used is based on the weighted-average cost of capital adjusted for the relevant risk associated with business-specific 
characteristics and the uncertainty related to the reporting unit's ability to execute on the projected cash flows. Under the market 
approach, we estimate fair value based on prices and other relevant market transactions involving comparable publicly-traded 
companies with operating and investment characteristics similar to the reporting unit.

Income Taxes

We are subject to the income tax laws of the various jurisdictions in which we operate, including U.S. federal, state, local, 
and international jurisdictions. These tax laws are complex and are subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and the 
relevant government taxing authorities. When determining our domestic and international income tax expense, we must make 
judgments about the application of these inherently complex laws.

We follow the guidance of FASB ASC Topic 740 "Income Taxes" ("ASC 740") as it relates to the provision for income taxes 
and uncertainty in income taxes. Accordingly, we record a tax provision for the anticipated tax consequences of the reported results 
of operations. In accordance with ASC 740, the provision for income taxes is computed using the asset and liability method, under 
which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between 
the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities, and for operating losses and tax credit carry-forwards. Deferred tax 
assets and liabilities are measured using the currently enacted tax rates that apply to taxable income in effect for the years in which 
those tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized or settled. The evaluation of a tax position in accordance with the guidance 
is a two-step process. The first step is recognition: the Company determines whether it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position 
will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical 
merits of the position. In evaluating whether a tax position has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the Company 
should presume that the position will be examined by the appropriate taxing authority that would have full knowledge of all relevant 
information. The second step is measurement: a tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is measured 
to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. The tax position is measured as the largest amount of 
benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Tax positions that previously failed to 
meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in 
which that threshold is met. Previously recognized tax positions that no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold 
should be derecognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met. We record 
interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

In the event that all or part of the deferred tax assets are determined not to be realizable in the future, a valuation allowance 
would be established and charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. If we subsequently realize deferred tax 
assets that were previously determined to be unrealizable, the respective valuation allowance would be reversed, resulting in a 
positive adjustment to earnings in the period such determination is made. The establishment or release of a valuation allowance 
does not have an impact on cash, nor does such an allowance preclude the use of loss carry-forwards or other deferred tax assets 
in future periods. The calculation of tax liabilities involves significant judgment in estimating the impact of uncertainties in the 
application of complex tax laws. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with our expectations could have a 
material impact on our results of operations and financial position.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

For a summary of recent accounting pronouncements and the anticipated effects on our consolidated financial statements 

see (cid:49)ote 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Our activities are subject to various financial risks including market risk, currency and interest rate risk, credit risk, liquidity 
risk and cash flow risk. Our financial risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to 
minimize potential adverse effects on our financial performance. We may periodically enter into derivative financial instruments, 
typically  interest  rate  and  currency  derivatives,  to  reduce  our  exposure  to  fluctuations  in  interest  rates  on  variable-rate  debt, 
fluctuations in currency rates and their impact on earnings and cash flows. We do not utilize derivative financial instruments with 
a level of complexity or with a risk greater than the exposure to be managed nor do we enter into or hold derivatives for trading 
or speculative purposes. Derivative instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of non-performance, or credit risk. We do 
40

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not believe that we currently face a significant risk of loss in the event of non-performance by the counterparties associated with 

these instruments, as these transactions were executed with a diversified group of major financial institutions with an investment-

grade credit rating.  Our intention is to spread our counterparty credit risk across a number of counterparties so that exposure to a 

single counterparty is minimized.

Interest Rate Risk

We are subject to interest rate risk from outstanding borrowings on our variable rate credit facilities. As such, our consolidated 

financial results are subject to fluctuations due to changes in the market rate of interest. We assess this interest rate risk by estimating 

the increase or decrease in interest expense that would occur due to a change in short-term interest rates. The borrowings on our 

variable  rate  credit  facilities  were  approximately  $2.2  billion  as  of  December 31,  2019.  Based  on  our  current  debt  structure, 

assuming a 50 basis point decrease in interest rates, for example, interest expense over the following 12 months would decrease 

by an estimated $7.2 million. Assuming a 50 basis point increase in interest rates, interest expense over the following 12 months 

would increase by an estimated $7.4 million.

To reduce the exposure to changes in the market rate of interest and to be in compliance with the terms of our European 

credit facility, we have entered into interest rate derivative contracts for a portion of our borrowings under our floating rate financing 

arrangements. Further, effective in the second quarter of 2018, we began to apply hedge accounting to certain of our interest rate 

derivative contracts.  By applying hedge accounting, changes in market value are reflected as adjustments in Other Comprehensive 

Income. All derivatives to which we have applied hedge accounting were evaluated and remain highly effective at December 31, 

2019. Terms of the interest rate derivative contracts require us to receive a variable interest rate and pay a fixed interest rate. The 

sensitivity calculations above consider the impact of our interest rate derivative contracts.

Currency Exchange Risk

We operate internationally and enter into transactions denominated in various foreign currencies. In 2019, we generated 

$343.8 million of revenues from operations outside the U.S. and used eleven functional currencies, excluding the U.S. dollar. 

Weakness in one particular currency might be offset by strength in other currencies over time.

As a result of our international operations, fluctuations in foreign currencies could cause us to incur foreign currency exchange 

gains and losses, and could adversely affect our comprehensive income and stockholders' equity. Additionally, our reported financial 

results could change from period to period due solely to fluctuations between currencies.

Foreign currency gains and losses are primarily the result of the re-measurement of transactions in certain other currencies 

into an entity's functional currency. Foreign currency gains and losses are included as a component of other income and (expense) 

in our consolidated income statements. From time to time we may elect to enter into foreign exchange derivative contracts to 

reduce these variations in our consolidated income statements. 

When  an  entity's  functional  currency  is  different  than  the  reporting  currency  of  its  parent,  foreign  currency  translation 

adjustments may occur. Foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component of other comprehensive (loss)/

income in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income and as a component of equity in our consolidated balance sheets.

We have taken measures to mitigate the impact of foreign currency fluctuations. We have organized our European operations 

so that portfolio ownership and collections generally occur within the same entity. Our European credit facility is a multi-currency 

facility, allowing us to better match funding and portfolio purchasing by currency. We actively monitor the value of our finance 

receivables by currency. In the event adjustments are required to our liability composition by currency we may, from time to time, 

execute re-balancing foreign exchange contracts to more closely align funding and portfolio purchasing by currency.

41

We determine the fair value of a reporting unit by applying the approaches prescribed under the fair value measurement 

accounting framework: the income approach and the market approach. Depending on the availability of public data and suitable 

comparables, we may or may not use the market approach or we may emphasize the results from the approach differently. Under 

the income approach, we estimate the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows and 

a residual terminal value. Cash flow projections are based on management's estimates of revenue growth rates, operating margins, 

necessary working capital, and capital expenditure requirements, taking into consideration industry and market conditions. The 

discount rate used is based on the weighted-average cost of capital adjusted for the relevant risk associated with business-specific 

characteristics and the uncertainty related to the reporting unit's ability to execute on the projected cash flows. Under the market 

approach, we estimate fair value based on prices and other relevant market transactions involving comparable publicly-traded 

companies with operating and investment characteristics similar to the reporting unit.

Income Taxes

We are subject to the income tax laws of the various jurisdictions in which we operate, including U.S. federal, state, local, 

and international jurisdictions. These tax laws are complex and are subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and the 

relevant government taxing authorities. When determining our domestic and international income tax expense, we must make 

judgments about the application of these inherently complex laws.

We follow the guidance of FASB ASC Topic 740 "Income Taxes" ("ASC 740") as it relates to the provision for income taxes 

and uncertainty in income taxes. Accordingly, we record a tax provision for the anticipated tax consequences of the reported results 

of operations. In accordance with ASC 740, the provision for income taxes is computed using the asset and liability method, under 

which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between 

the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities, and for operating losses and tax credit carry-forwards. Deferred tax 

assets and liabilities are measured using the currently enacted tax rates that apply to taxable income in effect for the years in which 

those tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized or settled. The evaluation of a tax position in accordance with the guidance 

is a two-step process. The first step is recognition: the Company determines whether it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position 

will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical 

merits of the position. In evaluating whether a tax position has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the Company 

should presume that the position will be examined by the appropriate taxing authority that would have full knowledge of all relevant 

information. The second step is measurement: a tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is measured 

to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. The tax position is measured as the largest amount of 

benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Tax positions that previously failed to 

meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in 

which that threshold is met. Previously recognized tax positions that no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold 

should be derecognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met. We record 

interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

In the event that all or part of the deferred tax assets are determined not to be realizable in the future, a valuation allowance 

would be established and charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. If we subsequently realize deferred tax 

assets that were previously determined to be unrealizable, the respective valuation allowance would be reversed, resulting in a 

positive adjustment to earnings in the period such determination is made. The establishment or release of a valuation allowance 

does not have an impact on cash, nor does such an allowance preclude the use of loss carry-forwards or other deferred tax assets 

in future periods. The calculation of tax liabilities involves significant judgment in estimating the impact of uncertainties in the 

application of complex tax laws. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with our expectations could have a 

material impact on our results of operations and financial position.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

For a summary of recent accounting pronouncements and the anticipated effects on our consolidated financial statements 

see (cid:49)ote 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Our activities are subject to various financial risks including market risk, currency and interest rate risk, credit risk, liquidity 

risk and cash flow risk. Our financial risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to 

minimize potential adverse effects on our financial performance. We may periodically enter into derivative financial instruments, 

typically  interest  rate  and  currency  derivatives,  to  reduce  our  exposure  to  fluctuations  in  interest  rates  on  variable-rate  debt, 

fluctuations in currency rates and their impact on earnings and cash flows. We do not utilize derivative financial instruments with 

a level of complexity or with a risk greater than the exposure to be managed nor do we enter into or hold derivatives for trading 

or speculative purposes. Derivative instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of non-performance, or credit risk. We do 

not believe that we currently face a significant risk of loss in the event of non-performance by the counterparties associated with 
these instruments, as these transactions were executed with a diversified group of major financial institutions with an investment-
grade credit rating.  Our intention is to spread our counterparty credit risk across a number of counterparties so that exposure to a 
single counterparty is minimized.

Interest Rate Risk

We are subject to interest rate risk from outstanding borrowings on our variable rate credit facilities. As such, our consolidated 
financial results are subject to fluctuations due to changes in the market rate of interest. We assess this interest rate risk by estimating 
the increase or decrease in interest expense that would occur due to a change in short-term interest rates. The borrowings on our 
variable  rate  credit  facilities  were  approximately  $2.2  billion  as  of  December 31,  2019.  Based  on  our  current  debt  structure, 
assuming a 50 basis point decrease in interest rates, for example, interest expense over the following 12 months would decrease 
by an estimated $7.2 million. Assuming a 50 basis point increase in interest rates, interest expense over the following 12 months 
would increase by an estimated $7.4 million.

To reduce the exposure to changes in the market rate of interest and to be in compliance with the terms of our European 
credit facility, we have entered into interest rate derivative contracts for a portion of our borrowings under our floating rate financing 
arrangements. Further, effective in the second quarter of 2018, we began to apply hedge accounting to certain of our interest rate 
derivative contracts.  By applying hedge accounting, changes in market value are reflected as adjustments in Other Comprehensive 
Income. All derivatives to which we have applied hedge accounting were evaluated and remain highly effective at December 31, 
2019. Terms of the interest rate derivative contracts require us to receive a variable interest rate and pay a fixed interest rate. The 
sensitivity calculations above consider the impact of our interest rate derivative contracts.

Currency Exchange Risk

We operate internationally and enter into transactions denominated in various foreign currencies. In 2019, we generated 
$343.8 million of revenues from operations outside the U.S. and used eleven functional currencies, excluding the U.S. dollar. 
Weakness in one particular currency might be offset by strength in other currencies over time.

As a result of our international operations, fluctuations in foreign currencies could cause us to incur foreign currency exchange 
gains and losses, and could adversely affect our comprehensive income and stockholders' equity. Additionally, our reported financial 
results could change from period to period due solely to fluctuations between currencies.

Foreign currency gains and losses are primarily the result of the re-measurement of transactions in certain other currencies 
into an entity's functional currency. Foreign currency gains and losses are included as a component of other income and (expense) 
in our consolidated income statements. From time to time we may elect to enter into foreign exchange derivative contracts to 
reduce these variations in our consolidated income statements. 

When  an  entity's  functional  currency  is  different  than  the  reporting  currency  of  its  parent,  foreign  currency  translation 
adjustments may occur. Foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component of other comprehensive (loss)/
income in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income and as a component of equity in our consolidated balance sheets.

We have taken measures to mitigate the impact of foreign currency fluctuations. We have organized our European operations 
so that portfolio ownership and collections generally occur within the same entity. Our European credit facility is a multi-currency 
facility, allowing us to better match funding and portfolio purchasing by currency. We actively monitor the value of our finance 
receivables by currency. In the event adjustments are required to our liability composition by currency we may, from time to time, 
execute re-balancing foreign exchange contracts to more closely align funding and portfolio purchasing by currency.

40

41

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

See Item 6 for quarterly consolidated financial statements for 2019 and 2018.

Index to Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Income Statements

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1 – General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

2 – Finance Receivables, net

3 – Investments

4 – Leases

5 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net

6 – Borrowings

7 – Property and Equipment, net

8 – Fair Value

9 – Derivatives

10 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

11 – Share-Based Compensation

12 – Earnings Per Share

13 – Income Taxes

14 – Commitments and Contingencies

15 – Retirement Plans

16 – Redeemable (cid:49)oncontrolling interest

17 – Sales of Subsidiaries

43

45

46

47

48

49

50

50

57

59

60

61

62

66

66

69

70

70

72

73

75

76

76

77

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors

PRA Group, Inc.:

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of PRA Group, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of 

December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated income statements, statements of comprehensive income, changes in 

equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes 

(collectively, the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all 

material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations 

and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with U.S. generally 

accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) 

(PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in 

Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 

Commission, and our report dated March 2, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s 

internal control over financial reporting.

Change in Accounting Principle 

Basis for Opinion

As discussed in (cid:49)otes 1 and 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has changed its method of accounting for 

leases as of January 1, 2019 due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 842, Leases.

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 are a public accounting firm registered with the 

PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws 

and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the 

audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, 

whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the 

consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such 

procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial 

statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, 

as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a 

reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matter

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial 

statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or 

disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or 

complex judgments. The communication of a critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated 

financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate 

opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Assessment of income recognized on finance receivables and the valuation allowance and net allowance charges

As discussed in (cid:49)otes 1 and 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s finance receivables balance as 

of December 31, 2019 was $3.5 billion and the related valuation allowance was $281.3 million. Income recognized on 

finance receivables for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $998.4 million and net allowances charges for the year 

ended December 31, 2019 were $24.0 million. The Company accounts for its investment in finance receivables and 

recognizes revenue under ASC 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality, which 

involves the use of estimates and the exercise of judgment on the part of the Company. These estimates include 

projections of the amount and timing of future cash flows and economic lives of the pools of finance receivables. 

42

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

See Item 6 for quarterly consolidated financial statements for 2019 and 2018.

Index to Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Income Statements

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1 – General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

2 – Finance Receivables, net

3 – Investments

4 – Leases

6 – Borrowings

8 – Fair Value

9 – Derivatives

5 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net

7 – Property and Equipment, net

11 – Share-Based Compensation

12 – Earnings Per Share

13 – Income Taxes

14 – Commitments and Contingencies

15 – Retirement Plans

16 – Redeemable (cid:49)oncontrolling interest

17 – Sales of Subsidiaries

10 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

43

45

46

47

48

49

50

50

57

59

60

61

62

66

66

69

70

70

72

73

75

76

76

77

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
PRA Group, Inc.:

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of PRA Group, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of 
December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated income statements, statements of comprehensive income, changes in 
equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes 
(collectively, the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all 
material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations 
and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with U.S. generally 
accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) 
(PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in 
Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission, and our report dated March 2, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s 
internal control over financial reporting.

Change in Accounting Principle 

As discussed in (cid:49)otes 1 and 4 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has changed its method of accounting for 
leases as of January 1, 2019 due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 842, Leases.

Basis for Opinion

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 are a public accounting firm registered with the 
PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws 
and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the 
audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, 
whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the 
consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such 
procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial 
statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, 
as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matter

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial 
statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or 
disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or 
complex judgments. The communication of a critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated 
financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate 
opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

Assessment of income recognized on finance receivables and the valuation allowance and net allowance charges

As discussed in (cid:49)otes 1 and 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company’s finance receivables balance as 
of December 31, 2019 was $3.5 billion and the related valuation allowance was $281.3 million. Income recognized on 
finance receivables for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $998.4 million and net allowances charges for the year 
ended December 31, 2019 were $24.0 million. The Company accounts for its investment in finance receivables and 
recognizes revenue under ASC 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality, which 
involves the use of estimates and the exercise of judgment on the part of the Company. These estimates include 
projections of the amount and timing of future cash flows and economic lives of the pools of finance receivables. 

42

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Significant changes in such estimates could result in increased revenue through yield increases which are recognized 
prospectively or increased allowance charges resulting from decreased cash flow estimates which are recognized 
immediately. As actual cash flow results are recorded, the Company reviews each pool for trends, actual performance 
versus projections and curve shape (a graphical depiction of the timing of cash flows). The Company then re-forecasts 
future cash flows.

We identified the assessment of income recognized on finance receivables and the valuation allowance and net 
allowance charges as a critical audit matter because it involved significant measurement uncertainty that required 
complex auditor judgment and specialized knowledge and experience. In addition, auditor judgment was required to 
evaluate the sufficiency of audit evidence obtained.  The future cash flows and economic lives of each pool have 
sensitivity such that minor changes could have had a significant impact on the total income recognized on finance 
receivables, and the valuation allowance and net allowance charges. Additionally, there was a high level of subjectivity 
in performing procedures related to the estimation of future cash flows and the economic lives used to determine (1) 
income recognized on finance receivables, including the yield rate, and (2) the valuation allowance and net allowance 
charges.

The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included the following. We tested certain 
internal controls over the Company's process to (1) develop estimates of future cash flows and determine the economic 
lives used to recognize income and (2) determine the valuation allowance and net allowance charges. We evaluated the 
Company’s process to develop the estimates by testing certain sources of data, factors, and assumptions. This included 
considering the relevance and reliability of such data, factors and assumptions including historical trends, operational 
factors related to the collections process, and actual performance versus projections. We compared the Company's 
historical cash collection estimates to actual results to assess the Company's ability to accurately forecast. In addition, 
we involved credit risk professionals with specialized industry knowledge and experience who assisted in:

– 

– 

performing sensitivity analyses utilizing different assumptions of the future cash flows to assess the 
magnitude of the impact on the Company's income recognition on finance receivables, the valuation 
allowance and net allowance charges and economic lives;
assessing the Company's estimates of future cash flows of a selection of pools of finance receivables, by 
comparing to historical trends and evaluating relevant metrics.

We evaluated the collective results of the procedures performed to assess the sufficiency of the audit evidence obtained 
related to the Company’s income recognized on finance receivables and the valuation allowance and net allowance 
charges.

/s/ KPMG

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2007.

(cid:49)orfolk, Virginia
March 2, 2020

Cash and cash equivalents

Investments

Finance receivables, net

Other receivables, net

Income taxes receivable

Deferred tax asset, net

Right-of-use assets

Property and equipment, net

Goodwill

Intangible assets, net

Other assets

Liabilities:

Accounts payable

Accrued expenses

Income taxes payable

Deferred tax liability, net

Lease liabilities

Interest-bearing deposits

Borrowings

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Redeemable noncontrolling interest

Equity:

outstanding

PRA Group, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

December 31, 2019 and 2018

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

Assets

2019

2018

$

119,774

$

Total assets

Liabilities and Equity

4,423,891

$

3,909,559

$

$

4,258

$

56,176

3,514,165

10,606

17,918

63,225

68,972

56,501

480,794

4,497

31,263

88,925

4,046

85,390

73,377

106,246

2,808,425

26,211

3,196,878

—

—

454

67,321

1,362,631

(261,018)

1,169,388

57,625

1,227,013

98,695

45,173

3,084,777

46,157

16,809

61,453

—

54,136

464,116

5,522

32,721

6,110

79,396

15,080

114,979

—

82,666

2,473,656

7,370

2,779,257

6,333

—

453

60,303

1,276,473

(242,109)

1,095,120

28,849

1,123,969

3,909,559

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 2,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000 shares authorized, 45,416 shares

issued and outstanding at December 31, 2019; 100,000 shares authorized,

45,304 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

Total stockholders' equity - PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)oncontrolling interests

Total equity

Total liabilities and equity

$

4,423,891

$

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

44

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Significant changes in such estimates could result in increased revenue through yield increases which are recognized 

prospectively or increased allowance charges resulting from decreased cash flow estimates which are recognized 

immediately. As actual cash flow results are recorded, the Company reviews each pool for trends, actual performance 

versus projections and curve shape (a graphical depiction of the timing of cash flows). The Company then re-forecasts 

future cash flows.

We identified the assessment of income recognized on finance receivables and the valuation allowance and net 

allowance charges as a critical audit matter because it involved significant measurement uncertainty that required 

complex auditor judgment and specialized knowledge and experience. In addition, auditor judgment was required to 

evaluate the sufficiency of audit evidence obtained.  The future cash flows and economic lives of each pool have 

sensitivity such that minor changes could have had a significant impact on the total income recognized on finance 

receivables, and the valuation allowance and net allowance charges. Additionally, there was a high level of subjectivity 

in performing procedures related to the estimation of future cash flows and the economic lives used to determine (1) 

income recognized on finance receivables, including the yield rate, and (2) the valuation allowance and net allowance 

charges.

The primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter included the following. We tested certain 

internal controls over the Company's process to (1) develop estimates of future cash flows and determine the economic 

lives used to recognize income and (2) determine the valuation allowance and net allowance charges. We evaluated the 

Company’s process to develop the estimates by testing certain sources of data, factors, and assumptions. This included 

considering the relevance and reliability of such data, factors and assumptions including historical trends, operational 

factors related to the collections process, and actual performance versus projections. We compared the Company's 

historical cash collection estimates to actual results to assess the Company's ability to accurately forecast. In addition, 

we involved credit risk professionals with specialized industry knowledge and experience who assisted in:

– 

performing sensitivity analyses utilizing different assumptions of the future cash flows to assess the 

magnitude of the impact on the Company's income recognition on finance receivables, the valuation 

allowance and net allowance charges and economic lives;

– 

assessing the Company's estimates of future cash flows of a selection of pools of finance receivables, by 

comparing to historical trends and evaluating relevant metrics.

We evaluated the collective results of the procedures performed to assess the sufficiency of the audit evidence obtained 

related to the Company’s income recognized on finance receivables and the valuation allowance and net allowance 

charges.

/s/ KPMG

(cid:49)orfolk, Virginia

March 2, 2020

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2007.

PRA Group, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2019 and 2018
(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

2019

2018

Assets

$

119,774

$

56,176

3,514,165

10,606
17,918

63,225

68,972

56,501

480,794

4,497

31,263

98,695

45,173

3,084,777

46,157
16,809

61,453

—

54,136

464,116

5,522

32,721

Cash and cash equivalents

Investments

Finance receivables, net

Other receivables, net
Income taxes receivable

Deferred tax asset, net

Right-of-use assets

Property and equipment, net

Goodwill

Intangible assets, net

Other assets

4,423,891

$

3,909,559

$

$

Total assets

Liabilities and Equity

Liabilities:

Accounts payable

Accrued expenses

Income taxes payable

Deferred tax liability, net

Lease liabilities

Interest-bearing deposits

Borrowings

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Redeemable noncontrolling interest

Equity:

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 2,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and
outstanding

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000 shares authorized, 45,416 shares
issued and outstanding at December 31, 2019; 100,000 shares authorized,
45,304 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

Total stockholders' equity - PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)oncontrolling interests

Total equity

4,258

$

88,925

4,046

85,390

73,377

106,246

2,808,425

26,211

3,196,878

—

—

454

67,321

1,362,631

(261,018)

1,169,388

57,625

1,227,013

6,110

79,396

15,080

114,979

—

82,666

2,473,656

7,370

2,779,257

6,333

—

453

60,303

1,276,473

(242,109)

1,095,120

28,849

1,123,969

3,909,559

Total liabilities and equity

$

4,423,891

$

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

44

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Less comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

Comprehensive income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

$

67,249

$

2,061

$

237,651

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

PRA Group, Inc.
Consolidated Income Statements
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

PRA Group, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

(Amounts in thousands)

Revenues:

Income recognized on finance receivables

$

998,361

$

891,899

$

Fee income

Other revenue

Total revenues

15,769

2,951

1,017,081

14,916

1,441

908,256

795,435

24,916

7,855

828,206

2019

2018

2017

(cid:49)et allowance charges

(24,025)

(33,425)

(11,898)

(cid:49)et income

Other comprehensive (loss)/income, net of tax:

Currency translation adjustments

Cash flow hedges

Debt securities available-for-sale

Other comprehensive (loss)/income

Total comprehensive income

2019

2018

2017

$

97,679

$

75,734

$

171,125

(6,359)

(13,132)

39

(19,452)

78,227

10,978

(63,505)

67,858

44

(83)

(63,544)

12,190

10,129

—

—

67,858

238,983

1,332

Operating expenses:

Compensation and employee services

Legal collection fees

Legal collection costs

Agency fees

Outside fees and services

Communication

Rent and occupancy

Depreciation and amortization

Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses

Income from operations

Other income and (expense):

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

Interest expense, net

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

Other

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense/(benefit)

(cid:49)et income

310,441

55,261

134,156

55,812

63,513

44,057

17,854

17,464

46,811

745,369

247,687

—

(141,918)

11,954

(364)

117,359

19,680

97,679

Adjustment for net income attributable to
noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)et income per share attributable to PRA Group, Inc.:

Basic

Diluted

Weighted average number of shares outstanding:

Basic

Diluted

$

$

$

$

$

$

11,521

86,158

1.90

1.89

45,387

45,577

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

319,400

42,941

104,988

33,854

61,492

43,224

16,906

19,322

47,444

689,571

185,260

26,575

(121,078)

(944)

(316)

89,497

13,763

75,734

10,171

65,563

1.45

1.44

45,280

45,413

$

$

$

273,033

43,351

76,047

35,530

62,792

33,132

14,823

19,763

44,103

602,574

213,734

48,474

(98,041)

(1,104)

(2,790)

160,273

(10,852)

171,125

6,810

164,315

3.60

3.59

45,671

45,823

46

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PRA Group, Inc.

Consolidated Income Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

PRA Group, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
(Amounts in thousands)

Income recognized on finance receivables

$

998,361

$

891,899

$

Other comprehensive (loss)/income, net of tax:

2019

2018

2017

(cid:49)et income

(cid:49)et allowance charges

(24,025)

(33,425)

(11,898)

15,769

2,951

1,017,081

14,916

1,441

908,256

Currency translation adjustments

Cash flow hedges

Debt securities available-for-sale

Other comprehensive (loss)/income

Total comprehensive income

Less comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests

2019

2018

2017

$

97,679

$

75,734

$

171,125

(6,359)

(13,132)

39

(19,452)

78,227

10,978

(63,505)

67,858

44

(83)

(63,544)

12,190

10,129

—

—

67,858

238,983

1,332

Comprehensive income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

$

67,249

$

2,061

$

237,651

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Revenues:

Fee income

Other revenue

Total revenues

Operating expenses:

Compensation and employee services

Legal collection fees

Legal collection costs

Agency fees

Outside fees and services

Communication

Rent and occupancy

Depreciation and amortization

Other operating expenses

Total operating expenses

Income from operations

Other income and (expense):

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

Interest expense, net

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

Other

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense/(benefit)

(cid:49)et income

Adjustment for net income attributable to

noncontrolling interests

(cid:49)et income attributable to PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)et income per share attributable to PRA Group, Inc.:

Weighted average number of shares outstanding:

Basic

Diluted

Basic

Diluted

$

$

$

$

$

$

11,521

86,158

1.90

1.89

45,387

45,577

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

795,435

24,916

7,855

828,206

273,033

43,351

76,047

35,530

62,792

33,132

14,823

19,763

44,103

602,574

213,734

48,474

(98,041)

(1,104)

(2,790)

160,273

(10,852)

171,125

6,810

164,315

3.60

3.59

45,671

45,823

310,441

55,261

134,156

55,812

63,513

44,057

17,854

17,464

46,811

745,369

247,687

—

(141,918)

11,954

(364)

117,359

19,680

97,679

319,400

42,941

104,988

33,854

61,492

43,224

16,906

19,322

47,444

689,571

185,260

26,575

(121,078)

(944)

(316)

89,497

13,763

75,734

10,171

65,563

1.45

1.44

45,280

45,413

$

$

$

46

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PRA Group, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
(Amounts in thousands)

PRA Group, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

(Amounts in thousands)

Common Stock

Shares

Amount

Additional
Paid-in
Capital

Retained
Earnings

Accumulated 
Other
Comprehensive
(Loss)

(cid:49)oncontrolling
Interests

Total Equity

Balance at December 31, 2016

46,356

$

464

$

66,414

$ 1,050,525

$

(251,944) $

52,862

$

918,321

Cash flows from operating activities:

(cid:49)et income

activities:

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating

2019

2018

2017

$

97,679

$

75,734

$

171,125

Components of comprehensive income,
net of tax:

(cid:49)et income

Currency translation adjustment

Distributions to noncontrolling interest

Vesting of restricted stock

Repurchase and cancellation of common
stock
Share-based compensation expense

Excess income tax benefit from share-
based compensation
Employee stock relinquished for payment
of taxes
Component of convertible debt

—

—

—

145

—

—

—

1

(1,312)

(13)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1)

(44,896)

8,678

(3,022)

44,910

(18,213)

164,315

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

73,337

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

6,587

(7,202)

(2,085)

—

—

—

—

—

—

170,902

66,135

(2,085)

—

(44,909)

8,678

(3,022)

44,910

(18,213)

Balance at December 31, 2017

45,189

$

452

$

53,870

$ 1,214,840

$

(178,607) $

50,162

$

1,140,717

Cumulative effect of change in accounting 
principle - equity securities (1)
Balance at January 1, 2018

Components of comprehensive income,
net of tax:

(cid:49)et income

Currency translation adjustment

Cash flow hedges

Debt securities available-for-sale

Distributions to noncontrolling interest

Vesting of restricted stock

Share-based compensation expense

Employee stock relinquished for payment
of taxes
Purchase of noncontrolling interest

—

—

—

(3,930)

—

—

(3,930)

45,189

$

452

$

53,870

$ 1,210,910

$

(178,607) $

50,162

$

1,136,787

—

—

—

—

—

115

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1)

8,521

(2,087)

—

65,563

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(63,463)

44

(83)

—

—

—

—

—

10,171

(42)

—

—

75,734

(63,505)

44

(83)

(33,271)

(33,271)

—

—

—

1,829

—

8,521

(2,087)

1,829

Balance at December 31, 2018

45,304

$

453

$

60,303

$ 1,276,473

$

(242,109) $

28,849

$

1,123,969

Components of comprehensive income,
net of tax:

(cid:49)et income

Currency translation adjustments

Cash flow hedges
Debt securities available-for-sale

Distributions to noncontrolling interest

Contributions from noncontrolling interest

Vesting of restricted stock

Share-based compensation expense

Employee stock relinquished for payment
of taxes

Other

—

—

—
—

—

—

112

—

—

—

—

—

—
—

—

—

1

—

—

—

—

—

—
—

—

—

(1)

10,717

(1,609)

(2,089)

86,158

—

—
—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(5,816)

(13,132)
39

—

—

—

—

—

—

11,521

(543)

—
—

(6,877)

24,675

—

—

—

—

97,679

(6,359)

(13,132)
39

(6,877)

24,675

—

10,717

(1,609)

(2,089)

Balance at December 31, 2019

45,416

$

454

$

67,321

$ 1,362,631

$

(261,018) $

57,625

$

1,227,013

(1)  Refer to (cid:49)ote 3 for further detail.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

48

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Share-based compensation expense

Depreciation and amortization

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs

Impairment of investments

Deferred tax benefit

(cid:49)et unrealized foreign currency transactions

Fair value in earnings for equity securities

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Other operating activities

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Other assets

Other receivables, net

Accounts payable

Accrued expenses

Other liabilities

Income taxes (payable)/receivable, net

Right of use asset/lease liability

(cid:49)et cash provided by operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities:

Purchases of property and equipment

Acquisition of finance receivables

Collections applied to principal on finance receivables

Business acquisition, net of cash acquired

Cash received upon consolidation of Polish investment fund

Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries, net

Purchase of investments

Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments

(cid:49)et cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities:

Proceeds from lines of credit

Principal payments on lines of credit

Principal payments on notes payable and long-term debt

Proceeds from long-term debt

Proceeds from convertible debt

Repurchases of common stock

Tax withholdings related to share-based payments

Payments of origination costs and fees

Cash paid for purchase of portion of noncontrolling interest

Distributions paid to noncontrolling interest

Contributions from noncontrolling interest

(cid:49)et increase/(decrease) in interest-bearing deposits

Other financing activities

(cid:49)et cash provided by financing activities

Effect of exchange rate on cash

(cid:49)et increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

Cash paid for interest

Cash paid for income taxes

10,717

17,464

22,987

—

—

(37,561)

(4,543)

(5,826)

24,025

(234)

3,313

6,300

(2,070)

(12,375)

11,632

1,149

731

133,388

(18,033)

(1,231,351)

842,910

(57,610)

—

31,177

(83,291)

75,008

(441,190)

1,340,700

(728,282)

(313,165)

—

—

—

—

(1,609)

(1,255)

(6,877)

24,675

27,427

(2,091)

339,523

(6,609)

25,112

98,695

123,807

119,424

68,979

119,774

4,033

123,807

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

8,521

19,322

(26,575)

22,057

—

(56,208)

5,730

(3,502)

33,425

—

(2,180)

(4,269)

1,321

9,390

(1,334)

(566)

—

80,866

(20,521)

(1,105,759)

733,306

—

17,531

4,905

(42,622)

25,909

(387,251)

737,464

(403,348)

(10,000)

—

—

—

(2,087)

(2,260)

(1,664)

(14,486)

(8,693)

—

—

294,926

(10,362)

(21,821)

120,516

98,695

97,475

73,483

98,695

—

98,695

$

$

$

$

8,678

19,763

(48,474)

18,152

1,745

(130,138)

(1,098)

—

11,898

(4,033)

(460)

(3,461)

2,743

(22,715)

(5,752)

(2,498)

—

15,475

(22,840)

(1,086,029)

717,170

—

—

93,304

(6,688)

10,123

(294,960)

1,260,161

(1,549,833)

(15,021)

310,000

345,000

(44,909)

(3,022)

(18,240)

(1,429)

12,991

—

—

—

295,698

10,016

26,229

94,287

120,516

79,825

144,341

120,516

—

120,516

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reconciliation:

Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets

Restricted cash included in Other Assets per Consolidated Balance Sheets

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

PRA Group, Inc.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017

(Amounts in thousands)

Common Stock

Shares

Amount

Additional

Paid-in

Capital

Retained

Earnings

Accumulated 

Other

(Loss)

Comprehensive

(cid:49)oncontrolling

Interests

Total Equity

Balance at December 31, 2016

46,356

$

464

$

66,414

$ 1,050,525

$

(251,944) $

52,862

$

918,321

164,315

73,337

(1,312)

(13)

Balance at December 31, 2017

45,189

$

452

$

53,870

$ 1,214,840

$

(178,607) $

50,162

$

1,140,717

45,189

$

452

$

53,870

$ 1,210,910

$

(178,607) $

50,162

$

1,136,787

—

(3,930)

65,563

(63,463)

—

44

(83)

(33,271)

(33,271)

Balance at December 31, 2018

45,304

$

453

$

60,303

$ 1,276,473

$

(242,109) $

28,849

$

1,123,969

86,158

(5,816)

(13,132)

Components of comprehensive income,

net of tax:

(cid:49)et income

Currency translation adjustment

Distributions to noncontrolling interest

Vesting of restricted stock

Repurchase and cancellation of common

stock

Share-based compensation expense

Excess income tax benefit from share-

based compensation

Employee stock relinquished for payment

of taxes

Component of convertible debt

Cumulative effect of change in accounting 

principle - equity securities (1)

Balance at January 1, 2018

Components of comprehensive income,

net of tax:

(cid:49)et income

Currency translation adjustment

Cash flow hedges

Debt securities available-for-sale

Distributions to noncontrolling interest

Vesting of restricted stock

115

Share-based compensation expense

Employee stock relinquished for payment

of taxes

Purchase of noncontrolling interest

Components of comprehensive income,

net of tax:

(cid:49)et income

Currency translation adjustments

Cash flow hedges

Debt securities available-for-sale

Distributions to noncontrolling interest

Contributions from noncontrolling interest

Vesting of restricted stock

Share-based compensation expense

Employee stock relinquished for payment

of taxes

Other

(1)  Refer to (cid:49)ote 3 for further detail.

—

—

—

145

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

112

—

—

—

—

—

—

1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1)

(44,896)

8,678

(3,022)

44,910

(18,213)

—

—

—

—

—

(1)

8,521

(2,087)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(1)

10,717

(1,609)

(2,089)

48

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

39

—

—

—

—

—

—

6,587

(7,202)

(2,085)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

10,171

(42)

1,829

11,521

(543)

(6,877)

24,675

170,902

66,135

(2,085)

—

(44,909)

8,678

(3,022)

44,910

(18,213)

(3,930)

75,734

(63,505)

44

(83)

—

8,521

(2,087)

1,829

97,679

(6,359)

(13,132)

39

(6,877)

24,675

—

10,717

(1,609)

(2,089)

Balance at December 31, 2019

45,416

$

454

$

67,321

$ 1,362,631

$

(261,018) $

57,625

$

1,227,013

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

PRA Group, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017
(Amounts in thousands)

Cash flows from operating activities:

(cid:49)et income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating
activities:

2019

2018

2017

$

97,679

$

75,734

$

171,125

Share-based compensation expense
Depreciation and amortization
Gain on sale of subsidiaries
Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs
Impairment of investments
Deferred tax benefit
(cid:49)et unrealized foreign currency transactions
Fair value in earnings for equity securities
(cid:49)et allowance charges
Other operating activities

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Other assets
Other receivables, net
Accounts payable
Income taxes (payable)/receivable, net
Accrued expenses
Other liabilities
Right of use asset/lease liability

Cash flows from investing activities:

(cid:49)et cash provided by operating activities

Purchases of property and equipment
Acquisition of finance receivables
Collections applied to principal on finance receivables
Business acquisition, net of cash acquired
Cash received upon consolidation of Polish investment fund
Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries, net
Purchase of investments
Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments

(cid:49)et cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from lines of credit
Principal payments on lines of credit
Principal payments on notes payable and long-term debt
Proceeds from long-term debt
Proceeds from convertible debt
Repurchases of common stock
Tax withholdings related to share-based payments
Payments of origination costs and fees
Cash paid for purchase of portion of noncontrolling interest
Distributions paid to noncontrolling interest
Contributions from noncontrolling interest
(cid:49)et increase/(decrease) in interest-bearing deposits
Other financing activities

(cid:49)et cash provided by financing activities
Effect of exchange rate on cash
(cid:49)et increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

Cash paid for interest
Cash paid for income taxes

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reconciliation:

Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets
Restricted cash included in Other Assets per Consolidated Balance Sheets

$

$

$

10,717
17,464
—
22,987
—
(37,561)
(4,543)
(5,826)
24,025
(234)

3,313
6,300
(2,070)
(12,375)
11,632
1,149
731
133,388

(18,033)
(1,231,351)
842,910
(57,610)
—
31,177
(83,291)
75,008
(441,190)

1,340,700
(728,282)
(313,165)
—
—
—
(1,609)
—
(1,255)
(6,877)
24,675
27,427
(2,091)
339,523
(6,609)
25,112
98,695
123,807

119,424
68,979

119,774
4,033
123,807

8,521
19,322
(26,575)
22,057
—
(56,208)
5,730
(3,502)
33,425
—

(2,180)
(4,269)
1,321
9,390
(1,334)
(566)
—
80,866

(20,521)
(1,105,759)
733,306
—
17,531
4,905
(42,622)
25,909
(387,251)

737,464
(403,348)
(10,000)
—
—
—
(2,087)
(2,260)
(1,664)
(14,486)
—
(8,693)
—
294,926
(10,362)
(21,821)
120,516
98,695

97,475
73,483

98,695
—
98,695

$

$

$

$

8,678
19,763
(48,474)
18,152
1,745
(130,138)
(1,098)
—
11,898
(4,033)

(460)
(3,461)
2,743
(22,715)
(5,752)
(2,498)
—
15,475

(22,840)
(1,086,029)
717,170
—
—
93,304
(6,688)
10,123
(294,960)

1,260,161
(1,549,833)
(15,021)
310,000
345,000
(44,909)
(3,022)
(18,240)
—
(1,429)
—
12,991
—
295,698
10,016
26,229
94,287
120,516

79,825
144,341

120,516
—
120,516

$

$

$

$

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

$

49

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1. General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:

(cid:49)ature of operations: As used herein, the terms "PRA Group," the "Company," or similar terms refer to PRA Group, Inc. 

and its subsidiaries. 

PRAGroup, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is a global financial and business services company with operations in the Americas, 
Europe, and Australia. The Company's primary business is the purchase, collection and management of portfolios of nonperforming 
loans. The Company also provides fee-based services on class action claims recoveries and by servicing of consumer bankruptcy 
accounts in the United States ("U.S.").

Basis of presentation: The consolidated financial statements of the Company are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally 
accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and include the accounts of all of its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts 
and transactions have been eliminated. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires 
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and disclosures. Realized results could differ from 
those estimates and assumptions. 

Reclassification of prior year presentation: Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the 

current year presentation.

Foreign currency: Assets and liabilities have been translated to the reporting currency using the exchange rates in effect on 
the consolidated balance sheet dates. Equity accounts are translated at historical rates, except for the change in retained earnings 
during the year which is the result of the income statement translation process. Revenue and expense accounts are translated using 
the weighted average exchange rate during the period. The cumulative translation adjustments associated with the net assets of 
international  subsidiaries  are  recorded  in  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  (loss)  in  the  accompanying  consolidated 
statements of changes in equity.

Segments: Under the guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification 
("ASC")  ASC Topic 280 "Segment Reporting" ("ASC 280"), the Company has determined that it has several operating segments 
that meet the aggregation criteria of ASC 280, and, therefore, it has one reportable segment, accounts receivable management.  
This conclusion is based on similarities among the operating units, including economic characteristics, the nature of the products 
and services, the nature of the production processes, the types or class of customer for their products and services, the methods 
used to distribute their products, and services and the nature of the regulatory environment.

Revenues and long-lived assets by geographical location:  Revenue for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 
2017, and long-lived assets held at December 31, 2019 and 2018, both for the U.S., the Company's country of domicile, and outside 
of the U.S. were (amounts in thousands):

sheets.

Accumulated other comprehensive loss: The Company records unrealized gains and losses on certain available-for-sale 

investments and foreign currency translation adjustments in other comprehensive income. Unrealized gains and losses on available 

for sale investments are reclassified to earnings as the gains or losses are realized upon sale of the securities. Translation gains or 

losses on foreign currency translation adjustments are reclassified to earnings upon the substantial sale or liquidation of investments 

in international operations. For the Company’s financial derivative instruments that are designated as hedging instruments, the 

change in fair value of the derivative is recorded in other comprehensive income.

Investments: 

Debt  Securities.  The  Company  accounts  for  its  investments  in  debt  securities  under  the  guidance  of ASC  Topic  320, 

"Investments-Debt Securities" ("ASC 320"). The Company determines the appropriate classification of its investments in debt 

securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such determinations at each balance sheet date. Debt securities are classified as 

held to maturity when the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. Debt securities for which 

the Company does not have the intent or ability to hold to maturity are classified as available for sale. Held-to-maturity securities 

are carried at amortized cost. Available for sale securities are carried at fair market value. Fair value is determined using quoted 

market prices. Unrealized gains and losses are included in comprehensive income and reported in stockholders' equity. If the fair 

value of the investment falls below its carrying amount and the decline is deemed to be other than temporary, the investment is 

written down, with a corresponding charge to earnings.

Equity  Securities. The  Company  accounts  for  its  investments  in  equity  securities  in  accordance  with ASC Topic  321, 

“Investments-Equity Securities” (“ASC 321”), which requires that investments in equity securities be measured at fair value with 

changes in unrealized gains and losses reported in earnings. The Company's investment in equity securities have historically been 

carried at cost with income recognized in Other Revenue in the consolidated income statements when distributions, up to reported 

income,  were  received  from  the  partnerships. As  of  first  quarter  of  2018,  "Financial  Instruments  -  Overall:  Recognition  and 

Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities" ("ASU 2016-01"), requires that investments in equity securities be 

measured at fair value with changes in unrealized gains and losses reported in earnings.  See (cid:49)ote 3 for additional information.

Equity Method Investments. Equity method investments that are not consolidated, but over which the Company exercises 

significant influence, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Whether or not the Company exercises significant 

influence with respect to an investee company depends on an evaluation of several factors including, among others, representation 

on the investee company’s board of directors and ownership level, which is generally a 20% to 50% interest in the voting securities 

of the investee company. Under the equity method of accounting, an investee company’s accounts are not reflected within the 

Company’s consolidated balance sheets and income statements; however, the Company’s share of the earnings or losses of the 

investee company is reflected in the caption ‘‘Other revenue’’ in the consolidated income statements. The Company’s carrying 

value in an equity method investee company is reflected in the caption ‘‘Investments’’ in the Company’s consolidated balance 

When the Company’s carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero, no further losses are recorded 

in the Company’s consolidated financial statements unless the Company guaranteed obligations of the investee company or has 

committed additional funding. When the investee company subsequently reports income, the Company will not record its share 

of such income until it equals the amount of its share of losses not previously recognized.

Finance receivables and income recognition: The Company accounts for its investment in finance receivables under the 

guidance of ASC Topic 310-30, "Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality" ("ASC 310-30"). The 

Company  acquires  portfolios  of  accounts  that  have  experienced  deterioration  of  credit  quality  between  origination  and  the 

Company's acquisition of the accounts. The amount paid for a portfolio reflects the Company's determination that it is probable 

the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to an account's contractual terms. At acquisition, the Company 

reviews the accounts to determine whether there is evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination, and if it is probable 

that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the loan's contractual terms. If both conditions exist, the 

Company then determines whether each such account is to be accounted for individually or whether such accounts will be assembled 

into pools based on common risk characteristics. The Company considers expected prepayments and estimates the amount and 

timing of undiscounted expected principal, interest and other cash flows (expected at acquisition) for each acquired portfolio based 

on the Company's proprietary models, and the Company subsequently aggregates portfolios of accounts into quarterly pools. The 

Company determines the excess of the pool's scheduled contractual principal and contractual interest payments over all cash flows 

expected at acquisition as an amount that should not be accreted (nonaccretable difference). The remaining amount, representing 

the excess of the pool's cash flows expected to be collected over the amount paid, is accreted into income recognized on finance 

receivables over the remaining estimated life of the pool (accretable yield). ASC 310-30 requires that the excess of the contractual 

cash  flows  over  expected  cash  flows,  based  on  the  Company's  estimates  derived  from  proprietary  collection  models,  not  be 

(1) (cid:49)one of the countries included in "Others" comprise greater than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenues or long-lived assets.
(2) 2019 includes right-of-use assets from the adoption of ASU 2016-02 on January 1, 2019.  Refer to (cid:49)ote 4.

Revenues are attributed to countries based on the location of the related operations. Long-lived assets consist of net property 
and equipment and right-of-use-assets. The Company reports revenues earned from nonperforming loan acquisitions and collection 
activities,  fee-based  services  and  investments.  For  additional  information  on  the  Company's  investments,  see  (cid:49)ote  3.  It  is 
impracticable for the Company to report further breakdowns of revenues from external customers by product or service.

Cash and cash equivalents: The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less 

when purchased to be cash equivalents. 

Concentrations of credit risk: Financial instruments, which potentially expose the Company to concentrations of credit 

recognized as an adjustment of revenue or expense or on the balance sheet.

risk, consist primarily of cash, investments and finance receivables.

50

51

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United States
United Kingdom
Others (1)
Total

2019

Years Ended December 31,
2018
Revenues

2017

$

$

673,264
120,377
223,440
1,017,081

$

$

619,172
99,817
189,267
908,256

$

$

560,278
81,322
186,606
828,206

$

$

2018
2019
Long-Lived Assets (2)
112,233
3,553
9,687
125,473

48,581
1,543
4,012
54,136

As of December 31,

$

$

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1. General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:

(cid:49)ature of operations: As used herein, the terms "PRA Group," the "Company," or similar terms refer to PRA Group, Inc. 

and its subsidiaries. 

PRAGroup, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is a global financial and business services company with operations in the Americas, 

Europe, and Australia. The Company's primary business is the purchase, collection and management of portfolios of nonperforming 

loans. The Company also provides fee-based services on class action claims recoveries and by servicing of consumer bankruptcy 

accounts in the United States ("U.S.").

Basis of presentation: The consolidated financial statements of the Company are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally 

accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and include the accounts of all of its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts 

and transactions have been eliminated. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires 

management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and disclosures. Realized results could differ from 

those estimates and assumptions. 

current year presentation.

Reclassification of prior year presentation: Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for consistency with the 

Foreign currency: Assets and liabilities have been translated to the reporting currency using the exchange rates in effect on 

the consolidated balance sheet dates. Equity accounts are translated at historical rates, except for the change in retained earnings 

during the year which is the result of the income statement translation process. Revenue and expense accounts are translated using 

the weighted average exchange rate during the period. The cumulative translation adjustments associated with the net assets of 

international  subsidiaries  are  recorded  in  accumulated  other  comprehensive  income  (loss)  in  the  accompanying  consolidated 

statements of changes in equity.

Segments: Under the guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification 

("ASC")  ASC Topic 280 "Segment Reporting" ("ASC 280"), the Company has determined that it has several operating segments 

that meet the aggregation criteria of ASC 280, and, therefore, it has one reportable segment, accounts receivable management.  

This conclusion is based on similarities among the operating units, including economic characteristics, the nature of the products 

and services, the nature of the production processes, the types or class of customer for their products and services, the methods 

used to distribute their products, and services and the nature of the regulatory environment.

Revenues and long-lived assets by geographical location:  Revenue for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 

2017, and long-lived assets held at December 31, 2019 and 2018, both for the U.S., the Company's country of domicile, and outside 

of the U.S. were (amounts in thousands):

United States

United Kingdom

Others (1)

Total

Years Ended December 31,

As of December 31,

2019

2017

2019

2018

Long-Lived Assets (2)

2018

Revenues

$

673,264

$

619,172

$

560,278

$

112,233

$

120,377

223,440

99,817

189,267

81,322

186,606

3,553

9,687

$

1,017,081

$

908,256

$

828,206

$

125,473

$

48,581

1,543

4,012

54,136

(1) (cid:49)one of the countries included in "Others" comprise greater than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenues or long-lived assets.

(2) 2019 includes right-of-use assets from the adoption of ASU 2016-02 on January 1, 2019.  Refer to (cid:49)ote 4.

Revenues are attributed to countries based on the location of the related operations. Long-lived assets consist of net property 

and equipment and right-of-use-assets. The Company reports revenues earned from nonperforming loan acquisitions and collection 

activities,  fee-based  services  and  investments.  For  additional  information  on  the  Company's  investments,  see  (cid:49)ote  3.  It  is 

impracticable for the Company to report further breakdowns of revenues from external customers by product or service.

Cash and cash equivalents: The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less 

when purchased to be cash equivalents. 

Concentrations of credit risk: Financial instruments, which potentially expose the Company to concentrations of credit 

risk, consist primarily of cash, investments and finance receivables.

Accumulated other comprehensive loss: The Company records unrealized gains and losses on certain available-for-sale 
investments and foreign currency translation adjustments in other comprehensive income. Unrealized gains and losses on available 
for sale investments are reclassified to earnings as the gains or losses are realized upon sale of the securities. Translation gains or 
losses on foreign currency translation adjustments are reclassified to earnings upon the substantial sale or liquidation of investments 
in international operations. For the Company’s financial derivative instruments that are designated as hedging instruments, the 
change in fair value of the derivative is recorded in other comprehensive income.

Investments: 

Debt  Securities.  The  Company  accounts  for  its  investments  in  debt  securities  under  the  guidance  of ASC  Topic  320, 
"Investments-Debt Securities" ("ASC 320"). The Company determines the appropriate classification of its investments in debt 
securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such determinations at each balance sheet date. Debt securities are classified as 
held to maturity when the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. Debt securities for which 
the Company does not have the intent or ability to hold to maturity are classified as available for sale. Held-to-maturity securities 
are carried at amortized cost. Available for sale securities are carried at fair market value. Fair value is determined using quoted 
market prices. Unrealized gains and losses are included in comprehensive income and reported in stockholders' equity. If the fair 
value of the investment falls below its carrying amount and the decline is deemed to be other than temporary, the investment is 
written down, with a corresponding charge to earnings.

Equity  Securities. The  Company  accounts  for  its  investments  in  equity  securities  in  accordance  with ASC Topic  321, 
“Investments-Equity Securities” (“ASC 321”), which requires that investments in equity securities be measured at fair value with 
changes in unrealized gains and losses reported in earnings. The Company's investment in equity securities have historically been 
carried at cost with income recognized in Other Revenue in the consolidated income statements when distributions, up to reported 
income,  were  received  from  the  partnerships. As  of  first  quarter  of  2018,  "Financial  Instruments  -  Overall:  Recognition  and 
Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities" ("ASU 2016-01"), requires that investments in equity securities be 
measured at fair value with changes in unrealized gains and losses reported in earnings.  See (cid:49)ote 3 for additional information.

Equity Method Investments. Equity method investments that are not consolidated, but over which the Company exercises 
significant influence, are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Whether or not the Company exercises significant 
influence with respect to an investee company depends on an evaluation of several factors including, among others, representation 
on the investee company’s board of directors and ownership level, which is generally a 20% to 50% interest in the voting securities 
of the investee company. Under the equity method of accounting, an investee company’s accounts are not reflected within the 
Company’s consolidated balance sheets and income statements; however, the Company’s share of the earnings or losses of the 
investee company is reflected in the caption ‘‘Other revenue’’ in the consolidated income statements. The Company’s carrying 
value in an equity method investee company is reflected in the caption ‘‘Investments’’ in the Company’s consolidated balance 
sheets.

When the Company’s carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero, no further losses are recorded 
in the Company’s consolidated financial statements unless the Company guaranteed obligations of the investee company or has 
committed additional funding. When the investee company subsequently reports income, the Company will not record its share 
of such income until it equals the amount of its share of losses not previously recognized.

Finance receivables and income recognition: The Company accounts for its investment in finance receivables under the 
guidance of ASC Topic 310-30, "Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality" ("ASC 310-30"). The 
Company  acquires  portfolios  of  accounts  that  have  experienced  deterioration  of  credit  quality  between  origination  and  the 
Company's acquisition of the accounts. The amount paid for a portfolio reflects the Company's determination that it is probable 
the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to an account's contractual terms. At acquisition, the Company 
reviews the accounts to determine whether there is evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination, and if it is probable 
that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the loan's contractual terms. If both conditions exist, the 
Company then determines whether each such account is to be accounted for individually or whether such accounts will be assembled 
into pools based on common risk characteristics. The Company considers expected prepayments and estimates the amount and 
timing of undiscounted expected principal, interest and other cash flows (expected at acquisition) for each acquired portfolio based 
on the Company's proprietary models, and the Company subsequently aggregates portfolios of accounts into quarterly pools. The 
Company determines the excess of the pool's scheduled contractual principal and contractual interest payments over all cash flows 
expected at acquisition as an amount that should not be accreted (nonaccretable difference). The remaining amount, representing 
the excess of the pool's cash flows expected to be collected over the amount paid, is accreted into income recognized on finance 
receivables over the remaining estimated life of the pool (accretable yield). ASC 310-30 requires that the excess of the contractual 
cash  flows  over  expected  cash  flows,  based  on  the  Company's  estimates  derived  from  proprietary  collection  models,  not  be 
recognized as an adjustment of revenue or expense or on the balance sheet.

50

51

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Each pool is recorded at cost and is accounted for as a single unit for the recognition of income, payments applied to principal 
and loss provision. Once a pool is established for a calendar quarter, individual receivable accounts are not added to the pool 
(unless replaced by the seller) or removed from the pool (unless sold or returned to the seller). The yield is estimated and periodically 
recalculated based on the timing and amount of anticipated cash flows. Income on finance receivables is accrued quarterly based 
on each pool's effective yield. Significant increases in expected future cash flows may be recognized prospectively, through an 
upward adjustment of the yield, over a pool's remaining life. Under ASC 310-30, rather than lowering the estimated yield if the 
collection estimates are below previous expectations, the carrying value of a pool would be written down to maintain the then 
current yield and is shown as an allowance charge in the consolidated income statements with a corresponding valuation allowance 
offsetting finance receivables on the consolidated balance sheets. Cash flows greater than the interest accrual will reduce the 
carrying value of the pool. This reduction in carrying value is defined as payments applied to principal (also referred to as principal 
amortization). Likewise, cash flows that are less than the interest accrual will accrete the carrying balance. Generally, the Company 
does not record accretion in the first six to twelve months of the estimated life of the pool; accordingly, the Company utilizes either 
the cost recovery method or cash method when necessary to prevent accretion as permitted by ASC 310-30. Under the cash method, 
revenue is recognized as it would be under the interest method up to the amount of cash collections. Under the cost recovery 
method, no revenue is recognized until the Company has fully collected the cost of the pool, or until such time that the Company 
considers the collections to be probable and estimable and begins to recognize income based on the interest method as described 
above. The Company also uses the cost recovery method when collections on a particular pool of accounts cannot be reasonably 
estimated.

A pool can become fully amortized (zero carrying balance on the balance sheet) while still generating cash collections. In 

this case, all subsequent cash collections are recognized as revenue when received. 

The Company records a valuation allowance when significant decreases in expected cash flows are identified or there are 
changes in the timing of expected cash flows that would otherwise require a reduction in the stated yield on a pool of accounts. 
Factors that may contribute to the recording of valuation allowances include both external and internal factors. External factors 
that may have an impact on the collectability, and subsequently on the overall profitability of acquired pools of nonperforming 
loans, would include new laws or regulations relating to collections, new interpretations of existing laws or regulations, and the 
overall condition of the economy. Internal factors that may have an impact on the collectability, and subsequently the overall 
profitability of acquired pools of nonperforming loans, would include necessary revisions to initial and post-acquisition scoring 
and modeling estimates, non-optimal operational activities, and decreases in productivity related to turnover and tenure of the 
Company's collection staff. 

The Company capitalizes certain fees paid to third parties related to the direct acquisition of a portfolio of accounts. These 
fees are added to the acquisition cost of the portfolio and accordingly are amortized over the life of the portfolio using the interest 
method.

The agreements to purchase the aforementioned nonperforming loans include general representations and warranties from 
the sellers covering account holder death or insolvency and accounts settled or disputed prior to sale. The representation and 
warranty period permitting the return of these accounts from the Company to the seller is typically 90 to 180 days. Any funds 
received from the seller as a return of purchase price are referred to as buybacks. Buyback funds are applied against the finance 
receivable balance received and are not included in the Company's cash collections from operations. In some cases, the seller will 
replace the returned accounts with new accounts in lieu of returning the purchase price. In that case, the old account is removed 
from the pool and the new account is added.

Fee income recognition: The Company recognizes revenue from its class action claims recovery services when  there is 
persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the amount is fixed or 
determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured.  

Property and equipment: Property and equipment, including improvements that significantly add to the productive capacity 
or extend useful life, are recorded at cost. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Property and equipment are depreciated 
over their useful lives using the straight-line method of depreciation. Software and computer equipment are amortized or depreciated 
over three to five years. Furniture and fixtures are depreciated over five to ten years. Equipment is depreciated over five to seven 
years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the lesser of the useful life, which ranges from three to ten years, or the 
remaining term of the lease. Building improvements are depreciated straight-line over ten to thirty-nine years. When property is 
sold or retired, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the balance sheet and any gain or loss is included 
in the income statement.

Business combinations: The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method in accordance with 
ASC 805, "Business Combinations" ("ASC 805"). The cost of an acquired company is assigned to the tangible and intangible 
assets acquired and the liabilities assumed on the basis of their fair values at the date of acquisition. The determination of fair 

values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management to make estimates and use valuation techniques when market 

values are not readily available. Any excess of purchase price over the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired is 

allocated to goodwill. Transaction costs associated with business combinations are expensed as incurred.

Goodwill  and  intangible  assets:  Goodwill,  in  accordance  with  ASC  Topic  350,  "Intangibles-Goodwill  and 

Other" ("ASC 350"), is not amortized but rather is reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if indicators of potential 

impairment exist. The Company performs its annual assessment as of October 1. The Company may first assess qualitative factors 

to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including 

goodwill. If management concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying 

amount, management conducts a two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. The first step of the impairment test involves 

comparing the fair value of the applicable reporting unit with its carrying value. The Company estimates the fair values of its 

reporting units using a combination of the income approach, which uses present value techniques, and the market approach, which 

uses market multiples from comparable transactions where the acquisition target has similar operating and investment characteristics 

to the reporting unit. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit's fair value, management performs the 

second step of the goodwill impairment test. The second step of the goodwill impairment test involves comparing the implied fair 

value of the affected reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill. The amount by which the carrying value 

of the goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, if any, is recognized as an impairment loss. See (cid:49)ote 5 for additional information.

Convertible senior notes: The Company accounts for its 3.00% Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020 (the "2020 (cid:49)otes") and 

its 3.50% Convertible (cid:49)otes due 2023 (the "2023 (cid:49)otes" and, together with the 2020 (cid:49)otes, the "(cid:49)otes") in accordance with 

ASC 470-20,  "Debt  with  Conversion  and  Other  Options"  ("ASC  470-20"). ASC  470-20  requires  that,  for  convertible  debt 

instruments that must be settled fully or partially in cash upon conversion, issuers must separately account for the liability and 

equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity's nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized 

in subsequent periods. The excess of the principal amount of the liability component over its carrying amount is amortized to 

interest expense over the expected life of a similar liability that does not have an associated equity component, using the effective 

interest method. The equity component is not remeasured as long as it continues to meet the conditions for equity classification 

under ASC 815-40, "Derivatives and Hedging - Contracts in an Entity's Own Equity." Transaction costs incurred with third parties 

are allocated to the liability and equity components in proportion to the allocation of proceeds and accounted for as debt issuance 

costs and equity issuance costs, respectively.

For diluted earnings per share purposes, based upon the Company's intent and ability to settle conversions of the (cid:49)otes 

through a combination of cash and shares, only the conversion spread is included in the diluted earnings per share calculation, if 

dilutive. Under such method, the settlement of the conversion spread has a dilutive effect when the average share price of the 

Company's common stock during any quarter exceeds $65.72 for the 2020 (cid:49)otes or $46.24 for the 2023 (cid:49)otes, neither of which 

occurred during the respective periods from when the (cid:49)otes were issued through December 31, 2019.

Income taxes: The Company follows the guidance of ASC Topic 740 "Income Taxes" ("ASC 740") as it relates to the 

provision for income taxes and uncertainty in income taxes. Accordingly, the Company records a tax provision for the anticipated 

tax consequences of the reported results of operations. The provision for income taxes is estimated using the asset and liability 

method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary 

differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities, and for operating losses and tax credit carry-

forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the currently enacted tax rates that apply to taxable income in 

effect for the years in which those tax assets are expected to be realized or settled. 

The evaluation of a tax position in accordance with the guidance is a two-step process. The first step is recognition: the 

enterprise determines whether it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution 

of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. In evaluating whether a tax position 

has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the enterprise should presume that the position will be examined by the 

appropriate taxing authority that would have full knowledge of all relevant information. The second step is measurement: a tax 

position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is measured to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in 

the financial statements. The tax position is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being 

realized upon ultimate settlement. Tax positions that previously failed to meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold 

should be recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is met. Previously recognized tax 

positions that no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be derecognized in the first subsequent financial 

reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met. The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax 

benefits as a component of income tax expense when positions are not met.

In the event that all or part of the deferred tax assets are determined not to be realizable in the future, a valuation allowance 

would be established and charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. If the Company subsequently realizes 

52

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PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Each pool is recorded at cost and is accounted for as a single unit for the recognition of income, payments applied to principal 

and loss provision. Once a pool is established for a calendar quarter, individual receivable accounts are not added to the pool 

(unless replaced by the seller) or removed from the pool (unless sold or returned to the seller). The yield is estimated and periodically 

recalculated based on the timing and amount of anticipated cash flows. Income on finance receivables is accrued quarterly based 

on each pool's effective yield. Significant increases in expected future cash flows may be recognized prospectively, through an 

upward adjustment of the yield, over a pool's remaining life. Under ASC 310-30, rather than lowering the estimated yield if the 

collection estimates are below previous expectations, the carrying value of a pool would be written down to maintain the then 

current yield and is shown as an allowance charge in the consolidated income statements with a corresponding valuation allowance 

offsetting finance receivables on the consolidated balance sheets. Cash flows greater than the interest accrual will reduce the 

carrying value of the pool. This reduction in carrying value is defined as payments applied to principal (also referred to as principal 

amortization). Likewise, cash flows that are less than the interest accrual will accrete the carrying balance. Generally, the Company 

does not record accretion in the first six to twelve months of the estimated life of the pool; accordingly, the Company utilizes either 

the cost recovery method or cash method when necessary to prevent accretion as permitted by ASC 310-30. Under the cash method, 

revenue is recognized as it would be under the interest method up to the amount of cash collections. Under the cost recovery 

method, no revenue is recognized until the Company has fully collected the cost of the pool, or until such time that the Company 

considers the collections to be probable and estimable and begins to recognize income based on the interest method as described 

above. The Company also uses the cost recovery method when collections on a particular pool of accounts cannot be reasonably 

estimated.

A pool can become fully amortized (zero carrying balance on the balance sheet) while still generating cash collections. In 

this case, all subsequent cash collections are recognized as revenue when received. 

The Company records a valuation allowance when significant decreases in expected cash flows are identified or there are 

changes in the timing of expected cash flows that would otherwise require a reduction in the stated yield on a pool of accounts. 

Factors that may contribute to the recording of valuation allowances include both external and internal factors. External factors 

that may have an impact on the collectability, and subsequently on the overall profitability of acquired pools of nonperforming 

loans, would include new laws or regulations relating to collections, new interpretations of existing laws or regulations, and the 

overall condition of the economy. Internal factors that may have an impact on the collectability, and subsequently the overall 

profitability of acquired pools of nonperforming loans, would include necessary revisions to initial and post-acquisition scoring 

and modeling estimates, non-optimal operational activities, and decreases in productivity related to turnover and tenure of the 

Company's collection staff. 

method.

The Company capitalizes certain fees paid to third parties related to the direct acquisition of a portfolio of accounts. These 

fees are added to the acquisition cost of the portfolio and accordingly are amortized over the life of the portfolio using the interest 

The agreements to purchase the aforementioned nonperforming loans include general representations and warranties from 

the sellers covering account holder death or insolvency and accounts settled or disputed prior to sale. The representation and 

warranty period permitting the return of these accounts from the Company to the seller is typically 90 to 180 days. Any funds 

received from the seller as a return of purchase price are referred to as buybacks. Buyback funds are applied against the finance 

receivable balance received and are not included in the Company's cash collections from operations. In some cases, the seller will 

replace the returned accounts with new accounts in lieu of returning the purchase price. In that case, the old account is removed 

from the pool and the new account is added.

Fee income recognition: The Company recognizes revenue from its class action claims recovery services when  there is 

persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the amount is fixed or 

determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured.  

Property and equipment: Property and equipment, including improvements that significantly add to the productive capacity 

or extend useful life, are recorded at cost. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Property and equipment are depreciated 

over their useful lives using the straight-line method of depreciation. Software and computer equipment are amortized or depreciated 

over three to five years. Furniture and fixtures are depreciated over five to ten years. Equipment is depreciated over five to seven 

years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the lesser of the useful life, which ranges from three to ten years, or the 

remaining term of the lease. Building improvements are depreciated straight-line over ten to thirty-nine years. When property is 

sold or retired, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the balance sheet and any gain or loss is included 

in the income statement.

Business combinations: The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method in accordance with 

ASC 805, "Business Combinations" ("ASC 805"). The cost of an acquired company is assigned to the tangible and intangible 

assets acquired and the liabilities assumed on the basis of their fair values at the date of acquisition. The determination of fair 

values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management to make estimates and use valuation techniques when market 
values are not readily available. Any excess of purchase price over the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired is 
allocated to goodwill. Transaction costs associated with business combinations are expensed as incurred.

Goodwill  and  intangible  assets:  Goodwill,  in  accordance  with  ASC  Topic  350,  "Intangibles-Goodwill  and 
Other" ("ASC 350"), is not amortized but rather is reviewed for impairment annually or more frequently if indicators of potential 
impairment exist. The Company performs its annual assessment as of October 1. The Company may first assess qualitative factors 
to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including 
goodwill. If management concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying 
amount, management conducts a two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. The first step of the impairment test involves 
comparing the fair value of the applicable reporting unit with its carrying value. The Company estimates the fair values of its 
reporting units using a combination of the income approach, which uses present value techniques, and the market approach, which 
uses market multiples from comparable transactions where the acquisition target has similar operating and investment characteristics 
to the reporting unit. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit's fair value, management performs the 
second step of the goodwill impairment test. The second step of the goodwill impairment test involves comparing the implied fair 
value of the affected reporting unit's goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill. The amount by which the carrying value 
of the goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, if any, is recognized as an impairment loss. See (cid:49)ote 5 for additional information.

Convertible senior notes: The Company accounts for its 3.00% Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020 (the "2020 (cid:49)otes") and 
its 3.50% Convertible (cid:49)otes due 2023 (the "2023 (cid:49)otes" and, together with the 2020 (cid:49)otes, the "(cid:49)otes") in accordance with 
ASC 470-20,  "Debt  with  Conversion  and  Other  Options"  ("ASC  470-20"). ASC  470-20  requires  that,  for  convertible  debt 
instruments that must be settled fully or partially in cash upon conversion, issuers must separately account for the liability and 
equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity's nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized 
in subsequent periods. The excess of the principal amount of the liability component over its carrying amount is amortized to 
interest expense over the expected life of a similar liability that does not have an associated equity component, using the effective 
interest method. The equity component is not remeasured as long as it continues to meet the conditions for equity classification 
under ASC 815-40, "Derivatives and Hedging - Contracts in an Entity's Own Equity." Transaction costs incurred with third parties 
are allocated to the liability and equity components in proportion to the allocation of proceeds and accounted for as debt issuance 
costs and equity issuance costs, respectively.

For diluted earnings per share purposes, based upon the Company's intent and ability to settle conversions of the (cid:49)otes 
through a combination of cash and shares, only the conversion spread is included in the diluted earnings per share calculation, if 
dilutive. Under such method, the settlement of the conversion spread has a dilutive effect when the average share price of the 
Company's common stock during any quarter exceeds $65.72 for the 2020 (cid:49)otes or $46.24 for the 2023 (cid:49)otes, neither of which 
occurred during the respective periods from when the (cid:49)otes were issued through December 31, 2019.

Income taxes: The Company follows the guidance of ASC Topic 740 "Income Taxes" ("ASC 740") as it relates to the 
provision for income taxes and uncertainty in income taxes. Accordingly, the Company records a tax provision for the anticipated 
tax consequences of the reported results of operations. The provision for income taxes is estimated using the asset and liability 
method, under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary 
differences between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities, and for operating losses and tax credit carry-
forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the currently enacted tax rates that apply to taxable income in 
effect for the years in which those tax assets are expected to be realized or settled. 

The evaluation of a tax position in accordance with the guidance is a two-step process. The first step is recognition: the 
enterprise determines whether it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution 
of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. In evaluating whether a tax position 
has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the enterprise should presume that the position will be examined by the 
appropriate taxing authority that would have full knowledge of all relevant information. The second step is measurement: a tax 
position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is measured to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in 
the financial statements. The tax position is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being 
realized upon ultimate settlement. Tax positions that previously failed to meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold 
should be recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is met. Previously recognized tax 
positions that no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be derecognized in the first subsequent financial 
reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met. The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax 
benefits as a component of income tax expense when positions are not met.

In the event that all or part of the deferred tax assets are determined not to be realizable in the future, a valuation allowance 
would be established and charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. If the Company subsequently realizes 

52

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

deferred tax assets that were previously determined to be unrealizable, the respective valuation allowance would be reversed, 
resulting in a positive adjustment to earnings.

The estimate of income tax expense involves significant judgment in evaluating the impact of uncertainties in the application 
of complex tax laws. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with our expectations could have a material impact 
on our results of operations and financial position.

Beginning with the 2017 tax year, the Company utilizes a new tax accounting method to recognize net finance receivables 
income. Under the new method, a portion of the annual collections amortize principal and the remaining portion is taxable income. 
The  deferred  tax  liability  related  to  the  difference  in  timing  between  the  new  method  and  the  cost  recovery  method  will  be 
incorporated evenly into the Company’s tax filings over four years. For additional information, see (cid:49)ote 13.

Advertising costs: Advertising costs are expensed when incurred.

Leases: The Company accounts for leases in accordance with the provisions of FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 
842) Section A - Leases: Amendments to the FASB Account Standards Codification" ("ASU 2016-02").  ASU 2016-02 requires 
that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying 
asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. The Company adopted ASC 842 on January 1, 2019 using the alternative method 
which resulted in the recording of operating lease right-of-use ("ROU") assets and lease liabilities of $72.1 million and $75.8 
million, respectively. The Company's balance sheets for reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019 are presented 
under the new guidance, while prior periods amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with previous 
guidance.

The Company elected to apply the package of practical expedients permitted within the new standard, which among other 
things, allows it to carry forward the historical lease classification. In addition, the Company elected the practical expedient to 
exclude short-term leases (lease terms of less than one year) from its ROU assets and lease liabilities.

 The Company's operating lease portfolio primarily includes corporate offices and call centers. The majority of its leases 
have remaining lease terms of one year to twenty years, some of which include options to extend the leases for five years, and 
others include options to terminate the leases within one year. Exercises of lease renewal options are typically at the Company's 
sole discretion and are included in its ROU assets and lease liabilities based upon whether the Company is reasonably certain of 
exercising the renewal options. The Company has lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally 
accounted for  separately. The Company's lease agreements do not  contain any  material residual value guarantees  or material 
restrictive covenants.

As most of the Company's leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on 
the information available at the lease commencement date in determining the present value of the lease payments. The Company 
used its incremental borrowing rate as of January 1, 2019 to calculate the present value of the lease payments of its existing leases 
at adoption.

Share-based compensation: The Company accounts for share-based compensation in accordance with the provisions of 
ASC Topic 718 "Compensation-Stock Compensation" ("ASC 718"). ASC 718 requires that compensation expense associated with 
share equity awards be recognized in the income statement. The Company determines stock-based compensation expense for all 
share-based payment awards based on the measurement date fair value. The Company has certain share awards that include market 
conditions that affect vesting.  The fair value of these shares is estimated using a lattice model. Compensation cost is not adjusted 
if the market condition is not met, as long as the requisite service is provided. The Company estimates a forfeiture rate for most 
equity share grants based on historical experience. Time-based equity share awards generally vest between one and three years
from the grant date and are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Equity share awards that contain a performance 
metric, are expensed over the requisite service period, generally three years, in accordance with the performance level achieved 
at each reporting period. See (cid:49)ote 11 for additional information.

Derivatives: The Company periodically enters into derivative financial instruments, typically interest rate swap agreements, 
interest rate caps, and foreign currency contracts to reduce its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates on variable-rate debt and 
foreign currency exchange rates. The Company does not utilize derivative financial instruments with a level of complexity or with 
a risk greater than the exposure to be managed nor does it enter into or hold derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

The Company follows the guidance of ASC Topic 815 "Derivatives and Hedging" ("ASC 815") to account for its derivatives. 
All of the Company's outstanding derivative financial instruments are recognized in the balance sheet at their fair values. The 
effect on earnings from recognizing the fair values of these derivative financial instruments depends on their intended use, their 
hedge designation, and their effectiveness in offsetting changes in the fair values of the exposures they are hedging. Changes in 
the fair values of instruments designated to reduce or eliminate adverse fluctuations in the fair values of recognized assets and 

liabilities and unrecognized firm commitments are reported currently in earnings along with changes in the fair values of the 

hedged items. Changes in the effective portions of the fair values of instruments used to reduce or eliminate adverse fluctuations 

in cash flows of anticipated or forecasted transactions are reported in equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive 

income. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified to earnings when the related hedged items affect 

earnings or the anticipated transactions are no longer probable. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that are not 

designated as hedges or do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment are reported currently in earnings. The Company realizes 

gains and losses from derivative instruments in the same financial statement line item as the hedged item/forecasted transaction. 

Changes in unrealized gains and losses for derivatives not designated in a hedge accounting relationship are recorded directly in 

earnings each period and are also recorded in the same financial statement line item as the hedged item/forecasted transaction. 

Cash  flows  from  the  settlement  of  derivatives,  including  both  economic  hedges  and  those  designated  in  hedge  accounting 

relationships, appear in the consolidated statements of cash flows in the same categories as the cash flows of the hedged item.

For derivative financial instruments accounted for as hedging instruments, the Company formally designates and documents, 

at inception, the financial instrument as a hedge of a specific underlying exposure, the risk management objective, and the manner 

in which effectiveness of the hedge will be assessed. The Company formally assesses, both at inception and at each reporting 

period thereafter, whether the derivative financial instruments used in hedging transactions are effective in offsetting changes in 

fair value or cash flows of the related underlying exposures. Any ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the instruments 

is recognized immediately in earnings.

The Company discontinues the use of hedge accounting prospectively when (1) the derivative instrument is no longer effective 

in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the underlying hedged item; (2) the derivative instrument expires, is sold, 

terminated, or exercised; or (3) designating the derivative instrument as a hedge is no longer appropriate.  See (cid:49)ote 9 for additional 

information.

Use  of  estimates:  The  preparation  of  the  consolidated  financial  statements  in  conformity  with  U.S.  GAAP  requires 

management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent 

assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during 

the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Significant estimates have been made by management with respect to the timing and amount of future cash collections of 

the Company's finance receivables portfolios. Actual results could differ from these estimates making it reasonably possible that 

a change in these estimates could occur within one year.

Commitments and contingencies: The Company is subject to various claims and contingencies related to lawsuits, certain 

taxes,  and  commitments  under  contractual  and  other  obligations.  The  Company  recognizes  liabilities  for  contingencies  and 

commitments  when  a  loss  is  probable  and  estimable.  The  Company  expenses  related  legal  costs  as  incurred.  For  additional 

information, see (cid:49)ote 14.

Estimated  fair  value  of  financial  instruments:  The  Company  applies  the  provisions  of ASC  Topic  820  "Fair  Value 

Measurements and Disclosures" ("ASC 820"). ASC 820 defines fair value as 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. ASC 820 also requires 

the consideration of differing levels of inputs in the determination of fair values. Disclosure of the estimated fair values of financial 

instruments often requires the use of estimates. See (cid:49)ote 8 for additional information.

Recent accounting pronouncements:

Recently Issued Accounting Standards Adopted:

Codification Improvements to Leases

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 which requires that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease 

payments and a ROU representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. In July 2018, FASB 

issued ASU  2018-10,  "Codification  Improvements  to  Topic  842,  Leases"  and ASU  2018-11,  "Leases  (Topic  842)  Targeted 

Improvements" which among other things, allowed for an alternative transition method which eliminated the requirement to restate 

the earliest prior period presented in an entity's financial statements. Entities that elected this transition option, including the 

Company,  were  required  to  adopt  the  new  lease standard  using the  modified  retrospective  transition  method  required by  the 

standard, but recognized a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption rather 

than in the earliest period presented. The Company adopted the new leasing standard on January 1, 2019 and as a result recorded 

operating lease ROU assets and lease liabilities of $72.1 million and $75.8 million, respectively. The adoption of the standard did 

not have any other material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

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deferred tax assets that were previously determined to be unrealizable, the respective valuation allowance would be reversed, 

resulting in a positive adjustment to earnings.

The estimate of income tax expense involves significant judgment in evaluating the impact of uncertainties in the application 

of complex tax laws. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with our expectations could have a material impact 

on our results of operations and financial position.

Beginning with the 2017 tax year, the Company utilizes a new tax accounting method to recognize net finance receivables 

income. Under the new method, a portion of the annual collections amortize principal and the remaining portion is taxable income. 

The  deferred  tax  liability  related  to  the  difference  in  timing  between  the  new  method  and  the  cost  recovery  method  will  be 

incorporated evenly into the Company’s tax filings over four years. For additional information, see (cid:49)ote 13.

Advertising costs: Advertising costs are expensed when incurred.

Leases: The Company accounts for leases in accordance with the provisions of FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 

842) Section A - Leases: Amendments to the FASB Account Standards Codification" ("ASU 2016-02").  ASU 2016-02 requires 

that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease payments and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying 

asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. The Company adopted ASC 842 on January 1, 2019 using the alternative method 

which resulted in the recording of operating lease right-of-use ("ROU") assets and lease liabilities of $72.1 million and $75.8 

million, respectively. The Company's balance sheets for reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019 are presented 

under the new guidance, while prior periods amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with previous 

guidance.

The Company elected to apply the package of practical expedients permitted within the new standard, which among other 

things, allows it to carry forward the historical lease classification. In addition, the Company elected the practical expedient to 

exclude short-term leases (lease terms of less than one year) from its ROU assets and lease liabilities.

 The Company's operating lease portfolio primarily includes corporate offices and call centers. The majority of its leases 

have remaining lease terms of one year to twenty years, some of which include options to extend the leases for five years, and 

others include options to terminate the leases within one year. Exercises of lease renewal options are typically at the Company's 

sole discretion and are included in its ROU assets and lease liabilities based upon whether the Company is reasonably certain of 

exercising the renewal options. The Company has lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally 

accounted for  separately. The Company's lease agreements do not  contain any  material residual value guarantees  or material 

restrictive covenants.

at adoption.

As most of the Company's leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate based on 

the information available at the lease commencement date in determining the present value of the lease payments. The Company 

used its incremental borrowing rate as of January 1, 2019 to calculate the present value of the lease payments of its existing leases 

Share-based compensation: The Company accounts for share-based compensation in accordance with the provisions of 

ASC Topic 718 "Compensation-Stock Compensation" ("ASC 718"). ASC 718 requires that compensation expense associated with 

share equity awards be recognized in the income statement. The Company determines stock-based compensation expense for all 

share-based payment awards based on the measurement date fair value. The Company has certain share awards that include market 

conditions that affect vesting.  The fair value of these shares is estimated using a lattice model. Compensation cost is not adjusted 

if the market condition is not met, as long as the requisite service is provided. The Company estimates a forfeiture rate for most 

from the grant date and are expensed on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Equity share awards that contain a performance 

metric, are expensed over the requisite service period, generally three years, in accordance with the performance level achieved 

at each reporting period. See (cid:49)ote 11 for additional information.

Derivatives: The Company periodically enters into derivative financial instruments, typically interest rate swap agreements, 

interest rate caps, and foreign currency contracts to reduce its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates on variable-rate debt and 

foreign currency exchange rates. The Company does not utilize derivative financial instruments with a level of complexity or with 

a risk greater than the exposure to be managed nor does it enter into or hold derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

The Company follows the guidance of ASC Topic 815 "Derivatives and Hedging" ("ASC 815") to account for its derivatives. 

All of the Company's outstanding derivative financial instruments are recognized in the balance sheet at their fair values. The 

effect on earnings from recognizing the fair values of these derivative financial instruments depends on their intended use, their 

hedge designation, and their effectiveness in offsetting changes in the fair values of the exposures they are hedging. Changes in 

the fair values of instruments designated to reduce or eliminate adverse fluctuations in the fair values of recognized assets and 

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

liabilities and unrecognized firm commitments are reported currently in earnings along with changes in the fair values of the 
hedged items. Changes in the effective portions of the fair values of instruments used to reduce or eliminate adverse fluctuations 
in cash flows of anticipated or forecasted transactions are reported in equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive 
income. Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified to earnings when the related hedged items affect 
earnings or the anticipated transactions are no longer probable. Changes in the fair values of derivative instruments that are not 
designated as hedges or do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment are reported currently in earnings. The Company realizes 
gains and losses from derivative instruments in the same financial statement line item as the hedged item/forecasted transaction. 
Changes in unrealized gains and losses for derivatives not designated in a hedge accounting relationship are recorded directly in 
earnings each period and are also recorded in the same financial statement line item as the hedged item/forecasted transaction. 
Cash  flows  from  the  settlement  of  derivatives,  including  both  economic  hedges  and  those  designated  in  hedge  accounting 
relationships, appear in the consolidated statements of cash flows in the same categories as the cash flows of the hedged item.

For derivative financial instruments accounted for as hedging instruments, the Company formally designates and documents, 
at inception, the financial instrument as a hedge of a specific underlying exposure, the risk management objective, and the manner 
in which effectiveness of the hedge will be assessed. The Company formally assesses, both at inception and at each reporting 
period thereafter, whether the derivative financial instruments used in hedging transactions are effective in offsetting changes in 
fair value or cash flows of the related underlying exposures. Any ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the instruments 
is recognized immediately in earnings.

The Company discontinues the use of hedge accounting prospectively when (1) the derivative instrument is no longer effective 
in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the underlying hedged item; (2) the derivative instrument expires, is sold, 
terminated, or exercised; or (3) designating the derivative instrument as a hedge is no longer appropriate.  See (cid:49)ote 9 for additional 
information.

Use  of  estimates:  The  preparation  of  the  consolidated  financial  statements  in  conformity  with  U.S.  GAAP  requires 
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent 
assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during 
the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Significant estimates have been made by management with respect to the timing and amount of future cash collections of 
the Company's finance receivables portfolios. Actual results could differ from these estimates making it reasonably possible that 
a change in these estimates could occur within one year.

Commitments and contingencies: The Company is subject to various claims and contingencies related to lawsuits, certain 
taxes,  and  commitments  under  contractual  and  other  obligations.  The  Company  recognizes  liabilities  for  contingencies  and 
commitments  when  a  loss  is  probable  and  estimable.  The  Company  expenses  related  legal  costs  as  incurred.  For  additional 
information, see (cid:49)ote 14.

Estimated  fair  value  of  financial  instruments:  The  Company  applies  the  provisions  of ASC  Topic  820  "Fair  Value 
Measurements and Disclosures" ("ASC 820"). ASC 820 defines fair value as 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. ASC 820 also requires 
the consideration of differing levels of inputs in the determination of fair values. Disclosure of the estimated fair values of financial 
instruments often requires the use of estimates. See (cid:49)ote 8 for additional information.

Recent accounting pronouncements:

equity share grants based on historical experience. Time-based equity share awards generally vest between one and three years

Recently Issued Accounting Standards Adopted:

Codification Improvements to Leases

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 which requires that a lessee should recognize a liability to make lease 
payments and a ROU representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term on the balance sheet. In July 2018, FASB 
issued ASU  2018-10,  "Codification  Improvements  to  Topic  842,  Leases"  and ASU  2018-11,  "Leases  (Topic  842)  Targeted 
Improvements" which among other things, allowed for an alternative transition method which eliminated the requirement to restate 
the earliest prior period presented in an entity's financial statements. Entities that elected this transition option, including the 
Company,  were  required  to  adopt  the  new  lease standard  using the  modified  retrospective  transition  method  required by  the 
standard, but recognized a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption rather 
than in the earliest period presented. The Company adopted the new leasing standard on January 1, 2019 and as a result recorded 
operating lease ROU assets and lease liabilities of $72.1 million and $75.8 million, respectively. The adoption of the standard did 
not have any other material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

54

55

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Statement of Cash Flows- Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments

In August 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-15, "Statement of Cash Flows - Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash 
Payments (Topic 230)" ("ASU 2016-15"). ASU 2016-15 reduces diversity in practice of how certain transactions are classified in 
the statement of cash flows. The new guidance clarifies the classification of cash activity related to debt prepayment or debt 
extinguishment  costs,  settlement  of  zero-coupon  debt  instruments,  contingent  consideration  payments  made  after  a  business 
combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, proceeds from the settlement of corporate and bank-owned life 
insurance policies, distributions received from equity-method investments, and beneficial interests in securitization transactions. 
The guidance also describes a predominance principle in which cash flows with aspects of more than one class that cannot be 
separated should be classified based on the activity that is likely to be the predominant source or use of cash flow. ASU 2016-15 
is effective for the Company for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The new standard must be adopted using a 
retrospective transition method. The Company adopted ASU 2016-15 in the first quarter of 2019 which had no material impact 
on its consolidated financial statements.

Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income 

In  February  2018,  the  FASB  issued ASU  2018-02,  "Reclassification  of  Certain  Tax  Effects  from Accumulated  Other 
Comprehensive Income" ("ASU 2018-02"). Under existing GAAP, the effects of changes in tax rates and laws on deferred tax 
balances are recorded as a component of income tax expense in the period in which the law was enacted. When deferred tax 
balances related to items originally recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income are adjusted, certain tax effects become 
stranded in accumulated other comprehensive income. The amendments in ASU 2018-02 allow a reclassification from accumulated 
other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded income tax effects resulting from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 
("Tax Act"). The amendments in this ASU also require certain disclosures about stranded income tax effects. The guidance is 
effective  for  fiscal  years  beginning  after  December  15,  2018,  and  interim  periods  within  those  fiscal  years. The  Company’s 
provisional adjustments recorded during the year ended December 31, 2017 to account for the impact of the Tax Act did not result 
in stranded tax effects. The Company adopted ASU 2018-02 in the first quarter of 2019 which had no material impact on its 
consolidated financial statements.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards (cid:49)ot Yet Adopted:

Financial Instruments - Credit Losses

In June 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326)" ("ASU 2016-13"), which 
introduces a new methodology requiring the measurement of expected credit losses for financial instruments held at the reporting 
date based on historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. ASU 2016-13 utilizes a lifetime 
“expected credit loss” measurement objective for the recognition of credit losses for loans, held-to-maturity debt securities and 
other receivables measured at amortized cost. The new methodology requires an entity to present on the balance sheet the net 
amount expected to be collected. This methodology replaces the multiple impairment methods under existing GAAP, including 
for purchased credit impaired ("PCI") assets, and introduces the concept of purchased credit deteriorated (“PCD”) financial assets. 
The Company's PCI assets currently accounted for under existing GAAP will be accounted for as PCD financial assets upon 
adoption of ASU 2016-13. ASU 2016-13 requires PCD assets to be recognized at their purchase price plus the allowance for credit 
losses expected at the time of acquisition. ASU 2016-13 also requires that financial assets should be written off when they are 
deemed uncollectible. 

In (cid:49)ovember 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-11, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit 
Losses” (“ASU 2019-11”), which amends the PCD financial asset guidance in ASU 2016-13 to clarify that expected recoveries 
of amounts previously written off and expected to be written off should be included in the valuation account and should not exceed 
the aggregate of amounts previously written off and expected to be written off by an entity. Further, ASU 2019-11 clarifies that a 
negative allowance is recognized when an entity determines, after a full or partial writeoff of the amortized cost basis, that it will 
recover all or a portion of the basis.

Based on the guidance in ASU 2016-13 and 2019-11, substantially all the Company’s PCI assets will transition using the 
PCD guidance; the Company will gross up the amortized cost of the PCI assets by adding the allowance for credit losses estimated 
at transition.  The Company will then immediately write off the amortized cost basis of individual accounts and establish a negative 
allowance for expected recoveries.  The immediate writeoff and subsequent recognition of estimated recoveries are expected to 
have no impact on the Company’s statement of income, balance sheet or retained earnings at the date of adoption.   The Company 
will estimate expected recoveries using a discounted cash flow approach and will recognize income over the estimated life of the 
pool at an effective interest rate. Subsequent changes (favorable and unfavorable) in expected cash flows will be recognized in 
current period earnings by adjusting the present value of the expected recoveries.

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Subsequent to adoption, ASU 2016-13 and ASU 2019-11 represent a significant change from existing GAAP and are 

expected to result in material changes to the Company’s accounting for its finance receivables, including recognizing revenue at 

a fixed rate and recognizing both positive and negative changes to the forecast as an adjustment to current period earnings. The 

guidance will be effective prospectively for the Company as of January 1, 2020. Implementation efforts, including model finalization 

and drafting of accounting and internal control policies and procedures are nearly complete.

Intangibles - Goodwill and Other

In  January  2017,  FASB  issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles  -  Goodwill  and  Other (Topic  350): Simplifying  the  Test  for 

Goodwill Impairment" ("ASU 2017-04"). ASU 2017-04 eliminates Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. Instead, an entity should 

perform its annual or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. 

An entity should recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair 

value; however, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. An entity still 

has  the  option  to  perform  the  qualitative  assessment  for  a  reporting  unit  to  determine  if  the  quantitative  impairment  test  is 

necessary. ASU 2017-04 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption was 

permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed after January 1, 2017. Based on the Company's most recent 

goodwill impairment assessment, there were no reporting units for which it was more-likely-than-not that the carrying amount of 

a reporting unit exceeded its respective fair value; therefore, the Company believes that ASU 2017-04 would not have an impact 

on its consolidated financial statements or related disclosures.  If subsequent to adoption, the carrying amount of a reporting unit 

exceeds its respective fair value, the Company would be required to recognize an impairment charge.  The Company will adopt 

this standard on January 1, 2020 and does not expect that the adoption of these amendments will have a material effect on its 

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes 

to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement” ("ASU 2018-13"). ASU 2018-13 eliminates, adds and modifies 

certain disclosure requirements for fair value measurements as part of its disclosure framework project. The standard is effective 

for all entities for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those 

fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted.  The Company will adopt this standard on January 1, 2020 and expects the adoption of 

ASU 2018-13 will result in additional and modified disclosures in its consolidated financial statements without any financial 

In December  2019, the  FASB  issued ASU  2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying  the Accounting  for  Income 

Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”), which simplifies the accounting for income taxes. This standard is effective for annual and interim periods 

beginning after December 15, 2020 on a prospective basis, and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating 

the impact of ASU 2019-12 on our consolidated financial statements and expects it to result in additional and modified disclosures.

The Company does not expect that any other recently issued accounting pronouncements will have a material effect on its 

Changes in finance receivables, net, for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, were as follows (amounts in thousands):

Balance at beginning of year

Acquisitions of finance receivables (1)

Addition relating to consolidation of Polish investment fund

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Cash collections

Income recognized on finance receivables

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Balance at end of year

made during the first quarter of 2019.

2019

2018

$

3,084,777

$

1,274,317

—

22,006

998,361

(24,025)

2,776,199

1,105,423

34,871

(64,985)

891,899

(33,425)

(1,841,271)

(1,625,205)

$

3,514,165

$

3,084,777

(1) Includes portfolio purchases adjusted for buybacks and acquisition related costs and portfolios from the acquisition of a business in Canada 

consolidated financial statements.

Fair Value Measurement

impact.

Income Taxes

consolidated financial statements.

2. Finance Receivables, net:

56

57

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PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Statement of Cash Flows- Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments

In August 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-15, "Statement of Cash Flows - Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash 

Payments (Topic 230)" ("ASU 2016-15"). ASU 2016-15 reduces diversity in practice of how certain transactions are classified in 

the statement of cash flows. The new guidance clarifies the classification of cash activity related to debt prepayment or debt 

extinguishment  costs,  settlement  of  zero-coupon  debt  instruments,  contingent  consideration  payments  made  after  a  business 

combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, proceeds from the settlement of corporate and bank-owned life 

insurance policies, distributions received from equity-method investments, and beneficial interests in securitization transactions. 

The guidance also describes a predominance principle in which cash flows with aspects of more than one class that cannot be 

separated should be classified based on the activity that is likely to be the predominant source or use of cash flow. ASU 2016-15 

is effective for the Company for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The new standard must be adopted using a 

retrospective transition method. The Company adopted ASU 2016-15 in the first quarter of 2019 which had no material impact 

on its consolidated financial statements.

Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income 

In  February  2018,  the  FASB  issued ASU  2018-02,  "Reclassification  of  Certain  Tax  Effects  from Accumulated  Other 

Comprehensive Income" ("ASU 2018-02"). Under existing GAAP, the effects of changes in tax rates and laws on deferred tax 

balances are recorded as a component of income tax expense in the period in which the law was enacted. When deferred tax 

balances related to items originally recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income are adjusted, certain tax effects become 

stranded in accumulated other comprehensive income. The amendments in ASU 2018-02 allow a reclassification from accumulated 

other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded income tax effects resulting from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 

("Tax Act"). The amendments in this ASU also require certain disclosures about stranded income tax effects. The guidance is 

effective  for  fiscal  years  beginning  after  December  15,  2018,  and  interim  periods  within  those  fiscal  years. The  Company’s 

provisional adjustments recorded during the year ended December 31, 2017 to account for the impact of the Tax Act did not result 

in stranded tax effects. The Company adopted ASU 2018-02 in the first quarter of 2019 which had no material impact on its 

consolidated financial statements.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards (cid:49)ot Yet Adopted:

Financial Instruments - Credit Losses

In June 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326)" ("ASU 2016-13"), which 

introduces a new methodology requiring the measurement of expected credit losses for financial instruments held at the reporting 

date based on historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. ASU 2016-13 utilizes a lifetime 

“expected credit loss” measurement objective for the recognition of credit losses for loans, held-to-maturity debt securities and 

other receivables measured at amortized cost. The new methodology requires an entity to present on the balance sheet the net 

amount expected to be collected. This methodology replaces the multiple impairment methods under existing GAAP, including 

for purchased credit impaired ("PCI") assets, and introduces the concept of purchased credit deteriorated (“PCD”) financial assets. 

The Company's PCI assets currently accounted for under existing GAAP will be accounted for as PCD financial assets upon 

adoption of ASU 2016-13. ASU 2016-13 requires PCD assets to be recognized at their purchase price plus the allowance for credit 

losses expected at the time of acquisition. ASU 2016-13 also requires that financial assets should be written off when they are 

deemed uncollectible. 

In (cid:49)ovember 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-11, “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments - Credit 

Losses” (“ASU 2019-11”), which amends the PCD financial asset guidance in ASU 2016-13 to clarify that expected recoveries 

of amounts previously written off and expected to be written off should be included in the valuation account and should not exceed 

the aggregate of amounts previously written off and expected to be written off by an entity. Further, ASU 2019-11 clarifies that a 

negative allowance is recognized when an entity determines, after a full or partial writeoff of the amortized cost basis, that it will 

recover all or a portion of the basis.

Based on the guidance in ASU 2016-13 and 2019-11, substantially all the Company’s PCI assets will transition using the 

PCD guidance; the Company will gross up the amortized cost of the PCI assets by adding the allowance for credit losses estimated 

at transition.  The Company will then immediately write off the amortized cost basis of individual accounts and establish a negative 

allowance for expected recoveries.  The immediate writeoff and subsequent recognition of estimated recoveries are expected to 

have no impact on the Company’s statement of income, balance sheet or retained earnings at the date of adoption.   The Company 

will estimate expected recoveries using a discounted cash flow approach and will recognize income over the estimated life of the 

pool at an effective interest rate. Subsequent changes (favorable and unfavorable) in expected cash flows will be recognized in 

current period earnings by adjusting the present value of the expected recoveries.

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Subsequent to adoption, ASU 2016-13 and ASU 2019-11 represent a significant change from existing GAAP and are 
expected to result in material changes to the Company’s accounting for its finance receivables, including recognizing revenue at 
a fixed rate and recognizing both positive and negative changes to the forecast as an adjustment to current period earnings. The 
guidance will be effective prospectively for the Company as of January 1, 2020. Implementation efforts, including model finalization 
and drafting of accounting and internal control policies and procedures are nearly complete.

Intangibles - Goodwill and Other

In  January  2017,  FASB  issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles  -  Goodwill  and  Other (Topic  350): Simplifying  the  Test  for 
Goodwill Impairment" ("ASU 2017-04"). ASU 2017-04 eliminates Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. Instead, an entity should 
perform its annual or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. 
An entity should recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair 
value; however, the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. An entity still 
has  the  option  to  perform  the  qualitative  assessment  for  a  reporting  unit  to  determine  if  the  quantitative  impairment  test  is 
necessary. ASU 2017-04 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and early adoption was 
permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed after January 1, 2017. Based on the Company's most recent 
goodwill impairment assessment, there were no reporting units for which it was more-likely-than-not that the carrying amount of 
a reporting unit exceeded its respective fair value; therefore, the Company believes that ASU 2017-04 would not have an impact 
on its consolidated financial statements or related disclosures.  If subsequent to adoption, the carrying amount of a reporting unit 
exceeds its respective fair value, the Company would be required to recognize an impairment charge.  The Company will adopt 
this standard on January 1, 2020 and does not expect that the adoption of these amendments will have a material effect on its 
consolidated financial statements.

Fair Value Measurement

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes 
to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement” ("ASU 2018-13"). ASU 2018-13 eliminates, adds and modifies 
certain disclosure requirements for fair value measurements as part of its disclosure framework project. The standard is effective 
for all entities for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those 
fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted.  The Company will adopt this standard on January 1, 2020 and expects the adoption of 
ASU 2018-13 will result in additional and modified disclosures in its consolidated financial statements without any financial 
impact.

Income Taxes

In December  2019, the  FASB  issued ASU  2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying  the Accounting  for  Income 
Taxes (“ASU 2019-12”), which simplifies the accounting for income taxes. This standard is effective for annual and interim periods 
beginning after December 15, 2020 on a prospective basis, and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating 
the impact of ASU 2019-12 on our consolidated financial statements and expects it to result in additional and modified disclosures.

The Company does not expect that any other recently issued accounting pronouncements will have a material effect on its 

consolidated financial statements.

2. Finance Receivables, net:

Changes in finance receivables, net, for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, were as follows (amounts in thousands):

Balance at beginning of year
Acquisitions of finance receivables (1)
Addition relating to consolidation of Polish investment fund

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Cash collections

Income recognized on finance receivables

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Balance at end of year

2019

2018

$

3,084,777

$

1,274,317

—

22,006

2,776,199

1,105,423

34,871

(64,985)

(1,841,271)

(1,625,205)

998,361

(24,025)

891,899

(33,425)

$

3,514,165

$

3,084,777

(1) Includes portfolio purchases adjusted for buybacks and acquisition related costs and portfolios from the acquisition of a business in Canada 
made during the first quarter of 2019.

56

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company acquired finance receivable portfolios with a face value of $11.7 
billion for $1.3 billion as compared to the same period last year with a face value of $9.2 billion for $1.1 billion. At December 31, 
2019, the estimated remaining collections ("ERC") on the receivables acquired during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 
2018 were $2.0 billion and $1.4 billion, respectively. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, ERC was $6.8 billion and $6.1 billion, 
respectively.

At the time of acquisition and each quarter thereafter, the life of each pool is estimated based on projected amounts and 
timing of future cash collections using the proprietary models of the Company. Based upon current projections, estimated cash 
collections expected to be applied to principal are as follows for the twelve-month periods ending December 31, (amounts in 
thousands):

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

2027

2028

2029

Thereafter

Total ERC expected to be applied to principal

$

831,769

672,699

500,597

368,332

263,785

193,831

156,456

135,238

125,673

116,008

149,777

$

3,514,165

At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company had aggregate net finance receivables balances in pools accounted for under 

the cost recovery method of $33.7 million and $48.0 million, respectively.

Accretable yield represents the amount of income on finance receivables the Company can expect to recognize over the 
remaining life of its existing portfolios based on estimated future cash flows as of the balance sheet date. Additions represent the 
original expected accretable yield, on portfolios acquired during the period. (cid:49)et reclassifications from nonaccretable difference 
to  accretable  yield  primarily  result  from  the  increase  in  the  Company's  estimate  of  future  cash  flows. When  applicable,  net 
reclassifications to nonaccretable difference from accretable yield result from the decrease in the Company's estimates of future 
cash flows and allowance charges that together exceed the increase in the Company's estimate of future cash flows.

Changes  in  accretable  yield  for  the  years  ended  December 31,  2019  and  2018  were  as  follows  (amounts  in  thousands):

Balance at beginning of year

Income recognized on finance receivables

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Additions from portfolio acquisitions

Reclassifications from nonaccretable difference

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Balance at end of year

2019

2018

$

3,058,445

$

(998,361)

24,025

943,887

205,464

6,671

2,927,866

(891,899)

33,425

876,112

194,992

(82,051)

$

3,240,131

$

3,058,445

The following is a summary of activity within the Company's valuation allowance account, all of which relates to loans 

acquired with deteriorated credit quality, for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Beginning balance

Allowance charges

Reversal of previous recorded allowance charges

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Ending balance

3. Investments:

2019

2018

2017

257,148

$

225,555

$

211,465

38,662

(14,637)

24,025

122

48,856

(15,431)

33,425

(1,832)

13,826

(1,928)

11,898

2,192

281,295

$

257,148

$

225,555

$

$

Investments consisted of the following at December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

2019

2018

$

$

5,052

$

5,077

7,218

33,677

10,229

56,176

$

7,973

21,753

10,370

45,173

Debt securities

Available-for-sale

Equity securities

Private equity funds

Mutual funds

Equity method investments

Total investments

Debt Securities

Available-for-Sale

fair value. 

(amounts in thousands):

Available-for-sale

Government bonds

Available-for-sale

Government bonds

Equity Securities

Government bonds: The Company's investments in government bonds are classified as available-for-sale and are stated at 

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments in debt securities at December 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows 

Amortized Cost

Gains

Losses

Value

Gross Unrealized

Gross Unrealized

Aggregate Fair

December 31, 2019

5,095

$

— $

43

$

5,052

Amortized Cost

Gains

Losses

Value

Gross Unrealized

Gross Unrealized

Aggregate Fair

December 31, 2018

5,160

$

— $

83

$

5,077

$

$

Investments  in  private  equity  funds:  Investments  in  private  equity  funds  represent  limited  partnerships  in  which  the 

Company has less than a 3% interest. In the first quarter of 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2016-01. Upon adoption of ASU 

2016-01, the investments are carried at the fair value reported by the fund manager. The Company recorded a cumulative effect 

adjustment of $3.9 million, net of tax, to beginning retained earnings for the unrealized loss on the investment. 

Mutual  funds:  The  Company  invests  certain  excess  funds  held  in  Brazil  in  a  Brazilian  real  denominated  mutual  fund 

benchmarked to the U.S. dollar that invests principally in Brazilian fixed income securities. The investments are carried at fair 

value based on quoted market prices.  Gains and losses from this investment are included as a foreign exchange component of 

other income and (expense) in the Company's consolidated income statements. 

58

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2019, the estimated remaining collections ("ERC") on the receivables acquired during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 

2018 were $2.0 billion and $1.4 billion, respectively. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, ERC was $6.8 billion and $6.1 billion, 

At the time of acquisition and each quarter thereafter, the life of each pool is estimated based on projected amounts and 

timing of future cash collections using the proprietary models of the Company. Based upon current projections, estimated cash 

collections expected to be applied to principal are as follows for the twelve-month periods ending December 31, (amounts in 

respectively.

thousands):

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026

2027

2028

2029

Thereafter

Total ERC expected to be applied to principal

$

3,514,165

At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company had aggregate net finance receivables balances in pools accounted for under 

the cost recovery method of $33.7 million and $48.0 million, respectively.

original expected accretable yield, on portfolios acquired during the period. (cid:49)et reclassifications from nonaccretable difference 

to  accretable  yield  primarily  result  from  the  increase  in  the  Company's  estimate  of  future  cash  flows. When  applicable,  net 

reclassifications to nonaccretable difference from accretable yield result from the decrease in the Company's estimates of future 

cash flows and allowance charges that together exceed the increase in the Company's estimate of future cash flows.

Changes  in  accretable  yield  for  the  years  ended  December 31,  2019  and  2018  were  as  follows  (amounts  in  thousands):

Balance at beginning of year

Income recognized on finance receivables

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Additions from portfolio acquisitions

Reclassifications from nonaccretable difference

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Balance at end of year

(998,361)

24,025

943,887

205,464

6,671

2,927,866

(891,899)

33,425

876,112

194,992

(82,051)

$

3,240,131

$

3,058,445

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company acquired finance receivable portfolios with a face value of $11.7 

The following is a summary of activity within the Company's valuation allowance account, all of which relates to loans 

billion for $1.3 billion as compared to the same period last year with a face value of $9.2 billion for $1.1 billion. At December 31, 

acquired with deteriorated credit quality, for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

$

831,769

672,699

500,597

368,332

263,785

193,831

156,456

135,238

125,673

116,008

149,777

Beginning balance

Allowance charges

Reversal of previous recorded allowance charges

(cid:49)et allowance charges

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Ending balance

3. Investments:

2019

2018

2017

257,148

$

225,555

$

211,465

38,662
(14,637)

24,025

122

48,856
(15,431)

33,425
(1,832)

13,826
(1,928)

11,898

2,192

281,295

$

257,148

$

225,555

$

$

Investments consisted of the following at December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

Debt securities

Available-for-sale

Equity securities

Private equity funds

Mutual funds

Equity method investments

Total investments

Debt Securities

Available-for-Sale

2019

2018

$

$

5,052

$

5,077

7,218

33,677

10,229

56,176

$

7,973

21,753

10,370

45,173

Accretable yield represents the amount of income on finance receivables the Company can expect to recognize over the 

Government bonds: The Company's investments in government bonds are classified as available-for-sale and are stated at 

remaining life of its existing portfolios based on estimated future cash flows as of the balance sheet date. Additions represent the 

fair value. 

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments in debt securities at December 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows 

(amounts in thousands):

2019

2018

$

3,058,445

$

Available-for-sale

Government bonds

Available-for-sale

Government bonds

Equity Securities

Amortized Cost

Gross Unrealized
Gains

Gross Unrealized
Losses

Aggregate Fair
Value

December 31, 2019

5,095

$

— $

43

$

5,052

Amortized Cost

Gross Unrealized
Gains

Gross Unrealized
Losses

Aggregate Fair
Value

December 31, 2018

5,160

$

— $

83

$

5,077

$

$

Investments  in  private  equity  funds:  Investments  in  private  equity  funds  represent  limited  partnerships  in  which  the 
Company has less than a 3% interest. In the first quarter of 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2016-01. Upon adoption of ASU 
2016-01, the investments are carried at the fair value reported by the fund manager. The Company recorded a cumulative effect 
adjustment of $3.9 million, net of tax, to beginning retained earnings for the unrealized loss on the investment. 

Mutual  funds:  The  Company  invests  certain  excess  funds  held  in  Brazil  in  a  Brazilian  real  denominated  mutual  fund 
benchmarked to the U.S. dollar that invests principally in Brazilian fixed income securities. The investments are carried at fair 
value based on quoted market prices.  Gains and losses from this investment are included as a foreign exchange component of 
other income and (expense) in the Company's consolidated income statements. 

58

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Total future minimum lease payments

5. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net:

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Thereafter

was necessary.

thousands):

Goodwill:

Changes:

Acquisition

Sale of subsidiary

$

$

11,470

11,451

10,809

7,287

6,189

7,866

55,072

2019

2018

18,831

—

(2,153)

16,678

—

(36,053)

(26,344)

(62,397)

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Unrealized gains and losses: (cid:49)et unrealized gains on equity securities were $5.8 million and $3.5 million for the twelve 

future minimum lease payments for operating leases at December 31, 2018, were as follows for the years ending December 31, 

months ended December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively on the Company's equity securities.

(amounts in thousands):

Equity Method Investments

Effective December 20, 2018, the Company has an 11.7% interest in RCB Investimentos S.A. ("RCB"), a servicing platform 
for nonperforming loans in Brazil, which is accounted for on the equity method because the Company exercises significant influence 
over RCB’s operating and financial activities. Accordingly, the Company’s investment in RCB is adjusted for the Company’s 
proportionate share of RCB’s earnings or losses. Refer to (cid:49)ote 17 for additional information.

4. Leases:

The components of lease expense for the year ended December 31, 2019 was as follows (amounts in thousands):

Operating lease cost

Short-term lease cost

Total lease cost

December 31, 2019

$

$

12,008

2,973

14,981

In  connection  with  the  Company's  business  acquisitions,  the  Company  acquired  certain  tangible  and  intangible  assets. 

Intangible assets resulting from these acquisitions include client and customer relationships, non-compete agreements, trademarks 

and technology. The Company performs an annual review of goodwill as of October 1 or more frequently if indicators of impairment 

exist. The Company performed an annual review of goodwill as of October 1, 2019 and concluded that no goodwill impairment 

Supplemental cash flow information and non-cash activity related to leases for the year ended December 31, 2019 were as 

follows (amounts in thousands):

The  following  table  represents  the  changes  in  goodwill  for  the  years  ended  December 31,  2019  and  2018  (amounts  in 

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities

ROU assets obtained in exchange for operating lease obligations

December 31, 2019

$

$

11,438

80,725

Lease  term  and  discount  rate  information  related  to  operating  leases  were  as  follows  as  of  the  date  indicated:

Balance at beginning of period

$

464,116

$

526,513

Weighted-average remaining lease terms (years)

Weighted-average discount rate

December 31, 2019

10.7

4.9%

Foreign currency translation adjustment

(cid:49)et change in goodwill

Balance at end of period

$

480,794

$

464,116

The  $18.8 million addition to goodwill during the year ended December 31, 2019, is related to the acquisition of a business 

The Company leases office space and equipment under operating leases. Lease expense was $15.0 million, $13.6 million 

in Canada during the first quarter.  The $36.1 million decrease in goodwill during the year ended December 31, 2018, is a result 

and $11.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

of the sale of a portion of RCB's servicing platform in December of 2018. 

Maturities of lease liabilities at December 31, 2019, are as follows for the years ending December 31, (amounts in thousands):

Intangible assets, excluding goodwill, consisted of the following at December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Thereafter

Total lease payments

Less imputed interest

Total

Operating Leases

11,846

11,378

9,324

7,132

6,279

49,414

95,373
(21,996)

73,377

$

$

$

As previously disclosed in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 and under the previous lease 
accounting standard (which excludes the impact of the Company's intent to exercise renewal options as required by ASU 2016-02), 

60

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Client and customer relationships

(cid:49)on-compete agreements

Trademarks

Technology

Total

2019

2018

Gross

Amount

Accumulated

Amortization

Gross

Amount

Accumulated

Amortization

12,072

$

8,242

$

11,806

$

6,993

439

400

1,679

183

362

1,306

—

400

1,548

—

345

894

14,590

$

10,093

$

13,754

$

8,232

$

$

The Company amortizes the intangible assets over their estimated useful lives. Total amortization expense for the years 

ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 was $1.6 million, $4.3 million and $4.3 million, respectively. The Company reviews 

intangible assets for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not 

be recoverable and the carrying amount exceeds its fair value.

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Unrealized gains and losses: (cid:49)et unrealized gains on equity securities were $5.8 million and $3.5 million for the twelve 

months ended December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively on the Company's equity securities.

future minimum lease payments for operating leases at December 31, 2018, were as follows for the years ending December 31, 
(amounts in thousands):

Equity Method Investments

Effective December 20, 2018, the Company has an 11.7% interest in RCB Investimentos S.A. ("RCB"), a servicing platform 

for nonperforming loans in Brazil, which is accounted for on the equity method because the Company exercises significant influence 

over RCB’s operating and financial activities. Accordingly, the Company’s investment in RCB is adjusted for the Company’s 

proportionate share of RCB’s earnings or losses. Refer to (cid:49)ote 17 for additional information.

The components of lease expense for the year ended December 31, 2019 was as follows (amounts in thousands):

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Thereafter

Total future minimum lease payments

5. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net:

$

$

11,470

11,451

10,809

7,287

6,189

7,866

55,072

Supplemental cash flow information and non-cash activity related to leases for the year ended December 31, 2019 were as 

follows (amounts in thousands):

Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities

ROU assets obtained in exchange for operating lease obligations

Lease  term  and  discount  rate  information  related  to  operating  leases  were  as  follows  as  of  the  date  indicated:

Weighted-average remaining lease terms (years)

Weighted-average discount rate

The Company leases office space and equipment under operating leases. Lease expense was $15.0 million, $13.6 million 

and $11.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

In  connection  with  the  Company's  business  acquisitions,  the  Company  acquired  certain  tangible  and  intangible  assets. 
Intangible assets resulting from these acquisitions include client and customer relationships, non-compete agreements, trademarks 
and technology. The Company performs an annual review of goodwill as of October 1 or more frequently if indicators of impairment 
exist. The Company performed an annual review of goodwill as of October 1, 2019 and concluded that no goodwill impairment 
was necessary.

The  following  table  represents  the  changes  in  goodwill  for  the  years  ended  December 31,  2019  and  2018  (amounts  in 

thousands):

Goodwill:

2019

2018

Balance at beginning of period

$

464,116

$

526,513

Changes:

Acquisition

Sale of subsidiary

December 31, 2019

Foreign currency translation adjustment

(cid:49)et change in goodwill

18,831

—
(2,153)
16,678

—
(36,053)
(26,344)
(62,397)

Balance at end of period

$

480,794

$

464,116

The  $18.8 million addition to goodwill during the year ended December 31, 2019, is related to the acquisition of a business 
in Canada during the first quarter.  The $36.1 million decrease in goodwill during the year ended December 31, 2018, is a result 
of the sale of a portion of RCB's servicing platform in December of 2018. 

Maturities of lease liabilities at December 31, 2019, are as follows for the years ending December 31, (amounts in thousands):

Intangible assets, excluding goodwill, consisted of the following at December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

Client and customer relationships

(cid:49)on-compete agreements

Trademarks

Technology

Total

2019

2018

Gross
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

Gross
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

12,072

$

8,242

$

11,806

$

6,993

439

400

1,679

183

362

1,306

—

400

1,548

—

345

894

14,590

$

10,093

$

13,754

$

8,232

$

$

The Company amortizes the intangible assets over their estimated useful lives. Total amortization expense for the years 
ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 was $1.6 million, $4.3 million and $4.3 million, respectively. The Company reviews 
intangible assets for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not 
be recoverable and the carrying amount exceeds its fair value.

60

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As previously disclosed in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 and under the previous lease 

accounting standard (which excludes the impact of the Company's intent to exercise renewal options as required by ASU 2016-02), 

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2019

Operating Leases

12,008

2,973

14,981

11,438

80,725

10.7

4.9%

11,846

11,378

9,324

7,132

6,279

49,414

95,373

(21,996)

73,377

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

4. Leases:

Operating lease cost

Short-term lease cost

Total lease cost

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Thereafter

Total lease payments

Less imputed interest

Total

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The future amortization of intangible assets is estimated to be as follows for the years ending December 31, (amounts in 

interest at a rate per annum equal to the Canadian Prime Rate plus 1.50%. The revolving credit facilities also bear an unused line 

thousands):

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Thereafter
Total

6. Borrowings:

$

$

1,402
880
750
707
758
—
4,497

The Company's borrowings consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (amounts in thousands): 

subject to no default or event of default, cash dividends and distributions during any fiscal year cannot exceed $20.0 

Americas revolving credit

Europe revolving credit

Term loans

Convertible senior notes

Less: Debt discount and issuance costs

Total

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

$

772,037

$

1,017,465

425,000

632,500

2,847,002

(38,577)

$

2,808,425

$

598,279

561,882

740,551

632,500

2,533,212

(59,556)

2,473,656

The  following  principal  payments  are  due  on  the  Company's  borrowings  at  December 31,  2019  for  the  years  ending 

December 31, (amounts in thousands):

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024 and thereafter

Total

$

$

298,603

1,028,568

1,174,831

345,000

—

2,847,002

The Company believes it was in compliance with the covenants of its financing arrangements as of December 31, 2019.

(cid:49)orth American Revolving Credit and Term Loan

On May 5, 2017, the Company amended and restated its existing credit agreement (as amended, and modified from time to 
time, the “(cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement”) with Bank of America, (cid:49).A., as administrative agent, Bank of America, (cid:49)ational 
Association, acting through its Canada branch, as the Canadian administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders named therein. In 
the fourth quarter of 2018, the Company entered into a First Amendment (the "First Amendment") to the (cid:49)orth American Credit 
Agreement  which,  among  other  things,  increased  the  domestic  revolving  credit  facility  by  $363.0  million  and  expanded  the 
accordion feature to allow the Company to increase the original principal amount of the commitments under the (cid:49)orth American 
Credit Agreement by an additional $500.0 million, subject to certain terms and conditions. The total credit facility under the (cid:49)orth 
American Credit Agreement includes an aggregate principal amount of $1,543.0 million (subject to compliance with a borrowing 
base and applicable debt covenants), which consists of (i) a fully-funded $425.0 million term loan, (ii) a $1,068.0 million domestic 
revolving credit facility and (iii) a $50.0 million Canadian revolving credit facility. The facility includes an accordion feature for 
up to $500.0 million in additional commitments (at the option of the lender) and also provides for up to $25.0 million of letters of 
credit and a $25.0 million swingline loan sublimit that would reduce amounts available for borrowing. The term and revolving 
loans accrue interest, at the option of the Company, at either the base rate or the Eurodollar rate (as defined in the (cid:49)orth American 
Credit Agreement) for the applicable term plus 2.50% per annum in the case of the Eurodollar rate loans and 1.50% in the case of 
the base rate loans. The base rate is the highest of (a) the Federal Funds Rate (as defined in the (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement) 
plus 0.50%, (b) Bank of America's prime rate or (c) the one-month Eurodollar rate plus 1.00%. Canadian Prime Rate Loans bear 

62

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• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

fee of 0.375% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears. The loans under the (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement mature May 5, 

2022. As of December 31, 2019, the unused portion of the (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement was $349.2 million. Considering 

borrowing base restrictions as of December 31, 2019, the amount available to be drawn was $146.5 million.

The (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement is secured by a first priority lien on substantially all of the Company's (cid:49)orth American 

assets. The (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement contains restrictive covenants and events of default including the following:

• 

borrowings under each of the domestic revolving loan facility and the Canadian revolving loan facility are subject to 

separate borrowing base calculations and may not exceed 35% of the ERC of all domestic or Canadian, as applicable, 

core eligible asset pools, plus 55% of the ERC of domestic or Canadian, as applicable, insolvency eligible asset pools, 

plus 75% of domestic or Canadian, as applicable, eligible accounts receivable;

the consolidated total leverage ratio cannot exceed 2.75 to 1.0 as of the end of any fiscal quarter;

the consolidated senior secured leverage ratio cannot exceed 2.25 to 1.0 as of the end of any fiscal quarter;

million;

of the prior year's consolidated net income;

permitted acquisitions by non-loan parties);

subject to no default or event of default, stock repurchases during any fiscal year cannot exceed $100.0 million plus 50% 

permitted acquisitions during any fiscal year cannot exceed $250.0 million (with a $50.0 million per year sublimit for 

indebtedness in the form of  senior, unsecured convertible notes or other unsecured financings cannot exceed $750.0 

million in the aggregate (without respect to the 2020 (cid:49)otes);

the Company must maintain positive consolidated income from operations during any fiscal quarter; and

restrictions on changes in control.

The outstanding balances and weighted average interest rates by type of borrowing under the credit facility as of the dates 

indicated are as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Amount Outstanding

Amount Outstanding

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

Term loan

$

Revolving credit facilities

425,000

768,800

4.30% $

4.31%

435,000

598,279

5.02%

4.97%

European Revolving Credit Facility

On October 23, 2014, European subsidiaries of the Company ("PRA Europe") entered into a credit agreement with D(cid:49)B 

Bank ASA for a Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility (such agreement as later amended or modified, the "European Credit 

Agreement"). In the first quarter of 2019, the Company entered into the Fifth Amendment and Restatement Agreement to its 

European Credit Agreement which, among other things, merged the term loan facility with the revolving credit facility and increased 

all applicable margins for the interest payable under the multicurrency revolving credit facility by 5 basis points.

Under the terms of the European Credit Agreement, the credit facility includes an aggregate amount of approximately $1.1 

billion (subject to the borrowing base), accrues interest at the Interbank Offered Rate ("IBOR") plus 2.70% - 3.80%  (as determined 

by the LTV Ratio as defined in the European Credit Agreement), bears an unused line fee, currently 1.23% per annum, of 35% of 

the  margin, is payable monthly  in arrears, and  matures February 19,  2021. The European  Credit Agreement also  includes an 

overdraft facility in the aggregate amount of $40.0 million (subject to the borrowing base), which accrues interest (per currency) 

at the daily rates as published by the facility agent, bears a facility line fee of 0.125% per quarter, payable quarterly in arrears, and 

matures February 19, 2021.  As of  December 31, 2019, the unused  portion of  the European Credit Agreement (including the 

overdraft facility) was $122.5 million. Considering borrowing base restrictions and other covenants as of December 31, 2019, the 

amount available to be drawn under the European Credit Agreement (including the overdraft facility) was $121.8 million.

The European Credit Agreement is secured by the shares of most of the Company's European subsidiaries and all intercompany 

loans receivable in Europe. The European Credit Agreement contains restrictive covenants and events of default including the 

following:

• 

• 

• 

the LTV Ratio cannot exceed 75%;

the gross interest-bearing debt ratio in Europe cannot exceed 3.25 to 1.0 as of the end of any fiscal quarter;

interest bearing deposits in AK (cid:49)ordic AB cannot exceed SEK 1.2 billion; and

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

interest at a rate per annum equal to the Canadian Prime Rate plus 1.50%. The revolving credit facilities also bear an unused line 
fee of 0.375% per annum, payable quarterly in arrears. The loans under the (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement mature May 5, 
2022. As of December 31, 2019, the unused portion of the (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement was $349.2 million. Considering 
borrowing base restrictions as of December 31, 2019, the amount available to be drawn was $146.5 million.

The (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement is secured by a first priority lien on substantially all of the Company's (cid:49)orth American 

assets. The (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement contains restrictive covenants and events of default including the following:

• 

• 
• 
• 

• 

• 

• 

• 
• 

borrowings under each of the domestic revolving loan facility and the Canadian revolving loan facility are subject to 
separate borrowing base calculations and may not exceed 35% of the ERC of all domestic or Canadian, as applicable, 
core eligible asset pools, plus 55% of the ERC of domestic or Canadian, as applicable, insolvency eligible asset pools, 
plus 75% of domestic or Canadian, as applicable, eligible accounts receivable;
the consolidated total leverage ratio cannot exceed 2.75 to 1.0 as of the end of any fiscal quarter;
the consolidated senior secured leverage ratio cannot exceed 2.25 to 1.0 as of the end of any fiscal quarter;
subject to no default or event of default, cash dividends and distributions during any fiscal year cannot exceed $20.0 
million;
subject to no default or event of default, stock repurchases during any fiscal year cannot exceed $100.0 million plus 50% 
of the prior year's consolidated net income;
permitted acquisitions during any fiscal year cannot exceed $250.0 million (with a $50.0 million per year sublimit for 
permitted acquisitions by non-loan parties);
indebtedness in the form of  senior, unsecured convertible notes or other unsecured financings cannot exceed $750.0 
million in the aggregate (without respect to the 2020 (cid:49)otes);
the Company must maintain positive consolidated income from operations during any fiscal quarter; and
restrictions on changes in control.

The outstanding balances and weighted average interest rates by type of borrowing under the credit facility as of the dates 

indicated are as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

The future amortization of intangible assets is estimated to be as follows for the years ending December 31, (amounts in 

The Company's borrowings consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (amounts in thousands): 

thousands):

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Thereafter

Total

6. Borrowings:

Total

2020

2021

2022

2023

Total

2024 and thereafter

Americas revolving credit

Europe revolving credit

Term loans

Convertible senior notes

Less: Debt discount and issuance costs

December 31,

2019

December 31,

2018

$

772,037

$

1,017,465

425,000

632,500

2,847,002

(38,577)

$

2,808,425

$

$

$

$

$

1,402

880

750

707

758

—

4,497

598,279

561,882

740,551

632,500

2,533,212

(59,556)

2,473,656

298,603

1,028,568

1,174,831

345,000

—

2,847,002

The  following  principal  payments  are  due  on  the  Company's  borrowings  at  December 31,  2019  for  the  years  ending 

December 31, (amounts in thousands):

Term loan
Revolving credit facilities

$

Amount Outstanding
425,000
768,800

European Revolving Credit Facility

Weighted Average
Interest Rate

5.02%
4.97%

Amount Outstanding
435,000
598,279

Weighted Average
Interest Rate

The Company believes it was in compliance with the covenants of its financing arrangements as of December 31, 2019.

(cid:49)orth American Revolving Credit and Term Loan

On May 5, 2017, the Company amended and restated its existing credit agreement (as amended, and modified from time to 

time, the “(cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement”) with Bank of America, (cid:49).A., as administrative agent, Bank of America, (cid:49)ational 

Association, acting through its Canada branch, as the Canadian administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders named therein. In 

the fourth quarter of 2018, the Company entered into a First Amendment (the "First Amendment") to the (cid:49)orth American Credit 

Agreement  which,  among  other  things,  increased  the  domestic  revolving  credit  facility  by  $363.0  million  and  expanded  the 

accordion feature to allow the Company to increase the original principal amount of the commitments under the (cid:49)orth American 

Credit Agreement by an additional $500.0 million, subject to certain terms and conditions. The total credit facility under the (cid:49)orth 

American Credit Agreement includes an aggregate principal amount of $1,543.0 million (subject to compliance with a borrowing 

base and applicable debt covenants), which consists of (i) a fully-funded $425.0 million term loan, (ii) a $1,068.0 million domestic 

revolving credit facility and (iii) a $50.0 million Canadian revolving credit facility. The facility includes an accordion feature for 

up to $500.0 million in additional commitments (at the option of the lender) and also provides for up to $25.0 million of letters of 

credit and a $25.0 million swingline loan sublimit that would reduce amounts available for borrowing. The term and revolving 

loans accrue interest, at the option of the Company, at either the base rate or the Eurodollar rate (as defined in the (cid:49)orth American 

Credit Agreement) for the applicable term plus 2.50% per annum in the case of the Eurodollar rate loans and 1.50% in the case of 

the base rate loans. The base rate is the highest of (a) the Federal Funds Rate (as defined in the (cid:49)orth American Credit Agreement) 

plus 0.50%, (b) Bank of America's prime rate or (c) the one-month Eurodollar rate plus 1.00%. Canadian Prime Rate Loans bear 

On October 23, 2014, European subsidiaries of the Company ("PRA Europe") entered into a credit agreement with D(cid:49)B 
Bank ASA for a Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility (such agreement as later amended or modified, the "European Credit 
Agreement"). In the first quarter of 2019, the Company entered into the Fifth Amendment and Restatement Agreement to its 
European Credit Agreement which, among other things, merged the term loan facility with the revolving credit facility and increased 
all applicable margins for the interest payable under the multicurrency revolving credit facility by 5 basis points.

Under the terms of the European Credit Agreement, the credit facility includes an aggregate amount of approximately $1.1 
billion (subject to the borrowing base), accrues interest at the Interbank Offered Rate ("IBOR") plus 2.70% - 3.80%  (as determined 
by the LTV Ratio as defined in the European Credit Agreement), bears an unused line fee, currently 1.23% per annum, of 35% of 
the  margin, is payable monthly  in arrears, and  matures February 19,  2021. The European  Credit Agreement also  includes an 
overdraft facility in the aggregate amount of $40.0 million (subject to the borrowing base), which accrues interest (per currency) 
at the daily rates as published by the facility agent, bears a facility line fee of 0.125% per quarter, payable quarterly in arrears, and 
matures February 19, 2021.  As of  December 31, 2019, the unused  portion of  the European Credit Agreement (including the 
overdraft facility) was $122.5 million. Considering borrowing base restrictions and other covenants as of December 31, 2019, the 
amount available to be drawn under the European Credit Agreement (including the overdraft facility) was $121.8 million.

The European Credit Agreement is secured by the shares of most of the Company's European subsidiaries and all intercompany 
loans receivable in Europe. The European Credit Agreement contains restrictive covenants and events of default including the 
following:

• 
• 
• 

the LTV Ratio cannot exceed 75%;
the gross interest-bearing debt ratio in Europe cannot exceed 3.25 to 1.0 as of the end of any fiscal quarter;
interest bearing deposits in AK (cid:49)ordic AB cannot exceed SEK 1.2 billion; and

62

63

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4.30% $
4.31%

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

• 

PRA Europe's cash collections must meet certain thresholds, measured on a quarterly basis.

The outstanding balances and weighted average interest rates by type of borrowing under the European Credit Agreement 

as the dates indicated are as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Term loan
Revolving credit facility

Amount Outstanding
—
$
1,017,465

Colombian Revolving Credit Facility

Weighted Average
Interest Rate

—% $

4.31%

Amount Outstanding
305,551
561,882

Weighted Average
Interest Rate

3.75%
4.10%

On  September  17,  2019,  PRA  Group  Colombia  Holding  SAS  ("PRA  Colombia"),  entered  into  a  credit  agreement  with 
Bancolombia in an aggregate amount of approximately $6.0 million.  As of December 31, 2019, the outstanding balance under 
the credit agreement was approximately $3.2 million, with a weighted average interest rate of 7.13%.  The outstanding balance  
accrues interest at the Indicador Bancario de Referencia  rate ("IBR") plus a weighted average spread of 2.74%, is payable quarterly 
in arrears, amortizes quarterly, and matures on October 17, 2022 (per the credit agreement, maturity represents three years from 
the last draw).  This credit facility is fully collateralized using time deposits with Bancolombia which are subject to certain limitations 
regarding withdrawal and usage and are included within other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2019, 
the unused portion of the Colombia Credit Agreement was $2.8 million.

Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020

On August 13, 2013, the Company completed the private offering of $287.5 million in aggregate principal amount of its 
3.00% Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due August 1, 2020 (the "2020 (cid:49)otes"). The 2020 (cid:49)otes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, 
dated August 13, 2013 (the "2013 Indenture"), between the Company and Regions Bank, as successor trustee. The 2013 Indenture 
contains customary terms and covenants, including certain events of default after which the 2020 (cid:49)otes may be due and payable 
immediately. The 2020 (cid:49)otes are senior unsecured obligations of the Company. Interest on the 2020 (cid:49)otes is payable semi-annually, 
in arrears, on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning on February 1, 2014. Prior to February 1, 2020, the 2020 (cid:49)otes 
will be convertible only upon the occurrence of specified events.  As of December 31, 2019, the the Company did not have the 
right to redeem the 2020 (cid:49)otes and the Company did not believe that any of the conditions allowing holders of the 2020 (cid:49)otes to 
convert their notes had occurred.  All conversions occurring on or after February 1, 2020, shall be settled using the Settlement 
Method as defined in the indenture.

The conversion rate for the 2020 (cid:49)otes is initially 15.2172 shares per $1,000 principal amount of 2020 (cid:49)otes, which is 
equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $65.72 per share of the Company's common stock and is subject to 
adjustment in certain circumstances pursuant to the 2013 Indenture. Upon conversion, holders of the 2020 (cid:49)otes will receive cash, 
shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares of the Company's common stock, at the Company's 
election. The Company's intent is to settle conversions through combination settlement (i.e., the 2020 (cid:49)otes would be converted
into cash up to the aggregate principal amount and shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares 
of the Company's common stock, at the Company's election, for the remainder). As a result, and in accordance with authoritative 
guidance related to derivatives and hedging and earnings per share, only the conversion spread is included in the diluted earnings 
per share calculation, if dilutive. Under such method, the settlement of the conversion spread has a dilutive effect when the average 
share price of the Company's common stock during any quarter exceeds $65.72.

The Company determined that the fair value of the 2020 (cid:49)otes at the date of issuance was approximately $255.3 million and 
designated  the  residual  value  of  approximately  $32.2  million  as  the  equity  component. Additionally,  the  Company  allocated 
approximately $7.3 million of the $8.2 million issuance cost as debt issuance cost and the remaining $0.9 million as equity issuance 
cost.

Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2023

On May 26, 2017, the Company completed the private offering of $345.0 million in aggregate principal amount of its 3.50%
Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due June 1, 2023 (the "2023 (cid:49)otes" and, together with the 2020 (cid:49)otes, the "(cid:49)otes"). The 2023 (cid:49)otes 
were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated May 26, 2017 (the "2017 Indenture"), between the Company and Regions Bank, as 
trustee. The 2017 Indenture contains customary terms and covenants, including certain events of default after which the 2023 
(cid:49)otes may be due and payable immediately. The 2023 (cid:49)otes are senior unsecured obligations of the Company. Interest on the 

64

65

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2023 (cid:49)otes is payable semi-annually, in arrears, on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2017. Prior 

to March 1, 2023, the 2023 (cid:49)otes will be convertible only upon the occurrence of specified events. On or after March 1, 2023, the 

2023 (cid:49)otes will be convertible at any time. The Company has the right, at its election, to redeem all or any part of the outstanding 

2023 (cid:49)otes at any time on or after June 1, 2021 for cash, but only if the last reported sale price (as defined in the 2017 Indenture) 

exceeds 130% of the conversion price on each of at least 20 trading days during the 30 consecutive trading days ending on and 

including the trading day immediately before the date the Company sends the related redemption notice. As of December 31, 2019, 

the Company does not believe that any of the conditions allowing holders of the 2023 (cid:49)otes to convert their notes had occurred.

The conversion rate for the 2023 (cid:49)otes is initially 21.6275 shares per $1,000 principal amount of 2023 (cid:49)otes, which is 

equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $46.24 per share of the Company's common stock and is subject to 

adjustment in certain circumstances pursuant to the 2017 Indenture. Upon conversion, holders of the 2023 (cid:49)otes will receive cash, 

shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares of the Company's common stock, at the Company's 

election. The Company's intent is to settle conversions through combination settlement (i.e., the 2023 (cid:49)otes would be converted

into cash up to the aggregate principal amount and shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares 

of the Company's common stock, at the Company's election, for the remainder). As a result, and in accordance with authoritative 

guidance related to derivatives and hedging and earnings per share, only the conversion spread is included in the diluted earnings 

per share calculation, if dilutive. Under such method, the settlement of the conversion spread has a dilutive effect when the average 

share price of the Company's common stock during any quarter exceeds $46.24.

The Company determined that the fair value of the 2023 (cid:49)otes at the date of issuance was approximately $298.8 million and 

designated  the  residual  value  of  approximately  $46.2  million  as  the  equity  component. Additionally,  the  Company  allocated 

approximately $8.3 million of the $9.6 million issuance cost as debt issuance cost and the remaining $1.3 million as equity issuance 

The balances of the liability and  equity components of  the (cid:49)otes  outstanding were as  follows as  of  the dates indicated 

cost.

(amounts in thousands):

Liability component - principal amount

Unamortized debt discount

Liability component - net carrying amount

Equity component

Interest expense - stated coupon rate

Interest expense - amortization of debt discount

Total interest expense - convertible senior notes

Interest Expense, (cid:49)et

The debt discount is being amortized into interest expense over the remaining life of the 2020 (cid:49)otes and the 2023 (cid:49)otes 

using the effective interest rate, which is 4.92% and 6.20%, respectively.

Interest expense related to the (cid:49)otes was as follows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in 

thousands):

December 31,

2019

December 31,

2018

$

$

$

632,500

(31,414)

601,086

76,216

$

$

$

632,500

(43,812)

588,688

76,216

2019

2018

2017

20,700

$

20,700

$

12,398

11,725

33,098

$

32,425

$

15,870

8,583

24,453

$

$

$

$

The Company incurs interest expense on its borrowings, interest-bearing deposits, and interest rate derivative agreements. 

The Company earns interest income on certain of its cash and cash equivalents and its interest rate derivative agreements. Interest 

expense, net, was as follows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Interest expense

Interest (income)

Interest expense, net

2019

2018

2017

144,165

(2,247)

141,918

$

$

124,208

(3,130)

121,078

$

$

103,653

(5,612)

98,041

• 

PRA Europe's cash collections must meet certain thresholds, measured on a quarterly basis.

The outstanding balances and weighted average interest rates by type of borrowing under the European Credit Agreement 

as the dates indicated are as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Amount Outstanding

Amount Outstanding

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

Term loan

Revolving credit facility

$

—

1,017,465

—% $

4.31%

305,551

561,882

3.75%

4.10%

Colombian Revolving Credit Facility

On  September  17,  2019,  PRA  Group  Colombia  Holding  SAS  ("PRA  Colombia"),  entered  into  a  credit  agreement  with 

Bancolombia in an aggregate amount of approximately $6.0 million.  As of December 31, 2019, the outstanding balance under 

the credit agreement was approximately $3.2 million, with a weighted average interest rate of 7.13%.  The outstanding balance  

accrues interest at the Indicador Bancario de Referencia  rate ("IBR") plus a weighted average spread of 2.74%, is payable quarterly 

in arrears, amortizes quarterly, and matures on October 17, 2022 (per the credit agreement, maturity represents three years from 

the last draw).  This credit facility is fully collateralized using time deposits with Bancolombia which are subject to certain limitations 

regarding withdrawal and usage and are included within other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2019, 

the unused portion of the Colombia Credit Agreement was $2.8 million.

Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2020

On August 13, 2013, the Company completed the private offering of $287.5 million in aggregate principal amount of its 

3.00% Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due August 1, 2020 (the "2020 (cid:49)otes"). The 2020 (cid:49)otes were issued pursuant to an Indenture, 

dated August 13, 2013 (the "2013 Indenture"), between the Company and Regions Bank, as successor trustee. The 2013 Indenture 

contains customary terms and covenants, including certain events of default after which the 2020 (cid:49)otes may be due and payable 

immediately. The 2020 (cid:49)otes are senior unsecured obligations of the Company. Interest on the 2020 (cid:49)otes is payable semi-annually, 

in arrears, on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning on February 1, 2014. Prior to February 1, 2020, the 2020 (cid:49)otes 

will be convertible only upon the occurrence of specified events.  As of December 31, 2019, the the Company did not have the 

right to redeem the 2020 (cid:49)otes and the Company did not believe that any of the conditions allowing holders of the 2020 (cid:49)otes to 

convert their notes had occurred.  All conversions occurring on or after February 1, 2020, shall be settled using the Settlement 

Method as defined in the indenture.

The conversion rate for the 2020 (cid:49)otes is initially 15.2172 shares per $1,000 principal amount of 2020 (cid:49)otes, which is 

equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $65.72 per share of the Company's common stock and is subject to 

adjustment in certain circumstances pursuant to the 2013 Indenture. Upon conversion, holders of the 2020 (cid:49)otes will receive cash, 

shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares of the Company's common stock, at the Company's 

election. The Company's intent is to settle conversions through combination settlement (i.e., the 2020 (cid:49)otes would be converted

into cash up to the aggregate principal amount and shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares 

of the Company's common stock, at the Company's election, for the remainder). As a result, and in accordance with authoritative 

guidance related to derivatives and hedging and earnings per share, only the conversion spread is included in the diluted earnings 

per share calculation, if dilutive. Under such method, the settlement of the conversion spread has a dilutive effect when the average 

share price of the Company's common stock during any quarter exceeds $65.72.

The Company determined that the fair value of the 2020 (cid:49)otes at the date of issuance was approximately $255.3 million and 

designated  the  residual  value  of  approximately  $32.2  million  as  the  equity  component. Additionally,  the  Company  allocated 

approximately $7.3 million of the $8.2 million issuance cost as debt issuance cost and the remaining $0.9 million as equity issuance 

cost.

Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due 2023

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

2023 (cid:49)otes is payable semi-annually, in arrears, on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning on December 1, 2017. Prior 
to March 1, 2023, the 2023 (cid:49)otes will be convertible only upon the occurrence of specified events. On or after March 1, 2023, the 
2023 (cid:49)otes will be convertible at any time. The Company has the right, at its election, to redeem all or any part of the outstanding 
2023 (cid:49)otes at any time on or after June 1, 2021 for cash, but only if the last reported sale price (as defined in the 2017 Indenture) 
exceeds 130% of the conversion price on each of at least 20 trading days during the 30 consecutive trading days ending on and 
including the trading day immediately before the date the Company sends the related redemption notice. As of December 31, 2019, 
the Company does not believe that any of the conditions allowing holders of the 2023 (cid:49)otes to convert their notes had occurred.

The conversion rate for the 2023 (cid:49)otes is initially 21.6275 shares per $1,000 principal amount of 2023 (cid:49)otes, which is 
equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $46.24 per share of the Company's common stock and is subject to 
adjustment in certain circumstances pursuant to the 2017 Indenture. Upon conversion, holders of the 2023 (cid:49)otes will receive cash, 
shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares of the Company's common stock, at the Company's 
election. The Company's intent is to settle conversions through combination settlement (i.e., the 2023 (cid:49)otes would be converted
into cash up to the aggregate principal amount and shares of the Company's common stock or a combination of cash and shares 
of the Company's common stock, at the Company's election, for the remainder). As a result, and in accordance with authoritative 
guidance related to derivatives and hedging and earnings per share, only the conversion spread is included in the diluted earnings 
per share calculation, if dilutive. Under such method, the settlement of the conversion spread has a dilutive effect when the average 
share price of the Company's common stock during any quarter exceeds $46.24.

The Company determined that the fair value of the 2023 (cid:49)otes at the date of issuance was approximately $298.8 million and 
designated  the  residual  value  of  approximately  $46.2  million  as  the  equity  component. Additionally,  the  Company  allocated 
approximately $8.3 million of the $9.6 million issuance cost as debt issuance cost and the remaining $1.3 million as equity issuance 
cost.

The balances of the liability and  equity components of  the (cid:49)otes  outstanding were as  follows as  of  the dates indicated 

(amounts in thousands):

Liability component - principal amount
Unamortized debt discount
Liability component - net carrying amount
Equity component

December 31,
2019

December 31,
2018

$

$
$

632,500
(31,414)
601,086
76,216

$

$
$

632,500
(43,812)
588,688
76,216

The debt discount is being amortized into interest expense over the remaining life of the 2020 (cid:49)otes and the 2023 (cid:49)otes 

using the effective interest rate, which is 4.92% and 6.20%, respectively.

Interest expense related to the (cid:49)otes was as follows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in 

thousands):

Interest expense - stated coupon rate

Interest expense - amortization of debt discount

Total interest expense - convertible senior notes

Interest Expense, (cid:49)et

2019

2018

2017

$

$

20,700

$

20,700

$

12,398

11,725

33,098

$

32,425

$

15,870

8,583

24,453

The Company incurs interest expense on its borrowings, interest-bearing deposits, and interest rate derivative agreements. 
The Company earns interest income on certain of its cash and cash equivalents and its interest rate derivative agreements. Interest 
expense, net, was as follows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

On May 26, 2017, the Company completed the private offering of $345.0 million in aggregate principal amount of its 3.50%

Convertible Senior (cid:49)otes due June 1, 2023 (the "2023 (cid:49)otes" and, together with the 2020 (cid:49)otes, the "(cid:49)otes"). The 2023 (cid:49)otes 

were issued pursuant to an Indenture, dated May 26, 2017 (the "2017 Indenture"), between the Company and Regions Bank, as 

trustee. The 2017 Indenture contains customary terms and covenants, including certain events of default after which the 2023 

(cid:49)otes may be due and payable immediately. The 2023 (cid:49)otes are senior unsecured obligations of the Company. Interest on the 

Interest expense

Interest (income)

Interest expense, net

64

65

2019

2018

2017

$

$

144,165

(2,247)

141,918

$

$

124,208

(3,130)

121,078

$

$

103,653

(5,612)

98,041

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   67

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

7. Property and Equipment, net:

The carrying amounts in the table are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 

Property and equipment, at cost, consisted of the following as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

Software

Computer equipment

Furniture and fixtures

Equipment

Leasehold improvements

Building and improvements

Land

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

Assets in process

Property and equipment, net

2019

2018

$

62,758

$

20,847

16,324

13,869

16,709

7,900

1,296

(93,207)

10,005

$

56,501

$

64,670

22,153

16,061

12,390

16,556

7,431

1,296

(92,877)

6,456

54,136

Depreciation and amortization expense relating to property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018

and 2017 was $15.9 million, $15.1 million and $15.4 million, respectively.

8. Fair Value:

As defined by ASC 820, fair value is 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. ASC 820 also requires the consideration of differing 
levels of inputs in the determination of fair values.

Those levels of input are summarized as follows:

•  Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities. 

•  Level 2: Observable inputs other than Level 1 quoted prices, such as quoted prices for similar instruments in active 
markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation 
techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market.

•  Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity. Level 3 assets and liabilities include 
financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar 
techniques as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment 
or estimation. 

The level in the fair value hierarchy within which a fair value measurement in its entirety falls is based on the lowest level 

input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

Financial Instruments (cid:49)ot Required To Be Carried at Fair Value

In accordance with the disclosure requirements of ASC Topic 825, "Financial Instruments" ("ASC 825"), the table below 
summarizes fair value estimates for the Company's financial instruments that are not required to be carried at fair value. The total 
of the fair value calculations presented does not represent, and should not be construed to represent, the underlying value of the 
Company. 

2018 (amounts in thousands):

Financial assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

Finance receivables, net

Financial liabilities:

Interest-bearing deposits

Revolving lines of credit

Term loans

Convertible senior notes

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Carrying

Amount

Estimated

Fair Value

Carrying

Amount

Estimated

Fair Value

119,774

3,514,165

106,246

1,789,502

425,000

601,086

119,774

$

98,695

$

98,695

3,645,610

3,084,777

3,410,475

106,246

1,789,502

425,000

648,968

82,666

1,160,161

740,551

588,688

82,666

1,160,161

740,551

557,122

Disclosure of the estimated fair values of financial instruments often requires the use of estimates. The carrying amount and 

estimates of the fair value of the Company's debt obligations outlined above do not include any related debt issuance costs associated 

with  the  debt  obligations. The  Company  uses  the  following  methods  and  assumptions  to  estimate  the  fair  value  of  financial 

instruments:

Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying amount approximates fair value and quoted prices for identical assets in active 

markets. Accordingly, the Company estimates the fair value of cash and cash equivalents using Level 1 inputs.

Finance receivables, net: The Company estimates the fair value of these receivables using proprietary pricing models that 

the Company utilizes to make portfolio acquisition decisions. Accordingly, the Company's fair value estimates use Level 3 inputs 

as there is little observable market data available and management is required to use significant judgment in its estimates.

Interest-bearing deposits: The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the deposits and 

the observable quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for its fair 

Revolving lines of credit: The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the interest rate 

periods and the observable quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs 

Term loans: The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the interest rate periods and the 

observable quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for its fair value 

Convertible senior notes: The fair value estimates for the (cid:49)otes incorporate quoted market prices which were obtained 

from secondary market broker quotes which were derived from a variety of inputs including client orders, information from their 

pricing vendors, modeling software, and actual trading prices when they occur. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for 

its fair value estimates. Furthermore, in the table above, carrying amount represents the portion of the (cid:49)otes classified as debt, 

while estimated fair value pertains to the face amount of the (cid:49)otes.

value estimates.

for its fair value estimates.

estimates.

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PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

7. Property and Equipment, net:

The carrying amounts in the table are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 

Property and equipment, at cost, consisted of the following as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

2019

2018

$

62,758

$

20,847

16,324

13,869

16,709

7,900

1,296

(93,207)

10,005

$

56,501

$

64,670

22,153

16,061

12,390

16,556

7,431

1,296

(92,877)

6,456

54,136

Software

Computer equipment

Furniture and fixtures

Equipment

Leasehold improvements

Building and improvements

Land

Assets in process

Property and equipment, net

8. Fair Value:

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

Depreciation and amortization expense relating to property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018

and 2017 was $15.9 million, $15.1 million and $15.4 million, respectively.

As defined by ASC 820, fair value is 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. ASC 820 also requires the consideration of differing 

levels of inputs in the determination of fair values.

Those levels of input are summarized as follows:

•  Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities. 

•  Level 2: Observable inputs other than Level 1 quoted prices, such as quoted prices for similar instruments in active 

markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation 

techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market.

•  Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity. Level 3 assets and liabilities include 

financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar 

techniques as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment 

or estimation. 

The level in the fair value hierarchy within which a fair value measurement in its entirety falls is based on the lowest level 

input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

Financial Instruments (cid:49)ot Required To Be Carried at Fair Value

In accordance with the disclosure requirements of ASC Topic 825, "Financial Instruments" ("ASC 825"), the table below 

summarizes fair value estimates for the Company's financial instruments that are not required to be carried at fair value. The total 

of the fair value calculations presented does not represent, and should not be construed to represent, the underlying value of the 

Company. 

2018 (amounts in thousands):

Financial assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

Finance receivables, net

Financial liabilities:

Interest-bearing deposits

Revolving lines of credit

Term loans

Convertible senior notes

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Carrying
Amount

Estimated
Fair Value

Carrying
Amount

Estimated
Fair Value

119,774

3,514,165

106,246

1,789,502

425,000

601,086

119,774

$

98,695

$

98,695

3,645,610

3,084,777

3,410,475

106,246

1,789,502

425,000

648,968

82,666

1,160,161

740,551

588,688

82,666

1,160,161

740,551

557,122

Disclosure of the estimated fair values of financial instruments often requires the use of estimates. The carrying amount and 
estimates of the fair value of the Company's debt obligations outlined above do not include any related debt issuance costs associated 
with  the  debt  obligations. The  Company  uses  the  following  methods  and  assumptions  to  estimate  the  fair  value  of  financial 
instruments:

Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying amount approximates fair value and quoted prices for identical assets in active 

markets. Accordingly, the Company estimates the fair value of cash and cash equivalents using Level 1 inputs.

Finance receivables, net: The Company estimates the fair value of these receivables using proprietary pricing models that 
the Company utilizes to make portfolio acquisition decisions. Accordingly, the Company's fair value estimates use Level 3 inputs 
as there is little observable market data available and management is required to use significant judgment in its estimates.

Interest-bearing deposits: The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the deposits and 
the observable quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for its fair 
value estimates.

Revolving lines of credit: The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the interest rate 
periods and the observable quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs 
for its fair value estimates.

Term loans: The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the interest rate periods and the 
observable quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for its fair value 
estimates.

Convertible senior notes: The fair value estimates for the (cid:49)otes incorporate quoted market prices which were obtained 
from secondary market broker quotes which were derived from a variety of inputs including client orders, information from their 
pricing vendors, modeling software, and actual trading prices when they occur. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for 
its fair value estimates. Furthermore, in the table above, carrying amount represents the portion of the (cid:49)otes classified as debt, 
while estimated fair value pertains to the face amount of the (cid:49)otes.

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Financial Instruments Required To Be Carried At Fair Value

The carrying amounts in the following table are measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the accompanying consolidated 

The following  table summarizes the fair value of  derivative instruments in the consolidated  balance sheets (amounts in 

balance sheets at December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

Assets:

Available-for-sale investments

Government bonds

Fair value through net income investments

Mutual funds

Derivative contracts (recorded in other assets)

Liabilities:

Derivative contracts (recorded in other liabilities)

Assets:

Available-for-sale investments

Government bonds

Fair value through net income investments

Mutual funds

Derivative contracts (recorded in other assets)

Available-for-sale investments

Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2019

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

$

5,052

$

— $

— $

5,052

33,677

—

—

—

875

23,663

—

—

—

33,677

875

23,663

Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2018

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

$

$

$

$

5,077

21,753

—

— $

— $

5,077

— $

3,334

— $

—

21,753

3,334

Government bonds: Fair value of the Company's investment in government bonds is estimated using quoted market prices. 

Accordingly, the Company uses Level 1 inputs.

Fair value through net income investments

Mutual funds: Fair value of the Company's investment in mutual funds is estimated using quoted market prices. Accordingly, 

the Company uses Level 1 inputs.

Derivative contracts: The estimated fair value of the derivative contracts is determined using industry standard valuation 
models. These models project future cash flows and discount the future amounts to a present value using market-based observable 
inputs, including interest rate curves and other factors. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for its fair value estimates.  
Effective in the second quarter of 2018, the Company began to apply hedge accounting to certain of its derivative contracts.  By 
applying hedge accounting, changes in market value are reflected as adjustments in other comprehensive income. The hedges were 
evaluated and remained highly effective at December 31, 2019 and have initial terms of two to seven years. 

Investments measured using net asset value

Private equity funds: This class of investments consists of private equity funds that invest primarily in loans and securities 
including single-family residential debt; corporate debt products; and financially-oriented, real estate-rich and other operating 
companies in the Americas, Western Europe, and Japan. These investments are subject to certain restrictions regarding transfers 
and withdrawals. The investments cannot be redeemed with the funds. Instead, the nature of the investments in this class is that 
distributions are received through the liquidation of the underlying assets of the fund. The investments are expected to be returned 
through distributions as a result of liquidations of the funds' underlying assets over one to six years. The fair value of these private 
equity funds following the application of the (cid:49)AV practical expedient was $7.2 million and $8.0 million as of December 31, 2019
and December 31, 2018, respectively.

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9. Derivatives:

thousands):

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

Interest rate contracts

Interest rate contracts

Foreign currency contracts

Foreign currency contracts

Interest rate contracts

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Balance Sheet

Location

Fair Value

Balance Sheet

Location

Fair Value

Other assets

$

323 Other assets

$

Other liabilities

17,807 Other liabilities

Other assets

Other liabilities

Other assets

552 Other assets

5,856 Other liabilities

— Other assets

44

—

2,555

—

735

Changes  in  the  fair  value  of  derivative  contracts  designated  as  cash  flow  hedging  instruments  are  recognized  in  other 

comprehensive income ("OCI"). As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the notional amount of interest rate contracts 

designated as cash flow hedging instruments was $959.0 million and $260.8 million, respectively. Derivatives designated as cash 

flow hedging instruments were evaluated and remained highly effective at December 31, 2019 and have initial terms of two to 

seven years.  The Company estimates that approximately $3.4 million of net derivative loss included in OCI will be reclassified 

into earnings within the next 12 months.  

The following table summarizes the effects of derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments on the consolidated 

financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments

2019

2018

2017

Interest rate contracts

$

(14,311) $

44

$

—

Gain or (loss) recognized in OCI, net of tax

Gain or (loss) reclassified from OCI into income

Location of gain or (loss) reclassified from OCI into income

2019

2018

2017

Interest expense, net

$

(1,457) $

— $

—

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

Changes  in  fair  value  of  derivative  contracts  not  designated  as  hedging  instruments  are  recognized  in  earnings. As  of 

December 31,  2019,  the  Company  no  longer  had  interest  rate  swap  contracts  not  designated  as  hedging  instruments.  As 

of December 31, 2018, the notional amount of interest rate contracts not designated as hedging instruments was $169.7 million. 

The Company also enters into foreign currency contracts to economically hedge the foreign currency re-measurement exposure 

related to certain balances that are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the entity. As of December 31, 

2019 and December 31, 2018, the notional amount of foreign currency contracts that are not designated as hedging instruments 

was $469.9 million and $144.7 million, respectively.

Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2019

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

$

5,052

$

— $

— $

5,052

33,677

—

—

—

875

23,663

—

—

—

33,677

875

23,663

Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2018

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

$

$

$

$

5,077

— $

— $

5,077

21,753

—

— $

3,334

— $

—

21,753

3,334

Assets:

Available-for-sale investments

Government bonds

Fair value through net income investments

Mutual funds

Liabilities:

Derivative contracts (recorded in other assets)

Derivative contracts (recorded in other liabilities)

Assets:

Available-for-sale investments

Government bonds

Fair value through net income investments

Mutual funds

Derivative contracts (recorded in other assets)

Available-for-sale investments

Accordingly, the Company uses Level 1 inputs.

Fair value through net income investments

Government bonds: Fair value of the Company's investment in government bonds is estimated using quoted market prices. 

Mutual funds: Fair value of the Company's investment in mutual funds is estimated using quoted market prices. Accordingly, 

the Company uses Level 1 inputs.

Derivative contracts: The estimated fair value of the derivative contracts is determined using industry standard valuation 

models. These models project future cash flows and discount the future amounts to a present value using market-based observable 

Effective in the second quarter of 2018, the Company began to apply hedge accounting to certain of its derivative contracts.  By 

applying hedge accounting, changes in market value are reflected as adjustments in other comprehensive income. The hedges were 

evaluated and remained highly effective at December 31, 2019 and have initial terms of two to seven years. 

Investments measured using net asset value

Private equity funds: This class of investments consists of private equity funds that invest primarily in loans and securities 

including single-family residential debt; corporate debt products; and financially-oriented, real estate-rich and other operating 

companies in the Americas, Western Europe, and Japan. These investments are subject to certain restrictions regarding transfers 

and withdrawals. The investments cannot be redeemed with the funds. Instead, the nature of the investments in this class is that 

distributions are received through the liquidation of the underlying assets of the fund. The investments are expected to be returned 

through distributions as a result of liquidations of the funds' underlying assets over one to six years. The fair value of these private 

equity funds following the application of the (cid:49)AV practical expedient was $7.2 million and $8.0 million as of December 31, 2019

and December 31, 2018, respectively.

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Financial Instruments Required To Be Carried At Fair Value

9. Derivatives:

The carrying amounts in the following table are measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the accompanying consolidated 

The following  table summarizes the fair value of  derivative instruments in the consolidated  balance sheets (amounts in 

balance sheets at December 31, 2019 and 2018 (amounts in thousands):

thousands):

December 31, 2019

December 31, 2018

Balance Sheet
Location

Fair Value

Balance Sheet
Location

Fair Value

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:

Interest rate contracts

Interest rate contracts

Other assets

$

323 Other assets

$

Other liabilities

17,807 Other liabilities

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

Foreign currency contracts

Foreign currency contracts

Interest rate contracts

Other assets

Other liabilities

Other assets

552 Other assets

5,856 Other liabilities

— Other assets

44

—

2,555

—

735

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:

Changes  in  the  fair  value  of  derivative  contracts  designated  as  cash  flow  hedging  instruments  are  recognized  in  other 
comprehensive income ("OCI"). As of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, the notional amount of interest rate contracts 
designated as cash flow hedging instruments was $959.0 million and $260.8 million, respectively. Derivatives designated as cash 
flow hedging instruments were evaluated and remained highly effective at December 31, 2019 and have initial terms of two to 
seven years.  The Company estimates that approximately $3.4 million of net derivative loss included in OCI will be reclassified 
into earnings within the next 12 months.  

The following table summarizes the effects of derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments on the consolidated 

financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Gain or (loss) recognized in OCI, net of tax

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments

2019

2018

2017

Interest rate contracts

$

(14,311) $

44

$

—

Location of gain or (loss) reclassified from OCI into income

2019

2018

2017

Interest expense, net

$

(1,457) $

— $

—

Gain or (loss) reclassified from OCI into income

inputs, including interest rate curves and other factors. Accordingly, the Company uses Level 2 inputs for its fair value estimates.  

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:

Changes  in  fair  value  of  derivative  contracts  not  designated  as  hedging  instruments  are  recognized  in  earnings. As  of 
December 31,  2019,  the  Company  no  longer  had  interest  rate  swap  contracts  not  designated  as  hedging  instruments.  As 
of December 31, 2018, the notional amount of interest rate contracts not designated as hedging instruments was $169.7 million. 
The Company also enters into foreign currency contracts to economically hedge the foreign currency re-measurement exposure 
related to certain balances that are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the entity. As of December 31, 
2019 and December 31, 2018, the notional amount of foreign currency contracts that are not designated as hedging instruments 
was $469.9 million and $144.7 million, respectively.

68

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The  following  table  summarizes  the  effects  of  derivatives  not  designated  as  hedging  instruments  on  the  Company’s 

Total share-based compensation expense was $10.7 million, $8.5 million and $8.7 million for the years ended December 31, 

consolidated income statements for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

Location of gain or (loss) recognized in
income

2019

2018

2017

(cid:49)onvested Shares

Amount of gain or (loss) recognized in income

Foreign currency contracts

Foreign currency contracts

Interest rate contracts

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

$

(7,008) $

4,011

$

Interest expense, net

Interest expense, net

(3,875)

(492)

(549)

2,082

—

—

—

10. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss:

The following table provides details about the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the year 

ended December 31, 2019 (amounts in thousands):

Gains and losses on cash flow hedges

2019

Affected line in the consolidated income statement

Interest rate swaps

Income tax effect of item above

Total losses on cash flow hedges

$

$

(1,457)

Interest expense, net

278

Income tax expense/(benefit)

(1,179) (cid:49)et of tax

The following table represents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component after tax, for the years 

ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The Company recognizes all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement 

when the awards vest or are settled. The total tax benefit realized from share-based compensation was approximately $1.2 million, 

$1.7 million and $3.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

As of December 31, 2019, total future compensation expense related to grants of nonvested share grants to employees and 

directors (not including nonvested shares granted under the Long-Term Incentive ("LTI") program), is estimated to be $8.6 million

with a weighted average remaining life for all nonvested shares of 1.6 years. Grants made to key employees and directors of the 

Company were assumed to have no forfeiture rates associated with them due to the historically low turnover among this group. 

With the exception of the grants made pursuant to the LTI program and a few employee and director grants, the nonvested shares 

vest ratably generally over one to three years and are expensed over their vesting period.

The following summarizes all nonvested share activity, excluding those related to the LTI program, from December 31, 2016

through December 31, 2019 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

December 31, 2016

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2018

Granted

Vested

Canceled

Granted

Vested

Canceled

Granted

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2019

(cid:49)onvested Shares

Outstanding

Weighted-Average

Price at Grant Date

$

303

195

(173)

(27)

298

254

(151)

(22)

379

329

(167)

(9)

532

$

38.19

33.70

37.49

43.05

35.25

36.39

35.13

35.02

34.85

28.47

34.81

31.01

30.97

The total grant date fair value of shares vested, excluding those granted under the LTI program, during the years ended 

December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, was $5.8 million, $5.3 million and $6.5 million, respectively.

Long-Term Incentive Program

Pursuant to the Plan, the Compensation Committee may grant time-vested and performance-based nonvested shares. All 

shares granted under the LTI program were granted to key employees of the Company.

Ending balance December 31, 2016
Other comprehensive loss before
reclassifications
Reclassifications, net

(cid:49)et current period other
comprehensive loss

73,337

—

73,337
(178,607) $

—

(63,463)
—

Debt Securities
Available-for-Sale

Cash Flow Hedges

Currency Translation
Adjustments

Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss (1)
(251,944)

$

— $

— $

—

—

—
— $

(251,944) $

Ending balance December 31, 2017

$

Reclassification of unrealized loss on
debt securities
Other comprehensive loss before
reclassifications
Reclassifications, net

(cid:49)et current period other
comprehensive loss

Ending balance December 31, 2018
Other comprehensive loss before
reclassifications

$

Reclassifications, net

(cid:49)et current period other
comprehensive loss

Ending balance December 31, 2019

$

—

—

—
— $

(22)

(61)
—

(83)
(83) $

39

—

—

44
—

44
44

(63,463)
(242,070) $

$

(14,311)

1,179

(5,816)

—

39
(44) $

(13,132)
(13,088) $

(5,816)
(247,886) $

73,337

—

73,337
(178,607)

(22)

(63,480)
—

(63,502)
(242,109)

(20,088)

1,179

(18,909)
(261,018)

(1) (cid:49)et of a $4.4 million deferred tax benefit for unrealized losses from cash flow hedges for the year ended December 31, 
2019.

11. Share-Based Compensation:

The Company has an Omnibus Incentive Plan (the "Plan") that is intended to assist the Company in attracting and retaining 
selected individuals to serve as employees and directors, who are expected to contribute to the Company's success and to achieve 
long-term objectives that will benefit stockholders of the Company. The Plan enables the Company to award shares of the Company's 
common stock to select employees and directors, not to exceed 5,400,000 shares as authorized by the Plan.

70

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PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The  following  table  summarizes  the  effects  of  derivatives  not  designated  as  hedging  instruments  on  the  Company’s 

consolidated income statements for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Amount of gain or (loss) recognized in income

Total share-based compensation expense was $10.7 million, $8.5 million and $8.7 million for the years ended December 31, 
2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The Company recognizes all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies in the income statement 
when the awards vest or are settled. The total tax benefit realized from share-based compensation was approximately $1.2 million, 
$1.7 million and $3.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

income

2019

2018

2017

Location of gain or (loss) recognized in

(cid:49)onvested Shares

Foreign currency contracts

Foreign currency contracts

Interest rate contracts

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)

$

(7,008) $

4,011

$

Interest expense, net

Interest expense, net

(3,875)

(492)

(549)

2,082

—

—

—

10. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss:

The following table provides details about the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the year 

ended December 31, 2019 (amounts in thousands):

Gains and losses on cash flow hedges

2019

Affected line in the consolidated income statement

Interest rate swaps

Income tax effect of item above

Total losses on cash flow hedges

$

$

(1,457)

Interest expense, net

278

Income tax expense/(benefit)

(1,179) (cid:49)et of tax

The following table represents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component after tax, for the years 

ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands):

Ending balance December 31, 2016

$

— $

— $

(251,944) $

(251,944)

Debt Securities

Currency Translation

Accumulated Other

Available-for-Sale

Cash Flow Hedges

Adjustments

Comprehensive Loss (1)

Ending balance December 31, 2017

$

— $

— $

(178,607) $

—

—

—

(22)

(61)

—

(83)

39

—

39

—

—

—

—

44

—

44

44

(14,311)

1,179

(13,132)

(13,088) $

73,337

—

73,337

—

—

(63,463)

(63,463)

(5,816)

—

(5,816)

73,337

—

73,337

(178,607)

(22)

(63,480)

—

(63,502)

(242,109)

(20,088)

1,179

(18,909)

(261,018)

Other comprehensive loss before

reclassifications

Reclassifications, net

(cid:49)et current period other

comprehensive loss

Reclassification of unrealized loss on

debt securities

Other comprehensive loss before

reclassifications

Reclassifications, net

(cid:49)et current period other

comprehensive loss

Other comprehensive loss before

reclassifications

Reclassifications, net

(cid:49)et current period other

comprehensive loss

2019.

11. Share-Based Compensation:

Ending balance December 31, 2019

$

(44) $

(247,886) $

(1) (cid:49)et of a $4.4 million deferred tax benefit for unrealized losses from cash flow hedges for the year ended December 31, 

The Company has an Omnibus Incentive Plan (the "Plan") that is intended to assist the Company in attracting and retaining 

selected individuals to serve as employees and directors, who are expected to contribute to the Company's success and to achieve 

long-term objectives that will benefit stockholders of the Company. The Plan enables the Company to award shares of the Company's 

common stock to select employees and directors, not to exceed 5,400,000 shares as authorized by the Plan.

Ending balance December 31, 2018

$

(83) $

$

(242,070) $

As of December 31, 2019, total future compensation expense related to grants of nonvested share grants to employees and 
directors (not including nonvested shares granted under the Long-Term Incentive ("LTI") program), is estimated to be $8.6 million
with a weighted average remaining life for all nonvested shares of 1.6 years. Grants made to key employees and directors of the 
Company were assumed to have no forfeiture rates associated with them due to the historically low turnover among this group. 
With the exception of the grants made pursuant to the LTI program and a few employee and director grants, the nonvested shares 
vest ratably generally over one to three years and are expensed over their vesting period.

The following summarizes all nonvested share activity, excluding those related to the LTI program, from December 31, 2016

through December 31, 2019 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

December 31, 2016

Granted

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2017

Granted

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2018

Granted

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2019

(cid:49)onvested Shares
Outstanding

Weighted-Average
Price at Grant Date

$

303

195

(173)

(27)

298

254

(151)

(22)

379

329

(167)

(9)

532

$

38.19

33.70

37.49

43.05

35.25

36.39

35.13

35.02

34.85

28.47

34.81

31.01

30.97

The total grant date fair value of shares vested, excluding those granted under the LTI program, during the years ended 

December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, was $5.8 million, $5.3 million and $6.5 million, respectively.

Long-Term Incentive Program

Pursuant to the Plan, the Compensation Committee may grant time-vested and performance-based nonvested shares. All 

shares granted under the LTI program were granted to key employees of the Company.

70

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The following table summarizes all LTI share activity from December 31, 2016 through December 31, 2019 (amounts in 

13. Income Taxes:

thousands, except per share amounts):

December 31, 2016

Granted at target level

Adjustments for actual performance

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2017

Granted at target level

Adjustments for actual performance

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2018

Granted at target level

Adjustments for actual performance

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2019

(cid:49)onvested LTI Shares
Outstanding

Weighted-Average
Price at Grant Date

following (amounts in thousands):

The income tax expense/(benefit) recognized for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 is comprised of the 

$

425

192

5

(51)

(99)

472

121

(74)

(19)

(46)

454

168

(172)

—

(3)

447

$

39.57

33.50

60.00

40.80

20.91

41.06

39.40

52.47

52.47

32.31

33.27

28.28

28.98

—

35.87

33.03

The  total  grant  date  fair  value  of  LTI  shares  vested  during  the  years  ended  December 31,  2019,  2018  and  2017,  was 

$0.0 million, $1.0 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

At December 31, 2019, total future compensation expense, assuming the current estimated performance levels are achieved, 
related to nonvested shares granted under the LTI program is estimated to be approximately $4.5 million. The Company assumed 
a 15.0% forfeiture rate for these grants and the remaining shares have a weighted average remaining life of 1.2 years at December 31, 
2019.

12. Earnings per Share:

Basic earnings per share ("EPS") are computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders of PRA Group, 
Inc. by weighted average common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS are computed using the same components as basic EPS with 
the denominator adjusted for the dilutive effect of the conversion spread of the (cid:49)otes and nonvested share awards, if dilutive. 
There has been no dilutive effect of the (cid:49)otes since issuance through December 31, 2019. Share-based awards that are contingent 
upon the attainment of performance goals are included in the computation of diluted EPS if the effect is dilutive. The dilutive 
effect of nonvested shares is computed using the treasury stock method, which assumes any proceeds that could be obtained upon 
the vesting of nonvested shares would be used to purchase common shares at the average market price for the period.

The following table provides a reconciliation between the computation of basic EPS and diluted EPS for the years ended 

December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

(cid:49)et Income
Attributable
to PRA
Group, Inc.

2019

Weighted 
Average
Common
Shares

(cid:49)et Income
Attributable
to PRA
Group, Inc.

EPS

2018

Weighted 
Average
Common
Shares

(cid:49)et Income
Attributable
to PRA
Group, Inc.

EPS

2017

Weighted 
Average
Common
Shares

EPS

Basic EPS

$

86,158

45,387

$

1.90

$

65,563

45,280

$

1.45

$ 164,315

45,671

$

3.60

Dilutive effect of
nonvested share awards

—

190

(0.01)

—

133

(0.01)

—

152

(0.01)

Diluted EPS

$

86,158

45,577

$

1.89

$

65,563

45,413

$

1.44

$ 164,315

45,823

$

3.59

There were no antidilutive options outstanding as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.

72

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For the year ended December 31, 2019:

Current tax expense

Deferred tax (benefit)

Total income tax expense

For the year ended December 31, 2018:

Current tax expense

Deferred tax (benefit)

Total income tax expense/(benefit)

For the year ended December 31, 2017:

Current tax expense

Deferred tax (benefit)

Total income tax (benefit)/expense

Federal

State

International

Total

41,391

(27,311)

14,080

23,444

(19,527)

3,917

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

6,390

(6,030)

360

9,026

(15,268)

9,460

(4,220)

5,240

$

$

37,501

$

(21,413)

(6,242) $

16,088

$

57,241

(37,561)

19,680

69,971

(56,208)

13,763

$

$

$

$

$

77,656

(112,118)

(34,462) $

16,543

(2,051)

14,492

25,087

$

119,286

(15,969)

9,118

$

(130,138)

(10,852)

On December 22, 2017, the United States government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the 

“Tax Act.”  The main impact of the Tax Act was a reduction of the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and the current 

taxation of international entities.  (cid:49)ew legislation and authoritative guidance on the Tax Act is still being released that may impact 

tax amounts recorded in the financial statements.   Under U.S. GAAP, the Company made an accounting policy election to treat 

taxes due related to GILTI as a current-period expense when incurred.  

A reconciliation of the Company's expected tax expense at the statutory federal tax rate to actual tax expense/(benefit) for 

the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 is as follows (amounts in thousands):

Income tax expense at statutory federal rates

State tax expense/(benefit), net of federal tax benefit

Tax impact on international earnings

Federal rate change

Other

2019

2018

2017

$

24,645

$

18,794

$

161

(7,326)

—

2,200

(5,098)

206

(719)

580

56,095

9,072

(4,953)

(73,779)

2,713

Total income tax expense/(benefit)

$

19,680

$

13,763

$

(10,852)

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The following table summarizes all LTI share activity from December 31, 2016 through December 31, 2019 (amounts in 

13. Income Taxes:

(cid:49)onvested LTI Shares

Outstanding

Weighted-Average

Price at Grant Date

following (amounts in thousands):

The income tax expense/(benefit) recognized for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 is comprised of the 

$

425

192

5

(51)

(99)

472

121

(74)

(19)

(46)

454

168

(172)

—

(3)

447

$

39.57

33.50

60.00

40.80

20.91

41.06

39.40

52.47

52.47

32.31

33.27

28.28

28.98

—

35.87

33.03

For the year ended December 31, 2019:

Current tax expense

Deferred tax (benefit)

Total income tax expense

For the year ended December 31, 2018:

Current tax expense

Deferred tax (benefit)

Total income tax expense/(benefit)

For the year ended December 31, 2017:

Current tax expense

Deferred tax (benefit)

Total income tax (benefit)/expense

Federal

State

International

Total

$

$

$

$

$

$

41,391

(27,311)

14,080

23,444

(19,527)

3,917

77,656

(112,118)

$

$

$

$

$

(34,462) $

$

$

$

6,390

(6,030)

360

9,026

(15,268)

9,460

(4,220)

5,240

$

$

37,501

$

(21,413)

(6,242) $

16,088

$

57,241

(37,561)

19,680

69,971

(56,208)

13,763

16,543

(2,051)

14,492

$

$

25,087

$

119,286

(15,969)

9,118

$

(130,138)

(10,852)

On December 22, 2017, the United States government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to as the 
“Tax Act.”  The main impact of the Tax Act was a reduction of the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and the current 
taxation of international entities.  (cid:49)ew legislation and authoritative guidance on the Tax Act is still being released that may impact 
tax amounts recorded in the financial statements.   Under U.S. GAAP, the Company made an accounting policy election to treat 
taxes due related to GILTI as a current-period expense when incurred.  

A reconciliation of the Company's expected tax expense at the statutory federal tax rate to actual tax expense/(benefit) for 

the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 is as follows (amounts in thousands):

Income tax expense at statutory federal rates

State tax expense/(benefit), net of federal tax benefit

Tax impact on international earnings

Federal rate change

Other

$

24,645

$

161
(7,326)
—

2,200

$

18,794
(5,098)

206
(719)
580

Total income tax expense/(benefit)

$

19,680

$

13,763

$

56,095

9,072
(4,953)
(73,779)
2,713
(10,852)

2019

2018

2017

thousands, except per share amounts):

Adjustments for actual performance

Adjustments for actual performance

December 31, 2016

Granted at target level

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2017

Granted at target level

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2018

Granted at target level

Vested

Canceled

December 31, 2019

Adjustments for actual performance

The  total  grant  date  fair  value  of  LTI  shares  vested  during  the  years  ended  December 31,  2019,  2018  and  2017,  was 

$0.0 million, $1.0 million and $2.1 million, respectively.

At December 31, 2019, total future compensation expense, assuming the current estimated performance levels are achieved, 

related to nonvested shares granted under the LTI program is estimated to be approximately $4.5 million. The Company assumed 

a 15.0% forfeiture rate for these grants and the remaining shares have a weighted average remaining life of 1.2 years at December 31, 

2019.

12. Earnings per Share:

Basic earnings per share ("EPS") are computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders of PRA Group, 

Inc. by weighted average common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS are computed using the same components as basic EPS with 

the denominator adjusted for the dilutive effect of the conversion spread of the (cid:49)otes and nonvested share awards, if dilutive. 

There has been no dilutive effect of the (cid:49)otes since issuance through December 31, 2019. Share-based awards that are contingent 

upon the attainment of performance goals are included in the computation of diluted EPS if the effect is dilutive. The dilutive 

effect of nonvested shares is computed using the treasury stock method, which assumes any proceeds that could be obtained upon 

the vesting of nonvested shares would be used to purchase common shares at the average market price for the period.

The following table provides a reconciliation between the computation of basic EPS and diluted EPS for the years ended 

December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 (amounts in thousands, except per share amounts):

(cid:49)et Income

Attributable

to PRA

Group, Inc.

2019

Weighted 

Average

Common

Shares

(cid:49)et Income

Attributable

to PRA

Group, Inc.

EPS

2018

Weighted 

Average

Common

Shares

(cid:49)et Income

Attributable

to PRA

Group, Inc.

EPS

2017

Weighted 

Average

Common

Shares

EPS

Basic EPS

$

86,158

45,387

$

1.90

$

65,563

45,280

$

1.45

$ 164,315

45,671

$

3.60

Dilutive effect of

nonvested share awards

Diluted EPS

$

86,158

45,577

$

1.89

$

65,563

45,413

$

1.44

$ 164,315

45,823

$

3.59

—

190

(0.01)

—

133

(0.01)

—

152

(0.01)

There were no antidilutive options outstanding as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017.

72

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PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The Company recognized a net deferred tax liability of $22.2 million and $53.5 million as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, 

The Company's international subsidiaries had $401.5 million and $116.8 million of net operating loss carryforwards as of 

respectively. The components of the net deferred tax liability are as follows (amounts in thousands):

Deferred tax assets:

Employee compensation
(cid:49)et operating loss carryforward
Accrued liabilities
Interest
Finance receivable revenue recognition - international
Right of use asset
Other
Valuation allowance

Total deferred tax asset

Deferred tax liabilities:

Property and Equipment
Intangible assets and goodwill
Lease liability
Convertible debt
Finance receivable revenue recognition - IRS settlement
Finance receivable revenue recognition - domestic

Total deferred tax liability

(cid:49)et deferred tax liability

As of December 31,

2019

2018

$

6,085
93,068
—
10,477
21,343
16,045
12,009
(80,739)
78,288

(5,362)
(2,999)
(15,107)
(7,843)
(36,959)
(32,183)
(100,453)
(22,165) $

4,670
24,210
1,850
10,559
37,005
—
2,721
(14,512)
66,503

(5,556)
(5,435)
—
(10,998)
(74,296)
(23,744)
(120,029)
(53,526)

$

$

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is recognized and charged to earnings in the period such determination is made, 
if it is determined that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized. If the Company subsequently realized 
deferred tax assets that were previously determined to be unrealizable, the respective valuation allowance would be reversed, 
resulting in a positive adjustment to earnings in the period such determination is made. The determination for a valuation allowance 
is made on a jurisdiction by jurisdiction basis.  At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the valuation allowance, relating mainly to net 
operating losses, capital losses and deferred interest expense in (cid:49)orway, Poland, and Luxembourg, was $80.7 million and $14.5 
million respectively.  The increase in the valuation allowance is primarily due to recording net operating losses in Luxembourg 
that were interpreted to be restricted by law. The Company believes it is more likely than not that the results of future operations 
will generate sufficient taxable income to realize the remaining net deferred tax assets.

On May 10, 2017, the Company reached a settlement with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") regarding the IRS assertion 
that tax revenue recognition using the cost recovery method did not clearly reflect taxable income.  In accordance with the settlement, 
the Company changed its tax accounting method used to recognize finance receivables revenue effective with tax year 2017. Under 
the new method, a portion of the annual collections amortizes principal and the remaining portion is taxable income. The deferred 
tax liability related to the difference in timing between the new method and the cost recovery method will be incorporated evenly 
into the Company’s tax filings over four years effective with tax year 2017.  The Company was not required to pay any interest 
or penalties in connection with the settlement.

ASC 740 requires the recognition of interest if the tax law would require interest to be paid on the underpayment of taxes, 
and recognition of penalties if a tax position does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid payment of penalties. The 
Company believes it has sufficient support for the technical merits of its positions and that it is more likely than not these positions 
will be sustained. Accordingly, the Company has not accrued for interest or penalties on any of its tax positions.

At December 31, 2019, the tax years subject to examination by the major federal, state and international taxing jurisdictions 

are 2014 and subsequent years.

As of December 31, 2019, the cumulative unremitted earnings of the Company's international subsidiaries were approximately 
$52.3 million. The Company intends for predominantly all international earnings to be indefinitely reinvested in its international 
operations and, therefore, the recording of deferred tax liabilities for such unremitted earnings is not required. It is impracticable 
to determine the total amount of unrecognized deferred taxes with respect to these indefinitely reinvested earnings.

74

75

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December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. There are $283.7 million and $45.8 million of valuation allowances recorded to offset 

those losses as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.  The net operating losses do not expire under most local laws and 

the remaining jurisdictions allow for a seven to twenty year carryforward period.

14. Commitments and Contingencies:

Employment Agreements:

The Company has entered into employment agreements, most which expire on December 31, 2020, with all of its U.S. 

executive  officers and  with  several  members  of  its U.S.  senior  management group.  Such agreements provide  for  base  salary 

payments as well as potential discretionary bonuses that take into consideration the Company's overall performance against its 

short and long-term financial and strategic objectives.  As of December 31, 2019, estimated future compensation under these 

agreements was approximately $8.0 million. The agreements also contain confidentiality and non-compete provisions. Outside 

the U.S., employment agreements are in place with employees pursuant to local country regulations. Generally, these agreements 

do not have expiration dates and therefore it is impractical to estimate the amount of future compensation under these agreements. 

Accordingly, the future compensation under these agreements is not included in the $8.0 million total above.

The Company is party to various operating leases with respect to its facilities and equipment. The future maturities of lease 

liabilities at December 31, 2019 totaled approximately $95.4 million.

The  Company  is  party  to  several  forward  flow  agreements  that  allow  for  the  purchase  of  nonperforming  loans  at  pre-

established prices. The maximum remaining amount to be purchased under forward flow agreements at December 31, 2019 was 

Leases:

Forward Flow Agreements:

approximately $506.9 million.

Finance Receivables:

Certain agreements for the purchase of finance receivables portfolios contain provisions that may, in limited circumstances, 

require the Company to refund a portion or all of the collections subsequently received by the Company on particular accounts. 

The potential refunds as of the balance sheet date are not considered to be significant.

Litigation and Regulatory Matters:

The Company and its subsidiaries are from time to time subject to a variety of routine legal and regulatory claims, inquiries 

and proceedings, most of which are incidental to the ordinary course of the Company's business. The Company initiates lawsuits 

against customers and is occasionally countersued by them in such actions. Also, customers, either individually, as members of a 

class action, or through a governmental entity on behalf of customers, may initiate litigation against the Company in which they 

allege that the Company has violated a state or federal law in the process of collecting on an account. From time to time, other 

types of lawsuits are brought against the Company. Additionally, the Company receives subpoenas and other requests or demands 

for information from regulators or governmental authorities who are investigating the Company's debt collection activities.

The Company accrues for potential liability arising from legal proceedings and regulatory matters when it is probable that 

such liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. This determination is based upon currently 

available information for those proceedings in which the Company is involved, taking into account the Company's best estimate 

of such losses for those cases for which such estimates can be made. The Company's estimate involves significant judgment, given 

the varying stages of the proceedings (including the fact that many of them are currently in preliminary stages), the number of 

unresolved issues in many of the proceedings (including issues regarding class certification and the scope of many of the claims), 

and the related uncertainty of the potential outcomes of these proceedings. In making determinations of the likely outcome of 

pending litigation, the Company considers many factors, including, but not limited to, the nature of the claims, the Company's 

experience with similar types of claims, the jurisdiction in which the matter is filed, input from outside legal counsel, the likelihood 

of resolving the matter through alternative mechanisms, the matter's current status and the damages sought or demands made. 

Accordingly, the Company's estimate will change from time to time, and actual losses could be more than the current estimate.

The Company believes that the estimate of the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of the amount accrued 

for its legal proceedings outstanding at December 31, 2019, where the range of loss can be estimated, was not material.

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The Company recognized a net deferred tax liability of $22.2 million and $53.5 million as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, 

respectively. The components of the net deferred tax liability are as follows (amounts in thousands):

Finance receivable revenue recognition - international

Deferred tax assets:

Employee compensation

(cid:49)et operating loss carryforward

Accrued liabilities

Interest

Right of use asset

Other

Valuation allowance

Total deferred tax asset

Deferred tax liabilities:

Property and Equipment

Intangible assets and goodwill

Lease liability

Convertible debt

Finance receivable revenue recognition - IRS settlement

Finance receivable revenue recognition - domestic

Total deferred tax liability

(cid:49)et deferred tax liability

As of December 31,

2019

2018

$

6,085

$

93,068

—

10,477

21,343

16,045

12,009

(80,739)

78,288

(5,362)

(2,999)

(15,107)

(7,843)

(36,959)

(32,183)

(100,453)

$

(22,165) $

4,670

24,210

1,850

10,559

37,005

—

2,721

(14,512)

66,503

(5,556)

(5,435)

—

(10,998)

(74,296)

(23,744)

(120,029)

(53,526)

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is recognized and charged to earnings in the period such determination is made, 

if it is determined that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be realized. If the Company subsequently realized 

deferred tax assets that were previously determined to be unrealizable, the respective valuation allowance would be reversed, 

resulting in a positive adjustment to earnings in the period such determination is made. The determination for a valuation allowance 

is made on a jurisdiction by jurisdiction basis.  At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the valuation allowance, relating mainly to net 

operating losses, capital losses and deferred interest expense in (cid:49)orway, Poland, and Luxembourg, was $80.7 million and $14.5 

million respectively.  The increase in the valuation allowance is primarily due to recording net operating losses in Luxembourg 

that were interpreted to be restricted by law. The Company believes it is more likely than not that the results of future operations 

will generate sufficient taxable income to realize the remaining net deferred tax assets.

On May 10, 2017, the Company reached a settlement with the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") regarding the IRS assertion 

that tax revenue recognition using the cost recovery method did not clearly reflect taxable income.  In accordance with the settlement, 

the Company changed its tax accounting method used to recognize finance receivables revenue effective with tax year 2017. Under 

the new method, a portion of the annual collections amortizes principal and the remaining portion is taxable income. The deferred 

tax liability related to the difference in timing between the new method and the cost recovery method will be incorporated evenly 

into the Company’s tax filings over four years effective with tax year 2017.  The Company was not required to pay any interest 

or penalties in connection with the settlement.

ASC 740 requires the recognition of interest if the tax law would require interest to be paid on the underpayment of taxes, 

and recognition of penalties if a tax position does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid payment of penalties. The 

Company believes it has sufficient support for the technical merits of its positions and that it is more likely than not these positions 

will be sustained. Accordingly, the Company has not accrued for interest or penalties on any of its tax positions.

At December 31, 2019, the tax years subject to examination by the major federal, state and international taxing jurisdictions 

are 2014 and subsequent years.

As of December 31, 2019, the cumulative unremitted earnings of the Company's international subsidiaries were approximately 

$52.3 million. The Company intends for predominantly all international earnings to be indefinitely reinvested in its international 

operations and, therefore, the recording of deferred tax liabilities for such unremitted earnings is not required. It is impracticable 

to determine the total amount of unrecognized deferred taxes with respect to these indefinitely reinvested earnings.

The Company's international subsidiaries had $401.5 million and $116.8 million of net operating loss carryforwards as of 
December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. There are $283.7 million and $45.8 million of valuation allowances recorded to offset 
those losses as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.  The net operating losses do not expire under most local laws and 
the remaining jurisdictions allow for a seven to twenty year carryforward period.

14. Commitments and Contingencies:

Employment Agreements:

The Company has entered into employment agreements, most which expire on December 31, 2020, with all of its U.S. 
executive  officers and  with  several  members  of  its U.S.  senior  management group.  Such agreements provide  for  base  salary 
payments as well as potential discretionary bonuses that take into consideration the Company's overall performance against its 
short and long-term financial and strategic objectives.  As of December 31, 2019, estimated future compensation under these 
agreements was approximately $8.0 million. The agreements also contain confidentiality and non-compete provisions. Outside 
the U.S., employment agreements are in place with employees pursuant to local country regulations. Generally, these agreements 
do not have expiration dates and therefore it is impractical to estimate the amount of future compensation under these agreements. 
Accordingly, the future compensation under these agreements is not included in the $8.0 million total above.

Leases:

The Company is party to various operating leases with respect to its facilities and equipment. The future maturities of lease 

liabilities at December 31, 2019 totaled approximately $95.4 million.

Forward Flow Agreements:

The  Company  is  party  to  several  forward  flow  agreements  that  allow  for  the  purchase  of  nonperforming  loans  at  pre-
established prices. The maximum remaining amount to be purchased under forward flow agreements at December 31, 2019 was 
approximately $506.9 million.

Finance Receivables:

Certain agreements for the purchase of finance receivables portfolios contain provisions that may, in limited circumstances, 
require the Company to refund a portion or all of the collections subsequently received by the Company on particular accounts. 
The potential refunds as of the balance sheet date are not considered to be significant.

Litigation and Regulatory Matters:

The Company and its subsidiaries are from time to time subject to a variety of routine legal and regulatory claims, inquiries 
and proceedings, most of which are incidental to the ordinary course of the Company's business. The Company initiates lawsuits 
against customers and is occasionally countersued by them in such actions. Also, customers, either individually, as members of a 
class action, or through a governmental entity on behalf of customers, may initiate litigation against the Company in which they 
allege that the Company has violated a state or federal law in the process of collecting on an account. From time to time, other 
types of lawsuits are brought against the Company. Additionally, the Company receives subpoenas and other requests or demands 
for information from regulators or governmental authorities who are investigating the Company's debt collection activities.

The Company accrues for potential liability arising from legal proceedings and regulatory matters when it is probable that 
such liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. This determination is based upon currently 
available information for those proceedings in which the Company is involved, taking into account the Company's best estimate 
of such losses for those cases for which such estimates can be made. The Company's estimate involves significant judgment, given 
the varying stages of the proceedings (including the fact that many of them are currently in preliminary stages), the number of 
unresolved issues in many of the proceedings (including issues regarding class certification and the scope of many of the claims), 
and the related uncertainty of the potential outcomes of these proceedings. In making determinations of the likely outcome of 
pending litigation, the Company considers many factors, including, but not limited to, the nature of the claims, the Company's 
experience with similar types of claims, the jurisdiction in which the matter is filed, input from outside legal counsel, the likelihood 
of resolving the matter through alternative mechanisms, the matter's current status and the damages sought or demands made. 
Accordingly, the Company's estimate will change from time to time, and actual losses could be more than the current estimate.

The Company believes that the estimate of the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of the amount accrued 

for its legal proceedings outstanding at December 31, 2019, where the range of loss can be estimated, was not material.

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17. Sales of Subsidiaries:

On December 20, 2018, the Company sold 79% of its interest in RCB, a servicing platform for nonperforming loans in Brazil 

for $40.0 million. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain of $26.6 million, which includes a gain of $5.4 million on its 11.7%

retained interest. The Company received 25% of the proceeds in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the remaining 75% in the first 

quarter of 2019. The fair value of the retained interest was estimated based on the transaction price. The Company accounts for 

its remaining interest in RCB as an equity method investment.

As part of the Company’s strategy to focus on its primary business, the purchase, collection and management of portfolios 

of nonperforming loans, the Company sold its government services businesses: PRA Government Services, LLC; MuniServices, 

LLC; and PRA Professional Services, LLC in the first quarter of 2017, for $91.5 million in cash plus additional consideration for 

certain balance sheet items. The pre-tax gain on sale was approximately $46.8 million.

During the second quarter of 2017, the Company sold its vehicle location, skip tracing and collateral recovery business, PRA 

Location Services, LLC, for $4.5 million which resulted in a pre-tax gain on sale of approximately $1.6 million.

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

In certain legal proceedings, the Company may have recourse to insurance or third-party contractual indemnities to cover 
all or portions of its litigation expenses, judgments, or settlements. Loss estimates and accruals for potential liability related to 
legal proceedings are typically exclusive of potential recoveries, if any, under the Company's insurance policies or third-party 
indemnities. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded $1.0 million in potential recoveries under the 
Company's insurance policies or third-party indemnities which is included in other receivables, net at December 31, 2019. 

The matters described below fall outside of the normal parameters of the Company's routine legal proceedings.

Multi-State Investigation

On (cid:49)ovember 17, 2015, the Company received civil investigative demands from multiple state Attorney General offices 
("AGOs")  broadly  relating  to  its  U.S.  debt  collection  practices. The  Company  believes  that  it  has  fully  cooperated  with  the 
investigations and discussed potential resolution of the investigations with the AGOs. In these discussions, the AGOs have taken 
positions with which the Company disagrees, including positions related to penalties, restitution and/or the adoption of new practices 
and controls in the conduct of the Company's business.  If the Company is unable to resolve its differences with the AGOs, it is 
possible that one or more individual state AGOs may file claims against the Company. 

As previously reported in the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2019, the 
Company settled certain claims with the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General on (cid:49)ovember 6, 2019.  The range of loss 
with respect to the remaining investigations, if any, cannot be estimated at this time.

Iris Pounds v. Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC

On (cid:49)ovember 21, 2016, Iris Pounds filed suit against the Company in Durham County, (cid:49)orth Carolina alleging violations 
of the (cid:49)orth Carolina Prohibited Practices by Collection Agencies Act. The purported class consists of all individuals against 
whom the Company had obtained a judgment by default in (cid:49)orth Carolina on or after October 1, 2009. On December 9, 2016, the 
Company removed the matter to the United States District Court for the Middle District of (cid:49)orth Carolina (the "District Court"). 
On March 28, 2018, the District Court entered an order remanding the matter to the (cid:49)orth Carolina state court, which the Fourth 
Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed on May 17, 2018. On January 11, 2019, the Company filed motions to compel arbitration with 
the (cid:49)orth Carolina state court, which was denied. The Company is seeking review of the (cid:49)orth Carolinas state court's decision to 
deny the Company's motion to compel arbitration.  The range of loss, if any, cannot be estimated at this time due to the uncertainty 
surrounding liability, class certification and the interpretation of statutory damages.

Telephone Consumer Protection Act Litigation

On January 25, 2017, the Company resolved the matter of In Re Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC Telephone Consumer
Protection Act Litigation, which consisted of a number of class actions and single plaintiff claims consolidated by order of the 
Panel for Multi-District Litigation ("MDL").  While the settlement disposed of a large number of claims, several hundred class 
members opted out ("Opt-Out Plaintiffs") of that settlement.  Many of these Opt-Out Plaintiffs have been consolidated before the 
MDL appointed court, the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, and are pending a determination on 
cross-motions for summary judgment.  The range of loss, if any, cannot be estimated at this time due to the uncertainty surrounding 
liability. 

15. Retirement Plans:

The Company sponsors defined contribution plans primarily in the U.S. and Europe. The U.S. plan is organized as a 401(k) 
plan under which all employees over eighteen years of age are eligible to make voluntary contributions to the plan up to 100% of 
their compensation, subject to IRS limitations, after completing six months of service, as defined in the plan. The Company makes 
matching contributions of up to 4% of an employee's salary. For the defined contribution plans in Europe, the Company pays 
contributions to publicly or privately administered pension insurance plans on a mandatory, contractual or voluntary basis. Total 
compensation expense related to the Company's contributions was $5.9 million, $6.3 million and $5.2 million for the years ended 
December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

16. Redeemable (cid:49)oncontrolling Interest:

With the acquisition of DTP S.A. in 2016, the Company acquired a 20% owned Polish securitization fund (the "Fund").  
Under ASC 810-10, the Company had determined it had control over this Fund and as such consolidated the operations of the 
Fund. As of December 31, 2019, 100% of the ownership interests were redeemed. 

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PRA Group, Inc.

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

PRA Group, Inc.
(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

17. Sales of Subsidiaries:

On December 20, 2018, the Company sold 79% of its interest in RCB, a servicing platform for nonperforming loans in Brazil 
for $40.0 million. The Company recognized a pre-tax gain of $26.6 million, which includes a gain of $5.4 million on its 11.7%
retained interest. The Company received 25% of the proceeds in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the remaining 75% in the first 
quarter of 2019. The fair value of the retained interest was estimated based on the transaction price. The Company accounts for 
its remaining interest in RCB as an equity method investment.

As part of the Company’s strategy to focus on its primary business, the purchase, collection and management of portfolios 
of nonperforming loans, the Company sold its government services businesses: PRA Government Services, LLC; MuniServices, 
LLC; and PRA Professional Services, LLC in the first quarter of 2017, for $91.5 million in cash plus additional consideration for 
certain balance sheet items. The pre-tax gain on sale was approximately $46.8 million.

During the second quarter of 2017, the Company sold its vehicle location, skip tracing and collateral recovery business, PRA 

Location Services, LLC, for $4.5 million which resulted in a pre-tax gain on sale of approximately $1.6 million.

In certain legal proceedings, the Company may have recourse to insurance or third-party contractual indemnities to cover 

all or portions of its litigation expenses, judgments, or settlements. Loss estimates and accruals for potential liability related to 

legal proceedings are typically exclusive of potential recoveries, if any, under the Company's insurance policies or third-party 

indemnities. During the year ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded $1.0 million in potential recoveries under the 

Company's insurance policies or third-party indemnities which is included in other receivables, net at December 31, 2019. 

The matters described below fall outside of the normal parameters of the Company's routine legal proceedings.

Multi-State Investigation

On (cid:49)ovember 17, 2015, the Company received civil investigative demands from multiple state Attorney General offices 

("AGOs")  broadly  relating  to  its  U.S.  debt  collection  practices. The  Company  believes  that  it  has  fully  cooperated  with  the 

investigations and discussed potential resolution of the investigations with the AGOs. In these discussions, the AGOs have taken 

positions with which the Company disagrees, including positions related to penalties, restitution and/or the adoption of new practices 

and controls in the conduct of the Company's business.  If the Company is unable to resolve its differences with the AGOs, it is 

possible that one or more individual state AGOs may file claims against the Company. 

As previously reported in the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2019, the 

Company settled certain claims with the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General on (cid:49)ovember 6, 2019.  The range of loss 

with respect to the remaining investigations, if any, cannot be estimated at this time.

Iris Pounds v. Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC

On (cid:49)ovember 21, 2016, Iris Pounds filed suit against the Company in Durham County, (cid:49)orth Carolina alleging violations 

of the (cid:49)orth Carolina Prohibited Practices by Collection Agencies Act. The purported class consists of all individuals against 

whom the Company had obtained a judgment by default in (cid:49)orth Carolina on or after October 1, 2009. On December 9, 2016, the 

Company removed the matter to the United States District Court for the Middle District of (cid:49)orth Carolina (the "District Court"). 

On March 28, 2018, the District Court entered an order remanding the matter to the (cid:49)orth Carolina state court, which the Fourth 

Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed on May 17, 2018. On January 11, 2019, the Company filed motions to compel arbitration with 

the (cid:49)orth Carolina state court, which was denied. The Company is seeking review of the (cid:49)orth Carolinas state court's decision to 

deny the Company's motion to compel arbitration.  The range of loss, if any, cannot be estimated at this time due to the uncertainty 

surrounding liability, class certification and the interpretation of statutory damages.

Telephone Consumer Protection Act Litigation

On January 25, 2017, the Company resolved the matter of In Re Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC Telephone Consumer

Protection Act Litigation, which consisted of a number of class actions and single plaintiff claims consolidated by order of the 

Panel for Multi-District Litigation ("MDL").  While the settlement disposed of a large number of claims, several hundred class 

members opted out ("Opt-Out Plaintiffs") of that settlement.  Many of these Opt-Out Plaintiffs have been consolidated before the 

MDL appointed court, the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, and are pending a determination on 

cross-motions for summary judgment.  The range of loss, if any, cannot be estimated at this time due to the uncertainty surrounding 

liability. 

15. Retirement Plans:

The Company sponsors defined contribution plans primarily in the U.S. and Europe. The U.S. plan is organized as a 401(k) 

plan under which all employees over eighteen years of age are eligible to make voluntary contributions to the plan up to 100% of 

their compensation, subject to IRS limitations, after completing six months of service, as defined in the plan. The Company makes 

matching contributions of up to 4% of an employee's salary. For the defined contribution plans in Europe, the Company pays 

contributions to publicly or privately administered pension insurance plans on a mandatory, contractual or voluntary basis. Total 

compensation expense related to the Company's contributions was $5.9 million, $6.3 million and $5.2 million for the years ended 

December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

16. Redeemable (cid:49)oncontrolling Interest:

With the acquisition of DTP S.A. in 2016, the Company acquired a 20% owned Polish securitization fund (the "Fund").  

Under ASC 810-10, the Company had determined it had control over this Fund and as such consolidated the operations of the 

Fund. As of December 31, 2019, 100% of the ownership interests were redeemed. 

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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

(cid:49)one.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange 
Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act 
reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that 
such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls 
and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide 
only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily was required to apply its 
judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. 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. We conducted an evaluation, under the supervision 
and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls 
and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K. Based on this evaluation, the principal executive officer 
and principal financial officer have concluded that, as of December 31, 2019, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective. 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our management is responsible for establishing and 
maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Exchange Act 
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal 
financial  officers  and  effected  by  the  company’s  board  of  directors,  management  and  other personnel,  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.  Because  of  its  inherent  limitations,  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including 
our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control 
over financial reporting based on the Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission. Based on its assessment under this framework, management has determined 
that  our  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  was  effective  as  of  December 31,  2019.  Our  independent  registered  public 
accounting firm, KPMG LLP, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of 
December 31, 2019, which is included herein.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting 
that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2019 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, 
our internal control over financial reporting.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors

PRA Group, Inc.:

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

We have audited PRA Group, Inc. and subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 

2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 

Organizations of the Treadway Commission. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal 

control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated 

Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) 

(PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated income 

statements, statements of comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year 

period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated financial statements), and our report 

dated March 2, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

Basis for Opinion 

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 are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be 

independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and 

regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. 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 of internal control over financial reporting 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.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

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.

/s/ KPMG

(cid:49)orfolk, Virginia

March 2, 2020

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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

(cid:49)one.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange 

Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act 

reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that 

such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial 

Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls 

and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide 

only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management necessarily was required to apply its 

judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. 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. We conducted an evaluation, under the supervision 

and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls 

and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K. Based on this evaluation, the principal executive officer 

and principal financial officer have concluded that, as of December 31, 2019, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective. 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our management is responsible for establishing and 

maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Exchange Act 

Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal 

financial  officers  and  effected  by  the  company’s  board  of  directors,  management  and  other personnel,  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.  Because  of  its  inherent  limitations,  internal  control  over  financial 

reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including 

our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control 

over financial reporting based on the Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 

Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission. Based on its assessment under this framework, management has determined 

that  our  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  was  effective  as  of  December 31,  2019.  Our  independent  registered  public 

accounting firm, KPMG LLP, has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of 

December 31, 2019, which is included herein.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting 

that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2019 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, 

our internal control over financial reporting.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
PRA Group, Inc.:

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

We have audited PRA Group, Inc. and subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 
2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal 
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated 
Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) 
(PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated income 
statements, statements of comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year 
period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated financial statements), and our report 
dated March 2, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

Basis for Opinion 

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 are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be 
independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and 
regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. 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 of internal control over financial reporting 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.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

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.

/s/ KPMG

(cid:49)orfolk, Virginia
March 2, 2020

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Item 9B. Other Information.

(cid:49)one.

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

PART III

The information required by Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections labeled "Executive Officers," "Security 
Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management," "Our Board and Its Committees," "Election of Directors," "Corporate 
Governance-Code of Conduct," and "Report of the Audit Committee" in our definitive Proxy Statement for use in connection with 
the Company's 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Proxy Statement").

Item 11. Executive Compensation.

The information required by Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections labeled "Compensation Discussion 

and Analysis" and "Compensation Committee Report" in the Proxy Statement.

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management And Related Stockholder Matters.

The information required by Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to the section labeled "Security Ownership of Certain 

Beneficial Owners and Management" in the Proxy Statement.

Form of Employment Agreement between PRA Group, Inc. and Certain Executives effective January 1, 2018 

(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

The information required by Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections labeled "Policy for Approval of 

Related Party Transactions" and "Director Independence" in the Proxy Statement.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

Employment Agreement, dated December 19, 2014, by and between Christopher Graves and PRA Group, Inc. 

(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 

Employment Agreement, dated June 21, 2016, by and between Peter M. Graham and PRA Group, Inc.

(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 

The information required by Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to the section labeled "Fees Paid to KPMG" in the 

10.7*

Form of Performance Stock Unit Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report 

Proxy Statement.

PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

(a)  Financial Statements.

The following financial statements are included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Income Statements

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

43

45

46

47

48

49

50

(b)  Exhibits.

2.1

3.1

3.2

4.1

Equity Exchange Agreement between Portfolio Recovery Associates, L.L.C. and Portfolio Recovery Associates, 
Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of Amendment (cid:49)o. 2 to the Registration  Statement on Form S-1 
(Registration (cid:49)o. 333-99225) filed on October 30, 2002).

Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of PRA Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 
3.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on October 29, 2014).

Amended and Restated By-Laws of PRA Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Current Report 
on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 22, 2015).

Form of Common Stock Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of Amendment (cid:49)o. 1 to the 
Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration (cid:49)o. 333-99225) filed on October 15, 2002).

80

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Form of Warrant (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of Amendment (cid:49)o. 2 to the Registration Statement on 

Form S-1 (Registration (cid:49)o. 333-99225) filed on October 30, 2002).

Indenture dated August 13, 2013 between Portfolio Recovery Associates, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, (cid:49)ational 

Association, as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 

000-50058) filed on August 14, 2013).

Indenture dated May 26, 2017 between PRA Group, Inc. and Regions Bank, as trustee (Incorporated by 

reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 26, 2017).

Description of the Registrant's Securities Registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 

(filed herewith).

Executive Chairman Agreement, dated February 23, 2017, by and between Steven D. Fredrickson and PRA 

Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 

000-50058) filed on May 10, 2017).

First Amended Executive Chairman Agreement dated as of May 18, 2018, by and between PRA Group, Inc., and 

Steven D. Fredrickson (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File 

(cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 8, 2018).

Employment Agreement, dated February 23, 2017, by and between Kevin P. Stevenson and PRA Group, Inc. 

(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

10.1*

10.2*

10.3*

10.4*

10.5*

10.6*

May 10, 2017).

January 2, 2018).

January 5, 2015).

June 22, 2016).

on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2017).

10.8*

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Quarterly Report on 

Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2017).

10.9*

Form of Performance Stock Unit Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Quarterly Report 

on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2018).

10.10*

10.11*

Settlement Agreement dated June 4, 2018 among PRA Group (UK) Limited and Tikendra Patel (Incorporated by 

reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 8, 2018).

Service Agreement dated February 19, 2014 between Aktiv Kapital UK LTD and Tikendra Patel (Incorporated 

by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 8, 

2018).

10.12

Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of May 5, 2017 among PRA Group, Inc. as a borrower and a 

guarantor, PRA Group Canada, Inc., as a borrower, the domestic subsidiaries of PRA Group, Inc., as the 

guarantors, the Canadian subsidiaries of PRA Group Canada, Inc. party thereto from time to time, as Canadian 

guarantors, the lenders party thereto, Bank of America, (cid:49).A., as administrative Agent, swing line lender and an l/

c issuer, Bank of America, (cid:49).A., acting through its Canada branch, as Canadian administrative agent, Capital 

One, (cid:49).A., Fifth Third Bank and Suntrust Bank, as co-syndication agents, D(cid:49)B Capital LLC, I(cid:49)G Capital, the 

Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi Ufj, Ltd. and Regions Bank, as co-senior managing agents, and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, 

Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Capital One, (cid:49).A., Fifth Third Bank and Suntrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc., as 

joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on 

Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 9, 2017).

10.13

First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of October 4, 2018, among PRA Group, Inc., PRA Group 

Canada Inc., the Guarantors, the Lenders party thereto, Bank of America, (cid:49).A., as Administrative Agent, and 

Bank of America, (cid:49).A., acting through its Canada branch, as Canadian Administrative Agent (Incorporated by 

reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on October 9, 2018).

10.14

Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of October 23, 2014. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 

10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on October 29, 2014).

10.15

First Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of 

October 23, 2014. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 

000-50058) filed on June 16, 2015).

Item 9B. Other Information.

(cid:49)one.

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

PART III

The information required by Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections labeled "Executive Officers," "Security 

Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management," "Our Board and Its Committees," "Election of Directors," "Corporate 

Governance-Code of Conduct," and "Report of the Audit Committee" in our definitive Proxy Statement for use in connection with 

the Company's 2020 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Proxy Statement").

Item 11. Executive Compensation.

The information required by Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections labeled "Compensation Discussion 

and Analysis" and "Compensation Committee Report" in the Proxy Statement.

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management And Related Stockholder Matters.

The information required by Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to the section labeled "Security Ownership of Certain 

Beneficial Owners and Management" in the Proxy Statement.

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

The information required by Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to the sections labeled "Policy for Approval of 

Related Party Transactions" and "Director Independence" in the Proxy Statement.

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

The information required by Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to the section labeled "Fees Paid to KPMG" in the 

Proxy Statement.

PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

(a)  Financial Statements.

The following financial statements are included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Income Statements

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(cid:49)otes to Consolidated Financial Statements

43

45

46

47

48

49

50

(b)  Exhibits.

2.1

3.1

3.2

4.1

Equity Exchange Agreement between Portfolio Recovery Associates, L.L.C. and Portfolio Recovery Associates, 

Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 of Amendment (cid:49)o. 2 to the Registration  Statement on Form S-1 

(Registration (cid:49)o. 333-99225) filed on October 30, 2002).

Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of PRA Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 

3.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on October 29, 2014).

Amended and Restated By-Laws of PRA Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of the Current Report 

on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 22, 2015).

Form of Common Stock Certificate (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of Amendment (cid:49)o. 1 to the 

Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration (cid:49)o. 333-99225) filed on October 15, 2002).

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

10.1*

10.2*

10.3*

10.4*

10.5*

10.6*

10.7*

10.8*

10.9*

10.10*

10.11*

10.12

10.13

10.14

10.15

Form of Warrant (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of Amendment (cid:49)o. 2 to the Registration Statement on 
Form S-1 (Registration (cid:49)o. 333-99225) filed on October 30, 2002).

Indenture dated August 13, 2013 between Portfolio Recovery Associates, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, (cid:49)ational 
Association, as trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 
000-50058) filed on August 14, 2013).

Indenture dated May 26, 2017 between PRA Group, Inc. and Regions Bank, as trustee (Incorporated by 
reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 26, 2017).

Description of the Registrant's Securities Registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 
(filed herewith).
Executive Chairman Agreement, dated February 23, 2017, by and between Steven D. Fredrickson and PRA 
Group, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 
000-50058) filed on May 10, 2017).

First Amended Executive Chairman Agreement dated as of May 18, 2018, by and between PRA Group, Inc., and 
Steven D. Fredrickson (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File 
(cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 8, 2018).

Employment Agreement, dated February 23, 2017, by and between Kevin P. Stevenson and PRA Group, Inc. 
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 
May 10, 2017).

Form of Employment Agreement between PRA Group, Inc. and Certain Executives effective January 1, 2018 
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 
January 2, 2018).

Employment Agreement, dated December 19, 2014, by and between Christopher Graves and PRA Group, Inc. 
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 
January 5, 2015).

Employment Agreement, dated June 21, 2016, by and between Peter M. Graham and PRA Group, Inc.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on 
June 22, 2016).

Form of Performance Stock Unit Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report 
on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2017).

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Quarterly Report on 
Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2017).

Form of Performance Stock Unit Agreement (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Quarterly Report 
on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2018).

Settlement Agreement dated June 4, 2018 among PRA Group (UK) Limited and Tikendra Patel (Incorporated by 
reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 8, 2018).

Service Agreement dated February 19, 2014 between Aktiv Kapital UK LTD and Tikendra Patel (Incorporated 
by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 8, 
2018).

Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of May 5, 2017 among PRA Group, Inc. as a borrower and a 
guarantor, PRA Group Canada, Inc., as a borrower, the domestic subsidiaries of PRA Group, Inc., as the 
guarantors, the Canadian subsidiaries of PRA Group Canada, Inc. party thereto from time to time, as Canadian 
guarantors, the lenders party thereto, Bank of America, (cid:49).A., as administrative Agent, swing line lender and an l/
c issuer, Bank of America, (cid:49).A., acting through its Canada branch, as Canadian administrative agent, Capital 
One, (cid:49).A., Fifth Third Bank and Suntrust Bank, as co-syndication agents, D(cid:49)B Capital LLC, I(cid:49)G Capital, the 
Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi Ufj, Ltd. and Regions Bank, as co-senior managing agents, and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, 
Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Capital One, (cid:49).A., Fifth Third Bank and Suntrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc., as 
joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on 
Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on August 9, 2017).

First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of October 4, 2018, among PRA Group, Inc., PRA Group 
Canada Inc., the Guarantors, the Lenders party thereto, Bank of America, (cid:49).A., as Administrative Agent, and 
Bank of America, (cid:49).A., acting through its Canada branch, as Canadian Administrative Agent (Incorporated by 
reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on October 9, 2018).

Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of October 23, 2014. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 
10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on October 29, 2014).

First Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of 
October 23, 2014. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 
000-50058) filed on June 16, 2015).

80

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10.16

10.17

10.18

10.19

10.20*

10.21*

10.22

10.23

21.1

23.1

24.1

31.1

31.2

32.1

Second Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of 
October 23, 2014. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 
000-50058) filed on February 25, 2016).

Third Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of 
September 2, 2016, by and among PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l. and D(cid:49)B Bank ASA. (Incorporated by 
reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on (cid:49)ovember 8, 
2016).

Fourth Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Term and Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility 
Agreement, dated as of January 23, 2018, by and among PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l., PRA Group Europe 
Holding S.à r.l., Luxembourg, Zug Branch and D(cid:49)B Bank ASA (Incorpored by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2018).

Fifth Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility Agreement, dated 
as of March 25, 2019, by and among PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l., PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l., 
Luxembourg, Zug Branch and D(cid:49)B Bank ASA (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly 
Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2019).
2013 Annual Bonus Plan (Incorporated by reference to the Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A (File (cid:49)o. 
000-50058) filed on April 19, 2013).

2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to the Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A (File (cid:49)o. 
000-50058) filed on April 19, 2013).

Deed of (cid:49)ovation, Amendment and Restatement, dated May 5, 2014, by and between Geveran Trading Co. Ltd 
and Portfolio Recovery Associates, Inc., PRA Holding IV, LLC and Tekagel Invest 742 AS (Incorporated by 
reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 8, 2014).

(cid:49)ovated, Amended and Restated Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated May 5, 2014, for the Sale and Purchase of 
Aktiv Kapital AS (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 
000-50058) filed on May 8, 2014).

Subsidiaries of PRA Group, Inc. (filed herewith).

Consent of KPMG LLP (filed herewith).

Powers of Attorney (included on signature page) (filed herewith).

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 (filed 
herewith).

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 (filed 
herewith).

Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes 
Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

101.I(cid:49)S

Inline XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.LAB

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

101.DEF

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

104

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

* Denotes management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement in which directors or executive officers are eligible to 
participate.

Item 16. Form 10-K Summary.

(cid:49)one.

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.

SIG(cid:49)ATURES

PRA Group, Inc.

(Registrant)

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

K(cid:49)OW ALL ME(cid:49) BY THESE PRESE(cid:49)TS, that each of the undersigned whose signature appears below constitutes and 

appoints  Kevin  P. Stevenson and  Peter M.  Graham,  his true and  lawful attorneys-in-fact, with  full power  of  substitution and 

resubstitution for him and on his behalf, and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities to execute and sign any and all 

amendments or post-effective amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, 

and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all 

that said attorneys-in-fact or any of them or their or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue 

hereof and the registrant hereby confers like authority on its behalf.

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.

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

(Principal Executive Officer)

By:

/s/ Peter M. Graham

Peter M. Graham

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

82

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10.16

10.17

10.18

10.19

10.22

10.23

21.1

23.1

24.1

31.1

31.2

32.1

Second Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement dated as of 

October 23, 2014. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Current Report on Form 8-K (File (cid:49)o. 

000-50058) filed on February 25, 2016).

Third Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of 

September 2, 2016, by and among PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l. and D(cid:49)B Bank ASA. (Incorporated by 

reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on (cid:49)ovember 8, 

2016).

Fourth Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Term and Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility 

Agreement, dated as of January 23, 2018, by and among PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l., PRA Group Europe 

Holding S.à r.l., Luxembourg, Zug Branch and D(cid:49)B Bank ASA (Incorpored by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the 

Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2018).

Fifth Amendment and Restatement Agreement to the Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility Agreement, dated 

as of March 25, 2019, by and among PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l., PRA Group Europe Holding S.à r.l., 

Luxembourg, Zug Branch and D(cid:49)B Bank ASA (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly 

Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 10, 2019).

10.20*

2013 Annual Bonus Plan (Incorporated by reference to the Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A (File (cid:49)o. 

10.21*

2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan (Incorporated by reference to the Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A (File (cid:49)o. 

000-50058) filed on April 19, 2013).

000-50058) filed on April 19, 2013).

Deed of (cid:49)ovation, Amendment and Restatement, dated May 5, 2014, by and between Geveran Trading Co. Ltd 

and Portfolio Recovery Associates, Inc., PRA Holding IV, LLC and Tekagel Invest 742 AS (Incorporated by 

reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 000-50058) filed on May 8, 2014).

(cid:49)ovated, Amended and Restated Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated May 5, 2014, for the Sale and Purchase of 

Aktiv Kapital AS (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File (cid:49)o. 

000-50058) filed on May 8, 2014).

Subsidiaries of PRA Group, Inc. (filed herewith).

Consent of KPMG LLP (filed herewith).

Powers of Attorney (included on signature page) (filed herewith).

Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 (filed 

Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 (filed 

herewith).

herewith).

Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes 

Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

101.I(cid:49)S

Inline XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.LAB

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

101.DEF

Inline  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

104

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

* Denotes management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement in which directors or executive officers are eligible to 

participate.

(cid:49)one.

Item 16. Form 10-K Summary.

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.

SIG(cid:49)ATURES

March 2, 2020

PRA Group, Inc.
(Registrant)

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

K(cid:49)OW ALL ME(cid:49) BY THESE PRESE(cid:49)TS, that each of the undersigned whose signature appears below constitutes and 
appoints  Kevin  P. Stevenson and  Peter M.  Graham,  his true and  lawful attorneys-in-fact, with  full power  of  substitution and 
resubstitution for him and on his behalf, and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities to execute and sign any and all 
amendments or post-effective amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, 
and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all 
that said attorneys-in-fact or any of them or their or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue 
hereof and the registrant hereby confers like authority on its behalf.

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.

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

(Principal Executive Officer)

By:

/s/ Peter M. Graham

Peter M. Graham

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

82

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March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Steven D. Fredrickson
Steven D. Fredrickson
Director

By:

/s/ Vikram A. Atal
Vikram A. Atal
Director

By:

/s/ Danielle M. Brown
Danielle M. Brown
Director

By:

/s/ Marjorie M. Connelly
Marjorie M. Connelly
Director

By:

/s/ John H. Fain
John H. Fain
Director

By:

/s/ Penelope W. Kyle
Penelope W. Kyle
Director

By:

/s/ James A. (cid:49)ussle
James A. (cid:49)ussle
Director

By:

/s/ Geir Olsen
Geir Olsen
Director

By:

/s/ Scott M. Tabakin
Scott M. Tabakin
Director

By:

/s/ Lance L. Weaver
Lance L. Weaver
Director

84

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Exhibit 31.1

I, Kevin P. Stevenson, certify that:

1.

2.

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of PRA Group, Inc.;

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material

fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not

misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly

present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and

for, the periods presented in this report;

4.

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and

procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting

(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed

under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated

subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is

being prepared;

principles;

(b) Designed such internal controls over financial reporting, or caused such internal controls over financial reporting to be

designed under our supervision to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the

preparation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by

this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the

registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has

materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting;

and

5.

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control

over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or

persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial

reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and

report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Steven D. Fredrickson

Steven D. Fredrickson

Director

By:

/s/ Vikram A. Atal

Vikram A. Atal

Director

By:

/s/ Danielle M. Brown

Danielle M. Brown

Director

By:

/s/ Marjorie M. Connelly

Marjorie M. Connelly

Director

By:

/s/ John H. Fain

John H. Fain

Director

By:

/s/ Penelope W. Kyle

Penelope W. Kyle

Director

By:

/s/ James A. (cid:49)ussle

James A. (cid:49)ussle

Director

By:

/s/ Geir Olsen

Geir Olsen

Director

By:

/s/ Scott M. Tabakin

Scott M. Tabakin

Director

By:

/s/ Lance L. Weaver

Lance L. Weaver

Director

84

Exhibit 31.1

I, Kevin P. Stevenson, certify that:

1.

2.

3.

4.

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of PRA Group, Inc.;

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly
present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and
for, the periods presented in this report;

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed

under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated
subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is
being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal controls over financial reporting, or caused such internal controls over financial reporting to be
designed under our supervision to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by
this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting;
and

5.

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control
over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial
reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and
report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   87

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Exhibit 31.2

I, Peter M. Graham, certify that:

1.

2.

3.

4.

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of PRA Group, Inc.;

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly
present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and
for, the periods presented in this report;

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed

under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated
subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is
being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal controls over financial reporting, or caused such internal controls over financial reporting to be
designed under our supervision to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the
preparation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by
this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting;
and

5.

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control
over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial
reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and
report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Peter M. Graham

Peter M. Graham

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

CERTIFICATIO(cid:49) PURSUA(cid:49)T TO

18 U.S.C. SECTIO(cid:49) 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUA(cid:49)T TO

SECTIO(cid:49) 906 OF THE SARBA(cid:49)ES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of PRA Group, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 

2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Kevin P. Stevenson, President 

and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of 

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations 

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

CERTIFICATIO(cid:49) PURSUA(cid:49)T TO

18 U.S.C. SECTIO(cid:49) 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUA(cid:49)T TO

SECTIO(cid:49) 906 OF THE SARBA(cid:49)ES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of PRA Group, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 

2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Peter M. Graham, Executive 

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to 

Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations 

Exhibit 32.1

of the Company.

March 2, 2020

of the Company.

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Peter M. Graham

Peter M. Graham

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   88

4/20/2020   12:52:41 PM

Exhibit 31.2

I, Peter M. Graham, certify that:

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of PRA Group, Inc.;

1.

2.

3.

4.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material

fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not

misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly

present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and

for, the periods presented in this report;

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and

procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting

(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATIO(cid:49) PURSUA(cid:49)T TO
18 U.S.C. SECTIO(cid:49) 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUA(cid:49)T TO
SECTIO(cid:49) 906 OF THE SARBA(cid:49)ES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of PRA Group, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Kevin P. Stevenson, President 
and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of 
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations 
of the Company.

being prepared;

principles;

(b) Designed such internal controls over financial reporting, or caused such internal controls over financial reporting to be

designed under our supervision to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the

preparation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by

this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the

registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has

materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting;

and

5.

The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control

over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or

persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed

under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated

subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Kevin P. Stevenson

Kevin P. Stevenson

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

CERTIFICATIO(cid:49) PURSUA(cid:49)T TO
18 U.S.C. SECTIO(cid:49) 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUA(cid:49)T TO
SECTIO(cid:49) 906 OF THE SARBA(cid:49)ES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of PRA Group, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Peter M. Graham, Executive 
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to 
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations 
of the Company.

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial

reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and

report financial information; and

March 2, 2020

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

March 2, 2020

By:

/s/ Peter M. Graham

Peter M. Graham

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

By:

/s/ Peter M. Graham

Peter M. Graham

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   89

4/20/2020   12:52:41 PM

fp0052934_PRA_10k_2020_combined4.indd   90

4/20/2020   12:52:41 PM