Attached files
| file | filename |
|---|---|
| EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - SOTHEBYS | Financial_Report.xls |
| EX-32.1 - EXHIBIT - SOTHEBYS | bid-09302014x10qxex321_xbrl.htm |
| EX-32.2 - EXHIBIT - SOTHEBYS | bid-09302014x10qxex322_xbrl.htm |
| EX-31.2 - EXHIBIT - SOTHEBYS | bid-09302014x10qxex312_xbrl.htm |
| EX-31.1 - EXHIBIT - SOTHEBYS | bid-09302014x10qxxex311_xb.htm |
UNITED STATES | ||
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION | ||
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 | ||
FORM 10-Q | ||
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2014 |
Commission File Number 1-9750 |
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | ||
Delaware | 38-2478409 | |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) | |
1334 York Avenue New York, New York | 10021 | |
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) | |
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (212) 606-7000 | ||
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 ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of the Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer | ý | Accelerated filer | ¨ | |
Non-accelerated filer | ¨ | (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company | ¨ |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ¨ No ý
As of October 31, 2014, there were 68,990,927 outstanding shares of Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the registrant.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE | ||
Item 4 | Mine Safety Disclosures | |
2#
PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1: FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SOTHEBY’S
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
(Thousands of dollars, except per share data)
Three Months Ended | Nine Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
September 30, 2014 | September 30, 2013 | September 30, 2014 | September 30, 2013 | |||||||||||||
Revenues: | ||||||||||||||||
Agency | $ | 76,229 | $ | 76,929 | $ | 515,544 | $ | 466,047 | ||||||||
Principal | 6,273 | 23,491 | 41,007 | 26,696 | ||||||||||||
Finance | 8,917 | 5,164 | 22,739 | 15,658 | ||||||||||||
License fees | 2,376 | 1,902 | 6,535 | 5,178 | ||||||||||||
Other | 406 | 378 | 1,004 | 898 | ||||||||||||
Total revenues | 94,201 | 107,864 | 586,829 | 514,477 | ||||||||||||
Expenses: | ||||||||||||||||
Agency direct costs | 6,002 | 7,279 | 48,056 | 46,988 | ||||||||||||
Cost of Principal revenues | 7,999 | 22,417 | 40,019 | 27,115 | ||||||||||||
Cost of Finance revenues | 2,634 | — | 5,368 | — | ||||||||||||
Marketing | 3,076 | 5,057 | 10,773 | 15,603 | ||||||||||||
Salaries and related | 58,888 | 61,971 | 222,477 | 203,931 | ||||||||||||
General and administrative | 37,798 | 40,576 | 113,340 | 128,958 | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 5,157 | 4,925 | 15,370 | 14,242 | ||||||||||||
Restructuring charges | 14,285 | — | 14,285 | — | ||||||||||||
Special charges, net | (4,169 | ) | — | 20,088 | — | |||||||||||
Total expenses | 131,670 | 142,225 | 489,776 | 436,837 | ||||||||||||
Operating (loss) income | (37,469 | ) | (34,361 | ) | 97,053 | 77,640 | ||||||||||
Interest income | 621 | 431 | 1,439 | 2,258 | ||||||||||||
Interest expense | (8,757 | ) | (8,912 | ) | (26,308 | ) | (33,564 | ) | ||||||||
Other income | 1,438 | 982 | 690 | 2,513 | ||||||||||||
(Loss) income before taxes | (44,167 | ) | (41,860 | ) | 72,874 | 48,847 | ||||||||||
Equity in earnings of investees, net of taxes | 296 | 31 | 680 | 19 | ||||||||||||
Income tax (benefit) expense | (16,173 | ) | (11,698 | ) | 29,502 | 9,613 | ||||||||||
Net (loss) income | (27,698 | ) | (30,131 | ) | 44,052 | 39,253 | ||||||||||
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest | (28 | ) | — | (260 | ) | — | ||||||||||
Net (loss) income attributable to Sotheby's | $ | (27,726 | ) | $ | (30,131 | ) | $ | 43,792 | $ | 39,253 | ||||||
Basic (loss) earnings per share - Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | $ | 0.62 | $ | 0.58 | ||||||
Diluted (loss) earnings per share - Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | $ | 0.61 | $ | 0.57 | ||||||
Weighted average basic shares outstanding | 68,990 | 68,361 | 69,024 | 68,206 | ||||||||||||
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding | 68,990 | 68,361 | 69,572 | 68,957 | ||||||||||||
Cash dividends declared per common share | $ | 0.10 | $ | 0.10 | $ | 4.64 | $ | 0.10 | ||||||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
3#
SOTHEBY’S
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
(Thousands of dollars)
Three Months Ended | Nine Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
September 30, 2014 | September 30, 2013 | September 30, 2014 | September 30, 2013 | |||||||||||||
Net (loss) income | $ | (27,698 | ) | $ | (30,131 | ) | $ | 44,052 | $ | 39,253 | ||||||
Other comprehensive (loss) income: | ||||||||||||||||
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments, net of taxes of ($1,218), $609, ($1,218), and ($221) | (20,471 | ) | 23,972 | (14,974 | ) | 4,655 | ||||||||||
Reclassification of cumulative translation adjustment included in net income | — | — | 2,058 | — | ||||||||||||
Amortization of previously unrecognized net pension losses included in net (loss) income, net of taxes of $119, $83, $356, and $248 | 476 | 278 | 1,427 | 833 | ||||||||||||
Other comprehensive (loss) income | (19,995 | ) | 24,250 | (11,489 | ) | 5,488 | ||||||||||
Comprehensive (loss) income | (47,693 | ) | (5,881 | ) | 32,563 | 44,741 | ||||||||||
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest | (28 | ) | — | (260 | ) | — | ||||||||||
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Sotheby's | $ | (47,721 | ) | $ | (5,881 | ) | $ | 32,303 | $ | 44,741 | ||||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
4#
SOTHEBY’S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) (Thousands of dollars) | ||||||||||||
September 30, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
A S S E T S | ||||||||||||
Current Assets: | ||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 419,639 | $ | 721,315 | $ | 483,185 | ||||||
Restricted cash | 3,293 | 32,146 | 6,814 | |||||||||
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $6,942, $6,939, and $6,609 | 450,153 | 812,582 | 249,348 | |||||||||
Notes receivable, net of allowance for credit losses of $1,078, $1,746, and $1,686 | 172,666 | 176,529 | 204,427 | |||||||||
Inventory | 209,653 | 192,140 | 98,377 | |||||||||
Deferred income taxes and income tax receivable | 61,345 | 12,385 | 45,923 | |||||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 42,579 | 25,176 | 40,092 | |||||||||
Total Current Assets | 1,359,328 | 1,972,273 | 1,128,166 | |||||||||
Notes receivable | 557,125 | 336,896 | 333,846 | |||||||||
Fixed assets, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $189,484, $178,841, and $174,453 | 369,333 | 379,399 | 377,368 | |||||||||
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $5,960, $6,484, and $6,347 | 14,575 | 14,850 | 14,727 | |||||||||
Equity method investments | 10,265 | 11,040 | 11,047 | |||||||||
Deferred income taxes and income tax receivable | 40,157 | 55,520 | 53,704 | |||||||||
Trust assets related to deferred compensation liability | 50,120 | 53,231 | 51,387 | |||||||||
Pension asset | 41,510 | 37,284 | 21,985 | |||||||||
Other long-term assets | 20,332 | 33,053 | 37,317 | |||||||||
Total Assets | $ | 2,462,745 | $ | 2,893,546 | $ | 2,029,547 | ||||||
L I A B I L I T I E S A N D S H A R E H O L D E R S’ E Q U I T Y | ||||||||||||
Current Liabilities: | ||||||||||||
Due to consignors | $ | 385,714 | $ | 922,275 | $ | 225,436 | ||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 89,520 | 93,581 | 71,316 | |||||||||
Accrued salaries and related costs | 56,823 | 83,128 | 49,524 | |||||||||
York Property Mortgage | 218,767 | 3,630 | 3,581 | |||||||||
Accrued and deferred income taxes | 31,296 | 26,040 | 17,329 | |||||||||
Other current liabilities | 22,542 | 13,835 | 8,279 | |||||||||
Total Current Liabilities | 804,662 | 1,142,489 | 375,465 | |||||||||
Credit facility borrowings | 449,000 | — | — | |||||||||
Long-term debt, net | 300,000 | 515,148 | 515,151 | |||||||||
Accrued and deferred income taxes | 21,578 | 22,392 | 23,991 | |||||||||
Deferred compensation liability | 48,745 | 51,831 | 49,469 | |||||||||
Other long-term liabilities | 11,562 | 22,021 | 21,941 | |||||||||
Total Liabilities | 1,635,547 | 1,753,881 | 986,017 | |||||||||
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 8) | ||||||||||||
Shareholders’ Equity: | ||||||||||||
Common Stock, $0.01 par value | 695 | 691 | 684 | |||||||||
Authorized shares—200,000,000 | ||||||||||||
Issued shares—69,549,098, 69,131,892, and 68,408,051 | ||||||||||||
Outstanding shares— 68,990,927, 69,131,892, and 68,408,051 | ||||||||||||
Additional paid-in capital | 398,921 | 387,477 | 380,819 | |||||||||
Treasury stock, at cost: 558,171 shares at September 30, 2014 | (25,000 | ) | — | |||||||||
Retained earnings | 502,922 | 790,603 | 706,763 | |||||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (50,942 | ) | (39,453 | ) | (44,887 | ) | ||||||
Total Shareholders’ Equity | 826,596 | 1,139,318 | 1,043,379 | |||||||||
Noncontrolling interest | 602 | 347 | 151 | |||||||||
Total Equity | 827,198 | 1,139,665 | 1,043,530 | |||||||||
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity | $ | 2,462,745 | $ | 2,893,546 | $ | 2,029,547 | ||||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
5#
SOTHEBY’S CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) (Thousands of dollars) | ||||||||
Nine Months Ended | ||||||||
September 30, 2014 | September 30, 2013 | |||||||
Operating Activities: | ||||||||
Net income attributable to Sotheby's | $ | 43,792 | $ | 39,253 | ||||
Adjustments to reconcile net income attributable to Sotheby's to net cash used by operating activities: | ||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 15,370 | 14,242 | ||||||
Loss from cumulative translation adjustment upon liquidation of foreign subsidiary | 2,058 | — | ||||||
Deferred income tax expense | 10,287 | 4,793 | ||||||
Share-based payments | 17,349 | 15,919 | ||||||
Net pension benefit | (525 | ) | (859 | ) | ||||
Inventory writedowns and bad debt provisions | 8,108 | 8,100 | ||||||
Amortization of debt discount | 2,673 | 6,470 | ||||||
Excess tax benefits from share-based payments | (3,604 | ) | (3,490 | ) | ||||
Other | 953 | 412 | ||||||
Changes in assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts receivable | 317,569 | 316,019 | ||||||
Due to consignors | (543,600 | ) | (391,167 | ) | ||||
Inventory | (38,508 | ) | (1,546 | ) | ||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | (14,972 | ) | (12,286 | ) | ||||
Other long-term assets | 5 | (988 | ) | |||||
Income tax receivable and deferred income tax assets | (41,399 | ) | (17,877 | ) | ||||
Accrued income taxes and deferred income tax liabilities | 5,610 | (5,814 | ) | |||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and other liabilities | (30,979 | ) | (25,694 | ) | ||||
Net cash used by operating activities | (249,813 | ) | (54,513 | ) | ||||
Investing Activities: | ||||||||
Funding of notes receivable | (456,266 | ) | (233,709 | ) | ||||
Collections of notes receivable | 301,391 | 186,497 | ||||||
Capital expenditures | (7,553 | ) | (17,191 | ) | ||||
Distributions from equity investees | 2,010 | 65 | ||||||
Decrease in restricted cash | 26,049 | 25,927 | ||||||
Proceeds from the sale of equity method investment | 200 | 800 | ||||||
Net cash used by investing activities | (134,169 | ) | (37,611 | ) | ||||
Financing Activities: | ||||||||
Proceeds from credit facility borrowings | 449,000 | — | ||||||
Repayment of Convertible Notes | — | (197,371 | ) | |||||
Proceeds from the settlement of Convertible Note Hedges | — | 15,503 | ||||||
Repayments of York Property Mortgage | (2,684 | ) | (2,316 | ) | ||||
Repurchase of common stock | (25,000 | ) | — | |||||
Dividends paid | (324,618 | ) | (6,841 | ) | ||||
Contribution from noncontrolling interest | — | 322 | ||||||
Proceeds from exercise of employee stock options | 967 | 4,049 | ||||||
Excess tax benefits from share-based payments | 3,604 | 3,490 | ||||||
Funding of employee tax obligations upon the vesting of share-based payments | (11,835 | ) | (11,399 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities | 89,434 | (194,563 | ) | |||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | (7,128 | ) | 1,525 | |||||
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents | (301,676 | ) | (285,162 | ) | ||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 721,315 | 768,347 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 419,639 | $ | 483,185 | ||||
Supplemental information on non-cash investing and financing activities:
See Note 5 for information regarding non-cash transfers between Accounts Receivable (net) and Notes Receivable (net).
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
6#
SOTHEBY’S
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
1. Basis of Presentation
The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included herein have been prepared by Sotheby’s pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the United States of America (the “U.S.”) have been condensed or omitted from this report, as is permitted by such rules and regulations; however, the management of Sotheby’s believes that the disclosures herein are adequate to make the information presented not misleading and that all normal and recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are reflected in the interim periods presented. It is suggested that these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in Sotheby’s 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Sotheby’s, its wholly-owned subsidiaries, and Sotheby's Beijing Auction Co., Ltd ("Sotheby's Beijing"), a joint venture formed in September 2012 in which Sotheby's has a controlling 80% ownership interest. The net income attributable to the minority owner of Sotheby's Beijing, which was not material prior to 2014, is reported as "Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest" in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and the non-controlling 20% ownership interest is reported as "Noncontrolling Interest" within the Equity section of the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
2. Seasonality of Business
The worldwide art auction market has two principal selling seasons, which generally occur in the second and fourth quarters of the year. In the aggregate, second and fourth quarter Net Auction Sales1 represented 83% and 84% of total Net Auction Sales in 2013 and 2012, respectively, with auction commission revenues comprising approximately 81% of Sotheby's total revenues in those years. Accordingly, Sotheby’s financial results are seasonal, with peak revenues and operating income generally occurring in the second and fourth quarters. Consequently, first and third quarter results have historically reflected lower revenues when compared to the second and fourth quarters and, typically, a net loss due to the fixed nature of many of Sotheby’s operating expenses.
3. (Loss) Earnings Per Share
Basic (loss) earnings per share—Basic (loss) earnings per share attributable to Sotheby's common shareholders is computed under the two-class method using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The two-class method requires that the amount of net income attributable to participating securities be deducted from consolidated net income in the computation of basic earnings per share. In periods with a net loss, the net loss attributable to participating securities is not deducted from consolidated net loss in the computation of basic loss per share as the impact would be anti-dilutive. Sotheby's only participating securities are unvested restricted stock units, which have non-forfeitable rights to dividends.
Diluted (loss) earnings per share—Diluted (loss) earnings per share attributable to Sotheby's common shareholders is computed in a similar manner to basic (loss) earnings per share under the two-class method, using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period and, if dilutive, the weighted average number of potential common shares outstanding during the period. Sotheby's potential common shares currently include unvested performance share units held by employees, incremental common shares issuable upon the assumed exercise of employee stock options, and deferred stock units held by members of the Board of Directors. In 2013, Sotheby's potential common shares also included the net shares that would have been delivered to settle the premium upon assumed conversion of then-outstanding convertible debt, as well as the net shares that would have been issued upon the exercise of then-outstanding common stock warrants. (See Note 6 for information on Sotheby's 3.125% Convertible Notes, which were settled in June 2013, and the related common stock warrants that were settled in the fourth quarter of 2013. See Note 11 for information on Sotheby's share-based payment programs.)
_____________________________________________________________________
1 Net Auction Sales represents the hammer or sale price of property sold at auction.
7#
For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, 2 million potential common shares were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because Sotheby's reported a net loss for the period, and, therefore, their inclusion in the computation would be anti-dilutive. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, 1.2 million and 1.5 million potential common shares, respectively, related to unvested performance share units were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share as the profitability targets inherent in such awards were not achieved as of the balance sheet date.
The table below summarizes the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||
Basic: | ||||||||||||||||
Numerator: | ||||||||||||||||
Net (loss) income attributable to Sotheby’s | $ | (27,726 | ) | $ | (30,131 | ) | $ | 43,792 | $ | 39,253 | ||||||
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities | — | — | 1,023 | 23 | ||||||||||||
Net (loss) income attributable to Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | (27,726 | ) | $ | (30,131 | ) | $ | 42,769 | $ | 39,230 | ||||||
Denominator: | ||||||||||||||||
Weighted average basic shares outstanding | 68,990 | 68,361 | 69,024 | 68,206 | ||||||||||||
Basic (loss) earnings per share - Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | $ | 0.62 | $ | 0.58 | ||||||
Diluted: | ||||||||||||||||
Numerator: | ||||||||||||||||
Net (loss) income attributable to Sotheby’s | $ | (27,726 | ) | $ | (30,131 | ) | $ | 43,792 | $ | 39,253 | ||||||
Less: Net income attributable to participating securities | — | — | 1,023 | 23 | ||||||||||||
Net (loss) income attributable to Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | (27,726 | ) | $ | (30,131 | ) | $ | 42,769 | $ | 39,230 | ||||||
Denominator: | ||||||||||||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding | 68,990 | 68,361 | 69,024 | 68,206 | ||||||||||||
Weighted average effect of Sotheby's dilutive potential common shares: | ||||||||||||||||
Convertible Notes | — | — | — | 129 | ||||||||||||
Performance share units | — | — | 362 | 388 | ||||||||||||
Deferred stock units | — | — | 164 | 151 | ||||||||||||
Stock options | — | — | 22 | 82 | ||||||||||||
Warrants | — | — | — | 1 | ||||||||||||
Weighted average dilutive potential common shares outstanding | — | — | 548 | 751 | ||||||||||||
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding | 68,990 | 68,361 | 69,572 | 68,957 | ||||||||||||
Diluted (loss) earnings per share - Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | $ | 0.61 | $ | 0.57 | ||||||
8#
4. Segment Reporting
Sotheby’s operations are organized under three segments—Agency, Principal, and Finance. The table below presents Sotheby’s revenues and (loss) income before taxes by segment for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 | Agency | Principal | Finance | All Other | Reconciling items* | Total | ||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 76,229 | $ | 6,273 | $ | 11,041 | $ | 2,782 | $ | (2,124 | ) | $ | 94,201 | |||||||||||
Segment (loss) income before taxes | $ | (55,068 | ) | $ | (1,833 | ) | $ | 6,994 | ** | $ | 2,109 | $ | 3,631 | $ | (44,167 | ) | ||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 77,469 | $ | 23,491 | $ | 7,654 | $ | 2,280 | $ | (3,030 | ) | $ | 107,864 | |||||||||||
Segment (loss) income before taxes | $ | (48,460 | ) | $ | (516 | ) | $ | 5,504 | ** | $ | 1,668 | $ | (56 | ) | $ | (41,860 | ) | |||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 515,544 | $ | 41,007 | $ | 29,442 | $ | 7,539 | $ | (6,703 | ) | $ | 586,829 | |||||||||||
Segment income before taxes | $ | 69,511 | $ | 197 | $ | 18,891 | ** | $ | 5,599 | $ | (21,324 | ) | $ | 72,874 | ||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenues | $ | 466,587 | $ | 26,696 | $ | 22,787 | $ | 6,076 | $ | (7,669 | ) | $ | 514,477 | |||||||||||
Segment income (loss) before taxes | $ | 32,508 | $ | (4,472 | ) | $ | 16,370 | ** | $ | 4,475 | $ | (34 | ) | $ | 48,847 | |||||||||
* | In the table of segment information above, the reconciling items related to Revenues consist principally of charges from the Finance segment to the Agency segment for secured loans issued with an interest rate below the Finance segment's target rate. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the reconciling items related to Revenues also include $0.5 million related to the elimination of private sale commission revenues earned by the Agency segment for acting as agent in the sale of certain Principal segment inventory. See the table below for a reconciliation of segment (loss) income before taxes to consolidated (loss) income before taxes. |
** For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, Finance segment income before taxes includes $0.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively, of intercompany charges from Sotheby's global treasury function. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, Finance segment income before taxes includes $2.1 million and $1.8 million, respectively, of such charges. As the Finance segment continues to implement the debt financing of its loan portfolio, it is expected that these intercompany charges will decrease in the future (see Note 5).
The table below presents a reconciliation of segment (loss) income before taxes to consolidated (loss) income before taxes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||
Agency | $ | (55,068 | ) | $ | (48,460 | ) | $ | 69,511 | $ | 32,508 | ||||||
Principal | (1,833 | ) | (516 | ) | 197 | (4,472 | ) | |||||||||
Finance | 6,994 | 5,504 | 18,891 | 16,370 | ||||||||||||
All Other | 2,109 | 1,668 | 5,599 | 4,475 | ||||||||||||
Segment (loss) income before taxes | (47,798 | ) | (41,804 | ) | 94,198 | 48,881 | ||||||||||
Reconciling items: | ||||||||||||||||
Special charges, net (see Note 13) | 4,169 | — | (20,088 | ) | — | |||||||||||
Equity in earnings of investees | (538 | ) | (56 | ) | (1,236 | ) | (34 | ) | ||||||||
(Loss) income from continuing operations before taxes | $ | (44,167 | ) | $ | (41,860 | ) | $ | 72,874 | $ | 48,847 | ||||||
The reconciling items related to segment (loss) income before taxes consist of Special Charges (net), which are explained in more detail in Note 13, as well as Sotheby's pre-tax share of earnings related to equity investees. Such equity earnings are included in the table above on a pre-tax basis as part of Principal segment (loss) income before taxes, but are presented net of taxes in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
9#
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, Agency segment revenues consist of the following (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||
Auction commissions | $ | 64,247 | $ | 48,581 | $ | 468,087 | $ | 390,836 | ||||||||
Private sale commissions | 12,412 | 26,519 | 42,343 | 66,161 | ||||||||||||
Auction guarantee and inventory activities | (3,864 | ) | (921 | ) | (9,409 | ) | (1,435 | ) | ||||||||
Other Agency revenues | 3,434 | 3,290 | 14,523 | 11,025 | ||||||||||||
Total Agency segment revenues | 76,229 | 77,469 | 515,544 | 466,587 | ||||||||||||
Reconciling item | — | (540 | ) | — | (540 | ) | ||||||||||
Total agency and related revenues | $ | 76,229 | $ | 76,929 | $ | 515,544 | $ | 466,047 | ||||||||
Auction guarantee and inventory activities consist mainly of gains and losses related to auction guarantees including: (i) Sotheby's share of overage or shortfall related to guaranteed property offered or sold at auction, (ii) writedowns to the carrying value of previously guaranteed property that failed to sell at auction, and (iii) recoveries and losses on the eventual sale of previously guaranteed property that failed to sell at auction. Other Agency revenues principally includes commissions and other fees earned by Sotheby's on sales brokered by third parties, fees charged to clients for catalogue production and insurance, catalogue subscription revenues, and advertising revenues.
The table below presents Sotheby's assets by segment, as well as a reconciliation of segment assets to consolidated assets as of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
September 30, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
Agency | $ | 1,586,737 | $ | 2,261,482 | $ | 1,369,396 | ||||||
Principal | 98,236 | 82,560 | 95,175 | |||||||||
Finance | 674,211 | 480,103 | 463,574 | |||||||||
All Other | 2,059 | 1,496 | 1,775 | |||||||||
Total segment assets | 2,361,243 | 2,825,641 | 1,929,920 | |||||||||
Unallocated amounts: | ||||||||||||
Deferred tax assets and income tax receivable | 101,502 | 67,905 | 99,627 | |||||||||
Consolidated assets | $ | 2,462,745 | $ | 2,893,546 | $ | 2,029,547 | ||||||
10#
5. Receivables
Accounts Receivable, Net—Through its Agency segment, Sotheby's accepts property on consignment and matches sellers, also known as consignors, to buyers through the auction or private sale process. Following the sale, Sotheby's invoices the buyer for the purchase price of the property (including the commission owed by the buyer), collects payment from the buyer, and remits to the consignor the net sale proceeds after deducting its commissions, expenses and applicable taxes and royalties. Sotheby's auction commissions include those paid by the buyer ("buyer's premium") and those paid by the seller ("seller's commission") (collectively, "auction commission revenue"), both of which are calculated as a percentage of the hammer price of the property sold at auction. For private sales, Sotheby's enters into a legally binding agreement with the consignor, which outlines the terms of the arrangement including the desired sale price and the amount or rate of commission to be earned upon completion of the sale. In certain situations, Sotheby’s may also execute a legally binding agreement with the buyer stipulating the terms of the private sale transaction.
Under Sotheby’s standard auction payment terms, payments from buyers are due no more than 30 days from the sale date and payments to the consignor are due 35 days from the sale date. For private sales, payment from the buyer is typically due on the sale date, with the net sale proceeds being due to the consignor shortly thereafter. Extended payment terms are sometimes provided to an auction or private sale buyer and, for auctions, can vary considerably from selling season to selling season. Such terms typically extend the payment due date to a date that is no longer than one year from the sale date. In limited circumstances, the payment due date may be extended to a date that is beyond one year from the sale date. Any changes from the standard auction and private sale payment terms are subject to management approval under Sotheby's policy. When providing extended payment terms, Sotheby’s attempts to match the timing of cash receipt from the buyer with the timing of payment to the consignor, but is not always successful in doing so. As of December 31, 2013, $16 million of buyer receivables and $15.3 million of amounts due to consignors were classified within Other Long-Term Assets and Other Long-Term Liabilities, respectively, based on their corresponding payment due dates. In the first quarter of 2014, these amounts were reclassified to Accounts Receivable (net) and Due to Consignors, respectively, based on their corresponding payment due dates.
Under the standard terms and conditions of its auction and private sales, Sotheby’s is not obligated to pay the consignor for property that has not been paid for by the buyer. If a buyer defaults on payment, the sale may be cancelled, and the property will be returned to the consignor. Alternatively, the consignor may reoffer the property at a future Sotheby's auction or negotiate a private sale with Sotheby's acting as its agent. In certain instances and subject to management approval under Sotheby’s policy, the consignor may be paid the net sale proceeds before payment is collected from the buyer and/or the buyer may be allowed to take possession of the property before making payment. In situations when the buyer takes possession of the property before making payment, Sotheby’s is liable to the seller for the net sales proceeds whether or not the buyer makes payment. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, Accounts Receivable (net) included $52.7 million, $130.5 million, and $59.9 million, respectively, related to situations when Sotheby's paid the consignor all or a portion of the net sales proceeds before payment was collected from the buyer. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, Accounts Receivable (net) also included $31.5 million, $92.1 million, and $42.2 million, respectively, related to situations when the buyer was allowed to take possession of the property before making payment to Sotheby’s.
Notes Receivable, Net—As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, Notes Receivable (net) consisted of the following (in thousands of dollars):
September 30, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
Finance Segment: | ||||||||||||
Consignor advances | $ | 78,411 | $ | 139,007 | $ | 126,930 | ||||||
Term loans | 577,553 | 335,426 | 329,164 | |||||||||
Total Finance segment secured loans | 655,964 | 474,433 | 456,094 | |||||||||
Agency Segment: | ||||||||||||
Guarantee advances | 64,605 | 28,000 | 70,837 | |||||||||
Unsecured loan | 2,138 | 2,142 | 2,142 | |||||||||
Principal Segment: | ||||||||||||
Secured loans | 4,284 | 5,825 | 5,825 | |||||||||
Other: | ||||||||||||
Unsecured loan | 2,800 | 3,025 | 3,375 | |||||||||
Total Notes Receivable (net) | $ | 729,791 | $ | 513,425 | $ | 538,273 | ||||||
11#
Notes Receivable (Finance Segment)—Through its Finance segment, Sotheby’s provides certain collectors and art dealers with financing secured by works of art that Sotheby's either has in its possession or permits borrowers to possess. The Finance segment generally makes two types of secured loans: (1) advances secured by consigned property where the borrowers are contractually committed, in the near term, to sell the property through Sotheby's (a “consignor advance”); and (2) general purpose term loans secured by property not presently intended for sale (a “term loan”).
A consignor advance allows a seller to receive funds upon consignment for an auction or private sale that will typically occur up to one year in the future. Consignor advances normally have maturities of up to six months and are often issued interest-free as an incentive to the consignor for entering into the consignment agreement. Interest bearing consignor advances typically carry a variable rate of interest.
Term loans allow Sotheby's to establish or enhance mutually beneficial relationships with borrowers and may generate future auction or private sale consignments and/or purchases. Term loans normally have initial maturities of up to two years and typically carry a variable market rate of interest.
The lending activities of the Finance segment have historically been funded by the operating cash flows of the Agency segment with the ability to supplement those cash flows with revolving credit facility borrowings. In January 2014, Sotheby's established a separate capital structure for the Finance segment through which the Finance segment now predominantly relies on borrowings to fund client loans through a dedicated revolving credit facility. Cash balances are also used to fund a portion of the Finance segment loan portfolio, as appropriate. Upon establishment of the separate capital structure for the Finance segment, $170 million was drawn from its revolving credit facility on February 13, 2014 to initiate the debt financing of the client loan portfolio. Subsequent to February 13, 2014 and through September 30, 2014, an additional $279 million was borrowed to fund the further growth of the loan portfolio and to continue the process of debt financing existing loans. (See Note 6 for information related to the Finance segment's revolving credit facility.)
In certain situations, term loans are also made to refinance clients' auction and private sale purchases. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the Finance segment made $52.2 million and $54 million, respectively, of such loans. These loans are accounted for as non-cash transfers between Accounts Receivable (net) and Notes Receivable (net) and are, therefore, not reflected as collections of Notes Receivable within investing activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Upon repayment, the cash received in settlement of such loans is classified within operating activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, Notes Receivable (net) included $104.7 million, $72.9 million, and $84.5 million, respectively, of such loans.
The collection of secured loans can be adversely impacted by a decline in the art market in general or in the value of the particular collateral. In addition, in situations when there are competing claims on the collateral and/or when a borrower becomes subject to bankruptcy or insolvency laws, Sotheby’s ability to realize on its collateral may be limited or delayed.
Sotheby’s target loan-to-value (“LTV”) ratio, which is defined as the principal loan amount divided by the low auction estimate of the collateral, is 50% or lower. However, loans are also made at an initial LTV higher than 50%. In addition, as a result of the periodic revaluation of loan collateral, the LTV ratio of certain loans may increase above the 50% target due to decreases in the low auction estimates of the collateral. The revaluation of loan collateral is performed by Sotheby’s specialists on an annual basis or more frequently if there is a material change in circumstances related to the loan or the disposal plans for the collateral. Management believes that the LTV ratio is the critical credit quality indicator for Finance segment secured loans.
The table below provides the aggregate LTV ratio for the Finance segment loan portfolio as of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
September 30, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
Finance segment secured loans | $ | 655,964 | $ | 474,433 | $ | 456,094 | ||||||
Low auction estimate of collateral | $ | 1,390,012 | $ | 1,180,406 | $ | 1,002,252 | ||||||
Aggregate LTV ratio | 47 | % | 40 | % | 46 | % | ||||||
12#
The table below provides the aggregate LTV ratio for Finance segment secured loans with an LTV above 50% as of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
September 30, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
Finance segment secured loans with an LTV ratio above 50% | $ | 371,449 | $ | 181,027 | $ | 222,701 | ||||||
Low auction estimate of collateral related to Finance segment secured loans with an LTV above 50% | $ | 636,705 | $ | 295,255 | $ | 355,568 | ||||||
Aggregate LTV ratio of Finance segment secured loans with an LTV above 50% | 58 | % | 61 | % | 63 | % | ||||||
The table below provides other credit quality information regarding Finance segment secured loans as of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
September 30, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
Total secured loans | $ | 655,964 | $ | 474,433 | $ | 456,094 | ||||||
Loans past due | $ | 54,227 | $ | 24,129 | $ | 72,613 | ||||||
Loans more than 90 days past due | $ | 11,455 | $ | 1,266 | $ | 31,212 | ||||||
Non-accrual loans | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||
Impaired loans | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||
Allowance for credit losses: | ||||||||||||
Allowance for credit losses for impaired loans | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||
Allowance for credit losses based on historical data | 1,078 | 1,746 | 1,686 | |||||||||
Total allowance for credit losses - secured loans | $ | 1,078 | $ | 1,746 | $ | 1,686 | ||||||
Management considers a loan to be past due when principal payments are not paid in accordance with the stated terms of the loan. As of September 30, 2014, $54.2 million of the Notes Receivable (net) balance was considered to be past due, of which $11.5 million was more than 90 days past due. The collateral securing these loans has low auction estimates of approximately $169.4 million and $31.2 million, respectively, resulting in aggregate LTV ratios of 32% and 37%, respectively. Sotheby's is continuing to accrue interest on these past due loans. In consideration of the value of the remaining collateral securing these past due loans, management believes that the principal and interest amounts due for past due loans will be collected. As of November 7, 2014, $42.4 million of past due loans have been refinanced on terms favorable to Sotheby's.
A non-accrual loan is a loan for which future Finance revenue is not recorded due to management’s determination that it is probable that future interest on the loan is not collectible. Any cash receipts subsequently received on non-accrual loans are first applied to reduce the recorded principal balance of the loan, with any proceeds in excess of the principal balance then applied to interest owed by the borrower. The recognition of Finance revenue may resume on a non-accrual loan if sufficient additional collateral is provided by the borrower or if management becomes aware of other circumstances that indicate that it is probable that the borrower will make future interest payments on the loan. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, there were no non-accrual loans outstanding.
A loan is considered to be impaired when management determines that it is probable that a portion of the principal and interest owed by the borrower will not be recovered after taking into account the estimated realizable value of the collateral securing the loan, as well as the ability of the borrower to repay any shortfall between the value of the collateral and the amount of the loan. If a loan is considered to be impaired, Finance revenue is no longer recognized and bad debt expense is recorded for any principal or accrued interest that is deemed uncollectible. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, there were no impaired loans outstanding.
13#
During the period January 1, 2014 to September 30, 2014, activity related to the Allowance for Credit Losses was as follows (in thousands of dollars):
Allowance for credit losses as of January 1, 2014 | $ | 1,746 | |
Change in loan loss provision | (668 | ) | |
Allowance for credit losses as of September 30, 2014 | $ | 1,078 | |
The net decrease in the allowance for credit losses during the period is the result of better than anticipated loan loss rates.
As of September 30, 2014, a loan to one borrower of $107 million with an LTV ratio of 56% composed 15% of Notes Receivable (net). For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, Finance segment results included revenues of $2.1 million and $4 million related to this loan, which comprised approximately 19% and 14% of total Finance segment revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.
As of September 30, 2014, unfunded commitments to extend additional credit through Sotheby's Finance segment were $33.7 million.
Notes Receivable (Agency Segment)—Sotheby’s is obligated under the terms of certain auction guarantees to advance a portion of the guaranteed amount prior to the auction. Such auction guarantee advances are recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets within Notes Receivable (net). As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, auction guarantee advances totaled $64.6 million, $28 million, and $70.8 million, respectively. (See Note 9 for additional information related to auction guarantees.)
Under certain circumstances, Sotheby's, through its Agency segment, finances the purchase of works of art by unaffiliated art dealers through unsecured loans. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, one such unsecured loan totaled $2.1 million. Sotheby's is no longer accruing interest with respect to this unsecured loan.
Notes Receivable (Principal Segment)—Under certain circumstances, the Principal segment provides secured loans to certain art dealers to finance the purchase of works of art. In these situations, Sotheby's acquires a partial ownership interest in the purchased property in addition to providing the loan. Upon its eventual sale, the loan is repaid, and any profit or loss is shared by Sotheby's and the dealer according to their respective ownership interests. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, such loans totaled $4.3 million, $5.8 million, and $5.8 million, respectively.
Notes Receivable (Other)—In the second quarter of 2013, Sotheby's sold its interest in an equity method investee for $4.3 million and, as a result, recognized a gain of $0.3 million. The sale price was funded by an upfront cash payment to Sotheby's of $0.8 million and the issuance of a $3.5 million unsecured loan. This loan matures in December 2018, is being charged a variable market rate of interest, and requires monthly payments during the loan term. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013 the carrying value of this loan was approximately $2.8 million, $3 million, and $3.4 million, respectively.
6. Debt
Revolving Credit Facilities—On August 31, 2009, Sotheby's and certain of its wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into a credit agreement with an international syndicate of lenders led by General Electric Capital Corporation. On February 13, 2014, Sotheby’s refinanced the Credit Agreement and entered into separate dedicated revolving credit facilities for the Agency segment (the “Agency Credit Agreement”) and the Finance segment (the “Finance Credit Agreement”) (collectively, the “Credit Agreements”).
The Agency Credit Agreement established an asset-based revolving credit facility, subject to a borrowing base, the proceeds of which may be used primarily for the working capital and other general corporate needs of the Agency segment, as well as for Principal segment inventory investments. The Finance Credit Agreement established an asset-based revolving credit facility, subject to a borrowing base, the proceeds of which may be used primarily for the working capital and other general corporate needs of the Finance segment, including the funding of client loans. The Credit Agreements allow Sotheby's to transfer the proceeds of borrowings under each of the revolving credit facilities between the Agency and Finance segments.
14#
The maximum borrowing availability under the Credit Agreements is subject to a borrowing base. The borrowing base under the Finance Credit Agreement is determined by a calculation that is primarily based upon a percentage of the carrying values of certain loans in the Finance segment loan portfolio and, following the amendment and restatement discussed below, the fair value of certain of Sotheby's trademarks. The borrowing base under the Agency Credit Agreement is determined by a calculation that is primarily based upon a percentage of the carrying values of certain auction guarantee advances, a percentage of the carrying value of certain inventory, a percentage of the carrying value of certain extended payment term receivables arising from auction or private sale transactions, and, following the amendment and restatement discussed below, the fair value of certain of Sotheby's trademarks.
The obligations under the Credit Agreements are cross-guaranteed and cross-collateralized. The Domestic Borrowers are jointly and severally liable for all obligations under the Credit Agreements and, subject to certain limitations, the U.K. Borrowers and Sotheby's Hong Kong Limited, are jointly and severally liable for all obligations of the Foreign Borrowers under the Credit Agreements. In addition, certain subsidiaries of the Borrowers guarantee the obligations of the Borrowers under the Credit Agreements. Sotheby's obligations under the Credit Agreements are secured by liens on all or substantially all of the personal property of the Borrowers and the Guarantors.
The Credit Agreements contain certain customary affirmative and negative covenants including, but not limited to, limitations on capital expenditures, a limitation on net outstanding auction guarantees and limitations on the use of proceeds from borrowings under the Credit Agreements. However, the Credit Agreements do not limit dividend payments and Common Stock repurchases provided that, both before and after giving effect thereto: (i) there are no Events of Default, (ii) the Aggregate Borrowing Availability equals or exceeds $100 million, and (iii) the Liquidity Amount equals or exceeds $200 million.
The Credit Agreements also contain certain financial covenants, which are only applicable during certain defined compliance periods. These financial covenants were not applicable for the twelve month period ended September 30, 2014.
On August 22, 2014, the Credit Agreements were amended and restated, among other things, to:
• | Increase the aggregate borrowing capacity under the Credit Agreements from $600 million to $850 million, including a $50 million incremental revolving credit facility with higher advance rates against certain assets and higher commitment and borrowing costs (the "Incremental Facility"). The Incremental Facility has a maturity date of August 21, 2015, which may be extended for an additional 365 days on an annual basis with the consent of the lenders under such Incremental Facility who agree to extend their incremental commitments. As a result of this increase to the aggregate borrowing capacity of the Credit Agreements, the borrowing capacity of the Agency Credit Agreement increased from $150 million to $300 million and the borrowing capacity of the Finance Credit Agreement increased from $450 million to $550 million. |
• | Increase the advance rate and remove certain caps with regards to inventory, and include certain of Sotheby's trademarks in determining the borrowing base availability of the Agency Credit Agreement. |
• | Increase the maximum permissible amount of net outstanding auction guarantees from $300 million to $600 million. |
• | Extend the maturity date of the Credit Agreements from February 13, 2019 to August 22, 2019, exclusive of the Incremental Facility, which has a maturity date of August 21, 2015 but may be renewed annually, as discussed above. |
The Credit Agreements have a sub-limit of $200 million for borrowings in the U.K. and Hong Kong (with up to $150 million available for foreign borrowings under the Finance Credit Agreement and up to $50 million available for foreign borrowings under the Agency Credit Agreement), and include an accordion feature, which allows Sotheby’s to request an increase to the combined borrowing capacity of the Credit Agreements until February 23, 2019 by an amount not to exceed $100 million in the aggregate.
Sotheby’s incurred aggregate fees of approximately $5.5 million in conjunction with the February 13, 2014 refinancing and August 22, 2014 amendment, which, along with $4.8 million of unamortized fees that remained from the establishment of and previous amendments to the credit agreement that was entered into on August 31, 2009, are being amortized on a straight-line basis through the August 22, 2019 maturity date.
15#
The following table summarizes outstanding borrowings, available borrowing capacity, and other information relevant to the Credit Agreements as of and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 (in thousands of dollars):
Finance Credit Agreement | Agency Credit Agreement | Total | ||||||||||
Borrowing base | $ | 513,185 | $ | 259,183 | $ | 772,368 | ||||||
Borrowings outstanding | $ | 449,000 | $ | — | $ | 449,000 | ||||||
Available borrowing capacity * | $ | 64,185 | $ | 259,183 | $ | 323,368 | ||||||
Average Borrowings Outstanding: | ||||||||||||
Three months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 387,326 | $ | — | $ | 387,326 | ||||||
Nine months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 255,564 | $ | — | $ | 255,564 | ||||||
Borrowing Costs: | ||||||||||||
Three months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 2,634 | $ | 545 | $ | 3,179 | ||||||
Nine months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 5,368 | $ | 1,513 | $ | 6,881 | ||||||
* The available borrowing capacity is calculated as the borrowing base (i.e., the current maximum borrowing availability) less borrowings outstanding as of September 30, 2014.
Borrowing costs related to the Finance Credit Agreement, which include interest and fees, are reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations as the Cost of Finance Revenues. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the weighted average cost of borrowings related to the Finance Credit Agreement was approximately 2.7% and 2.8%, respectively.
Borrowing costs related to the Agency Credit Agreement, which include interest and fees, are reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations as Interest Expense. (See the table below for additional information related to Interest Expense associated with the Agency Credit Agreement.)
Long-Term Debt—As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, Long-Term Debt consisted of the following (in thousands of dollars):
September 30, 2014 | December 31, 2013 | September 30, 2013 | ||||||||||
York Property Mortgage, net of unamortized discount of $2,673, $5,346, and $6,237 | $ | 218,767 | $ | 218,778 | $ | 218,732 | ||||||
2022 Senior Notes | 300,000 | 300,000 | 300,000 | |||||||||
Less Current Portion: | ||||||||||||
York Property Mortgage | (218,767 | ) | (3,630 | ) | (3,581 | ) | ||||||
Total Long-Term Debt, net | $ | 300,000 | $ | 515,148 | $ | 515,151 | ||||||
York Property Mortgage—On February 6, 2009, Sotheby's purchased the land and building located at 1334 York Avenue, New York, New York (the “York Property”) from RFR Holding Corp. (“RFR”) for a purchase price of $370 million. The York Property is home to Sotheby's sole North American auction salesroom and principal North American exhibition space, including S|2, Sotheby's private sale exhibition gallery. The York Property is also home to the U.S. operations of the Finance segment, as well as Sotheby's corporate offices.
Sotheby's financed the $370 million purchase price through an initial $50 million cash payment made in conjunction with the signing of the related purchase and sale agreement on January 11, 2008, an $85 million cash payment made when the purchase was consummated on February 6, 2009, and the assumption of an existing $235 million mortgage on the York Property.
The York Property Mortgage matures on July 1, 2035, but has an optional pre-payment date of July 1, 2015 and bears an annual rate of interest of approximately 5.6%, which increases to 10.6% subsequent to July 1, 2015 unless the mortgage is repaid by that date. Accordingly, the $218.8 million carrying value of the York Property Mortgage is classified as a current liability on Sotheby's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2014. Management is currently exploring its options with respect to a long-term refinancing of the York Property Mortgage, with the intent of completing such a refinancing no later than June 30, 2015.
16#
In conjunction with the final accounting for the York Property purchase in February 2009, the York Property Mortgage was recorded on Sotheby's balance sheet at its $212.1 million fair value. The resulting $22.9 million debt discount is being amortized to Interest Expense over the remaining expected term of the loan through June 2015. Sotheby's paid fees of $2.4 million in conjunction with the assumption of the York Property Mortgage, which are also being amortized to Interest Expense through June 2015. As of September 30, 2014, the fair value of the York Property Mortgage was approximately $221.3 million based on a present value calculation utilizing an interest rate obtained from a third party source. As such, this fair value measurement is considered to be a Level 3 fair value measurement in the fair value hierarchy as per Accounting Standards Codification 820, Fair Value Measurements ("ASC 820").
The York Property and the York Property Mortgage are held by 1334 York, LLC, a separate legal entity of Sotheby's that maintains its own books and records and whose results are ultimately consolidated into Sotheby's financial statements. The assets of 1334 York, LLC are not available to satisfy the obligations of other Sotheby's affiliates or any other entity.
2022 Senior Notes—On September 27, 2012, Sotheby's issued $300 million aggregate principal amount of 5.25% Senior Notes, due October 1, 2022. The 2022 Senior Notes were offered only to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A and to non-U.S. Persons under Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Holders of the 2022 Senior Notes do not have registration rights, and the 2022 Senior Notes have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act.
The net proceeds from the issuance of the 2022 Senior Notes were approximately $293.7 million, after deducting fees paid to the initial purchasers, and were principally used to retire $80 million of unsecured debt that was due in June 2015 and Sotheby's 3.125% Convertible Notes, as discussed below.
The 2022 Senior Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior unsecured basis by certain of Sotheby's existing and future domestic subsidiaries to the extent and on the same basis that such subsidiaries guarantee borrowings under the New Credit Agreements. Interest on the 2022 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually in cash on April 1 and October 1 of each year.
The 2022 Senior Notes are redeemable by Sotheby's, in whole or in part, on or after October 1, 2017, at specified redemption prices set forth in the underlying indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. Prior to October 1, 2017, the 2022 Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date, plus a premium equal to the greater of 1% of the principal amount of the 2022 Senior Notes and a make-whole premium (as defined in the underlying indenture).
In addition, at any time prior to October 1, 2015, Sotheby's may redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the 2022 Senior Notes with the net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings at the redemption price of 105.25% plus accrued and unpaid interest. The 2022 Senior Notes are not callable by holders unless Sotheby's is in default under the terms of the underlying indenture.
As of September 30, 2014, the $300 million principal amount of 2022 Senior Notes had a fair value of approximately $285 million based on a broker quoted price derived via a pricing model using observable and unobservable inputs. As such, this fair value measurement is considered to be a Level 3 fair value measurement in the fair value hierarchy as per ASC 820.
Convertible Notes—On June 17, 2008, Sotheby's issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 3.125% Convertible Notes, due June 15, 2013. The net proceeds from the issuance of the Convertible Notes were approximately $194.3 million, after deducting transaction costs. The Convertible Notes were payable in cash, shares of Sotheby's Common Stock, or a combination thereof, at the option of Sotheby's, based on a conversion rate, as adjusted, of 29.5920 shares of Common Stock per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes, which is equivalent to a conversion price, as adjusted, of approximately $33.79 per share.
On January 1, 2009, upon the adoption of Accounting Standards Codification 470-20, Debt - Debt With Conversion and Other Options, the liability and equity components of the Convertible Notes were separately accounted for in Sotheby's financial statements. The liability component was initially valued at $161.8 million using Sotheby's nonconvertible debt borrowing rate, which was estimated to be 7.75% at the date of adoption, and was accounted for as Long-Term Debt. The equity component (i.e., the embedded conversion option) was initially valued at $38.2 million ($21 million, net of taxes) and was accounted for as a component of Additional Paid-In Capital within Shareholders' Equity. The corresponding debt discount was amortized to Interest Expense over the life of the Convertible Notes using the effective interest rate method.
17#
The Convertible Notes were convertible at the option of the bondholders for a period beginning on April 1, 2011 and ending on June 30, 2011 as a result of the stock price trigger in the underlying indenture being met in the first quarter of 2011. In June 2011, Sotheby's received conversion requests resulting in a conversion obligation of $22.5 million, which consisted of $18.1 million related to principal and approximately $4.4 million related to the conversion premium. This conversion obligation was settled entirely in cash in August 2011. As a result of the cash settlement of these conversion requests, $8.2 million ($5.4 million, net of taxes) of the amount originally attributed to the embedded conversion option and initially recorded within Shareholders' Equity no longer met the conditions for equity classification. Accordingly, this amount was reclassified to Other Current Liabilities on Sotheby's June 30, 2011 balance sheet prior to settlement of the conversion obligation in August 2011. In August 2011, simultaneous with the settlement of the June 2011 conversion requests, Sotheby's received $4.4 million in cash to fund the conversion premium through its exercise of a portion of the Convertible Note Hedges, as discussed below. In the third quarter of 2011, Sotheby's recognized a $1.5 million loss representing the write-off of a proportionate amount of the unamortized discount and deferred transaction costs related to the Convertible Notes redeemed.
The remaining Convertible Notes became convertible on March 15, 2013, for a period ending on the close of business on June 14, 2013, when Sotheby's became obligated to pay the conversion obligation of $197.4 million, which consisted of $181.9 million related to principal and $15.5 million related to the conversion premium. As of March 31, 2013, management evaluated the remaining amount originally attributed to the embedded conversion option and initially recorded within Shareholders' Equity and concluded that it no longer met the conditions for equity classification as a result of Sotheby's irrevocable election in the first quarter of 2013 to settle any remaining conversion obligation related to the Convertible Notes solely in cash. Accordingly, as of March 31, 2013, the $21.8 million fair value of the embedded conversion option was reclassified to Other Current Liabilities, with a corresponding reduction to Shareholders’ Equity of $12 million, net of taxes. In June 2013, the conversion obligation was settled entirely in cash and Sotheby's simultaneously received $15.5 million in cash to offset the conversion premium through the exercise of its Convertible Note Hedges, as discussed below.
Convertible Note Hedges and Warrant Transactions—On June 11, 2008, in conjunction with the issuance of the Convertible Notes, Sotheby's entered into convertible note hedge transactions (the "Convertible Note Hedges") at a cost of $40.6 million ($22.5 million, net of taxes) that allowed Sotheby's to purchase its Common Stock from affiliates of Bank of America and Goldman Sachs & Co. (collectively, the “Counterparties”) at a price equal to the conversion price of the Convertible Notes. The Convertible Note Hedges were entered into to offset the impact of any premium paid, either in cash or in shares of Sotheby's Common Stock, upon the settlement of the Convertible Notes.
The Convertible Note Hedges initially met the conditions for equity classification and, as a result, in June 2008, the related $40.6 million cost ($22.5 million, net of taxes) was recorded on Sotheby's balance sheet as a component of Additional Paid-In Capital within Shareholders' Equity. As previously discussed in this footnote, in June 2011, Sotheby's received conversion requests totaling a principal amount of $18.1 million from holders of the Convertible Notes. As a result, in June 2011, Sotheby's exercised the portion of the Convertible Note Hedges related to these conversion requests, which enabled it to receive $4.4 million in cash, which was equal to the amount of the conversion premium paid upon settlement of the conversion obligation in August 2011. As a result of the cash settlement of this portion of the Convertible Note Hedges, $8.2 million ($5.3 million, net of taxes) of the amount originally recorded in Shareholders' Equity no longer met the conditions for equity classification as of June 30, 2011. Accordingly, this amount was reclassified to Other Current Assets on Sotheby's June 30, 2011 balance sheet prior to settlement of the conversion obligation in August 2011.
As of March 31, 2013, management evaluated the Convertible Note Hedges and concluded that the remaining amount in Shareholders’ Equity no longer met the conditions for equity classification as a result of Sotheby's irrevocable election in the first quarter of 2013 to settle the remaining Convertible Note Hedges solely in cash. Accordingly, as of March 31, 2013, the $21.8 million fair value of the remaining Convertible Note Hedges was reclassified to Other Current Assets, with a corresponding increase to Shareholders’ Equity of $12 million, net of taxes. In June 2013, Sotheby's settled the remaining conversion obligation related to the Convertible Notes entirely in cash. As a result, the Convertible Note Hedges were exercised, and Sotheby's received $15.5 million in cash to offset the conversion premium related to the Convertible Notes.
On June 11, 2008, Sotheby's also entered into warrant transactions, whereby it sold to the Counterparties warrants to acquire, subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments, approximately 5.9 million shares of Sotheby's Common Stock at a price of approximately $44.50 per share, as adjusted. The net proceeds received by Sotheby's in June 2008 from the sale of the warrants were $22.3 million and was recorded as a component of Additional Paid-In Capital within Shareholders' Equity. The warrants were automatically exercisable subject to a limit of approximately 118,348 warrants per day for each day in the 50 trading days that began on September 17, 2013 and ended on November 25, 2013. The settlement of warrant exercises resulted in the issuance of 722,288 shares of Sotheby's Common Stock in the fourth quarter of 2013.
18#
Future Principal and Interest Payments—The aggregate future principal and interest payments due under Sotheby's credit facility borrowings and Long-Term Debt during the five-year period after the September 30, 2014 balance sheet date are as follows (in thousands of dollars):
October 2014 to September 2015 | $ | 247,351 | |
October 2015 to September 2016 | $ | 15,750 | |
October 2016 to September 2017 | $ | 15,750 | |
October 2017 to September 2018 | $ | 15,750 | |
October 2018 to September 2019 | $ | 464,750 | |
Consistent with the presentation of the York Property Mortgage as a current liability on the September 30, 2014 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet, the table above assumes the mortgage will be repaid within the twelve month period following the current balance sheet date. Management is currently exploring its options with respect to a long-term refinancing of the York Property Mortgage, with the intent of completing such a refinancing no later than June 30, 2015.
Interest Expense—For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, Interest Expense consisted of the following (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended | Nine Months Ended | |||||||||||||||
September 30, | September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||
Agency Credit Agreement: | ||||||||||||||||
Amortization of amendment and arrangement fees | $ | 263 | $ | 319 | $ | 768 | $ | 946 | ||||||||
Commitment fees | 282 | 383 | 745 | 1,145 | ||||||||||||
Sub-total | 545 | 702 | 1,513 | 2,091 | ||||||||||||
York Property Mortgage | 4,103 | 4,148 | 12,278 | 12,376 | ||||||||||||
2022 Senior Notes | 3,938 | 3,938 | 11,814 | 11,813 | ||||||||||||
Convertible Notes | — | — | — | 6,417 | ||||||||||||
Other interest expense | 171 | 124 | 703 | 867 | ||||||||||||
Total Interest Expense | $ | 8,757 | $ | 8,912 | $ | 26,308 | $ | 33,564 | ||||||||
Other interest expense consists primarily of the amortization of debt issuance costs related to the 2022 Senior Notes and the Convertible Notes. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, interest expense related to the Convertible Notes consisted of $2.6 million related to the contractual stated rate of interest and $3.8 million related to the amortization of discount.
7. Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Sotheby’s sponsors a defined benefit pension plan covering a portion of its U.K. employees (the “U.K. Pension Plan”). The table below summarizes the components of the net pension benefit related to the U.K. Pension Plan for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||
Service cost | $ | 1,141 | $ | 912 | $ | 3,420 | $ | 2,730 | ||||||||
Interest cost | 3,964 | 3,309 | 11,884 | 9,905 | ||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (5,875 | ) | (4,869 | ) | (17,612 | ) | (14,575 | ) | ||||||||
Amortization of previously unrecognized pension losses | 595 | 361 | 1,783 | 1,081 | ||||||||||||
Net pension benefit | $ | (175 | ) | $ | (287 | ) | $ | (525 | ) | $ | (859 | ) | ||||
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, Sotheby's contributed $1.9 million to the U.K Pension Plan and total contributions for the year ending December 31, 2014 are expected to be approximately $3 million.
19#
8. Commitments and Contingencies
Compensation Arrangements—As of September 30, 2014, Sotheby’s had compensation arrangements with certain senior employees, which expire at various points between December 2014 and July 2018. Such arrangements may provide, among other benefits, for minimum salary levels and for compensation under Sotheby's incentive compensation programs that is payable only if specified Company and individual goals are attained. Additionally, under certain circumstances, certain of these arrangements provide annual share-based payments, severance payments, other cash compensation, and the continuation of benefits upon termination of employment. The aggregate remaining commitment for salaries and other cash compensation related to these compensation arrangements, excluding any participation in Sotheby’s incentive compensation programs, was approximately $14.3 million as of September 30, 2014.
Guarantees of Collection—A guarantee of collection is a guarantee to a consignor that, under certain conditions, Sotheby's will pay the consignor for property that has sold at auction, but has not yet been paid for by the purchaser. It is not a guarantee that the property will be sold at a certain minimum price.
Sotheby's has an outstanding guarantee of collection related to property that has been and will be offered at auctions throughout 2014 and at upcoming auctions in the first quarter of 2015. In the event a purchaser does not pay for any item sold at auction by the settlement date, which is 35 days after the date of each respective auction or such other date agreed to by the consignor, Sotheby's is required to pay the consignor the net sale proceeds up to the final pre-sale mid-estimate of the item, but Sotheby's would then take title to the property and have the right to pursue the defaulting buyer and/or reoffer the property at a future sale. If any of the property under this guarantee of collection fails to meet its reserve price and as a result, does not sell at the auction, or if the consignor elects to cancel a sale due to buyer default, Sotheby's has no obligation to pay the consignor for those items. As of September 30, 2014, the remaining guarantee of collection related to property sold under this arrangement was less than $0.1 million. All other amounts due to Sotheby's for property sold under this guarantee of collection through September 30, 2014 have been remitted by the purchasers. Additional property under this guarantee of collection with pre-sale auction estimates of $2 million to $3 million is scheduled to be offered in the fourth quarter of 2014 and the first quarter of 2015.
Sotheby's has an outstanding guarantee of collection related to property that is being offered at auctions in the fourth quarter of 2014. In the event a purchaser has not paid for any item sold at auction by the settlement date, which is 95 days after the date of each respective auction, Sotheby's will pay the consignor the net sale proceeds of the item, but Sotheby's would then take title to the property and have the right to pursue the defaulting buyer and/or reoffer the property at a future sale. If any of the property under this guarantee of collection fails to meet its reserve price and as a result, does not sell at auction, Sotheby's has no obligation to pay the consignor for those items. As of September 30, 2014, the property under this guarantee of collection had pre-sale auction estimates of $101 million to $147 million.
Sotheby's had a previous guarantee of collection related to property that was offered at auction in October 2014 covering net sales proceeds of approximately $11.1 million. As of October 31, 2014, all amounts due to Sotheby's for property sold under this guarantee of collection have been remitted by the purchaser.
Legal Actions—Sotheby’s becomes involved in various claims and lawsuits incidental to the ordinary course of its business, including the matters described below. Management is required to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes in these matters, as well as potential ranges of probable or reasonably possible losses. A determination of the amount of losses, if any, to be recorded or disclosed as a result of these contingencies is based on a careful analysis of each individual exposure with, in some cases, the assistance of outside legal counsel. The amount of losses recorded or disclosed for such contingencies may change in the future due to new developments in each matter or a change in settlement strategy. Management does not believe that the outcome of any of these pending claims or proceedings, individually and in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on Sotheby’s consolidated results of operations, financial condition and/or cash flows.
20#
Estate of Robert Graham, et al. v. Sotheby's, Inc. is a purported class action commenced in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California in October 2011 on behalf of U.S. artists (and their estates) whose artworks were sold by Sotheby's in the State of California or at auction by California sellers and for which a royalty was allegedly due under the California Resale Royalties Act (the “Resale Royalties Act”). Plaintiffs seek unspecified damages, punitive damages and injunctive relief for alleged violations of the Resale Royalties Act and the California Unfair Competition Law. In January 2012, Sotheby’s filed a motion to dismiss the action on the grounds, among others, that the Resale Royalties Act violates the U.S. Constitution and is preempted by the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976. In February 2012, the plaintiffs filed their response to Sotheby's motion to dismiss. The court heard oral arguments on the motion to dismiss on March 12, 2012. On May 17, 2012, the court issued an order dismissing the action on the ground that the Resale Royalties Act violated the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The plaintiffs have appealed this ruling. Sotheby's believes that there are meritorious defenses to the appeal.
Third Point LLC v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. 9469-VCP (Del. Ch. 2014)—On March 25, 2014, Third Point LLC ("Third Point") filed a verified complaint against William F. Ruprecht, Peregrine A. M. Cavendish, Domenico De Sole, John M. Angelo, Steven B. Dodge, Daniel H. Meyer, Allen I. Questrom, Marsha E. Simms, Michael I. Sovern, Robert S. Taubman, Diana L. Taylor and Dennis M. Weibling (collectively, the “Directors”) and nominal defendant Sotheby’s. Third Point alleged that the Directors breached their fiduciary duties of loyalty and due care in adopting a shareholder rights plan (the “Rights Plan”) on October 4, 2013 and enforcing the plan against Third Point on March 21, 2014 by denying Third Point’s request that it be treated as a 13G filer under the Rights Plan to allow it to acquire up to 20% of Sotheby’s outstanding Common Stock. Third Point alleged that the Rights Plan was not a reasonable response to a legitimate threat to Sotheby’s and alleged that the adoption and continuation of the Rights Plan hindered its ability to wage an effective proxy contest. The complaint sought a declaration that the Directors breached their fiduciary duties and that the Rights Plan was unenforceable, and sought an order that Sotheby’s be required to redeem the Rights Plan in its entirety, or in the alternative, be enjoined from enforcing the Rights Plan against Third Point, or be required to amend the Rights Plan to allow Third Point to acquire up to 20% of Sotheby’s outstanding Common Stock. Along with its complaint, Third Point moved for expedited proceedings. On April 10, 2014, the Court ordered partial coordination of this action with The Employees Retirement System of the City of St. Louis v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. 9497-VCP and Louisiana Municipal Employees Retirement System v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No.--9508-VCP, which are discussed below. On May 2, 2014, following briefing and argument on plaintiffs’ motions for preliminary injunctions in the coordinated actions, the Court issued a Memorandum Opinion denying the motion. Specifically, the Court found that plaintiffs failed to show a likelihood of success on the merits of their claims. On May 4, 2014, Sotheby's entered into a support agreement that, among other things, resolved the previously pending proxy contest. As part of this support agreement, Third Point agreed to dismiss with prejudice this litigation. On May 6, 2014, Third Point filed a notice of dismissal terminating its case.
The Employees Retirement System of the City of St. Louis v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. 9497-VCP (Del. Ch. 2014)—On April 1, 2014, the Employees Retirement System of the City of St. Louis, the plaintiff, on behalf of a putative class of Sotheby’s stockholders, filed a verified class action complaint against the Directors and nominal defendant Sotheby’s. The plaintiff alleged in two counts that the Directors breached their fiduciary duties in adopting the Rights Plan and by including so-called “proxy puts” in certain Sotheby’s credit agreements. The plaintiff alleged that the Rights Plan was discriminatory, was designed to entrench current board members, and undermined the proxy contest that was being conducted by Third Point. In addition, the plaintiff alleged that the Directors endorsed credit agreements containing “proxy put” provisions that were unnecessary, preemptive defensive measures designed to insulate Directors from proxy contests. The plaintiff sought judgment preliminarily and permanently enjoining the Rights Plan, judgment preliminarily enjoining the Directors from using any proxies solicited before they “approve” the Third Point nominees for directorships, and a declaration that the Rights Plan was unenforceable and that the Directors breached their fiduciary duties to the putative class. On April 10, 2014, the Court ordered partial coordination of this action and Louisiana Municipal Employees Retirement System v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. --9508-VCP with the prior pending action in Third Point LLC v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. 9469-VCP. On May 2, 2014, following briefing and argument on plaintiffs’ motions for preliminary injunctions in the coordinated actions, the Court issued a Memorandum Opinion denying the motion. Specifically, the Court found that plaintiffs failed to show a likelihood of success on the merits of their claims. On June 4, 2014, the plaintiffs in this action and in the Louisiana Municipal Employees Retirement System action discussed below jointly filed a motion for an order dismissing their actions as moot and for an award of attorneys’ fees and expenses in the amount of $3.5 million. On July 25, 2014, Sotheby’s filed a brief in opposition to the plaintiffs’ motion. A hearing on the motion was held on August 14, 2014 and a decision by the court is pending. Sotheby’s has been coordinating with its directors and officers insurance carrier on the defense of this action and believes that the outcome of this matter will not result in any cost to Sotheby's.
21#
Louisiana Municipal Employees Retirement System v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No.--9508-VCP (Del. Ch. 2014)—On April 3, 2014, Louisiana Municipal Employees Retirement System, the plaintiff, on behalf of a putative class of Sotheby’s stockholders, filed a verified class action complaint against the Directors and nominal defendant Sotheby’s. The plaintiff alleged in two counts that the Directors breached their fiduciary duties in adopting the Rights Plan and by including so-called “proxy puts” in certain Sotheby’s credit agreements. The plaintiff alleged that the Rights Plan was discriminatory, was designed to entrench current board members, and undermined the proxy contest that was being conducted by Third Point. In addition, the plaintiff alleged that the Directors endorsed credit agreements containing “proxy put” provisions that were unnecessary, preemptive defensive measures designed to insulate Directors from proxy contests. The plaintiff sought judgment preliminarily and permanently enjoining the Rights Plan, judgment preliminarily enjoining the Directors from using any proxies solicited before they “approve” the Third Point nominees for directorships, and a declaration that the Rights Plan was unenforceable and that the Directors breached their fiduciary duties to the putative class. On April 10, 2014, the Court ordered partial coordination of this action and The Employees Retirement System of the City of St. Louis v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. 9497-VCP with the prior pending action in Third Point LLC v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. 9469-VCP. On May 2, 2014, following briefing and argument on plaintiffs’ motions for preliminary injunctions in the coordinated actions, the Court issued a Memorandum Opinion denying the motion. Specifically, the Court found that plaintiffs failed to show a likelihood of success on the merits of their claims. See The Employees Retirement System of the City of St. Louis v. Ruprecht, et al., Civil Action No. 9497-VCP (Del. Ch. 2014) above for further developments related to this action.
(See Note 5 for information related to unfunded commitments to extend additional credit through Sotheby's Finance segment. See Note 6 for information related to Sotheby's debt commitments. See Note 9 for information related to Sotheby's auction guarantees. See Note 10 for detailed information related to the Rights Plan. See Note 13 for detailed information on the support agreement entered into with Third Point on May 4, 2014. See Note 16 for information related to Sotheby's income tax contingencies.)
9. Auction Guarantees
From time-to-time in the ordinary course of its business, Sotheby’s will guarantee to a consignor a minimum sale price in connection with the sale of property at auction (an “auction guarantee”). In the event that the property sells for less than the guaranteed price, Sotheby’s must perform under the auction guarantee by funding the difference between the sale price at auction and the amount of the auction guarantee. Sotheby’s is generally entitled to a share of the excess proceeds (the “overage”) if the property under the auction guarantee sells above the guaranteed price. If the property does not sell, the amount of the auction guarantee must be paid, but Sotheby’s has the right to recover such amount through the future sale of the property. Depending on the mix of items subject to a guarantee, a small number of guaranteed items may represent a substantial portion of the aggregate amount of outstanding auction guarantees.
In situations when the guaranteed property does not sell, the property is recorded as Inventory on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at the lower of cost (i.e., the amount paid under the auction guarantee) or management’s estimate of the property's net realizable value (i.e., the expected sale price upon disposition). The sale proceeds ultimately realized by Sotheby’s in these situations may equal, exceed or be less than the amount recorded as Inventory on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Sotheby’s may reduce its financial exposure under auction guarantees through contractual risk and reward sharing arrangements. Such auction guarantee risk and reward sharing arrangements include irrevocable bids and partner sharing arrangements. An irrevocable bid is an arrangement under which a counterparty commits to bid a predetermined price on the guaranteed property. If the irrevocable bid is the winning bid, the counterparty purchases the property at the predetermined price plus the applicable buyer’s premium, which is the same amount that any other successful bidder would pay at that price. If the irrevocable bid is not the winning bid, the counterparty is generally entitled to receive a share of the auction commission earned on the sale and/or a share of any overage. Under a partner sharing arrangement, a counterparty commits to fund: (i) a share of the difference between the sale price at auction and the amount of the auction guarantee if the property sells for less than the minimum guaranteed price or (ii) a share of the minimum guaranteed price if the property does not sell while taking ownership of a proportionate share of the unsold property. In exchange for accepting a share of the financial exposure under the auction guarantee, the counterparty is generally entitled to receive a share of the auction commission earned if the property sells and/or a share of any overage.
Sotheby's counterparties to these contractual risk and reward sharing arrangements are typically major international art dealers or major art collectors. Sotheby’s could be exposed to losses in the event any of these counterparties do not perform according to the terms of these contractual arrangements. In the first quarter of 2013, Sotheby's recorded $1.7 million as a client goodwill gesture within General and Administrative Expenses as a result of an accommodation made to an irrevocable bid counterparty.
22#
Although irrevocable bid and partner sharing arrangements may be used to reduce the risk associated with auction guarantees, Sotheby's may also enter into auction guarantees without securing such arrangements. To the extent that auction guarantees are issued without risk and reward sharing arrangements, auction commission margins and Sotheby's share of any auction guarantee overage could potentially improve, as the buyer's premium and any overage would not be shared with a counterparty, but Sotheby's could also be exposed to auction guarantee losses and/or deterioration in auction commission margins if the underlying property fails to sell at the minimum guaranteed price. Furthermore, in such situations, Sotheby's liquidity could be reduced.
Sotheby's credit agreement has a covenant that imposes a limitation on net outstanding auction guarantees (i.e., auction guarantees less the impact of related risk and reward sharing arrangements). As discussed in Note 6, on August 22, 2014, Sotheby's credit agreement was amended and restated to, among other things, increase the maximum permissible amount of net outstanding auction guarantees from $300 million to $600 million. In addition to compliance with this covenant, Sotheby's use of auction guarantees is also subject to management and, in some cases, Board of Directors, approval.
As of September 30, 2014, Sotheby’s had outstanding auction guarantees totaling $318.8 million. Sotheby's financial exposure under these auction guarantees is reduced by irrevocable bids totaling $13.5 million. Each of these auction guarantees has a minimum guaranteed price that is within the range of the pre-sale auction estimates for the underlying property. The property related to these auction guarantees is being offered at auctions in the fourth quarter of 2014.
Sotheby's is obligated under the terms of certain auction guarantees to advance all or a portion of the guaranteed amount prior to auction. As of September 30, 2014, $64.6 million of the guaranteed amount had been advanced by Sotheby's and is recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets within Notes Receivable (see Note 5). As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, the carrying value of the liability representing the estimated fair value of Sotheby’s obligation to perform under its auction guarantees totaled $9.6 million, $2.9 million, and $7.4 million, respectively, and is recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets within Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities.
As of November 5, 2014, Sotheby's had outstanding auction guarantees totaling $219.2 million and, as of that date, Sotheby's financial exposure was reduced by risk and reward sharing arrangements totaling $48.8 million. Each of the auction guarantees outstanding as of November 5, 2014 had a minimum guaranteed price that was within the range of the pre-sale auction estimates for the underlying property. Substantially all of the property related to these auction guarantees is being offered at auctions in the fourth quarter of 2014. As of November 5, 2014, $37.7 million of the guaranteed amount had been advanced by Sotheby's.
10. Shareholders' Equity and Dividends
Special Dividend and Common Stock Repurchase Program—In January 2014, management and the Board of Directors concluded a review of Sotheby's capital allocation and financial policies and as a result: (i) established separate capital structures and financial policies for its Agency and Finance segments, (ii) declared a special dividend of $300 million ($4.34 per share) payable to shareholders of record as of February 12, 2014, (iii) authorized a 5-year, $150 million Common Stock repurchase program principally to offset the annual vesting of employee share-based payments, and (iv) committed to an annual assessment of Sotheby's capital position to determine the amount of any excess capital available to be returned to shareholders.
The $300 million special dividend was paid on March 17, 2014 and was funded principally by the repatriation of $250 million of cash from Sotheby’s foreign subsidiaries, with the remaining $50 million funded by existing domestic cash balances. In conjunction with this special dividend, dividend equivalents of approximately $11 million were accrued on share-based payments to Sotheby's employees and charged against retained earnings, of which approximately $4 million was paid in March 2014. (See Note 11 for information related to Sotheby's share-based payment programs.)
In conjunction with the Common Stock repurchase program, Sotheby's repurchased 558,171 shares of its Common Stock for an aggregate purchase price of $25 million ($44.79 per share) pursuant to an accelerated stock buyback agreement that was concluded in March 2014.
23#
Quarterly Cash Dividends—The following table summarizes quarterly cash dividends declared and paid in each of the quarterly periods in 2014 (in thousands of dollars, except per share amounts):
Quarter Ended | Per Share | Amount | ||||||
March 31 | $ | 0.10 | $ | 6,944 | ||||
June 30 | $ | 0.10 | $ | 6,894 | ||||
September 30 | $ | 0.10 | $ | 6,899 | ||||
Total | $ | 0.30 | $ | 20,737 | ||||
On November 6, 2014, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share (approximately $6.9 million) payable on December 15, 2014 to shareholders of record as of December 1, 2014.
Shareholder Rights Plan—On October 4, 2013, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of one preferred share purchase right (a “Right”) for each outstanding share of Sotheby's Common Stock and adopted a shareholder rights plan. The dividend was paid on October 14, 2013 to the shareholders of record on that date. Each Right allowed its holder to purchase from Sotheby's one one-hundredth of a share of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock (a “Preferred Share”) for $200 (the “Exercise Price”), if the Rights were to have become exercisable. This portion of a Preferred Share would have given the shareholder approximately the same dividend and liquidation rights as would one share of Sotheby's Common Stock. Prior to exercise, the Right did not give its holder any dividend, voting, or liquidation rights. On October 4, 2013, in conjunction with the adoption of the Rights Plan, Sotheby's designated 2,000,000 shares of its Preferred Stock with a par value of $0.01 per share as Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock.
On May 5, 2014, Sotheby’s entered into Amendment No. 1 to the Rights Plan (the “Amendment”). The Amendment accelerated the expiration of the Rights Plan from the close of business on October 3, 2014, in the absence of prior approval of the Rights Plan by Sotheby's shareholders, to the close of business on May 29, 2014, the date of Sotheby’s 2014 annual meeting, and effectively terminated the Rights Plan on that date. At the time of the termination of the Rights Plan, all of the Rights distributed to holders of Sotheby’s Common Stock pursuant to the Rights Plan expired.
(See Note 8 for a summary of legal actions that have been filed with respect to the Rights Plan.)
11. Share-Based Payments
Share-based payments to employees include performance-based stock unit awards, restricted stock units, and stock options. Each of these share-based payments is explained below. Compensation expense related to share-based payments is recorded as a component of Salaries and Related Costs in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, compensation expense related to share-based payments was as follows (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||
Pre-Tax | $ | 4,454 | $ | 6,249 | $ | 17,349 | $ | 15,919 | ||||||||
After-Tax | $ | 3,117 | $ | 3,801 | $ | 11,772 | $ | 10,871 | ||||||||
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, Sotheby's realized $3.6 million and $3.5 million, respectively, of excess tax benefits related to share-based payment arrangements. These tax benefits represent the amount by which the tax deduction resulting from the exercise or vesting of share-based payments exceeded the tax benefit initially recognized in Sotheby's financial statements upon the amortization of compensation expense for these awards. Such excess tax benefits are recognized on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as an increase to Additional Paid-in Capital and are classified within financing activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
As of September 30, 2014, unrecognized compensation expense related to the unvested portion of share-based payments was $30.1 million. This compensation expense is expected to be amortized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.3 years. Sotheby’s does not capitalize any compensation expense related to share-based payments to employees.
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Sotheby's Restricted Stock Unit Plan—Sotheby's Restricted Stock Unit Plan (the “Restricted Stock Unit Plan”) provides for the issuance of Restricted Stock Units (“RSU's”) to employees, subject to the approval of the Compensation Committee of Sotheby's Board of Directors (the “Compensation Committee”). In making awards under the Restricted Stock Unit Plan, the Compensation Committee takes into account the nature of the services rendered by employees, their present and potential future contributions to Sotheby's success, and such other factors as the Compensation Committee in its discretion deems relevant.
RSU's vest evenly over a three-year service period. Prior to vesting, holders of RSU's do not have voting rights, but are entitled to receive dividend equivalents. Dividend equivalents paid to holders of unvested RSU's are not forfeitable. RSU's may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise encumbered until they vest.
Performance Share Units (or “PSU's”) are RSU's that generally vest over three or four years, subject to the achievement of certain profitability targets. Prior to vesting, holders of PSU's do not have voting rights and are not entitled to receive dividends or dividend equivalents. Dividend equivalents are credited to holders of PSU's and are only paid for the portion of PSU's that vest and become shares of Common Stock. PSU's may not be sold, assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise encumbered until they vest.
In February 2014, Sotheby's issued share-based payment awards with a total fair value of $29.1 million, as follows: (i) 423,203 PSU's with a fair value of $18.9 million and a single vesting opportunity after a three-year service period, including 344,692 PSU's with a fair value of $15.4 million, related almost entirely to Sotheby's incentive compensation programs, and 78,511 PSU's with a fair value of $3.5 million issued to William F. Ruprecht, in accordance with the terms of his employment agreement, and (ii) 227,936 RSU's with annual vesting over a three-year service period and a fair value of $10.2 million related almost entirely to Sotheby's incentive compensation programs.
Summary of RSU’s and PSU’s—For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, changes to the number of outstanding RSU’s and PSU’s were as follows (shares in thousands):
Number of RSU’s and PSU’s | Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value | |||||
Outstanding at January 1, 2014 | 1,823 | $ | 35.37 | |||
Granted | 651 | $ | 44.68 | |||
Vested | (604 | ) | $ | 30.21 | ||
Canceled | (49 | ) | $ | 38.93 | ||
Outstanding at September 30, 2014 | 1,821 | $ | 40.32 | |||
The aggregate fair value of RSU’s and PSU's that vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 was $28.1 million and $26.9 million, respectively, based on the closing price of Sotheby's Common Stock on the dates the shares vested. As of September 30, 2014, 3.6 million shares were available for future awards pursuant to the Restricted Stock Unit Plan.
Stock Options—Stock options issued pursuant to the Sotheby's 1997 Stock Option Plan are exercisable into authorized, but unissued shares of Sotheby's Common Stock. Stock options vest evenly over four years and expire ten years after the date of grant. As of September 30, 2014, 35,350 shares of Common Stock were available for the issuance of stock options under the Stock Option Plan.
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For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, changes to the number of stock options outstanding were as follows (options and aggregate intrinsic value in thousands):
Options | Weighted Average Exercise Price | Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in Years) | Aggregate Intrinsic Value | |||||||||
Outstanding at January 1, 2014 | 93 | $ | 22.11 | |||||||||
Exercised | (43 | ) | $ | 22.11 | ||||||||
Outstanding at September 30, 2014 | 50 | $ | 22.11 | 5.4 | $ | 681 | ||||||
Exercisable at September 30, 2014 | 50 | $ | 22.11 | 5.4 | $ | 681 | ||||||
The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 was $1.2 million and $3.5 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, cash proceeds received as a result of stock option exercises were $1 million and $4 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the excess tax benefit realized from the exercise of stock options was $0.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively.
12. Restructuring Charges
On July 16, 2014, the Executive Committee of Sotheby's Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan (the "2014 Restructuring Plan") principally impacting Sotheby's operations in the United States and the United Kingdom. The 2014 Restructuring Plan is the result of a strategic review conducted by management and will result in the reallocation of resources to collecting categories and regions with the highest growth opportunity in the future. A large majority of the headcount reductions resulting from the 2014 Restructuring Plan are expected to be implemented by the end of 2014 with the remainder occurring in 2015.
The 2014 Restructuring Plan is expected to result in total Restructuring Charges of approximately $14.8 million, consisting of $14.3 million in employee termination benefits recognized in the third quarter of 2014 (of which $2.1 million was paid in the third quarter of 2014) and approximately $0.5 million in lease exit costs expected to be recognized in the fourth quarter of 2014. The accrued liability related to the 2014 Restructuring Plan was $12.2 million as of September 30, 2014 and is recorded on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets within Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities. This liability will be settled through cash payments to be made principally in the fourth quarter of 2014.
13. Special Charges, Net
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, Sotheby's recognized Special Charges of $20.1 million related to third party advisory, legal, and other professional service fees directly associated with issues related to shareholder activism, the resulting proxy contest with Third Point, and the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan and the change in control provision in its credit agreement. This amount is net of a $4.6 million insurance recovery recognized in the third quarter of 2014 pertaining to certain professional services fees incurred in defense of the litigation concerning the former shareholder rights plan and the change in control provision in Sotheby's credit agreement.
Included in Special Charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is a $10 million charge recognized in the second quarter of 2014 related to the reimbursement by Sotheby's of Third Point's documented, out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the proxy contest and the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan. This reimbursement is part of a support agreement Sotheby's entered into with Third Point, Daniel S. Loeb, Olivier Reza, Harry J. Wilson and other entities affiliated with Third Point (together with Third Point, the “Third Point Entities”) on May 4, 2014 pursuant to which Sotheby's and Third Point settled the previously pending proxy contest for the election of directors (the "Support Agreement"). Pursuant to the Support Agreement, on May 4, 2014, Sotheby's Board of Directors expanded the size of the Board to 15 directors and appointed Mr. Loeb, Mr. Reza and Mr. Wilson (the “Third Point Nominees”) to fill the resulting vacancies. The Support Agreement also contains various other terms and provisions, including with respect to standstill and voting commitments entered into by Third Point, Third Point's withdrawal of the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan, and the accelerated expiration of Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan.
(See Note 8 for information related to the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan and the change in control provision in its credit agreement. See Note 10 for information related to Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan.)
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14. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The following is a summary of the changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 | Foreign Currency Items | Defined Benefit Pension Items | Total | |||||||||
Balance at July 1, 2014 | $ | 7,452 | $ | (38,399 | ) | $ | (30,947 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications | (22,601 | ) | 2,130 | (20,471 | ) | |||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | — | 476 | 476 | |||||||||
Net other comprehensive (loss) income | (22,601 | ) | 2,606 | (19,995 | ) | |||||||
Balance at September 30, 2014 | $ | (15,149 | ) | $ | (35,793 | ) | $ | (50,942 | ) | |||
Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 | Foreign Currency Items | Defined Benefit Pension Items | Total | |||||||||
Balance at July 1, 2013 | $ | (37,279 | ) | $ | (31,858 | ) | $ | (69,137 | ) | |||
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications | 25,796 | (1,824 | ) | 23,972 | ||||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | — | 278 | 278 | |||||||||
Net other comprehensive income (loss) | 25,796 | (1,546 | ) | 24,250 | ||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2013 | $ | (11,483 | ) | $ | (33,404 | ) | $ | (44,887 | ) | |||
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 | Foreign Currency Items | Defined Benefit Pension Items | Total | |||||||||
Balance at January 1, 2014 | $ | (1,352 | ) | $ | (38,101 | ) | $ | (39,453 | ) | |||
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications | (15,855 | ) | 881 | (14,974 | ) | |||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | 2,058 | 1,427 | 3,485 | |||||||||
Net other comprehensive (loss) income | (13,797 | ) | 2,308 | (11,489 | ) | |||||||
Balance at September 30, 2014 | $ | (15,149 | ) | $ | (35,793 | ) | $ | (50,942 | ) | |||
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 | Foreign Currency Items | Defined Benefit Pension Items | Total | |||||||||
Balance at January 1, 2013 | $ | (16,084 | ) | $ | (34,291 | ) | $ | (50,375 | ) | |||
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications | 4,601 | 54 | 4,655 | |||||||||
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss | — | 833 | 833 | |||||||||
Net other comprehensive income | 4,601 | 887 | 5,488 | |||||||||
Balance at September 30, 2013 | $ | (11,483 | ) | $ | (33,404 | ) | $ | (44,887 | ) | |||
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income reflects the change in the foreign currency translation adjustment account during the period, including the change in the foreign currency translation adjustment account related to the U.K. Pension Plan. Such amounts are reported on a cumulative basis in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, $0.5 million and $0.3 million (respectively, net of taxes) was reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and recorded on a pre-tax basis to Salaries and Related Costs in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations as a result of the amortization of previously unrecognized U.K. Pension Plan losses. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, approximately $1.4 million and $0.8 million (respectively, net of taxes) was reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and recorded on a pre-tax basis to Salaries and Related Costs in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations as a result of the amortization of previously unrecognized U.K. Pension Plan losses. (See Note 7 for information related to the U.K. Pension Plan.)
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For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, $2.1 million was reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss to Other Income in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations as a result of the cumulative translation adjustment that was recognized upon the liquidation of a foreign subsidiary.
15. Income Taxes
In January 2014, management and the Board of Directors concluded a review of Sotheby's capital allocation and financial policies and, as a result: (i) established separate capital structures and financial policies for its Agency and Finance segments, (ii) returned $325 million of excess liquidity to shareholders in March 2014 through a $300 million special dividend and $25 million of Common Stock repurchases (see Note 10), and (iii) committed to an annual assessment of Sotheby's capital position to determine the amount of any excess capital available to be returned to shareholders. The $300 million special dividend was funded principally by the repatriation of $250 million of accumulated foreign earnings from Sotheby’s subsidiaries in Switzerland ($120 million), the U.K. ($105 million), and Hong Kong ($25 million). The remaining $50 million of the special dividend was funded by existing domestic cash balances.
Based on the results of this review and current projections and planned uses of foreign cash balances, management has determined that, beginning in 2014, the current earnings of Sotheby's foreign subsidiaries will not be indefinitely reinvested. Accordingly, beginning in the first quarter of 2014, U.S. income taxes are being accrued on these earnings, resulting in an increase of approximately 7% to Sotheby's 2014 estimated annual effective income tax rate. Management continues to consider the unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries that were generated prior to 2014 to be indefinitely reinvested.
16. Uncertain Tax Positions
As of September 30, 2014, Sotheby’s liability for unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, was $23.7 million, representing a net decrease of $1.7 million when compared to the liability of $25.4 million as of December 31, 2013. This net decrease is primarily the result of the expiration of the statute of limitations for certain tax years and the settlement of an audit. As of September 30, 2013, Sotheby’s liability for unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, was $39.5 million. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect Sotheby’s effective tax rate was $13 million, $11.7 million, and $24.4 million, respectively. Sotheby’s believes it is reasonably possible that a decrease of $6.3 million in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits can occur within 12 months of the September 30, 2014 balance sheet date as a result of the expiration of statutes of limitations and the expected settlements of ongoing tax audits.
Sotheby’s is subject to taxation in the U.S. and various state and foreign jurisdictions and, as a result, is subject to ongoing tax audits in various jurisdictions. Sotheby’s various U.S. federal, state, and foreign tax returns are currently under examination by taxing authorities. The earliest open tax year for the major jurisdictions in which Sotheby's does business, primarily the U.S. (including various state and local jurisdictions), the U.K., and Hong Kong, is 2007.
Sotheby’s recognizes interest expense and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of Income Tax Expense. The accrual for such interest and penalties increased by less than $0.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.
Sotheby’s policy is to record interest expense related to sales, value added and other non-income based taxes as Interest Expense in its Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. Penalties related to such taxes are recorded as General and Administrative Expenses in its Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. Interest expense and penalties related to income taxes are recorded as a component of Income Tax (Benefit) Expense in Sotheby’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
17. Related Party Transactions
From time-to-time, in the ordinary course of business, related parties such as members of Sotheby's Board of Directors and certain employees buy and sell property via auctions and private sales conducted by Sotheby's. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, Sotheby’s results include Agency Revenues of $0.1 million and $2.8 million, respectively, related to the sale and purchase of property by related parties. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, results include Agency Revenues of $3.7 million related to the sale and purchase of property by related parties. As of September 30, 2014, December 31, 2013, and September 30, 2013, Accounts Receivable (net) included $0.1 million, $2.7 million, and $0.1 million, respectively, associated with auction or private sale purchases made by related parties. The $0.1 million related party receivable balance outstanding as of September 30, 2014 was collected in October 2014.
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18. Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In March 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2013-05, which states that a cumulative translation adjustment attached to a parent’s investment in a foreign entity should be recognized in the income statement in a manner consistent with the derecognition guidance on investments in entities. For example, the entire amount of the cumulative translation adjustment associated with foreign entities would be recognized in the income statement upon the sale of a foreign entity that represents a substantially complete liquidation of the investment in that entity or in circumstances which result in the loss of a controlling financial interest in an investment in a foreign entity (i.e., the foreign entity is deconsolidated). ASU 2013-05 was adopted by Sotheby's on January 1, 2014.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, which introduces a new five-step framework for revenue recognition. The core principal of the standard is that entities should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration for which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU also requires enhanced disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from an entity’s contracts with customers. This standard will be effective for Sotheby’s beginning on January 1, 2017 and can be applied either retrospectively to each period presented or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. Management is currently assessing the potential impact of adopting this new accounting standard on Sotheby’s financial statements.
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ITEM 2: MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (or “MD&A”) should be read in conjunction with Note 4 (“Segment Reporting”) of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
OVERVIEW
Sotheby's Business
Sotheby’s is a global art business whose operations are organized under three segments: Agency, Principal, and Finance. The Agency segment earns commissions by matching buyers and sellers of authenticated fine art, decorative art, and high-end jewelry (collectively, “art” or “works of art” or “artwork” or "property") through the auction or private sale process. The Principal segment earns revenues from the sale of artworks that have been purchased opportunistically by Sotheby’s. The Finance segment earns interest income through art-related financing activities by making loans to certain collectors and dealers that are secured by works of art.
The global art market is influenced over time by the overall strength and stability of the global economy, the financial markets of various countries, geopolitical conditions and world events, all of which may impact the willingness of potential buyers and sellers to purchase and sell art. In addition, the amount and quality of art consigned for sale is influenced by other factors not within Sotheby’s control, and many consignments often become available as a result of the death or financial or marital difficulties of the owner. These factors cause the supply and demand for works of art to be unpredictable and may lead to significant variability in Sotheby's revenues from period to period.
Competition in the international art market is intense. A fundamental challenge facing any auctioneer or art dealer is to obtain high quality and valuable property for sale either as agent or as principal. Sotheby's primary global competitor is Christie’s International, PLC, a privately held, French-owned, auction house. In response to the competitive environment, Sotheby’s may offer consignors a variety of financial inducements such as auction commission sharing arrangements and auction guarantees as a means to secure a high-value consignments. Although these inducements may lead to a higher level of auction consignments, they can put pressure on auction commission margins, and auction guarantees introduce the possibility of incurring a loss on the transaction and reduced liquidity if the underlying property fails to sell at the minimum guaranteed price. To mitigate the pressure on auction commission margins, from time-to-time Sotheby’s adjusts its commission rate structures. In addition, Sotheby’s may reduce its financial exposure under auction guarantees through contractual risk and reward sharing arrangements such as irrevocable bids under which a counterparty commits to bid a predetermined price on the guaranteed property.
Sotheby's is a service business in which the ability of its employees to source high-value works of art and develop and maintain relationships with potential sellers and buyers of works of art is essential to its success. Sotheby's business is highly dependent upon attracting and retaining qualified personnel and employee compensation is its most substantial operating expense. Sotheby’s also incurs significant sale marketing costs, as well as general and administrative expenses to support its global operations. While a large portion of Sotheby’s operating expenses are fixed, certain categories of expense are variable, with sale marketing costs dependent upon the volume of auction activity and certain elements of employee compensation a function of Sotheby’s profitability.
Industry Trends
In late-2009, the global art market began a period of expansion that has resulted in some of the most profitable years in Sotheby’s history, and the market has remained strong through the first nine months of 2014. A significant driver of the expansion of the global art market and Sotheby’s profitability during this period has been the growth of the Contemporary and Asian art markets, as well as increased demand for art from clients in China and other emerging markets across several collecting categories.
As the global art market has grown, the competitive environment between Sotheby’s and Christie’s has intensified, resulting in a decline in auction commission margins over the past few years due to an increase in the use of auction commission sharing arrangements as a means to secure high-value consignments. To help mitigate the recent decline in auction commission margins, in March 2013, management enacted an increase in Sotheby’s buyer’s premium rate structure. In addition, in an effort to capture a greater proportion of high-value consignments, Sotheby’s has increased its use of auction guarantees, sometimes without the protection of irrevocable bids.
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To further leverage the growth of the global art market witnessed in recent years, Sotheby’s has developed its presence in emerging markets and implemented initiatives to grow private sales. In the emerging markets, Sotheby’s has deepened its relationships with Chinese art collectors by implementing regional marketing initiatives, investing in new staff with requisite skills to service Asian clients, and expanding its facilities in Hong Kong. In addition, recognizing that Beijing is the cultural and arts capital of China, Sotheby's Beijing was established in 2012 to provide a platform for art-related auctions and private selling exhibitions of non-cultural relics, traveling exhibitions, and educational activities in mainland China. Elsewhere, Sotheby’s has pursued opportunities in emerging markets such as Russia, the Middle East, South America and India. In the private sales arena, over the past several years, Sotheby’s has committed additional management and specialist talent and opened dedicated private sale exhibition galleries in New York, London and Hong Kong, branded as S|2 and focused on selling Contemporary Art.
Along with the recent growth in the global art market and Sotheby’s revenues, operating expenses have also increased. In late-2013, management undertook an initial review of Sotheby’s cost structure, and in 2014, has achieved cost savings across various categories of expenses including professional fees and other general and administrative expenses, and auction direct costs. In July 2014, Sotheby’s announced a restructuring plan principally impacting its operations in the U.S. and U.K. that will result in the reallocation of resources to collecting categories and regions with the highest growth opportunity in the future. Upon full implementation of the restructuring plan, management expects a net benefit to Sotheby’s cost base. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Seasonality
The worldwide art auction market has two principal selling seasons, which generally occur in the second and fourth quarters of the year. In the aggregate, second and fourth quarter Net Auction Sales (as defined below) represented 83% and 84% of total Net Auction Sales in 2013 and 2012, respectively, with auction commission revenues comprising approximately 81% of Sotheby's total revenues in those years. Accordingly, Sotheby's financial results are seasonal, with peak revenues and operating income generally occurring in the second and fourth quarters. Consequently, first and third quarter results have historically reflected lower revenues when compared to the second and fourth quarters and, typically, a net loss due to the fixed nature of many of Sotheby's operating expenses. Management believes that investors should focus on results for six and twelve month periods, which better reflect the business cycle of the art auction market.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2014
Overview
In the third quarter of 2014, Sotheby's reported a pre-tax loss of ($44.2) million million as compared to a pre-tax loss of ($41.9) million in the same period of the prior year. On an after-tax basis, Sotheby's third quarter results improved by $2.4 million (8%) as a result of a higher income tax benefit recorded in the quarter due to an increase in Sotheby's annual effective income tax rate. Results for the third quarter of 2014 include restructuring charges of $14.3 million and an insurance recovery related to previously reported special charges of $4.2 million. Excluding these items, Sotheby's pre-tax loss improved by $7.8 million (19%) principally due to a lower level of expenses largely attributable to management's continued cost reduction initiatives. The comparison to the prior year is also favorably impacted by a $15.7 million (32%) increase in auction commission revenues, which is largely offset by a $13.6 million (52%) decline in private sale commissions.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, Sotheby's pre-tax income increased $24 million (49%) principally due to the improved performance of the Agency segment, which reported an increase in gross profit of $48.9 million (12%). On an after-tax basis, Sotheby's year-to-date results improved $4.5 million (12%), as the improvement in pre-tax income was partially offset by the increase in Sotheby's effective income tax rate. The improved performance of the Agency segment is principally the result of a 26% increase in Net Auction Sales and a significant reduction in auction direct costs as a percentage of Net Auction Sales, partially offset by a $23.3 million (35%) decrease in private sale commission revenues and a decline in Auction Commission Margin from 16.2% to 15.5%. Results for the current year-to-date period include special charges of $20.1 million and restructuring charges of $14.3 million, for which there were no comparable charges in the prior year. Excluding these items, pre-tax income improved by $58.4 million (120%), including a $6.4 million reduction in interest expense as a result of the repayment of Sotheby's convertible notes upon their maturity in June 2013.
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Outlook
The global art market continues to reflect strong demand and high prices, as evidenced by the results of Sotheby’s record-setting November 2014 auctions of Impressionist and Modern Art, which achieved Aggregate Auction Sales of $470 million. In this strong market, the competitive environment for high-value consignments is robust and auction commission margins remain under pressure.
Sotheby’s use of auction guarantees increased this past quarter in order to secure unique high-value consignments for the autumn 2014 sale season. While management expects auction guarantees to remain an important tool in securing consignments and intends to use auction guarantees in response to unique opportunities as they arise, the level of Sotheby’s auction guarantee exposure in a selling season will continue to vary and is dependent upon specific opportunities.
In 2014, management has successfully implemented cost savings initiatives across various categories of expenses, including professional fees and other general and administrative expenses, marketing expenses, and auction direct costs. In addition, in July 2014, the Executive Committee of Sotheby’s Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan that will result in the reallocation of resources to collecting categories and regions with the highest growth opportunity in the future. Management will complete this reallocation process in conjunction with the financial planning process for 2015 that is currently underway and will provide an update with the results early in 2015.
(See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
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Results of Operations for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 and 2013
The tables below present a summary of Sotheby’s consolidated results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, as well as a comparison between the current and prior year periods (in thousands of dollars, except per share data):
Favorable /(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Agency | $ | 76,229 | $ | 76,929 | $ | (700 | ) | (1 | %) | ||||||
Principal | 6,273 | 23,491 | (17,218 | ) | (73 | %) | |||||||||
Finance | 8,917 | 5,164 | 3,753 | 73 | % | ||||||||||
License fees | 2,376 | 1,902 | 474 | 25 | % | ||||||||||
Other | 406 | 378 | 28 | 7 | % | ||||||||||
Total revenues | 94,201 | 107,864 | (13,663 | ) | (13 | %) | |||||||||
Expenses (a) | 131,670 | 142,225 | 10,555 | 7 | % | ||||||||||
Operating loss | (37,469 | ) | (34,361 | ) | (3,108 | ) | (9 | %) | |||||||
Net interest expense (b) | (8,136 | ) | (8,481 | ) | 345 | 4 | % | ||||||||
Other income | 1,438 | 982 | 456 | 46 | % | ||||||||||
Loss before taxes | (44,167 | ) | (41,860 | ) | (2,307 | ) | (6 | %) | |||||||
Equity in earnings of investees, net of taxes | 296 | 31 | 265 | * | |||||||||||
Income tax benefit | (16,173 | ) | (11,698 | ) | 4,475 | 38 | % | ||||||||
Net loss | (27,698 | ) | (30,131 | ) | 2,433 | 8 | % | ||||||||
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest | (28 | ) | — | (28 | ) | N/A | |||||||||
Net loss attributable to Sotheby's | $ | (27,726 | ) | $ | (30,131 | ) | $ | 2,405 | 8 | % | |||||
Diluted loss per share - Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.44 | ) | $ | 0.04 | 9 | % | |||||
Statistical Metrics: | |||||||||||||||
Aggregate Auction Sales (c) | $ | 385,277 | $ | 274,538 | $ | 110,739 | 40 | % | |||||||
Net Auction Sales (d) | $ | 322,973 | $ | 228,587 | $ | 94,386 | 41 | % | |||||||
Private Sales (e) | $ | 153,538 | $ | 390,365 | $ | (236,827 | ) | (61 | %) | ||||||
Consolidated Sales (f) | $ | 543,488 | $ | 688,394 | $ | (144,906 | ) | (21 | %) | ||||||
Adjusted Expenses (a) | $ | 113,555 | $ | 119,808 | $ | 6,253 | 5 | % | |||||||
Effective income tax rate | 36.6% | 27.9% | N/A | (8.7 | %) | ||||||||||
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Favorable /(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Agency | $ | 515,544 | $ | 466,047 | $ | 49,497 | 11 | % | |||||||
Principal | 41,007 | 26,696 | 14,311 | 54 | % | ||||||||||
Finance | 22,739 | 15,658 | 7,081 | 45 | % | ||||||||||
License fees | 6,535 | 5,178 | 1,357 | 26 | % | ||||||||||
Other | 1,004 | 898 | 106 | 12 | % | ||||||||||
Total revenues | 586,829 | 514,477 | 72,352 | 14 | % | ||||||||||
Expenses (a) | 489,776 | 436,837 | (52,939 | ) | (12 | %) | |||||||||
Operating income | 97,053 | 77,640 | 19,413 | 25 | % | ||||||||||
Net interest expense (b) | (24,869 | ) | (31,306 | ) | 6,437 | 21 | % | ||||||||
Other income | 690 | 2,513 | (1,823 | ) | (73 | %) | |||||||||
Income before taxes | 72,874 | 48,847 | 24,027 | 49 | % | ||||||||||
Equity in earnings of investees, net of taxes | 680 | 19 | 661 | N/A | |||||||||||
Income tax expense | 29,502 | 9,613 | (19,889 | ) | * | ||||||||||
Net income | 44,052 | 39,253 | 4,799 | 12 | % | ||||||||||
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest | (260 | ) | — | (260 | ) | N/A | |||||||||
Net income attributable to Sotheby's | $ | 43,792 | $ | 39,253 | $ | 4,539 | 12 | % | |||||||
Diluted earnings per share - Sotheby’s common shareholders | $ | 0.61 | $ | 0.57 | $ | 0.04 | 7 | % | |||||||
Statistical Metrics: | |||||||||||||||
Aggregate Auction Sales (c) | $ | 3,576,934 | $ | 2,848,309 | $ | 728,625 | 26 | % | |||||||
Net Auction Sales (d) | $ | 3,028,681 | $ | 2,406,060 | $ | 622,621 | 26 | % | |||||||
Private Sales (e) | $ | 447,569 | $ | 951,197 | $ | (503,628 | ) | (53 | %) | ||||||
Consolidated Sales (f) | $ | 4,040,819 | $ | 3,826,202 | $ | 214,617 | 6 | % | |||||||
Adjusted Expenses (a) | $ | 415,384 | $ | 409,722 | $ | (5,662 | ) | (1 | %) | ||||||
Effective income tax rate | 40.5 | % | 19.7 | % | N/A | (20.8 | %) | ||||||||
Legend: | |
* | Represents a change in excess of 100%. |
(a) | In this table, Sotheby's also presents Adjusted Expenses, which is a non-GAAP financial measure that reports total expenses excluding the cost of Principal revenues, restructuring charges, and special charges (net). See the captioned sections below for a description of the amounts comprising restructuring charges and special charges (net). Also, see “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.” |
(b) | Represents interest expense less interest income. |
(c) | Represents the total hammer price of property sold at auction plus buyer’s premium. |
(d) | Represents the total hammer price of property sold at auction. |
(e) | Represents the total purchase price of property sold in private sales brokered by Sotheby’s, including its commissions. |
(f) | Represents the sum of Aggregate Auction Sales, Private Sales, and Principal revenues. For the purposes of this calculation, the amount of Aggregate Auction Sales related to the sale of Principal segment inventory at Sotheby's auctions is eliminated. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, such sales totaled $1.6 million and $24.7 million, respectively. |
34#
Agency Segment
The Agency segment earns commissions by matching buyers and sellers (also known as consignors) of authenticated fine art, decorative art, and high-end jewelry (collectively, “art” or “works of art” or “artwork” or "property") through the auction or private sale process. The tables below present a summary of Agency segment gross profit and related statistical metrics for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, as well as a comparison between the current and prior year periods (in thousands of dollars):
Favorable /(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Agency revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Auction commissions | $ | 64,247 | $ | 48,581 | $ | 15,666 | 32 | % | |||||||
Private sale commissions | 12,412 | 25,979 | (13,567 | ) | (52 | %) | |||||||||
Auction guarantee and inventory activities | (3,864 | ) | (921 | ) | (2,943 | ) | * | ||||||||
Other Agency revenues | 3,434 | 3,290 | 144 | 4 | % | ||||||||||
Total Agency revenues | 76,229 | 76,929 | (700 | ) | (1 | %) | |||||||||
Agency direct costs: | |||||||||||||||
Auction direct costs | 4,035 | 4,976 | 941 | 19 | % | ||||||||||
Private sale expenses | 1,967 | 2,303 | 336 | 15 | % | ||||||||||
Total Agency direct costs | 6,002 | 7,279 | 1,277 | 18 | % | ||||||||||
Intersegment costs (a) | 2,124 | 2,490 | 366 | 15 | % | ||||||||||
Agency segment gross profit (b) | $ | 68,103 | $ | 67,160 | $ | 943 | 1 | % | |||||||
Statistical Metrics: | |||||||||||||||
Aggregate Auction Sales (c) | $ | 385,277 | $ | 274,538 | $ | 110,739 | 40 | % | |||||||
Net Auction Sales (d) | $ | 322,973 | $ | 228,587 | $ | 94,386 | 41 | % | |||||||
Items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $1 million | 43 | 26 | 17 | 65 | % | ||||||||||
Total hammer price of items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $1 million | $ | 139,452 | $ | 76,641 | $ | 62,811 | 82 | % | |||||||
Items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $2 million | 21 | 11 | 10 | 91 | % | ||||||||||
Total hammer price of items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $2 million | $ | 110,187 | $ | 55,169 | $ | 55,018 | 100 | % | |||||||
Total auction commission margin (e) | 19.9 | % | 21.3 | % | N/A | (1.40 | %) | ||||||||
Auction direct costs as a percentage of Net Auction Sales | 1.25 | % | 2.18 | % | N/A | 0.93 | % | ||||||||
Private Sales (f) | $ | 153,538 | $ | 390,365 | $ | (236,827 | ) | (61 | %) | ||||||
35#
Favorable /(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Agency revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Auction commissions | $ | 468,087 | $ | 390,836 | $ | 77,251 | 20 | % | |||||||
Private sale commissions | 42,343 | 65,621 | (23,278 | ) | (35 | %) | |||||||||
Auction guarantee and inventory activities | (9,409 | ) | (1,435 | ) | (7,974 | ) | * | ||||||||
Other Agency revenues | 14,523 | 11,025 | 3,498 | 32 | % | ||||||||||
Total Agency revenues | 515,544 | 466,047 | 49,497 | 11 | % | ||||||||||
Agency direct costs: | |||||||||||||||
Auction direct costs | 43,013 | 42,444 | (569 | ) | (1 | %) | |||||||||
Private sale expenses | 5,043 | 4,544 | (499 | ) | (11 | %) | |||||||||
Total Agency direct costs | 48,056 | 46,988 | (1,068 | ) | (2 | %) | |||||||||
Intersegment costs (a) | 6,703 | 7,129 | 426 | 6 | % | ||||||||||
Agency segment gross profit (b) | $ | 460,785 | $ | 411,930 | $ | 48,855 | 12 | % | |||||||
Statistical Metrics: | |||||||||||||||
Aggregate Auction Sales (c) | $ | 3,576,934 | $ | 2,848,309 | $ | 728,625 | 26 | % | |||||||
Net Auction Sales (d) | $ | 3,028,681 | $ | 2,406,060 | $ | 622,621 | 26 | % | |||||||
Items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $1 million | 455 | 345 | 110 | 32 | % | ||||||||||
Total hammer price of items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $1 million | $ | 1,849,060 | $ | 1,328,199 | $ | 520,861 | 39 | % | |||||||
Items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $2 million | 243 | 165 | 78 | 47 | % | ||||||||||
Total hammer price of items sold at auction with a hammer price greater than $2 million | $ | 1,393,300 | $ | 1,032,534 | $ | 360,766 | 35 | % | |||||||
Total auction commission margin (e) | 15.5 | % | 16.2 | % | N/A | (0.70 | %) | ||||||||
Auction direct costs as a percentage of Net Auction Sales | 1.42 | % | 1.76 | % | N/A | 0.34 | % | ||||||||
Private Sales (f) | $ | 447,569 | $ | 951,197 | $ | (503,628 | ) | (53 | %) | ||||||
Legend: | |||||||
* | Represents a change in excess of 100%. | ||||||
(a) | Represents interest charged by the Finance segment for secured loans issued with an interest rate below the Finance segment's target rate, as well as facility fees charged by the Finance segment for secured loans where no facility fee is collected from the borrower. | ||||||
(b) | The calculation of Agency segment gross profit does not include the impact of salaries and related costs, general and administrative expenses, and depreciation and amortization expense. However, these items are deducted in the determination of segment income before taxes as reported in Note 4 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. | ||||||
(c) | Represents the total hammer price of property sold at auction plus buyer's premium. | ||||||
(d) | Represents the total hammer price of property sold at auction. | ||||||
(e) | Represents total auction commission revenues as a percentage of Net Auction Sales. | ||||||
(f) | Represents the total purchase price of property sold in private sales brokered by Sotheby's, including its commissions. | ||||||
Overview—For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, Agency segment gross profit improved by $0.9 million (1%) and $48.9 million (12%), respectively, principally due to increases of 32% and 20%, respectively, in auction commission revenues, primarily resulting from a higher level of Net Auction Sales in the periods. Also favorably impacting the comparison of Agency gross profit between the current and prior periods is a significant reduction in auction direct costs as a percentage of Net Auction Sales, from 2.18% to 1.25% during the third quarter and from 1.76% to 1.42% during the year-to-date period. The overall improvement in Agency segment gross profit is partially offset by decreases in private sale commissions of $13.6 million (52%) and $23.3 million (35%) during the three and nine month periods, respectively. See the discussion below for an explanation of the significant factors contributing to the overall improvement in Agency segment gross profit during the periods.
36#
Auction Commission Revenues—In its role as auctioneer, Sotheby’s accepts property on consignment and matches sellers to buyers through the auction process. Sotheby’s invoices the buyer for the purchase price of the property (including the commission owed by the buyer), collects payment from the buyer, and remits to the seller the net sale proceeds after deducting its commissions, expenses and applicable taxes and royalties. Sotheby’s auction commissions include those paid by the buyer (“buyer’s premium”) and those paid by the seller (“seller’s commission”) (collectively, “auction commission revenue”), both of which are calculated as a percentage of Net Auction Sales.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, auction commission revenues improved by $15.7 million (32%) and $77.3 million (20%), respectively, due to increases of $94.4 million (41%) and $622.6 million (26%), respectively, in Net Auction Sales. The overall increase in auction commission revenues is partially offset by decreases in Auction Commission Margin from 21.3% to 19.9% during the third quarter and from 16.2% to 15.5% during the year-to-date period. Auction commission revenues for the periods are also favorably impacted by changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which contributed $4.1 million and $16.5 million, respectively, to the overall increase. Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes, auction commission revenues increased $11.6 million (24%) and $60.8 million (16%) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.
(See "Net Auction Sales" and "Auction Commission Margin" below for a more detailed discussion of these statistical metrics.)
Net Auction Sales—For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the $94.4 million (41%) improvement in Net Auction Sales is partially due to an increase in sales of Contemporary Art ($37 million), attributable to a change in the timing of the early summer Contemporary Art Part II Day sale in London, as well as an improvement in recurring mid-season Contemporary sales in New York. The Contemporary Art Part II Day sale in London was held in July in 2014 and achieved approximately $20 million. In 2013, this sale was held at the end of June, with Net Auction Sales totaling $25 million. Also, favorably impacting the comparison of third quarter Net Auction Sales to the prior year is an increase in sales of Old Master Paintings ($36 million) and the favorable impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates ($22 million).
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the increase in Net Auction Sales is attributable to improved performance in the following collecting categories (in millions of dollars):
Nine Months Ended | |||||||
September 30, 2014 | |||||||
$ Increase | % Increase | ||||||
Impressionist and Modern Art | $ | 129.1 | 20 | % | |||
Contemporary Art | 125.6 | 19 | % | ||||
Asian Art | 88.2 | 29 | % | ||||
Jewelry | 68.6 | 35 | % | ||||
Old Master Paintings and Drawings | 14.9 | 11 | % | ||||
Other fine art, decorative art and collectibles | 84.5 | 19 | % | ||||
Sub-total | 510.9 | 21 | % | ||||
Change in foreign exchange rates | 111.7 | N/A | |||||
Total | $ | 622.6 | 26 | % | |||
Auction Commission Margin—Auction Commission Margin represents total auction commission revenues as a percentage of Net Auction Sales. Typically, Auction Commission Margin is higher for lower value works of art or collections, while higher valued property earns a lower Auction Commission Margin.
Auction Commission Margin may be adversely impacted by arrangements whereby Sotheby's shares its buyer's premium with a consignor in order to secure a high-value consignment. Auction Commission Margin may also be adversely impacted by the use of auction guarantees. For example, when issuing an auction guarantee, Sotheby's may enter into a risk and reward sharing arrangement with a counterparty whereby Sotheby's financial exposure under the auction guarantee is reduced in exchange for sharing its buyer's premium. Also, in situations when guaranteed property sells for less than the guaranteed price, Sotheby's buyer's premium from that sale is used to reduce the loss on the transaction. (See Note 9 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to Sotheby's use of auction guarantees.)
37#
In order to enhance revenue and strengthen Auction Commission Margin, Sotheby's enacted a change to its buyer's premium rate structure that became effective on March 15, 2013. In the U.S., the buyer's premium became 25% of the hammer (sale) price on the first $100,000; 20% of the hammer (sale) price above $100,000 up to and including $2 million; and 12% of any remaining amount over $2 million. In foreign salesrooms, with certain exceptions, these U.S. dollar thresholds have been translated into an equivalent fixed local currency amount. Prior to March 15, 2013, in U.S. salesrooms, the buyer's premium rate structure was 25% of the first $50,000 of hammer (sale) price; 20% on the portion of hammer (sale) price above $50,000 up to and including $1 million; and 12% on any remaining amount over $1 million.
For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the decrease in Auction Commission Margin is primarily due to sales mix, as there was a shift in the proportion of property sold in the various price bands of Sotheby's buyer's premium rate structure.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the decrease in Auction Commission Margin is primarily due to the competitive environment for high-value consignments, which resulted in a higher level of buyer's premium shared with consignors. Also contributing to the decrease in Auction Commission Margin are situations in the current period when guaranteed property sold for less than the guaranteed price, necessitating the use of buyer's premium to reduce the loss on those transactions. Furthermore, during the current year-to-date period, sales mix adversely impacted Auction Commission Margin as there was a shift in the proportion of property sold in the various price bands of Sotheby's buyer's premium rate structure.
Private Sale Commissions—Private sale commissions are earned through the direct brokering of purchases and sales of art. Private sales are initiated either by a client wishing to sell property with Sotheby's acting as its exclusive agent in the transaction, or by a prospective buyer who is interested in purchasing a certain work of art privately. Private sale commissions can vary from period to period due in part to the timing of when sale transactions are initiated and completed.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, private sale commissions decreased $13.6 million (52%) and $23.3 million (35%), respectively, during the periods, despite a 69% increase in the number of private sale transactions completed by Sotheby's during the year-to-date period. The revenue decreases are largely due to a significant number of high-value transactions completed in the second and third quarters of 2013 that were not repeated in the current year.
Auction Guarantee and Inventory Activities—Auction guarantee and inventory activities consists mainly of gains and losses related to auction guarantees, including: (i) Sotheby's share of overage or shortfall related to guaranteed property offered or sold at auction; (ii) writedowns to the carrying value of previously guaranteed property that failed to sell at auction, and (iii) recoveries and losses on the eventual sale of previously guaranteed property that failed to sell at auction.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the net result from Sotheby's auction guarantee and inventory activities declined by $2.9 million and $8 million, respectively, when compared to the prior year principally due to losses incurred on certain guaranteed property offered at auction during the current year, as well as $1.4 million in year-to-date writedowns to the carrying value of previously guaranteed property that is currently held in inventory.
Other Agency Revenues—Other Agency revenues principally includes commissions and other fees earned by Sotheby's on sales brokered by third parties, fees charged to clients for catalogue production and insurance, catalogue subscription revenues and advertising revenues. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, Other Agency revenues increased $3.5 million (32%) due in part to a $1.7 million fee earned by Sotheby's in the first quarter of 2014 on a sale brokered by a third party.
38#
Agency Direct Costs—The tables below present a summary of Agency direct costs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, as well as a comparison between the current and prior year periods (in thousands of dollars):
Favorable / (Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Auction direct costs: | |||||||||||||||
Sale marketing | $ | 1,605 | $ | 1,339 | $ | (266 | ) | (20 | %) | ||||||
Shipping | 1,383 | 1,569 | 186 | 12 | % | ||||||||||
Sale venue | 257 | 658 | 401 | 61 | % | ||||||||||
Other | 790 | 1,410 | 620 | 44 | % | ||||||||||
Total auction direct costs | 4,035 | 4,976 | 941 | 19 | % | ||||||||||
Private sale expenses | 1,967 | 2,303 | 336 | 15 | % | ||||||||||
Total Agency direct costs | $ | 6,002 | $ | 7,279 | $ | 1,277 | 18 | % | |||||||
Statistical Metric: | |||||||||||||||
Auction direct costs as a % of Net Auction Sales | 1.25% | 2.18% | N/A | 0.93 | % | ||||||||||
Favorable / (Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Auction direct costs: | |||||||||||||||
Sale marketing | $ | 18,411 | $ | 19,310 | $ | 899 | 5 | % | |||||||
Shipping | 7,855 | 8,128 | 273 | 3 | % | ||||||||||
Sale venue | 7,584 | 7,229 | (355 | ) | (5 | %) | |||||||||
Other | 9,163 | 7,777 | (1,386 | ) | (18 | %) | |||||||||
Total auction direct costs | 43,013 | 42,444 | (569 | ) | (1 | %) | |||||||||
Private sale expenses | 5,043 | 4,544 | (499 | ) | (11 | %) | |||||||||
Total Agency direct costs | $ | 48,056 | $ | 46,988 | $ | (1,068 | ) | (2 | %) | ||||||
Statistical Metric: | |||||||||||||||
Auction direct costs as a % of Net Auction Sales | 1.42% | 1.76% | N/A | 0.34 | % | ||||||||||
Auction Direct Costs—A large portion of auction direct costs relate to sale marketing expenses such as catalogue production and distribution, advertising and promotion costs, and traveling exhibition costs. To a lesser extent, auction direct costs also include the cost of shipping property, sale venue costs, and other direct costs such as debit and credit card processing fees. The level of auction direct costs incurred in a period is generally dependent upon the volume and composition of Sotheby's auction sale offerings. For example, direct costs attributable to auctions of single-owner or other high-value collections are typically higher than those associated with standard various-owner auctions, mainly due to higher promotional costs for catalogues, special events, and traveling exhibitions, as well as higher shipping expenses.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, auction direct costs as a percentage of Net Auction Sales decreased from 2.18% to 1.25% and from 1.76% to 1.42%, respectively, when compared to the prior year as management continues to leverage increased efficiencies and enhanced spending controls.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, auction direct costs increased $0.6 million (1%) due to unfavorable changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which contributed $1.4 million to the net increase, as well as higher debit and credit card processing fees primarily resulting from the growth of Net Auction Sales in Asia where debit and credit cards are commonly used to pay for auction purchases.
As part of its annual financial planning for 2014, management established the goal to reduce auction direct costs as a percentage of Net Auction Sales by 10 basis points for the year ending December 31, 2014 when compared to 2013. As a result of the increased efficiencies and spending controls that have been implemented in the current year, management expects to exceed this goal. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
39#
Private Sale Expenses—Private sale expenses consist largely of sale marketing and exhibition costs. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, private sale expenses grew by $0.5 million (11%), principally due to an increase in the number of private sale exhibitions, consistent with Sotheby's strategic initiatives in this area.
Principal Segment
The activities of the Principal segment include the sale of artworks that have been purchased opportunistically by Sotheby's and, to a lesser extent, retail wine sales and the activities of Acquavella Modern Art, an equity investee. Under certain circumstances, the Principal segment provides secured loans to certain art dealers to finance the purchase of works of art. In these situations, Sotheby's acquires a partial ownership interest in the purchased property in addition to providing the loan. Upon its eventual sale, the loan is repaid and any profit or loss is shared by Sotheby's and the art dealer according to their respective ownership interests.
The Principal segment also holds the remaining inventory of Noortman Master Paintings (or "NMP"), an art dealer that was acquired by Sotheby's in June 2006. In recent years, NMP was adversely impacted by shifts in the collecting tastes of its clients and faced increased challenges in sourcing and successfully selling the categories of Old Master Paintings that traditionally formed the heart of its business. In the third quarter of 2011, management initiated a plan to restructure NMP’s business and sales strategy, but those efforts were not successful in reversing this trend. As a result, on December 31, 2013, NMP’s remaining office in London was closed. As of September 30, 2014, the carrying value of NMP's remaining inventory was $7.4 million, representing a $3.7 million (33%) decrease when compared to December 31, 2013. Management is continuing to execute its plans for further sales of NMP’s remaining inventory.
The tables below summarize Principal segment gross (loss) profit for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, as well as a comparison between the current and prior year periods (in thousands of dollars):
Favorable/(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Principal revenues | $ | 6,273 | $ | 23,491 | $ | (17,218 | ) | (73 | %) | ||||||
Cost of Principal revenues | (7,999 | ) | (22,417 | ) | 14,418 | 64 | % | ||||||||
Principal gross (loss) profit (a) | $ | (1,726 | ) | $ | 1,074 | $ | (2,800 | ) | * | ||||||
Favorable/(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Principal revenues | $ | 41,007 | $ | 26,696 | $ | 14,311 | 54 | % | |||||||
Cost of Principal revenues | (40,019 | ) | (27,115 | ) | (12,904 | ) | (48 | %) | |||||||
Principal gross profit (loss) (a) | $ | 988 | $ | (419 | ) | $ | 1,407 | * | |||||||
Legend: | |
* | Represents a change in excess of 100%. |
(a) | The calculation of Principal segment gross (loss) profit does not include the impact of salaries and related costs, general and administrative expenses, and depreciation and amortization expense. However, these items are deducted in the determination of segment (loss) income before taxes as reported in Note 4 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. |
The unfavorable comparison of third quarter Principal segment results to the prior year is attributable to the completion of two significant profitable sales during the third quarter of 2013, including the sale of an item from NMP's inventory which resulted in a gross profit of $1.6 million. To a lesser extent, the unfavorable comparison to the prior year quarter is due to a $0.4 million increase in inventory writedowns. However, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, inventory writedowns decreased by $1.5 million, resulting in improved Principal segment results for the year-to-date period.
40#
Finance Segment
The Finance segment provides certain collectors and art dealers with financing secured by works of art that Sotheby's either has in its possession or permits borrowers to possess. The Finance segment generally makes two types of secured loans: (1) advances secured by consigned property where the borrowers are contractually committed, in the near term, to sell the property through Sotheby's (a “consignor advance”); and (2) general purpose term loans secured by property not presently intended for sale (a “term loan”). (See Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to Finance segment loans.)
The lending activities of the Finance segment have historically been funded by the operating cash flows of the Agency segment with the ability to supplement those cash flows with revolving credit facility borrowings. In January 2014, Sotheby's established a separate capital structure for the Finance segment through which the Finance segment now predominantly relies on borrowings to fund client loans through a dedicated revolving credit facility. The debt funding of loans reduces the Finance segment's cost of capital and enhances returns in support of efforts to achieve a targeted 20% return on equity. Cash balances are also used to fund a portion of the Finance segment loan portfolio, as appropriate. (See Note 6 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to the Finance segment's revolving credit facility.)
Upon establishment of the Finance segment's dedicated revolving credit facility on February 13, 2014, the Finance segment had a maximum borrowing capacity of $450 million, of which $170 million was immediately drawn and used to initiate the debt financing of the client loan portfolio. On August 22, 2014, the borrowing capacity of the Finance segment's revolving credit facility was increased from $450 million to $550 million. Subsequent to February 13, 2014 and through September 30, 2014, a total of $449 million has been borrowed to fund further growth of the loan portfolio and to debt finance a portion of pre-existing loans.
The tables below present a summary of Finance segment gross profit and related statistical metrics for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, as well as a comparison between the current and prior year periods (in thousands of dollars):
Favorable/(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Finance revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Client Paid: | |||||||||||||||
Interest | $ | 7,982 | $ | 4,772 | $ | 3,210 | 67 | % | |||||||
Facility fees | 935 | 392 | 543 | * | |||||||||||
Total client paid revenues | 8,917 | 5,164 | 3,753 | 73 | % | ||||||||||
Intersegment revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Interest (a) | 1,815 | 2,093 | (278 | ) | (13 | %) | |||||||||
Facility fees (b) | 309 | 397 | (88 | ) | (22 | %) | |||||||||
Total intersegment revenues | 2,124 | 2,490 | (366 | ) | (15 | %) | |||||||||
Total Finance revenues | 11,041 | 7,654 | 3,387 | 44 | % | ||||||||||
Cost of Finance revenues (c) | 2,634 | 295 | (2,339 | ) | * | ||||||||||
Finance segment gross profit (d) | $ | 8,407 | $ | 7,359 | $ | 1,048 | 14 | % | |||||||
Loan Portfolio Metrics: | |||||||||||||||
Loan Portfolio Balance (e) | $ | 655,964 | $ | 456,094 | $ | 199,870 | 44 | % | |||||||
Average Loan Portfolio (f) | $ | 614,789 | $ | 433,600 | $ | 181,189 | 42 | % | |||||||
Credit Facility Borrowings Outstanding (g) | $ | 449,000 | $ | — | $ | 449,000 | N/A | ||||||||
Average Credit Facility Borrowings (h) | $ | 387,326 | $ | — | $ | 387,326 | N/A | ||||||||
Finance Revenue Margin (i) | 7.2 | % | 7.1 | % | N/A | 0.10 | % | ||||||||
Finance Segment Leverage Ratio (j) | 68.4 | % | — | % | N/A | 68.4 | % | ||||||||
41#
Favorable/(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Finance revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Client Paid: | |||||||||||||||
Interest | $ | 20,300 | $ | 14,574 | $ | 5,726 | 39 | % | |||||||
Facility fees | 2,439 | 1,084 | 1,355 | * | |||||||||||
Total client paid revenues | 22,739 | 15,658 | 7,081 | 45 | % | ||||||||||
Intersegment revenues: | |||||||||||||||
Interest (a) | 5,360 | 5,702 | (342 | ) | (6 | %) | |||||||||
Facility fees (b) | 1,343 | 1,427 | (84 | ) | (6 | %) | |||||||||
Total intersegment revenues | 6,703 | 7,129 | (426 | ) | (6 | %) | |||||||||
Total Finance revenues | 29,442 | 22,787 | 6,655 | 29 | % | ||||||||||
Cost of Finance revenues (c) | 5,368 | 754 | (4,614 | ) | * | ||||||||||
Finance segment gross profit (d) | $ | 24,074 | $ | 22,033 | $ | 2,041 | 9 | % | |||||||
Loan Portfolio Metrics: | |||||||||||||||
Loan Portfolio Balance (e) | $ | 655,964 | $ | 456,094 | $ | 199,870 | 44 | % | |||||||
Average Loan Portfolio (f) | $ | 552,903 | $ | 421,351 | $ | 131,552 | 31 | % | |||||||
Credit Facility Borrowings Outstanding (g) | $ | 449,000 | $ | — | $ | 449,000 | N/A | ||||||||
Average Credit Facility Borrowings (h) | $ | 255,564 | $ | — | $ | 255,564 | N/A | ||||||||
Finance Revenue Margin (i) | 7.1 | % | 7.2 | % | N/A | (0.10 | %) | ||||||||
Finance Segment Leverage Ratio (j) | 68.4 | % | — | % | N/A | 68.4 | % | ||||||||
Legend: | ||||
* | Represents a change in excess of 100%. | |||
(a) | Represents interest earned from the Agency segment for secured loans issued with an interest rate below the Finance segment's target rate. | |||
(b) | Represents facility fees earned from the Agency segment for secured loans where no facility fee is collected from the borrower. | |||
(c) | In 2014, the cost of Finance revenues includes borrowing costs related to the Finance segment's revolving credit facility, including interest expense, commitment fees, and the amortization of amendment and arrangement fees. In 2013, the cost of Finance revenues includes intersegment borrowing costs related to the funding of the loan portfolio. | |||
(d) | The calculation of Finance segment gross profit does not include the impact of salaries and related costs, general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization expense, and intercompany charges from Sotheby's global treasury function. However, these items are deducted in the determination of segment income before taxes as reported in Note 4 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. | |||
(e) | Represents the period ending loan portfolio balance for the Finance segment. | |||
(f) | Represents the average loan portfolio outstanding during the period. | |||
(g) | Represents the period ending balance of borrowings outstanding under the Finance segment's revolving credit facility. | |||
(h) | Represents average borrowings outstanding during the period under the Finance segment's revolving credit facility. | |||
(i) | Represents the annualized rate of return of Finance revenues in relation to the Average Loan Portfolio. | |||
(j) | Calculated as Credit Facility Borrowings Outstanding divided by the Loan Portfolio Balance. | |||
42#
For three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the improvement in Finance segment gross profit reflects the continued growth of the client loan portfolio, which is a result of a number of factors, including the ability to fund loans through revolving credit facility borrowings, an increase in the demand for art-related financing, and the improved global reach of Sotheby's art-financing business. The growth of the Average Loan Portfolio during the current three and nine-month periods is largely due to a $107 million term loan made in April 2014, which has generated $2.1 million and $4 million of Finance revenue during the current quarter and year-to-date periods, respectively. The overall improvement in Finance segment gross profit is partially offset by the cost of revolving credit facility borrowings as management began the process of debt financing the loan portfolio after establishing the Finance segment's dedicated revolving credit facility on February 13, 2014.
43#
Expenses
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, expenses consisted of the following (in thousands of dollars):
2014 | 2013 | Favorable / (Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | $ | % of Total | $ | % of Total | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||||||
Agency direct costs (a) | $ | 6,002 | 5 | % | $ | 7,279 | 5 | % | $ | 1,277 | 18 | % | |||||||||
Cost of Principal revenues (b) | 7,999 | 6 | % | 22,417 | 16 | % | 14,418 | 64 | % | ||||||||||||
Cost of Finance revenues (c) | 2,634 | 2 | % | — | — | % | (2,634 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Marketing | 3,076 | 2 | % | 5,057 | 4 | % | 1,981 | 39 | % | ||||||||||||
Salaries and related | 58,888 | 45 | % | 61,971 | 44 | % | 3,083 | 5 | % | ||||||||||||
General and administrative | 37,798 | 29 | % | 40,576 | 29 | % | 2,778 | 7 | % | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 5,157 | 4 | % | 4,925 | 3 | % | (232 | ) | (5 | %) | |||||||||||
Restructuring charges (d) | 14,285 | 11 | % | — | — | % | (14,285 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Special charges, net (e) | (4,169 | ) | (3 | %) | — | — | % | 4,169 | N/A | ||||||||||||
Total expenses | $ | 131,670 | $ | 142,225 | $ | 10,555 | 7 | % | |||||||||||||
Statistical Metric: | |||||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted Expenses (f) | $ | 113,555 | $ | 119,808 | $ | 6,253 | 5 | % | |||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | Favorable / (Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | $ | % of Total | $ | % of Total | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||||||
Agency direct costs (a) | $ | 48,056 | 10 | % | $ | 46,988 | 11 | % | $ | (1,068 | ) | (2 | %) | ||||||||
Cost of Principal revenues (b) | 40,019 | 8 | % | 27,115 | 6 | % | (12,904 | ) | (48 | %) | |||||||||||
Cost of Finance revenues (c) | 5,368 | 1 | % | — | — | % | (5,368 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Marketing | 10,773 | 2 | % | 15,603 | 4 | % | 4,830 | 31 | % | ||||||||||||
Salaries and related | 222,477 | 45 | % | 203,931 | 47 | % | (18,546 | ) | (9 | %) | |||||||||||
General and administrative | 113,340 | 23 | % | 128,958 | 30 | % | 15,618 | 12 | % | ||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 15,370 | 3 | % | 14,242 | 3 | % | (1,128 | ) | (8 | %) | |||||||||||
Restructuring charges (d) | 14,285 | 3 | % | — | — | % | (14,285 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Special charges, net (e) | 20,088 | 4 | % | — | — | % | (20,088 | ) | N/A | ||||||||||||
Total expenses | $ | 489,776 | $ | 436,837 | $ | (52,939 | ) | (12 | %) | ||||||||||||
Statistical Metric: | |||||||||||||||||||||
Adjusted Expenses (f) | $ | 415,384 | $ | 409,722 | $ | (5,662 | ) | (1 | %) | ||||||||||||
Legend: | |
* | Represents a change in excess of 100%. |
(a) | See "Agency Segment" above for a discussion of Agency segment results. |
(b) | See "Principal Segment" above for a discussion of Principal segment results. |
(c) | See "Finance Segment" above for a discussion of Finance segment results. |
(d) | Consists of employee termination benefits associated with a restructuring plan approved by the Executive Committee of Sotheby's Board of Directors in July 2014. See "Restructuring Charges" below. |
(e) | Consists of third party advisory, legal, and other professional service fees directly associated with issues related to shareholder activism, the resulting proxy contest with Third Point LLC, and the related litigation, net of a $4.6 million insurance recovery recognized in the third quarter of 2014. See "Special Charges, net" below. |
(f) | Represents total expenses excluding the cost of Principal revenues, Restructuring charges, net, and special charges, net. See “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below. |
44#
Marketing Expenses
Marketing expenses are costs related to the promotion of the Sotheby’s brand, consisting of corporate marketing activities and client service initiatives, as well as strategic sponsorships of and charitable donations to cultural institutions. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, marketing expenses decreased $2 million (39%) and $4.8 million (31%), respectively, reflecting a more targeted approach in the current year to spending on strategic sponsorships of and charitable donations to museums and other cultural institutions. To a lesser extent, the comparison to the prior year is favorably impacted by one-time promotional costs incurred in the prior year periods related to Sotheby's 40th Anniversary in Hong Kong.
For the year ending December 31, 2014, management expects that marketing expenses will decrease by approximately $5 million (24%) when compared to the prior year. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Salaries and Related Costs
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, salaries and related costs consisted of the following (in thousands of dollars):
Favorable / (Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Full-time salaries | $ | 36,939 | $ | 34,916 | $ | (2,023 | ) | (6 | %) | ||||||
Incentive compensation expense | 2,607 | 3,846 | 1,239 | 32 | % | ||||||||||
Share-based payment expense | 4,454 | 6,249 | 1,795 | 29 | % | ||||||||||
Payroll taxes | 3,993 | 3,942 | (51 | ) | (1 | %) | |||||||||
Employee benefits | 6,753 | 8,755 | 2,002 | 23 | % | ||||||||||
Other compensation expense | 4,142 | 4,263 | 121 | 3 | % | ||||||||||
Total salaries and related costs | $ | 58,888 | $ | 61,971 | $ | 3,083 | 5 | % | |||||||
Favorable / (Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Full-time salaries | $ | 112,917 | $ | 105,265 | $ | (7,652 | ) | (7 | %) | ||||||
Incentive compensation expense | 38,647 | 31,165 | (7,482 | ) | (24 | %) | |||||||||
Share-based payment expense | 17,349 | 15,919 | (1,430 | ) | (9 | %) | |||||||||
Payroll taxes | 16,835 | 15,986 | (849 | ) | (5 | %) | |||||||||
Employee benefits | 22,338 | 22,220 | (118 | ) | (1 | %) | |||||||||
Other compensation expense | 14,391 | 13,376 | (1,015 | ) | (8 | %) | |||||||||
Total salaries and related costs | $ | 222,477 | $ | 203,931 | $ | (18,546 | ) | (9 | %) | ||||||
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, changes in foreign currency exchange rates increased salaries and related costs by $1.3 million and $5.1 million, respectively, when compared to the prior periods. Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes, salaries and related costs decreased $4.4 million (7%) and increased $13.5 million (7%) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.
See below for a detailed discussion of the significant factors impacting the comparison of the various elements of salaries and related costs between the current and prior periods.
Full-Time Salaries—For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, full-time salaries increased $2 million (6%) and $7.7 million (7%), respectively, due in part to the impact of mid-year strategic headcount and salary increases in 2013, which were implemented in part to support Sotheby's growth in Asia, and targeted salary increases taking effect in 2014. Also contributing to the higher level of full-time salaries for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 are changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which contributed $0.8 million and $2.8 million to the quarter and year-to-date increases, respectively. Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes, full-time salaries increased $1.2 million (3%) and $4.8 million (5%) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, in comparison to the prior year periods.
45#
For the year ending December 31, 2014, management expects that full-time salaries will increase by approximately 4% when compared to 2013, excluding the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. This overall increase includes a small benefit from the actions currently being taken in conjunction with the restructuring plan approved by the Executive Committee of Sotheby's Board of Directors in July 2014. (See "Restructuring Charges" below and statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Incentive Compensation—Incentive compensation principally includes the expense associated with cash payments made under Sotheby's incentive compensation program. The amount of incentive compensation awarded under this program is largely dependent upon the level of Sotheby's earnings, as measured by an EBITDA-based metric, and is ultimately paid at the discretion of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors only after assessing Sotheby's full year financial results. In addition, incentive compensation includes amounts specifically awarded to employees for brokering certain eligible private sale transactions. For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the decrease in incentive compensation expense is attributable to lower private sale incentive costs resulting from a decline in private sale commission revenues in the period. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the increase in incentive compensation expense is principally due to the higher level of earnings relative to the prior period, as measured by an EBITDA-based metric, partially offset by lower private sale incentive costs resulting from a decline in private sale commission revenues in the period.
Share-Based Payment Expense—Share-based payment expense consists of amortization expense related to performance-based equity compensation awards, restricted stock units, and stock options. Equity compensation awards are granted annually in the first quarter of the year, and the value of each award is generally dependent upon Sotheby’s financial results for the year prior to the grant date. The amount of compensation expense recognized for share-based payments is based on management’s estimate of the number of shares ultimately expected to vest as a result of employee service. In addition, for performance-based equity compensation awards, the amount and timing of expense recognition is significantly impacted by management’s quarterly assessment of the likelihood and timing of achieving certain profitability targets.
For the three months ended September 30, 2014, share-based payment expense decreased $1.8 million (29%) largely due to management's quarterly assessment of the likelihood that performance-based equity compensation awards will vest, which includes the impact of an increase in management's estimate of award forfeitures. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, share-based payment expense increased $1.4 million (9%) due to management's quarterly assessment of the likelihood that performance-based equity compensation awards will vest. (See Note 11 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for more detailed information related to Sotheby’s share-based compensation programs.)
Employee Benefits—Employee benefits include the cost of Sotheby’s retirement plans and health and welfare programs, as well as certain employee severance costs. Sotheby’s material retirement plans include defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans for its employees in the United Kingdom ("U.K."). and defined contribution and deferred compensation plans for its U.S. employees.
Generally, the amount of employee benefit costs recognized in a period is dependent upon headcount and overall compensation levels, as well as Sotheby’s financial performance. Additionally, the level of expense related to Sotheby’s defined benefit pension plan in the U.K. is significantly influenced by interest rates, investment performance in the debt and equity markets, and actuarial assumptions. Also, the amount recorded in a period for Sotheby’s Deferred Compensation Plan (the “DCP”) is dependent upon changes in the fair value of the DCP liability resulting from gains and losses in deemed participant investments. On a consolidated basis, cost increases (decreases) related to the DCP liability are offset by market gains (losses) in the trust assets related to the DCP liability, which are reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations within other income (expense).
For the three months ended September 30, 2014, employee benefit costs decreased $2 million (23%) primarily due to a decline in DCP investment performance relative to the prior year, which contributed $1.9 million to the overall decrease, and a decrease of $0.8 million in non-restructuring related severance costs. These factors are partially offset by the impact of the headcount and salary increases discussed previously, as well as a higher level of claims under Sotheby's U.S. health insurance plans and higher pension costs in the U.K..
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, employee benefit costs were consistent with the prior year, as the decline in third quarter DCP investment performance and lower non-restructuring related severance costs are offset by the impact of the headcount, salary and incentive compensation increases discussed previously, as well as a higher level of claims under Sotheby's U.S. health insurance plans and higher pension costs in the U.K..
Other Compensation Expense—Other compensation expense typically includes expense related to certain retention-based, new-hire and other employment arrangements, as well as the cost of temporary labor and overtime. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, other compensation expense increased $0.1 million (3%) and $1 million (8%), respectively, primarily due to a higher level of expense associated with such employment arrangements.
46#
General and Administrative Expenses
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, general and administrative expenses consisted of the following (in thousands of dollars):
Favorable /(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Professional fees | $ | 11,639 | $ | 14,494 | $ | 2,855 | 20 | % | |||||||
Facilities-related expenses | 11,123 | 12,330 | 1,207 | 10 | % | ||||||||||
Travel and entertainment | 5,985 | 6,356 | 371 | 6 | % | ||||||||||
Telecommunication and technology | 2,241 | 2,150 | (91 | ) | (4 | %) | |||||||||
Insurance | 1,659 | 1,566 | (93 | ) | (6 | %) | |||||||||
Other indirect expenses | 5,151 | 3,680 | (1,471 | ) | (40 | %) | |||||||||
Total general and administrative expenses | $ | 37,798 | $ | 40,576 | $ | 2,778 | 7 | % | |||||||
Favorable /(Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Professional fees | $ | 38,403 | $ | 46,832 | $ | 8,429 | 18 | % | |||||||
Facilities-related expenses | 33,254 | 35,144 | 1,890 | 5 | % | ||||||||||
Travel and entertainment | 19,413 | 21,739 | 2,326 | 11 | % | ||||||||||
Telecommunication and technology | 6,699 | 6,588 | (111 | ) | (2 | %) | |||||||||
Insurance | 4,559 | 4,624 | 65 | 1 | % | ||||||||||
Other indirect expenses | 11,012 | 14,031 | 3,019 | 22 | % | ||||||||||
Total general and administrative expenses | $ | 113,340 | $ | 128,958 | $ | 15,618 | 12 | % | |||||||
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, changes in foreign currency exchange rates increased general and administrative expenses by $0.7 million and $2.4 million, respectively, when compared to the prior periods. Excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rate changes, general and administrative expenses decreased $3.5 million (9%) and $18 million (14%) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.
See below for a detailed discussion of the significant operating factors impacting the comparison of the various elements of general and administrative expenses between the current and prior periods.
Professional fees—Professional fees principally include legal, audit and other compliance-related fees, Board of Director fees, and business consulting costs, as well as the costs associated with certain outsourced functions. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, professional fees decreased $2.9 million (20%) and $8.4 million (18%), respectively, largely due to a lower level of business consulting costs, as well as lower website development consulting costs and lower tax, legal, audit and accounting fees.
For the year ending December 31, 2014, management expects professional fees to be approximately $54 million, representing a decrease of approximately $9 million, or 14%, when compared to the prior year, principally due to negotiated reductions in rates and a reduced scope of services. Management also expects reductions of approximately $9 million across other categories of general and administrative expenses. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Facilities-related expenses—Facilities-related expenses principally include rent expense, real estate taxes and other costs related to the operation, security and maintenance of Sotheby's worldwide premises. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, facilities-related expenses decreased $1.2 million (10%) and $1.9 million (5%), respectively, most notably due to lower real estate taxes and a decrease in maintenance costs related to Sotheby's York Avenue headquarters in New York (the "York Property"), where several significant repairs were necessary in the prior year.
Travel and entertainment—Travel and entertainment includes costs related to business travel by Sotheby's staff and client entertainment. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the decreases of $0.4 million (6%) and $2.3 million (11%), respectively, in travel and entertainment costs are primarily due to management's ongoing cost control initiatives in this area.
47#
Other indirect expenses—Other indirect expenses include costs related to client goodwill gestures and claims, uncollectible accounts and other miscellaneous indirect costs.
For the three months ended September 30, 2014, other indirect expenses increased $1.5 million (40%) due to a higher level of client goodwill gestures and legal claims and unfavorable bad debt experience in the Agency segment.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, other indirect expenses decreased $3 million (22%) primarily due to an overall lower level of client goodwill gestures and legal claims in the year-to-date period, as prior year results were unfavorably impacted by a $1.7 million accommodation made to an irrevocable bid counterparty in the first quarter of 2013. To a lesser extent, the comparison to the prior year is also favorably impacted by a net decrease in bad debt expense resulting from an $0.8 million reduction to the Finance segment's allowance for credit losses as a result of better than anticipated loan loss rates. (See Notes 5 and 9 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.)
Restructuring Charges
On July 16, 2014, the Executive Committee of Sotheby's Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan (the "2014 Restructuring Plan") principally impacting Sotheby's operations in the United States and the U.K.. The 2014 Restructuring Plan is the result of a strategic review conducted by management and will result in the reallocation of resources to collecting categories and regions with the highest growth opportunity in the future. A large majority of the headcount reductions resulting from the 2014 Restructuring Plan are expected to be implemented by the end of 2014 with the remainder occurring in 2015.
The 2014 Restructuring Plan is expected to result in total restructuring charges of approximately $14.8 million, consisting of $14.3 million in employee termination benefits recognized in the third quarter of 2014 and approximately $0.5 million in lease exit costs expected to be recognized in the fourth quarter of 2014. Sotheby’s will provide specific guidance on the anticipated cost savings in due course. Upon full implementation, management expects a net benefit to Sotheby’s cost base as a result of the 2014 Restructuring Plan and the resulting reallocation of resources. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Special Charges, Net
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, Sotheby's recognized special charges of $20.1 million related to third party advisory, legal, and other professional service fees directly associated with issues related to shareholder activism, the resulting proxy contest with Third Point, and the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan and the change in control provision in its credit agreement. This amount is net of a $4.6 million insurance recovery recognized in the third quarter of 2014 pertaining to certain professional services fees incurred in defense of the litigation concerning the former shareholder rights plan and the change in control provision in Sotheby's credit agreement.
Included in special charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is a $10 million charge recognized in the second quarter of 2014 related to the reimbursement by Sotheby's of Third Point's documented, out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the proxy contest and the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan. This reimbursement is part of a support agreement Sotheby's entered into with Third Point, Daniel S. Loeb, Olivier Reza, Harry J. Wilson and other entities affiliated with Third Point (together with Third Point, the “Third Point Entities”) on May 4, 2014 pursuant to which Sotheby's and Third Point settled the previously pending proxy contest for the election of directors (the "Support Agreement"). Pursuant to the Support Agreement, on May 4, 2014, Sotheby's Board of Directors expanded the size of the Board to 15 directors and appointed Mr. Loeb, Mr. Reza and Mr. Wilson (the “Third Point Nominees”) to fill the resulting vacancies. The Support Agreement also contains various other terms and provisions, including with respect to standstill and voting commitments entered into by Third Point, Third Point's withdrawal of the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan, and the accelerated expiration of Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan.
(See Note 8 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to the litigation concerning Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan and the change in control provision in its credit agreement. See Note 10 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to Sotheby's former shareholder rights plan.)
Net Interest Expense
For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, net interest expense decreased $6.4 million (21%) as a result of the repayment of Sotheby's 3.125% Convertible Notes upon their maturity in June 2013.
48#
Income Tax Expense
The quarterly income tax provision is calculated using an estimated annual effective income tax rate for the period based on actual historical information and forward looking estimates. The estimated annual effective income tax rate may fluctuate due to changes in forecasted annual pre-tax income, changes in the jurisdictional mix of forecasted pre-tax income, and changes to actual or forecasted permanent book to tax differences (e.g., non-deductible expenses). Furthermore, the effective income tax rate may fluctuate as the result of positive or negative changes to the valuation allowance for net deferred tax assets, the impact of future tax settlements with federal, state or foreign tax authorities, or the impact of tax law changes. Management identifies items which are unusual and non-recurring in nature and treats these as discrete events. The tax effect of discrete items is booked entirely in the quarter in which the discrete event occurs.
As a result of the Capital Allocation and Financial Policy Review concluded in January 2014, as discussed below, and current projections and planned uses of foreign cash balances, management has determined that, beginning in 2014, the current earnings of Sotheby’s foreign subsidiaries will not be indefinitely reinvested and incremental U.S. taxes will be accrued on these earnings. These incremental taxes significantly reduce the benefit of income earned in foreign jurisdictions and taxed at rates lower than that of the U.S. as compared to prior years. As a result, management’s estimate of Sotheby’s annual effective income tax rate for 2014, excluding discrete items, increased to approximately 38% as compared to its estimate for 2013 as of September 30, 2013, which was approximately 30%. The estimated effective income tax rate for 2014 also includes an estimated $2.3 million of incremental income tax expense related to the repatriation of $250 million of accumulated foreign earnings during the first quarter of 2014 (see “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below). The estimated annual effective income tax rate for 2014 is higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate of 35% primarily because of state taxes and nondeductible expenses, partially offset by a benefit due to differences in foreign tax rates.
The table below summarizes Sotheby's income tax (benefit)/expense and effective income tax rate for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, including the impact of discrete items (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Loss before taxes | $ | (44,167 | ) | $ | (41,860 | ) | ||
Income tax benefit | $ | (16,173 | ) | $ | (11,698 | ) | ||
Effective income tax benefit rate | 36.6 | % | 27.9 | % | ||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Income before taxes | $ | 72,874 | $ | 48,847 | ||||
Income tax expense | $ | 29,502 | $ | 9,613 | ||||
Effective income tax expense rate | 40.5 | % | 19.7 | % | ||||
The increase in Sotheby’s effective income tax benefit rate for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and Sotheby’s effective income tax expense rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2014, when compared to the respective prior periods, is primarily the result of the application of the increased annual effective tax rate, as discussed above, to the pretax loss for the three month period and to the pretax income for the nine month period. The increase in the effective income tax expense rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 also reflects the impact of a $6.8 million tax benefit related to a loss on the tax basis in a foreign subsidiary that was recorded discretely in the second quarter of 2013, for which there is no corresponding benefit in 2014. Results for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 include benefits related to previously unrecognized tax positions, as well as the discrete tax benefit related to special charges recorded at U.S. federal, state and local rates, which together, are higher than Sotheby's estimated annual effective income tax rate. The effect of these benefits on Sotheby's effective income tax rate is more than offset by $3.1 million of tax expense recorded in the first quarter of 2014 to reduce the value of certain deferred tax assets to reflect the enactment of the New York State 2014-2015 Budget Act, as discussed below.
The New York State 2014-2015 Budget Act (“N.Y. Budget Act”)—The N.Y. Budget Act was signed into law on March 31, 2014. The N.Y. Budget Act substantially modified and reformed various aspects of New York State tax law. Sotheby’s anticipates that the legislation will reduce the amount of taxable income apportioned to New York State, thereby reducing its state effective income tax rate beginning in 2015. However, management does not expect the N.Y. Budget Act to have a material impact on Sotheby’s worldwide effective tax rate. As discussed above, in the first quarter of 2014, Sotheby’s recorded a discrete tax expense of $3.1 million to reduce the value of certain deferred tax assets to the amount that will be recognized in the future as a result of the anticipated reduction of the New York State effective income tax rate. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
49#
Impact of Changes in Foreign Currency Exchange Rates
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, foreign currency exchange rates had a net favorable impact of approximately $1.7 million and $8.6 million on Sotheby's operating (loss) income when compared to the prior period, as summarized in the following table (in thousands of dollars):
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 | Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||
Favorable/(Unfavorable) | Favorable/(Unfavorable) | |||||||
Total revenues | $ | 4,737 | $ | 19,679 | ||||
Total expenses | (3,060 | ) | (11,085 | ) | ||||
Impact on operating (loss) income | $ | 1,677 | $ | 8,594 | ||||
CASH FLOWS FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2014 AND 2013
This discussion should be read in conjunction with Sotheby’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, total cash and cash equivalents decreased $301.7 million to $419.6 million, as compared to a decrease of $285.2 million to $483.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, primarily due to the factors discussed below.
Net Cash Used by Operating Activities—Sotheby's is predominantly an agency business that collects and remits cash on behalf of its clients. Accordingly, the net amount of cash provided or used in a period by Sotheby's operating activities is significantly influenced by the timing of auction and private sale settlements. As discussed in Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, under Sotheby’s standard auction payment terms, payments from buyers are due no more than 30 days from the sale date and payments to consignors are due 35 days from the sale date. Accordingly, it is not unusual for Sotheby's to hold significant balances of consignor net sale proceeds at the end of a quarterly accounting period that are disbursed soon thereafter. Additionally, Sotheby's sometimes provides extended payment terms to auction and private sale buyers and the level of such extended payment terms for auctions can vary considerably from selling season to selling season. In certain of these situations, the consignor may be paid the net sale proceeds before payment is collected from the buyer, with the collection from the buyer sometimes occurring after the current balance sheet date. The amount of net cash provided or used by Sotheby's operating activities in a reporting period is also a function of its net income or loss, the timing of payments made to vendors, the timing of compensation-related payments, and the timing of the collection and/or payment of tax-related receivables and payables.
Net cash used by operating activities of $249.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is principally the result of net cash outflows of $226 million associated with the settlement of auction and private sale transactions during the period. This net cash outflow was influenced, in part, by sales proceeds collected from buyers late in 2013 that were paid to consignors early in 2014. Cash flows from operating activities are also impacted by a net cash outflow related to inventory of $38.5 million primarily attributable to inventory acquired by the Principal segment for resale and guaranteed property that failed to sell at auction in the first half of 2014, as well as the funding of 2013 incentive compensation payments and income tax payments. These net cash outflows are partially offset by Sotheby's net income for the period of $43.8 million.
Net cash used by operating activities was $54.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and was principally attributable to net cash outflows of $75.1 million associated with the settlement of auction and private sale transactions during the period. This net cash outflow was influenced, in part, by the payment of net sales proceeds to certain consignors for property sold in Sotheby's second quarter 2013 sales in New York in advance of collecting from the buyer. Also contributing to the cash outflows from operating activities was the funding of income and value-added tax payments. The impact of these net cash outflows was partially offset by Sotheby's net income for the period of $39.3 million.
Net Cash Used by Investing Activities—Net cash used by investing activities of $134.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is principally the result of cash used to fund the net increase in Finance segment loans, partially offset by a $26 million decrease in restricted cash related to certain foreign jurisdictions where there is a legal requirement for auction houses to maintain consignor funds in segregated accounts.
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Net cash used by investing activities was $37.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and was principally attributable to a $47.2 million net increase in client loans. Also contributing to the net cash outflows from investing activities in the prior period were capital expenditures of $17.2 million, which included investments in Sotheby's S|2 gallery in London and expenditures to enhance Sotheby's auction premises in Paris. These net cash outflows were partially offset by a $25.9 million decrease in restricted cash.
Net Cash Provided (Used) by Financing Activities—Net cash provided by financing activities of $89.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is largely due to $449 million of borrowings under the Finance segment's revolving credit facility. (See "Capital Allocation and Financial Policy Review" and "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below.) This cash inflow is largely offset by the payment of a $300 million special dividend, Common Stock repurchases of $25 million, quarterly dividend payments of $20.7 million, and the funding of employee tax obligations related to share-based payments ($11.8 million).
Net cash used by financing activities was $194.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and reflects the settlement of the Convertible Notes and Convertible Note Hedges in the second quarter of 2013, resulting in a net cash outflow of $181.9 million (see Note 6 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements). To a much lesser extent, the net cash flow used by financing activities in the prior period was the result of the funding of employee tax obligations related to share-based payments ($11.4 million), partially offset by excess tax benefits associated with share-based payments ($3.5 million) and proceeds from the exercise of employee stock options ($4 million).
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMITMENTS
The following table summarizes Sotheby’s material contractual obligations and commitments as of September 30, 2014 (in thousands of dollars):
Payments Due by Period | |||||||||||||||||||
Total | Less Than One Year | 1 to 3 Years | 3 to 5 Years | After 5 Years | |||||||||||||||
Debt (a): | |||||||||||||||||||
York Property Mortgage: | |||||||||||||||||||
Principal payments | $ | 221,440 | $ | 221,440 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | — | |||||||||
Interest payments | 10,161 | 10,161 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
Sub-total | 231,601 | 231,601 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
2022 Senior Notes: | |||||||||||||||||||
Principal payments | 300,000 | — | — | — | 300,000 | ||||||||||||||
Interest payments | 133,875 | 15,750 | 31,500 | 31,500 | 55,125 | ||||||||||||||
Sub-total | 433,875 | 15,750 | 31,500 | 31,500 | 355,125 | ||||||||||||||
Revolving credit facility borrowings | 449,000 | — | — | 449,000 | — | ||||||||||||||
Total debt payments | 1,114,476 | 247,351 | 31,500 | 480,500 | 355,125 | ||||||||||||||
Other commitments: | |||||||||||||||||||
Operating lease obligations (b) | 92,344 | 18,064 | 29,952 | 10,294 | 34,034 | ||||||||||||||
Compensation arrangements (c) | 14,261 | 7,362 | 3,959 | 2,940 | — | ||||||||||||||
Auction guarantees (d) | 254,210 | 254,210 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
Unfunded loan commitments (e) | 33,694 | 33,694 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
Uncertain tax positions (f) | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
Total other commitments | 394,509 | 313,330 | 33,911 | 13,234 | 34,034 | ||||||||||||||
Total | $ | 1,508,985 | $ | 560,681 | $ | 65,411 | $ | 493,734 | $ | 389,159 | |||||||||
(a) | See Note 6 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to the York Property Mortgage, the 2022 Senior Notes, and Sotheby's revolving credit facility. The York Property Mortgage matures on July 1, 2035, but has an optional pre-payment date of July 1, 2015 and bears an annual rate of interest of approximately 5.6%, which increases to 10.6% subsequent to July 1, 2015 unless the mortgage is repaid by that date. Accordingly, the York Property Mortgage is classified as a current liability on Sotheby's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2014, as well as in the table above. However, management is currently exploring its options with respect to a long-term refinancing of the York Property Mortgage, with the intent of completing such a refinancing no later than June 30, 2015. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.) |
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(b) | These amounts represent the undiscounted future minimum rental commitments under non-cancellable operating leases. |
(c) | These amounts represent the remaining commitment for future salaries and other cash compensation, excluding any participation in Sotheby’s incentive compensation and share-based payment programs, related to compensation arrangements with certain senior employees. (See Note 8 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.) |
(d) | Represents the amount of auction guarantees outstanding ($318.8 million) net of amounts advanced ($64.6 million) as of September 30, 2014. (See Note 9 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to auction guarantees.) |
(e) | Represents unfunded commitments to extend additional credit through Sotheby's Finance segment. (See Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to Sotheby's Finance segment loan portfolio.) |
(f) | Excludes the $25 million liability recorded for uncertain tax positions that would be settled by cash payments to the respective taxing authorities, which are classified as long-term liabilities in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2014. This liability is excluded from the table above because management is unable to make reliable estimates of the period of settlement with the respective taxing authorities. (See Note 16 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for more detailed information related to uncertain tax positions.) |
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
For information related to off-balance sheet arrangements see: (i) Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, which discusses unfunded Finance segment loan commitments, (ii) Note 8 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, which discusses guarantee of collection arrangements, and (iii) Note 9 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, which discusses auction guarantees.
CONTINGENCIES
For information related to contingencies see: (i) Note 8 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, which discusses legal contingencies, (ii) Note 9 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, which discusses auction guarantees, and (iii) Note 16 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, which discusses income tax contingencies.
UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS
For information related to uncertain tax positions, see Note 16 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
CAPITAL ALLOCATION AND FINANCIAL POLICY REVIEW
On September 11, 2013, Sotheby's announced that it was conducting a thorough review of its capital allocation and financial policies in connection with its ongoing commitment to explore opportunities to enhance shareholder value, including potential strategies to return capital to its shareholders (the “Capital Allocation Review” or “CAR”). The CAR, which commenced in October 2013 and concluded in January 2014, included:
• | An assessment of Sotheby’s historical performance through the art market cycle; |
• | An evaluation of Sotheby’s current and optimal capital structure; |
• | An identification of the capital required to support Sotheby’s business; |
• | An analysis and review of Sotheby’s real estate holdings; |
• | A consideration of the funding requirements for Sotheby’s strategic initiatives; and |
• | The development of alternatives for the return of capital to shareholders. |
The results of the CAR, which are outlined below, were announced on January 29, 2014 and were the product of a thorough review by Sotheby’s Board of Directors and management, along with input and feedback from Sotheby’s shareholders.
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Capital Structure and Financial Policy—Management established separate capital structures and financial policies for Sotheby's Agency and Finance segments. The capital structure of the Agency segment was developed to provide adequate liquidity to support business requirements, pursue business opportunities and growth initiatives (including Principal segment inventory purchases), as well as to ensure appropriate liquidity for a market downturn that could occur due to the cyclical nature of the global art market. Management is targeting an Adjusted Debt to EBITDA1 ratio of 3.5x to 4.0x and a 15% return on strategic investments for the Agency segment. The capital structure of the Finance segment provides for the debt funding of loans through a dedicated revolving credit facility (see "Revolving Credit Facilities" within "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below). The debt funding of loans reduces the Finance segment's cost of capital and enhances returns in support of efforts to achieve a targeted 20% return on equity. Cash balances are also used to fund a portion of the Finance segment loan portfolio, as appropriate.
Return of Excess Liquidity to Shareholders—After allocating the requisite capital to support business-generating activities, growth initiatives, and protection against downside risk, a total of $325 million of excess liquidity was returned to shareholders through a special dividend of $300 million ($4.34 per share) that was paid on March 17, 2014 and, as discussed in more detail below, through Common Stock repurchases of $25 million made in the first quarter of 2014. (See "Cash and Cash Equivalents" within "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below for a discussion of the funding of the $300 million special dividend.)
Common Stock Repurchase Program—In addition to the initial return of capital to shareholders through the $300 million special dividend, Sotheby’s Board of Directors authorized a five-year, $150 million Common Stock repurchase program principally to offset the annual vesting of employee share-based payments. In the first quarter of 2014, Sotheby's repurchased 558,171 shares of its Common Stock for an aggregate purchase price of $25 million ($44.79 per share) pursuant to an accelerated stock buyback agreement that concluded in March 2014.
Debt Financing of Finance Segment Loan Portfolio—Upon establishment of the Finance segment's dedicated revolving credit facility on February 13, 2014, the Finance segment had a maximum borrowing capacity of $450 million, of which $170 million was immediately drawn and used to initiate the debt financing of the client loan portfolio. On August 22, 2014, the borrowing capacity of the Finance segment's revolving credit facility was increased from $450 million to $550 million. Subsequent to February 13, 2014 and through September 30, 2014, a total of $449 million has been borrowed to fund further growth of the loan portfolio and to debt finance a portion of pre-existing loans, yielding additional capital of up to $150 million. (See "Revolving Credit Facilities" within "Liquidity and Capital Resources" for additional information related to the Finance segment's revolving credit facility. Also, see statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Real Estate—Prior to the implementation of the CAR, management initiated a review of its real estate holdings, including the York Property in New York and its New Bond Street premises in London. As a result of the review of the York Property, management concluded that Sotheby's business does not currently require the full square footage of the building and is evaluating alternatives under which Sotheby’s would no longer occupy a portion of the York Property while remaining in the building without any permanent relocation of staff. Any action relative to the York Property will only be taken after fully assessing all financial costs, as well as operational challenges, and concluding that the incremental benefit will be meaningful and lasting, especially in consideration of the cyclical nature of Sotheby's business. Upon completion of this process, management will choose a course of action with respect to the York Property and commence execution. Management continues to evaluate the strategic and operating requirements for the New Bond Street premises in London and assess any feasible alternatives.
Commitment to Annual Assessment of Capital Position and Return of Excess Capital to Shareholders—As a result of the CAR process, management established basic principles which will be applied annually in order to determine the amount of any excess capital available to be returned to shareholders, principally through a special dividend. The amount of excess capital, if any, and the special dividend, if any, will be disclosed annually in conjunction with the release of Sotheby’s full year results and paid shortly thereafter. The appropriate means for returning capital to shareholders (such as the use of a special dividend or Common Stock repurchases) will also be regularly reviewed.
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1 EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. Adjusted Debt to EBITDA would reflect typical ratings agency adjustments to both debt and EBITDA for debt-like items, such as underfunded pensions and operating leases.
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Overview— As discussed in the previous section, in January 2014, management and the Board of Directors concluded a review of Sotheby's capital allocation and financial policies and, as a result: (i) established separate capital structures and financial policies for its Agency and Finance segments, (ii) returned $325 million of excess liquidity to shareholders in March 2014 through a $300 million special dividend and $25 million of Common Stock repurchases, and (iii) committed to an annual assessment of Sotheby's capital position to determine the amount of any excess capital available to be returned to shareholders. Following the $325 million return of capital, Sotheby's continues to have strong liquidity, with $419.6 million of cash and cash equivalents and $323.4 million in available borrowings under the revolving credit facility as of September 30, 2014. As discussed previously, on an annual basis, management assesses its capital position in order to determine if any excess capital is available to be returned to shareholders.
Cash and Cash Equivalents—As of September 30, 2014, Sotheby’s had global cash and cash equivalents of $419.6 million, of which $82.9 million was held in the U.S. and $336.7 million was held by foreign subsidiaries. As of September 30, 2014, Sotheby's also held $3.3 million of restricted cash related to certain foreign jurisdictions where there is a legal requirement for auction houses to maintain consignor funds in segregated accounts. The current focus of Sotheby’s investment policy is to preserve principal and ensure liquidity. Accordingly, Sotheby's cash balances are invested in the highest rated overnight deposits. Of the $422.9 million in global cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash, management estimates that approximately $361 million is available for its liquidity needs after taking into account funds held that are due to consignors in the near term.
On January 29, 2014, Sotheby's declared a special dividend of $300 million ($4.34 per share) that was paid on March 17, 2014. The $300 million special dividend was funded principally by the repatriation of $250 million of accumulated foreign earnings from Sotheby’s subsidiaries in Switzerland ($120 million), the U.K. ($105 million), and Hong Kong ($25 million). The remaining $50 million of the special dividend was funded by existing domestic cash balances. Management had intended that the $250 million in foreign earnings would be indefinitely reinvested outside of the U.S., and would therefore not be subject to U.S. income taxes, based on its projections and planned uses of foreign earnings. However, based on the conclusions reached in January 2014 as a result of the CAR, management and the Board of Directors determined that it was appropriate to repatriate these funds. As a result of this repatriation of foreign earnings, Sotheby's recognized income tax liabilities of approximately $11.1 million (net of foreign tax credits) in the fourth quarter of 2013, of which approximately $8.7 million was charged against net income and approximately $2.4 million was charged against other comprehensive income. An estimated $2.3 million of incremental income tax expense related to the repatriation is included in the calculation of Sotheby's estimated annual effective income tax rate for 2014.
Based on current projections and planned uses of foreign earnings, management believes that all other foreign earnings accumulated through December 31, 2013 will be indefinitely reinvested outside of the U.S. and will not need to be repatriated to fund Sotheby's U.S. operations or commitments. However, as a result of the Capital Allocation and Financial Policy Review concluded in January 2014 and current projections and planned uses of accumulated foreign earnings, management determined that, beginning in 2014, the current earnings of its foreign subsidiaries will not be indefinitely reinvested. (See "Income Tax Expense" above and statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Revolving Credit Facilities—On August 31, 2009, Sotheby's and certain of its wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into a credit agreement with an international syndicate of lenders led by General Electric Capital Corporation. On February 13, 2014, Sotheby’s refinanced the Credit Agreement and entered into separate dedicated revolving credit facilities for the Agency segment (the “Agency Credit Agreement”) and the Finance segment (the “Finance Credit Agreement”) (collectively, the “Credit Agreements”).
The Agency Credit Agreement established an asset-based revolving credit facility, subject to a borrowing base, the proceeds of which may be used primarily for the working capital and other general corporate needs of the Agency segment, as well as for Principal segment inventory investments. The Finance Credit Agreement established an asset-based revolving credit facility, subject to a borrowing base, the proceeds of which may be used primarily for the working capital and other general corporate needs of the Finance segment, including the funding of client loans. The Credit Agreements allow Sotheby's to transfer the proceeds of borrowings under each of the revolving credit facilities between the Agency and Finance segments.
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The Credit Agreements have a maximum borrowing availability, subject to a borrowing base, that is defined in each of the Credit Agreements. The borrowing base under the Finance Credit Agreement is determined by a calculation that is primarily based upon a percentage of the carrying values of certain loans in the Finance segment loan portfolio and, following the amendment and restatement discussed below, the fair value of certain of Sotheby's trademarks. The borrowing base under the Agency Credit Agreement is determined by a calculation that is primarily based upon a percentage of the carrying values of certain auction guarantee advances, a percentage of the carrying value of certain inventory, a percentage of the carrying value of certain extended payment term receivables arising from auction or private sale transactions, and, following the amendment and restatement discussed below, the fair value of certain of Sotheby's trademarks.
The obligations under the Credit Agreements are cross-guaranteed and cross-collateralized. The Domestic Borrowers are jointly and severally liable for all obligations under the Credit Agreements and, subject to certain limitations, the U.K. Borrowers and Sotheby's Hong Kong Limited, are jointly and severally liable for all obligations of the Foreign Borrowers under the Credit Agreements. In addition, certain subsidiaries of the Borrowers guarantee the obligations of the Borrowers under the Credit Agreements. Sotheby's obligations under the Credit Agreements are secured by liens on all or substantially all of the personal property of the Borrowers and the Guarantors.
The Credit Agreements contain certain customary affirmative and negative covenants including, but not limited to, limitations on capital expenditures, a limitation on net outstanding auction guarantees and limitations on the use of proceeds from borrowings under the Credit Agreements. However, the Credit Agreements do not limit dividend payments and Common Stock repurchases provided that, both before and after giving effect thereto: (i) there are no Events of Default, (ii) the Aggregate Borrowing Availability equals or exceeds $100 million, and (iii) the Liquidity Amount equals or exceeds $200 million.
The Credit Agreements also contain certain financial covenants, which are only applicable during certain defined compliance periods. These financial covenants were not applicable for the twelve month period ended September 30, 2014.
On August 22, 2014, the Credit Agreements were amended and restated, among other things, to:
• | Increase the aggregate borrowing capacity under the Credit Agreements from $600 million to $850 million, including a $50 million incremental revolving credit facility with higher advance rates against certain assets and higher commitment and borrowing costs (the "Incremental Facility"). The Incremental Facility has a maturity date of August 21, 2015, which may be extended for an additional 365 days on an annual basis with the consent of the lenders under such Incremental Facility who agree to extend their incremental commitments. As a result of this increase to the aggregate borrowing capacity of the Credit Agreements, the borrowing capacity of the Agency Credit Agreement increased from $150 million to $300 million and the borrowing capacity of the Finance Credit Agreement increased from $450 million to $550 million. |
• | Increase the advance rate and remove certain caps with regards to inventory, and include certain of Sotheby's trademarks in determining the borrowing base availability of the Agency Credit Agreement. |
• | Increase the maximum permissible amount of net outstanding auction guarantees from $300 million to $600 million. |
• | Extend the maturity date of the Credit Agreements from February 13, 2019 to August 22, 2019, exclusive of the Incremental Facility, which has a maturity date of August 21, 2015 but may be renewed annually, as discussed above. |
The Credit Agreements have a sub-limit of $200 million for borrowings in the U.K. and Hong Kong (with up to $150 million available for foreign borrowings under the Finance Credit Agreement and up to $50 million available for foreign borrowings under the Agency Credit Agreement), and include an accordion feature, which allows Sotheby’s to request an increase to the combined borrowing capacity of the Credit Agreements until February 23, 2019 by an amount not to exceed $100 million in the aggregate.
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The following table summarizes outstanding borrowings, available borrowing capacity, and other information relevant to the New Credit Agreements, as amended, as of and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 (in thousands of dollars):
Finance Credit Agreement | Agency Credit Agreement | Total | ||||||||||
Borrowing base | $ | 513,185 | $ | 259,183 | $ | 772,368 | ||||||
Borrowings outstanding | $ | 449,000 | $ | — | $ | 449,000 | ||||||
Available borrowing capacity * | $ | 64,185 | $ | 259,183 | $ | 323,368 | ||||||
Average Borrowings Outstanding: | ||||||||||||
Three months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 387,326 | $ | — | $ | 387,326 | ||||||
Nine months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 255,564 | $ | — | $ | 255,564 | ||||||
Borrowing Costs: | ||||||||||||
Three months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 2,634 | $ | 545 | $ | 3,179 | ||||||
Nine months ended September 30, 2014 | $ | 5,368 | $ | 1,513 | $ | 6,881 | ||||||
* The available borrowing capacity is calculated as the borrowing base (i.e., the current maximum borrowing availability) less borrowings outstanding as of September 30, 2014.
Borrowing costs related to the Finance Credit Agreement, which include interest and fees, are reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations as the Cost of Finance Revenues. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the weighted average cost of borrowings related to the Finance Credit Agreement was approximately 2.7% and 2.8%, respectively.
Assessment of Liquidity and Capital Requirements—As discussed above, Sotheby's has established separate capital structures and financial policies for its Agency and Finance segments. The Agency segment generally relies on existing cash balances (including amounts collected on behalf of and owed to consignors), operating cash flows, and revolving credit facility borrowings, if needed, to meet its liquidity and capital requirements. The timing and extent of any revolving credit facility borrowings by the Agency segment is dependent upon a number of factors including, but not limited to, the cyclical nature of the global art market, the seasonality of the art auction market, the timing of auction and private sale settlements, the potential funding of auction guarantees, the pursuit of business opportunities and growth initiatives (including Principal segment inventory purchases), and the geographic mix of cash and cash equivalent balances.
The Finance segment predominantly relies on revolving credit facility borrowings to fund client loans. To a lesser extent, cash balances are also used to fund a portion of the Finance segment loan portfolio, as appropriate. The timing and extent of revolving credit facility borrowings by the Finance segment is dependent upon a number of factors including, but not limited to, the demand for art-related financing, which can be significantly influenced by overall economic conditions and by the often unpredictable financial requirements of owners of major art collections, the timing of the funding of new client loans, and the timing of the settlement of existing client loans.
Sotheby’s short-term operating needs and capital requirements include the funding of working capital, the funding of net sales proceeds to consignors when unmatched extended payment terms are granted to auction and private sale buyers (see Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements), the potential funding of auction guarantees, the funding of potential Principal segment inventory purchases, the funding of client loans, the potential repayment of revolving credit facility borrowings, the funding of capital expenditures (which are expected to be between $13 million and $15 million in 2014), possible business initiatives and/or investments, the payment of quarterly dividends, and the payment of potential special dividends or the funding of potential Common Stock repurchases in connection with management's annual assessment of capital position (see "Capital Allocation and Financial Policy Review" above), as well as the funding of the other short-term commitments due on or before September 30, 2015, as summarized in the table of contractual obligations and commitments above. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
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Sotheby’s long-term operating needs and capital requirements include the funding of working capital, the funding of net sales proceeds to consignors when unmatched extended payment terms are granted to auction and private sale buyers (see Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements), the potential funding of auction guarantees, the funding of potential Principal segment inventory purchases, the funding of client loans, the potential repayment of revolving credit facility borrowings, possible future investments related to emerging markets such as China, other possible business initiatives and/or investments, the payment of potential quarterly and special dividends or the funding of potential Common Stock repurchases in connection with management's annual assessment of capital position (see "Capital Allocation and Financial Policy Review" above), as well as the funding of the presently anticipated long-term contractual obligations and commitments summarized in the table of contractual obligations and commitments above. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Management believes that operating cash flows, existing cash balances and revolving credit facility borrowings will be adequate to meet Sotheby’s anticipated short-term and long-term commitments, operating needs and capital requirements through the August 22, 2019 expiration of the Credit Agreements. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
FUTURE IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
See Note 18 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of recently issued accounting standards.
PREMISES UPDATE
Management believes Sotheby's worldwide premises are adequate for the current conduct of its business. However, management continually assesses Sotheby's worldwide premises, in particular, the real estate it owns in New York and London, for its current and future business needs as part of its ongoing efforts to manage infrastructure and enhance long-term shareholder value.
Management is conducting a review of Sotheby's real estate holdings, including a review of the York Property in New York, and a review of its Bond Street premises in London. As a result of the review of the York Property, management concluded that Sotheby's business does not currently require the full square footage of the building and is evaluating alternatives under which Sotheby’s would no longer occupy a portion of the York Property while remaining in the building without any permanent relocation of staff. Any action relative to the York Property will only be taken after fully assessing all financial costs, as well as operational challenges, and concluding that the incremental benefit will be meaningful and lasting, especially in consideration of the cyclical nature of Sotheby's business. Upon completion of this process, management will choose a course of action with respect to the York Property and commence execution. Management continues to evaluate the strategic and operating requirements for the New Bond Street premises in London and assess any feasible alternatives.
STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH eBAY
On July 14, 2014, Sotheby’s and eBay announced a partnership that will bring Sotheby’s traditional live auctions to a vastly larger online audience of 145 million potentially new clients around the world. eBay has launched a newly-designed marketplace on its website, tailored for collectors of rare, unique and premium art and collectibles as well as first-time buyers. Beginning in early-2015, Sotheby’s will become the preeminent anchor tenant on this new eBay platform, which will include a live auction feature and real-time bidding from anywhere around the world. Initially, only Sotheby’s New York sales will be featured. Eventually, it will expand to Sotheby’s other global salesrooms and also explore themed and time-based sales. Evening sales of high-value Contemporary and Impressionist Art, premium lots, and culturally sensitive material will not be included.
Management believes that this venture will improve Sotheby's ability to transact across mobile and other e-commerce platforms, accessing and attracting a vast number of potential new clients while expanding its presence in the auction middle market, particularly with lots priced between $5,000 and $100,000. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
LEGISLATION
In July 2010, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”) was signed into law in the U.S.. This legislation significantly changed the banking and financial institution regulatory structure and impacted the lending, deposit, investment, trading and operating activities of such financial institutions. Management continues to review the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act as they are finalized, and to assess its impact on Sotheby’s operations. This legislation has not had, nor does management believe it will have, a material impact on Sotheby's business. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
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In early-2014, following the issuance of the President’s National Strategy for Combating Wildlife Trafficking, there have been a number of Federal policy changes in the United States and a new New York State law that impact the import, sale and export of objects containing ivory and other endangered species material. Sotheby’s continues to engage with Federal and State legislators and regulators to ensure the preservation of the existing exemption for antique artworks, furniture and other collectibles containing such material. While the eventual effect of these legislative and regulatory changes is unknown at this time, management does not currently believe that the changes effected to date will have a material impact on Sotheby’s business, results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Form 10-Q contains certain forward looking statements; as such term is defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, relating to future events and the financial performance of Sotheby’s. Such statements are only predictions and involve risks and uncertainties, resulting in the possibility that the actual events or performance will differ materially from such predictions. Major factors which could cause the actual results to differ materially from the predicted results in the forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, the factors listed below under Part II, Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” which are not ranked in any particular order.
USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
GAAP refers to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America. Included in MD&A are financial measures presented in accordance with GAAP and also on a non-GAAP basis. In MD&A, Sotheby’s presents Adjusted Expenses, which is a supplemental financial measure that is not required by or presented in accordance with GAAP. Sotheby's definition of this non-GAAP financial measure is provided in the following paragraph. Management cautions users of Sotheby's financial statements that amounts presented in accordance with its definition of this non-GAAP financial measure may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies because not all companies and analysts calculate such a measure in the same manner.
Adjusted Expenses is defined as total expenses excluding the cost of Principal revenues, restructuring charges, and special charges (net). Adjusted Expenses is used by management to assess Sotheby’s cost structure when compared to prior periods and on a forward-looking basis in reporting periods when the cost of Principal revenues, restructuring charges, and special charges (net) are significant. Management is currently implementing a restructuring plan and other cost savings initiatives in an effort to reduce Sotheby's overall cost structure. Adjusted Expenses is one of the measures used by management to evaluate Sotheby's performance against its cost reduction initiatives. Accordingly, management believes that Adjusted Expenses is useful as it presents investors with additional information to help assess Sotheby's performance as it relates to its cost reduction initiatives and provides additional insight into the ongoing cost structure of Sotheby's absent restructuring charges, special charges (net) and the volatility associated with the cost of Principal revenues, which is unpredictable and can vary significantly from one period to the next.
A reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure to the most comparable measure reported in accordance with GAAP is presented below under “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.”
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RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
The following is a reconciliation of total expenses to Adjusted Expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands of dollars):
Favorable / (Unfavorable) | ||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | ||||||||||||
Total expenses | $ | 131,670 | $ | 142,225 | $ | 10,555 | 7 | % | ||||||||
Subtract: Cost of Principal revenues | (7,999 | ) | (22,417 | ) | 14,418 | 64 | % | |||||||||
Subtract: Restructuring charges | (14,285 | ) | — | — | (14,285 | ) | N/A | |||||||||
Subtract: Special charges, net | 4,169 | — | — | 4,169 | N/A | |||||||||||
Adjusted Expenses | $ | 113,555 | — | $ | 119,808 | $ | 6,253 | 5 | % | |||||||
Favorable / (Unfavorable) | |||||||||||||||
Nine Months Ended September 30, | 2014 | 2013 | $ Change | % Change | |||||||||||
Total expenses | 489,776 | 436,837 | $ | (52,939 | ) | (12 | %) | ||||||||
Subtract: Cost of Principal revenues | (40,019 | ) | (27,115 | ) | (12,904 | ) | (48 | %) | |||||||
Subtract: Restructuring charges | (14,285 | ) | — | (14,285 | ) | N/A | |||||||||
Subtract: Special charges, net | (20,088 | ) | — | (20,088 | ) | N/A | |||||||||
Adjusted Expenses | $ | 415,384 | $ | 409,722 | $ | (5,662 | ) | (1 | %) | ||||||
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ITEM 3: QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Management continually evaluates the market risk associated with its financial instruments in the normal course of its business. As of September 30, 2014, Sotheby's material financial instruments include: (i) cash and cash equivalents, (ii) restricted cash, (iii) notes receivable, (iv) credit facility borrowings, (v) the York Property Mortgage, (vi) the 2022 Senior Notes, (vii) the DCP liability and related trust assets, and (viii) outstanding forward exchange contracts. (See Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to notes receivable. See Note 6 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to the credit facility borrowings, the York Property Mortgage, and the 2022 Senior Notes.)
Management believes that the interest rate risk associated with its financial instruments is minimal as a hypothetical 10% increase or decrease in interest rates is immaterial to its cash flow, earnings, and the fair value of its financial instruments. As of September 30, 2014, a hypothetical 10% strengthening or weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to all other currencies would result in a decrease or increase in Sotheby's cash balances of approximately $42.5 million.
Sotheby’s utilizes forward exchange contracts to hedge cash flow exposures related to foreign currency exchange rate movements, which primarily arise from short-term foreign currency denominated intercompany balances and, to a much lesser extent, foreign currency denominated client payable balances, as well as foreign currency denominated auction guarantee obligations. Such forward exchange contracts are typically short-term with settlement dates less than six months from their inception. All derivative financial instruments are entered into by Sotheby’s global treasury function, which is responsible for monitoring and managing Sotheby's exposure to foreign currency exchange rate movements. As of September 30, 2014, the notional value of outstanding forward exchange contracts was $32.5 million. Notional values do not quantify risk or represent assets or liabilities of Sotheby’s, but are used to calculate cash settlements under outstanding forward exchange contracts. Sotheby’s is exposed to credit-related risks in the event of nonperformance by the three counterparties to its outstanding forward exchange contracts. Sotheby’s does not expect any of these counterparties to fail to meet their obligations, given their high short-term (A1/P1) credit ratings.
ITEM 4: CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of September 30, 2014, the Company has carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) were effective as of September 30, 2014.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
PART II: OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1: LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
For information related to legal proceedings, see Note 8 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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ITEM 1A: RISK FACTORS
Sotheby's operating results and liquidity are significantly influenced by a number of risk factors, many of which are not within its control. These factors, which are not ranked in any particular order, are discussed below.
The global economy and the financial markets and political conditions of various countries may negatively affect Sotheby's business and clients, as well as the supply of and demand for works of art.
The international art market is influenced over time by the overall strength and stability of the global economy and the financial markets of various countries, although this correlation may not be immediately evident. In addition, global political conditions and world events may affect Sotheby's business through their effect on the economies of various countries, as well as on the willingness of potential buyers and sellers to purchase and sell art in the wake of economic uncertainty. Sotheby's business can be particularly influenced by the economies, financial markets and political conditions of the U.S., the U.K., China and the other major countries or territories of Europe and Asia (including the Middle East). Accordingly, weakness in those economies and financial markets can adversely affect the supply of and demand for works of art and Sotheby's business. Furthermore, global political conditions may also influence the enactment of legislation that could adversely impact Sotheby's business.
Government laws and regulations may restrict or limit Sotheby's business or impact the value of its real estate assets.
Many of Sotheby's activities are subject to laws and regulations including, but not limited to, import and export regulations, cultural property ownership laws, data protection and privacy laws, anti-money laundering laws, antitrust laws, copyright and resale royalty laws, laws and regulations involving sales, use, value-added and other indirect taxes, and regulations related to the use of real estate. In addition, Sotheby's is subject to local auction regulations, such as New York City Auction Regulations Subchapter M of Title 6 §§ 2-121-2-125, et. seq. Such regulations currently do not impose a material impediment to the worldwide business of Sotheby's, but do affect the art market generally. A material adverse change in such regulations, such as the Equity for Visual Artists bill introduced in the U.S. Congress which would impose a 7% resale royalty on sales of art through large auction houses, could affect Sotheby's business. Additionally, export and import laws and cultural property ownership laws could affect the availability of certain kinds of property for sale at Sotheby's principal auction locations, increase the cost of moving property to such locations, or expose Sotheby's to legal claims or government inquiries.
Foreign currency exchange rate movements can significantly impact Sotheby's results of operations and financial condition.
Sotheby's has operations throughout the world, with approximately 59% of its revenues earned outside of the U.S. in 2013. Additionally, Sotheby's has significant assets and liabilities denominated in the Pound Sterling, the Euro, and the Swiss Franc. Revenues, expenses, gains, and losses recorded in foreign currencies are translated using the monthly average exchange rates prevailing during the period in which they are recognized. Assets and liabilities recorded in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Accordingly, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, particularly for the Pound Sterling, the Euro, and the Swiss Franc can significantly impact Sotheby's results of operations and financial condition.
Competition in the international art market is intense and may adversely impact Sotheby's results of operations.
Sotheby's competes with other auctioneers and art dealers to obtain valuable consignments to offer for sale either at auction or through private sale. The level of competition is intense and can adversely impact Sotheby's ability to obtain valuable consignments for sale, as well as the commission margins achieved on such consignments.
Sotheby's cannot be assured of the amount and quality of property consigned for sale, which may cause significant variability in its financial results.
The amount and quality of property consigned for sale is influenced by a number of factors not within Sotheby's control. Many major consignments, and specifically single-owner sale consignments, often become available as a result of the death or financial or marital difficulties of the owner, all of which are unpredictable and may cause significant variability in Sotheby's financial results from period to period.
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The demand for art is unpredictable, which may cause significant variability in Sotheby's results of operations.
The demand for art is influenced not only by overall economic conditions, but also by changing trends in the art market as to which collecting categories and artists are most sought after and by the collecting preferences of individual collectors, all of which are difficult to predict and which may adversely impact the ability of Sotheby's to obtain and sell consigned property, potentially causing significant variability in Sotheby's results of operations from period to period.
The loss of key personnel could adversely impact Sotheby's ability to compete.
Sotheby's is largely a service business in which the ability of its employees to develop and maintain relationships with potential sellers and buyers of works of art is essential to its success. Moreover, Sotheby's business is unique, making it important to retain key specialists and members of management. Accordingly, Sotheby's business is highly dependent upon its success in attracting and retaining qualified personnel.
The strategic and cost savings initiatives being implemented by Sotheby's may not succeed.
Sotheby's strategic initiatives are focused on extending the breadth and depth of its relationships with its most valuable clients, developing a presence in China and other emerging markets, growing private sales, enhancing its digital media platform, and leveraging and growing the Finance segment client loan portfolio. Additionally, in July 2014, Sotheby's Board of Directors approved a restructuring plan principally impacting Sotheby's operations in the United States and the U.K. that will result in the reallocation of resources to collecting categories and regions with the highest growth opportunity in the future. Sotheby's future operating results are dependent, in part, on management's success in implementing these and other strategic initiatives, as well as its cost savings initiatives. Furthermore, the inability of Sotheby's to successfully implement its strategic initiatives could result in, among other things, the loss of clients, the loss of key personnel, the impairment of assets, and inefficiencies from operating in new and emerging markets. Also, Sotheby's short-term operating results and liquidity could be unfavorably impacted by the implementation of its strategic plans. (See statement on Forward Looking Statements.)
Sotheby's joint venture and wholly-owned subsidiary in China are foreign-invested enterprises under Chinese law. As such, enforcement of certain of Sotheby's rights within these entities are subject to approval from the Chinese government, which could limit the ability of the entities to operate and succeed.
Sotheby's operates an equity joint venture with Beijing GeHua Art Company in China and, in 2014, established a wholly-owned subsidiary in China after obtaining the license required to operate as a Foreign-Invested Commercial Enterprise. Management believes these businesses strategically enhance Sotheby's long-term presence in mainland China and allow it to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Chinese art market.
Because these entities are foreign-invested enterprises under Chinese law, enforcement of certain of Sotheby's rights within these entities is subject to approval from the Chinese government. For example, all changes in shareholding and constitution of the joint venture will be subject to approval by the Chinese government, including in the event Sotheby's is seeking to terminate the joint venture agreement, exercise its put option, or wind-up the joint venture. Accordingly, Sotheby's ability to successfully operate its businesses in China could be constrained by the Chinese government and other unforeseen circumstances.
62#
Sotheby's capital allocation and financial policies may impact its liquidity, financial condition, market capitalization and business, and Sotheby's ongoing ability to return capital to its shareholders (and the size and timing of such return) is subject to ongoing business variables.
In January 2014, management and the Board of Directors concluded a review of Sotheby's capital allocation and financial policies in an effort to evaluate ongoing ways to deliver value to its shareholders, including through balance sheet optimization and potential return of capital strategies. The actions taken by Sotheby’s based on its review of its capital allocation and financial policies may impact its current and future liquidity, financial condition, market capitalization and business. In addition, the amount and timing of Sotheby’s return of capital to shareholders depends on various factors, including the outcome of Sotheby’s review of strategies with respect to its real estate properties, the amount of excess cash generated by the business in the future, the ability to debt finance the Finance segment loan portfolio, and the amount of capital that may be required to support Sotheby’s future liquidity needs, among other factors.
(See "Capital Allocation and Financial Policy Review" and “Liquidity and Capital Resources" within Part I, Item 2, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.")
A breach of the security measures protecting Sotheby's global network of information systems and those of certain third-party service providers utilized by Sotheby's may occur.
Sotheby's is dependent on a global network of information systems to conduct its business and is committed to maintaining a strong infrastructure to secure these systems. As part of its information systems infrastructure, Sotheby's relies, to a certain extent, upon third-party service providers to perform services related to BIDnowTM, retail wine e-commerce, and website server hosting. While these third-party service providers offer unique and specialized information security measures, certain elements of Sotheby's global information system security are outside management's direct control due to the use of these service providers. These third-party service providers are contractually obligated to host and maintain the service in a professional manner, in accordance with the rules and standards generally accepted within the industry. This includes conventional security measures such as firewall, password and encryption protection, breach notification requirements, and PCI practices for credit card processing services. A breach of the security measures protecting Sotheby's information systems could adversely impact its operations, reputation, and brand.
Sotheby's business continuity plans may not be effective in addressing the impact of unexpected events that could impact its business.
Sotheby's inability to successfully implement its business continuity plans in the wake of an unexpected event, such as an act of God or a terrorist attack occurring near one of its major selling and/or sourcing offices and/or any other unexpected event, could disrupt its ability to operate and adversely impact its operations.
Sotheby's relies on a small number of clients who make a significant contribution to its revenues, profitability and operating cash flows.
Sotheby's relies on a small number of clients who make a significant contribution to its revenues, profitability, and operating cash flows. Accordingly, Sotheby's revenues, profitability, and operating cash flows are highly dependent upon its ability to develop and maintain relationships with this small group of clients, as well as the financial strength of these clients.
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Subject to management approval under Sotheby's policy, Sotheby's may pay a consignor the net sale proceeds from an auction or private sale before payment is collected from the buyer and/or may allow the buyer to take possession of purchased property before payment is received. In these situations, Sotheby's is exposed to losses in the event the buyer does not make payment.
Under the standard terms and conditions of its auction and private sales, Sotheby's is not obligated to pay the consignor for property that has not been paid for by the buyer. However, in certain instances and subject to management approval under Sotheby's policy, the consignor may be paid the net sale proceeds before payment is collected from the buyer while Sotheby's retains possession of the property. In such situations, if the buyer does not make payment, Sotheby's will take title to the property, but could be exposed to losses if the value of the property declines. In certain other situations and subject to management approval under Sotheby's policy, the buyer is allowed to take possession of purchased property before making payment. In these situations, Sotheby's is liable to the seller for the net sale proceeds whether or not the buyer makes payment and would incur losses in the event of buyer default. (See Note 5 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information about auction and private sale receivables.)
Sotheby's ability to collect auction receivables may be adversely impacted by buyers from emerging markets, as well as by the banking and foreign currency laws and regulations, and judicial systems of the countries in which it operates and in which its clients reside.
Sotheby's operates in 40 countries and has a worldwide client base that has grown in recent years due in part to a dramatic increase in the activity of buyers from emerging markets, and in particular, China. The collection of auction receivables related to buyers from emerging markets may be adversely impacted by the buyer's lack of familiarity with the auction process and the buyer's financial condition. Sotheby's ability to collect auction receivables may also be adversely impacted by the banking and foreign currency laws and regulations regarding the movement of funds out of certain countries, as well as by Sotheby's ability to enforce its rights as a creditor in jurisdictions where the applicable laws and regulations may be less defined, particularly in emerging markets.
Demand for art-related financing is unpredictable, which may cause variability in Sotheby's results of operations.
Sotheby's business is, in part, dependent on the demand for art-related financing, which can be significantly influenced by overall economic conditions and by the often unpredictable financial requirements of owners of major art collections. Accordingly, the financial results of Sotheby's Finance segment are subject to variability from period to period.
The ability of Sotheby's to realize proceeds from the sale of collateral for Finance segment loans may be delayed or limited.
In situations when there are competing claims on the collateral for Finance segment loans and/or when a borrower becomes subject to bankruptcy or insolvency laws, Sotheby's ability to realize proceeds from the sale of its collateral may be limited or delayed.
The value of the property held in inventory and the property pledged as collateral for Finance segment loans is subjective and often fluctuates, exposing Sotheby's to losses and significant variability in its results of operations.
The market for fine art, decorative art, and high-end jewelry is not a highly liquid trading market. As a result, the valuation of these items is inherently subjective and their realizable value often fluctuates over time. Accordingly, Sotheby's is at risk both as to the realizable value of the property held in inventory and as to the realizable value of the property pledged as collateral for client loans. In estimating the realizable value of the property held in inventory and the property pledged as collateral for Finance segment loans, management relies on the opinions of Sotheby's specialists, who consider the following complex array of factors when valuing these items: (i) whether the property is expected to be offered at auction or sold privately, in the ordinary course of Sotheby's business; (ii) the supply and demand for the property, taking into account economic conditions and, when relevant, changing trends in the art market as to which collecting categories and artists are most sought after; and (iii) recent sale prices achieved for comparable items within a particular collecting category and/or by a particular artist. If there is evidence that the estimated realizable value of a specific item held in inventory is less than its carrying value, a loss is recorded to reflect management's revised estimate of realizable value. In addition, if the estimated realizable value of the property pledged as collateral for a client loan is less than the corresponding loan balance, management assesses whether it is necessary to record a loss to reduce the carrying value of the loan, after taking into account the ability of the borrower to repay any shortfall between the value of the collateral and the amount of the loan. These factors may cause significant variability in Sotheby's financial results from period to period.
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The low rate of historic losses on the Finance segment loan portfolio may not be indicative of future loan loss experience.
Sotheby's has historically incurred minimal losses on the Finance segment loan portfolio. However, despite management's stringent loan underwriting standards, Sotheby's previous loan loss experience may not be indicative of the future performance of the loan portfolio.
Sotheby's could be exposed to losses and/or reputational harm as a result of various claims and lawsuits incidental to the ordinary course of its business.
Sotheby's becomes involved in various legal proceedings, lawsuits, and other claims incidental to the ordinary course of its business. Management is required to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes in these matters, as well as potential ranges of probable or reasonably possible losses. A determination of the amount of losses, if any, to be recorded or disclosed as a result of these contingencies is based on a careful analysis of each individual exposure with, in some cases, the assistance of outside legal counsel. The amount of losses recorded or disclosed for such contingencies may change in the future due to new developments in each matter or a change in settlement strategy.
Sotheby's could be exposed to reputational harm as a result of wrongful actions by certain third parties.
Sotheby's is involved in various business arrangements and ventures with unaffiliated third parties. Wrongful actions by such parties could harm Sotheby's brand and reputation.
Sotheby's could be exposed to losses in the event of title or authenticity claims.
The assessment of property offered for auction or private sale can involve potential claims regarding title and authenticity. Items sold by Sotheby's may be subject to statutory warranties as to title and to a limited guarantee as to authenticity under the Conditions of Sale and Terms of Guarantee that are published in Sotheby's auction sale catalogues and the terms stated in, and the laws applicable to, agreements governing private sale transactions. The authentication of the items offered by Sotheby's is based on scholarship and research, but necessarily requires a degree of judgment from Sotheby's specialists. In the event of a title or authenticity claim against Sotheby's, Sotheby's may have recourse against the seller of the property and may have the benefit of insurance, but a claim could nevertheless expose Sotheby's to losses and to reputational risk.
Auction guarantees create the risk of loss resulting from the potential inaccurate valuation of art.
As discussed above, the market for fine art, decorative art, and high-end jewelry is not a highly liquid trading market and, as a result, the valuation of these items is inherently subjective. Accordingly, Sotheby's is at risk with respect to management's ability to estimate the likely selling prices of property offered with auction guarantees. If management's judgments about the likely selling prices of property offered with auction guarantees prove to be inaccurate, there could be a significant adverse impact on Sotheby's results of operations, financial condition, and liquidity. (See Note 9 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to auction guarantees.)
Sotheby's could be exposed to losses in the event of nonperformance by its counterparties in auction guarantee risk and reward sharing arrangements.
In certain situations, Sotheby's reduces its financial exposure under auction guarantees through risk and reward sharing arrangements. Sotheby's counterparties to these risk and reward sharing arrangements are typically major international art dealers or major art collectors. Sotheby's could be exposed to losses in the event any of these counterparties do not perform according to the terms of these contractual arrangements. (See Note 9 of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information related to auction guarantees.)
Future costs and obligations related to Sotheby's U.K. Pension Plan are dependent on unpredictable factors, which may cause significant variability in employee benefit costs.
Future costs and obligations related to Sotheby's defined benefit pension plan in the U.K. are heavily influenced by changes in interest rates, investment performance in the debt and equity markets, changes in statutory requirements in the U.K., and actuarial assumptions, each of which is unpredictable and may cause significant variability in Sotheby's employee benefit costs.
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Tax matters may cause significant variability in Sotheby's financial results.
Sotheby's operates in many tax jurisdictions throughout the world and the provision for income taxes involves a significant amount of management judgment regarding interpretation of relevant facts and laws in the jurisdictions in which Sotheby's operates. Sotheby's effective income tax rate can vary significantly between periods due to a number of complex factors including, but not limited to: (i) future changes in applicable laws; (ii) projected levels of taxable income; (iii) changes in the jurisdictional mix of forecasted and/or actual pre-tax income; (iv) increases or decreases to valuation allowances recorded against deferred tax assets; (v) tax audits conducted by various tax authorities; (vi) adjustments to income taxes upon the finalization of income tax returns; (vii) the ability to claim foreign tax credits; (viii) the repatriation of foreign earnings for which Sotheby's has not previously provided income taxes; and (ix) tax planning strategies.
Sotheby's clients reside in various tax jurisdictions throughout the world. To the extent that there are changes to tax laws or tax reporting obligations in any of these jurisdictions, such changes could adversely impact the ability and/or willingness of clients to purchase or sell works of art through Sotheby's. Additionally, Sotheby's is subject to laws and regulations in many countries involving sales, use, value-added and other indirect taxes which are assessed by various governmental authorities and imposed on certain revenue-producing transactions between Sotheby's and its clients. The application of these laws and regulations to Sotheby's unique business and global client base, and the estimation of any related liabilities, is complex and requires a significant amount of judgment. These indirect tax liabilities are generally not those of Sotheby’s unless it fails to collect the correct amount of sales, use, value-added, or other indirect taxes. Failure to collect the correct amount of indirect tax on a transaction may expose Sotheby's to claims from tax authorities.
Insurance coverage for artwork may become more difficult to obtain, exposing Sotheby's to losses for artwork in Sotheby's possession.
Sotheby's maintains insurance coverage through brokers and underwriters for the works of art it owns and for works of art consigned to it by its clients, which are exhibited and stored at Sotheby's facilities around the world. An inability to adequately insure such works of art due to limited capacity of the global art insurance market could, in the future, have a material adverse impact on Sotheby's business.
Due to the nature of its business, valuable works of art are exhibited and stored at Sotheby's facilities around the world. Such works of art could be subject to damage or theft, which could have a material adverse effect on Sotheby's business and reputation.
Valuable works of art are exhibited and stored at Sotheby's facilities around the world. Although Sotheby's maintains state of the art security measures at its premises, valuable artworks may be subject to damage or theft. The damage or theft of valuable property despite Sotheby's security measures could have a material adverse impact on Sotheby's business and reputation. Sotheby's maintains insurance coverage for the works of art that are exhibited and stored at its facilities, which could significantly mitigate any potential losses resulting from the damage or theft of such works of art.
ITEM 4: MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
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ITEM 6: EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits
31.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
31.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
101.INS | XBRL Instance Document. |
101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. |
101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. |
101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. |
101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. |
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
(i) | On July 15, 2014, Sotheby's filed a current report on Form 8-K under Item 8.01, "Other Events" and Item 9.01, "Financial Statements and Exhibits." |
(ii) | On July 18, 2014, Sotheby's filed a current report on Form 8-K under Item 2.05, "Cost Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities." |
(iii) | On August 8, 2014, Sotheby's filed a current report on Form 8-K under Item 2.02, "Results of Operations and Financial Condition" and Item 9.01, "Financial Statements and Exhibits." |
(iv) | On August 25, 2014, Sotheby's filed a current report on Form 8-K under Item 1.01, "Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement," Item 2.03, "Creation of a Direct Financial Obligation or an Obligation under an Off-Balance Sheet Arrangement of a Registrant," and Item 9.01, "Financial Statements and Exhibits." |
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SIGNATURES
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.
SOTHEBY’S | ||
By: | /s/ KEVIN M. DELANEY | |
Kevin M. Delaney | ||
Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer | ||
Date: November 10, 2014
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EXHIBIT INDEX
31.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
31.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
32.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
101.INS | XBRL Instance Document. |
101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. |
101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. |
101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. |
101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. |
101.PRE | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. |
69#