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EX-31 - EXHIBIT 31A - HMG COURTLAND PROPERTIES INCex31a.htm
EX-31 - EXHIBIT 31B - HMG COURTLAND PROPERTIES INCex31b.htm
EX-32 - EXHIBIT 32B - HMG COURTLAND PROPERTIES INCex32b.htm
EX-32 - EXHIBIT 32A - HMG COURTLAND PROPERTIES INCex32a.htm
EX-21 - EXHIBIT 21 - HMG COURTLAND PROPERTIES INCex21.htm

 

U. S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

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

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015

 

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

 

Commission file number: 1-7865

 

HMG/COURTLAND PROPERTIES, INC.
(Name of Registrant in its Charter)

 

Delaware 59-1914299
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification Number)
   
1870 S. Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove (Miami), Florida 33133
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

Issuer’s telephone number, including area code: (305) 854-6803

 

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

   
  Name of each exchange
Title of class on which registered:
Common Stock - Par value $1.00 per share NYSE Amex

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act
Yes ¨ No x

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.
Yes ¨ No x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act of 1934 during the past 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 x 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 Regulation S-T (Section 232.05) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No ¨

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨        Accelerated filer ¨

Non-accelerated filer   ¨        Smaller reporting company x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the exchange Act).
Yes ¨ No x

 

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant (excludes shares of voting stock held by directors, executive officers and beneficial owners of more than 10% of the Registrant’s voting stock; however, this does not constitute an admission that any such holder is an “affiliate” for any purpose) based on the closing price of the stock as traded on the NYSE Amex Exchange on the last business day of the Registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter (June 30, 2015) was $4,572,995. The number of shares outstanding of the issuer’s common stock, $1 par value as of the latest practicable date: 1,035,493 shares of common stock, $1 par value, as of March 23, 2016.

 

 

 

  

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    PAGE
PART I    
     
Item 1. Description of Business 3
Item 2. Description of Property 5
Item 3. Legal Proceedings 5
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 5
     
PART II    
     
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 6
Item 6. Selected Financial Data 8
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 8
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 11
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 12
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants On Accounting and Financial Disclosure 32
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 32
Item 9B. Other Information 32
     
PART III    
     
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 33
Item 11. Executive Compensation 34
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 35
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 36
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services 37
     
PART IV    
     
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules 38
     
  Signatures 38
  Certifications  

 

 

 

 

Part I.

 

Cautionary Statement.

 

An investment in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. These risks should be considered carefully with the uncertainties described below, and all other information included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, before deciding whether to purchase our common stock. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to management or that management currently deems immaterial may also become important factors that may harm our business, financial condition or results or operations. The trading price of our common stock could decline due to any of these risks and uncertainties and you may lose part or all of your investment.

 

This Annual Report contains certain statements relating to future results of the Company that are considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, changes in political and economic conditions; interest rate fluctuation; competitive pricing pressures within the Company’s market; equity and fixed income market fluctuation; technological change; changes in law; changes in fiscal, monetary, regulatory and tax policies; monetary fluctuations as well as other risks and uncertainties detailed elsewhere in this Annual Report or from time-to-time in the filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which such statements are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

Item 1. Description of Business.

 

HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc. and subsidiaries (“HMG”, or the “Company”), is a Delaware corporation organized in 1972. The Company’s business is the ownership and management of income-producing commercial properties and it will consider other investments if they offer growth or profit potential.

 

HMG (excluding its 95% owned subsidiary Courtland Investments, Inc. (“CII”), which files a separate tax return) qualifies for taxation as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. One of the qualifications the Company must satisfy in order to be considered a REIT is the asset tests relating to the nature and diversification of its assets determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  The asset tests must be satisfied within 30 days after the close of each quarter of the REIT’s taxable year. The key asset test requires that at least 75% of the value of the REIT’s total assets must be represented by real estate assets, cash, cash items (including receivables arising in the ordinary course of operation), government securities and qualified temporary investments. As previously reported, during the fourth quarter of 2014 the Company discovered that it fell short of meeting the 75% asset test.  Management has taken the necessary steps to meet the test and filed its REIT tax return on September 15, 2015.

 

As previously reported, in September 2014, the Company, through a newly-formed wholly owned subsidiary (HMG Orlando LLC, a Delaware limited liability company), acquired a one-third equity membership interest in JY-TV Associates, LLC a Florida limited liability company (“JY-TV”) and entered into the Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of JY-TV (the “Agreement”). Also, as previously reported, on May 19, 2015, pursuant to the terms of a Construction Loan Agreement, between JY-TV Associates LLC (“JY-TV” or the “Borrower”, which is one-third owned by a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company) and Wells Fargo Bank ("Lender"), Lender loaned to the Borrower the principal sum of $27 million pursuant to a senior secured construction loan ("Loan"). The proceeds of the Loan are being used to finance the previously reported construction of multi-family residential apartments containing 240 units totaling approximately 239,000 net rentable square feet on a 9.5 acre site located in Orlando, Florida ("Project"). Total development costs for the Project are estimated at $34 million and the Borrower’s equity totals approximately $7 million. Construction of the Project commenced in June 2015 and is proceeding as planned. This investment is accounted for under the equity method.

 

The Company invests its idle cash in marketable securities and acquires real estate and other investments utilizing available cash or borrowing funds.

 

The Company’s portfolio of REIT marketable securities consist of preferred and non-preferred equity of large capital publicly traded REITs with a market value of approximately $8.3 million as of December 31, 2015.

 

3 

 

 

The Company’s investments in non-REIT marketable securities include equity and debt securities issued primarily by large capital companies or government agencies with readily determinable fair values in varying industries. This includes real estate investment trusts and mutual funds focusing in commercial real estate activities. Substantially all of the Company’s marketable securities investments are in companies listed on major national stock markets, however the overall investment portfolio and some of the Company’s investment strategies could be viewed as risky and the market values of the portfolio may be subject to fluctuations. Consistent with the Company’s overall investment objectives and activities, management classifies all marketable securities as being held in a trading portfolio. Accordingly, all unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s investments in marketable securities are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Marketable securities are stated at market value as determined by the most recently traded price of each security at the balance sheet date. Information regarding the amounts and types of investments in marketable securities is set forth in Note 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

  

The Company may realize gains and losses in its overall investment portfolio from time to time to take advantage of market conditions and/or manage the portfolio’s resources and the Company’s tax liability. The Company may utilize margin for its marketable securities purchases through the use of standard margin agreements with national brokerage firms. The use of available leverage is guided by the business judgment of management. The Company may also use options and futures to hedge concentrated stock positions and index futures to hedge against market risk and enhance the performance of the Company’s portfolio while reducing the overall portfolio’s risk and volatility.

 

The Company’s other investments consist primarily of nominal equity interests in various privately-held entities, including limited partnerships whose purpose is to invest venture capital funds in growth-oriented enterprises. The Company does not have significant influence over any investee and the Company’s investment represents less than 3% of the investee’s ownership. Some of these investments give rise to exposure resulting from the volatility in capital markets. The Company mitigates its risks by diversifying its investment portfolio. Information with respect to the amounts and types of other investments including the nature of the declines in value is set forth in Note 4 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Reference is made to Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence for discussion of the Company’s organizational structure and related party transactions.

 

Investment in Affiliate.

 

The Company’s investment in affiliate consists of a 49% equity interest in T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc. (“TGIF”). TGIF was incorporated in Texas and operates solely from the Company’s corporate office in Miami, Florida. The Company’s CEO, Maurice Wiener, is also the CEO of TGIF. Its assets consist primarily of promissory notes receivable from its shareholders including CII and Mr. Wiener and other investments including marketable debt and equity securities. This investment’s carrying value as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 was approximately $2.1 and $2.2 million, respectively. CII’s note payable to TGIF which is due on demand was approximately $1.8 million and $2.1 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Reference is made to Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

Insurance, Environmental Matters and Other:

 

In the opinion of management, all significant real estate assets of the Company are adequately covered by insurance and the cost and effects of complying with environmental laws do not have a material impact on the Company’s operations.

 

We are not aware of any federal, state or local environmental laws or regulations that will materially affect our earnings or competitive position or result in material capital expenditures. However, we cannot predict the effect of possible future environmental legislation or regulations on our operations.

 

Competition and the Company’s Market

 

The Company competes for suitable opportunities for real estate investments with other real estate investment trusts, foreign investors, pension funds, insurance companies and other investors. The Company also competes with other real estate investors and borrowers for available sources of financing.

 

In addition, to the extent the Company leases properties it must compete for tenants with other lessors offering similar facilities. Tenants are sought by providing modern, well-maintained facilities at competitive rentals. The Company has attempted to facilitate successful leasing of its properties by investing in facilities that have been developed according to the specifications of tenants and special local needs.

 

4 

 

 

Employees.

 

The Company’s management is provided in accordance with its Advisory Agreement (the “Agreement”) with HMGA, Inc. (“the Adviser”), as described below under “Terms of the Agreement”. Reference is also made to Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

 

Terms of the Advisory Agreement. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Adviser serves as the Company’s investment adviser and, under the supervision of the directors of the Company, administers the day-to-day operations of the Company. All officers of the Company who are officers of the Adviser are compensated solely by the Adviser for their services. The Agreement is renewable annually upon the approval of a majority of the directors of the Company who are not affiliated with the Adviser and a majority of the Company’s shareholders. The contract may be terminated at any time on 120 days written notice by the Adviser or upon 60 days written notice by a majority of the unaffiliated directors of the Company or the holders of a majority of the Company’s outstanding shares.

 

On October 15, 2015, the shareholders approved the renewal and amendment of the Advisory Agreement between the Company and the Adviser for a term commencing January 1, 2016 and expiring December 31, 2016.

  

The Adviser is majority owned by Mr. Wiener. The officers and directors of the Adviser are as follows: Maurice Wiener, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive officer and President and Carlos Camarotti, Vice President - Finance and Assistant Secretary.

 

Advisory Fees. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company and its subsidiaries incurred Adviser fees of approximately $697,000 and $714,000, respectively. This consisted of $660,000 in regular compensation for 2015 and 2014, and $37,000 and $54,000 in incentive fee compensation for 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Item 2. Description of Property.

 

Executive offices (Coconut Grove, Florida). The principal executive offices of the Company and the Adviser are located at 1870 South Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove, Florida, 33133, in premises owned by the Company’s subsidiary CII and is primarily leased to the Adviser pursuant to a lease agreement originally dated December 1, 1999. In December 2014 the lease was renewed for one year with two one year extensions. The lease (as extended) provides for base rent of $50,400 per year payable in equal monthly installments during the term of the lease which expired on December 1, 2015, and was extended to December 1, 2016. The Adviser, as tenant, pays utilities, certain maintenance and security expenses relating to the leased premises.

 

The Company regularly evaluates potential real estate acquisitions for future investment or development and would utilize funds currently available or from other resources to implement its strategy.

 

Item 3. Legal Proceedings.

 

Grove Isle Associates, LLLP was a co-defendant in two lawsuits in the circuit court in Miami Dade County Florida. These cases arose from claims by a condominium association and resident seeking a declaratory judgment regarding certain provisions of the declaration of condominium relating to the Grove Isle Club and the developer. Both lawsuits were settled in September 2015 and did not have a significant impact on the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.

 

Not applicable to the Company.

 

5 

 

 

Part II.

 

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

 

The high and low per share closing sales prices of the Company’s stock on the NYSE Amex Exchange (ticker symbol: HMG) for each quarter during the past two years were as follows:

 

   High   Low 
March 31, 2015  $13.00   $9.18 
June 30, 2015  $13.51   $11.89 
September 30, 2015  $14.57   $11.05 
December 31, 2015  $12.54   $10.38 
           
March 31, 2014  $18.75   $16.48 
June 30, 2014  $17.17   $14.00 
September 30, 2014  $16.15   $13.02 
December 31, 2014  $16.50   $11.00 

 

On December 21, 2015 the Company declared a return of capital dividend of $.50 per share which was paid on January 11, 2016 to all shareholders of record as of December 31, 2015.

 

On December 19, 2014 the Company declared a return of capital dividend of $.50 per share which was paid on January 7, 2015 to all shareholders of record as of December 29, 2014.

 

The Company’s policy has been to pay dividends as are necessary for it to qualify for taxation as a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code.

 

As of March 8, 2016, there were 278 shareholders of record of the Company’s common stock.

 

The following table illustrates securities authorized for issuance under the Company’s equity compensation plan, the 2011 Stock Option Plan:

 

   Number of securities         
   to be issued upon   Weighted-average   Number of securities remaining 
   exercise of   exercise price of   available for future issuance under 
   outstanding options   outstanding options   equity compensation plans 
Equity compensation plan approved by
shareholders
   17,700   $18.35    17,900 
Equity compensation plan not approved by shareholders            
Total   17,700   $18.35    17,900 

 

The following table summarizes stock option activity during the year ended December 31, 2015:

 

       Weighted 
       Average 
   Options   Exercise 
   Outstanding   Price 
Outstanding at January 1, 2015   17,700   $18.35 
Granted   3,000   $12.75 
Exercised   -    - 
Outstanding at December 31, 2015   20,700   $17.54 

 

6 

 

 

The following table summarizes stock option activity during the year ended December 31, 2014:

 

       Weighted 
       Average 
   Options   Exercise 
   Outstanding   Price 
Outstanding at January 1, 2014   22,700   $15.37 
Granted   -    - 
Exercised   (5,000)  $4.80 
Outstanding at December 31, 2014   17,700   $18.35 

 

The intrinsic value of options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2014 was $39,000.

 

The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable options as of December 31, 2015:

 

  Number Outstanding   Weighted Average
  and exercisable   Strike Prices
   3,000   $ 12.75
   9,500   $ 17.84
   7,500   $ 18.89
   700   $ 19.50
   20,700   $ 17.54

 

As of December 31, 2015 stock options outstanding and exercisable had no intrinsic value.

 

The following table presents information regarding the shares of our common stock we purchased during each of the twelve calendar months ended December 31, 2015:

 

Period  Total Number of
Shares Purchased
   Average Price Paid per Share   Total Number of Shares 
Purchased as Part of 
Publicly Announced Plan
(1)
  
Maximum Dollar
Value of Shares
That May Yet Be
Purchased Under the Plan (1)
 
                 
Jan. 1 –31, 2015   8,245   $12.12    8,245   $390,690 
Feb. 1 –28, 2015   1,619   $12.30    1,619   $370,778 
March 1 –31, 2015   1,309   $12.53    1,309   $354,377 
April 1 –30, 2015   -    -    -   $354,377 
May 1 –31, 2015   260   $12.57    260   $351,108 
June 1 –30, 2015   2,000   $13.51    2,000   $324,096 
July 1 –31, 2015   -    -    -   $324,096 
Aug. 1 – 31, 2015   4,000   $11.38    4,100   $277,458 
Sept. 1 – 30, 2015   100   $12.56    100   $276,202 
Oct. 1 – 31, 2015   -    -    -   $276,202 
Nov. 1 – 30, 2015   -    -    -   $276,202 
Dec. 1 – 31, 2015 (program expired)   -    -    -   $- 

 

1. During 2015 we had one current program to repurchase outstanding shares of our common stock from time to time in the open market at prevailing market prices or in privately negotiated transactions. This program was approved by our Board of Directors and announced in November 2012 (the “2012 Program”) and expired on December 31, 2015.  

 

7 

 

  

Item 6. Selected Financial Data:

 

Not applicable to the Company.

 

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates.

 

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make estimates and assumptions in applying our critical accounting policies that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure (if any) of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Our estimates and assumptions concern, among things, potential impairment of our other investments and other long-lived assets, uncertainties for Federal and state income tax and allowance for potential doubtful accounts. We evaluate those estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis based on historical experience and on various other factors which we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. Note 1 of the consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere on this Form 10-K, includes a summary of the significant accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The Company believes the following critical accounting policies affect the significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements:

 

Marketable Securities. Consistent with the Company’s overall investment objectives and activities, management has classified its entire marketable securities portfolio as trading. As a result, all unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s investment portfolio are included in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Our investments in trading equity and debt marketable securities are carried at fair value and based on quoted market prices or other observable inputs. Marketable securities are subject to fluctuations in value in accordance with market conditions.

 

Other Investments. The Company’s other investments consist primarily of nominal equity interests in various privately-held entities, including limited partnerships whose purpose is to invest venture capital funds in growth-oriented enterprises. The Company does not have significant influence over any investee and the Company’s investment represents less than 3% of the investee’s ownership. None of these investments meet the criteria of accounting under the equity method and are carried at cost less distributions and other than temporary unrealized losses. These investments do not have available quoted market prices, so we must rely on valuations and related reports and information provided to us by those entities. These valuations are by their nature subject to estimates which could change significantly from period to period. The Company regularly reviews the underlying assets in its other investment portfolio for events, that may indicate the investment has suffered other-than-temporary decline in value including. These events include but are not limited to bankruptcies, closures and declines in estimated fair value. When a decline is deemed other-than-temporary, we permanently reduce the cost basis component of the investments to its estimated fair value, and the loss is recorded as a component of net income from other investments. As such, any recoveries in the value of the investments will not be recognized until the investments are sold.

 

We believe our estimates of each of these items historically have been adequate. However, due to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, it is reasonably possible that the actual resolution of any of these items could vary significantly from the estimate and, accordingly, there can be no assurance that the estimates may not materially change in the near term.

 

Real Estate. Land, buildings and improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment are recorded at cost. Tenant improvements, which are included in buildings and improvements, are stated at cost. Expenditures for ordinary maintenance and repairs are expensed to operations as they are incurred. Renovations and/or replacements, which improve or extend the life of the asset are capitalized and depreciated over the shorter of their estimated useful lives, or the remaining lease term (if leased).

 

Depreciation is computed utilizing the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of ten to forty years for buildings and improvements and five to ten years for furniture, fixtures and equipment. Tenant improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the term of the related leases or the assets useful life.

 

The Company is required to make subjective assessments as to the useful lives of its properties for purposes of determining the amount of depreciation to reflect on an annual basis with respect to those properties. These assessments have a direct impact on the Company’s net income. Should the Company lengthen the expected useful life of a particular asset, it would be depreciated over more years, and result in less depreciation expense and higher annual net income.

 

Assessment by the Company of certain other lease related costs must be made when the Company has a reason to believe that the tenant will not be able to execute under the term of the lease as originally expected.

 

8 

 

 

The Company periodically reviews the carrying value of certain of its properties and long-lived assets in relation to historical results, current business conditions and trends to identify potential situations in which the carrying value of assets may not be recoverable. If such reviews indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable, the Company would estimate the undiscounted sum of the expected future cash flows of such assets or analyze the fair value of the asset, to determine if such sum or fair value is less than the carrying value of such assets to ascertain if a permanent impairment exists. If a permanent impairment exists, the Company would determine the fair value by using quoted market prices, if available, for such assets, or if quoted market prices are not available, the Company would discount the expected future cash flows of such assets and would adjust the carrying value of the asset to fair value. Judgments as to impairments and assumptions used in projecting future cash flow are inherently imprecise.

  

Results of Operations:

 

For the years ended December 31, 2015, the Company reported a net loss attributable to the Company of approximately $1,060,000 ($1.02 per share). For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company reported net income of approximately $233,000 ($.22 per share). The net loss in 2015, as further explained below, was primarily the result of increased legal fees and decreased gains from marketable securities.

 

Revenues:

 

Total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were approximately $65,000 and $77,000, respectively and is primarily comprised of rental revenue from the corporate office.

 

Expenses:

 

Total expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 as compared to that of 2014 increased by approximately $373,000 (or 25%). This increase was primarily due to increased legal fees, partially offset by decreased other general and administrative expenses. Legal fees increased by approximately $427,000 (587%) in 2015 as compared to 2014. This was due to the Grove Isle litigation which was settled in September 2015.

 

Other Income:

 

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments in marketable securities:

 

Net gain (loss) from investments in marketable securities, including marketable securities distributed by partnerships in which the Company owns minority positions, for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, is as follows:

 

Description  2015   2014 
Net realized gain from sales of marketable securities  $50,000   $400,000 
Net unrealized (loss) gain from marketable securities   (402,000)   259,000 
Total net (loss) gain from investments in marketable securities  $(352,000)  $659,000 

 

Net realized gain from sales of marketable securities consisted of approximately $487,000 of gains net of $437,000 of losses for the year ended December 31, 2015. The comparable amounts in fiscal year 2014 were approximately $523,000 of gains net of $123,000 of losses.

 

Consistent with the Company’s overall current investment objectives and activities, the entire marketable securities portfolio is classified as trading (as defined by U.S generally accepted accounting principles). Unrealized gains or losses from marketable securities are recorded as other income in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

 

Investment gains and losses on marketable securities may fluctuate significantly from period to period in the future and could have a significant impact on the Company’s net earnings. However, the amount of investment gains or losses on marketable securities for any given period has no predictive value and variations in amount from period to period have no practical analytical value.

 

Investments in marketable securities give rise to exposure resulting from the volatility of capital markets. The Company attempts to mitigate its risk by diversifying its marketable securities portfolio.

 

9 

 

 

Net income from other investments is summarized below (excluding other than temporary impairment losses):

 

   2015   2014 
Venture capital funds – diversified businesses (a)  $151,000   $90,000 
Partnerships owning real estate and related investments   149,000    11,000 
Investment in 49% owned affiliate and other (b)   22,000    19,000 
Total net income from other investments  $322,000   $120,000 

 

(a) The gains in 2015 and 2014 consist of various cash distributions from investments owning diversified businesses and real estate and related investments which made cash distributions from the sale or refinancing of operating companies. The increase in gain between 2015 and 2014 from partnerships owning real estate and related investments primarily consisted of $85,000 from one investment in a limited partnerships which sold various real estate interests and distributed proceeds in 2015.

 

(b) This gain represents income from the Company’s 49% owned affiliate, T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc. (“TGIF”). In 2015 and 2014 TGIF declared and paid a cash dividend of which the Company’s portion of was approximately $196,000 each year. These dividends were recorded as reduction in the investment carrying value as required under the equity method of accounting for investments.

  

Other than temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses from other investments

 

   2015   2014 
Technology and related  $-   $(11,000)
Total other than temporary impairment loss from other investments  $               $(11,000)

 

There were no OTTI losses for the year ended December 31, 2015. The OTTI loss for the year ended December 31, 2014 consists of a recognized impairment loss in an investment in a partnership that invested in technology related companies.

 

Net income or loss from other investments may fluctuate significantly from period to period in the future and could have a significant impact on the Company’s net earnings. However, the amount of investment gain or loss from other investments for any given period has no predictive value and variations in amount from period to period have no practical analytical value.

 

Interest, dividend and other income

 

Interest, dividend and other income for the year ended December 31, 2015 as compared with 2014 decreased by approximately $121,000 (or 13%), primarily due to decreased other income from a non-recurring gain of approximately $282,000 from the dissolution of South Bayshore Associates (SBA), as previously reported. This decrease was partially offset by approximately $161,000 in increased dividends and other income.

 

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes:

 

The Company (excluding CII) qualifies as a real estate investment trust and distributes its taxable ordinary income to stockholders in conformity with requirements of the Internal Revenue Code and is not required to report deferred items due to its ability to distribute all taxable income. In addition, net operating losses can be carried forward to reduce future taxable income but cannot be carried back. Distributed capital gains on sales of real estate as they relate to REIT activities are not subject to taxes; however, undistributed capital gains may be subject to corporate tax.

 

(Reference is made to Item 1. Description of Business for discussion regarding REIT 75% asset test).

 

There was no provision for or benefit from income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2015. Benefit from income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2014 was approximately $8,000, consisting of refunding state income taxes.

 

As of December 31, 2015 the Company (excluding CII) has an estimated tax net operating loss carryover (NOL) of approximately $333,000.

 

The Company’s 95%-owned subsidiary, CII, files a separate income tax return and its operations are not included in the REIT’s income tax return.

 

10 

 

 

For CII, the Company follows the liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax liabilities and assets are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amount and the tax basis of assets and liabilities at each year-end based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. As a result of timing differences associated with the carrying value of other investments, unrealized gains and losses of marketable securities, depreciable assets and the future benefit of a net operating loss, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company has recorded a net deferred tax liability of $217,000.

 

As of December 31, 2015, CII has an estimated NOL of approximately $1.2 million which has been fully reserved due to CII historically having tax losses.

 

Effect of Inflation.

 

Inflation affects the costs of maintaining the Company’s investments.

 

Liquidity, Capital Expenditure Requirements and Capital Resources. The Company’s material commitments primarily consist of a note payable to the Company’s 49% owned affiliate, T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc. (“TGIF”) of approximately $1.8 million due on demand (see Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence), and contributions committed to other investments of approximately $2.7 million due upon demand. The funds necessary to meet these obligations are expected from the proceeds from the sales of investments, distributions from investments and available cash and equivalents ($11.2 million at December 31, 2015).

  

A summary of the Company’s contractual cash obligations at December 31, 2015 is as follows:

 

   Payments Due by Period 
Contractual                    
Obligations  Total   Less than 1 year   1 – 3 years   4 – 5 years   After 5 years 
Note payable  $1,800,000   $1,800,000             
Other investments commitments   2,700,000    2,700,000             
Total  $4,500,000   $4,500,000             

 

The timing of amounts due under commitments for other investments is determined by the managing partners of the individual investments.

 

Material Changes in Operating, Investing and Financing Cash Flows.

 

The Company’s cash flows are generated primarily from its dividends, interest and sales proceeds of marketable securities, distributions from other investments and borrowings.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, net cash used in operating activities was approximately $1.3 million, primarily consisting of net loss before income taxes of approximately $1.1 million, plus approximately $235,000 of payment of accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities relating to 2014.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, net cash used in investing activities was approximately $621,000 and consisted primarily of $6.8 million of purchases of marketable securities, $2 million investment in real estate partnership (Orlando) and $1.8 million of contributions to other investments. These uses of funds were partially offset by proceeds from sales of marketable securities of $7.8 million and distributions from other investments of $1.98 million.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, net cash provided by financing activities was approximately $3.7 million and consisted primarily of $4.75 million of margin borrowings, partially offset by repayment of note payable to affiliate of $300,000, dividend paid of $527,000 and purchase of treasury stock of $214,000.

 

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risks.

 

Not Applicable to the Company.

 

11 

 

  

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data  
     
  Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 13
     
  Consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 14
     
  Consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 15
     
  Consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 16
     
  Consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 17
     
  Notes to consolidated financial statements 18

 

12 

 

  

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc. (a Delaware corporation) and Subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the years then ended. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc. and Subsidiaries at December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

/s/ Cherry Bekaert LLP
Coral Gables, Florida
March 23, 2016

 

13 

 

  

HMG/COURTLAND PROPERTIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

 

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2015   2014 
ASSETS          
Investment properties, net of accumulated depreciation:          
Office building and other commercial property  $833,680   $793,749 
Total investment properties, net   833,680    793,749 
           
Cash and cash equivalents   11,213,385    9,451,152 
Investments in marketable securities   10,507,750    11,790,037 
Other investments   3,895,317    3,793,420 
Investment in affiliate   2,061,706    2,232,972 
Loans, notes and other receivables   1,260,620    1,400,877 
Investment in real estate partnership   2.322,695    281,663 
Other assets   129,755    53,356 
TOTAL ASSETS  $32,224,908   $29,797,226 
           
LIABILITIES          
Note payable to affiliate  $1,800,000   $2,100,000 
Margin payable   7,999,166    3,253,065 
Dividends payable   517,747    526,963 
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities   23,132    210,691 
Amounts due to the Adviser   36,799    54,111 
Deferred income tax payable   217,000    217,000 
           
TOTAL LIABILITIES   10,593,844    6,361,830 
           
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES        
           
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Excess common stock, $1 par value; 100,000 shares authorized: no shares issued        
Common stock, $1 par value; 1,200,000 shares authorized and 1,053,926 issued as of December 31, 2015 and 2014   1,053,926    1,053,926 
Additional paid-in capital   24,255,614    24,249,844 
Less: Treasury shares at cost (18,433 and 800 shares as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively)   (223,798)   (9,377)
Undistributed gains from sales of properties, net of losses   52,709,950    53,227,696 
Undistributed losses from operations   (56,375,340)   (55,315,000)
Total stockholders’ equity   21,420,352    23,207,089 
Noncontrolling interest   210,712    228,307 
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY   21,631,064    23,435,396 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY  $32,224,908   $29,797,226 

 

See notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

14 

 

  

HMG/COURTLAND PROPERTIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

 

 

   2015   2014 
REVENUES          
Real estate rentals and related revenue  $64,800   $76,754 
Total revenues   64,800    76,754 
           
EXPENSES          
Operating expenses:          
Rental and other properties   114,050    96,039 
Adviser’s base fee   660,000    660,000 
General and administrative   251,689    271,326 
Professional fees and expenses   656,830    279,719 
Directors’ fees and expenses   88,029    100,349 
Depreciation expense   15,335    19,435 
Interest expense   104,939    91,198 
Total expenses   1,890,872    1,518,066 
           
Loss before other income and income taxes   (1,826,072)   (1,441,312)
           
Net realized and unrealized (losses) gains from investments in marketable securities   (351,843)   659,276 
Net income from other investments   321,962    120,589 
Other than temporary impairment losses from other investments   -    (11,092)
Interest, dividend and other income   778,017    899,483 
Total other income   748,136    1,668,256 
           
(Loss) income before income taxes   (1,077,936)   226,944 
Benefit from income taxes   -    (8,190)
Net (loss) income   (1,077,936)   235,134 
Noncontrolling interest   17,597    (2,261)
Net (loss) income attributable to the Company  $(1,060,339)  $232,873 
           
Weighted average common shares outstanding-basic   1,040,181    1,049,428 
Weighted average common shares outstanding-diluted   1,040,181    1,049,428 
Net (loss) income per common share:          
Basic and diluted income per share  $(1.02)  $.22 

 

See notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

15 

 

  

HMG/COURTLAND PROPERTIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

 

 

                Undistributed                   
                Gains from Sales     Undistributed            Total   
   Common Stock    Additional      of Properties     Losses from   Treasury Stock    Stockholders’   
   Shares    Amount      Paid-In Capital      Net of Losses     Operations   Shares   Cost    Equity   
Balance as of January 1, 2014   1,048,926   $1,048,926   $24,230,844   $53,754,659   $(55,547,873)          $23,486,556 
                                         
Net income                       232,873              232,873 
Dividend paid - $.50 per share                  (526,963)                  (526,963)
                                         
Stock options exercised   5,000    5,000    19,000                        24,000 
Purchase of treasury stock                            800    (9,377)   (9,377)
                                         
Balance as of December 31, 2014   1,053,926    1,053,926    24,249,844    53,227,696    (55,315,000)   800    (9,377)   23,207,089 
                                         
Net loss                       (1,060,339)             (1,060,339)
                                         
Dividend payable - $.50 per share                  (517,747)                  (517,747)
                                         
Non-employee stock option compensation             5,770                        5,770 
                                         
Purchase of treasury stock                            17,633    (214,421)   (214,421)
Balance as of December 31, 2015   1,053,926   $1,053,926   $24,255,614   $52,709,949   $(56,375,339)   18,433   $(223,798)  $21,420,352 

 

See notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

16 

 

  

HMG/COURTLAND PROPERTIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

 

 

   2015   2014 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:          
Net (loss) income attributable to the Company  $(1,060,339)  $232,873 
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income attributable to the Company to net cash used in operating activities:          
Depreciation expense   15,335    19,435 
Non-employee stock compensation   5,770     
Net income from other investments, excluding impairment losses   (321,962)   (120,589)
Other than temporary impairment loss from other investments       11,092 
Gain from dissolution of joint venture       (226,157)
Net loss (gain) from investments in marketable securities   351,843    (659,276)
Net (loss) gain attributable to noncontrolling interest   (17,597)   2,261 
Changes in assets and liabilities:          
Other assets and other receivables   (58,720)   (13,311)
Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities   (235,321)   (3,699,205)
Total adjustments   (260,652)   (4,685,750)
Net cash used in operating activities   (1,320,991)   (4,452,877)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
Net proceeds from sales and redemptions of securities   7,773,036    8,997,601 
Increased investments in marketable securities   (6,842,592)   (15,405,765)
Investment in real estate partnership   (2,041,032)   (281,663)
Distributions from other investments   1,984,673    958,086 
Contributions to other investments   (1,756,178)   (1,347,067)
Proceeds from collections of mortgage loans and notes receivables   122,580    138,000 
Distribution from affiliate   193,286    232,286 
Purchases and improvements of properties   (55,265)   (274,691)
Proceeds from sales of real estate and discontinued operations       278,720 
Proceeds from collections of notes and advances from related parties       226,157 
Additions in mortgage loans and notes receivable       (138,000)
Net cash used in investing activities   (621,492)   (6,616,336)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
Margin borrowings   4,746,101    3,253,065 
Dividend paid   (526,963)    
Repayment of note payable to affiliate   (300,000)   (402,891)
Proceeds from stock options exercised       24,000 
Purchase of treasury stock   (214,421)   (9,377)
Net cash provided by financing activities   3,704,717    2,864,797 
           
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   1,762,234    (8,204,416)
           
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year   9,451,152    17,655,568 
           
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year  $11,213,385   $9,451,152 
           
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:          
Cash paid during the year for interest  $105,000   $91,000 
Cash paid during the year for income taxes  $   $1,593,000 

 

See notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

17 

 

 

HMG/COURTLAND PROPERTIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015 and 2014

 

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Business and Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc. (“we” or the “Company”) and entities in which the Company owns a majority voting interest or controlling financial interest. The Company was organized in 1972 and (excluding its 95% owned subsidiary Courtland Investments, Inc., which files a separate tax return) qualifies for taxation as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the Internal Revenue Code. The Company’s business is the ownership and management of income-producing commercial properties and its management considers other investments if such investments offer growth or profit potential. The Company’s recurring operating revenue is from property rental operations of its corporate offices.

 

All material transactions and balances with consolidated and unconsolidated entities have been eliminated in consolidation or as required under the equity method.

 

The Company’s consolidated subsidiaries are described below:

 

Courtland Investments, Inc. (“CII”). A 95% owned corporation in which the Company holds a 95% non-voting interest and Masscap Investments Company, Inc. (“Masscap”) which holds a 5% voting interest in CII. The Company and Masscap have had a continuing arrangement with regard to the ongoing operations of CII, which provides the Company with complete authority over all decision making relating to the business, operations and financing of CII consistent with the Company’s status as a real estate investment trust. Masscap is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Transco Realty Trust which is a 45% shareholder of the Company. CII files a separate tax return and its operations are not part of the REIT tax return.

 

HMG Orlando, LLC (“HMGO”). This wholly owned limited liability company was formed in August 2014. In September 2014 HMGO acquired a one-third equity membership interest in JY-TV Associates, LLC a Florida limited liability company (“JY-TV”) and entered into the Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of JY-TV (the “Agreement”). JY-TV was formed in 2014 for the sole purpose of purchasing and constructing two hundred forty (240) unit rental apartments on approximately 9.5 acres in Orlando, Florida. The other two initial members of JY-TV are not related to the Company.

 

260 River Corp (“260”). This wholly owned corporation of the Company owns an approximate 70% interest in a vacant commercially zoned building located on 5.4 acres in Montpelier, Vermont. Development of this property is being considered.

 

HMG Bayshore, LLC (“HMGBS”). This is a wholly owned Florida limited liability company.

 

Baleen Associates, Inc. (“Baleen”). This corporation is wholly owned by CII and its sole asset is a 50% interest in a partnership which operates an executive suite rental business in Coconut Grove, Florida.

 

Preparation of Financial Statements. The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Income Taxes. The Company’s 95%-owned subsidiary, CII, files a separate income tax return and its operations are not included in the REIT’s income tax return. The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC Topic 740, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“ASC Topic 740”). This requires a Company to use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of “temporary differences” by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities.

 

The effect on deferred income taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred taxes only pertain to CII. The Company (excluding CII) qualifies as a real estate investment trust and distributes its taxable ordinary income to stockholders in conformity with requirements of the Internal Revenue Code and is not required to report deferred items due to its ability to distribute all taxable income. In addition, net operating losses can be carried forward to reduce future taxable income but cannot be carried back. Distributed capital gains on sales of real estate as they relate to REIT activities are not subject to taxes; however, undistributed capital gains are taxed as capital gains. State income taxes are not significant.

 

18 

 

 

The Company follows the provisions of ASC Topic 740-10, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with ASC Topic 740, and prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement process for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. This topic also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition.

  

Based on our evaluation, we have concluded that there are no significant uncertain tax positions requiring recognition in our consolidated financial statements. Our evaluation was performed for the tax years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. The Company’s federal income tax returns since 2012 are subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service, generally for a period of three years after the returns were filed.

 

We may from time to time be assessed interest or penalties by major tax jurisdictions, although any such assessments historically have been minimal and immaterial to our financial results. In the event we have received an assessment for interest and/or penalties, it has been classified in the consolidated financial statements as selling, general and administrative expense.

 

Depreciation. Depreciation of the corporate offices properties held for investment is computed using the straight-line method over its estimated useful life of 39.5 years. Depreciation expense for the corporate offices for each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was approximately $15,000 and $19,000, respectively.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments. The Company records its financial assets and liabilities at fair value, which is defined under the applicable accounting standards as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measure date. The Company uses valuation techniques to measure fair value, maximizing the use of observable outputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs. The standard describes a fair value hierarchy based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value which are the following:

 

Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

Level 2 – Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

 

Level 3 – Inputs include management’s best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The inputs are unobservable in the market and significant to the instrument’s valuation.

 

An investment’s categorization within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

The carrying value of financial instruments including other receivables, notes and advances due from related parties, accounts payable and accrued expenses and mortgages and notes payable approximate their fair values at December 31, 2015 and 2014, due to their relatively short terms or variable interest rates.

 

Cash equivalents are classified within Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources with reasonable levels of transparency. Other investments which are measured by investees at net asset value per share or its equivalent are also classified within Level 2.

 

The valuation of other investments not included above requires significant judgment by the Company’s management due to the absence of quoted market values, inherent lack of liquidity and long-term nature of such assets and have been classified within Level 3. Such investments are valued initially based upon transaction price. Valuations are reviewed periodically utilizing available market data and additional factors to determine if the carrying value of these investments should be adjusted. In determining valuation adjustments, emphasis is placed on market participants’ assumptions and market-based information over entity-specific information.

 

Marketable Securities. The entire marketable securities portfolio is classified as trading consistent with the Company’s overall investment objectives and activities. Accordingly, all unrealized gains and losses on the Company’s marketable securities investment portfolio are included in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

Gross gains and losses on the sale of marketable securities are based on the first-in first-out method of determining cost.

 

19 

 

 

Marketable securities from time to time are pledged as collateral pursuant to broker margin requirements. There were no marketable securities pledged as collateral pursuant to margin agreements as of December 31, 2015.

 

Treasury bills, from time to time, are pledged as collateral pursuant to broker margin requirements. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 the Company had approximately $7,999,000 and $3,253,000 of margin balances outstanding, respectively.

 

Notes and other receivables. Management periodically performs a review of amounts due on its notes and other receivable balances to determine if they are impaired based on factors affecting the collectability of those balances. Management’s estimates of collectability of these receivables requires management to exercise significant judgment about the timing, frequency and severity of collection losses, if any, and the underlying value of collateral, which may affect recoverability of such receivables. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company had no allowances for bad debt.

 

Equity investments. Investments in which the Company does not have a majority voting or financial controlling interest but has the ability to exercise influence are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, even though the Company may have a majority interest in profits and losses. The Company follows ASC Topic 323-30 in accounting for its investments in limited partnerships. This guidance requires the use of the equity method for limited partnership investments of more than 3 to 5 percent.

  

The Company has no voting or financial controlling interests in its other investments which include entities that invest venture capital funds in growth oriented enterprises. These other investments are carried at cost less adjustments for other than temporary declines in value.

 

Income (loss) per common share. Net income (loss) per common share (basic and diluted) is based on the net income (loss) divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year. Diluted net loss per share includes the dilutive effect of options to acquire common stock. Common shares outstanding include issued shares less shares held in treasury. There were 20,700 and 17,700 stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The 2015 and 2014 options were not included in the diluted earnings per share computation as their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

 

Gain on sales of properties. Gain on sales of properties is recognized when the minimum investment requirements have been met by the purchaser and title passes to the purchaser.

 

There were no sales of property in 2015 and 2014.

 

Cash and cash Equivalents. For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents.

 

Concentration of Credit Risk. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk are cash and cash equivalent deposits in excess of federally insured limits, marketable securities, other receivables and notes and mortgages receivable. From time to time the Company may have bank deposits in excess of federally insured limits (presently $250,000). The Company evaluates these excess deposits and transfers amounts to brokerage accounts and other banks to mitigate this exposure. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, we had approximately $399,000 and $485,000 of deposits in excess of federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts and believes that it is not exposed to any significant credit risk on cash.

 

Other intangible assets:

 

Deferred loan costs are amortized on a straight line basis over the life of the loan. This method approximates the effective interest rate method.

 

20 

 

 

Noncontrolling Interest. Noncontrolling interest represents the noncontrolling or minority partners’ proportionate share of the equity of the Company’s majority owned subsidiaries. A summary for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:

 

   2015   2014 
Noncontrolling interest balance at beginning of year  $228,000   $282,000 
Noncontrolling partners’ interest in operating gains of consolidated subsidiaries   (17,000)   2,000 
Noncontrolling partners’ balance written off upon dissolution   -    (56,000)
           
Noncontrolling interest balance at end of year  $211,000   $228,000 

 

Revenue recognition. CII is the lessor of the Company’s principal executive offices and the Adviser corporate offices. This lease agreement is classified as an operating lease and accordingly all rental revenue is recognized as earned based upon total fixed cash flow over the initial term of the lease, using the straight line method. The lease agreement originally dated December 1, 1999 and was due to expire on December 1, 2014. In December the lease was renewed for a one year lease term expiring on December 1, 2015, with two one year extensions permitted with an increase of 5% in rent for each extension. The lease was extended in December 2015 for one year, as permitted by the lease agreement. Beginning in December 2015 the base rent is $50,400 per year payable in equal monthly installments during the term of the lease. The Adviser, as tenant, pays utilities, certain maintenance and security expenses relating to the leased premises.

 

Impairment of long-lived assets. The Company periodically reviews the carrying value of its properties and long-lived assets in relation to historical results, current business conditions and trends to identify potential situations in which the carrying value of assets may not be recoverable. If such reviews indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable, the Company would estimate the undiscounted sum of the expected future cash flows of such assets or analyze the fair value of the asset, to determine if such sum or fair value is less than the carrying value of such assets to ascertain if a permanent impairment exists. If a permanent impairment exists, the Company would determine the fair value by using quoted market prices, if available, for such assets, or if quoted market prices are not available, the Company would discount the expected future cash flows of such assets and would adjust the carrying value of the asset to fair value. There were no impairment of long-lived assets in 2015 and 2014.

  

Share-based compensation.

 

The Company accounts for share-based compensation in accordance with ASC Topic 718 “Share-Based Payments”. The Company has used the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of stock options on the dates of grant.

 

Recent accounting pronouncements.

 

In March 2016 the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-07, Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Simplifying the Transition to the Equity Method of Accounting. The amendments affect all entities that have an investment that becomes qualified for the equity method of accounting as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence.

 

The amendments eliminate the requirement that when an investment qualifies for use of the equity method as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence, an investor must adjust the investment, results of operations, and retained earnings retroactively on a step-by-step basis as if the equity method had been in effect during all previous periods that the investment had been held. The amendments require that the equity method investor add the cost of acquiring the additional interest in the investee to the current basis of the investor’s previously held interest and adopt the equity method of accounting as of the date the investment becomes qualified for equity method accounting. Therefore, upon qualifying for the equity method of accounting, no retroactive adjustment of the investment is required. The amendments require that an entity that has an available-for-sale equity security that becomes qualified for the equity method of accounting recognize through earnings the unrealized holding gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income at the date the investment becomes qualified for use of the equity method. The amendments are effective for all entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The amendments should be applied prospectively upon their effective date to increases in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence that result in the adoption of the equity method. Earlier application is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact this guidance will have on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842)" ("ASU 2016-02") that will supersede current guidance related to accounting for leases. The guidance is intended to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The standard will be effective for the first interim period within annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019 with early adoption permitted. The standard is required to be adopted using the modified retrospective approach. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact this guidance will have on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

 21 
 

 

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, "Income Taxes (Topic 740)" ("ASU 2015-17"). Currently U.S. GAAP requires an entity to separate deferred income tax liabilities and assets into current and noncurrent amounts in a classified statement of financial position. The amendments under ASU 2015-17 will require that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. The amendments in this update will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The adoption of ASU 2015-17 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, "Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30)" ("ASU 2015-03"). Currently generally accepted accounting principles U.S. GAAP requires any debt issuance costs to be reported in the balance sheet as deferred charges. The amendments in this Update require that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The amendments in this Update are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact this guidance will have on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

 

In August 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update ASU2014-15 Disclosure of Uncertainties about an entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. This ASU amends ASC205-40. ASC205-40 provides guidance about management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related note disclosures. With the amendments made by ASU 2014-15, financial statement disclosures will be required when there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern or when substantial doubt is alleviated as a result of considerations of management’s plans. The new standard provides management with principles for evaluating whether there is substantial doubt by: providing a definition of substantial doubt, requiring an evaluation every reporting period (including interim periods), providing principles for considering the mitigating effect of management’s plans, requiring certain disclosures when substantial doubt is alleviated as a result of consideration of management’s plans, requiring an express statement and other disclosures when substantial doubt is not alleviated, and requiring an assessment for a period of one year after the date that the financial statements are issued (or available to be issued). The amendments are effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASU 2014-09), which supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP. The core principle of ASU 2014-09 is to recognize revenues when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 defines a five step process to achieve this core principle and, in doing so, more judgment and estimates may be required within the revenue recognition process than are required under existing U.S. GAAP. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods therein, using either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective approach reflecting the application of the standard in each prior reporting period with the option to elect certain practical expedients, or (ii) a retrospective approach with the cumulative effect of initially adopting ASU 2014-09 recognized at the date of adoption (which includes additional footnote disclosures). We are currently evaluating the impact of our pending adoption of ASU 2014-09 on our consolidated financial statements and have not yet determined the method by which we will adopt the standard in 2017.

 

The Company does not believe that other standards which have been issued but are not yet effective will have a significant impact on its financial statements.

 

22 

 

 

2. INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

 

The components of the Company’s investment properties and the related accumulated depreciation information follow:

 

   December 31, 2015 
       Accumulated     
   Cost   Depreciation   Net 
Office building and other commercial property:               
Corporate Office - (Coconut Grove, FL) – Building  $652,198   $310,472   $357,060 
Corporate Office – (Coconut Grove, FL) – Land   325,000        325,000 
Other (Hopkinton, RI) – Land (50 acres)   48,305        48,305 
Other (Paxton, MA) – Land (20,000 square feet)   6,960        6,960 
Other (Montpelier, Vermont) – Building   52,000    52,000     
Other (Montpelier, Vermont) - Land and improvements (5.4 acres)   111,689        111,689 
   $1,196,152   $362,472   $833,680 

 

   December 31, 2014 
       Accumulated     
   Cost   Depreciation   Net 
Office building and other commercial property:               
Corporate Office - (Coconut Grove, FL) – Building  $652,198   $295,138   $357,060 
Corporate Office – (Coconut Grove, FL) – Land   325,000        325,000 
Other (Montpelier, Vermont) – Building   52,000    52,000     
Other (Montpelier, Vermont) - Land and improvements (5.4 acres)   111,689        111,689 
   $1,140,887   $347,138   $793,749 

  

3. INVESTMENTS IN MARKETABLE SECURITIES

 

Investments in marketable securities consist primarily of large capital corporate equity and debt securities in varying industries or issued by government agencies with readily determinable fair values. These securities are stated at market value, as determined by the most recent traded price of each security at the balance sheet date. Consistent with the Company's overall current investment objectives and activities its entire marketable securities portfolio is classified as trading. Accordingly all unrealized gains (losses) on this portfolio are recorded in income. Included in investments in marketable securities is approximately $8.3 million and $7.8 million of large capital real estate investment trusts (REITs) as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, net unrealized (losses) gains on trading securities were approximately ($402,000) and $259,000, respectively.

 

   December 31, 2015   December 31, 2014 
Description  Cost
Basis
   Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Gain (loss)
   Cost
Basis
   Fair
Value
   Unrealized
Gain (loss)
 
Real Estate Investment Trusts  $8,108,000   $8,320,000   $212,000   $7,491,000   $7,791,000   $300,000 
                               
Mutual Funds, ETF & other   755,000    753,000    (2,000)   1,468,000    1,543,000    75,000 
                               
Other Equity Securities   666,000    697,000    31,000    1,191,000    1,358,000    167,000 
Total Equity Securities   9,529,000    9,770,000    241,000    10,150,000    10,692,000    542,000 
Debt Securities   847,000    737,000    (110,000)   1,107,000    1,098,000    (9,000)
Total  $10,376,000   $10,507,000   $131,000   $11,257,000   $11,790,000   $533,000 

 

As of December 31, 2015, debt securities are scheduled to mature as follows:

 

   Cost   Fair Value 
2016 – 2020  $49,000   $45,000 
2021 – 2025   140,000    111,000 
2026 – thereafter   658,000    581,000 
   $847,000   $737,000 

 

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Net gain (loss) from investments in marketable securities for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 is summarized below:

 

Description  2015   2014 
Net realized gain from sales of marketable securities  $50,000   $400,000 
Net unrealized (loss) gain from marketable securities   (402,000)   259,000 
Total net (loss) gain from investments in marketable securities  $(352,000)  $659,000 

 

Net realized gain from sales of marketable securities consisted of approximately $487,000 of gains net of $437,000 of losses for the year ended December 31, 2015. The comparable amounts in fiscal year 2014 were gains of approximately $523,000 net of $123,000 of losses

 

Consistent with the Company’s overall current investment objectives and activities the entire marketable securities portfolio is classified as trading (as defined by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles). Unrealized gains or losses of marketable securities on hand are recorded in income.

 

Investment gains and losses on marketable securities may fluctuate significantly from period to period in the future and could have a significant impact on the Company’s net earnings. However, the amount of investment gains or losses on marketable securities for any given period has no predictive value and variations in amount from period to period have no practical analytical value.

 

Investments in marketable securities give rise to exposure resulting from the volatility of capital markets. The Company attempts to mitigate its risk by diversifying its marketable securities portfolio.

 

4. OTHER INVESTMENTS

 

The Company’s other investments consist primarily of nominal equity interests in various privately-held entities, including limited partnerships whose purpose is to invest venture capital funds in growth-oriented enterprises. The Company does not have significant influence over any investee and the Company’s investment represents less than 3% of the investee’s ownership. These investments do not meet the criteria of accounting under the equity method and accordingly are carried at cost less distributions and other than temporary unrealized losses.

 

The Company’s portfolio of other investments consists of approximately 40 individual investments primarily in limited partnerships with varying investment objectives and focus. Management has categorized these investments by investment focus: technology and communications, diversified businesses, real estate related and other.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, other investments had an aggregate carrying value of $3.9 million and $3.8 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2015 the Company has committed to fund approximately an additional $2.7 million as required by agreements with the investees. The carrying value of these investments is equal to contributions less distributions and other than temporary loss valuation adjustments. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 the Company made contributions of approximately $1.8 million and $1.3 million, respectively, and received distributions from these investments of $2.0 million and $958,000, respectively.

 

The Company’s other investments are summarized below.

 

   Carrying values as of December 31, 
Investment Focus  2015   2014 
         
Venture capital funds – technology and communications  $284,000   $288,000 
           
Venture capital funds – diversified businesses   1,860,000    1,200,000 
           
Real estate and related   1,116,000    1,680,000 
           
Other   635,000    625,000 
           
Totals  $3,895,000   $3,793,000 

 

The Company regularly reviews the underlying assets in its investment portfolio for events, including but not limited to bankruptcies, closures and declines in estimated fair value, that may indicate the investment has suffered other-than-temporary decline in value. When a decline is deemed other-than-temporary, an investment loss is recognized.

 

24 

 

 

Net income from other investments is summarized below (excluding other than temporary impairment loss):

 

   2015   2014 
Income from investment in 49% owned affiliate (a)  $22,000   $19,000 
Real estate and related (b)   149,000    11,000 
Venture capital funds – diversified businesses (c)   151,000    90,000 
Total net income from other investments  $322,000   $120,000 

 

(a)          This gain represents income from the Company’s 49% owned affiliate, T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc. (“TGIF”). In 2015 and 2014 TGIF declared and paid a cash dividend, the Company’s portion of which was approximately $193,000 each year. These dividends were recorded as reduction in the investment carrying value as required under the equity method of accounting for investments.

 

(b)          The gain in 2015 and 2014 consists primarily of cash distributions from an investment in real estate partnership which distributed proceeds from sales of its real estate.

 

(c)          The gain in 2015 and 2014 consists of cash distributions from various investments in partnerships owning diversified businesses which made cash distributions from the sale or refinancing of operating companies and/or distributions from operating activities.

 

Other than temporary impairment losses from other investments

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015 there were no valuation losses from other than temporary impairment losses from other investments. For the year ended December 31, 2014, valuation losses from other than temporary impairment losses from other investments of $11,000 were recorded, consisting of a valuation loss from an investment in a limited partnership which invests in technology related entities and made a liquidating distribution in 2014.

 

Net gain or loss from other investments may fluctuate significantly from period to period in the future and could have a significant impact on the Company’s net earnings. However, the amount of investment gain or loss from other investments for any given period has no predictive value and variations in amount from period to period have no practical analytical value.

 

The following tables present gross unrealized losses and fair values for those investments that were in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, aggregated by investment category and the length of time that investments have been in a continuous loss position:

 

   As of December 31, 2015 
   12 Months or Less   Greater than 12 Months   Total 
Investment Description  Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
 
Partnerships owning investments in technology related industries  $   $   $5,000   $(12,000)  $5,000   $(12,000)
Partnerships owning diversified businesses investments   272,000    (28,000)   184,000    (16,000)   456,000    (44,000)
Other (private banks, etc.)           288,000    (12,000)   288,000    (12,000)
Total  $272,000   $(28,000)  $477,000   $(40,000)  $748,000   $(68,000)

 

   As of December 31, 2014 
   12 Months or less   Greater than 12 Months   Total 
Investment Description  Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
   Fair Value   Unrealized
Loss
 
Partnerships owning investments in technology related industries  $   $   $5,000   $(11,000)  $5,000   $(11,000)
Partnerships owning diversified businesses investments   190,000    (10,000)           190,000    (10,000)
Partnerships owning real estate and related investments   45,000    (30,000)           45,000    (30,000)
Other (private banks, etc.)   242,000    (8,000)             242,000    (8,000)
Total  $477,000   $(48,000)  $5,000   $(11,000)  $482,000   $(59,000)

 

25 

 

 

5. FAIR VALUE INSTRUMENTS

 

In accordance with ASC Topic 820, the Company measures cash and cash equivalents, marketable debt and equity securities at fair value on a recurring basis. Other investments are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.

 

The following are the major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) and significant other observable inputs (Level 2). For the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, there were no major assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis which uses significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):

 

   Fair value measurement at reporting date using 
Description  Total
December 31,
2015
   Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Assets:                    
Cash equivalents:                    
Money market mutual funds  $943,000   $943,000   $   $ 
U.S. T-bills   9,478,000    9,478,000         
Marketable securities:                    
Corporate debt securities   737,000        737,000     
Marketable equity securities   9,771,000    9,771,000         
Total assets  $20,929,000   $20,192,000   $737,000   $ 

 

   Fair value measurement at reporting date using 
Description  Total
December 31,
2014
   Quoted Prices in Active
Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Assets:                    
Cash equivalents:                    
Time deposits  $55,000   $   $55,000   $ 
Money market mutual funds   1,206,000    1,206,000         
U.S. T-bills   7,200,000    7,200,000         
Marketable securities:                    
Corporate debt securities   1,098,000        1,098,000     
Marketable equity securities   10,692,000    10,692,000         
Total assets  $20,251,000   $19,098,000   $1,153,000   $ 

 

Carrying amount is the estimated fair value for corporate debt securities and time deposits based on a market-based approach using observable (Level 2) inputs such as prices of similar assets in active markets.

 

The following are the major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. This category includes other investments which are measured using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):

 

   Fair value measurement at reporting date using   Total 
   Total   Quoted Prices in Active   Significant Other   Significant   losses for 
   December 31,   Markets for Identical Assets   Observable Inputs   Unobservable Inputs   year ended 
Description  2015   (Level 1)   (Level 2) (a)   (Level 3) (b)   12/31/2015 
Assets:                         
Other investments by investment focus:                         
Technology & Communication  $284,000   $   $284,000   $   $ 
Diversified businesses   1,859,000        1,859,000         
Real estate and related   1,117,000        1,019,000    98,000     
Other   635,000            635,000     
Total assets  $3,895,000   $   $3,162,000   $733,000   $ 

 

26 

 

 

   Fair value measurement at reporting date using   Total 
   Total   Quoted Prices in Active   Significant Other   Significant   losses for 
   December 31,   Markets for Identical Assets   Observable Inputs   Unobservable Inputs   year ended 
Description  2014   (Level 1)   (Level 2) (a)   (Level 3) (b)   12/31/2014 
Assets:                         
Other investments by investment focus:                         
Technology & Communication  $288,000   $   $288,000   $   $11,000 
Diversified businesses   1,200,000        1,200,000         
Real estate and related   1,680,000        737,000    943,000     
Other   625,000            625,000     
Total assets  $3,793,000   $   $2,225,000   $1,568,000   $11,000 

 

(a)Other investments measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include investments in certain entities that calculate net asset value per share (or its equivalent such as member units or an ownership interest in partners’ capital to which a proportionate share of net assets is attributed, “NAV”). This class primarily consists of private equity funds that have varying investment focus. These investments can never be redeemed with the funds. Instead, the nature of the investments in this class is that distributions are received through the liquidation of the underlying assets of the fund. If these investments were held it is estimated that the underlying assets of the fund would be liquidated over 5 to 10 years. As of December 31, 2015, it is probable that all of the investments in this class will be sold at an amount different from the NAV of the Company’s ownership interest in partners’ capital. Therefore, the fair values of the investments in this class have been estimated using recent observable information such as audited financial statements and/or statements of partners’ capital obtained directly from investees on a quarterly or other regular basis. During the year ended December 30, 2015, the Company received distributions of approximately $960,000 from this type of investment primarily from investments in diversified businesses and real estate. During the year ended September 30, 2015, the Company made contributions totaling approximately $1.6 million in this type of investment. As of December 31, 2015, the amount of the Company’s unfunded commitments related to the aforementioned investments is approximately $2.7 million.

 

(b)Other investments above which are measured on a nonrecurring basis using Level 3 unobservable inputs consist of investments primarily in commercial real estate in Florida through private partnerships and three investments in the stock of private banks in Florida and Texas. The Company does not know when it will have the ability to redeem the investments and has categorized them as a Level 3 fair value measurement. The Level 3 real estate and related investments of approximately $377,000 include one investment in a commercial building located near the Company’s offices purchased in 2005 with a zero carrying value as of December 31, 2015. During 2015, the Company received distributions totaling $733,000 from this investment. Investments in this category are measured using primarily inputs provided by the managing member of the partnerships with whom the Company has done similar transactions in the past and is well known to management. The fair values of these real estate investments have been estimated using the net asset value of the Company’s ownership interest in partners’ capital. The other Level 3 investments include investments in private bank stocks and a reinsurance company. The fair values of these other Level 3 investments have been estimated using the cost method less distributions received and other than temporary impairments. This investment is valued using inputs provided by the management of the investee.

 

The following table includes a roll-forward of the investments classified within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy for the year ended December 31, 2015:

 

   Level 3 Investments: 
Balance at January 1, 2015  $1,568,000 
Investment in real estate partnership and other   110,000 
Distributions from Level 3 investments, net of gains   (945,000)
Balance at December 31, 2015  $733,000 

 

27 

 

 

6. INVESTMENT IN AFFILIATE

 

Investment in affiliate consists of CII’s 49% equity interest in T.G. I.F. Texas, Inc. (“T.G.I.F.”). T.G.I.F. is a Texas Corporation which holds promissory notes receivable from its shareholders, including CII and Maurice Wiener, the Chairman of both the Company and T.G.I.F. Reference is made to Note 9 for discussion on notes payable by CII to T.G.I.F. This investment is recorded under the equity method of accounting. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, income from investment in affiliate amounted to approximately $22,000 and $19,000, respectively and is included in net income from other investments in the consolidated statements of income. In December 2015 and 2014 T.G.I.F. declared and paid a cash dividend of $.07 per share. CII’s dividend amount received was approximately $193,000 each year. This dividend is recorded as a reduction in the carrying amount of CII investment in T.G.I.F. as required under the equity method of accounting.

 

7. LOANS, NOTES AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

 

   As of December 31, 
Description  2015   2014 
Promissory note and accrued interest due from purchaser of Grove Isle (a)  $1,034,000   $1,034,000 
Promissory note and accrued interest due from individual (b)   204,000    205,000 
Other   22,000    162,000 
Total loans, notes and other receivables  $1,260,000   $1,401,000 

 

(a)In February 2013, the Company sold its interest in Grove Isle and related entities and received a $1 million promissory note from the purchaser as part of the purchase proceeds. This note bears interest of 4% per annum and will mature upon the earlier of ten years (February 25, 2023) or when any expansion or development occurs at Grove Isle (as defined in the purchase agreement). All interest due on this loan has been collected.

 

(b)In December 2007 the Company loaned $400,000 to a local real estate developer who is well known to the Company and which loan is secured by numerous real estate interests. In 2010 $197,000 of principal payments were received. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 the principal outstanding on this loan was $203,000. In June 2015, the loan was modified and the maturity date was extended to June 30, 2016 at the same interest rate of 8%. All interest due on the loan has been collected.

 

8. INVESTMENT IN REAL ESTATE PARTNERSHIP

 

As previously reported, in September 2014, the Company, through a newly-formed wholly owned subsidiary (HMG Orlando LLC, a Delaware limited liability company), acquired a one-third equity membership interest in JY-TV Associates, LLC a Florida limited liability company (“JY-TV”) and entered into the Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of JY-TV (the “Agreement”). Also, as previously reported, on May 19, 2015, pursuant to the terms of a Construction Loan Agreement, between JY-TV Associates LLC (“JY-TV” or the “Borrower”, which is one-third owned by a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company) and Wells Fargo Bank ("Lender"), Lender loaned to the Borrower the principal sum of $27 million pursuant to a senior secured construction loan ("Loan"). The proceeds of the Loan are being used to finance the previously reported construction of multi-family residential apartments containing 240 units totaling approximately 239,000 net rentable square feet on a 9.5 acre site located in Orlando, Florida ("Project"). Total development costs for the Project are estimated at $34 million and the Borrower’s equity totals approximately $7 million. Construction of the Project commenced in June 2015 and is proceeding as planned.

 

As previously reported, the Company and certain affiliates of the other two members of the Borrower ("Guarantors") entered into a Completion Guaranty Agreement ("Completion Guaranty") and a Repayment Guaranty Agreement ("Repayment Guaranty") (collectively, the “Guaranties”) with the Lender. Under the Completion Guaranty, Guarantors shall unconditionally guaranty, on a joint and several basis, lien free completion of all improvements with respect to the Project and any construction or completion obligations required to be made by the Borrower pursuant to any approved leases. Under the Repayment Guaranty, Guarantors shall provide an unconditional guaranty including the repayment of $11.5 million of the principal balance of the Loan, repayment of all accrued but unpaid interest and payment of any other sums payable under any of the Loan Agreement. Each Guarantor is required to maintain compliance at all times with certain financial covenants, as defined. As of December 31, 2015 the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants.

 

This investment is accounted for under the equity method.

 

9. NOTES AND ADVANCES DUE FROM AND TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

 

The Company has an agreement (the “Agreement”) with HMGA, Inc. (the “Adviser”) for its services as investment adviser and administrator of the Company’s affairs. All officers of the Company who are officers of the Adviser are compensated solely by the Adviser for their services.

 

28 

 

 

The Adviser is majority owned by Mr. Wiener, the Company’s Chairman, CEO and President. The officers and directors of the Adviser are as follows: Maurice Wiener, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer; and Carlos Camarotti, Vice President - Finance and Assistant Secretary.

 

Under the terms of the Agreement, the Adviser serves as the Company’s investment adviser and, under the supervision of the directors of the Company, administers the day-to-day operations of the Company. All officers of the Company, who are officers of the Adviser, are compensated solely by the Adviser for their services. The Agreement is renewable annually upon the approval of a majority of the directors of the Company who are not affiliated with the Adviser and a majority of the Company’s shareholders. The contract may be terminated at any time on 120 days written notice by the Adviser or upon 60 days written notice by a majority of the unaffiliated directors of the Company or the holders of a majority of the Company’s outstanding shares.

 

In October 2015, the shareholders approved the renewal of the Advisory Agreement between the Company and the Adviser for a term commencing January 1, 2016 and expiring December 31, 2016, under the same terms as in 2015.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company incurred Adviser fees of approximately $690,000 and $714,000, respectively, of which $660,000 represented regular compensation for 2015 and 2014. In 2015 and 2014 Advisor fees include $30,000 and $54,000 in incentive fee compensation, respectively.

 

The Adviser leases its executive offices from CII pursuant to a lease agreement. This lease agreement calls for base rent of $50,400 per year payable in equal monthly installments. Additionally, the Adviser is responsible for all utilities, certain maintenance, and security expenses relating to the leased premises. In 2015, the lease term was extended one year, expiring in November 2016, with one one-year extensions options available.

 

In 2014, South Bayshore Associates (“SBA”), a 75% owned joint venture was dissolved and the note payable to the Company of $905,000 was distributed 75% to the Company (previously eliminated in consolidation) and 25% to Transco (a 45% shareholder of the Company and SBA’s other venture partner). Transco repaid its portion of the note (approximately $226,000) in June 2014 and the Company recognized this amount as other income.

 

Mr. Wiener is a 19% shareholder and the chairman and director of T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc., a 49% owned affiliate of CII. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, T.G.I.F. had amounts due from CII in the amount of approximately $1,800,000 and $2,100,000, respectively. These amounts are due on demand and bear interest at the prime rate (3.50 % at December 31, 2015). All interest due has been paid.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, T.G.I.F. owns 10,200 and 10,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, respectively.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, T.G.I.F. had amounts due from Mr. Wiener in the amount of approximately $707,000. These amounts bear interest at the prime rate (3.5% at December 31, 2015) and principal and interest are due on demand. All interest due has been paid.

 

Mr. Wiener received consulting and director’s fees from T.G.I.F totaling approximately $23,000 for each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

10. INCOME TAXES

 

As previously reported, during the fourth quarter of 2014 the Company discovered that it fell short of meeting the 75% asset test.  Management has taken the necessary steps to meet the test and filed its REIT tax return on September 15, 2015.

 

The Company (excluding CII) as a qualifying real estate investment trust distributes its taxable ordinary income to stockholders in conformity with requirements of the Internal Revenue Code and is not required to report deferred items due to its ability to distribute all taxable income. In addition, net operating losses can be carried forward to reduce future taxable income but cannot be carried back.

 

Distributed capital gains on sales of real estate as they relate to REIT activities are not subject to taxes; however, undistributed capital gains may be subject to corporate tax.

 

As previously reported, in January 2016 and 2015, the Company paid a cash dividend of approximately $517,000 and $527,000 (or $.50 per share) to shareholders of record as of December 31, 2015 and December 29, 2014, respectively. The dividends were a return of capital to shareholders.

 

29 

 

 

The Company’s 95%-owned subsidiary, CII, files a separate income tax return and its operations are not included in the REIT’s income tax return.

 

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC Topic 740, “Accounting for Income Taxes”. ASC Topic 740 requires a Company to use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of “temporary differences” by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. The effect on deferred income taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred taxes only pertain to CII. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company has recorded a net deferred tax liability of $217,000 as a result of timing differences associated with the carrying value of the investment in affiliate (TGIF) and other investments. CII’s NOL carryover to 2016 is estimated at $1.1 million expiring beginning in 2022 and has been fully reserved due to CII historically having tax losses.

 

The components of income before income taxes and the effect of adjustments to tax computed at the federal statutory rate for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows:

 

   2015   2014 
(Loss) income before income taxes  $(1,078,000)  $233,000 
Computed tax at federal statutory rate of 34%  $(367,000)  $76,000 
State taxes at 5.5%   (33,000)   12,000 
REIT related adjustments   250,000    218,000 
Adjustment to valuation allowance   121,000    (315,000)
Other items, net   29,000    1,000 
Tax benefit from income taxes  $-   $(8,000)

 

The REIT related adjustments represent the difference between estimated taxes on undistributed income and/or capital gains and book taxes computed on the REIT’s income before income taxes.

 

The benefit from income taxes in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income consists of the following:

 

Year ended December 31,  2015   2014 
Current:          
Federal  $-   $- 
State   -    (8,000)
    -    (8,000)
Deferred:          
Federal  $(104,000)  $22,000 
State   (17,000)   2,000 
    (121,000)   24,000 
Additional valuation allowance   121,000    (24,000)
Total  $-   $(8,000)

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

 

   As of December 31, 2015
Deferred tax
   As of December 31, 2014
Deferred tax
 
   Assets   Liabilities   Assets   Liabilities 
Net operating loss carry forward  $444,000        $487,000      
Excess of book basis of 49% owned corporation over tax basis       $407,000        $407,000 
Unrealized gain on marketable securities   30,000    -         87,000 
Excess of tax basis over book basis of other investments   256,000    -    306,000    98,000 
Valuation allowance   (540,000)        (418,000)     
Totals  $190,000   $407,000   $375,000   $592,000 

 

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11. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company’s 2011 Stock Option Plan (the Plan) provides for the grant of options to purchase up to 120,000 shares of the Company’s common stock to the officers and directors of the Company. The Plan expires on August 24, 2016.

 

The Company’s policy is to record stock compensation expense in accordance with ASC Topic 505-50, “Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees”. Stock based compensation expense is recognized using the fair-value method for all awards. There were 3,000 stock options granted during the year ended December 31, 2015. There were no stock options granted during the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015 the Company granted 3,000 stock options related to one director. The exercise price of the reload option is equal to $12.75 per share, the market price of the stock on the date of grant. The option expires on August 25, 2016. The Company determined the fair value of its option awards using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following assumptions were used to value the reload options granted during the year ended December 31, 2015: 3 year expected life; expected volatility of approximately 37%; risk-free of .17% and annual dividend yield of 4%. The expected life for options granted during the period represents the period of time that options are to be outstanding based on the expiration date of the Plan. Expected volatilities are based upon historical volatility of the Company’s stock over a period equal to the 1.6 year expected life, from the date of grant.

 

The weighted average fair value for the 3,000 reload options granted during the year ended December 31, 2015 was $12.04 per share.

 

The Company’s non-employee stock compensation expense based on the fair value at the date of grant for stock options was approximately $6,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015, and is included in the results of operations in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, there is no unrecognized non-employee stock compensation expense related to unvested stock options under the Plan.

 

A summary of the status of the Company’s stock option plan as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and changes during the periods ending on those dates are presented below:

 

   As of December 31, 2015   As of December 31, 2014 
   Shares   Weighted
Average Exercise
Price
   Shares   Weighted
Average Exercise
Price
 
Outstanding at the beginning of the period   17,700   $18.35    22,700   $15.37 
Granted   3,000   $12.75    -   $- 
Exercised           (5,000)  $4.80 
Expired                
Forfeited                
Outstanding at the end of the period   20,700   $17.54    17,700   $18.35 
                     
Options exercisable at period-end   20,700   $17.54    17,700   $18.35 
Weighted average fair value of options granted during the period   20,700   $12.75    -     
Aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable options at the end of the period   20,700        17,700     

 

The intrinsic value of options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2014 was approximately $39,000.

 

The following table summarizes outstanding and exercisable options as of December 31, 2015:

 

Number Outstanding
and exercisable
   Weighted Average
Strike Prices
 
 3,000   $12.75 
 9,500   $17.84 
 7,500   $18.89 
 700   $19.50 
 20,700   $17.54 

 

As of December 31, 2015, the options outstanding and exercisable had no intrinsic value.

 

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Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

 

None.

 

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in the Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K have concluded that, based on such evaluation, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective and designed to ensure that material information relating to us and our consolidated subsidiaries, which we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act, was made known to them by others within those entities and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

 

Management’s Assessment on Internal Control over Financial Reporting/Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls and Permitted Omission from Management’s Assessment

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act) based on the Internal Control Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the “COSO”). Management has selected the COSO framework for its evaluation as it is a control framework recognized by the SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board that is free from bias, permits reasonably consistent qualitative and quantitative measurement of our internal controls, is sufficiently complete so that relevant controls are not omitted and is relevant to an evaluation of internal controls over financial reporting.

 

Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of controls. Accordingly, even effective internal controls can only provide reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Management, including the Principal Executive and Principal Financial Officers, based on their evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting, has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2015.

 

This annual report does not include an attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

During the last fiscal quarter, we have not made any change to our internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 9B. Other Information.

 

None.

 

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Part III.

 

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

 

Listed below is certain information relating to the executive officers and directors of the Company:

 

Name and Office   Age   Principal Occupation and Employment other than With the Company
During the Past Five
Years - Other Directorships
         
Maurice Wiener; Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer, President and Secretary   74   Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, President and Secretary of the Adviser; Executive Trustee, Transco; Director, T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc.
         
Carlos Camarotti; Vice President-Finance and Assistant Secretary   55   Vice President - Finance and Assistant Secretary of the Adviser. Vice President, Transco; Vice President, T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc.
         
Richard Wiener; Director   75   Practicing attorney - real estate and commercial transactions.
         
Charles Dusseau; Director   65  

Managing Member of Lexington H.I. Partners. Founding Director and Vice Chairman of the Bank of Coral Gables

         
Alexander Arader; Director   60   Vice President of Stamford Mortgage Company. From 2005 to 2016, Managing Member of Arader & Associates, Stamford Connecticut.

 

All executive officers of the Company were elected to their present positions to serve until their successors are elected and qualified at the 2015 annual organizational meeting of directors immediately following the annual meeting of shareholders. All directors of the Company were elected to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders and until the election and qualification of their successors.

 

Alexander J. Arader, was elected to the Board on March 16, 2016. Mr. Arader, is currently a Vice President at Stamford Mortgage Company, in Stamford, Connecticut, a mortgage loan originator. From 2005 to 2016, Mr. Arader was a managing member of Arader & Associates, LLC, in Stamford, Connecticut, where he was responsible for all aspects of residential mortgage lending.

 

Charles M. Dusseau, was elected to the Board in 2015. Mr. Dusseau is involved in a variety of business ventures capitalizing on his 35 plus years of experience in business, finance, public affairs and international trade. He is currently the Managing Member of Lexington H.I. Partners, which previously owned and operated a full-service Clarion Hotel in Lexington, Kentucky. He was a Founding Director and Vice Chairman of the Bank of Coral Gables and also served as Director and Vice Chairman of Eastern National Bank (Miami, Florida) form 1999 to 2006. In the public sector, Mr. Dusseau served as a Secretary of Commerce for the State of Florida, and as Commissioner to Miami-Dade County (Florida). Mr. Dusseau’s multiple experiences will bring valuable insight to the board.

 

Richard N. Wiener was elected to the Board in 2010. Mr. Wiener (who is not related to Maurice Wiener) is a practicing attorney in New York, specializing in real estate and commercial transactions for more than twenty-five years. He has broad experience in real estate investment, development, financing and acquisitions. Mr. Wiener’s legal background and experience, and his long outstanding involvement in the real estate industry are valuable to his service on the Board.

 

On January 25, 2016, the Board of Directors of HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc. (“HMG”) was notified of the death on January 18, 2016 of Mr. Walter G. Arader, a director of HMG.

 

On January 28, 2016 Mr. Larry Rothstein resigned as director of HMG contemporaneous with the expiration of his consulting agreement with HMGA, Inc., HMG’s advisor.

 

All other directors and executive officers have been in their present position for more than five years.

 

Code of Ethics.

 

The Company has adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to directors and officers including principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer and controller and HMGA, Inc. and subsidiaries (“HMGA”) and its employees in all instances in which HMGA is acting on behalf of the Company. The Company will provide to any person without charge, upon written request, a copy of the Code of Ethics including any amendments as well as any waivers that are required to be disclosed by the rules of the SEC or the NYSE Amex Stock Exchange.

 

33 

 

 

Audit Committee and Audit Committee Financial Expert.

 

The Company has a separately designated standing Audit Committee established in accordance with Section 3(a) (58) (A) of the Securities Exchange act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). The members of the Audit Committee are Richard Wiener (added in 2014) and Charles Dusseau (added in 2016). The Board of Directors has determined that each of Messrs. R. Wiener and Dusseau is (1) an “audit committee financial expert,” as that term is defined in Item 401(e) of Regulation S-B of the Exchange Act, and (2) independent as defined by the listing standards of the NYSE Amex Stock Exchange and Section 10A (m) (3) of the Exchange Act.

 

Item 11. Executive Compensation.

 

Executive officers received no cash compensation from the Company in their capacity as executive officers. Reference is made to Item 1. Business and Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for information concerning fees paid to the Adviser.

 

Compensation of Directors. The following table summarizes compensation to existing directors for the year ended December 31, 2015:

 

Director  Annual Fee   Board Meeting
Fee
   Committee
Meeting Fee
   Total
Compensation
 
Maurice Wiener  $17,100   $3,000       $20,100 
Richard Wiener   12,000    2,250    3,000    17,250 
Charles Dusseau   2,500    1,500        4,000 
Totals  $31,600   $6,750   $3,000   $41,350 

 

Annual director’s fees are paid at the beginning of each quarter and board and committee meeting fees are paid for each meeting a director attends. The annual fee for directors is $12,000 per year plus meeting fees $750 per meeting. For the year ended December 31, 2015 Maurice Wiener received, respectively, $5,000, in director fees per year from Courtland Investments, Inc. included in the amounts above.

 

Outstanding Equity Awards to Executive Officers.

 

The following table summarizes all outstanding equity awards to the Company’s executive officers as of December 31, 2015.

 

Executive Officer  Number of Options   Exercise Price  Expiration Date
Maurice Wiener   9,500   $17.84 per share  August 25, 2016
Maurice Wiener   700   $19.50 per share  August 25, 2016

 

Stock Options.

 

The Company’s 2011 Stock Option Plan (the “Plan”), which was approved by the shareholders on August 25, 2011 provides for the grant of options to purchase up to 120,000 shares of the Company’s common stock to the officers and directors of the Company. In 2011 options were granted to all officers and directors to purchase an aggregate of 102,000 common shares at no less than 100% of the fair market value at the date of grant. Options are not transferable and expire on August 25, 2016 or upon termination of employment, except to a limited extent in the event of retirement, disability or death of the grantee.

 

The Plan, which permits the grant of qualified and non-qualified options and is intended to provide incentives to the directors and employees (the “employees”) of the Company, as well as to enable the Company to obtain and retain the services of such employees. The Plan is administered by a Stock Option Committee (the “Committee”) appointed by the Board of Directors. The Committee selects those key officers and employees of the Company to whom options for shares of common stock of the Company shall be granted. The Committee determines the purchase price of shares deliverable upon exercise of an option; such price may not, however, be less than 100% of the fair market value of a share on the date the option is granted. Shares subject to an option may be purchased by the optionee within five years from the date of the grant of the option. However, options automatically terminate if the optionee’s employment with the Company terminates other than by reason of death, disability or retirement. Further, if, within one year following exercise of any option, an optionee terminates his employment other than by reason of death, disability or retirement, the shares acquired upon exercise of such option must be sold to the Company at a price equal to the lesser of the purchase price of the shares or their fair market value.

 

34 

 

 

The following table summarizes activity in equity awards to the Company’s executive officers for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

   Maurice Wiener 
   Shares   Weighted
Average Exercise
Price
 
Outstanding at January 1, 2015   10,200   $17.95 
Granted        
Exercised        
Expired        
Forfeited        
Outstanding at December 31, 2015   10,200   $17.95 
           
Options exercisable at period-end   10,200   $17.95 
Weighted average fair value of options granted during the period   10,200   $17.95 
Aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding and exercisable options at the end of the period   10,200     

 

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

 

Set forth below is certain information concerning common stock ownership by directors, executive officers, directors and officers as a group, and holders of more than 5% of the outstanding common stock.

 

Name (6), (7)  Shares Owned by
Named Persons &
Members of His
Family (1)
   Additional Shares in Which
the named Person Has, or
Participates in, the Voting
or Investment Power (2)
   Total Shares &
Percent of Class
 
Maurice Wiener   45,846(4)   542,030(3), (5)   587,676    55%
                     
Carlos Camarotti   8,700         8,700    *%
                     
Richard Wiener   3,000(4)        3,000    *%
                     
Charles Dusseau   -    -    -    - 
                     
Alexander Arader   -    -    -    - 
                     
All Directors and Officers as a Group   57,546(4)   542,030 (3)   599,576    57%
                     
Transco Realty Trust 1870 S. Bayshore Drive Coconut Grove, FL 33133   477,300(5)        477,300    45%
                     
Comprehensive Financial Planning, Inc. 3950 Fairlane Drive Dacula, GA 30019   129,044(8)        129,044    12%

 

* less than 1%

 

 

(1)Unless otherwise indicated, beneficial ownership is based on sole voting and investment power.

 

(2)Shares listed in this column represent shares held by entities with which directors or officers are associated. Directors, officers and members of their families have no ownership interest in these shares.

 

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(3)This number includes the number of shares held by Transco Realty Trust (Transco) (477,300 shares), HMGA, Inc. (HMGA) (54,530 shares) and T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc. (T.G.I.F.) (10,200 shares). Mr. M. Wiener is a director of T.G.I.F. and a trustee of Transco.

 

(4)This number includes options granted and outstanding under the 2011 Stock Option Plan. These options have been granted to Mr. M. Wiener, 10,200; Mr. R. Wiener, 3,000. Reference is made to Item 11. Executive Compensation for further information about the 2011 Stock Option Plan.

 

(5)Mr. Wiener holds approximately 55% of the stock of Transco and approximately 72% of HMGA Inc., and may therefore be deemed to be the beneficial owner of the shares of the Company held by Transco and HMGA Inc.

 

(6)Except as otherwise set forth, the address for these individuals is 1870 South Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133.

 

(7)No shares of stock of the executive officers and directors have been pledged as collateral.

 

(8)Comprehensive Financial Planning, Inc. has shared investment power on all shares and sole voting power on all shares.

 

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence. The following discussion describes the organizational structure of the Company’s subsidiaries and affiliates.

 

Transco Realty Trust (“Transco”).

 

Transco is a 45% shareholder of the Company of which Mr. Wiener is its executive trustee and holds 55% of its stock.

 

HMGA, Inc. (the “Adviser”) and subsidiaries.

 

The day-to-day operations of the Company are handled by the Adviser, as described above under Item 1. Business “Advisory Agreement.” The Adviser is majority owned by Mr. Wiener, its Chairman and CEO.

 

Reference is made to Item 1. Business and Item 1. Business and Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for further information about the remuneration of the Adviser.

 

Courtland Investments, Inc. (“CII”).

 

The Company holds a 95% non-voting interest and Masscap Investment Company (“Masscap”) holds a 5% voting interest in CII. In May 1998, the Company and Masscap entered into a written agreement in order to confirm and clarify the terms of their previous continuing arrangement with regard to the ongoing operations of CII, all of which provide the Company with complete authority over all decision making relating to the business, operation, and financing of CII consistent with the Company’s status as a real estate investment trust.

 

T.G.I.F. Texas, Inc. (“T.G.I.F.”).

 

CII owns approximately 49% of the outstanding shares of T.G.I.F. Mr. Wiener is a director and chairman of T.G.I.F. and owns, directly and indirectly, approximately 18% of the outstanding shares of T.G.I.F. T.G.I.F also owns 10,200 shares of the Company’s stock.

 

The following discussion describes all material transactions, receivables and payables involving related parties. All of the transactions described below were on terms as favorable to the Company as comparable transactions with unaffiliated third parties.

 

The Adviser.

 

The principal executive offices of the Company and the Adviser are located at 1870 South Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove, Florida, 33133, in premises owned by the Company’s subsidiary CII and leased to the Adviser pursuant to a lease agreement originally dated December 1, 1999, and as renewed in 2009, 2014 and 2015. The lease provides for base rent of $50,400 per year payable in equal monthly installments during the one year term of the lease which expires on December 1, 2016 (as extended) and can be extended for one one-year term. The Adviser, as tenant, pays utilities, certain maintenance and security expenses relating to the leased premises.

 

36 

 

 

As of December 2015 and 2014, the Company owes the Advisor approximately $37,000 and $54,000, respectively, in incentive fee from capital gains.

 

CII.

 

The Company holds a demand note due from its 95%-owned consolidated subsidiary, CII. The note bears interest at a fixed rate of 5% per annum, payable quarterly. The outstanding principal balance of the note was $1,000,000 as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. There were no principal repayments or advances relating to this note during 2015 and 2014. CII is a consolidated subsidiary of the Company and the note payable and related interest is eliminated in consolidation. The note is secured by a mortgage security agreement with the Company’s executive offices as collateral.

 

T.G.I.F.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, CII owed approximately $1,800,000 and $2,100,000, respectively, to T.G.I.F. All advances between CII and T.G.I.F. are due on demand and bear interest at the prime rate plus 1% (3.50% as of December 31, 2015). All interest due has been paid.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, T.G.I.F. had amounts due from Mr. Wiener of approximately $707,000. These amounts are due on demand and bear interest at the prime rate. All interest due has been paid. Mr. Wiener received consulting and director’s fees from T.G.I.F of approximately $22,000 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. Also, T.G.I.F. owns 10,200 shares of the Company which were purchased at market value on the date of purchase. In 2015 and 2014 T.G.I.F. declared and paid a cash dividend of $.07 per share. CII’s portion of the dividends was approximately $193,000 each year.

 

Item 14. Principal Accountants Fees and Services.

 

The following table sets forth fees billed to the Company by the Company’s independent auditors for the year ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 for (i) services rendered for the audit of the Company’s annual financial statements and the review of the Company’s quarterly financial statements, (ii) services rendered that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Company’s financial statements that are not reported as Audit Fees, and (iii) services rendered in connection with tax preparation, compliance, advice and assistance. The Audit Committee pre-approved all services rendered by the Company’s independent auditors.

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

For the fiscal year ended  December 31, 2015   December 31, 2014 
Audit fees, including reviews of quarterly financial statements  $58,000   $47,000 
Tax fees (consists of fees relating to tax compliance and planning)   45,000    84,000 
Total Fees  $103,000   $131,000 

 

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Part IV.

 

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

 

(a) Exhibits listed in the Index to Exhibits.

 

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.

 

  HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc.
     
March 23, 2016 by: /s/ Maurice Wiener
    Maurice Wiener
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.

 

/s/ Maurice Wiener   March 23, 2016
Maurice Wiener    
Chairman of the Board, President and Secretary    
Chief Executive Officer    
     
/s/ Carlos Camarotti   March 23, 2016
Carlos Camarotti    
Vice President – Finance    
Principal Financial Officer    
     
/s/ Richard Wiener   March 23, 2016
Richard Wiener    
Director    
     
/s/ Charles Dusseau   March 23, 2016
Charles Dusseau, Director    

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

    Description    
         
(3) (a) Certificate of Incorporation as amended   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the 2010 Form 10-K.
         
  (b) By-laws as amended and restated   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to the Form 8-K filed on March 16, 2016.
         
(10) (a) Amended and restated lease agreement between Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. and Westgroup Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. dated November 19, 1996.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(d) to the 1996 Form 10-KSB
         
  (b) Master agreement between Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. Grove Isle Clubs Inc., Grove Isle Investments, Inc. and Westbrook Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. dated November 19, 1996.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(e) to the 1996 Form 10-KSB
         
  (c) Agreement Re: Lease Termination between Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. and Grove Isle Club, Inc. dated November 19, 1996.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(f) to the 1996 Form 10-KSB
         
  (d) Amended and restated agreement between NAF Associates and the Company, dated August 31, 1999.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(f) to the 1999 Form 10-KSB
         
  (e) Amendment to Amended and restated lease agreement between Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. and Westgroup Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. dated December 1, 1999.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(g) to the 1999 Form 10-KSB
         
  (f) Lease agreement between Courtland Investments, Inc. and HMG Advisory Corp. dated December 1, 1999.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(h) to the 1999 Form 10-KSB
         
  (g) 2000 Incentive Stock Option Plan of HMG/ Courtland Properties, Inc.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(h) to the 2001 Form 10-KSB
         
  (h) Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement between the Company and HMG Advisory Corp. effective January 1, 2003.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(i) and 10(j) to the 2002 Form 10-KSB
         
  (i) Second Amendment to Amended and restated lease agreement included herein between Grove Isle Associated, Ltd. and Westgroup Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. dated September 15, 2004   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(i) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
  (j) Operating Agreement of Grove Spa, LLC dated September 15, 2004   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(j) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
  (k) Sublease between Westgroup Grove Isle Associates, Ltd. and Grove Spa, LLC dated September 15, 2004   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(k) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB Included herein.
         
  (l) Purchase and Sale Agreement (“Acquisition of Monty’s”) between Bayshore Restaurant Management Corp. and Bayshore Landing, LLC dated August 20, 2004   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(l) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB

 

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  (m) Ground Lease between City of Miami and Bayshore Landing, LLC dated August 20, 2004 and related document   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(m) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB

 

  (n) Loan Agreement between Wachovia Bank and Bayshore Landing, LLC dated August 20, 2004   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(n) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
  (o) Operating Agreement of Bayshore Landing, LLC dated August 19, 2004   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(o) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
  (p) Management Agreement for Bayshore Rawbar, LLC executed by RMI, LLC   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(p) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
  (q) Management Agreement for Bayshore Rawbar, LLC executed by HMG Advisory Bayshore, Inc.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(q) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
  (r) Management and Leasing Agreement for Bayshore Landing, LLC executed by RCI Bayshore, Inc.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(r) to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
  (s) Assignment and Assumption of Management Agreement by Noble House Grove Isle, Ltd.
To GH-Grove Isle Management LLC
And Consent by Grove Spa, LLC
  Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(s) to the 2008 Form 10-K
         
  (t) Third Amendment to Amended and Restated Lease Agreement   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(t) to the 2008 Form 10-K
         
  (u) Assignment and Assumption of Lease and Consent of Landlord   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(u) to the 2008 Form 10-K
         
  (v) Amendment to Operating Agreement of Grove Spa, LLC, A Delaware Limited Liability Company   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(v) to the 2008 Form 10-K
         
  (w) First Amendment to Management Agreement   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(w) to the 2008 Form 10-K
         
  (x) Interest Purchase Agreement by and among Courtland Investments, Inc., HMG/Courtland Properties, Inc. as Seller and Grove Isle Yacht and Tennis Club, Inc. and Grove Isle Associates LLLP, CII Spa, LLC, Grove Isle Investments, Inc. CII Yacht Club, Inc. and Grove Isle Yacht Club Associates – February 25, 2013   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Form 8-K filed on February 25, 2013.
         
  (y) Membership Interests Purchase Agreement (HMG to Christoph) by and among The Christoph Family Trusts, as Purchasers and HMG Bayshore, LLC, Courtland Bayshore Rawbar, LLC and Courtland Bayshore Restaurant, LLC as Sellers   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(y) to Form 8-K filed on April 3, 2013.
         
  (z) Amended and Restated Operating Agreement of JY-TV Associates LLC.   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(z) to Form 10-Q filed on November 14, 2014.
         
(14)   Code of Ethics for Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers dated May 2003   Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14 to the 2004 Form 10-KSB
         
(21)   Subsidiaries to the Company   Included herein.

 

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(31) (a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002   Included herein.
         
  (b) Certification of Chief Financial Officer as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002   Included herein.
         
(32) (a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350 as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002   Included herein.
         
  (b) Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350 as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002   Included herein.

 

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