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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarter ended January 31, 2004
Commission file number 1-12006
FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Nevada 88-0244792
(State of incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
733 Third Avenue, New York, New York 10017
(Address of principal executive offices)
(212) 599-8000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days. Yes |X| No | |
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is an accelerated filer as defined
in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes |X| No | |
At March 1, 2004, 18,706,764 shares of Registrant's common stock, $.50 par
value, were outstanding.
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FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended January 31, 2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part I - Financial Information Page No.
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Item 1. Financial Statements:
Consolidated Balance Sheets at January 31, 2004 (unaudited) and July 31, 2003 (audited) 3
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the six months ended January 31,
2004 and 2003 (unaudited) 4
Consolidated Income Statements for the three and six months ended January 31, 2004 and
2003 (unaudited) 5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended January 31, 2004 and
2003 (unaudited) 6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) 7-10
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 10-17
Item 4. Controls and Procedures 17
Part II - Other Information
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 17
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 17-18
Signatures 19
2
FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except par value)
========================================================================================================================
January 31, 2004* July 31, 2003
========================================================================================================================
ASSETS
Finance receivables $1,407,834 $1,415,489
Allowance for credit losses (23,471) (23,754)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finance receivables - net 1,384,363 1,391,735
Cash 6,343 8,015
Other assets 14,591 26,332
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL ASSETS $1,405,297 $1,426,082
========================================================================================================================
LIABILITIES
Debt:
Long-term ($6,790 at January 31, 2004 and $9,080 at July 31, 2003 due to
related parties) $ 718,545 $ 775,023
Short-term 291,240 267,253
Accrued interest, taxes and other liabilities 59,793 67,410
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities 1,069,578 1,109,686
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock - $1 par value, authorized 5,000 shares - -
Common stock - $.50 par value, authorized 100,000 shares, shares issued and
outstanding (net of 149 treasury shares): 18,677 at January 31, 2004 and
18,483 at July 31, 2003 9,339 9,242
Additional paid-in capital 111,947 105,464
Retained earnings 214,433 201,690
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total stockholders' equity 335,719 316,396
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $1,405,297 $1,426,082
========================================================================================================================
* Unaudited
The notes to consolidated financial statements are made a part hereof.
3
FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY *
(In thousands)
=======================================================================================================
Common Stock - $.50 Par Value
------------------------------------------
Additional Retained
Shares Par Value Paid-in Capital Earnings
=======================================================================================================
BALANCE AT JULY 31, 2002 17,372 $ 8,686 $ 67,595 $ 172,288
Conversion of subordinated debt 1,159 580 34,437 -
Employee stock plans:
Shares issued 71 35 923 -
Compensation recognized - - 1,373 -
Tax benefits - - 311 -
Net earnings - - - 16,593
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE AT JANUARY 31, 2003 18,602 $9,301 $104,639 $188,881
=======================================================================================================
=======================================================================================================
Common Stock - $.50 Par Value
------------------------------------------
Additional Retained
Shares Par Value Paid-in Capital Earnings
=======================================================================================================
BALANCE AT JULY 31, 2003 18,483 $ 9,242 $ 105,464 $ 201,690
Repurchases of common stock (142) (71) (2,568) (2,200)
Employee stock plans:
Shares issued 336 168 6,326 -
Compensation recognized - - 1,192 -
Tax benefits - - 1,533 -
Net earnings - - - 14,943
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE AT JANUARY 31, 2004 18,677 $9,339 $111,947 $214,433
=======================================================================================================
* Unaudited
The notes to consolidated financial statements are made a part hereof.
4
FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS *
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
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Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
January 31, January 31,
-------------------------------------------------
2004 2003 2004 2003
=======================================================================================================
Finance income $29,579 $33,278 $59,811 $68,249
Interest expense 8,587 11,352 17,240 23,730
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net finance income before provision for credit
losses on finance receivables 20,992 21,926 42,571 44,519
Provision for credit losses on finance receivables 2,350 2,300 5,900 3,850
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net finance income 18,642 19,626 36,671 40,669
Salaries and other expenses 5,840 5,926 12,128 11,482
Loss on redemption of convertible debt - - - 1,737
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Earnings before income taxes 12,802 13,700 24,543 27,450
Provision for income taxes 5,011 5,380 9,600 10,857
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET EARNINGS $ 7,791 $ 8,320 $14,943 $16,593
=======================================================================================================
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:
Diluted $ 0.42 $ 0.46 $ 0.81 $ 0.90
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Basic $ 0.43 $ 0.46 $ 0.82 $ 0.93
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* Unaudited
The notes to consolidated financial statements are made a part hereof.
5
FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS *
(In thousands)
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Six Months Ended January 31, 2004 2003
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Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings $ 14,943 $ 16,593
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Provision for credit losses on finance receivables 5,900 3,850
Depreciation and amortization 8,496 8,645
Loss on redemption of convertible debt - 1,737
Decrease (increase) in other assets 11,513 (1,053)
Decrease in accrued interest, taxes and other liabilities (5,260) (15,038)
Tax benefits from stock plans 1,533 311
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by operating activities 37,125 15,045
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Finance receivables originated (349,159) (338,702)
Finance receivables collected 343,556 339,887
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Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (5,603) 1,185
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Commercial paper, net decrease (16,963) (67,515)
Bank borrowings, net (decrease) increase (5,885) 10,530
Proceeds from asset securitization financing - 100,000
Proceeds from term notes issued 5,000 100,000
Repayments of term notes (17,000) (100,000)
Redemptions of subordinated debt - (59,598)
Proceeds from stock option exercises 2,554 958
Repurchases of common stock (900) -
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in financing activities (33,194) (15,625)
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NET (DECREASE) INCREASE CASH (1,672) 605
Cash - beginning of period 8,015 7,092
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CASH - END OF PERIOD $ 6,343 $ 7,697
=======================================================================================================
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Interest paid $ 18,380 $ 26,143
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Income taxes paid $ 18,263 $ 12,802
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* Unaudited
The notes to consolidated financial statements are made a part hereof.
6
FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
In the opinion of management of Financial Federal Corporation and
Subsidiaries (the "Company"), the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial
statements contain all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring items)
necessary to present fairly the financial position at January 31, 2004 and the
results of operations and cash flows of the Company for the three and six month
periods ended January 31, 2004 and 2003. These condensed consolidated
financial statements and note disclosures should be read in conjunction with
the consolidated financial statements and note disclosures in the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2003. The
consolidated results of operations for the three and six months ended January
31, 2004 may not be indicative of the full year results.
Description of Business
The Company provides collateralized lending, financing and leasing
services nationwide to middle-market businesses in the general construction,
road and infrastructure construction and repair, road transportation, waste
disposal and manufacturing industries. The Company lends against, finances and
leases a wide range of new and used revenue-producing/essential-use equipment
such as cranes, earth movers, machine tools, personnel lifts, trailers and
trucks.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company continues to apply Accounting Principles Board Opinion ("APB")
No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related Interpretations
to account for stock options. Under APB No. 25, the Company does not record
compensation expense for its stock options. If the Company applied the expense
recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS")
No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," compensation expense would
have been recorded for stock options based on their fair value computed with an
option-pricing model. The effect on net earnings and earnings per share had
the Company recorded compensation expense under SFAS No. 123 follows:
==============================================================================
Three months ended Six months ended
January 31, January 31,
--------------------------------------
2004 2003 2004 2003
==============================================================================
Net earnings, as reported $7,791 $8,320 $14,943 $16,593
Add: Compensation expense recorded for
restricted stock awards (after-tax) 364 406 729 841
Deduct: Total stock-based compensation
expense determined under SFAS No.
123 for all awards (after-tax) (761) (776) (1,540) (1,638)
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Pro forma net earnings $7,394 $7,950 $14,132 $15,796
==============================================================================
Diluted earnings per common share:
As reported $0.42 $0.46 $0.81 $0.90
Pro forma 0.40 0.44 0.76 0.86
==============================================================================
Basic earnings per common share:
As reported $0.43 $0.46 $0.82 $0.93
Pro forma 0.41 0.44 0.78 0.88
==============================================================================
New Accounting Standards
In December 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Interpretation ("FIN") No. 46R, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities--
an interpretation of ARB No. 51." FIN No. 46R replaced FIN No. 46 issued In
January 2003. FIN No. 46R requires certain variable interest entities to be
consolidated by the primary beneficiary (the entity at risk for a majority of
the expected losses or receiving a majority of the expected residual returns of
the variable interest entity). The Company adopted FIN No. 46R on January 31,
2004. Prior to the adoption of FIN No. 46R, the Company consolidated fully one
7
variable interest entity (a special purpose entity that it established for its
asset securitization facility). The consolidation of this entity was not
affected by the adoption of FIN No. 46R. The adoption of FIN No. 46R did not
have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or financial
position.
Use of Estimates
The consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto were prepared
in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America that require significant estimates and assumptions to be made
by management affecting the amounts reported therein. Actual results could
differ significantly from those estimates.
NOTE 2 - FINANCE RECEIVABLES
Finance receivables comprise installment sale agreements and secured loans
(including line of credit arrangements), collectively referred to as loans,
with fixed or floating (indexed to the prime rate) interest rates, and
investments in direct financing leases as follows:
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January 31, 2004 July 31, 2003
==========================================================================
Loans:
Fixed rate $1,110,982 $1,073,158
Floating rate 70,762 85,532
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Total loans 1,181,744 1,158,690
Direct financing leases * 226,090 256,799
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Finance receivables $1,407,834 $1,415,489
==========================================================================
* includes residual values of $46,044 at January 31, 2004 and $48,813 at
July 31, 2003.
Non-performing assets comprise finance receivables classified as non-
accrual (income recognition has been suspended) and assets received to satisfy
finance receivables (repossessed equipment, included in other assets), as
follows:
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January 31, 2004 July 31, 2003
==========================================================================
Finance receivables classified as
non-accrual $35,672 $42,910
Assets received to satisfy finance
receivables 7,914 19,666
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Non-performing assets $43,586 $62,576
==========================================================================
The activity of the allowance for credit losses follows:
==============================================================================
Three months ended Six months ended
January 31, January 31,
--------------------------------------
2004 2003 2004 2003
==============================================================================
Beginning balance $23,592 $24,227 $23,754 $24,171
Provision 2,350 2,300 5,900 3,850
Write-downs (3,060) (2,953) (7,051) (5,143)
Recoveries 589 168 868 864
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Ending balance $23,471 $23,742 $23,471 $23,742
==============================================================================
Percentage of finance receivables 1.67% 1.68% 1.67% 1.68%
==============================================================================
Net charge-offs * $ 2,471 $ 2,785 $ 6,183 $ 4,279
==============================================================================
Loss ratio ** 0.70% 0.78% 0.88% 0.60%
==============================================================================
* write-downs less recoveries
** net charge-offs over average finance receivables, annualized
The allowance for credit losses included $850 at January 31, 2004 and $750
at July 31, 2003 specifically allocated to $5,201 and $6,222, respectively, of
impaired receivables.
The Company also provides commitments to extend credit. These commitments
contain off-balance sheet risk. The Company uses the same credit policies and
procedures in making these commitments as it does for finance receivables,
since the credit risks are substantially the same. The unused portion of these
commitments was $8,715 at January 31, 2004 and $8,624 at July 31, 2003.
8
NOTE 3 - DEBT
Debt is summarized as follows:
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January 31, 2004 July 31, 2003
==========================================================================
Fixed rate term notes (as swapped)
due 2004 - 2008 $ 277,500 $ 319,000
Floating rate term notes due 2004 - 2010 307,500 278,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total term notes 585,000 597,000
Asset securitization financings 325,000 325,000
Commercial paper 94,596 111,561
Bank borrowings 5,560 11,445
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Total principal amount 1,010,156 1,045,006
Fair value adjustment of hedged debt (371) (2,730)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total debt $1,009,785 $1,042,276
==========================================================================
Asset Securitization Financings
The asset securitization facility provides for committed revolving
financing for a one year term that, if not renewed prior to the current
expiration date of March 27, 2004, can be converted into term debt at the
Company's option. Finance receivables include $392,742 and $432,328 of
securitized receivables at January 31, 2004 and July 31, 2003, respectively.
At January 31, 2004, the Company could securitize an additional $163,258 of
finance receivables. The amount that the Company can borrow under the facility
is limited to 94% of securitized receivables.
Bank Borrowings
At January 31, 2004, the Company had $330,000 of committed unsecured
revolving credit facilities with nine banks expiring as follows: $190,000
within one year and $140,000 on various dates from January 2006 through January
2007.
Other
The debt agreements of the Company's major operating subsidiary contain
certain restrictive covenants including limitations on the subsidiary's
indebtedness, encumbrances, investments, dividends and other distributions to
the Company, sales of assets, mergers and other business combinations, capital
expenditures, interest coverage and net worth. None of the agreements contain
a material adverse change clause. Based on the minimum net worth requirements
of these agreements, the amount of equity that the Company could distribute was
indirectly limited to $151,500 at January 31, 2004.
Long-term debt comprised the following:
==========================================================================
January 31, 2004 July 31, 2003
==========================================================================
Term notes $484,628 $502,270
Asset securitization financings 133,760 149,747
Commercial paper and bank borrowings
supported by bank credit facilities
expiring after January 31, 2005 and
July 31, 2004, respectively 100,157 123,006
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total long-term debt $718,545 $775,023
==========================================================================
NOTE 4 - DERIVATIVES
In August 2003, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement
with a notional amount of $24,500 and designated it as a fair value hedge of
its 4.37% fixed rate term notes issued in April 2003. The total notional
amount of interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges was $112,000 at
January 31, 2004 and $87,500 at July 31, 2003. Under the terms of the swaps,
the Company receives fixed rates equal to the rates of the respective hedged
notes and pays floating rates indexed to six-month LIBOR on the notional
amount. The swaps expire on the respective notes' maturity dates. The fair
value of the swaps was a $317 liability at January 31, 2004 and a $2,730
liability at July 31, 2003.
9
NOTE 5 - EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
Earnings per common share ("EPS") was calculated as follows (in thousands,
except per share amounts):
==============================================================================
Three months ended Six months ended
January 31, January 31,
--------------------------------------
2004 2003 2004 2003
==============================================================================
Net earnings (used for basic EPS) $7,791 $8,320 $14,943 $16,593
Effect of convertible securities - - - 115
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Adjusted net earnings (used for
diluted EPS) $7,791 $8,320 $14,943 $16,708
==============================================================================
Weighted average common shares
outstanding (used for basic EPS) 18,240 17,990 18,179 17,875
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options 244 229 275 356
Restricted stock 106 27 95 51
Convertible notes - - - 247
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted weighted average common
shares and assumed conversions
(used for diluted EPS) 18,590 18,246 18,549 18,529
==============================================================================
Net earnings per common share:
Diluted $0.42 $0.46 $0.81 $0.90
==============================================================================
Basic $0.43 $0.46 $0.82 $0.93
==============================================================================
NOTE 6 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
In October 2003, the Company received 135,000 shares of its common stock
(at the market price of $34.15 per share) in exchange for its CEO's exercise of
200,000 stock options and related minimum income taxes pursuant to the terms of
the October 1998 stock option agreement. The Company also received 7,000
shares at $34.15 for other senior officers' exercise of 12,000 stock options
and related taxes. These shares were retired. At January 31, 2004, $13,885
remained available under the Company's common stock repurchase program.
PART I
Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States
requires management to make judgments, assumptions, and estimates that affect
the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying
notes. Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2003 describes the significant
accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of the Consolidated
Financial Statements. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, the
accounting for the allowance for credit losses on finance receivables, impaired
finance receivables, assets received to satisfy receivables and residual values
on direct financing leases. The following critical accounting policies are
impacted significantly by judgments, assumptions, and estimates used in the
preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The allowance for credit losses on finance receivables is estimated by
management based on total finance receivables, charge-offs, non-
accrual/delinquent finance receivables and management's current assessment of
the risks inherent in the Company's finance receivables from national and
regional economic conditions, industry conditions, concentrations, the
financial condition of counterparties (includes the obligor/lessee and other
parties the Company may have recourse to such as equipment
vendors/manufacturers and owners/affiliates of the obligor/lessee), equipment
collateral values and other factors. Changes in the allowance level may be
necessary based on unexpected changes in these factors.
10
Impaired finance receivables are recorded at their current estimated net
realizable value (if less than their carrying amount). Assets received to
satisfy receivables are recorded at their current estimated fair value less
selling costs (if less than their carrying amount). Management estimates these
amounts based on expected cash flows and the prevailing market value and
condition of the collateral. Adverse changes in expected cash flows and market
value and condition of the collateral would cause the Company to incur
additional write-downs.
The Company records residual values on its direct financing leases at the
lowest of (i) any stated purchase option, (ii) the present value at the end of
the initial lease term of rentals due under any renewal options or (iii) the
estimated fair value of the equipment at the end of the lease. The Company may
not be able to realize the full amount of the estimated residual value recorded
due to subsequent adverse changes in equipment values. This would cause the
Company to incur a write-down.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Comparison of three months ended January 31, 2004 to three months ended January
31, 2003
Net earnings decreased by 6% to $7.8 million in the second quarter of
fiscal 2004 from $8.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2003 due to the
effects of continued low market interest rates. Other less significant
changes; increased costs of being a public company (includes insurance,
internal and external audit costs, legal fees and Sarbanes-Oxley compliance
costs), lower salary expense and the effects of fewer non-performing assets,
offset.
Finance income decreased by 11% to $29.6 million in the second quarter of
fiscal 2004 from $33.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. The
decrease resulted from the lower net yield of finance receivables from
continued low market interest rates and, to a lesser extent, the 2% ($25
million) decrease in average finance receivables outstanding ($1.410 billion in
the second quarter of fiscal 2004 compared to $1.435 billion in the second
quarter of fiscal 2003).
Interest expense, incurred on borrowings used to fund finance receivables,
decreased by 25% to $8.6 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2004 from
$11.4 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. The decrease resulted from
lower average market interest rates and, to a lesser extent, $112.0 million of
fixed rate term notes swapped to significantly lower floating rates and the 5%
($58 million) decrease in average debt outstanding (primarily fixed rate).
Net finance income before provision for credit losses on finance
receivables decreased by 4% to $21.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal
2004 from $21.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. Net finance
income before provision for credit losses expressed as an annualized percentage
of average finance receivables outstanding ("net interest margin") decreased to
5.9% in the second quarter of fiscal 2004 from 6.1% in the second quarter of
fiscal 2003. The decrease resulted from the effects of continued low market
interest rates. These factors were partially offset by the effect of the
decrease in the Company's leverage from 3.5 at January 31, 2003 to 3.0 at
January 31, 2004.
The provision for credit losses on finance receivables increased to $2.4
million in the second quarter of fiscal 2004 from $2.3 million in the second
quarter of fiscal 2003. The provision for credit losses is determined by the
amount required to increase the allowance for credit losses to a level
considered appropriate by management. Net charge-offs (write-downs of finance
receivables less recoveries) decreased to $2.5 million in the second quarter of
fiscal 2004 from $2.8 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. Net charge-
offs, expressed as an annualized percentage of average finance receivables
outstanding ("loss ratio"), decreased to 0.70% in the second quarter of fiscal
2004 from 0.78% in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. Net charge-offs
decreased due to fewer non-performing assets.
Salaries and other expenses decreased by 2% to $5.8 million in the second
quarter of fiscal 2004 from $5.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2003.
The decrease resulted from (i) lower salary expense due to the effect of work
force reductions exceeding salary increases and (ii) the effects of fewer non-
performing assets. These factors were partially offset by increased costs of
being a public company. Salaries and other expenses expressed as an annualized
percentage of average finance receivables outstanding ("expense ratio") was
1.6% in the second quarter of fiscal 2004 and fiscal 2003.
Diluted earnings per share decreased by 9% to $0.42 in the second quarter
of fiscal 2004 from $0.46 in the second quarter of fiscal 2003, and basic
earnings per share decreased by 7% to $0.43 in the second quarter of fiscal
2004 from $0.46 in the second quarter of fiscal 2003. The percentage decrease
in diluted earnings per share was higher than the percentage decrease in net
earnings due to stock option exercises and the 22% increase in the average
price of the Company's common stock in the second quarter of fiscal 2004 from
the second quarter of fiscal 2003.
11
Comparison of six months ended January 31, 2004 to six months ended January 31,
2003
Net earnings decreased by 10% to $14.9 million in the first half of fiscal
2004 from $16.6 million in the first half of fiscal 2003. Excluding a non-
recurring $1.7 million convertible debt redemption loss in the first half of
fiscal 2003 ($1.1 million after-tax), net earnings decreased by 16%. The
decrease was due to (i) a higher provision for credit losses on finance
receivables, increased costs and reduced finance income resulting from a higher
level of non-performing assets (primarily in the first quarter), (ii) the
effects of continued low market interest rates and (iii) increased costs of
being a public company. These factors were partially offset by lower salary
expense.
Finance income decreased by 12% to $59.8 million in the first half of
fiscal 2004 from $68.2 million in the first half of fiscal 2003. The decrease
resulted from the lower net yield of finance receivables from continued low
market interest rates and, to a lesser extent, the 2% ($26 million) decrease in
average finance receivables outstanding ($1.412 billion in the first half of
fiscal 2004 compared to $1.437 billion in the first half of fiscal 2003) and a
higher level of non-accrual finance receivables.
Interest expense decreased by 27% to $17.2 million in the first half of
fiscal 2004 from $23.7 million in the first half of fiscal 2003. The decrease
resulted from lower average market interest rates and, to a lesser extent, the
6% ($60 million) decrease in average debt outstanding (primarily fixed rate)
and $112.0 million of fixed rate term notes swapped to significantly lower
floating rates.
Net finance income before provision for credit losses on finance
receivables decreased by 4% to $42.6 million in the first half of fiscal 2004
from $44.5 million in the first half of fiscal 2003. Net interest margin
decreased to 6.0% in the first half of fiscal 2004 from 6.1% in the first half
of fiscal 2003. The decrease resulted from the effects of continued low market
interest rates and a higher level of non-accrual finance receivables. These
factors were partially offset by the effect of the decrease in the Company's
leverage.
The provision for credit losses on finance receivables increased to $5.9
million in the first half of fiscal 2004 from $3.9 million in the first half of
fiscal 2003 due to increased net charge-offs of $6.2 million from $4.3 million.
The loss ratio increased to 0.88% in the first half of fiscal 2004 from 0.60%
in the first half of fiscal 2003. Net charge-offs increased due a higher level
of non-performing assets, lower equipment values and a weaker resale market in
the first quarter of fiscal 2004 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2003.
Salaries and other expenses increased by 5% to $12.1 million in the first
half of fiscal 2004 from $11.5 million in the first half of fiscal 2003. The
increase resulted from increased costs of being a public company and, to a
lesser extent, increased costs associated with a higher level of non-performing
assets These factors were partially offset by lower salary expense due to the
effect of work force reductions exceeding salary increases. The expense ratio
increased to 1.7% in the first half of fiscal 2004 from 1.6% in the first half
of fiscal 2003 resulting from the increase in expenses.
Diluted earnings per share decreased by 10% to $0.81 in the first half of
fiscal 2004 from $0.90 in the first half of fiscal 2003, and basic earnings per
share decreased by 12% to $0.82 in the first half of fiscal 2004 from $0.93 in
the first half of fiscal 2003. The percentage decrease in basic earnings per
share was higher than the percentage decrease in net earnings due to the
issuance of 1.16 million shares of common stock in August 2002 from the
conversion of $35.0 million of debt. Diluted and basic earnings per share for
the first half of fiscal 2003 excluding the after-tax loss on redemption of
convertible debt were $0.96 and $0.99, respectively.
The amounts of net earnings and diluted and basic earnings per share
excluding the fiscal 2003 $1.1 million after-tax convertible debt redemption
loss are non-GAAP financial measures. Management believes these amounts are
useful to investors in comparing the Company's fiscal 2004 and fiscal 2003
operating results. This non-recurring loss resulted from the Company's
redemption of its 4.5% convertible subordinated notes. The notes were redeemed
to eliminate their dilutive effect.
RECEIVABLE PORTFOLIO AND ASSET QUALITY
Finance receivables outstanding decreased by less than 1% ($7.7 million)
to $1.408 billion at January 31, 2004 from $1.415 billion at July 31, 2003.
Finance receivables comprise installment sale agreements and secured loans
(collectively referred to as "loans") and investments in direct financing
leases. At January 31, 2004, loans were 84% ($1.182 billion) of finance
receivables and leases were 16% ($226.1 million) of finance receivables.
12
Finance receivables originated in the first half of fiscal 2004 and 2003
were $349 million and $339 million, respectively. Finance receivables
collected in the first half of fiscal 2004 and 2003 were $344 million and $340
million, respectively. Originations increased due to a modest improvement in
domestic commercial loan demand.
The Company's underwriting policies and procedures require obtaining a
first lien on equipment financed or ownership of equipment leased. The
equipment financed/leased by the Company generally possesses certain
characteristics that can mitigate losses. The equipment collateral typically
has an economic life exceeding the term of the transaction, historically low
levels of technological obsolescence, use in multiple industries, ease of
access and transporting, and a broad, established resale market. The Company
does not finance/lease aircraft and railcars, computer related equipment,
fixtures and telecommunications equipment or equipment located outside the
United States.
The allowance for credit losses was $23.5 million at January 31, 2004 and
$23.8 million at July 31, 2003. The allowance level was 1.67% of finance
receivables at January 31, 2004 and 1.68% at July 31, 2003. Management
periodically reviews the allowance to determine that its level is appropriate.
The allowance level may continue to decline as the Company's asset quality
statistics continue to improve. The purpose of the allowance is to provide for
any losses inherent in the Company finance receivables at the balance sheet
date.
Net charge-offs of finance receivables (write-downs less recoveries)
decreased to $6.2 million in the first half of fiscal 2004 from $8.1 million in
the second half of fiscal 2003 (the prior six month period) and the loss ratio
decreased to 0.88% from 1.14%. Net charge-offs decreased to $2.5 million in
the second quarter of fiscal 2004 from $3.7 million in the first quarter of
fiscal 2004 and the loss ratio decreased to 0.70% from 1.05%. Net charge-offs
have been decreasing due to fewer non-performing assets and improving economic
conditions.
Non-performing assets comprise non-accrual finance receivables and
repossessed equipment as follows ($ in millions):
==========================================================================
January 31, 2004 July 31, 2003
==========================================================================
Non-accrual finance receivables $35.7 $42.9
Repossessed equipment 7.9 19.7
Total non-performing assets $43.6 $62.6
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Percentage of total finance receivables 3.1% 4.4%
==========================================================================
Delinquent finance receivables (transactions with a contractual payment 60
or more days past due) were $20.9 million (1.5% of total finance receivables)
at January 31, 2004 compared to $22.2 million (1.6% of total finance
receivables) at July 31, 2003. Over half of the Company's non-accrual finance
receivables at January 31, 2004 were not delinquent.
The Company's asset quality statistics for the first half of fiscal 2004
reflect improving conditions in the economy and the industries financed by the
Company. Continued improvement could result in lower levels of net charge-offs
and non-performing assets. Lower levels of net charge-offs and non-performing
assets would have a positive effect on earnings through decreases in the
provision for credit losses and operating expenses and by increasing finance
income.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's operations and growth depend upon the continued availability
of funds to originate or acquire finance receivables, to purchase portfolios of
finance receivables and to repay maturing debt. The Company may obtain funds
from many sources, including operating cash flow, private and public issuances
of fixed and floating rate term debt, conduit and term securitizations of
finance receivables, borrowings under committed unsecured revolving credit
facilities, commercial paper and sales of common and preferred equity.
Management believes that the Company's sources of liquidity are well
diversified. The Company is not dependent on any single funding source or on
any single credit provider. Management believes, but cannot assure, that
sufficient liquidity is available to the Company to support its future
operations and growth.
The term notes and commercial paper of the Company's major operating
subsidiary are rated "BBB" and "F2," respectively, by Fitch, Inc. (a Nationally
Recognized Statistical Ratings Organization) with a positive outlook. All of
the Company's term notes and a majority of its commercial paper were issued by
the subsidiary. The Company's access to capital markets at competitive rates
is partly dependent on these investment grade credit ratings.
13
The debt agreements of the subsidiary contain certain restrictive
covenants including limitations on indebtedness, encumbrances, investments,
dividends and other distributions to the Company, sales of assets, mergers and
other business combinations, capital expenditures, interest coverage and net
worth. None of the debt agreements contain a material adverse change clause.
Based on the minimum net worth requirements of these agreements, the amount of
equity that the Company could distribute was indirectly limited to $151.5
million at January 31, 2004.
Total debt decreased by 3% ($32.4 million) to $1.010 billion at January
31, 2004 from $1.042 billion at July 31, 2003 and stockholders' equity
increased by 6% ($19.3 million) to $335.7 million at January 31, 2004 from
$316.4 million at July 31, 2003. As a result, leverage (debt-to-equity ratio)
decreased to 3.0 at January 31, 2004 from 3.3 at July 31, 2003.
Debt comprised the following ($ in millions):
===========================================================================================
January 31, 2004 July 31, 2003
----------------------------------------------
Amount Percent Amount Percent
===========================================================================================
Term notes $ 585.0 58% $ 597.0 57%
Asset securitization financings 325.0 32 325.0 31
Commercial paper 94.6 9 111.6 11
Borrowings under bank credit facilities 5.6 1 11.4 1
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total principal amount 1,010.2 100% 1,045.0 100%
Fair value adjustment of hedged debt (0.4) (2.7)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total debt $1,009.8 $1,042.3
===========================================================================================
Term Notes
In August 2003, the Company repaid $17.0 million of 8.89% fixed rate
unsecured term notes at maturity and in September 2003, the Company issued a
$5.0 million floating rate unsecured term note to a bank maturing in December
2004.
At January 31, 2004, the $585.0 million of term notes outstanding
comprised $540.0 million of private placements and medium term notes issued to
insurance companies and $45.0 million of bank term loans.
Asset Securitization Financings
Borrowings under the securitization facility are limited to a minimum
level of securitized receivables. If borrowings exceed the minimum level, the
Company must either repay the excess or securitize more receivables. The
Company can securitize more receivables during the term of the facility. The
facility expires March 27, 2004. The Company currently intends to renew the
facility for another year. Upon the expiration of the facility, the Company
must either repay borrowings outstanding or convert them into term debt. The
term debt would be repaid monthly in amounts equal to collections of
securitized receivables. Currently, the Company would exercise the conversion
option if the facility was not renewed. Based on the contractual payments of
the $392.7 million of securitized receivables at January 31, 2004, the term
debt would be fully repaid by February 2006.
The unsecured senior debt agreements of the Company's major operating
subsidiary limit the amount of finance receivables that the subsidiary can
securitize to 40% of its finance receivables outstanding, approximately $556.0
million at January 31, 2004. Therefore, the Company could securitize an
additional $163.3 million of finance receivables at January 31, 2004. The
amount that the Company can borrow under the securitization facility is limited
to 94% of securitized receivables.
Commercial Paper
The Company issues commercial paper directly and through a $350.0 million
program rated "F2" by Fitch. The Company's commercial paper is unsecured and
matures within 270 days. The Company has not obtained commitments from any
purchaser of its commercial paper for additional or future purchases.
Increases in commercial paper are generally offset by decreases in bank and
other borrowings, and vice versa. The Company is required (as a condition of
its credit rating) to maintain committed revolving credit facilities from banks
so that the aggregate amount available thereunder exceeds commercial paper
outstanding. Therefore, at January 31, 2004, the combined amount of commercial
paper and bank borrowings was limited to $330.0 million.
Bank Credit Facilities
At January 31, 2004, the Company had $330.0 million of committed unsecured
revolving credit facilities from nine banks (a $55.0 million decrease from July
31, 2003). This includes $185.0 million of facilities with original terms
ranging from two to five years and $145.0 million of facilities with an
original term of one year.
14
These facilities provide the Company with a dependable, low-cost source of
funds and support for its commercial paper program. The Company can borrow the
full amount under each facility. None of the facilities are for commercial
paper back-up only. These facilities may or may not be renewed upon
expiration.
Stockholders' Equity
In fiscal 2004, the Company acquired 142,000 shares of common stock for
$4.8 million (as described in Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements).
At January 31, 2004, $13.9 million remained available under the Company's
common stock repurchase program.
MARKET INTEREST RATE RISK AND SENSITIVITY
The Company's earnings are sensitive to fluctuations in market interest
rates (includes LIBOR, rates on U.S. Treasury securities, money market rates
and the prime rate). Changes in these rates affect the Company's finance
income and interest expense. Based on the Company's current mix of fixed rate
and floating rate finance receivables and debt, increases in rates would reduce
earnings and decreases in rates would increase earnings because floating rate
and short-term debt exceed fixed rate term debt, and fixed rate finance
receivables exceed floating rate finance receivables. As a result, if market
interest rates rise, the Company's borrowing costs would increase faster than
the yield on its finance receivables. Conversely, if market interest rates
decline, the Company's borrowing costs would decrease faster than the yield on
its finance receivables. These effects would diminish over time. In addition,
since the Company's interest earning assets exceed its interest bearing
liabilities, eventually, lower market interest rates would reduce earnings
(this is occurring currently) and higher rates would increase earnings. These
broad statements do not take into account the effects of economic and other
conditions that could accompany interest rate fluctuations.
The Company's earnings are subject to the risk of rising interest rates at
January 31, 2004 because of its high ratios of fixed rate receivables and
floating rate debt (illustrated in the table below). This risk is mitigated by
the terms and prepayment experience of the Company's receivables and the
Company's low leverage. Finance receivables provide for monthly payments for
terms ranging from two to five years that are accelerated by prepayments. At
January 31, 2004, $480.0 million (36%) of fixed rate finance receivables are
scheduled to be collected within one year and the weighted average remaining
maturity of fixed rate finance receivables is less than two years. The Company
does not match the maturities of its debt to its finance receivables.
===========================================================================================
Fixed Rate Floating Rate
-------------------------------------------
Amount Percent Amount Percent Total
===========================================================================================
Finance receivables $1,334.1 95% $ 73.7 5% $1,407.8
===========================================================================================
Debt $ 277.1* 27% $732.7 73% $1,009.8
Stockholders' equity 335.7 100 - - 335.7
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total debt and equity $ 612.8 46% $732.7 54% $1,345.5
===========================================================================================
* includes $65.0 million maturing in April 2004
Management quantifies this risk by calculating the effect on net earnings
of a hypothetical, immediate 100 basis point (1.0%) increase in market interest
rates. At January 31, 2004, such a hypothetical adverse change in rates would
reduce quarterly net earnings by approximately $600,000. Actual future changes
in market interest rates may differ materially and their effect on net earnings
may also differ materially due to changes in finance receivable and debt
repricing structures. In addition, other factors that may accompany an actual
immediate 100 basis point increase in market interest rates were not considered
in the calculation.
The Company monitors and manages its exposure to market interest rate
fluctuations through risk management procedures that include using certain
derivative financial instruments and changing the proportion of its fixed rate
term debt versus its floating rate and short term debt. The Company may use
derivatives to hedge its exposure to interest rate risk on certain debt
obligations. The Company does not use derivatives for speculation and the
Company does not trade derivatives.
In August 2003, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement,
with a notional amount of $24.5 million, as a fair value hedge of its 4.37%
$24.5 million five-year fixed rate term notes issued in April 2003. Under the
terms of the swap, the Company receives a fixed rate equal to the rate of the
hedged note and pays a floating rate (1.90% at January 31, 2004) indexed to six-
month LIBOR on the notional amount. The swap expires on the notes' maturity
date. The swap effectively converted the fixed rate notes to a floating rate.
15
At January 31, 2004, the total amount of fixed rate term notes swapped to
floating rates totaled $112.0 million and the weighted average receive rate
(4.5%) exceeded the current weighted average pay rate (2.3%) by 220 basis
points (2.2%).
The net yield of finance receivables less the weighted average cost of
borrowed funds represents the net interest spread, an important measure of a
finance company's profitability. The net interest spread for the second
quarter and first half of fiscal 2004 and 2003 follow:
==============================================================================
Three months ended Six months ended
January 31, January 31,
--------------------------------------
2004 2003 2004 2003
==============================================================================
Net yield of finance receivables 8.3% 9.2% 8.4% 9.4%
Weighted average cost of borrowed funds 3.3 4.2 3.3 4.3
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net interest spread 5.0% 5.0% 5.1% 5.1%
==============================================================================
The net yield of finance receivables continues to decline since yields on
new receivables are lower than yields on receivables collected. This is
expected to continue until market interest rates begin to increase. In fiscal
2004, the decline in yield was offset by (i) the effects of $112.0 million of
fixed rate notes swapped to significantly lower floating rates, (ii) $150.0
million of term notes bearing high fixed interest rates repaid at maturity
during the last twelve months and (iii) the reduction of short-term borrowing
costs resulting from lower market interest rates. The cost of funds is
expected to decline further, but only as additional term notes bearing high
fixed interest rates mature ($65.0 million of 7.05% notes mature in April
2004), until market interest rates begin to increase.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
In December 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Interpretation ("FIN") No. 46R, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities--
an interpretation of ARB No. 51." FIN No. 46R replaced FIN No.46 issued In
January 2003. FIN No. 46R requires certain variable interest entities to be
consolidated by the primary beneficiary (the entity at risk for a majority of
the expected losses or receiving a majority of the expected residual returns of
the variable interest entity). On January 31, 2004, the Company adopted FIN
No. 46R. Prior to the adoption of FIN 46R, the Company consolidated fully one
variable interest entity (a special purpose entity that it established for its
asset securitization facility). The consolidation of this entity was not
affected by the adoption of FIN No. 46R. The adoption of FIN No. 46R did not
have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or financial
position.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements in this document may include the words or phrases "can
be," "expects," "plans," "may," "may affect," "may depend," "believe,"
"estimate," "intend," "could," "should," "would," "if" and similar words and
phrases that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of
Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are subject to various known
and unknown risks and uncertainties and the Company cautions that any forward-
looking information provided by or on its behalf is not a guarantee of future
performance. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those
anticipated by such forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, some
beyond the Company's control, including, without limitation, (i) the ability to
obtain funding on acceptable terms, (ii) changes in the risks inherent in the
Company's receivables portfolio and the adequacy of the Company's reserves,
(iii) changes in market interest rates, (iv) changes in economic, financial and
market conditions, (v) changes in competitive conditions and (vi) the loss of
key executives or personnel. Forward-looking statements apply only as of the
date made and the Company is not required to update forward-looking statements
for subsequent or unanticipated events or circumstances.
16
Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
a. Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. The Company's Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have conducted an evaluation
of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules
13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the
end of the period covered by this report and each has concluded that such
disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of such date to
ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company's reports
filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed,
summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities
and Exchange Commission rules and forms.
b. Changes in internal controls. There were no changes in the Company's
internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the last
fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to
materially affect, the Company's internal controls over financial
reporting.
PART II
Item 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
At the Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on December 9, 2003,
the following matters were voted upon:
The following nominees were elected to the Board of Directors:
=========================================================
Number of Votes
-------------------------
Nominee For Withheld
=========================================================
Lawrence B. Fisher 16,270,202 589,260
William C. MacMillen, Jr. 16,714,373 145,089
Michael C. Palitz 16,437,572 421,890
Thomas F. Robards 16,549,468 309,994
Paul R. Sinsheimer 16,438,552 420,910
H. E. Timanus, Jr. 16,550,378 309,084
=========================================================
The appointment of KPMG LLP as the independent public accountants to audit
the Company's financial statements for the fiscal year ending July 31, 2004 was
ratified by a vote of 16,648,839 shares for, 187,739 shares against and 22,884
shares abstained.
Item 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.1 (a) Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant
3.2 (a) By-laws of the Registrant
3.3 (a) Form of Restated and Amended By-laws of the Registrant
3.4 (f) Certificate of Amendment of Articles of Incorporation dated
December 9, 1998
3.5 (f) Restated By-laws of the Registrant as amended through
December 30, 1998
3.6 (g) Restated By-laws of the Registrant as amended through March 7,
2000
4.8 (c) Indenture dated January 14, 1998 for Financial Federal Credit
Inc.'s ("Credit's") Rule 144A Medium Term Note Program ("MTN")
4.12 (d) Specimen Common Stock Certificate
4.13 (h) Indenture dated September 20, 2000 for Credit's $200 million MTN
10.8 (a) Form of Commercial Paper Note issued by the Registrant
10.9 (a) Form of Commercial Paper Note issued by Credit
17
10.10 (a) Stock Option Plan of the Registrant and forms of related
stock option agreements
10.21 (b) Form of Commercial Paper Dealer Agreement of Credit
10.22 (b) Form of Deferred Compensation Agreement with certain officers as
filed under the Top Hat Plan with the Department of Labor
10.25 (e) Amended and Restated 1998 Stock Option/Restricted Stock Plan of
the Registrant
10.26 (g) Deferred Compensation Agreement dated March 7, 2000 between the
Registrant and Clarence Y. Palitz, Jr.
10.27 (h) 2001 Management Incentive Plan for the Chief Executive Officer
("CEO") of the Registrant
10.28 (h) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement dated February 27, 2001
between the Registrant and its CEO
10.29 (h) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement dated February 27, 2001
between the Registrant and certain senior officers
10.30 (i) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement dated March 1, 2002 between
the Registrant and its CEO
10.31 (i) Form of Restricted Stock Agreement dated March 1, 2002 between
the Registrant and certain senior officers
10.32 (j) Supplemental Retirement Benefit dated June 4, 2002 between the
Registrant and its CEO
10.33 (k) Agreement to Defer Restricted Stock dated February 26, 2004
between the Registrant and its CEO
10.34 (k) Agreement to Defer Restricted Stock dated February 26, 2004
between the Registrant and its CEO
31.1 * Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer
31.2 * Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer
32.1 * Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer
32.2 * Section 1350 Certification of Chief Financial Officer
Previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission as an exhibit to
the Company's:
(a) Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 33-46662).
(b) Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1996.
(c) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 1998.
(d) Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-56651).
(e) Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Registration No. 333-50962).
(f) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 1999.
(g) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2000.
(h) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 30, 2001.
(i) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 30, 2002.
(j) Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2002.
(k) Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2003.
* Filed herewith.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
The Company filed a report on Form 8-K dated January 8, 2004 under Item 9
to avoid any appearance of selective disclosure regarding a statement made by
a member of management to an analyst.
The Company filed a report on Form 8-K dated December 4, 2003 reporting,
under Item 12, the announcement of earnings for the quarter ended October 31,
2003.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
FINANCIAL FEDERAL CORPORATION
-----------------------------
(Registrant)
By: /s/ Steven F. Groth
---------------------------------
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
By: /s/ David H. Hamm
---------------------------------
Vice President and Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
March 10, 2004
- --------------
(Date)
19