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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2002
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM TO
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 1-10024
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 36-0767530
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
ONE ROCKEFELLER PLAZA, 10020
NEW YORK, NEW YORK (Zip Code)
(Address of principal executive offices)
(212) 332-8400
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year,
if changed since last report)
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 [ ]
As of October 31, 2002, 6,633,223 shares of the registrant's common stock,
$1.00 par value, were outstanding.
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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
SEPTEMBER 30, DECEMBER 31,
2002 2001
------------- ------------
(UNAUDITED) (AUDITED)
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents................................... $ 41,720 $ 41,827
Investment advisory fees receivable......................... 20,984 27,826
Investments in securities, at value (cost $1,250 and $2,424,
respectively)............................................. 986 2,784
Prepaid expenses and other assets........................... 1,709 2,557
Investments in affiliated partnerships...................... 24,508 17,530
Fixed assets (net of accumulated depreciation of $3,450 and
$2,765, respectively)..................................... 3,254 3,177
Deferred tax asset.......................................... 6,124 4,889
Goodwill (net of accumulated amortization of $8,566 and
$8,566, respectively)..................................... 14,796 14,796
Investment advisory contracts (net of accumulated
amortization of $43,806 and $38,549, respectively)........ 26,283 31,540
-------- --------
Total assets........................................... $140,364 $146,926
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accrued expenses............................................ $ 4,375 $ 4,386
Accrued bonuses............................................. 30,970 37,611
Accrued incentive compensation.............................. 1,710 642
Income taxes payable........................................ 478 582
Other liabilities........................................... -- 221
-------- --------
Total liabilities...................................... 37,533 43,442
-------- --------
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock, $1 par value, authorized -- 15,000,000 shares,
issued and outstanding -- 6,633,223 and 6,600,589 shares,
respectively.............................................. 6,633 6,601
Additional paid-in capital.................................. 64,561 64,002
Retained earnings........................................... 31,637 32,881
-------- --------
Total stockholders' equity............................. 102,831 103,484
-------- --------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.................. $140,364 $146,926
======== ========
See accompanying notes
2
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
THREE MONTHS ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30,
----------------------- -----------------------
2002 2001 2002 2001
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
REVENUES:
Investment advisory fees..................... $ 14,470 $ 15,437 $ 47,888 $ 44,285
Incentive fees............................... 12,085 5,804 21,127 23,047
Commission income -- net..................... 927 607 2,336 1,681
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total revenues.......................... 27,482 21,848 71,351 69,013
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
EXPENSES:
Employee compensation and benefits........... 18,433 14,683 48,274 45,976
Occupancy & equipment rental................. 1,460 712 4,363 1,981
Other operating expenses..................... 4,322 3,379 11,465 9,473
Amortization of intangibles.................. 1,753 2,142 5,257 7,359
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total expenses.......................... 25,968 20,916 69,359 64,789
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Operating income............................. 1,514 932 1,992 4,224
Other income (expense):
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on
investments................................ 22 446 (479) 1,139
Interest and dividend income................. 164 345 485 1,009
Interest expense............................. (3) (10) (8) (28)
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Income before taxes.......................... 1,697 1,713 1,990 6,344
Income tax expense........................... 1,531 1,354 3,234 5,428
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
NET INCOME (LOSS)............................ $ 166 $ 359 $ (1,244) $ 916
========== ========== ========== ==========
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic...................................... $ 0.03 $ 0.05 $ (0.19) $ 0.14
========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted.................................... $ 0.02 $ 0.05 $ (0.19) $ 0.12
========== ========== ========== ==========
Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic...................................... 6,632,519 6,565,523 6,621,279 6,534,456
========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted.................................... 7,453,040 7,391,899 6,621,279 7,354,971
========== ========== ========== ==========
See accompanying notes
3
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30,
-----------------
2002 2001
------- -------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income (loss)........................................... $(1,244) $ 916
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization............................. 6,054 8,012
Compensation expense for vesting of restricted stock
units.................................................. 1,068 492
Tax benefit related to employee compensation plans........ 286 404
Unrealized (gain) loss on investments in securities....... 624 (311)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Decrease in investment advisory fees receivable........ 6,842 2,780
Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets.......... 848 230
(Increase) in investments in affiliated investment
partnerships.......................................... (6,978) (2,739)
Decrease in investments in securities.................. 1,174 585
(Increase) decrease in deferred tax asset.............. (1,235) 2,627
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses................ (11) 434
Increase (decrease) in accrued bonuses................. (6,641) 4,498
Increase in other liabilities.......................... -- 211
Increase (decrease) in income taxes payable............ (104) (839)
------- -------
Net cash provided by operating activities................... 683 17,300
------- -------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Fixed asset additions....................................... (874) (712)
------- -------
Net cash (used in) investing activities..................... (874) (712)
------- -------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Payment of loan principal................................... (221) (265)
Issuance of common stock.................................... 305 386
------- -------
Net cash provided by financing activities................... 84 121
------- -------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents........ (107) 16,709
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period.... 41,827 22,268
------- -------
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period.......... $41,720 $38,977
======= =======
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid for interest...................................... $ 8 $ 28
======= =======
Cash paid for taxes......................................... $ 4,335 $ 5,105
======= =======
NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS:
During January 2002, the Company granted a total of 168,213 restricted stock
units ("RSU's") to employees with a market value of $4,718. Additionally, the
Company granted a total of 33,000 RSU's in September 2002 with a market value of
$696.
During March 2001, the Company granted a total of 7,000 RSU's to the Nonemployee
Directors of the Company with a market value of $146. This amount will be used
to reduce cash payments to Directors for future Board of Directors and Committee
meetings.
See accompanying notes
4
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The consolidated interim financial statements of BKF Capital Group, Inc.
(formerly Baker, Fentress & Company, hereto referred to as "BKF" or the
"Company") and its subsidiaries included herein have been prepared in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information
and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all the
information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles
for complete financial statements. These consolidated financial statements are
unaudited and should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated
financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001. The Company follows the same
accounting policies in the preparation of interim reports. In the opinion of
management, the consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, which
are of a normal recurring nature, necessary for a fair presentation of the
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company for the
interim periods presented and are not necessarily indicative of a full year's
results.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required
to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the
financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
The Company operates through a wholly-owned subsidiary, Levin Management
Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries, all of which are referred to as "Levco". The
Company trades on the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. ("NYSE") under the symbol
("BKF").
The Consolidated Financial Statements of Levco include its wholly-owned
subsidiary, John A. Levin & Co., Inc., ("JALCO") and JALCO's two wholly-owned
subsidiaries, Levco GP Inc. ("Levco GP") and LEVCO Securities, Inc. ("LEVCO
Securities"). All intercompany transactions have been eliminated in
consolidation.
JALCO is an investment advisor registered under the Investment Advisers Act
of 1940, as amended, which provides investment advisory services to its clients
which include U.S. and foreign corporations, mutual funds, limited partnerships,
universities, pension and profit sharing plans, individuals, trusts,
not-for-profit organizations and foundations. JALCO also participates in broker
consulting programs (Wrap Accounts) with several nationally recognized financial
institutions. LEVCO Securities is registered with the SEC as a broker-dealer and
is a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. Levco GP
acts as the managing general partner of several affiliated investment
partnerships and is registered with the Commodities Futures Trading Commission
as a commodity pool operator.
INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATED INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS
Levco GP serves as the managing general partner for several affiliated
investment partnerships ("AIP"), each of which is primarily engaged in the
trading of equity securities or, in the case of one partnership, distressed
corporate debt. The financial condition and results of operations of the AIP are
not included in the Company's consolidated statements of financial condition
with the exception of Levco GP's equity ownership. The limited partners of the
AIP have the right to redeem their partnership interests at least quarterly.
Levco GP does not maintain control over the AIP, has not guaranteed any of the
AIPs' obligations, nor does it have any contractual commitments associated with
them. Investments in AIP held through Levco GP are recorded based upon the
equity method of accounting. This investment amount equals the sum total of
Levco GP's capital accounts in the AIP. It is the Company's general practice to
withdraw the incentive allocations earned from the AIP within three months after
the fiscal year end. Levco GP has general partner liability with respect to its
interest in each of the AIP and has no assets other than its interest in these
partnerships (see note 5a).
5
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
INCOME TAXES
The Company accounts for income taxes under the liability method prescribed
by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 109, "Accounting for
Income Taxes." Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future
tax consequences attributable to the differences between the financial statement
carrying amount of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax
basis. Future tax benefits are recognized only to the extent that realization of
such benefits is more likely than not to occur.
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The cost in excess of net assets of Levco acquired by BKF in June 1996 is
reflected as goodwill, investment advisory contracts, and employment contracts
in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. Through December 31,
2001, goodwill was amortized straight line over 15 years. Effective January 1,
2002 the Company adopted SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets".
Under the new rules, goodwill will no longer be amortized but will be subject to
an annual impairment test in accordance with SFAS No. 142. Other intangible
assets with finite lives will continue to be amortized over their useful lives
(see note 4). Investment contracts are amortized straight line over 10 years.
Employment contracts were amortized over the life of the contracts. The
employment contracts and related amortization have been eliminated from the
Consolidated Statement of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2001.
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net income (loss)
by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.
Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by
the total of the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding
and common stock equivalents. Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed
using the treasury stock method.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted
earnings (loss) per share (in thousands, except per share data).
THREE MONTHS ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30,
----------------------- -----------------------
2002 2001 2002 2001
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (loss).................... $ 166 $ 359 $ (1,244) $ 916
========== ========== ========== ==========
Basic weighted-average shares
outstanding........................ 6,632,519 6,565,523 6,621,279 6,534,456
Dilutive potential shares from
stock options and restricted
stock units ("RSU's")........... 820,521 826,376 -- 820,515
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Diluted weighted-average shares
outstanding........................ 7,453,040 7,391,899 6,621,279 7,354,971
========== ========== ========== ==========
Basic earnings (loss) per share:..... $ 0.03 $ 0.05 $ (0.19) $ 0.14
========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:... $ 0.02 $ 0.05 $ (0.19) $ 0.12
========== ========== ========== ==========
In calculating diluted earnings (loss) per share for the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2002, common stock equivalents of 536,520 and
1,503,922, respectively, were excluded due to their anti-dilutive effect on the
calculations.
6
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
2. OFF-BALANCE SHEET RISK
LEVCO Securities acts as an introducing broker and all transactions for its
customers are cleared through and carried by a major U.S. securities firm on a
fully disclosed basis. LEVCO Securities has agreed to indemnify its clearing
broker for losses that the clearing broker may sustain from the customer
accounts introduced by LEVCO Securities. In the ordinary course of its business,
LEVCO Securities does not accept orders with respect to client accounts if the
funds required for the client to meet its obligations are not on deposit in the
client account at the time the order is placed.
3. INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEES RECEIVABLE
Included in investment advisory fees receivable are approximately
$11.6 million and $2.2 million of accrued incentive fees as of September 30,
2002 and December 31, 2001, respectively, for which the full contract
measurement period has not been reached. The Company has provided for the
applicable expenses relating to this revenue. If the accrued incentive fees are
not ultimately realized, a substantial portion of the related accrued expenses
will be reversed (see note 5b).
4. INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Effective January 1, 2002, the Company adopted SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and
Other Intangible Assets". The effect of adopting SFAS No. 142 was as follows:
EFFECT OF NON-AMORTIZATION OF GOODWILL ON THE CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF
OPERATIONS (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
THREE MONTHS ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30,
------------------ -----------------
2002 2001 2002 2001
------ ------ ------- ------
Reported net income (loss)............................. $ 166 $ 359 $(1,244) $ 916
Add back: goodwill amortization........................ -- 389 -- 1,168
----- ----- ------- ------
Adjusted net income (loss)............................. $ 166 $ 748 $(1,244) $2,084
===== ===== ======= ======
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Reported net income (loss)........................... $0.03 $0.05 $ (0.19) $ 0.14
Goodwill amortization................................ -- 0.06 -- 0.18
----- ----- ------- ------
Adjusted basic earnings (loss) per share............... $0.03 $0.11 $ (0.19) $ 0.32
===== ===== ======= ======
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Reported net income (loss)........................... $0.02 $0.05 $ (0.19) $ 0.12
Goodwill amortization................................ -- 0.05 -- 0.16
----- ----- ------- ------
Adjusted diluted earnings (loss) per share............. $0.02 $0.10 $ (0.19) $ 0.28
===== ===== ======= ======
EXPECTED AMORTIZATION EXPENSE (IN THOUSANDS)
Remainder of 2002................................... $ 389
2003................................................ 1,558
2004................................................ 1,558
2005................................................ 1,558
2006................................................ 1,558
7
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
5. INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATED INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS ("AIP") AND RELATED PARTY
TRANSACTIONS
a) Summary financial information, including the Company's carrying value
and income from the AIP at September 30, 2002 and for the nine months then
ended, is as follows (in thousands):
Total partnerships' assets.................................. $ 862,447
Total partnerships' liabilities............................. (232,059)
Total partnerships' equity balance.......................... 635,742
Partnerships' net earnings.................................. 24,103
Company's carrying value.................................... 24,508
Company's loss on invested capital (excluding accrued
incentive fees)........................................... (237)
The Company earned investment advisory fees and general partner allocations
(inclusive of incentive fees) from affiliated domestic investment partnerships
and affiliated offshore investment vehicles of approximately $31.0 million and
$26.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, and 2001,
respectively.
Included in investments in AIP at September 30, 2002 and December 31, 2001
are incentive allocations approximating $6.4 million and $8.0 million,
respectively.
Included in the Company's incentive fees and general partner incentive
allocations are approximately $3.3 million and $5.6 million and $1.4 million and
$9.0 million payable directly to employee owned and controlled entities
("Employee Entities") for the three and nine month periods ended September 30,
2002 and 2001, respectively. These amounts are included in the Company's
carrying value of the AIP's at the applicable period. These Employee Entities,
which serve as non-managing general partners of several AIP, also bear the
liability for all compensation expense relating to the allocated revenue,
amounting to approximately $3.3 million and $5.6 million and $1.4 million and
$9.0 million for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2002 and
2001, respectively. These amounts are included in the Consolidated Statements of
Operations.
b) Included in investment advisory fees receivable are $11.6 million and
$14.4 million of incentive fees from sponsored offshore investment vehicles
(similar to several domestic AIP) at September 30, 2002 and December 31, 2001,
respectively.
6. 2002 RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS ("RSU") GRANT
In January 2002, the Company issued 168,213 RSU's to certain employees of
the Company. The RSU's will vest in three equal amounts over a three-year
period. Additionally, the Company issued 33,000 RSU's to one employee in
September 2002. The RSU's vest over various periods through February 2005.
7. INCOME TAXES
The Company's provision for income taxes differs from the amount of income
tax determined by applying the applicable U.S. federal statutory income tax rate
principally due to state and local taxes and non-deductible amortization. The
Company has determined that the amortization expense on intangible assets is
non-deductible since the purchase method of accounting has been applied
retroactive to June 1996.
Deferred tax assets arise from the future tax benefit on deferred and
non-cash compensation and utilization of capital losses. Deferred tax
liabilities arise from deferred revenues, unrealized gains on investments, and
state and local taxes.
8
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- (CONTINUED)
8. COMMITMENT
The Company has office space obligations that require monthly payments plus
escalations through September 2011. In September 2002 the Company obtained
additional space in Connecticut to serve as the Company's disaster recovery
site. At September 30, 2002, the minimum annual rental commitments under the
operating leases are as follows:
2002............................................ $ 987,000
2003............................................ 3,999,000
2004............................................ 4,002,000
2005............................................ 4,012,000
2006............................................ 4,079,000
Thereafter...................................... 23,000,000
9
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
INTRODUCTION
BKF Capital Group, Inc. ("BKF") operates entirely through John A. Levin &
Co., Inc., an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and
Exchange Commission that was acquired by BKF in June 1996. The investment
adviser is a wholly owned subsidiary of Levin Management Co., Inc., which in
turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of BKF. Levin Management Co., Inc. and its
subsidiaries are referred to collectively as "Levco." Levco specializes in
managing equity portfolios for institutional and individual investors. Most
accounts are managed pursuant to value equity strategies; Levco also offers a
range of alternative investment products as well as other more specialized
investment programs. Most clients are based in the United States, though a
significant portion of investors in the alternative investment products are
located outside the United States.
Levco acts as the managing general partner of a number of investment
partnerships and also acts as an adviser to private investment vehicles
organized outside the United States.
With respect to accounts managed pursuant to its value equity strategies,
Levco generally receives advisory fees based on a percentage of the market value
of assets under management, including market appreciation or depreciation and
client contributions and withdrawals. In some cases, Levco receives
performance-based fees from accounts pursuing value equity strategies. With
respect to private investment vehicles and separate accounts managed pursuant to
similar strategies, Levco is generally entitled to receive both a fixed
management fee based on a percentage of the assets under management and a share
of net profits.
Levco obtains some of its clients for its large cap value products through
wrap fee programs sponsored by major financial services companies. In these
programs, clients pay the sponsoring broker an asset-based fee that covers
brokerage commissions, advisory services, custodial fees, and other reporting
and administrative services. Investors are able to select Levco from among a
limited number of managers participating in the program, and Levco receives a
portion of the asset-based fee paid by the clients who select Levco to manage
their accounts through the program.
At September 30, 2002, assets under management were $10.97 billion, down
from $12.56 billion a year earlier. Following is a comparison of assets under
management (in millions) as defined by product and client type:
SEPTEMBER 30, JUNE 30, MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
2002 2002 2002 2001 2001
------------- -------- --------- ------------ -------------
Institutional.............. $ 2,526 $ 3,063 $ 3,823 $ 3,772 $ 3,369
Sub-Advisory............... 1,730 2,049 2,315 2,169 1,861
Non-institutional.......... 1,464 1,819 2,069 2,000 1,871
Wrap....................... 2,955 3,943 4,703 4,448 3,772
Event Driven............... 1,756 1,677 1,628 1,533 1,358
Short-Biased............... 443 359 301 273 259
Other Private Investment
Funds.................... 95 107 94 71 74
------- ------- ------- ------- -------
TOTAL...................... $10,969 $13,017 $14,933 $14,266 $12,564
======= ======= ======= ======= =======
Levco also has a wholly-owned broker-dealer subsidiary that clears through
Correspondent Services Corporation, a UBS/PaineWebber company, on a fully
disclosed basis. Generally, the customers of the broker-dealer subsidiary are
advisory clients of Levco, and the trades executed through the broker-dealer are
generally placed by Levco in its capacity as investment adviser.
RISK FACTORS
The following risks, among others, sometimes have affected, and in the
future could affect, BKF's business, financial condition or results of
operations. The risks described below are not the only ones facing
10
BKF. Additional risks not presently known to BKF or that BKF currently deems
immaterial may also impact its business.
LEVCO IS DEPENDENT ON KEY PERSONNEL
Levco is dependent on the efforts of its senior investment professionals
managing the value equity strategies and the event driven products. Levco is
also dependent on the efforts of Mr. John A. Levin, the chairman and chief
executive officer of BKF. The loss of the services of key investment personnel,
including Mr. Levin, could have a material adverse effect on Levco because it
could jeopardize its relationships with clients and result in the loss of those
accounts. Levco's key investment personnel, including Mr. Levin, are not subject
to employment contracts.
Levco's future success depends on its ability to retain and attract
qualified personnel to conduct its investment management business. The market
for qualified portfolio managers is highly competitive and has grown more so in
recent years as the entire industry has experienced growth. To the extent that
Levco further diversifies its products and strategies, BKF anticipates that it
will be necessary for Levco to add portfolio managers and investment analysts.
No assurance can be given that Levco will succeed in its efforts to recruit and
retain the required personnel. Because of its relatively smaller size, Levco may
have relatively fewer resources with which to recruit and retain personnel. The
loss of key personnel or investment teams or the inability to recruit and retain
qualified portfolio managers, business and marketing personnel could have a
material adverse effect on Levco's business.
In December 1998, BKF adopted an incentive compensation plan to give Levco
the ability to attract and retain talented professionals with equity-based and
cash compensation. Determinations with regard to the implementation of this plan
are made by the Compensation Committee of the board of directors of BKF on a
regular basis. Because BKF is a relatively small public company, the value of
the equity awards that may be offered to professionals may be limited relative
to what competitors may offer. If the price of BKF stock decreases, no assurance
can be given that the equity-based compensation will serve its purpose to
attract and retain talented professionals.
LEVCO IS DEPENDENT ON A LIMITED NUMBER OF INVESTMENT PRODUCTS
Levco currently derives most of its revenues from three particular
investment products -- a large cap value strategy, an event-driven alternative
investment product and a short-biased alternative investment product. While the
large cap value strategy and the short-biased alternative investment products
may often perform differently in a given investment environment, adverse
developments with regard to any of these products could have a material adverse
effect on Levco's business.
A DECLINE IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THE SECURITIES MARKETS COULD HAVE AN ADVERSE
EFFECT ON LEVCO'S REVENUES
Levco's operations are affected by many economic factors, including the
performance of the securities markets. Declines in the securities markets, in
general, and the equity markets, in particular, would likely reduce Levco's
assets under management and consequently reduce its revenues. In addition, any
continuing decline in the equity markets, failure of these markets to sustain
their prior rates of growth, or continued volatility in these markets could
result in investors' withdrawing from the equity markets or decreasing their
rate of investment, either of which would likely adversely affect Levco. Levco's
rates of growth in assets under management and revenues have varied from year to
year, and there can be no assurance that the growth rates sustained in the past
will continue. Levco is generally a "value" manager, and a general decline in
the performance of "value" securities could have an adverse effect on Levco's
revenues. Since April 2000, the equity markets have been in the midst of their
longest and most significant decline since the 1973-1974 period.
POOR INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT LEVCO'S FINANCIAL CONDITION
Success in the investment management industry depends largely on investment
performance. Good performance generally stimulates sales of services and
investment products and tends to keep withdrawals and redemptions low. This
generates higher management fees, which are based on the amount of assets under
11
management and sometimes on investment performance. If Levco products experience
poor performance, especially relative to their benchmarks or peers, this will
likely result in decreased sales, decreased assets under management and the loss
of accounts, with corresponding decreases in revenue. In 2002, value equity
products managed by Levco have declined more than their relevant benchmarks.
Levco also offers event-driven and short-biased products and other
alternative investment strategies. The failure to implement these strategies
effectively could likewise impact Levco's revenues.
THE LOSS OF SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMERS COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT LEVCO'S REVENUES
As of December 31, 2001, Levco had approximately 350 relationships
(counting as single relationships each wrap fee program and related family and
institutional accounts and excluding proprietary pooled investment vehicles and
other accounts following alternative investment strategies), of which the ten
largest relationships generated approximately $29.1 million of revenues for
Levco in 2001 (including incentive fees), or approximately 31.8% of BKF's total
revenues.
The five largest relationships accounted for approximately 47.3% of all
asset-based investment advisory fees (excluding proprietary pooled investment
vehicles and other accounts following alternative investment strategies) for the
nine month period ended September 30, 2002. The loss of any of these
relationships could have an adverse effect on BKF's revenues.
A DECREASE IN LEVCO'S MANAGEMENT FEES, THE CANCELLATION OF INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS OR POOR INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE BY THE LEVCO PRIVATE
INVESTMENT FUNDS COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT LEVCO'S PROFITS
Management Fees. Some segments of the investment management industry have
experienced a trend toward lower management fees. Levco must maintain a level of
investment returns and service that is acceptable to clients given the fees they
pay. No assurance can be given that Levco will be able to maintain its current
fee structure or client base. Reduction of the fees for new or existing clients
could have an adverse impact on Levco's profits.
Cancellation of Investment Management Agreements. It is expected that
Levco will derive almost all of its revenue from investment management
agreements. For investment companies, a majority of the disinterested members of
each fund's board must approve these agreements at least annually and the
agreements are terminable without penalty on 60 days' notice. The agreements
with Levco's separately-managed account clients generally are terminable by the
client without penalty and with little or no notice. Any failure to renew, or
termination of, a significant number of these agreements could have an adverse
effect on Levco.
Poor Investment Performance of the Private Investment Funds. BKF derives
revenue from incentive fees and general partner incentive allocations earned
with respect to its proprietary unregistered investment funds. Stronger positive
performance by these funds generates higher incentive fees and incentive
allocations because those fees and allocations are based on the performance of
the assets under management. On the other hand, relatively poor performance will
result in lower or no incentive fees or allocations, and will tend to lead to
decreased assets under management and the loss of accounts, with corresponding
decreases in revenue.
BKF IS A RELATIVELY SMALL PUBLIC COMPANY IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE BUSINESS
Levco competes with a large number of domestic and foreign investment
management firms, commercial banks, insurance companies, broker-dealers and
other firms offering comparable investment services. Many of the financial
services companies with which Levco competes have greater resources and assets
under management than Levco does and offer a broader array of investment
products and services.
Management believes that the most important factors affecting Levco's
ability to attract and retain clients are the abilities, performance records and
reputations of its portfolio managers, the ability to hire and retain key
investment personnel, the attractiveness of investment strategies to potential
investors and competitive fees and investor service. Levco's ability to increase
and retain client assets could be adversely affected if client accounts
underperform client expectations or if key investment personnel leave Levco.
Levco's ability to compete with other investment management firms also depends,
in part, on the relative attractiveness of its
12
investment philosophies and methods under prevailing market conditions. The
absence of significant barriers to entry by new investment management firms in
the institutional managed accounts business increases competitive pressure.
Since Levco is a relatively smaller asset management company, changes in
customers, personnel and products and other business developments may have have
a greater impact on Levco than they would have on larger, more diversified asset
management companies.
LEVCO IS DEPENDENT ON INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND ADMINISTRATIVE, BACK-OFFICE AND
TRADE EXECUTION FUNCTIONS
Levco is highly dependent on information systems and technology and
depends, to a great extent, on third parties who are responsible for managing,
maintaining and updating these systems. No assurance can be given that Levco's
current systems will continue to be able to accommodate its growth or that the
costs of its outsourcing arrangements will not increase. The failure to
accommodate growth or an increase in costs could have an adverse effect on
Levco.
Success in the investment management industry also depends on the ability
of an investment manager, and third parties with whom the investment manager
contracts, to successfully perform administrative, back-office and trade
execution functions. A failure by Levco or a third party contracted by Levco to
perform such functions could adversely impact Levco's revenues.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST MAY ARISE AND ADVERSELY AFFECT LEVCO
From time to time, Levco's officers, directors and employees may own
securities which one or more of its clients also own. Although Levco maintains
internal policies regarding individual investments by its officers, directors
and employees which require them to report securities transactions and restrict
certain transactions so as to minimize possible conflicts of interest, possible
conflicts of interest may arise that could have adverse effects on Levco.
Similarly, conflicting investment positions may develop among various investment
strategies managed by Levco. Although Levco has internal policies maintained to
address such situations, such conflicts could have adverse effects on Levco.
GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT LEVCO'S BUSINESS
Virtually all aspects of Levco's business are subject to various federal
and state laws and regulations. Levco is registered with the Securities and
Exchange Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Investment
Advisers Act imposes numerous obligations on registered investment advisers,
including fiduciary, recordkeeping, operational and disclosure obligations. John
A. Levin & Co. is also registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission
as a commodity trading advisor and a commodity pool operator, and Levco GP is
registered with that agency as a commodity pool operator. John A. Levin & Co.
and Levco GP are members of the National Futures Association. LEVCO Securities
is registered as a broker-dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, is a
member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. and is a member
of the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board. In addition, Levco is subject to
the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and its regulations insofar
as it is a "fiduciary" with respect to certain clients.
These laws and regulations generally grant supervisory agencies and bodies
broad administrative powers, including the power to limit or restrict Levco from
conducting its business if it fails to comply with these laws and regulations.
If Levco fails to comply with these laws and regulations, these agencies may
impose sanctions, including the suspension of individual employees, limitations
on business activities for specified periods of time, revocation of
registration, and other censures and fines. Even if in compliance with all laws
and regulations, changes in these laws or regulations could adversely affect
Levco's profitability, operations and its ability to conduct certain businesses
in which it is currently engaged.
TERRORIST ATTACKS COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR COMPANY
Terrorist attacks, including biological or chemical weapons attacks, and
the response to such terrorist attacks, could have a significant impact on New
York City, the local economy, the United States economy, the global economy, and
global financial markets. It is possible that the above factors could have a
material
13
adverse effect on our business, especially given the fact that all operations
are conducted from a single location in New York City and BKF has incurred lease
obligations with regard to this location through September 2011.
Certain statements under this caption "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" constitute "forward-looking
statements" under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the
"Reform Act"). See "Part II -- Other Information."
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of the results of operations is based
on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition and Consolidated
Statements of Operations for BKF Capital Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries.
THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2002 AS COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 2001.
Revenues
Total revenues for the third quarter of 2002 were $27.48 million,
reflecting an increase of 25.8% from $21.85 million in revenues in the same
period in 2001. This increase was attributable to a 108.2% increase in incentive
fees and general partner incentive allocations to $12.09 million in the third
quarter of 2002 from $5.80 million in the same period in 2001. Incentive fees
and general partner allocations are accrued on a quarterly basis but are
primarily determined and billed or allocated, as the case may be, at the end of
the applicable contract year or upon investor withdrawal. Such accruals may be
reversed prior to being earned or allocated as the result of investment
performance. The increase in incentive fees and general partner incentive
allocations is attributable to an increase in the performance and assets under
management of certain accounts following short-biased and event-driven
investment strategies. Value equity accounts paying performance-based
compensation did not generate a significant amount of incentive fees during the
quarter. The increase in incentive fees and general partner incentive
allocations was partially offset by a 6.3% decrease in asset-based investment
advisory fees to $14.47 million in the third quarter of 2002 from $15.44 million
in the same period in 2001. This decrease in asset-based advisory fees is
primarily attributable to the decrease in assets managed (as the result of
withdrawals and asset depreciation) for value equity accounts. It should be
noted that advisory fees with regard to assets held in wrap fee programs are
generally billed quarterly in advance, and assets under management in wrap
programs were approximately $3.94 billion as of the beginning of the third
quarter, as compared to $2.96 billion at September 30, 2002.
Net commission income generated by the broker-dealer business rose 52.7% to
$927,000 in the third quarter of 2002 from $607,000 in the third quarter of
2001, primarily as the result of increased activity in accounts pursuing
alternative investment strategies.
Expenses
Total expenses for the third quarter of 2002 were $25.97 million,
reflecting an increase of 24.2% from $20.92 million in expenses in the same
period in 2001. Total expenses excluding amortization of intangibles were $24.22
million in the third quarter of 2002, reflecting an increase of 29.0% from
$18.77 million for the third quarter of 2001. Compensation expense was $18.43
million, reflecting an increase of 25.5% from $14.68 million in the third
quarter of 2001. This increase in compensation expense is attributable to the
increase in revenues, new product development and the expansion of the
investment teams involved in managing alternative investment strategies.
Occupancy and equipment rental was $1.46 million in the third quarter of
2002, reflecting a 105.1% increase from $712,000 in the same period in 2001.
This increase is attributable to the lease amendments entered into in 2001,
which added approximately 38,000 square feet to BKF's facilities. In light of
current conditions, BKF is currently seeking to relieve itself of its
obligations with respect to a portion of its facilities. Such a sublease may
result in losses to BKF during all or a portion of such sublease period.
14
BKF entered into a lease in the third quarter for approximately 4,800
square feet in Stamford, Connecticut that will serve as a back-up facility. This
lease will increase annual rental and related operating expenses by
approximately $200,000 commencing in the fourth quarter of 2002.
Other operating expenses were $4.32 million in the third quarter of 2002,
reflecting a 27.9% increase from $3.38 million in the same period in 2001. The
increase was primarily attributable to increases in (i) professional fees
relating to third party marketers and investment and technology consultants, and
(ii) telecommunications and portfolio management software expense, which
increases as the number of wrap accounts increase.
Amortization of intangibles was $1.75 million in the third quarter of 2002,
reflecting a decrease of 18.2% from $2.14 million in the same period in 2001.
This decrease is attributable to the fact that goodwill is no longer being
amortized, pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142,
"Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets."
Operating Income
Operating income for the third quarter of 2002 was $1.51 million,
reflecting a 62.4% increase from $932,000 in the same period in 2001, as the
increase in revenues exceeded the increase in expenses. Operating income
excluding the amortization of intangibles was $3.27 million in the third quarter
of 2002, reflecting an increase of 6.3% from $3.07 million in the same period in
2001.
Gain (Loss) on Investments
In the third quarter of 2002, BKF had a net realized and unrealized gain on
investments of $22,000. BKF received proceeds of $123,000 from two class action
settlements relating to investments held by BKF when it was registered as an
investment company. These gains were offset by net realized and unrealized
losses derived from its seed capital investments in a range of long only and
alternative investment strategies. BKF had a net realized and unrealized gain on
investments of $446,000 in the third quarter of 2001.
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest and dividend income in the third quarter of 2002 was $164,000,
reflecting a 52.5% decrease from $345,000 in the same period in 2001. This
decrease is primarily attributable to a decrease in interest rates.
Income Taxes
Total income tax expense was $1.53 million in the third quarter of 2002,
reflecting an increase of 13.1% from $1.35 million for the same period in 2001.
This increase primarily reflects the increase in income before taxes (as
determined without a deduction for the amortization of intangibles). An
effective tax rate of 44.4% (before amortization) was used to make the
determination with respect to the provision for taxes at September 30, 2002,
while an effective tax rate of 35.1% (before amortization) was used to calculate
the provision for taxes at September 30, 2001. The differential in tax rates is
due to an increase in state allocations, the decrease in the statutory rate and
the reduction in amortization expense.
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2002 AS COMPARED TO NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER
30, 2001.
Revenues
Total revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 were $71.35
million, reflecting an increase of 3.4% from $69.01 million in revenues in the
same period in 2001. This increase was attributable to a an 8.1% increase in
asset-based investment advisory fees to $47.89 million in the nine months ended
September 30, 2002 from $44.29 million in the same period in 2001. This increase
in asset-based investment advisory fees resulted from (i) a higher level of
average assets under management for the nine month period and (ii) a higher
percentage of assets under management in alternative investment strategies
(which generally charge higher asset-based fees). Incentive fees and general
partner incentive allocations for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 were
$21.13 million, reflecting a decrease of 8.3% from $23.05 million in incentive
fees
15
and general partner incentive allocations in the same period in 2001. Incentive
fees and general partner incentive allocations are accrued on a quarterly basis
but are primarily determined and billed or allocated, as the case may be, at the
end of the applicable contract year or upon investor withdrawal. Such accruals
may be reversed prior to being earned or allocated as the result of investment
performance. The decrease in incentive fees and general partner incentive
allocations is attributable to a decrease in the performance of certain event
driven and value equity accounts paying performance-based compensation,
including, in the case of certain value equity accounts, negative performance
resulting in the reversal of accruals made in prior periods. The short-biased
alternative investment strategy generated increased incentive fees and general
partner incentive allocations that partially offset the decline in such revenues
from the event driven and value equity accounts.
Net commission income generated by the broker-dealer business rose 39.0% to
$2.34 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2002 from $1.68 million in
the same period in 2001, primarily as the result of increased activity in
accounts pursuing alternative investment strategies.
Expenses
Total expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 were $69.36
million, reflecting an increase of 7.1% from $64.79 million in expenses in the
same period in 2001. Total expenses excluding amortization of intangibles were
$64.10 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, reflecting an
increase of 11.6% from $57.43 million for the same period in 2001. Compensation
expense was $48.27 million, reflecting an increase of 5.0% from $45.98 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 2001. This increase in compensation
expense is attributable to the increase in revenues, new product development and
the expansion of the investment teams involved in managing alternative
investment strategies.
Occupancy and equipment rental was $4.36 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 2002, reflecting a 120.2% increase from $1.98 million in the same
period in 2001. This increase is attributable to the lease amendments entered
into in 2001, which added approximately 38,000 square feet to BKF's facilities.
In light of current conditions, BKF is currently seeking to sublease a portion
of its facilities. Such a sublease may result in losses to BKF during all or a
portion of such sublease period.
BKF entered into a lease in the third quarter for approximately 4,800
square feet in Stamford, Connecticut that will serve as a back-up facility. This
lease will increase annual rental and related operating expenses by
approximately $200,000 commencing in the fourth quarter of 2002.
Other operating expenses were $11.47 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 2002, reflecting a 21.0% increase from $9.47 million in the same
period in 2001. The increase was primarily attributable to increases in (i)
professional fees relating to investment and technology consultants and third
party marketers, (ii) professional and consulting fees relating to BKF's public
company structure and (iii) telecommunications and portfolio management software
expense, which increases as the number of wrap accounts increases. These
increases were partially offset by a decrease in reimbursements to certain
client accounts in connection with trading activities during 2001.
Amortization of intangibles was $5.26 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 2002, reflecting a decrease of 28.6% from $7.36 million in the
same period in 2001. This decrease is attributable to (i) the fact that goodwill
is no longer being amortized, pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," and (ii) the
expiration in the second of quarter of 2001 of the amortization period of
employment agreements that were entered into in connection with the acquisition
of Levco by BKF in 1996.
Operating Income
Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 was $1.99
million, reflecting a 52.8% decline from $4.22 million in the same period in
2001, as the increase in expenses exceeded the increase in revenues. Operating
income excluding the amortization of intangibles was $7.25 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 2002, reflecting a decrease of 37.4% from $11.58
million in the same period in 2001.
16
Gain (Loss) on Investments
For the nine months ended September 30, 2002, BKF had a net realized and
unrealized loss on investments of $479,000. BKF received proceeds of $123,000
from two class action settlements relating to investments held by BKF when it
was registered as an investment company. These gains were offset by net realized
and unrealized losses derived from its seed capital investments in a range of
long only and alternative investment strategies. BKF had a net realized and
unrealized gain on investments of $1.14 million for the same period in 2001.
Interest and Dividend Income
Interest and dividend income for the nine months ended September 30, 2002
was $485,000, reflecting a 51.9% decrease from $1.01 million in the same period
in 2001. This decrease is primarily attributable to a decrease in interest
rates.
Income Taxes
Total income tax expense was $3.23 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 2002, reflecting a decrease of 40.4% from $5.43 million for the
same period in 2001. This decrease primarily reflects the decrease in income
before taxes (as determined without a deduction for the amortization of
intangibles). An effective tax rate of 44.6% (before amortization) was used to
make the determination with respect to the provision for taxes at September 30,
2002, while an effective tax rate of 39.6% (before amortization) was used to
calculate the provision for taxes at September 30, 2001. The differential in tax
rates is due to an increase in state allocations, the decrease in the statutory
rate and the reduction in amortization expense.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
BKF's current assets as of September 30, 2002 consist primarily of cash,
short term investments and advisory fees receivable.
While BKF's daily business operations are not generally capital intensive,
BKF utilizes capital to develop and seed new investment products. The
development of new products is an important element in BKF's business plan, and
such seed capital investments may require substantial financial resources. Due
to its relatively small size, BKF may consider a number of options to obtain
such seed capital. BKF has historically met its cash and liquidity needs through
cash generated by operating activities. At September 30, 2002, BKF had cash and
cash equivalents of $41.72 million, compared to $41.83 million at December 31,
2001. This decrease primarily reflects the payment of cash bonuses in 2002 which
were accrued in 2001 and the use of cash to invest in affiliated investment
partnerships, which payment and investments were partially offset by the
collection of receivables and the annual withdrawal of general partner incentive
allocations from affiliated investment partnerships. The decrease in investment
advisory fees receivable from $27.83 million at December 31, 2001 to $20.98
million at September 30, 2002 primarily reflects the receipt of incentive fees
earned in 2001. The increase in investments in affiliated investment
partnerships from $17.53 million at December 31, 2001 to $24.51 million at
September 30, 2002 primarily reflects (i) the $9.2 million of seed capital
investments made in alternative investment strategies during 2002 and (ii) the
accrual of general partner incentive allocations for the nine month period ended
September 30, 2002. These increases were partially offset by the withdrawal of
general partner incentive allocations from the affiliated investment
partnerships earned with respect to 2001. Incentive allocations typically are
withdrawn within three months following the end of the calendar year to pay
compensation and other expenses.
Investments in securities at September 30, 2002 were $986,000, as compared
to $2.78 million at December 31, 2001. This decrease is primarily attributable
to the liquidation of the long only financial services seed capital portfolio in
the first quarter of 2002 as well as to the negative performance of BKF's seed
capital portfolios.
Accrued expenses were $4.38 million at September 30, 2002, as compared to
$4.39 million at December 31, 2001. Such expenses were comprised primarily of
accruals for third party marketing fees. Such
17
fees are based on a percentage of accrued revenue, and such accruals may be
reversed based on the subsequent investment performance of the relevant accounts
through the end of the applicable performance measurement period. Expenses
accrued during the nine month period were offset primarily by the payment of
accrued third party marketing fees.
Accrued bonuses were $30.97 million at September 30, 2002, as compared to
$37.61 million at December 31, 2001, reflecting the payment of 2001 bonuses and
the accrual for 2002 bonuses.
Based upon BKF's current level of operations and anticipated growth, BKF
expects that cash flows from operating activities will be sufficient to finance
its working capital needs for the foreseeable future. Except for its lease
commitments, which are discussed in Note 7 in the Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements in BKF's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended
December 31, 2001 and, in the case of the lease for the Stamford, Connecticut
facility, in the "Results of Operations" section above, BKF has no material
commitments for capital expenditures. BKF does anticipate incurring costs in
connection with improving its facilities currently under lease, which costs will
be amortized over the life of the lease.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Since BKF's revenues are largely driven by the market value of Levco's
assets under management, these revenues are exposed to fluctuations in the
equity markets. Management fees for most accounts are determined based on the
market value of the account on the last day of the quarter, so any significant
increases or decreases in market value occurring on or shortly before the last
day of a quarter may materially impact revenues of the current quarter or the
following quarter (with regard to wrap program accounts). Furthermore, since
Levco manages most of its assets in a large cap value style, a general decline
in the performance of value stocks could have an adverse impact on Levco's
revenues. Similarly, a lack of opportunity to implement, or a failure to
successfully implement, Levco's event-driven strategy, could reduce performance
based incentive fees and allocations and thereby negatively impact BKF's
revenues. Because BKF is primarily in the asset management business and manages
equity portfolios, changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates,
commodity prices or other market rates or prices impact BKF only to the extent
they are reflected in the equity markets.
ITEM 4. DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
As of November 12, 2002, an evaluation was performed under the supervision
and with the participation of BKF's management, including the CEO and CFO, of
the effectiveness of the design and operation of BKF's disclosure controls and
procedures. Based on that evaluation, BKF's management, including the CEO and
CFO, concluded that BKF's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as
of November 12, 2002. There have been no significant changes in BKF's internal
controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls
since December 31, 2001.]
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
None
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
None
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None
18
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains certain statements that are not
historical facts, including, most importantly, information concerning possible
or assumed future results of operations of BKF and statements preceded by,
followed by or that include the words "may," "believes," "expects,"
"anticipates," or the negation thereof, or similar expressions, which constitute
"forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Reform Act. For those
statements, BKF claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking
statements contained in the Reform Act. These forward-looking statements are
based on BKF's current expectations and are susceptible to a number of risks,
uncertainties and other factors, including the risks specifically enumerated in
"Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations," and BKF's actual results, performance and achievements may
differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed
or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include the
following: retention and ability of qualified personnel; the performance of the
securities markets and of value stocks in particular; the investment performance
of client accounts; the retention of significant client and/or distribution
relationships; competition; the existence or absence of adverse publicity;
changes in business strategy; quality of management; availability, terms and
deployment of capital; business abilities and judgment of personnel; labor and
employee benefit costs; changes in, or failure to comply with, government
regulations; the costs and other effects of legal and administrative
proceedings; and other risks and uncertainties referred to in this document and
in BKF's other current and periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and
many of which are beyond BKF's control. BKF will not undertake and specifically
declines any obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions which
may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances
after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or
unanticipated events. In addition, it is BKF's policy generally not to make any
specific projections as to future earnings, and BKF does not endorse any
projections regarding future performance that may be made by third parties.
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) Exhibits
10.1 Amendment of Employment Agreement of Gregory T. Rogers
10.2 Lease dated September 25, 2002 for premises at 5 River Bend
Drive, Stamford, Ct.
99.1 Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer
99.2 Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
A report was filed on August 14, 2002 which included the certifications of
the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of BKF pursuant to the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
19
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.
BKF CAPITAL GROUP, INC.
By: /s/ JOHN A. LEVIN
------------------------------------
John A. Levin
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer
and President
By: /s/ GLENN A. AIGEN
------------------------------------
Glenn A. Aigen
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
Date: November 14, 2002
20
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CERTIFICATION
I, John A. Levin, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of BKF Capital
Group, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances
under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to
the period covered by this quarterly report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and
cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in
this quarterly report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and
have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that
material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those
entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report
in being prepared;
b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing of this
quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and
c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our
evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;
5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based
on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the
audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons
performing the equivalent functions):
a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal
controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial data and have
identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in
internal controls; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal
controls; and
6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
quarterly report whether there were significant changes in internal
controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal
controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation,
including any corrective actions with regard to significant
deficiencies and material weaknesses.
/s/ JOHN A. LEVIN
--------------------------------------
John A. Levin
Chief Executive Officer
Date: November 14, 2002
21
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER CERTIFICATION
I, Glenn A. Aigen, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of BKF Capital
Group, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances
under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to
the period covered by this quarterly report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and
cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in
this quarterly report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and
have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that
material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those
entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report
in being prepared;
b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and
procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing of this
quarterly report (the "Evaluation Date"); and
c) presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our
evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;
5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based
on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the
audit committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons
performing the equivalent functions):
a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal
controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial data and have
identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in
internal controls; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other
employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal
controls; and
6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
quarterly report whether there were significant changes in internal
controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal
controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation,
including any corrective actions with regard to significant
deficiencies and material weaknesses.
/s/ GLENN A. AIGEN
--------------------------------------
Glenn A. Aigen
Chief Financial Officer
Date: November 14, 2002
22