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EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - GSE SYSTEMS INCFinancial_Report.xls
EX-10.2 - THIRD AMENDMENT TO MASTER LOAN AGREEMENT - GSE SYSTEMS INCexhibit10-2.htm
EX-32.1 - GSE SECTION 906 SOX CERTIFICATION - GSE SYSTEMS INCexh32-1.htm
EX-31.1 - GSE CERTIFICATION CEO - GSE SYSTEMS INCexh31-1.htm
EX-31.2 - GSE CERTIFICATION OF CFO - GSE SYSTEMS INCexh31-2.htm
EX-10.1 - SECOND AMENDMENT TO MASTER LOAN AGREEMENT - GSE SYSTEMS INCexhibit10-1.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)
     
x
 
Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
for the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2014
 
       
   
or
 
       
o
 
Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
for the transition period from ____ to ____
 

Commission File Number 001-14785
 
GSE Systems, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
 
52-1868008
(State of incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
 
1332 Londontown Blvd., Suite 200, Sykesville MD
 
21784
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (410) 970-7800

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Sections 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 has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [ X ]   No [   ]

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

Large accelerated filer  o
Accelerated filer  o
Non-accelerated filer o
Smaller reporting company x
   
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in rule 12(b)-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  [  ]  No [X]

There were 17,887,859 shares of common stock, with a par value of $.01 per share outstanding as of  November 13, 2014.

1


GSE SYSTEMS, INC.
QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
INDEX

     
PAGE
PART I.
 
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
3
Item 1.
 
Financial Statements:
 
   
3
   
4
   
5
   
6
   
7
   
8
Item 2.
 
20
Item 3.
 
33
Item 4.
 
34
       
PART II.
 
OTHER INFORMATION
35
Item 1.
 
35
Item 1A.
 
35
Item 2.
 
35
Item 3.
 
35
Item 4.
 
35
Item 5.
 
36
Item 6.
 
36
   
37
2


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.  Financial Statements

GSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

   
Unaudited
     
   
September 30, 2014
   
December 31, 2013
 
ASSETS
 
Current assets:
       
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
16,028
   
$
15,643
 
Restricted cash
   
470
     
45
 
Contract receivables, net
   
12,478
     
24,557
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
3,543
     
3,699
 
Total current assets
   
32,519
     
43,944
 
                 
Equipment, software and leasehold improvements
   
7,064
     
7,090
 
Accumulated depreciation
   
(5,331
)
   
(5,175
)
Equipment, software and leasehold improvements, net
   
1,733
     
1,915
 
                 
Software development costs, net
   
1,437
     
1,020
 
Intangible assets, net
   
597
     
709
 
Long-term restricted cash
   
3,721
     
1,021
 
Other assets
   
180
     
218
 
Total assets
 
$
40,187
   
$
48,827
 
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
 
$
1,805
   
$
3,554
 
Accrued expenses
   
1,642
     
1,903
 
Accrued compensation and payroll taxes
   
2,226
     
2,497
 
Billings in excess of revenue earned
   
7,343
     
6,545
 
Accrued warranty
   
1,502
     
1,851
 
Other current liabilities
   
972
     
1,603
 
Total current liabilities
   
15,490
     
17,953
 
                 
Other liabilities
   
63
     
487
 
Total liabilities
   
15,553
     
18,440
 
                 
Stockholders' equity:
               
Preferred stock $.01 par value, 2,000,000 shares authorized,  shares issued and outstanding none in 2014 and 2013
   
-
     
-
 
Common stock $.01 par value, 30,000,000 shares authorized, shares issued 19,486,770 in 2014 and 2013
   
195
     
195
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
72,719
     
72,205
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(44,305
)
   
(38,400
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
   
(976
)
   
(614
)
Treasury stock at cost, 1,598,911 shares in 2014 and 2013
   
(2,999
)
   
(2,999
)
Total stockholders' equity
   
24,634
     
30,387
 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
40,187
   
$
48,827
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

3


GSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share data)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months ended
September 30,
   
Nine Months ended
September 30,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2014
   
2013
 
                 
Contract revenue
 
$
7,823
   
$
11,883
   
$
24,823
   
$
35,300
 
                                 
Cost of revenue
   
5,368
     
8,811
     
17,497
     
26,332
 
Write-down of capitalized software development costs
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
2,174
 
Gross profit
   
2,455
     
3,072
     
7,326
     
6,794
 
                                 
Operating expenses:
                               
Selling, general and administrative
   
4,226
     
3,808
     
12,822
     
11,919
 
Goodwill impairment loss
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
4,462
 
Depreciation
   
140
     
135
     
413
     
434
 
Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets
   
36
     
51
     
108
     
155
 
Total operating expenses
   
4,402
     
3,994
     
13,343
     
16,970
 
                                 
Operating loss
   
(1,947
)
   
(922
)
   
(6,017
)
   
(10,176
)
                                 
Interest income, net
   
44
     
22
     
103
     
85
 
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net
   
69
     
(78
)
   
178
     
(221
)
Other expense, net
   
-
     
(49
)
   
(7
)
   
(60
)
Loss before income taxes
   
(1,834
)
   
(1,027
)
   
(5,743
)
   
(10,372
)
                                 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
   
61
     
(32
)
   
162
     
(23
)
Net loss
 
$
(1,895
)
 
$
(995
)
 
$
(5,905
)
 
$
(10,349
)
                                 
                                 
Basic loss per common share
 
$
(0.11
)
 
$
(0.06
)
 
$
(0.33
)
 
$
(0.57
)
                                 
Diluted loss per common share
 
$
(0.11
)
 
$
(0.06
)
 
$
(0.33
)
 
$
(0.57
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

4


GSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)

   
Three Months ended
September 30,
   
Nine Months ended
September 30,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2014
   
2013
 
                 
                 
Net loss
 
$
(1,895
)
 
$
(995
)
 
$
(5,905
)
 
$
(10,349
)
                                 
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax
   
(261
)
   
252
     
(362
)
   
92
 
                                 
Comprehensive loss
 
$
(2,156
)
 
$
(743
)
 
$
(6,267
)
 
$
(10,257
)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
5


GSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)

   
Common
Stock
   
Additional
Paid-in
   
Accumulated
   
Accumulated
Other Comprehensive
   
Treasury
Stock
     
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
Deficit
   
Loss
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Total
 
Balance, December 31, 2013
   
19,487
   
$
195
   
$
72,205
   
$
(38,400
)
 
$
(614
)
   
(1,599
)
 
$
(2,999
)
 
$
30,387
 
                                                                 
Stock-based compensation expense
   
-
     
-
     
514
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
514
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax
   
-
             
-
     
-
     
(362
)
   
-
     
-
     
(362
)
Net loss
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(5,905
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(5,905
)
Balance, September 30, 2014
   
19,487
   
$
195
   
$
72,719
   
$
(44,305
)
 
$
(976
)
   
(1,599
)
 
$
(2,999
)
 
$
24,634
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

6


GSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)

   
Nine Months ended
September 30,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
       
Net loss
 
$
(5,905
)
 
$
(10,349
)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
               
Goodwill impairment loss
   
-
     
4,462
 
Write-down of capitalized software development costs
   
-
     
2,174
 
Depreciation
   
413
     
434
 
Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets
   
108
     
155
 
Capitalized software amortization
   
173
     
509
 
Amortization of deferred financing costs
   
-
     
9
 
Change in fair value of contingent consideration
   
69
     
215
 
Stock-based compensation expense
   
514
     
641
 
Equity loss on investments
   
38
     
148
 
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments
   
(178
)
   
221
 
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
Contract receivables
   
11,928
     
3,068
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
419
     
(744
)
Accounts payable, accrued compensation and accrued expenses
   
(2,292
)
   
(1,425
)
Billings in excess of revenue earned
   
792
     
(186
)
Accrued warranty reserves
   
(349
)
   
(266
)
Other liabilities
   
(575
)
   
263
 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
5,155
     
(671
)
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Capital expenditures
   
(240
)
   
(287
)
Capitalized software development costs
   
(590
)
   
(1,162
)
Restrictions of cash as collateral under letters of credit
   
(3,159
)
   
(228
)
Releases of cash as collateral under letters of credit
   
34
     
-
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(3,955
)
   
(1,677
)
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
   
-
     
44
 
Payments of the liability-classified contingent consideration arrangements
   
(500
)
   
(1,890
)
Treasury stock purchases
   
-
     
(651
)
Net cash used in financing activities
   
(500
)
   
(2,497
)
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
   
(315
)
   
18
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
   
385
     
(4,827
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
   
15,643
     
22,386
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
16,028
   
$
17,559
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.


7

 
GSE SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Three and Nine Months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013
(Unaudited)
1. Basis of Presentation and Revenue Recognition

Basis of Presentation

The consolidated interim financial statements included herein have been prepared by GSE Systems, Inc. (the "Company" or "GSE") without independent audit.  In the opinion of the Company's management, all adjustments and reclassifications of a normal and recurring nature necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented have been made.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") have been condensed or omitted.  The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily an indication of the results for the full year.  These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 26, 2014.

The Company has only one reportable segment.  The Company has a wide range of knowledge of simulation systems and the processes those systems are intended to control and model.  The Company's knowledge is concentrated heavily in simulation technology and model development.  The Company is primarily engaged in simulation for the power generation industry and the process industries.  Contracts typically range from 1 to 3 years.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements as well as reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  The Company's most significant estimates relate to revenue recognition, product warranties, capitalization of software development costs, valuation of intangible assets acquired, contingent consideration issued in business acquisitions, and the recoverability of deferred tax assets.  Actual results could differ from these estimates and those differences could be material.
8



Revenue Recognition

The majority of the Company's revenue is derived through the sale of uniquely designed systems containing hardware, software and other materials under fixed-price contracts.  Revenue under these fixed-price contracts is accounted for on the percentage-of-completion method.  This methodology recognizes revenue and earnings as work progresses on the contract and is based on an estimate of the revenue and earnings earned to date, less amounts recognized in prior periods.  The Company bases its estimate of the degree of completion of the contract by reviewing the relationship of costs incurred to date to the expected total costs that will be incurred on the project. Estimated contract earnings are reviewed and revised periodically as the work progresses, and the cumulative effect of any change in estimate is recognized in the period in which the change is identified.  Estimated losses are charged against earnings in the period such losses are identified.  The Company recognizes revenue arising from contract claims either as income or as an offset against a potential loss only when the amount of the claim can be estimated reliably and realization is probable and there is a legal basis for the claim.

Uncertainties inherent in the performance of contracts include labor availability and productivity, material costs, change order scope and pricing, software modification and customer acceptance issues.  The reliability of these cost estimates is critical to the Company's revenue recognition as a significant change in the estimates can cause the Company's revenue and related margins to change significantly from the amounts estimated in the early stages of the project.

As the Company recognizes revenue under the percentage-of-completion method, it provides an accrual for estimated future warranty costs based on historical experience and projected claims.  The Company's long-term contracts generally provide for a one-year warranty on parts, labor and any bug fixes as it relates to software embedded in the systems.

The Company's system design contracts do not normally provide for "post customer support service" ("PCS") in terms of software upgrades, software enhancements or telephone support.  In order to obtain PCS, the customers must normally purchase a separate contract.  Such PCS arrangements are generally for a one-year period renewable annually and include customer support, unspecified software upgrades, and maintenance releases.  The Company recognizes revenue from these contracts ratably over the life of the agreements.

Revenue from the sale of software licenses which do not require significant modifications or customization for the Company's modeling tools are recognized when the license agreement is signed, the license fee is fixed and determinable, delivery has occurred, and collection is considered probable.

Revenue from certain consulting or training contracts is recognized on a time-and-material basis.  For time-and-material type contracts, revenue is recognized based on hours incurred at a contracted labor rate plus expenses.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the following customer provided more than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenue:

   
Three Months ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months ended
September 30,
   
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Slovenské elektrárne, a.s.
 
0.8%
 
31.1%
 
3.4%
 
25.6%
9


2. Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which provides guidance for revenue recognition. The standard's core principle is that a company will recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In doing so, companies will need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under today's guidance. These may include identifying performance obligations in the contract, estimating the amount of variable consideration to include in the transaction price and allocating the transaction price to each separate performance obligation. This guidance will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of its fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, and interim periods therein, using either of the following transition methods: (i) a full retrospective approach reflecting the application of the standard in each prior reporting period with the option to elect certain practical expedients, or (ii) a retrospective approach with the cumulative effect of initially adopting ASU 2014-09 recognized at the date of adoption (which includes additional footnote disclosures). The Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact of its pending adoption of this ASU on the Company's consolidated financial statements and has not yet determined the method by which it will adopt the standard in 2017.

3. Basic and Diluted Loss Per Common Share

Basic loss per share is based on the weighted average number of outstanding common shares for the period.  Diluted loss per share adjusts the weighted average shares outstanding for the potential dilution that could occur if stock options were exercised into common stock.

The number of common shares and common share equivalents used in the determination of basic and diluted loss per share were as follows:

(in thousands, except for share amounts)
 
Three Months ended
   
Nine Months ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2014
   
2013
   
2014
   
2013
 
Numerator:
               
Net loss
 
$
(1,895
)
 
$
(995
)
 
$
(5,905
)
 
$
(10,349
)
                                 
Denominator:
                               
Weighted-average shares outstanding for basic earnings per share
   
17,887,859
     
18,058,319
     
17,887,859
     
18,232,873
 
                                 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                               
Employee stock options
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding and assumed conversions for diluted earnings per share
   
17,887,859
     
18,058,319
     
17,887,859
     
18,232,873
 
                                 
Shares related to dilutive securities excluded because inclusion would be anti-dilutive
   
2,736,703
     
2,899,349
     
2,730,558
     
2,909,597
 
10


4. Contract Receivables

Contract receivables represent balances due from a broad base of both domestic and international customers.  All contract receivables are considered to be collectible within twelve months. Recoverable costs and accrued profit not billed represent costs incurred and associated profit accrued on contracts that will become billable upon future milestones or completion of contracts.

The components of contract receivables are as follows:

(in thousands)
 
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
         
Billed receivables
 
$
6,201
   
$
19,040
 
Recoverable costs and accrued profit not billed
   
6,279
     
5,519
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
   
(2
)
   
(2
)
Total contract receivables, net
 
$
12,478
   
$
24,557
 

Recoverable costs and accrued profit not billed totaled $6.3 million and $5.5 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.  During October 2014, the Company invoiced $1.4 million of the unbilled amounts.

The following customers account for more than 10% of the Company's consolidated contract receivables as of:

 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
China Nuclear Power Engineering Company
15.5%
 
4.9%
Slovenské elektrárne, a.s.
2.4%
 
35.9%

5. Software Development Costs

Certain computer software development costs are capitalized in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  Capitalization of computer software development costs begins upon the establishment of technological feasibility.  Capitalization ceases and amortization of capitalized costs begins when the software product is commercially available for general release to customers.  Amortization of capitalized computer software development costs is included in cost of revenue and is determined using the straight-line method over the remaining estimated economic life of the product, typically three years.  On an annual basis, and more frequently as conditions indicate, the Company assesses the recovery of the unamortized software development costs by estimating the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the sale of the product.  If the undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to recover the unamortized software costs the Company will write-down the investment to its estimated fair value based on future undiscounted cash flows.  The excess of any unamortized software development costs over the related net realizable value is written down and charged to cost of revenue.

Software development costs capitalized were $241,000 and $590,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, and $167,000 and $1.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.  Total amortization expense was $78,000 and $173,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, and $31,000 and $509,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.

During the second quarter of 2013, the Company incurred a charge of $2.2 million related to the write-down of certain capitalized software development costs based on the net realizable value analysis. The Company did not recognize any write-downs of software development costs in 2014.
11


6. Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill

The Company reviews goodwill for impairment annually as of November 30 or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other.  The provisions of ASC 350 require that we perform a two-step impairment test on goodwill. In the first step, we compare the fair value of our reporting unit to its carrying value.  The Company has only one reporting unit.  If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets assigned to that unit, goodwill is not impaired, and we are not required to perform further testing.  If the carrying value of the net assets assigned to the reporting unit exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, then we must perform the second step of the impairment test in order to determine the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill.  The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit's assets and liabilities in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation, with any residual fair value allocated to goodwill. If the carrying value of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, then we record an impairment loss equal to the difference.

Based upon indicators of impairment in the second quarter of 2013, which included a substantial decrease in the Company's market capitalization following the announcement of the Company's first quarter 2013 earnings, and significantly lower than projected revenue and profits as a result of a change in market conditions, the Company performed an interim impairment test as of June 30, 2013.

The fair value of our reporting unit was estimated using a combination of appropriately weighted income and market approaches.  The cash flows employed in the income approach were based on forecasts and business plans developed in the second quarter of 2013, as well as various growth rate assumptions for the years beyond the current business plan period, discounted using an estimated weighted average cost of capital ("WACC").  The WACC is comprised of (1) a risk free rate of return, (2) an equity and size risk premium that is based on the rate of return on equity of publicly traded companies with business characteristics comparable to our reporting unit, (3) the current after-tax market rate of return on debt of companies with business characteristics similar to our reporting unit, each weighted by the relative market value percentages of our equity and debt, and (4) an industry and specific company risk factor.

The results of the ASC 350 Step 1 goodwill impairment analysis indicated that the estimated fair value of our reporting unit was less than the carrying value.  The reporting unit was unfavorably impacted by a combination of lower current and projected cash flows.  Because our reporting unit's fair value estimate was lower than its carrying value, we applied the second step of the goodwill test, in accordance with ASC 350.

The second step of the goodwill impairment analysis indicated that the carrying value of the goodwill associated with the reporting unit exceeded its implied fair value resulting in a $4.5 million goodwill impairment charge, non-deductible for tax purposes.  As a result of the analysis, the Company recorded a full goodwill impairment.  The impairment was non-cash in nature and did not affect the Company's liquidity nor impact the debt covenants under the Company's credit facility.

Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization

The Company's intangible assets include amounts recognized in connection with business acquisitions, including customer relationships, contract backlog and technology.  Intangible assets are initially valued at fair market value using generally accepted valuation methods appropriate for the type of intangible asset.  Amortization is recognized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the intangible assets, except for contract backlog and contractual customer relationships which are recognized in proportion to the related projected revenue streams.  Intangible assets with definite lives are reviewed for impairment if indicators of impairment arise.  The failure of step 1 of the goodwill impairment analysis was an impairment indicator in the second quarter of 2013, but the undiscounted cash flows associated with the other intangible assets were greater than the carrying value, and therefore, no impairment was present.
12


7. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date.  ASC 820 also establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.

The levels of the fair value hierarchy established by ASC 820 are:

Level 1:  inputs are quoted prices, unadjusted, in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2:  inputs are other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.  A Level 2 input must be observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

Level 3:  inputs are unobservable and reflect the reporting entity's own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

The Company considers the recorded value of certain of its financial assets and liabilities, which consist primarily of accounts receivable and accounts payable, to approximate the fair value of the respective assets and liabilities at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 based upon the short-term nature of the assets and liabilities.

The following table presents assets and liabilities measured at fair value at September 30, 2014:

   
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for Identical Assets
   
Significant
Other
Observable Inputs
   
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
     
(in thousands)
 
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
   
Total
 
                 
Money market funds
 
$
12,945
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
12,945
 
Foreign exchange contracts
   
-
     
30
     
-
     
30
 
                                 
Total assets
 
$
12,945
   
$
30
   
$
-
   
$
12,975
 
                                 
Foreign exchange contracts
 
$
-
   
$
(16
)
 
$
-
   
$
(16
)
                                 
Total liabilities
 
$
-
   
$
(16
)
 
$
-
   
$
(16
)

The following table presents assets and liabilities measured at fair value at December 31, 2013:

   
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for Identical Assets
   
Significant
Other
Observable Inputs
   
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
     
(in thousands)
 
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
   
Total
 
                 
Money market funds
 
$
10,553
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
10,553
 
Foreign exchange contracts
   
-
     
142
     
-
     
142
 
                                 
Total assets
 
$
10,553
   
$
142
   
$
-
   
$
10,695
 
                                 
Foreign exchange contracts
 
$
-
   
$
(655
)
 
$
-
   
$
(655
)
                                 
Total liabilities
 
$
-
   
$
(655
)
 
$
-
   
$
(655
)
13


8. Derivative Instruments

The Company utilizes forward foreign currency exchange contracts to manage market risks associated with the fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.  It is the Company's policy to use such derivative financial instruments to protect against market risk arising in the normal course of business in order to reduce the impact of these exposures.  The Company minimizes credit exposure by limiting counterparties to nationally recognized financial institutions.

As of September 30, 2014, the Company had foreign exchange contracts outstanding of approximately 106,000 Pounds Sterling, 34,000 Canadian dollars, and 1.5 million Euro at fixed rates.  The contracts expire on various dates through June 2016.  At December 31, 2013, the Company had contracts outstanding of approximately 237,000 Pounds Sterling, 13.3 million Euro, and 10.1 million Japanese Yen at fixed rates.

The Company has not designated any of the foreign exchange contracts outstanding as hedges and has recorded the estimated fair value of the contracts in the consolidated balance sheets as follows:

   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
(in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
 
         
Asset derivatives
       
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
 
$
23
   
$
140
 
Other assets
   
7
     
2
 
     
30
     
142
 
Liability derivatives
               
Other current liabilities
   
(14
)
   
(637
)
Other liabilities
   
(2
)
   
(18
)
     
(16
)
   
(655
)
                 
Net fair value
 
$
14
   
$
(513
)

The changes in the fair value of the foreign exchange contracts are included in net gain (loss) on derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of operations.

The foreign currency denominated contract receivables, billings in excess of revenue earned and subcontractor accruals that are related to the outstanding foreign exchange contracts are remeasured at the end of each period into the functional currency using the current exchange rate at the end of the period.  The gain or loss resulting from such remeasurement is also included in net gain on derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of operations.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company recognized a net gain (loss) on its derivative instruments as outlined below:

   
Three Months ended
September 30,
   
Nine Months ended
September 30,
 
(in thousands)
 
2014
   
2013
   
2014
   
2013
 
                 
Foreign exchange contracts- change in fair value
 
$
58
   
$
(481
)
 
$
312
   
$
(480
)
Remeasurement of related contract receivables,
 billings in excess of revenue earned, and
 subcontractor accruals
   
11
     
403
     
(134
)
   
259
 
                                 
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net
 
$
69
   
$
(78
)
 
$
178
   
$
(221
)
14


9. Stock-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes compensation expense for all equity-based compensation awards issued to employees, directors and non-employees that are expected to vest.  Compensation cost is based on the fair value of awards as of the grant date.  The Company recognized $175,000 and $203,000 of stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, under the fair value method and recognized $514,000 and $641,000 of stock-based compensation expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The Company granted 0 and 60,000 stock options for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.  The fair value of the options granted for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $56,000.  The Company granted 0 and 64,500 stock options for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.  The fair value of the granted options at the grant date was $78,000.

10. Long-Term Debt

At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had no long-term debt outstanding.

Line of Credit

The Company has a Master Loan and Security Agreement and Revolving Credit Note with Susquehanna Bank ("Susquehanna").  The Company and its subsidiaries, GSE Power Systems, Inc., and GSE EnVision LLC, are jointly and severally liable as co-borrowers.  The Loan Agreement provides a $7.5 million revolving line of credit for the purpose of (i) issuing stand-by letters of credit and (ii) providing working capital. Working capital advances bear interest at a rate equal to the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate of Interest, floating with a floor of 4.5%.  In June 2014, Susquehanna extended the Revolving Credit Expiration Date to March 31, 2015.

As collateral for the Company's obligations, the Company granted a first lien and security interest in all of the assets of the Company, including but not limited to, accounts receivable, inventory, proceeds and products, intangibles, trademarks, intellectual property, and machinery and equipment.

On September 9, 2014, the Company signed a Third Comprehensive Amendment to the Master Loan and Security Agreement.  According to the Third Amendment, the Company was to maintain a segregated cash collateral account ("Cash Collateral Account") at Susquehanna Bank equal to the greater of (i) $3.0 million or (ii) the aggregate principal amounts of all Loans outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility (including any issued and outstanding letters of credit, working capital advances, and negative foreign exchange positions) as security for the Company's obligations.  Under this amendment, Susquehanna Bank shall have complete and unconditional control over the Cash Collateral Account.

On September 30, 2014, Susquehanna Bank collateralized the outstanding letters of credit issued under the master line of credit.  The Cash Collateral account totaled $3.1 million and was classified as restricted cash on the balance sheet.
15


The credit agreements contain certain restrictive covenants regarding future acquisitions and incurrence of debt.  In addition, the credit agreements contain financial covenants with respect to the Company's cash flow coverage ratio, minimum tangible capital base, quick ratio, and tangible capital base ratio.  At September 30, 2014, the Company had not paid any interest or principal payments related to any borrowings for over one year.  As such, the cash flow coverage ratio is not applicable at September 30, 2014.

   
  As of
 
Covenant
September 30, 2014
       
Minimum tangible capital base
Must Exceed $26.0 million
$22.6 million
Quick ratio
Must Exceed 2.00 : 1.00
2.10 : 1.00
Tangible capital base ratio
Not to Exceed .75 : 1.00
.69 : 1.00

As of September 30, 2014, the Company was not in compliance with its "After tax net income" financial covenant and its "Minimum tangible capital base" covenant, as defined above.  As noted above, the Company has cash collateralized all of its outstanding letters of credit as a result of the Third Amendment to its Master Loan Agreement.

As of September 30, 2014, the Company was contingently liable for twelve standby letters of credit and two surety bonds totaling $4.4 million which represent advance payment and performance bonds on twelve contracts.  The Company has deposited the full value of twelve standby letters of credit in escrow accounts, amounting to $4.2 million, which have been restricted in that the Company does not have access to these funds until the related letters of credit have expired.  The cash has been recorded on the Company's balance sheet at September 30, 2014 as restricted cash.
16


11. Product Warranty

As the Company recognizes revenue under the percentage-of-completion method, it provides an accrual for estimated future warranty costs based on historical experience and projected claims.  The activity in the warranty account is as follows:

(in thousands)
   
     
Balance at December 31, 2013
 
$
1,851
 
Warranty provision
   
574
 
Warranty claims
   
(905
)
Currency adjustment
   
(18
)
Balance at September 30, 2014
 
$
1,502
 

12. Contingent Consideration

ASC 805 requires that contingent consideration be recognized at fair value on the acquisition date and be remeasured each reporting period with subsequent adjustments recognized in the consolidated statement of operations.

As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, contingent consideration included in the other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet totaled $471,000 and $492,000, respectively.  As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company also had accrued contingent consideration totaling $0 and $409,000, respectively, which is included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet and represents the portion of contingent consideration estimated to be payable greater than twelve months from the balance sheet date.  During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company made payments of $0 and $500,000 related to the liability-classified contingent consideration arrangements.   During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company made payments of $702,000 and $1.9 million related to the liability-classified contingent consideration arrangements.

13. Income Taxes

The Company files in the United States federal jurisdiction and in several state and foreign jurisdictions. Because of the net operating loss carryforwards, the Company is subject to U.S. federal and state income tax examinations from years 1997 forward and is subject to foreign tax examinations by tax authorities for years 2007 and forward. Open tax years related to state and foreign jurisdictions remain subject to examination but are not considered material to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

An uncertain tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return is recognized in the financial statements when it is more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than 50%) that the position would be sustained upon examination by tax authorities that have full knowledge of all relevant information. A recognized tax position is then measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Interest and penalties related to income taxes are accounted for as income tax expense.  The Company has appropriately accounted for its uncertain tax positions.

The Company expects to pay income taxes in India in 2014.  In 2013, the Company paid income taxes in the UK and India.  The Company has a full valuation allowance on its U.S., Chinese and Swedish net deferred tax assets at September 30, 2014.
17


14. Preferred Stock Rights

On March 21, 2011, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a dividend, payable to holders of record as of the close of business on April 1, 2011, of  one preferred stock purchase right (a "Right") for each outstanding share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company (the "Common Stock").  In addition, the Company will issue one Right with each new share of Common Stock issued.  In connection therewith, on March 21, 2011, the Company entered into a Stockholder Protection Rights Agreement (as amended from time to time, the Rights Agreement) with Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, as Rights Agent, which has a term of three years, unless amended by the Board of Directors in accordance with the terms of the Rights Agreement.  On March 21, 2014, the Rights Agreement was amended to extend the term an additional two years.  The Rights Agreement will now expire on March 21, 2016.  The Rights trade with and are inseparable from the Common Stock and are not evidenced by separate certificates unless they become exercisable.  Each Right entitles its holder to purchase from the Company one-hundredth of a share of participating preferred stock having economic and voting terms similar to the Common Stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per Right, subject to adjustment in accordance with the terms of the Rights Agreement, once the Rights become exercisable.  Under the Rights Agreement, the Rights become exercisable if any person or group acquires 20% or more of the Common Stock or, in the case of any person or group that owned 20% or more of the Common Stock as of March 21, 2011, upon the acquisition of any additional shares by such person or group.  The Company, its subsidiaries, employee benefit plans of the Company or any of its subsidiaries and any entity holding Common Stock for or pursuant to the terms of any such plan are accepted.  Upon exercise of the Right in accordance with the Rights Agreement, the holder would be able to purchase a number of shares of Common Stock from the Company having an aggregate market price (as defined in the Rights Agreement) equal to twice the then-current exercise price for an amount in cash equal to the then-current exercise price.  In addition, the Company may, in certain circumstances and pursuant to the terms of the Rights Agreement, exchange the Rights for one share of Common Stock or an equivalent security for each Right or, alternatively, redeem the Rights for $0.001 per Right.  The Rights will not prevent a takeover of our Company, but may cause substantial dilution to a person that acquires 20% or more of the Company's Common Stock.

15. Share Repurchase Plan

On March 21, 2011, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to $3.0 million of the Company's common stock in accordance with the safe harbor provisions of Rule 10b-18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  The Company completed the share repurchase program in October 2013 and thus will not be repurchasing shares during 2014.  During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 the Company repurchased 177,755 and 395,254 shares, respectively, at an aggregate cost of $283,000 and $651,000, respectively.
18


16. Subsequent Events

On November 14, 2014, the Company, through its operating subsidiary, GSE Power Systems, Inc. ("GSE Power"), acquired Hyperspring, LLC ("Hyperspring") pursuant to a Membership Interests Purchase Agreement ("Purchase Agreement") with the sellers of Hyperspring ("Sellers").  Hyperspring, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, specializes in training and development, plant operations support services, and staff augmentation, primarily in the United States nuclear industry. Hyperspring will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of GSE Power.

GSE Power paid the Sellers an aggregate of $3.0 million in cash at the closing date.  The initial $3.0 million payment is subject to adjustments based on the subsequent determination of the actual working capital balance as of the closing date.  In addition, GSE Power may be required, pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, to pay the Sellers up to an additional $8.4 million if Hyperspring attains certain EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) targets for the three-year period ending November 13, 2017.

In conjunction with the Hyperspring acquisition, GSE Power invested $250,000 for a 50 % interest in IntelliQlik, LLC ("IntelliQlik") and is obligated to contribute an additional $250,000 upon the attainment by IntelliQlik of certain milestones.  IntelliQlik is jointly owned by GSE Power and one of the former shareholders of Hyperspring.  IntelliQlik will develop a software platform for online learning  and learning management for all energy sectors, including nuclear, thermal, oil & gas, and hydro-electric.  The IntelliQlik platform will also include applications to support plant engineering, operations and maintenance, as well as provide a platform for Software as a Service to deliver learning materials, industry recruitment services, and specialized simulator training programs.
19


Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

GSE Systems, Inc. ("GSE Systems", "GSE" or the "Company") is a world leader in real-time high fidelity simulation.  The Company provides simulation and educational solutions and services to the nuclear and fossil electric utility industry, and the chemical and petrochemical industries.

GSE is the parent company of:
·
GSE Power Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporation;
·
GSE Power Systems, AB, a Swedish corporation;
·
GSE Engineering Systems (Beijing) Co. Ltd., a Chinese limited liability company;
·
GSE Systems, Ltd., a Scottish limited liability company;
·
GSE EnVision, LLC, a New Jersey limited-liability company;
·
EnVision Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd., an Indian limited liability company; and
·
Hyperspring, LLC, an Alabama limited liability company.

The Company has a 50% interest in IntelliQlik, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a "safe harbor" for forward looking statements.  Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future events and results.  We use words such as "expects", "intends", "believes", "may", "will" and "anticipates" to indicate forward-looking statements. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, those factors set forth under Item 1A - Risk Factors of the Company's 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K and those other risks and uncertainties detailed in the Company's periodic reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We caution that these risk factors may not be exhaustive.  We operate in a continually changing business environment, and new risk factors emerge from time to time.  We cannot predict these new risk factors, nor can we assess the effect, if any, of the new risk factors on our business or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

If any one or more of these expectations and assumptions proves incorrect, actual results will likely differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements.  Even if all of the foregoing assumptions and expectations prove correct, actual results may still differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements as a result of factors we may not anticipate or that may be beyond our control.  While we cannot assess the future impact that any of these differences could have on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows or the market price of shares of our common stock, the differences could be significant.  We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statements made by us, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.  You are cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this report.
20

General Business Environment

On November 14, 2014, the Company, through its operating subsidiary, GSE Power Systems, Inc. ("GSE Power") completed the acquisition of Hyperspring, LLC and made an investment in IntelliQlik, LLC, in which GSE Power is now a 50% owner.  The addition of these two companies to the GSE family will help us to achieve our goal of "Changing the Way the Energy Industry Learns."

Hyperspring provides a diverse suite of solutions to the energy industry, including training, staffing, and operations support, including: Procedure Development, Work Management, Tagging/Labeling, Outage Execution, Planning/Scheduling, Corrective Action, Self-Assessments, and Equipment Reliability.  In addition to these services, Hyperspring also provides turnkey training programs for, Generic Fundamentals Exams (GFES), Maintenance, Accreditation Training Visit (ATV) preparation and Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) Certification.  Customers include TVA, Entergy, PSEG Nuclear LLC, and NRG Energy Inc.

IntelliQlik has been formed to create a delivery platform for on-line training and learning management for the energy industry.  Through Nuclear University, Power Systems University, Gas Turbine University, Oil and Gas University, and other platforms, IntelliQlik will train and certify qualified candidates for an energy industry with an ever increasing need for skilled professionals.

For years we have described ourselves as a Simulation, Training and Engineering company, providing mainly simulation and engineering solutions to improve designs, de-risk projects and train operators.  With the acquisition of Hyperspring and the formation of IntelliQlik, we are transforming into a Human and Plant Performance Improvement Lifecycle Company.  Together we will improve human performance through turnkey training solutions, with our unique visualization and simulation environment, with a next-generation learning delivery platform through IntelliQlik and though a staff of instructors, engineers and specialists to support our clients' internal projects.   When we further add our engineering and simulation capabilities, we not only address human performance, but performance of an entire plant from design through operations and optimization.

Why is there a need to focus on the performance improvement lifecycle for the energy industry?  The National Research Council of the National Academies was hired by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Energy Technology Laboratory to conduct a study of the emerging workforce trends in the U.S. energy and mining industries.  The study included an analysis of (1) the need for and availability of workers for the oil, natural gas, coal, geologic carbon sequestration, nuclear, geothermal, solar, wind and nonfuel minerals industries; (2) the availability of skilled labor at both entry level and more senior levels; and (3) recommendations for actions needed to meet future labor requirements.  The results of this study were released in their 2013 report entitled Emerging Workforce Trends in the U.S. Energy and Mining Industries: A Call to Action.

The study identified three significant trends:
·
About 1/3 of the U.S. energy industry workforce is comprised of "baby boomers" (those born between 1946 and 1964), and they are poised to retire in great numbers by the end of this decade,
·
There are too few younger workers in the pipeline to replace them, and many of the younger workers lack the necessary science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills needed for many energy jobs, and
·
There is a critical need to capture the knowledge of experienced employees before they leave.

Exacerbating this workforce trend is the continuing domestic and global population increases which will continue to increase the overall demand for energy.  As the U.S.' current educational system is not able to provide the needed trained workers in adequate numbers, the onus is on the energy industry itself to address its training needs at both entry levels and more senior levels.  A complete lifecycle of training, from a worker's entry into the energy industry through to the achievement of expert knowledge and capability, is now required for the energy industry more than ever.
21


As companies are always under pressure to improve productivity, reduce costs and improve operating margins, energy industry companies have been working to create leaner, more competent organizations that can rapidly respond to a changing environment.  Increasing pressures to improve profitability have resulted in flatter organizational structures within companies with less middle management to exercise control.  According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) article, A Systematic Approach to Human Performance Improvement in Nuclear Power Plants: Training Solutions, companies understand and value the potential contribution that every employee can make to their overall success.  As a result, companies have been emphasizing the quality of their human performance processes and the building of excellent educational processes for their employees.

To assist energy companies in creating world-class internal training and performance improvement programs, GSE is building the E2E (Entry to Expert) Performance Improvement Cycle solutions, a set of integrated, extensible products and services which provide a structured program from employee selection and onboarding through continuous skills improvement for experienced employees and includes:
·
Employee Recruiting, Screening, and Selection
·
Training Needs Assessments
·
Training Course Development
·
Self Paced Training Tutorials
·
Instructor-Led Training
·
Universal Training Simulators
·
Plant-Specific Operator Training Simulators
·
Plant-Specific Engineering Design Simulators

The goal of our E2E Performance Improvement Cycle offerings is to ensure superior human achievement in the dimensions of:
·
Reduced Turnover
·
Risk reduction by minimizing mistakes
·
Mitigation of the effects of retiring workforce
·
Workforce agility via commonality of learning tools/models
·
Certification/compliance
·
Bottom line improvement
22


GSE recognized this growing need for energy industry training several years ago and began developing various training solutions leveraging the use of our simulation technology.  For example,
·
GSE created a 163 module, five-simulator training course that we sold to the Emirates Simulation Academy (ESA) LLC, in the UAE, a training academy that was created by GSE and two other partners in 2007.  GSE continues to use and re-sell these training courses.
·
GSE worked with the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland to incorporate GSE's simulation into the University's degreed and industrial education programs. 
·
GSE acquired EnVision training products (GSE EnVision) to provide a full suite of training materials to the petroleum and process industry.  This training material includes computer-based tutorials and universal process simulators and is available in multiple languages.
·
GSE developed and taught multiple 20-week "Nuclear Operator Jump Start Training Programs" for Southern Nuclear Company in Augusta, GA, successfully training the operators and instructors for the first advanced nuclear plant in the United States.  GSE used our VPanel™ interactive visual training simulator, which was a key reason that this training was extremely successful. 
·
GSE developed multiple innovative and interactive 3D training devices for the electric generating and petroleum process industries.  GSE's ACTIV3Di training devices are being used worldwide by members of the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) for training and troubleshooting complex components.  These training devices incorporate knowledge from subject matter experts (SMEs) using computers and tablet displays that new learners value highly.
·
GSE developed a Generic Pressurized Water Reactor (GPWR) product that is being used worldwide for research and training in research centers and universities.  The GPWR includes a full-scope simulator, operating procedures, plant system descriptions, and training materials and can be used on GSE's VPanel™ or commonly available computer equipment.
·
GSE provided innovative training tools and simulators to EDF Energy's Cannington Court training center, helping to transform the 900 year old facility into a showcase training center.

Case studies demonstrate that the inclusion of "serious gaming" technology such as immersive 3D environments can reduce training time and improve learning significantly.  In fact, the Royal Canadian Army was able to reduce the cost of training and increase the pass rate of students by incorporating gaming into the curriculum.  Due to the advancement of computer processing power and graphics technology, immersive commercially viable off-the-shelf 3D game engines are readily available.  Additionally, this style of learning also lends itself to the next generation workforce, and as such, GSE is investing significantly in 3D visualization training products.  This investment comes in the form of strategic hires, investment in technology, and software product development.  Through development efforts already undertaken, GSE's engineers have discovered how to link our industry-leading, high fidelity models to commercially available off-the-shelf game engines.  This enables us to "make the invisible visible".  The use of GSE's 3D visualization technology allows users to now see the inside of various components of a power plant such as the inside of an operating reactor, steam generator, or turbine generator.  Blending the learning strategy of incorporating 3D visualization with high-fidelity, real time simulation models will allow GSE to provide the energy industry with better, faster, and less costly training ideally suited for the next generation workforce, which we have branded as ACTIV-3Di.

The dramatic increase in energy demand world-wide over the next 30 years will not only require significant amounts of training for new employees but also require new plants of all sources, too.  Obviously, these new plants will need to be engineered and designed prior to construction, and GSE's modeling tools are being used more and more to verify and validate control system design and overall plant designs.  Finding design errors during engineering rather than construction allows plant startup to occur sooner saving countless dollars and allowing revenue generation sooner.  GSE is developing new design solutions leveraging our high fidelity simulation models to improve and streamline the plant engineering process.

23

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth the results of operations for the periods presented expressed in thousands of dollars and as a percentage of revenue:

(in thousands)
 
Three Months ended September 30,
   
Nine Months ended September 30,
 
   
2014
   
%
   
2013
   
%
   
2014
   
%
   
2013
   
%
 
Contract revenue
 
$
7,823
     
100.0
%
 
$
11,883
     
100.0
%
 
$
24,823
     
100.0
%
 
$
35,300
     
100.0
%
Cost of revenue
   
5,368
     
68.6
%
   
8,811
     
74.1
%
   
17,497
     
70.5
%
   
26,332
     
74.6
%
Write-down of capitalized software development costs
   
-
     
0.0
%
   
-
     
0.0
%
   
-
     
0.0
%
   
2,174
     
6.2
%
                                                                 
Gross profit
   
2,455
     
31.4
%
   
3,072
     
25.9
%
   
7,326
     
29.5
%
   
6,794
     
19.2
%
Operating expenses:
                                                               
Selling, general and administrative
   
4,226
     
54.0
%
   
3,808
     
32.1
%
   
12,822
     
51.6
%
   
11,919
     
33.8
%
Goodwill impairment loss
   
-
     
0.0
%
   
-
     
0.0
%
   
-
     
0.0
%
   
4,462
     
12.6
%
Depreciation
   
140
     
1.8
%
   
135
     
1.1
%
   
413
     
1.7
%
   
434
     
1.2
%
Amortization of definite-lived intangible assets
   
36
     
0.5
%
   
51
     
0.5
%
   
108
     
0.4
%
   
155
     
0.4
%
Total operating expenses
   
4,402
     
56.3
%
   
3,994
     
33.7
%
   
13,343
     
53.7
%
   
16,970
     
48.0
%
                                                                 
Operating loss
   
(1,947
)
   
(24.9
)%
   
(922
)
   
(7.8
)%
   
(6,017
)
   
(24.2
)%
   
(10,176
)
   
(28.8
)%
                                                                 
Interest income, net
   
44
     
0.6
%
   
22
     
0.2
%
   
103
     
0.4
%
   
85
     
0.2
%
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net
   
69
     
0.9
%
   
(78
)
   
(0.7
)%
   
178
     
0.7
%
   
(221
)
   
(0.6
)%
Other expense, net
   
-
     
0.0
%
   
(49
)
   
(0.4
)%
   
(7
)
   
0.0
%
   
(60
)
   
(0.2
)%
                                                                 
Loss before income taxes
   
(1,834
)
   
(23.4
)%
   
(1,027
)
   
(8.7
)%
   
(5,743
)
   
(23.1
)%
   
(10,372
)
   
(29.4
)%
                                                                 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
   
61
     
0.8
%
   
(32
)
   
(0.3
)%
   
162
     
0.7
%
   
(23
)
   
(0.1
)%
                                                                 
Net loss
 
$
(1,895
)
   
(24.2
)%
 
$
(995
)
   
(8.4
)%
 
$
(5,905
)
   
(23.8
)%
 
$
(10,349
)
   
(29.3
)%
24



Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Our estimates, judgments and assumptions are continually evaluated based on available information and experience.  Because of the use of estimates inherent in the financial reporting process, actual results could differ from those estimates.

A summary of the Company's significant accounting policies as of December 31, 2013 is included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013.  Certain of our accounting policies require higher degrees of judgment than others in their application.  These include revenue recognition on long-term contracts, capitalization of computer software development costs, contingent consideration issued in business acquisitions, and the recoverability of deferred tax assets.  These critical accounting policies and estimates are discussed in the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations section in the 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013.

25


Results of Operations - Three and Nine Months ended September 30, 2014 versus Three and Nine Months ended September 30, 2013

Contract Revenue.  Total contract revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2014 totaled $7.8 million, which was 34.2% less than the $11.9 million total revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2013.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, contract revenue totaled $24.8 million, a $10.5 million decrease from the $35.3 million revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.  For the three months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded orders of $17.6 million bringing the nine month year-to-date order total to $33.5 million.  For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company recorded orders of $11.1 million and $20.6 million, respectively.  The decrease in revenue from 2013 to 2014 reflects the completion of the $36.6 million full scope simulator and digital control system order from Slovenské elektrárne, a.s. ("SE") in April 2014. The Company did not have any revenue from the SE project for the three months ended September 30, 2014 but had $3.7 million (31.1% of revenue) for the three months ended September 30, 2013.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, revenue from the SE project was $770,000 (3.1% of revenue) and $9.1 million (25.6% of revenue), respectively.  During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company's fossil fuel simulation revenue has decreased $0.6 million and $2.8 million, respectively, as compared to the same period in the prior year.  The decrease in the fossil fuel simulation revenue is attributable to both the completion of several large fossil fuel simulation projects in 2013 and the delay of capital expenditures by fossil fueled power generation companies due to the economic and regulatory uncertainty regarding coal-fired power plants.  At September 30, 2014, the Company's backlog was $45.7 million.  At December 31, 2013, the Company's backlog totaled $38.0 million.

Write-down of capitalized software development costs.  The Company makes ongoing evaluations of the recoverability of its capitalized software projects by comparing the unamortized amount for each product to the estimated net realizable value of the product. If such evaluations indicate that the unamortized software development costs exceed the net realizable value, we write off the amount by which the unamortized software development costs exceed net realizable value. During the quarter ended June 30, 2013, we incurred a charge of $2.2 million related to the write-off of certain capitalized software development costs.  No capitalized software development costs were written-off during 2014.

Gross Profit.  Excluding the $2.2 million write-down of capitalized software development costs in the second quarter of 2013, gross profit totaled $2.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $3.1 million for the same period in 2013.  As a percentage of revenue, gross profit increased from 25.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2013 to 31.4% for the three months ended September 30, 2014.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, gross profit was $7.3 million which was an 18.3% decrease from the $9.0 million recognized during the same period in 2013.  As a percentage of revenue, gross profit increased from 25.4% to 29.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2014, respectively.  The decrease in revenue on the Slovakia contract, which has an overall gross profit lower than the Company's normal gross profits, has contributed to the increase in gross profit percentage for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014.
26


Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses totaled $4.2 million in the three months ended September 30, 2014, an 11.0% increase from the $3.8 million for the same period in 2013.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, SG&A expenses totaled $12.8 million and $11.9 million, respectively.  The increases reflect the following spending variances:

·
Business development and marketing costs remained even at $1.1 million for both the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and decreased to $3.3 million from $3.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Bidding and proposal costs, which are the costs of operations personnel assisting with the preparation of contract proposals, decreased slightly year over year.  Bidding and proposal costs were $420,000 and $448,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $1.2 million and $1.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
·
The Company's general and administrative expenses ("G&A") increased to $1.9 million from $1.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and increased to $6.1 million from $5.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Some components of G&A are as follows:
o
The Company incurred foreign currency exchange losses of $83,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to gains of $179,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2013.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company incurred foreign currency exchange losses of $197,000 and gains of $41,000, respectively.
o
Costs related to maintaining the Company's global Enterprise Resource Planning system totaled $59,000 and $204,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 as compared to $63,000 and $352,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.
o
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company incurred severance costs of $272,000 and $746,000, respectively, associated with terminations in both the U.S. and Swedish offices.  In addition, we recorded a $137,000 charge in the second quarter of 2014 related to the renegotiation of our Swedish office lease to downsize the office.  The Company incurred $39,000 and $160,000 in severance costs during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013.
o
The Company has reduced administrative costs by $215,000 and $706,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year predominantly as a result of spending reductions in numerous areas including corporate salaries, audit and tax services, and corporate travel.
27


·
Gross spending on software product development ("development") expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 totaled $1.0 million and $2.8 million, respectively, as compared to $745,000 and $2.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively. The Company capitalized $241,000 (23.3% of development expenses) and $590,000 (20.8% of development expenses) of product development expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, and $167,000 (22.4% of development expenses) and $1.2 million (52.1% of development expenses) for the same periods in 2013, respectively.  Net development spending increased from $578,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2013 to $795,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and from $1.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 to $2.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.
o
The Company's 3D visualization team, which develops 3D technology to add to our training programs, incurred $43,000 and $178,000 of costs related to this effort during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively, as compared to $0 and $69,000 for the same periods in 2013, respectively.
o
Development expense related to the EnVision product line totaled $233,000 and $68,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, EnVision incurred $455,000 and $308,000 of development expense, respectively.  In 2014, the Company began development of new natural gas liquefaction and liquefied natural gas process simulation training tools and tutorials.
o
Spending on other software product development totaled $760,000 and $2.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.  Spending on other software product development totaled $677,000 and $1.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.  The Company's development expenses were mainly related to a new configuration management system and maintenance of JADEapplications.

Goodwill Impairment Loss.  The Company incurred a goodwill impairment loss of $4.5 million during the second quarter of 2013.  Refer to the Liquidity and Capital Resources section below for further discussion regarding the factors leading to the impairment loss and the valuation methodologies and assumptions used in the goodwill impairment test.

Depreciation.  Depreciation expense totaled $140,000 and $135,000 during the quarters ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, depreciation expense totaled $413,000 and $434,000, respectively.

Amortization of Definite-lived Intangible Assets. Amortization expense related to definite-lived intangible assets totaled $36,000 and $51,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, amortization expense related to definite-lived intangible assets totaled $108,000 and $155,000, respectively.

Operating Loss.  The Company had an operating loss of $1.9 million (24.9% of revenue) during the three months ended September 30, 2014, as compared with an operating loss of $922,000 (7.8% of revenue) for the same period in 2013.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company had an operating loss of $6.0 million (24.2 % of revenue) and an operating loss of $10.2 million (28.8% of revenue), respectively.  Excluding the impact of the second quarter 2013 $2.2 million capitalized software write down and the $4.5 million goodwill impairment, the Company generated an operating loss of $3.5 million (10.0% of revenue) during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The variances were due to the factors outlined above.

Interest Income, Net.  Net interest income totaled $44,000 and $22,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, net interest income totaled $103,000 and $85,000, respectively.
28


Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net.  The Company periodically enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to manage market risks associated with the fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates on foreign-denominated trade receivables.  As of September 30, 2014, the Company had foreign exchange contracts outstanding of approximately 106,000 Pounds Sterling, 33,000 Canadian Dollars and 1.5 million Euro at fixed rates.  The contracts expire on various dates through June 2016.  The Company has not designated the contracts as hedges and has recognized gains on the change in the estimated fair value of the contracts of $58,000 and $312,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.

As of September 30, 2013, the Company had foreign exchange contracts outstanding of approximately 0.4 million Pounds Sterling, 17.7 million Euro, and 11.8 million Japanese Yen at fixed rates.  The contracts expire on various dates through May 2016.  The Company had not designated the contracts as hedges and had recognized losses on the change in the estimated fair value of the contracts of $481,000 and  $480,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.

The foreign currency denominated contract receivables, billings in excess of revenue earned, and subcontractor accruals that are related to the outstanding foreign exchange contracts were remeasured into the functional currency using the current exchange rate at the end of the period.  For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recognized a gain of $11,000 and a loss of $134,000, respectively, from the remeasurement of such contract receivables, billings in excess of revenue earned and subcontractor accruals.  For the same periods in 2013, the Company recognized gains of $403,000 and $259,000, respectively.

Other Expense, Net.  For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recognized other expense, net of $0 and $7,000, respectively.  For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company recognized other expense, net of $49,000 and $60,000, respectively. The major components of other expense, net included the following items:

·
On May 22, 2013, the Company and Electrobalt Holding, a Russian Federation closed joint-stock company, created a 50/50 joint venture called General Simulation Engineering RUS Limited Liability Company ("GSE RUS"). For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recognized a loss of $38,000 relating to its pro rata share of operating results from GSE-RUS.  No equity gains or losses on the GSE RUS investment were recorded in 2013.
·
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company recognized losses of $52,000 and $148,000, respectively, relating to its pro rata share of operating results from GSE-UNIS Simulation Technology Co., Ltd.  The Company and its joint venture partner, Beijing Unis Investment Co., Ltd., (UNIS) agreed in principal to terminate the GSE-UNIS joint venture as of July 31, 2013.  As a result of UNIS agreeing in principal to purchase GSE's 49% ownership interest in the joint venture, the Company reclassified its $1.2 million investment to Other Current Assets.
·
As a 10% owner of the Emirates Simulation Academy ("ESA") in the UAE, the Company was required to provide a guarantee of 10% of ESA's credit facility.  The Company provided the guarantee by depositing cash into an interest bearing, restricted account with the Union National Bank ("UNB").  In 2009, the Company wrote off the entire balance in this account.  In the second quarter of 2013, the Company was notified by UNB that the ESA line of credit had been paid off by utilizing the guarantees from the three owners.  The balance remaining in our account after the settlement of the guarantee, $82,000, was transferred to us and the UNB account was closed.
·
The Company had other miscellaneous income of $31,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company had other miscellaneous income of $3,000 and $6,000, respectively.
29


Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes

The Company files in the United States federal jurisdiction and in several state and foreign jurisdictions. Because of the net operating loss carryforwards, the Company is subject to U.S. federal and state income tax examinations from years 1997 and forward and is subject to foreign tax examinations by tax authorities for years 2007 and forward.  Open tax years related to state and foreign jurisdictions remain subject to examination but are not considered material to our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

An uncertain tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return is recognized in the financial statements when it is more likely than not (i.e., a likelihood of more than fifty percent) that the position would be sustained upon examination by tax authorities that have full knowledge of all relevant information. A recognized tax position is then measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Interest and penalties related to income taxes are accounted for as income tax expense.  The Company has appropriately accounted for its uncertain tax positions.

The Company expects to pay income taxes in India in 2014.  In 2013, the Company paid income taxes to the UK and India.  The Company has a full valuation allowance on its U.S., Chinese and Swedish net deferred tax assets at September 30, 2014.
30



Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of September 30, 2014, the Company's cash and cash equivalents totaled $16.0 million compared to $15.6 million at December 31, 2013.

Cash provided by (used in) operating activities.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, net cash provided by operations totaled $5.2 million.  Significant changes in the Company's assets and liabilities in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 included:
·
An $11.9 million decrease in the Company's contract receivables, excluding any gains or losses on derivatives.  The Company's trade receivables, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, decreased from $19.0 million at December 31, 2013 to $6.2 million at September 30, 2014.  At September 30, 2014, trade receivables outstanding for more than 90 days, net of the bad debt reserve, totaled approximately $549,000 as compared to $623,000 at December 31, 2013.  The Company believes the entire 90-day balance at September 30, 2014 will be received.  The Company's unbilled receivables increased by approximately $760,000 to $6.3 million at September 30, 2014 as compared to December 31, 2013.  The increase in the unbilled receivables is due to the timing of contracted billing milestones of the Company's current projects.  In October 2014, the Company invoiced $1.4 million of the unbilled amounts; the balance is expected to be invoiced and collected within one year.
·
A $2.3 million decrease in accounts payable, accrued compensation and accrued expenses.  The decrease was due to the timing of payments made by the Company to vendors and subcontractors.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, net cash used in operations totaled $671,000.  Significant changes in the Company's assets and liabilities in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 included:
·
A $3.1 million decrease in the Company's contract receivables.  The Company's trade receivables, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, decreased from $12.4 million at December 31, 2012 to $6.2 million at September 30, 2013.  At September 30, 2013, trade receivables outstanding for more than 90 days, net of the bad debt reserve, totaled approximately $1.2 million versus $2.5 million at December 31, 2012.  The Company's unbilled receivables increased by approximately $3.4 million to $14.8 million at September 30, 2013.  The increase in the unbilled receivables was due to the timing of contracted billing milestones of the Company's current projects.  
·
A 1.4 million decrease in accounts payable, accrued compensation, and accrued expenses.  The decrease was due to the timing of payments made by the Company to vendors and subcontractors.

Cash used in investing activities.  Net cash used in investing activities totaled $4.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.  Capital expenditures totaled $240,000 and capitalized software development costs totaled $590,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.  On September 30, 2014, Susquehanna Bank collateralized the Company's outstanding letters of credit and segregated $3.1 million into a restricted cash account.  Releases of restricted cash as collateral under letters of credit totaled $34,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Net cash used in investing activities totaled $1.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.  Capital expenditures totaled $287,000 and capitalized software development costs totaled $1.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.

Cash used in financing activities.  Cash used in financing activities totaled $500,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company made payments of $500,000 in relation to the liability classified contingent-consideration associated with the acquisition of EnVision Systems, Inc.

Net cash used in financing activities totaled $2.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the Company made payments of $1.9 million in relation to the liability classified contingent-consideration associated with the acquisition of EnVision.  The Company repurchased 217,499 shares of the Company's common stock at an aggregate cost of $651,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2013.  Proceeds from the issuance of common stock for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 totaled $44,000.

At September 30, 2014, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $16.0 million.  The Company believes that its (i) cash and cash equivalents and (ii) cash generated from normal operations will be sufficient to fund its working capital and other requirements for at least the next twelve months.
31

Credit Facilities

The Company has a Master Loan and Security Agreement and Revolving Credit Note with Susquehanna.  The Company and its subsidiaries, GSE Power Systems, Inc., and GSE EnVision LLC, are jointly and severally liable as co-borrowers.  The Loan Agreement provides a $7.5 million revolving line of credit for the purpose of (i) issuing stand-by letters of credit and (ii) providing working capital. Working capital advances bear interest at a rate equal to the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate of Interest, floating with a floor of 4.5%.  In June 2014, Susquehanna extended the Revolving Credit Expiration Date to March 31, 2015.

As collateral for the Company's obligations, the Company granted a first lien and security interest in all of the assets of the Company, including but not limited to, accounts receivable, inventory, intangibles, trademarks, intellectual property, machinery and equipment, and the proceeds and products from these assets.

On September 9, 2014, the Company signed a Third Comprehensive Amendment to the Master Loan and Security Agreement.  According to the Third Amendment, the Company was to maintain a segregated cash collateral account ("Cash Collateral Account") at Susquehanna Bank equal to the greater of (i) 3.0 million or (ii) the aggregate principal amounts of all Loans outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility (including any issued and outstanding letters of credit, working capital advances, and negative foreign exchange positions) as security for the Company's obligations.  Under this amendment, Susquehanna Bank shall have complete and unconditional control over the Cash Collateral Account.

On September 30, 2014, Susquehanna Bank collateralized the outstanding letters of credit issued under the master line of credit.  The Cash Collateral account totaled $3.1 million and was classified as restricted cash on the balance sheet.

   
  As of
 
Covenant
September 30, 2014
       
Minimum tangible capital base
Must Exceed $26.0 million
$22.6 million
Quick ratio
Must Exceed 2.00 : 1.00
2.10 : 1.00
Tangible capital base ratio
Not to Exceed .75 : 1.00
.69 : 1.00

As of September 30, 2014, the Company was not in compliance with its "After tax net income" financial covenant and its "Minimum tangible capital base" covenant, as defined above.  As noted above, the Company has cash collateralized all of its outstanding letters of credit as a result of the Third Amendment to its Master Loan Agreement.

As of September 30, 2014, the Company was contingently liable for 12 standby letters of credit and 2 surety bonds totaling $4.4 million which represent advance payment and performance bonds on 12 contracts.  The Company has deposited the full value of 12 standby letters of credit in escrow accounts, amounting to $4.2 million, which have been restricted in that the Company does not have access to these funds until the related letters of credit have expired.  The cash has been recorded on the Company's balance sheet at September 30, 2014 as restricted cash.
32


Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

The Company's market risk is principally confined to changes in foreign currency exchange rates.  The Company's exposure to foreign exchange rate fluctuations arises in part from customer contracts that are denominated in currencies other than the Company's functional currency as well as from inter-company accounts in which costs incurred in one entity are charged to other entities in different foreign jurisdictions.  The Company is also exposed to foreign exchange rate fluctuations as the financial results of all foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars in consolidation.  As exchange rates vary, those results when translated may vary from expectations and adversely impact overall expected profitability.
The Company utilizes forward foreign currency exchange contracts to manage market risks associated with the fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.  The principal currencies for which such forward exchange contracts are entered into are the Pound Sterling, the Euro and the Japanese Yen.  It is the Company's policy to use such derivative financial instruments to protect against market risk arising in the normal course of business in order to reduce the impact of these exposures.  The Company minimizes credit exposure by limiting counterparties to nationally recognized financial institutions.
As of September 30, 2014, the Company had foreign exchange contracts outstanding of approximately 106,000 Pounds Sterling, 34,000 Canadian Dollars, and 1.5 million Euro at fixed rates.  The contracts expire on various dates through June 2016.  The Company had not designated the contracts as hedges and has recognized gains on the change in the estimated fair value of the contracts of $58,000 and $312,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, respectively.  A 10% fluctuation in the foreign currency exchange rates up or down as of September 30, 2014 would have increased/decreased the change in the estimated fair value of the contracts by $1,400.

As of September 30, 2013, the Company had foreign exchange contracts outstanding of approximately 0.4 million Pounds Sterling, 17.7 million Euro, and 11.8 million Japanese Yen at fixed rates.  The contracts expire on various dates through May 2016.  The Company had not designated the contracts as hedges and had recognized losses on the change in the estimated fair value of the contracts of $481,000 and $480,000 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively.  A 10% fluctuation in the foreign currency exchange rates up or down as of September 30, 2013 would have increased/decreased the change in the estimated fair value of the contracts by $51,200.

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Item 4.                          Controls and Procedures

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by it in its reports filed or submitted pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms and that information required to be disclosed by the Company in its Exchange Act reports is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company's Chief Executive Officer ("CEO"), who is its principal executive officer, and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), who is its principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.  At the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management including our CEO and our CFO, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13-15(e) of the Exchange Act.  Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2014, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

(b)  Changes in internal control

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S GAAP. The effectiveness of any system of internal control over financial reporting is subject to inherent limitations, including the exercise of judgment in designing, implementing, operating and evaluating the controls and procedures. Because of these inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting cannot provide absolute assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that internal controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

A "material weakness" as defined by Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ("PCAOB") Auditing Standard No. 5, "An Audit of Internal Control over Financial Reporting That is Integrated with an Audit of Financial Statements" ("Auditing Standard No. 5") is "a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis." A "deficiency" in internal control over financial reporting as defined by Auditing Standard No. 5 "exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis."  Set forth below were the Company's material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting.

As of December 31, 2013 it was determined that the Company's control over expense cut-off was not designed appropriately to prevent or detect errors that could be material to the Company's financial statements.  The Company had one employee who was responsible for both review of the vendor invoices for appropriate accounting treatment as well as recording the invoices in the appropriate period.  This was considered to be a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013.  As a result of this material weakness in the design of our internal control over financial reporting, we performed additional review and analysis over our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013.  During the first quarter of 2014, we redesigned our control over expense cut-off to include an additional employee who now reviews the invoices for appropriate accounting treatment before the invoices are recorded. As a result of these procedures, we believe that we have remediated the material weakness described above.

(c)  Limitation of Effectiveness of Controls

Internal control over financial reporting has inherent limitations.  Internal control over financial reporting is a process that involves human diligence and compliance and is subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures.  Internal control over financial reporting also can be circumvented by collusion or improper management override.  Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal control over financial reporting.  However, these inherent limitations are known features of the financial reporting process.  Therefore, it is possible to design into the process safeguards to reduce, though not eliminate this risk.
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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.  Legal Proceedings

None.

Item 1A.  Risk Factors

The Company has no material changes to the disclosure on this matter made in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013.

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

None

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.
35


Item 5. Other Information

None

Item 6. Exhibits

 
10.1
Second Comprehensive Amendment to Master Loan Agreement, filed herewith.
     
 
10.2
Third Comprehensive Amendment to Master Loan Agreement, filed herewith.
     
 
31.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes- Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith.
     
 
31.2
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith.
     
 
32.1
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, filed herewith.
     
 
101.INS*
XBRL Instance Document
     
 
101.SCH*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
     
 
101.CAL*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
     
 
101.DEF*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
     
 
101.LAB*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
     
 
101.PRE*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
36

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.

Date:  November 14, 2014                                                              GSE SYSTEMS, INC.

/S/ JAMES A. EBERLE
James A. Eberle
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)



/S/ JEFFERY G. HOUGH
Jeffery G. Hough
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)


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