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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

[X]

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2016

or

[   ]

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 0-29466

 

        National Research Corporation         

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 Wisconsin

47-0634000

 (State or other jurisdiction of 

(I.R.S. Employer

 incorporation or organization) 

Identification No.)

 

1245 Q Street, Lincoln, Nebraska        68508

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

                            (402) 475-2525                            

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes  ☒  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 shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes  ☒  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 ☐     Accelerated filer ☒     Non-accelerated filer ☐   Smaller reporting company ☐

 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.)

Yes ☐    No  ☒ 

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date.

 

Class A Common Stock, $.001 par value, outstanding as April 30, 2016: 20,894,893 shares

Class B Common Stock, $.001 par value, outstanding as of April 30, 2016: 3,536,496 shares

 

 
-1-

 

 

NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION

 

FORM 10-Q INDEX

 

For the Quarter Ended March 31, 2016

 

    Page No.
     

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

4
       
 

Item 1.

Financial Statements

4
       
   

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

4

   

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income

5

   

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

6

   

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

7

   

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

8-15

       
 

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 16-20

       
 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 20

       
  Item 4. Controls and Procedures 20
       

PART II.

OTHER INFORMATION

21
       
 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

21

       
 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 21

       
 

Item 6.

Exhibits

21

       
 

Signatures

 22

     
 

Exhibit Index

23

 

 
-2-

 

 

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

 

Certain matters discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement includes phrases such as National Research Corporation (“NRC,” the “Company,” “we,” “our,” “us,” or similar terms) “believes,” “expects,” or other words of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe the Company’s future plans, objectives or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those currently anticipated. Factors that could affect actual results or outcomes include, without limitation, the following factors:

 

 

The possibility of non-renewal of the Company’s client service contracts and retention of key clients;

 

 

The Company’s ability to compete in its markets, which are highly competitive, and the possibility of increased price pressure and expenses;

 

 

The effects of an economic downturn;

 

 

The impact of consolidation in the healthcare industry;

 

 

The impact of federal healthcare reform legislation or other regulatory changes;

 

 

The Company’s ability to attract and retain key managers and other personnel;

 

 

The possibility that the Company’s intellectual property and other proprietary information technology could be copied or independently developed by its competitors;

 

 

The possibility that the Company could be subject to security breaches or computer viruses; and

 

 

The factors set forth under the caption “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, as such section may be updated by Part II, Item 1A of the Company’s subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q (including this Report).

 

Shareholders, potential investors and other readers are urged to consider these and other factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements, and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included are only made as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

 

 
-3-

 

 

PART I – Financial Information

ITEM 1. Financial Statements

NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share amounts and par value, unaudited)

 

 

March 31,

2016

   

December 31,

2015

 
Assets                

Current assets:

               

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 25,366     $ 42,145  

Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $167 and $173 in 2016 and 2015, respectively

    14,101       9,808  

Unbilled revenue

    1,418       1,435  

Prepaid expenses

    1,965       1,482  

Income tax receivable

    1,919       157  

Other current assets

    45       34  

Total current assets

    44,814       55,061  
                 

Property and equipment, net

    11,631       11,125  

Intangible assets, net

    3,592       3,778  

Goodwill

    57,944       57,792  

Other

    389       293  

Total assets

  $ 118,370     $ 128,049  

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

               

Current liabilities:

               

Current portion of notes payable

  $ 2,422     $ 2,402  

Accounts payable

    1,572       614  

Accrued wages, bonus and profit sharing

    4,496       4,391  

Accrued expenses

    2,716       2,706  

Current portion of capital lease obligations

    66       74  

Income taxes payable

    -       701  

Dividends payable

    3,369       18,440  

Deferred revenue

    17,877       14,843  

Total current liabilities

    32,518       44,171  
                 

Notes payable, net of current portion

    2,724       3,337  

Deferred income taxes

    6,520       5,744  

Other long term liabilities

    438       575  

Total liabilities

    42,200       53,827  
                 

Shareholders’ equity:

               

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 2,000,000 shares, none issued

    --       --  

Class A Common stock, $0.001 par value; authorized 60,000,000 shares, issued 25,646,624 in 2016 and 25,592,812 in 2015, outstanding 20,894,893 in 2016 and 20,848,168 in 2015

    26       26  

Class B Common stock, $0.001 par value; authorized 80,000,000 shares, issued 4,298,886 in 2016 and 4,271,413 in 2015, outstanding 3,536,496 in 2016 and 3,510,150 in 2015

    4       4  

Additional paid-in capital

    43,519       44,103  

Retained earnings

    67,118       65,313  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (2,121 )     (2,995 )

Treasury stock, at cost; 4,751,731 Class A shares, 762,390 Class B shares in 2016 and 4,744,644 Class A shares, 761,263 Class B shares in 2015

    (32,376 )     (32,229 )

Total shareholders’ equity

    76,170       74,222  

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

  $ 118,370     $ 128,049  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

 

 
-4-

 

 

NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except for per share amounts, unaudited)

 

   

Three months ended March 31,

 
   

2016

   

2015

 
                 

Revenue

  $ 27,870     $ 26,270  
                 

Operating expenses:

               

Direct

    11,539       11,799  

Selling, general and administrative

    7,357       7,627  

Depreciation and amortization

    968       1,015  

Total operating expenses

    19,864       20,441  
                 

Operating income

    8,006       5,829  
                 

Other income (expense):

               

Interest income

    11       17  

Interest expense

    (85 )     (63 )

Other, net

    74       (1 )
                 

Total other expense

    --       (47 )
                 

Income before income taxes

    8,006       5,782  
                 

Provision for income taxes

    2,833       2,302  
                 
                 

Net income

  $ 5,173     $ 3,480  
                 

Earnings Per Share of Common Stock:

               

Basic Earnings Per Share:

               

Class A

  $ 0.12     $ 0.08  

Class B

  $ 0.74     $ 0.50  

Diluted Earnings Per Share:

               

Class A

  $ 0.12     $ 0.08  

Class B

  $ 0.73     $ 0.49  
                 

Dividends Per Share of Common Stock:

               

Class A

  $ 0.08     $ 0.06  

Class B

  $ 0.48     $ 0.36  
                 

Weighted average shares and share equivalents outstanding:

               

Class A - basic

    20,710       20,792  

Class B - basic

    3,489       3,478  

Class A - diluted

    20,948       21,033  

Class B - diluted

    3,531       3,524  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

 

 
-5-

 

 

NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In thousands, unaudited)

 

   

Three months ended

 March 31, 

 
   

2016

   

2015

 
                 

Net income

  $ 5,173     $ 3,480  

Other comprehensive income (loss):

               

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  $ 874     $ (1,054 )

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  $ 874     $ (1,054 )
                 

Comprehensive Income

  $ 6,047     $ 2,426  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 
-6-

 

 

NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands, unaudited)

 

   

Three months ended

 
   

March 31,

 
   

2016

   

2015

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

               

Net income

  $ 5,173     $ 3,480  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

               

Depreciation and amortization

    968       1,015  

Deferred income taxes

    737       (63 )

Non-cash share-based compensation expense

    536       184  

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options

    38       14  

Non-cash change in uncertain tax positions

    (119 )     13  

Write off of purchase option

    --       657  

Net changes in assets and liabilities:

               

Trade accounts receivable

    (4,167 )     (3,838 )

Unbilled revenue

    33       (177 )

Prepaid expenses

    (254 )     (374 )

Accounts payable

    469       (141 )

Accrued expenses, wages, bonuses and profit sharing

    58       67  

Income taxes receivable and payable

    (2,451 )     378  

Deferred revenue

    3,013       363  

Net cash provided by operating activities

    4,034       1,578  
                 

Cash flows from investing activities:

               

Purchases of property and equipment

    (1,084 )     (757 )

Net cash used in investing activities

    (1,084 )     (757 )
                 

Cash flows from financing activities:

               

Payments on notes payable

    (594 )     (576 )

Payments on capital lease obligations

    (25 )     (50 )

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

    547       --  

Common stock withheld for payroll tax on share based compensation

    (147     (92 )

Cash paid for non-controlling interest

    (2,000 )     -  

Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation

    333       94  

Payment of dividends on common stock

    (18,440 )     (2,511 )

Net cash used in financing activities

    (20,326 )     (3,135 )
                 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

    597       (718 )

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents

    (16,779 )     (3,032 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    42,145       40,042  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ 25,366     $ 37,010  
                 

Supplemental disclosure of cash paid for:

               

Interest, net of capitalized amounts

  $ 83     $ 59  

Income taxes

  $ 4,361     $ 1,893  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 
-7-

 

 

NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

1.

BASIS OF CONSOLIDATION AND PRESENTATION

 

The Company is a leading provider of analytics and insights that facilitate measurement and improvement of the patient and employee experience while also increasing patient engagement and loyalty for healthcare providers, payers and other healthcare organizations in the United States and Canada.

 

The Company’s six operating segments are aggregated into one reporting segment because they have similar economic characteristics and meet the other aggregation criteria from the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) guidance on segment disclosure.  The six operating segments are Experience, The Governance Institute, Market Insights, Reputation, National Research Corporation Canada and Customer-Connect LLC (“Connect”), each of which offer a portfolio of solutions to address specific market needs around growth, retention, engagement and thought leadership for healthcare organizations. 

 

The condensed consolidated balance sheet of the Company at December 31, 2015, was derived from the Company’s audited consolidated balance sheet as of that date. All other financial statements contained herein are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) the Company considers necessary for a fair presentation of financial position, results of operations and cash flows in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

 

Information and footnote disclosures included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been condensed or omitted. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto that are included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 4, 2016.

 

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

 

The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries, National Research Corporation Canada and Connect. Prior to becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary in March 2016, the accounts of Connect, then a variable interest entity for which NRC was deemed the primary beneficiary, were included in the condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.

 

The functional currency of the Company’s foreign subsidiary, National Research Corporation Canada, is the subsidiary’s local currency. The Company translates the assets and liabilities of its foreign subsidiary at the period-end rate of exchange and its foreign subsidiary’s income statement balances at the average rate prevailing during the period. The Company records the resulting translation adjustment in accumulated other comprehensive loss, a component of shareholders’ equity. Since the undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiary are considered to be indefinitely reinvested, no taxes were provided for on currency translation adjustments arising from converting the investment denominated in a foreign currency to U.S. dollars. Gains and losses related to transactions denominated in a currency other than the subsidiary’s local currency and short-term intercompany accounts are included in other income (expense) in the condensed consolidated statements of income.

 

 
-8-

 

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

The Company’s valuation techniques are based on maximizing observable inputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. Observable inputs reflect readily obtainable data from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect the Company’s market assumptions. The inputs are then classified into the following hierarchy: (1) Level 1 Inputs—quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities; (2) Level 2 Inputs—observable market-based inputs other than Level 1 inputs, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for similar or identical assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data; and (3) Level 3 Inputs—unobservable inputs.

 

Commercial paper included in cash equivalents is valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value due to its short-term nature. These are included as a Level 2 measurement in the table below.

 

The following details the Company’s financial assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy at
March 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015:

 

Fair Values Measured on a Recurring Basis

 

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

Total

 
   

(In thousands)

 

As of March 31, 2016

                               
Money Market Funds   $ 9,353      $ --     $ --     $

9,353

 
Commercial Paper     --       14,412       --       14,412  
Total    $ 9,353      $ 14,412      $ --     $ 23,765  
                                 
As of December 31, 2015                                
Money Market Funds   $ 8,954     $ --     $ --     $ 8,954  
Commercial Paper     --       30,872       --       30,872  

Total

  $ 8,954     $ 30,872     $ --     $ 39,826  

 

The Company’s long-term debt is recorded at historical cost. The following are the carrying amounts and estimated fair values, using a Level 2 discounted cash flow analysis based primarily on estimated current rates available for debt of the same remaining duration and adjusted for nonperformance and credit risk:

 

    March 31, 2016     December 31, 2015  
    (In thousands)  

Total carrying amounts of long-term debt

  $ 5,146     $ 5,739  

Estimated fair value of long-term debt

  $ 5,142     $ 5,708  

 

The Company believes that the carrying amounts of trade accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate their fair value due to the short maturity of those instruments. All non-financial assets that are not recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis, which includes goodwill and non-financial long-lived assets, are measured at fair value in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment). As of March 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015, there was no indication of impairment related to the Company’s non-financial assets.

 

2.

CONNECT

 

Connect was formed in June 2013 to develop and commercialize the Connect programs. Connect programs provide healthcare organizations the technology to engage patients through real-time identification and management of individual patient needs, preferences, risks, and experiences.  The platform ensures that organizations have access to a longitudinal view of the patient to more effectively manage patient engagement across the continuum of care.

 

 
-9-

 

 

As of December 31, 2015, the Company owned approximately 89% of Connect and Illuminate Health, LLC owned 11% of Connect. Under the amended Connect operating agreement, NRC had the option to acquire additional equity units from Illuminate Health when new annual recurring contract value reached targeted levels. On March 7, 2016, NRC elected to exercise its first option to acquire one-third of the outstanding non-controlling interest for $1.0 million. Subsequently, on March 28, 2016, NRC and Illuminate Health reached an agreement whereby NRC acquired the remaining interest held by Illuminate Health for $1,000,000. Following these transactions, Connect is a wholly owned subsidiary of NRC. Since the Company previously consolidated Connect, the transaction was accounted for as an equity transaction, resulting in a reduction to additional paid in capital.

 

3.

INCOME TAXES

 

The effective tax rate for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016 decreased to 35.4% compared to 39.8% for the same period in 2015. The decrease in the effective tax rate was mainly due to a $300,000 capital loss valuation allowance due to the write-off of a purchase option in 2015 and United States federal tax examination related adjustments decreasing tax expense by $48,000 in 2016. The United States federal tax examination for the tax year ended December 31, 2013 was completed in the three-month period ended March 31, 2016.

 

The unrecognized tax benefit as of March 31, 2016 was $338,000, excluding interest of $3,000 and penalties of $7,000. Of this amount, $82,000 represents the net unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably impact the effective income tax rate. The remaining $257,000 at March 31, 2016 would have no impact on the effective tax rate, if recognized.   The Company accrues interest and penalties related to uncertain tax position in the statements of income as income tax expense.

 

4.

NOTES PAYABLE

 

The Company’s term note is payable in 60 monthly installments of $212,468. Borrowings under the term note bears interest at an annual rate of 3.12%. The outstanding balance of the term note at March 31, 2016 was $5.1 million.

 

The Company also has a revolving credit note that was renewed in June 2015 to extend the term to June 30, 2016. The maximum aggregate amount available under the revolving credit note is $6.5 million, subject to a borrowing base equal to 75.0% of the Company’s eligible accounts receivable. Borrowings under the revolving credit note bear interest at a variable annual rate, with three rate options at the discretion of management as follows: (1) 2.5% plus the daily reset one-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) or (2) 2.2% plus the one-, two- or three- month LIBOR rate, or (3) the bank’s one-, two, three, six, or twelve month Money Market Loan Rate. As of March 31, 2016 the revolving credit note did not have a balance. According to the borrowing base requirements, the Company had the capacity to borrow $6.5 million as of March 31, 2016.

 

The term note and revolving credit note are secured by certain of the Company’s assets, including the Company’s land, building, trade accounts receivable and intangible assets. The term note and revolving credit note contain various restrictions and covenants applicable to the Company, including requirements that the Company maintain certain financial ratios at prescribed levels and restrictions on the ability of the Company to consolidate or merge, create liens, incur additional indebtedness or dispose of assets. As of March 31, 2016, the Company was in compliance with its financial covenants.

 

5.

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company measures and recognizes compensation expense for all share-based payments based on the grant-date fair value of those awards. All of the Company’s existing stock option awards and unvested stock awards have been determined to be equity-classified awards.

 

 
-10-

 

 

The Company’s 2001 Equity Incentive Plan provided for the granting of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, performance shares and other share-based awards and benefits up to an aggregate of 1,800,000 class A and 300,000 class B shares of the Company’s common stock. Stock options granted could have been either nonqualified or incentive stock options. Stock options vest over one to five years following the date of grant and option terms are generally five to ten years following the date of grant.

 

The Company’s 2004 Non-Employee Director Stock Plan, as amended (the “2004 Director Plan”), is a nonqualified plan that provides for the granting of options with respect to 3,000,000 class A and 500,000 class B shares of the Company’s common stock. The 2004 Director Plan provides for grants of nonqualified stock options to each director of the Company who is not employed by the Company. On the date of each annual meeting of shareholders of the Company, options to purchase 36,000 class A shares and 6,000 class B shares of the Company’s common stock are granted to directors that are re-elected or retained as a director at such meeting. Stock options vest one year following the date of grant and option terms are generally ten years following the date of grant, or three years in the case of termination of the outside director’s service.

 

The Company’s 2006 Equity Incentive Plan provides for the granting of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, performance shares and other share-based awards and benefits up to an aggregate of 1,800,000 class A and 300,000 class B shares of the Company’s common stock. Stock options granted may be either incentive stock options or nonqualified stock options. Vesting terms vary with each grant and option terms are generally five to ten years following the date of grant.

 

The Company granted options to purchase 135,620 shares of the Company’s class A common stock and 22,603 shares of the class B common stock during the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. Options to purchase shares of common stock were granted with exercise prices equal to the fair value of the common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of the stock options granted was estimated using a Black-Scholes valuation model with the following assumptions:

 

    2016     2015  
    Class A     Class B     Class A     Class B  

Expected dividend yield at date of grant

    3.02 %     8.12 %     2.57 %     5.72 %
Expected stock price volatility     34.61 %     31.77 %     34.87 %     33.94 %

Risk-free interest rate

    2.12 %     2.12 %     1.78 %     1.78 %
Expected life of options (in years)     8       8       7       7  

 

The risk-free interest rate assumptions were based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant. The expected volatility was based on historical monthly price changes of the Company’s common stock based on the expected life of the options at the date of grant. The expected life of options is the average number of years the Company estimates that options will be outstanding. The Company considers groups of associates that have similar historical exercise behavior separately for valuation purposes.

 

 
-11-

 

 

The following table summarizes stock option activity under the Company’s 2001 and 2006 Equity Incentive Plans and the 2004 Director Plan for the three months ended March 31, 2016:

 

   

Number of
Options

   

Weighted

Average

Exercise

Price

   

Weighted

Average

Remaining

Contractual Terms (Years)

   

Aggregate

Intrinsic

Value

(In

thousands)

 

Class A

                               

Outstanding at December 31, 2015

    1,485,738     $ 11.65                  

Granted

    135,620     $ 15.23                  

Exercised

    (33,234 )   $ 5.12             $ 336  

Forfeited

    --       --                  

Outstanding at March 31, 2016

    1,588,124     $ 12.09       6.22     $ 5,731  

Exercisable at March 31, 2016

    1,089,942     $ 11.14       5.12     $ 4,997  
                                 

Class B

                               

Outstanding at December 31, 2015

    240,673     $ 26.31                  

Granted

    22,603     $ 34.00                  

Exercised

    (24,043 )   $ 15.70             $ 435  

Forfeited

    --       --                  

Outstanding at March 31, 2016

    239,233     $ 28.10       6.57     $ 1,923  

Exercisable at March 31, 2016

    157,150     $ 26.02       5.48     $ 1,679  

 

The following table summarizes information regarding unvested stock granted to associates under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan for the three months ended March 31, 2016:

 

   

Class A

Shares

Outstanding

   

Class A

Weighted

Average

Grant Date

Fair Value

Per Share

   

Class B

Shares

Outstanding

   

Class B

Weighted

Average

Grant Date

Fair Value

Per Share

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2015

    183,814     $ 12.78       30,635     $ 36.93  

Granted

    20,578     $ 15.23       3,430     $ 34.00  

Vested

    (20,892 )   $ 5.38       (3,482 )   $ 32.31  

Forfeited

    --       --       --       --  

Outstanding at March 31, 2016

    183,500     $ 13.89       30,583     $ 37.13  

 

As of March 31, 2016, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock awards was approximately $2.7 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.72 years.

 

6.

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

 

The following represents a summary of changes in the Company’s carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended March 31, 2016:

 

   

(In thousands)

 

Balance as of December 31, 2015

  $ 57,792  

Foreign currency translation

    152  

Balance as of March 31, 2016

  $ 57,944  

 

 
-12-

 

 

Intangible assets consisted of the following:

 

   

March 31, 2016

   

December 31, 2015

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Non-amortizing other intangible assets:

               

Trade name

  $ 1,191     $ 1,191  

Amortizing other intangible assets:

               

Customer related

    9,339       9,323  

Technology

    1,110       1,110  

Trade name

    1,572       1,572  

Total other intangible assets

    13,212       13,196  

Accumulated amortization

    (9,620 )     (9,418 )

Other intangible assets, net

  $ 3,592     $ 3,778  

 

7.

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

 

   

March 31, 2016

   

December 31, 2015

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Property and equipment

  $ 35,928     $ 34,591  

Accumulated depreciation

    (24,297 )     (23,466 )

Property and equipment, net

  $ 11,631     $ 11,125  

 

8.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Net income per share of class A common stock and class B common stock is computed using the two-class method. Basic net income per share is computed by allocating undistributed earnings to common shares and using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period.

 

Diluted net income per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares and, if dilutive, the potential common shares outstanding during the period. Potential common shares consist of the incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock. The dilutive effect of outstanding stock options is reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury stock method.

 

The liquidation rights and the rights upon the consummation of an extraordinary transaction are the same for the holders of class A common stock and class B common stock. Other than share distributions and liquidation rights, the amount of any dividend or other distribution payable on each share of class A common stock will be equal to one-sixth (1/6th) of the amount of any such dividend or other distribution payable on each share of class B common stock. As a result, the undistributed earnings for each period are allocated based on the contractual participation rights of the class A and class B common stock as if the earnings for the period had been distributed.

 

At March 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had 568,697 and 477,427 options of class A shares and 87,836 and 44,202 options of class B shares, respectively, which have been excluded from the diluted net income per share computation because the exercise price exceeds the fair market value.

 

 
-13-

 

 

   

For the Three Months

Ended March 31, 2016

   

For the Three Months

Ended March 31, 2015

 
   

Class A

Common

Stock

   

Class B

Common

Stock

   

Class A

Common

Stock

   

Class B

Common

Stock

 
   

(In thousands, except per share data)

 

Numerator for net income per share - basic:

                               

Net income

  $ 2,568     $ 2,605     $ 1,738     $ 1,742  

Allocation of distributed and undistributed income to unvested restricted stock shareholders

    (21 )     (23 )     (12 )     (10 )

Net income attributable to common shareholders

  $ 2,547     $ 2,582     $ 1,726     $ 1,732  

Denominator for net income per share - basic:

                               

Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic

    20,710       3,489       20,792       3,478  

Net income per share – basic

  $ 0.12     $ 0.74     $ 0.08     $ 0.50  

Numerator for net income per share - diluted:

                               

Net income attributable to common shareholders for basic computation

  $ 2,547     $ 2,582     $ 1,726     $ 1,732  

Denominator for net income per share - diluted:

                               

Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic

    20,710       3,489       20,792       3,478  

Weighted average effect of dilutive securities – stock options

    238       42       241       46  

Denominator for diluted earnings per share – adjusted weighted average shares

    20,948       3,531       21,033       3,524  

Net income per share – diluted

  $ 0.12     $ 0.73     $ 0.08     $ 0.49  

 

9.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS     

 

A board member of the Company serves as an officer of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. (“Ameritas”). In connection with the Company’s regular assessment of its insurance-based associate benefits, which is conducted by an independent insurance broker and the costs associated therewith, the Company purchases dental and vision insurance for certain of its associates from Ameritas. The total value of these purchases was $58,000 and $57,000 for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

 
-14-

 

10.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In February 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) ASU 2015-02, “Consolidation—Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis (Topic 810)” (“ASU 2015-02”), which requires reporting entities to reevaluate whether certain legal entities should be consolidated under the revised consolidation model. This ASU modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities (VIEs), eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, and affects the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, especially those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships. The Company’s adoption of the standard effective January 1, 2016 did not significantly impact its consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, “Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement” ("ASU 2015-05"). The amendments in this update provide guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, the update specifies that the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. The update further specifies that the customer should account for a cloud computing arrangement as a service contract if the arrangement does not include a software license. The Company prospectively adopted ASU 2015-05 effective January 1, 2016. Based on the ability and feasibility for the Company to download software in its cloud computing arrangements it entered in 2016, all are accounted for as service contracts, which are expensed to direct expenses or selling, general and administrative expenses during the service period.  

 

In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-17, “Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes” (“ASU 2015-17”). ASU 2015-17 amends the current requirement for organizations to present deferred tax liabilities and assets as current and noncurrent in a classified balance sheet. Instead, organizations will now be required to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent. The current requirement that deferred tax liabilities and assets of a tax-paying component of an entity be offset and presented as a single amount is not affected by the amendments in this update. The Company adopted ASU 2015-17 retrospectively effective January 1, 2016 and reclassified $1.1 million of current deferred tax assets to noncurrent, which was netted with deferred tax liabilities on the December 31, 2015 consolidated balance sheet.

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)” (“ASU 2014-09”).  ASU 2014-09 requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. The ASU will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in accounting principles generally accepted in the United States when it becomes effective. The standard is effective for annual and interim reporting periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption allowed for years beginning after December 15, 2016. An entity may choose to adopt this ASU either retrospectively or through a cumulative effect adjustment as of the start of the first period for which it applies the standard.  The Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact that this new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements and expects to adopt the guidance through the retrospective transition method. We are in the process of developing and testing changes to our processes and systems. The Company currently expects the most significant changes to result from deferring commissions and recognizing the expense over the estimated life of the client relationship rather than expensing as incurred, which is the Company’s current practice, and estimating variable consideration at the outset of the contract. 

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This ASU requires lessees to recognize a lease liability and a right-to-use asset for all leases, including operating leases, with a term greater than twelve months on its balance sheet. This ASU is effective in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted, and requires a modified retrospective transition method. The Company is currently in the process of evaluating the impact that this new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718) (“ASU 2016-09”). This ASU simplifies accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, an option to recognize gross stock compensation expense with actual forfeitures recognized as they occur, as well as certain classifications on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016.  Early adoption is permitted in any interim or annual period.  If the Company elects early adoption, all adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. The Company is currently assessing the impact that this new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements.

 

 
-15-

 

 

ITEM 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The Company is a leading provider of analytics and insights that facilitate measurement and improvement of the patient and employee experience while also increasing patient engagement and loyalty for healthcare providers, payers and other healthcare organizations. The Company’s solutions enable its clients to provide customer-centric healthcare through understanding the voice of the customer to improve patient experience, engagement and loyalty, while also facilitating regulatory compliance and the shift to population-based health management for its clients. The Company’s ability to measure what matters most and systematically capture, analyze and deliver to its clients self-reported information from patients, families and consumers is critical in today’s healthcare market. NRC believes that access to and analysis of its extensive consumer-driven information is becoming more valuable as healthcare providers increasingly need to more deeply understand and engage patients and consumers in an effort towards effective population-based health management.

 

The Company’s portfolio of subscription-based solutions provide actionable information and analysis to healthcare organizations and payers across a range of mission-critical, constituent-related elements, including patient experience and satisfaction, community population health risks, workforce engagement, community perceptions, and physician engagement. NRC partners with clients across the continuum of healthcare services. The Company’s clients range from acute care hospitals and post-acute providers, such as home health, long-term care and hospice, to numerous payer organizations. The Company believes this cross-continuum positioning is a unique and an increasingly important capability as evolving payment models drive healthcare providers and payers towards a more collaborative and interactive healthcare system.

 

Results of Operations

 

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated, select financial information derived from the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements expressed as a percentage of total revenue. The trends illustrated may not necessarily be indicative of future results. The discussion that follows the table should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

   

Three months ended

 
   

March 31,

 
   

2016 

   

2015

 
                 

Revenue:

    100.0 %     100.0 %
                 

Operating expenses:

               

Direct

    41.4       44.9  

Selling, general and administrative

    26.4       29.0  

Depreciation and amortization

    3.5       3.9  

Total operating expenses

    71.3       77.8  
                 

Operating income

    28.7 %     22.2 %

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2016, Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2015

 

Revenue. Revenue for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, increased 6.1% to $27.9 million, compared to $26.3 million in the three-month period ended March 31, 2015. The increase was due to new customer sales, as well as increases in sales to the existing client base.

 

Direct expenses. Direct expenses decreased 2.2% to $11.5 million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, compared to $11.8 million in the same period during 2015. This was due to decreased variable costs of $85,000, primarily from decreased conference expense of $247,000 due to less conferences held compared to the same period in 2015, partially offset by higher survey related costs of postage, printing, and contracted services due to the higher volumes. Fixed expenses decreased by $175,000 as a result of less incentive expense associated with the acquisition in 2014 and more information technology resources’ time being capitalized in software development. Direct expenses decreased as a percentage of revenue to 41.4% in the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, compared to 44.9% during the same period of 2015 as expenses decreased by 2.2% while revenue for the same period increased by 6.1%.

 

 
-16-

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 3.5% to $7.4 million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, compared to $7.6 million for the same period in 2015, as a result of less legal and accounting costs of $345,000, less repairs and maintenance on the Company’s headquarters building of $185,000, and less contracted services of $96,000, partially offset by an increase in salaries and benefits of $339,000 mainly from increased commissions and share based compensation expense. Legal and accounting costs decreased primarily due to a purchase option write off of $657,000 in 2015, partially offset by SEC registration fees expensed in 2016 of $177,000. Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased as a percentage of revenue to 26.4% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, from 29.0% for the same period in 2015 as expenses decreased 3.5% while revenue for the same period increased by 6.1%.

 

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses decreased 4.6% to $968,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, compared to $1.0 million for the same period in 2015 primarily due to decreased amortization as a result of the sale of Predictive Analytics in 2015 and other intangibles becoming fully amortized. These decreases were partially offset by increased depreciation and amortization due to computer software license expense being included in depreciation and amortization in 2016, resulting from the adoption of ASU 2015-05. Previously, software license expense was included in direct expenses and selling, general and administrative expenses. Depreciation and amortization expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased to 3.5% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, from 3.9% during the same period in 2015.

 

Provision for income taxes. Provision for income taxes was $2.8 million (35.4% effective tax rate) for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, compared to $2.3 million (39.8% effective tax rate) for the same period in 2015. The effective tax rate for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016, was lower than the rate in the same period of 2015 mainly due to a $300,000 capital loss valuation allowance recorded in 2015 from the write-off of a purchase option in 2015 and United States federal tax examination related adjustments decreasing tax expense by $48,000 in 2016.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

The Company believes that its existing sources of liquidity, including cash and cash equivalents, borrowing availability, and operating cash flows will be sufficient to meet its projected capital and debt maturity needs and dividend policy for the foreseeable future.

 

On March 7, 2016, the Company elected to exercise its first option to acquire one-third of the outstanding non-controlling interest of Connect for $1.0 million. Subsequently, on March 28, 2016, an agreement was reached with Illuminate Health whereby the Company acquired the remaining interest held by Illuminate Health for $1,000,000. As of March 31, 2016, the Company owns 100% of Connect.

 

The Company had cash and cash equivalents of $25.4 million at March 31, 2016, of which
$9.7 million was held in Canada. All of the amounts held in Canada are intended to be indefinitely reinvested in foreign operations. The amounts held outside of the U.S. are eligible for repatriation, but under current law, would be subject to U.S. federal income taxes, less applicable foreign tax credits. The Company estimated at December 31, 2015, that an additional tax liability of $534,000 would become due if repatriation of undistributed earnings would occur.

 

 
-17-

 

 

Working Capital

 

The Company had a working capital balance of $12.3 million as of March 31, 2016, compared to a working capital balance of $10.9 million as of December 31, 2015. The change was primarily due to decreases in dividends payable of $15.1 million and income taxes payable of $701,000, increases in trade accounts receivable of $4.3 million, increases in income tax receivable of $1.8 million and increases in prepaid expenses of $483,000. This was partially offset by decreases in cash and cash equivalents of $16.8 million, increases in deferred revenue of $3.0 million and accounts payable of $958,000. Dividends payable and cash and cash equivalents changed mainly due to the payment of $18.4 million in dividends in 2016 that were declared in 2015. Trade accounts receivable increased due to timing of billings and collections on new and renewal contracts. Accounts payable and income tax receivables and payables changed due to the timing of vendor and income tax payments, respectively. The Company’s working capital is significantly impacted by its large deferred revenue balances which will vary based on the timing and frequency of billings on annual agreements. The current deferred revenue balances as of March 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were $17.9 million and $14.8 million, respectively.

 

The deferred revenue balance is primarily due to timing of initial billings on new and renewal contracts. The Company typically invoices clients for services before they have been completed. Billed amounts are recorded as billings in excess of revenue earned, or deferred revenue, on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements, and are recognized as income when earned. In addition, when work is performed in advance of billing, the Company records this work as revenue earned in excess of billings, or unbilled revenue. Substantially all deferred revenue and all unbilled revenue will be earned and billed respectively, within 12 months of when the respective period ends.

 

Cash Flow Analysis

 

A summary of operating, investing, and financing activities is shown in the following table:

 

   

Three Months Ended March 31,

 
   

2016

   

2015

 
   

(In thousands)

 

Provided by operating activities

  $ 4,034     $ 1,578  

Used in investing activities

    (1,084 )     (757 )

Used in financing activities

    (20,326 )     (3,135 )

Effect of exchange rate change on cash

    597       (718 )

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    (16,779 )     (3,032 )

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ 25,366     $ 37,010  

 

 

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

 

Cash flows from operating activities consist of net income adjusted for non-cash items such as depreciation and amortization, deferred taxes, share-based compensation and related taxes, and the effect of working capital changes.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $4.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016, which included net income of $5.2 million, plus non-cash charges (benefits) for deferred tax expense, depreciation and amortization, provision for uncertain tax positions and non-cash stock compensation totaling $2.2 million. Changes in working capital decreased 2016 cash flows from operating activities by $3.3 million, primarily due to increases in trade accounts receivable and income taxes, net of increases in deferred revenue due to the timing of billing, collections and revenue recognition on new or renewal contracts.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015, which included net income of $3.5 million, plus non-cash charges (benefits) for deferred tax expense, depreciation and amortization, write off of purchase option, and non-cash stock compensation totaling $1.8 million. Changes in working capital decreased 2015 cash flows from operating activities by $3.7 million, primarily due to increases in trade accounts receivable due to the timing of billing and collections on new or renewal contracts.

 

 
-18-

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities increased $2.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2015. The increase was mainly due to an increase in net income of $1.7 million and a $2.7 million increase in deferred revenue, partially offset by decreases in accounts receivable and income taxes.

 

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

 

Net cash of $1.1 million and $757,000 was used for investing activities in the three months ended March 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, for purchases of property and equipment.

 

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

 

Net cash used in financing activities was $20.3 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016. The excess tax benefit of share-based compensation provided cash of $333,000 and proceeds from the exercise of stock options provided cash of $547,000. Cash was used to pay payroll taxes on vested restricted shares of $147,000, to pay capital lease obligations of $25,000, to repay borrowings under the term note totaling $594,000, to pay dividends on common stock of $18.4 million, and to pay $2.0 million for Connect non-controlling interests.

 

Net cash used in financing activities was $3.1 million in the three months ended March 31, 2015. The excess tax benefit of share-based compensation provided cash of $94,000. Cash was used to pay payroll taxes on vested restricted shares of $92,000, to pay capital lease obligations of $50,000, to repay borrowings under the term note totaling $576,000 and for the payment of dividends on common stock of $2.5 million.

 

The effect of changes in foreign exchange rates increased cash and cash equivalents by $597,000 in the three months ended March 31, 2016 and decreased cash and cash equivalents by $718,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015.

 

Capital Expenditures

 

Cash paid for capital expenditures was $1.1 million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2016. These expenditures consisted mainly of computer software classified in property and equipment. The Company expects similar capital expenditure purchases for the remainder of 2016 consisting primarily of computer software and hardware and other equipment to be funded through cash generated from operations.

 

Debt and Equity

 

The Company’s term note is payable in 60 monthly installments of $212,468. Borrowings under the term note bears interest at an annual rate of 3.12%. The outstanding balance of the term note at March 31, 2016 was $5.1 million.

 

The Company also has a revolving credit note that was renewed in June 2015 to extend the term to June 30, 2016. This revolving credit note provides for the maximum aggregate borrowings of $6.5 million, subject to a borrowing base equal to 75.0% of the Company’s eligible accounts receivable. Borrowings under the revolving credit note bear interest at a variable annual rate, with three rate options at the discretion of management as follows: (1) 2.5% plus the daily reset one-month LIBOR rate, or (2) 2.2% plus the one-, two-, or three-month LIBOR rate, or (3) the bank’s one-, two-, three-, six- or twelve-month Money Market Loan Rate. As of March 31, 2016, and throughout the first quarter of 2016, the revolving credit note did not have a balance. According to the borrowing base requirements, the Company had the capacity to borrow $6.5 million as of March 31, 2016. The Company expects to renew the revolving credit note prior to June 30, 2016. If however, the revolving credit note cannot be renewed, the Company believes it has adequate cash from operations to meet its debt and capital needs.

 

 
-19-

 

 

The term note and revolving credit note are secured by certain of the Company’s assets, including the Company’s land, building, trade accounts receivable and intangible assets. The term note and revolving credit note contain various restrictions and covenants applicable to the Company, including requirements that the Company maintain certain financial ratios at prescribed levels and restrictions on the ability of the Company to consolidate or merge, create liens, incur additional indebtedness or dispose of assets. As of March 31, 2016, the Company was in compliance with these restrictions and covenants.

 

The Company has capital leases for computer equipment, office equipment, and inserting equipment. The balance of the capital leases as of March 31, 2016 was $152,000.

 

Shareholders’ equity increased $1.9 million to $76.2 million at March 31, 2016, from $74.2 million at December 31, 2015. The increase was due mainly due to net income of $5.2 million, changes in the cumulative translation adjustment of $874,000, share-based compensation of $536,000, $333,000 from the tax benefit from the exercise of the stock options and restricted stock, and $547,000 from the exercise of stock options. This was partially offset by dividends declared of $3.4 million, the acquisition of Connect non-controlling interests of $2.0 million, and share repurchases of $147,000.

 

Contractual Obligations

 

The Company had contractual obligations to make payments in the following amounts in the future as of March 31, 2016:

 

Contractual Obligations(1)

 

Total

Payments

   

Remainder

of 2016

   

One to

Three Years

   

Three to

Five Years

   

After

Five Years

 

(In thousands)

                                       

Operating leases

  $ 1,126     $ 346     $ 678     $ 102     $ --  

Capital leases

    157       52       105       --       --  

Purchase obligations

    --       --       --       --       --  

Uncertain tax positions(2)

    --       --       --       --       --  

Long-term debt

    5,325       1,912       3,413       --       --  

Total

  $ 6,608     $ 2,310     $ 4,196     $ 102     $ --  

 

(1) Amounts are inclusive of interest payments, where applicable.

(2) We have $341,000 in liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions. We are unable to reasonably estimate the expected cash settlement dates of these uncertain tax positions with certain taxing authorities.

 

 

Stock Repurchase Program

 

The Board of Directors of the Company authorized the repurchase of 2,250,000 class A and 375,000 class B shares of common stock in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions under a stock repurchase program that was originally approved in February 2006 and subsequently amended in May 2013. As of March 31, 2016 the remaining number of common stock shares that could be purchased under this authorization was 280,491 class A shares and 69,491 class B shares.

 

 

ITEM 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

There are no material changes to the disclosures regarding the Company’s market risk exposures made in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

ITEM 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

The Company’s management, with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report, and has concluded that, as of the end of such period, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

 

There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that occurred during the quarter ended March 31, 2016, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 
-20-

 

 

PART II – Other Information

 

ITEM 1A.

Risk Factors

 

There have been no material changes to the risk factors relating to the Company set forth in Part I, Item 1A of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

ITEM 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

The Board of Directors of the Company authorized the repurchase of an additional 2,250,000 class A and 375,000 class B shares of common stock in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions under a stock repurchase program that was originally approved in February 2006 and subsequently amended in May 2013. Unless terminated earlier by resolution of the Company’s Board of Directors, the repurchase program will expire when the Company has repurchased all shares authorized for repurchase thereunder. As of April 30, 2016, 1,969,509 shares of class A common stock and 305,509 shares of class B common stock have been repurchased under that authorization. No stock was repurchased under the program during the three-month period ended March 31, 2016.

 

 

ITEM 6.

Exhibits

 

The exhibits listed in the accompanying index of exhibits are filed as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

 
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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.

 

 

 

NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: May 6, 2016

By:

/s/ Michael D. Hays

 

 

 

Michael D. Hays

 

 

 

Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: May 6, 2016

By:

/s/ Kevin R. Karas

 

 

 

Kevin R. Karas

 

 

 

Senior Vice President Finance, Treasurer, Secretary and

Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

 

 

 
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NATIONAL RESEARCH CORPORATION

 

EXHIBIT INDEX TO QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

For the Quarterly Period ended March 31, 2016

 

Exhibit

 

 

(31.1)

Certification by the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

(31.2)

Certification by the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

(32)

Written Statement of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

 

(101)*

Financial statements from the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of National Research Corporation for the quarter ended March 31, 2016, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (v) the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, and (vi) document and entity information.

 

*

In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the information in these exhibits shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to liability under that section, and shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.

 

 

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