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, 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 001-37656

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware		47-4452789
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or		(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
organization)

 

601 West 26^th Street, 9^th Floor
New York, New York 10018

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

(646) 564-2577

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant 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 (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x No ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated 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 x

 

Non-accelerated filer ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)   Smaller reporting company ¨

 

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

 

As of October 27, 2016, the registrant had 62,474,862 shares of common stock, par value $.01 per share, outstanding.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

INDEX TO FORM 10-Q

 

		Page
	PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.	Financial Statements:
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2016 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2015	4
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015	5
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015	6
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016	7
	Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015	8
	Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	9
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	37
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	42
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	42
	PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	43
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	43
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	44
Item 6.	Exhibits	44
	Signatures	45

 

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

In addition to historical information, this quarterly report on Form 10-Q (this “Quarterly Report”) contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Forward-looking statements may appear throughout this Quarterly Report, including, without limitation, the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” section. We use words such as “future,” “seek,” “could,” “can,” “predict,” “believe,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “estimate,” “potential,” “project” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements include, among others, those concerning our expected financial performance and strategic and operational plans, as well as all assumptions, expectations, predictions, intentions or beliefs about future events. You are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that a number of risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks identified in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, including: (i) risks and uncertainties discussed in the reports that the Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the  “SEC”); (ii) general economic, market or business conditions; (iii) the Company’s ability to identify suitable targets for acquisitions and to obtain financing for such acquisitions on commercially reasonable terms; (iv) the Company’s ability to timely achieve the anticipated results of recent acquisitions and any potential future acquisitions; (v) the Company’s ability to successfully integrate acquisitions into its ongoing business; (vi) the potential impact of the consummation of recent acquisitions or any potential future acquisitions on the Company’s relationships, including with employees, licensees, customers and competitors; (vii) the Company’s ability to achieve and/or manage growth and to meet target metrics associated with such growth; (viii) the Company’s ability to successfully attract new brands and to identify suitable licensees for its existing and newly acquired brands; (ix) the Company’s substantial level of indebtedness, including the possibility that such indebtedness and related restrictive covenants may adversely affect the Company’s future cash flows, results of operations and financial condition and decrease its operating flexibility; (x) the Company’s ability to achieve its guidance; (xi) continued market acceptance of the Company’s brands; (xii) changes in the Company’s competitive position or competitive actions by other companies; (xiii) licensees’ ability to fulfill their financial obligations to the Company; (xiv) concentrations of the Company’s licensing revenues with a limited number of licensees and retail partners; and (xv) other circumstances beyond the Company’s control.

 

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and are based on current expectations and assumptions. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statement. We are not under any obligation, and we expressly disclaim any obligation, to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information, except to the extent required by applicable securities laws. If we do update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to such or other forward-looking statements.

 

Where You Can Find Other Information

 

Our corporate website address is www.sequentialbrandsgroup.com. The information contained on our website is not part of this Quarterly Report. We file our annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). These reports, and any amendments to these reports, are made available on our website and can be viewed and downloaded free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports and other information are filed with or furnished to the SEC. The public may read and copy any materials filed with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room located at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may also obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. In addition, the SEC maintains an internet site that contains annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC, which is available at www.sec.gov.

 

Unless otherwise noted, references in this Quarterly Report to “Sequential Brands Group,” “Company,” “our Company,” “we,” “us,” or similar pronouns refer to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

		September 30,				December 31,
		2016				2015
		(Unaudited)				(Note 2)
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash		$	19,911			$	41,560
Restricted cash			1,518				-
Accounts receivable, net			44,205				42,026
Available-for-sale securities			6,671				5,611
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			5,722				5,276
Current assets held for disposition from discontinued operations of wholesale business			83				113
Total current assets			78,110				94,586
Property and equipment, net			8,582				6,547
Intangible assets, net			1,033,742				872,277
Goodwill			305,126				314,288
Other assets			1,743				2,139
Total assets		$	1,427,303			$	1,289,837
Liabilities and Equity
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		$	17,957			$	23,722
Current portion of long-term debt			26,225				19,000
Current portion of deferred revenue			5,308				2,157
Total current liabilities			49,490				44,879
Long-term debt, net of current portion			622,946				523,065
Long-term deferred revenue, net of current portion			14,821				-
Deferred tax liability			195,779				184,881
Other long-term liabilities			10,779				10,686
Long-term liabilities held for disposition from discontinued operations of wholesale business			639				677
Total liabilities			894,454				764,188
Commitments and Contingencies
Equity:
Preferred stock Series A, $0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015			-				-
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 150,000,000 shares authorized; 62,546,508 and 60,991,127 shares issued at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, and 62,474,862 and 60,480,474 shares outstanding at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively			623				605
Additional paid-in capital			501,803				496,179
Accumulated other comprehensive loss			(5,388	)			(6,466	)
Accumulated deficit			(38,671	)			(38,830	)
Treasury stock, at cost; 71,646 shares at September 30, 2016 and none at December 31, 2015			(501	)			-
Total Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries stockholders’ equity			457,866				451,488
Noncontrolling interest			74,983				74,161
Total equity			532,849				525,649
Total liabilities and equity		$	1,427,303			$	1,289,837

 

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

		Three Months Ended September 30,								Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2016				2015				2016				2015
Net revenue		$	41,952			$	22,981			$	110,114			$	56,833
Operating expenses			20,180				9,960				63,077				30,561
Income from operations			21,772				13,021				47,037				26,272
Other income			150				-				243				700
Interest expense, net			14,742				6,210				36,031				17,162
Income before income taxes			7,180				6,811				11,249				9,810
Provision for income taxes			3,858				2,460				5,276				3,348
Net income			3,322				4,351				5,973				6,462
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest			(2,022	)			(1,623	)			(5,814	)			(3,617	)
Net income attributable to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries		$	1,300			$	2,728			$	159			$	2,845
Earnings per share attributable to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries:
Basic		$	0.02			$	0.07			$	0.00			$	0.07
Diluted		$	0.02			$	0.06			$	0.00			$	0.07
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic			62,176,700				39,781,868				61,817,742				39,384,090
Diluted			63,066,757				42,106,056				62,918,590				41,639,135

 

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(in thousands)

 

		Three Months Ended September 30,								Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2016				2015				2016				2015
Net income		$	3,322			$	4,351			$	5,973			$	6,462
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities			1,118				(941	)			1,060				(941	)
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate hedging transactions			23				11				18				(78	)
Other comprehensive income (loss)			1,141				(930	)			1,078				(1,019	)
Comprehensive income			4,463				3,421				7,051				5,443
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest			(2,022	)			(1,623	)			(5,814	)			(3,617	)
Comprehensive income attributable to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries		$	2,441			$	1,798			$	1,237			$	1,826

 

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

(in thousands, except share data)

 

		Preferred Stock								Common Stock								Additional Paid- in				Accumulated Other Comprehensive				Accumulated				Treasury Stock								Total Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries Stockholders'				Noncontrolling				Total
		Shares				Amount				Shares				Amount				Capital				Loss				Deficit				Shares				Amount				Equity				Interest				Equity
Balance at January 1, 2016			-			$	-				60,480,474			$	605			$	496,179			$	(6,466	)		$	(38,830	)			-			$	-			$	451,488			$	74,161			$	525,649
Stock-based compensation			-				-				619,388				4				5,638				-				-				-				-				5,642				-				5,642
Issuance of Galaxy Brand Holdings, Inc. holdback shares			-				-				1,375,000				14				(14	)			-				-				-				-				-				-				-
Unrealized gain on interest rate hedging transactions			-				-				-				-				-				18				-				-				-				18				-				18
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities			-				-				-				-				-				1,060				-				-				-				1,060				-				1,060
Repurchase of common stock			-				-				-				-				-				-				-				(71,646	)			(501	)			(501	)			-				(501	)
Noncontrolling interest distribution			-				-				-				-				-				-				-				-				-				-				(4,992	)			(4,992	)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest			-				-				-				-				-				-				-				-				-				-				5,814				5,814
Net income attributable to common stockholders			-				-				-				-				-				-				159				-				-				159				-				159
Balance at September 30, 2016			-			$	-				62,474,862			$	623			$	501,803			$	(5,388	)		$	(38,671	)			(71,646	)		$	(501	)		$	457,866			$	74,983			$	532,849

 

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

 

		Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2016				2015
						(Note 2)
Cash Flows From Operating Activities
Net income		$	5,973			$	6,462
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Provision for bad debts			475				126
Depreciation and amortization			3,379				1,255
Stock-based compensation			5,642				5,647
Amortization of deferred financing costs			2,117				3,169
Gain on sale of trademark			-				(700	)
Loss on disposal of fixed assets			491				-
Deferred income taxes			5,003				2,712
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable			(2,654	)			(6,155	)
Prepaid expenses and other assets			776				2,528
Accounts payable and accrued expenses			(7,607	)			(533	)
Deferred revenue			17,972				76
Other liabilities			(162	)			37
Cash Provided By Operating Activities From Continuing Operations			31,405				14,624
Cash Used In Operating Activities From Discontinued Operations			(8	)			(211	)
Cash Provided By Operating Activities			31,397				14,413
Cash Flows From Investing Activities
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired			(147,587	)			(190,417	)
Acquisition of intangible assets			(390	)			(350	)
Acquisition of property and equipment			(1,617	)			(878	)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment			45				-
Acquisition of available-for-sale securities			-				(12,048	)
Changes in restricted cash			(1,518	)			-
Proceeds from sale of trademark			-				140
Cash Used In Investing Activities			(151,067	)			(203,553	)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities
Proceeds from long-term debt			132,000				205,679
Proceeds from sale of common stock			-				10,000
Proceeds from options exercised			-				710
Proceeds from warrants exercised			-				223
Stock registration costs			-				(1,330	)
Repayment of long-term debt			(14,000	)			(11,679	)
Guaranteed payments in connection with acquisitions			(1,475	)			(1,300	)
Deferred financing costs			(13,011	)			(4,927	)
Repurchase of common stock			(501	)			(837	)
Noncontrolling interest distribution			(4,992	)			(1,633	)
Cash Provided By Financing Activities			98,021				194,906
Net (Decrease) Increase In Cash			(21,649	)			5,766
Cash — Beginning of period			41,560				22,521
Cash — End of period		$	19,911			$	28,287
Supplemental Disclosures Of Cash Flow Information
Cash paid for:
Interest		$	31,792			$	13,584
Taxes		$	178			$	994
Non-cash Investing And Financing Activities
Accrued purchases of property and equipment		$	1,602			$	-
Common stock issued in connection with acquisition		$	-			$	1,295
Noncontrolling interest recorded in connection with acquisition		$	-			$	65,094
Receivable for sale of trademark		$	-			$	560
Guaranteed contractual payments recorded on acquisition		$	-			$	3,648
Debt discount recorded on sale of common stock to debtholders		$	-			$	1,496

 

See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

1.

Organization and Nature of Operations

 

Overview

 

Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (the “Company”) owns a portfolio of consumer brands in the fashion, active and home categories. The Company aims to maximize the strategic value of its brands by promoting, marketing and licensing its global brands through various distribution channels, including to retailers, wholesalers and distributors in the United States and in certain international territories. The Company’s core strategy is to enhance and monetize the global reach of its existing brands, and to pursue additional strategic acquisitions to grow the scope of and diversify its portfolio of brands. The Company licenses brands to both wholesale and direct-to-retail licensees. In a wholesale and distributor license, a wholesale supplier is granted rights (typically on an exclusive basis) to a single or small group of related product categories for a particular brand for sale to multiple accounts within an approved channel of distribution and territory. In a direct-to-retail license, a single retailer is granted the right (typically on an exclusive basis) to sell branded products in a broad range of product categories through its brick and mortar stores and e-commerce sites. As of September 30, 2016, the Company had more than one-hundred fifty licensees, with wholesale licensees comprising a significant majority.

 

The Company was formed on June 5, 2015, for the purpose of effecting the merger of Singer Merger Sub, Inc. with and into SQBG, Inc. (formerly known as Sequential Brands Group, Inc.) (“Old Sequential”) and the merger of Madeline Merger Sub, Inc. with and into Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (“MSLO”), with Old Sequential and MSLO each surviving the merger as wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company (the “Mergers”). Prior to the Mergers, the Company did not conduct any activities other than those incidental to its formation and the matters contemplated in the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 22, 2015, as amended, by and among the Company, MSLO, Old Sequential, Singer Merger Sub, Inc., and Madeline Merger Sub, Inc. (the “Merger Agreement”). On December 4, 2015, pursuant to the Merger Agreement, Old Sequential and MSLO completed the strategic combination of their respective businesses and became wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company. Old Sequential was the accounting acquirer in the Mergers; therefore, the historical consolidated financial statements for Old Sequential for periods prior to the Mergers are considered to be the historical financial statements of the Company and thus, the Company’s consolidated financial statements reflect Old Sequential’s consolidated financial statements for the period from January 1, 2015 through December 4, 2015, and the Company’s consolidated financial statements thereafter. References to “the Company” when referring to periods prior to the consummation of the Mergers on December 4, 2015 are references to Old Sequential.

 

2.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Certain information or footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC for interim financial reporting. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes necessary for a comprehensive presentation of financial position, results of operations or cash flows. It is the Company’s opinion that the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, as filed with the SEC on March 14, 2016, which contains the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, together with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. The financial information as of December 31, 2015 is derived from the audited consolidated financial statements presented in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. The interim results for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2016 or for any future interim periods.

 

Reclassification of Prior Year Presentation and Correction of Immaterial Error

 

On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-03 – “Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”), which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements. ASU 2015-03 requires an entity to present such costs on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability rather than as an asset. Amortization of the costs is reported as interest expense. The standard’s core principle is that debt issuance costs related to a note are reflected in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the face amount of that note and amortization of debt issuance costs is reported in interest expense.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

As a result of the adoption of ASU 2015-03, the Company has reclassified certain balance sheet accounts for consistency with the current period presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on the reported results of operations. The Company reclassified approximately $7.9 million between Other assets and Long-term debt, net of current portion in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2015.

 

Additionally, the Company has corrected an immaterial error in its condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. This correction is related to the payment of certain guaranteed obligations in connection with previous acquisitions and reflects an increase in cash provided by operating activities of approximately $1.3 million and a decrease in cash provided by financing activities of approximately $1.3 million. There is no impact to the condensed consolidated balance sheets, unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations or unaudited condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity. Any impacts on prior periods in future filings will be corrected prospectively.

 

Principles of Consolidation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of unaudited condensed consolidated 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 unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.

 

Making estimates requires management to exercise significant judgment. It is at least reasonably possible that the estimate of the effect of a condition, situation or set of circumstances that existed at the date of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, which management considered in formulating its estimate, could change in the near term due to one or more future confirming events. Accordingly, actual results could differ significantly from estimates.

 

Discontinued Operations

 

The Company has accounted for the closure of its wholesale operations during 2013 as discontinued operations in accordance with the guidance provided in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 360, Accounting for Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, and ASC 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, which requires that only a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity, that represents a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on the reporting entity’s operations that has been disposed of or is classified as held for sale and has operations and cash flows that can be clearly distinguished from the rest of the entity be reported as discontinued operations and assets held for sale. In the period a component of an entity has been disposed of or classified as held for sale, the results of operations for the periods presented are reclassified into separate line items in the statements of operations. Assets and liabilities are also reclassified into separate line items on the related balance sheets for the periods presented. The statements of cash flows for the periods presented are also reclassified to reflect the results of discontinued operations as separate line items. 

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company has entered into various license agreements that provide revenues based on guaranteed minimum royalty payments and advertising/marketing fees with additional royalty revenues based on a percentage of defined sales. Guaranteed minimum royalty payments and advertising/marketing revenue are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of each contract year, as defined in each license agreement. Royalty payments exceeding the guaranteed minimum royalty payments are recognized as income during the period corresponding to the licensee’s sales. Payments received as consideration for the grant of a license are recorded as deferred revenue at the time payment is received and recognized ratably as revenue over the term of the license agreement. Advanced royalty payments are recorded as deferred revenue at the time payment is received and recognized as revenue as earned. Revenue is not recognized unless collectability is reasonably assured.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

If license agreements are terminated prior to the original licensing period, the Company recognizes revenue in the amount of any contractual termination fees, unless such amounts are deemed non-recoverable.

 

With respect to editorial content for books, the Company receives advance payments from the Company’s publishers and recognizes revenue when manuscripts are delivered to and accepted by the publishers. Revenue is also earned from book publishing when sales on a unit basis exceed the advanced royalty.

 

Television sponsorship revenues are generally recorded ratably across the period when new episodes initially air.

 

Restricted Cash

 

Restricted cash at September 30, 2016 consists of cash deposited with a financial institution required as collateral for the Company’s cash-collateralized letter of credit facilities.

 

Accounts Receivable

 

Accounts receivable are recorded net of allowances for doubtful accounts, based on the Company’s ongoing discussions with its licensees and other customers and its evaluation of their creditworthiness, payment history and account aging. Accounts receivable balances deemed to be uncollectible are charged to the allowance for doubtful accounts after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. The allowance for doubtful accounts was approximately $0.4 million and $0.3 million as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

 

The Company’s accounts receivable amounted to approximately $44.2 million and approximately $42.0 million as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Two licensees accounted for an aggregate of approximately 25% (14% and 11%) of the Company’s total consolidated accounts receivable balance as of September 30, 2016. Two licensees accounted for an aggregate of approximately 26% (15% and 11%) of the Company’s total consolidated accounts receivable balance as of December 31, 2015. The Company does not believe the accounts receivable balance from these licensees represents a significant collection risk based on past collection experience.

 

Investments

 

The Company has marketable securities that are classified as available-for-sale securities under ASC 320, Investments – Debt and Equity Securities. Such available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets and, at the time of purchase, were reported in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of cash flows as an investing activity. The Company reviews its available-for-sale securities at each reporting period to determine whether a decline in fair value is other-than-temporary. Any decline in fair value that is determined to be other-than-temporary would result in an adjustment for an impairment charge in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations. The primary factors the Company considers in its determination are (i) the length of time that the fair value of the available-for-sale security is below the Company’s carrying value, (ii) the financial condition and operating performance of the available-for-sale security, (iii) the reason for decline in fair value and (iv) the Company’s intent and ability to hold the investment in available-for-sale securities for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery in fair value. Realized gains and losses from the sale of available-for-sale securities, if any, are determined on a specific-identification basis. The unrealized gains and losses on the available-for-sale securities held by the Company as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are set forth below.

 

						September 30, 2016
										Gross Unrealized
		Historical Cost				Estimated Fair Value				Gains				Losses
		(in thousands)
Available-for-sale securities		$	12,048			$	6,671			$	-			$	5,377

 

						December 31, 2015
										Gross Unrealized
		Historical Cost				Estimated Fair Value				Gains				Losses
		(in thousands)
Available-for-sale securities		$	12,048			$	5,611			$	-			$	6,437

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

As of both September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company has concluded that the decline in fair value of its available-for-sale securities is not other-than-temporary. The available-for-sale securities have been in a loss position for twelve months.

 

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

 

Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level (operating segment or one level below an operating segment) on an annual basis and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. In evaluating goodwill for impairment, the Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Qualitative factors considered include, for example, macroeconomic and industry conditions, overall financial performance and other relevant entity-specific events. If the Company bypasses the qualitative assessment, or concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, it then performs a two-step goodwill impairment test to identify potential goodwill impairment and measure the amount of goodwill impairment to be recognized, if any.

 

In the first step, the Company will compare the estimated fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value.  The Company has determined it has a single reporting unit, and considers its market capitalization (calculated as total common shares outstanding multiplied by the common equity price per share, as adjusted for a control premium factor) to represent its estimated fair value.  If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, no further analysis is needed. If, however, the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company will proceed to the second step and calculate the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill to determine whether any impairment is required. The implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill is calculated by allocating the estimated fair value of the reporting unit to all of the unit’s assets and liabilities as if the unit had been acquired in a business combination. If the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in the amount of that excess.

 

Intangible assets represent trademarks, customer agreements and patents related to the Company’s brands and a favorable lease. Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but instead are subject to impairment evaluation. The carrying value of intangible assets and other finite-lived assets is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that indicate that the carrying amount of the indefinite-lived intangible asset may not be recoverable. When conducting its impairment assessment, the Company initially performs a qualitative evaluation of whether it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. If it is determined by a qualitative evaluation that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired, the Company then tests the asset for recoverability. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset to its expected future undiscounted net cash flows. If the carrying amount of such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the recoverability of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company changed its annual impairment testing date from December 31 to October 1. The Company believes this new date is preferable because it allows for more timely completion of the annual impairment test prior to the end of its annual financial reporting period. The Company has concluded that this change in accounting principle is not material to its financial statements, in part because the change does not delay, accelerate or avoid an impairment charge. The Company has determined that it will be impracticable to objectively determine projected cash flow and related valuation estimates that would have been used as of each October 1 of prior reporting periods without the use of hindsight. As such, the Company will apply the change in annual impairment testing date prospectively beginning October 1, 2016.

 

Treasury Stock

 

Treasury stock is recorded at cost as a reduction of equity in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

Compensation cost for restricted stock is measured using the quoted market price of the Company’s common stock at the date the common stock is granted. For restricted stock, for which restrictions lapse with the passage of time (“time-based restricted stock”), compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis, reduced for estimated forfeitures, over the period between the issue date and the date that restrictions lapse. Time-based restricted stock is included in total shares of common stock outstanding upon the lapse of applicable restrictions. For restricted stock, for which restrictions are based on performance measures (“performance stock units” or “PSUs”), restrictions lapse when those performance measures have been deemed achieved. Compensation cost for PSUs is recognized on a straight-line basis, reduced for estimated forfeitures, during the period from the date on which the likelihood of the PSUs being earned is deemed probable and (x) the end of the fiscal year during which such PSUs are granted or (y) the date on which awards of such PSUs may be approved by the compensation committee of the Company’s board of directors (the “Compensation Committee”) on a discretionary basis, as applicable. PSUs are included in total shares of common stock outstanding upon the lapse of applicable restrictions. PSUs are included in total diluted shares of common stock outstanding when the performance measures have been deemed achieved but the PSUs have not yet been issued.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

Compensation cost for stock options and warrants, in accordance with accounting for stock-based payment under GAAP, is calculated using the Black-Scholes valuation model based on awards ultimately expected to vest, reduced for estimated forfeitures, and expensed on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the grant.  Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant based on the Company’s historical forfeiture experience and are revised in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.  

 

At each subsequent reporting period prior to the lapse of restrictions on warrants, time-based restricted stock and PSUs granted to non-employees, the Company remeasures the aggregate compensation cost of such grants using the Company’s stock price at the end of such reporting period and revises the straight-line recognition of compensation cost in-line with such remeasured amount.

 

Income Taxes

 

Current income taxes are based on the respective periods’ taxable income for federal, foreign and state income tax reporting purposes. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities, using statutory tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. In accordance with ASU No. 2015-17 “Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes”, all deferred income taxes are reported and classified as non-current. A valuation allowance is required if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

 

The Company applies the FASB guidance on accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. The guidance clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with other authoritative GAAP and prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement process for financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The guidance also addresses derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had $0.6 million of certain unrecognized tax benefits, included as a component of long-term liabilities held for disposition from discontinued operations of wholesale business. The Company expects to reverse these unrecognized tax benefits during fiscal year 2016. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions, if any, are recorded in income tax expense. Tax years that remain open for assessment for federal and state tax purposes include the years ended December 31, 2012 through December 31, 2015.

 

Earnings Per Share

 

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income attributable to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period, excluding the effects of any potentially dilutive securities. Diluted EPS gives effect to all potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the reporting period, including stock options, PSUs and warrants, using the treasury stock method, and convertible debt, using the if-converted method. Diluted EPS excludes all potentially dilutive shares of common stock if their effect is anti-dilutive. The shares used to calculate basic and diluted EPS consist of the following:

 

		Three Months Ended September 30,								Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2016				2015				2016				2015
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding			62,176,700				39,781,868				61,817,742				39,384,090
Acquisition hold back shares			-				1,375,000				230,840				1,375,000
Warrants			360,440				565,239				351,386				528,837
Stock options			18,252				37,798				15,406				108,587
Performance stock awards			407,355				139,889				408,152				47,142
Unvested restricted stock			104,010				206,262				95,064				195,479
Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding			63,066,757				42,106,056				62,918,590				41,639,135

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

The computation of diluted EPS for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 excludes the common stock equivalents of the following potentially dilutive securities because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive:

 

		Three Months Ended September 30,								Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2016				2015				2016				2015
Warrants			325,000				-				325,000				-
Unvested restricted stock			-				-				130,000				-
Stock options			51,000				20,000				51,000				30,000
Total			376,000				20,000				506,000				30,000

 

Concentration of Credit Risk

 

Financial instruments which potentially expose the Company to credit risk consist primarily of cash, restricted cash, accounts receivable and marketable securities. Cash is held to meet working capital needs and future acquisitions. Restricted cash is cash pledged as collateral for a comparable amount of irrevocable standby letters of credit for certain of the Company’s leased properties. Substantially all of the Company’s cash, restricted cash and marketable securities are deposited with high quality financial institutions. At times, however, such cash, restricted cash and marketable securities may be in deposit accounts that exceed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limit. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts as of September 30, 2016.

 

Concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is minimal due to the collection history and the nature of the Company’s revenues.

 

Customer Concentrations

 

The Company recorded net revenues of approximately $42.0 million and approximately $23.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. During the three months ended September 30, 2016, no licensees represented at least 10% of the Company’s net revenue. During the three months ended September 30, 2015, two licensees represented at least 10% of net revenue, accounting for 16% and 15% of the Company’s net revenue.

 

The Company recorded net revenues of approximately $110.1 million and approximately $56.8 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, two licensees represented at least 10% of net revenue, each accounting for 10% of the Company’s net revenue. During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, two licensees represented at least 10% of net revenue, accounting for 19% and 16% of the Company’s net revenue.

 

Loss Contingencies

 

The Company recognizes contingent losses that are both probable and estimable. In this context, probable means circumstances under which events are likely to occur. The Company records legal costs pertaining to contingencies as incurred.

 

Contingent Consideration

 

The Company recognizes the acquisition-date fair value of contingent consideration as part of the consideration transferred in exchange for the acquiree or assets of the acquiree in a business combination.  The contingent consideration is classified as either a liability or equity in accordance with ASC 480-10, Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity.  If classified as a liability, the liability is remeasured to fair value at each subsequent reporting date until the contingency is settled.  Increases in fair value are recorded as losses, while decreases are recorded as gains.  If classified as equity, contingent consideration is not remeasured and subsequent settlement is accounted for within equity.  

 

Noncontrolling Interest

 

Noncontrolling interest from continuing operations recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 represents income allocations to Elan Polo International, Inc., a member of DVS Footwear International, LLC (“DVS LLC”), With You, Inc., a member of With You LLC (the partnership between the Company and Jessica Simpson) and JALP, LLC (“JALP”), a member of FUL IP Holdings, LLC (“FUL IP”). Noncontrolling interest from continuing operations recorded for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 represents income allocations to DVS LLC and With You LLC. The following table sets forth the noncontrolling interest from continuing operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

		Three Months Ended September 30,								Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2016				2015				2016				2015
		(in thousands)								(in thousands)
With You LLC		$	1,757			$	1,470			$	5,025			$	3,163
DVS LLC			140				153				423				454
FUL IP			125				-				366				-
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest		$	2,022			$	1,623			$	5,814			$	3,617

 

Reportable Segment

 

An operating segment, in part, is a component of an enterprise whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker (the “CODM”) to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance. Operating segments may be aggregated only to a limited extent. The Company’s CODM, the Chief Executive Officer, reviews financial information presented on a consolidated basis, accompanied by disaggregated information about revenues for purposes of making operating decisions and assessing financial performance. Accordingly, the Company has a single operating and reportable segment. In addition, the Company has no foreign operations or any material assets in foreign locations. Nearly all of the Company’s operations consist of a single revenue stream, which is the licensing of its trademark portfolio, with an immaterial portion of revenues derived from television, book, café operations and certain commissions.

 

3.

Fair Value Measurement of Financial Instruments

 

ASC 820-10, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820-10”), defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP and provides for expanded disclosure about fair value measurements. ASC 820-10 applies to all other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements.

 

The Company determines or calculates the fair value of financial instruments using quoted market prices in active markets when such information is available or using appropriate present value or other valuation techniques, such as discounted cash flow analyses, incorporating available market discount rate information for similar types of instruments while estimating for non-performance and liquidity risk. These techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate, credit spreads and estimates of future cash flow.

 

Assets and liabilities typically recorded at fair value on a non-recurring basis to which ASC 820-10 applies include:

 

	•	non-financial assets and liabilities initially measured at fair value in an acquisition or business combination, and
	•	long-lived assets measured at fair value due to an impairment assessment under ASC 360-10-15, Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.

 

This topic defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and establishes a three-level hierarchy, which encourages an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. ASC 820-10 requires that assets and liabilities recorded at fair value be classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:

 

	•	Level 1 - inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access.
	•	Level 2 - inputs utilize other-than-quoted prices that are observable, either directly or indirectly.  Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals.
	•	Level 3 - inputs are unobservable and are typically based on the Company’s own assumptions, including situations where there is little, if any, market activity.  Both observable and unobservable inputs may be used to determine the fair value of positions that are classified within the Level 3 classification.

 

In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the Company classifies such financial assets or liabilities based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

As of both September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no assets or liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis, except for the Company’s available-for-sale securities (see Note 2), interest rate swap (see Note 7), the contingent earn outs relating to the Linens ‘N Things brand (the “LNT Contingent Earn Out”) and Legacy Payments (as defined in Note 11) for Ms. Martha Stewart. The following table sets forth the carrying value and the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities required to be disclosed at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

 

				Carrying Value								Fair Value
Financial Instrument		Level		9/30/2016				12/31/2015				9/30/2016				12/31/2015
				(in thousands)
Available-for-sale securities		1		$	6,671			$	5,611			$	6,671			$	5,611
Interest rate swap		2		$	11			$	29			$	11			$	29
2016 Term Loans		3		$	587,500			$	-			$	554,132			$	-
2016 Revolving Loan		3		$	80,500			$	-			$	59,812			$	-
2015 Term Loans		3		$	-			$	464,000			$	-			$	446,320
2015 Revolving Loan		3		$	-			$	86,000			$	-			$	62,880
LNT Contingent Earn Out		3		$	-			$	-			$	-			$	-
Legacy Payments		3		$	1,936			$	-			$	1,936			$	-

 

The carrying amounts of the Company’s cash, restricted cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short-term maturities.

 

The Company records its available-for-sale securities on the condensed consolidated balance sheets at fair value using Level 1 inputs. The fair value of the Company’s available-for-sale securities is based upon quoted market prices for identical assets in active markets.

 

During 2015, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement related to term loans with a $19.0 million notional value (the “2015 Swap Agreement”). The Company records its interest rate swap on the condensed consolidated balance sheets at fair value using Level 2 inputs. As of September 30, 2016, the fair value of the Company’s interest rate swap is immaterial.  The valuation technique used to determine the fair value of the interest rate swap approximates the net present value of future cash flows which is the estimated amount that a bank would receive or pay to terminate the swap agreement at the reporting date, taking into account current interest rates.

 

The objective of the swap agreement is to reduce the variability in cash flows for interest payments associated with the loan agreements, which are based on the 1-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) rates. The Company has formally documented the swap agreement as a cash flow hedge of the Company’s exposure to 1-month LIBOR. Because the critical terms of the swap agreement and the hedged items coincided at inception (e.g., notional amount, interest rate reset dates, interest rate payment dates, maturity/expiration date and underlying index), the hedge was expected to completely offset changes in expected cash flows due to fluctuations in the 1-month LIBOR rate over the term of the hedge. The effectiveness of the hedge relationship is periodically assessed during the life of the hedge by comparing the current terms of the swap agreement and the loan agreements to assure they continue to coincide and through an evaluation of the continued ability of the respective counterparties to honor their obligations under the 2015 Swap Agreement. When the key terms no longer match exactly, hedge effectiveness (both prospective and retrospective) is assessed by evaluating the cumulative dollar offset for the actual hedging instrument relative to a hypothetical derivative whose terms exactly match the terms of the hedged item. Because the notional amounts of the Company’s swap agreement no longer match the notional amounts of the loan agreements exactly, the Company assessed the ineffectiveness of the swap agreement and determined that differences were immaterial as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

 

The components of the swap agreement as of September 30, 2016, are as follows:

 

		Notional Value				Derivative Asset				Derivative Liability
		(in thousands)
Term Loans		$	19,000			$	-			$	11

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

For purposes of this fair value disclosure, the Company based its fair value estimate for the 2016 Term Loans, 2016 Revolving Loan, 2015 Term Loans and 2015 Revolving Loan (each, as defined in Note 7) on its internal valuation whereby the Company applied the discounted cash flow method to its expected cash flow payments due under the loan agreements based on market interest rate quotes as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 for debt with similar risk characteristics and maturities.

 

On the date of the acquisition, no value was assigned to the LNT Contingent Earn Out based on the remote probability that the Linens ‘N Things brand will achieve the performance measurements. As of each of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the LNT Contingent Earn Out has no value. The Company continues to evaluate these performance measurements at each reporting period and will update their fair values when achievement of the performance measurements becomes probable.

 

The Company determined the acquisition date fair value of Legacy Payments due to Ms. Martha Stewart was approximately $1.7 million and updated the MSLO purchase price during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.  The Company recorded approximately $0.1 and $0.2 million of accretion during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, related to the Legacy Payments and recorded the expense within interest expense, net in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

4.

Discontinued Operations of Wholesale Business

 

The Company did not record any additional costs relating to discontinued operations of its former wholesale business during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

 

A summary of the Company’s assets and liabilities from discontinued operations of its former wholesale business as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is as follows:

 

		September 30,				December 31,
		2016				2015
		(in thousands)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	83			$	113
Long-term liabilities		$	639			$	677

 

5.

Goodwill

 

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 are as follows:

 

		September 30,
		2016
		(in thousands)
Balance at January 1		$	314,288
Acquisition of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (see Note 11)			(11,249	)
Acquisition of Gaiam, Inc. Branded Consumer Business (see Note 11)			2,087
Ending balance		$	305,126

 

Goodwill from the acquisitions of With You LLC, Joe’s Jeans, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. and Gaiam Inc. represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired under the acquisition method of accounting.

 

Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level (operating segment or one level below an operating segment) on an annual basis and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. In evaluating goodwill for impairment, the Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Qualitative factors considered include, for example, macroeconomic and industry conditions, overall financial performance and other relevant entity-specific events. If the Company bypasses the qualitative assessment, or concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, it then performs a two-step goodwill impairment test to identify potential goodwill impairment and measure the amount of goodwill impairment to be recognized, if any.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

In the first step, the Company will compare the estimated fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value.  The Company has determined it has a single reporting unit, and considers its market capitalization (calculated as total common shares outstanding multiplied by the common equity price per share, as adjusted for a control premium factor) to represent its estimated fair value.  If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, no further analysis is needed. If, however, the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company will proceed to the second step and calculate the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill to determine whether any impairment is required. The implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill is calculated by allocating the estimated fair value of the reporting unit to all of the unit’s assets and liabilities as if the unit had been acquired in a business combination. If the carrying value of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in the amount of that excess. No events or circumstances indicate an impairment has been identified subsequent to the Company’s December 31, 2015 impairment testing.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company changed its annual impairment testing date from December 31 to October 1. The Company believes this new date is preferable because it allows for more timely completion of the annual impairment test prior to the end of its annual financial reporting period. This change in accounting principle does not delay, accelerate or avoid an impairment charge. The Company has determined that it will be impracticable to objectively determine projected cash flow and related valuation estimates that would have been used as of each October 1 of prior reporting periods without the use of hindsight. As such, the Company will apply the change in annual impairment testing date prospectively beginning October 1, 2016.

 

6.

Intangible Assets

 

Intangible assets are summarized as follows:

 

September 30, 2016		Useful Lives (Years)		Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization				Net Carrying Amount
				(in thousands)
Finite-lived intangible assets:
Trademarks		15		$	4,971			$	(1,475	)		$	3,496
Customer agreements		4			2,809				(1,559	)			1,250
Favorable lease		2			537				(498	)			39
Patents		10			665				(214	)			451
				$	8,982			$	(3,746	)			5,236
Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
Trademarks													1,028,506
Intangible assets, net												$	1,033,742

 

 

December 31, 2015		Useful Lives (Years)		Gross Carrying Amount				Accumulated Amortization				Net Carrying Amount
				(in thousands)
Finite-lived intangible assets:
Trademarks		15		$	4,905			$	(1,228	)		$	3,677
Customer agreements		4			2,817				(1,017	)			1,800
Favorable lease		2			537				(322	)			215
Patents		10			665				(164	)			501
				$	8,924			$	(2,731	)			6,193
Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
Trademarks													866,084
Intangible assets, net												$	872,277

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

Estimated future annual amortization expense for intangible assets in service as of September 30, 2016 is summarized as follows:

 

Years ending December 31,		(in thousands)
Remainder of 2016		$	314
2017			907
2018			775
2019			587
2020			398
Thereafter			2,255
		$	5,236

 

Amortization expense amounted to approximately $0.3 million for each of the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. Amortization expense amounted to approximately $1.0 million and approximately $0.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Finite-lived intangible assets represent trademarks, customer agreements and patents related to the Company’s brands and a favorable lease. Finite-lived assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but instead are subject to impairment evaluation. The carrying value of finite-lived intangible assets and other long-lived assets is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Historically, indefinite-lived intangible assets have been tested for impairment on an annual basis at December 31 and between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that indicate that the carrying amount of the indefinite-lived intangible asset may not be recoverable. When conducting its impairment assessment, the Company initially performs a qualitative evaluation of whether it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. If it is determined by a qualitative evaluation that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired, the Company then tests the asset for recoverability. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of the asset to its expected future undiscounted net cash flows. If the carrying amount of such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the recoverability of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. No events or circumstances indicate an impairment has been identified subsequent to the Company’s December 31, 2015 impairment testing.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company changed its annual impairment testing date from December 31 to October 1. The Company believes this new date is preferable because it allows for more timely completion of the annual impairment test prior to the end of its annual financial reporting period. This change in accounting principle does not delay, accelerate or avoid an impairment charge. The Company has determined that it will be impracticable to objectively determine projected cash flow and related valuation estimates that would have been used as of each October 1 of prior reporting periods without the use of hindsight. As such, the Company will apply the change in annual impairment testing date prospectively beginning October 1, 2016.

 

On February 24, 2015, the Company sold the People’s Liberation ® brand to a third party for (i) $0.7 million in cash and a note receivable and (ii) an earn-out of $1.0 million in cash (the “Earn-out”) in the event that total gross sales of products under the People’s Liberation ® brand equal or exceed $30.0 million during the 2015 calendar year (the “People’s Liberation Sale Price”).  As a result of the sale, the Company recorded a gain of $0.7 million because the People’s Liberation ® brand had no value on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheet. The gain is recorded in other income in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations during the nine months ended September 30, 2015.  The third party agreed to pay the Company one-fifth of the People’s Liberation Sale Price upon closing and one-fifth of the People’s Liberation Sale Price on the anniversary of the closing for the next four years.  The Company reported the short-term portion of the receivable in Prepaid expenses and other current assets and the long-term portion in Other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.  The Earn-out was not achieved during the year ended December 31, 2015, as total gross sales of products under the People’s Liberation ® brand did not equal or exceed $30.0 million.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

7.

Long-Term Debt

 

The components of long-term debt are as follows:

 

		September 30,				December 31,
		2016				2015
		(in thousands)
Secured Term Loans		$	587,500			$	464,000
Revolving Credit Facility			80,500				86,000
Unamortized deferred financing costs			(18,829	)			(7,935	)
Total long-term debt, net of unamortized deferred financing costs			649,171				542,065
Less: current portion of long-term debt			26,225				19,000
Long-term debt		$	622,946			$	523,065

 

July 2016 Debt Facilities

 

On July 1, 2016 (the “Closing Date”), the Company and certain of its subsidiaries entered into (i) the Third Amended and Restated First Lien Credit Agreement (the “Amended BoA Credit Agreement”) with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and collateral agent and the lenders party thereto and (ii) the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Amended GSO Credit Agreement”) with Wilmington Trust, National Association, as administrative agent and collateral agent (the “GSO Agent”) and the lenders party thereto. Such agreements amended, restated and replaced the debt facilities described below under “December 2015 Debt Facilities”, as described more fully below. The Company used a portion of the proceeds of the $287.5 million loans made to the Company under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement and the $415.0 million loans made to the Company under the Amended GSO Credit Agreement to fund the payment of the purchase price with respect to the acquisition of the Gaiam Brand Holdco, LLC and costs and expenses incurred in connection with such acquisition and related transactions.

 

The Amended BoA Credit Agreement provides for several five-year credit facilities, consisting of (i) Tranche A Term Loans in an aggregate principal amount of $133.0 million (the “Tranche A Loans”), (ii) Tranche A-1 Term Loans in an aggregate principal amount of $44.5 million (the “Tranche A-1 Loans” and, together with the Tranche A Loans, the “BoA Term Loans”) and (iii) revolving credit commitments in the aggregate principal amount of $110.0 million (the “Revolving Credit Facility” and, the loans under the Revolving Credit Facility, the “Revolving Loans”). On the Closing Date, the total amount outstanding under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement was $258.0 million, including (i) $133.0 million of Tranche A Loans, (ii) $44.5 million of Tranche A-1 Loans and (iii) $80.5 million of Revolving Loans.

 

The loans under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement bear interest, at the Company’s option, at a rate equal to (i) with respect to the Revolving Loans and the Tranche A Loans (a) the LIBOR rate plus 3.50% per annum or (b) the base rate plus 2.50% per annum and (ii) with respect to the Tranche A-1 Loans (a) the LIBOR rate plus 7.00% per annum or (b) the base rate plus 6.00% per annum. The undrawn portions of the commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility are subject to a commitment fee of 0.375% per annum. 

 

The Company may make voluntary prepayments of the loans outstanding under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement, subject to the payment of customary “breakage” costs with respect to LIBOR-based borrowings and, in certain cases, to the prepayment premium set forth in the Amended BoA Credit Agreement. Additionally, the Company is mandated to make prepayments (without payment of a premium or penalty) under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement amounting to: (i) the loans outstanding under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement plus, (a) where intellectual property is disposed, 50.0% of the disposed intellectual property’s orderly liquidation value, and (b) where any other assets constituting collateral are disposed or upon the receipt of certain insurance proceeds, 100% of the net proceeds thereof, subject to certain reinvestment rights; and (ii) the Tranche A-1 Loans to the extent that the outstanding principal amount thereof exceeds 10.0% of the orderly liquidation value of the registered trademarks owned by the BoA Facility Loan Parties. Commencing on September 30, 2016, the BoA Term Loans will be amortized in quarterly installments of $5.0 million.

 

The Amended BoA Credit Agreement contains customary representations and warranties and customary affirmative and negative covenants applicable to the BoA Facility Loan Parties and their subsidiaries. Moreover, the Amended BoA Credit Agreement contains financial covenants that require the BoA Facility Loan Parties and their subsidiaries to (i) maintain a positive net income, (ii) satisfy a maximum loan to value ratio set at 50.0% (applicable to the Revolving Loans and Tranche A Loans) and (iii) satisfy a maximum consolidated first lien leverage ratio, initially set at 2.80:1.00, decreasing over the term of the Amended BoA Credit Agreement until reaching the final maximum ratio of 2.50:1.00 for the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2018 and thereafter.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

The Amended BoA Credit Agreement contains certain customary events of default, including a change of control. If an event of default occurs and is not cured within any applicable grace period or not waived, the Bank of America Agent, at the request of the lenders under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement, must take various actions, including, without limitation, the acceleration of amounts due under the Amended BoA Credit Agreement.

 

The Company may request an increase in (i) the Revolving Credit Facility and Tranche A Loans as would not cause the consolidated first lien leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such increase, to exceed 2.33:1.00 and (ii) the Tranche A-1 Loans, as would not cause the consolidated first lien leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such increase, to exceed (a) with respect to any increase, the proceeds of which will be used solely to finance an acquisition, 2.50:100 and (b) with respect to any other increase, 2.40:1.00, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions in the Amended BoA Credit Agreement. At September 30, 2016, the Company is in compliance with the covenants included in the Amended BoA Credit Agreement.

 

The Amended GSO Credit Agreement provides for a six-year $415.0 million senior secured term loan facility. The Company may request one or more additional term loan facilities or the increase of term loan commitments under the Amended GSO Credit Agreement as would not cause the consolidated total leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such addition and increase, to exceed 6.00:1.00, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions in the Amended GSO Credit Agreement.

 

The loans under the Amended GSO Credit Agreement bear interest, at the Company’s option, at a rate equal to either (i) the LIBOR rate plus an applicable margin of 8.25% or 9.00% per annum or (ii) the base rate plus an applicable margin of 7.25% or 8.00% per annum, in each case based upon the consolidated total leverage ratio.

 

The Company may make voluntary prepayments of the loans outstanding under the Amended GSO Credit Agreement, subject to the payment of customary “breakage” costs with respect to LIBOR-based borrowings and, in certain cases, to the prepayment premium set forth in the Amended GSO Credit Agreement. The Company is mandated to make prepayments (without payment of a premium or penalty) of loans outstanding under the Amended GSO Credit Agreement amounting to: (i) where intellectual property is disposed, 50.0% of the disposed intellectual property’s orderly liquidation value, (ii) where any other asset constituting collateral is disposed or upon the receipt of certain insurance proceeds, 100% of the net proceeds thereof, subject to certain reinvestment rights, and (iii) any consolidated excess cash flow, in an amount equal to (a) in the event the consolidated total leverage ratio is at least 4.00:1.00, 75% thereof, (b) in the event the consolidated total leverage ratio is less than 4.00:1.00 but at least 3.00:1.00, 50% thereof and (c) in the event the consolidated total leverage ratio is less than 3.00:1.00, 0% thereof. Commencing on March 31, 2017, the Loans under the Amended GSO Credit Agreement will amortize in quarterly installments, equal to 2.00% per annum of the original aggregate principal amount thereof.

 

The Amended GSO Credit Agreement contains customary representations and warranties and customary affirmative and negative covenants applicable to the GSO Facility Loan Parties and their subsidiaries. Moreover, the Amended GSO Credit Agreement contains financial covenants that require the GSO Facility Loan Parties and their subsidiaries to satisfy (i) a maximum consolidated total leverage ratio, initially set at 7.25:1.00, decreasing over the term of the Amended GSO Credit Agreement until reaching the final maximum ratio of 6.50:1.00 for the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2018 and thereafter and (ii) a maximum consolidated first lien leverage ratio, initially set at 2.80:1.00, decreasing over the term of the Amended GSO Credit Agreement until reaching the final maximum ratio of 2.50:1.00 for the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2018 and thereafter. At September 30, 2016, the Company is in compliance with the covenants included in the Amended GSO Credit Agreement.

 

The Amended GSO Credit Agreement contains certain customary events of default, including a change of control. If an event of default occurs and is not cured within any applicable grace period or is not waived, the GSO Agent, at the request of the lenders under the Amended GSO Credit Agreement, is required to take various actions, including, without limitation, the acceleration of amounts due thereunder.

 

The Company may request one or more additional term loan facilities or the increase of term loan commitments under the GSO Credit Agreement as would not cause the consolidated total leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such addition and increase, to exceed 6.00:1.00, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions in the GSO Credit Agreement.

 

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company incurred legal and other fees associated with debt financing in connection with the acquisition of Gaiam, Inc. of approximately $13.0 million have been recorded as deferred financing costs and included in Long-term debt, net of current portion in the consolidated balance sheets. These legal and other fees are being amortized using the effective interest method over the term of the Amended BoA Credit Agreement and Amended GSO Credit Agreement. The Company expensed approximately $0.3 million of deferred financing costs as a result of a partial extinguishment of the BoA Credit Agreement (as defined below) in accordance with ASC 470 – Debt in connection with the Company’s entry into the Amended BoA Credit Agreement.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

December 2015 Debt Facilities

 

On December 4, 2015, in conjunction with the acquisition of MSLO, the Company, Old Sequential and certain other subsidiaries of the Company entered into an amendment to the Second Amended and Restated First Lien Credit Agreement (the “Amendment”), dated as of April 8, 2015 (as amended, restated, amended and restated, supplemented or otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, the “BoA Credit Agreement”), by and among, Old Sequential, the guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto (the “BoA Lenders”) and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and collateral agent (in such capacity, the “BoA Agent”).

 

The Amendment had an effective date of December 4, 2015, and amended certain provisions under the BoA Credit Agreement to, among other things, (i) permit the consummation of the Mergers, (ii) permit, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, the increase in the aggregate revolving commitments and term loans under the BoA Credit Agreement by such amounts as would not cause the consolidated first lien leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such increase, to exceed 2.00:1.00, (iii) permit the inclusion of not less than (a) $30.0 million of EBITDA representing EBITDA generation by MSLO, (b) $8.0 million of EBITDA representing EBITDA generation by Joe’s Holdings and (c) fees and expenses incurred and associated with the Mergers and the acquisition of Joe’s Holdings in certain provisions that relate to calculation of the consolidated first lien leverage ratio, (iv) permit the incurrence of indebtedness under the GSO Term Loan Agreement (defined below) and (v) designated the Company as the “borrower” under the BoA Credit Agreement. Additionally, the Amendment provided for an additional $8.0 million of Tranche A-1 Term Loans which were made, on December 4, 2015, to the Company by the BoA Lenders.

 

On December 4, 2015, the Company, Old Sequential and the BoA Agent entered into a Joinder and Assumption Agreement (the “Joinder and Assumption Agreement”), pursuant to which Old Sequential was discharged from its obligations, liabilities and rights as the “borrower” under the BoA Credit Agreement and the Company assumed all such obligations, liabilities and rights and was designated as the “borrower” under the BoA Credit Agreement for all purposes thereunder.

 

In addition, on December 4, 2015, the Company, Old Sequential and certain other subsidiaries of the Company entered into a new Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “GSO Term Loan Agreement”) with Wilmington Trust, National Association, as administrative agent and collateral agent (in such capacity, the “GSO Term Loan Agent”), and the lenders party to the existing Amended and Restated Second Lien Credit Agreement, dated as of April 8, 2015 (as amended, restated, amended and restated, supplemented or otherwise modified prior to the date hereof, the “Existing Second Lien Credit Agreement”), by and among, Old Sequential, the guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as administrative agent and collateral agent (in such capacity, the “Second Lien Agent”).

 

The GSO Term Loan Agreement provided for a six-year $368.0 million senior secured term loan facility (the “Facility”), which consisted of (i) $215.5 million of loans outstanding under the Existing Second Lien Credit Agreement and (ii) $152.5 million of new term loans which were made, on December 4, 2015, to the Company by the lenders party to the GSO Term Loan Agreement.

  

The GSO Term Loan Agreement, together with the Term Loan A and Term Loan A-1 tranches of the BoA Credit Agreement represented the 2015 Term Loans. The revolving credit line of the BoA Credit Agreement represented the 2015 Revolving Loan.

 

The Company used the proceeds of the new loans to fund the payment of the purchase price, costs and expenses incurred in connection with the Mergers and related transactions.

 

The Company had the option to request the addition of one or more additional term loan facilities or the increase of term loan commitments under the Facility by such amounts as would not cause the consolidated total leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such addition and increase, to exceed 6.00:1.00, which additions and increase are subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions set forth in the GSO Term Loan Agreement.

 

The loans under the Facility bore interest, at the Company’s option, at a rate equal to either (i) LIBOR rate plus an applicable margin ranging from 8.00% to 8.75% per annum or (ii) the base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from 7.00% to 7.75% per annum, in each case based upon the consolidated total leverage ratio and/or the consolidated net leverage ratio. Specifically, the applicable margin with respect to LIBOR loans under the GSO Term Loan Agreement were as set forth below:

  

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio		Consolidated Net Leverage Ratio		Applicable Margin – LIBOR Loans
> 6.00 : 1.00		≥ 5.75 : 1.00			8.75	%
≥ 4.75 : 1.00 ≤ 6.00 : 1.00		≥ 4.50 : 1.00 < 5.75 : 1.00			8.25	%
< 4.75 : 1.00		< 4.50 : 1.00			8.00	%

 

The Company’s obligations under the GSO Term Loan Agreement and any hedging or cash management obligations entered into by the Company or any of its current and future domestic restricted subsidiaries (the “Subsidiary Guarantors” and, together with the Company, the “Loan Parties”) with a lender under the GSO Term Loan Agreement, the New Agreement Agent or an affiliate of any such person were guaranteed by the Company and each Subsidiary Guarantor. The Company’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ obligations under the GSO Term Loan Agreement were secured by substantially all of their assets, subject to certain customary exceptions.

 

The Company was required to make mandatory prepayments of loans outstanding under the Facility (without payment of a premium or penalty) (i) in the case of any disposition of intellectual property, the then applicable LTV Percentage (as defined in the BoA Credit Agreement) of the orderly liquidation value thereof, (ii) in the case of any other disposition of any other assets, 100% of the net proceeds thereof, subject to certain reinvestment rights, and (iii) in the case of any Consolidated Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the GSO Term Loan Agreement), 50% thereof, which shall decrease to 0% if the consolidated total leverage ratio is less than 3.00:1.00. The loans under the Facility were not subject to amortization.

 

The Company could have made, in whole or in part, voluntarily prepayments of the loans outstanding under the Facility. Such voluntarily prepayments were subject to the payment of customary “breakage” costs with respect to LIBOR-based borrowings and in certain cases to the prepayment premium set forth in the GSO Term Loan Agreement.

 

The GSO Term Loan Agreement contained customary representations and warranties and customary affirmative and negative covenants applicable to the Loan Parties and their subsidiaries, including, without limitation, restrictions on liens, investments, indebtedness, fundamental changes, dispositions, restricted payments and prepayment of indebtedness. The GSO Term Loan Agreement contained financial covenants that required the Loan Parties and their subsidiaries to (i) not exceed a maximum consolidated total leverage ratio initially set at 7.25:1.00, which decreases periodically over the term of the GSO Term Loan Agreement until the final maximum ratio of 6.75:1.00 is reached for the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2019 and thereafter and (ii) not exceed a maximum consolidated first lien leverage ratio initially set at 2.47:1.00, which decreases periodically over the term of the GSO Term Loan Agreement until the final maximum ratio of 2.30:1.00 is reached for the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2019 and thereafter.

 

The GSO Term Loan Agreement contained customary events of default, including, without limitation, payment defaults, covenant defaults, breaches of certain representations and warranties, cross defaults to certain material indebtedness, certain events of bankruptcy and insolvency, certain events under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, material judgments and a change of control. If an event of default occurred and was not cured within any applicable grace period or was not waived, the New Agreement Agent, at the request of the lenders under the GSO Term Loan Agreement, was required to take various actions, including, without limitation, the acceleration of amounts due thereunder. The Company was in compliance with the covenants throughout the existence of the GSO Term Loan Agreement.

 

In connection with the BoA Credit Agreement and the GSO Term Loan Agreement, the BoA Agent and the New Agreement Agent had entered into an Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of December 4, 2015 (the “Intercreditor Agreement”), which was acknowledged by the Company and the guarantors party thereto. The Intercreditor Agreement established various inter-lender terms, including, without limitation, priority of liens, permitted actions by each party, application of proceeds, exercise of remedies in the case of a default, incurrence of additional indebtedness, releases of collateral and limitations on the amendment of the BoA Credit Agreement and the GSO Loan Agreement without the consent of the other party.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

8.

Commitments and Contingencies

 

MSLO Stockholder Complaint

 

In connection with the Mergers, the following 13 putative stockholder class action lawsuits have been filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware: (1) David Shaev Profit Sharing Plan f/b/o David Shaev v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on June 25, 2015; (2) Malka Raul v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on June 26, 2015; (3) Daniel Lisman v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on June 29, 2015; (4) Matthew Sciabacucchi v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 2, 2015; (5) Harold Litwin v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 5, 2015; (6) Richard Schiffrin v. Martha Stewart filed on July 7, 2015; (7) Cedric Terrell v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 8, 2015; (8) Dorothy Moore v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 8, 2015; (9) Paul Dranove v. Pierre De Villemejane. et. al. filed on July 8, 2015; (10) Phuc Nguyen v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 10, 2015; (11) Kenneth Steiner v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 16, 2015; (12) Karen Gordon v. Martha Stewart et. al. filed on July 27, 2015; and (13) Anne Seader v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. et. al. filed on July 28, 2015. All of the 13 class action lawsuits name the Old Sequential, MSLO, the MSLO board of directors, Madeline Merger Sub, Inc., Singer Merger Sub, Inc. and the Company as defendants and allege that (a) members of the MSLO board of directors breached their fiduciary duties and (b) Old Sequential, MSLO, Madeline Merger Sub, Inc., Singer Merger Sub Inc. and the Company aided and abetted such alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by the MSLO board of directors. On August 18, 2015, the Delaware Chancery Court issued an order consolidating these actions for all purposes under the caption In re Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc., et. al. to be the operative complaint in the consolidated action. On January 12, 2016, after the consummation of the Mergers, the plaintiffs filed a Verified Consolidated Amended Class Action Complaint, naming Ms. Martha Stewart, the Company, Old Sequential, Madeline Merger Sub, Inc. and Singer Merger Sub, Inc. and alleging that (a) Ms. Stewart breached her fiduciary duties to MSLO’s stockholders and (b) the Company, Old Sequential, Madeline Merger Sub, Inc. and Singer Merger Sub, Inc. aided and abetted Ms. Stewart’s breach of her fiduciary duties. The plaintiffs seek to recover unspecified damages allegedly sustained by the plaintiffs, restitution and disgorgement by Ms. Stewart, the recovery of plaintiff’s attorney’s fees and other relief. We believe that we have meritorious defenses to the claims made by the plaintiffs, and we are vigorously defending such claims. Litigation costs in this matter may be significant. The Company does not expect that the ultimate resolution of this matter will have a material effect on the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

General Legal Matters

 

From time to time, the Company is involved in legal matters arising in the ordinary course of business. While the Company believes that such matters are currently not material, there can be no assurance that matters arising in the ordinary course of business for which the Company is, or could be, involved in litigation, will not have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition or results of operations. Contingent liabilities arising from potential litigation are assessed by management based on the individual analysis of these proceedings and on the opinion of the Company’s lawyers and legal consultants.

 

9.

Stock-based Compensation

 

Stock Options

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016:

 

		Number of Options				Weighted- Average Exercise Price				Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)				Aggregate Intrinsic Value
		(in thousands, except share and per share data)
Outstanding - January 1, 2016			129,501			$	9.65				3.3			$	148
Granted			-				-
Exercised			-				-
Forfeited or Canceled			-				-
Outstanding - September 30, 2016			129,501			$	9.65				2.7			$	153
Exercisable - September 30, 2016			124,501			$	9.77				2.7			$	147

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

A summary of the changes in the Company’s unvested stock options is as follows:

 

		Number of Options				Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested - January 1, 2016			21,000			$	2.71
Granted			-				-
Vested			(16,000	)			(2.94	)
Forfeited or Canceled			-				-
Unvested - September 30, 2016			5,000			$	1.96

 

The Company did not grant any stock options during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company granted an aggregate of 10,000 stock options to employees for future services. These stock options are exercisable over a five-year term and vested on December 31, 2015. These stock options had a fair value of less than $0.1 million using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:

 

Risk-free interest rate			0.90	%
Expected dividend yield			0.00	%
Expected volatility			32.10	%
Expected life			3.00 years

 

The Company recorded less than $0.1 million during each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015 pertaining to these grants.

 

Total compensation expense related to stock options for each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was less than $0.1 million. Total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested stock options at September 30, 2016 amounted to less than $0.1 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 0.4 years.

 

Warrants

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s outstanding warrants for the nine months ended September 30, 2016:

 

		Number of Warrants				Weighted- Average Exercise Price				Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)				Aggregate Intrinsic Value
		(in thousands, except share and per share data)
Outstanding - January 1, 2016			801,760			$	7.87				4.1			$	1,377
Granted			-				-
Exercised			-				-
Forfeited or Canceled			-				-
Outstanding - September 30, 2016			801,760			$	7.87				3.3			$	1,420
Exercisable - September 30, 2016			726,760			$	7.31				2.8			$	1,420

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

A summary of the changes in the Company’s unvested warrants is as follows:

 

		Number of Warrants				Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested - January 1, 2016			150,000			$	6.32
Granted			-				-
Vested			(75,000	)			6.32
Forfeited or Canceled			-				-
Unvested - September 30, 2016			75,000			$	6.32

 

The Company did not issue any warrants during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company issued ten-year warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $13.32 to a non-employee. These warrants had a fair value of $1.3 million using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:

 

Risk-free interest rate			2.16	%
Expected dividend yield			0.00	%
Expected volatility			45.84	%
Expected life			7.25 years

 

The Company recorded approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, pertaining to this grant. The Company recorded approximately $0.2 million and $0.3 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, pertaining to this grant. The Company marks-to-market the expense for the warrants granted to the non-employee.

 

Total compensation expense related to warrants for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively. Total compensation expense related to warrants for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was approximately $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively.

 

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units

 

A summary of the time-based restricted stock and time-based restricted stock units activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 is as follows:

 

		Number of Shares				Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value				Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)				Aggregate Intrinsic Value
		(in thousands, except share and per share data)
Unvested - January 1, 2016			510,653			$	9.89				2.0			$	510
Granted			280,548				6.58
Vested			(187,985	)			7.29
Unvested - September 30, 2016			603,216			$	9.16				1.9			$	589

 

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company granted 175,000 shares of time-based restricted stock to an employee for future services. These shares of time-based restricted stock had a grant date fair value of approximately $1.2 million and vest over a period of three years. The Company recorded less than $0.1 million during each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compensation expense pertaining to this grant.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company accelerated the vesting of 32,500 shares of time-based restricted stock in connection with restructuring activities. The Company recorded approximately $0.2 million during each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compensation expense pertaining to these restructuring activities.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company granted (i) 35,000 shares of time-based restricted stock to an employee for future services and (ii) 70,548 shares of time-based restricted stock to members of the Company’s board of directors. These shares had a grant date fair value of approximately $0.7 million and vest over a period of one to three years. The Company recorded approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, as compensation expense pertaining to these grants.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company granted (i) 100,000 time-based restricted stock units to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to an amended and restated employment agreement, dated April 14, 2015 (the “A&R CEO Employment Agreement”), (ii) 15,000 shares of time-based restricted stock to an employee for future services, (iii) 24,452 shares of time-based restricted stock to members of the Company’s board of directors and (iv) 150,150 shares of time-based restricted stock to a non-employee pursuant to a partnership agreement. These shares had a grant date fair value of approximately $3.8 million and vest over a period of one to four years. The Company recorded approximately $0.2 million and $0.4 million during the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, as compensation expense pertaining to these grants. The Company recorded approximately $0.7 million and $0.6 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, as compensation expense pertaining to these grants. The Company marks-to-market the expense for the shares of time-based restricted stock granted to the non-employee.

 

Total compensation expense related to time-based restricted stock and time-based restricted stock unit grants for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was approximately $0.8 million and $0.9 million, respectively. Total compensation expense related to time-based restricted stock and time-based restricted stock unit grants for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was approximately $1.8 million and $2.2 million, respectively.

 

Performance Stock Units

 

A summary of the PSUs activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 is as follows:

 

		Number of Shares				Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value				Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)				Aggregate Intrinsic Value
		(in thousands, except share and per share data)
Unvested - January 1, 2016			1,308,500			$	10.98				1.4			$	96
Granted			30,000				7.23
Vested			(317,833	)			(9.58	)
Forfeited or Cancelled			(39,300	)			(5.74	)
Unvested - September 30, 2016			981,367			$	11.53				0.7			$	23

 

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company accelerated the vesting of 108,500 PSUs in connection with restructuring activities. Total compensation expense related to these PSUs of approximately $0.5 million was recorded as operating expenses in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company granted 30,000 PSUs to an employee upon the commencement of his employment with the Company. These PSUs had a grant date fair value of approximately $0.2 million, vest over a period of three years and require achievement of certain of the Company’s performance metrics within each fiscal year for such PSUs to be earned. The Company recorded less than $0.1 million during each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compensation expense in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations pertaining to these PSUs as the likelihood of certain PSUs being earned became probable.

 

On February 23, 2016, the Compensation Committee voted to approve, on a discretionary basis, an award of 69,994 PSUs to employees and consultants. Included in the above award were 20,000 PSUs and 12,000 PSUs for the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively. The fair value and expense recorded for such PSUs was based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date the modification of the performance metric was communicated to employees and consultants. Total compensation expense related to these PSUs of approximately $0.4 million was recorded as operating expenses in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company granted 200,000 PSUs to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer pursuant to the A&R CEO Employment Agreement. These PSUs had a grant date fair value of approximately $2.9 million, vest over a period of three and one-half years and require achievement of certain performance metrics within each fiscal year for such PSUs to be earned. The Company did not record compensation expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 pertaining to these PSUs as the likelihood of such PSUs being earned was not probable.

 

On February 24, 2015, the Compensation Committee voted to approve, on a discretionary basis, an award of 198,000 PSUs to employees and consultants under the 2013 Stock Incentive Compensation Plan. Included in the above award were 60,000 PSUs and 36,000 PSUs for the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively. The fair value and expense recorded for such PSUs was based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date the modification of the performance metric was communicated to employees. Total compensation expense related to these PSUs of approximately $2.0 million was recorded as operating expenses in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2015.

 

In addition, during the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Compensation Committee approved, on a discretionary basis, an award of 12,500 PSUs to an employee upon the commencement of his employment with the Company. The fair value and expense recorded for such PSUs was based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date the modification of the performance metric was communicated to the employee. Total compensation expense related to these PSUs in the approximate amount of $0.1 million was recorded as operating expenses in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2015.

 

Total compensation expense related to the PSUs for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was approximately $1.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively. Total compensation expense related to the PSUs for the nine months September 30, 2016 and 2015 was approximately $3.6 million and $3.1 million, respectively.

 

10.

Related Party Transactions

 

Consulting Services Agreement with Tengram Capital Partners, L.P. (f/k/a Tengram Capital Management L.P.)

 

Pursuant to an agreement with Tengram Capital Partners, L.P., formerly known as Tengram Capital Management, L.P. (“TCP”), an affiliate of Tengram Capital Partners Gen2 Fund, L.P., which is one of the Company’s largest stockholders, the Company has engaged TCP, effective as of January 1, 2013, to provide services to the Company pertaining to (i) mergers and acquisitions, (ii) debt and equity financing and (iii) such other related areas as the Company may reasonably request from time to time (the “TCP Agreement”). TCP is entitled to receive compensation of $1.0 million, including fees and reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses in connection with performing its services under the TCP Agreement. The TCP Agreement remains in effect for a period continuing through the earlier of five years or the date on which TCP and its affiliates cease to own in excess of 5% of the outstanding shares of common stock in the Company. On August 15, 2014, in connection with the Galaxy Merger Agreement, the Company and TCP entered into an amendment to the TCP Agreement (the “Amended TCP Agreement”), pursuant to which, among other things, TCP is entitled to receive annual fees of $0.9 million beginning with fiscal year 2014.

 

The Company paid TCP approximately $0.9 million during each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016. The Company paid TCP approximately $0.5 million and approximately $0.9 million for services under the Amended TCP Agreement during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, respectively. These amounts are included in operating expenses in the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no unpaid amounts owed to TCP for services.

 

Additionally, in July 2013, the Company entered into a consulting arrangement with an employee of TCP (the “TCP Employee”), pursuant to which the TCP Employee provides legal and other consulting services at the request of the Company from time to time. The TCP Employee was also issued 125,000 shares of restricted stock, vesting over a four-year period and 180,000 PSUs, vesting over three years in increments of 20% for 2014, 20% for 2015 and 60% for 2016. The Company paid the TCP Employee approximately $0.2 million and approximately $0.1 million for services under the consulting arrangement during the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The Company paid the TCP Employee approximately $0.3 million for services under the consulting arrangement during each of the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. These amounts are included in operating expenses in the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no unpaid amounts owed to TCP Employee for services.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

Transactions with E.S. Originals, Inc.

 

A division president of the Company maintains a passive ownership interest in one of the Company’s licensees, E.S. Originals, Inc. (“ESO”). The Company receives royalties from ESO under license agreements for certain of the Company’s brands in the footwear category. The Company recorded approximately $3.0 million and $3.4 million of revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, for royalties earned from ESO license agreements. The Company recorded approximately $11.2 million and $10.5 million of revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, for royalties earned from ESO license agreements. At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had approximately $4.8 million and $4.1 million included as accounts receivable from ESO in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, respectively.

 

Acquisition of FUL

 

On November 17, 2014, the Company made a strategic investment in FUL IP. FUL IP is a collaborative investment between the Company and JALP. FUL IP was formed for the purpose of licensing the FUL trademark to third parties in connection with the manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sale of FUL branded bags, backpacks, duffels, luggage and apparel accessories. JALP contributed the FUL trademark with a fair value of approximately $8.9 million. In exchange for a 50.5% economic interest in FUL IP the Company paid JALP $4.5 million. JALP’s minority member interest in FUL IP has been reflected as noncontrolling interest on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. One of the Company’s directors, Mr. Al Gossett, has a partial ownership interest in JALP. There was approximately $0.1 million and $0.4 million of noncontrolling interest recorded during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively. No noncontrolling interest was recorded during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015.

 

Investment in Available-for-Sale Securities

 

As further discussed in Note 2, in September 2015, the Company purchased available-for-sale securities of an unaffiliated third-party publicly traded company from Tengram Capital Partners, L.P., which is an affiliate of Tengram Capital Partners Gen2 Fund, L.P., one of the Company’s largest stockholders, for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $12.0 million (plus related transaction expenses), which was the purchase price paid by Tengram Capital Partners, L.P. upon the acquisition of such available-for-sale securities in open market transactions. The Company did not pay a fee or any compensation to Tengram Capital Partners, L.P. in connection with the Company’s investment in the available-for-sale securities.

 

Intangible Asset Agreement and IP License Agreement

 

In connection with the transactions contemplated by the Mergers, MSLO entered into an Amended and Restated Asset License Agreement (“Intangible Asset Agreement”) and Amended and Restated Intellectual Property License and Preservation Agreement (“IP License Agreement” and, together with the Intangible Asset Agreement, the “IP Agreements”) pursuant to which Ms. Martha Stewart licensed certain intellectual property to MSLO. The IP Agreements grant the Company the right to use of certain properties owned by Ms. Stewart.

 

The Intangible Asset Agreement has an initial term commencing at December 4, 2015 and ending on December 31, 2020, provided that the term will automatically be renewed for five additional calendar years ending December 31, 2025 (subject to earlier termination as provided in the employment agreement) if either the aggregate gross licensing revenues (as defined in the employment agreement) for calendar years 2018 through 2020 exceed $195 million or the gross licensing revenues for calendar year 2020 equal or exceed $65 million. During the term of the Intangible Asset Agreement with the Company, Lifestyle Research Center LLC will be entitled to receive a guaranteed annual payment of $1.7 million, which amounts are being paid in connection with the Mergers regardless of Ms. Stewart’s continued employment with the Company. The Company has paid Lifestyle Research Center LLC approximately $0.1 million in connection with related services during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

During the term of the IP License Agreement with the Company, Ms. Stewart will be entitled to receive a guaranteed annual payment of $1.3 million, which amounts are being paid in connection with the Mergers regardless of Ms. Stewart’s continued employment with the Company. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company expensed non-cash interest of approximately $0.2 million and $0.6 million, respectively, related to the accretion of the present value of these guaranteed contractual payments. In addition, during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company made payments of approximately $0.3 million and $1.0 million, respectively, to Ms. Stewart in connection with the terms of the IP Licenses Agreement. The IP License Agreement is perpetual.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

Registration Rights Agreement

 

On June 22, 2015, Martha Stewart, the Martha Stewart Family Limited Partnership, Alexis Stewart, the Martha Stewart 1999 Family Trust, the Martha Stewart 2000 Family Trust and the Martha and Alexis Stewart Charitable Foundation (collectively, the “Stewart Stockholders”) entered into an agreement (the “Registration Rights Agreement”) with the Company, which grants the Stewart Stockholders certain “demand” registration rights for up to two offerings of greater than $15 million each, certain “S-3” registration rights for up to three offerings of greater than $5 million each and “piggyback” registration rights with respect to the shares of the Company’s common stock held by the Stewart Stockholders (whether issued pursuant to the Merger Agreement or acquired thereafter) and their transferees. All reasonable expenses incident to such registrations generally are required to be borne by the Company. The Registration Rights Agreement became effective on December 4, 2015.

 

11.

Acquisitions

 

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.

 

On December 4, 2015, Old Sequential and MSLO, consummated the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. Effective on December 4, 2015 as of the effective time under the Merger Agreement (the “Effective Time”), Singer Merger Sub, Inc. and Madeline Merger Sub, Inc., each wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company, merged with and into Old Sequential and MSLO, respectively, with Old Sequential and MSLO surviving the mergers as wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company (the “Mergers”), in accordance with the Merger Agreement. The Mergers were approved by the stockholders of MSLO at a special meeting of the MSLO stockholders on December 2, 2015 and by a majority of Old Sequential’s stockholders on June 22, 2015. As a result of the Mergers, the Company became the ultimate parent of Old Sequential, MSLO and each of their respective subsidiaries.

 

Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, subject to each stockholder’s election and proration, allocation and certain limitations set forth in the Merger Agreement, each issued and outstanding share of MSLO’s Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and Class B Common stock, par value $0.01 per share (collectively, the “MSLO Common Stock”), was converted into the right to receive either $6.15 in cash (the “MSLO Cash Consideration”) or a number of fully-paid and nonassessable shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share, together with cash, in lieu of fractional shares of common stock, equal to the MSLO Cash Consideration divided by $8.8393. Each issued and outstanding share of Old Sequential’s common stock was converted into the right to receive one fully-paid and nonassessable share of the Company’s common stock (“the Sequential Merger Consideration”).

 

As the aggregate amount of cash to be paid to MSLO stockholders was fixed in the Merger Agreement at $176,681,757 and as the cash election was oversubscribed, cash elections were subject to proration to ensure that the total amount of cash paid to MSLO stockholders in the aggregate equals $176,681,757. As a result, MSLO stockholders received in the aggregate 19,980,787 shares of common stock and $176,681,757 in cash. In addition, the Company paid an additional $40,314 to cover fractional shares. In the aggregate, Old Sequential stockholders received 40,436,798 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

As part of the Merger Agreement, the Company also issued 33,939 shares of the Company’s common stock to MSLO’s former Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Daniel W. Dienst.

 

Shares of MSLO’s common stock were suspended from trading on the NYSE prior to the open of trading on December 4, 2015. Shares of Old Sequential’s common stock were suspended from trading on the Nasdaq prior to the open of trading on December 7, 2015 and shares of the Company’s common stock began trading on the Nasdaq at the open of trading on December 7, 2015 under the ticker symbol “SQBG.”

 

Beginning with calendar years commencing on or after January 1, 2026, the Company will pay Ms. Stewart three and one-half percent (3.5%) of Gross Licensing Revenues (as defined in Ms. Stewart’s employment agreement) for each such calendar year for the remainder of Ms. Stewart’s life (with a minimum of five (5) years of payments, to be made to Ms. Stewart’s estate if Ms. Stewart dies before December 31, 2030) (the “Legacy Payments”). The Legacy Payments shall be made regardless of the time or reason for Ms. Stewart’s termination of employment. The Company determined that the acquisition date fair value of Ms. Martha Stewart’s Legacy Payment (as defined in Note 3) was approximately $1.7 million and updated the preliminary purchase price.

 

As part of the Merger Agreement, the Company paid approximately $14.2 million to MSLO employees for outstanding stock options and restricted stock units each employee held to acquire shares of MSLO common stock.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

The Company made the following updates to the purchase price during the nine months ended September 30, 2016:

 

Allocated to:
Goodwill		$	1,749
Legacy payments			(1,749	)
		$	-

 

The Company also made the following measurement period reclassifications during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 in connection with completing the valuation of the MSLO acquisition:

 

Allocated to:
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	826
Property and equipment			1,717
Goodwill			(12,998	)
Trademarks			16,398
Customer agreements			(8	)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses			(40	)
Deferred tax liability			(5,895	)
		$	-

 

The Mergers were accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, the acquired assets were recorded at their estimated fair values, and operating results for the Martha Stewart ® brand are included in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements from the effective date of the Mergers, December 4, 2015.

 

The allocation of the purchase price is summarized as follows (in thousands):

 

Cash paid		$	176,722
Fair value of common stock issued (20,014,726 shares)			185,937
Total consideration		$	362,659
Allocated to:
Cash		$	39,095
Accounts receivable			17,524
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			1,524
Property and equipment			5,376
Other non-current assets			958
Goodwill			128,713
Trademarks			329,770
Customer agreements			632
Accounts payable and accrued expenses			(11,158	)
Guaranteed contractual payments			(12,826	)
Payments to seller			(3,250	)
Consideration paid to MSLO employees/directors for stock awards			(14,227	)
Legacy payments			(1,749	)
Long-term liabilities			(452	)
Other deferred revenue			(1,717	)
Deferred tax liability			(115,554	)
		$	362,659

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

Goodwill arising from the acquisition mainly consists of the synergies of an ongoing licensing and brand management business. Trademarks have been determined by management to have an indefinite useful life and, accordingly, no amortization is recorded in the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations. Goodwill and trademarks are tested for impairment on an annual basis or sooner, if an event occurs or circumstances change that indicate that the carrying amount of the goodwill or trademarks may not be recoverable. Customer agreements are amortized on a straight-line basis over their expected useful lives of four years.

 

Gaiam Brand Holdco, LLC

 

On July 1, 2016, the Company, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary, SBG-Gaiam Holdings LLC (formerly known as Stretch & Bend Holdings LLC), a Delaware limited liability company (“SBG-Gaiam” or the “Purchaser”) completed the acquisition pursuant to the terms of the Membership Interest Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with GAIAM, Inc., a Colorado corporation (“Seller”) pursuant to which Purchaser agreed to acquire the branded consumer business of Seller for a total purchase price of approximately $145.7 million in cash. As part of the transaction, SBG-Gaiam acquired Seller’s yoga, fitness and wellness product business, which include the GAIAM and SPRI brands. In tandem with the transaction, the Company signed long-term licensing agreements for the brands’ core categories, which became effective upon closing.

 

As part of the Purchase Agreement, the Company paid approximately $1.9 million to Seller for severance related charges to employees of GAIAM, Inc. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, the acquired assets were recorded at their estimated fair values, and operating results for the GAIAM and SPRI brands are included in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements from the effective date of the acquisition, July 1, 2016.

 

The allocation of the preliminary purchase price is summarized as follows (in thousands):

 

Total consideration paid		$	147,587
Allocated to:
Goodwill		$	2,087
Trademarks			145,700
Accrued expenses			(200	)
		$	147,587

 

The Company is currently evaluating the fair value of the acquired trademarks and equity method investment. The Company and Gaiam Brand Holdco, LLC elected to treat the acquisition as an asset acquisition under section 338(h)(10) of the United States Internal Revenue Service tax code. As such, the Company is not required to record a deferred tax liability in connection with the acquisition.

 

Goodwill arising from the acquisition mainly consists of the synergies of an ongoing licensing and brand management business. Trademarks have been determined by management to have an indefinite useful life and, accordingly, no amortization is recorded in the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations. Goodwill and trademarks are tested for impairment on an annual basis or sooner, if an event occurs or circumstances change that indicate that the carrying amount of the goodwill or trademarks may not be recoverable. The Company incurred legal and other costs related to the transaction of approximately $3.8 million, which have been recognized in operating expenses in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

Total revenues and income from continuing operations since the date of the acquisition of the GAIAM and SPRI brands, included in the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for each of the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, are approximately $6.0 million and $5.8 million, respectively.

 

Pro Forma Information

 

The following unaudited consolidated pro forma information gives effect to the transaction contemplated by the Gaiam, Inc. acquisition as if such transaction had occurred on January 1, 2015. The following pro forma information is presented for illustration purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of the results that would have been attained had the acquisition been completed on January 1, 2015, nor is it indicative of results that may occur in any future periods.

 

Pro forma information has not been provided for the Gaiam Inc. acquisition for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015 as the portion of Gaiam acquired was a component of a larger legal entity for which separate historical financial statements were not prepared.  Since stand-alone financial information prior to the acquisition was not readily available, compilation of such data is impracticable.

 

		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		September 30, 2016				September 30, 2016
		(in thousands, except share and per share data)
Revenues		$	42,584			$	110,746
Income (loss) from continuing operations		$	23,199			$	(16,867	)
Net loss attributable to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries		$	(1,232	)		$	(30,941	)
Loss per share:
Basic		$	(0.02	)		$	(0.50	)
Diluted		$	(0.02	)		$	(0.50	)
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic			62,176,700				61,817,742
Diluted			62,176,700				61,817,742

 

Galaxy Brand Holdings, Inc. Acquisition Hold Back Shares

 

On August 15, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of Galaxy Brand Holdings, Inc. As set forth in the acquisition agreement and included in the consideration, the Company held back ten percent of the acquisition shares as an indemnity for 18 months. The indemnity period ended on February 16, 2016 at which time the Company delivered all 1,375,000 shares to the Galaxy Brand Holdings, Inc. shareholders.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

12.

Restructuring

 

During the three months ended September 30, 2016, the Company recorded approximately $0.4 million of restructuring charges primarily in connection with headcount reductions. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company recorded approximately $3.2 million of restructuring charges in connection with headcount reductions and lease termination costs. The charges incurred during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 consisted of $1.7 million of severance and related benefits associated with headcount reductions, $0.8 million of professional fees, $0.3 million in contract termination fees and $0.4 of asset write-offs.

 

On a cumulative basis, the Company has recorded $11.9 million of restructuring charges in connection with the acquisition of MSLO, headcount reductions and contract termination costs. The associated employee headcount reductions in connection with the reduction in workforce since inception were 65 employees. All restructuring charges incurred are included in operating expenses in the unaudited condensed consolidated statement of operations.

 

The Company did not incur restructuring charges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015.

 

Restructuring accruals of approximately $1.6 million and approximately $6.9 million as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, are included in accounts payable and accrued expenses on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. These accruals include amounts provided for severance and related benefits, contract termination fees and professional fees. The Company has paid approximately $8.9 million in cash related to these initiatives as of September 30, 2016.

 

Changes in the restructuring accruals during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were as follows: 

 

		Severance & Related Benefits				Contract Termination Costs				Professional Fees				Total Accrual
		(in thousands)
Balance at January 1, 2016		$	4,644			$	1,628			$	579			$	6,851
Charges to expense			1,687				342				755				2,784
Amounts paid			(6,231	)			(445	)			(1,334	)			(8,010	)
Balance at September 30, 2016		$	100			$	1,525			$	-			$	1,625

 

The remaining severance and related benefits, contract termination costs and professional fees are expected to be paid by the end of fiscal 2016.

 

13.

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, “Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments” (“ASU 2016-15”). ASU 2016-15 amends the guidance in ASC 230 on the classification of certain cash receipts and payments in the statement of cash flows. The primary purpose of ASU 2016-15 is to reduce the diversity in practice that has resulted from the lack of consistent principles on this topic. The amendments in ASU 2016-15 add or clarify guidance on eight cash flow issues:

 

·

Debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs.

·

Settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing.

·

Contingent consideration payments made after a business combination.

·

Proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims.

·

Proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, including bank-owned life insurance policies.

·

Distributions received from equity method investees.

·

Beneficial interests in securitization transactions.

·

Separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle.

 

ASU 2016-15 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted for all entities. Entities must apply the guidance retrospectively to all periods presented but may apply it prospectively from the earliest date practicable if retrospective application would be impracticable. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-15 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-12, “Revenue from Customers with Contracts (Topic 606) Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients” (“ASU 2016-12”). ASU 2016-12 amends certain aspects of ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Customers with Contracts (Topic 606)”. The amendments which were issued in response to feedback received by the FASB-International Accounting Standards Board joint revenue recognition Transition Resource Group, include the following:

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

·

Collectibility – ASU 2016-12 clarifies the objective of the entity’s collectibility assessment and contains new guidance on when an entity would recognize as revenue consideration it receives if the entity concludes that collectibility is not probable.

·

Presentation of sales tax and other similar taxes collected from customers – Entities are permitted to present revenue net of sales taxes collected on behalf of governmental authorities (i.e., to exclude from the transaction price sales taxes that meet certain criteria).

·

Noncash consideration – An entity’s calculation of the transaction price for contracts containing noncash consideration would include the fair value of the noncash consideration to be received as of the contract inception date. Further, subsequent changes in the fair value of noncash consideration after contract inception would be subject to the variable consideration constraint only if the fair value varies for reasons other than its form.

·

Contract modifications and completed contracts at transition – The ASU establishes a practical expedient for contract modifications at transition and defines completed contracts as those for which all (or substantially all) revenue was recognized under the applicable revenue guidance before the new revenue standard was initially adopted.

·

Transition technical correction – Entities that elect to use the full retrospective transition method to adopt the new revenue standard would no longer be required to disclose the effect of the change in accounting principle on the period of adoption (as is currently required by ASC 250-10-50-1(b)(2)); however, entities would still be required to disclose the effects on preadoption periods that were retrospectively adjusted.

 

ASU 2016-12 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning on or after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted as of the original effective date, December 31, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-12 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-11, “Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting” (“ASU 2016-11”). ASU 2016-11 rescinds certain SEC guidance from the FASB ASC in response to announcements made by the SEC staff at the Emerging Issues Task Force’s March 3, 2016 meeting. Specifically, ASU 2016-11 supersedes SEC observer comments on the following topics:

 

·

Upon the adoption of ASU 2014-09:

o

Revenue and expense recognition for freight services in process (ASC 605-20-S99-2)

o

Accounting for shipping and handling fees and costs (ASC 605-45-S99-1)

o

Accounting for consideration given by a vendor to a customer (ASC 605-50-S99-1)

o

Accounting for gas-balancing arrangements (ASC 932-10-S99-5).

 

·

Upon the adoption of ASU 2014-16:

o

Determining the nature of a host contract related to a hybrid financial instrument issued in the form of a share under ASC 815 (ASC 815-10-S99-3)

 

ASU 2016-11 is effective upon the adoption of ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2014-16. The adoption of ASU 2016-11 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-10, “Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing” (“ASU 2016-10”). ASU 2016-10 amends certain aspects of the guidance in ASU 2014-09 on (1) identifying performance obligations and (2) licensing. The amendments include the following:

 

·

Identifying performance obligations:

o

Immaterial promised goods or services – Entities may disregard goods of services promised to a customer that are immaterial in the context of the contract.

o

Shipping and handling activities – Entities can elect to account for shipping or handling activities occurring after control has passed to the customer as a fulfillment cost rather than as a revenue element (i.e., a promised service in the contract).

o

Identifying when promises represent performance obligations – The new guidance refines the separation criteria for assessing whether promised goods and services are distinct, specifically the “separately identifiable” principle (the “distinct within the context of the contract” criterion) and supporting factors.

 

·

Licensing implementation guidance:

o

Determining the nature of an entity’s promise in granting a license – intellectual property (IP) is classified as either functional or symbolic, and such classification should generally dictate whether, for a license granted to that IP, revenue must be recognized at a point in time or over time, respectively.

 

 

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

o

Sales-based and usage based royalties – The sales-based and usage-based royalty exception applies whenever the royalty is predominantly related to a license of IP. The ASU therefore indicates that an “entity should not split a sales-based or usage-based royalty into a portion subject to the recognition guidance on sales-based and usage-based royalties and a portion that is not subject to that guidance”.

o

Restriction of time, geographical location, and use – The ASU’s examples illustrate the distinction between restrictions that represent attributes of a license and provisions that specify that additional licenses have been provided.

o

Renewals of licenses that provide a right to use IP – Revenue should not be recognized for renewals or extensions of licenses to use IP until the renewal period begins.

 

ASU 2016-10 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning on or after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted as of the original effective date, December 31, 2016. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, “Simplifying the Accounting for Share-Based Payments” (“ASU 2016-09”). ASU 2016-09 simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions for both public and nonpublic entities, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance, which is part of the Board’s simplification initiative, also contains two practical expedients under which nonpublic entities can use a simplified method to estimate the expected term of an award and make a one-time election to switch from fair value measurement to intrinsic value measurement for liability-classified awards. ASU 2016-09 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those annual reporting periods. The adoption of ASU 2016-09 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-07, “Simplifying the Equity Method of Accounting” (“ASU 2016-07”). ASU 2016-07 simplifies the equity method of accounting by eliminating the requirement to retrospectively apply the equity method to an investment that subsequently qualifies for such accounting as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence. Consequently, when an investment qualifies for the equity method (as a result of an increase in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence), the cost of acquiring the additional interest in the investee would be added to the current basis of the investor’s previously held interest and the equity method would be applied subsequently from the date on which the investor obtains the ability to exercise significant influence over the investee. ASU 2016-07 further requires that unrealized holding gains or losses in accumulated other comprehensive income related to an available-for-sale security that becomes eligible for the equity method be recognized in earnings as of the date on which the investment qualifies for the equity method. ASU 2016-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. Entities are required to apply the guidance prospectively to increases in the level of ownership interest or degree of influence occurring after the effective date of ASU 2016-07. Additional transition disclosures are not required upon adoption. The adoption of ASU 2016-07 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-05, “Effect of Derivative Contract Novations on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships” (“ASU 2016-05”). ASU 2016-05 clarifies that “a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as the hedging instrument in an existing hedging relationship would not, in and of itself, be considered a termination of the derivative instrument” or “a change in a critical term of the hedging relationship”. As long as all other hedge accounting criteria in ASC 815 are met, a hedging relationship in which the hedging derivative instrument is novated would not be discontinued or need to be redesignated. This clarification applies to both cash flow and fair value hedging relationships. ASU 2016-05 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. An entity would apply the guidance prospectively unless it elects modified retrospective transition. Early adoption is permitted, including in an interim period. The adoption of ASU 2016-05 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “Leases” (“ASU 2016-02”). The core principle of ASU 2016-02 is that an entity should recognize on its balance sheet assets and liabilities arising from a lease. In accordance with that principle, ASU 2016-02 requires that a lessee recognize a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying leased asset for the lease term. The recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease by a lessee will depend on the lease classification as a finance or operating lease. This new accounting guidance is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (i.e., calendar years beginning on January 1, 2019), including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

  

SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SEPTEMBER 30, 2016

(UNAUDITED)

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, “Amending Guidance on Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments” (“ASU 2016-01”). ASU 2016-01 amends the guidance in U.S. GAAP on the classification and measurement of financial instruments. Although ASU 2016-01 retains many current requirements, it significantly revises an entity’s accounting related to (1) the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and (2) the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. ASU 2016-01 also amends certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial instruments. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of ASU 2016-01 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-16, “Business Combinations – Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments” (“ASU 2015-16”). ASU 2015-16 requires the recognition of adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period, in the reporting period in which the adjustments are determined. The effects of the adjustments to provisional amounts on depreciation, amortization or other income effects should be recognized in current-period earning as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. Disclosure of the portion of the adjustment recorded in current-period earnings that would have been reported in prior reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized at the acquisition date is also required. ASU 2015-16 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within that reporting period. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2015-16 during the first quarter of 2016. The adoption of ASU 2015-16 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, “Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”), which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements. ASU 2015-03 requires an entity to present such costs on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability rather than as an asset. Amortization of the costs is reported as interest expense. The standard’s core principle is that debt issuance costs related to a note are reflected in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the face amount of that note and amortization of debt issuance costs is reported in interest expense. ASU 2015-03 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is allowed for all entities for financial statements that have not been previously issued. Entities would apply the new guidance retrospectively to all prior periods (i.e., the balance sheet for each period is adjusted). The Company adopted the provisions of ASU 2015-03 during the first quarter of 2016. The adoption of ASU 2015-03 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)” (“ASU 2014-09”), which contains a new comprehensive revenue recognition standard that will supersede all existing revenue recognition guidance. ASU No. 2014-09 requires that a company recognize revenue at the time it transfers promised goods or services to a customer and in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASU No. 2014-09 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning on or after December 15, 2017, and early adoption is permitted as of the original effective date, December 31, 2016. Companies have the option of using either a full retrospective approach or a modified approach to adopt in ASU No. 2014-09. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2014-09 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

 

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

 

This “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” or MD&A, should be read in conjunction with our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes and with the MD&A in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. The various sections of this MD&A contain a number of forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. See the cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements on page 3 of this Quarterly Report for a description of important factors that could cause actual results to differ from expected results.

 

Licensing and Brand Management Business

 

We own a portfolio of consumer brands in the fashion, home, athletic and lifestyle categories, including Martha Stewart, Jessica Simpson, AND1, Avia and Gaiam. We aim to maximize the value of our brands by promoting, marketing and licensing the brands through various distribution channels, including to retailers, wholesalers and distributors in the United States and in certain international territories. Our core strategy is to enhance and monetize the global reach of our existing brands, and to pursue additional strategic acquisitions to grow the scope of and diversify our portfolio of brands. We aim to acquire well-known consumer brands with high potential for growth and strong brand awareness. We additionally seek to diversify our portfolio by evaluating the strength of targeted brands and the expected viability and sustainability of future royalty streams. Upon the acquisition of a brand, we partner with leading wholesalers and retailers to drive incremental value and maximize brand equity. We focus on certain key initiatives in our licensing and brand management business. These initiatives include:

 

·

Maximizing the value of our existing brands by creating efficiencies, adding additional product categories, expanding distribution and retail presence and optimizing sales through innovative marketing that increases consumer brand awareness and loyalty;

·

Developing international expansion through additional licenses, partnerships and other arrangements with leading retailers and wholesalers outside the United States; and

·

Acquiring consumer brands (or the rights to such brands) with high consumer awareness, broad appeal, and applicability to a wide range of product categories.

 

Our business is designed to maximize the value of our brands through entry into license agreements with partners that are responsible for manufacturing and distributing our licensed products and, with the exception of our Martha Stewart brand, primarily responsible for the design of such licensed products. Our brands are licensed for a broad range of product categories, including apparel, footwear, eyewear, fashion accessories and home goods. We seek to select licensees who have demonstrated the ability to produce and sell quality products in their respective licensed categories and have the capability to meet or exceed the minimum sales thresholds and guaranteed minimum royalty payments that we generally require.

 

We license our brands to both wholesale and direct-to-retail licensees. In a wholesale license, a wholesale supplier is granted rights (typically on an exclusive basis) to a single or small group of related product categories for a particular brand for sale to multiple accounts within an approved channel of distribution and territory. In a direct-to-retail license, a single retailer is granted the right (typically on an exclusive basis) to sell branded products in a broad range of product categories through its brick and mortar stores and e-commerce sites. As of September 30, 2016, we had more than one-hundred fifty licensees, with wholesale licensees comprising a significant majority.

 

Our license agreements typically require a licensee to pay us royalties based upon net sales and, in most cases, contain guaranteed minimum royalties regardless of the net sales generated by the licensee. Our license agreements also typically require licensees to support the brands by either paying or spending contractually guaranteed minimum amounts for the marketing and advertising of the respective licensed brands. As of September 30, 2016, we had contractual rights to receive an aggregate of approximately $446.4 million in minimum royalty and marketing and advertising revenue from our licensees through the balance of the current terms of such licenses, excluding any renewals.

 

Items Affecting Comparability of Periods Presented

 

As described more fully in Item 1 to this report, we were formed on June 5, 2015 for the purpose of effecting certain transactions consummated on December 4, 2015, as a result of which Old Sequential and MSLO became our wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Mergers”). Old Sequential was the accounting acquirer in the Mergers; therefore, the historical consolidated financial statements for Old Sequential for periods prior to the Mergers are considered to be the historical financial statements of Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and thus, our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ending September 30, 2015 reflect Old Sequential’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for such period and our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and nine months ending September 30, 2016 reflect the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Sequential Brand Group, Inc.

 

 

Fiscal Year

 

Our fiscal year ends on December 31. Each quarter of each fiscal year ends on March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The preparation of our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) requires management to exercise its judgment. We exercise considerable judgment with respect to establishing sound accounting policies and in making estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of our assets and liabilities, our recognition of revenues and expenses, and our disclosure of commitments and contingencies at the date of the financial statements. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates and judgments. We base our estimates and judgments on a variety of factors, including our historical experience, knowledge of our business and industry and current and expected economic conditions, that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. We periodically re-evaluate our estimates and assumptions with respect to these judgments and modify our approach when circumstances indicate that modifications are necessary. While we believe that the factors we evaluate provide us with a meaningful basis for establishing and applying sound accounting policies, we cannot guarantee that the results will always be accurate. Since the determination of these estimates requires the exercise of judgment, actual results could differ from such estimates.

 

Please refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, filed with the SEC on March 14, 2016, for a discussion of our critical accounting policies. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, there were no material changes to these policies, except for the following:

 

Change in Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Testing Date

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, we changed our annual impairment testing date from December 31 to October 1. We believe this new date is preferable because it allows for more timely completion of the annual goodwill impairment test prior to the end of our annual financial reporting period. This change in accounting principle does not delay, accelerate or avoid an impairment charge. We believe that it will be impracticable to objectively determine projected cash flow and related valuation estimates that would have been used as of each October 1 of prior reporting periods without the use of hindsight. As such, we will apply the change in annual impairment testing date prospectively beginning October 1, 2016.

 

Restricted Cash

 

Restricted cash at September 30, 2016 consists of cash deposited with a financial institution required as collateral for the Company’s cash-collateralized letter of credit facilities.

 

Reclassification of Prior Year Presentation and Correction of Immaterial Error

 

On January 1, 2016, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-03 – “Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”), which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements. ASU 2015-03 requires an entity to present such costs on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability rather than as an asset. Amortization of the costs is reported as interest expense. The standard’s core principle is that debt issuance costs related to a note are reflected in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the face amount of that note and amortization of debt issuance costs is reported in interest expense.

 

As a result of the adoption of ASU 2015-03, we have reclassified certain balance sheet accounts for consistency with the current period presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on the reported results of operations. We reclassified approximately $7.9 million between Other assets and Long-term debt, net of current portion in our condensed consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2015.

 

Additionally, we have corrected an immaterial error in our condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. This correction is related to the payment of certain guaranteed obligations in connection with previous acquisitions and reflects an increase in cash provided by operating activities of approximately $1.3 million and a decrease in cash provided by financing activities of approximately $1.3 million. There is no impact to the condensed consolidated balance sheets, unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations or unaudited condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity. Any impacts on prior periods in future filings will be corrected prospectively.

 

 

Results of Operations

 

Comparison of the Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 to the Three Months Ended September 30, 2015

 

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, results of operations information from our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements:

 

		Three Months Ended September 30,								Change				Change
		2016				2015				(Dollars)				(Percentage)
		(in thousands, except percentages)
Net revenue		$	41,952			$	22,981			$	18,971				82.6	%
Operating expenses			20,180				9,960				10,220				102.6	%
Income from operations			21,772				13,021				8,751				67.2	%
Other income			150				-				150				100.0	%
Interest expense, net			14,742				6,210				8,532				137.4	%
Income before income taxes			7,180				6,811				369				5.4	%
Provision for income taxes			3,858				2,460				1,398				56.8	%
Net income			3,322				4,351				(1,029	)			(23.6	)%
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest			(2,022	)			(1,623	)			(399	)			24.6	%
Net income attributable to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries		$	1,300			$	2,728			$	(1,428	)			(52.3	)%

 

Net revenue. The increase in net revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2015 is primarily attributable to the acquisition of GAIAM in the third quarter of 2016, the acquisitions of the Martha Stewart and Emeril Lagasse brands which occurred during the fourth quarter of 2015 and, to a lesser extent, increased revenues from the balance of our portfolio. Net revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2016 consists primarily of licensing revenue earned from our license agreements relating to the Martha Stewart, Jessica Simpson, GAIAM, AND1, Avia, Joe’s Jeans and Ellen Tracy brands. Net revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2015 consists of licensing revenue earned primarily from our license agreements related to our Jessica Simpson, Avia, AND1 and Ellen Tracy brands.

 

Operating expenses. Operating expenses increased approximately $10.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016 to approximately $20.2 million compared to approximately $10.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2015. Excluding incremental costs related to the Mergers of $9.4 million, operating expenses increased approximately $0.8 million. This increase was primarily driven by increased compensation costs of approximately $0.9 million and restructuring charges of approximately $0.4 million. The operating expense increase was partially offset by lower acquisition related costs.

 

Other income. Other income during the three months ended September 30, 2016 consists of the Company’s reversal of previously estimated accruals.

 

Interest expense, net. The year-over-year increase in net interest expense of approximately $8.5 million is primarily due to an increase in interest incurred under our loan agreements. Interest expense during the three months ended September 30, 2016 includes interest incurred under our loan agreements and interest rate swaps of approximately $13.2 million, non-cash interest related to the amortization of deferred financing costs of approximately $1.0 million and the write-off of approximately $0.3 million of deferred financing costs as a result of an extinguishment of a portion of the BoA Credit Agreement in accordance with ASC 470 – Debt in connection with the Company’s entry into the Amended BoA Credit Agreement. Additionally, we expensed non-cash interest of approximately $0.3 million related to the accretion of the present value of guaranteed contractual payments assumed through certain of the Company’s acquisitions in 2015. Interest expense during the three months ended September 30, 2015 includes interest incurred under our loan agreements and interest rate swaps of approximately $5.8 million and non-cash interest related to the amortization of deferred financing costs of approximately $0.4 million.

 

Income taxes. The provision for income taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 represents the non-cash deferred tax expense created by the amortization of certain acquired trademarks for tax but not book purposes and taxes for state, local and foreign jurisdictions. The effective tax rate differs from the statutory tax rate primarily due to benefits from taxes attributable to noncontrolling interest and changes in valuation allowance.

 

Noncontrolling interest. The year-over-year increase in noncontrolling interest from continuing operations was primarily driven by our acquisition of the Jessica Simpson brand in 2015. Noncontrolling interest from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2016 represents net income allocations of approximately $1.8 million to With You, Inc., a member of With You LLC (the partnership between us and Jessica Simpson), approximately $0.1 million to Elan Polo International, Inc., a member of DVS LLC, and approximately $0.1 million to JALP, LLC, a member of FUL IP Holdings, LLC. Noncontrolling interest from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2015 represents net income allocations to With You LLC of approximately $1.5 million and Elan Polo International, Inc. of approximately $0.1 million.

 

 

Comparison of the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 to the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015

 

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, results of operations information from our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements:

 

		Nine Months Ended September 30,								Change				Change
		2016				2015				(Dollars)				(Percentage)
		(in thousands, except percentages)
Net revenue		$	110,114			$	56,833			$	53,281				93.8	%
Operating expenses			63,077				30,561				32,516				106.4	%
Income from operations			47,037				26,272				20,765				79.0	%
Other income			243				700				(457	)			(65.3	)%
Interest expense, net			36,031				17,162				18,869				109.9	%
Income before income taxes			11,249				9,810				1,439				14.7	%
Provision for income taxes			5,276				3,348				1,928				57.6	%
Net income			5,973				6,462				(489	)			(7.6	)%
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest			(5,814	)			(3,617	)			(2,197	)			60.7	%
Net income attributable to Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries		$	159			$	2,845			$	(2,686	)			(94.4	)%

 

Net revenue. The increase in net revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2015 is primarily attributable to the acquisition of GAIAM during the third quarter of 2016 and the acquisitions of the Martha Stewart, Jessica Simpson, Joe’s Jeans and Emeril Lagasse brands which occurred between the second and fourth quarters of 2015. Net revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 consists primarily of licensing revenue earned from our license agreements relating to the Martha Stewart, Jessica Simpson, Avia, AND1, GAIAM, Ellen Tracy and Joe’s Jeans brands. Net revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 consists of licensing revenue earned primarily from our license agreements related to our AND1, Avia, Jessica Simpson and Ellen Tracy brands.

 

Operating expenses. Operating expenses increased approximately $32.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 to approximately $63.1 million compared to approximately $30.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. Excluding incremental costs related to the Mergers of $27.1 million, operating expenses increased approximately $5.5 million. This increase was primarily driven by increased compensation costs of approximately $1.2 million and restructuring charges of approximately $3.2 million. The operating expense increase was partially offset by lower acquisition related costs.

 

Other income. Other income during the three months ended September 30, 2016 consists of the Company’s reversal of previously estimated accruals. Other income during the nine months ended September 30, 2015 consists of the Company’s gain on the sale of the People’s Liberation brand.

 

Interest expense, net. The year-over-year increase in net interest expense of approximately $18.9 million is primarily due to an increase in interest incurred under our loan agreements. Interest expense during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 includes interest incurred under our loan agreements and interest rate swaps of approximately $33.0 million, non-cash interest related to the amortization of deferred financing costs of approximately $1.8 million and the write-off of approximately $0.3 million of deferred financing costs as a result of an extinguishment a portion of the BoA Credit Agreement in accordance with ASC 470 – Debt in connection with the Company’s entry into the Amended BoA Credit Agreement. Additionally, we expensed non-cash interest of approximately $0.9 million related to the accretion of the present value of guaranteed contractual payments assumed through certain of the Company’s acquisitions in 2015. Interest expense during the nine months ended September 30, 2015 includes interest incurred under our loan agreements and interest rate swaps of approximately $14.0 million, non-cash interest related to the amortization of deferred financing costs of approximately $1.1 million and the write-off of approximately $2.1 million of deferred financing costs as a result of an extinguishment of debt in accordance with ASC 470 – Debt in connection with loan agreements entered into for the acquisition of With You LLC.

 

Income taxes. The provision for income taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 represents the non-cash deferred tax expense created by the amortization of certain acquired trademarks for tax but not book purposes and taxes for state, local and foreign jurisdictions. The effective tax rate differs from the statutory tax rate primarily due to benefits from taxes attributable to noncontrolling interest and changes in valuation allowance.

 

Noncontrolling interest. The year-over-year increase in noncontrolling interest from continuing operations was primarily driven by our acquisition of the Jessica Simpson brand. Noncontrolling interest from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 represents net income allocations of approximately $5.0 million to With You, Inc., a member of With You LLC (the partnership between us and Jessica Simpson), approximately $0.4 million to Elan Polo International, Inc., a member of DVS LLC, and approximately $0.4 million to JALP, LLC, a member of FUL IP Holdings, LLC. Noncontrolling interest from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 represents net income allocations to With You LLC of approximately $3.2 million and Elan Polo International, Inc. of approximately $0.4 million.

 

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As of September 30, 2016, we had cash on hand, including restricted cash, of approximately $21.4 million and a net working capital balance (defined below) of approximately $27.0 million. Additionally, we had outstanding debt obligations under our loan agreements of $668.0 million excluding $18.8 million of deferred financing fees. As of December 31, 2015, we had cash on hand of approximately $41.6 million and a net working capital balance of approximately $49.6 million. Additionally, we had outstanding debt obligations under our loan agreements of $550.0 million excluding $7.9 million of deferred financing fees. Net working capital is defined as current assets minus current liabilities, excluding restricted cash and discontinued operations. We believe that cash from continuing operations and our currently available cash (including available borrowings under our existing financing arrangements and available-for-sale securities) will be sufficient to satisfy our anticipated working capital requirements for the foreseeable future. Overall, we do not expect any negative effects to our funding sources that would have a material effect on our liquidity. We intend to continue financing future brand acquisitions through a combination of cash from operations, bank financing and the issuance of additional equity and/or debt securities. See Note 7 to our condensed consolidated financial statements for a description of certain financing transactions consummated by us. There are no material capital expenditure commitments as of September 30, 2016.

 

Cash Flows from Continuing Operations

 

Cash flows from continuing operations for operating, financing and investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are summarized in the following table:

 

		Nine Months Ended September 30,
		2016				2015
		(in thousands)
Operating activities		$	31,405			$	14,624
Investing activities			(151,067	)			(203,553	)
Financing activities			98,021				194,906
Net (decrease) increase in cash from continuing operations		$	(21,641	)		$	5,977

 

Operating Activities

 

Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations increased approximately $16.8 million to approximately $31.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared to approximately $14.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. The $16.8 million increase was primarily attributable to the receipt of an advance royalty payment in connection with our acquisition of Gaiam, Inc. offset by changes in prepaid expenses and other assets of approximately $(1.8) million on a year-over-year basis.

 

Investing Activities

 

Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations decreased approximately $52.5 million to approximately $151.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to $203.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. This decrease is driven primarily by $42.8 million of lower overall cash used for acquisitions. Additionally, during the nine months ended September 30, 2015, we purchased approximately $12.0 million of available-for-sale securities while there was no purchase during the nine months ended September 30, 2016. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, we purchased approximately $1.6 million of property and equipment compared to $0.9 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2015.

 

Financing Activities

 

Net cash provided by financing activities from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 amounted to approximately $98.0 million compared to approximately $194.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. The primary driver for the change was the receipt of approximately $132.0 million of loan proceeds to finance the acquisition of GAIAM, Inc. and pay approximately $13.0 million of related fees and expenses during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 compared to the receipt of approximately $205.7 million of proceeds under loan agreements used to finance the acquisition of Joe’s Jeans and With You LLC and pay approximately $4.9 million of related fees and expenses during the nine months ended September 30, 2015. In addition, during the nine months ended September 30, 2016, we made principal payments of approximately $14.0 million under our loan agreements in accordance with contractual terms and approximately $5.0 million of distributions to certain noncontrolling interest partners. During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, we made principal payments of approximately $11.7 million under our loan agreements in accordance with contractual terms and approximately $1.6 million of distributions to certain noncontrolling interest partners. During the nine months ended September 30, 2015, GSO Capital Partners LP purchased $10.0 million of the Company’s common stock.

 

 

Debt

 

As of September 30, 2016, we were party to a Third Amended and Restated First Lien Credit Agreement with Bank of America, N.A. as administrative and collateral agent and a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Wilmington Trust, National Association as administrative agent and collateral agent, referred to as our loan agreements. Refer to Note 7 to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for a discussion of our borrowings and the terms of these debt facilities. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, our long-term debt, including current portion, was $668.0 million and $550.0 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we had $9.0 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of availability under the current revolving credit facility, subject to meeting certain leverage ratios. We may request an increase in (i) the Revolving Credit Facility and Tranche A Loans as would not cause the consolidated first lien leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such increase, to exceed 2.33:1.00 and (ii) the Tranche A-1 Loans, as would not cause the consolidated first lien leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such increase, to exceed (a) with respect to any increase, the proceeds of which will be used solely to finance an acquisition, 2.50:100 and (b) with respect to any other increase, 2.40:1.00, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions in the Amended BoA Credit Agreement. We may request one or more additional term loan facilities or the increase of term loan commitments under the GSO Credit Agreement as would not cause the consolidated total leverage ratio, determined on a pro forma basis after giving effect to any such addition and increase, to exceed 6.00:1.00, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions in the GSO Credit Agreement. We made $14.0 million of principal repayments under our loan agreements during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

Future Capital Requirements

 

We believe cash on hand and cash from operations will be sufficient to meet our capital requirements for the twelve months following September 30, 2016. We intend to continue financing future brand acquisitions through a combination of cash from operations, bank financing and the issuance of additional equity or debt securities. The extent of our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including our results of operations and growth through the acquisition of additional brands, and we cannot be certain that we will be able to obtain additional financing in sufficient amounts or on acceptable terms in the near future, if at all.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we did not have any relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such entities often referred to as structured finance or special purpose entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes. As a result, we are not exposed to any financing, liquidity, market or credit risk that could arise if we had engaged in such relationships.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We limit exposure to foreign currency fluctuations by requiring payment under the majority of our licenses to be denominated in U.S. dollars. One of our license agreements is denominated in Canadian dollars. If there were an adverse change in the exchange rate from Canadian to U.S. dollars of 10%, the expected effect on net income would be immaterial.

 

Our earnings may also be affected by changes in LIBOR interest rates as a result of our loan agreements. As further discussed in Note 3 to our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, we have entered into an interest rate swap to mitigate the effects of a change in LIBOR interest rates. An increase in LIBOR interest rates of one percent affecting the loan agreements would not have had a material effect on our results of operations during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of September 30, 2016, the end of the period covered by this report. Based on, and as of the date of such evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2016 such that the information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted to the SEC under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

The post-acquisition integration of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. related activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 represents a material change in our internal control over financial reporting. We are in the process of evaluating the impact of the acquisition on our internal control over financial reporting as well as the necessary controls and procedures to be implemented.

 

Other than as discussed above, there have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

 

Litigation Related to the Mergers

 

In connection with the Mergers, the following 13 putative stockholder class action lawsuits have been filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware: (1) David Shaev Profit Sharing Plan f/b/o David Shaev v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on June 25, 2015; (2) Malka Raul v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on June 26, 2015; (3) Daniel Lisman v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on June 29, 2015; (4) Matthew Sciabacucchi v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 2, 2015; (5) Harold Litwin v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 5, 2015; (6) Richard Schiffrin v. Martha Stewart filed on July 7, 2015; (7) Cedric Terrell v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 8, 2015; (8) Dorothy Moore v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 8, 2015; (9) Paul Dranove v. Pierre De Villemejane. et. al. filed on July 8, 2015; (10) Phuc Nguyen v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 10, 2015; (11) Kenneth Steiner v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. et. al. filed on July 16, 2015; (12) Karen Gordon v. Martha Stewart et. al. filed on July 27, 2015; and (13) Anne Seader v. Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. et. al. filed on July 28, 2015. All of the 13 class action lawsuits name Old Sequential, MSLO, the MSLO board of directors, Madeline Merger Sub, Inc., Singer Merger Sub, Inc. and the Company as defendants and allege that (a) members of the MSLO board of directors breached their fiduciary duties and (b) Old Sequential, MSLO, Madeline Merger Sub, Inc., Singer Merger Sub, Inc. and the Company aided and abetted such alleged breaches of fiduciary duties by the MSLO board of directors. On August 18, 2015, the Delaware Chancery Court issued an order consolidating these actions for all purposes under the caption In re Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc., et. al. to be the operative complaint in the consolidated action. On January 12, 2016, after the consummation of the Mergers, the plaintiffs filed a Verified Consolidated Amended Class Action Complaint, naming Ms. Martha Stewart, the Company, Old Sequential, Madeline Merger Sub Inc. and Singer Merger Sub Inc. and alleging that (a) Ms. Stewart breached her fiduciary duties to MSLO’s stockholders and (b) the Company, Old Sequential, Madeline Merger Sub Inc. and Singer Merger Sub Inc. aided and abetted Ms. Stewart’s breach of her fiduciary duties. The plaintiffs seek to recover unspecified damages allegedly sustained by the plaintiffs, restitution and disgorgement by Ms. Stewart, the recovery of plaintiff’s attorney’s fees and other relief. We believe that we have meritorious defenses to the claims made by the plaintiffs, and we are vigorously defending such claims. Litigation costs in this matter may be significant. We do not expect that the ultimate resolution of this matter will have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

 

Other Matters

 

From time to time, we are involved in legal matters arising in the ordinary course of business. We record a liability for litigation when we believe that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If we determine that a loss is reasonably possible and the loss or range of loss can be estimated, we disclose the possible loss. Significant judgment is required to determine both likelihood of there being and the estimated amount of a loss related to such matters.

 

With respect to our outstanding legal matters, based on our current knowledge, we believe that the amount or range of reasonably possible loss will not, either individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. However, the outcome of such legal matters is inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties. Further, regardless of the outcome, litigation can have an adverse impact on us because of defense and settlement costs, diversion of management resources and other factors. See Note 8 to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for further discussion of legal proceedings to which we are party.

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

 

Cautionary Statements and Risk Factors

 

This Quarterly Report contains forward-looking statements, which are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in those forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, filed with the SEC on March 14, 2016. There have been no material changes to such risk factors during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

 

 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

During the three months ended September 30, 2016, there were no unregistered sales of equity securities.

 

During the three months ended September 30, 2016, we did not repurchase any shares of our common stock and we do not currently have in place a repurchase program with respect to our common stock.

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

 

The following exhibits are filed as part of this report:

 

Exhibit Number		Exhibit Title
10.1		Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2016, between Sequential Brands Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries of Sequential Brands Group, Inc. named therein, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and collateral agent and the lenders party thereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Sequential Brands Group, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 7, 2016.
10.2		Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2016, between Sequential Brands Group, Inc., certain subsidiaries of Sequential Brands Group, Inc. named therein, Wilmington Trust, National Association, as administrative agent and collateral agent and the lenders party thereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Sequential Brands Group, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 7, 2016.
10.3		Amendment No. 1, dated as of July 1, 2016, to the Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of December 4, 2015, between Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and collateral agent and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as administrative agent and collateral agent, and acknowledged by Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and the guarantors party thereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Sequential Brands Group, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 7, 2016.
10.4		Employment agreement, dated as of August 22, 2016, by and between Sequential Brands Group, Inc. and Andrew Cooper. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Sequential Brands Group, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 24, 2016.
31.1*		Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2*		Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1**		Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS*		XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE*		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

*Filed herewith.

 

**Furnished herewith.

 

 

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.

 

	SEQUENTIAL BRANDS GROUP, INC.
Date: November 9, 2016	/s/ Gary Klein
	By:   Gary Klein
	Title: Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)