Edgar Filing: DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP.

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 June 30, 2012

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

	For the transition period from to

001-33737

(Commission File Number)

DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Delaware	84-1374481
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
Or Organization)

1251 Avenue of the Americas

New York, New York 10020

(Address of principal executive offices)

Registrant’s telephone number: (212) 356-0500

RODMAN & RENSHAW CAPITAL GROUP, INC.

(Former Name, Former Address and Former Fiscal Year, if Changes Since Last Report)

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

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 o

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 (Check one):
Large Accelerated Filer o Accelerated Filer o Non-Accelerated Filer o Smaller Reporting Company x

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

As of August 10, 2012, there were 32,582,499 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements reflect the current view about future events and financial performance based on certain assumptions. They include opinions, forecasts, projections, assumptions, guidance, expectations, beliefs or other statements that are not statements of historical fact. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “may,” “can,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expects,” “hopes,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “projects,” “potential,” “intends,” “approximates” or the negative or other variation of such terms and other comparable expressions. Forward-looking statements in this report may include statements about:


	•	The successful development, implementation and adoption of our new DirectMarkets platform;

	•	future financial and operating results, including projections of revenues, income, expenditures, cash balances and our capital requirements and the need for additional financing;

	•	our ability to secure new client engagements;

	•	our ability to successfully consummate financing and merger and acquisition transactions on behalf of our clients;

	•	our ability to execute our growth, expansion and acquisition strategies;

	•	the outcome of various regulatory and legal proceedings in which we are currently involved;

	•	the performance of any of our financial products and their potential to generate revenues;

	•	development of new financial products;

	•	current and future economic and political conditions;

	•	overall industry and market performance and trends;

	•	competition;

	•	management’s goals and plans for future operations;

	•	the impact of increased regulatory scrutiny on future operations;

	•	the revenue and profit volatility stemming from our operations;

	•	the performance of service providers upon which our operations rely;

	•	the additional risks and uncertainties stemming from entry into new businesses;

	•	our ability to protect our intellectual property rights and secure the right to use other intellectual property that we deem to be essential to the conduct of our business;

	•	the impact of expanded corporate governance on the number of available business opportunities;

	•	the impact of legal liability on future operations;

	•	the impact of employee misconduct on future operations;

	•	the increased risk of financial liability and reputational harm resulting from adverse regulatory action;

	•	the impact of the Investment Company Act of 1940 on future operations; and

	•	other assumptions described in this prospectus underlying or relating to any forward-looking statements.

The forward-looking statements in this report are only predictions. Actual results could, and likely will, differ materially from these forward-looking statements for many reasons, including the risks described under “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report. No guarantee about future results, performance or achievements can be made. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS


		Page


Part I. Financial Information

Item 1.	Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)	1

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	24

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	34

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	35

Part II. Other Information

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	36

Item 1A.	Risk Factors	36

Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	37

Item 6.	Exhibits	37

	Signatures	38

DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements


		Page


Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of June 30, 2012 (unaudited) and December 31, 2011		2

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three month and six month periods ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)		3

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the six month period ended June 30, 2012 (unaudited) and for the year ended December 31, 2011		4

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six month periods ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (unaudited)		5

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)		6

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of June 30, 2012 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2011
Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts


	June 30, 2012			December 31, 2011


Assets
Cash and cash equivalents:
Unrestricted	$	4,972			5,789
Restricted		1,223			1,602

Total cash and cash equivalents		6,195			7,391
Financial instruments owned, at fair value:
Corporate equity securities		2,679			5,064
Merchant banking investments		4,645			9,559
Derivatives		3,824			4,767
Fixed income		326			1,093
Other investments		1,332			1,379

Total financial instruments owned, at fair value		12,806			21,862
Private placement and other fees receivable		1,077			1,766
Receivable from brokers, dealers & clearing agencies		2,176			1,828
Prepaid expenses		516			512
Property and equipment, net		2,347			3,027
Other assets		2,837			2,440
Other intangible assets, net		215			—

Total Assets	$	28,169			38,826


Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Accrued compensation payable	$	2,632			5,924
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		4,219			4,610
Financial instruments sold, not yet purchased, at fair value
Corporate equity securities		267			1,643
Derivatives		71			—

Total financial instruments sold, not yet purchased, at fair value		338			1,643
Long term convertible debt		5,910			5,997

Total Liabilities		13,099			18,174


Commitments and contingencies (See Note 7)

Stockholders’ Equity
Common stock, $0.001, par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 32,582,499 and 33,672,699 issued as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively		33			34
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 1,000,000 authorized; none issued		—			—
Additional paid-in capital		75,606			74,221
Treasury stock, no shares and 100,000 shares as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively		—			(46	)
Accumulated deficit		(60,569	)		(53,557	)

Total Stockholders’ Equity		15,070			20,652

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$	28,169			38,826

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

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the
Three Month and Six Month Periods Ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (Unaudited)
Amounts in Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts


	Three Months Ended June 30,						Six Months Ended June 30,

	2012			2011			2012			2011

Revenues:
Investment banking	$	2,349			14,707			25,825			42,178
Merchant banking		(77	)		(27	)		(5,114	)		539
Brokerage		6,558			6,449			13,068			7,615
Conference fees		—			—			—			446
Principal transactions		(2,537	)		(5,245	)		(2,333	)		(7,560	)
Interest and other income		428			14			719			25

Total revenues		6,721			15,898			32,165			43,243


Operating expenses:
Compensation and benefits		7,525			15,231			21,407			33,094
Conference expense		—			39			—			2,946
Professional and consulting		836			2,529			3,524			4,103
Occupancy and equipment rentals		816			1,068			1,639			1,841
Advertising and marketing		243			150			430			457
Communication and market research		1,750			1,980			3,633			2,894
Execution and clearing		833			1,140			1,843			1,218
Depreciation and amortization		406			397			809			794
Business development		628			1,384			1,634			2,683
Interest expense		320			—			434			—
Bad debt expense		197			10			197			48
Hudson acquisition related expense		—			794			—			1,212
Other		2,244			1,725			3,714			2,791

Total operating expenses		15,798			26,447			39,264			54,081


Operating loss		(9,077	)		(10,549	)		(7,099	)		(10,838	)
Income tax benefit		(87	)		(2,666	)		(87	)		(2,769	)

Net loss	$	(8,990	)		(7,883	)		(7,012	)		(8,069	)


Net loss per common share:
Basic	$	(0.25	)		(0.21	)		(0.19	)		(0.22	)

Diluted	$	(0.25	)		(0.21	)		(0.19	)		(0.22	)


Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic		36,460			37,637			36,440			36,427

Diluted		36,460			37,637			36,440			36,427

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

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the
Six Month Period Ended June 30, 2012 (Unaudited) and the Year Ended December 31, 2011
Dollars in Thousands


	Six Months Ended June 30, 2012			Year Ended December 31, 2011

Common stock:
Balance, beginning of the period	$	34			33
Acquisition related issuance		—			3
Treasury stock retirement		(1	)		(2	)

Balance, end of the period	$	33			34


Additional paid-in-capital:
Balance, beginning of the period	$	74,221			69,654
Stock based compensation		2,468			2,290
Treasury stock retirement		(858	)		(3,134	)
Acquisition related issuance		—			5,260
Other		(225	)		151

Balance, end of the period	$	75,606			74,221


Accumulated deficit:
Balance, beginning of the period	$	(53,557	)		(17,166	)
Net loss		(7,012	)		(36,391	)

Balance, end of the period	$	(60,569	)		(53,557	)


Treasury stock, at cost:
Balance, beginning of the period	$	(46	)		(260	)
Treasury stock purchases		(813	)		(2,923	)
Treasury stock retirement		859			3,137

Balance, end of the period	$	—			(46	)


Total stockholders’ equity	$	15,070			20,652

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

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the
Six month periods ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (Unaudited)
Dollars in Thousands


	Six Months Ended June 30,

	2012			2011

Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$	(7,012	)		(8,069	)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		1,101			794
Restricted cash		379			(620	)
Stock based compensation		2,468			1,724
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Financial instruments owned, at fair value		9,256			2,152
Private placement and other fees receivable		689			(994	)
Receivable from brokers, dealers & clearing agencies		(348	)		2,934
Prepaid expenses		(4	)		(288	)
Other assets		239			(2,691	)
Financial instruments sold not yet purchased, at fair value		(1,630	)		3,942
Accrued compensation payable		(3,292	)		(7,860	)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		(616	)		9,484

Net cash provided by operating activities		1,230			508


Cash flows used in investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment and capitalization of software development costs		(730	)		(519	)
Merchant banking investments		(200	)		(622	)
Acquisition		(250	)		(336	)

Net cash used in investing activities		(1,180	)		(1,477	)


Cash used in financing activities:
Extinquishment of convertible debt		(54	)		—
Purchase of treasury stock		(813	)		(1,681	)

Net cash used in financing activities		(867	)		(1,681	)


Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(817	)		(2,650	)
Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period		5,789			13,350

Cash and cash equivalents – end of period	$	4,972			10,700


Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Income taxes paid	$	69			321

Interest paid	$	446			253

Supplemental non-cash information:
Share issuance for acquisition of Hudson Holding Corporation	$	—			5,263

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

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

NOTE 1 - Organization, Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation

General

Direct Markets Holdings Corp. (“DMHC”) is a Delaware holding company which was organized on December 20, 2006. DMHC, through its various subsidiaries, is engaged in investment banking, sales and trading, merchant banking and the development of the first-ever 24/7 automated electronic transaction platform to link issuers with investors for primary offerings of securities by existing publicly-traded companies. DMHC’s principal operating subsidiaries are: (i) Rodman & Renshaw, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“R&R”); (ii) Rodman Principal Investments, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“RPI”); and (iii) Direct Markets, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“DirectMarkets”). R&R is a broker dealer registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (“FINRA”). RPI serves as the holding vehicle for all of DMHC’s principal-related businesses, including Aceras BioMedical LLC (“Aceras BioMedical”), a joint venture through which DMHC, in partnership with Aceras Partners, LLC (“Aceras Partners”), makes principal investments in early-stage biotechnology and life sciences companies. DirectMarkets is DMHC’s recently introduced automated state-of-the-art electronic transaction platform that will directly link existing public company issuers and investors seeking to transact primary offerings of securities by existing publicly-traded companies. DMHC and its subsidiaries are collectively referred to herein as “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us”.

On May 4, 2012, at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders, the stockholders approved the name change of the Company to Direct Markets Holdings Corp. On June 1, 2012, the name change was implemented.

The Company has experienced recurring losses from operations, and such losses may continue for the foreseeable future. As of August 9, 2012, the Company had approximately $6.8 million in liquid assets. If the Company cannot generate revenue in the near term, it will need to raise additional capital to continue to fund its operating activities. The Company is currently exploring several financing and strategic options; however, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to complete any such transaction in a timely manner, if at all, and cannot predict what the terms of any such transaction will be. Any financing or strategic transaction may be dilutive to existing stockholders and may include covenants restricting the Company’s ability to operate freely or make it more difficult for the Company to raise money in the future. If the Company’s capital raising and/or strategic initiative efforts are unsuccessful, its inability to finance ongoing operations could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations and business and the Company may have to curtail its operations. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

NOTE 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Interim Financial Statements

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information. In the opinion of management, the unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as the annual financial statements and reflect all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the Company’s financial position as of June 30, 2012, the results of operations for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, the changes in stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income (loss) for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and the year ended December 31, 2011 and cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011. The results for the six months ended June 30, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any subsequent quarter or the full fiscal year ending December 31, 2012.

Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements that are prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

These unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2011 as filed with the SEC.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Principles of Consolidation

The Company’s policy is to consolidate all entities in which it owns more than 50% of the outstanding voting stock and has control. In addition, the Company consolidates entities which lack characteristics of an operating entity or business for which it is the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the party who has the power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and who has an obligation to absorb losses of the entity or a right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity. In situations where the Company has significant influence but not control of an entity that does not qualify as a variable interest entity, the Company applies the equity method of accounting. In those cases where its investment is less than 20% and significant influence does not exist, the investments are carried at fair value. Significant influence generally is deemed to exist when the Company owns 20% to 50% of the voting equity of an entity or when it holds at least 3% of a limited partnership interest. If the Company does not consolidate an entity or applies the equity method of accounting, it accounts for the investment at fair value.

All material intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.

Financial Instruments at Fair Value

As defined in Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, fair value generally is based on quoted market prices. If quoted market prices are not available, fair value is determined based on other relevant factors, including dealer price quotations, price activity for equivalent instruments and valuation pricing models. Among the factors considered in determining the fair value of financial instruments are discount margins, weighted average spreads, discounted anticipated cash flows, the terms and liquidity of the instrument, the financial condition, operating results and credit ratings of the issuer or underlying company, the quoted market price of publicly traded securities with similar duration and yield, as well as other measurements. Certain financial instruments have bid and ask prices that can be observed in the marketplace. For financial instruments whose inputs are based on bid-ask prices, such financial instruments are adjusted to the point within the bid-ask range that meets the Company’s best estimate of fair value. For offsetting positions in the same financial instrument, the same price within the bid-ask spread is used to measure both the long and short positions.

The valuation process for financial instruments may include the use of valuation models and other techniques. Adjustments to valuations derived from valuation models may be made when, in management’s judgment, either features of the financial instrument such as its complexity, or the market in which the financial instrument is traded require that an adjustment be made to the value derived from the models. An adjustment may be made if a financial instrument is subject to sales restrictions that would result in a price less than the quoted market price. Adjustments from the price derived from a valuation model reflect management’s judgment that other participants in the market for the financial instrument being measured at fair value would also consider in valuing that same financial instrument and are adjusted for assumptions about risk uncertainties and market conditions. Results from valuation models and valuation techniques in one period may not be indicative of future period fair value measurements.

Financial instruments owned and financial instruments sold, not yet purchased are stated at fair value, with related changes in unrealized appreciation or depreciation reflected in principal transactions, net in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Equity interests in certain private equity securities and limited partnership interests are reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements at fair value, which is often represented at initial cost until significant transactions or developments indicate that a change in the carrying value of the securities is appropriate. This represents the Company’s best estimate of exit price. Generally, the carrying values of these securities will be increased or decreased based on company performance in those instances where market values are readily ascertainable by reference to substantial transactions occurring in the marketplace or quoted market prices.

Fair value is 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. In determining fair value, the Company uses various methods including market, income and cost approaches. Based on these approaches, the Company utilizes assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and or the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. These inputs can be readily observable, market corroborated, or generally unobservable firm inputs. The Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Based on the observability of the inputs used in the valuation techniques the Company is required to provide the following information according to the fair value hierarchy. The fair value hierarchy ranks the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values. Financial instrument assets and liabilities carried at fair value have been classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Level 1 includes those financial instruments whose valuations are based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these products does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

Level 2 includes those financial instruments that are valued using models or other valuation methodologies calibrated to observable market inputs. These models are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including discount margins, credit spreads, discounted anticipated cash flows, the terms and liquidity of the instrument, the financial condition, operating results and credit ratings of the issuer or underlying company, the quoted market price of publicly traded securities with similar duration and yield, time value, yield curve, default rates, as well as other measurements. In order to be classified as Level 2, substantially all of these assumptions would need to be observable in the marketplace or able to be derived from observable data or supported by observable levels at which transactions are executed in the marketplace.

Level 3 is comprised of financial instruments whose fair value is estimated based on internally developed models or methodologies utilizing significant inputs that are unobservable from objective sources. Included in this category are warrants, private securities, restricted securities and limited partnership interests.

Value of Underwriter and Placement Agent Warrants

As a part of the Company’s compensation for its activities as underwriter or placement agent, it may receive warrants exercisable to purchase securities similar to those that are offered and sold in the financing transaction. The Company values such warrants using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model (“Black-Scholes”). The model requires management to use five inputs: price, risk-free interest rate, exercise price, time remaining on the warrant and expected price volatility. When the Company initially receives a warrant in connection with, or prior to an initial public offering, it applies a portfolio wide volatility assumption based on the volatility of an index of comparable companies, since there is no price history for new publicly traded or private companies. As each warrant approaches its expiration date, its volatility factor is derived primarily from the implied volatility of traded options or warrants, when available, or the historical prices of its underlying common stock. Management cannot assure that it ultimately will be able to liquidate any of the warrants received in a way that will realize the value attributed to the warrants in the financial statements through the application of Black-Scholes.

The fair value of warrants is recorded in financial instruments owned as derivatives, at fair value on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. When a warrant is received, its fair value is included in investment banking revenue as of the close of the date on which it is earned. Subsequently, any change in fair value is recorded as principal transactions. When a warrant is exercised, the fair value is adjusted to reflect the value of the securities purchased, net of the exercise price, and the adjustment amount is recorded as income or loss for the relevant period. If a warrant expires unexercised, the fair value is adjusted to zero and the decrease is recorded as a loss in the relevant period.

Value of Merchant Banking Assets

Merchant banking revenue consists of gains and losses on investments by our Aceras BioMedical joint venture and other principal investments activity. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (BioMarin”), the purchaser of Huxley Pharmaceuticals from Aceras (Huxley”), recorded an impairment charge of $6.7 million related to certain assets acquired. These assets were IPR&D assets associated with U.S. marketing rights of a product candidate for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome that is in Phase 3 clinical trials in the U.S. BioMarin had previously disclosed that it was exploring strategic options for this product candidate in the U.S., including potential out licensing arrangements. In March 2012, BioMarin disclosed that it had determined to suspend these initiatives. Based on this triggering event and lower than expected reported European sales revenue, the Company revised the carrying value of the contingent payments related to the sale of Huxley and recognized a non-cash charge of $5.1 million in merchant banking revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2012. The value of Aceras BioMedical’s assets as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 was determined based on an independent valuation performed by a third party valuation firm, which took into consideration, where applicable, cash received, cost of the investment, market participant inputs, estimated cash flows based on entity specific criteria, purchase multiples paid in other comparable third-party transactions, market conditions, liquidity, operating results and other qualitative and quantitative factors. The values at which the Company’s investments are carried on its books are adjusted to estimated fair value at the end of each quarter taking into account, factors including, general economic and stock market conditions.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company generally invests its excess cash in money market funds. Most of the restricted cash relates to letters of credit issued in connection with the Company’s office lease agreement and cash held at financial institutions for capital purposes. Cash and cash equivalents include $37,000 on deposit in a Special Reserve Bank Account for the Exclusive Benefit of Customers pursuant to Rule 15c3-3 of the Exchange Act and relates to the Company’s soft dollar credit balances.

Revenue Recognition

Investment Banking. Underwriting and placement agent revenues and fees from mergers and acquisitions and other financial advisory assignments are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations when the services related to the underlying transaction are completed under the terms of the engagement. Expenses associated with such transactions are estimated and recorded when the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded. Underwriting and placement agent revenues are presented net of related expenses. When the Company is not the lead manager for an underwriting transaction, management must estimate the Company’s share of transaction-related expenses incurred by the lead manager in order to recognize revenue. Transaction-related expenses are deducted from the underwriting fee and therefore reduce the revenue the Company recognizes as co-manager. Such amounts are adjusted to reflect actual expenses in the period in which the Company receives the final settlement, typically within 90 days following the closing of the transaction.

In connection with some underwritten transactions, the Company may hold in inventory, for a period of time, securities positions to facilitate the completion of the underwritten transactions. Realized and unrealized net gains and losses on these positions are recorded in investment banking revenues.

When the Company receives warrants as a component of its compensation for investment banking services, revenue is recognized based on the fair value of those instruments. Revenue from the receipt of warrants is recognized, as of the close of the date on which it is earned, based on the estimated fair value of the securities received using Black-Scholes, which takes into account the exercise price, remaining life of the warrant, the current price and expected price volatility of the underlying stock, expected dividends on the stock and the risk-free interest rate for the remaining term of the warrant. The following provides details of the Company’s investment banking revenue for the three month and six month periods ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands of dollars):


	Three Months Ended June 30,				Six Months Ended June 30,

	2012		2011		2012		2011


Private placements	$	1,017		6,611		13,528		17,248
Warrants		372		3,540		1,345		7,886
Equity		—		—		628		—
Strategic advisory		525		1,713		8,270		3,505
Underwriting		435		2,843		2,054		13,539

Total investment banking revenue	$	2,349		14,707		25,825		42,178

Table of Contents

DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Merchant Banking Revenue. Merchant banking revenue consists of gains and losses on investments by the Company’s Aceras BioMedical joint venture and other principal investments activity. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, BioMarin, the purchaser of Huxley from Aceras, recorded an impairment charge of $6.7 million related to certain assets acquired. These assets were IPR&D assets associated with U.S. marketing rights of a product candidate for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome that is in Phase 3 clinical trials in the U.S. BioMarin had previously disclosed that it was exploring strategic options for this product candidate in the U.S., including potential out licensing arrangements. In March 2012, BioMarin disclosed that it had determined to suspend these initiatives. Based on this triggering event and lower than expected reported European sales revenue, the Company revised the carrying value of the contingent payments related to the sale of Huxley and recognized a non-cash charge of $5.1 million in merchant banking revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2012. The value of Aceras BioMedical’s assets as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 was determined based on an independent valuation performed by a third party valuation firm, which took into consideration, where applicable, cash received, cost of the investment, market participant inputs, estimated cash flows based on entity specific criteria, purchase multiples paid in other comparable third-party transactions, market conditions, liquidity, operating results and other qualitative and quantitative factors. The values at which the Company’s investments are carried on its books are adjusted to estimated fair value at the end of each quarter taking into account, factors including, general economic and stock market conditions.

Principal Transactions. Investment related financial instruments owned and financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased (all of which are recorded on a trade-date basis) are carried at fair value with gains and losses reflected in principal transactions on a trade-date basis.

Brokerage. Brokerage revenues consist of (a) commissions resulting from securities transactions executed as agent or principal and recorded on a trade date basis, net of soft dollar expenses of $0.5 million and $1.0 million for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively, and (b) related net trading gains and losses from market making activities.

The Company permits institutional customers to allocate a portion of their gross commissions to pay for third party research products and other services (commonly referred to as soft dollar arrangements). The Company accounts for the cost of these arrangements on an accrual basis and since the Company is not the primary obligor, expenses relating to soft dollars arrangements are netted against brokerage revenues.

Conference Fees. The Company may receive conference deposits from presenters, which are recorded as a liability and then recognized as revenue when the fees are non-refundable. The Company also makes advance payments for conference facilities, entertainment and related costs, which are recorded as prepaid expenses and then recognized as expenses when the conference is conducted.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets (generally three to ten years). Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the term of related leases or the estimated useful lives of the assets, whichever is shorter.

Software Development Costs

The Company capitalizes software development costs related to its DirectMarkets business in accordance with FASB ASC Subtopic 985-20 (Costs of Software to be Sold, Leased, or Marketed). Software development costs are capitalized after technological feasibility is established. The DirectMarkets software products are not yet available to clients and potential clients as of June 30, 2012; as such the Company has not commenced amortizing such costs over the related product’s estimated economic useful life. Net capitalized software development costs (included in other assets) totaled $1.7 million at June 30, 2012.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill is not amortized; instead, it is reviewed for impairment at least annually and written down when impaired. Goodwill is impaired when the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of the reporting unit.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Intangible assets consist of customer relationships. Customer relationships acquired in business combinations under the purchase method of accounting are recorded at fair value net of accumulated amortization since the acquisition date. Customer relationships are recorded at cost net of accumulated amortization. Intangible assets are amortized over their useful lives using a method of amortization that reflects the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible assets are consumed or otherwise used. Amortization is calculated using the straight line method over the estimated useful lives, generally three years.

The Company reviews its finite-lived intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of finite-lived intangible asset may not be recoverable pursuant to the provisions of ASC 350, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other. Recoverability of a finite-lived intangible asset is measured by a comparison of its carrying amount to the undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the asset is considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset, which is determined based on discounted cash flows.

Earnings Per Share (“EPS”)

Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income applicable to common stock by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding, which includes restricted stock and restricted stock units (“RSUs”) for which service has been provided. Diluted EPS includes the components of basic EPS and also includes the dilutive effects of restricted stock and RSUs for which service has not yet been provided, employee stock options and warrants. Additionally, diluted EPS includes an addback of the convertible debt interest expense and the convertible debt share equivalents to the numerator and denominator, respectively.

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

Management evaluates the realizability of its deferred tax assets quarterly. In determining the possible future realization of deferred tax assets, the future taxable income from the following sources is taken into account: (a) the reversal of taxable temporary differences; (b) future operations exclusive of reversing temporary differences; and (c) tax planning strategies that, if necessary, would be implemented to accelerate taxable income into years in which net operating losses might otherwise expire.

ASC Subtopic 740-10 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return, and provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. Management does not believe that the Company has any material uncertain tax position requiring recognition or measurement in accordance with the provisions of ASC Subtopic 740-10.

The Company’s policy is to classify penalties and interest associated with uncertain tax positions, if required, as a component of its income tax provision. As a result of having no material unrecognized tax benefits on uncertain tax positions, the Company has no material amounts for associated interest and penalties recorded on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition or the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Legal Reserves

The Company recognizes a liability for a contingency when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and when the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. When a range of probable loss can be estimated, the Company accrues the most likely amount of such loss, and if such amount is not determinable, then the Company accrues the minimum of the range of probable loss.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Reserves related to legal proceedings are established and maintained. The determination of these reserve amounts requires significant judgment on the part of management. The Company’s management considers many factors including, but not limited to: the amount of the claim; the basis and validity of the claim; previous results in similar cases; and legal precedents and case law. Each legal proceeding is reviewed with counsel in each accounting period and the reserve is adjusted as deemed appropriate by management. As of June 30, 2012, there were no material legal reserves accrued in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements is in conformity with GAAP, which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Concentrations of Credit Risk

R&R is engaged in trading and provides a broad range of securities brokerage and investment services to institutional clients as well as private placement services to business entities. Counterparties to the R&R’s business activities include broker-dealers, clearing organizations, banks, investment banking clients, and other financial institutions.

R&R uses clearing brokers to process transactions and maintain client accounts on a fee basis. R&R permits the clearing firms to extend credit to a client secured by cash and securities in the client’s account. R&R’s exposure to credit risk associated with the non-performance by its clients and counterparties in fulfilling their contractual obligations can be directly impacted by volatile or illiquid trading markets, which may impair the ability of clients and counterparties to satisfy their obligations to R&R. R&R has agreed to indemnify its clearing brokers for losses incurred while extending credit to R&R’s clients. R&R’s policy is to review, as necessary, the credit standing of its clients and counterparties. Amounts due from clients that are considered uncollectible are charged back to R&R by the clearing brokers when such amounts become determinable.

Financial instruments sold but not yet purchased commit R&R to deliver specified securities at predetermined prices. The transactions may result in market risk since, to satisfy the obligation, R&R must acquire the financial instruments at market prices, which may exceed the values reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

Forgivable Loans

The Company issues forgivable loans as a retention vehicle to certain new and existing employees. These loans are subject to a substantive service requirement by the employees and are amortized over the service period on a straight-line basis. As of June 30, 2012, the net unamortized balance of forgivable loans was $0.2 million, which is included in other assets on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. The Company recorded $0.1 million and $0.4 million of compensation expense related to the amortization of these loans during the three months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The Company recorded $0.2 million and $0.9 million of compensation expense related to the amortization of these loans during the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company measures its compensation cost for all stock-based awards at fair value on the date of grant, taking into account any post vesting selling restrictions, and recognizes the compensation expense over the requisite service period pursuant to the provisions of ASC Topic 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation. Expenses associated with such grants are generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, net of estimated forfeitures.

Stock based compensation for performance-based stock awards is recognized on a graded vesting basis over the requisite service period, net of estimated forfeitures, if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved.

Deferred stock based compensation costs with respect to shares of restricted stock and restricted stock units and stock options granted are presented as part of additional paid in capital in the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

NOTE 3 – Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued accounting updates to ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements Topic — Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs, which provide clarifying guidance on how to measure fair value and additional disclosure requirements. The amendments prohibit the use of blockage factors at all levels of the fair value hierarchy and provide guidance on measuring financial instruments that are managed on a net portfolio basis. Additional disclosure requirements include transfers between Levels 1 and 2; and for Level 3 fair value measurements, a description of our valuation processes and additional information about unobservable inputs impacting Level 3 measurements. The updates are effective March 1, 2012 and will be applied prospectively. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In June 2011, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2011-05, Comprehensive Income (ASC Topic 220) on presenting comprehensive income with the intention of increasing its prominence in financial statements by eliminating the option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in stockholder’s equity. The standard requires comprehensive income to be reported in either a single statement that presents the components of net income, the components of other comprehensive income, and total comprehensive income, or in two consecutive statements. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows or the presentation of those financial statements as the Company had no “other comprehensive income” in 2012.

In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU, Testing Goodwill for Impairment (“ASU 2011-08”) to ASC Topic 350, Intangibles — Goodwill and Other. The update outlines amendments to the two step goodwill impairment test permitting an entity to first assess qualitative factors in determining whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. The update is effective for annual and interim goodwill tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to affect our financial condition, results of operation or cash flows.

NOTE 4 - Financial Instruments, at Fair Value

The following is a summary of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are accounted for at fair value as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 by level within the fair value hierarchy (in thousands of dollars):


	June 30, 2012

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total

Assets:
Financial instruments owned:
Corporate equity securities	$	2,665		—		14		2,679
Merchant banking investments		—		—		4,645		4,645
Derivatives		27		—		3,797		3,824
Fixed income		—		326		—		326
Other investments		—		—		1,332		1,332

Total financial instruments owned	$	2,692		326		9,788		12,806


Liabilities:
Corporate equity securities	$	267		—		—		267
Derivatives		5		—		66		71

Total financial instruments sold, not yet purchased	$	272		—		66		338

Table of Contents

DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)


	December 31, 2011

	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total

Assets:
Financial instruments owned:
Corporate equity securities	$	4,928		—		136		5,064
Merchant banking investments		—		—		9,559		9,559
Derivatives		20		—		4,747		4,767
Fixed income		—		1,093		—		1,093
Other investments		—		—		1,379		1,379

Total financial instruments owned	$	4,948		1,093		15,821		21,862


Liabilities:
Financial instruments sold, not yet purchased	$	1,643		—		—		1,643

Total financial instruments sold, not yet purchased	$	1,643		—		—		1,643

Financial instruments are assessed on a quarterly basis to determine the appropriate classification within the fair value hierarchy, as defined by ASC 820. Transfers between fair value classifications occur when there are changes in pricing observability levels. Transfers of financial instruments among the levels occur at the end of the reporting period. There were no significant transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 classified instruments during 2012.

The following is a description of the valuation basis, including valuation techniques and inputs, used in measuring the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that are accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis:

Corporate Equity Securities.

Exchange Traded Equity Securities: Exchange-traded equity securities, including over-the-counter securities, are measured based on quoted exchange prices, which are generally obtained from pricing services, and are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

Non-exchange Traded Equity Securities: Non-exchange traded equity securities, excluding over-the-counter securities, are categorized as Level 3 financial instruments and measured using valuation techniques involving quoted prices of, or market data for, comparable companies, similar company ratios and multiples (e.g., price/EBITDA, price/book value), discounted cash flow analyses and transaction prices observed for subsequent financing or capital issuance by the company. When using pricing data of comparable companies, judgment must be applied to adjust the pricing data to account for differences between the measured security and the comparable security (e.g., issuer market capitalization, yield, dividend rate, geographical concentration).

Table of Contents

DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Merchant Banking Investments.

The value of the Company’s investment in Aceras BioMedical’s assets is categorized as Level 3 financial instruments. During the three months ended March 31, 2012, BioMarin, the purchaser of Huxley from Aceras, recorded an impairment charge of $6.7 million related to certain assets acquired. These assets were IPR&D assets associated with U.S. marketing rights of a product candidate for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome that is in Phase 3 clinical trials in the U.S. BioMarin had previously disclosed that it was exploring strategic options for this product candidate in the U.S., including potential out licensing arrangements. In March 2012, BioMarin disclosed that it had determined to suspend these initiatives. Based on this triggering event and lower than expected reported European sales revenue, the Company revised the carrying value of the contingent payments related to the sale of Huxley and recognized a non-cash charge of $5.1 million in merchant banking revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2012. The value of Aceras BioMedical’s assets as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 was determined based on an independent valuation performed by a third party valuation firm, which took into consideration, where applicable, cash received, cost of the investment, market participant inputs, estimated cash flows based on entity specific criteria, purchase multiples paid in other comparable third-party transactions, market conditions, liquidity, operating results and other qualitative and quantitative factors. The values at which the Company’s investments are carried on its books are adjusted to estimated fair value at the end of each quarter taking into account, factors including, general economic and stock market conditions.

Derivatives.

Warrants

As a part of the Company’s compensation for its activities as underwriter or placement agent, it may receive warrants exercisable to purchase securities similar to those that are offered and sold in the financing transaction. Additionally, the Class B warrants which were issued in conjunction with the Company’s 10% Senior Secured Convertible Debentures are accounted for as a separate liability component because the number of shares underlying the warrants are not fixed and determinable.

The Company values warrants using Black-Scholes. The model requires management to use five inputs: price, risk-free interest rate, exercise price, time remaining on the warrant and price volatility. These warrants are categorized as Level 3 financial instruments.

Stock Options

Exchange-traded stock options are measured based on quoted exchange prices, which are generally obtained from pricing services, and are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

Fixed Income.

Fixed income consists of municipal securities which are categorized as Level 2 and measured based on quoted prices obtained from external data providers.

Other Investments.

Other investments consist of investments in shell companies and equity limited partnerships which are categorized as Level 3 financial instruments. The shell companies are valued at cost, which for this type of instrument approximates fair value and the equity limited partnerships are valued based on net asset values.

Table of Contents

DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Level 3 Financial Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of changes in fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities that have been classified as Level 3 for the three months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands of dollars):


	Three Months Ended June 30, 2012

	Corporate Equity Securities			Merchant Banking			Derivatives			Other Investments		Total

Securities owned:
Balance, March 31, 2012	$	16			4,722			5,885			1,327		11,950
Purchases / issuances		—			—			250			—		250
Sales / settlements		—			—			—			—		—
Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) (1)		(2	)		(77	)		(2,338	)		5		(2,412	)

Balance, June 30, 2012	$	14			4,645			3,797			1,332		9,788

Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held at June 30, 2012	$	(2	)		(77	)		(2,338	)		5		(2,412	)


Securities sold, not yet purchased:
Balance, March 31, 2012	$	—			—			532			—		532
Sales / settlements		—			—			—			—		—
Realized and unrealized (gains)/losses (1)		—			—			(466	)		—		(466	)

Balance, June 30, 2012	$	—			—			66			—		66

Change in unrealized gains relating to instruments still held at June 30, 2012	$	—			—			(466	)		—		(466	)



(1) Reported in principal transactions in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.


	Three Months Ended June 30, 2011

	Corporate Equity Securities			Merchant Banking			Derivatives			Notes			Other Investments			Total

Securities owned:
Balance, March 31, 2011	$	2,711			10,866			11,613			2,531			2,072			29,793
Purchases / issuances		368			9			3,540			—			1			3,918
Sales / settlements		—			(951	)		(916	)		—			—			(1,867	)
Transfer to Level 1		(314	)		—			—			(1,932	)		—			(2,246	)
Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) (1)		(1,462	)		(36	)		(2,808	)		(588	)		(215	)		(5,109	)

Balance, June 30, 2011	$	1,303			9,888			11,429			11			1,858			24,489

Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held at June 30, 2011	$	(149	)		(36	)		(2,808	)		(588	)		(215	)		(3,796	)



(1) Reported in principal transactions in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)


	Six Months Ended June 30, 2012

	Corporate Equity Securities			Merchant Banking			Derivatives			Other Investments			Total

Securities owned:
Balance, December 31, 2011	$	136			9,559			4,747			1,379			15,821
Purchases / issuances		—			200			1,223			—			1,423
Sales / settlements		—			—			(476	)		(60	)		(536	)
Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) (1)		(122	)		(5,114	)		(1,697	)		13			(6,920	)

Balance, June 30, 2012	$	14			4,645			3,797			1,332			9,788

Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held at June 30, 2012	$	(122	)		(5,114	)		(1,697	)		13			(6,920	)


Securities sold, not yet purchased:
Balance, December 31, 2011	$	—			—			—			—			—
Sales / settlements		—			—			297			—			297
Realized and unrealized (gains)/losses (1)		—			—			(231	)		—			(231	)

Balance, June 30, 2012	$	—			—			66			—			66

Change in unrealized gains relating to instruments still held at June 30, 2012	$	—			—			(231	)		—			(231	)



(1) Reported in principal transactions in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.


	Three Months Ended June 30, 2011

	Corporate Equity Securities			Merchant Banking			Derivatives			Notes			Other Investments			Total

Securities owned:
Balance, December 31, 2010	$	1,797			10,557			15,570			2,197			2,159			32,280
Purchases / issuances		1,156			9			7,886			—			1			9,052
Sales / settlements		—			(951	)		(6,142	)		—			—			(7,093	)
Transfer to Level 1		(314	)		—			—			(1,932	)		—			(2,246	)
Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) (1)		(1,336	)		273			(5,885	)		(254	)		(302	)		(7,504	)

Balance, June 30, 2011	$	1,303			9,888			11,429			11			1,858			24,489

Change in unrealized gains/(losses) relating to instruments still held at June 30, 2011	$	(23	)		273			(6,580	)		(252	)		(302	)		(6,884	)



(1) Reported in principal transactions in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

NOTE 5 – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

In February 2012, the Company acquired certain assets of The Investor Relations Group, Inc. (“IRG”) an investor and public relations firm. The Company paid approximately $0.25 million which was allocated to customer list intangible asset and the purchase agreement provided for approximately $0.75 million in estimated contingent payments upon achievement of certain performance criteria, which was initially reflected in the accounts payable and accrued expenses line item in the consolidated statement of financial condition with the offset reflected as goodwill.

In the second quarter of 2012, the Company determined to dispose of the certain assets of The Investor Relations Group, Inc. (“IRG”) it acquired in February 2012. This resulted in a $0.75 million write-down of goodwill.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

The following table represents a summary of the changes to intangible assets from December 31, 2011 to June 30, 2012 (in thousands of dollars):


	Goodwill			Customer Relationships			Total

Balance, December 31, 2011	$	—			—			—
Additions		750			250			1,000
Writedown		(750	)		—			(750	)
Amortization		—			(35	)		(35	)

Balance, June 30, 2012	$	—			215			215

NOTE 6 – Long-Term Convertible Debt

Long-term convertible debt is accounted for on an amortized cost basis. The following is a summary of the carrying value (including unamortized discounts) of the Company’s long-term debt as of June 30, 2012 (in thousands of dollars):


	June 30, 2012

10.0% Senior Secured Convertible Debentures, due 2013, net of discount (effective interest rate of 11.8%)	$	5,910

Long-term convertible debt	$	5,910

On October 31, 2011, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with the accredited investors named therein (the “Purchasers”). Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, the Company sold, and the Purchasers purchased, jointly and not severally, $6,650,000 original principal amount of the Company’s 10% Senior Secured Convertible Debentures due October 31, 2013 (the “Debentures”) with a net share settlement feature, and warrants (the “Warrants”) to purchase shares of the Company’s Common Stock (the “Offering”). The Debentures are convertible into up to 4,433,333 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Common Stock”) at any time prior to maturity, based on a conversion price of $1.50 per share. A net share settlement feature of the Debentures could reduce the number of shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion. The Warrants include Class A Warrants covering up to 2,216,667 shares of Common Stock, which are exercisable commencing six months following the date of issuance and until their expiration on October 31, 2014, at $1.50 per share, and Class B Warrants covering up to 2,216,667 shares of Common Stock, which are exercisable only in the event of a prepayment of the Debentures and then only to the extent of up to 50% of the number of shares of Common Stock that would have been issued had the prepaid portion of the Debentures been converted into shares of Common Stock. The Class B Warrants expire on October 31, 2013 and have an exercise price of $1.50 per share. The sale and issuance of the securities was in reliance upon an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, set forth in Section 4(2) thereof and/or Regulation D thereunder.

Since the settlement structure of the debt permits settlement in cash upon conversion, the Company is required to separately account for the liability and equity components of the convertible debt in a manner that reflects our nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. This entails bifurcation of a component of the debt, classification of that component in equity and then accretion of the resulting discount on the debt being reflected in the Statement of Operations as part of interest expense.

The Class B warrants were accounted for as a separate liability component because the number of shares underlying the warrants was not fixed and determinable. As of June 30, 2012, the value of the Series B Warrants was $0.1 million. The unrealized change in value of the Series B Warrants was recorded as a component of principal transactions revenue.

The Class A warrants which amounted to $0.4 million and were accounted for as a separate equity component and the Class B warrants which originally amounted to $0.3 million; both represent part of the original discount on the debt.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

NOTE 7 - Commitments and Contingencies

Lease Commitments

The Company leases its headquarters and other office locations under non-cancelable lease agreements which expire between 2011 and 2014. The Company lease for the 20th floor at 1251 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY (the “NY Lease”) expires in October 2013. As of September 30, 2011, the only significant change in the Company’s lease agreements since December 31, 2010 is the assumption of Hudson Holding Corporation’s (“Hudson’s”) Jersey City, New Jersey office lease which expires in August, 2012. The New Jersey office was for the most part abandoned in August 2011.

Letter of Credit

In connection with the NY Lease, the Company issued a letter of credit in favor of the landlord in the sum of $0.8 million, as a security deposit. The letter of credit expires in February 2013 but is subject to automatic extension. The Company has issued additional letters of credit totaling $0.4 million in favor of other landlords for other office locations.

Equity Commitment

The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Rodman Principal Investments, LLC (“RPI”), has made an investment commitment to Aceras BioMedical to fund its operating budget and Aceras BioMedical’s principal investments in life science companies. At June 30, 2012, $10.0 million of this commitment remained unfunded.

NOTE 8 - Net Capital Requirements

R&R is subject to various regulatory requirements, including the SEC’s Uniform Net Capital Rule (SEC Rule 15c3-1). These regulations place limitations on certain transactions, such as repaying subordinated borrowings, paying cash dividends, and making loans to a parent, affiliates or employees. Broker-dealers are prohibited from such transactions which would result in a reduction of its total net capital to less than 120% of its required minimum net capital. Moreover, broker-dealers are required to notify the SEC before entering into any such transactions, which if executed, would result in a reduction of 30% or more of its excess net capital (net capital less the minimum requirement). The SEC has the ability to prohibit or restrict such transactions if the result is detrimental to the financial integrity of the broker-dealer.

The Company has elected to use the alternative method of computing regulatory net capital pursuant to Rule 15c3-1. At June 30, 2012, R&R had net capital of $2.2 million, which was $1.2 million in excess of its required net capital of $1.0 million.

NOTE 9 - Income Taxes

Management evaluated the realizability of its deferred tax assets as of June 30, 2012. Due to the uncertainty in the current operating environment and the resulting impact on the realizability of deferred tax assets the Company continued to record a full valuation allowance on such assets at June 30, 2012.

The Company does not anticipate any significant change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months.

During 2011, the United States Internal Revenue Service completed its examination of the Company’s U.S. Federal income tax return for the year 2009 with no changes to the tax return as filed. The Company is not currently under examination by the United States Internal Revenue Service or any other state, local, or foreign taxing jurisdictions.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states, local and foreign jurisdictions. The Company’s income tax returns filed for tax years 2008, 2009 and 2010 are subject to examination by the U.S. federal, state and foreign taxing jurisdictions.

NOTE 10 - Stock-Based Compensation

The Company recorded stock-based compensation of $1.9 million and $0.9 million for the three month periods ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively and $2.5 million and $1.7 million for the six month periods ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The unamortized deferred stock-based compensation balance as of June 30, 2012 was $4.1 million and will be fully amortized through 2017.

There were no stock option grants in the six months of 2012. A summary of stock options outstanding as of June 30, 2012 is as follows (shares in thousands):


	Number of Options			Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life		Aggregate Intrinsic Value

Outstanding at December 31, 2011		2,190		$	4.33	$	1.11
Expired unexercised		(1,704	)		4.45		1.18

Outstanding at June 30, 2012		486		$	3.92	$	0.88		3.8 year	$	—

Exercisable at June 30, 2012		486		$	3.92	$	0.88		3.8 year	$	—

There was no compensation cost associated with stock options for both the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011.

The following tables detail the activity of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) (shares in thousands):


	Shares					Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

	Future Service Required			No Future Service Required (1)		Future Service Required		No Future Service Required

Balance at December 31, 2011		5,396			3,018	$	1.34	$	1.14
Granted		3,810			—		0.64		—
Forfeited		(1,028	)		—		1.34		—
Vested		(1,792	)		1,792		1.18		1.18

Balance at June 30, 2012		6,386			4,810	$	0.96	$	1.16



(1)	Represents fully vested RSUs which are still subject to transferability restrictions.

Approximately 3.8 million RSUs were granted, mostly to DirectMarkets related employees, during the six months ended June 30, 2012. Total compensation cost associated with RSUs was $1.9 million and $0.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively and $2.5 million and $1.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

NOTE 11 – Earnings per Share

In conjunction with the acquisition of Hudson, outstanding warrants to purchase Hudson common stock were converted into 310,817 warrants to purchase the Company’s common stock at an average exercise price of $23.85. As of June 30, 2012, the aggregate intrinsic value of these warrants was zero.

The table below reconciles the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) computations for the three month and six month periods ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands, except per share amounts):


		Three Months Ended June 30,						Six Months Ended June 30,

		2012			2011			2012			2011

Earnings (loss):
Earnings (loss) for basic earnings per share			(8,990	)		(7,883	)		(7,012	)		(8,069	)
Addback: Convertible debt related interest			—			—			—			—

Earnings (loss) for diluted earnings per share			(8,990	)		(7,883	)		(7,012	)		(8,069	)


Shares:
Shares outstanding	(1)		32,749			35,103			33,009			34,202
Unearned restricted stock	(2)		—			—			—			(23	)
Earned RSUs	(3)		3,711			2,534			3,431			2,248

Shares outstanding, basic			36,460			37,637			36,440			36,427

Convertible debt	(4)		—			—			—			—
Unearned RSUs	(5)		—			—			—			—

Shares outstanding, diluted			36,460			37,637			36,440			36,427


Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic			(0.25	)		(0.21	)		(0.19	)		(0.22	)
Diluted			(0.25	)		(0.21	)		(0.19	)		(0.22	)



	(1)	Shares outstanding represents shares issued less shares repurchased in treasury stock.

	(2)	As restricted stock is contingent upon a future service condition, unearned shares are removed from shares outstanding in the calculation of basic EPS as the Company’s obligation to issue these shares remains contingent.

	(3)	As earned RSUs are no longer contingent upon a future service condition and are issuable upon a certain date in the future, earned restricted stock units are added to shares outstanding in the calculation of basic EPS.

	(4)	Calculated using the “if converted” method. The “if converted” method assumes the conversion of the outstanding convertible debt at the beginning of the period. Related interest expense is added back to the diluted EPS numerator.

	(5)	Calculated under the treasury stock method. The treasury stock method assumes the issuance of only a net incremental number of shares as proceeds from issuance are assumed to be used to repurchase shares at the average stock price for the period.

NOTE 12 – Segment Reporting

The Company operates in three business segments, Capital Markets, DirectMarkets and Merchant Banking. The Capital Markets reportable segment includes the Company’s investment banking, sales and trading activities and research. The Capital Markets reportable segment is managed as a single operating segment that provides the following principal sources of revenue:


	•	investment banking fees, which are derived from corporate finance activities and strategic advisory services;
	•	realized and unrealized gains with respect to securities held for the Company’s own account;
	•	commissions on sales and trading activities;
	•	conference fees; and
	•	other miscellaneous sources of revenues, such as interest.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

Although the Company has multiple sources of revenue derived within Capital Markets, most of its revenue is derived from investment banking services and consists of private placement, underwriting and strategic advisory fees earned upon the successful completion of financing or other types of corporate transactions, such as mergers, acquisitions and dispositions..

The DirectMarkets segment is comprised of operating activities related to the DirectMarkets platform. This year the Company introduced the DirectMarkets platform, the first-ever 24/7 automated electronic transaction platform that will link issuers with investors for primary offerings of securities by existing publicly-traded companies. The DirectMarkets platform was developed by the Company over the past several years, building on the expertise obtained in completing more than 580 financing transactions for public companies since 2002. During the last decade, capital-raising options and alternatives for public companies have evolved from traditional follow-on offerings to registered directs, at the market and confidentially marketed public offerings. Through this evolution, the issuer has gained more influence over the capital-raising process by acting on shorter notice and reducing its exposure to market volatility during the life of a deal. The DirectMarkets platform is the next and logical evolutionary step in empowering the issuer and bringing access to the capital markets directly into the C-Suite of public companies through an electronic interface linking public company issuers with investors.

Total revenue for the three month and six month periods ended June 30, 2012 was and $0.4 million and $0.7 million, respectively, which came from non-investment banking advisory fees related to IRG assets recently acquired. The expenses relate to the non-capitalizable employee and other costs of developing and marketing the DirectMarkets platform.

The Merchant Banking segment is primarily comprised of operating activities related to Aceras BioMedical. On May 12, 2008, the Company formed Aceras BioMedical, a joint venture through which it, in partnership with Aceras Partners, LLC, makes principal investments in early-stage biotechnology and life sciences companies. In conjunction with the establishment of the joint venture, the Company formed RPI, which holds a 50% stake in Aceras BioMedical and serves as the holding vehicle for all of its principal-related businesses. At June 30, 2012, $10.0 million of this commitment remained unfunded. RPI receives 50% of Aceras BioMedical’s economic interest in all investments made.

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DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)

The Company’s net revenues, expenses, and total assets by segment are summarized below (in millions of dollars):


	Capital Markets			Direct Markets			Merchant Banking			Total

2012
Three Months Ended June 30
Total revenues	$	6.4			0.4			(0.1	)		6.7
Expenses	$	12.6			2.2			1.0			15.8
Operating income (loss)	$	(6.2	)		(1.8	)		(1.1	)		(9.1	)
Segment assets	$	20.8			2.8			4.6			28.2

Six Months Ended June 30
Total revenues	$	36.6			0.7			(5.1	)		32.2
Expenses	$	33.4			4.1			1.8			39.3
Operating income (loss)	$	3.2			(3.4	)		(6.9	)		(7.1	)
Segment assets	$	20.8			2.8			4.6			28.2

2011
Three Months Ended June 30
Total revenues	$	15.9			—			—			15.9
Expenses	$	25.3			—			1.1			26.4
Operating loss	$	(9.4	)		—			(1.1	)		(10.5	)
Segment assets	$	68.5			—			9.9			78.4

Six Months Ended June 30
Total revenues	$	42.7			—			0.5			43.2
Expenses	$	52.1			—			1.9			54.0
Operating income (loss)	$	(9.4	)		—			(1.4	)		(10.8	)
Segment assets	$	68.5			—			9.9			78.4

NOTE 13 – Subsequent Events

On July 2, 2012, the Company announced that it had entered into a nonbinding letter of intent for the sale of R&R to an entity controlled by Michael Vasinkevich, one of the Company’s founders and former vice chairman of the board of directors. The closing of the transaction is subject to conditions including the negotiation and execution of a definitive agreement, FINRA approval of the proposed change in control and approval of the transaction by a majority of the disinterested stockholders of the Company.

In August 2012, the Company satisfied an account payable due to a service provider in the approximate amount of $1.6 million through the payment of $600,000 and the transfer and assignment of other assets (an accounts receivable and judgments) with an aggregate carrying value of $630,000. This transaction was recorded as an approximate $1 million reduction of accounts payable and professional and consulting expenses during the second quarter of 2012.

In August 2012, the Company disposed of certain assets that it acquired in February 2012 from The Investor Relations Group, Inc., an investor and public relations firm. The Company received approximately $125,000 in cash and a release from all future contingent payments and other obligations provided for in the purchase agreement.

In July 2012, R&R suspended all sales and trading activities and reduced total headcount from 141 as of June 30, 2012 to 74 as of August 13, 2012 due to financial and market conditions. The suspension of all sales and trading activities resulted in the required net capital under Rule 15c3-1 to be reduced from $1 million to $250,000.

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

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our unaudited consolidated
financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this report.

Overview

We are a full-service investment bank dedicated to providing corporate finance, strategic advisory and related services to public and private companies across multiple sectors and regions. We are a leader in the PIPE (private investment in public equity) and RD (registered direct offering) transaction markets. We have been ranked the #1 Placement Agent by deal volume of PIPE and RD financing transactions completed every year since 2005. Our primary product and service offerings include financing transactions, including private placements and public offerings.

This year we introduced the DirectMarkets platform, the first-ever 24/7 automated electronic transaction platform that will link issuers with investors for primary offerings of securities by existing publicly-traded companies. The DirectMarkets platform was developed by us over the past several years, building on the expertise that we have obtained in completing more than 580 financing transactions for public companies since 2002. During the last decade, capital-raising options and alternatives for public companies have evolved from traditional follow-on offerings to registered directs, at the market and confidentially marketed public offerings. Through this evolution, the issuer has gained more influence over the capital-raising process by acting on shorter notice and reducing its exposure to market volatility during the life of a deal. The DirectMarkets platform is the next and logical evolutionary step in empowering the issuer and bringing access to the capital markets directly into the C-Suite of public companies through an electronic interface linking public company issuers with investors.

Business Segments

We operate in three business segments, Capital Markets, DirectMarkets and Merchant Banking. The Capital Markets reportable segment includes our investment banking, sales and trading activities and research. The Capital Markets reportable segment is managed as a single operating segment that provides the following principal sources of revenue:


	•	investment banking fees, which are derived from corporate finance activities and strategic advisory services;
	•	realized and unrealized gains with respect to securities held for our own account;
	•	commissions on sales and trading activities;
	•	conference fees; and
	•	other miscellaneous sources of revenues, such as interest.

Although we have multiple sources of revenue derived within Capital Markets, most of its revenue is currently derived from sales and trading and investment banking activities.

The DirectMarkets segment is comprised of operating activities related to the DirectMarket platform. This year we introduced the DirectMarkets platform, the first-ever 24/7 automated electronic transaction platform that will link issuers with investors for primary offerings of securities by existing publicly-traded companies. The DirectMarkets platform was developed by us over the past several years, building on the expertise that we have obtained in completing more than 580 financing transactions for public companies since 2002. During the last decade, capital-raising options and alternatives for public companies have evolved from traditional follow-on offerings to registered directs, at the market and confidentially marketed public offerings. Through this evolution, the issuer has gained more influence over the capital-raising process by acting on shorter notice and reducing its exposure to market volatility during the life of a deal. The DirectMarkets platform is the next and logical evolutionary step in empowering the issuer and bringing access to the capital markets directly into the C-Suite of public companies through an electronic interface linking public company issuers with investors.

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The Merchant Banking segment is primarily comprised of operating activities related to Aceras BioMedical. On May 12, 2008, we formed Aceras BioMedical, a joint venture through which we, in partnership with Aceras Partners, make principal investments in early-stage biotechnology and life sciences companies. In conjunction with the establishment of the joint venture, we formed a new wholly-owned subsidiary which holds a 50% stake in Aceras BioMedical and serves as the holding vehicle for all of our principal-related businesses. At June 30, 2012, our outstanding investment commitment to Aceras BioMedical to fund operations and the joint venture’s principal investments in life science companies was $10.0 million. We receive 50% of Aceras BioMedical’s economic interest in all investments made.

Business Environment

2011 was a very difficult period in our industry and the trend has continued for 2012 to date. With the many geopolitical and economic uncertainties, it is difficult to time a market recovery or predict its sustainability. Market conditions and valuations for companies in the sectors in which we are active, as well as general market conditions, can materially affect our financial performance. Declining valuations in various sectors in which we are active, unprecedented volatility and lack of liquidity in certain sectors of the capital markets, as well as a slowing of economic growth generally has led to declines in financing activity, smaller financing transactions, and declining trading activity and a resulting decline in revenue from prior periods. It is not possible to predict whether, and to what degree, these conditions will continue, abate, or reverse, and the level of capital markets and trading activity is expected to remain uncertain for the foreseeable future. In addition, the nature of our revenue generation, including the size of transactions, the timing of transaction closings and the sectors in which those transactions occur, make future performance difficult to predict and potentially highly variable. Revenues for many of the services we provide are earned only upon the successful completion of a transaction. Accordingly, revenues and net income in any period may not be indicative of full-year results or the results of any other period and may vary significantly from period to period.

Critical Accounting Policies

Our Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in conformity with GAAP, which require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes. Actual results can and will differ from estimates. These differences could be material to the financial statements.

We believe our application of accounting policies and the estimates required therein are reasonable. These accounting policies and estimates are constantly re-evaluated, and adjustments are made when facts and circumstances dictate a change. Historically, actual results have not differed materially from those determined using necessary estimates.

Our management believes that our critical accounting policies (policies that are both material to the financial condition and results of operations and require management’s most difficult subjective or complex judgments) are our valuation of financial instruments, valuation of goodwill and other intangible assets, income taxes and our use of estimates related to compensation and benefits during the year.

Valuation of Financial Instruments

As defined in ASC Topic 820, fair value generally is based on quoted market prices. If quoted market prices are not available, fair value is determined based on other relevant factors, including dealer price quotations, price activity for equivalent instruments and valuation pricing models. Among the factors considered in determining the fair value of financial instruments are discount margins, weighted average spreads, discounted anticipated cash flows, the terms and liquidity of the instrument, the financial condition, operating results and credit ratings of the issuer or underlying company, the quoted market price of publicly traded securities with similar duration and yield, as well as other measurements. Certain financial instruments have bid and ask prices that can be observed in the marketplace. For financial instruments whose inputs are based on bid-ask prices, such financial instruments are adjusted to the point within the bid-ask range that meets the Company’s best estimate of fair value. For offsetting positions in the same financial instrument, the same price within the bid-ask spread is used to measure both the long and short positions.

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Compensation and Benefits

The use of estimates is important in determining compensation and benefits expenses for interim and year end periods. A substantial portion of our compensation and benefits represents discretionary bonuses. In addition to the level of net revenues and pre-tax income, our overall compensation expense in any given year is influenced by prevailing labor markets, revenue mix and our use of equity-based compensation programs. We believe the most appropriate way to allocate estimated annual discretionary bonuses among interim periods is in proportion to net revenues and pre-tax income earned or reasonably expected. Consequently, we generally accrue interim compensation and benefits based on annual targeted compensation amounts and interim revenues received.

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Goodwill

At least annually, and more frequently if warranted, we assess whether goodwill has been impaired by comparing the estimated fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying value. The fair value of reporting units are based on valuations techniques that we believe market participants would use, although the valuation process requires significant judgment and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. The estimates and assumptions used in determining fair value could have a significant effect on whether or not an impairment charge is recorded and the magnitude of such a charge. Adverse market or economic events could result in impairment charges in future periods. (Refer to Note 5, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in our Consolidated Financial Statements for further detail on our assessment of goodwill.)

Income Taxes

Management on an ongoing basis, at least quarterly, evaluates our tax positions and ascertains whether those tax positions that may be uncertain require de-recognition or re-measurement. We do not believe that there are any material uncertain tax position requiring de-recognition or measurement.

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Second quarter of 2012 compared to second quarter of 2011

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth our results of operations for the three months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands of dollars):


	Three Months Ended

	June 30, 2012					June 30, 2011

				% of Net Revenue					% of Net Revenue

Revenues:
Investment banking	$	2,349					14,707
Merchant banking		(77	)				(27	)
Brokerage		6,558					6,449
Conference fees		—					—
Principal transactions		(2,537	)				(5,245	)
Interest and other income		428					14

Total revenues		6,721					15,898


Operating expenses:
Compensation and benefits		7,525		112.0	%		15,231		95.8	%
Conference expense		—		0.0	%		39		0.2	%
Professional and consulting		836		12.4	%		2,529		15.9	%
Occupancy and equipment rentals		816		12.1	%		1,068		6.7	%
Advertising and marketing		243		3.6	%		150		0.9	%
Communication and market research		1,750		26	%		1,980		12.5	%
Execution and clearing		833		12.4	%		1,140		7.2	%
Depreciation and amortization		406		6.0	%		397		2.5	%
Business development		628		9.3	%		1,384		8.7	%
Interest expense		320		4.8	%		—		0.0	%
Bad debt expense		197		2.9	%		10		0.1	%
Hudson acquisition related expense		—		0.0	%		794		5.0	%
Other		2,244		33.4	%		1,725		10.9	%

Total operating expenses		15,798		235.1	%		26,447		166.4	%

Income (loss) before income taxes		(9,077	)	-135.1	%		(10,549	)	-66.4	%
Income tax expense (benefit)		(87	)				(2,666	)

Net income (loss)	$	(8,990	)				(7,883	)

Our operating income for the three months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 included the following non-cash expenses (in thousands of dollars):


	Three Months Ended

	June 30, 2012		June 30, 2011


Stock-based compensation	$	1,867		873
Amortization of forgivable loans		139		402
Depreciation and amortization		406		397

Total	$	2,412		1,672

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Revenues

Merchant Banking Segment

Merchant banking revenue, consisting of gains and losses on investments by our Aceras BioMedical joint venture and other principal investments activity, was a $0.1 million loss in the three months ended June 30, 2012. The value of Aceras BioMedical’s assets as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 was determined based on an independent valuation performed by a “third party valuation firm”, which takes into consideration, when applicable, cash received, cost of the investment, market participant inputs, estimated cash flows based on entity specific criteria, purchase multiples paid in other comparable third-party transactions, market conditions, liquidity, operating results and other qualitative and quantitative factors. The values at which our investments are carried on our books are adjusted to estimated fair value at the end of each quarter taking into account, factors including, general economic and stock market conditions.

DirectMarkets Segment

Total revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2012 was $0.4 million, which came from non-investment banking advisory fees related to the assets and business recently acquired from The Investment Relations Group, Inc.

Capital Market Segment

Within our Capital Markets segment we derive revenues from two primary sources — investment banking and sales and trading.

Total revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2012 was $6.4 million, representing a decrease of 60% from $15.9 million in the comparable period of 2011. The decrease was primarily due to the continued depressed activity in investment banking services for the small and mid-cap sectors.

Investment Banking Revenue

Our investment banking revenue is derived from private placement and underwriting activities and strategic advisory services. The following table sets forth our revenue from our investment banking activities for the three months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands of dollars):


	Three Months Ended

	June 30, 2012		June 30, 2011

Revenue:
Private placement and underwriting	$	1,824		12,994
Strategic advisory		525		1,713

Total investment banking revenue	$	2,349		14,707

Investment banking revenue was $2.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2012, which included $0.4 million related to warrants received as compensation for activities as underwriter or placement agent valued using Black-Scholes, as compared to revenue of $14.7 million, which included $3.5 million related to warrants received as compensation for activities as underwriter or placement agent valued using Black-Scholes, in the comparable period of 2011:


	§	Private placement and underwriting revenue for the quarter was $1.8 million, including $0.4 million of fair value related to warrants received, compared to $13.0 million, including $3.5 million of fair value related to warrants received, in the comparable period of 2011.

	§	Strategic advisory fees for the three months ended June 30, 2012 were $0.5 million, compared to $1.7 million for comparable period of 2011.

Sales and Trading

Brokerage revenue was $6.6 million, net of $0.5 million of soft dollar expense for the three months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $6.5 million, net of $1.1 million of soft dollar expense, for the three months ended June 30, 2011. Brokerage revenue was up slightly despite the industry wide decrease in trading volumes.

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Principal Transactions

Principal transactions revenue was a $2.5 million loss for the three months ended June 30, 2012, compared with a $5.2 million loss for the three months ended June 30, 2011. The reduction in principal transactions loss is partially related to the significantly smaller size of our current portfolio of biotechnology and China sector warrants.

The following discussion combines Capital Markets, DirectMarkets and Merchant Banking expenses.

Expenses

Compensation

Employee compensation and benefits expense for the second quarter of 2012 was $7.5 million, compared to $15.2 million for the second quarter of 2011. Employee compensation and benefits expense for the three months ended June 30, 2012, excluding the $2.5 million principal transactions loss from revenue, represented 81% of transaction related revenue (revenue excluding principal transactions), compared to 70% (also excludes approximately $0.4 million in severance expense from compensation) in the comparable 2011 period. We target a compensation ratio of 55% to 60% of transaction related revenue on an annualized basis.

Non-Compensation Expenses

Non-compensation expense was $8.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2012, comparable to the $11.2 million for the same prior year period. The decrease from the prior year’s quarter in non-compensation expense was mostly due to the cost cutting initiatives that were implemented during the fall of 2011, which resulted in a $0.8 million decrease in business development expenses and a $1.7 million reduction in professional and consulting expense. In August 2012, we satisfied an account payable due to a service provider in the approximate amount of $1.6 million through the payment of $600,000 and the transfer and assignment of other assets (an accounts receivable and judgments) with an aggregate carrying value of $630,000. This transaction was recorded as an approximate $1 million reduction of accounts payable and professional and consulting expenses during the second quarter of 2012.

Income Taxes

Due to the uncertainty in the current operating environment and the resulting impact on the realizability of our deferred tax assets we continue to record a full valuation allowance on such assets at June 30, 2012.

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First half of 2012 compared to first half of 2011

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth our results of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands of dollars):


	Six Months Ended

	June 30, 2012					June 30, 2011

				% of Net Revenue					% of Net Revenue

Revenues:
Investment banking	$	25,825					42,178
Merchant banking		(5,114	)				539
Brokerage		13,068					7,615
Conference fees		—					446
Principal transactions		(2,333	)				(7,560	)
Interest and other income		719					25

Total revenues		32,165					43,243


Operating expenses:
Compensation and benefits		21,407		66.6	%		33,094		76.5	%
Conference expense		—		0.0	%		2,946		6.8	%
Professional and consulting		3,524		11	%		4,103		9.5	%
Occupancy and equipment rentals		1,639		5.1	%		1,841		4.3	%
Advertising and marketing		430		1.3	%		457		1.1	%
Communication and market research		3,633		11.3	%		2,894		6.7	%
Execution and clearing		1,843		5.7	%		1,218		2.8	%
Depreciation and amortization		809		2.5	%		794		1.8	%
Business development		1,634		5.1	%		2,683		6.2	%
Interest expense		434		1.3	%		—		0.0	%
Bad debt expense		197		0.6	%		48		0.1	%
Hudson acquisition related expense		—		0.0	%		1,212		2.8	%
Other		3,714		11.5	%		2,791		6.5	%

Total operating expenses		39,264		122.1	%		54,081		125.1	%

Income (loss) before income taxes		(7,099	)	-22.1	%		(10,838	)	-25.1	%
Income tax expense (benefit)		(87	)				(2,769	)

Net income (loss)	$	(7,012	)				(8,069	)

Our operating income for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 included the following non-cash expenses (in thousands of dollars):


	Six Months Ended

	June 30, 2012		June 30, 2011


Stock-based compensation	$	2,468		1,724
Amortization of forgivable loans		256		949
Depreciation and amortization		809		794

Total	$	3,533		3,467

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Revenues

Merchant Banking Segment

Merchant banking revenue consists of gains and losses on investments by our Aceras BioMedical joint venture and other principal investments activity. During the first quarter of 2012, BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (“BioMarin”), the purchaser of the Huxley Assets (“Huxley”), recorded an impairment charge of $6.7 million related to certain Huxley IPR&D assets. These IPR&D assets were associated with marketing rights in the U.S. for Huxley, a product candidate that is in Phase 3 clinical trials in the U.S. for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome. BioMarin was exploring strategic options for Huxley as U.S. program, including the potential outlicense of rights in the U.S. In March 2012, BioMarin determined to suspend business development efforts. Based on this triggering event and lower than expected European sales revenue reported, we revised the value of the Huxley contingent payments and recognized a non-cash charge of $5.1 million in merchant banking revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2012. The value of Aceras BioMedical’s assets as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 was determined based on an independent valuation performed by a “third party valuation firm”, which takes into consideration, when applicable, cash received, cost of the investment, market participant inputs, estimated cash flows based on entity specific criteria, purchase multiples paid in other comparable third-party transactions, market conditions, liquidity, operating results and other qualitative and quantitative factors. The values at which our investments are carried on our books are adjusted to estimated fair value at the end of each quarter taking into account, factors including, general economic and stock market conditions.

DirectMarkets Segment

Total revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2012 was $0.7 million, which came from non-investment banking advisory fees related to the assets and business recently acquired from The Investment Relations Group, Inc.

Capital Market Segment

Within our Capital Markets segment we derive revenues from two primary sources — investment banking and sales and trading.

Total revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2012 was $36.6 million, representing a decrease of 14% from $42.7 million in the comparable period of 2011. The decrease was primarily due to the continued depressed activity in investment banking services for the small and mid-cap sectors.

Investment Banking Revenue

Our investment banking revenue is derived from private placement and underwriting activities and strategic advisory services. The following table sets forth our revenue from our investment banking activities for the six months ended June 30, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands of dollars):


	Six Months Ended

	June 30, 2012		June 30, 2011

Revenue:
Private placement and underwriting	$	17,555		38,673
Strategic advisory		8,270		3,505

Total investment banking revenue	$	25,825		42,178

Investment banking revenue was $25.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2012, which included $1.3 million related to warrants received as compensation for activities as underwriter or placement agent valued using Black-Scholes, as compared to revenue of $42.2 million, which included $7.9 million related to warrants received as compensation for activities as underwriter or placement agent valued using Black-Scholes, in the comparable period of 2011:


	§	Private placement and underwriting revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2012 was $17.6 million, including $1.3 million of fair value related to warrants received, compared to $38.7 million, including $7.9 million of fair value related to warrants received, in the comparable period of 2011.

	§	Strategic advisory fees for the six months ended June 30, 2012 were $8.3 million, compared to $3.5 million for comparable period of 2011. The increase in investment banking revenue was due in part to one significant advisory fee of $7.2 million (part of a total $11.7 million investment banking fee from ZaZa Energy LLC).

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	§	During the first quarter of 2012, we earned approximately $16.8 million in metals & mining and oil and gas transactions. As of June 2012, we no longer focus on the metals & mining and oil and gas sectors and the employees focusing on those sectors are no longer employed with us.

Sales and Trading

Brokerage revenue was $13.1 million, net of $1.0 million of soft dollar expense, for the six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with $7.6 million, net of $1.1 million of soft dollar expense, for the six months ended June 30, 2011. The increase in brokerage revenues was primarily due to the Hudson Holding Corporation (“Hudson”) business acquired in the second quarter of 2011.

Principal Transactions

Principal transactions revenue was a $2.3 million loss for the six months ended June 30, 2012, compared with a $7.6 million loss for the six months ended June 30, 2011. The reduction in principal transactions loss is partially related to the significantly smaller size of our current portfolio of biotechnology and China sector warrants.

The following discussion combines Capital Markets, DirectMarkets and Merchant Banking expenses.

Expenses

Compensation

Employee compensation and benefits expense for the six months ended June 30, 2012 was $21.4 million, compared to $33.1 million for the same prior year period. Employee compensation and benefits expense for the six months ended June 30, 2012, excluding the $2.3 million principal transactions loss from revenue, represented 62% of transaction related revenue (revenue excluding principal transactions), compared to 64% (also excludes approximately $0.7 million in severance expense from compensation) in the comparable 2011 period. We target a compensation ratio of 55% to 60% of transaction related revenue on an annualized basis.

Non-Compensation Expenses

Non-compensation expense was $17.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2012, comparable to the $21.0 million for the same prior year period. The decrease from the same prior year period’s non-compensation expense was mostly due to the cost cutting initiatives that were implemented during the fall of 2011, which resulted in a $2.9 million reduction in conference expense, a $1.0 million decrease in business development expenses and a $0.4 million decrease in professional and consulting expense, partially offset by a $0.9 increase in other expense, a $0.7 million increase in communication and market research expenses, a $0.6 million increase in execution and clearing, and a $0.4 million increase in interest expense. In August 2012, we satisfied an account payable due to a service provider in the approximate amount of $1.6 million through the payment of $600,000 and the transfer and assignment of other assets (an accounts receivable and judgments) with an aggregate carrying value of $630,000. This transaction was recorded as an approximate $1 million reduction of accounts payable and professional and consulting expenses during the second quarter of 2012.

Income Taxes

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We have historically satisfied our capital and liquidity requirements through cash generated internally from operations; however, on October 31, 2011 we raised $6.65 million of 10% Convertible Secured Debentures due 2013 with a net settlement feature, and warrants in a private placement financing.

At December 31, 2011, we had liquid assets, consisting of unrestricted cash, restricted cash, “Level 1” assets less “Level 1” liabilities, “Level 2” assets (consisting of municipal securities) less “Level 2” liabilities (also consisting of municipal securities), net current receivables, and due to / due from clearing brokers of $15.5 million. As of June 30, 2012, we had liquid assets of $12.2 million. The decrease in liquid assets primarily mostly relates to year-end bonus and severance payments of approximately $5.2 million paid during the first half of 2012 and treasury stock purchases of $0.8 million.

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The following table sets forth the calculation of liquid assets (non-GAAP) as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 (in millions of dollars):


	June 30, 2012			December 31, 2011

Total cash and cash equivalents		6.2			7.4
Financial instruments owned, at fair value (Level 1 and Level2)		3.0			6.1
Private placement and other fees receivable		1.1			1.8
Receivable from brokers, dealers & clearing agencies		2.2			1.8
Financial instruments sold, not yet purchased, at fair value (Level 1)		(0.3	)		(1.6	)

Liquid Assets (non-GAAP)		12.2			15.5

The timing of bonus and retention compensation payments to our employees may significantly affect our cash position and liquidity from period-to-period. While our employees are generally paid salaries and draws on a semi-monthly basis during the year, bonus payments, which make up a significant portion of total compensation, are generally paid semi-annually or annually.

As a registered securities broker-dealer, we are subject to the net capital requirements of the uniform net capital requirement set forth in Rule 15c3-1 promulgated by the SEC pursuant to the Exchange Act. SEC regulations also provide that equity capital may not be withdrawn or cash dividends paid if certain minimum net capital requirements are not met. At June 30, 2012, we had excess net capital of $1.2 million. Regulatory net capital requirements may change based on investment and underwriting activities.

Because of the nature of settlement transactions in our investment banking and brokerage business, we regularly monitor our liquidity position, including our cash and net capital positions. In light of the uncertainty with respect to the timing of a market recovery and its potential impact on the timing of our receipt of anticipated funds from operating activities, we regularly explore capital raising alternatives.

Cash Flows

Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents were $5.0 million at June 30, 2012, a decrease of $0.8 million from $5.8 million at December 31, 2011.

Operating activities provided $1.2 million of cash and cash equivalents during the six months ended June 30, 2012.

The primary components of cash used for the six months ended June 30, 2012 were: (a) $0.8 million in treasury stock purchases and (b) $0.6 million in capitalization of software development costs and $0.1 million in property, equipment and leasehold purchases.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Market risk represents the risk of loss that may result from the change in value of a financial instrument due to fluctuations in its market price. Market risk is inherent in all financial instruments. Market risk may be exacerbated in times of trading illiquidity when market participants refrain from transacting in normal quantities and/or at normal bid-offer spreads. Our exposure to market risk is directly related to our role as a financial intermediary in customer trading and to our market-making and investment activities.

We trade in equity securities as an active participant in both listed and OTC equity markets. We maintain securities in inventory to facilitate our market-making activities and customer order flow. We use a variety of risk management techniques and hedging strategies in the ordinary course of our trading business, including establishing position limits by product type and industry sector, closely monitoring inventory turnover, maintaining long and short positions in related securities, and using exchange-traded equity options and other derivative instruments.

In connection with our trading business, management also reviews reports appropriate to the risk profile of specific trading activities. Typically, market conditions are evaluated and transaction details and securities positions are reviewed.

These activities seek to ensure that trading strategies are within acceptable risk tolerance parameters, particularly when we commit our own capital to facilitate client trading. Our accounting department is actively involved in ensuring the integrity and clarity of the daily profit and loss statements, to the extent that we maintain trading positions for a period longer than one day. Activities include price verification procedures, position reconciliation and review of transaction booking. We believe that these procedures, which stress timely communications between our traders and senior management, are important elements of the risk management process.

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At June 30, 2012, $3.8 million, or 30% of $12.8 million of financial instruments owned, at fair value, represented investments in warrants received in conjunction with our investment banking activities. $4.6 million or 36% of financial instruments owned is related to our merchant banking activity. The remaining 34% of the financial instruments owned represents listed equity securities, restricted securities and investments in affiliates at fair value.

The primary quantifiable market risk associated with our financial instruments is sensitivity to changes in interest rates. Interest rate risk represents the potential loss from adverse changes in market interest rates. The risk management strategies that we employ use various risk sensitivity metrics to measure such risk and to examine behavior under significant adverse market conditions. We use an interest rate sensitivity simulation to assess our interest rate risk exposure. For purposes of presenting the possible earnings effect of a hypothetical, adverse change in interest rates over the 12-month period from our reporting date, we assume that all interest rate sensitive financial instruments will be impacted by a hypothetical, immediate 100 basis point increase in interest rates as of the beginning of the period. The sensitivity is based upon the hypothetical assumption that all relevant types of interest rates that affect our results would increase instantaneously, simultaneously and to the same degree.

The sensitivity analyses of the interest rate sensitive financial instruments are hypothetical and should be used with caution. Changes in fair value based on a 1% or 2% variation in an estimate generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in the estimate to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, the effect of a variation in a particular estimate on the fair value of financial instruments is calculated independent of changes in any other estimate; in practice, changes in one factor may result in changes in another factor, which might magnify or counteract the sensitivities. In addition, the sensitivity analyses do not consider any action that we may take to mitigate the impact of any adverse changes in the key estimates.

Based on our analysis, as of June 30, 2012, the effect of a 100+/- basis point change in interest rates on the value of our warrant portfolio and the resultant effect on our pre-tax income is considered immaterial.

The value of Aceras BioMedical’s assets in our merchant banking segment was determined based on a valuation which takes into consideration, when applicable, cash received, cost of the investment, market participant inputs, estimated cash flows based on entity specific criteria, purchase multiples paid in other comparable third-party transactions, market conditions, liquidity, operating results and other qualitative and quantitative factors. The values at which our investments are carried on our books are adjusted to estimated fair value at the end of each quarter and the instability in general economic conditions, stock markets and regulatory conditions may result in significant changes in the estimated fair value of these investments. The primary quantifiable market risk associated with Aceras BioMedical’s assets is sensitivity to changes in interest rates. Based on our analysis as of June 30, 2012 assuming a 100 basis point increase in interest rates, we estimated the reduction of pre-tax income to be immaterial.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in the Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Report (the “Evaluation Date”). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that as of the Evaluation Date, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the quarter covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II
OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

We face significant legal risks in our businesses and in recent years the volume of claims and amount of damages sought in litigation and regulatory proceedings against investment banking firms have been increasing. These risks include potential liability under Federal securities and other laws in connection with securities offerings and other transactions, including public offerings in which we act as underwriter, as well as advice and opinions we may provide concerning strategic transactions. While we are typically indemnified in connection with such claims, indemnification provisions are often difficult to enforce, particularly in circumstances where the indemnifying party’s principal assets are located outside of the United States, as is the case in many of our underwritten offerings. In addition, like most investment banking firms, we could be the subject of claims made by current and former employees arising out of their employment or termination of employment with us. These claims often relate to dissatisfaction with an employee’s bonus or separation payment, or involve allegations that the employee was the subject of some form of discrimination, retaliation or other unlawful employment practice.

During 2011 and 2012, we were named as a party defendant in various litigations brought as class actions and one derivative action relating to underwritten public offerings that we participated in involving China based businesses. To date, we have been completely dismissed from one of the class actions and the plaintiffs in two of the class actions have voluntarily dismissed those actions in their entirety. The remaining actions are in the preliminary stages and while we believe that we have meritorious defenses, the proceedings are at too early a stage to effectively evaluate the merits or predict the outcome. There is no assurance that we will not be named in other actions brought or that the result of the pending actions or any future actions, or the costs of defense of those actions, will not adversely affect us.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Information regarding our risk factors appears in Part I, Item 1A. of our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, as amended. These risk factors describe some of the assumptions, risks, uncertainties and other factors that could adversely affect our business or that could otherwise result in changes that differ materially from our expectations. There have been no material changes to the risk factors contained in our annual report except for the following additional risk related to our broker dealer business.

Our broker-dealer business is the subject of ongoing inquiries and examinations by FINRA. We are presently unable to assess the potential impact that ongoing inquiries and examinations and/or the results of such inquiries and examinations will have on the operations of our broker-dealer business or our financial condition or result of operations.

Since March 2004, we have received inquiries, subpoenas and requests for production of documents from the SEC, FINRA and the Attorney General of the State of New York with respect to PIPE transactions in which we acted as placement agent. We have responded to each such inquiry, subpoena and request, and, to our best knowledge, our responses have been to the satisfaction of the inquiring party. In addition, we regularly receive inquiries from FINRA relating to various aspects of our business including, but not limited to, our participation in financing transactions in which we acted as placement agent or underwriter. Recently, we have experienced an increase in the scope and amount of information requested by FINRA related to various aspects of our broker-dealer business and several inquiries and examinations are ongoing. We expect that these inquiries and examinations will continue and that FINRA will seek further information from us in connection therewith. We are not currently in a position to assess the likely outcome of these pending inquiries and examinations, or whether incremental inquiries or examinations will be initiated. We intend, however, to continue to fully cooperate with FINRA and respond to any incremental information requests. There is no assurance, however, that the outcome of any presently pending inquiry or examination, or future inquiry or examination, will not have a material adverse effect on our broker-dealer business, financial condition or results of operations.

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We have experienced recurring losses from operations and have limited cash reserves and working capital.

We have experienced recurring losses from operations, and such losses may continue for the foreseeable future. As of August 13, 2012, we had approximately $7 million in liquid assets. If we cannot generate revenue in the near term, we will need to raise additional capital to continue to fund our operating activities. We are currently exploring several financing and strategic options; however, there can be no assurance that we will be able to complete any such transaction in a timely manner, if at all, and cannot predict what the terms of any such transaction will be. Any financing or strategic transaction may be dilutive to existing stockholders and may include covenants restricting our ability to operate freely or make it more difficult for us to raise money in the future. If our capital raising and/or strategic initiative efforts are unsuccessful, our inability to finance ongoing operations could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and business and we may have to curtail operations. These factors raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.

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

Issuer Purchase of Equity Securities


Period	(a) Total Number of Shares Purchased		(b) Average Price Paid per Share		(c) Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)		(d) Maximum Number of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)

April 1 - April 30, 2012		143,000	$	0.88		143,000		2,890,391
May 1 - May 31, 2012		176,600	$	0.68		176,600		2,713,791
June 1 - June 30, 2012		72,100	$	0.53		72,100		2,641,691	(2)

Total		391,700	$	0.73		391,700



(1) On May 25, 2010 we announced a stock repurchase program covering the purchase of up to an aggregate of $5 million of our common stock in the open market in accordance with Rule 10b-18 of the Exchange Act. On November 15, 2010 we announced an increase of an additional $5 million to our stock repurchase program.
(2) Based on the closing price per share of our common stock on June 30, 2012 ($0.38 per share).

Item 6. Exhibits


	Exhibit No.		Description

	31.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
	31.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
	32.1		Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.*
	32.2		Certification of Chief Financial Officer 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.LAB**		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
	101.PRE**		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
	101.DEF**		XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.



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

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

Date: August 14, 2012


	DIRECT MARKETS HOLDINGS CORP.

	By:	/s/ Edward Rubin

		Name: Edward Rubin
		Title: Chief Executive Officer
		(Principal Executive Officer)

	By:	/s/ David J. Horin

		Name: David J. Horin
		Title: Chief Financial Officer
		(Principal Financial Officer)