a6036523.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549
 


FORM 10-Q

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

For the quarterly period ended July 31, 2009
Commission File Number 000-50421

CONN'S, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

A Delaware Corporation
06-1672840
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
 
3295 College Street
Beaumont, Texas 77701
(409) 832-1696
(Address, including zip code, and telephone
number, including area code, of registrant's
principal executive offices)

NONE
(Former name, former address and former
fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes [   ]   No [   ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check One):
Large accelerated filer [   ]
Accelerated filer [ x ] Non-accelerated filer [   ] Smaller reporting company [   ]
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of August 25, 2009:
 
Class
 
Outstanding
Common stock, $.01 par value per share
 
22,457,486
 
 
 

 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
Page No.
     
1
     
 
1
     
   
 
2
     
   
 
3
     
   
 
4
     
 
5
     
 
 
19
     
41
     
41
     
 
     
41
     
42
     
42
     
43
     
43
     
43
     
     
 
44
 
 
 
 

 
 
           
           
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
(in thousands, except share data)
 
Assets
 
January 31,
2009
   
July 31,
2009
 
Current assets
       
(unaudited)
 
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 11,798     $ 4,852  
Other accounts receivable, net of allowance of $60 and $64, respectively
    32,878       22,763  
Customer accounts receivable, net of allowance of $2,338 and $4,432 respectively
    61,125       115,696  
Interests in securitized assets
    176,543       164,090  
Inventories
    95,971       100,867  
Deferred income taxes
    13,354       14,333  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    5,933       10,618  
Total current assets
    397,602       433,219  
Long-term portion of customer accounts receivable, net of
               
allowance of $1,575 and $2,819, respectively
    41,172       73,573  
Property and equipment
               
Land
    7,682       7,682  
Buildings
    12,011       13,005  
Equipment and fixtures
    21,670       22,336  
Transportation equipment
    2,646       2,725  
Leasehold improvements
    83,361       88,347  
Subtotal
    127,370       134,095  
Less accumulated depreciation
    (64,819 )     (71,275 )
Total property and equipment, net
    62,551       62,820  
Goodwill, net
    9,617       9,617  
Non-current deferred income tax asset     2,035       3,597  
Other assets, net
    3,652       3,545  
Total assets
  $ 516,629     $ 586,371  
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
               
Current liabilities
               
Current portion of long-term debt
  $ 5     $ 60  
Accounts payable
    57,809       47,708  
Accrued compensation and related expenses
    11,473       7,551  
Accrued expenses
    23,703       25,024  
Income taxes payable
    4,334       2,665  
Deferred revenues and allowances
    21,207       20,070  
Total current liabilities
    118,531       103,078  
Long-term debt
    62,912       130,235  
Fair value of interest rate swaps     -       231  
Deferred gains on sales of property
    1,036       968  
Stockholders' equity
               
Preferred stock ($0.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding)
    -       -  
Common stock ($0.01 par value, 40,000,000 shares authorized;
               
24,167,445 and 24,180,692 shares issued at January 31, 2009 and July 31, 2009, respectively)
    242       242  
Additional paid-in capital
    103,553       104,942  
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
    -       (150 )
Retained earnings
    267,426       283,896  
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,723,205 and 1,723,205 shares, respectively
    (37,071 )     (37,071 )
Total stockholders' equity
    334,150       351,859  
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
  $ 516,629     $ 586,371  
 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
1

 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
(unaudited)
 
(in thousands, except earnings per share)
 
                         
   
Three Months Ended
July 31,
   
Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
                         
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
 
                         
                         
Revenues
                       
Product sales
  $ 175,240     $ 175,389     $ 355,151     $ 360,206  
Service maintenance agreement commissions, net
    9,911       8,858       19,881       18,648  
Service revenues
    5,488       6,052       10,680       11,596  
                                 
Total net sales
    190,639       190,299       385,712       390,450  
                                 
Finance charges and other
    29,105       29,821       55,657       59,606  
Net (decrease) increase in fair value
    (1,212 )     91       (4,279 )     1,481  
                                 
Total finance charges and other
    27,893       29,912       51,378       61,087  
                                 
Total revenues
    218,532       220,211       437,090       451,537  
                                 
Cost and expenses
                               
Cost of goods sold, including warehousing
                               
and occupancy costs
    136,787       140,761       275,845       286,631  
Cost of parts sold, including warehousing
                               
and occupancy costs
    2,264       2,797       4,594       5,384  
Selling, general and administrative expense
    62,900       64,867       123,268       127,492  
Provision for bad debts
    333       2,746       592       4,141  
                                 
Total cost and expenses
    202,284       211,171       404,299       423,648  
                                 
Operating income
    16,248       9,040       32,791       27,889  
Interest (income) expense, net
    (85 )     942       (100 )     1,528  
Other (income) expense, net
    128       (13 )     106       (21 )
                                 
Income before income taxes
    16,205       8,111       32,785       26,382  
                                 
Provision for income taxes
    5,993       3,162       11,977       9,912  
                                 
Net income
  $ 10,212     $ 4,949     $ 20,808     $ 16,470  
                                 
Earnings per share
                               
Basic
  $ 0.46     $ 0.22     $ 0.93     $ 0.73  
Diluted
  $ 0.45     $ 0.22     $ 0.92     $ 0.73  
Average common shares outstanding
                               
Basic
    22,407       22,454       22,395       22,450  
Diluted
    22,620       22,660       22,591       22,675  
 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
2

 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
Six Months Ended July 31, 2009
 
(unaudited)
 
(in thousands, except descriptive shares)
 
                                           
                     
Other
                   
               
Additional
   
Compre-
                   
   
Common Stock
   
Paid-in
   
hensive
   
Retained
   
Treasury
       
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
Income
   
Earnings
   
Stock
   
Total
 
                                           
Balance January 31, 2009
    24,167     $ 242     $ 103,553     $ -     $ 267,426     $ (37,071 )   $ 334,150  
                                                         
                                                         
Issuance of shares of common
                                                       
stock under Employee
                                                       
Stock Purchase Plan
    13               117                               117  
                                                         
Stock-based compensation
                    1,272                               1,272  
                                                         
Net income                                     16,470               16,470  
                                                         
Adjustment of fair value of
                                                       
interest rate swaps
                                                       
net of tax of $81
                            (150 )                     (150
 
                                                       
Total comprehensive income                                                     16,320  
                                                         
Balance July 31, 2009
    24,180     $ 242     $ 104,942     $ (150 )   $ 283,896     $ (37,071 )   $ 351,859  
 
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
3

 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
(unaudited) (in thousands)
 
   
Six Months Ended
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
             
Cash flows from operating activities
           
Net income
  $ 20,808     $ 16,470  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
               
Depreciation
    6,286       6,660  
Amortization / (Accretion), net
    (481 )     525  
Provision for bad debts
    592       4,141  
Stock-based compensation
    1,721       1,272  
Discounts on promotional credit
    2,900       1,485  
(Gains) losses on interest in securitized assets
    (15,408 )     (1,358 )
(Increase) decrease in fair value of securitized assets
    4,279       1,481  
Provision for deferred income taxes
    (3,904 )     (1,585 )
(Gains) losses on sales of property and equipment
    106       (9 )
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Customer accounts receivable
    (2,907 )     (92,166 )
Other accounts receivable
    5,910       10,128  
Interest in securitized assets
    11,631       11,388  
Inventory
    (14,909 )     (4,896 )
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    (3,889 )     999  
Accounts payable
    26,525       (10,101 )
Accrued expenses
    3,932       (2,601 )
Income taxes payable
    (218 )     (8,229 )
Deferred revenue and allowances
    3,214       (747 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    46,188       (67,143 )
Cash flows from investing activities
               
Purchases of property and equipment
    (10,825 )     (6,763 )
Proceeds from sales of property
    57       22  
Net cash used in investing activities
    (10,768 )     (6,741 )
Cash flows from financing activities
               
Proceeds from stock issued under employee benefit plans
    391       117  
Borrowings under lines of credit
    600       198,361  
Payments on lines of credit
    (600     (131,159
Increase in deferred financing costs
    -       (378 )
Payment of promissory notes
    (60 )     (3 )
Net cash provided by financing activities
    331       66,938  
Net change in cash
    35,751       (6,946 )
Cash and cash equivalents
               
Beginning of the year
    11,015       11,798  
End of period
  $ 46,766     $ 4,852  
                 
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activity
               
Cash interest received from interests in securitized assets
  $ 14,917     $ 23,002  
Cash proceeds from new securitizations
    217,213       81,156  
Cash flows from servicing fees
    12,860       12,621  
Purchases of property and equipment financed by notes payable
    -       179  

See notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
4

 
 
Conn’s , Inc.  
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)
July 31, 2009

1.  Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Basis of Presentation. The accompanying unaudited, condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial statements. The accompanying financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.  Operating results for the three and six month period ended July 31, 2009, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2010.  The financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s (as defined below) audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 26, 2009.

The Company’s balance sheet at January 31, 2009, has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial presentation.  Please see the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2009, for a complete presentation of the audited financial statements at that date, together with all required footnotes, and for a complete presentation and explanation of the components and presentations of the financial statements.

Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Conn’s, Inc. and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the Company).  All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

The Company enters into securitization transactions to sell eligible retail installment and revolving customer receivables and retains servicing responsibilities and subordinated interests. These securitization transactions are accounted for as sales in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishment of Liabilities, as amended by SFAS No. 155, Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments, because the Company has relinquished control of the receivables. Additionally, the Company has transferred the receivables to a qualifying special purpose entity (QSPE). Accordingly, neither the transferred receivables nor the accounts of the QSPE are included in the consolidated financial statements of the Company. The Company's retained interest in the transferred receivables is valued under the requirements of SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities, and SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. The Company elected the fair value option because it believes that the fair value option provides a more easily understood presentation for financial statement users. The fair value option simplifies the treatment of changes in the fair value of the asset, by reflecting all changes in the fair value of its Interests in securitized assets in current earnings, in Finance charges and other.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments.    The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, receivables retained on our balance sheet, and notes and accounts payable approximate their carrying amounts because of the short maturity of these instruments. The fair value of the Company’s interests in securitized receivables is determined by estimating the present value of future expected cash flows using management’s best estimates of the key assumptions, including credit losses, forward yield curves and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. See Note 2. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt is determined by estimating the present value of future cash flows as if the debt were being carried at the interest rate the Company would currently incur if it were to complete a similar transaction.  The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt as of July 31, 2009 was approximately $125.3 million, based on the assumption that the interest spread would be approximately 200 basis points higher than the current spread in the revolving facility.  The carrying amount of the long-term debt as of July 31, 2009 was approximately $130.2 million.
 
 
5

 

Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. See the discussion under Note 2 regarding the changes in the inputs used in the Company’s valuation of its Interests in securitized assets.

Goodwill. The Company performs an assessment annually testing for the impairment of goodwill, or at any other time when impairment indicators exist. The Company performed its annual assessment in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 and determined that no impairment existed. While the current market conditions have caused the Company’s market capitalization to fall below its book value, the Company does not believe any indicators of impairment have occurred since the assessment was performed.

Earnings Per Share. In accordance with SFAS No. 128, Earnings per Share, the Company calculates basic earnings per share by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share include the dilutive effects of any stock options granted, as calculated under the treasury-stock method. The weighted average number of anti-dilutive stock options not included in calculating diluted EPS was 1.1 million for the three and six months ended July 31, 2008 and 1.5 million for the three and six months ended July 31, 2009.

The following table sets forth the shares outstanding for the earnings per share calculations:
 
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
             
Common stock outstanding, net of treasury stock, beginning of period
    22,401,836       22,452,045  
Weighted average common stock issued in stock option exercises
    3,696       -  
Weighted average common stock issued to employee stock purchase plan
    1,587       1,893  
Shares used in computing basic earnings per share
    22,407,119       22,453,938  
Dilutive effect of stock options, net of assumed repurchase of treasury stock
    213,300       206,360  
Shares used in computing diluted earnings per share
    22,620,419       22,660,298  
                 
                 
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
                 
Common stock outstanding, net of treasury stock, beginning of period
    22,374,966       22,444,240  
Weighted average common stock issued in stock option exercises
    16,170       -  
Weighted average common stock issued to employee stock purchase plan
    3,755       6,247  
Shares used in computing basic earnings per share
    22,394,891       22,450,487  
Dilutive effect of stock options, net of assumed repurchase of treasury stock
    195,665       224,085  
Shares used in computing diluted earnings per share
    22,590,556       22,674,572  

 
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements. On February 1, 2009, the Company was required to adopt SFAS 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133. This statement is intended to improve transparency in financial reporting by requiring enhanced disclosures of an entity's derivative instruments and hedging activities and their effects on the entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. SFAS 161 applies to all derivative instruments within the scope of SFAS 133, as well as related hedged items, bifurcated derivatives, and non-derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments. FAS 161 only impacts disclosure requirements and therefore will not have an impact on the Company’s financial position, financial performance or cash flows. The required disclosures have been included in Note 5 to the financial statements.
 
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 107-1 and Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 28-1 (collectively, "FSP FAS 107-1"), Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments. FSP FAS 107-1 amends SFAS No. 107, Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments, to require an entity to provide disclosures about fair value of financial instruments in interim financial information. The FSP FAS 107-1 also amends APB Opinion No. 28, Interim Financial Reporting, to require those disclosures about the fair value of financial instruments in summarized financial information at interim reporting periods. Under FSP FAS 107-1, the Company will be required to include disclosures about the fair value of its financial instruments whenever it issues financial information for interim reporting periods. In addition, the Company will be required to disclose in the body or in the accompanying notes of its summarized financial information for interim reporting periods and in its financial statements for annual reporting periods, the fair value of all financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate that value, whether recognized or not recognized in the statement of financial position. The Company adopted the provisions of FSP FAS 107-1 which became effective for periods ending after June 15, 2009.
 
 
6

 
 
In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 165, Subsequent Events, which establishes general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 165, which became effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009. Subsequent events have been evaluated through the date and time the financial statements were issued on August 27, 2009. No material subsequent events have occurred since July 31, 2009 that required recognition or disclosure in the Company’s current period financial statements.
 
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 166, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140” (“SAS 166”). SFAS 166 revises SFAS No. 140 to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial statements about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferor’s continuing involvement, if any, in transferred financial assets. After the effective date, the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity will no longer be relevant for accounting purposes.  Therefore, formerly qualifying special-purpose entities (as defined under previous accounting standards) should be evaluated for consolidation by reporting entities on and after the effective date in accordance with the applicable consolidation guidance.  If the evaluation on the effective date results in consolidation, the reporting entity should apply the transition guidance provided in the pronouncement that requires consolidation. SFAS 166 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of SFAS 166 will have on its consolidated financial statements as it relates to its qualifying special purpose entity.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 167, “Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)” (“SFAS 167”). SFAS 167 amends certain requirements of FASB Interpretation No. 46(R) to improve financial reporting by companies involved with variable interest entities and to provide more relevant and reliable information to users of financial statements. This Statement amends Interpretation 46(R) to require an enterprise to perform an analysis to determine whether the enterprise’s variable interest or interests give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This analysis identifies the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity as the enterprise that has both of the following characteristics:
 
a.     
The power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance
 
b.     
The obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity.
 
SFAS 167 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of SFAS 167 will have on its consolidated financial statements, specifically as it relates to its qualifying special purpose entity.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 168, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification™ and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162” (“FAS 168”). The standard establishes the FASB Accounting Standards Codification™ (the “Codification”) as the source of authoritative accounting principles recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP, and is intended to simplify user access to all authoritative GAAP by providing all the authoritative literature related to a particular topic in one place. The Codification is effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009, and as of the effective date, all existing accounting standard documents will be superseded. The Codification is effective for the Company for the third quarter of the fiscal year ended January 31, 2010, and accordingly, the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ending October 31, 2009, and all subsequent public filings will reference the Codification as the sole source of authoritative literature.
 
 
7

 

2.  Fair Value of Interests in Securitized Assets

The Company estimates the fair value of its Interests in securitized assets using a discounted cash flow model with most of the inputs used being unobservable inputs. The primary unobservable inputs, which are derived principally from the Company’s historical experience, with input from its investment bankers and financial advisors, include the estimated portfolio yield, credit loss rate, discount rate and payment rate and reflect the Company’s judgments about the assumptions market participants would use in determining fair value. In determining the cost of borrowings, the Company uses current actual borrowing rates, and adjusts them, as appropriate, using interest rate futures data from market sources to project interest rates over time. Changes in the inputs over time, including varying credit portfolio performance, market interest rate changes, market participant risk premiums required, or a shift in the mix of funding sources, could result in significant volatility in the fair value of the Interest in securitized assets, and thus the earnings of the Company.

For the three and six months ended July 31, 2009, Finance charges and other included a non-cash increase in the fair value our Interests in securitized assets of $0.1 million and $1.5 million, respectively, reflecting primarily a lower risk premium included in the discount rate inputs during the six months ended July 31, 2009. Based on a review of the changes in market risk premiums during the six months ended July 31, 2009, and discussions with its investment bankers and financial advisors, the Company estimated that a market participant would require a risk premium that was approximately 200 basis points less than was utilized at April 30, 2009, and 450 basis points less than was utilized at January 31, 2009. As a result, the Company decreased the weighted average discount rate input from 30.0% at January 31, 2009 to 27.4% at April 30, 2009, and to 25.5% at July 31, 2009, after reflecting a 2 basis point decrease in the risk-free interest rate included in the discount rate input at April 30, 2009, and a further 1 basis point decrease at July 31, 2009. These changes, partially offset by changes in the funding mix inputs utilized and other input changes which decreased the fair value, resulted in an increase in fair value for the six month period ended July 31, 2009 (see reconciliation of the balance of interests in securitized assets below). The changes in fair value resulted in an increase in Income before taxes of $0.1 million and $1.5 million, an increase in net income of $0.1 million and $1.0 million for the three and six months ended July 31, 2009, respectively, and an increase in basic and diluted earnings per share of $0.04 for the six months ended July 31, 2009.

If a market participant were to require a return on investment that is 10% higher than estimated in the Company’s calculation, the fair value of its interest in securitized assets would be decreased by $3.8 million as of July 31, 2009. The Company will continue to monitor financial market conditions and, each quarter, as it reassesses the inputs used, may adjust its inputs up or down, including the risk premiums it estimates a market participant would use. As the financial markets and general economic conditions fluctuate, the Company will likely be required to record additional non-cash gains and losses in future periods.
 
 
8

 
 
The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the Interests in securitized assets and the beginning and ending balances of the servicing liability for the three months ended July 31, 2008 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
   
Three Months Ended
 
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
Reconciliation of Interests in Securitized Assets:
           
             
Balance of Interests in securitized assets at beginning of period
  $ 168,900     $ 170,602  
                 
Amounts recorded in Finance charges and other:
               
Gains associated with changes in portfolio balances
    15       416  
Changes in fair value due to assumption changes:
               
Fair value increase (decrease) due to changing portfolio yield
    (119 )     (469 )
Fair value increase (decrease) due to lower (higher) projected interest rates
    (1,036 )     (324 )
Fair value increase (decrease) due to changes in funding mix
    198       (2,200 )
Fair value increase (decrease) due to change in risk-free interest rate
               
component of discount rate
    (686 )     12  
Fair value increase (decrease) due to change in risk premium included
               
in discount rate
    -       2,830  
Other changes
    491       (227 )
Net change in fair value due to assumption changes
    (1,152 )     (378 )
                 
Net Gains (Losses) included in Finance charges and other (a)
    (1,137 )     38  
                 
Change in balance of subordinated security and equity interest due to
               
transfers of receivables
    9,885       (6,550 )
                 
Balance of Interests in securitized assets at end of period
  $ 177,648     $ 164,090  
                 
Reconciliation of Servicing Liability:
               
                 
Balance of servicing liability at beginning of period
  $ 1,204     $ 1,038  
                 
Amounts recorded in Finance charges and other:
               
Increase (decrease) associated with change in portfolio balances
    52       (78 )
Increase (decrease) due to change in discount rate
    (1 )     13  
Other changes
    24       12  
Net change included in Finance charges and other (b)
    75       (53 )
                 
Balance of servicing liability at end of period
  $ 1,279     $ 985  
                 
Net increase (decrease) in fair value included
               
in Finance charges and other (a) - (b)
  $ (1,212 )   $ 91  
 
 
9

 
 
The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the Interests in securitized assets and the beginning and ending balances of the servicing liability for the six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
Reconciliation of Interests in Securitized Assets:
           
             
Balance of Interests in securitized assets at beginning of period
  $ 178,150     $ 176,543  
                 
Amounts recorded in Finance charges and other:
               
Gains associated with changes in portfolio balances
    167       681  
Changes in fair value due to assumption changes:
               
Fair value increase (decrease) due to changing portfolio yield
    (816 )     (476 )
Fair value increase (decrease) due to lower (higher) projectedinterest rates
    (123 )     133  
Fair value increase (decrease) due to changes in funding mix
    1,253       (4,886 )
Fair value increase (decrease) due to change in risk-free interest rate
               
component of discount rate
    (238 )     23  
Fair value increase (decrease) due to change in risk premium included
               
in discount rate
    (5,128 )     6,497  
Other changes
    688       (663 )
Net change in fair value due to assumption changes
    (4,364 )     628  
                 
Net Gains (Losses) included in Finance charges and other (a)
    (4,197 )     1,309  
                 
Change in balance of subordinated security and equity interest due to
               
transfers of receivables
    3,695       (13,762 )
                 
Balance of Interests in securitized assets at end of period
  $ 177,648     $ 164,090  
                 
Reconciliation of Servicing Liability:
               
                 
Balance of servicing liability at beginning of period
  $ 1,197     $ 1,157  
                 
Amounts recorded in Finance charges and other:
               
Increase (decrease) associated with change in portfolio balances
    86       (179 )
Increase (decrease) due to change in discount rate
    (20 )     30  
Other changes
    16       (23 )
Net change included in Finance charges and other (b)
    82       (172 )
                 
Balance of servicing liability at end of period
  $ 1,279     $ 985  
                 
Net increase (decrease) in fair value included
               
in Finance charges and other (a) - (b)
  $ (4,279 )   $ 1,481  

 
10

 
 
3.      Supplemental Disclosure of Revenue
 
The following is a summary of the classification of the amounts included as Finance charges and other for the three and six months ended July 31, 2008 and 2009 (in thousands):
 
   
Three Months ended
   
Six Months ended
 
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
 
                         
Securitization income:
                       
Servicing fees received
  $ 6,406     $ 5,994     $ 12,860     $ 12,621  
Gains (losses) on sale of receivables, net
    8,578       (1,189 )     15,408       (1,358 )
Change in fair value of securitized assets
    (1,212 )     91       (4,279 )     1,481  
Interest earned on retained interests
    7,710       10,968       14,832       23,002  
Total securitization income
    21,482       15,864       38,821       35,746  
Insurance commissions
    5,735       5,031       10,940       9,701  
Interest income from receivables not sold and other
    676       9,017       1,617       15,640  
Finance charges and other
  $ 27,893     $ 29,912     $ 51,378     $ 61,087  
 
 
4.      Interests in Securitized Receivables

The Company has an agreement to sell customer receivables.  As part of this agreement, the Company sells eligible retail installment contracts and revolving receivable accounts to a QSPE that pledges the transferred accounts to a trustee for the benefit of investors. The following table summarizes the availability of funding under the Company’s securitization program at July 31, 2009 (in thousands):
 
   
Capacity
   
Utilized
   
Available
 
2002 Series A
  $ 300,000     $ 210,000     $ 90,000  
2006 Series A – Class A
    90,000       90,000       -  
2006 Series A – Class B
    43,333       43,333       -  
2006 Series A – Class C
    16,667       16,667       -  
Total
  $ 450,000     $ 360,000     $ 90,000  

The 2002 Series A program functions as a credit facility to fund the initial transfer of eligible receivables. When the facility approaches a predetermined amount, the QSPE (Issuer) is required to seek financing to pay down the outstanding balance in the 2002 Series A variable funding note. The amount paid down on the facility then becomes available to fund the transfer of new receivables or to meet required principal payments on other series as they become due. The new financing could be in the form of additional notes, bonds or other instruments as the market and transaction documents might allow. The 2002 Series A program is divided into two tranches: a $100 million 364-day tranche with a maturity date in August 2009, and a $200 million tranche that is renewable annually, at our option, until September 2012. The $10 million balance that was outstanding at July 31, 2009 on the $100 million 364-day tranche was paid in full during August 2009, and the facility expired and was not renewed. The 2006 Series A program, which was consummated in August 2006, is non-amortizing for the first four years and officially matures in April 2017. However, it is expected that the principal payments, which begin in September 2010, will retire the bonds prior to that date.

The agreement contains certain covenants requiring the maintenance of various financial ratios and receivables performance standards. As part of the securitization program, the Company and Issuer arranged for the issuance of a stand-by letter of credit in the amount of $20.0 million to provide assurance to the trustee on behalf of the bondholders that funds collected monthly by the Company, as servicer, will be remitted as required under the base indenture and other related documents. The letter of credit expires in August 2010, and the maximum potential amount of future payments is the face amount of the letter of credit. The letter of credit is callable, at the option of the trustee, if the Company, as servicer, fails to make the required monthly payments of the cash collected to the trustee.
 
 
11

 

Through its retail sales activities, the Company generates customer retail installment contracts and revolving receivable accounts. The Company enters into securitization transactions to sell eligible accounts to the QSPE. In these securitizations, the Company retains servicing responsibilities and subordinated interests. The Company receives annual servicing fees and other benefits approximating 4.0% of the outstanding balance and rights to future cash flows arising after the investors in the securities issued by or on behalf of the QSPE have received from the trustee all contractually required principal and interest amounts. The Company records a servicing liability related to the servicing obligations (See Note 2). The investors and the securitization trustee have no recourse to the Company’s other assets for failure of the individual customers of the Company and the QSPE to pay when due. The Company’s retained interests are subordinate to the investors’ interests, and would not be paid if the Issuer is unable to repay the amounts due under the 2002 Series A and 2006 Series A programs. Their value is subject to credit, prepayment, and interest rate risks on the transferred financial assets.

The fair values of the Company’s interest in securitized assets were as follows (in thousands):
 
   
January 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2009
   
2009
 
Interest-only strip
  $ 31,958     $ 26,176  
Subordinated securities
    144,585       137,914  
Total fair value of interests in securitized assets
  $ 176,543     $ 164,090  


The table below summarizes valuation assumptions used for each period presented:

   
January 31,
 
April 30,
 
July 31,
   
2009
 
2009
 
2009
Net interest spread
           
Primary installment
 
14.5%
 
14.7%
 
14.6%
Primary revolving
 
14.5%
 
14.7%
 
14.6%
Secondary installment
 
14.1%
 
13.9%
 
12.9%
Expected losses
           
Primary installment
 
3.4%
 
3.5%
 
3.5%
Primary revolving
 
3.4%
 
3.5%
 
3.5%
Secondary installment
 
5.5%
 
5.3%
 
5.4%
Projected expense
           
Primary installment
 
3.9%
 
4.0%
 
4.0%
Primary revolving
 
3.9%
 
4.0%
 
4.0%
Secondary installment
 
3.9%
 
4.0%
 
4.0%
Discount rates
           
Primary installment
 
29.2%
 
26.7%
 
24.8%
Primary revolving
 
29.2%
 
26.7%
 
24.8%
Secondary installment
 
33.2%
 
30.7%
 
28.8%
 
 
12

 
 
At July 31, 2009, key economic assumptions and the sensitivity of the current fair value of the interests in securitized assets to immediate 10% and 20% adverse changes in those assumptions are as follows (dollars in thousands):
 
     
Primary
     
Primary
     
Secondary
 
     
Portfolio
     
Portfolio
     
Portfolio
 
     
Installment
     
Revolving
     
Installment
 
Fair value of interest in securitized assets
  $ 122,921     $ 8,824     $ 32,345  
                         
Expected weighted average life    
1.3 years
     
1.1 years
     
1.7 years
 
                         
Net interest spread assumption
    14.6 %     14.6 %     12.9 %
Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
  $ 3,979     $ 286     $ 1,256  
Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
  $ 7,840     $ 563     $ 2,471  
Expected losses assumptions
    3.5 %     3.5 %     5.4 %
Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
  $ 951     $ 68     $ 532  
Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
  $ 1,894     $ 136     $ 1,057  
Projected expense assumption
    4.0 %     4.0 %     4.0 %
Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
  $ 1,077     $ 77     $ 409  
Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
  $ 2,153     $ 155     $ 818  
Discount rate assumption
    24.8 %     24.8 %     28.8 %
Impact on fair value of 10% adverse change
  $ 2,654     $ 190     $ 965  
Impact on fair value of 20% adverse change
  $ 5,184     $ 372     $ 1,875  
 
 
These sensitivities are hypothetical and should be used with caution. As the figures indicate, changes in fair value based on a 10% variation in assumptions generally cannot be extrapolated because the relationship of the change in assumption to the change in fair value may not be linear. Also, the effect of the variation in a particular assumption on the fair value of the interest-only strip is calculated without changing any other assumption; in reality, changes in one factor may result in changes in another (i.e. increases in market interest rates may result in lower prepayments and increased credit losses), which might magnify or counteract the sensitivities.
 
 
13

 
 
The following tables present quantitative information about the receivables portfolios managed by the Company (in thousands):

   
Total Principal Amount of
   
Principal Amount Over
   
Principal Amount
 
   
Receivables
   
60 Days Past Due (1)
   
Reaged (1)
 
   
January 31,
   
July 31,
   
January 31,
   
July 31,
   
January 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2009
   
2009
   
2009
   
2009
   
2009
   
2009
 
Primary portfolio:
                                   
Installment
  $ 551,838     $ 561,879     $ 33,126     $ 35,809     $ 88,224     $ 88,092  
Revolving
    38,084       31,225       2,027       1,872       2,401       2,074  
Subtotal
    589,922       593,104       35,153       37,681       90,625       90,166  
Secondary portfolio:
                                               
Installment
    163,591       152,774       19,988       19,361       50,537       50,621  
Total receivables managed
    753,513       745,878       55,141       57,042       141,162       140,787  
Less receivables sold
    645,715       545,885       52,214       51,182       131,893       127,670  
Receivables not sold
    107,798       199,993     $ 2,927     $ 5,860     $ 9,269     $ 13,117  
Allowance for uncollectible accounts
    (3,913 )     (7,251 )                                
Allowances for promotional credit programs
    (1,588 )     (3,473 )                                
Current portion of customer accounts
                                               
receivable, net
    61,125       115,696                                  
Long-term customer accounts
                                               
receivable, net
  $ 41,172     $ 73,573                                  
 
(1) Amounts are based on end of period balances and accounts could be represented in both the past due and reaged columns shown above.

 
   
Average Balances
   
Net Credit Charge-offs (2)
   
Average Balances
   
Net Credit Charge-offs (2)
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
 
Primary portfolio:
                                               
Installment
  $ 480,369     $ 556,386                 $ 473,629     $ 552,956              
Revolving
    43,158       31,467                   45,220       33,479              
Subtotal
    523,527       587,853     $ 3,422     $ 4,485       518,849       586,435     $ 7,010     $ 8,401  
Secondary portfolio:
                                                               
Installment
    158,900       154,225       1,333       1,915       153,613       156,983       3,081       3,604  
Total receivables managed
    682,427       742,078       4,755       6,400       672,462       743,418       10,091       12,005  
Less receivables sold
    673,854       569,494       4,544       5,843       663,727       593,048       9,725       11,092  
Receivables not sold
  $ 8,573     $ 172,584     $ 211     $ 557     $ 8,735     $ 150,370     $ 366     $ 913  
 
(2) Amounts represent total credit charge-offs, net of recoveries, on total receivables.
 
 
14

 
 
5.  Debt and Letters of Credit

On August 14, 2008, the Company entered into a $210 million asset-based revolving credit facility that provides funding based on a borrowing base calculation that includes accounts receivable and inventory. The facility matures in August 2011 and bears interest at LIBOR plus a spread ranging from 225 basis points to 275 basis points, based on a fixed charge coverage ratio. In addition to the fixed charge coverage ratio, the revolving credit facility includes a leverage ratio requirement, a minimum receivables cash recovery percentage requirement, a net capital expenditures limit and combined portfolio performance covenants.

Debt consisted of the following at the period ends (in thousands):
 
   
January 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2009
   
2009
 
             
             
Revolving credit facility for $210 million maturing in August 2011
  $ 62,900     $ 130,102  
Unsecured revolving line of credit for $10 million maturing in September 2009
    -       -  
Other long-term debt
    17       193  
Total debt
    62,917       130,295  
Less current portion of debt
    5       60  
Long-term debt
  $ 62,912     $ 130,235  


The Company’s revolving credit facility provides it the ability to utilize letters of credit to secure its obligations as the servicer under its QSPE’s asset-backed securitization program, deductibles under the Company’s property and casualty insurance programs and international product purchases, among other acceptable uses. At July 31, 2009, the Company had outstanding letters of credit of $21.7 million under this facility. The maximum potential amount of future payments under these letter of credit facilities is considered to be the aggregate face amount of each letter of credit commitment, which totals $21.7 million as of July 31, 2009.  As of July 31, 2009, the Company had approximately $38.3 million under its revolving credit facility, net of standby letters of credit issued, and $10.0 million under its unsecured bank line of credit immediately available for general corporate purposes.  The Company also had $19.9 million that may become available under its revolving credit facility as it grows the balance of eligible customer receivables it retains and its total eligible inventory balances.

The Company held interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $40.0 million as of July 31, 2009, with terms extending through July 2011 for the purpose of hedging against variable interest rate risk related to the variability of cash flows in the interest payments on a portion of its variable-rate debt, based on changes in the benchmark one-month LIBOR interest rate. Changes in the cash flows of the interest rate swaps are expected to exactly offset the changes in cash flows (changes in base interest rate payments) attributable to fluctuations in the LIBOR interest rate.  For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses on the derivative representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings.
 
 
15

 
 
For information on the location and amounts of derivative fair values in the statement of operation, see the tables presented below (in thousands):
 
 
Fair Values of Derivative Instruments
 
     
 
Liability Derivatives
 
 
January 31, 2009
 
July 31, 2009
 
 
Balance
     
Balance
     
 
Sheet
 
Fair
 
Sheet
 
Fair
 
 
Location
 
Value
 
Location
 
Value
 
Derivatives designated as
               
hedging instruments under
               
Statement 133
               
Interest rate contracts
Other liabilities
  $ -  
Other liabilities
  $ 231  
                     
Total derivatives designated
                   
as hedging instruments
                   
under Statement 133
    $ -       $ 231  

 
                               
Amount of
 
                               
Gain or (Loss)
 
                 
Amount of
     
Recognized in
 
                 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Location of
 
Income on
 
   
Amount of
     
Reclassified
 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Derivative
 
   
Gain or (Loss)
 
Location of
 
from
 
Recognized in
 
(Ineffective
 
   
Recognized
 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Accumulated
 
Income on
 
Portion
 
   
in OCI on
 
Reclassified
 
OCI into
 
Derivative
 
and Amount
 
   
Derivative
 
from
 
Income
 
(Ineffective
 
Excluded from
 
Derivatives in
 
(Effective
 
Accumulated
 
(Effective
 
Portion
 
Effectiveness
 
Statement
 
Portion)
 
OCI into
 
Portion)
 
and Amount
 
Testing)
 
133 Cash Flow
 
Three Months Ended
 
Income
 
Three Months Ended
 
Excluded from
 
Three Months Ended
 
Hedging
 
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
(Effective
 
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
Effectiveness
 
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
Relationships
 
2008
   
2009
 
Portion)
 
2008
   
2009
 
Testing)
 
2008
   
2009
 
Interest Rate
           
Interest income/
           
Interest income/
           
Contracts
  $ -     $ (69 )
(expense)
  $ -     $ (75
(expense)
  $ -     $ -  
                                                     
Total
  $ -     $ (69 )     $ -     $ (75     $ -     $ -  
 
 
16

 
 
                               
Amount of
 
                               
Gain or (Loss)
 
                 
Amount of
     
Recognized in
 
                 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Location of
 
Income on
 
   
Amount of
     
Reclassified
 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Derivative
 
   
Gain or (Loss)
 
Location of
 
from
 
Recognized in
 
(Ineffective
 
   
Recognized
 
Gain or (Loss)
 
Accumulated
 
Income on
 
Portion
 
   
in OCI on
 
Reclassified
 
OCI into
 
Derivative
 
and Amount
 
   
Derivative
 
from
 
Income
 
(Ineffective
 
Excluded from
 
Derivatives in
 
(Effective
 
Accumulated
 
(Effective
 
Portion
 
Effectiveness
 
Statement
 
Portion)
 
OCI into
 
Portion)
 
and Amount
 
Testing)
 
133 Cash Flow
 
Six Months Ended
 
Income
 
Six Months Ended
 
Excluded from
 
Six Months Ended
 
Hedging
 
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
(Effective
 
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
Effectiveness
 
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
Relationships
 
2008
   
2009
 
Portion)
 
2008
   
2009
 
Testing)
 
2008
   
2009
 
Interest Rate
           
Interest income/
           
Interest income/
           
Contracts
  $ -     $ (150 )
(expense)
  $ -     $ (92
(expense)
  $ -     $ -  
                                                     
Total
  $ -     $ (150 )     $ -     $ (92     $ -     $ -  
 
 
6.  Contingencies

Legal Proceedings.  On May 28, 2009, the Texas Attorney General filed suit against the Company in the Texas state District Court of Harris County, Texas, alleging that they engaged in unlawful and deceptive practices in violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act.  The Attorney General alleges, among other things, that the Company failed to honor product maintenance and replacement agreements, misled customers about the nature of product maintenance and replacement arrangements sold, and engaged in false advertising with respect to product maintenance and replacement agreements.  The Attorney General sought injunctive relief, civil penalties of up to $20,000 per violation, as well as $250,000 if the conduct financially harmed persons aged 65 or older, restoration of any losses suffered by certain identifiable persons, attorneys’ fees and costs, the disgorgement of all sums taken from consumers, and pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, as provided by law.  While the Company cannot predict at this time what the possible outcome would be of any resolution or court proceeding, the Company is currently reviewing these claims and plans to cooperate with the Texas Attorney General to resolve any potential issues.  An adverse outcome could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

The Company is also involved in routine litigation and claims incidental to its business from time to time, and, as required, has accrued its estimate of the probable costs for the resolution of these matters. These estimates have been developed in consultation with counsel and are based upon an analysis of potential results, assuming a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular period could be materially affected by changes in the Company’s assumptions or the effectiveness of its strategies related to these proceedings. Currently, the Company does not expect the outcome of any of this routine litigation to have a material affect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. However, the results of these proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, and changes in facts and circumstances could impact the Company’s estimate of reserves for litigation.

Service Maintenance Agreement Obligations. The Company sells service maintenance agreements that extend the period of covered warranty service on the products the Company sells. For certain of the service maintenance agreements sold, the Company is the obligor for payment of qualifying claims. The Company is responsible for administering the program, including setting the pricing of the agreements sold and paying the claims. The typical term for these agreements is between 12 and 36 months. The pricing is set based on historical claims experience and expectations about future claims. While the Company is unable to estimate maximum potential claim exposure, it has a history of overall profitability upon the ultimate resolution of agreements sold. The revenues related to the agreements sold are deferred at the time of sale and recorded in revenues in the statement of operations over the life of the agreements. The amounts of service maintenance agreement revenue deferred at January 31, 2009, and July 31, 2009, are $4.5 million and $4.3 million, respectively, and are included in Deferred revenue and allowances in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The following table presents a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the deferred revenue on the Company’s service maintenance agreements and the amount of claims paid under those agreements (in thousands):
 
 
17

 

Reconciliation of deferred revenues on service maintenance agreements
 
Six Months Ended
 
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
 
             
Balance in deferred revenues at beginning of period
  $ 4,369     $ 4,478  
Revenues earned during the period
    (2,814 )     (2,942 )
Revenues deferred on sales of new agreements
    3,096       2,770  
Balance in deferred revenues at end of period
  $ 4,651     $ 4,306  
                 
Total claims incurred during the period, excludes selling expenses
  $ 1,037     $ 1,421  
 
 
 
 
 
18

 
 
Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
Forward-Looking Statements
 
     This report contains forward-looking statements.  We sometimes use words such as "believe," "may," "will," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "expect," "project" and similar expressions, as they relate to us, our management and our industry, to identify forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements relate to our expectations, beliefs, plans, strategies, prospects, future performance, anticipated trends and other future events.  We have based our forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends affecting our business. Actual results may differ materially.  Some of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us that may cause actual results to differ from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:
 
 
·
the success of our growth strategy and plans regarding opening new stores and entering adjacent and new markets, including our plans to continue expanding in existing markets;
 
 
·
our ability to open and profitably operate new stores in existing, adjacent and new geographic markets;
 
 
·
our intention to update, relocate or expand existing stores;
 
 
·
our ability to introduce additional product categories;
 
 
·
our ability to obtain capital for required capital expenditures and costs related to the opening of new stores or to update, relocate or expand existing stores;
 
 
·
our ability to fund our operations, capital expenditures, debt repayment and expansion from cash flows from operations, borrowings from our revolving line of credit and proceeds from securitizations, and proceeds from accessing debt or equity markets;
 
 
·
our ability and our QSPE’s ability to obtain additional funding for the purpose of funding the receivables generated by us, including limitations on the ability of our QSPE to obtain financing through its commercial paper-based funding sources and its ability to obtain a credit rating from  a recognized statistical rating organization to allow it to issue new securities;
 
 
·
the ability of the financial institutions providing lending facilities to the Company or the QSPE to fund their commitments;
 
 
·
the effect of any downgrades by rating agencies of our or our QSPE’s lenders on borrowing costs;
 
 
·
the effect on our or our QSPE’s borrowing cost of changes in laws and regulations affecting the providers of debt financing;
 
 
·
the effect on our or our QSPE’s ability to meet debt covenant requirements;
 
 
·
the cost of any renewed or replacement credit facilities;
 
 
·
the effect of rising interest rates that could increase our cost of borrowing or reduce securitization income;
 
 
·
the effect of rising interest rates or borrowing spreads that could increase our cost of borrowing or reduce securitization income;
 
 
·
the effect of rising interest rates on mortgage borrowers that could impair our customers’ ability to make payments on outstanding credit accounts;
 
 
19

 
 
 
·
our inability to make customer financing programs available that allow consumers to purchase products at levels that can support our growth;
 
 
·
the potential for deterioration in the delinquency status of the sold or owned credit portfolios or higher than historical net charge-offs in the portfolios could adversely impact earnings;
 
 
·
technological and market developments, growth trends and projected sales in the home appliance and consumer electronics industry, including, with respect to digital products like Blu-ray players, HDTV, GPS devices, home networking devices and other new products, and our ability to capitalize on such growth;
 
 
·
the potential for price erosion or lower unit sales that could result in declines in revenues;
 
 
·
the effect of changes in oil and gas prices that could adversely affect our customers’ shopping decisions and patterns, as well as the cost of our delivery and service operations and our cost of products, if vendors pass on their additional fuel costs through increased pricing for products;
 
 
·
the ability to attract and retain qualified personnel;
 
 
·
both short-term and long-term impact of adverse weather conditions (e.g. hurricanes) that could result in volatility in our revenues and increased expenses and casualty losses;
 
 
·
changes in laws and regulations and/or interest, premium and commission rates allowed by regulators on our credit, credit insurance and service maintenance agreements as allowed by those laws and regulations;
 
 
·
our relationships with key suppliers and their ability to provide products at competitive prices and support sales of their products through their rebate and discount programs;
 
 
·
the adequacy of our distribution and information systems and management experience to support our expansion plans;
 
 
·
changes in the assumptions used in the valuation of our interests in securitized assets at fair value;
 
 
·
the potential to record an impairment of our goodwill after completing our required annual assessment, or at any other time that an impairment indicator exists;
 
 
·
the accuracy of our expectations regarding competition and our competitive advantages;
 
 
·
changes in our stock price or the number of shares we have outstanding;
 
 
·
the potential for market share erosion that could result in reduced revenues;
 
 
·
the accuracy of our expectations regarding the similarity or dissimilarity of our existing markets as compared to new markets we enter;
 
 
·
general economic conditions in the regions in which we operate; and
 
 
·
the outcome of litigation or government investigations affecting our business.
 
Additional important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our expectations are discussed under “Risk Factors” in our Form 10-K filed with the Securities Exchange Commission on March 26, 2009.  In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this report might not happen.
 
 
20

 

The forward-looking statements in this report reflect our views and assumptions only as of the date of this report.  We undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

All forward-looking statements attributable to us, or to persons acting on our behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements.

General
 
We intend for the following discussion and analysis to provide you with a better understanding of our financial condition and performance in the indicated periods, including an analysis of those key factors that contributed to our financial condition and performance and that are, or are expected to be, the key “drivers” of our business.

We are a specialty retailer with 75 retail locations in Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma, that sells home appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers, dishwashers and ranges, a variety of consumer electronics, including LCD, LED, plasma and DLP televisions, camcorders, digital cameras, Blu-ray and DVD players, video game equipment, MP3 players and home theater products, lawn and garden products, mattresses and furniture. We also sell home office equipment, including computers and computer accessories and continue to introduce additional product categories for the home and consumer entertainment, such as GPS devices, to help increase same store sales and to respond to our customers' product needs. We require our sales associates to be knowledgeable of all of our products, but to specialize in certain specific product categories.

Unlike many of our competitors, we provide flexible in-house credit options for our customers. In the last three years, we financed, on average, approximately 61% of our retail sales through our internal credit programs. In turn, we finance substantially all of our customer receivables from these credit programs with cash flow from operations and through a revolving credit facility and an asset-backed securitization facility. As part of our asset-backed securitization facility, we have created a qualifying special purpose entity, which we refer to as the QSPE or the Issuer, to purchase eligible customer receivables from us and issue medium-term and variable funding notes secured by the receivables to third parties to finance its acquisition of the receivables. We sell eligible receivables, consisting of retail installment and revolving account receivables extended to our customers, to the issuer in exchange for cash and subordinated securities. Customer receivables not sold to the QSPE are funded by our revolving credit facility and included on our consolidated balance sheet.

We also derive revenues from repair services on the products we sell and from product delivery and installation services we provide to our customers. Additionally, acting as an agent for unaffiliated companies, we sell credit insurance and service maintenance agreements to protect our customers from credit losses due to death, disability, involuntary unemployment and property damage and product failure not covered by a manufacturers’ warranty.  We also derive revenues from the sale of extended service maintenance agreements, under which we are the primary obligor, to protect the customers after the original manufacturer’s warranty or service maintenance agreement has expired.

Our business is moderately seasonal, with a greater share of our revenues, pretax and net income realized during the quarter ending January 31, due primarily to the holiday selling season.

Executive Overview
 
This narrative is intended to provide an executive level overview of our operations for the three and six months ended July 31, 2009.  A detailed explanation of the changes in our operations for this period as compared to the prior year period is included under Results of Operations. Some of the more specific items impacting our operating and pretax income were:
 
·  
For the three months ended July 31, 2009, compared to the same period last year, Total net sales decreased 0.2% and Finance charges and other increased 2.5%. Total revenues increased 0.8% including the impact of the fair value adjustments related to our Interests in securitized assets in both periods, while same store sales decreased 5.2% for the quarter ended July 31, 2009. The same store sales decline was primarily driven by increasingly challenging economic conditions in our markets and the decline in average selling prices on flat-panel televisions. For the six months ended July 31, 2009, compared to the same period last year, Total net sales increased 1.2% and Finance charges and other increased 7.1%. Total revenues increased 3.3%, including the impact of the fair value adjustments related to our Interests in securitized assets in both periods, while same store sales decreased 4.9% during the six months ended July 31, 2009. In addition to the factors stated above, same stores sales for the six month period were impacted by Circuit City’s liquidation sales during February and March of 2009. During the three- and six-month periods, growth in furniture and mattresses and appliances was offset by declines in the consumer electronics and lawn and garden categories and service maintenance agreement commissions.
 
 
21

 
 
·  
Deferred interest and ”same as cash” plans under our consumer credit programs continue to be an important part of our sales promotion plans and are utilized to provide a wide variety of financing to enable us to appeal to a broader customer base.  For the three and six months ended July 31, 2009, $32.0 million, or 18.3% and $59.2 million, or 16.4%, respectively, of our product sales were financed by our deferred interest and “same as cash” plans. For the comparable period in the prior year, product sales financed by our deferred interest and “same as cash” sales were $35.2 million, or 20.1% and $88.1 million, or 26.7%. Our promotional credit programs (same as cash and deferred interest programs), which require monthly payments, are reserved for our highest credit quality customers, thereby reducing the overall risk in the portfolio, and are typically used to finance sales of our highest margin products.  We expect to continue to offer promotional credit in the future, including the use of third-party consumer credit programs, which financed $3.1 million of our product sales during the six months ended July 31, 2009.
 
·  
Our gross margin decreased from 36.4% to 34.8% for the three months ended July 31, 2009, when compared to the same period in the prior year. The decrease resulted primarily from:
 
 
·
a reduction in product gross margins from 21.9% to 19.7% for the three months ended July 31, 2008, and 2009, respectively, which negatively impacted the total gross margin by 180 basis points. The product gross margins were negatively impacted by a highly price competitive retail market,
 
 
·
a change in the revenue mix, such that service maintenance agreement commissions, which have the highest gross margin, contributed a smaller percentage of total revenues in the quarter ended July 31, 2009, resulting in an decrease in the total gross margin of approximately 10 basis points, and
 
 
·
partially offset by a favorable non-cash fair value adjustment related to our Interests in securitized assets of $0.1 million in the current year period, as compared to a $1.2 million non-cash decrease in the prior year period, which accounted for a 40 basis point increase,
 
Our gross margin decreased from 35.8% to 35.3% for the six months ended July 31, 2009, when compared to the same period in the prior year. The decline was a result of trends similar to those discussed for the three months ended July 31, 2009.
 
·  
Finance charges and other increased 2.5% and 7.1% for the three and six months ended July 31, 2009 when compared to the same period last year, benefitting from growth in interest income earned on customer receivables retained on the balance sheet and a favorable non-cash fair value adjustment related to our Interests in securitized assets. As a result of the increase in the balance of receivables retained on our balance sheet, Interest income and other increased $8.4 million and $14.1 million for the three and six months ended July 31, 2009, as compared to the prior year period.  Securitization income decreased primarily due to the reduction in the volume of receivables sold to the QSPE, partially offset by a favorable non-cash fair value adjustment related to our Interests in securitized assets of $0.1 million and $1.5 million for the three and six months included in the current year period, as compared to $1.2 million and $4.3 million non-cash decreases in fair value included in the three and six month periods of the prior year, respectively. The increase in fair value of our Interests in securitized assets was primarily the result of a decrease in the estimated risk premium expected by a market participant included in the discount rate input used to determine the fair value of our interests in securitized assets, partially offset by a decrease in fair value associated with changes in the funding mix and other inputs used.
 
·  
During the three months ended July 31, 2009, Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expense increased as a percent of revenues to 29.5% from 28.8% in the prior year period, largely as a result of the increase in expenses related to the new stores opened in the prior fiscal year and the general de-leveraging effect of the decline in same store sales in addition to increased expense related to the use of third-party finance programs, depreciation expense resulting from the new stores opened in the prior year and current remodel of existing stores and employee benefits, partially offset by lower advertising costs and reduced fuel expense. However, for the six months ended July 31, 2009, Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expense remained constant as a percent of revenues at 28.2%, primarily due to the positive impact of the fair value adjustments related to our Interests in securitized assets on Total revenues, which accounted for an approximately 40 basis point decrease. This decrease was offset by the increase in expenses related to the new stores opened during the prior fiscal year and the general de-leveraging effect of the decline in same store sales.
 
 
22

 
 
·  
The Provision for bad debts increased to $2.7 million and $4.1 million for the three months and six months ended July 31, 2009, respectively. This increase is due to the expected increase in the balance of customer receivables retained on our balance sheet after the completion of our asset-based revolving credit facility in August 2008, and is not the result of higher actual or expected net credit charge-offs on the retained receivables. As opposed to our interest in the eligible customer receivables sold to the QSPE, which we account for at fair value, we  record a reserve for estimated future net credit losses for receivables retained on our balance sheet, which we estimated based on our historical loss trends for the combined portfolios. The increase in the non-cash reserves recorded total $2.0 million and $2.8 million for the three and six months ended July, 31, 2009, respectively. As a result, diluted earnings per share were reduced by $0.06 and $0.08 for the three and six months ended July 31, 2009.
 
·  
Net interest (income) expense has changed from reflecting net interest income in the prior year period to net interest expense in the current year period, due primarily to the increase in borrowings and use of invested cash balances to finance the increase in customer receivables retained on our balance sheet.
 
·  
The provision for income taxes for the three months and six months ended July 31, 2009, were impacted primarily by the change in pre-tax income.  The effective tax rate was higher during the 2009 period because taxes for the state of Texas are based on gross margin, and increased as a percent of Income before income taxes.
 
Operational Changes and Resulting Outlook
 
While we are continuing to assess the availability of capital for new store locations and growth of the credit portfolio, we expect to open three to five new locations during the current fiscal year. We expect these new locations to be in or adjacent to our existing markets to allow us to leverage our existing distribution infrastructure.

While we have benefited from our operations being concentrated in the Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma region, weakness in the health of the national economy may present significant challenges to our operations in the coming quarters. Specifically, future sales volumes, gross profit margins and credit portfolio performance could be negatively impacted, and thus impact our overall profitability. As a result, while we will strive to grow our market share, maintain consistent credit portfolio performance and reduce expenses, we will also work to maintain our access to the liquidity necessary to maintain our operations through these challenging times.
 
We believe we have benefited and will continue to benefit from the recent closure of one of our major consumer electronics competitors, Circuit City. Because of their liquidation sale during February and early March 2009, the growth of our total product and service maintenance agreement sales slowed from the pace experienced during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2009. We believe that their closure will bring new customers into our stores, which could change the mix of our product sales and amount of credit we grant in relation to total product sales.

The consumer electronics industry depends on new products to drive same store sales increases. Typically, these new products, such as high-definition televisions, Blu-ray and DVD players, digital cameras, MP3 players and GPS devices are introduced at relatively high price points that are then gradually reduced as the product becomes mainstream. To sustain positive same store sales growth, unit sales must increase at a rate greater than the decline in product prices. The affordability of the product helps drive the unit sales growth. However, as a result of relatively short product life cycles in the consumer electronics industry, which limit the amount of time available for sales volume to increase, combined with rapid price erosion in the industry, retailers are challenged to maintain overall gross margin levels and positive same store sales. This has historically been our experience, and we continue to adjust our marketing strategies to address this challenge through the introduction of new product categories and new products within our existing categories.

 
23

 
 
Application of Critical Accounting Policies
 
In applying the accounting policies that we use to prepare our consolidated financial statements, we necessarily make accounting estimates that affect our reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Some of these accounting estimates require us to make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time we make the accounting estimates. We base these assumptions and the resulting estimates on authoritative pronouncements, historical information and other factors that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, and we evaluate these assumptions and estimates on an ongoing basis. We could reasonably use different accounting estimates, and changes in our accounting estimates could occur from period to period, with the result in each case being a material change in the financial statement presentation of our financial condition or results of operations. We refer to accounting estimates of this type as critical accounting estimates. We believe that the critical accounting estimates discussed below are among those most important to an understanding of our consolidated financial statements as of July 31, 2009.
 
Transfers of Financial Assets.  We sell eligible customer receivables to a QSPE that issues asset-backed securities to third-party lenders using these accounts as collateral, and we continue to service these accounts after the sale. We recognize the sale of these accounts when we relinquish control of the transferred financial asset in accordance with SFAS No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishment of Liabilities, as amended by SFAS No. 155, Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments. When we sell the eligible customer receivables, we record an asset representing the fair value of our residual interest in the cash flows of the QSPE, which is the difference between the interest earned on customer accounts and the cost associated with financing and servicing the transferred accounts, including an estimate of future net credit losses associated with the transferred accounts, plus our retained interest in the transferred receivables, discounted using a return we estimate would be expected by a market participant. We recognize the income from our interest in these sold customer receivables as gains on the sale of the asset, interest income and servicing fees. This income is included in Finance charges and other in our consolidated statements of operations. Additionally, changes in the fair value of our residual interest in the cash flows of the QSPE are recorded in Finance charges and other. We value our interest in the residual cash flows of the QSPE at fair value under the provisions of SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, and SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements.
 
We estimate the fair value of our Interests in securitized assets using a discounted cash flow model with most of the inputs used being unobservable inputs. The primary unobservable inputs, which are derived principally from our historical experience, with input from our investment bankers and financial advisors, include the estimated portfolio yield, net credit loss rate, discount rate and payment rate and reflect our judgments about the assumptions market participants would use in determining fair value. We offer reage programs to past due customers that have experienced a financial hardship, if they meet the conditions of our reage policy. Reaging a customer’s account can result in updating it from a delinquent status to a current status. At July 31, 2009, reaged receivable balances represented 23.4% of the total portfolio balance held by the QSPE. The impact of our reaging programs is reflected in the historical payment rate, loss rate and delinquency trends considered in setting the market participant assumptions. The reage programs offered to our customers can result in updating an account from a delinquent status to a current status.  In determining the cost of borrowings, we use current actual borrowing rates, and adjust them, as appropriate, using interest rate futures data from market sources to project interest rates over time. Changes in the assumptions over time, including varying credit portfolio performance, market interest rate changes, market participant risk premiums required, or a shift in the mix of funding sources, could result in significant volatility in the fair value of the Interest in securitized assets, and thus our earnings.
 
Based on a review of the changes in market risk premiums during the three months ended July 31, 2009, and discussions with our investment bankers and financial advisors, we estimated that the market risk premium required by a market participant decreased approximately 200 basis points during the quarter ended July 31, 2009. As a result, we decreased the weighted average discount rate assumption from 27.4% at April 30, 2009, to 25.5% at July 31, 2009, after reflecting a 1 basis point decrease in the risk-free interest rate included in the discount rate assumption. Similarly, we reviewed the changes in market risk premiums for the quarter ended April 30, 2009 and reduced the weighted average discount rate assumption to 27.4% from 30.0% at January 31, 2009 to reflect a decrease in the market risk premium of approximately 250 basis points and a 2 basis point decrease in the risk-free interest rate. If a market participant were to require a risk premium that is 10.0% higher than we estimated in the fair value calculation, the fair value of our Interests in securitized assets would decrease by $3.8 million as of July 31, 2009. If we had assumed a 10% reduction in net interest spread (which might be caused by rising interest rates or reductions in rates charged on the accounts transferred), the fair value of our Interests in securitized assets and Finance charges and other would have been reduced by $5.5 million as of July 31, 2009. If the assumption used for estimating credit losses was increased by 10%, the impact to Finance charges and other during the three months ended July 31, 2009 would have been a reduction in revenues and pretax income of $1.6 million.
 
 
24

 

Receivables Not Sold. Customer accounts receivable not eligible for inclusion in the securitization program are carried on our consolidated balance sheet in Customer accounts receivable. We include the amount of principal on those receivables that are expected to be collected within the next twelve months in current assets on its consolidated balance sheet. Those amounts expected to be collected after 12 months are included in long-term assets. Typically, a receivable is considered delinquent if a payment has not been received on the scheduled due date. Additionally, we offer reage programs to past due customers that have experienced a financial hardship, if they meet the conditions of our reage policy. Reaging a customer’s account can result in updating it from a delinquent status to a current status. Generally, an account that is delinquent more than 120 days and for which no payment has been received in the past seven months will be charged-off against the allowance and interest accrued subsequent to the last payment will be reversed. Interest income is accrued using the Rule of 78’s method for installment contracts and the simple interest method for revolving charge accounts, and is reflected in Finance charges and other. Typically, interest income is accrued until the contract or account is paid off or charged-off; however, we provide an allowance for estimated uncollectible interest. Interest income is recognized on our “same as cash” promotion accounts based on our historical experience related to customers who fail to satisfy the requirements of the interest-free programs. The Company has a secured interest in the merchandise financed by these receivables and therefore has the opportunity to recover a portion of any charged-off amount.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We record an allowance for doubtful accounts, including estimated uncollectible interest, for our Customer accounts receivable, based on our historical net loss experience. The net charge-off data used in computing the loss rate is reduced by the amount of post-charge-off recoveries received, including cash payments, amounts realized from the repossession of the products financed and, at times, payments under credit insurance policies. Additionally, we separately evaluate the Primary and Secondary portfolios when estimating the allowance for doubtful accounts, but do not separately evaluate reaged accounts since these accounts have represented a relatively consistent proportion of the total portfolio over time. The balance in the allowance for doubtful accounts and uncollectible interest for customer receivables was $7.3 million and $3.9 million at July 31, 2009 and January 31, 2009, respectively. Additionally, as a result of our practice of reaging customer accounts, if the account is not ultimately collected, the timing and amount of the charge-off is impacted. If these accounts had been charged-off sooner the net loss rates over time might have been higher. Due to the recent growth in the balance of receivables on the balance sheet, as of July 31, 2009, reaged receivable balances represented 6.6% of the total portfolio balance. If the historical loss rate used to calculate the allowance for doubtful accounts were increased by 10% at July 31, 2009, we would have increased our Provision for bad debts by approximately $0.4 million.

Revenue Recognition.  Revenues from the sale of retail products are recognized at the time the customer takes possession of the product. Such revenues are recognized net of any adjustments for sales incentive offers such as discounts, coupons, rebates, or other free products or services and discounts of promotional credit sales that will extend beyond one year. We sell service maintenance agreements and credit insurance contracts on behalf of unrelated third parties. For contracts where the third parties are the obligors on the contract, commissions are recognized in revenues at the time of sale, and in the case of retrospective commissions, at the time that they are earned. Where we sell service maintenance renewal agreements in which we are deemed to be the obligor on the contract at the time of sale, revenue is recognized ratably, on a straight-line basis, over the term of the service maintenance agreement. These service maintenance agreements are renewal contracts that provide our customers protection against product repair costs arising after the expiration of the manufacturer's warranty and the third party obligor contracts. These agreements typically range from 12 months to 36 months. These agreements are separate units of accounting under Emerging Issues Task Force No. 00-21, Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables. The amount of service maintenance agreement revenue deferred at July 31, 2009, and January 31, 2009, is $4.5 million and $4.3 million, respectively, and is included in Deferred revenues and allowances in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

 
25

 
 
Vendor Allowances.  We receive funds from vendors for price protection, product rebates (earned upon purchase or sale of product), marketing, training and promotion programs which are recorded on the accrual basis as a reduction to the related product cost or advertising expense, according to the nature of the program. We accrue rebates based on the satisfaction of terms of the program and sales of qualifying products even though funds may not be received until the end of a quarter or year. If the programs are related to product purchases, the allowances, credits or payments are recorded as a reduction of product cost; if the programs are related to product sales, the allowances, credits or payments are recorded as a reduction of cost of goods sold; if the programs are directly related to promotion or marketing of the product, the allowances, credits, or payments are recorded as a reduction of advertising expense in the period in which the expense is incurred.
 
Goodwill. We perform an assessment annually testing for the impairment of goodwill, or at any other time when impairment indicators exist. We performed our annual assessment in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 and determined that no impairment existed. While the current market conditions have caused our market capitalization to fall below book value, we do not believe any indicators of impairment have occurred since the assessment was performed.

Accounting for Leases.  The accounting for leases is governed primarily by SFAS No. 13, Accounting for Leases. As required by the standard, we analyze each lease, at its inception and any subsequent renewal, to determine whether it should be accounted for as an operating lease or a capital lease. Additionally, monthly lease expense for each operating lease is calculated as the average of all payments required under the minimum lease term, including rent escalations. Generally, the minimum lease term begins with the date we take possession of the property and ends on the last day of the minimum lease term, and includes all rent holidays, but excludes renewal terms that are at our option. Any tenant improvement allowances received are deferred and amortized into income as a reduction of lease expense on a straight line basis over the minimum lease term. The amortization of leasehold improvements is computed on a straight line basis over the shorter of the remaining lease term or the estimated useful life of the improvements. For transactions that qualify for treatment as a sale-leaseback, any gain or loss is deferred and amortized as rent expense on a straight-line basis over the minimum lease term.  Any deferred gain would be included in Deferred gain on sale of property and any deferred loss would be included in Other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements. In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 166, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140” (“SAS 166”). SFAS 166 revises SFAS No. 140 to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial statements about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferor’s continuing involvement, if any, in transferred financial assets. When enacted, the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity will no longer be relevant for accounting purposes.   Therefore, formerly qualifying special-purpose entities (as defined under previous accounting standards) should be evaluated for consolidation by reporting entities on and after the effective date in accordance with the applicable consolidation guidance.   If the evaluation on the effective date results in consolidation, the reporting entity should apply the transition guidance provided in the pronouncement that requires consolidation. SFAS 166 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009. We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of SFAS 166 will have on our consolidated financial statements as it relates to our qualifying special purpose entity.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 167, “Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)” (“SFAS 167”). SFAS 167 amends certain requirements of FASB Interpretation No. 46(R) to improve financial reporting by companies involved with variable interest entities and to provide more relevant and reliable information to users of financial statements. This Statement amends Interpretation 46(R) to require an enterprise to perform an analysis to determine whether the enterprise’s variable interest or interests give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This analysis identifies the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity as the enterprise that has both of the following characteristics:
 
 
26

 
 
a.     
The power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance
 
b.     
The obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity.
 
SFAS 167 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009. We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of SFAS 167 will have on our consolidated financial statements as it relates to our qualifying special purpose entity.
 
In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 168, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codificationand the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162” (“FAS 168”). The standard establishes the FASB Accounting Standards Codification™ (the “Codification”) as the source of authoritative accounting principles recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP, but is intended to simplify user access to all authoritative GAAP by providing all the authoritative literature related to a particular topic in one place. The Codification is effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009, and as of the effective date, all existing accounting standard documents will be superseded. The Codification is effective for the third fiscal quarter of 2009, and accordingly, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ending October 31, 2009 and all subsequent public filings will reference the Codification as the sole source of authoritative literature.
 
 
27

 
 
Results of Operations
 
The following table sets forth certain statement of operations information as a percentage of total revenues for the periods indicated:
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
July 31,
   
July 31,
 
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
 
Revenues:
                       
Product sales
    80.2 %     79.6 %     81.3 %     79.8 %
Service maintenance agreement commissions (net)
    4.5       4.0       4.5       4.1  
Service revenues
    2.5       2.8       2.4       2.6  
Total net sales
    87.2       86.4       88.2       86.5  
                                 
Finance charges and other
    13.3       13.6       12.8       13.2  
Net increase (decrease) in fair value
    (0.5 )     0.0       (1.0 )     0.3  
Total finance charges and other
    12.8       13.6       11.8       13.5  
                                 
Total revenues
    100.0       100.0       100.0       100.0  
Costs and expenses:
                               
Cost of goods sold, including warehousing and occupancy cost
    62.6       63.9       63.1       63.5  
Cost of parts sold, including warehousing and occupancy cost
    1.0       1.3       1.1       1.2  
Selling, general and administrative expense
    28.8       29.5       28.2       28.2  
Provision for bad debts
    0.2       1.2       0.1       0.9  
Total costs and expenses
    92.6       95.9       92.5       93.8  
Operating income
    7.4       4.1       7.5       6.2  
Interest (income) expense, net
    0.0       0.4       0.0       0.4  
Other (income) / expense, net
    0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0  
Income before income taxes
    7.4       3.7       7.5       5.8  
Provision for income taxes
    2.7       1.5       2.7       2.2  
Net income
    4.7 %     2.2 %     4.8 %     3.6 %


Same store sales growth is calculated by comparing the reported sales by store for all stores that were open throughout a period, to reported sales by store for all stores that were open throughout the prior year period. Sales from closed stores, if any, are removed from each period. Sales from relocated stores have been included in each period because each store was relocated within the same general geographic market.
 
The presentation of gross margins may not be comparable to some other retailers since we include the cost of our in-home delivery service as part of Selling, general and administrative expense.  Similarly, we include the cost related to operating our purchasing function in Selling, general and administrative expense.  It is our understanding that other retailers may include such costs as part of their cost of goods sold.
 
 
28

 
 
Three Months Ended July 31, 2009 Compared to Three Months Ended July 31, 2008
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
   
 $
     
%
 
Net sales
  $ 190.3     $ 190.6       (0.3 )     (0.2 )
Finance charges and other
    29.8       29.1       0.7       2.4  
Net increase (decrease) in fair value
    0.1       (1.2 )     1.3       (108.3 )
Revenues   220.2     $ 218.5       1.7       0.8  

 
The $0.3 million decrease in net sales consists of the following:
 
 
·
a $8.1 million increase generated by seven retail locations that were not open for the three months in each period;
 
 
·
a $9.5 million same store sales decrease of 5.2%;
 
 
·
a $0.5 million increase resulted from a decrease in discounts on extended-term promotional credit sales (those with terms longer than 12 months); and
 
 
·
a $0.6 million increase from an increase in service revenues.

The components of the $0.3 million decrease in net sales were a $0.2 million increase in Product sales and a $0.5 million decrease in service maintenance agreement commissions and service revenues. The $0.2 million increase in product sales resulted from the following:
 
 
·
approximately $11.1 million increase attributable to increases in total unit sales, due primarily to increased unit sales in consumer electronics, appliances, furniture and mattresses, partially offset by a decline in lawn and garden equipment unit sales and deliveries, and
 
 
·
approximately $10.9 million decrease attributable to an overall decrease in the average unit price. The decrease was due primarily to a decline in price points in the consumer electronics and track categories, as the average price of televisions in general declined and a change in the mix of products in the track resulted in a drop in the average price point.
 
 
29

 
 
The following table presents net sales by product category in each period, including service maintenance agreement commissions and service revenues, expressed both in dollar amounts (in thousands) and as a percent of total net sales.  Classification of sales has been adjusted from previous presentations to ensure comparability between the categories.
 
   
Three Months Ended July 31,
             
   
2009
   
2008
   
Percent
       
Category
 
Amount
   
Percent
   
Amount
   
Percent
   
Change
       
                                     
Consumer electronics
  $ 60,378       31.7 %   $ 63,033       33.1 %     (4.2 )%     (1 )
Home appliances
    62,495       32.8       60,918       32.0       2.6       (2 )
Track
    23,143       12.2       23,183       12.2       (0.2 )     (3 )
Furniture and bedding
    18,324       9.6       16,558       8.7       10.7       (4 )
Lawn and garden
    6,713       3.5       7,027       3.7       (4.5 )     (5 )
Delivery
    3,074       1.6       3,209       1.7       (4.2 )     (6 )
Other
    1,262       0.7       1,312       0.7       (3.8 )        
Total product sales
    175,389       92.1       175,240       91.9       0.1          
Service maintenance agreement
                                               
commissions
    8,858       4.7       9,911       5.2       (10.6 )     (7 )
Service revenues
    6,052       3.2       5,488       2.9       10.3       (8 )
Total net sales
  $ 190,299       100.0 %   $ 190,639       100.0 %     (0.2 )%        
__________________________________
(1)   
This consumer electronics category declined despite a 28% increase in total television unit sales due to a decline in the average selling price.
(2)   
The home appliance category increased, while the appliance market in general showed continued weakness, as increased sales of air conditioners and refrigerators offset declines in laundry and cooking.
(3)   
The decrease in track sales (consisting largely of computers, computer peripherals, video game equipment, portable electronics and small appliances) is driven primarily by lower desktop computer, camcorder and video game equipment sales, partially offset by higher DVD player and laptop computer sales and the addition of netbooks.
(4)   
This increase in furniture and mattresses sales was driven by the impact of expanded brand offerings and improved in-store displays.
(5)   
This category was impacted by lower lawn and garden sales as drought conditions continued in many of our markets.
(6)   
This decrease is due to reduced deliveries as customers take advantage of the ability to carry out smaller flat-panel televisions.
(7)   
The service maintenance agreement commissions decreased due to reduced emphasis on this product while we completed a thorough review of the program offered to consumers and the training of our sales associates, in response to the Texas Attorney General’s investigation. We expect sales in this area to trend towards our historical performance levels over time due to the enhancements made as a result of the review.
(8)   
This increase is driven by an increase in the cost of parts used to repair higher-priced technology (flat-panel televisions, etc.).
 
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
    $      
%
 
Securitization income (including fair value adjustment)
  $ 15,863     $ 21,542       (5,679 )     (26.4 )
Insurance commissions
    5,032       5,700       (668 )     (11.7 )
Interest income and other
    9,017       651       8,366       1,285.1  
Finance charges and other    29,912     27,893       2,019       7.2  
 
 
The decrease in Securitization income resulted primarily from a reduction in the balances sold to our QSPE. As a result of the reduced sales of new eligible customer receivables to the QSPE, gains (losses) on sales of receivables included in Securitization income declined to a loss of $1.2 million for the three months ended July 31, 2009, from a gain of $8.6 million for the three months ended July 31, 2008. Partially offsetting the decrease was $0.1 million increase in the non-cash fair value adjustment to our Interests in securitized assets, as compared to a $1.2 million decrease in the prior year period. Additionally, because of the higher discount rate assumption used in our fair value calculation since July 31, 2008, Interest earned on our retained interest included in Securitization income has increased to $11.0 million for the three months ended July 31, from $7.7 million in the prior year.
 
 
30

 

Insurance commissions have declined due to lower retrospective commissions, which were negatively impacted by higher claims filings due to Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, and lower interest earnings on funds held by the insurance company for the payment of claims.

Interest income and other increased $8.4 million due to an increase in the balance of customer receivables that are being retained on-balance sheet to a balance of $200.0 million at July 31, 2009, from $8.6 million in the prior year.

The following table provides key portfolio performance information for the three months ended July 31, 2009 and 2008:
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
ABS (a)
   
Owned (b)
   
Total
   
Total
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Interest income and fees
  $ 26,127     $ 8,885     $ 35,012     $ 32,796  
Net charge-offs
    (5,843 )     -       (5,843 )     (4,544 )
Borrowing costs
    (4,512 )     -       (4,512 )     (5,283 )
Amounts included in Finance charges and other
    15,772       8,885       24,657       22,969  
Net charge-offs in Provision for bad debts
    -       (557 )     (557 )     (211 )
Borrowing costs
    -       (917 )     (917 )     -  
Net portfolio yield (c)
  $ 15,772     $ 7,411     $ 23,183     $ 22,758  
                                 
Average portfolio balance
  $ 569,494     $ 172,584     $ 742,078     $ 682,427  
Portfolio yield % (annualized)
    18.4 %     20.6 %     18.9 %     19.2 %
Net charge-off % (annualized)
    4.1 %     1.3 %     3.4 %     2.8 %
 
(a)   
Off balance sheet portfolio owned by the QSPE and serviced by the Company
(b)   
On balance sheet portfolio. Charge-off levels will lag the balance growth.
(c)   
Consistent with securitization income, exclusive of the fair value adjustments, for the ABS facility.
 
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $      
%
 
Cost of goods sold
  $ 140.8     $ 136.8       4.0       2.9  
Product gross margin percentage
    19.7 %     21.9 %             -2.2 %
 
Product gross margin decreased as a percent of net product sales from the 2008 period to the 2009 period due to pricing pressures in retailing in general.
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
   
$
     
%
 
Cost of service parts sold
  $ 2.8     $ 2.3       0.5       23.5  
As a percent of service revenues     46.2     41.3              4.9
 
This increase was due primarily to a 26.1% increase in parts sales.  Parts sales also increased as a percentage of service revenues from 34.1% in the 2008 period to 39.0% in the 2009 period.
 
 
31

 
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
   
$
     
%
 
Selling, general and administrative expense
  $ 64.9     $ 62.9       2.0       3.1  
As a percent of total revenues     29.5 %     28.8 %             0.7 %
 
The increase in SG&A expense was largely attributable to the addition of new stores since May 1, 2008, and related increases in employee and employee-related expenses and occupancy costs. SG&A expense increased as a percent of revenues, largely as a result of the general de-leveraging effect of the decline in same store sales in addition to increased expense related to the use of third-party finance programs, depreciation expense resulting from the new stores opened in the prior year and current remodel of existing stores and employee benefits, partially offset by lower advertising costs and reduced fuel expense.

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $      
%
 
Provision for bad debts
  $ 2.7     $ 0.3       2.4       724.6  
As a percent of total revenues
    1.25 %     0.15 %             1.10 %
 
The provision for bad debts on Other receivables and Customer receivables retained by us and not eligible to be transferred to the QSPE increased primarily as a result of an increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts of $2.0 million due to the increase in the balance of receivables retained by us. Additionally, as a result of the increase in balances retained by us over the past three fiscal quarters, the amount charged off, net of recoveries, increased approximately $0.4 million. See the notes to the financial statements for information regarding the performance of the credit portfolio.
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $      
%
 
Interest income (expense), net
  $ (942   $ 85       (1,027     (1,208.2
 
The increase in interest expense was a result of interest incurred on our new revolving credit facility, which is funding the customer receivables being retained on our consolidated balance sheet. In addition, there was a decrease in interest income from invested funds as we used previously invested cash balances to fund growth in customer receivables.

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
   
$
      %  
Provision for income taxes
  $ 3.2     $ 6.0       (2.8 )     (47.2 )
As a percent of income before income taxes     39.0     37.0             0.0
 
The provision for income taxes is consistent with the decrease in income before income taxes. The effective tax rate was higher during the 2009 period because taxes for the state of Texas are based on gross margin, which declined only 3.6%, as compared to Income before income taxes, which declined 49.9%.

Six Months Ended July 31, 2009 Compared to Six Months Ended July 31, 2008
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
   
$
     
%
 
Net sales
  $ 390.4     $ 385.7       4.7       1.2  
Finance charges and other
    59.6       55.7       3.9       7.0  
Net increase (decrease) in fair value
    1.5       (4.3 )     5.8       (134.9 )
Revenues   $ 451.5     $ 437.1       14.4       3.3  

The $4.7 million increase in net sales consists of the following:
 
 
32

 
 
 
·
a $20.7 million increase generated by seven retail locations that were not open for the six months in each period;
 
 
·
a $18.3 million same store sales decrease of 4.9%;
 
 
·
a $1.4 million increase resulted from a decrease in discounts on extended-term promotional credit sales (those with terms longer than 12 months); and
 
 
·
a $0.9 million increase from an increase in service revenues.
 
The components of the $4.7 million increase in net sales were a $5.0 million increase in Product sales and a $0.3 million decrease in service maintenance agreement commissions and service revenues. The $5.0 million increase in product sales resulted from the following:
 
 
·
approximately $17.4 million increase attributable to increases in total unit sales, due primarily to increased sales in consumer electronics, furniture and mattresses, partially offset by a decline in lawn and garden equipment sales, and
 
 
·
approximately $12.4 million decrease attributable to an overall decrease in the average unit price. The decrease was due primarily to a decline in price points in the consumer electronics and track categories, as the average price of televisions in general declined and a change in the mix of products in the track resulted in a drop in the average price point.
 
The following table presents net sales by product category in each period, including service maintenance agreement commissions and service revenues, expressed both in dollar amounts (in thousands) and as a percent of total net sales.  Classification of sales has been adjusted from previous presentations to ensure comparability between the categories.
 
   
Six Months Ended July 31,
             
   
2009
   
2008
   
Percent
       
Category
 
Amount
   
Percent
   
Amount
   
Percent
   
Change
       
                                     
Consumer electronics
  $ 138,915       35.6 %   $ 136,832       35.5 %     1.5 %     (1 )
Home appliances
    119,608       30.6       116,102       30.1       3.0       (2 )
Track
    44,674       11.4       46,269       12.0       (3.4 )     (3 )
Furniture and mattresses
    37,385       9.6       34,271       8.9       9.1       (4 )
Lawn and garden
    10,984       2.8       12,702       3.3       (13.5 )     (5 )
Delivery
    6,220       1.6       6,346       1.6       (2.0 )     (6 )
Other
    2,420       0.6       2,629       0.7       (7.9 )        
Total product sales
    360,206       92.2       355,151       92.1       1.4          
Service maintenance agreement
                                               
commissions
    18,648       4.8       19,881       5.1       (6.2 )     (7 )
Service revenues
    11,596       3.0       10,680       2.8       8.6       (8 )
Total net sales
  $ 390,450       100.0 %   $ 385,712       100.0 %     1.2 %        
__________________________________
(1)   
This increase is due to continued consumer interest in LCD and plasma televisions, which offset declines in average selling prices and projection television unit sales.
(2)   
The home appliance category increased, while the appliance market in general showed continued weakness, as increased sales of air conditioners and refrigerators offset declines in laundry and cooking.  We also continued to benefit in our markets directly impacted by Hurricane Ike.
(3)   
The decrease in track sales (consisting largely of computers, computer peripherals, video game equipment, portable electronics and small appliances) is driven primarily by lower desktop computer, camcorder and video game equipment, partially offset by higher DVD player and laptop computer sales and the addition of netbooks.
(4)   
The increase in furniture and mattresses sales was driven by the impact of expanded brand offerings and improved in-store displays.
(5)   
This category was impacted by lower lawn and garden sales as drought conditions continued in many of our markets.
(6)   
This decrease is due to reduced deliveries as customers take advantage of the ability to carry out smaller flat-panel televisions
(7)   
The service maintenance agreement commissions were impacted during the first three months of the year by a reduction in the percentage of sales being financed on our in-house credit programs.  They were impacted during the second quarter by a reduced emphasis on this product while we completed a thorough review of the program offered to consumers and the training of our sales associates, in response to the Texas Attorney General’s investigation. We expect sales in this area to trend towards our historical performance levels over time due to the enhancements made as a result of the review.
(8)   
This increase is driven by an increase in the cost of parts used to repair higher-priced technology (flat-panel televisions, etc.).
 
 
33

 

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
2009
   
2008
   
$
     
%
 
Securitization income (including fair value adjustment)
  $ 35,745     $ 38,821       (3,076 )     (7.9 )
Insurance commissions
    9,702       10,996       (1,294 )     (11.8 )
Interest income and other
    15,640       1,561       14,079       901.9  
Finance charges and other   $ 61,087     $ 51,378       9,709       18.9  
 
The decrease in Securitization income resulted primarily from reduction in the balances sold to our QSPE.  As a result of reduced sales of new eligible customer receivables to the QSPE, gains (losses) on sales of receivables included in Securitization income declined to a loss of $1.4 million for the six months ended July 31, 2009, from a gain of $15.4 million for the six months ended July 31, 2008. Partially offsetting the decrease was a $1.5 million increase in the non-cash fair value adjustment to our Interests in securitized assets, as compared to a $4.3 million decrease in the prior year period. Additionally, because of the higher discount rate assumption used in our fair value calculation since July 31, 2008, Interest earned on our retained interest included in Securitization income has increased to $23.0 million for the six months ended July 31, from $14.8 million in the prior year.

Insurance commissions have declined due to lower retrospective commissions, which were negatively impacted by higher claims filings due to Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, and lower interest earnings on funds held by the insurance company for the payment of claims.

Interest income and other increased $14.1 million due to an increase in the balance of customer receivables that are being retained on-balance sheet to a balance of $200.0 million at July 31, 2009, from $8.6 million in the prior year.

The following table provides key portfolio performance information for the six months ended July 31, 2009 and 2008:
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
ABS (a)
   
Owned (b)
   
Total
   
Total
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
Interest income and fees
  $ 54,398     $ 15,394     $ 69,792     $ 64,101  
Net charge-offs
    (11,092 )     -       (11,092 )     (9,725 )
Borrowing costs
    (9,043 )     -       (9,043 )     (10,852 )
Amounts included in Finance charges and other
    34,263       15,394       49,657       43,524  
Net charge-offs in Provision for bad debts
    -       (913 )     (913 )     (366 )
Borrowing costs
    -       (1,523 )     (1,523 )     -  
Net portfolio yield (c)
  $ 34,263     $ 12,958     $ 47,221     $ 43,158  
                                 
Average portfolio balance
  $ 593,048     $ 150,370     $ 743,418     $ 672,462  
Portfolio yield % (annualized)
    18.3 %     20.5 %     18.8 %     19.1 %
Net charge-off % (annualized)
    3.7 %     1.2 %     3.2 %     3.0 %
 
(a)   
Off balance sheet portfolio owned by the QSPE and serviced by the Company
(b)   
On balance sheet portfolio. Charge-off levels will lag the balance growth.
(c)   
Consistent with securitization income, exclusive of the fair value adjustments, for the ABS facility.

 
34

 

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
   
$
      %  
Cost of goods sold
  $ 286.6     $ 275.8       10.8       3.9  
Product gross margin percentage
    20.4 %     22.3 %             -1.9 %

Product gross margin decreased as a percent of net product sales from the 2008 period to the 2009 period due to pricing pressures in retailing in general.

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $       %  
Cost of service parts sold
  $ 5.4     $ 4.6       0.8       17.3  
As a percent of service revenues     46.4 %     43.0 %             3.4

This increase was due primarily to a 30.1% increase in parts sales.  Parts sales also increased as a percentage of service revenues from 32.7% in the 2008 period to 39.2% in the 2009 period.

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $       %  
Selling, general and administrative expense
  $ 127.5     $ 123.3       4.2       3.4  
As a percent of total revenues     28.2     28.2             0.0

The increase in SG&A expense was largely attributable to the addition of new stores since February 1, 2008, and related increases in employee and employee-related expenses, partially offset by lower advertising expense and reduced fuel expense. SG&A expense remained constant as a percent of revenues, primarily due to the positive impact of the fair value adjustments related to our Interests in securitized assets on Total revenues, which accounted for an approximately 40 basis point decrease. This decrease was offset by the increase in expenses related to the opening of new stores and the general de-leveraging effect of the decline in same store sales.

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $       %  
Provision for bad debts
  $ 4.1     $ 0.6       3.5       590.2  
As a percent of total revenues     0.92     0.14             0.78

The provision for bad debts on Other receivables and Customer receivables retained by us and not eligible to be transferred to the QSPE increased primarily as a result of an increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts of $2.8 million due to the increase in the balance of receivables retained by us. Additionally, as a result of the increase in balances retained by us over the past three fiscal quarters, the amount charged off, net of recoveries, increased approximately $0.5 million. See the notes to the financial statements for information regarding the performance of the credit portfolio.
 
               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $       %  
Interest income (expense), net
  $ (1,528   $ 100       (1,628     (1,628.0
 
The increase in interest expense was a result of interest incurred on our new revolving credit facility, which is funding the customer receivables being retained on our consolidated balance sheet. In addition, there was a decrease in interest income from invested funds as we used previously invested cash balances to fund growth in customer receivables.

               
Change
 
(Dollars in Millions)
 
2009
   
2008
    $       %  
Provision for income taxes
  $ 9.9     $ 12.0       (2.1 )     (17.3 )
As a percent of income before income taxes     37.6     36.5             0.5
 
 
35

 
 
The provision for income taxes is consistent with the decrease in income before income taxes. The effective tax rate was higher during the 2009 period because taxes for the state of Texas are based on gross margin, which increased by 1.8%, as compared to Income before income taxes, which declined 19.5%.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Current Activities
 
We require capital to finance our growth as we add new stores and markets to our operations, which in turn requires additional working capital for increased receivables and inventory. We have historically financed our operations through a combination of cash flow generated from operations and external borrowings, including primarily bank debt, extended terms provided by our vendors for inventory purchases, acquisition of inventory under consignment arrangements and transfers of receivables to our asset-backed securitization facilities.
 
As of July 31, 2009, we had additional borrowing capacity of $38.3 million under our revolving credit facility, net of standby letters of credit issued, and $10.0 million under our unsecured bank line of credit immediately available to us for general corporate purposes and extended vendor terms for purchases of inventory. In addition to the $38.3 million currently available under the revolving credit facility, an additional $19.9 million may become available as we grow the balance of eligible customer receivables retained by us and total eligible inventory balances. One of the banks in the revolving credit facility had capital ratios below those prescribed by federal regulators and was acquired by Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argenteria on August 21, 2009. At August 18, 2009, there was approximately $5.8 million of remaining capacity under the bank’s commitment in our revolving credit facility and we do not know what, if any, impact there will be on our ability to borrow those amounts. The principal payments received on receivables held by us and by the QSPE, which averaged approximately $37 million per month during the six months ended July 31, 2009, will also be available each month to fund new receivables generated. The weighted average interest rate on borrowings outstanding under the revolving credit facility at July 31, 2009 was 3.6%, including the interest expense associated with our interest rate swaps. In addition to the amounts available under our revolving credit facilities, as a result of the QSPE’s pay off of the balance on its $100 million 364-day financing facility in August 2009, there is approximately $10 million of excess collateral held by the QSPE that will result in cash flow to us as the receivables are collected.
 
During the six months ended July 31, 2009, our QSPE reduced its receivable portfolio by $99.8 million and paid off $92.5 million in outstanding borrowings, while we borrowed $67.2 million to finance a $92.2 million increase in customer receivables on balance sheet. As a result, the combined borrowings of the Company and the QSPE declined $25.3 million, leaving that capacity available for future growth under our revolving credit facility.
 
A summary of the significant financial covenants that govern our revolving credit facility compared to our actual compliance status at July 31, 2009, is presented below:
 
 
Actual
 
Required
Minimum/
Maximum
Fixed charge coverage ratio must exceed required minimum
1.62 to 1.00
 
1.30 to 1.00
Leverage ratio must be lower than required maximum
3.28 to 1.00
 
3.75 to 1.00
Cash recovery percentage must exceed required minimum
5.09%
 
4.75%
Capital expenditures, net must be lower than required maximum
$13.3 million
 
$22.0 million
 
Note: All terms in the above table are defined by the revolving credit facility and may or may not agree directly to the financial statement captions in this document.  The covenants are calculated on a trailing four quarter basis.
 
We will continue to finance our operations and future growth through a combination of cash flow generated from operations and external borrowings, including primarily bank debt, extended vendor terms for purchases of inventory, acquisition of inventory under consignment arrangements and the QSPE’s asset-backed securitization facilities.  Based on our current operating plans, we believe that cash generated from operations, available borrowings under our revolving credit facility and unsecured credit line, extended vendor terms for purchases of inventory, acquisition of inventory under consignment arrangements and cash flows from the QSPE’s asset-backed securitization program will be sufficient to fund our operations, store expansion and updating activities and capital programs for at least 12 months.
 
 
36

 
 
However, there are several factors that could decrease cash available, including:
 
 
·
reduced demand or margins for our products;
 
 
·
more stringent vendor terms on our inventory purchases;
 
 
·
loss of ability to acquire inventory on consignment;
 
 
·
increases in product cost that we may not be able to pass on to our customers;
 
 
·
reductions in product pricing due to competitor promotional activities;
 
 
·
changes in inventory requirements based on longer delivery times of the manufacturers or other requirements which would negatively impact our delivery and distribution capabilities;
 
 
·
increases in the retained portion of our receivables portfolio under our current QSPE’s asset-backed securitization program as a result of changes in performance or types of receivables sold (promotional versus non-promotional and primary versus secondary portfolio), or as a result of a change in the mix of funding sources available to the QSPE, requiring higher collateral levels, or limitations on the ability of the QSPE to obtain financing through its commercial paper-based funding sources;
 
 
·
reduced availability under our revolving credit facility as a result of borrowing base requirements and the impact on the borrowing base calculation of changes in the performance or eligibility of the receivables financed by that facility;
 
 
·
reduced availability under our revolving credit facility or the QSPE’s financing facilities as a result of the inability of any of the financial institutions providing those facilities to fund their commitment,
 
 
·
reductions in the capacity or inability to expand the capacity available for financing our receivables portfolio under existing or replacement QSPE asset-backed securitization programs or a requirement that we retain a higher percentage of the credit portfolio under such programs;
 
 
·
increases in borrowing costs (interest and administrative fees relative to our receivables portfolio associated with the funding of our receivables);
 
 
·
increases in personnel costs or other costs for us to stay competitive in our markets; and
 
 
·
the inability of our QSPE to renew all or a portion of its current variable funding note facility at its annual maturity date.
 
If necessary, in addition to available cash balances, cash flow from operations and borrowing capacity under our revolving facilities, additional cash to fund our growth and increases in receivables balances could be obtained by:
 
 
·
reducing capital expenditures for new store openings,
 
 
·
taking advantage of longer payment terms and financing available for inventory purchases,
 
 
·
utilizing other sources for providing financing to our customers,
 
 
·
negotiating to expand the capacity available under existing credit facilities, and
 
 
·
accessing equity or debt markets.
 
 
37

 
 
During the six months ended July 31, 2009, net cash provided by operating activities decreased from $46.2 million provided by operating activities during the six months ended July 31, 2008, to $67.4 million used in the six months ended July 31, 2009. Operating cash flows for the current period were impacted primarily by the $92.2 million increase in customer accounts receivable retained on our consolidated balance sheet. The prior period benefitted from an increase in accounts payable balances, due to the timing of inventory purchases and taking advantage of payment terms available from our vendors, and improved funding rates on the sold receivables portfolio, as the QSPE paid off the 2002 Series B bonds. Prior to August 2008, virtually all customer accounts receivable were sold to and funded by our QSPE, resulting in the net cash flow activity from these transactions being reported in cash flows from operating activities. However, the cash flows are different for customer accounts receivable retained by us and financed through our revolving credit facility, with the increase in the accounts receivable balance being reflected as a use of operating cash flows, and borrowings under our revolving credit facility to finance the customer receivables being reflected as financing cash flows. As a result, we expect, as we continue to grow the balance of customer accounts receivable retained by us, the growth will result in a reduction of operating cash flows and an increase in financing cash flows. As a result of the pay off of the $100 million 364-day commitment by the QSPE during August 2009, we expect to slow the growth of receivables on the balance sheet as more cash flow from the QSPE will be available to purchase new receivables.
 
As noted above, we offer promotional credit programs to certain customers that provide for “same as cash” or deferred interest interest-free periods of varying terms, generally three, six, 12, 18, 24 and 36 months, and require monthly payments beginning in the month after the sale. The various “same as cash” promotional accounts and deferred interest program accounts are eligible for securitization up to the limits provided for in our securitization agreements. This limit is currently 30.0% of eligible securitized receivables.  If we exceed this 30.0% limit, we would be required to use some of our other capital resources to carry the unfunded balances of the receivables for the promotional period.  The percentage of eligible securitized receivables represented by promotional receivables was 12.9% as of July 31, 2009. There is no limitation on the amount of “same as cash” or deferred interest program accounts that can be carried as collateral under the revolving credit facility. The percentage of all managed receivables represented by promotional receivables was 18.5% and 14.9% as of July 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively. The weighted average promotional period was 15.8 months and 10.1 months for all promotional receivables outstanding as of July 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively.  The weighted average remaining term on those same promotional receivables was 10.9 months and 7.8 months as of July 31, 2008 and 2009, respectively.  While overall these promotional receivables have a much shorter weighted average term than non-promotional receivables, we receive less income on these receivables, resulting in a reduction of the net interest margin on those receivables.
 
Net cash used in investing activities decreased from $10.8 million used in the fiscal 2009 period to $6.7 million used in the fiscal 2010 period. The net decrease in cash used in investing activities resulted primarily from a decline in purchases of property and equipment in the current year period. We estimate that our total capital expenditures for fiscal 2010 will be approximately $13 million to $18 million.
 
Net cash from financing activities increased from $0.3 million provided during the three months ended July 31, 2008, to $67.2 million provided during the three months ended July 31, 2009. The increase was driven primarily by draws on our revolving credit facility to fund the growth of customer accounts receivable on our balance sheet, as the QSPE used cash flows from receivable collections to pay down amounts owed under its financing facilities. Until its next debt maturity, the QSPE’s cash flows from collections on receivables held by it will be available to purchase new receivables. As a result, we expect the rate of growth of receivables on balance sheet to slow from the pace experienced during the past 12 months.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Financing Arrangements
 
Since we extend credit in connection with a large portion of our retail, service maintenance and credit insurance sales, we have created a qualified special purpose entity, which we refer to as the QSPE or the issuer, to purchase eligible customer receivables from us and to issue medium-term and variable funding notes secured by the receivables to third parties to obtain cash for these purchases. We sell receivables, consisting of retail installment contracts and revolving accounts extended to our customers, to the issuer in exchange for cash and subordinated, unsecured promissory notes. To finance its acquisition of these receivables, the issuer has issued the notes and bonds described below to third parties. The unsecured promissory notes issued to us are subordinate to these third party notes and bonds.
 
 
38

 
 
At July 31, 2009, the issuer had issued two series of notes and bonds: the 2002 Series A variable funding note with a total capacity of $300 million and three classes of 2006 Series A bonds with an aggregate amount outstanding of $150 million, of which $6.0 million was required to be placed in a restricted cash account for the benefit of the bondholders. The 2002 Series A variable funding note is composed of a $100 million 364-day tranche, and a $200 million tranche that is annually renewable, at our option until September 2012. The $100 million 364-day tranche matured in August 2009, and was not renewed. There were no borrowings outstanding under the commitment at the time it expired. If the net portfolio yield, as defined by agreements, falls below 5.0%, then the issuer may be required to fund additions to the cash reserves in the restricted cash accounts. The net portfolio yield was 7.1% at July 31, 2009. Private institutional investors, primarily insurance companies, purchased the 2006 Series A bonds at a weighted fixed rate of 5.75%. The 2006 Series A bonds begin a 20-month amortization of the principal balance in September 2010, with interest-only payments required monthly until that time. The weighted average interest on the variable funding note during the month of July 2009 was 3.8%. On April 28, 2009, one of the banks supporting the commercial paper that funds the variable funding note was downgraded by one of the nationally recognized rating agencies. As a result, we have seen the QSPE’s borrowing costs increase and expect the increase to continue until such time, if ever, that the bank’s previous rating is reinstated. At this time we do not expect the downgrade to impact the bank’s ability to meet its funding obligations to the QSPE. However, we are currently experiencing an increase in the weighted average interest rate on the variable funding note between 50 and 65 basis points as a result of the downgrade.
 
We continue to service the sold accounts for the QSPE, and we receive a monthly servicing fee, so long as we act as servicer, in an amount equal to .25% multiplied by the average aggregate principal amount of receivables serviced, including the amount of average aggregate defaulted receivables.  The issuer records revenues equal to the interest charged to the customer on the receivables less losses, the cost of funds, the program administration fees paid in connection with either the 2002 Series A or 2006 Series A bond holders, the servicing fee and additional earnings to the extent they are available.
 
Currently the 2002 Series A variable funding note permits the issuer to borrow funds up to $200 million to purchase receivables from us or make principal payments on other bonds, thereby functioning as a “basket” to accumulate receivables.  As issuer borrowings under the 2002 Series A variable funding note approach the total commitment, the issuer is required to request an increase in the 2002 Series A amount or issue a new series of bonds and use the proceeds to pay down the then outstanding balance of the 2002 Series A variable funding note, so that the basket will once again become available to accumulate new receivables or meet other obligations required under the transaction documents. Given the current state of the securitization market, the QSPE has been unable to issue medium-term notes or increase the availability under the variable funding note program. As of July 31, 2009, borrowings under the 2002 Series A variable funding note were $210.0 million and currently total $200.0 million as of August 27, 2009.
 
We are not directly liable to the lenders under the asset-backed securitization facility.  If the issuer is unable to repay the 2002 Series A note and 2006 Series A bonds due to its inability to collect the sold customer accounts, the issuer could not pay the subordinated notes it has issued to us in partial payment for sold customer accounts, and the 2006 Series A bond holders could claim the balance in its $6.0 million restricted cash account.  We are responsible under a $20.0 million letter of credit that secures the performance of our obligations or services under the servicing agreement as it relates to the transferred assets that are part of the asset-backed securitization facility.
 
The issuer is subject to certain affirmative and negative covenants contained in the transaction documents governing the 2002 Series A variable funding note and 2006 Series A bonds, including covenants that restrict, subject to specified exceptions: the incurrence of non-permitted indebtedness and other obligations and the granting of additional liens; mergers, acquisitions, investments and disposition of assets; and the use of proceeds of the program.  The issuer also makes representations and warranties relating to compliance with certain laws, payment of taxes, maintenance of its separate legal entity, preservation of its existence, protection of collateral and financial reporting.  In addition, the program requires the issuer to maintain a minimum net worth.
 
 
39

 
 
A summary of the significant financial covenants that govern the 2002 Series A variable funding note compared to actual compliance status at July 31, 2009, is presented below:

(a)    
Calculated for those receivables sold to the QSPE.
(b)    
Calculated for the total of receivables sold to the QSPE and those retained by the Company.
 
 
As reported
 
Required
Minimum/
Maximum
Issuer interest must exceed required minimum
$99.4 million
 
$87.4 million
Gross loss rate must be lower than required maximum (a)
5.1%
 
10.0%
Serviced portfolio gross loss rate must be lower than required maximum (b)
4.3%
 
10.0%
Net portfolio yield must exceed required minimum (a)
7.1%
 
2.0%
Serviced portfolio net portfolio yield must exceed required minimum (b)
9.5%
 
2.0%
Payment rate must exceed required minimum (a)
6.0%
 
3.0%
Serviced portfolio payment rate must exceed required minimum (a)
5.09%
 
4.75%
Consolidated net worth must exceed required minimum
$363.6 million
 
$251.8 million
 
Note: All terms in the above table are defined by the asset backed securitization program and may or may not agree directly to the financial statement captions in this document.
 
Events of default under the 2002 Series A variable funding note and the 2006 Series A bonds, subject to grace periods and notice provisions in some circumstances, include, among others:  failure of the issuer to pay principal, interest or fees; violation by the issuer of any of its covenants or agreements; inaccuracy of any representation or warranty made by the issuer; certain servicer defaults; failure of the trustee to have a valid and perfected first priority security interest in the collateral; default under or acceleration of certain other indebtedness; bankruptcy and insolvency events; failure to maintain certain loss ratios and portfolio yield; change of control provisions and certain other events pertaining to us.  The issuer’s obligations under the program are secured by the receivables and proceeds.
 
 
 
40

 

Both the revolving credit facility and the asset-backed securitization program are significant factors relative to our ongoing liquidity and our ability to meet the cash needs associated with the growth of our business.  Our inability to use either of these programs because of a failure to comply with their covenants would adversely affect our continued growth.  Funding of current and future receivables under the QSPE’s asset-backed securitization program can be adversely affected if we exceed certain predetermined levels of re-aged receivables, size of the secondary portfolio, the amount of promotional receivables, write-offs, bankruptcies or other ineligible receivable amounts.  If the funding under the QSPE’s asset-backed securitization program was reduced or terminated, we would have to draw down our revolving credit facility more quickly than we have estimated.

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Interest rates under the QSPE’s variable funding note facility are variable and are determined based on the commercial paper rate plus a spread of 2.50%. Accordingly, changes in the prime rate, the commercial paper rate or LIBOR, which are affected by changes in interest rates generally, will affect the interest rate on, and therefore our costs under, these credit facilities. Additionally, changes in the credit ratings of our commercial paper facility providers could affect the interest rate on the commercial paper they issue, and therefore our borrowing costs. We are also exposed to interest rate risk through the interest-only strip we receive from our sales of receivables to the QSPE, due to rate variability under the QSPE’s variable funding note discussed above. Since January 31, 2009, our interest rate sensitivity has decreased on the interest-only strip as the variable rate portion of the QSPE’s debt has decreased from $292.5 million, or 66.1% of its total debt, to $210.0 million, or 58.3% of its total debt. As a result, a 100 basis point increase in interest rates on the variable rate debt would increase borrowing costs of the QSPE by $2.1 million over a 12-month period, based on the balance outstanding at July 31, 2009.
 
Interest rates under our revolving credit facility are variable and are determined, at our option, as the base rate, which is the prime rate plus the base rate margin, which ranges from 0.25% to 0.75%, or LIBOR plus the LIBOR margin, which ranges from 2.25% to 2.75%. At July 31, 2009, there was $130.1 million outstanding under this facility. On March 31, 2009, we entered into interest rate swaps with notional amounts totaling $30.0 million to fix the rate on a portion of these balances and on June 23, 2009 we entered into an additional $10.0 million of interest rate swaps to fix the rate on a portion of the balances. As a result, a 100 basis point increase in interest rates on the revolving credit facility would increase our borrowing costs by $0.9 million over a 12-month period, based on the balance outstanding at July 31, 2009, after considering the impact of the interest rate swaps.
 
Item 4.  Controls and Procedures
 
Based on management's evaluation (with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO)), as of the end of the period covered by this report, our CEO and CFO have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)), are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
 
For the quarter ended July 31, 2009, there have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.
 
 
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.  Legal Proceedings
 
We are involved in routine litigation and claims incidental to our business from time to time. Currently, we do not expect the outcome of any of this routine litigation to have a material affect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. However, the results of these proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, and changes in facts and circumstances could impact our estimate of reserves for litigation.
 
 
41

 
 
Texas Attorney General Proceeding.  On May 28, 2009, the Texas Attorney General filed suit against us in Texas state District Court of Harris County, Texas, alleging that we engaged in unlawful and deceptive practices in violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act.  The Attorney General alleges, among other things, that we failed to honor product maintenance and replacement agreements, misled customers about the nature of our product maintenance and replacement arrangements, and engaged in false advertising with respect to our product maintenance and replacement agreements.  The Attorney General sought injunctive relief, civil penalties of up to $20,000 per violation, as well as $250,000 if our conduct financially harmed persons aged 65 or older, restoration of any losses suffered by certain identifiable persons, attorneys’ fees and costs, the disgorgement of all sums taken from consumers, and pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, as provided by law.  While we cannot predict at this time what the possible outcome would be of any resolution or court proceeding, we are reviewing these claims and plan to cooperate with the Texas Attorney General to resolve any potential issues.
 
Item 1A.  Risk Factors
 
In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2009, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results.  The risks described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only risks facing our Company.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.
 
The lawsuit filed against us by the Texas Attorney General seeks material civil penalties and other damages.  The costs we incur in defending ourselves or associated with settling this lawsuit, as well as a material final judgment or decree against us, could materially adversely affect our results of operations, stock price and financial position.
 
Recently, the Texas Attorney General filed a lawsuit against us alleging violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act regarding our service maintenance and product replacement agreement business activities.  The Attorney General alleges, among other things, that we failed to honor product maintenance and replacement agreements, misled customers about the nature of our product maintenance and replacement arrangements, and engaged in false advertising with respect to our product maintenance and replacement agreements.  If we are found liable, we could be required to pay substantial damages or incur substantial costs as part of an out-of-court settlement, either of which could have a material adverse effect in our results of operations and stock price. Additionally, if we are found liable, the funding we receive under our revolving credit facility and the QSPE’s financing facilities could be negatively impacted. As a result, pay down of the various financing facilities may be required, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position and ability to fund our operations.
 
Adverse or negative publicity, including the publicity related to the lawsuit filed against us by the Texas Attorney General, could cause our business to suffer.
 
An adverse judgment or settlement in the lawsuit filed against us by the Texas Attorney General or any negative publicity associated with our service maintenance and replacement program agreements could also adversely affect our reputation and negatively impact our sales.
 
Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
None.
 
 
42

 
 
Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
 
 At the Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on June 2, 2009, the following proposals were submitted to stockholders with the following results:


2. Election of ten directors
 
 
Number of Shares
 
For
 
Withheld
Marvin D. Brailsford
21,092,330
 
297,712
Thomas J. Frank, Sr.
20,920,287
 
469,755
Timothy L. Frank
20,927,736
 
462,306
Jon E. M. Jacoby
20,275,606
 
1,114,436
Bob L. Martin
15,040,926
 
6,349,116
Douglas H. Martin
20,919,371
 
470,671
Dr. William C. Nylin, Jr.
20,919,998
 
470,044
Scott L. Thompson
21,038,859
 
351,183
William T. Trawick
20,605,671
 
784,371
Theodore M. Wright
21,052,858
 
296,810


3. Approval of the Audit Committee’s appointment of Ernst & Young, LLP as our independent public accountants for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2010.
 
 
Number of Shares
For
21,347,466
Against
39,984
Abstain
2,592
Broker Nonvotes
-
 
 
Item 5.  Other Information
 
There have been no material changes to the procedures by which security holders may recommend nominees to our board of directors since we last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 7(d)(2)(ii)(G) of Schedule 14A.
 
 
Item 6.  Exhibits
 
The exhibits required to be furnished pursuant to Item 6 of Form 10-Q are listed in the Exhibit Index filed herewith, which Exhibit Index is incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
43

 
 
SIGNATURE
 
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.
 
 
CONN’S, INC.
     
 
By:
/s/ Michael J. Poppe
 
  Michael J. Poppe
 
  Chief Financial Officer
 
  (Principal Financial Officer and duly
    authorized to sign this report on behalf
 
  of the registrant)
     
Date: August 27, 2009    
 
 
44

 
 
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
 
Exhibit
Number
Description
   
2
Agreement and Plan of Merger dated January 15, 2003, by and among Conn's, Inc., Conn Appliances, Inc. and Conn's Merger Sub, Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
3.1
Certificate of Incorporation of Conn's, Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
3.1.1
Certificate of Amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation of Conn’s, Inc. dated June 3, 2004 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1.1 to Conn’s, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended April 30, 2004 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 7, 2004).
   
3.2
Amended and Restated Bylaws of Conn’s, Inc. effective as of June 3, 2008 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.2.3 to Conn’s, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended April 30, 2008 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 4, 2008).
   
4.1
Specimen of certificate for shares of Conn's, Inc.'s common stock (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 29, 2003).
   
10.1
Amended and Restated 2003 Incentive Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).t
   
10.1.1
Amendment to the Conn’s, Inc. Amended and Restated 2003 Incentive Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1.1 to Conn’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended April 30, 2004 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 7, 2004).t
   
10.1.2
Form of Stock Option Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1.2 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 5, 2005).t
   
10.2
2003 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046)as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).t
   
10.2.1
Form of Stock Option Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.2.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 5, 2005).t
   
10.3
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046)  as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).t
   
10.4
Conn's 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).t
 
 
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10.5
Shopping Center Lease Agreement dated May 3, 2000, by and between Beaumont Development Group, L.P., f/k/a Fiesta Mart, Inc., as Lessor, and CAI, L.P., as Lessee, for the property located at 3295 College Street, Suite A, Beaumont, Texas (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.5.1
First Amendment to Shopping Center Lease Agreement dated September 11, 2001, by and among Beaumont Development Group, L.P., f/k/a Fiesta Mart, Inc., as Lessor, and CAI, L.P., as Lessee, for the property located at 3295 College Street, Suite A, Beaumont, Texas (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.5.1 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.6
Industrial Real Estate Lease dated June 16, 2000, by and between American National Insurance Company, as Lessor, and CAI, L.P., as Lessee, for the property located at 8550-A Market Street, Houston, Texas (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.6.1
First Renewal of Lease dated November 24, 2004, by and between American National Insurance Company, as Lessor, and CAI, L.P., as Lessee, for the property located at 8550-A Market Street, Houston, Texas (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 5, 2005).
   
10.7
Lease Agreement dated December 5, 2000, by and between Prologis Development Services, Inc., f/k/a The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, as Lessor, and CAI, L.P., as Lessee, for the property located at 4810 Eisenhauer Road, Suite 240, San Antonio, Texas (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to Conn’s, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.7.1
Lease Amendment No. 1 dated November 2, 2001, by and between Prologis Development Services, Inc., f/k/a The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, as Lessor, and CAI, L.P., as Lessee, for the property located at 4810 Eisenhauer Road, Suite 240, San Antonio, Texas (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7.1 to Conn’s, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.8
Lease Agreement dated June 24, 2005, by and between Cabot Properties, Inc. as Lessor, and CAI, L.P., as Lessee, for the property located at 1132 Valwood Parkway, Carrollton, Texas (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Current Report on Form 8-K (file no. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2005).
   
10.9
 
Loan and Security Agreement dated August 14, 2008, by and among Conn’s, Inc. and the Borrowers thereunder, the Lenders party thereto, Bank of America, N.A, a national banking association, as Administrative Agent and Joint Book Runner for the Lenders, referred to as Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, as Syndication Agent and Joint Book Runner for the Lenders, and Capital One, N.A., as Co-Documentation Agent (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Conn’s Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 20,2008).
   
10.9.1
Intercreditor Agreement dated August 14, 2008, by and among Bank of America, N.A., as the ABL Agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Securitization Trustee, Conn Appliances, Inc. as the Initial Servicer, Conn Credit Corporation, Inc., as a borrower, Conn Credit I, L.P., as a borrower and Bank of America, N.A., as Collateral Agent (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.5 to Conn’s Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 20,2008).
 
 
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10.10
Receivables Purchase Agreement dated September 1, 2002, by and among Conn Funding II, L.P., as Purchaser, Conn Appliances, Inc. and CAI, L.P., collectively as Originator and Seller, and Conn Funding I, L.P., as Initial Seller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to Conn’s, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.10.1
First Amendment to Receivables Purchase Agreement dated August 1, 2006, by and among Conn Funding II, L.P., as Purchaser, Conn Appliances, Inc. and CAI, L.P., collectively as Originator and Seller (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.10.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 15, 2006).
   
10.11
Base Indenture dated September 1, 2002, by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank Minnesota, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to Conn’s, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.11.1
First Supplemental Indenture dated October 29, 2004 by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Conn’s, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 4, 2004).
   
10.11.2
Second Supplemental Indenture dated August 1, 2006 by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to Conn’s, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 23, 2006).
   
10.11.3
Fourth Supplemental Indenture dated August 14, 2008 by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.4 to Conn’s, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 20, 2008).
   
10.12
Amended and Restated Series 2002-A Supplement dated September 10, 2007, by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to Conn’s, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 11, 2007).
   
10.12.1
Supplement No. 1 to Amended and Restated Series 2002-A Supplement dated August 14, 2008, by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to Conn’s, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 20, 2008).
   
10.12.2
Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated September 10, 2007 by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to Conn’s, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 11, 2007).
   
10.12.3
Second Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated August 14, 2008 by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 99.3 to Conn’s, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 20, 2008).
   
10.12.4
Amendment No. 1 to Second Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated August 28, 2008 by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.12.4 to Conn’s, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2008 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 28, 2008).
 
 
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10.12.5
Amendment No. 2 to Second Amended and Restated Note Purchase Agreement dated August 10, 2009 by and between Conn Funding II. L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (filed herewith).
   
10.13
Servicing Agreement dated September 1, 2002, by and among Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, CAI, L.P., as Servicer, and Wells Fargo Bank Minnesota, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).
   
10.13.1
First Amendment to Servicing Agreement dated June 24, 2005, by and among Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, CAI, L.P., as Servicer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 30, 2005).
   
10.13.2
Second Amendment to Servicing Agreement dated November 28, 2005, by and among Conn Funding II, L.P., as 10.14.2 Issuer, CAI, L.P., as Servicer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14.2 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 2005 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 1, 2005).
   
10.13.3
Third Amendment to Servicing Agreement dated May 16, 2006, by and among Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, CAI, L.P., as Servicer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14.3 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 15, 2006).
   
10.13.4
Fourth Amendment to Servicing Agreement dated August 1, 2006, by and among Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, CAI, L.P., as Servicer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14.4 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 15, 2006).
   
10.14
Form of Executive Employment Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 29, 2003).t
   
10.14.1
First Amendment to Executive Employment Agreement between Conn’s, Inc. and Thomas J. Frank, Sr., Approved by the stockholders May 26, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.15.1 to Conn’s, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2005 (file No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 30, 2005).t
   
10.14.2
Executive Retirement Agreement between Conn’s, Inc. and Thomas J. Frank, Sr., approved by the Board of Directors June 2, 2009 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.14.2 to Conn’s, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended April 30, 2009 (file No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 4, 2009).t.
   
10.14.3
Non-Executive Employment Agreement between Conn’s, Inc. and Thomas J. Frank, Sr., approved by the Board of Directors June 19, 2009 (filed herewith).t
   
10.15
Form of Indemnification Agreement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to Conn's, Inc. registration statement on Form S-1 (file no. 333-109046) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 23, 2003).t
   
10.16
Description of Compensation Payable to Non-Employee Directors (incorporated herein by reference to Form 8-K (file no. 000-50421) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 2, 2005).t
 
 
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10.17
Dealer Agreement between Conn Appliances, Inc. and Voyager Service Programs, Inc. effective as of January 1, 1998 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.17.1
Amendment #1 to Dealer Agreement by and among Conn Appliances, Inc., CAI, L.P., Federal Warranty Service Corporation and Voyager Service Programs, Inc. effective as of July 1, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.17.2
Amendment #2 to Dealer Agreement by and among Conn Appliances, Inc., CAI, L.P., Federal Warranty Service Corporation and Voyager Service Programs, Inc. effective as of July 1, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19.2 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.17.3
Amendment #3 to Dealer Agreement by and among Conn Appliances, Inc., CAI, L.P., Federal Warranty Service Corporation and Voyager Service Programs, Inc. effective as of July 1, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19.3 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.17.4
Amendment #4 to Dealer Agreement by and among Conn Appliances, Inc., CAI, L.P., Federal Warranty Service Corporation and Voyager Service Programs, Inc. effective as of July 1, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.19.4 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.17.5
Amendment #5 to Dealer Agreement by and among Conn Appliances, Inc., CAI, L.P., Federal Warranty Service Corporation and Voyager Service Programs, Inc. effective as of April 7, 2007 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.18.5 to Conn’s, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2007 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 30, 2007).
   
10.18
Service Expense Reimbursement Agreement between Affiliates Insurance Agency, Inc. and American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, American Bankers Insurance Company Ranchers & Farmers County Mutual Insurance Company, Voyager Life Insurance Company and Voyager Property and Casualty Insurance Company effective July 1, 1998 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.18.1
First Amendment to Service Expense Reimbursement Agreement by and among CAI, L.P., Affiliates Insurance Agency, Inc., American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, Voyager Property & Casualty Insurance Company, American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida and American Bankers General Agency, Inc. effective July 1, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.20.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.18.2
Seventh Amendment to Service Expense Reimbursement Agreement by and among Conn Appliances, Inc., American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida, American Reliable Insurance Company and Reliable Lloyds Insurance Company effective May 1, 2009 (filed herewith).
 
 
 
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10.19 Service Expense Reimbursement Agreement between CAI Credit Insurance Agency, Inc. and American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, American Bankers Insurance Company Ranchers & Farmers County Mutual Insurance Company, Voyager Life Insurance Company and Voyager Property and Casualty Insurance Company effective July 1, 1998 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.19.1 First Amendment to Service Expense Reimbursement Agreement by and among CAI Credit Insurance Agency, Inc., American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, Voyager Property & Casualty Insurance Company, American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida, American Reliable Insurance Company, and American Bankers General Agency, Inc. effective July 1, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.21.1 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.19.2
Fourth Amendment to Service Expense Reimbursement Agreement by and among CAI Credit Insurance Agency, Inc., American Bankers Life Assurance Company of Florida, American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida and American Reliable Insurance Company effective May 1, 2009 (filed herewith).
   
10.20
Consolidated Addendum and Amendment to Service Expense Reimbursement Agreements by and among Certain Member Companies of Assurant Solutions, CAI Credit Insurance Agency, Inc. and Affiliates Insurance Agency, Inc. effective April 1, 2004 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-K for the annual period ended January 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2006).
   
10.21
Series 2006-A Supplement to Base Indenture, dated August 1, 2006, by and between Conn Funding II, L.P., as Issuer, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to Conn’s, Inc.  Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2006 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 15, 2006).
   
11.1
Statement re: computation of earnings per share is included under Note 1 to the financial statements.
   
12.1
Statement of computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges (filed herewith).
   
21
Subsidiaries of Conn's, Inc. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 21 to Conn’s, Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended July 31, 2007 (File No. 000-50421) as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 30, 2007).
   
31.1
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification (Chief Executive Officer) (filed herewith).
   
31.2
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification (Chief Financial Officer) (filed herewith).
   
32.1
Section 1350 Certification (Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer) (furnished herewith).
   
99.1
Subcertification by Chairman of the Board in support of Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification (Chief Executive Officer) (filed herewith).
   
99.2
Subcertification by President – Retail Division in support of Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification (Chief Executive Officer) (filed herewith).
   
99.3
Subcertification by President – Credit Division in support of Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification (Chief Executive Officer) (filed herewith).
   
99.4
Subcertification by Treasurer in support of Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification (Chief Financial Officer) (filed herewith).
 
 
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99.5
Subcertification by Secretary in support of Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification (Chief Financial Officer) (filed herewith).
   
99.6
Subcertification of Chairman of the Board, Chief Operating Officer, Treasurer and Secretary in support of Section 1350 Certifications (Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer) (furnished herewith).
   
t
Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
 
 
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