Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

(Mark One)

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

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008

OR

 

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

For the transition period from              to             

Commission File Number 001-14818

 

 

Federated Investors, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Pennsylvania   25-1111467

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

Federated Investors Tower

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

  15222-3779
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) 412-288-1900

 

 

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

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

Large accelerated filer  x    Accelerated filer  ¨    Non-accelerated filer  ¨    Smaller reporting company  ¨.

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the last practicable date: As of October 21, 2008, the Registrant had outstanding 9,000 shares of Class A Common Stock and 101,802,745 shares of Class B Common Stock.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Table of Contents

 

 

     Page No.
Part I.   Financial Information   
  Item 1.   Financial Statements   
   

Consolidated Balance Sheets

   3
   

Consolidated Statements of Income

   4
   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

   5
   

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

   6
  Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    17
  Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk    33
  Item 4.   Controls and Procedures    34
Part II.   Other Information   
  Item 1.   Legal Proceedings    35
  Item 1A.   Risk Factors    36
  Item 2.   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds    37
  Item 4.   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders    38
  Item 6.   Exhibits    39
Signatures    40

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

 

Certain statements in this report on Form 10-Q including those related to asset flows and business mix; obligations to make additional contingent payments pursuant to acquisition agreements; obligations to make additional payments pursuant to employment agreements; the costs associated with the settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the New York State Attorney General; legal proceedings; future cash needs; future principal uses of cash; performance indicators; impact of accounting policies and new accounting pronouncements; concentration risk; indemnification obligations; the impact of increased regulation; the prospect of increased marketing and distribution-related expenses; insurance recoveries; management’s expectations regarding waivers; the ability to raise additional capital; the rising costs of risk management and the various items set forth under the section entitled “Risk Factors” constitute forward-looking statements, which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements of Federated or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Among other risks and uncertainties, market conditions may change significantly resulting in changes to Federated’s asset flows and business mix, which may cause a decline in revenues and net income. The obligation to make contingent payments is based on certain growth and fund performance targets and will be affected by the achievement of such targets, and the obligation to make additional payments pursuant to employment agreements is based on satisfaction of certain conditions set forth in those agreements. Future cash needs and future uses of cash will be impacted by a variety of factors, including the number and size of any acquisitions, Federated’s success in distributing its products, the resolution of pending litigation, potential increases in costs relating to risk management, as well as potential changes in assets under management and/or changes in the terms of distribution and shareholder services contracts with intermediaries who offer Federated’s products to customers. Federated’s risks and uncertainties also include liquidity and credit risks in Federated’s money market funds associated with holding securities of a structured investment vehicle and revenue risk, which will be affected by changes in market values of assets under management and may be affected by changing interest rates. Many of these factors may be more likely to occur as a result of the ongoing threat of terrorism and the increased scrutiny of the mutual fund industry by federal and state regulators. As a result, no assurance can be given as to future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements, and neither Federated nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of such statements in the future. For more information on these items, see the section entitled “Risk Factors” herein under Item 2 of Part I, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.


Table of Contents

Part I, Item 1. Financial Statements

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

(dollars in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

     September 30,
2008
    December 31,
2007
 

Current Assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 44,881     $ 120,350  

Investments

     15,114       25,921  

Receivables – affiliates

     19,720       24,639  

Receivables – other, net of reserve of $298 and $143, respectively

     3,075       2,454  

Accrued revenue – affiliates

     3,389       3,353  

Accrued revenue – other

     5,924       6,823  

Prepaid expenses

     19,304       14,618  

Other current assets

     11,244       8,133  
                

Total current assets

     122,651       206,291  
                

Long-Term Assets

    

Goodwill

     510,778       454,586  

Customer-relationship intangible assets, net

     59,140       71,821  

Other intangible assets, net

     7,060       8,196  

Deferred sales commissions, net of accumulated amortization of $171,611 and $372,588, respectively

     36,960       64,227  

Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $37,171 and $35,377, respectively

     28,920       25,873  

Other long-term assets

     9,806       9,977  
                

Total long-term assets

     652,664       634,680  
                

Total assets

   $ 775,315     $ 840,971  
                

Current Liabilities

    

Accrued compensation and benefits

   $ 48,388     $ 74,227  

Accounts payable and accrued expenses – affiliates

     2,979       2,817  

Accounts payable and accrued expenses – other

     60,289       56,166  

Income taxes payable

     613       420  

Short-term debt – recourse

     30,594       89  

Other current liabilities

     32,944       30,852  
                

Total current liabilities

     175,807       164,571  
                

Long-Term Liabilities

    

Long-term debt – recourse

     129,500       71  

Long-term debt – nonrecourse

     36,882       62,701  

Long-term deferred tax liability, net

     33,658       27,097  

Other long-term liabilities – affiliates

     2,237       1,701  

Other long-term liabilities – other

     5,931       7,243  
                

Total long-term liabilities

     208,208       98,813  
                

Total liabilities

     384,015       263,384  
                

Minority interest

     1,506       3,572  
                

Commitments and contingencies (Note (17))

    

Shareholders’ Equity

    

Common stock:

    

Class A, no par value, 20,000 shares authorized, 9,000 shares issued and outstanding

     189       189  

Class B, no par value, 900,000,000 shares authorized, 129,505,456 shares issued

     195,154       176,700  

Additional paid-in capital from treasury stock transactions

     147       679  

Retained earnings

     1,007,026       1,189,516  

Treasury stock, at cost, 27,694,512 and 27,755,886 shares Class B common stock, respectively

     (813,296 )     (793,948 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax

     574       879  
                

Total shareholders’ equity

     389,794       574,015  
                

Total liabilities, minority interest, and shareholders’ equity

   $ 775,315     $ 840,971  
                

(The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

3


Table of Contents

Consolidated Statements of Income

 

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2008     2007     2008     2007  

Revenue

        

Investment advisory fees, net-affiliates

   $ 178,626     $ 167,443     $ 538,835     $ 482,293  

Investment advisory fees, net-other

     16,027       17,455       48,862       49,164  

Administrative service fees, net-affiliates

     53,551       42,375       157,828       120,142  

Administrative service fees, net-other

     818       1,433       2,556       4,165  

Other service fees, net-affiliates

     54,444       54,332       165,333       161,591  

Other service fees, net-other

     1,563       2,084       5,105       5,690  

Other, net

     884       1,286       3,393       4,307  
                                

Total revenue

     305,913       286,408       921,912       827,352  
                                

Operating Expenses

        

Marketing and distribution

     106,742       90,839       324,799       258,329  

Compensation and related

     60,482       52,139       180,967       157,876  

Professional service fees

     10,259       7,525       30,356       24,473  

Systems and communications

     5,996       5,753       17,927       17,466  

Office and occupancy

     5,619       5,335       18,067       16,175  

Advertising and promotional

     3,787       3,566       11,495       10,703  

Travel and related

     3,228       2,889       10,166       9,332  

Amortization of deferred sales commissions

     7,762       11,298       25,923       35,631  

Amortization of intangible assets

     4,369       4,763       13,673       14,889  

Other

     4,409       4,072       13,121       11,583  
                                

Total operating expenses

     212,653       188,179       646,494       556,457  
                                

Operating income

     93,260       98,229       275,418       270,895  
                                

Nonoperating Income (Expenses)

        

Dividend income

     1,268       1,433       3,781       4,427  

Interest income

     100       292       287       770  

Loss on securities, net

     (1,178 )     (4,700 )     (1,703 )     (4,522 )

Debt expense – recourse

     (757 )     (93 )     (961 )     (274 )

Debt expense – nonrecourse

     (622 )     (1,205 )     (2,232 )     (4,062 )

Other, net

     (152 )     (444 )     (356 )     (440 )
                                

Total nonoperating expenses, net

     (1,341 )     (4,717 )     (1,184 )     (4,101 )
                                

Income from continuing operations before minority interest and income taxes

     91,919       93,512       274,234       266,794  

Minority interest

     2,455       1,470       5,861       4,245  
                                

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

     89,464       92,042       268,373       262,549  

Income tax provision

     33,253       34,315       101,126       97,781  
                                

Income from continuing operations

     56,211       57,727       167,247       164,768  

Discontinued operations, net of tax

     0       0       2,808       0  
                                

Net income

   $ 56,211     $ 57,727     $ 170,055     $ 164,768  
                                

Earnings per share – Basic

        

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.57     $ 0.57     $ 1.68     $ 1.63  

Income from discontinued operations

     0.00       0.00       0.03       0.00  
                                

Net income

   $ 0.57     $ 0.57     $ 1.71     $ 1.63  
                                

Earnings per share – Diluted

        

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.56     $ 0.57     $ 1.66     $ 1.60  

Income from discontinued operations

     0.00       0.00       0.03       0.00  
                                

Net income1

   $ 0.56     $ 0.57     $ 1.68     $ 1.60  
                                

Cash dividends per share

   $ 3.00     $ 0.21     $ 3.45     $ 0.60  
                                

 

1

Totals may not sum due to rounding.

(The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

4


Table of Contents

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

(dollars in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

Nine Months Ended September 30,

   2008     2007  

Operating Activities

    

Net income

   $ 170,055     $ 164,768  

Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

    

Amortization of deferred sales commissions

     25,923       35,631  

Depreciation and other amortization

     18,116       19,129  

Share-based compensation expense

     11,727       9,248  

Minority interest

     5,861       4,245  

(Gain) loss on disposal of business and assets

     (4,885 )     4,438  

Provision (benefit) for deferred income taxes

     3,239       (1,993 )

Tax benefit from share-based compensation

     8,477       5,996  

Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation

     (6,634 )     (5,021 )

Net purchases of trading securities

     (4,387 )     (8,799 )

Deferred sales commissions paid

     (9,396 )     (12,901 )

Contingent deferred sales charges received

     6,008       9,300  

Proceeds from sale of certain B-share-related future revenue

     4,937       4,558  

Other changes in assets and liabilities:

    

Decrease (increase) in receivables, net

     3,281       (2,701 )

Increase in prepaid expenses and other assets

     (3,116 )     (13,871 )

(Decrease) increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses

     (19,622 )     8,605  

Increase in income taxes payable

     841       1,636  

Increase in other liabilities

     4,273       5,857  
                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     214,698       228,125  
                

Investing Activities

    

Cash paid for business acquisitions and minority interest investments

     (57,987 )     (81,037 )

Additions to property and equipment

     (6,496 )     (3,523 )

Proceeds from disposal of business

     4,800       0  

Purchases of securities available for sale

     (11 )     (2,112 )

Proceeds from redemptions of securities available for sale

     11,035       997  

Decrease in restricted cash equivalents

     0       29  
                

Net cash used by investing activities

     (48,659 )     (85,646 )
                

Financing Activities

    

Purchases of treasury stock

     (40,131 )     (114,644 )

Distributions to minority interest

     (5,904 )     (4,253 )

Contributions from minority interest

     238       3,215  

Dividends paid

     (351,217 )     (61,766 )

Proceeds from shareholders for share-based compensation

     17,789       5,930  

Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation

     6,634       5,021  

Proceeds from new borrowings – recourse

     225,400       0  

Proceeds from new borrowings – nonrecourse

     1,084       3,805  

Payments on debt – recourse

     (65,466 )     (62 )

Payments on debt – nonrecourse

     (29,935 )     (41,309 )

Other financing activities

     0       (74 )
                

Net cash used by financing activities

     (241,508 )     (204,137 )
                

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

     (75,469 )     (61,658 )

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

     120,350       118,721  
                

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

   $ 44,881     $ 57,063  
                

(The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

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Table of Contents

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 

(Unaudited)

(1) Basis of Presentation

The interim consolidated financial statements of Federated Investors, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, Federated) included herein have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). In the opinion of management, the financial statements reflect all adjustments that are of a normal recurring nature and necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented.

In preparing the financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from such estimates, and such differences may be material to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

These financial statements should be read in conjunction with Federated’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007. Certain items previously reported have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

(2) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

For a complete listing of Federated’s significant accounting policies, please refer to Federated’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

(a) Revenue Recognition

Revenue from providing investment advisory, administrative and other services (including distribution, shareholder servicing and retirement plan recordkeeping) is recognized during the period in which the services are performed. Investment advisory, administrative and the majority of other service fees are based principally on the total net assets of the investment portfolios that are managed or administered by Federated. Federated may waive certain fees for competitive reasons, to meet regulatory requirements (including settlement-related (see Note 17(c))) or to meet contractual requirements. Federated waived fees of $113.0 million and $327.9 million for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008, respectively, and $90.0 million and $248.6 million, respectively, for the same periods of 2007, nearly all of which was for competitive reasons. The increase in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the same periods of 2007 was primarily due to an increase in money market assets. Waivers may increase in the fourth quarter and thereafter if yields on government securities decrease and short-term interest rates continue to decline.

(b) Investments

Investments are generally carried at fair value based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical instruments. If quoted market prices are not available, fair value is generally based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, or model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets. In the absence of observable market data inputs and/or value drivers, internally generated valuation techniques may be utilized in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable in the market place.

(3) Recent Accounting Pronouncements

FSP EITF 03-06-1 – In June 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a FASB Staff Position (FSP) on the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue No. 03-06-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities,” (FSP EITF 03-06-1). This FSP addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing earnings per share (EPS) under the two-class method described in Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.” It affects entities that accrue or pay nonforfeitable cash dividends on share-based payment awards during the awards’ service period. FSP EITF 03-06-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years and will require a retrospective adjustment to all prior period EPS. Management is currently evaluating the impact the FSP will have on Federated’s calculation and presentation of EPS.

SFAS 162 – In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles,” (SFAS 162). This standard reorganizes the GAAP hierarchy in order to improve financial reporting by providing a consistent framework for determining what accounting principles should be used when preparing U.S. GAAP financial statements. SFAS 162 shall be effective

 

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Table of Contents

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

60 days after the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s amendments to Interim Auditing Standard, AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” Management is currently evaluating the impact, if any, this new standard may have on Federated’s financial position and results of operations.

FSP FAS 142-3 – In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP SFAS No. 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets,” (FSP FAS 142-3). This FSP amends the list of factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions used in determining the useful life of recognized intangible assets under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” (SFAS 142). The intent of this FSP is to improve the consistency between the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS 142 and the period of expected cash flows used to measure the fair value of the asset under SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations.” FSP FAS 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the impact, if any, the FSP may have on Federated’s financial position and results of operations.

SFAS 141(R) – In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (SFAS 141(R)). SFAS 141(R) is intended to improve reporting by creating greater consistency in the accounting and financial reporting of business combinations, resulting in more complete, comparable and relevant information for investors and other users of financial statements. To achieve this goal, the new standard requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all (and only) the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and expands the disclosure requirements for material business combinations. For calendar-year companies, SFAS 141(R) is effective for business combination transactions for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009. Management will adopt SFAS 141(R) prospectively, as required by the standard, and is currently evaluating the impact SFAS 141(R) will have on the accounting for Federated’s future business combinations.

SFAS 160 – In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (SFAS 160). SFAS 160 is intended to improve the relevance, comparability, and transparency of financial information provided to investors by requiring all entities to report noncontrolling (minority) interests in subsidiaries in the same way – as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Moreover, SFAS 160 eliminates the diversity that currently exists in accounting for transactions between an entity and noncontrolling interests by requiring that they be treated as equity transactions. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and is required to be adopted prospectively. Management is currently evaluating the impact SFAS 160 will have on Federated’s financial position and results of operations.

SFAS 157 and FSP SFAS 157-2 – In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS 157). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements because the FASB had previously concluded in those accounting pronouncements that fair value is the relevant measurement attribute. Accordingly, this Statement does not require any new fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued an FSP to defer the effective date of SFAS 157 for one year for nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Management adopted the provisions of SFAS 157 related to all financial assets and liabilities and nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis on January 1, 2008. Management continues to evaluate the impact this statement will have on the Consolidated Financial Statements once its provisions are adopted for nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value on a non-recurring basis.

(4) Business Combinations, Acquisitions and Minority Interest Investments

Clover Capital – On September 12, 2008, Federated reached a definitive agreement to acquire certain assets of Clover Capital Management, Inc. (Clover Capital), a Rochester, New York-based investment manager that specializes in value investing. Clover Capital managed approximately $2.8 billion in assets as of September 15, 2008, consisting primarily of separately managed accounts. The initial purchase price for the transaction will be determined as of closing based on net revenue earned on assets under management during the calendar month immediately preceding the closing date or the month prior to that. Using asset levels and revenue estimates for September 2008, the estimate of initial purchase price approximates $36 million. The transaction also includes a series of contingent payments, which, based on estimated September revenue, could total as much as $57 million over the next five years based on growth. The sale is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2008.

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

The transaction has been approved by the Board of Directors of Federated and shareholders owning a majority interest in Clover Capital but is still subject to the consent of the Clover Capital separate account clients for the continued management of their assets after the closing. The agreement includes customary closing conditions, representations, warranties and covenants, including certain covenants relating to non-competition and non-solicitation made by Clover Capital and certain key employees.

Prudent Bear Funds – On July 14, 2008, Federated reached a definitive agreement to acquire certain assets of David W. Tice & Associates LLC that relate to the management of the $1.2 billion Prudent Bear Fund and the $507 million Prudent Global Income Fund (the Prudent Bear Funds). In connection with the agreement, Federated will re-brand the Prudent Bear Funds as the newly created Federated Prudent Bear Fund and the Federated Prudent Global Income Fund. The purchase price for the transaction includes a $43.0 million initial cash payment and future contingent cash payments of up to $99.5 million over the next four years based on certain revenue growth targets. The sale is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2008.

The transaction has been approved by the Board of Directors of Federated, the owner of David W. Tice and Associates LLC, the Board of Trustees of the Federated mutual funds and the Board of Directors of the Prudent Bear Funds, but is still subject to customary closing conditions and is subject to the approval of the Prudent Bear Funds’ shareholders. The agreement includes customary representations, warranties and covenants, including certain covenants relating to non-competition and non-solicitation made by David W. Tice & Associates LLC.

Rochdale Acquisition – In the third quarter 2007, Federated completed a transaction with Rochdale Investment Management LLC (Rochdale) to acquire certain assets relating to its business of providing investment advisory and investment management services to the Rochdale Atlas Portfolio (Rochdale Acquisition). In connection with the acquisition, on August 24, 2007, the $366 million of assets in the Rochdale Atlas Portfolio were transitioned into the Federated InterContinental Fund, a new portfolio created for the purpose of continuing the investment operations of the Rochdale Atlas Portfolio as part of the Federated fund complex. Federated paid $5.75 million of upfront purchase price in August 2007, and as of September 30, 2008, incurred approximately $1 million in transaction costs. Federated has completed its valuation and allocation of the upfront purchase price and has recorded a customer relationship intangible asset and goodwill. See Note (17)(a) for information on contingent payments related to this acquisition.

Dix Hills Investment – In the second quarter 2007, Federated acquired a non-voting, minority interest in both Dix Hills Partners, LLC, a registered investment adviser and commodity trading adviser, and its affiliate, Dix Hills Associates, LLC (collectively, Dix Hills). Dix Hills is based in Jericho, New York and manages over $500 million in both absolute return and enhanced fixed-income mandates, including a hedge fund strategy and an enhanced cash strategy. The total purchase price included an upfront cash payment as well as contingent payments that could be paid annually based on growth in Dix Hills’ cash earnings for each of the next two anniversary years. Federated accounted for its minority interest using the equity method of accounting. The investment in Dix Hills is included in Other long-term assets on Federated’s Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007.

For detail on other recent business acquisitions, please refer to Federated’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

(5) Discontinued Operations

In the third quarter 2006, an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Federated completed the sale of certain assets associated with its TrustConnect® mutual fund processing business (the Clearing Business) to Matrix Settlement and Clearance Services, LLC (Matrix). The sale was completed over a series of closings during 2006. In exchange for the assets of the Clearing Business, Federated received upfront cash consideration totaling $7.7 million. In addition, Federated accrued contingent consideration of $4.8 million in the second quarter of 2008, which was calculated as a percentage of Matrix’s second quarter 2008 net revenue above a specific threshold directly attributed to the Clearing Business. This contingent consideration was received in the third quarter and is included, net of tax, as income from discontinued operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008.

(6) Variable Interest Entities

Federated is involved with various entities in the normal course of business that may be deemed to be variable interest entities (VIEs). For the periods ended September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, Federated determined that it was the primary beneficiary of certain VIEs and, as a result, consolidated the assets, liabilities and operations of these VIEs in its Consolidated

 

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Table of Contents

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

Financial Statements. At September 30, 2008, the aggregate assets and debt of the entities Federated consolidated were $7.7 million and $0.9 million, respectively, and Federated recorded $1.1 million to Minority interest on Federated’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. The assets of the products are primarily classified as Investments on Federated’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Neither creditors nor equity investors in the products have any recourse to Federated’s general credit.

(7) Fair Value Measurements

On January 1, 2008, Federated adopted the provisions of SFAS 157 for all financial assets and liabilities and nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis. SFAS 157 establishes a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect Federated’s market assumptions. These two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:

Level 1–Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

Level 2–Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.

Level 3–Valuations derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable.

This hierarchy requires Federated to use observable market data, when available, and to minimize the use of unobservable inputs when determining fair value.

Federated’s available-for-sale securities include investments in fluctuating-value mutual funds. Federated’s trading securities primarily represent investments in equities and investment-grade debt instruments as a result of the consolidation of certain sponsored products when Federated is deemed to have a controlling financial interest. These financial assets are classified as current on the balance sheet.

The following table presents fair value measurements at September 30, 2008 for major categories of Federated’s financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

 

     Fair Value Measurements Using

(in thousands)

   Quoted Prices
(Level 1)
   Significant Other
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
   Total

Available-for-sale securities

   $ 5,638    $ —      $ —      $ 5,638

Trading securities

     5,388      4,088      —        9,476
                           

Total investments

   $ 11,026    $ 4,088    $ —      $ 15,114
                           

Federated did not hold material investments in securities that were measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008. At September 30, 2008, Federated held financial liabilities of $0.7 million measured at fair value on a recurring basis. These liabilities were classified as short-term and the fair value was determined using quoted prices (Level 1). In addition, Federated did not hold any nonfinancial assets or liabilities recognized or disclosed on a recurring basis during the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008.

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

(8) Intangible Assets and Goodwill

Federated’s identifiable intangible assets consisted of the following:

 

     September 30, 2008    December 31, 2007

(in thousands)

   Cost    Accumulated
Amortization
    Carrying
Value
   Cost    Accumulated
Amortization
    Carrying
Value

Customer relationships1

   $ 143,276    $ (84,136 )   $ 59,140    $ 143,420    $ (71,599 )   $ 71,821

Noncompete agreements2

     11,396      (4,336 )     7,060      11,396      (3,200 )     8,196
                                           

Total identifiable intangible assets3

   $ 154,672    $ (88,472 )   $ 66,200    $ 154,816    $ (74,799 )   $ 80,017
                                           

 

1

Weighted average amortization period of 9.6 years as of September 30, 2008

2

Weighted average amortization period of 7.6 years as of September 30, 2008

3

Weighted average amortization period of 9.5 years as of September 30, 2008

Amortization expense for identifiable intangible assets for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 was $4.4 million and $13.7 million, respectively, and $4.8 million and $14.9 million, respectively, for the same periods of 2007.

Following is a schedule of expected aggregate annual amortization expense for intangible assets in each of the five succeeding years assuming no new acquisitions or impairments:

 

(in thousands)

   For the years ending
December 31,

2008

   $ 18,069

2009

   $ 16,507

2010

   $ 15,406

2011

   $ 9,144

2012

   $ 5,941

Goodwill at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 was $510.8 million and $454.6 million, respectively. During the first nine months of 2008, Federated recorded goodwill primarily in connection with the acquisition of MDTA LLC (MDT Acquisition) ($40.9 million) and the acquisition of the cash management business of Alliance Capital Management L.P. (Alliance Acquisition) ($13.2 million). See Note (17)(a) for additional information.

(9) Other Current Liabilities

Federated’s Other current liabilities at September 30, 2008 included $16.5 million related to an insurance recovery for claims submitted to cover costs associated with the internal review and government investigations into past mutual fund trading practices and related civil litigation (see Note (17)(c)). The retention of these advance insurance payments is contingent upon final approval of the claim by the insurance carrier. In the event that all or a portion of the claim is denied, Federated will be required to repay all or a portion of these advance payments. Because the outcome of this claim is uncertain at this time, Federated recorded the advance payments as a liability and will continue to evaluate the contingency until it is resolved. Also included at September 30, 2008 was a $9.7 million accrual related to the next annual contingent purchase price payment for the Alliance Acquisition which is due in the second quarter of 2009.

Federated’s Other current liabilities at December 31, 2007 included $12.7 million related to an annual contingent purchase price payment for the Alliance Acquisition, which was paid in the second quarter of 2008, and $10.7 million related to the aforementioned insurance recovery.

(10) Recourse Debt

On August 19, 2008, Federated entered into a $140 million term loan facility with an option to increase its borrowings to $150 million during the term of the facility upon commitment from the lending banks (Term Loan). The Term Loan requires quarterly principal payments totaling $14 million, $21 million and $28 million in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively, and a balloon payment of $77 million when the loan expires on October 31, 2011.

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

Federated also has a $200 million Revolving Credit Facility that expires October 31, 2011 (the Revolver). Federated pays an annual facility fee, currently 7.5 basis points, based on its credit rating. During the third quarter of 2008, Federated borrowed $85.4 million and subsequently repaid $65.4 million under the Revolver. As of September 30, 2008, Federated had $180 million available for borrowings under its Revolver and subsequently repaid the remaining $20 million on October 15, 2008.

The borrowings under both the Term Loan and the Revolver (collectively, the Credit Facilities) bear interest at the option of Federated at an overnight rate, such as a defined prime rate or the federal funds rate plus a spread, or at a London Interbank Offered Rate plus a spread dependent upon Federated’s credit rating. Under the Credit Facilities, Federated can make cash payments for stock repurchases or shareholder dividend payments as long as cash, cash equivalents or unused borrowing from the Revolver of no less than $10 million is maintained during the payment period and certain other covenants are maintained. Certain subsidiaries entered into Continuing Agreements of Guaranty and Suretyship whereby these subsidiaries guarantee payment of all obligations incurred through the Credit Facilities. The Credit Facilities include financial and non-financial covenants.

Recourse debt consisted of the following:

 

     Interest Rates                

(dollars in thousands)

   20081     20072     Maturity Date    September 30,
2008
   December 31,
2007

Term Loan3

   3.49 %   N/A     October 31, 2011    $ 140,000    $ 0

Revolver

   2.72 %   N/A     October 31, 2011      20,000      0

Capital Lease

   6.93 %   6.93 %   October 31, 2009      94      160
                              

Total debt – recourse

          $ 160,094    $ 160
                    

 

1

As of September 30, 2008

2

As of December 31, 2007

3

The interest rate may either be an overnight rate or a rate fixed at the option of Federated for one-, two-, three-, six- or twelve-month periods. The current rate was effective through October 14, 2008.

(11) Deferred Sales Commissions and Nonrecourse Debt

Deferred sales commissions consisted of the following:

 

(in thousands)

   September 30,
2008
   December 31,
2007

Deferred sales commissions on B-shares, net

   $ 34,765    $ 61,472

Other deferred sales commissions, net

     2,195      2,755
             

Deferred sales commissions, net

   $ 36,960    $ 64,227
             

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

Nonrecourse debt consisted of the following:

 

     Weighted-
Average
Interest Rates
    Remaining
Amortization
Period at

September 30,
2008
         

(dollars in thousands)

   20081     20072        September 30,
2008
   December 31,
2007

Financings between April 1997 and September 2000

   N/A     8.60 %   N/A    $ 0    $ 1,799

Financings between October 2000 and December 2003

   4.75 %   4.75 %   3.3 years      11,583      26,706

Financings between January 2004 and February 2007

   6.50 %   6.30 %   6.5 years      23,378      34,803

Financings between March 2007 and September 2008

   5.81 %   7.10 %   8.1 years      1,921      1,192
                              

Total debt – nonrecourse

          $ 36,882    $ 64,500
                    

 

1

As of September 30, 2008

2

As of December 31, 2007

Federated’s nonrecourse debt does not contain a contractual maturity but is amortized up to eight years dependent upon the cash flows of the related B-share fund assets, which are applied first to interest and then principal. Interest rates are imputed based on current market conditions at the time of issuance.

In March 2007, pursuant to the terms of a new sales program with an independent third party, Federated began accounting for all new sales of its rights to future distribution fees and contingent deferred sales charges related to Class B shares of sponsored funds as sales. The sales of Federated’s rights to future shareholder service fees continued to be accounted for as financings due to Federated’s ongoing involvement in performing shareholder-servicing activities. Accordingly, nonrecourse debt has been recorded. This agreement expires December 31, 2009.

(12) Share-Based Compensation Plans

(a) Restricted Stock

During the first nine months of 2008, Federated awarded 221,051 shares of restricted Federated Class B common stock in connection with a bonus program in which certain key employees received a portion of their bonus in the form of restricted stock under the Stock Incentive Plan. This restricted stock, which was granted on the bonus payment date and issued out of treasury, will generally vest over a three-year period.

(b) Stock Options

During the second quarter of 2008, Federated awarded 12,000 fully vested stock options to non-management directors. During the first nine months of 2008, 1,051,343 employee stock options were exercised and the resulting shares were issued out of treasury.

(13) Common Stock

During the third quarter of 2008, the board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program that allows Federated to buy back as many as 5 million additional shares of class B common stock in the future with no stated expiration date. The previous repurchase program has approximately 2.8 million shares remaining and expires at the end of 2008. The program authorizes executive management to determine the timing and the amount of shares for each purchase. The repurchased stock will be held in treasury for employee share-based compensation plans, potential acquisitions and other corporate activities.

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

During the first, second and third quarters of 2008, Federated repurchased 68,684 shares, 1,068,440 shares and 73,896 shares of common stock for $2.1 million, $37.2 million and $1.5 million, respectively. Of these repurchases, 47,620 shares at a cost of $0.1 million were repurchased in connection with employee separations and are not counted against the board-approved share repurchase program.

On September 15, 2008, Federated paid $2.76 per share or $281.2 million for a special cash dividend to shareholders of record as of September 9, 2008. This payment was in addition to the $0.24 per share or $24.2 million dividend paid on August 15, 2008 to shareholders of record as of August 8, 2008.

(14) Earnings Per Share

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
   Nine Months Ended
September 30,

(in thousands, except per share data)

   2008    2007    2008    2007
Numerator            

Income from continuing operations

   $ 56,211    $ 57,727    $ 167,247    $ 164,768

Income from discontinued operations

     0      0      2,808      0
                           

Net income

   $ 56,211    $ 57,727    $ 170,055    $ 164,768
                           
Denominator            

Basic weighted-average shares outstanding

     99,367      100,433      99,508      101,222

Dilutive potential shares from share-based compensation

     1,075      1,662      1,520      1,705
                           

Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding

     100,442      102,095      101,028      102,927
                           
Earnings per share – Basic            

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.57    $ 0.57    $ 1.68    $ 1.63

Income from discontinued operations

     0.00      0.00      0.03      0.00
                           

Net income

   $ 0.57    $ 0.57    $ 1.71    $ 1.63
                           
Earnings per share – Diluted            

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.56    $ 0.57    $ 1.66    $ 1.60

Income from discontinued operations

     0.00      0.00      0.03      0.00
                           

Net income1

   $ 0.56    $ 0.57    $ 1.68    $ 1.60
                           

 

1

Totals may not sum due to rounding.

Federated uses the treasury stock method to reflect the dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock and unexercised stock options in diluted earnings per share. For the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008, 1.3 million and 0.7 million share-based awards, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for each period either because the shares assumed repurchased exceeded the shares assumed issued upon exercise as a result of including the average unrecognized compensation cost of the awards in the assumed proceeds or because, in the case of options, the exercise price was greater than the average market price of Federated Class B common stock for each respective period. For the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2007, 0.4 million share-based awards and 0.5 million share-based awards, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for each period either because the shares assumed repurchased exceeded the shares assumed issued upon exercise as a result of including the average unrecognized compensation cost of the awards in the assumed proceeds or because, in the case of options, the exercise price was greater than the average market price of Federated Class B common stock for each respective period. Under the treasury stock method, in the event the awards become dilutive, their dilutive effect would result in the addition of a net number of shares to the weighted-average number of shares used in the calculation of diluted earnings per share.

(15) Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income was $55.9 million and $169.8 million for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008, respectively, and $57.9 million and $165.0 million, respectively, for the same periods of 2007.

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

(16) Concentration Risk

As of September 30, 2008, Federated has the following revenue concentrations:

Revenue concentration by asset class – Approximately 58% of Federated’s total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 was attributable to money market assets. A significant change in Federated’s money market business due to regulatory changes, financial market crises, significant deterioration in investor confidence, persistent declines in short-term interest rates and potential resulting waivers or other circumstances, could have a material adverse effect on Federated’s results of operations.

Revenue concentration by product – Approximately 13% and 14%, respectively, of Federated’s total revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 was derived from services provided to one sponsored fund (the Federated Kaufmann Fund). A significant decline in the assets under management in this fund could have a material adverse effect on Federated’s results of operations.

Revenue concentration by customer – Two intermediary customers, Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. and the Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (including its Pershing subsidiary and other assets from the Bank of New York Mellon Corporation), accounted for a total of approximately 12% and 18%, respectively, of Federated’s total revenue for both the third quarter 2008 and the first nine months of 2008. With respect to both intermediary customers, most of this revenue is derived from broker/dealer cash sweep money market products. Significant changes in Federated’s relationship with these intermediary customers, including changes which may result from the Bank of New York Mellon Corporation’s post-merger integration, could have a material adverse effect on Federated’s future revenues and, to a lesser extent, net income, due to corresponding material reductions to Marketing and distribution expenses associated with such intermediaries.

A complete listing of Federated’s risk factors is included herein under the section entitled “Risk Factors” under Item 2 of Part I, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

(17) Commitments and Contingencies

(a) Contractual

As part of the MDT Acquisition, Federated is required to make annual contingent purchase price payments based upon growth in Federated MDTA LLC net revenues over a three-year period. The first contingent purchase price payment of $43.3 million, which was recorded as goodwill in the second quarter of 2007, was paid in the third quarter of 2007. The second annual contingent purchase price payment of $40.9 million, which was recorded as goodwill, was paid in the third quarter of 2008. The final contingent purchase price payment, which could total up to $43.3 million, is payable in the third quarter 2009 and will be recorded as additional goodwill at the time the contingency is resolved.

As part of the Alliance Acquisition, Federated is required to make contingent purchase price payments over a five-year period. These payments are calculated as a percentage of revenues less certain operating expenses directly attributed to the assets acquired. The first three contingent purchase price payments of $10.7 million, $13.3 million and $16.2 million were paid in the second quarters of 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively. At current asset levels, these payments would approximate $49 million over the remaining two-year period, which includes a $10 million lump-sum payment in 2010. As of September 30, 2008, $9.7 million was accrued in Other current liabilities and recorded as Goodwill. This contingent payment is expected to be made in the second quarter of 2009.

The Rochdale Acquisition agreement provides for two forms of contingent purchase price payments that are dependent upon asset growth and fund performance through 2012. The first form of contingent payment is payable in 2010 and 2012 and could aggregate to as much as $20 million. The second form of contingent payment is payable on a semi-annual basis over the five-year period following the acquisition closing date based on certain revenue earned by Federated from the Federated InterContinental Fund. As of September 30, 2008, $1.2 million related to the second semi-annual contingent purchase price payment was accrued in Other current liabilities and will be paid in the fourth quarter of 2008. Contingent payments are recorded as additional goodwill at the time the related contingency is resolved.

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

Pursuant to various significant employment arrangements, some of which are contingent upon the successful closing of certain recently signed acquisitions, Federated may be required to make certain incentive compensation-related payments. The employment contracts expire on various dates through the year 2014 with payments possible through 2018. As of September 30, 2008, excluding the impact of the incentive compensation opportunities related to the newly created Federated Kaufmann Large Cap Fund (the New Fund Bonus), the maximum bonus payable over the remaining terms of the contracts approximates $76.1 million, of which $11.8 million is payable in 2009 if the necessary performance targets are met and the employees continue to be employed as of the relevant payment dates. At this time, management is unable to reasonably estimate a range of possible bonus payments for the New Fund Bonus due to the low level of assets in that fund at September 30, 2008 and the wide range of possible growth-rate scenarios.

Pursuant to other acquisition agreements or long-term employment arrangements, Federated may be required to make additional payments upon the occurrence of certain events. Under these other agreements, payments could occur on an annual basis and continue through 2010.

(b) Guarantees and Indemnifications

On an intercompany basis, various wholly owned subsidiaries of Federated guarantee certain financial obligations of Federated Investors, Inc., and Federated Investors, Inc. guarantees certain financial and performance-related obligations of various wholly owned subsidiaries. In addition, in the normal course of business, Federated has entered into contracts that provide a variety of indemnifications. Typically, obligations to indemnify third parties arise in the context of contracts entered into by Federated, under which Federated agrees to hold the other party harmless against losses arising out of the contract, provided the other party’s actions are not deemed to have breached an agreed-upon standard of care. In each of these circumstances, payment by Federated is contingent on the other party making a claim for indemnity, subject to Federated’s right to challenge the other party’s claim. Further, Federated’s obligations under these agreements may be limited in terms of time and/or amount. It is not possible to predict the maximum potential amount of future payments under these or similar agreements due to the conditional nature of Federated’s obligations and the unique facts and circumstances involved in each particular agreement. Management believes that if Federated were to incur a loss in any of these matters, such loss should not have a material effect on its business, financial position or results of operations.

(c) Past Mutual Fund Trading Issues and Related Legal Proceedings

During the fourth quarter 2005, Federated entered into settlement agreements with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and New York State Attorney General (NYAG) to resolve the past mutual fund trading issues. Under the terms of the settlements, Federated paid for the benefit of fund shareholders a total of $80.0 million. In addition, Federated agreed to reduce the investment advisory fees on certain Federated funds by $4.0 million per year for the five-year period beginning January 1, 2006, based upon effective fee rates and assets under management as of September 30, 2005. Depending upon the level of assets under management in these funds during the five-year period, the actual investment advisory fee reduction could be greater or less than $4.0 million per year. For each of the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, these fee reductions were approximately $3 million.

Since October 2003, Federated has been named as a defendant in twenty-three cases filed in various federal district courts and state courts involving allegations relating to market timing, late trading and excessive fees. All of the pending cases involving allegations related to market timing and late trading have been transferred to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland and consolidated for pre-trial proceedings. One market timing/late trading case was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff without prejudice.

The seven excessive fee cases were originally filed in five different federal courts and one state court. All six of the federal cases are now consolidated and pending in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The state court case was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff without prejudice.

All of these lawsuits seek unquantified damages, attorneys’ fees and expenses. Federated intends to defend this litigation. The potential impact of these recent lawsuits and future potential similar suits, as well as the timing of settlements, judgments or other resolution of these matters, is uncertain. It is possible that an unfavorable determination will cause a material adverse impact on Federated’s financial position, results of operations and/or liquidity in the period in which the effect becomes reasonably estimable.

 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

 

(Unaudited)

 

The Consolidated Financial Statements for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 reflect $5.9 million and $3.4 million, respectively, for costs associated with various legal, regulatory and compliance matters, including costs related to Federated’s internal review, costs incurred on behalf of the funds, costs incurred and estimated to complete the distribution of Federated’s regulatory settlement, costs related to certain other undertakings of these settlement agreements, and costs incurred and estimated to resolve certain of the above-mentioned ongoing legal proceedings. Accruals for these estimates represent management’s best estimate of probable losses at this time. Actual losses may differ from these estimates, and such differences may have a material impact on Federated’s consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

(d) Other Legal Proceedings

Federated has other claims asserted and threatened against it in the ordinary course of business. These other claims are subject to inherent uncertainties. It is possible that an unfavorable determination will cause a material adverse impact on Federated’s reputation, financial position, results of operations and/or liquidity in the period in which the effect becomes reasonably estimable.

(18) Subsequent Events

On October 23, 2008, the board of directors declared a dividend of $0.24 per share to be paid on November 14, 2008, to shareholders of record as of November 7, 2008.

 

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Part I, Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

The discussion and analysis below should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements appearing elsewhere in this report. We have presumed that the readers of this interim financial information have read or have access to Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations appearing in Federated’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

General

Federated Investors, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, Federated) is one of the largest investment managers in the United States with $344.0 billion in managed assets as of September 30, 2008. The majority of Federated’s revenue is derived from advising and administering Federated mutual funds, Separate Accounts (which includes separately managed accounts, institutional accounts, sub-advised funds (both variable annuity and other) and other managed products), in both domestic and international markets. Federated also derives revenue from administering mutual funds sponsored by third parties and from providing various other mutual fund-related services, including distribution, shareholder servicing and retirement plan recordkeeping services (collectively, Other Services).

Federated’s investment products are primarily distributed in three markets. These markets and the relative percentage of managed assets at September 30, 2008 attributable to such markets are as follows: wealth management and trust (50%), broker/dealer (35%) and global institutional (11%).

Investment advisory fees, administrative fees and certain fees for Other Services, such as distribution and shareholder service fees, are contract-based fees that are generally calculated as a percentage of the net assets of the investment portfolios that are managed or administered by Federated. As such, Federated’s revenue is primarily dependent upon factors that affect the value of managed and administered assets including market conditions and the ability to attract and retain assets. Fee rates for Federated’s services generally vary by asset type and investment objective and, in certain instances, decline as the average net assets of the individual portfolios exceed certain thresholds. Generally, rates charged for advisory services provided to equity products are higher than rates charged on money market and fixed-income products. Likewise, mutual funds typically have a higher fee rate than Separate Accounts. Accordingly, revenue is also dependent upon the relative composition of average assets under management across both asset and product types. Federated may waive certain fees for competitive reasons, to meet regulatory requirements (including settlement-related (see Note (17)(c) to the Consolidated Financial Statements)) or to meet contractual requirements. Since Federated’s products are largely distributed and serviced through financial intermediaries, Federated pays a significant portion of the distribution fees from sponsored products to the financial intermediaries that sell these products. These payments are generally calculated as a percentage of net assets attributable to the party receiving the payment and are recorded on the Consolidated Statements of Income as a marketing and distribution expense.

Federated’s remaining Other Services fees are primarily based on fixed rates per retirement plan participant. Revenue relating to these services will vary with changes in the number of plan participants which generally react to sales and marketing efforts, competitive fund performance, introduction and market reception of new product features and acquisitions.

Federated’s most significant operating expenses include marketing and distribution costs and compensation and related costs, which represent fixed and variable compensation and related employee benefits. Certain of these expenses are dependent upon sales, product performance, levels of assets and asset mix.

The discussion and analysis of Federated’s financial condition and results of operations are based on Federated’s Consolidated Financial Statements. Management evaluates Federated’s performance at the consolidated level based on the view that Federated operates in a single operating segment, the investment management business. In this highly competitive business, Federated’s growth and overall profitability are largely dependent upon its ability to attract and retain assets under management. Management analyzes all expected revenue and expenses and considers market demands in determining an overall fee structure for services provided and in evaluating the addition of new business. Fees for fund-related services are ultimately subject to the approval of the independent directors or trustees of the mutual funds. Management believes the most meaningful indicators of Federated’s performance are assets under management, total revenue and net income, both in total and per diluted share.

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

Business Developments

Recent and Ongoing Disruption in Global Financial Markets

Since late 2007, the financial markets have experienced extreme volatility due to uncertainty and disruption in large segments of the credit markets. During the third quarter 2008, the disruptions in the financial markets worsened causing severe dislocations on the functioning of the markets and unprecedented strain on the availability of liquidity in the short-term debt markets, including the commercial paper markets, which are important for the operation of money market funds.

On September 19, 2008, the U.S. Government took steps designed to improve market conditions by offering the following two programs: (1) the Treasury’s Temporary Guarantee Program for Money Market Funds, and (2) the Asset-Backed Commercial Paper (ABCP) Money Market Fund Liquidity Facility (ABCP Liquidity Facility).

Treasury’s Temporary Guarantee Program for Money Market Funds – In October 2008, all Federated domestic money market funds enrolled in the Treasury’s Temporary Guarantee Program for Money Market Funds. This program was open to money market funds registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) that publicly offer securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and operate in compliance with Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act. The program will insure the balances of all shareholders with investments in a participating money market fund on September 19, 2008 in the event that such a fund is liquidated with a net asset value (NAV) less than $1.00. No protection is provided to those shareholders who entered the fund after September 19, 2008 or to any increase in holdings in that fund made after September 19, 2008 by a shareholder covered by the program. The program will terminate on December 18, 2008 but may be renewed by the U.S. Treasury Department through September 18, 2009. If the program is extended, participating funds desiring continued coverage will need to renew their participation and submit additional fees for the extended coverage. The cost of the insurance will be borne primarily by the shareholders of the money market funds.

ABCP Liquidity Facility – Under the ABCP Liquidity Facility, the Federal Government is facilitating the purchase of ABCP from money market funds at amortized cost value, providing same-day liquidity to those funds. This new facility allows banks and other intermediaries to use the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston to buy, at par, ABCP from domestic money market funds that are regulated by Rule 2a-7. The ABCP Liquidity Facility will expire on January 30, 2009.

The Treasury’s Temporary Guarantee Program and the ABCP Liquidity Facility have been designed by the government as temporary measures. There can be no assurance that these programs will be extended or that market conditions will not deteriorate following the expiration of these programs.

Federated continues to manage money market funds with an unrelenting focus on credit analysis, high credit standards and maintenance of minimal credit risk. As of September 30, 2008, Federated’s money market funds had no exposure to Sigma Finance, Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc., American International Group, Inc. or Washington Mutual.

Through the market turmoil of 2008, Federated’s government money market funds continued to experience significant asset inflows while prime money market funds have experienced outflows. On a net basis, Federated’s money market managed assets have increased substantially in 2008. Certain investors favored the perceived safety and liquidity of portfolios backed by government securities over the greater yields offered by prime money market funds which invest in high-quality debt issued by corporations and financial institutions. There can be no assurance that these investors will maintain their balances in government money market funds or that continued volatility in the financial markets will necessarily result in similar or sustained inflows into Federated’s money market products.

Business Combinations, Acquisitions and Minority Interest Investments

Clover Capital. On September 12, 2008, Federated reached a definitive agreement to acquire certain assets of Clover Capital Management, Inc. (Clover Capital), a Rochester, New York-based investment manager that specializes in value investing. Clover Capital managed approximately $2.8 billion in assets as of September 15, 2008, consisting primarily of separately managed accounts. The initial purchase price for the transaction will be determined as of closing based on net revenue earned on assets under management during the calendar month immediately preceding the closing date or the month prior to that. Using asset levels and revenue estimates for September 2008, the estimate of initial purchase price approximates $36 million. The transaction also includes a series of contingent payments, which, based on estimated September revenue, could total as much as $57 million over the next five years based on growth. The sale is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2008.

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

The transaction has been approved by the Board of Directors of Federated and shareholders owning a majority interest in Clover Capital but is still subject to the consent of the Clover Capital separate account clients for the continued management of their assets after the closing. The agreement includes customary closing conditions, representations, warranties and covenants, including certain covenants relating to non-competition and non-solicitation made by Clover Capital and certain key employees.

Prudent Bear Funds. On July 14, 2008, Federated reached a definitive agreement to acquire certain assets of David W. Tice & Associates LLC that relate to the management of the $1.2 billion Prudent Bear Fund and the $507 million Prudent Global Income Fund (the Prudent Bear Funds). In connection with the agreement, Federated will re-brand the Prudent Bear Funds as the newly created Federated Prudent Bear Fund and the Federated Prudent Global Income Fund. The purchase price for the transaction includes a $43.0 million initial cash payment and future contingent cash payments of up to $99.5 million over the next four years based on certain revenue growth targets. The sale is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2008.

The transaction has been approved by the Board of Directors of Federated, the owner of David W. Tice and Associates LLC, the Board of Trustees of the Federated mutual funds and the Board of Directors of the Prudent Bear Funds, but is still subject to customary closing conditions and is subject to the approval of the Prudent Bear Funds’ shareholders. The agreement includes customary representations, warranties and covenants, including certain covenants relating to non-competition and non-solicitation made by David W. Tice & Associates LLC.

Rochdale Investment Management LLC. In the third quarter 2007, Federated completed a transaction with Rochdale Investment Management LLC (Rochdale) to acquire certain assets relating to its business of providing investment advisory and investment management services to the Rochdale Atlas Portfolio (Rochdale Acquisition). In connection with the acquisition, on August 24, 2007, the $366 million of assets in the Rochdale Atlas Portfolio were transitioned into the Federated InterContinental Fund, a new portfolio created for the purpose of continuing the investment operations of the Rochdale Atlas Portfolio as part of the Federated fund complex. Federated paid $5.75 million of upfront purchase price in August 2007, and as of September 30, 2008, incurred approximately $1 million in transaction costs. Federated has completed its valuation and allocation of the upfront purchase price and has recorded a customer relationship intangible asset and goodwill. See Note (17)(a) to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information on contingent payments related to this acquisition.

Dix Hills. In the second quarter 2007, Federated acquired a non-voting, minority interest in both Dix Hills Partners, LLC, a registered investment adviser and commodity trading adviser, and its affiliate, Dix Hills Associates, LLC (collectively, Dix Hills). Dix Hills is based in Jericho, New York and manages over $500 million in both absolute return and enhanced fixed-income mandates, including a hedge fund strategy and an enhanced cash strategy. The total purchase price included an upfront cash payment as well as contingent payments which could be paid annually based on growth in Dix Hills’ cash earnings for each of the next two anniversary years. Federated accounted for its minority interest using the equity method of accounting. The investment in Dix Hills is included in Other long-term assets on Federated’s Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007.

Dispositions

In the third quarter 2006, an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Federated completed the sale of certain assets associated with its TrustConnect® mutual fund processing business (the Clearing Business) to Matrix Settlement and Clearance Services, LLC (Matrix). The sale was completed over a series of closings during 2006. In exchange for the assets of the Clearing Business, Federated received upfront cash consideration totaling $7.7 million. In addition, Federated accrued contingent consideration of $4.8 million in the second quarter of 2008, which was calculated as a percentage of Matrix’s second quarter 2008 net revenue above a specific threshold directly attributed to the Clearing Business. This contingent consideration was received in the third quarter and is included, net of tax, as income from discontinued operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008.

Special Cash Dividend

On September 15, 2008, Federated paid $2.76 per share or $281.2 million for a special cash dividend to shareholders of record as of September 9, 2008. This payment was in addition to the $0.24 per share or $24.2 million dividend paid on August 15, 2008 to shareholders of record as of August 8, 2008.

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

Asset Highlights

Managed Assets at Period End

 

     September 30,    Percent
Change
 

(in millions)

   2008    2007   
By Asset Class         

Money market

   $ 287,836    $ 209,908    37 %

Equity

     31,651      43,517    (27 )%

Fixed-income

     24,515      22,752    8 %
                    

Total managed assets

   $ 344,002    $ 276,177    25 %
                    
By Product Type         

Mutual Funds:

        

Money market

   $ 259,172    $ 190,011    36 %

Equity

     21,583      30,095    (28 )%

Fixed-income

     19,136      17,775    8 %
                    

Total mutual fund assets

   $ 299,891    $ 237,881    26 %
                    

Separate Accounts:

        

Money market

   $ 28,664    $ 19,897    44 %

Equity

     10,068      13,422    (25 )%

Fixed-income

     5,379      4,977    8 %
                    

Total separate account assets

   $ 44,111    $ 38,296    15 %
                    

Total managed assets

   $ 344,002    $ 276,177    25 %
                    

Average Managed Assets

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
   Percent
Change
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
   Percent
Change
 

(in millions)

   2008    2007      2008    2007   
By Asset Class                 

Money market

   $ 274,840    $ 202,141    36 %   $ 271,641    $ 191,470    42 %

Equity

     35,136      42,731    (18 )%     37,527      42,294    (11 )%

Fixed-income

     25,087      22,680    11 %     24,277      22,930    6 %
                                        

Total average managed assets

   $ 335,063    $ 267,552    25 %   $ 333,445    $ 256,694    30 %
                                        
By Product Type                 

Mutual Funds:

                

Money market

   $ 245,304    $ 181,808    35 %   $ 241,297    $ 170,129    42 %

Equity

     24,180      29,570    (18 )%     25,880      29,393    (12 )%

Fixed-income

     19,347      17,701    9 %     18,735      17,885    5 %
                                        

Total average mutual fund assets

   $ 288,831    $ 229,079    26 %   $ 285,912    $ 217,407    32 %
                                        

Separate Accounts:

                

Money market

   $ 29,536    $ 20,333    45 %   $ 30,344    $ 21,341    42 %

Equity

     10,956      13,161    (17 )%     11,647      12,901    (10 )%

Fixed-income

     5,740      4,979    15 %     5,542      5,045    10 %
                                        

Total average separate account assets

   $ 46,232    $ 38,473    20 %   $ 47,533    $ 39,287    21 %
                                        

Total average managed assets

   $ 335,063    $ 267,552    25 %   $ 333,445    $ 256,694    30 %
                                        

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

Administered Assets

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
   Percent
Change
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
   Percent
Change
 

(in millions)

   2008    2007      2008    2007   

Period-end assets

   $ 8,723    $ 19,312    (55 )%   $ 8,723    $ 19,312    (55 )%

Average assets

     8,889      18,378    (52 )%     9,455      17,947    (47 )%

Changes in Equity and Fixed-Income Fund Managed Assets

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 

(in millions)

   2008     2007     2008     2007  

Equity Funds

        

Beginning assets

   $ 25,569     $ 30,026     $ 29,145     $ 28,666  
                                

Sales

     1,060       1,269       4,009       4,140  

Redemptions

     (2,031 )     (1,959 )     (5,453 )     (5,771 )
                                

Net redemptions

     (971 )     (690 )     (1,444 )     (1,631 )

Net exchanges

     (68 )     (20 )     (163 )     (53 )

Acquisition-related

     0       366       42       366  

Other1

     (2,947 )     413       (5,997 )     2,747  
                                

Ending assets

   $ 21,583     $ 30,095     $ 21,583     $ 30,095  
                                

Fixed-Income Funds

        

Beginning assets

   $ 19,065     $ 17,769     $ 17,943     $ 18,113  
                                

Sales

     2,354       1,191       6,509       3,671  

Redemptions

     (1,826 )     (1,445 )     (4,911 )     (4,339 )
                                

Net sales (redemptions)

     528       (254 )     1,598       (668 )

Net exchanges

     26       (6 )     80       (9 )

Other1

     (483 )     266       (485 )     339  
                                

Ending assets

   $ 19,136     $ 17,775     $ 19,136     $ 17,775  
                                

 

1

Includes changes in the market value of securities held by the funds, reinvested dividends and distributions and net investment income.

Changes in Equity and Fixed-Income Separate Account Assets

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 

(in millions)

   2008     2007     2008     2007  

Equity Separate Accounts

        

Beginning assets

   $ 11,712     $ 13,318     $ 13,017     $ 12,228  
                                

Net customer flows

     (426 )     (126 )     (621 )     296  

Other*

     (1,218 )     230       (2,328 )     898  
                                

Ending assets

   $ 10,068     $ 13,422     $ 10,068     $ 13,422  
                                

Fixed-Income Separate Accounts

        

Beginning assets

   $ 6,007     $ 5,201     $ 4,881     $ 4,789  
                                

Net customer flows

     (372 )     (370 )     763       (80 )

Other*

     (256 )     146       (265 )     268  
                                

Ending assets

   $ 5,379     $ 4,977     $ 5,379     $ 4,977  
                                

 

*

For certain accounts, Net customer flows are calculated as the remaining difference between beginning and ending assets after the calculation of Other. Other includes the approximate effect of changes in the market value of securities held in the portfolios, reinvested dividends and distributions and net investment income.

Changes in Federated’s average asset mix period-over-period across both asset and product types have a direct impact on Federated’s total revenue due to the difference in the fee rates per invested dollar earned on each asset and product type. Equity products generally

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

have a higher management-fee rate than fixed-income or money market products. Likewise, mutual fund products typically earn a higher management-fee rate than Separate Accounts. Additionally, certain components of Marketing and distribution expense can vary depending upon the asset type, distribution channel and/or the size of the customer relationship. The following table presents the relative composition of average managed assets and the percent of total revenue derived from each asset type for the nine months ended September 30:

 

     Percent of Total Average Managed Assets     Percent of Total Revenue  
     2008     2007     2008     2007  

By Asset Class

        

Money market assets

   82 %   75 %   58 %   49 %

Equity assets

   11 %   16 %   31 %   39 %

Fixed-income assets

   7 %   9 %   10 %   11 %

Other activities

   —       —       1 %   1 %
                        

By Product Type

        

Mutual Funds:

        

Money market assets

   73 %   66 %   57 %   48 %

Equity assets

   8 %   11 %   27 %   34 %

Fixed-income assets

   5 %   7 %   9 %   10 %

Separate Accounts:

        

Money market assets

   9 %   9 %   1 %   1 %

Equity assets

   3 %   5 %   4 %   5 %

Fixed-income assets

   2 %   2 %   1 %   1 %

Other activities

   —       —       1 %   1 %
                        

Total managed assets represent the balance of assets under management at a point in time. By contrast, average managed assets represent the average balance of assets under management during a period of time. Because substantially all revenue and certain components of Marketing and distribution expense are generally calculated daily based on assets under management, changes in average managed assets are typically a key indicator of changes in revenue earned and asset-based expenses incurred during the same period.

The September 30, 2008 period-end managed assets increased 25% over period-end managed assets at September 30, 2007. Average managed assets for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008, increased 25% and 30%, respectively, over average managed assets for the same periods in 2007. Total money market assets at September 30, 2008 increased 37% as compared to the same period in 2007. Average money market assets increased 36% and 42% for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2007. These increases were largely due to investors’ increased concerns about risk and uncertainty in the financial markets and the Federal Reserve Bank interest rate cuts beginning in September 2007.

Period-end equity assets at September 30, 2008 decreased 27% as compared to September 30, 2007. Average equity assets for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 decreased 18% and 11%, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2007 primarily due to market depreciation. Period-end fixed-income assets at September 30, 2008 increased 8% as compared to September 30, 2007. Average fixed-income assets for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008, increased 11% and 6%, respectively, as compared to the same periods last year primarily due to positive net sales.

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

Results of Operations

Revenue. Revenue for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30 is set forth in the following table:

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 

(in millions)

   2008    2007    Change     Percent
Change
    2008    2007    Change     Percent
Change
 

Revenue from managed assets

   $ 303.5    $ 282.6    $ 20.9     7 %   $ 913.7    $ 817.0    $ 96.7     12 %
                                                        

Revenue from sources other than managed assets

     2.4      3.8      (1.4 )   (37 )%     8.2      10.4      (2.2 )   (21 )%
                                                        

Total revenue

   $ 305.9    $ 286.4    $ 19.5     7 %   $ 921.9    $ 827.4    $ 94.5     11 %
                                                        

Revenue from managed assets increased $20.9 million for the three-month period ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007 primarily due to a $42.0 million increase resulting from an increase in average money market managed assets in 2008 compared to 2007. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in revenue of $20.2 million due to a decrease in average equity assets under management.

Revenue from managed assets increased $96.7 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007 primarily due to a $137.7 million increase resulting from an increase in average money market managed assets. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in revenue of $33.6 million due to a decrease in average equity assets under management and a decrease of $1.5 million due to a change in the mix of average fixed-income assets under management. In addition, Federated incurred an additional $5.3 million in voluntary waivers of fund fee revenue in the first nine months of 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007 for competitive reasons. Such waivers may increase in the fourth quarter and thereafter if yields on government securities decrease and short-term interest rates continue to decline.

Operating Expenses. Operating expenses for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30 are set forth in the following table:

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 

(in millions)

   2008    2007    Change    Percent
Change
    2008    2007    Change    Percent
Change
 

Marketing and distribution

   $ 106.7    $ 90.8    $ 15.9    18 %   $ 324.8    $ 258.3    $ 66.5    26 %

Compensation and related

     60.5      52.1      8.4    16 %     181.0      157.9      23.1    15 %

All other

     45.5      45.3      0.2    0 %     140.7      140.3      0.4    0 %
                                                      

Total operating expenses

   $ 212.7    $ 188.2    $ 24.5    13 %   $ 646.5    $ 556.5    $ 90.0    16 %
                                                      

Total operating expenses for the three-month period ended September 30, 2008 increased $24.5 million compared to the same period in 2007. Marketing and distribution expense increased $15.9 million primarily due to increased average money market managed assets in the quarter ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007. Compensation and related expense increased $8.4 million primarily due to a $3.3 million increase in incentive compensation, a $2.5 million increase in regular pay primarily attributable to annual merit adjustments and higher staffing levels and a $1.3 million non-recurring increase in compensation expense related to the payment of Federated’s special dividend on September 15, 2008 for certain unvested restricted stock awards.

Total operating expenses for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008 increased $90.0 million compared to the same period in 2007. Marketing and distribution expense increased $66.5 million primarily due to increased average money market managed assets in the first nine months of 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007. Compensation and related expense increased $23.1 million in the first nine months of 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007 primarily due to: 1) a $13.4 million increase in incentive compensation, 2) a $5.9 million increase in regular pay primarily attributable to annual merit adjustments and higher staffing levels, 3) a $1.6 million increase in stock-based compensation related to new award grants in 2008 and 4) a $1.3 million non-recurring increase in compensation expense related to the payment of Federated’s special dividend on September 15, 2008 for certain unvested restricted stock awards.

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

Federated expects Marketing and distribution expense to continue to increase due to growth and the competitive nature of the mutual fund business. These increases have historically resulted from increases in and/or changes in the mix of assets under management and/or from changes in the terms of the distribution and shareholder services contracts with the intermediaries who offer Federated’s products to their customers. Marketing and distribution expense can vary depending upon the asset type, distribution channel and/or the size of the customer relationship. In the broker/dealer channel, Federated managed $90.2 billion in money market assets for various broker/dealer customers as of September 30, 2008 as compared to $72.3 billion as of September 30, 2007. The structure of these products and the related distribution and shareholder services agreements with these broker/dealers result in a significant portion of the revenue collected being paid to the intermediary as compensation for various services. Asset increases in this market result in higher Marketing and distribution expense per dollar of revenue compared to other distribution channels.

Nonoperating Income (Expenses). Nonoperating expenses, net decreased $3.4 million and $2.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2007 due primarily to lower investment losses.

Income Taxes on Continuing Operations. The income tax provision for continuing operations decreased $1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007 primarily due to lower income from continuing operations before income taxes ($0.9 million) and a net decrease in state taxes ($0.5 million), comprised of an overall state tax increase ($0.2 million) offset by a nonrecurring decrease related to a third quarter 2008 state tax law change ($0.7 million). The effective tax rate was 37.2% for the three-month period ended September 30, 2008 as compared to 37.3% for the same period in 2007.

The income tax provision for continuing operations increased $3.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 as compared to the same period in 2007 primarily due to higher income from continuing operations before income taxes ($2.0 million) and an increase in state taxes ($0.7 million), comprised of an overall state tax increase ($1.4 million) offset by a nonrecurring decrease related to a third quarter 2008 state tax law change ($0.7 million). The effective tax rate was 37.7% for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008 as compared to 37.2% for the same period in 2007.

Income from Continuing Operations. Income from continuing operations decreased $1.5 million for the three-month period ended September 30, 2008 and increased $2.5 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008, as compared to the same periods of 2007, respectively, primarily as a result of the changes in revenues and expenses noted above. Diluted earnings per share for income from continuing operations for the three months ended September 30, 2008 decreased $0.01 as compared to the same period of 2007 primarily as a result of a decrease in income from continuing operations. Diluted earnings per share for income from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 increased $0.06 as compared to the same period of 2007 primarily from the impact of increased income from continuing operations ($0.03), as well as decreased weighted-average shares outstanding ($0.03).

Discontinued Operations. Discontinued operations, net of tax, totaled $2.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 as a result of the recognition of a $4.8 million gain related to the final payment from the 2006 sale of the Clearing Business. The gain, which was accrued during the second quarter 2008 based on Matrix’s second quarter 2008 net revenue above a specific threshold directly attributed to the Clearing Business, was received in cash in the third quarter 2008.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

At September 30, 2008, liquid assets, consisting of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and receivables, totaled $82.8 million as compared to $173.4 million at December 31, 2007. As of September 30, 2008, Federated had $180.0 million available for borrowings under its $200 million revolving credit facility and separately, a B-share funding arrangement with an independent third party (see Note (10) and Note (11) to the Consolidated Financial Statements).

Operating Activities. Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $214.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 as compared to $228.1 million for the same period in 2007. The year-over-year decrease of $13.4 million was primarily due to timing differences of $13.9 million in the cash settlement of assets and liabilities.

Investing Activities. During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008, Federated used $48.7 million for investing activities, which included $58.0 million in cash paid for acquisitions (see Note (17)(a) to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information) and $6.5 million in cash paid for property and equipment, partially offset by $11.0 million from redemptions of securities available for sale, and $4.8 million in cash received for the final payment of the sale of the Clearing Business (see Note (3) to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information).

 

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Financing Activities. During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2008, Federated used $241.5 million for financing activities. Of this amount, Federated paid the following in the first nine months of 2008: (1) $351.2 million in total year-to-date dividends or $0.21, $0.24 and $3.00 per share in the first, second and third quarters of 2008, respectively, to holders of its common shares, (2) $40.1 million to repurchase 1.2 million shares of Class B common stock in the open market under the stock repurchase program and in private transactions, and (3) $29.9 million to pay down nonrecourse debt using cash flows from certain B-share related assets. See Note (11) to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on Nonrecourse debt. In addition, Federated received $225.4 million in connection with a new $140 million term loan and borrowings against its $200 million revolving credit facility during the third quarter. Federated repaid $65.4 million of this during the third quarter 2008. See Note (10) to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on Recourse debt.

During the third quarter of 2008, the board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program that allows Federated to buy back as many as 5 million additional shares of class B common stock in the future with no stated expiration date. The previous repurchase program has approximately 2.8 million shares remaining and expires at the end of 2008.

On October 23, 2008, the board of directors declared a dividend of $0.24 per share to be paid on November 14, 2008, to shareholders of record as of November 7, 2008.

Financial Position

Deferred sales commissions, net at September 30, 2008 decreased $27.3 million from December 31, 2007 and Long-term debt – nonrecourse at September 30, 2008 decreased $25.8 million from December 31, 2007 in large part as a result of the change in March 2007 from financing to sale treatment accounting for all new sales of Federated’s rights to future distribution fees and contingent deferred sales charges related to Class B shares of sponsored funds. In addition, the asset and debt balances are reduced each quarter as amortization of the deferred sales commission asset is recorded and as cash flows from financings prior to March 2007 are recorded, in large part, as a reduction to the nonrecourse debt.

Accrued compensation and benefits at September 30, 2008 decreased $25.8 million from December 31, 2007 primarily due to 2007 accrued incentive compensation being paid in the first nine months of 2008 ($70.7 million), including a one time $15 million payment to certain key employees responsible for investment management of the Federated Kaufmann products in connection with new individual employment contracts signed in the fourth quarter of 2007, partially offset by three quarters of 2008 incentive compensation accruals net of payments being recorded in the first nine months of 2008 ($43.2 million).

Additional significant changes in assets and liabilities are discussed elsewhere in Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

Contractual Obligations and Contingent Liabilities

Contractual. On August 19, 2008, Federated entered into a $140 million term loan facility with an option to increase its borrowings to $150 million during the term of the facility upon commitment from the lending banks (Term Loan). The Term Loan requires quarterly principal payments totaling $14 million, $21 million and $28 million in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively, and a balloon payment of $77 million when the loan expires on October 31, 2011.

Federated also has a $200 million Revolving Credit Facility that expires October 31, 2011 (the Revolver). Federated pays a facility fee, currently 7.5 basis points, based on its credit rating. During the third quarter of 2008, Federated borrowed $85.4 million and subsequently repaid $65.4 million under the Revolver. As of September 30, 2008, Federated had $180 million available for borrowing under its Revolver and subsequently repaid the remaining $20 million on October 15, 2008.

The borrowings under both the Term Loan and the Revolver (collectively, the Credit Facilities) bear interest at the option of Federated at an overnight rate, such as a defined prime rate or the federal funds rate plus a spread, or at a London Interbank Offered Rate plus a spread dependent upon Federated’s credit rating. Under the Credit Facilities, Federated can make cash payments for stock repurchases or shareholder dividend payments as long as cash, cash equivalents or unused borrowing from the Revolver of no less than $10 million is maintained during the payment period and certain other covenants are maintained. Certain subsidiaries entered into Continuing Agreements of Guaranty and Suretyship whereby these subsidiaries guarantee payment of all obligations incurred through the Credit Facilities. The Credit Facilities include financial and non-financial covenants.

 

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As part of the MDT Acquisition, Federated is required to make annual contingent purchase price payments based upon growth in Federated MDTA LLC net revenues over a three-year period. The first contingent purchase price payment of $43.3 million, which was recorded as goodwill in the second quarter of 2007, was paid in the third quarter of 2007. The second annual contingent purchase price payment of $40.9 million, which was recorded as goodwill, was paid in the third quarter of 2008. The final contingent purchase price payment, which could total up to $43.3 million, is payable in the third quarter 2009 and will be recorded as additional goodwill at the time the contingency is resolved.

As part of the Alliance Acquisition, Federated is required to make contingent purchase price payments over a five-year period. These payments are calculated as a percentage of revenues less certain operating expenses directly attributed to the assets acquired. The first three contingent purchase price payments of $10.7 million, $13.3 million and $16.2 million were paid in the second quarters of 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively. At current asset levels, these payments would approximate $49 million over the remaining two-year period, which includes a $10 million lump-sum payment in 2010. As of September 30, 2008, $9.7 million was accrued in Other current liabilities and recorded as Goodwill. This contingent payment is expected to be made in the second quarter of 2009.

The Rochdale Acquisition agreement provides for two forms of contingent purchase price payments that are dependent upon asset growth and fund performance through 2012. The first form of contingent payment is payable in 2010 and 2012 and could aggregate to as much as $20 million. The second form of contingent payment is payable on a semi-annual basis over the five-year period following the acquisition closing date based on certain revenue earned by Federated from the Federated InterContinental Fund. As of September 30, 2008, $1.2 million related to the second semi-annual contingent purchase price payment was accrued in Other current liabilities and will be paid in the fourth quarter of 2008. Contingent payments are recorded as additional goodwill at the time the related contingency is resolved.

Pursuant to various significant employment arrangements, some of which are contingent upon the successful closing of certain recently signed acquisitions, Federated may be required to make certain incentive compensation-related payments. The employment contracts expire on various dates through the year 2014 with payments possible through 2018. As of September 30, 2008, excluding the impact of the incentive compensation opportunities related to the newly created Federated Kaufmann Large Cap Fund (the New Fund Bonus), the maximum bonus payable over the remaining terms of the contracts approximates $76.1 million, of which $11.8 million is payable in 2009 if the necessary performance targets are met and the employees continue to be employed as of the relevant payment dates. At this time, management is unable to reasonably estimate a range of possible bonus payments for the New Fund Bonus due to the low level of assets in that fund at September 30, 2008 and the wide range of possible growth-rate scenarios.

Pursuant to other acquisition agreements or long-term employment arrangements, Federated may be required to make additional payments upon the occurrence of certain events. Under these other agreements, payments could occur on an annual basis and continue through 2010.

Past Mutual Fund Trading Issues and Related Legal Proceedings. During the fourth quarter 2005, Federated entered into settlement agreements with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and New York State Attorney General (NYAG) to resolve the past mutual fund trading issues. Under the terms of the settlements, Federated paid for the benefit of fund shareholders a total of $80.0 million. In addition, Federated agreed to reduce the investment advisory fees on certain Federated funds by $4.0 million per year for the five-year period beginning January 1, 2006, based upon effective fee rates and assets under management as of September 30, 2005. Depending upon the level of assets under management in these funds during the five-year period, the actual investment advisory fee reduction could be greater or less than $4.0 million per year. For each of the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, these fee reductions were approximately $3 million.

Since October 2003, Federated has been named as a defendant in twenty-three cases filed in various federal district courts and state courts involving allegations relating to market timing, late trading and excessive fees. All of the pending cases involving allegations related to market timing and late trading have been transferred to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland and consolidated for pre-trial proceedings. One market timing/late trading case was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff without prejudice.

 

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The seven excessive fee cases were originally filed in five different federal courts and one state court. All six of the federal cases are now consolidated and pending in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The state court case was voluntarily dismissed by the plaintiff without prejudice.

All of these lawsuits seek unquantified damages, attorneys’ fees and expenses. Federated intends to defend this litigation. The potential impact of these recent lawsuits and future potential similar suits, as well as the timing of settlements, judgments or other resolution of these matters, is uncertain. It is possible that an unfavorable determination will cause a material adverse impact on Federated’s financial position, results of operations and/or liquidity in the period in which the effect becomes reasonably estimable.

The Consolidated Financial Statements for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 reflect $5.9 million and $3.4 million, respectively, for costs associated with various legal, regulatory and compliance matters, including costs related to Federated’s internal review, costs incurred on behalf of the funds, costs incurred and estimated to complete the distribution of Federated’s regulatory settlement, costs related to certain other undertakings of these settlement agreements, and costs incurred and estimated to resolve certain of the above-mentioned ongoing legal proceedings. Accruals for these estimates represent management’s best estimate of probable losses at this time. Actual losses may differ from these estimates, and such differences may have a material impact on Federated’s consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Other Legal Proceedings. Federated has other claims asserted and threatened against it in the ordinary course of business. These other claims are subject to inherent uncertainties. It is possible that an unfavorable determination will cause a material adverse impact on Federated’s reputation, financial position, results of operations and/or liquidity in the period in which the effect becomes reasonably estimable.

Future Cash Needs. In addition to the contractual obligations and contingent liabilities described above, management expects that principal uses of cash will include funding marketing and distribution expenditures, funding business acquisitions, paying incentive and base compensation, repaying recourse debt obligations, repurchasing company stock, paying shareholder dividends, advancing sales commissions, seeding new products and funding property and equipment acquisitions, including computer-related software and hardware. As a result of the highly regulated nature of the investment management business, management anticipates that expenditures for compliance personnel, compliance systems and related professional and consulting fees may continue to increase. Resolution of the matters described above regarding past mutual fund trading issues and legal proceedings could result in payments which may have a material impact on Federated’s liquidity, capital resources and results of operations. Management believes Federated’s existing liquid assets, together with the expected continuing cash flow from operations, its remaining borrowing capacity under the Revolver, the current B-share funding arrangement and its ability to issue stock and obtain additional financing arrangements will be sufficient to meet its present and reasonably foreseeable cash needs.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

FSP EITF 03-06-1 – In June 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a FASB Staff Position (FSP) on FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue No. 03-06-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities,” (FSP EITF 03-06-1). This FSP addresses whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities prior to vesting and, therefore, need to be included in the earnings allocation in computing earnings per share (EPS) under the two-class method described in Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.” It affects entities that accrue or pay nonforfeitable cash dividends on share-based payment awards during the awards’ service period. FSP EITF 03-06-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years and will require a retrospective adjustment to all prior period EPS. Management is currently evaluating the impact the FSP will have on Federated’s calculation and presentation of EPS.

SFAS 162 – In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles,” (SFAS 162). This standard reorganizes the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) hierarchy in order to improve financial reporting by providing a consistent framework for determining what accounting principles should be used when preparing U.S. GAAP financial statements. SFAS 162 shall be effective 60 days after the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s amendments to Interim Auditing Standard, AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” Management is currently evaluating the impact, if any, this new standard may have on Federated’s financial position and results of operations.

 

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FSP FAS 142-3 – In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP SFAS No. 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets,” (FSP FAS 142-3). This FSP amends the list of factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions used in determining the useful life of recognized intangible assets under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” (SFAS 142). The intent of this FSP is to improve the consistency between the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS 142 and the period of expected cash flows used to measure the fair value of the asset under SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations.” FSP FAS 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Management is currently evaluating the impact, if any, the FSP may have on Federated’s financial position and results of operations.

SFAS 141(R) – In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (SFAS 141(R)). SFAS 141(R) is intended to improve reporting by creating greater consistency in the accounting and financial reporting of business combinations, resulting in more complete, comparable and relevant information for investors and other users of financial statements. To achieve this goal, the new standard requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all (and only) the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and expands the disclosure requirements for material business combinations. For calendar-year companies, SFAS 141(R) is effective for business combination transactions for which the acquisition date is on or after January 1, 2009. Management will adopt SFAS 141(R) prospectively, as required by the standard, and is currently evaluating the impact SFAS 141(R) will have on the accounting for Federated’s future business combinations.

SFAS 160 – In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (SFAS 160). SFAS 160 is intended to improve the relevance, comparability, and transparency of financial information provided to investors by requiring all entities to report noncontrolling (minority) interests in subsidiaries in the same way – as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Moreover, SFAS 160 eliminates the diversity that currently exists in accounting for transactions between an entity and noncontrolling interests by requiring that they be treated as equity transactions. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and is required to be adopted prospectively. Management is currently evaluating the impact SFAS 160 will have on Federated’s financial position and results of operations.

SFAS 157 and FSP SFAS 157-2 – In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS 157). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in GAAP and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements because the FASB had previously concluded in those accounting pronouncements that fair value is the relevant measurement attribute. Accordingly, this Statement does not require any new fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued an FSP to defer the effective date of SFAS 157 for one year for nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Management adopted the provisions of SFAS 157 related to all financial assets and liabilities and nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis on January 1, 2008. Management continues to evaluate the impact this statement will have on the Consolidated Financial Statements once its provisions are adopted for nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value on a non-recurring basis.

Critical Accounting Policies

Federated’s Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. In preparing the financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes. Management continually evaluates the accounting policies and estimates it uses to prepare the Consolidated Financial Statements. In general, management’s estimates are based on historical experience, on information from third-party professionals and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the facts and circumstances. Actual results may differ from those estimates made by management and those differences may be material.

Of the significant accounting policies described in Federated’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, management believes that its policies regarding accounting for VIE consolidation, intangible assets, income taxes and loss contingencies involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity. See Note (1) of the Consolidated Financial Statements and the section entitled “Critical Accounting Policies” in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in Federated’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 for detail on these policies.

 

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Risk Factors

Potential Adverse Effects of Increased Competition in the Investment Management Business. The investment management business is highly competitive. Federated competes in the management and distribution of mutual funds and separate accounts with other independent fund management companies, national and regional broker/dealers, commercial banks, insurance companies and other institutions. Many of these competitors have substantially greater resources and brand recognition than Federated. Competition is based on various factors, including business reputation, investment performance, quality of service, the strength and continuity of management and selling relationships, marketing and distribution services offered, the range of products offered and fees charged.

Many of Federated’s products are designed for use by institutions such as banks, insurance companies and other corporations. A large portion of Federated’s managed assets, particularly money market and fixed-income managed assets, are held by institutional investors. Because most institutional investment vehicles are sold without sales commissions at either the time of purchase or the time of redemption, institutional investors may be more inclined to transfer their assets among various institutional funds than investors in retail mutual funds. Of Federated’s 147 managed funds, 90 are sold without a sales commission.

A significant portion of Federated’s revenue is derived from providing mutual funds to the wealth management and trust market, comprising approximately 1,500 banks and other financial institutions. Future profitability of Federated will be affected by its ability to retain its share of this market, and could also be adversely affected by consolidations occurring in the banking industry, as well as regulatory changes.

Potential Adverse Effects of Changes in our Distribution Channels. Federated acts as a wholesaler of investment products to financial intermediaries including banks, broker/dealers, registered investment advisers and other financial planners. Federated also sells investment products directly to corporations and institutions. Two intermediary customers, Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. and the Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (including its Pershing subsidiary and other assets from the Bank of New York Mellon Corporation), accounted for a total of approximately 30% of Federated’s total revenue for both the third quarter of 2008 and the first nine months of 2008. If one or more of the major financial intermediaries that distribute Federated’s products were to cease operations or limit or otherwise end the distribution of Federated’s investment products, it could have a material adverse effect on Federated’s future revenues and, to a lesser extent, net income. There can be no assurance that Federated will continue to have access to the financial intermediaries that currently distribute Federated products or that Federated’s relationship with such intermediaries will persist over time. In addition, Federated has experienced increases in the cost of distribution as a percentage of total revenue over the years and expect such costs to continue to increase due to growth and the competitive nature of the mutual fund business. Higher distribution costs reduce Federated’s operating and net income.

Potential Adverse Effects of a Decline or Disruption in the Economy or Financial Markets. Economic or financial market downturns, including disruptions in securities and credit markets, may adversely affect the profitability and performance of, demand for and investor confidence in Federated’s investment products and services. The ability of Federated to compete and grow is dependent, in part, on the relative attractiveness of the types of investment products Federated offers and its investment performance and strategies under prevailing market conditions. In the event of extreme circumstances, including economic, political, or business crises, Federated may suffer significant redemptions in assets under management causing severe liquidity issues in its short-term sponsored investment products and declines in the value of and returns on assets under management, all of which could cause material adverse effects on Federated’s reputation, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Likewise, a service provider or vendor of Federated could also be adversely affected by the crises described above. It is not possible to predict with certainty the extent to which the services or products Federated receives from such service provider or vendor would be interrupted or affected by such situations. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that potential service interruption or Federated’s ability to find a suitable replacement would not have a material adverse effect on Federated’s reputation, financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Risk of Federated’s Money Market Products’ Ability to Maintain a Stable $1.00 Net Asset Value. Approximately 58% of Federated’s revenue in the first nine months of 2008 was from managed assets in money market products. An investment in money market funds is neither insured nor guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Although money market funds seek to preserve an NAV of $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in these funds. Federated devotes substantial resources including significant credit analysis to the management of its products. Federated money market funds have always maintained a

 

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$1.00 NAV; however, there is no guarantee that such results will be achieved in the future. Market conditions could lead to severe liquidity issues in money market products which could impact their NAVs. If the NAV of a Federated money market fund were to decline to less than $1.00 per share, Federated money market funds would likely experience significant redemptions in assets under management, loss of shareholder confidence and reputational harm, all of which could cause material adverse effects on Federated’s financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

No Assurance of Access to Sufficient Liquidity. From time to time, Federated’s operations may require more cash than is then available from operations. In these circumstances, it may be necessary to borrow from lending facilities or to raise capital by securing new debt or by selling shares of Federated equity or debt securities. Federated’s ability to raise additional capital in the future will be affected by several factors including Federated’s creditworthiness, the market value of Federated’s common stock, as well as general market conditions. There can be no assurance that Federated will be able to obtain these funds and financing on acceptable terms, if at all.

Adverse Effects of Declines in the Amount of or Changes in the Mix of Assets Under Management. A significant portion of Federated’s revenue is derived from investment advisory fees, which are based on the value of managed assets and vary with the type of asset being managed, with higher fees generally earned on equity products than on fixed-income and money market products. Likewise, mutual fund products generally have a higher management fee than separate accounts. Additionally, marketing and distribution expense can vary depending upon the asset type, distribution channel and/or the size of the customer relationship. Consequently, significant fluctuations in the market value of securities held by, or the level of redemptions from, the funds or other products advised by Federated may materially affect the amount of managed assets and thus Federated’s revenue, profitability and ability to grow. Similarly, changes in Federated’s average asset mix across both asset and product types have a direct impact on Federated’s revenue and profitability. Substantially all of Federated’s managed assets are in investment products that permit investors to redeem their investment at any time. Additionally, changing market conditions may cause a shift in Federated’s asset mix towards money market and fixed-income products which may cause a decline in Federated’s revenue and net income.

Potential Adverse Effects on Money Market and Other Fixed-Income Assets Resulting From Changes in Interest Rates. Approximately 58% and 10% of Federated’s revenue in the first nine months of 2008 was from managed assets in money market and fixed-income products, respectively. These assets are largely from institutional investors. In a rising short-term interest rate environment, certain institutional investors using money market products and other short-term duration fixed-income products for cash management purposes may shift these investments to direct investments in comparable instruments in order to realize higher yields than those available in money market and other fund products holding lower-yielding instruments. In addition, rising interest rates will tend to reduce the market value of bonds held in various investment portfolios and other products. Thus, increases in interest rates could have an adverse effect on Federated’s revenue from money market portfolios and from other fixed-income products. Federated has been actively diversifying its products to expand its managed assets in equity products, which may be less sensitive to interest rate increases. There can be no assurance that Federated will be successful in these diversification efforts.

Adverse Effects of Poor Investment Performance. Success in the investment management business is largely dependent on investment performance relative to market conditions and the performance of competing products. Good performance generally assists retention and growth of assets, resulting in additional revenues. Conversely, poor performance tends to result in decreased sales and increased redemptions with corresponding decreases in revenues to Federated. Poor performance could, therefore, have a material adverse effect on Federated’s business, results of operations or business prospects. In terms of revenue concentration by product, approximately 14% of Federated’s total revenue for the first nine months of 2008 was derived from services provided to one sponsored fund (the Federated Kaufmann Fund). A significant decline in the assets under management in this fund could have a material adverse effect on Federated’s results of operations.

Potential Adverse Effects of Changes in Laws and Regulations on Federated’s Investment Management Business. Federated and its investment management business are subject to extensive regulation in the United States and abroad. Federated and the Federated Funds are subject to Federal securities laws, principally the Securities Act of 1933, the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, state laws regarding securities fraud and regulations promulgated by various regulatory authorities, including the SEC, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, U.S. Department of Treasury and the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”). Federated is also affected by the regulations governing banks and other financial institutions and, to the extent operations take place outside the United States, by foreign laws and regulatory authorities. Changes in laws, regulations or governmental policies, and the costs associated with compliance, could materially and adversely affect the business and operations of Federated. From time to time, the Federal securities

 

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laws have been augmented substantially. For example, among other measures, Federated has been impacted by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Patriot Act of 2001 and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999. Currently pending legislation could impose additional requirements and restrictions on, or otherwise affect the operations of, Federated and/or the Federated Funds. In addition, during the past few years the SEC, FINRA and the NYSE have adopted regulations that have increased Federated’s operating expenses and affected the conduct of its business, and may continue to do so. Other significant regulations or amendments to regulations have been proposed that, if adopted, will affect Federated and the Federated Funds, and Federated anticipates that other reforms and regulatory actions affecting the mutual fund industry are likely to occur.

Potential Adverse Effects of Changes in Laws and Regulations on Federated’s State Tax Liability. Over the past few years, various service industries, including mutual fund service providers, have been the subject of changes in tax policy that impact their state tax liability. Changes that have been adopted or proposed include (1) an expansion of the nature of a service company’s activities that subject it to tax in a state, (2) a change in the methodology by which multi-state companies apportion their income between states, and (3) a requirement that affiliated companies calculate their state tax as one combined entity. As adopted changes become effective and additional states effect similar changes, there could be a material adverse effect on Federated’s tax liability and effective tax rate and, as a result, net income.

Operational Risks. Operational risks include, but are not limited to, improper or unauthorized execution and processing of transactions, deficiencies in operating systems, business disruptions, inadequacies or breaches in our internal control processes and noncompliance with regulatory requirements. Management relies on its employees and systems to comply with established procedures, controls and regulatory requirements. Breakdown or improper use of systems, human error or improper action by employees, or noncompliance with regulatory rules could cause material adverse effects on Federated’s reputation, financial position, results of operations and/or liquidity.

No Assurance of Successful Future Acquisitions. Federated’s business strategy contemplates the acquisition of other investment management companies as well as investment assets. There can be no assurance that Federated will find suitable acquisition candidates at acceptable prices, have sufficient capital resources to realize its acquisition strategy, be successful in entering into definitive agreements for desired acquisitions, or successfully integrate acquired companies into Federated, or that any such acquisitions, if consummated, will prove to be advantageous to Federated.

Retaining and Recruiting Key Personnel. Federated’s ability to locate and retain quality personnel has contributed significantly to its growth and success and is important to attracting and retaining customers. The market for qualified executives, investment managers, analysts, sales representatives and other key personnel is extremely competitive. There can be no assurance that Federated will be successful in its efforts to recruit and retain the required personnel. Federated has encouraged the continued retention of its executives and other key personnel through measures such as providing competitive compensation arrangements and in certain cases employment agreements. The loss of any such personnel could have an adverse effect on Federated. In certain circumstances, the departure of key employees could cause higher redemption rates for certain assets under management or the loss of client accounts. Moreover, since certain of our products contribute significantly to our revenues and earnings, the loss of even a small number of key personnel associated with these products could have a disproportionate impact on our business.

Various executives, investment, sales and other key personnel now own restricted stock and hold stock options subject to vesting periods of up to ten years from the date acquired or awarded and to provisions that require resale or forfeiture to Federated in certain circumstances upon termination of employment. In addition, certain of these employees are employed under contracts which require periodic review of compensation and contain restrictive covenants with regard to divulging confidential information and engaging in competitive enterprises.

Impairment Risk. At September 30, 2008, Federated had intangible assets totaling $66.2 million on its Consolidated Balance Sheet, all of which represent assets capitalized in connection with Federated’s acquisitions and business combinations. Accounting for intangible assets requires significant management estimates and judgment. Federated may not realize the value of these intangible assets. Management performs periodic reviews of the carrying values of the intangible assets to determine whether events and circumstances indicate that an impairment in value may have occurred. A variety of factors could cause the carrying value of an intangible asset to become impaired. Should a review indicate impairment, a write-down of the carrying value of the intangible asset would occur, resulting in a non-cash charge which would adversely affect our results of operations for the period.

 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis (continued)

 

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Unaudited)

 

Systems and Technology Risks. Federated utilizes software and related technologies throughout its businesses including both proprietary systems and those provided by outside vendors. Unanticipated issues could occur and it is not possible to predict with certainty all of the adverse effects that could result from a failure of a third party to address computer system problems. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that potential system interruptions or the cost necessary to rectify the problems would not have a material adverse effect on Federated’s business, financial condition, results of operations or business prospects.

Adverse Effects of Rising Costs of Risk Management. Since 2001, expenses related to risk management have increased and management expects these costs to be significant going forward. As a result of a heightened regulatory environment, management anticipates that expenditures for risk management personnel, risk management systems and related professional and consulting fees may continue to increase. Insurance coverage for significant risks may not be available or may only be available at prohibitive costs. Renewals of insurance policies may expose Federated to additional cost through the assumption of higher deductibles, and co-insurance liability and/or lower coverage levels. Higher insurance costs, incurred deductibles and lower coverage levels may reduce Federated’s operating and net income.

Potential Adverse Effects Related to Federated’s Settlement of Past Mutual Fund Trading Issues and Related Legal Proceedings. In 2005, Federated entered into settlement agreements with the SEC and NYAG to resolve the past mutual fund trading issues. Since October 2003, Federated has been named as a defendant in twenty-three cases filed in various federal district courts and state courts involving allegations relating to market timing, late trading and excessive fees. All of these lawsuits seek unquantified damages, attorneys’ fees and expenses. Federated is defending this litigation. The potential impact of these recent lawsuits and future potential similar suits is uncertain. It is possible that an unfavorable determination will cause a material adverse impact to Federated’s reputation, financial position, results of operations and/or liquidity. Responding to future requests from regulatory authorities, defending pending litigation and addressing the undertakings required by the settlement agreements will increase Federated’s operating expenses and could have other material adverse effects on Federated’s business.

Potential Adverse Effects of Reputational Harm. Any material losses in client or shareholder confidence in Federated or in the mutual fund industry as a result of pending litigation, previously settled governmental inquiries, economic or financial market downturns or disruptions or other matters could increase redemptions from and reduce sales of Federated Funds and other investment management services, resulting in a decrease in future revenues.

Adverse Effects of Termination or Failure to Renew Fund Agreements. A substantial majority of Federated’s revenues are derived from investment management agreements with the funds that, as required by law, are terminable upon 60 days notice. In addition, each such investment management agreement must be approved and renewed annually by each fund’s board of directors or trustees, including disinterested members of the board, or its shareholders, as required by law. Failure to renew, changes resulting in lower fees, or termination of a significant number of these agreements could have a material adverse impact on Federated. As required by the Investment Company Act of 1940, each investment advisory agreement with a mutual fund automatically terminates upon its “assignment,” although new investment advisory agreements may be approved by the mutual fund’s directors or trustees and shareholders. A sale of a sufficient number of shares of Federated’s voting securities to transfer control of Federated could be deemed an “assignment” in certain circumstances. An assignment, actual or constructive, will trigger these termination provisions and may adversely affect Federated’s ability to realize the value of these agreements.

Under the terms of the settlement agreement with the SEC and NYAG, a Federated investment advisory subsidiary may not serve as investment adviser to any registered investment company unless: (1) at least 75% of the fund’s directors are independent of Federated; (2) the chairman of each such fund is independent of Federated; (3) no action may be taken by the fund’s board of directors or trustees or any committee thereof unless approved by a majority of the independent board members of the fund or committee, respectively; and (4) the fund appoints a senior officer who reports to the independent directors or trustees and is responsible for monitoring compliance by the fund with applicable laws and fiduciary duties and for managing the process by which management fees charged to a fund are approved.

Potential Adverse Effects of Unpredictible Events. Unpredictable events, including natural disaster, technology failure, pandemic, war and terrorist attack, could adversely impact our ability to conduct business. Such events could cause disruptions in economic conditions, system interruption, loss of life or unavailability of personnel. As such, there can be no assurance that unpredictable events, or the costs to address such events, would not have a material adverse effect on Federated’s business, financial condition, results of operations or business prospects.

 

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Part I, Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

(Unaudited)

In the normal course of its business, Federated is exposed to risk of loss due to fluctuations in the securities market and general economy. Management is responsible for identifying, assessing and managing market and other risks.

Market Risk - Investments. Federated’s short-term investments expose it to various market risks. A single investment can expose Federated to multiple risks. Interest-rate risk is the risk that unplanned fluctuations in earnings will result from interest-rate volatility while credit risk is the risk that an issuer of debt securities may default on its obligations. At September 30, 2008, Federated was exposed to interest-rate and, to a lesser extent, credit risk, as a result of holding investments in fixed-income sponsored funds ($4.4 million) and primarily investment-grade debt securities held by certain sponsored products ($2.0 million). Management considered a hypothetical 200 basis point fluctuation in interest rates and determined that the impact of such a fluctuation on these investments, individually and in the aggregate, would not have a material effect on Federated’s financial condition or results of operations.

Price risk is the risk that the market price of an investment will decline and ultimately result in the recognition of a loss for Federated. At September 30, 2008, Federated was exposed to price risk as a result of its $10.9 million investment primarily in sponsored fluctuating-value mutual funds. Federated’s investment in these products represents its maximum exposure to loss. Management considered a hypothetical 20% fluctuation in market value and determined that the impact of such a fluctuation on these investments, individually and in the aggregate, would not have a material effect on Federated’s financial condition or results of operations.

 

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Part I, Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

(Unaudited)

 

(a) Federated carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including Federated’s President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of Federated’s disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2008. Based upon that evaluation, the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that Federated’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

 

(b) There has been no change in Federated’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2008 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, Federated’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

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Part II, Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

(Unaudited)

The information required by this Item is contained in Note (17)(c) and Note (17)(d) to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in Part I of this report and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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Part II, Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

(Unaudited)

A complete listing of Federated’s risk factors is included herein under the section entitled “Risk Factors” under Item 2 of Part I, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Management has added the following risk factors: “Risk of Federated’s Money Market Products’ Ability to Maintain a Stable $1.00 Net Asset Value” and “No Assurance of Access to Sufficient Liquidity.” These additions are enhancements of the risks previously disclosed and management does not consider them to be material changes from the risk factors included in Federated’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007.

 

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Part II, Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

(Unaudited)

(c) The following table summarizes stock repurchases under Federated’s share repurchase program during the third quarter 2008.

 

     Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
   Average
Price Paid
per Share
   Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs1
   Maximum Number of Shares that
May Yet Be Purchased Under the
Plans or Programs

July2

   4,234    $ 2.41    0    2,812,319

August2

   959      0    0    7,812,319

September3

   68,703      22.15    50,000    7,762,319
                     

Total

   73,896    $ 20.74    50,000    7,762,319
                     

 

1

Federated’s existing current share repurchase program was announced in July 2006, whereby the board of directors authorized management to purchase up to 7.5 million shares of Federated Class B common stock through December 31, 2008. In August 2008, the board of directors authorized management to purchase up to an additional 5.0 million shares of Federated Class B common stock with no stated expiration date. No other plans exist as of September 30, 2008.

2

In both July 2008 and August 2008, all shares of restricted stock were repurchased in connection with employee separations.

3

In September 2008, 18,703 shares of restricted stock with a weighted-average price of $2.86 per share were repurchased in connection with employee separations.

 

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Part II, Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

(Unaudited)

No matters have been submitted to a vote of security holders during the period covered by this report.

 

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Part II, Item 6. Exhibits

 

(Unaudited)

The following exhibits required to be filed by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are filed herewith and incorporated by reference herein:

Exhibit 2.1 – Definitive Agreement between Federated Investors, Inc. and David W. Tice & Associates, LLC dated as of July 14, 2008 (filed herewith)1

Exhibit 2.2 – Definitive Agreement between Federated Investors, Inc. and Clover Capital Management, Inc. dated as of September 12, 2008 (filed herewith) 1

Exhibit 10.1 – $140,000,000 Term Loan Facility Credit Agreement, dated as of August 19, 2008, by and among Federated Investors, Inc. and the banks set forth therein and PNC Bank, National Association (filed herewith)

Exhibit 31.1 – Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith)

Exhibit 31.2 – Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith)

Exhibit 32 – Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith)

 

1

Schedules or similar attachments to these exhibits shall be furnished supplementally to the SEC upon request.

 

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SIGNATURES

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

 

            Federated Investors, Inc.
      (Registrant)
Date   October 24, 2008   By:  

/s/ J. Christopher Donahue

      J. Christopher Donahue
      President and Chief Executive Officer
Date   October 24, 2008   By:  

/s/ Thomas R. Donahue

      Thomas R. Donahue
      Chief Financial Officer

 

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