<PAGE>
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1999
Commission file number 1-11921
E*TRADE Group, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Delaware 94-2844166
<S> <C>
(State or other jurisdiction (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
of incorporation or organization)
</TABLE>
4500 Bohannon Drive, Menlo Park, CA 94025
(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (650) 331-6000
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 the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date:
As of August 10, 1999, the number of shares outstanding of the registrant's
common stock was 234,548,699.
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<PAGE>
E*TRADE Group, Inc.
Form 10-Q Quarterly Report
For the Quarter Ended June 30, 1999
Table of Contents
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
----
<S> <C>
Part I -- Financial Information:
Item 1. Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Operations................................. 3
Consolidated Balance Sheets........................................... 4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows................................. 5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................ 6
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations.................................................... 11
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk........ 27
Part II -- Other Information:
Item 1. Legal and Administrative Proceedings.............................. 29
Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds......................... 30
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities................................... 30
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders............... 30
Item 5. Other Information................................................. 30
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.................................. 31
Signatures................................................................ 32
</TABLE>
----------------
UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, REFERENCES TO "COMPANY" MEAN E*TRADE GROUP, INC.
AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements in this discussion and analysis, including statements
regarding the Company's strategy, financial performance and revenue sources,
are forward-looking statements based on current expectations and entail
various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ
materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements as
a result of certain factors set forth under "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in
this report. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various
disclosures made by the Company in this report and in the Company's other
reports filed with the SEC, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-
K/A as filed with the SEC, that attempt to advise interested parties of
certain risks and factors that may affect the Company's business. Readers are
cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements to
reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date hereof. The following
should be read in conjunction with the Company's financial statements and
notes thereto.
2
<PAGE>
PART I. Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
E*TRADE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Nine Months Ended
Ended June 30, June 30,
------------------ -------------------
1999 1998 1999 1998
--------- ------- --------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue:
Transaction revenues................. $ 106,067 $43,419 $ 256,911 $118,881
Interest-net of interest expense(A).. 34,561 14,137 84,577 38,790
International........................ 1,925 3,045 3,941 4,665
Other................................ 9,189 5,883 21,402 14,285
--------- ------- --------- --------
Net revenues....................... 151,742 66,484 366,831 176,621
--------- ------- --------- --------
Cost of services....................... 72,373 29,786 170,235 78,615
--------- ------- --------- --------
Operating expenses:
Selling and marketing................ 82,369 13,308 183,406 34,224
Technology development............... 20,659 7,297 50,481 21,079
General and administrative........... 15,388 7,453 47,851 18,096
Merger related expenses.............. 3,652 -- 3,652 --
--------- ------- --------- --------
Total operating expenses........... 122,068 28,058 285,390 73,399
--------- ------- --------- --------
Total cost of services and operat-
ing expenses...................... 194,441 57,844 455,625 152,014
--------- ------- --------- --------
Operating income (loss)................ (42,699) 8,640 (88,794) 24,607
--------- ------- --------- --------
Non-operating income (expense):
Gain on sale of investment........... 4,303 -- 37,670 --
Earnings (loss) on equity invest-
ments............................... (851) -- (2,185) --
--------- ------- --------- --------
Total non-operating income......... 3,452 -- 35,485 --
--------- ------- --------- --------
Pre-tax income (loss).................. (39,247) 8,640 (53,309) 24,607
Income tax expense (benefit)........... (15,031) 3,499 (21,194) 10,292
--------- ------- --------- --------
Net income (loss)...................... $ (24,216) $ 5,141 $ (32,115) $ 14,315
========= ======= ========= ========
Net income (loss) per share (Note 5):
Basic................................ $ (0.10) $ 0.03 $ (0.14) $ 0.09
========= ======= ========= ========
Diluted.............................. $ (0.10) $ 0.03 $ (0.14) $ 0.08
========= ======= ========= ========
Shares used in computation of net in-
come (loss) per share
(Note 5):
Basic................................ 232,583 164,729 230,595 161,441
Diluted.............................. 232,583 173,232 230,595 172,808
</TABLE>
- --------
(A) Interest is presented net of interest expense. Interest expense for the
three months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998 was $23,957 and $9,942,
respectively. Interest expense for the nine months ended June 30, 1999 and
1998 was $49,985 and $27,232, respectively.
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
3
<PAGE>
E*TRADE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in thousands, except share amounts)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
June 30, September 30,
1999 1998
----------- -------------
(Unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and equivalents............................... $ 29,495 $ 21,890
Cash and investments required to be segregated un-
der Federal or other regulations.................. 5,005 5,000
Investment securities.............................. 280,047 502,534
Brokerage receivables--net......................... 2,830,439 1,310,235
Other assets....................................... 28,154 11,710
---------- ----------
Total current assets............................. 3,173,140 1,851,369
Property and equipment--net.......................... 97,585 48,524
Investments.......................................... 556,142 58,342
Related party receivables............................ -- 3,719
Other assets......................................... 5,803 7,491
---------- ----------
Total assets..................................... $3,832,670 $1,969,445
========== ==========
LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY
Liabilities:
Brokerage payables................................. $2,587,729 $1,184,917
Accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities.... 255,735 74,992
---------- ----------
Total liabilities................................ 2,843,464 1,259,909
---------- ----------
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 7 and 8)
Shareowners' equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value; shares authorized,
600,000,000; shares issued and outstanding: June
1999, 233,806,525; September 1998, 227,077,074.... 2,338 2,271
Additional paid-in capital......................... 737,693 680,319
Retained earnings (deficit)........................ (17,905) 14,210
Accumulated other comprehensive income............. 267,080 12,736
---------- ----------
Total shareowners' equity........................ 989,206 709,536
---------- ----------
Total liabilities and shareowners' equity........ $3,832,670 $1,969,445
========== ==========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
4
<PAGE>
E*TRADE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
(Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine Months Ended
June 30,
----------------------
1999 1998
---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)..................................... $ (32,115) $ 14,315
Reconciliation to net cash provided by (used in) oper-
ating activities:
Deferred income taxes................................ (2,909) (616)
Depreciation and amortization........................ 20,176 7,439
Loss (earnings) on equity investments................ 2,185 (1,198)
Options issued to consultants........................ 2,200 --
Gain on sale of investment........................... (37,670) --
Other................................................ (12) (467)
Net effect of changes in brokerage-related assets and
liabilities:
Cash and investments required to be segregated under
Federal or other regulations........................ (5) 10,001
Brokerage receivables................................ (1,520,204) (406,716)
Brokerage payables................................... 1,402,812 353,324
Repayment of bank notes payable...................... -- (5,400)
Other changes, net:
Other assets......................................... (14,756) (6,805)
Accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities...... 47,592 46,394
---------- ----------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activi-
ties.............................................. (132,706) 10,271
---------- ----------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of property and equipment.................... (69,237) (28,291)
Purchase of investments and investment securities..... (3,750,615) (1,238,995)
Sale/maturity of investment securities................ 3,973,002 1,256,809
Proceeds from sale of investment...................... 38,183 --
Acquisition of OptionsLink............................ -- (3,500)
Purchase of investments............................... (70,604) (8,092)
Distributions received from equity investment......... -- 3,370
Related party receivable.............................. 3,738 --
---------- ----------
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activi-
ties.............................................. 124,467 (18,699)
---------- ----------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from employee stock transactions............. 15,805 2,986
Proceeds from note payable............................ -- 4,081
Other................................................. 39 --
---------- ----------
Net cash provided by financing activities.......... 15,844 7,067
---------- ----------
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS............ 7,605 (1,361)
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS--Beginning of period.............. 21,890 23,234
---------- ----------
CASH AND EQUIVALENTS--End of period.................... $ 29,495 21,873
========== ==========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:
Cash paid for interest................................ $ 52,083 $ 25,511
========== ==========
Non-cash activities:
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities.... $ 429,052 --
========== ==========
Tax benefit on exercise of stock options............ $ 39,436 --
========== ==========
</TABLE>
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
5
<PAGE>
E*TRADE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1.--Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include E*TRADE
Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company"), including
E*TRADE Securities, Inc. ("E*TRADE Securities"), a securities broker-dealer.
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the
rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and,
in the opinion of management, reflect all normal recurring adjustments
necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and
cash flows for the periods presented in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions
have been eliminated. These consolidated financial statements should be read
in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes
thereto included in the Company's Annual Report to Shareowners on Form 10-K/A
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared to
give retroactive effect to the acquisition of ClearStation Inc.
("ClearStation") in April 1999 and the acquisition of ShareData, Inc.
("ShareData") in July 1998, as well as the reallocations made in the fourth
quarter of fiscal 1998 for the allocation of the purchase price paid for
OptionsLink, which was acquired in the first quarter of 1998 (See Note 15 to
the annual financial statements filed with the SEC on Form 10-K/A).
Note 2.--Net Brokerage Receivables and Payables
Net brokerage receivables and payables consists of the following (in
thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
June 30, September 30,
1999 1998
---------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Receivable from customers and non-customers (less al-
lowance for doubtful accounts of $7,025 at June 30,
1999 and $862 at September 30, 1998)................. $2,369,316 $ 961,305
Receivable from brokers, dealers and clearing organi-
zations:
Net settlement and deposits with clearing organiza-
tions.............................................. 20,098 14,854
Deposits paid for securities borrowed............... 425,905 328,989
Securities failed to deliver........................ 4,281 728
Other............................................... 10,839 4,359
---------- ----------
Total net brokerage receivables................... $2,830,439 $1,310,235
========== ==========
Payable to customers and non-customers................ $ 692,920 $ 340,044
Payable to brokers, dealers and clearing organiza-
tions:
Deposits received for securities loaned............. 1,874,379 839,422
Securities failed to receive........................ 4,659 1,222
Other............................................... 15,771 4,229
---------- ----------
Total net brokerage payables...................... $2,587,729 $1,184,917
========== ==========
</TABLE>
Receivable from and payable to brokers, dealers and clearing organizations
result from the Company's brokerage activities. Receivable from customers and
non-customers represents credit extended to finance their purchases of
securities on margin. At June 30, 1999 and September 30, 1998, credit extended
to customers and non-customers with respect to margin accounts was $2,359
million and $956 million, respectively. Securities owned by customers and non-
customers are held as collateral for amounts due on margin balances (the value
of which is not reflected on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets).
Payable to customers and non-customers represents free credit balances and
other customer and non-customer funds pending completion of securities
transactions. The Company pays interest on certain customer and non-customer
credit balances.
6
<PAGE>
Note 3.-- Investments
In January 1999, the Company acquired a 25 percent voting interest in
Archipelago Holdings, LLC ("Archipelago"). Archipelago owns 100 percent of
Archipelago, LLC, which operates an Electronic Communication Network ("ECN")
for Nasdaq stocks. In connection with such investment, the Company entered
into an assistance agreement with Archipelago, which requires the Company to
provide certain operational and technical assistance to Archipelago. The
agreement provides that the Company will initially be entitled to
representation on Archipelago's board of managers in proportion to its holding
of voting interests. In May 1999, Archipelago completed a round of private
financing whereby the Company's ownership position was reduced to 20%.
In February 1999, the Company acquired a 28 percent voting interest in
E*OFFERING Corp. ("E*OFFERING"), a full-service, Internet-based investment
bank. E*OFFERING provides individual and institutional investors greater
access to public offerings. E*OFFERING leverages the Internet to improve the
process of raising capital for companies by reducing time to market and
underwriting costs traditionally associated with the registration process,
while broadening capital distribution. Additionally, E*OFFERING provides
after-market support and shareholder communication services.
The Company accounts for these investments according to the equity method of
accounting, whereby the Company's proportionate share of each affiliate's net
income (loss) is included in equity income (loss).
Note 4.--Comprehensive Income
On October 1, 1998, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income, which requires that an
enterprise report, by major components and as a single total, the change in
net assets during the period from non-owner sources. The reconciliation of net
income (loss) to comprehensive income is as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Nine Months
Ended Ended
June 30, June 30,
---------------- -----------------
1999 1998 1999 1998
-------- ------ -------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net income (loss).......................... $(24,216) $5,141 $(32,115) $14,315
Changes in other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale se-
curities, net of tax.................... 33,070 (3) 254,092 93
Cumulative translation adjustments....... (265) -- 252 --
-------- ------ -------- -------
Total comprehensive income............. $ 8,589 $5,138 $222,229 $14,408
======== ====== ======== =======
</TABLE>
Note 5.--Net Income (Loss) Per Share
The following table sets forth the computation of shares used in the
computations of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share (in thousands):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Nine Months
Ended Ended
June 30, June 30,
--------------- ---------------
1999 1998 1999 1998
------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Shares Used in Computation:
Weighted average common shares outstanding
used in computation of basic net income
(loss) per share............................ 232,583 164,729 230,595 161,441
Dilutive effect of stock options............. -- 8,503 -- 11,367
------- ------- ------- -------
Shares used in computation of diluted net
income (loss) per share................... 232,583 173,232 230,595 172,808
======= ======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
7
<PAGE>
Because the Company reported a net loss for the three months ended June 30,
1999, and the nine months ended June 30, 1999, the calculation of diluted
earnings per share does not include common stock equivalents as it would
result in a reduction of net loss per share. If the Company had reported net
income for the three months ended June 30, 1999, there would have been
18,181,000 additional shares in the calculation of diluted earnings per share.
If the Company had reported net income for the nine months ended June 30,
1999, there would have been 16,196,000 additional shares in the calculation of
diluted earnings per share.
The following options to purchase shares of common stock were not included
in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share because the options'
exercise price was greater than the average market price of the Company's
common stock for the periods stated, and therefore are not common stock
equivalents for purposes of this calculation (in thousands, except exercise
price data):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Nine Months
Ended June Ended June
30, 30,
------------- -------------
1999 1998 1999 1998
------ ------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Options excluded from computation of diluted net
income (loss) per share........................... 799 9,686 369 6,807
Exercise price ranges:
High............................................. $58.75 $11.52 $58.75 $11.52
Low.............................................. $45.95 $ 5.63 $25.56 $ 6.02
</TABLE>
Note 6.--Regulatory Requirements
E*TRADE Securities is subject to the Uniform Net Capital Rule (the "Rule")
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, administered by the SEC and the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD"), which requires the
maintenance of minimum net capital. E*TRADE Securities has elected to use the
alternative method permitted by the Rule, which requires that the Company
maintain minimum net capital equal to the greater of $250,000 or 2 percent of
aggregate debit balances arising from customer transactions, as defined.
E*TRADE Securities had amounts in relation to the Rule as follows (in
thousands, except percentage data):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
June 30, September 30,
1999 1998
-------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Net capital............................................. $184,510 $97,355
Percentage of aggregate debit balances.................. 7.4% 9.5%
Required net capital.................................... $ 49,921 $20,429
Excess net capital...................................... $134,589 $76,926
</TABLE>
Under the alternative method, a broker-dealer may not repay subordinated
borrowings, pay cash dividends or make any unsecured advances or loans to its
parent or employees if such payment would result in net capital of less than
5% of aggregate debit balances or less than 120% of its minimum dollar amount
requirement.
Note 7.--Commitments, Contingencies and Regulatory Matters
The Company is a defendant in civil actions arising from the normal course
of business. In the opinion of management, these actions are expected to be
resolved with no material effect on the Company's consolidated financial
position or results of operations.
On November 21, 1997, a putative class action was filed in the Superior
Court of California, County of Santa Clara, by Larry R. Cooper on behalf of
himself and other similarly situated individuals. The action alleges, among
other things, that the Company's advertising, other communications and
business practices regarding the Company's commission rates and its ability to
timely execute transactions through its online brokerage services were false
and deceptive. The action seeks injunctive relief enjoining the purported
8
<PAGE>
deceptive and unfair practices alleged in the action and also seeks
unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorney fees. On
June 1, 1999, the court entered an order denying plaintiffs' motion for class
certification. While the court declined to certify a class as to any of
plaintiffs' alleged claims, it did indicate that plaintiffs may be able to
pursue one of their claims (relating to the Company's commission structure) on
a representative basis. Plaintiffs have filed a notice of appeal. This
proceeding is at an early stage and the Company is unable to predict its
ultimate outcome. However, the Company believes it has meritorious defenses to
the claims and intends to conduct vigorous defenses. An unfavorable outcome in
any matters, which are not covered by insurance, could have a material adverse
effect on the Company's business, financial condition and results of
operations. In addition, even if the ultimate outcomes are resolved in favor
of the Company, the defense of such litigation could entail considerable cost
and the diversion of efforts of management, either of which could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations.
On February 8, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Santa Clara, by Coleen Divito, on behalf of herself
and other similarly situated individuals. Subsequently on February 19, 1999, a
putative class action was filed in the Superior Court of California, County of
Santa Clara, by Mario Cirignani, on behalf of himself and other similarly
situated individuals. Both complaints allege damages and seek injunctive
relief arising out of, among other things, the February 3, 4 and 5, 1999,
system interruptions and allege a class of all E*TRADE account holders as of
February 2, 1999. Pursuant to a stipulation of counsel dated March 23, 1999,
the Court consolidated the Divito and Cirignani actions for all purposes. This
proceeding is currently at a very early stage and the Company is unable to
predict its ultimate outcome.
On February 11, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Supreme Court
of New York, County of New York, by Evan Berger, on behalf of himself and
other similarly situated individuals. The action alleges, among other things,
that the Company's advertising, other communications and business practices
regarding its ability to timely execute and confirm transactions through its
online brokerage services were false and deceptive. This proceeding is
currently at a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its
ultimate outcome.
On March 1, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Court of Common
Pleas, Cuyahoga County, Ohio, by Truc Q. Hoang. The Hoang complaint seeks
damages and injunctive relief arising out of, among other things, the
plaintiff's alleged problems accessing his account and placing orders.
Plaintiff alleges causes of action for breach of contract, fiduciary duty and
unjust enrichment, fraud, unfair and deceptive trade practices,
negligence/intentional tort and injunctive relief. This proceeding is
currently at a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its
ultimate outcome.
On March 10, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Santa Clara, by Raj Chadha. The Chadha complaint
seeks damages and injunctive relief arising out of, among other things, the
February 3, 4 and 5, 1999, system interruptions. Plaintiff brings causes of
action for breach of fiduciary duty and violations of the Consumer Legal
Remedies Act and California Unfair Business Practices Act. This proceeding is
currently at a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its
ultimate outcome.
On March 11, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Santa Clara, by Elie Wurtman. The Wurtman complaint
seeks damages and injunctive relief arising out of, among other things,
plaintiff's alleged problems accessing her account and placing orders. The
complaint also makes allegations regarding access problems relating to E*TRADE
customers residing or traveling outside of the United States. Plaintiff brings
causes of action for negligence and violations of the Consumer Legal Remedies
Act and California Unfair Business Practices Act. This proceeding is currently
at a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its ultimate
outcome.
On April 14, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Los Angeles, by Matthew J. Rosenberg. The Rosenberg
complaint alleges violations of the Consumer Legal
9
<PAGE>
Remedies Act and the California Unfair Business Practices Act in relation to
E*TRADE 's IPO business. This proceeding is currently at a very early stage
and the Company is unable to predict its ultimate outcome.
From time to time, the Company has been threatened with, or named as a
defendant in, lawsuits and administrative claims. Compliance and trading
problems that are reported to the NASD or the SEC by dissatisfied customers
are investigated by the NASD or the SEC, and, if pursued by such customers,
may rise to the level of arbitration or disciplinary action. One or more of
such claims or disciplinary actions decided adversely against the Company
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial
condition and results of operations. The Company is also subject to periodic
regulatory audits and inspections.
The securities industry is subject to extensive regulation under federal,
state and applicable international laws. As a result, the Company is required
to comply with many complex laws and rules and its ability to so comply is
dependent in large part upon the establishment and maintenance of a qualified
compliance system.
The Company maintains insurance in such amounts and with such coverage,
deductibles and policy limits as management believes are reasonable and
prudent. The principal risks that the Company insures against are
comprehensive general liability, commercial property damage, hardware/software
damage, directors and officers, and errors and omissions liability. The
Company believes that such insurance coverage is adequate for the purpose of
its business.
The Company has entered into employment agreements with several of its key
executive officers. These employment agreements provide for annual base salary
compensation, stock option acceleration and severance payments in the event of
termination of employment under certain defined circumstances, or change in
the Company's control. Base salaries are subject to adjustments according to
the Company's financial performance.
Note 8.--Subsequent Events and Acquisitions
Acquisitions
On June 1, 1999, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire
Telebanc Financial Corporation ("Telebanc"). Telebanc is the holding company
for Telebank, the nation's largest branchless bank providing banking products
and services over the Internet. Under the terms of the agreement, Telebanc
shareowners will receive 1.05 shares of E*TRADE common stock for each share of
Telebanc common stock. Following the merger, which is expected to be accounted
for as a pooling of interests, Telebanc shareowners will own approximately 13
percent of E*TRADE's fully diluted common stock. The Board of Directors of
both companies have approved the merger, but final consummation of the merger,
which is expected to be completed this fall, is contingent upon regulatory
approval and the vote of the Telebanc shareowners.
On July 13, 1999, the Company announced a definitive agreement to acquire
TIR Holdings Limited ("TIR"), an international financial services company
offering global multi-currency securities execution and settlement services,
and a leader in providing independent research to institutional investors. TIR
shareholders will receive E*TRADE common stock valued at approximately $122
million in a transaction that is anticipated to be accounted for as a pooling
of interests.
10
<PAGE>
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations
Forward-Looking Statements
The following discussion of the financial condition and results of
operations of the Company should be read in conjunction with the consolidated
financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.
This discussion contains forward-looking statements, including statements
regarding the Company's strategy, financial performance and revenue sources
which involve risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results may differ
materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a
result of certain factors, including, but not limited to, those set forth
elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.
Results of Operations
Revenue Detail (in millions, except percentage data)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Nine Months
Ended June Ended June
30, 30,
------------ Percent ------------ Percent
1999 1998 Change 1999 1998 Change
------ ----- ------- ------ ----- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues:
Transaction revenues:
Commissions......................... $ 95.0 $35.3 169% $228.0 $97.9 133%
Order flow.......................... 11.1 8.1 37% 28.9 21.0 38%
------ ----- --- ------ ----- ---
Total transaction revenue......... 106.1 43.4 144% 256.9 118.9 116%
------ ----- --- ------ ----- ---
Interest-net of interest expense(A):
Brokerage........................... 30.3 12.2 147% 69.5 32.7 113%
Other............................... 4.3 1.9 129% 15.1 6.1 147%
------ ----- --- ------ ----- ---
Total interest.................... 34.6 14.1 145% 84.6 38.8 118%
------ ----- --- ------ ----- ---
International........................ 1.9 3.1 (37)% 3.9 4.7 (16)%
Other................................ 9.1 5.9 56% 21.4 14.2 50%
------ ----- --- ------ ----- ---
Total revenues.................... $151.7 66.5 128% $366.8 176.6 108%
====== ===== === ====== ===== ===
Transactions per day.................. 0.8 0.3 177% 0.6 0.3 142%
Transaction per period................ 5.1 1.8 177% 12.1 5.0 142%
</TABLE>
- --------
(A) Interest is presented net of interest expense. Interest expense for the
three months ended June 30, 1999 and 1998 was $23,957 and $9,942,
respectively. Interest expense for the nine months ended June 30, 1999 and
1998 was $49,985 and $27,232, respectively.
The Company's revenues increased to $151.7 million in the third quarter of
fiscal 1999, up 128% from $66.5 million in the equivalent period of fiscal
1998. The Company's revenues increased to $366.8 million for the nine months
ended June 30, 1999, up 108% from $176.6 million in the equivalent period of
fiscal 1998. Revenues increased mainly due to higher customer trading volume
and an increase in customer assets.
Transaction revenues consist of commission revenues and payments based on
order flow. Transaction revenues increased to $106.1 million in the third
quarter of fiscal 1999, up 144% from $43.4 million in the equivalent period in
fiscal 1998. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in the
number of transactions processed, to an average of 80,600 transactions per
day, up 177% from the prior year quarter. The increase in transaction
processing volume was mainly due to a significant increase in customer
accounts resulting from the substantial advertising expenditures made by the
Company during fiscal 1999. Growth in transaction revenues reflected the
overall high level of trading volume in U.S. financial markets, as well as the
increase in new customer accounts. Transaction revenues increased to $256.9
million for the nine months ended June 30, 1999, up 116% from $118.9 million
for the equivalent period in fiscal 1998.
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Commission revenues for the third quarter of fiscal 1999 increased to $95.0
million, up 169% from $35.3 million for the same period a year ago. Commission
revenues for the nine months ended June 30, 1999 increased to $228.0 million,
up 133% from $97.9 million for the same period a year ago.
Order flow revenue increased to $11.1 million for the third quarter of
fiscal 1999, up 37% from $8.1 million for the same period in the prior year.
Order flow revenue accounted for 10% of transaction revenue in the third
quarter of fiscal 1999, compared to 19% in the comparable period in fiscal
1998. Order flow revenue increased to $28.9 million for the nine months ended
June 30, 1999, up 38% from $21.0 million for the same period in the prior
year. Order flow revenue accounted for 11% of transaction revenue in the nine
months ended June 30, 1999, compared to 18% in the comparable period in fiscal
1998. Order flow revenue as a percentage of total revenue decreased primarily
due to the loss of Roundtable earnings, which ended when Roundtable was
reorganized as Knight/Trimark, Inc. and went public in July 1998. Until its
initial public offering, Knight/Trimark, Inc. would allocate a portion of its
earnings to its owners, including the Company, based on the percentage its
owners contributed to Knight/Trimark, Inc.'s total order flow. The Company
previously recorded the amounts it received from this allocation as order flow
revenue.
Net interest revenues primarily represent interest earned by the Company on
credit extended to its customers to finance their purchases of securities on
margin, interest earned on customer assets invested in money market accounts
and interest earned on investment securities, offset by interest paid to
customers on certain credit balances, interest paid to banks and interest paid
to other broker-dealers through the Company's stock loan program. Pursuant to
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") regulations, customer cash balances
that are not used for margin lending are segregated into an investment account
that is maintained for the exclusive benefit of customers.
Net interest revenues increased to $34.6 million for the third quarter of
fiscal 1999, up 145% from $14.1 million for the same period in fiscal 1998.
This increase was primarily due to interest derived from customer operations
of $30.3 million in the third quarter of fiscal 1999, up $18.1 million or 147%
compared to the equivalent period in fiscal 1998. Average customer margin
debit balances were up 143% to $2.4 billion, and average customer money market
fund balances increased 138% to $3.8 billion. Additionally, interest earned on
investment securities was $4.3 million in the third quarter of fiscal 1999, up
129% from $1.9 million in the equivalent period in fiscal 1998. Net interest
revenues increased to $84.6 million for the nine months ended June 30, 1999,
up 118% from $38.8 million for the same period in fiscal 1998.
International revenues were $1.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 1999
compared to $3.1 million for the same period in fiscal 1998. International
revenues represent international licensing fees and royalties based on the
licensee's transaction revenues. The Company may, from time to time, seek to
enter into similar licensing agreements with others as part of its
international expansion strategy. There can be no assurance that any such
future agreements will be consummated or that the terms thereof will be
comparable to those of the aforementioned agreements or that the recognition
of any licensing fees will occur during the period in which an arrangement is
consummated.
Other revenues increased to $9.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal
1999, up 56% from $5.9 million for the comparable period in fiscal 1998. Other
revenues increased to $21.4 million for the nine months ended June 30, 1999,
up 50% from $14.2 million for the comparable period in fiscal 1998. Other
revenues increased primarily due to increases in broker-related fees for
services, growth in ShareData licensing revenue and ClearStation revenues, and
increased revenues from investment banking, mutual funds and advertising on
the Company's Web site.
Cost of Services
Total cost of services increased to $72.4 million in the third quarter of
fiscal 1999, up 143% from $29.8 million for the comparable period in fiscal
1998. Cost of services as a percentage of net revenues was 48% in the third
quarter of fiscal 1999 and 45% in the third quarter of fiscal 1998. Cost of
services as a percentage of net revenues was 46% for the nine months ended
June 30, 1999, compared to 45% in the comparable period
12
<PAGE>
in fiscal 1998. Cost of services includes expenses related to the Company's
clearing operations, customer service activities, system maintenance and
communications. Total cost of services as a percentage of net revenue remained
fairly consistent. The increases in total cost of services on a dollar basis
reflects the overall increase in customer transactions processed by the
Company, customer service inquiries, and operations and maintenance costs
associated with the technology centers in Palo Alto and Rancho Cordova,
California, and Alpharetta, Georgia.
Operating Expenses
Selling and marketing expenses increased to $82.4 million for the third
quarter of fiscal 1999, up 519% from $13.3 million for the comparable period
in fiscal 1998. As a percentage of net revenue, selling and marketing expenses
were 54% for the third quarter of fiscal 1999 and 20% for the third quarter of
fiscal 1998. Selling and marketing expenses increased to $183.4 million for
the nine months ended June 30, 1999, up 436% from $34.2 million for the
comparable period in fiscal 1998. As a percentage of net revenue, selling and
marketing expenses increased to 50% for the nine months ended June 30, 1999,
from 19% in the equivalent period of fiscal 1998. Selling and marketing
expenses include media, print and direct mail advertising, and related
production, printing and postage costs. The increase in selling and marketing
expenses reflect the Company's aggressive account and membership acquisition
strategy which includes major marketing expenditures for advertising
placements, creative development and collateral materials resulting from a
variety of advertising campaigns directed at building brand name recognition,
growing the customer base and market share, and maintaining customer retention
rates. These increased expenditure levels are expected to continue throughout
fiscal 1999. The Company's selling and marketing expenses vary depending upon
a variety of factors including, without limitation, the launch of new products
or services.
Technology development expenses increased to $20.7 million for the third
quarter of fiscal 1999, up 183% from $7.3 million for the comparable period in
fiscal 1998. As a percentage of net revenue, technology development remained
fairly consistent at 14% for the third quarter of fiscal 1999 and 11% for the
third quarter of fiscal 1998. Technology development expenses increased to
$50.5 million for the nine months ended June 30, 1999, up 139% from $21.1
million for the comparable period in fiscal 1998. As a percentage of net
revenue, technology development increased to 14% for the nine months ended
June 30, 1999, from 12% for the nine months ended June 30, 1998. The increased
level of expenses was incurred to enhance the Company's existing product
offerings and reflects the Company's continuing commitment to invest in new
products and technologies to support potential future growth.
General and administrative expenses increased to $15.4 million for the third
quarter of fiscal 1999, up 106% from $7.5 million for the comparable period in
fiscal 1998. General and administrative expenses increased to $47.9 million
for the nine months ended June 30, 1999, up 164% from $18.1 million for the
comparable period in fiscal 1998. This increase is the result of personnel
additions, the development of administrative functions resulting from the
overall growth in the Company, and the costs associated with the opening of a
new technology and customer service support facility in Alpharetta, Georgia.
Merger related expenses of $3.7 million were recognized in the third quarter
of fiscal 1999 and primarily relate to costs associated with the Telebanc
merger. Additional costs associated with the Company's mergers and
acquisitions are expected during the fourth quarter of fiscal 1999.
Non-operating Income (Expense)
In February 1999, the Company sold 39% of its holdings in Knight/Trimark,
Inc. recognizing a pre-tax gain of $33.4 million on the sale. In June 1999,
the Company sold approximately 3% of its holdings in Critical Path recognizing
a pre-tax gain of $4.3 million on the sale. These investments have been
classified as available-for-sale under the provisions of SFAS 115.
Loss on equity investments was $.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal
1999, and $2.2 million for the nine months ended June 30, 1999, which resulted
from the Company's minority ownership in certain investments that are
accounted for under the equity method. Equity in losses of affiliates for the
quarter
13
<PAGE>
ended June 30, 1999 includes the results from the Company's minority ownership
in Archipelago and E*OFFERING, as well as the Company's international joint
ventures in Japan and the United Kingdom. The Company expects that its
affiliate companies will continue to invest in the development of their
products and services, and to incur operating losses for at least the next 12
months, which will result in future charges being recorded by the Company to
reflect its proportionate share of such losses.
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Income tax expense (benefit) represents the provision for federal and state
income taxes at an effective rate of (38.3%) for the third quarter of fiscal
1999, and 40.5% for the comparable period in fiscal 1998. Income tax expense
(benefit) represents the provision for federal and state income taxes at an
effective rate of (39.8%) for the nine months ended June 30, 1999, and 41.8%
for the comparable period in fiscal 1998. Prior to its merger with the
Company, ShareData was a Subchapter S corporation and was not subject to
federal and state corporate income taxes. Additionally, the rate for the third
quarter of fiscal 1999 reflects tax benefits from tax-exempt interest income.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company currently anticipates that its available cash resources and
credit facilities will be sufficient to meet its presently anticipated working
capital and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next 12 months.
However, the Company may need to raise additional funds in order to support
more rapid expansion, develop new or enhanced services and products, respond
to competitive pressures, acquire complementary businesses or technologies or
take advantage of unanticipated opportunities.
Cash used in operating activities was $132.7 million for the nine months
ended June 30, 1999, compared with cash provided by operating activities of
$10.3 million in the equivalent period in fiscal 1998. Cash used in operations
increased primarily due to increased operating expenditures, including
significant increases in sales and marketing expenses associated with the
Company's aggressive account and membership acquisition strategy, as well as
increased growth in brokerage receivables in relation to brokerage payables.
Cash provided by investing activities was $124.5 million for the nine months
ended June 30, 1999, compared to cash used in investing activities of $18.7
million in the equivalent period in fiscal 1998. The increase in cash provided
by investing activities was primarily a result of proceeds of $38.2 million
from the sale of a portion of the Company's investment in Knight/Trimark, Inc.
and Critical Path, and the net sale/maturity of investment securities of
$222.4 million, offset by purchases of investments of $70.6 million and
purchases of property and equipment of $69.2 million. The Company expects that
it will incur approximately $40 to $60 million of capital expenditures during
the fourth quarter of fiscal 1999.
Cash provided by financing activities was $15.8 million for the nine months
ended June 30, 1999, compared to $7.1 million in the equivalent period in
fiscal 1998. The increase in cash provided by financing activities was
primarily a result of increases in the proceeds from employee stock
transactions.
Year 2000 Compatibility
Many computer systems use only two digits to identify a specific year and
therefore may not accurately recognize and handle dates beyond the year 1999.
If not corrected, these computer applications could fail or create erroneous
results by, or in, the year 2000. The Company utilizes, and is dependent upon,
data processing systems and software to conduct its business. The data
processing systems and software include those developed and maintained by the
Company's third-party data processing vendors and software which is run on in-
house computer networks.
Due to the Company's dependence on computer technology to conduct its
business, and the dependence of the financial services industry on computer
technology, the nature and impact of year 2000 processing failures on the
Company's business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows
could be material.
14
<PAGE>
During the first quarter of fiscal 1998, the Company initiated a review and
assessment of all hardware and software to evaluate whether they will function
properly in the year 2000 without material errors or interruptions.
The Company believes that all year 2000 issues revealed as a result of that
evaluation to date can be remedied in a timely manner, however, there can be
no assurances that our efforts will solve all possible year 2000 issues. With
respect to outside vendors, those vendors that have been contacted have
indicated that their hardware or software is, or will be, year 2000 compatible
in time frames that meet regulatory requirements. Evaluation of these issues
is continuing and there is a risk that other problems, not presently known to
the Company, will be discovered which could present a material risk of
disruption to the Company's operations and result in material adverse
consequences to the Company. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that the
Company will not experience unexpected delays in remediation of any year 2000
issues that may be discovered. Any inability to remediate such issues in a
timely manner could cause a material disruption of the Company's business. In
addition, the method of trading employed by the Company is heavily dependent
on the integrity of electronic systems outside of the Company's control, such
as online and Internet service providers, and third-party software, such as
Internet browsers. A failure of any such system in the trading process, even
for a short time, could cause interruption to the Company's business. The year
2000 issue could lower demand for the Company's services while increasing the
Company's costs. These combining factors, while not quantified, could have a
material adverse impact on the Company's financial results.
Because systems critical to the Company other than its computer systems may
be affected by the century change, the Company's year 2000 efforts also
encompass facilities and equipment, which rely on date-dependent technology,
such as building equipment that contains embedded technology and the Company's
third-party providers.
At this time, it does not appear that the costs of addressing year 2000
issues will have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial
position. However, in the event that the Company, and third parties upon which
it relies, are unable to address these issues in a timely manner, it could
result in a material financial risk to the Company.
Status of Year 2000 Efforts
The Company's year 2000 efforts address all computer systems, equipment and
business partner relationships considered essential to the Company's ability
to conduct its business. The objective of the Company's year 2000 project is
to identify the core business processes and associated computer systems and
equipment that may be at risk due to the use of two-digit year dates. Once
identified, the systems and equipment are rated for risk and are prioritized
for conversion or replacement according to their impact on core business
operations. The Company's year 2000 project follows a structured approach in
analyzing and mitigating year 2000 issues. This approach consists of six
phases: awareness, assessment, remediation, validation, implementation and
industry-wide testing. The work associated with each phase may be performed
simultaneously with other phases of the project, depending on the nature of
the work to be performed and the technology and business requirements of the
specific business unit. For example, awareness is an ongoing effort and occurs
in each phase. As part of this project, the Company reviews its vendor
relationships (suppliers, alliances and third-party providers) in an attempt
to assess their ability to meet the year 2000 challenge. In addition, this
plan seeks to ensure that all of the Company's business partners and service
providers are also year 2000 ready. In addition, written contingency plans are
being developed for all mission critical systems to address any unexpected
year 2000 failures. However, there can be no assurance that contingency plans
will adequately address all year 2000 failures.
Currently, the Company's primary focus is the completion of remediation and
testing, and on-going contingency planning and vendor management efforts.
However, the Company is continuing to assess the impact of year 2000 issues on
its products, internal information systems and third-party vendor relations.
The Company has begun, and in many cases completed, corrective efforts in
these areas. The Company does not
15
<PAGE>
anticipate that addressing year 2000 issues for its internal information
systems and current and future products will have a material impact on its
operations or financial results. However, there can be no assurance that these
costs will not be greater than anticipated, or that corrective action
undertaken will be completed before year 2000 issues may arise.
In March 1999, the Company completed its assessment phase on mission
critical systems including a significant amount of the implementation and
testing. The Company's primary focus remains on the successful remediation and
testing of all remaining mission critical systems, including systems owned by
third parties. Additional focus will be placed on all non-mission critical
systems and written contingency plans in the latter half of the fourth fiscal
quarter. The Company anticipates that work on the awareness, contingency
planning, and vendor management phases of the project will continue through
the century change.
The success of the Company's year 2000 efforts depends, in part, on the
adequacy of readiness by vendors, with their representations concerning their
systems, and on parallel efforts being undertaken by vendors and other third
parties with which the Company's systems interact. The Company is, therefore,
taking steps to determine the status of critical third parties' year 2000
compatibility. The Company has implemented a vendor management program.
Activities include creating an inventory of vendors, inquiring directly as to
the status of vendors' year 2000 efforts and readiness, and continuing contact
with vendors to monitor the progress of vendors who may not yet be year 2000
capable. If these suppliers fail to adequately address year 2000 issues for
the products and services they provide to the Company, this could have a
material adverse impact on the Company's operations and financial results. The
Company is still assessing the effect year 2000 issues will have on its
suppliers and, at this time, cannot determine the impact it will have. There
can be no assurance that all third parties will provide accurate and complete
information or that all their systems will be fully year 2000 capable. Third
parties' year 2000 processing failures may have a material adverse impact on
the Company's systems and operations.
As the year 2000 project continues, the Company may discover additional year
2000 issues, may not be able to develop, implement, or test remediation or
contingency plans, or may find that the costs of these activities exceed
current expectations and become material. In many cases, the Company is
relying on assurances from suppliers that new and upgraded information systems
and other products will be year 2000 capable. The Company plans to test such
third-party products, but cannot be sure that its tests will be adequate or
that, if problems are identified, they will be addressed by the supplier in a
timely and satisfactory way.
Because the Company uses a variety of information systems and has additional
systems embedded in its operations and infrastructure, the Company cannot be
sure that all of its systems will work together in a year 2000 capable
fashion. Furthermore, the Company cannot be sure that it will not suffer
business interruptions, either because of its own year 2000 issues or those of
its customers or suppliers whose year 2000 issues may make it difficult or
impossible for them to fulfill their commitments to the Company. If the
Company fails to satisfactorily resolve year 2000 issues related to its
products in a timely manner, it could be exposed to liability by third
parties.
The Company is continuing to evaluate year 2000-related risks and corrective
actions. However, the risks associated with the year 2000 may be pervasive and
complex; they can be difficult to identify and to address, and can result in
material adverse consequences to the Company. Even if the Company, in a timely
manner, completes all of its assessments, identifies and tests remediation
plans believed to be adequate, and develops contingency plans believed to be
adequate, some issues may not be identified or corrected in time to prevent
material adverse consequences to the Company.
On June 1, 1999, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire
Telebanc Financial Corporation ("Telebanc"), a holding company for Telebank,
the nation's largest branchless bank, providing banking products and services
over the Internet. On July 13, 1999, the Company entered into a definitive
agreement to acquire TIR Holding Limited ("TIR"), an international financial
services company offering global multi-currency securities execution and
settlement services, and a leader in providing independent
16
<PAGE>
research to institutional investors. We have been advised by both Telebank and
TIR that they have ongoing programs to identify and remediate any year 2000
issues, however the Company does not currently have any direct control over
the year 2000 activities of these entities. Because both of these acquisitions
are expected to close during 1999, the Company's operating results will be
impacted by the additional assessment, remediation, validation, implementation
and testing costs which these entities may incur. While the managements of
Telebanc and TIR have made certain representations with respect to their year
2000 readiness, we can give no assurances as to the adequacy of the year 2000
efforts of Telebanc or TIR or its impact to the Company.
The Company's plan may also be affected by regulatory changes, changes in
industry customs and practices, and significant systems modifications
unrelated to the year 2000 project, including upgrades and additions to
capacity, and the cost and continued availability of qualified personnel and
other resources.
The Company spent approximately $2.3 million in the nine months ended June
30, 1999, and currently estimates that it will cost approximately an
additional $2.3 million, to ascertain that its core computer systems and those
of its vendors are year 2000 capable. These expenditures will consist
primarily of compensation for information technology employees and contractors
dedicated to this project and related hardware and software costs. This
estimate excludes the time that may be spent by management and administrative
staff in guiding and assisting the information technology effort described
above or for making systems other than core brokerage computer systems year
2000 capable. The Company expects to fund all year 2000 related costs through
operating cash flows. These costs are not expected to result in increased
information technology expenditures because they will be funded through a
reallocation of the Company's overall development spending. In accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles, such expenditures will be expensed
as incurred.
Risk Factors
You should carefully consider the risks described below before making an
investment decision in our company. The risks and uncertainties described
below are not the only ones facing our company and there may be additional
risks that we do not presently know of or that we currently deem immaterial.
All of these risks may impair our business operations. This document also
contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties and
actual results may differ materially from the results we discuss in the
forward-looking statements. If any of the following risks actually occur, our
business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially
adversely affected. In such case, the trading price of our Common Stock could
decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.
In accordance with "plain English" guidelines provided by the Securities and
Exchange Commission, the risk factors have been written in the first person.
Risks Associated with Systems Failure
We receive and process trade orders mostly through the Internet, online
service providers and touch-tone telephone. Thus, we depend heavily on the
integrity of the electronic systems supporting this type of trading, including
our internal software programs and computer systems. Our systems or any other
systems in the trading process could slow down significantly or fail for a
variety of reasons including:
. undetected errors in our internal software programs or computer systems;
. our inability to effectively resolve any errors in our internal software
programs or computer systems once they are detected; or
. heavy stress placed on our system during certain peak trading times.
If our systems or any other systems in the trading process slow down
significantly or fail even for a short time, our customers would suffer delays
in trading, which could cause substantial losses and possibly subject us to
claims for such losses or to litigation claiming fraud or negligence. We have
experienced such systems
17
<PAGE>
failures and degradation in the past, and on certain days in February 1999, we
again experienced similar systems failures. We could experience future system
failures and degradations. To promote customer satisfaction and protect our
brand name, we have, on certain occasions, compensated customers for
verifiable losses from such failures. To date, during our systems failures, we
were able to take orders by telephone, however, only associates with
securities brokers' licenses can accept telephone orders. An adequate number
of such associates may not be available to take customer calls in the event of
a future systems failure. We could experience a number of adverse consequences
as a result of these systems failures including the loss of existing customers
and the inability to attract or retain new customers. There can be no
assurance that our network structure will operate appropriately in any of the
following events:
. subsystem, component or software failure;
. a power or telecommunications failure;
. human error;
. an earthquake, fire or other natural disaster; or
. an act of God or war.
There can be no assurance that, in any such event, we will be able to
prevent an extended systems failure. Any such systems failure that interrupts
our operations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and operating results. We have received in the past, including as a
result of our systems failures in February 1999, adverse publicity in the
financial press and in online discussion forums primarily relating to systems
failures.
Risks Associated with Encryption Technology
A significant barrier to online commerce is the secure transmission of
confidential information over public networks. We rely on encryption and
authentication technology, including cryptography technology licensed from RSA
Data Security, Inc. ("RSA"), to provide secure transmission of confidential
information. There can be no assurance that advances in computer and
cryptography capabilities or other developments will not result in a
compromise of the RSA or other algorithms we use to protect customer
transaction data. If any such compromise of our security were to occur, it
could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and
operating results.
Risks Associated with Significant Fluctuations In Quarterly Operating Results
We do not believe that our historical operating results should be relied
upon as an indication of our future operating results. We expect to experience
large fluctuations in future quarterly operating results that may be caused by
many factors, including the following:
. the timing of introductions or enhancements to online investing services
and products by us or our competitors;
. market acceptance of online investing services and products;
. the pace of development of the market for online commerce;
. changes in trading volume in securities markets;
. trends in securities markets;
. domestic and international regulation of the brokerage and internet
industries;
. changes in pricing policies by us or our competitors;
. changes in strategy;
18
<PAGE>
. the success of, or costs associated with, acquisitions, joint ventures
or other strategic relationships;
. changes in key personnel;
. seasonal trends;
. the extent of international expansion;
. the mix of international and domestic revenues;
. changes in the level of operating expenses to support projected growth;
and
. general economic conditions.
We have also experienced fluctuations in the average number of customer
transactions per day. Thus, the rate of growth in customer transactions at any
given time is not necessarily indicative of future transaction activity.
Risks Associated with the Year 2000
Because many computer systems were not designed to handle dates beyond the
year 1999, computer hardware and software may need to be modified prior to the
year 2000 in order for it to remain functional. This may affect us in numerous
ways:
. We have assessed the impact of the year 2000 issue on our products,
services and internal information systems. We do not expect our
financial results to be materially affected by the need to address year
2000 issues, but if the costs associated with addressing these issues
are greater than planned, our earnings and results of operations could
be affected. Furthermore, if corrective actions are not completed before
year 2000 problems occur, demand for our products and services could
drop;
. We must rely on outside vendors to address year 2000 issues for their
hardware and software. We are still assessing the effect that year 2000
issues will have on our outside vendors and, at this time, cannot
determine the impact on our products, services and operations.
Contingency plans are being developed in the event that we, or our key
vendors, will not be year 2000 capable, but any such nonreadiness may
have a negative effect on our financial results;
. The method of trading we employ depends heavily on the integrity of
electronic systems outside of our control, such as online and Internet
service providers, and third-party software such as Internet browsers. A
failure of any of these systems due to year 2000 issues would interfere
with the trading process and, in turn, may have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
Due to our dependence on computer technology to conduct our business, the
nature and impact of year 2000 processing failures on our business, financial
condition and operating results could be material. See "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Year
2000 Compatibility."
Risks Associated with Management of a Changing Business
We have grown rapidly and our business and operations have changed
substantially since we began offering electronic investing services in 1992,
and Internet investing services in February 1996, and we expect this trend to
continue. Such rapid change and expansion places significant demands on our
administrative, operational, financial, management and other resources.
We expect operating expenses and staffing levels to increase substantially
in the future. In particular, we have hired and intend to hire a significant
number of additional skilled personnel, including persons with experience in
both the computer and brokerage industries, and, specifically, persons with
Series 7 or other
19
<PAGE>
broker-dealer licenses. Competition for such personnel is intense, and there
can be no assurance that we will be able to find or keep additional suitable
senior managers or technical persons in the future. We also expect to expend
resources for future expansion of our accounting and internal information
management systems and for a number of other new systems and procedures. In
addition, we expect that future expansion will continue to challenge our
ability to successfully hire and retain associates. If our revenues do not
keep up with operating expenses, our information management systems do not
expand to meet increasing demands, we fail to attract, assimilate and retain
qualified personnel, or we fail to manage our expansion effectively, there
would be a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and
operating results.
The rapid growth in the use of our services has strained our ability to
adequately expand technologically. As we acquire new equipment and
applications quickly, we have less time and ability to test and validate
hardware and software, which could lead to performance problems. We also rely
on a number of third parties to process our transactions, including online and
Internet service providers, back office processing organizations, service
providers and market-makers, all of which will need to expand the scope of the
operations they perform for us. Any backlog caused by a third party's
inability to expand sufficiently to meet our needs could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results. As
trading volume increases, we may have difficulty hiring and training qualified
personnel at the necessary pace, and the shortage of licensed personnel could
cause a backlog in the processing of orders that need review, which could lead
to not only unsatisfied customers, but also to liability for orders that were
not executed on a timely basis.
Risks Associated with Government Regulation
The securities industry in the United States is subject to extensive
regulation under both federal and state laws. Broker-dealers are subject to
regulations covering all aspects of the securities business, including:
. sales methods;
. trade practices among broker-dealers;
. use and safekeeping of customers' funds and securities;
. capital structure;
. record keeping;
. conduct of directors, officers and employees; and
. supervision.
Because we are a self-clearing broker-dealer, we have to comply with many
complex laws and rules. These include rules relating to possession and control
of customer funds and securities, margin lending and execution and settlement
of transactions. Our ability to so comply depends largely on the establishment
and maintenance of a qualified compliance system.
Our mode of operation and profitability may be directly affected by:
. additional legislation;
. changes in rules promulgated by the SEC, the NASD, the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the various stock exchanges and
other self-regulatory organizations; or
. changes in the interpretation or enforcement of existing laws and rules.
The SEC, the NASD or other self-regulatory organizations and state
securities commissions can censure, fine, issue cease-and-desist orders or
suspend or expel a broker-dealer or any of its officers or employees. Our
ability to comply with all applicable laws and rules is largely dependent on
our establishment and maintenance of a system to ensure such compliance, as
well as our ability to attract and retain qualified compliance personnel. Our
growth has placed considerable strain on our ability to ensure such
compliance, and we have
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experienced turnover of compliance personnel in the past. The principal
purpose of regulation and discipline of broker-dealers is the protection of
customers and the securities markets, rather than protection of creditors and
shareowners of broker-dealers. We could be subject to disciplinary or other
actions due to claimed noncompliance in the future, which could have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating
results.
We have initiated an aggressive marketing campaign designed to bring brand
name recognition to E*TRADE. All marketing activities by E*TRADE Securities
are regulated by the NASD, and all marketing materials must be reviewed by an
E*TRADE Securities Series 24 licensed associate prior to release. The NASD has
in the past asked us to revise certain marketing materials. The NASD can
impose certain penalties for violations of its advertising regulations,
including:
. censures or fines;
. suspension of all advertising;
. the issuance of cease-and-desist orders; or
. the suspension or expulsion of a broker-dealer or any of its officers or
employees.
We do not currently solicit orders from our customers or make investment
recommendations. However, if we were to engage in such activities, we would
become subject to additional rules and regulations governing, among other
things, sales practices and the suitability of recommendations to customers.
We intend to expand our business to other countries and to broaden our
customers' abilities to trade securities of non-U.S. companies through the
Internet and other gateways. International alliances signed during fiscal year
1998, cover a number of countries in Europe and Asia. These agreements grant
the licensees the exclusive right to offer online investing services under the
E*TRADE name. In addition, the Company has established joint ventures with
strategic partners in Japan and the U.K. E*TRADE intends to expand its global
positioning by launching branded web sites in the top 20 financial markets
worldwide. These agreements provide that the Company will receive licensing
fees and royalties based upon their transaction revenues. In order to expand
its services globally, E*TRADE Securities must comply with the regulatory
controls of each specific country in which it conducts business. Our
international expansion could be limited by the compliance requirements of
other national regulatory jurisdictions. We intend to rely primarily on local
third parties for regulatory compliance in international jurisdictions. See
"Risks Associated with International Strategy."
There can be no assurance that other federal, state or foreign agencies will
not attempt to regulate our online and other electronic activities. We
anticipate that we may be required to comply with record keeping, data
processing and other regulatory requirements as a result of proposed federal
legislation or otherwise. We may also be subject to additional regulation as
the market for online commerce evolves. Because of the growth in the
electronic commerce market, Congress has held hearings on whether to regulate
providers of services and transactions in the electronic commerce market. As a
result, federal or state authorities could enact laws, rules or regulations
affecting our business or operations. We may also be subject to federal, state
and foreign money transmitter laws and state and foreign sales and use tax
laws. If such laws are enacted or deemed applicable to us, our business or
operations would be rendered more costly or burdensome, less efficient or even
impossible. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and operating results.
Due to the increasing popularity of the Internet, laws and regulations may
be passed dealing with issues such as user privacy, pricing, content and
quality of products and services. In addition, the New York Attorney General
has recently announced his intention to investigate the online brokerage
industry, citing consumer complaints about delays and technical difficulties
in online stock trading. Increased attention focused upon these liability
issues could adversely affect the growth of the Internet, which could, in
turn, decrease the demand for our services or could otherwise have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
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Risks Associated with Net Capital Requirements
The SEC, the NASD and various other regulatory agencies have stringent rules
with respect to the maintenance of specific levels of net capital by
securities broker-dealers. Net capital is the net worth of a broker or dealer
(assets minus liabilities), less deductions for certain types of assets. If a
firm fails to maintain the required net capital it may be subject to
suspension or revocation of registration by the SEC and suspension or
expulsion by the NASD, and could ultimately lead to the firm's liquidation. If
such net capital rules are changed or expanded, or if there is an unusually
large charge against net capital, operations that require the intensive use of
capital would be limited. Such operations may include trading activities and
the financing of customer account balances. Also, our ability to withdraw
capital from brokerage subsidiaries could be restricted, which in turn could
limit our ability to pay dividends, repay debt and redeem or purchase shares
of our outstanding stock. A large operating loss or charge against net capital
could adversely affect our ability to expand or even maintain our present
levels of business, which could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and operating results.
As of June 30, 1999, E*TRADE Securities was required to maintain minimum net
capital of $49.9 million and had total net capital of approximately $184.5
million, or approximately $134.6 million in excess of the minimum amount
required.
Risks Associated with Early Stage of Market Development; Dependence on Online
Commerce and the Internet
The market for electronic brokerage services, particularly over the
Internet, is at an early stage of development and is rapidly evolving.
Consequently, demand and market acceptance for recently introduced services
and products are subject to a high level of uncertainty. For us, this
uncertainty is compounded by the risks that consumers will not adopt online
commerce and that commerce on the Internet will not adequately develop or
flourish to permit us to succeed.
Sales of many of our services and products will depend on consumers adopting
the Internet as a method of doing business. This may not occur because of
inadequate development of the necessary infrastructure, such as a reliable
network infrastructure, or complementary services and products such as high
speed modems and communication lines. The Internet has grown and is expected
to grow both in number of users and amount of traffic. There can be no
assurance that the Internet infrastructure will continue to be able to support
the demands placed on it by this continued growth. In addition, the Internet
could lose its viability due to slow development or adoption of standards and
protocols to handle increased Internet activity, or due to increased
governmental regulation. Moreover, critical issues including security,
reliability, cost, ease of use, accessibility and quality of service remain
unresolved and may negatively affect the growth of Internet use or commerce on
the Internet. Because use of the Internet for commerce is new and evolving,
there can be no assurance that the Internet will prove to be a viable
commercial marketplace. If these critical issues are not resolved, if the
necessary infrastructure is not developed, or if the Internet does not become
a viable commercial marketplace, our business, financial condition and
operating results will be materially adversely affected.
Adoption of online commerce by individuals that have relied upon traditional
means of commerce in the past will require such individuals to accept new and
very different methods of conducting business. Moreover, our brokerage
services over the Internet involve a new approach to securities trading which
will require intensive marketing and sales efforts to educate prospective
customers regarding its uses and benefits. For example, consumers who trade
with more traditional brokerage firms, or even discount brokers, may be
reluctant or slow to change to obtaining brokerage services over the Internet.
Also, concerns about security and privacy on the Internet may hinder the
growth of online brokerage trading, which could have a material adverse effect
on our business, financial condition and operating results.
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Risks Associated with the Securities Industry; Concentration of Services
Almost all of our revenues in recent years have been from electronic
brokerage services, and we expect this business to continue to account for
almost all of our revenues in the foreseeable future. We, like other
securities firms, are directly affected by economic and political conditions,
broad trends in business and finance and changes in volume and price levels of
securities and futures transactions. In recent months, the U.S. securities
markets have fluctuated considerably and a downturn in these markets could
adversely affect our operating results. In October 1987, and October 1989, the
stock market suffered major declines, as a result of which many firms in the
industry suffered financial losses, and the level of individual investor
trading activity decreased after these events. Reduced trading volume and
prices have historically resulted in reduced transaction revenues. When
trading volume is low, our operating results may be adversely affected because
our overhead remains relatively fixed. Severe market fluctuations in the
future could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and operating results. Some of our competitors with more diverse
product and service offerings might withstand such a downturn in the
securities industry better than we would. See "Risks Associated with
Substantial Competition".
Our brokerage business, by its nature, is subject to various other risks,
including customer default and employee misconduct and errors. We sometimes
allow customers to purchase securities on margin, therefore we are subject to
risks inherent in extending credit. This risk is especially great when the
market is rapidly declining and the value of the collateral we hold could fall
below the amount of a customer's indebtedness. Under specific regulatory
guidelines, any time we borrow or lend securities, we must correspondingly
disburse or receive cash deposits. If we fail to maintain adequate cash
deposit levels at all times, we run the risk of loss if there are sharp
changes in market values of many securities and parties to the borrowing and
lending transactions fail to honor their commitments. Any such losses could
have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and
operating results.
Risks Associated with Delays In Introduction of New Services and Products
Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to develop and enhance
our services and products. There are significant technical risks in the
development of new services and products or enhanced versions of existing
services and products. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in
achieving any of the following:
. effectively using new technologies;
. adapting our services and products to emerging industry standards;
. developing, introducing and marketing service and product enhancements;
or
. developing, introducing and marketing new services and products.
We may also experience difficulties that could delay or prevent the
development, introduction or marketing of these services and products.
Additionally, these new services and products may not adequately meet the
requirements of the marketplace or achieve market acceptance. If we are unable
to develop and introduce enhanced or new services and products quickly enough
to respond to market or customer requirements, or if they do not achieve
market acceptance, our business, financial condition and operating results
will be materially adversely affected.
Risks Associated with Substantial Competition
The market for electronic brokerage services over the Internet is new,
rapidly evolving and intensely competitive. We expect competition to continue
and intensify in the future. We face direct competition from discount
brokerage firms providing either touch-tone telephone or online brokerage
services, or both. These firms generally only execute transactions for their
customers, without offering other services such as portfolio
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valuation, investment recommendations and research. This limitation on service
offerings may result in other firms having a lower cost structure. These
competitors include, among others, such discount brokerage firms as:
. Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.;
. Fidelity Brokerage Services, Inc.;
. Waterhouse Securities, Inc.;
. Quick & Reilly, Inc. (a subsidiary of Fleet Financial Group, Inc.);
. National Discount Brokers (a subsidiary of National Discount Brokers
Group);
. Discover Brokerage Direct, Inc. (a subsidiary of Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter Discover & Company);
. Ameritrade, Inc. (a subsidiary of Ameritrade Holding Corporation);
. DLJdirect (a subsidiary of Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities
Corporation);
. Datek Online Holdings Corporation (Datek Online); and
. SURETRADE, Inc.
We also encounter competition from established full commission brokerage
firms such as PaineWebber Incorporated, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated and Salomon Smith Barney, Inc., among others. In addition, we
compete with financial institutions, mutual fund companies and other
organizations, some of which provide electronic brokerage services.
Many of our competitors have longer operating histories and significantly
greater financial, technical, marketing and other resources than we do. In
addition, many of our competitors offer a wider range of services and
financial products than we do, and thus may be able to respond more quickly to
new or changing opportunities, technologies and customer requirements. Many of
our competitors also have greater name recognition and larger customer bases
that could be leveraged, thereby gaining market share from us. Such
competitors may conduct more extensive promotional activities and offer better
terms and lower prices to customers than we do, possibly even sparking a price
war in the electronic brokerage business. Moreover, certain competitors have
established cooperative relationships among themselves or with third parties
to enhance their services and products. For example, Charles Schwab's One-
Source mutual fund service and similar services, may discourage potential
customers from using our brokerage services. Accordingly, it is possible that
new competitors or alliances among existing competitors may significantly
reduce our market share.
General financial success within the securities industry over the past
several years has strengthened existing competitors. We believe that such
success will continue to attract new competitors to the industry, such as
banks, software development companies, insurance companies, providers of
online financial and information services and others, as such companies expand
their product lines. Commercial banks and other financial institutions have
become more competitive with us by offering their customers certain corporate
and individual financial services traditionally provided by securities firms.
The current trend toward consolidation in the commercial banking industry
could further increase competition in all aspects of our business. Commercial
banks generally are expanding their securities and financial services
activities. While we cannot predict the type and extent of competitive
services that commercial banks and other financial institutions ultimately may
offer, or whether legislative barriers will be modified, we may be adversely
affected by such competition or legislation. To the extent our competitors are
able to attract and retain customers, our business or ability to grow could be
adversely affected. In many instances, we are competing with such
organizations for the same customers. In addition, competition among financial
services firms exists for experienced technical and other personnel.
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There can be no assurance that we will be able to compete effectively with
current or future competitors or that such competition will not have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating
results.
Volatility of Stock Price
The market price of our Common Stock has been, and is likely to continue to
be, highly volatile and subject to wide fluctuations due to various factors,
many of which may be beyond our control, including:
. quarterly variations in operating results;
. announcements of technological innovations or new software, services or
products by us or our competitors; and
. changes in financial estimates and recommendations by securities
analysts.
In addition, there have been large price and volume fluctuations in the
stock market which have affected the market prices of securities of many
technology, internet and financial services companies, often unrelated to the
operating performance of such companies. These broad market fluctuations may
adversely affect the market price of our Common Stock. In the past, volatility
in the market price of a company's securities has often led to securities
class action litigation. Such litigation could result in substantial costs and
a diversion of our attention and resources, which could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
Risks Associated with Dependence on Intellectual Property Rights
Our success and ability to compete are dependent to a significant degree on
our proprietary technology. We rely primarily on copyright, trade secret and
trademark law to protect our technology. Effective trademark protection may
not be available for our trademarks. Although we have registered the trademark
"E*TRADE" in the United States and certain other countries, and have certain
other registered trademarks, there can be no assurance that we will be able to
secure significant protection for these trademarks. Our competitors or others
may adopt product or service names similar to "E*TRADE", thereby impeding our
ability to build brand identity and possibly leading to customer confusion.
Our inability to adequately protect the name "E*TRADE" would have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
Despite any precautions we take, a third party may be able to copy or
otherwise obtain and use our software or other proprietary information without
authorization or to develop similar software independently. Policing
unauthorized use of our technology is made especially difficult by the global
nature of the Internet and difficulty in controlling the ultimate destination
or security of software or other data transmitted on it. The laws of other
countries may afford us little or no effective protection for our intellectual
property. There can be no assurance that the steps we take will prevent
misappropriation of our technology or that agreements entered into for that
purpose will be enforceable. In addition, litigation may be necessary in the
future to:
. enforce our intellectual property rights;
. protect our trade secrets;
. determine the validity and scope of the proprietary rights of others; or
. defend against claims of infringement or invalidity.
Such litigation, whether successful or unsuccessful, could result in
substantial costs and diversions of resources, either of which could have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating
results. We currently have several ongoing trademark infringement litigation
actions that we have filed in an effort to protect our trademarks.
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Risks Associated with Infringement
We may in the future receive notices of claims of infringement of other
parties' proprietary rights. There can be no assurance that claims for
infringement or invalidity (or any indemnification claims based on such
claims) will not be asserted or prosecuted against us. Any such claims, with
or without merit, could be time consuming and costly to defend or litigate,
divert our attention and resources or require us to enter into royalty or
licensing agreements. There can be no assurance that such licenses would be
available on reasonable terms, if at all, and the assertion or prosecution of
any such claims could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition and operating results.
Risks Associated with Entering New Markets
One element of our strategy is to leverage the E*TRADE brand and technology
to enter new markets. No assurance can be given that we will be able to
successfully adapt our proprietary processing technology for use in other
markets. Even if we do adapt our technology, no assurance can be given that we
will be able to compete successfully in any such new markets. E*TRADE
Securities has established investment banking operations, and plans to raise
public and private equity capital for companies over the Internet and other
electronic media. We are currently in the process of investing over $150
million in a new marketing campaign centered on our Internet Web site,
Destination E*TRADE. We also plan to pursue additional related revenue
opportunities, such as revenue from correspondent clearing, advertising and
subscriptions. There can be no assurance that our new marketing efforts or our
pursuit of any of these opportunities will be successful. If these efforts are
not successful, we could realize less than expected earnings, which in turn
could result in a decrease in the market value of our Common Stock.
Furthermore, such efforts may divert management attention or inefficiently
utilize our resources.
Risks Associated with International Strategy
One component of our strategy is a planned increase in efforts to attract
more international customers. To date, we have limited experience in providing
brokerage services internationally. There can be no assurance that our
international licensees will be able to market our branded services and
products successfully in international markets. In addition, there are certain
risks inherent in doing business in international markets, particularly in the
heavily regulated brokerage industry, such as:
. unexpected changes in regulatory requirements, tariffs and other trade
barriers;
. difficulties in staffing and managing foreign operations;
. political instability;
. fluctuations in currency exchange rates;
. reduced protection for intellectual property rights in some countries;
. seasonal reductions in business activity during the summer months in
Europe and certain other parts of the world; and
. potentially adverse tax consequences.
Any of the foregoing could adversely impact the success of our international
operations. Under these agreements, we rely upon third parties for a variety
of business and regulatory compliance matters. We have limited control over
the management and direction of these third parties. We run the risk that
their action or inaction could harm our operations and/or the goodwill
associated with our brand name. Additionally, our international licensees have
the right to sell sub-licenses. Generally, we have less control over sub-
licensees than we do over licensees. As a result, the risk to our operations
and goodwill is higher. There can be no assurance that one or more of the
factors described above will not have a material adverse effect on our future
international operations, if any, and, consequently, on our business,
financial condition and operating results.
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Risks Associated with Acquisitions, Strategic Relationships
We may acquire other companies or technologies in the future, and we
regularly evaluate such opportunities. Acquisitions and mergers entail
numerous risks, including:
. difficulties in the assimilation of acquired operations and products;
. diversion of management's attention from other business concerns;
. amortization of acquired intangible assets; and
. potential loss of key employees of acquired companies.
We have limited experience in assimilating acquired organizations into our
operations. No assurance can be given as to our ability to integrate
successfully any operations, technology, personnel, services or products that
might be acquired in the future. Failure to successfully assimilate acquired
organizations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and operating results.
We have established a number of strategic relationships with online and
Internet service providers, as well as software and information service
providers. There can be no assurance that any such relationships will be
maintained, or that if they are maintained, they will be successful or
profitable. Additionally, we may not develop any new such relationships in the
future.
Due to the foregoing factors, quarterly revenues and operating results are
difficult to forecast. We believe that period-to-period comparisons of our
operating results will not necessarily be meaningful and you should not rely
on them as any indication of future performance. Our future quarterly
operating results may not consistently meet the expectations of securities
analysts or investors, which in turn may have an adverse effect on the market
price of our Common Stock.
Risks Associated with Potential Reduction In Order Flow Rebates
Order flow revenue as a percentage of revenue has decreased due to the loss
of Roundtable earnings, which ended when Roundtable was reorganized as
Knight/Trimark, Inc. and went public in July 1998. Until its initial public
offering, Knight/Trimark, Inc. would allocate a portion of its earnings to its
owners, including the Company, based on the percentage its owners contributed
to Knight/Trimark, Inc.'s total order flow. The Company previously recorded
the amounts it received under this allocation as order flow revenue. In
addition, there can be no assurance that payments for order flow will continue
to be permitted by the SEC, the NASD or other regulatory agencies, courts or
governmental units. Loss of any or all of these revenues could have a material
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and operating results.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Market Risk Disclosures
The following discussion about the Company's market risk disclosures
involves forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially
from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company is exposed
to market risk related to changes in interest rates and equity security price
risk. The Company does not have derivative financial instruments for
speculative or trading purposes.
Interest Rate Sensitivity
The Company maintains a short-term investment portfolio consisting of mainly
income securities with an average maturity of less than two years. These
available-for-sale securities are subject to interest rate risk and will fall
in value if market interest rates increase. If market interest rates were to
increase immediately and uniformly by 10 percent at June 30, 1999, the fair
value of the portfolio would decline by an immaterial
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amount. The Company has the ability to hold its fixed income investments until
maturity, and therefore the Company would not expect its operating results or
cash flows to be affected to any significant degree by the effect of a sudden
change in market interest rates on its securities portfolio.
Equity Price Risk
The Company holds a portfolio of marketable-equity traded securities that
are subject to market price volatility. Equity price fluctuations of plus or
minus 15 percent would not have a material impact on the Company.
Financial Instruments
For its working capital and reserves, which are required to be segregated
under Federal or other regulations, the Company invests in money market funds,
resale agreements, certificates of deposit, and commercial paper. Money market
funds do not have maturity dates and do not present a material market risk.
The other financial instruments are fixed rate investments with short
maturities and do not present a material interest rate risk.
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal and Administrative Proceedings--
On November 21, 1997, a putative class action was filed in the Superior
Court of California, County of Santa Clara, by Larry R. Cooper on behalf of
himself and other similarly situated individuals. The action alleges, among
other things, that the Company's advertising, other communications and
business practices regarding the Company's commission rates and its ability to
timely execute and confirm transactions through its online brokerage services
were false and deceptive. The action seeks injunctive relief enjoining the
purported deceptive and unfair practices alleged in the action and also seeks
unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorney fees. This
proceeding is currently in the discovery phase and the Company is unable to
predict its ultimate outcome. On June 1, 1999, the court entered an order
denying plaintiffs' motion for class certification. While the court declined
to certify a class as to any of plaintiffs' alleged claims, it did not
indicate that plaintiffs may be able to pursue one of their claims (relating
to the Company's commission structure) on a representative basis. Plaintiffs
have filed a notice of appeal.
On February 8, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Santa Clara, by Coleen Divito, on behalf of herself
and other similarly situated individuals. Subsequently on February 19, 1999, a
putative class action was filed in the Superior Court of California, County of
Santa Clara, by Mario Cirignani, on behalf of himself and other similarly
situated individuals. Both complaints allege damages and seek injunctive
relief arising out of, among other things, the February 3, 4 and 5, 1999
system interruptions and allege a class of all E*TRADE account holders from
February 2, 1999. Pursuant to a stipulation of counsel dated March 23, 1999,
the Court consolidated the Divito and Cirignani actions for all purposes. This
proceeding is currently at a very early stage and the Company is unable to
predict its ultimate outcome.
On February 11, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Supreme Court
of New York, County of New York, by Evan Berger, on behalf of himself and
other similarly situated individuals. The action alleges, among other things,
that the Company's advertising, other communications and business practices
regarding its ability to timely execute and confirm transactions through its
online brokerage services were false and deceptive. This proceeding is
currently at a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its
ultimate outcome.
On March 1, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Court of Common
Pleas, Cuyahoga County, Ohio, by Truc Q. Hoang. The Hoang complaint seeks
damages and injunctive relief arising out of, among other things, plaintiff's
alleged problems accessing his account and placing orders. Plaintiff alleges
causes of action for breach of contract, fiduciary duty and unjust enrichment,
fraud, unfair and deceptive trade practices, negligence/intentional tort and
injunctive relief. This proceeding is currently at a very early stage and the
Company is unable to predict its ultimate outcome.
On March 10, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Santa Clara, by Raj Chadha. The Chadha complaint
seeks damages and injunctive relief arising out of, among other things, the
February 3, 4 and 5, 1999 system interruptions. Plaintiff brings causes of
action for breach of fiduciary duty and violations of the Consumer Legal
Remedies Act and California Unfair Business Practices Act. This proceeding is
currently at a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its
ultimate outcome.
On March 11, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Santa Clara, by Elie Wurtman. The Wurtman complaint
seeks damages and injunctive relief arising out of, among other things,
plaintiff's alleged problems accessing her account and placing orders. The
complaint also makes allegations regarding access problems relating to E*TRADE
customers residing or traveling outside of the United States. Plaintiff brings
causes of action for negligence and violations of the Consumer Legal Remedies
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Act and California Unfair Business Practices Act. This proceeding is currently
at a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its ultimate
outcome.
On April 14, 1999, a putative class action was filed in the Superior Court
of California, County of Los Angeles, by Matthew J. Rosenberg. The Rosenberg
complaint alleges violations of the Consumer Legal Remedies Act and California
Unfair Business Practices Act regarding the extent to which shares in IPO's
are made available to the Company's customers. This proceeding is currently at
a very early stage and the Company is unable to predict its ultimate outcome.
The Company believes that these claims are without merit and intends to
defend against them vigorously. An unfavorable outcome in any matters which
are not covered by insurance, could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condition and results of operations. In
addition, even if the ultimate outcomes are resolved in favor of the Company,
the defense of such litigation could entail considerable cost and the
diversion of efforts of management, either of which could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's results of operation.
From time to time the Company has been threatened with, or named as a
defendant in, lawsuits and administrative claims. Compliance and trading
problems that are reported to the NASD or the SEC by dissatisfied customers
are investigated by the NASD or the SEC, and, if pursued by such customers,
may rise to the level of arbitration or disciplinary action. One or more of
such claims or disciplinary actions decided adversely against the Company
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial
condition and results of operations. The Company is also subject to periodic
regulatory audits and inspections.
The securities industry is subject to extensive regulation under federal,
state and applicable international laws. As a result, the Company is required
to comply with many complex laws and rules and its ability to so comply is
dependent in large part upon the establishment and maintenance of a qualified
compliance system. The Company is aware of several instances of its
noncompliance with applicable regulations. In particular, in fiscal 1997, the
Company's failure to timely renew its broker dealer registration in Ohio
resulted in a $4.3 million pre-tax charge against earnings.
The Company maintains insurance in such amounts and with such coverages,
deductibles and policy limits as management believes are reasonable and
prudent. The principal risks that the Company insures against are
comprehensive general liability, commercial property, hardware/software
damage, directors and officers, and errors and omissions liability. The
Company believes that such insurance coverages are adequate for the purpose of
its business.
Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds--Not applicable.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities--Not applicable.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders--
A Special Meeting of Shareowners was held on June 25, 1999. The proposal to
amend the Company's certificate of incorporation to increase the Company's
authorized common stock from 300,000,000 to 600,000,000 shares was approved,
as tabulated below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For Against Abstentions
----------- --------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Votes......................................... 210,314,874 3,149,930 235,352
</TABLE>
Item 5. Other Information--None.
30
<PAGE>
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Reports on Form 8-K
On June 25, 1999, the Company filed a Current Report on Form 8-K, which
includes Selected Supplemental Financial Data, Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations and supplemental
consolidated financial statements of E*TRADE Group, Inc. ("E*TRADE") as of
September 30, 1998 and 1997, and for each of the three years in the period
ended September 30, 1998, and as of March 31, 1999, and for the six month
periods ended March 31, 1999 and 1998, which gives retroactive effect to the
Company's acquisition of ClearStation, Inc. ("ClearStation"), on April 30,
1999, which was accounted for as a pooling of interests and for the two-for-
one stock splits effective February 1, 1999, and May 21, 1999.
On June 10, 1999, the Company filed a Current Report on Form 8-K, relating
to an acquisition agreement with Telebanc pursuant to which E*TRADE will be
merged with Telebanc. Under the terms of the agreement, Telebanc shareowners
will receive 1.05 shares of E*TRADE common stock for each share of Telebanc
common stock. Following the merger, which is expected to be accounted for as a
pooling of interest, Telebanc shareowners will own approximately 13 percent of
E*TRADE's fully diluted common stock.
On June 10, 1999, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K/A, which amends the
Form 8-K previously filed on April 13, 1999, to incorporate Item 7(a), the
Financial Statements of Business Acquired and Item 7(b), the Pro Forma
Financial Information. The original Form 8-K related to an acquisition
agreement with ClearStation pursuant to which Crystal Acquisition Corporation,
a wholly owned subsidiary of E*TRADE, was merged with and into ClearStation,
with ClearStation continuing as the surviving entity and as a wholly owned
subsidiary of E*TRADE.
On April 13, 1999, the Company filed a report on Form 8-K, which related to
an acquisition agreement with ClearStation pursuant to which Crystal
Acquisition Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of E*TRADE, was merged with
and into ClearStation, with ClearStation continuing as the surviving entity
and as a wholly owned subsidiary of E*TRADE.
(b) Exhibits.
<TABLE>
<C> <S>
27 Financial Data Schedule
</TABLE>
31
<PAGE>
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.
E*TRADE Group, Inc.
(Registrant)
Dated: August 16, 1999
/s/ Christos M. Cotsakos
-------------------------------------
Christos M. Cotsakos,
Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer (principal
executive officer)
/s/ Leonard C. Purkis
-------------------------------------
Leonard C. Purkis,
Executive Vice President, Finance
and Administration, Chief Financial
Officer
(principal financial and accounting
officer)
32
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> BD
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS INCLUDED IN THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILING AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 3-MOS 9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> SEP-30-1999 SEP-30-1999
<PERIOD-START> APR-01-1999 OCT-01-1998
<PERIOD-END> JUN-30-1999 JUN-30-1999
<CASH> 29,495 29,495
<RECEIVABLES> 2,404,534 2,404,534
<SECURITIES-RESALE> 0 0
<SECURITIES-BORROWED> 425,905 425,905
<INSTRUMENTS-OWNED> 836,189 836,189
<PP&E> 97,585 97,585
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 3,832,670 3,832,670
<SHORT-TERM> 255,735 255,735
<PAYABLES> 713,350 713,350
<REPOS-SOLD> 0 0
<SECURITIES-LOANED> 1,874,379 1,874,379
<INSTRUMENTS-SOLD> 0 0
<LONG-TERM> 0 0
0 0
0 0
<COMMON> 2,338 2,338
<OTHER-SE> 986,868 986,868
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 3,832,670 3,832,670
<TRADING-REVENUE> 0 0
<INTEREST-DIVIDENDS> 58,518 134,562
<COMMISSIONS> 106,067 256,911
<INVESTMENT-BANKING-REVENUES> 0 0
<FEE-REVENUE> 0 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 23,957 49,985
<COMPENSATION> 0 0
<INCOME-PRETAX> (39,247) (53,309)
<INCOME-PRE-EXTRAORDINARY> (39,247) (53,309)
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0 0
<CHANGES> 0 0
<NET-INCOME> (24,216) (32,115)
<EPS-BASIC> (0.10) (0.14)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.10) (0.14)
</TABLE>
