UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20529
FORM 10-Q
(MARK ONE)
|X| QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 1997
OR
|_| TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _______________to _____________
Commission File Number 333-33117
ECONOPHONE, INC.
----------------
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
NEW YORK 11-3132722
- -------- ----------
(State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
45 Broadway, 30th floor, New York, N.Y. 10006
---------------------------------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (212) 444-6991
Not applicable
--------------
(Former address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.
YES |_| NO |X|
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
CLASS OUTSTANDING AT OCTOBER 31, 1997
- ----------------------- -------------------------------
Common Stock, $.0001 par value 20,000,000
<PAGE>
ECONOPHONE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
1997 THIRD QUARTER REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
INDEX
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION PAGE NO.
Item 1. Financial Statements
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings -
Three & Nine months ended September 30, 1997
and 1996 (unaudited) 3
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets -
September 30, 1997 (unaudited) and December 31,
1996 (derived from audited financial statements) 4
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stock Equity
(Deficiency) (unaudited) 5
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1996
(unaudited) 6
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements (unaudited) 7
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations 8-16
Part II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
Item 2. Changes in Securities
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
Item 5. Other Information
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 17
SIGNATURES 18
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<PAGE>
Part 1. Financial Information
Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
and Notes Thereto
ECONOPHONE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
--------------------------- ---------------------------
1996 1997 1996 1997
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
SALES $ 11,198,422 $ 22,692,424 $ 34,189,938 $ 53,138,305
COST OF SALES 9,517,769 17,038,628 25,850,743 41,050,132
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Gross income 1,680,653 5,653,796 8,339,195 12,088,173
SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES 2,965,624 9,625,388 12,770,786 22,521,546
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION 272,349 1,097,852 654,732 2,167,041
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Total operating expenses 3,237,973 10,723,240 13,425,518 24,688,587
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Loss from operations (1,557,320) (5,069,444) (5,086,323) (12,600,414)
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Interest (expense) income, net (140,401) (3,694,449) (218,330) (3,980,035)
Foreign currency 18,079 44,501 7,781 16,180
Other 48,402 13,379 69,324 100,042
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net loss $ (1,631,240) $ (8,706,013) $ (5,227,548) $(16,464,227)
============ ============ ============ ============
NET LOSS PER SHARE $ (0.08) $ (0.44) $ (0.26) $ (0.82)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF
SHARES OUTSTANDING 20,000,000 20,000,000 20,000,000 20,000,000
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
ECONOPHONE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ASSETS DECEMBER 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
1996 1997
------------- -------------
(see note) (unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 6,271,641 $ 74,883,832
Accounts Receivable, Net of allowance for
doubtful accounts of $761,372 and
$1,078,636 respectively 7,923,871 17,279,335
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 885,906 1,602,230
Restricted Cash and Securities -- 5,231,250
------------- -------------
Total current assets 15,081,418 98,996,647
PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND LEASEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS,
Net of accumulated depreciation of $1,643,151
and $3,008,007 respectively 6,242,472 12,809,247
DEBT ISSUANCE COSTS -- 6,162,222
OTHER ASSETS 1,431,446 3,432,739
RESTRICTED CASH AND SECURITIES -- 52,205,520
------------- -------------
Total assets $ 22,755,336 $ 173,606,375
============= =============
LIABILTIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 11,214,815 $ 16,826,984
Interest accrued on senior notes -- 5,231,250
Short term borrowings 2,127,726 --
Current maturities of obligations under capital lease 130,867 155,022
Current maturities of long term debt 753,881 652,299
Current maturities of notes payable - related party 7,884 7,273
Deferred revenue 859,803 2,209,784
Other current liabilities 164,118 111,141
------------- -------------
Total current liabilities 15,259,094 25,193,753
LONG TERM DEBT 1,707,941 3,854,897
OBLIGATIONS UNDER CAPITAL LEASE 235,074 331,924
NOTES PAYABLE - RELATED PARTY 319,531 311,271
SENIOR NOTES -- 149,540,000
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
SERIES A REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK 13,357,940 14,304,769
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIENCY)
Common stock-voting, par value $.0001; authorized
29,250,000 shares; 20,000,000 shares issued and
outstanding in 1996 and 1997 2,000 2,000
Non-Voting Common stock, par value $.0001; authorized
500,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding -- --
Warrants -- 5,600,000
Additional paid-in capital 481,870 481,870
Cummulative translation adjustment -- 5,061
Accumulated deficit (8,608,114) (26,019,170)
------------- -------------
Total stockholders' equity (deficiency) (8,124,244) (19,930,239)
------------- -------------
Total liabilities and stockholders'
equity (deficiency) $ 22,755,336 $ 173,606,375
============= =============
</TABLE>
Note: The December 31, 1996 Balance Sheet is derived from audited financial
statements.
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<PAGE>
ECONOPHONE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIENCY)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Retained
Common Stock Warrants Additional Earnings
------------ -------------------------- Paid-in (Accumulated
Shares Amount Units Amount Capital Deficit)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
BALANCE, December 31, 1994 20,000,000 $ 2,000 -- -- $ 391,883 $ 694,217
Net Income -- -- -- -- -- 121,219
Distribution of S Corporation Earnings -- -- -- -- -- (499,301)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
BALANCE, December 31, 1995 20,000,000 $ 2,000 -- -- $ 391,883 $ 316,135
Distribution of S Corporation Earnings -- -- -- -- -- (316,135)
Contribution of Capital to C Corporation -- -- -- -- 89,987 --
Net loss -- -- -- -- -- (8,311,599)
Accretion of preferred stock -- -- -- -- -- (15,115)
Dividends on preferred stock -- -- -- -- -- (281,400)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
BALANCE, December 31, 1996 20,000,000 $ 2,000 -- -- $ 481,870 ($ 8,608,114)
============ ============ ============ ============ ============ ============
Net loss -- -- -- -- -- ($16,464,227)
Warrants -- -- 155,000 $ 5,600,000 -- --
Accretion of preferred stock -- -- -- -- -- (68,235)
Dividends on preferred stock -- -- -- -- -- (878,594)
Cumulative Translation Adjustment -- -- -- -- -- --
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
BALANCE, September 30, 1997 20,000,000 $ 2,000 155,000 $ 5,600,000 $ 481,870 $(26,019,170)
============ ============ ============ ============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
Cumulative
Translation
Adjustment Total
------------ ------------
BALANCE, December 31, 1994 -- $ 1,088,100
Net Income -- 121,219
Distribution of S Corporation Earnings -- (499,301)
------------ ------------
BALANCE, December 31, 1995 -- $ 710,018
Distribution of S Corporation Earnings -- (316,135)
Contribution of Capital to C Corporation -- 89,987
Net loss -- (8,311,599)
Accretion of preferred stock -- (15,115)
Dividends on preferred stock -- (281,400)
------------ ------------
BALANCE, December 31, 1996 -- $ (8,124,244)
============ ============
Net loss -- (16,464,227)
Warrants -- 5,600,000
Accretion of preferred stock -- (68,235)
Dividends on preferred stock -- (878,594)
Cumulative Translation Adjustment 5,061 5,061
------------ ------------
BALANCE, September 30, 1997 $ 5,061 $(19,930,239)
============ ============
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<PAGE>
ECONOPHONE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
------------------------------
1996 1997
------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net loss $ (5,227,548) $ (16,464,227)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 654,732 2,167,041
Provision for doubtful accounts 106,938 317,266
Accreted interest expense -- 140,000
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Increase in accounts receivable (184,138) (9,672,730)
Increase in prepaid expenses and
other current assets (24,694) (716,324)
Increase in debt issuance costs -- (6,315,379)
Increase in other assets (514,136) (2,650,321)
Increase in accounts payable and
accrued expenses 5,176,111 5,612,169
Increase in interest accrued on
senior notes -- 5,231,250
Increase in deferred revenue 265,394 1,349,981
Increase (decrease) in other current liabilities 28,728 (47,916)
Net cash provided by (used in) ------------- -------------
operating activities 281,387 (21,049,190)
------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of property and equipment (2,576,450) (5,459,286)
------------- -------------
Net cash used in investing activities (2,576,450) (5,459,286)
------------- -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Repayments of short-term borrowings (774,122) (2,127,726)
Proceeds from long-term debt 4,201,846 --
Repayments of long-term debt (720,063) (125,566)
Repayments of notes payable - related party (18,520) (8,871)
Repayments of capital leases (170,563) (180,400)
Dividends paid (226,149) --
Proceeds from senior notes -- 149,400,000
Proceeds from warrants -- 5,600,000
Proceeds from bridge loan -- 7,000,000
Repayments of bridge loan -- (7,000,000)
------------- -------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 2,292,429 152,557,437
------------- -------------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents,
(including restricted cash and securities) (2,634) 126,048,961
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 106,122 6,271,641
============= =============
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
(including restricted cash and securities) $ 103,488 $ 132,320,602
============= =============
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH
FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest $ 101,812 $ 372,040
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NONCASH
ACTIVITIES:
Accretion of Preferred Stock $ -- $ 68,235
Accrued dividends on Preferred Stock -- 878,594
Capital leases entered into to purchase fixed
assets -- 2,472,345
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
ECONOPHONE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
Note A -- Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements
have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and
Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. They do not include all information and notes
required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial
statements. However, except as disclosed herein, there have been no material
changes in the information disclosed in the notes to consolidated financial
statements included in the consolidated financial statements of Econophone, Inc.
("Econophone") at and for the year ended December 31, 1996. In the opinion of
management, all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments)
considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Certain
reclassifications have been made to 1996 information to conform to the
presentation used in 1997. Operating results for the three month period ended
September 30, 1997 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be
expected for the year ending December 31, 1997.
Note B -- Unit Offering
On July 1, 1997, Econophone consummated the offering (the "Offering") of
155,000 Units, each of which consisted of one 13.5% Senior Note (the "Senior
Notes"), due July 1, 2007 and one warrant to purchase 8.167 shares of Voting
Common Stock, par value $.0001 per share of Econophone Stock (the "Common
Stock"). The Units were sold for an aggregate purchase price of $155.0 million.
The net proceeds of the Offering were approximately $148.1 million. Of this
amount, approximately $57.4 million was used to purchase a portfolio of U.S.
government securities (the "Pledged Securities") that was pledged as security
for the payment of the first six scheduled interest payments on the Senior
Notes. The net proceeds from the Offering are expected to fund Econophone's
planned expansion and operating losses until the company generates positive cash
flow.
Note C -- Per Share Data
Per share data is based on the weighted average number of common shares
outstanding during the period. For purposes of computing the number of weighted
shares outstanding, stock options and warrants have not been considered as their
effect would be antidilutive.
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<PAGE>
Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with Econophone's
financial statements and the notes thereto. Certain of the matters discussed in
this item may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of
Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 and, as such, may involve known and unknown risks,
uncertainties and other factors which may cause the operations of Econophone to
be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.
Overview
Econophone is a switch-based provider of long distance telecommunications
services in certain major U.S. and western European markets. Econophone's
customer base consists primarily of small- and medium-sized businesses,
residential customers and other telecommunications carriers, with a focus on
customers with significant international calling needs. In the United States and
the United Kingdom, Econophone provides principally international and domestic
long distance, calling card, prepaid and carrier services. In continental
Europe, Econophone provides principally international long distance, calling
card and prepaid services. Econophone's services utilize various access methods,
including "1xxx", "1+", local dial-up, national toll free and international toll
free access.
Econophone's strategy is to expand into additional geographic markets with a
focus on markets that generate substantial international calling traffic, add
customers in its existing markets and deliver an expanded portfolio of features
and services to its customers. Econophone intends to implement its strategy by
continuing to expand its network, broadening its sales and marketing efforts and
developing and introducing innovative services and features.
On July 1, 1997, Econophone consummated the offering (the "Offering") of $155.0
million in aggregate principal amount of 13.5% Senior Notes due 2007 (the
"Senior Notes") and warrants to purchase in the aggregate 1,265,885 shares of
Common Stock. The net proceeds from the Offering are expected to fund
Econophone's planned expansion and operating losses until the Company generates
positive cash flow.
Revenues
Econophone's revenues are derived from minutes of telecommunications traffic
carried. Its services are generally priced at a discount to the primary carrier
(or carriers) in each of its target markets. Econophone's prepaid card revenues
are reported net of selling discounts and commissions, and upon usage rather
than sale.
Cost of Services
Econophone's cost of services is composed of the costs associated with acquiring
switched transmission and leased line capacity. Switched transmission capacity
is acquired on a per-minute basis (with volume discounts) and is, therefore, a
variable cost. Virtually all calls carried by Econophone must be originated or
terminated over another carrier's facilities. Termination and origination
charges on calls generally are paid by Econophone, although in continental
Europe origination charges on calls utilizing local dial-up access are paid by
Econophone's customers and do not constitute
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<PAGE>
costs of Econophone. Leased transmission capacity is acquired on a fixed cost
basis, generally involving monthly payments regardless of usage levels.
Selling Expenses
Econophone has historically sold its services primarily through independent
sales channels in both Europe and the United States. Selling expenses have,
therefore, primarily consisted of commissions paid to agents and resellers.
Econophone also has incurred selling expenses arising out of advertising and
promotion costs, building an internal sales force in the United States, United
Kingdom, and continental Europe and enlarging its customer service department.
General and Administrative Expenses
During 1996, Econophone significantly increased the size of its management team
and established new sales offices in London, Paris, Brussels and Hamburg, all of
which resulted in an increase in general and administrative expenses. Since such
time, general and administrative expenses have, primarily consisted of expanding
Econophone's customer service, billing, financial reporting and other management
information systems and network management systems and for organizational
expenses related to entering additional markets.
Foreign Currency Exposure
Econophone is exposed to fluctuations in foreign currencies relative to the U.S.
dollar because Econophone bills in local currency, while transmission costs are
largely incurred in U.S. dollars and interest expense on the Senior Notes is in
U.S. dollars. For the year ended 1996 and the first nine months of 1997,
approximately 40% and 38% respectively, of Econophone's revenues were billed in
currencies other than the U.S. dollar, consisting primarily of British pounds,
Belgian francs and French francs. The negative effect of these fluctuations on
Econophone's revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 and September
30, 1996 was $ 1.7 million or 3% of total revenue, and $ .2 million or less than
1% of total revenue, respectively. As Econophone expands its operations, a
higher percentage of revenues is expected to be billed in currencies other than
the U.S. dollar. Econophone from time to time uses foreign exchange contracts
relating to its trade accounts receivables to hedge foreign currency exposure
and to control risks relating to currency fluctuations. Econophone does not
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<PAGE>
use derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. At September 30,
1997, Econophone had $.1 million of open foreign currency hedging positions, and
at December 31, 1996, Econophone had no open foreign currency hedging positions.
New Accounting Pronouncements
Subsequent to December 31, 1996, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the
"FASB") issued SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share." This statement established
standards for computing and presenting earnings per share ("EPS"), replacing the
presentation of currently required primary EPS with a presentation of Basic EPS.
For entities with complex capital structures, the statement requires the dual
presentation of Basic EPS and Diluted EPS on the face of the statement of
operations. Under this new standard, Basic EPS is computed based on weighted
average shares outstanding and excludes any potential dilution. Diluted EPS
reflects potential dilution from the exercise or conversion of securities into
common stock or from other contracts to issue common stock and is similar to the
currently-required fully diluted EPS. SFAS No. 128 is effective for financial
statements issued for periods ending after December 15, 1997, including interim
periods, and earlier application is not permitted. When adopted, Econophone will
be required to restate its EPS data for all prior periods presented. The
adoption of this statement is not expected to have a material effect on
Econophone's financial statements.
Results of Operations
Three Months Ended September 30, 1997 Compared to Three Months Ended September
30, 1996
Revenues. Total revenues for the three months ended September 30, 1997
increased by 103 % to $ 22.7 million on 93.4 million billable minutes of use
from $ 11.2 million on 31.9 million billable minutes of use for the three months
ended September 30, 1996. Billable minutes of use increased by 193% for the
three months ended September 30, 1997 from the three months ended September 30,
1996. Growth in revenues during the three months ended September 30, 1997
primarily was attributable to additional minutes of use, particularly in the
United States, offset in part by a substantial decline in prices, as a result of
increased competition. This competition was the primary factor for the average
revenue per minute decrease from $. 35 during the three months ended September
30, 1996 to $.24 during the three months ended September 30, 1997. At September
30, 1997, Econophone had approximately 141,100 customer accounts compared to
14,400 customer accounts at September 30, 1996. The increase in revenues and
customer accounts was primarily attributable to sales by VoiceNet, a reseller
that sells Econophone's calling card services to end users within the United
States. Econophone recognized $7.3 million of revenues from VoiceNet for the
three months ended September 30, 1997, compared to $.5 million in the comparable
prior year period. VoiceNet accounted for approximately 103,800 customer
accounts at September 30, 1997 compared to approximately 5,400 customer accounts
at September 30, 1996.
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<PAGE>
VoiceNet's relationship with Econophone is non-exclusive and can be terminated
at will by either party. The increase in revenues and customer accounts was also
due in part to sales by Telco Global Communications Ltd. ("Telco"), a
majority-owned subsidiary of Econophone that began operations during the last
quarter of 1996. Telco concentrates on U.K. residential sales, primarily through
independent sales representatives, having replaced Econophone's previous U.K.
sales and marketing joint venture, Europhone International (EI), which was
effectively terminated on June 1, 1996.
During the third quarter of 1997, Econophone experienced an average
customer turnover "churn" rate of approximately 7%, with respect to its U.S. and
continental European international and domestic long distance, and calling card
services. To date, Econophone's revenues and margins have not been materially
impacted by its "churn" rate.
In the United Kingdom, revenues increased by 70% to $ 5.1 million from $
3.0 million. Revenues for the third quarter of 1997 were comprised of
international and domestic long distance and prepaid card services attributable
to Telco of $3.1 million, as well as $ 2.0 million from carrier services.
Average U.K. revenue per minute decreased from $.39 per minute during the three
months ended September 30, 1996 to $.26 per minute during the three months ended
September 30, 1997. This reduction was due principally to sales of a larger
percentage of domestic long distance minutes, which are sold at lower rates than
international minutes, and to increased price competition. As a result of
Econophone's termination of its joint venture with EI, the third quarter 1996
U.K. revenues were depressed.
In continental Europe, revenues increased by 20% to $ 4.0 million from $
3.3 million. This increase was attributable to an increase in prepaid card
services, primarily in France and Germany. Average continental European revenue
per minute decreased from $1.33 per minute during the three months ended
September 30, 1996 to $.88 per minute during the three months ended September
30, 1997. This decrease was due to Econophone's decision to price services more
aggressively, primarily in France and Germany, to gain market share.
In the United States, revenues grew by 177% to $ 13.6 million from $ 4.9
million. This increase was due principally to calling card revenues attributable
to sales by VoiceNet, which were $ 7.3 million and $ .5 million during the third
quarters of 1997 and 1996, respectively. The remainder of the increase, $ 1.9
million, resulted from increases in sales of carrier services, and, to a lesser
extent, international and domestic long distance and prepaid card services.
Average U.S. revenue per minute decreased to $.20 per minute during the three
months ended September 30, 1997 from $.23 per minute during the three months
ended September 30, 1996. This reduction was due principally to sales of a
larger percentage of domestic long distance minutes, which are sold at lower
rates than international minutes and increased price competition.
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<PAGE>
Cost of services. Cost of services increased to $ 17.0 million for the
three months ended September 30, 1997 from $ 9.5 million for the three months
ended September 30, 1996. As a percentage of revenues, cost of services
decreased to approximately 75.1% for the three months ended September 30, 1997
from approximately 85.0% for the three months ended September 30, 1996. This
trend was primarily due to a shift to higher margin revenue attributable to
VoiceNet, and to a lesser extent, higher margin revenue from an increase in U.S.
and European prepaid card sales and higher margins earned on U.S. carrier
traffic. Average cost per minute for the three month period ended September 30,
1997 decreased to $.18 from $.30 for the three month period ended September 30,
1996. This was a result of increased use of leased line transmission capacity
acquired by Econophone during the period, as well as obtaining better prices on
switched transmission capacity as a result of volume discounts resulting from
the growth of Econophone's minutes of traffic.
Selling expenses. Selling expenses increased to $4.4 million for the three
months ended September 30, 1997 from $ .7 million for the three months ended
September 30, 1996, and, as a percentage of revenues, were 19.2% for the three
months ended September 30, 1997 and 6.3% for the three months ended September
30, 1996. The increase in selling expenses primarily consisted of commissions
paid to resellers (principally VoiceNet) and independent agents, expenses
associated with Econophone's sales offices in London, Brussels, Hamburg and
Paris and expenses attributable to Econophone's customer service department,
which has been substantially enlarged since June of 1996. For the third quarter
of 1996, expenses primarily related to commissions paid to independent sales
agents.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses
increased to $5.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 1997 from $
2.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 1996, and, as a percentage
of revenues, increased to 23.2% for the three months ended September 30, 1997
from 20.2% for the three months ended September 30, 1996. The increase in
general and administrative expenses was attributable to an increase in payroll
costs related to additional management and staff in the areas of finance,
network management and information systems at Econophone's Manhattan, New York,
Brooklyn, New York and College Station, Texas facilities, as well as the London,
Brussels, Hamburg and Paris offices.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses
increased to $ 1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 1997 from
$.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 1996. This increase was
substantially due to the depreciation associated with upgrades in Econophone's
switch in New York and installation of multiplexing equipment in New York and
London and amortization of costs associated with the Offering.
Bad debt write-offs. Econophone had bad debt write-offs of $ .3 million
for both the third quarters of 1997 and 1996. To date, bad debt write-offs have
not had a material effect on Econophone's revenues or margins.
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<PAGE>
Interest expense. Econophone had $ 5.5 million of interest expense during
the third quarter of 1997, as compared to interest expense of $.2 million during
the third quarter of 1996. Interest expense has increased substantially as a
result of the Offering, with $5.2 million of the third quarter 1997 expense
attributable to the Offering.
Net loss. Econophone had a net loss of $8.7 million during the third
quarter of 1997, compared to a net loss of $1.6 million during the third quarter
of 1996. The increase is primarily due to costs associated with increasing
Econophone's back-office capacity, building the network, marketing, commissions
paid to resellers, and interest expense related to the Offering. Net loss is
expected to increase substantially over the near term, primarily due to interest
expense incurred on the Senior Notes.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 1997 Compared to Nine Months Ended
September 30, 1996
Revenues. Total revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 1997
increased by 55% to $53.1 million on 198.0 million billable minutes of use from
$34.2 million on 72.8 million billable minutes of use for the nine months ended
September 30, 1996. Billable minutes of use increased by 172% for the first
three quarters of 1997 from the first three quarters of 1996. Growth in revenues
during the nine months ended September 30, 1997 primarily was attributable to
additional minutes of use, particularly in the United States, offset in part by
a substantial decline in prices, as a result of increased competition. This
competition was the primary factor for the average revenue per minute decrease
from $.47 during the nine months ended September 30, 1996 to $.27 during the
nine months ended September 30, 1997. At September 30, 1997, Econophone had
approximately 141,100 customer accounts compared to 14,400 customer accounts at
September 30, 1996. The increase in revenues and customer accounts was primarily
attributable to sales by VoiceNet, of $15.2 million, and sales by Telco, of $5.6
million, for the nine months ended September 30, 1997.
During the first nine months of 1997, Econophone experienced an average
customer turnover "churn" rate of approximately 5%, primarily relating to U.S.
and continental European "1+", "1xxx" and calling card services. To date,
Econophone's revenues and margins have not been materially impacted by its
"churn" rate.
In the United Kingdom, revenues decreased to $9.3 million from $13.9
million as a result of the termination of Econophone's joint venture with EI, in
June 1996 which had accounted for substantially all of the U.K. revenue in the
first nine months of 1996 and none of Econophone's revenues for the same period
in 1997. During the fourth quarter of 1996, Econophone began marketing efforts
in the U.K. through Telco, its majority owned subsidiary. During the first nine
months of 1997, U.K. revenues consisted principally of $5.6 million from
international and domestic long distance and prepaid card services attributable
to Telco, as well as
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<PAGE>
$3.2 million from carrier services. Average U.K. revenue per minute decreased
from $.58 per minute during the nine months ended September 30, 1996 to $.31 per
minute during the nine months ended September 30, 1997. This reduction was due
principally to sales of a larger percentage of domestic long distance minutes,
which are sold at lower rates than international minutes, and to increased price
competition.
In continental Europe, revenues increased by 33% to $11.3 million from
$8.5 million. This increase was attributable to an increase in prepaid card
services, primarily in France and Germany. Average continental European revenue
per minute decreased from $1.37 per minute during the nine months ended
September 30, 1996 to $1.01 per minute during the nine months ended September
30, 1997. This decrease was due to Econophone's decision to price services more
aggressively, primarily in France and Germany, to gain market share.
In the United States, revenues grew by 176% to $32.5 million from $11.8
million. This increase was due principally to calling card revenues attributable
to sales by VoiceNet, which were $15.2 million during the first nine months of
1997. VoiceNet began reselling Econophone's calling card services to end users
during the second quarter of 1996. The remainder of the increase, $5.5 million,
resulted from increases in sales of carrier services, and, to a lesser extent,
international and domestic long distance and prepaid card services. Average U.S.
revenue per minute decreased to $.21 per minute during the nine months ended
September 30, 1997 from $.28 per minute during the nine months ended September
30, 1996. This reduction was due principally to sales of a larger percentage of
domestic long distance minutes, which are sold at lower rates than international
minutes, and to increased price competition.
Cost of services. Cost of services increased to $41.1 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1997 from $25.9 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 1996. As a percentage of revenues, cost of services increased
slightly to approximately 77% for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 from
approximately 76% for the nine months ended September 30, 1996. Average cost per
minute for the nine month period ended September 30, 1997 decreased to $.21 from
$.36 for the nine month period ended September 30, 1996. This was a result of
increased use of leased line transmission capacity acquired by Econophone during
the period, as well as obtaining better prices on switch transmission capacity
because of the growth of Econophone's minutes of traffic.
Selling expenses. Selling expenses increased to $8.3 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1997 from $ 5.1 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 1996, and, as a percentage of revenue, were 16% for the nine
months ended September 30, 1997 and 20% for the nine months ended September 30,
1996. The increase in selling expenses primarily consisted of commissions paid
to resellers (principally VoiceNet) and independent agents, expenses associated
with Econophone's sales offices in London, Brussels, Hamburg and Paris and
expenses attributable to Econophone's customer service department, which has
been substantially enlarged since June of 1996. For
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<PAGE>
the nine months ended September 30, 1996, selling expenses primarily consisted
of expenses related to EI and commissions paid to independent sales agents.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses
increased to $ 14.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 from $
7.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1996, and, as a percentage
of revenues, increased to 27% for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 from
17% for the nine months ended September 30, 1996. The increase in general and
administrative expenses was attributable to an increase in payroll costs related
to additional management and staff in the areas of finance, network management
and information systems at Econophone's Manhattan, New York, Brooklyn, New York
and College Station, Texas facilities, as well as the London, Brussels, Hamburg
and Paris offices.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses
increased to $2.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 from $.7
million for the nine months ended September 30, 1996. This increase was
substantially due to the depreciation associated with upgrades in Econophone's
switch in New York and installation of multiplexing equipment in New York and
London, as well as amortization of costs associated with the Offering.
Bad debt write-offs. Econophone had bad debt write-offs of $ 1.1 million
for the first nine months of 1997, as well as for the first nine months of 1996.
To date, bad debt write-offs have not had a material effect on Econophone's
revenues or margins.
Interest expense. Econophone had $5.8 million of interest expense during
the first nine months of 1997, as compared to interest expense of $.2 million
during the first nine months of 1996. Interest expense has increased
substantially as a result of the Offering, with $5.2 million of 1997 expense
attributable to the Offering.
Net loss. Econophone had a net loss of $16.5 million during the first nine
months of 1997, compared to a net loss of $5.2 million during the first nine
months of 1996. The increase is primarily due to costs associated with
increasing the internal infrastructure, building the network, marketing,
commissions paid to resellers, and interest expense related to the Offering. Net
loss is expected to increase substantially over the near term, primarily due to
interest expense incurred on the Senior Notes.
Liquidity and Capital Resources.
On July 1, 1997, Econophone consummated the Offering, in connection with
which it issued $155.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 13.5% Senior
Notes due 2007 and warrants to purchase 1,265,885 shares of common stock.
Approximately $57.4 million of the proceeds of the Offering was placed in escrow
and will be used
-15-
<PAGE>
to make the first six scheduled interest payments on the Senior Notes. At
September 30, 1997, Econophone had approximately $74.9 million in cash and cash
equivalents, excluding the Pledged Securities but including unused net proceeds
of the Offering which are invested in short term, interest-bearing, investment
grade securities, as compared to cash and cash equivalents of $6.3 million at
December 31, 1996. Econophone's net cash used by operating activities was $ 21.0
million for the nine months ended September 30, 1997, primarily due to a net
loss of $16.5 million, an increase in accounts receivable of $ 9.7 million, an
increase in debt issuance costs of $6.3 million, and an increase in other assets
of $2.7 million, offset by an increase in accounts payable of $ 5.6 million, an
increase in interest accrued on the Senior Notes of $5.2 million and
depreciation and amortization of $2.2 million. Cash used for investing in
property and equipment of $ 5.5 million for the nine months ended September 30,
1997 was primarily attributable to the implementation and expansion of
Econophone's European network. Cash provided by financing activities of $ 152.6
million was primarily related to cash received from the sale of the Senior Notes
and warrants of $155.0 million.
Econophone expects capital expenditures during 1997 to be approximately
$12.0 million, of which $ 6.3 million was expended during the first nine months
of 1997. Capital expenditures for the first nine months of 1997 relate primarily
to the further implementation and expansion of Econophone's network, including
the upgrade of Econophone's New York switch and the purchase of switches or
nodes for Antwerp, Berlin, Brussels, Hamburg, London, Los Angeles, Marseilles,
Paris and Zurich, the purchase of additional transatlantic IRUs and the
expansion of Econophone's back office capabilities, including its management
information and network management systems.
Econophone intends to fund its capital expenditures for the foreseeable
future with the proceeds of the Offering and, to the extent available on
attractive terms, vendor financing. Econophone expects to continue to make
significant capital expenditures as it continues to expand the geographic scope
of its services in Europe, the United States, the United Kingdom and elsewhere,
and to increase its network capabilities and network infrastructure.
Econophone's actual capital expenditures and cash requirements will depend on
numerous factors, including the nature of future expansion, economic conditions,
competition, regulatory developments and the ability to incur debt and make
capital expenditures under the Indenture pertaining to the Senior Notes, the
agreement with respect to its equipment financing from NTFC Corporation, and the
terms of its Series A Preferred Stock.
-16-
<PAGE>
PART II - Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
None.
Item 2. Changes in Securities
None.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
None.
Item 5. Other Information
None.
Item 6 Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Exhibits - None.
(b) There were no reports on Form 8-K filed for the three months
ended September 30, 1997.
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<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.
ECONOPHONE, INC.
(registrant)
Date NOVEMBER , 1997 By /s/ ALFRED WEST
-----------------------------------
Name: Alfred West
Title: Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Date NOVEMBER , 1997 By /s/ ALAN LEVY
-----------------------------------
Name: Alan Levy
Title: President, Chief Financial
Officer and Chief Operating Officer
-18-
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 AND THE CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
</LEGEND>
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-END> SEP-30-1997
<CASH> 94,029,422
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 18,357,971
<ALLOWANCES> 1,078,636
<INVENTORY> 0
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 112,910,987
<PP&E> 15,817,254
<DEPRECIATION> 3,008,007
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 173,606,375
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 25,193,753
<BONDS> 154,038,092
0
14,304,769
<COMMON> 2,000
<OTHER-SE> (19,932,239)
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 173,606,375
<SALES> 53,138,305
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 53,138,305
<CGS> 41,050,132
<TOTAL-COSTS> 41,050,132
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 21,458,910
<LOSS-PROVISION> 1,062,636
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> (3,980,035)
<INCOME-PRETAX> (16,464,227)
<INCOME-TAX> 0
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (16,464,227)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (16,464,227)
<EPS-PRIMARY> (0.82)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.82)
</TABLE>
