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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-KSB
(Mark One)
/X/ ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d ) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
/ / TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1934
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 0-12346
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
(Name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 95-2829956
(State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
9665 CHESAPEAKE DRIVE, SUITE 430, SAN DIEGO, CA 92123
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(619) 292-8777
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act:
NONE
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:
COMMON STOCK, $0.01 PAR VALUE
Check whether the Registrant (1) filed all reports required to be filed by
Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the past 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[ ]
Check if disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of Regulation
S-B is not contained in this form, and no disclosure will be contained, to the
best of the Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-KSB or any
amendment to this Form 10-KSB. [X]
Check whether the Registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be
filed by Section 12, 13 or 15 (d) of the Exchange Act after the distribution of
securities under a plan confirmed by a court. Yes [X] No[ ]
The Registrant's revenues for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 were
$8,581,212.
The approximate aggregate market value of voting stock held by non-affiliates of
the Registrant was $111,983 as of March 21, 1997 based on the closing bid price
on March 21, 1997. Shares of voting stock held by each officer and director and
by each person who owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting stock have been
excluded in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates. This determination
of affiliate status is not necessarily conclusive.
As of March 21, 1997, 1,487,870 shares of Common Stock, $0.01 par value, were
outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The information required by Part III is incorporated by reference from the
Registrant's definitive proxy statement to be filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year
covered by this report (the "1997 Proxy Statement").
Transitional Small Business Disclosure Format: Yes [ ] No [X]
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
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PAGE
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<S> <C> <C>
PART I:
Item 1. Business ................................................................... 3
Item 2. Properties ................................................................. 6
Item 3. Legal Proceedings .......................................................... 7
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders ........................ 7
PART II:
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholders Matters ..... 8
Item 6. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operation .................................................................. 8
Item 7. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data ................................ 9
Item 8. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial
Disclosure .............................................................. 9
PART III:
Item 9. Directors, Executive Offices, Promoters and Control Persons; Compliance With
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act ....................................... 10
Item 10. Executive Compensation ..................................................... 10
Item 11. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management ............. 10
Item 12. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions ............................. 10
PART IV:
Item 13. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K ........... 11
SIGNATURES ............................................................................. 12
</TABLE>
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PART 1
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
BACKGROUND
Ironstone Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation known as OXOCO, Inc. prior to 1988
(the "Company"), was incorporated in 1972. Since 1986, a majority of the
Company's outstanding shares has been owned by Hambrecht & Quist Group, a San
Francisco-based investment banking and venture capital firm, and its affiliates
(collectively "H&Q"), and H&Q presently owns over 60% of the Company's
outstanding voting shares.
The Company's principal executive offices are located at 9665 Chesapeake Drive,
Suite 430, San Diego, CA 92123 and its telephone number is (619) 292-8777.
BANKRUPTCY
In January 1991, the Company filed a voluntary petition for protection under
Title 11 of the U.S. Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern
District of California (the "Bankruptcy Court"). The Company's First Amended
Plan of Reorganization, as modified (the "Plan"), was confirmed by the
Bankruptcy Court on May 24, 1993, and the effective date pursuant to the terms
of the Plan was July 15, 1993. On May 13, 1996, the Bankruptcy Court issued an
order at the Company's request which (i) confirmed that the Company's Plan had
been fully administered and (ii) closed the Company's Chapter 11 case.
ACQUISITION OF BELT PERRY ASSOCIATES, INC.
In October 1993, the Company purchased from Belt Perry Associates, Inc., an
Arizona corporation ("BPA"), 80% of BPA's outstanding shares for consideration
consisting of (i) a $2,500,000 cash payment (all of which was used by BPA to
redeem certain of its outstanding shares from existing shareholders) and (ii) a
guaranty by the Company of certain obligations of BPA in a maximum aggregate
amount of $3,500,000 payable to the redeemed BPA shareholders. Simultaneously,
the Company purchased from an existing shareholder, 16% of the outstanding
shares of Belt Perry Associates, Inc., a California corporation ("BPC"), of
which BPA is an 80% shareholder, for a cash payment of $50,000. In addition, the
BPC selling shareholder is entitled to receive contingent incentive payments if
certain BPC profit targets and other goals are achieved.
BPA and BPC are collectively referred to herein as "Belt Perry" and Ironstone
and its consolidated subsidiaries are collectively referred to herein as the
"Company".
The consideration paid by the Company for the shares of Belt Perry was
determined pursuant to arm's length negotiations between the Company and the
shareholders of Belt Perry and was based on various factors concerning the
valuation of the business of Belt Perry. A more detailed description of the
Company's acquisition of Belt Perry and the full text of the agreements related
thereto are incorporated herein by reference from the 1993 Form 8-K.
During 1994 through 1996, BPA purchased from the minority shareholders of BPA,
all remaining minority interests in BPA's outstanding shares. During 1995, BPC
purchased from the minority shareholder of BPC, an additional 2% of BPC's
outstanding shares. The shares of BPC that are not owned by the Company are
subject to certain put and call rights which, under certain circumstances,
entitle the Company and/or the holder of such shares to require that the shares
be purchased by the Company for a price equal to their fair market value.
BUSINESS
The Company's principal business activities are conducted through Belt Perry.
Belt Perry is engaged in the business of reviewing and, when deemed appropriate,
appealing on behalf of property owners, real and personal property tax
assessments before governmental taxing authorities, concentrating primarily on
commercial, industrial and multi-tenant residential real estate in Arizona and
California. Belt Perry's agreements with its clients typically provide for Belt
Perry to be paid a portion of the amount, if any, by which the client's property
taxes are reduced as a result of an appeal processed by Belt Perry.
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REAL PROPERTY TAX APPEALS
Belt Perry performs real property tax consulting work for over 3,000 commercial,
industrial and residential clients, primarily in the states of Arizona and
California through its offices in Phoenix, Arizona and San Diego, Los Angeles
and Larkspur (a suburb of San Francisco), California. Belt Perry obtains new
clients through its account executives via referrals and telephone and direct
contact.
Counties charge real property taxes based on the assessed value of real property
multiplied by the applicable tax rate. Belt Perry's consulting services include
the review and analysis of property records and the filing of property tax
appeals. Belt Perry employs state-certified appraisers who are responsible for
preparing documentation supporting an opinion of property valuation and
negotiating and arguing property tax appeals at hearings on behalf of Belt
Perry's clients. A computer-generated appraisal report is the basic document
used by the appraiser to support the opinion of property valuation (see
"Proprietary System"). Belt Perry typically charges contingent fees based on a
percentage of the tax savings, if any, resulting from the property tax appeal.
The large majority of the Company's revenues are generated from real property
tax appeals.
Arizona Appeal Process
Most of Arizona's real property tax appeals are handled as administrative
appeals, which typically begin with a filing with the county assessor, and if
such process does not produce results satisfactory to BPA, BPA may appeal as far
as the Tax Court Division of the Superior Court of Arizona (the "Superior
Court"). Property valuations are set by the county assessor and mailed to
property owners between January and March of each year. Property owners have 45
days to appeal the valuation under the administrative appeal process.
BPA downloads certain counties' property tax valuations into its computer
system. An appraiser then uses the computer system to obtain the county
assessors' valuation for each parcel owned by BPAs' clients and determines
whether or not such valuations appear reasonable based on the appraiser's
initial valuation of the property. If the appraiser concludes that the
assessor's valuation is too high, a property tax appeal is filed with the
assessor stating the appraiser's position regarding the appropriate valuation
and the basis for such valuation (i.e., income approach, market approach, etc.).
The assessor may accept or deny an appeal. If an appeal is denied, BPA has the
option of filing an appeal with the County Board of Equalization (the
"Equalization Board"), which hears arguments from BPA and the assessor and
subsequently determines the appropriate valuation. If the decision rendered by
the Equalization Board is unsatisfactory to BPA, BPA has the option of filing an
appeal with the State Board of Tax Appeals and, finally, with the Superior
Court.
California Appeal Process
The California real property tax appeal process is similar to that of Arizona,
but generally involves only two levels: the county assessor and County Board of
Equalization. Although there is occasionally judicial review through the
Superior Court, it is typically very limited in scope. The normal assessment
period occurs between January 1 and July 1 of each year, and appeals filed with
the Equalization Board must be filed by September 15 of the same year. Due to
the backlog of appeal applications, many counties are currently taking 12 to 24
months to resolve the appeals. Because there is a two-year statute of
limitations on all appeal applications, BPC's opinion of property valuation will
prevail by default if the Equalization Board does not hold a hearing within two
years from the filing date.
PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX APPEALS
Belt Perry files personal property tax appeals on behalf of clients in more than
30 states. Municipalities typically charge personal property taxes based on the
assessed value of machinery, equipment, inventories not held for resale,
supplies and other miscellaneous items multiplied by the applicable tax rate.
Personal property tax appeals generally are filed to contest depreciation rates,
items not classified correctly, and assessor audits. Belt Perry typically
charges contingent fees based on a percentage of the tax savings, if any,
generated from the personal property tax appeal.
TAXNET
BPA's wholly-owned subsidiary, TaxNet, is a national referral network of
property tax consultants providing tax appeal services throughout the United
States and Canada. BPA charges TaxNet affiliates certain subscription and other
fees.
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PROPRIETARY SYSTEM
BPA has developed a proprietary system, consisting of a database and software
system, that generates a substantial portion of the BPA appraisal report and
consequently, significantly reduces the amount of administrative time BPA
personnel must devote to each property tax appeal. The system currently holds
tens of thousands of market and equity comparable property records, including
the property tax rolls for certain counties of Arizona. The software performs a
number of different functions, including analysis of pertinent details of county
property tax rolls to obtain valuations on selected properties and comparable
properties, preparation of market and equity comparables for selected
properties, preparation of the income analysis section of the appraisal report,
and generation of a substantial portion of the appraisal report utilizing a
standardized format. The database is updated on a regular basis with property
sales information obtained from third party sources and with additional
information on comparable properties selected from the county tax rolls.
BUSINESS STRATEGY
The Company's strategy is to provide property tax and tax-related services with
the current primary focus on providing real and personal property tax consulting
services. The Company's acquisition of Belt Perry has allowed the Company to
provide real and personal property tax consulting services primarily in the
western United States. The Company intends to seek opportunities to acquire
businesses performing tax-related services or services consistent with the
primary focus of the Company, continue to monitor the possibility of expanding
its present core business through additional alliances with other firms or
individuals and explore opportunities in tax-related services and information
services.
Economic factors heavily influence the real and personal property tax
assessments by governmental taxing authorities and, consequently, Belt Perry's
business is influenced by these same factors. Due to economic and political
factors in Arizona, which resulted in property valuations in 1996 being held
fairly constant with the 1995 valuations, BPA realized a significant decline in
the number of real property tax appeals filed as well as the revenue associated
with such appeals in 1996. In addition, property valuations in 1997 did not
change significantly from 1996. As a result, the Company reduced its BPA staff
by 12 full-time employees in January 1997.
Most governmental taxing authorities have an annual deadline for the filing of a
property tax appeal. Such deadlines create a seasonality to the property tax
appeal business within certain jurisdictions. The Company's challenge is to
manage it's expenses and personnel levels properly while providing high quality
customer service.
There can be no assurance that the Company will acquire businesses, form
additional alliances, or expand its existing services. Failure to expand the
scope of services provided by the Company may have an adverse effect on the
Company's results of operations.
COMPETITION
The property tax consulting business is highly fragmented and very competitive.
The Company's competitors include firms providing similar tax consulting
services, lawyers, accountants, real estate brokers and property managers.
Increased competition could result in fee reductions or reduced market share,
either of which could adversely affect the Company's results of operations. The
Company believes it can compete effectively in the commercial, industrial and
multi-tenant residential real property and personal property tax markets due to
its trained and experienced personnel, its network of offices and its
proprietary system for appraising real estate.
MARKETING STRATEGY
In 1995, the Company endeavored to change the identity of Belt Perry to conform
with its own name, and all offices of Belt Perry now operate under the name
Ironstone Group, Inc. The Company currently has offices in Phoenix, Arizona and
San Diego, Los Angeles and Larkspur, California. In addition, TaxNet has
affiliates in 10 other cities.
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The Company intends to increase its sales per employee by providing additional
training and support to its account executives as well as increasing the number
of services offered and sold by its account executives. By providing training
and additional sales opportunities, the Company believes it can provide property
tax and tax-related services to individual, corporate and institutional clients.
There can be no assurance that increased revenue and profitability will result
from these efforts. Furthermore, the elapsed time between the filing of an
appeal and its resolution means that increased sales efforts now may not
translate into increased revenue for one to two years. The failure to expand the
Company's revenue would result in a slower rate of growth or no growth at all in
the next year, could impede the Company's ability to compete, could result in
reduced market share, and may prevent the Company from expanding into new
markets, any of which would have an adverse effect on the Company's results of
operations.
In order to expand its present regional client base, and in an effort to broaden
its marketing presence, the Company has entered into strategic relationships.
The Company has entered into a referral agreement with Grubb & Ellis Company
("Grubb & Ellis"), a national real estate firm that specializes in the sale and
leasing of commercial properties with approximately 1,100 commercial real estate
sales people nationwide. The Company believes that referrals from, and access
to, information possessed by Grubb & Ellis has been and will be of great use in
arguing for a reduced property value on behalf of clients. In addition, the
Company has formed alliances with Stonefield Josephson, a regional accounting
firm with offices in San Francisco, Walnut Creek and Santa Monica, California
and The REMM Group, a real estate consulting and property management company
headquartered in Anaheim, California. The objective of such alliances is to
leverage these relationships through referrals and joint activities. In addition
to the above-described relationships, the Company intends to seek additional
alliances which are intended to broaden the Company's market base and services
provided. There can be no assurance that additional alliances will be
established.
The Company believes that an important aspect of it's marketing strategy is to
provide ongoing customer service, such as periodic updates on the status of
various appeals and periodic opinions regarding the value upon which tax savings
may be based. The Company is continually working to improve and expand its
management information systems in order to quickly and accurately provide a
status report for a portfolio of properties in multiple locations. In addition,
the Company intends to continue to refine its systems capability in order to
achieve tax reductions for future clients with the same degree of success that
it has achieved to date. There can be no assurance that the Company will succeed
in these endeavors.
The primary objectives of the Company in 1997 will be to increase revenues from
the present core business, especially in the area of personal property tax
appeals, while controlling expenses, and to identify and begin the launch of new
services that complement the Company's focus on providing property tax and
tax-related services.
EMPLOYEES
As of March 21, 1997, the Company had 31 total employees comprised of 8
full-time employees at BPA and 23 full-time employees at BPC. None of the
Company's employees are subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The
Company believes that its relations with its employees are good.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company's principal executive offices are located in 250 square feet of
leased office space in San Diego, California. BPA leases approximately 16,000
and 800 square feet of office space in Phoenix, Arizona and San Rafael,
California, respectively. Such leases expire in June 1999 and March 2000,
respectively. The Company subleases a portion of its office space in Phoenix,
Arizona and is currently attempting to sublease additional space. BPC leases
approximately 9,400 and 1,700 square feet of office space in San Diego and Los
Angeles, California, respectively . The San Diego lease expires in September
1997 and the Los Angeles lease is on a month-to-month basis. The Company
believes that its current space is adequate for its operations.
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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
In January 1994, as part of the Plan, the Company settled a disputed claim with
an individual for $100,000, the payment of which was to be made to the
individual from the last $100,000 owed and paid by St. George Crystal, Ltd.
("SGC") on certain promissory notes, stocks and warrants (the "Notes"). In
December 1994, the Company sold its remaining 30% undivided interest in the
Notes. In February 1995, and again on May 6, 1996, the Company and the
court-appointed receiver for the Notes, received notice from the individual that
as a result of the Company's disposition of the Notes, the $100,000 owed to such
individual was due. The Company believes that no payment is due to such
individual at this time and in the event the Company were to make such payment
it would be indemnified. To date, no suit has been filed against the Company of
which the Company is aware.
In April 1995, litigation was commenced by SGC in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
against the Company and others with regard to enforcement of obligations owing
under the Notes executed by SGC and the validity of the assignment of the Notes
by the Company. The case was transferred to the Bankruptcy Court. On March 6,
1996, the Bankruptcy Court issued an Order Dismissing Adversary Proceeding which
provided in part that "Defendant Ironstone Group, Inc....and Defendant Michael
Y. McGovern hold(s) no interest in the proceeds of the [SGC Loan Documents],"
thereby confirming the validity of the assignment.
On June 10, 1996, a settlement agreement was entered into by SGC and various
other parties settling most but not all disputes among them. In particular, the
individual's claim against the Company for $100,000 referred to in the first
paragraph above seems to be resolved by the settlement.
Other than legal proceedings in which BPA and BPC are involved in the ordinary
course of business, the Company is not a party to any other material legal
proceedings.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
There were no matters submitted to a vote of stockholders during the fourth
quarter of 1996.
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The Company's Common Stock is not eligible for publication of quotations on any
securities market and the Company is not aware of any recent material trading
activity in shares of its Common Stock. As of March 21, 1997, there were
approximately 1,041 holders of record of the Company's Common Stock. The Company
has not paid cash dividends on its Common Stock since its inception and does not
intend to pay cash dividends on its Common Stock in the foreseeable future.
ITEM 6. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Year ended December 31, 1996
Revenues for fiscal 1996 were $8,581,212, an increase of $936,238 or 12.3% as
compared to fiscal 1995. This increase was due to a $2,080,265 increase in the
California revenues partially offset by a $1,123,327 decrease in the Arizona
revenues. The increase in the California revenues results primarily from a
revision in the Company's contracts with its California clients which revised
the Company's method of billing. The decision to revise the California contracts
was based on market conditions as well as current practice by the Company's
major competitors (see Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements). The
decrease in the Arizona revenues was primarily due to economic and political
factors in Arizona, which resulted in 1996 property valuations being held fairly
constant with the 1995 valuations. As a result, BPA realized a significant
decline in the number of property tax appeals filed in 1996 as well as the
revenue associated with such appeals.
Costs and expenses for fiscal 1996 decreased by $900,479, a decrease of 10.1% as
compared to fiscal 1995. This decrease was primarily due to decreases in
salaries and wages, amortization expense and non-operating expenses, partially
offset by an increase in bad debt expense.
Bad debt expense increased $1,427,739 or 246% primarily due to management's
decision to increase its bad debt provision by approximately $1,378,700 related
to revenues billed under the revised California contracts discussed above (see
Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements).
Salaries and wages decreased by $373,344 or 8.3% primarily due to the effects of
a decrease in personnel that occurred in the later part of 1995 as well as
voluntary salary reductions by certain executive officers in 1996.
Amortization expense decreased by $1,318,721 or 93.5% as a result of the
write-down in 1995 of costs in excess of net assets acquired (goodwill)
associated with the acquisition of BPA to reflect the impairment of this asset
(see Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements).
Non-operating expenses decreased by $444,945 or 100% as a result of the
write-off in 1995 of costs and expenses associated with the development of a
sales and use tax software product for resale and an on-line resume and career
placement service. Such projects were abandoned by the Company in 1995.
Year ended December 31, 1995
Revenues for 1995 were $7,644,974, a decrease of $420,326 or 5.2% as compared to
fiscal 1994. This decrease was entirely attributable to a decrease in interest
income of $454,259 which was partially offset by a $33,933 increase in operating
revenues. The increase in operating revenues was comprised of an increase in the
California revenues of $800,218 and a decrease in the Arizona revenues of
$766,285.
Costs and expenses for 1995 increased by $1,053,223, an increase of 13.4% as
compared to fiscal 1994. This increase was primarily due to increases in
amortization expense, bad debt expense and non-operating expenses.
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Amortization expense increased $1,056,802 or 299% as a result of management's
decision to write-down costs in excess of net assets acquired (goodwill)
associated with the acquisition of BPA to reflect the impairment of this asset
(see Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements).
Bad debt expense increased $203,416 or 53.8% primarily as a result of
management's decision to increase its bad debt provision by $115,000 related to
roll correction revenue. In 1995, the taxing authorities within California
introduced a roll correction process to reduce property tax assessments. At
December 31, 1995, management was uncertain whether or not the Company would
experience an increase in its bad debt expense as a result of recording roll
correction revenue. In light of this uncertainty, management provided an
additional bad debt provision of $115,000.
Non-operating expenses increased $444,945 or 100% as a result of the write-off
of costs and expenses associated with the development of a sales and use tax
software product for resale and an on-line resume and career placement service.
Such projects were abandoned by the Company in 1995.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 1996
was $796,800. Due to the Company's profitable operations in fiscal 1996 and the
unrealized holding gain on marketable securities held for sale in the amount of
$499,834, working capital at December 31, 1996 was $3,733,606, an increase of
$484,895 over fiscal 1995.
Net cash used by investing activities for the year ended December 31,1996 was
$264,282, consisting primarily of the purchase of marketable securities
available for sale totaling $227,316.
Net cash used by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 1996 was
$757,133, consisting of payments on notes payable of $695,025, payments on
capitalized lease obligations of $44,608, the purchases of minority interests in
consolidated subsidiaries totaling $242,500, offset by an increase in the
Company's line of credit in the amount of $225,000. On May 7, 1996, BPA
purchased from a minority shareholder of BPA, 182 shares of BPA's issued and
outstanding shares of common stock in exchange for $50,000 cash. On July 27,
1996, BPA purchased from a minority shareholder of BPA, 700 shares of BPA's
issued and outstanding shares of common stock in exchange for $42,500 cash and a
note payable of $150,000. The note bore interest at Bank One, Arizona, NA's
prime rate with interest only payable September 1, 1996 and principal and
interest payable in three equal monthly installments beginning October 1, 1996.
At December 31, 1996, the note was paid in full.
The Company is current on all principal and interest payments on its notes
payable and capitalized lease obligations. The Company's line of credit matures
and is payable in full on June 30, 1997. The Company expects that it will be
able to renew its line of credit under similar terms upon its maturity. However,
if its line of credit is not renewed, there is no assurance that it can be
replaced.
Cash decreased by $224,615, from $754,158 at the end of fiscal 1995 to $529,543
at the end of fiscal 1996. Management believes that its current level of cash
and anticipated cash flow from operations will be adequate to meet its operating
needs through the end of 1997.
The Company may obtain additional equity or working capital through bank
borrowings and public or private sales of equity securities and exercises of
outstanding stock options. There can be no assurance, however, that such
additional financing will be available on terms favorable to the Company, or at
all.
ITEM 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The financial statements required to be filed herewith begin on page F-1.
ITEM 8. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
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PART III
ITEM 9. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVES OFFICERS, PROMOTING AND CONTROL PERSONS;
COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 16(a) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT
DIRECTORS
The information required herewith is incorporated by reference from the sections
captioned "Proposal 1: Election of Directors" and "Certain Transactions"
contained in the 1997 Proxy Statement.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table sets forth the names, ages and positions of the Company's
executive officers as of March 28, 1997. A summary of the background and
experience of each of these individuals is set forth after the table.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AGE POSITION
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<S> <C> <C>
Gerald G. Pinkston 43 Chief Executive Officer
Erin M. Graham 36 Chief Financial Officer,
Treasurer and Controller
</TABLE>
Mr. Pinkston has served as Chief Executive Officer since January 1997 and served
as President and Chief Operating Officer from October 1993 to January 1997. From
March 1991 to October 1993, Mr. Pinkston served as President of BPC.
Ms. Graham has served as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since January
1997, served as Vice President, Finance from January 1996 to January 1997, and
has served as Controller since January 1996. From January 1991 until joining the
Company, Ms. Graham was employed by Deloitte & Touche LLP where she attained the
position of Audit Senior. Ms. Graham has been a certified public accountant
since 1995.
ITEM 10. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the
section captioned "Executive Compensation" contained in the 1997 Proxy
Statement.
ITEM 11. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information required herewith is incorporated by reference from the section
captioned "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management"
contained in the 1997 Proxy Statement.
ITEM 12. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information required herewith is incorporated by reference from the section
captioned "Certain Transactions" contained in the 1997 Proxy Statement.
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PART IV
ITEM 13. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) EXHIBITS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT PAGE NUMBER OR
NUMBER DESCRIPTION METHOD OF FILING
- ------ ----------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C>
11.1 Statement Regarding Computation of Earnings Per Share 13
21.1 Subsidiaries of Ironstone Group, Inc. 14
</TABLE>
(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
None.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report on Form 10-KSB to be
signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
A DELAWARE CORPORATION
Date: March 28, 1997 By: /s/ Gerald G. Pinkston
-----------------------
Gerald G. Pinkston
Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf on the Registrant and
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
- --------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Gerald G. Pinkston Chief Executive Officer March 28, 1997
- ---------------------- (Principal Executive Officer)
Gerald G. Pinkston
/s/ Erin M. Graham Chief Financial Officer, March 28, 1997
- ------------------ Treasurer and Controller
Erin M. Graham (Principal Financial Officer and
Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/ Edmund H. Shea, Jr. Director March 28, 1997
- ----------------------
Edmund H. Shea, Jr.
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE> 13
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Independent auditors' report ...................................... F-2
Consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 1996 ................... F-3
Consolidated statements of operations for the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1995 ....................................... F-4
Consolidated statements of shareholders' equity for the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1995 ....................................... F-5
Consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1995 ....................................... F-6
Notes to consolidated financial statements ........................ F-8
</TABLE>
F-1
<PAGE> 14
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
Shareholders and Board of Directors
Ironstone Group, Inc.
San Diego, California
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Ironstone Group,
Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996, and the related consolidated
statements of operations, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the
two years in the period then ended. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the consolidated financial position of Ironstone Group, Inc.
and subsidiaries at December 31, 1996, and the results of their operations and
their cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31,
1996 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
San Diego, California
March 21, 1997
F-2
<PAGE> 15
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
DECEMBER 31, 1996
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
ASSETS:
Current assets:
Cash $ 529,543
Marketable securities available for sale 1,386,011
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
of $2,405,026 3,926,763
Prepaid expenses 109,853
------------
Total current assets 5,952,170
------------
Property and equipment - net 174,241
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses - net 162,070
Other assets 6,023
------------
Total assets $ 6,294,504
============
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 195,037
Accrued compensation 660,038
Line of credit 350,000
Notes payable - current portion 366,158
Capitalized lease obligations - current portion 51,850
Deferred revenue 102,000
Due to officer 252,022
Income taxes payable 49,800
Accrued interest payable 8,793
Other current liabilities 182,866
------------
Total current liabilities 2,218,564
------------
Notes payable - net of current portion 150,000
Capitalized lease obligations - net of current portion 11,913
------------
Total non-current liabilities 161,913
------------
Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries 100,459
------------
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 13, 14 and 19)
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized of which there
are no issued and outstanding shares
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 25,000,000 shares authorized of
which 1,487,870 shares are issued and outstanding 14,879
Additional paid in capital 21,170,385
Accumulated deficit (17,871,530)
Unrealized gain on marketable securities available for sale 499,834
------------
Total shareholders' equity 3,813,568
------------
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 6,294,504
============
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
these consolidated financial statements.
F-3
<PAGE> 16
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1995
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Revenues:
Consulting fees $ 8,520,117 $ 7,561,238
Subscription fees 19,500 26,884
Interest and other income 41,595 56,852
----------- -----------
Total revenues 8,581,212 7,644,974
----------- -----------
Costs and expenses:
Salaries and wages, payroll taxes and benefits 4,115,708 4,489,052
Depreciation 108,097 121,518
Amortization and write-off of a portion of goodwill 91,630 1,410,351
Bad debt expense 2,008,985 581,246
Rent expense 419,641 411,906
Professional fees 252,802 325,584
Advertising and promotion 109,277 242,882
Office expense 188,203 207,849
Referral and split fees 112,161 200,427
Travel and entertainment 138,945 133,091
Research expense 95,457 97,467
Communications 66,184 80,255
Interest expense 105,040 81,417
Other operating expenses 190,371 74,990
Non-operating expenses -- 444,945
----------- -----------
Total costs and expenses 8,002,501 8,902,980
----------- -----------
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest 578,711 (1,258,006)
Income tax provision 53,050 3,250
Minority interest (42,668) 108,108
----------- -----------
Net income (loss) $ 568,329 $(1,369,364)
=========== ===========
Net income (loss) per common and common equivalent share:
Net income (loss) per share $ 0.38 $ (0.92)
=========== ===========
Average shares outstanding 1,487,870 1,487,870
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
these consolidated financial statements.
F-4
<PAGE> 17
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNREALIZED
ADDITIONAL GAIN ON
COMMON STOCK PAID IN ACCUMULATED MARKETABLE
SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL DEFICIT SECURITIES TOTAL
--------- ------- ----------- ------------ -------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balances,
December 31, 1994 1,487,870 $14,879 $21,170,385 $(17,070,495) $4,114,769
Unrealized gain on
marketable securities $ 27,139 27,139
Net loss (1,369,364) (1,369,364)
--------- ------- ----------- ------------ -------- ----------
Balances,
December 31, 1995 1,487,870 14,879 21,170,385 (18,439,859) 27,139 2,772,544
Unrealized gain on
marketable securities 472,695 472,695
Net income 568,329 568,329
--------- ------- ----------- ------------ -------- ----------
Balances,
December 31, 1996 1,487,870 $14,879 $21,170,385 $(17,871,530) $499,834 $3,813,568
========= ======= =========== ============ ======== ==========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
these consolidated financial statements.
F-5
<PAGE> 18
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1995
--------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss) $ 568,329 $(1,369,364)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
provided (used) by operating activities:
Depreciation 108,097 121,518
Amortization and write-off of a portion of goodwill 91,630 1,410,351
Loss on purchase of minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries 26,598 --
Undistributed minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries (42,668) 108,108
Loss on sale of assets -- 3,382
Changes in assets and liabilities net of effects of purchase of
minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries:
Accounts receivable (51,627) (549,978)
Other current assets (59,644) 58,070
Other assets 7,219 90,021
Accounts payable 34,699 (72,395)
Accrued compensation 216,443 137,688
Other current liabilities (102,276) (96,588)
--------- -----------
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities 796,800 (159,187)
--------- -----------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Collection of other receivable -- 788,632
Purchase of marketable securities available for sale (227,316) (658,861)
Purchase of property and equipment (36,966) (108,580)
--------- -----------
Net cash (used) provided by investing activities (264,282) 21,191
--------- -----------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Purchase of minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries (242,500) --
Borrowings from line of credit 225,000 125,000
Payments on capitalized lease obligations (44,608) (33,644)
Payments on notes payable (695,025) (798,815)
--------- -----------
Net cash used by financing activities (757,133) (707,459)
--------- -----------
Net decrease in cash (224,615) (845,455)
Cash at beginning of year 754,158 1,599,613
--------- -----------
Cash at end of year $ 529,543 $ 754,158
========= ===========
</TABLE>
(continued)
F-6
<PAGE> 19
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1995
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest $129,598 $142,863
Income taxes 3,250 3,250
</TABLE>
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
On May 11, 1995, BPC purchased from an officer and minority shareholder of BPC,
167 shares of BPC's issued and outstanding shares of common stock in exchange
for $20,000 cash and an agreement to pay $50,000 on May 1, 1996 and May 1, 1997.
On September 19, 1995, BPA purchased from a minority shareholder of BPA, 418
shares of BPA's issued and outstanding shares of common stock in exchange for a
note payable by BPA and a guarantee by the Company in the amount of $269,200.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
these consolidated financial statements.
F-7
<PAGE> 20
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation and Business Activities
Ironstone Group, Inc. (the "Company"), consolidates the financial statements of
its majority-owned subsidiaries Belt Perry Associates, Inc., an Arizona
corporation ("BPA"), Belt Perry Associates, Inc., a California corporation
("BPC"), TaxNet, Inc., an Arizona corporation ("TaxNet") and DeMoss Corporation,
a California corporation ("DeMoss"). All significant inter-company transactions
have been eliminated in consolidation. The Company's significant business
activities include reducing, for a fee, ad valorem taxes assessed to owners of
real and personal property, generally in the Arizona and California markets.
Consulting Fee Revenue
Ad valorem tax consulting fees are contracted primarily on a contingency basis.
Other methods of contracting include flat fees and mixed fees (i.e., a
combination of contingency and flat fees). Consulting fee revenues are generally
recognized when the assessed ad valorem values and resulting taxes are reduced
either by settlement through administrative appeal or judgment in court
proceedings where all appeals have been fully exhausted.
Subscription Fee Revenue
Subscription fees representing subscription to the Taxnet affiliation network of
ad valorem tax consultants are recognized over the life of the related
contracts. Fees are billed on an annual basis and generally range between $500
and $2,000.
Legal Fees
Retainers are paid to various attorneys to initiate and continue court actions
in ad valorem tax appeals. Due to the uncertainty of the outcome of these court
actions, the retainers are expensed when paid.
Marketable Securities
Marketable securities have been classified by management as available for sale
in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 115,
"Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities" ("SFAS No.
115"). In accordance with SFAS No. 115, marketable securities are recorded at
fair value and any unrealized gains and losses are excluded from earnings and
reported as a net amount in a separate component of shareholders' equity until
realized. The fair value of the Company's marketable securities at December 31,
1996 is based on quoted market prices.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated using accelerated
methods over the estimated useful lives of five to seven years.
Costs in Excess of Net Assets of Acquired Businesses
The Company has classified as costs in excess of net assets of acquired
businesses the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net
assets of acquired businesses. Such excess costs are being amortized using the
straight-line method over the estimated period of future benefit of five years.
At each balance sheet date, the Company evaluates the recoverability of the
unamortized excess costs and based on such evaluation, management believes that
a permanent impairment of the unamortized excess costs had occurred as of
December 31, 1995 (Note 6).
F-8
<PAGE> 21
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 107, "Disclosures about Fair
Value of Financial Instruments" ("SFAS No. 107"), requires disclosure of
estimated fair value information for financial instruments, whether or not
recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Fair values are based upon
estimates using present value or other valuation information techniques in
cases where quoted market prices are not available. Those techniques are
significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and
estimates of future cash flows. In that regard, the derived fair value
estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and, in
many cases, could not be realized in immediate settlement of the instrument.
SFAS No. 107 excludes certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial
instruments from its disclosure requirements. Accordingly, the aggregate fair
value amounts presented do not represent the underlying value of the Company.
The carrying values of cash, accounts receivable, notes payable and capitalized
lease obligations approximate their fair values due to the short term nature of
these items. The fair value of marketable securities is based on quoted market
prices.
Income Taxes
The Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries file a consolidated federal
income tax return. The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with
Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 109, "Accounting for Income
Taxes" ("SFAS No. 109"). In accordance with SFAS No. 109, deferred taxes are
recorded using a liability approach (Note 7).
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Earnings Per Common and Common Equivalent Share
Earnings per common and common equivalent share information is based on the
weighted average number of shares of common stock, including common stock
equivalent shares (except where inclusion of such common stock equivalent shares
would have an anti-dilutive effect), outstanding during the periods presented
computed using the treasury stock method. The weighted average number of shares
of common and common equivalent stock used in the computation of earnings per
common and common equivalent share was 1,487,870 for the years ended December
31, 1996 and 1995.
Reclassifications
Certain 1995 amounts have been reclassified to conform to the 1996 presentation.
2. MARKETABLE SECURITIES
All marketable securities are classified as available for sale. The cost and
fair value of marketable securities at December 31, 1996 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NET
UNREALIZED FAIR
COST GAIN VALUE
---- ---- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Corporate equity securities $ 886,177 $ 499,834 $ 1,386,011
========== ========== ============
</TABLE>
F-9
<PAGE> 22
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
2. MARKETABLE SECURITIES (CONTINUED)
All marketable securities are invested in the common stock of one corporation
(Interlinq Software). The Company has entered into a margin loan agreement
("Margin Loan") with Hambrecht & Quist LLC, a major shareholder of the Company,
pledging all marketable securities as collateral for the Margin Loan. The Margin
Loan bears interest at Hambrecht & Quist LLC's margin loan rate, which for the
period from November 30, 1995 through December 31, 1996, the time period of the
borrowing, ranged between 8.75% and 7.75% per annum. At December 31, 1996, the
Company owed $134,134 on the Margin Loan which is included in Other current
liabilities.
3. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Accounts receivable consists of the following at December 31, 1996:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Accounts receivable $ 6,314,553
Advances to employees and other 3,736
Due from former minority shareholders of BPA 13,500
Less allowance for doubtful accounts (Note 13) (2,405,026)
-----------
Accounts receivable - net $ 3,926,763
===========
</TABLE>
4. OTHER RECEIVABLE
On December 30, 1994, the Company sold its undivided 30% interest in certain
promissory notes, stock and warrants of St. George Crystal, Ltd. for $620,625
plus the release of certain funds being held for the benefit of the Company and
others. The receivable of $788,632 arising from this transaction was collected
on January 18, 1995. See Note 13 discussing litigation related to this
transaction.
5. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consists of the following at December 31, 1996:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Computer equipment and software $ 279,741
Furniture and office equipment 121,561
-----------
Total property and equipment 401,302
Less accumulated depreciation (227,061)
---------
Property and equipment - net $ 174,241
===========
</TABLE>
At December 31, 1996, computer equipment and software included $144,390 of
leased assets (Note 10).
Depreciation expense on owned and leased assets was $108,097 and $121,518 for
the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
F-10
<PAGE> 23
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
6. COSTS IN EXCESS OF NET ASSETS OF ACQUIRED BUSINESSES
During the fourth quarter of 1995, management determined that there had been an
impairment of the costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses
("goodwill") associated with the acquisition of BPA, and accordingly, wrote-off
substantially all of the remaining BPA goodwill. This determination was made
based on BPA's operating losses from the acquisition date of October 13, 1993
through December 31, 1995. At December 31, 1996, the balance of goodwill of
$425,218 is comprised primarily of goodwill associated with the acquisition of
BPC, adjusted for a minority interest buyback in May 1995 (Note 12).
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses has been adjusted as
follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses - net
at December 31, 1994 $ 1,412,058
Cost of 167 shares of BPC's issued and outstanding common stock in
excess of carrying value of minority interest (Note 12) 75,255
Cost of 418 shares of BPA's issued and outstanding common stock in
excess of carrying value of minority interest (Note 12) 178,442
Amortization and write-off of excess costs (1,410,351)
-----------
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses - net
at December 31, 1995 255,404
-----------
Cost of 182 shares of BPA's issued and outstanding common stock
below carrying value of minority interest (Note 12) (1,704)
Amortization of excess costs (91,630)
-----------
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses - net
at December 31, 1996 $ 162,070
===========
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses consists
of the following at December 31, 1996:
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses $ 425,218
Less accumulated amortization (263,148)
-----------
Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses - net $ 162,070
===========
</TABLE>
7. INCOME TAXES
SFAS No. 109 requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for
the expected future consequences of events that have been recognized in the
financial statements or tax returns. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax
effects of (i) temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and
liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax
purposes and (ii) operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The tax effects
of significant items comprising the Company's deferred income taxes at December
31, 1996 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Deferred tax assets: $ 1,012,793
Differences between book and tax basis of property 27,619,000
Operating loss carryforwards
Deferred tax liabilities: (111,658)
Differences between book and tax basis of property -----------
28,520,135
Total deferred income taxes (28,520,135)
Less valuation allowance
$ --
Deferred income taxes - net ===========
</TABLE>
F-11
<PAGE> 24
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
7. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
The provision for income taxes consists of the following at December 31, 1996
and December 31, 1995, respectively:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION> 1996 1995
------- ------
<S> <C> <C>
Current:
Federal $41,000 $ --
State 12,050 3,250
Deferred -- --
------- ------
Total $53,050 $3,250
======= ======
</TABLE>
The Company's income tax provision for 1996 represents federal alternative
minimum tax and state franchise and alternative minimum taxes. The state income
tax provision for 1995 represents annual franchise and minimum taxes charged by
the states in which the Company is incorporated or does business. The primary
difference between the income tax provision for the years ended December 31,
1996 and 1995 and the income tax benefit (provision) which would be computed
based upon the statutory income tax rate and the net income (loss) is due to not
recording the potential benefit of the net operating loss carryforwards. As of
December 31, 1996, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards for federal
tax purposes of approximately $78,562,000. These carryforwards will expire in
the years 1997 to 2008.
The Tax Reform Act ("TRA") of 1986 significantly limited the amount of net
operating loss carryforwards that are available to offset future taxable income
when an ownership change occurs. The amount of the net operating loss
carryforward that may be available for use in future years may be limited.
In the opinion of management, based on limitations on the use of net operating
loss carryforwards, the realization of such carryforwards is not more likely
than not, and accordingly, a valuation reserve has been recorded to offset such
amount in its entirety.
The differences between the Federal statutory tax rate and the Company's
effective rate as a percentage of income before income taxes for the years
ended December 31, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1995
------- ------
<S> <C> <C>
Federal statutory tax rate 34.0% (34.0%)
Tax on minority interest 2.3
Effect of net operating loss
carryforward and valuation
allowance (36.3) 34.0
Federal alternative minimum tax 6.6
State income tax, net of
Federal benefit 1.9 0.2
------- ------
Effective income tax rate 8.5% 0.2%
======= ======
</TABLE>
8. LINE OF CREDIT
In June 1996, the Company renewed its $500,000 revolving operating line of
credit. The line of credit bears interest on amounts borrowed at the lending
bank's prime rate (8.25% at December 31, 1996) plus 1.25% and is collateralized
by BPA and BPC accounts receivable and other business assets. At December 31,
1996, the Company had $350,000 outstanding on the line of credit. The line of
credit matures and is payable in full in June 1997.
F-12
<PAGE> 25
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
9. DUE TO OFFICER
On October 14, 1993, BPC entered into a purchase and employment agreement (the
"Agreement") with an officer and minority shareholder of BPC (the "Officer") in
exchange for 1,333 shares of BPC's issued and outstanding shares of common stock
(the "Shares"). The Agreement specifies compensation and incentive amounts and
includes a non-competition clause (Note 13). Incentive amounts are to be paid if
certain BPC profit goals are achieved. As a result of BPC meeting certain profit
goals for 1996 and 1995, incentive amounts of $202,022 and $390,561 became
payable as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. At December 31, 1996,
$202,022 of incentive amounts remain payable and are due in full on or before
April 30, 1997. Accordingly, such amount is included in Due to officer.
On May 11, 1995, BPC purchased from the Officer, 167 shares of BPC's issued and
outstanding shares of common stock in exchange for $20,000 cash and an agreement
to pay $50,000 on May 1, 1996 and May 1, 1997. In the event a payment is not
made timely by BPC, the Officer shall have the right to receive 167 shares of
common stock in lieu of payment. At December 31, 1996, the final $50,000 is
included in Due to officer.
All amounts due to the Officer that are not paid on their respective due dates
shall accrue interest at the prime rate of interest as announced by Bank of
America N.T. and S.A., or its successor, plus 4% per annum until such amounts
are paid in full.
10. CAPITALIZED LEASE OBLIGATIONS
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Future minimum lease payments under capitalized lease obligations at December
31, 1996 are as follows:
1997 $ 56,282
1998 12,466
--------
Total minimum lease payments 68,748
Less amount representing interest (4,985)
--------
Present value of net minimum lease payments $ 63,763
Less current portion (51,850)
--------
Total capitalized lease obligations - net of current portion $ 11,913
========
</TABLE>
11. NOTES PAYABLE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Notes payable consist of the following at December 31, 1996:
Note payable to a former minority shareholder of BPA, bearing interest at 12%
per annum, with principal and interest payable in twelve equal monthly
installments beginning February 15, 1996, collateralized by BPA common stock
held by the Company $ 11,863
Note payable to a former minority shareholder of BPA, bearing interest at 6% per
annum, with principal and interest payable in twenty-four equal monthly
installments beginning October 1, 1995, collateralized by BPA common stock
held by the Company 93,362
Notes payable to former minority shareholders of BPA, bearing interest at 5% per
annum, with principal and interest payable in four equal annual installments
beginning December 31, 1994 110,933
</TABLE>
F-13
<PAGE> 26
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
11. NOTES PAYABLE (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Notes payable to former minority shareholders of BPA, bearing interest at 5% per
annum, with principal and interest payable in four equal annual installments
beginning April 30, 1994, collateralized by BPA common stock held by the
Company. These notes provide for a deferral in the payment of both principal
and interest of no more than nine months at the election of the Company. The
interest rate on the deferred principal ranges from 0% to 7% per annum and is
based on BPA's revenue between 1994 and 1996. The Company has elected to defer
the third and fourth payments until January 31, 1997 and 1998, respectively. 300,000
---------
Total notes payable 516,158
Less current portion (366,158)
---------
Total notes payable - net of current portion $ 150,000
=========
Scheduled principal payments for years ending December 31st are as follows:
1997 366,158
1998 150,000
---------
Total notes payable $ 516,158
=========
</TABLE>
At December 31, 1996, the fair value of the Company's notes payable was
$498,467. The fair value was estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based
on the Company's incremental borrowing rate for similar types of borrowing
arrangements.
12. PURCHASE OF MINORITY INTERESTS
On May 11, 1995, BPC purchased from an officer and minority shareholder of BPC
(the "Officer"), 167 shares of BPC's issued and outstanding shares of common
stock in exchange for $20,000 cash and an agreement to pay $50,000 on May 1,
1996 and May 1, 1997. In the event a payment is not made timely by BPC, the
Officer shall have the right to receive 167 shares of common stock in lieu of
payment (Note 9). Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses was
increased by $75,255 and is being amortized over the remaining life of the
original estimated period of future benefit of five years associated with the
acquisition of BPC (Note 6). The carrying value of the minority interest
purchased was $44,745.
On September 19, 1995, BPA purchased from a minority shareholder of BPA, 418
shares of BPA's issued and outstanding shares of common stock in exchange for a
note payable of $269,200. The note bears interest at 6% per annum with principal
and interest payable in twenty-four equal monthly installments beginning October
1, 1995. The note is collateralized by BPA common stock held by the Company, and
the Company has provided a guaranty of this obligation. Approximately $40,000 of
the excess purchase price over the net assets acquired was added to Costs in
excess of net assets of acquired businesses and is being amortized over the
remaining life of the original estimated period of future benefit of five years
associated with the acquisition of BPA with the balance of the excess
written-off in 1995 (Note 6). The carrying value of the minority interest
purchased was $90,758.
On May 7, 1996, BPA purchased from a minority shareholder of BPA, 182 shares of
BPA's issued and outstanding shares of common stock in exchange for $50,000
cash. Costs in excess of net assets of acquired businesses was decreased by
$1,704 (Note 6). The carrying value of the minority interest purchased was
$51,704.
F-14
<PAGE> 27
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
12. PURCHASE OF MINORITY INTERESTS (CONTINUED)
On July 27, 1996, BPA purchased from a minority shareholder of BPA, 700 shares
of BPA's issued and outstanding shares of common stock in exchange for $42,500
cash and a note payable of $150,000. The note bore interest at Bank One,
Arizona, NA's prime rate with interest only payable September 1, 1996 and
principal and interest payable in three equal monthly installments beginning
October 1, 1996. At December 31, 1996, the note was paid in full. The carrying
value of the minority interest purchased was $165,902.
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Operating Leases
BPA and BPC have entered into leases for office space and certain equipment
under agreements that have classified as operating leases for financial
reporting purposes. In connection with the office space leases, BPA and BPC are
responsible for certain monthly operating and maintenance expenses. A portion of
one of BPA's facilities has been subleased. Rent expense under all operating
leases, net of sublease income of $67,877 and $51,531 for the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively, was $419,641 and $411,906 for the
years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
Scheduled minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases for the
years ending December 31st are as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1997 $365,834
1998 244,606
1999 137,061
2000 13,483
2001 9,533
--------
Total minimum operating lease payments $770,517
========
</TABLE>
Employment Agreement
On October 14, 1993, BPC entered into an employment agreement (the "Agreement")
with an officer and minority shareholder of BPC. The Agreement specifies
compensation and incentive amounts and includes a non-competition clause.
Incentive amounts are to be paid if certain BPC profit goals are achieved. Such
amounts are expensed at the time they are earned and are determined on an annual
basis.
California Revenue
In 1996, the Company revised its contracts with its California clients
("Engagement Agreements"), specifically revising its method of billing. The
decision to revise the Engagement Agreements was based on market conditions as
well as current practice by the Company's major competitors. During the last two
months of 1996, the Company recorded $3,276,123 in consulting revenue associated
with the new Engagement Agreements.
The Company has received several inquiries from its customers regarding invoices
billed under the new billing method. At this time, it is uncertain how much of
an increase the Company will experience in its bad debt expense as a result of
changing its billing method. In light of this uncertainty, management has
provided an additional bad debt provision of approximately $1,378,700 for the
year ended December 31, 1996.
F-15
<PAGE> 28
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Court Case under Appeal
During 1992, a judgment was rendered in Tax Court (the "1992 Judgment") in a
court case in which BPA had appealed a 1990 property tax valuation on behalf of
a client. The 1992 Judgment resulted in a significant property tax savings for
the client on which BPA's contingency fee was approximately $82,000. The taxing
authority subsequently filed an appeal to the Court of Appeals. The Court of
Appeals upheld the original 1992 Judgment and rejected a motion to reconsider.
The taxing authority then filed an appeal to the Arizona Supreme Court. The
Arizona Supreme Court reversed both the Court of Appeals' and the Tax Court's
decisions and judgments. The case is now back before the Tax Court and will be
heard along with other pending appeals for the 1991 through 1994 tax years filed
by BPA on behalf of the client. At December 31, 1996, the case remains
unresolved. During 1993, the County Treasurer made a payment to BPA on behalf of
BPA's client related to the 1992 Judgment of which $102,000 represents BPA's
contingent fee plus interest. Such amount is included in Deferred revenue
pending the completion of the appeal process.
As a result of the 1992 Judgment, the Company's management and legal counsel has
estimated total contingency fees of approximately $435,000 for the 1990 through
1994 tax years related to the same client. Such amount has not been accrued at
December 31, 1996 pending the completion of the appeal process.
Litigation
In January 1991, the Company filed a voluntary petition for protection under
Title 11 of the U.S. Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern
District of California (the "Bankruptcy Court"). The Company's First Amended
Plan of Reorganization, as modified (the "Plan"), was confirmed by the
Bankruptcy Court on May 24, 1993, and the effective date pursuant to the terms
of the Plan was July 15, 1993. On May 13, 1996, the Bankruptcy Court issued an
order at the Company's request which (i) confirmed that the Company's Plan had
been fully administered and (ii) closed the Company's Chapter 11 case.
In January 1994, as part of the Plan, the Company settled a disputed claim with
an individual for $100,000, the payment of which was to be made to the
individual from the last $100,000 owed and paid by St. George Crystal, Ltd.
("SGC") on certain promissory notes, stocks and warrants (the "Notes"). In
December 1994, the Company sold its remaining 30% undivided interest in the
Notes. In February 1995, and again on May 6, 1996, the Company and the
court-appointed receiver for the Notes, received notice from the individual that
as a result of the Company's disposition of the Notes, the $100,000 owed to such
individual was due. The Company believes that no payment is due to such
individual at this time and in the event the Company were to make such payment
it would be indemnified. To date, no suit has been filed against the Company of
which the Company is aware.
In April 1995, litigation was commenced by SGC in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
against the Company and others with regard to enforcement of obligations owing
under the Notes executed by SGC and the validity of the assignment of the Notes
by the Company. The case was transferred to the Bankruptcy Court. On March 6,
1996, the Bankruptcy Court issued an Order Dismissing Adversary Proceeding which
provided in part that "Defendant Ironstone Group, Inc....and Defendant Michael
Y. McGovern hold(s) no interest in the proceeds of the [SGC Loan Documents],"
thereby confirming the validity of the assignment.
On June 10, 1996, a settlement agreement was entered into by SGC and various
other parties settling most but not all disputes among them. In particular, the
individual's claim against the Company for $100,000 referred to in the first
paragraph above seems to be resolved by the settlement.
Other than legal proceedings in which BPA and BPC are involved in the ordinary
course of business, the Company is not a party to any other material legal
proceedings.
F-16
<PAGE> 29
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Put and Call Rights
The BPC shares held by the minority shareholder are subject to call by the
Company at a price equal to the appraised fair market value at the time of call.
After September 30, 1998, the minority shareholder has the right to require the
Company to purchase the same shares at the appraised fair market value at the
time of the transaction. Both the put and call options expire on December 31,
1999.
14. DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN
The Company has adopted a defined contribution plan under Section 401(k) of the
Internal Revenue Code (the "401(k) Plan"). Under the 401(k) Plan, employees may
contribute a maximum of 15% of their annual wages subject to certain
restrictions. Company contributions are discretionary and are equal to a
percentage of the employee's eligible contributions. All employees are eligible
to participate in the 401(k) Plan. Company contributions were $15,334 and $0 for
the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
15. STOCK OPTIONS
The Company has adopted a 1989 Equity Incentive Plan, a 1993 Non-Employee
Directors' Stock Option Plan and a 1994 Equity Incentive Plan (collectively,
the "Plans"). In March 1994, the 1989 Equity Incentive Plan was amended to
reduce the number of shares reserved thereunder and the Board of Directors
determined that no further option grants would be made under this plan. The
Plans provide for incentive stock options to be granted at times and prices
determined by the Company's Board of Directors, to be granted at not less than
100% of the fair market value of the Company's common stock on the date of
grant. Options are generally subject to a three or four-year vesting schedule.
Options issued under the Plans expire at the earlier of the end of the exercise
period of no more than ten years from the date of grant or 90 days following
the grantee's end of service to the Company.
A summary of stock option transactions during 1996 and 1995 is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES
AVAILABLE EXERCISE
OPTIONS FOR PRICE PER
OUTSTANDING GRANT SHARE
----------- ----- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Balance, December 31, 1994 79,980 259,300 $3.00
Granted 52,308 (52,308) $4.00
Expired (15,780) 15,780 $4.00
------- ------
Balance, December 31, 1995 116,508 222,772
Granted (4,370) (4,370) $4.00
Expired (15,485) 15,485 $4.00
Balance, December 31, 1996 105,393 233,887 $3.00-4.00
======= =======
</TABLE>
F-17
<PAGE> 30
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
15. STOCK OPTIONS (CONTINUED)
The Company applies APB 25 and related interpretations in accounting for the
Plans. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been recognized for the Plans,
as the options are granted at not less than 100% of the fair market value of the
Company's common stock. Had compensation cost been determined based upon the
fair market value on the date of grant for awards under the Plans consistent
with the methodology prescribed under Statement of Financial Accounting Standard
No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," the Company's net income for
the year ended December 31, 1996 would have been decreased by $8,980 and the
Company's net loss for the year ended December 31, 1995 would have been
increased by $8,718. The fair market value of the options granted during 1996 is
estimated as $1,049 on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing
model with the following assumptions: no dividend yield, volatility rate of 66%,
risk free interest rate of 6%, assumed no forfeiture rate and expected life of
four years. The fair market value of the options granted during 1995 is
estimated as $34,871 on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing
model with the following assumptions: no dividend yield, volatility rate of 77%,
risk free interest rate of 6%, assumed no forfeiture rate and expected life of
four years.
16. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In addition to the related party transactions described elsewhere in the
accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes, the Company had the
following related party transactions:
During 1995, the Company paid former minority shareholders of BPA consulting
fees of $122,240.
Interest expense related to incentive amounts payable to a minority shareholder
of BPC was $6,464 for the year ended December 31, 1996.
Interest expense related to notes payable to former minority shareholders of BPA
was $45,441 and $66,212 for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.
At December 31, 1996, the Company owed $8,793 to former minority shareholders of
BPA related to interest on notes payable. Such amount is included in Accrued
interest payable.
At December 31, 1996, former minority shareholders of BPA owed $13,500 to the
Company. Such amount is included in Accounts receivable (Note 3).
During 1995, the Company paid Hambrecht and Quist LLC, a major shareholder of
the Company, brokerage commissions of $5,880.
17. NON-OPERATING EXPENSES
During 1995, the Company incurred $291,387 to develop an on-line resume and
career placement service ("Placement Service"). As of September 30, 1995, the
Company ceased development of the Placement Service. All costs and expenses
related to the development of the Placement Service are included in
Non-operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 1995.
During 1995 and 1994, the Company incurred $153,558 to develop a sales and use
tax software computer program for resale ("Software Program"). All costs related
to the Software Program were initially capitalized to Other current assets. As
of December 31, 1995, the Company abandoned the resale of the Software Program.
All costs related to the Software Program have been written-off and are included
in Non-operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 1995.
F-18
<PAGE> 31
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
18. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In March 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standard No. 121 "Accounting for the Impairment of
Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of" ("SFAS No. 121").
This statement establishes accounting standards for the impairment of long-lived
assets, certain identifiable intangibles,and goodwill related to those assets to
be held and used and for long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangibles
to be disposed of. Management of the Company has reviewed the Company's assets
for impairment and concluded that the impact on the Company's financial position
and results of operations from adopting SFAS No. 121 is not significant.
19. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On March 15, 1997, the office space lease in the Company's Larkspur, California
location expired. On February 26, 1997, the Company entered into a lease for
office space in San Rafael, California. The new lease term is for the period
March 15, 1997 through March 14, 2000 with an annual rent of $17,316, including
certain operating and maintenance expenses. The lease provides for the
escalation of future rents on an annual basis based on the Consumer Price Index,
not to exceed 5% per year, as well as increases in certain operating and
maintenance expenses.
***
F-19
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 11.1
IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1995 1996
------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C>
PRIMARY AND FULLY DILUTED:
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders $ 568,329 $(1,369,364)
============ ===========
Average outstanding common and equivalent shares 1,487,870 1,487,870
============ ===========
Net income (loss) per common and equivalent share $ 0.38 $ (0.92)
============ ===========
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE> 1
EXHIBIT 21.1
SUBSIDIARIES OF IRONSTONE GROUP, INC.
AcadiEnergy, Inc., a Delaware corporation, is a 100%-owned subsidiary of the
Company.
Belt Perry Associates, Inc., an Arizona corporation, ("BPA") is a 100%-owned
subsidiary of the Company.
Belt Perry Associates, Inc., a California corporation, is 81.63% owned by BPA
and 16.33% owned by the Company.
DeMoss Corporation, a California corporation, is a 100%-owned subsidiary of the
Company.
TaxNet, Inc., an Arizona corporation, is a 100%-owned subsidiary of BPA.
14
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-1996
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1996
<CASH> 529,543
<SECURITIES> 1,386,011
<RECEIVABLES> 6,331,789
<ALLOWANCES> 2,405,026
<INVENTORY> 0
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 5,952,170
<PP&E> 401,302
<DEPRECIATION> 227,061
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 6,294,504
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 2,218,564
<BONDS> 579,651
0
0
<COMMON> 14,879
<OTHER-SE> 3,899,148
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 6,294,504
<SALES> 0
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 8,581,212
<CGS> 0
<TOTAL-COSTS> 8,002,501
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
<LOSS-PROVISION> 2,008,985
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 105,040
<INCOME-PRETAX> 621,379
<INCOME-TAX> 53,050
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 568,329
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 568,329
<EPS-PRIMARY> 0.38
<EPS-DILUTED> 0.38
</TABLE>
