Biglari Holdings Inc. - Quarter Report: 2020 March (Form 10-Q)

PART 1 – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

BIGLARI HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(dollars in thousands)

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

BIGLARI HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

(dollars in thousands except per share amounts)

*Net earnings (loss) per equivalent Class B share outstanding are one-fifth of the equivalent Class A share or $(80.07) for the first quarter of 2020 and $5.67 for the first quarter of 2019.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(dollars in thousands)

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

BIGLARI HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(dollars in thousands)

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

BIGLARI HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(Unaudited)

(dollars in thousands)

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

BIGLARI HOLDINGS INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

March 31, 2020

(dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)

Note 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Description of Business

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Biglari Holdings Inc. (“Biglari Holdings” or the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) applicable to interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. In our opinion, all adjustments considered necessary to present fairly the results of the interim periods have been included and consist only of normal recurring adjustments. The results for the interim periods shown are not necessarily indicative of results for the entire fiscal year. The financial statements contained herein should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

Biglari Holdings is a holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in a number of diverse business activities, including property and casualty insurance, media and licensing, restaurants, and oil and gas. The Company’s largest operating subsidiaries are involved in the franchising and operating of restaurants. Biglari Holdings is founded and led by Sardar Biglari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. The Company’s long-term objective is to maximize per-share intrinsic value. All major investment and capital allocation decisions are made for the Company and its subsidiaries by Mr. Biglari.

As of March 31, 2020, Mr. Biglari’s beneficial ownership was approximately 64.4% of the Company’s outstanding Class A common stock and 55.4% of the Company’s outstanding Class B common stock.

The novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, which caused governments to contain its spread, thereby significantly affecting our operating businesses beginning in March and will likely adversely affect nearly all of our operations in the second quarter. The risks and uncertainties resulting from the pandemic that may affect our future earnings, cash flows and financial condition include the nature and duration of the curtailment or closure and the long-term effect on the demand for our products and services.

Business Acquisition

On March 9, 2020, Biglari Holdings acquired the stock of Southern Pioneer Property & Casualty Insurance Company, and its agency, Southern Pioneer Insurance Agency, Inc. (collectively “Southern Pioneer”). Southern Pioneer underwrites specialty insurance products including garage liability insurance, commercial property coverage for auto dealers as well as homeowners, dwelling fire insurance and credit-related insurance coverages. The financial results for Southern Pioneer from the acquisition date to the end of the first quarter are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The acquisition date fair values of assets and liabilities of Southern Pioneer are provisional and subject to revision as the related valuations are completed. Pro-forma financial information of Southern Pioneer is not material.

On September 9, 2019, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, Southern Oil Company, acquired the stock of Southern Oil of Louisiana Inc. (collectively “Southern Oil”). Southern Oil primarily operates oil and natural gas properties offshore in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Pro-forma financial information of Southern Oil is not material.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries including Steak n Shake Inc. (“Steak n Shake”), Western Sizzlin Corporation (“Western Sizzlin”), Maxim Inc. (“Maxim”), Southern Oil, First Guard Insurance Company (“First Guard”), and Southern Pioneer.  Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. 

Note 2. New Accounting Standards

In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses: Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. ASU 2016-13 amends guidance on reporting credit losses for assets held at amortized cost basis and available for sale debt securities. For available for sale debt securities, credit losses should be measured in a manner similar to current GAAP; however, ASU 2016-13 requires that credit losses be presented as an allowance rather than as a write-down. The amendments in this update are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company adopted ASU 2016-13 effective January 1, 2020. The impact of this standard is not material to the Company’s financial statements and related disclosures.

Note 3. Earnings Per Share

Earnings per share of common stock is based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year. The shares of Company stock attributable to our limited partner interest in The Lion Fund, L.P. and The Lion Fund II, L.P. (collectively, the “investment partnerships”) — based on our proportional ownership during this period — are considered treasury stock on the consolidated balance sheet and thereby deemed not to be included in the calculation of weighted average common shares outstanding. However, these shares are legally outstanding.

The following table presents shares authorized, issued and outstanding on March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019.

The Company has applied the “two-class method” of computing earnings per share as prescribed in ASC 260, “Earnings Per Share.” 

On an equivalent Class A common stock basis, there were 620,592 shares outstanding as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019. There are no dilutive securities outstanding.

For financial reporting purposes, the proportional ownership of the Company’s common stock owned by the investment partnerships is excluded in the earnings per share calculation. After giving effect for the investment partnerships’ proportional ownership of common stock, the equivalent Class A weighted average number of common shares during the first quarters of 2020 and 2019 were 344,391 and 346,223, respectively.

Note 4. Investments

Available for sale investments were $76,789 and $40,393 as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Investments in equity securities and a related derivative position of $4,463 are also included in investments. The investments are recorded at fair value. The fair value of investments acquired with Southern Pioneer was $36,876.

Note 5. Investment Partnerships

The Company reports on the limited partnership interests in investment partnerships under the equity method of accounting. We record our proportional share of equity in the investment partnerships but exclude Company common stock held by said partnerships. The Company’s pro-rata share of its common stock held by the investment partnerships is recorded as treasury stock even though they are legally outstanding.  The Company records gains/losses from investment partnerships (inclusive of the investment partnerships’ unrealized gains and losses on their securities) in the consolidated statements of earnings based on our carrying value of these partnerships. The fair value is calculated net of the general partner’s accrued incentive fees. Gains and losses on Company common stock included in the earnings of these partnerships are eliminated because they are recorded as treasury stock. 

Biglari Capital Corp. (“Biglari Capital”) is the general partner of the investment partnerships and is an entity solely owned by Mr. Biglari. 

Note 5. Investment Partnerships (continued)

The fair value and adjustment for Company common stock held by the investment partnerships to determine the carrying value of our partnership interest is presented below.

The carrying value of the investment partnerships net of deferred taxes is presented below.

The Company’s proportionate share of Company stock held by investment partnerships at cost is $373,768 and $374,857 at March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, and is recorded as treasury stock.

The carrying value of the partnership interest approximates fair value adjusted by the value of held Company stock. Fair value is according to our proportional ownership interest of the fair value of investments held by the investment partnerships. The fair value measurement is classified as level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Gains/losses from investment partnerships recorded in the Company’s consolidated statements of earnings are presented below.

On December 31 of each year, the general partner of the investment partnerships, Biglari Capital, will earn an incentive reallocation fee for the Company’s investments equal to 25% of the net profits above an annual hurdle rate of 6% over the previous high-water mark. Our policy is to accrue an estimated incentive fee throughout the year. The total incentive reallocation from Biglari Holdings to Biglari Capital includes gains on the Company’s common stock. Gains and losses on the Company’s common stock and the related incentive reallocations are eliminated in our financial statements. Our investments in these partnerships are committed on a rolling 5-year basis.

There were no incentive reallocations from Biglari Holdings to Biglari Capital during the first quarters of 2020 and 2019. 

Note 5. Investment Partnerships (continued)

Summarized financial information for The Lion Fund, L.P. and The Lion Fund II, L.P. is presented below.

Revenue in the above summarized financial information of the investment partnerships includes investment income and unrealized gains and losses on investments.

Note 6. Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is composed of the following.

Depletion expense related to oil and gas properties was $4,737 during the first quarter of 2020 and is included in depreciation and amortization within the consolidated statement of earnings.

The COVID-19 pandemic had an adverse effect on our restaurant operations, thereby resulting in the evaluation of company-operated restaurants for recoverability. Consequently, the Company recorded impairment charges of $10,300 for the first quarter of 2020 because of the decision to permanently close 51 Steak n Shake restaurants as well as the expected impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the future operating performance of other company-operated restaurants. The Company recorded an impairment to long-lived assets of $1,900 in the first quarter of 2019 primarily related to Steak n Shake closed stores. The fair value of the long-lived assets was determined based on Level 3 inputs using a discounted cash flow model.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused oil demand to significantly decrease, creating oversupplied markets, and resulting in lower commodity prices and margins. The Company evaluated the potential impact on its oil and gas properties, but concluded they were not impaired during the first quarter of 2020. However, protracted low commodity prices may require impairments in future periods.

The duration and extent of the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be reasonably estimated at this time. The risks and uncertainties resulting from the pandemic may lead to future impairment of long-lived assets including right of use assets. In addition, significant estimates and assumptions used in the evaluation of long-lived assets for impairment may be subject to significant adjustments in future periods. 

Note 7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill

Goodwill consists of the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired in connection with business acquisitions. The Company purchased Southern Pioneer on March 9, 2020. The preliminary purchase price allocation reflects goodwill of $11,865.

A reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of goodwill is as follows.

We evaluate goodwill and any indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually, or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. Goodwill impairment occurs when the estimated fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying value. The valuation methodology and underlying financial information included in our determination of fair value require significant management judgments. We use both market and income approaches to derive fair value. The judgments in these two approaches include, but are not limited to, comparable market multiples, long-term projections of future financial performance, and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results. No impairment charges for goodwill were recorded in the first quarters of 2020 or 2019.

In response to the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, we considered whether goodwill needed to be evaluated for impairment as of March 31, 2020, specifically related to goodwill for certain restaurant reporting units.  Making estimates of the fair value of reporting units at this time are significantly affected by assumptions on the severity, duration and long-term effects of the pandemic on the reporting unit’s operations.  We considered the available facts and made qualitative assessments and judgments for what we believed represent reasonably possible outcomes. Although the fair values of certain of these reporting units declined since the time that the most recent annual impairment tests were conducted, we concluded it is more likely than not that goodwill was not impaired as of March 31, 2020.  However, COVID-19 pandemic events will continue to evolve and the negative effects on our operations could prove to be worse than we currently estimate and lead us to record goodwill or indefinite-lived asset impairment charges prior to the next annual impairment review.

Other Intangible Assets

Other intangible assets are composed of the following.

Intangible assets subject to amortization consist of franchise agreements connected with the purchase of Western Sizzlin as well as rights to favorable leases related to prior acquisitions. These intangible assets are being amortized over their estimated weighted average of useful lives ranging from eight to twelve years. Amortization expense for the first quarters of 2020 and 2019 was $136 and $137, respectively. The Company’s intangible assets with definite lives will fully amortize in 2020. Intangible assets with indefinite lives consist of trade names, franchise rights as well as lease rights.

Note 8. Restaurant Operations Revenues

Restaurant operations revenues were as follows.

Net sales

Net sales are composed of retail sales of food through company-operated stores. Company-operated store revenues are recognized, net of discounts and sales taxes, when our obligation to perform is satisfied at the point of sale. Sales taxes related to these sales are collected from customers and remitted to the appropriate taxing authority and are not reflected in the Company’s consolidated statements of earnings as revenue.

Franchise royalties and fees

Franchise royalties and fees are composed of royalties and fees from Steak n Shake and Western Sizzlin franchisees. Royalties are based upon a percentage of sales of the franchise restaurant and are recognized as earned. Franchise royalties are billed on a monthly basis. Initial franchise fees when a new restaurant opens or at the start of a new franchise term are recorded as deferred revenue when received and recognized as revenue over the term of the franchise agreement. Our advertising arrangements with franchisees are reported in franchise royalties and fees. 

Franchise partner fees

Steak n Shake is in the process of transitioning company-operated restaurants to franchise partners. The franchise agreement stipulates that the franchisee make an upfront investment totaling ten thousand dollars. Potential franchise partners are screened based on entrepreneurial attitude and ability, but they become franchise partners based on achievement. Each must meet the gold standard in service. Franchise partners are required to be hands-on operators. We limit a franchisee to a single location. As the franchisor Steak n Shake assesses a fee of up to 15% of sales as well as 50% of profits.

Gift card revenue

Restaurant operations sells gift cards to customers which can be redeemed for retail food sales within our stores. Gift cards are recorded as deferred revenue when issued and are subsequently recorded as net sales upon redemption. Restaurant operations estimates breakage related to gift cards when the likelihood of redemption is remote. This estimate utilizes historical trends based on the vintage of the gift card. Breakage on gift cards is recorded as other revenue in proportion to the rate of gift card redemptions by vintage. 

Note 9. Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses

Accounts payable and accrued expenses include the following.

 Note 10. Notes Payable and Other Borrowings

Notes payable and other borrowings include the following.

Steak n Shake Credit Facility

On March 19, 2014, Steak n Shake and its subsidiaries entered into a credit agreement which provided for a senior secured term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $220,000. The term loan is scheduled to mature on March 19, 2021. As of March 31, 2020, $159,219 was outstanding. The Company is evaluating refinancing options. Alternative financing may not be available on terms commensurate with its current financing arrangement. In addition, the duration of the pandemic could have a material adverse effect on financing options or Steak n Shake’s ability to comply with the terms of its credit agreement. Biglari Holdings is not a guarantor under the credit facility.

The term loan amortizes in equal quarterly installments at an annual rate of 1.0% of the original principal amount of the term loan, subject to mandatory prepayments from excess cash flow, asset sales and other events described in the credit agreement. The balance will be due at maturity.

Interest on the term loan is based on a Eurodollar rate plus an applicable margin of 3.75% or on the prime rate plus an applicable margin of 2.75%. The interest rate on the term loan was 5.36% as of March 31, 2020.

The credit agreement includes customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. Steak n Shake’s credit facility contains restrictions on its ability to pay dividends to Biglari Holdings.

The term loan is secured by first priority security interests in substantially all the assets of Steak n Shake. Disruptions in debt capital markets that restrict access to funding when needed could adversely affect the results of operations, liquidity and capital resources of Steak n Shake.

The fair value of long-term debt, excluding capitalized lease obligations, was approximately $80,000 at March 31, 2020. The fair value of our debt was estimated based on quoted market prices. The fair value was determined to be a Level 3 fair value measurement.

The Company retired $21,729 of debt on February 18, 2020.

Western Sizzlin Revolver

Western Sizzlin had $50 and $0 of debt outstanding under its revolver as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. 

Note 11. Leased Assets and Lease Commitments

A significant portion of our operating and finance lease portfolio includes restaurant locations. The Company’s operating leases with a term of 12 months or greater were recognized as operating right-of-use assets and liabilities and recorded as operating lease assets and operating lease liabilities. Historical capital leases and certain historical build-to-suit leases were reclassified from obligations under leases to finance lease assets and liabilities. Finance lease assets are recorded in property and equipment and finance lease liabilities are recorded in notes payable and other borrowings. Historical sale-and-leaseback transactions in which the Company is deemed to have a continued interest in the leased asset are recorded as property and equipment and as finance obligations. Finance obligations are recorded in notes payable and other borrowings.

Operating lease expense and finance lease depreciation expense are recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Total lease cost consists of the following.

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases is as follows.

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases is as follows.

Weighted-average lease terms and discount rates are as follows.

Note 11. Leased Assets and Lease Commitments (continued)

Maturities of lease liabilities as of March 31, 2020 are as follows.

Note 12. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

During the first quarters of 2020 and 2019, accumulated other comprehensive losses decreased by $312 and $304, respectively, due to changes in foreign currency translation adjustments. As of March 31, 2020 and 2019, the balances in accumulated comprehensive loss were $3,122 and $2,820, respectively. There were no reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the first quarters of 2020 and 2019.

Note 13. Income Taxes

In determining the quarterly provision for income taxes, the Company used a discrete effective tax rate method based on statutory tax rates for the first quarters of 2020 and 2019. Our periodic effective income tax rate is affected by the relative mix of pre-tax earnings or losses and underlying income tax rates applicable to the various taxing jurisdictions.

Income tax benefit for the first quarter of 2020 was $43,830 compared to an income tax expense of $1,744 for the first quarter of 2019.  The variance in income taxes between 2020 and 2019 is attributable to taxes on income generated by the investment partnerships. Investment partnership pretax losses were $175,742 during the first quarter of 2020, compared to pretax gains of $34,154 during the first quarter of 2019.

As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, we had $348 of unrecognized tax benefits, which are included in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

Note 14. Commitments and Contingencies

We are involved in various legal proceedings and have certain unresolved claims pending. We believe, based on examination of these matters and experiences to date, that the ultimate liability, if any, in excess of amounts already provided in our consolidated financial statements is not likely to have a material effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash flow.

On January 29, 2018, a shareholder of the Company filed a purported class action complaint against the Company and the members of our Board of Directors in the Superior Court of Hamilton County, Indiana. The shareholder generally alleges claims of breach of fiduciary duty by the members of our Board of Directors and unjust enrichment to Mr. Biglari as a result of the dual class structure.

On March 26, 2018, a shareholder of the Company filed a purported class action complaint against the Company and the members of our Board of Directors in the Superior Court of Hamilton County, Indiana. This shareholder generally alleges claims of breach of fiduciary duty by the members of our Board of Directors. This shareholder sought to enjoin the shareholder vote on April 26, 2018 to approve the dual class structure. On April 16, 2018, the shareholder withdrew the motion to enjoin the shareholder vote on April 26, 2018.

On May 17, 2018, the shareholders who filed the January 29, 2018 complaint and the March 26, 2018 complaint filed a new, consolidated complaint against the Company and the members of our Board of Directors in the Superior Court of Hamilton County, Indiana. The shareholders generally allege claims of breach of fiduciary duty by the members of our Board of Directors and unjust enrichment to Mr. Biglari arising out of the dual class structure, including the ability to vote the Company’s shares that are eliminated for financial reporting purposes. The shareholders seek, for themselves and on behalf of all other shareholders as a class, a declaration that the defendants breached their duty to the shareholders and the class, and to recover unspecified damages, pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, and an award of their attorneys’ fees and other costs.

Note 14. Commitments and Contingencies (continued)

On December 14, 2018, the judge of the Superior Court of Hamilton County, Indiana issued an order granting the Company’s motion to dismiss the shareholders’ lawsuits. On January 11, 2019, the shareholders filed an appeal of the judge’s order dismissing the lawsuits. On December 4, 2019, the Indiana Court of Appeals issued a unanimous decision affirming the trial court’s decision to dismiss the shareholder litigation. On January 20, 2020, the shareholders filed a petition to transfer with the Indiana Supreme Court seeking review of the decision of the Court of Appeals.  The Company opposed the petition.  On April 7, 2020, the Indiana Supreme Court denied the petition to transfer. All of the cases referenced above are completed and each case was concluded in the Company’s favor.

Note 15. Fair Value of Financial Assets

The fair values of substantially all of our financial instruments were measured using market or income approaches. Considerable judgment may be required in interpreting market data used to develop the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the fair values presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in an actual current market exchange. The use of alternative market assumptions and/or estimation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair value.

The hierarchy for measuring fair value consists of Levels 1 through 3, which are described below.

The following methods and assumptions were used to determine the fair value of each class of the following assets recorded at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets:

Cash equivalents: Cash equivalents primarily consist of money market funds which are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Equity securities: The Company’s investments in equity securities are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. 

Bonds: The Company’s investments in bonds are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Non-qualified deferred compensation plan investments: The assets of the non-qualified plan are set up in a rabbi trust. They represent mutual funds and publicly traded securities, each of which are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Options related to equity securities are marked to market each reporting period and are classified within Levels 1 and 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the instrument.

Note 15. Fair Value of Financial Assets (continued)

As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the fair values of financial assets were as follows.

There were no changes in our valuation techniques used to measure fair values on a recurring basis.

Note 16. Related Party Transactions

Services Agreement

During 2017, the Company entered into a services agreement with Biglari Enterprises LLC and Biglari Capital Corp. (collectively, the “Biglari Entities”) under which the Biglari Entities provide services to the Company. The services agreement has a five-year term, effective on October 1, 2017. The fixed fee of $700 per month can be adjusted annually. The monthly fee will remain at $700 during 2020. The Company paid Biglari Enterprises $2,100 in service fees during the first quarter of 2020 and 2019. The services agreement does not alter the hurdle rate connected with the incentive reallocation paid to Biglari Capital Corp. The Biglari Entities are owned by Mr. Biglari.

Incentive Agreement Amendment

The Incentive Agreement was amended on March 26, 2019 to remove the annual limitation on Mr. Biglari’s incentive compensation, as well as the requirement of Mr. Biglari to use 30% of his incentive payments to purchase shares of the Company. In connection with the amendment, the change of control and severance provisions contained in the Incentive Agreement were eliminated and the License Agreement was terminated. The amendment became effective in 2019.

Note 17. Business Segment Reporting

Our reportable business segments are organized in a manner that reflects how management views those business activities. Our restaurant operations include Steak n Shake and Western Sizzlin. Our insurance operations include First Guard and Southern Pioneer. The Company also reports segment information for Maxim and Southern Oil. Other business activities not specifically identified with reportable business segments are presented in corporate. We report our earnings from investment partnerships separate from our corporate expenses. We assess and measure segment operating results based on segment earnings as disclosed below. Segment earnings from operations are neither necessarily indicative of cash available to fund cash requirements, nor synonymous with cash flow from operations. The tabular information that follows shows data of our reportable segments reconciled to amounts reflected in the consolidated financial statements.

Note 17. Business Segment Reporting (continued)

A disaggregation of our consolidated data for the first quarter of 2020 and 2019 is presented in the tables which follow.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

(dollars in thousands except per share data)

Overview

Biglari Holdings is a holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in a number of diverse business activities, including property and casualty insurance, media and licensing, restaurants, and oil and gas. The Company’s largest operating subsidiaries are involved in the franchising and operating of restaurants. Biglari Holdings is founded and led by Sardar Biglari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. The Company’s long-term objective is to maximize per-share intrinsic value. All major investment and capital allocation decisions are made for the Company and its subsidiaries by Mr. Biglari.

As of March 31, 2020, Mr. Biglari’s beneficial ownership was approximately 64.4% of the Company’s outstanding Class A common stock and 55.4% of the Company’s outstanding Class B common stock.

On March 9, 2020, Biglari Holdings acquired the stock of Southern Pioneer Property & Casualty Insurance Company and its agency, Southern Pioneer Insurance Agency, Inc. (collectively “Southern Pioneer”). The financial results for Southern Pioneer from the acquisition date to the end of the first quarter are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

On September 9, 2019, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, Southern Oil Company, acquired the stock of Southern Oil of Louisiana Inc. (collectively “Southern Oil”). Southern Oil primarily operates oil and natural gas properties offshore in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Net earnings (loss) attributable to Biglari Holdings shareholders are disaggregated in the table that follows. Amounts are recorded after deducting income taxes.

Restaurant businesses include Steak n Shake Inc. (“Steak n Shake”) and Western Sizzlin Corporation (“Western Sizzlin”). Steak n Shake and Western Sizzlin are engaged in the ownership, operation, and franchising of restaurants.

Insurance businesses are composed of First Guard Insurance Company (“First Guard”) and Southern Pioneer. First Guard is a direct underwriter of commercial trucking insurance, selling physical damage and nontrucking liability insurance to truckers. Southern Pioneer underwrites specialty insurance products including garage liability insurance, commercial property coverage for auto dealers as well as homeowners, dwelling fire insurance and credit-related insurance coverages.

Media and licensing business is composed of Maxim Inc. (“Maxim”).

Oil and gas business is composed of Southern Oil. Southern Oil primarily operates oil and natural gas properties offshore in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

Restaurants

Steak n Shake and Western Sizzlin comprise 605 company-operated and franchise restaurants as of March 31, 2020.

		Steak n Shake												Western Sizzlin
		Company- operated				Franchise Partner				Traditional Franchise				Company-operated				Franchise				Total
Total stores as of December 31, 2019			368				29				213				4				48				662
Corporate stores transitioned			(11	)			10				1				—				—				—
Net restaurants opened (closed)			(51	)			—				(6	)			—				—				(57	)
Total stores as of March 31, 2020			306				39				208				4				48				605
Total stores as of December 31, 2018			411				2				213				4				55				685
Corporate stores transitioned			(1	)			1				—				—				—				—
Net restaurants opened (closed)			(2	)			—				—				—				—				(2	)
Total stores as of March 31, 2019			408				3				213				4				55				683

Most of our restaurant dining rooms were closed by March 17, 2020 with the remainder closing before the end of the first quarter because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, as of March 31, 2020, 62 of the 306 company-operated stores were temporarily closed. As of March 31, 2019, 44 of the 408 company-operated stores were temporarily closed.

Earnings of our restaurant operations are summarized below.

Cost of food, restaurant operating costs and rent expense are expressed as a percentage of net sales.

General and administrative, marketing, other expenses, impairments and depreciation and amortization are expressed as a percentage of total revenue.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected our operations and financial results. During the first quarter, we closed the dining rooms in all our restaurants. However, most of our restaurants remained open with limited operations such as takeout, drive-through, and delivery. However, the COVID-19 pandemic could cause disruptions to our supply chain. Moreover, we cannot predict how the outbreak of COVID-19 will alter the future demand of our products.

Net sales decreased by $60,903 or 36.8% during first quarter 2020 compared to 2019. Franchise royalties and fees decreased by $1,443 or 21.7% during 2020 compared to 2019.

Franchise partner fees were $3,344 during first quarter 2020 compared to $258 during 2019. As of March 31, 2020, there were 39 franchise partner units as compared to three franchise partner units as of March 31, 2019.

Cost of food decreased as a percentage of net sales by 3.2% during the first quarter of 2020 compared to 2019. The decrease is primarily attributable to fewer promotional items.

Restaurant operating costs decreased as a percentage of net sales by 3.7% during the first quarter of 2020 compared to 2019. The decrease is primarily because of reduced labor costs.

General and administrative costs decreased by $8,203 during the first quarter of 2020 compared to 2019. The lower expenses were primarily because of non-recurring settlement expenses during 2019.

Marketing expense decreased by $4,309 in the first quarter of 2020 compared to 2019 primarily driven by a reduction in television and print advertising.

Steak n Shake recorded an impairment to long-lived assets of $10,300 and $1,900 in the first quarters of 2020 and 2019, respectively. The impairments are primarily attributable to the closure of Steak n Shake stores.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

Insurance

We view our insurance businesses as possessing two activities: underwriting and investing. Underwriting decisions are the responsibility of the unit managers, whereas investing decisions are the responsibility of our Chairman and CEO, Sardar Biglari. Business units are operated under separate local management.

Biglari Holdings’ insurance operations consist of First Guard and Southern Pioneer. First Guard is a direct underwriter of commercial trucking insurance, selling physical damage and nontrucking liability insurance to truckers. First Guard’s insurance products are marketed primarily through direct response methods via the Internet or by telephone.  First Guard’s cost-efficient direct response marketing methods enable it to be a low-cost trucking insurer. Southern Pioneer underwrites specialty insurance products including garage liability insurance, commercial property coverage for auto dealers as well as homeowners, dwelling fire insurance and credit-related insurance coverages. The financial results for Southern Pioneer are from the acquisition date (March 9, 2020) to the end of the quarter.

Premiums earned by the insurance group during the first quarter of 2020 were $8,842 and pre-tax underwriting gain during the first quarter of 2020 was $2,530. Premiums earned by First Guard during the first quarter of 2020 were $7,415, an increase of $554 or 8.1% compared to 2019. Pre-tax underwriting gain for First Guard during the first quarter of 2020 was $2,323, an increase of $1,122 or 93.4% compared to 2019.

Southern Pioneer’s operating results since the date of acquisition were not significant to Biglari Holdings for the quarter. However, we expect Southern Pioneer to have a major impact on our insurance results in future periods.

Earnings of our insurance operations are summarized below.

Insurance premiums and other on the consolidated statement of earnings includes premiums earned, investment income and commissions. In the table above, investment income and commissions are included in other income.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

Oil and Gas

Southern Oil primarily operates oil and natural gas properties offshore in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Southern Oil was acquired on September 9, 2019. Earnings for Southern Oil are summarized below.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused oil demand to significantly decrease, creating oversupplied markets, and resulting in lower commodity prices and margins. In response, the Company has significantly cut production and expenses. Southern Oil is a debt-free company.

Media and Licensing

Earnings of our media and licensing operations are summarized below.

We acquired Maxim with the idea of transforming its business model. The magazine developed the Maxim brand, a franchise we are utilizing to generate nonmagazine revenue, notably through licensing, a cash-generating business related to consumer products, services, and events.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

Investment Partnership Gains (Losses)

Earnings (loss) from our investments in partnerships are summarized below.

Investment partnership gains include gains/losses from changes in market values of underlying investments and dividends earned by the partnerships. Dividend income has a lower effective tax rate than income from capital gains. Changes in the market values of investments can be highly volatile.

The investment partnerships hold the Company’s common stock as investments. The Company’s pro-rata share of its common stock held by the investment partnerships is recorded as treasury stock even though these shares are legally outstanding. Gains and losses on Company common stock included in the earnings of the partnerships are eliminated.

Interest Expense and Debt Extinguishment

The Company’s interest expense is summarized below.

The Company recorded a gain on debt extinguishment of $4,346 ($3,260 net of tax) during the first quarter of 2020 in connection with Steak n Shake’s debt retirement of $21,729.

The outstanding balance on Steak n Shake’s credit facility on March 31, 2020 was $159,219 compared to $183,148 on March 31, 2019. The interest rate was 5.36% as of March 31, 2020 and 6.25% as of March 31, 2019.

Corporate

Corporate expenses exclude the activities in the restaurant, media and licensing, insurance, and oil and gas businesses. Corporate net losses during the first quarter of 2020 were relatively flat compared to the same period during 2019.

Income Taxes

Income tax benefit for the first quarter of 2020 was $43,830 compared to an income tax expense of $1,744 for the first quarter of 2019.  The variance in income taxes between 2020 and 2019 is attributable to taxes on income generated by the investment partnerships. Investment partnership pretax losses were $175,742 during the first quarter of 2020, compared to pretax gains of $34,154 during the first quarter of 2019.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (continued)

Financial Condition

Consolidated cash and investments are summarized below.

Liquidity

Our balance sheet continues to maintain significant liquidity. Consolidated cash flow activities are summarized below.

Cash provided by operating activities was $50,477 during the first quarter of 2020 compared to cash used in operating activities of $10,037 during the first quarter of 2019. The increase in cash provided by operations during 2020 compared to 2019 was primarily due to distributions from investment partnerships.

Cash used in investing activities during the first quarter of 2020 was $65,574 compared to $5,454 during the first quarter of 2019. Cash used in investing activities during the first quarter of 2020 included capital expenditures of $6,473, purchases of investments net of redemptions of fixed maturity securities of $26,685 and acquisition of business for $34,240 (net of cash acquired). Cash used in investing activities during the first quarter of 2019 included capital expenditures of $3,564 and purchases of investments net of redemptions of fixed maturity securities of $2,210.

During the first quarter of 2020 and 2019 we incurred debt payments of $19,458 and $1,968, respectively. On February 18, 2020, the Company retired $21,729 of term loan under Steak n Shake’s credit facility.

We intend to meet the working capital needs of our operating subsidiaries principally through anticipated cash flows generated from operations, cash on hand, existing credit facilities, and the sale of excess properties and investments. We continually review available financing alternatives.

Steak n Shake Credit Facility

On March 19, 2014, Steak n Shake and its subsidiaries entered into a credit agreement which provided for a senior secured term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $220,000. The term loan is scheduled to mature on March 19, 2021. As of March 31, 2020, $159,219 was outstanding. The Company is evaluating refinancing options. Alternative financing may not be available on terms commensurate with its current financing arrangement. In addition, the duration of the pandemic could have a material adverse effect on financing options or Steak n Shake’s ability to comply with the terms of its credit agreement. Biglari Holdings is not a guarantor under the credit facility.

The term loan amortizes in equal quarterly installments at an annual rate of 1.0% of the original principal amount of the term loan, subject to mandatory prepayments from excess cash flow, asset sales and other events described in the credit agreement. The balance will be due at maturity.

Interest on the term loan is based on a Eurodollar rate plus an applicable margin of 3.75% or on the prime rate plus an applicable margin of 2.75%. The interest rate on the term loan was 5.36% as of March 31, 2020.

The credit agreement includes customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. As of March 31, 2020, we were in compliance with all covenants. Steak n Shake’s credit facility contains restrictions on its ability to pay dividends to Biglari Holdings.

The term loan is secured by first priority security interests in substantially all the assets of Steak n Shake.

The Company retired $21,729 of debt on February 18, 2020.

Western Sizzlin Revolver

Western Sizzlin had $50 and $0 of debt outstanding under its revolver as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. 

Critical Accounting Policies

Management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Certain accounting policies require management to make estimates and judgments concerning transactions that will be settled several years in the future. Amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements from such estimates are necessarily based on numerous assumptions involving varying and potentially significant degrees of judgment and uncertainty. Accordingly, the amounts currently reflected in our consolidated financial statements will likely increase or decrease in the future as additional information becomes available. There have been no material changes to critical accounting policies previously disclosed in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

For detailed information regarding recently issued accounting pronouncements and the expected impact on our consolidated financial statements, see Note 2, “New Accounting Standards” in the accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In general, forward-looking statements include estimates of future revenues, cash flows, capital expenditures, or other financial items, and assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and use words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “may,” and other similar terminology. A forward-looking statement is neither a prediction nor a guarantee of future events or circumstances, and those future events or circumstances may not occur. Investors should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this report. These forward-looking statements are all based on currently available operating, financial, and competitive information and are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Our actual future results and trends may differ materially depending on a variety of factors, many beyond our control, including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties described in Item 1A, Risk Factors of our annual report on Form 10-K and Item 1A of this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise them, except as may be required by law.

The majority of our investments are conducted through investment partnerships which generally hold common stocks. We also hold marketable securities directly. A significant decline in the general stock market or in the prices of major investments may produce a large net loss and decrease in our consolidated shareholders’ equity. Decreases in values of equity investments can have a materially adverse effect on our earnings and on consolidated shareholders’ equity.

We prefer to hold equity investments for very long periods of time so we are not troubled by short-term price volatility with respect to our investments. Our interests in the investment partnerships are committed on a rolling 5-year basis, and any distributions upon our withdrawal of funds will be paid out over two years (and may be paid in kind rather than in cash). Market prices for equity securities are subject to fluctuation. Consequently, the amount realized in the subsequent sale of an investment may significantly differ from the reported market value. A hypothetical 10% increase or decrease in the market price of our investments would result in a respective increase or decrease in the carrying value of our investments of $39,994 along with a corresponding change in shareholders’ equity of approximately 6%.

Interest on the term loan is based on a Eurodollar rate plus an applicable margin of 3.75% or on the prime rate plus an applicable margin of 2.75%. At March 31, 2020, a hypothetical 100 basis point increase in short-term interest rates would have an impact of approximately $1,200 on our net earnings.

We have had minimal exposure to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations in the first quarters of 2020 and 2019.

Based on an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)), our Chief Executive Officer and Controller have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2020.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended March 31, 2020 that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. 

 Part II Other Information

Information in response to this Item is included in Note 14 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part 1, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q and is incorporated herein by reference.

Our significant business risks are described in Item 1A to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 to which reference is made herein. These risk factors are supplemented for the items described below. The risks and uncertainties we describe are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business or operations. Any adverse effect on our business, financial condition or operating results could result in a decline in the value of our securities and the loss of all or part of your investment.

Epidemics, pandemics or other outbreaks, including COVID-19, could hurt our operating businesses.

The outbreak of COVID-19 has adversely affected, and in the future it or other epidemics, pandemics or outbreaks may adversely affect, our operations, including our investments. This is or may be due to closures or restrictions requested or mandated by governmental authorities, disruption to supply chains and workforce, reduction of demand for our products and services, credit losses when customers and other counterparties fail to satisfy their obligations to us, and volatility in global equity securities markets, among other factors.

Unfavorable general economic conditions may significantly reduce our operating earnings and impair our ability to access capital markets at a reasonable cost.

Our operating businesses are subject to economic conditions affecting the general economy or the specific industries in which they operate. To the extent that economic conditions in the U.S. and worldwide are depressed by the effects of COVID-19 or otherwise, one or more of our significant operations could be materially harmed. In addition, our restaurant operations utilize debt as a component of their capital structures, and depend on access to borrowed funds through the capital markets at reasonable rates. To the extent that access to the capital markets is restricted or the cost of funding increases, these operations could be adversely affected.

None.

None.

Not applicable.

None.

_________________

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.

Date:  May 8, 2020
		Biglari Holdings inc.
		By:		/s/ Bruce Lewis
				Bruce Lewis Controller