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CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORP - Annual Report: 2010 (Form 10-K)

cacc201010_k.htm


 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X]
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2010

OR

[   ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the Transition Period from ______ to ________

Commission File Number 000-20202
CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

Michigan
 
38-1999511
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
25505 W. Twelve Mile Road
   
Southfield, Michigan
 
48034-8339
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (248) 353-2700

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock
 
NASDAQ

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes [    ] No [ X ]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes [   ] No [ X ]

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes [   ] No [   ]

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   [    ]

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

Large accelerated filer [   ]
Accelerated filer [ X ]
Non-accelerated filer [   ]
Smaller reporting company [   ]
   
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 

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

The aggregate market value of 5,409,951 shares of the Registrant's common stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2010 was approximately $263.8 million.  For purposes of this computation all officers, directors and 10% beneficial owners of the Registrant are assumed to be affiliates.  Such determination should not be deemed an admission that such officers, directors and beneficial owners are, in fact, affiliates of the Registrant.

At February 17, 2011, there were 27,420,838 shares of the Registrant's common stock issued and outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement pertaining to the 2011 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the "Proxy Statement") filed pursuant to Regulation 14A are incorporated herein by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Form 10-K”).
 


 
 

 

CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010

INDEX TO FORM 10-K

Item
 
  Description
 
Page
 
   
PART I
     
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
     
PART II
       
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
     
PART III
       
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
 
     
 
     
PART IV
       
 
     
 
               
         
 







PART I
  ITEM 1.
 
BUSINESS

General

Since 1972, Credit Acceptance Corporation (referred to as the “Company”, “Credit Acceptance”, “we”, “our” or “us”) has provided auto loans to consumers, regardless of their credit history.  Our product is offered through a nationwide network of automobile dealers who benefit from sales of vehicles to consumers who otherwise could not obtain financing; from repeat and referral sales generated by these same customers; and from sales to customers responding to advertisements for our product, but who actually end up qualifying for traditional financing.

Credit Acceptance was founded to collect retail installment contracts (referred to as “Consumer Loans”) originated by automobile dealerships owned by our founder, majority shareholder and Chairman, Donald Foss.  During the 1980s, we began to market this service to non-affiliated dealers and, at the same time, began to offer dealers a non-recourse cash payment (referred to as an “advance”) against anticipated future collections on Consumer Loans serviced for that dealer.

We refer to dealers who participate in our programs and who share our commitment to changing consumers’ lives as “Dealer-Partners”.  Upon enrollment in our financing programs, the Dealer-Partner enters into a dealer servicing agreement with us that defines the legal relationship between Credit Acceptance and the Dealer-Partner.  The dealer servicing agreement assigns the responsibilities for administering, servicing, and collecting the amounts due on Consumer Loans from the Dealer-Partner to us.  We are an indirect lender from a legal perspective, meaning the Consumer Loan is originated by the Dealer-Partner and assigned to us.

Consumers and Dealer-Partners benefit from our programs as follows:

Consumers. We help change the lives of consumers who do not qualify for conventional automobile financing by helping them obtain quality transportation.  Without our product, consumers are often unable to purchase a vehicle or they purchase an unreliable one.  Further, as we report to the three national credit reporting agencies, an important ancillary benefit of our program is that we provide a significant number of our consumers with an opportunity to improve their lives by improving their credit score and move on to more traditional sources of financing.

Dealer-Partners.  Our program increases Dealer-Partners’ profits in the following ways:

·  
Enables Dealer-Partners to sell cars to consumers who may not be able to obtain financing without our program.  In addition, consumers often become repeat customers by financing future vehicle purchases either through our program or, after they have successfully established or reestablished their credit, through conventional financing.
·  
Allows Dealer-Partners to share in the profit, not only from the sale of the vehicle, but also from its financing.
·  
Enables Dealer-Partners to attract consumers by advertising “guaranteed credit approval”, where allowed by law.  The consumers will often use other services of the Dealer-Partners and refer friends and relatives to them.
 
Enables Dealer-Partners to attract consumers who mistakenly assume they do not qualify for conventional financing.

Business Segment Information

We currently operate in one reportable segment which represents our core business of offering auto loans, and related products and services to consumers through our network of Dealer-Partners.  For information regarding our reportable segment and related entity-wide disclosures, see Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.



Principal Business

We have two programs:  the Portfolio Program and the Purchase Program.  Under the Portfolio Program, we advance money to Dealer-Partners (referred to as a “Dealer Loan”) in exchange for the right to service the underlying Consumer Loans.  Under the Purchase Program, we buy the Consumer Loans from the Dealer-Partner (referred to as a “Purchased Loan”) and keep all amounts collected from the consumer.  Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans are collectively referred to as “Loans”.  The following table shows the percentage of Consumer Loans assigned to us based on unit volumes under each of the programs for each of the last 12 quarters:

Quarters Ended
 
 Portfolio Program
 
 Purchase Program
March 31, 2008
 
70.2%
 
29.8%
June 30, 2008
 
65.4%
 
34.6%
September 30, 2008
 
69.2%
 
30.8%
December 31, 2008
 
78.2%
 
21.8%
March 31, 2009
 
82.3%
 
17.7%
June 30, 2009
 
86.0%
 
14.0%
September 30, 2009
 
89.0%
 
11.0%
December 31, 2009
 
90.8%
 
9.2%
March 31, 2010
 
90.9%
 
9.1%
June 30, 2010
 
90.5%
 
9.5%
September 30, 2010
 
90.5%
 
9.5%
December 31, 2010
 
91.8%
 
8.2%

Portfolio Program

As payment for the vehicle, the Dealer-Partner generally receives the following:

·  
a down payment from the consumer;
·  
a cash advance from us; and
·  
after the advance has been recovered by us, the cash from payments made on the Consumer Loan, net of certain collection costs and our servicing fee (“Dealer Holdback”).

We record the amount advanced to the Dealer-Partner as a Dealer Loan, which is classified within Loans receivable in our consolidated balance sheets.  Cash advanced to Dealer-Partners is automatically assigned to the originating Dealer-Partner’s open pool of advances.  We require Dealer-Partners to group advances into pools of at least 100 Consumer Loans.  At the Dealer-Partner’s option, a pool containing at least 100 Consumer Loans can be closed and subsequent advances assigned to a new pool.  All advances within a Dealer-Partner’s pool are secured by the future collections on the related Consumer Loans assigned to the pool.  For Dealer-Partners with more than one pool, the pools are cross-collateralized so the performance of other pools is considered in determining eligibility for Dealer Holdback.  We perfect our security interest in the Dealer Loans by taking possession of the Consumer Loans, which list us as lien holder on the vehicle title.

The dealer servicing agreement provides that collections received by us during a calendar month on Consumer Loans assigned by a Dealer-Partner are applied on a pool-by-pool basis as follows:

·  
First, to reimburse us for certain collection costs;
·  
Second, to pay us our servicing fee, which generally equals 20% of collections;
·  
Third, to reduce the aggregate advance balance and to pay any other amounts due from the Dealer-Partner to us; and
·  
Fourth, to the Dealer-Partner as payment of Dealer Holdback.


If the collections on Consumer Loans from a Dealer-Partner’s pool are not sufficient to repay the advance balance and any other amounts due to us, the Dealer-Partner will not receive Dealer Holdback.

Dealer-Partners have an opportunity to receive an accelerated Dealer Holdback payment at the time a pool of 100 or more Consumer Loans is closed.  The amount paid to the Dealer-Partner is calculated using a formula that considers the forecasted collections and the advance balance on the closed pool.

Since typically the combination of the advance and the consumer’s down payment provides the Dealer-Partner with a cash profit at the time of sale, the Dealer-Partner’s risk in the Consumer Loan is limited.  We cannot demand repayment of the advance from the Dealer-Partner except in the event the Dealer-Partner is in default of the dealer servicing agreement.  Advances are made only after the consumer and Dealer-Partner have signed a Consumer Loan contract, we have received the original Consumer Loan contract and supporting documentation, and we have approved all of the related stipulations for funding.  The Dealer-Partner can also opt to repurchase Consumer Loans that have been assigned to us under the Portfolio Program, at their discretion, for a fee.

For accounting purposes, the transactions described under the Portfolio Program are not considered to be loans to consumers.  Instead, our accounting reflects that of a lender to the Dealer-Partner.  The classification as a Dealer Loan for accounting purposes is primarily a result of (1) the Dealer-Partner’s financial interest in the Consumer Loan and (2) certain elements of our legal relationship with the Dealer-Partner.

Purchase Program

The Purchase Program differs from our Portfolio Program in that the Dealer-Partner receives a one-time payment from us at the time of assignment to purchase the Consumer Loan instead of a cash advance at the time of assignment and future Dealer Holdback payments.  New Purchase Loan unit and dollar volume as a percentage of total unit and dollar volume decreased during 2010 and 2009 due to pricing and program enrollment changes we implemented in order to increase the profitability of the Purchase Program.  For accounting purposes, the transactions described under the Purchase Program are considered to be originated by the Dealer-Partner and then purchased by us.

Program Enrollment

Dealer-Partners that enroll in our programs have two enrollment options available to them.  The first enrollment option allows Dealer-Partners to assign Consumer Loans under the Portfolio Program and requires payment of an upfront, one-time fee of $9,850.  The second enrollment option, which became effective September 1, 2009, allows Dealer-Partners to assign Consumer Loans under the Portfolio Program and requires payment of an upfront, one-time fee of $1,950 and an agreement to allow us to keep 50% of their first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment.  Prior to September 1, 2009, we offered Dealer-Partners an enrollment option that allowed us to keep 50% of their first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment with no upfront fee.  For all Dealer-Partners enrolling in our program after August 31, 2008, access to the Purchase Program is typically only granted after the first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment has been made under the Portfolio Program.

Revenue Sources

Credit Acceptance derives its revenues from the following principal sources:

·  
Finance charges, which are comprised of: (1) servicing fees earned as a result of servicing Consumer Loans assigned to us by Dealer-Partners under the Portfolio Program, (2) finance charge income from Purchased Loans, (3) fees earned from our third party ancillary product offerings, (4) monthly program fees of $599, charged to Dealer-Partners under the Portfolio Program; and (5) fees associated with certain Loans;
·  
Premiums earned on the reinsurance of vehicle service contracts; and
·  
Other income, which primarily consists of: dealer support products and services, marketing income, vehicle service contract and Guaranteed Asset Protection (“GAP”) profit sharing income, and dealer enrollment fees.  For additional information, see Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 to this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.



The following table sets forth the percent relationship to total revenue from continuing operations of each of these sources:

   
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 Percent of Total Revenue from Continuing Operations
 
 2010
 
 2009
 
 2008
 Finance charges
 
87.8%
 
86.6%
 
91.8%
 Premiums earned
 
7.4%
 
8.8%
 
1.3%
 Other income
 
4.8%
 
4.6%
 
6.9%
 Total revenue from continuing operations
 
100.0%
 
100.0%
 
100.0%

Our business is seasonal with peak Consumer Loan acceptances and collections occurring during the first quarter of the year.  However, this seasonality does not have a material impact on our interim results.

Operations

Sales and Marketing.  Our target market is approximately 55,000 independent and franchised automobile dealers in the United States.  We have market area managers located throughout the United States that market our programs to prospective Dealer-Partners, enroll new Dealer-Partners, and support active Dealer-Partners.  The number of Dealer-Partner enrollments and active Dealer-Partners for each of the last five years are presented in the table below:

For the Years Ended December 31,
 
Dealer-Partner Enrollments
   
Active Dealer-Partners (1)
 
2006
   
1,172
     
2,214
 
2007
   
1,835
     
2,827
 
2008
   
1,646
     
3,264
 
2009
   
1,338
     
3,168
 
2010
   
1,263
     
3,206
 

(1)  
Active Dealer-Partners are Dealer-Partners who have received funding for at least one Loan during the period.

Once Dealer-Partners have enrolled in our programs, the market area managers work closely with the newly enrolled Dealer-Partners to help them successfully launch our programs within their dealerships.  Market area managers also provide active Dealer-Partners with ongoing support and consulting focused on improving the Dealer-Partners’ success on our programs, including assistance with increasing the volume and performance of Consumer Loan assignments.

Dealer Servicing Agreement. As a part of the enrollment process, a new Dealer-Partner is required to enter into a dealer servicing agreement with Credit Acceptance that defines the legal relationship between Credit Acceptance and the Dealer-Partner.  The dealer servicing agreement assigns the responsibilities for administering, servicing, and collecting the amounts due on Consumer Loans from the Dealer-Partners to us.  Under the typical dealer servicing agreement, a Dealer-Partner represents that it will only assign Consumer Loans to us that satisfy criteria established by us, meet certain conditions with respect to their binding nature and the status of the security interest in the purchased vehicle, and comply with applicable state, federal and foreign laws and regulations.

The typical dealer servicing agreement may be terminated by us or by the Dealer-Partner upon written notice.  We may terminate the dealer servicing agreement immediately in the case of an event of default by the Dealer-Partner.  Events of default include, among other things:

·  
the Dealer-Partner's refusal to allow us to audit its records relating to the Consumer Loans assigned to us;
·  
the Dealer-Partner, without our consent, is dissolved; merges or consolidates with an entity not affiliated with the Dealer-Partner; or sells a material part of its assets outside the course of its business to an entity not affiliated with the Dealer-Partner; or
·  
the appointment of a receiver for, or the bankruptcy or insolvency of, the Dealer-Partner.



While a Dealer-Partner can cease assigning Consumer Loans to us at any time without terminating the dealer servicing agreement, if the Dealer-Partner elects to terminate the dealer servicing agreement or in the event of a default, we have the right to require that the Dealer-Partner immediately pay us:

·  
any unreimbursed collection costs on Dealer Loans;
·  
any unpaid advances and all amounts owed by the Dealer-Partner to us; and
·  
a termination fee equal to 15% of the then outstanding amount of the Consumer Loans assigned to us.

Upon receipt of such amounts in full, we reassign the Consumer Loans and our security interest in the financed vehicles to the Dealer-Partner.

In the event of a termination of the dealer servicing agreement by us, we may continue to service Consumer Loans assigned by Dealer-Partners accepted prior to termination in the normal course of business without charging a termination fee.

Consumer Loan Assignment.  Once a Dealer-Partner has enrolled in our programs, the Dealer-Partner may begin assigning Consumer Loans to us.  For accounting purposes, a Consumer Loan is considered to have been assigned to us after all of the following has occurred:

·  
the consumer and Dealer-Partner have signed a Consumer Loan contract;
·  
we have received the original Consumer Loan contract and supporting documentation;
·  
we have approved all of the related stipulations for funding; and
·  
we have provided funding to the Dealer-Partner in the form of either an advance under the Portfolio Program or one-time purchase payment under the Purchase Program.

A Consumer Loan is originated by the Dealer-Partner when a consumer enters into a contract with a Dealer-Partner that sets forth the terms of the agreement between the consumer and the Dealer-Partner for the payment of the purchase price of the vehicle.  The amount of the Consumer Loan consists of the total principal and interest that the consumer is required to pay over the term of the Consumer Loan.  In the majority of states, Consumer Loans are written on a contract form provided by us.  Although the Dealer-Partner is named in the Consumer Loan contract, the Dealer-Partner generally does not have legal ownership of the Consumer Loan for more than a moment and we, not the Dealer-Partner, are listed as lien holder on the vehicle title.  Consumers are obligated to make payments on the Consumer Loan directly to us, and any failure to make such payments will result in us pursuing payment through collection efforts.

Virtually all Consumer Loans submitted to us for assignment are processed through our Credit Approval Processing System (“CAPS”).  CAPS allows Dealer-Partners to input a consumer’s credit application and view the response from us via the Internet.  CAPS allows Dealer-Partners to: (1) receive a quick approval from us; and (2) interact with our proprietary credit scoring system to optimize the structure of each transaction prior to delivery.  All responses include the amount of funding (advance for a Dealer Loan or purchase price for a Purchased Loan), as well as any stipulations required for funding.  The amount of funding is determined using a formula which considers a number of factors including the timing and amount of cash flows expected on the related Consumer Loan and our target return on capital at the time the Consumer Loan is submitted to us for assignment.  The estimated future cash flows are determined based upon our proprietary credit scoring system, which considers numerous variables, including attributes contained in the consumer’s credit bureau report, data contained in the consumer’s credit application, the structure of the proposed transaction, vehicle information and other factors, to calculate a composite credit score that corresponds to an expected collection rate.  Our proprietary credit scoring system forecasts the collection rate based upon the historical performance of Consumer Loans in our portfolio that share similar characteristics.  The performance of our proprietary credit scoring system is evaluated monthly by comparing projected to actual Consumer Loan performance.  Adjustments are made to our proprietary credit scoring system as necessary.  For additional information on adjustments to forecasted collection rates, please see the Critical Accounting Estimates section in Item 7 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.


While a Dealer-Partner can submit any legally compliant Consumer Loan to us for assignment, the decision whether to provide funding to the Dealer-Partner and the amount of any funding is made solely by us.  Through our Dealer-Partner Service Center (“DPSC”) department, we perform all significant functions relating to the processing of the Consumer Loan applications and bear certain costs of Consumer Loan assignment, including the cost of assessing the adequacy of Consumer Loan documentation, compliance with underwriting and legal guidelines and the cost of verifying employment, residence and other information provided by the Dealer-Partner.  We use a company in India to support the DPSC in reviewing Consumer Loan documentation for legal compliance.

We audit Consumer Loan files for legal and underwriting guidelines on a daily basis in order to assess whether our Dealer-Partners are operating in accordance with the terms and conditions of our dealer servicing agreement.  We occasionally identify breaches of the dealer servicing agreement and depending upon the circumstances, and at our discretion, we may change pricing or charge the Dealer-Partner fees for future Consumer Loan assignments; require the Consumer Loan(s) to be repurchased; or terminate our relationship with the Dealer-Partner.

Our business model allows us to share the risk and reward of collecting on the Consumer Loans with the Dealer-Partners.  Such sharing is intended to motivate the Dealer-Partner to assign better quality Consumer Loans, follow our underwriting guidelines, comply with various legal regulations, meet our credit compliance requirements, and provide appropriate service and support to the consumer after the sale.  In addition, the DPSC works closely with Dealer-Partners to assist them in resolving any documentation deficiencies or funding stipulations.  We believe this arrangement aligns our interests with the interests of the Dealer-Partner and the consumer.

We measure various criteria for each Dealer-Partner against other Dealer-Partners in their area as well as the top performing Dealer-Partners.  Dealer-Partners are assigned a dealer rating based upon the performance of their Consumer Loans in both the Portfolio and Purchase Programs as well as other criteria.  The dealer rating is one of the factors used to determine the amount paid to Dealer-Partners as an advance or to acquire a Purchased Loan.  We provide each Dealer-Partner a monthly statement summarizing all activity that occurred on their Consumer Loan assignments.

Information on our Consumer Loans is presented in the following table:

   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
 Average Consumer Loan Data
 
2010
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
   
2006
 
 Average size of Consumer Loan accepted
 
$
14,480
   
$
12,689
   
$
14,518
   
$
13,878
   
$
12,722
 
 Percentage growth (decline) in average size of Consumer Loan
   
14.1
%
   
-12.6
%
   
4.6
%
   
9.1
%
   
5.9
%
 Average initial term (in months)
   
41
     
38
     
42
     
41
     
37
 

Servicing.  Our largest group of collectors service Consumer Loans that are in the early stages of delinquency.  These collectors are organized into teams comprised of two job types: (1) loan collectors; and (2) senior loan collectors.  Collection efforts typically consist of placing a call to the consumer within one day of the missed payment due date, although efforts may begin later for some segments of accounts.  Loan collectors are assigned Consumer Loans that are segmented into dialing pools by various phone contact profiles in an effort to maximize contact with the consumer.  Our senior loan collectors have a higher skill level and access to additional tools.  These collectors, in addition to securing payment arrangements, locate consumers by finding new contact information to assist in their team’s collection efforts.  The senior loan collectors service Consumer Loans with the following characteristics:

·  
no valid phone contact information;
·  
valid contact information without any contact in seven days; or
·  
various specialty segments (such as military personnel, abandoned vehicles, voluntary surrenders, and accounts requiring investigation).


The decision to repossess a vehicle is based on statistical models or policy based criteria.  When a Consumer Loan is approved for repossession, the account is transferred to our repossession team.  Repossession personnel continue to service the Consumer Loan as it is being assigned to a third party repossession contractor, who works on a contingency fee basis.  Once a vehicle has been repossessed, the consumer can negotiate to redeem the vehicle, whereupon the vehicle is returned to the consumer in exchange for paying off the Consumer Loan balance; or, where appropriate or if required by law, the vehicle is returned to the consumer and the Consumer Loan is reinstated in exchange for a payment that reduces or eliminates the past due balance.  If neither process is successful, the vehicle is sold at a wholesale automobile auction.  Prior to sale, the vehicle is typically inspected by a representative at the auction who provides repair and reconditioning recommendations.  Alternatively, our remarketing representatives may inspect the vehicle directly.  Our remarketing representatives then authorize any repair and reconditioning work in order to maximize the net sale proceeds at auction.

If the vehicle sale proceeds are not sufficient to satisfy the balance owing on the Consumer Loan, the Consumer Loan is serviced by either: (1) our internal collection team, in the event the consumer is willing to make payments on the deficiency balance; or (2) where permitted by law, our external collection team, if it is believed that legal action is required to reduce the deficiency balance owing on the Consumer Loan.  Our external collection team generally assigns Consumer Loans to third party collection attorneys who work on a contingency fee basis.  Additionally, we may sell or assign Consumer Loans to third party collection companies.

Collectors rely on two systems; the Collection System (“CS”) and the Loan Servicing System (“LSS”).  The CS interfaces with a predictive dialer and records all activity on a Consumer Loan, including details of past phone conversations with the consumer, collection letters sent, promises to pay, broken promises, repossession orders and collection attorney activity.  The LSS maintains a record of all transactions relating to Consumer Loans assigned after July 1990 and is a primary source of data utilized to:

·  
determine the outstanding balance of the Consumer Loans;
·  
forecast future collections;
·  
establish the amount of revenue recognized by us;
·  
calculate Dealer Holdback payments;
·  
analyze the profitability of our program; and
·  
evaluate our proprietary credit scoring system.

We outsource a portion of our collection function to companies in India and in Costa Rica.  These outsourced collectors service accounts using the CS and typically service accounts that are less than sixty days past due.

Ancillary Products

We provide Dealer-Partners the ability to offer vehicle service contracts to consumers.  A vehicle service contract provides the consumer protection by paying for the repair or replacement of certain components of the vehicle in the event of a mechanical failure.  Buyers Vehicle Protection Plan, Inc. (“BVPP”), our wholly-owned subsidiary, has relationships with third party administrators (“TPAs”) whereby the TPAs process claims on vehicle service contracts that are underwritten by third party insurers.  BVPP receives a commission for all vehicle service contracts sold by our Dealer-Partners when the vehicle is financed by us.  The commission is included in the retail price of the vehicle service contract which is added to the Consumer Loan.  We provide Dealer-Partners with an additional advance based on the retail price of the vehicle service contract.  We recognize our commission from the vehicle service contracts as part of finance charges on a level-yield basis based upon forecasted cash flows.  We bear the risk of loss for claims on certain vehicle service contracts that are reinsured by us.  Effective January 1, 2010, the commission received by BVPP increased due to a change in our relationship with the TPAs.  Prior to 2010, we relied on the TPAs to market their vehicle service contracts to our Dealer-Partners.  Effective January 1, 2010, we now market the vehicle service contracts directly to our Dealer-Partners.


During the fourth quarter of 2008, we formed VSC Re Company (“VSC Re”), our wholly-owned subsidiary that is engaged in the business of reinsuring coverage under vehicle service contracts sold to consumers by Dealer-Partners on vehicles financed by us.  Prior to October 31, 2009, VSC Re reinsured vehicle service contracts that were underwritten by two of our three third party insurers.  Effective October 31, 2009, we terminated our arrangement with one of our three third party insurers.  VSC Re currently reinsures vehicle service contracts that are underwritten by one of our two third party insurers.  Vehicle service contract premiums, which represent the selling price of the vehicle service contract to the consumer, less commissions and certain administrative costs, are contributed to trust accounts controlled by VSC Re.  These premiums are used to fund claims covered under the vehicle service contracts.  VSC Re is a bankruptcy remote entity.  As such, our exposure to fund claims is limited to the trust assets controlled by VSC Re and our net investment in VSC Re.  We formed VSC Re in order to enhance our control and security of the trust assets that are used to pay future vehicle service contract claims.  The amount of income we earn from the vehicle service contracts over time is not impacted by the formation of VSC Re, as both before and after the formation, the income we recognize, excluding our commissions, is based on the amount by which vehicle service contract premiums exceed claims.  The only change in our risk associated with adverse claims experience relates to our net investment in VSC Re, which is now at risk in the event claims exceed premiums.  Under the prior structure, our risk was limited to the amount of premiums contributed to the trusts.

Prior to the formation of VSC Re, our agreements with two of our vehicle service contract TPAs allowed us to receive profit sharing payments depending upon the performance of the vehicle service contract programs.  The agreements also required that vehicle service contract premiums be placed in trust accounts.  Funds in the trust accounts were utilized by the TPA to pay claims on the vehicle service contracts.  Upon the formation of VSC Re during the fourth quarter of 2008, the unearned premiums on the majority of the vehicle service contracts that had been written through these two TPAs were ceded to VSC Re along with any related trust assets.  Vehicle service contracts written prior to 2008 through one of the TPAs remain under this profit sharing arrangement.  Profit sharing payments, if any, on the vehicle service contracts are distributed to us periodically after the term of the vehicle service contracts have substantially expired provided certain loss rates are met.  We are considered the primary beneficiary of the remaining trust and as a result, the assets and the related liabilities have been consolidated on our balance sheet.

BVPP also has a relationship with a TPA that allows Dealer-Partners to offer a GAP product to consumers whereby the TPA processes claims that are underwritten by a third party insurer.  GAP provides the consumer protection by paying the difference between the loan balance and the amount covered by the consumer's insurance policy in the event of a total loss of the vehicle due to severe damage or theft.  We receive a commission for all GAP contracts sold by our Dealer-Partners when the vehicle is financed by us, and do not bear any risk of loss for claims.  The commission is included in the retail price of the GAP contract which is added to the Consumer Loan.  We provide Dealer-Partners with an additional advance based on the retail price of the GAP contract.  We recognize our commission from the GAP contracts as part of finance charges on a level-yield basis based upon forecasted cash flows.  We are eligible to receive profit sharing payments depending on the performance of the GAP program.  Profit sharing payments from the third party are received once a year, if eligible.

During 2006, we began to provide Dealer-Partners in certain states the ability to purchase Global Positioning Systems (“GPS”) with Starter Interrupt Devices (“SID”).  Through this program, Dealer-Partners can install a GPS-based SID (“GPS-SID”) on vehicles financed by us that can be activated if the consumer fails to make payments on their account, and can result in the prompt repossession of the vehicle.  Dealer-Partners purchase the GPS-SID directly from third parties.  The third parties pay us a marketing fee for each device sold and installed, at which time the marketing fee revenue is recognized in other income within our consolidated statements of income.

Discontinued Operations

Effective June 30, 2003, we stopped originating Consumer Loans in the United Kingdom and we sold the remainder of the portfolio on December 30, 2005.  The United Kingdom business was formally dissolved in 2010.  The results for the United Kingdom business are reported as a discontinued operation in the consolidated statements of income for all periods presented.


Competition

The market for consumers who do not qualify for conventional automobile financing is large and highly competitive.  The market is currently served by “buy here, pay here” dealerships, banks, captive finance affiliates of automobile manufacturers, credit unions and independent finance companies both publicly and privately owned.  Many of these companies are much larger and have greater resources than us.  We compete by offering a profitable and efficient method for Dealer-Partners to finance customers who would be more difficult or less profitable to finance through other methods.  In addition, we compete on the basis of the level of service provided by our DPSC and sales personnel.



Customer and Geographic Concentrations

No single Dealer-Partner accounted for more than 10% of total revenues during any of the last three years.  Additionally, no single Dealer-Partner’s Loans receivable balance accounted for more than 10% of total Loans receivable balance as of December 31, 2010 or 2009.  The following tables provide information regarding the five states that were responsible for the largest dollar volume of Consumer Loan assignments and the related number of active Dealer-Partners during 2010, 2009, and 2008:


   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2010
 
(In thousands)
 
Consumer Loan Assignments
   
Active Dealer-Partners (2)
 
   
Dollar Volume (1)
   
% of Total
   
Number
   
% of Total
 
Michigan
 
$
92,694
     
10.4
%
   
224
     
7.0
%
New York
   
74,072
     
8.4
%
   
190
     
5.9
%
Texas
   
54,406
     
6.1
%
   
250
     
7.8
%
Ohio
   
51,271
     
5.8
%
   
201
     
6.3
%
Mississippi
   
45,369
     
5.1
%
   
81
     
2.5
%
All other states
   
569,527
     
64.2
%
   
2,260
     
70.5
%
Total
 
$
887,339
     
100.0
%
   
3,206
     
100.0
%

   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009
 
(In thousands)
 
Consumer Loan Assignments
   
Active Dealer-Partners (2)
 
   
Dollar Volume (1)
   
% of Total
   
Number
   
% of Total
 
Michigan
 
$
63,960
     
10.3
%
   
197
     
6.2
%
New York
   
45,129
     
7.3
%
   
178
     
5.6
%
Texas
   
44,912
     
7.3
%
   
250
     
7.9
%
Ohio
   
36,186
     
5.8
%
   
187
     
5.9
%
Alabama
   
32,933
     
5.3
%
   
126
     
4.0
%
All other states
   
396,256
     
64.0
%
   
2,230
     
70.4
%
Total
 
$
619,376
     
100.0
%
   
3,168
     
100.0
%

   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008
 
(In thousands)
 
Consumer Loan Assignments
   
Active Dealer-Partners (2)
 
   
Dollar Volume (1)
   
% of Total
   
Number
   
% of Total
 
Texas
 
$
69,435
     
8.8
%
   
240
     
7.4
%
Michigan
   
56,983
     
7.3
%
   
198
     
6.1
%
Ohio
   
53,698
     
6.8
%
   
182
     
5.6
%
Alabama
   
53,033
     
6.8
%
   
120
     
3.7
%
New York
   
41,797
     
5.3
%
   
174
     
5.3
%
All other states
   
511,450
     
65.0
%
   
2,350
     
71.9
%
Total
 
$
786,396
     
100.0
%
   
3,264
     
100.0
%

(1)  
Represents advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program.  Payments of Dealer Holdback and accelerated Dealer Holdback are not included.
(2)  
Active Dealer-Partners are Dealer-Partners who have received funding for at least one Loan during the year.



Geographic Financial Information

For the three years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, revenues from continuing operations were primarily derived from operations in the United States and long-lived assets were primarily located in the United States.  For additional geographic financial information, see Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Regulation

Our business is subject to laws and regulations, including the Truth in Lending Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act and other various state and federal laws and regulations.  These laws and regulations, among other things, require licensing and qualification; limit interest rates, fees and other charges associated with the Consumer Loans assigned to us; require specified disclosures by Dealer-Partners to consumers; govern the sale and terms of ancillary products; and define the rights to repossess and sell collateral.  Failure to comply with these laws or regulations could have a material adverse effect on us by, among other things, limiting the jurisdictions in which we may operate, restricting our ability to realize the value of the collateral securing the Consumer Loans, making it more costly or burdensome to do business or resulting in potential liability.  The volume of new or modified laws and regulations has increased in recent years and has increased significantly in response to issues arising with respect to consumer lending.  From time to time, legislation and regulations are enacted which increase the cost of doing business, limit or expand permissible activities or affect the competitive balance among financial services providers.  Proposals to change the laws and regulations governing the operations and taxation of financial institutions and financial services providers are frequently made in the U.S. Congress, in the state legislatures and by various regulatory agencies.  This legislation may change our operating environment in substantial and unpredictable ways and may have a material adverse effect on our business.  For example, on July 21, 2010, the President signed into law the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), which significantly changes the regulation of financial institutions and the financial services industry.  Among other things, the Dodd-Frank Act establishes as an independent entity within the Federal Reserve, the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (the “BCFP”), which will be given the authority to promulgate consumer protection regulations applicable to all entities offering consumer financial services or products, including non-bank commercial companies in the business of extending credit and servicing consumer loans.  The scope and substance of the regulations that may be adopted by the BCFP will not be known until the BCFP is organized and begins functioning.  The Dodd-Frank Act contains numerous other provisions affecting financial industry participants of all types, many of which may have an impact on our operating environment in substantial and unpredictable ways.  The Dodd-Frank Act and regulations promulgated thereunder, including by the BCFP, are likely to affect our cost of doing business, may limit or expand our permissible activities, may affect the competitive balance within our industry and market areas and could have a material adverse effect on us.  Our management continues to assess the Dodd-Frank Act’s probable impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations, and to monitor developments involving the entities charged with promulgating regulations thereunder.  However, the ultimate effect of the Dodd-Frank Act on the financial services industry in general, and on us in particular, is uncertain at this time.  The nature and extent of future legislative and regulatory changes affecting financial institutions and non-bank commercial companies, including as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act, is very unpredictable at this time, and any changes could have a material adverse effect on us.  In addition, governmental regulations which would deplete the supply of used vehicles, such as environmental protection regulations governing emissions or fuel consumption, could have a material adverse effect on us.

Our Dealer-Partners must also comply with credit and trade practice statutes and regulations.  Failure of our Dealer-Partners to comply with these statutes and regulations could result in consumers having rights of rescission and other remedies that could have a material adverse effect on us.

The sale of vehicle service contracts and GAP by Dealer-Partners in connection with Consumer Loans assigned to us from Dealer-Partners is also subject to state laws and regulations.  As we are the holder of the Consumer Loans that may, in part, finance these products, some of these state laws and regulations may apply to our servicing and collection of the Consumer Loans.  Although these laws and regulations do not significantly affect our business, there can be no assurance that insurance or other regulatory authorities in the jurisdictions in which these products are offered by Dealer-Partners will not seek to regulate or restrict the operation of our business in these jurisdictions.  Any regulation or restriction of our business in these jurisdictions could materially adversely affect the income received from these products.



We believe that we maintain all material licenses and permits required for our current operations and are in substantial compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.  Our agreements with Dealer-Partners provide that the Dealer-Partner shall indemnify us with respect to any loss or expense we incur as a result of the Dealer-Partner’s failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Team Members

Our team members are organized into three operating functions: Originations, Servicing, and Support.

Originations. The originations function includes team members that are responsible for marketing our programs to prospective Dealer-Partners, enrolling new Dealer-Partners, and supporting active Dealer-Partners.  Originations also includes team members responsible for processing new Consumer Loan assignments.

Servicing.  The servicing function includes team members that are responsible for servicing the Consumer Loans.  Collectors, our largest group of servicing team members, service Consumer Loans that are in the early stages of delinquency.  Servicing also includes team members responsible for repossession, remarketing, redemption, and recovery activities.

Support.  The support function includes team members in our finance, information technology, operations improvement, analytics, corporate legal, and human resources departments.

As of December 31, 2010, we had 862 full and part-time team members.  Our team members have no union affiliations and we believe our relationship with our team members is in good standing.  The table below presents team members by operating function:

   
Number of Team Members
 
   
As of December 31,
 
Operating Function
 
2010
   
2009
 
Originations
   
245
     
224
 
Servicing
   
411
     
462
 
Support
   
206
     
225
 
Total
   
862
     
911
 

Available Information

Our Internet address is creditacceptance.com.  We make available, free of charge on the web site, copies of reports we file with or furnish to the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file or furnish such reports.


RISK FACTORS

Our inability to accurately forecast and estimate the amount and timing of future collections could have a material adverse effect on results of operations.

Substantially all of the Consumer Loans assigned to us are made to individuals with impaired or limited credit histories or higher debt-to-income ratios than are permitted by traditional lenders.  Consumer Loans made to these individuals generally entail a higher risk of delinquency, default and repossession and higher losses than loans made to consumers with better credit.  Since most of our revenue and cash flows from operations are generated from these Consumer Loans, our ability to accurately forecast Consumer Loan performance is critical to our business and financial results.  At the time of assignment, we forecast future expected cash flows from the Consumer Loan.  Based on these forecasts, which include estimates for wholesale vehicle prices in the event of vehicle repossession and sale, we make an advance or one-time purchase payment to the related Dealer-Partner at a level designed to achieve an acceptable return on capital.  These forecasts also serve as a critical assumption in our accounting for recognizing finance charge income and determining our allowance for credit losses.  Please see the Critical Accounting Estimates – Finance Charge Revenue & Allowance for Credit Losses section in Item 7 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated by reference herein.  If Consumer Loan performance equals or exceeds original expectations, it is likely our target return on capital will be achieved.  However, actual cash flows from any individual Consumer Loan are often different than cash flows estimated at the time of assignment.  There can be no assurance that our forecasts will be accurate or that Consumer Loan performance will be as expected.  Recent economic conditions have made forecasts regarding the performance of Consumer Loans more difficult.  In the event that our forecasts are not accurate, our financial position, liquidity and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

We may be unable to execute our business strategy due to current economic conditions.

Our financial position, liquidity and results of operations depend on management’s ability to execute our business strategy.  Key factors involved in the execution of our business strategy include achieving our desired Consumer Loan assignment volume, continued and successful use of CAPS and pricing strategy, the use of effective credit risk management techniques and servicing strategies, continued investment in technology to support operating efficiency and continued access to funding and liquidity sources.  Although we recently implemented pricing changes that were intended to have a positive impact on unit volume, in exchange for mostly lower returns on capital, there can be no assurance that this change will have its intended effect or that lower returns on capital will be modest.  Please see the Consumer Loan Volume section in Item 7 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated by reference herein.  Our failure or inability to execute any element of our business strategy could materially adversely affect our financial position, liquidity and results of operations.

We may be unable to continue to access or renew funding sources and obtain capital needed to maintain and grow our business.

We use debt financing to fund new Loans and pay Dealer Holdback.  We currently utilize the following primary forms of debt financing: (1) a revolving secured line of credit with a commercial bank syndicate; (2) revolving secured warehouse facilities with institutional investors; (3) asset-backed secured financings (“Term ABS”) with qualified institutional investors; and (4) Senior Secured Notes due 2017 issued pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Senior Notes”).  We cannot guarantee that the revolving secured line of credit or the revolving secured warehouse facilities will continue to be available beyond their current maturity dates on acceptable terms or at all, or that we will be able to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms or at all.  The availability of additional financing will depend on a variety of factors such as market conditions, the general availability of credit and our credit ratings and capacity for additional borrowing under our existing financing arrangements.  If our various financing alternatives were to become limited or unavailable, we may be unable to maintain or grow Consumer Loan volume at the level that we anticipate and our operations could be materially adversely affected.


The terms of our debt limit how we conduct our business.

The agreements that govern our debt contain covenants that restrict our ability to, among other things:
·  
incur and guarantee debt;
·  
pay dividends or make other distributions on or redeem or repurchase our stock;
·  
make investments or acquisitions;
·  
create liens on our assets;
·  
sell assets;
·  
merge with or into other companies;
·  
enter into transactions with stockholders and other affiliates; and
·  
make capital expenditures.

Some of our debt agreements also impose requirements that we maintain specified financial measures not in excess of, or not below, specified levels.  In particular, our revolving credit facility requires, among other things, that we maintain (i) at all times a ratio of consolidated net assets to consolidated funded debt equal to or greater than a specified minimum; (ii) as of the end of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of consolidated funded debt to consolidated tangible net worth at or below a specified maximum; (iii) as of the end of each fiscal quarter calculated for the two fiscal quarters then ending, consolidated net income of not less than a specified minimum; and (iv) as of the end of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of consolidated income available for fixed charges for the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters most recently ended to consolidated fixed charges for that period of not less than a specified minimum.  These covenants limit the manner in which we can conduct our business and could prevent us from engaging in favorable business activities or financing future operations and capital needs and impair our ability to successfully execute our strategy and operate our business.

A breach of any of the covenants in our debt instruments would result in an event of default thereunder if not promptly cured or waived. Any continuing default would permit the creditors to accelerate the related debt, which could also result in the acceleration of other debt containing a cross-acceleration or cross-default provision. In addition, an event of default under our revolving credit facility would permit the lenders thereunder to terminate all commitments to extend further credit under our revolving credit facility. Furthermore, if we were unable to repay the amounts due and payable under our revolving credit facility or other secured debt, the lenders thereunder could cause the collateral agent to proceed against the collateral securing that debt.  In the event our creditors accelerate the repayment of our debt, there can be no assurance that we would have sufficient assets to repay that debt, and our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations would suffer.

A violation of the terms of our Term ABS facilities or revolving secured warehouse facilities could have a materially adverse impact on our operations.

Under our Term ABS facilities and the revolving secured warehouse facilities, (1) we have various obligations and covenants as servicer and custodian of the Consumer Loans contributed thereto and in our individual capacity and (2) the special purpose subsidiaries to which we contribute Consumer Loans have various obligations and covenants.  A violation of any of these obligations or covenants by us or the special purpose subsidiaries, respectively, may result in us being unable to obtain additional funding under these securitization facilities, the termination of our servicing rights and the loss of servicing fees, and may result in amounts outstanding under these securitization facilities becoming immediately due and payable.  In addition, the violation of any financial covenant under our revolving secured line of credit facility is an event of default or termination event under the securitization facilities.  The lack of availability from any or all of these securitization facilities may have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity, and results of operations.


The conditions of the U.S. and international capital markets may adversely affect lenders with which we have relationships, causing us to incur additional costs and reducing our sources of liquidity, which may adversely affect our financial position, liquidity and results of operations.

Over the past several years, there has been turbulence in the global capital markets and the overall economy.  Such turbulence can result in disruptions in the financial sector and affect lenders with which we have relationships.  Disruptions in the financial sector may increase our exposure to credit risk and adversely affect the ability of lenders to perform under the terms of their lending arrangements with us.  Failure by our lenders to perform under the terms of our lending arrangements could cause us to incur additional costs that may adversely affect our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.  While overall market conditions have improved, there can be no assurance that future disruptions in the financial sector will not occur that could have similar adverse effects on our business.

Our substantial debt could negatively impact our business, prevent us from satisfying our debt obligations and adversely affect our financial condition.

 
We have a substantial amount of debt.  The substantial amount of our debt could have important consequences, including the following:
 
·  
our ability to obtain additional financing for Consumer Loan assignments, working capital, debt refinancing or other purposes could be impaired;
·  
a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations will be dedicated to paying principal and interest on our debt, reducing funds available for other purposes;
·  
we may be vulnerable to interest rate increases, as some of our borrowings, including those under our revolving credit facility, bear interest at variable rates;
·  
we could be more vulnerable to adverse developments in our industry or in general economic conditions;
·  
we may be restricted from taking advantage of business opportunities or making strategic acquisitions; and
·  
we may be limited in our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industries in which we operate.

Due to competition from traditional financing sources and non-traditional lenders, we may not be able to compete successfully.

The automobile finance market for consumers who do not qualify for conventional automobile financing is large and highly competitive.  The market is served by a variety of companies including "buy here, pay here" dealerships.  The market is also currently served by banks, captive finance affiliates of automobile manufacturers, credit unions and independent finance companies both publicly and privately owned.  Many of these companies are much larger and have greater financial resources than are available to us, and many have long standing relationships with automobile dealerships.  Providers of automobile financing have traditionally competed based on the interest rate charged, the quality of credit accepted, the flexibility of loan terms offered and the quality of service provided to dealers and consumers.  There is potential that significant direct competition could emerge and that we may be unable to compete successfully.  Additionally, if we are unsuccessful in maintaining and expanding our relationships with Dealer-Partners, we may be unable to accept Consumer Loans in the volume and on the terms that we anticipate.

We may not be able to generate sufficient cash flows to service our outstanding debt and fund operations and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under such debt.

Our ability to make payments of principal and interest on indebtedness will depend in part on our cash flows from operations, which are subject to economic, financial, competitive and other factors beyond our control.  We cannot assure you that we will maintain a level of cash flows from operations sufficient to permit us to meet our debt service obligations.  If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flows from operations to service our debt, we may be required to sell assets, refinance all or a portion of our existing debt or obtain additional financing.  There can be no assurance that any refinancing will be possible or that any asset sales or additional financing can be completed on acceptable terms or at all.


Interest rate fluctuations may adversely affect our borrowing costs, profitability and liquidity.

Our profitability may be directly affected by the level of and fluctuations in interest rates, whether caused by changes in economic conditions or other factors, which affect our borrowing costs.  Our profitability and liquidity could be materially adversely affected during any period of higher interest rates.  We monitor the interest rate environment and employ hedging strategies designed to mitigate the impact of increases in interest rates.  We can provide no assurance, however, that hedging strategies will mitigate the impact of increases in interest rates.

Reduction in our credit rating could increase the cost of our funding from, and restrict our access to, the capital markets and adversely affect our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.

Credit rating agencies evaluate us, and their ratings of our debt and creditworthiness are based on a number of factors.  These factors include our financial strength and other factors not entirely within our control, including conditions affecting the financial services industry generally.  In light of the recent difficulties that faced the financial services industry and the financial markets, there can be no assurance that we will maintain our current ratings.  Failure to maintain those ratings could, among other things, adversely limit our access to the capital markets and affect the cost and other terms upon which we are able to obtain financing.

We may incur substantially more debt and other liabilities.  This could exacerbate further the risks associated with our current debt levels.

We may be able to incur substantial additional debt in the future.  Although the terms of our debt instruments contain restrictions on our ability to incur additional debt, these restrictions are subject to exceptions that could permit us to incur a substantial amount of additional debt.  In addition, our debt instruments do not prevent us from incurring liabilities that do not constitute indebtedness as defined for purposes of those debt instruments.  If new debt or other liabilities are added to our current debt levels, the risks associated with our having substantial debt could intensify.

The regulation to which we are or may become subject could result in a material adverse effect on our business.

Reference should be made to Item 1. Business  “Regulation” for a discussion of regulatory risk factors.

Adverse changes in economic conditions, the automobile or finance industries, or the non-prime consumer market could adversely affect our financial position, liquidity and results of operations, the ability of key vendors that we depend on to supply us with services, and our ability to enter into future financing transactions.

We are subject to general economic conditions which are beyond our control. Recently, concerns over the availability and cost of credit, the U.S. mortgage market, a declining real estate market and geopolitical issues have contributed to increased volatility and diminished expectations for the economy and financial markets going forward.  During periods of economic slowdown or recession, delinquencies, defaults, repossessions and losses may increase on our Consumer Loans and Consumer Loan prepayments may decline.  These periods are also typically accompanied by decreased consumer demand for automobiles and declining values of automobiles securing outstanding Consumer Loans, which weakens collateral coverage and increases the amount of a loss in the event of default.  Significant increases in the inventory of used automobiles during periods of economic recession may also depress the prices at which repossessed automobiles may be sold or delay the timing of these sales.  Additionally, higher gasoline prices, declining stock market values, unstable real estate values, resets of adjustable rate mortgages to higher interest rates, increasing unemployment levels, general availability of consumer credit or other factors that impact consumer confidence or disposable income could increase loss frequency and decrease consumer demand for automobiles as well as weaken collateral values of automobiles.  Because our business is focused on consumers who do not qualify for conventional automobile financing, the actual rates of delinquencies, defaults, repossessions and losses on these Consumer Loans could be higher than that of those experienced in the general automobile finance industry, and could be more dramatically affected by a general economic downturn.


We rely on Dealer-Partners to originate Consumer Loans for assignment under our programs.  High levels of Dealer-Partner attrition, due to a general economic downturn or otherwise, could materially adversely affect our operations.  In addition, we rely on vendors to provide us with services we need to operate our business.  Any disruption in our operations due to the untimely or discontinued supply of these services could substantially adversely affect our operations.  Finally, during an economic slowdown or recession, our servicing costs may increase without a corresponding increase in finance charge revenue.  Any sustained period of increased delinquencies, defaults, repossessions or losses or increased servicing costs could also materially adversely affect our financial position, liquidity and results of operations and our ability to enter into future financing transactions.

Litigation we are involved in from time to time may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

As a result of the consumer-oriented nature of the industry in which we operate and uncertainties with respect to the application of various laws and regulations in some circumstances, we are subject to various consumer claims and litigation seeking damages and statutory penalties, based upon, among other things, usury, disclosure inaccuracies, wrongful repossession, violations of bankruptcy stay provisions, certificate of title disputes, fraud and breach of contract.  As the assignee of Consumer Loans originated by Dealer-Partners, we may also be named as a co-defendant in lawsuits filed by consumers principally against Dealer-Partners.  We may also have disputes and litigation with Dealer-Partners relating to our dealer servicing and related agreements, including claims for, among other things, breach of contract or other duties purportedly owed to the Dealer-Partners. The damages and penalties that may be claimed by consumers or Dealer-Partners in these types of matters can be substantial.  The relief requested by plaintiffs varies but may include requests for compensatory, statutory and punitive damages, and plaintiffs may seek treatment as purported class actions.  A significant judgment against us in connection with any litigation or arbitration could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity and results of operations.

Changes in tax laws and the resolution of uncertain income tax matters could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows from operations.

We are subject to income tax in many of the various jurisdictions in which we operate.  Increases in statutory income tax rates and other adverse changes in applicable law in these jurisdictions could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.  In the ordinary course of business, there are transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain.  At any one time, multiple tax years are subject to audit by various taxing jurisdictions. We provide reserves for potential payments of tax to various tax authorities related to uncertain tax positions.  Please see the Critical Accounting Estimates – Uncertain Tax Positions section in Item 7 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated by reference herein.  We adjust these liabilities as a result of changing facts and circumstances; however, due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities.  Such payments could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows from operations. 

Our operations are dependent on technology.

Virtually all Consumer Loans submitted to us for assignment are processed through our internet-based CAPS application, which enables our Dealer-Partners to interact with our proprietary credit scoring system.  Our Consumer Loan servicing platform is also technology based.  We rely on these systems to record and process significant amounts of data quickly and accurately and believe that these systems provide us with a competitive advantage.  All of these systems are dependent upon computer and telecommunications equipment, software systems and Internet access.  The temporary or permanent loss of any components of these systems through hardware failures, software errors, the vulnerability of the Internet, operating malfunctions or otherwise could interrupt our business operations, harm our business and adversely affect our competitive advantage.  In addition, our competitors could create or acquire systems similar to ours, which would adversely affect our competitive advantage.

We rely on a variety of measures to protect our technology and proprietary information, including copyrights, trade secrets and patents.  However, these measures may not prevent misappropriation or infringement of our intellectual property or proprietary information, which would adversely affect us.  In addition, our competitors or other third parties may allege that our systems, processes or technologies infringe their intellectual property rights.


Our ability to integrate computer and telecommunications technologies into our business is essential to our success.  Computer and telecommunications technologies are evolving rapidly and are characterized by short product life cycles.  We may not be successful in anticipating, managing or adopting technological changes on a timely basis.  While we believe that our existing information systems are sufficient to meet our current demands and continued expansion, our future growth may require additional investment in these systems.  We cannot assure that adequate capital resources will be available to us at the appropriate time.

Reliance on third parties to administer our ancillary product offerings could adversely affect our business and financial results.

We have relationships with third parties to administer vehicle service contract and GAP products underwritten by third party insurers and financed by us.  We depend on these TPAs to evaluate and pay claims in an accurate and timely manner.  We also have relationships with third parties to sell and administer GPS-SID.  If our relationships with the TPAs were modified, disrupted, or terminated, we would need to obtain these services from an alternative administrator or provide them using our internal resources.  We may be unable to replace these TPAs with a suitable alternative in a timely and efficient manner on terms we consider acceptable, or at all.  In the event we were unable to effectively administer our ancillary products offerings, we may need to eliminate or suspend our ancillary product offerings from our future business, we may experience a decline in the performance of our Consumer Loans, our reputation in the marketplace could be undermined, and our financial position, liquidity and results of operations could be adversely affected.

We are dependent on our senior management and the loss of any of these individuals or an inability to hire additional team members could adversely affect our ability to operate profitably.

Our senior management average over 11 years of experience with us.  Our success is dependent upon the management and the leadership skills of this team.  In addition, competition from other companies to hire our team members possessing the necessary skills and experience required could contribute to an increase in team member turnover.  The loss of any of these individuals or an inability to attract and retain additional qualified team members could adversely affect us.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to retain our existing senior management or attract additional qualified team members.

Our reputation is a key asset to our business, and our business may be affected by how we are perceived in the marketplace.

Our reputation is a key asset to our business.  Our ability to attract consumers through our Dealer-Partners is highly dependent upon external perceptions of our level of service, trustworthiness, business practices and financial condition.  Negative publicity regarding these matters could damage our reputation among existing and potential consumers and Dealer-Partners, which could make it difficult for us to attract new consumers and Dealer-Partners and maintain existing Dealer-Partners.  Adverse developments with respect to our industry may also, by association, negatively impact our reputation or result in greater regulatory or legislative scrutiny or litigation against us.

The concentration of our Dealer-Partners in several states could adversely affect us.

 
We are partnered with Dealer-Partners throughout the United States.  During the year ended December 31, 2010, our five largest states (measured by advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program) contained approximately 29.5% of our Dealer-Partners. While we believe we have a diverse geographic presence, for the near term, we expect that significant amounts of Consumer Loan assignments will continue to be generated by Dealer-Partners in these five states due to the number of Dealer-Partners in these states and currently prevailing economic, demographic, regulatory, competitive and other conditions in these states. Changes to conditions in these states could lead to an increase in Dealer-Partner attrition or a reduction in demand for our service that could materially adversely affect our financial position, liquidity and results of operations.
 


 
Failure to properly safeguard confidential consumer information could subject us to liability, decrease our profitability and damage our reputation.
 

If third parties or our team members are able to breach our network security or otherwise misappropriate our customers’ personal information or loan information, or if we give third parties or our team members improper access to our customers’ personal information or loan information, we could be subject to liability.  This liability could include identity theft or other similar fraud-related claims.  This liability could also include claims for other misuses or losses of personal information, including for unauthorized marketing purposes.  Other liabilities could include claims alleging misrepresentation of our privacy and data security practices.

We rely on encryption and authentication technology licensed from third parties to provide the security and authentication necessary to secure online transmission of confidential consumer information.  Advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field of cryptography or other events or developments may result in a compromise or breach of the algorithms that we use to protect sensitive customer transaction data.  A party who is able to circumvent our security measures could misappropriate proprietary information or cause interruptions in our operations.  We may be required to expend capital and other resources to protect against security breaches or to alleviate problems caused by security breaches.  Our security measures are designed to protect against security breaches, but our failure to prevent security breaches could subject us to liability, decrease our profitability and damage our reputation.

Our founder controls a majority of our common stock, has the ability to control matters requiring shareholder approval and has interests which may conflict with the interests of our other security holders.

Our founder owns a large enough stake of the Company to control matters presented to shareholders, including the election and removal of directors, the approval of significant corporate transactions, such as any reclassification, reorganization, merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets, and the control of our management and affairs, including executive compensation arrangements.  His interests may conflict with the interests of our other security holders.

Reliance on our outsourced business functions could adversely affect our business.

We outsource a portion of our collections functions to companies in India and Costa Rica and a portion of our DPSC functions to a company in India.  While we believe there are benefits to these arrangements, outsourcing increases our operational complexity and decreases our control.  We rely on these service providers to provide a high level of service and support, which subjects us to risks associated with inadequate or untimely service.  For example, the outsourcing of collection functions could result in lower collection rates on our Consumer Loans than we would have achieved had we performed the same functions internally.  In addition, if these outsourcing arrangements were not renewed or were terminated or the services provided to us were otherwise disrupted, we would have to obtain these services from an alternative provider or provide them using our internal resources.  We may be unable to replace, or be delayed in replacing these sources and there is a risk that we would be unable to enter into a similar agreement with an alternate provider on terms that we consider favorable or in a timely manner.  In the future, we may outsource other business functions.  If any of these or other risks related to outsourcing were realized, our financial position, liquidity and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Natural disasters, acts of war, terrorist attacks and threats or the escalation of military activity in response to these attacks or otherwise may negatively affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Natural disasters, acts of war, terrorist attacks and the escalation of military activity in response to these attacks or otherwise may have negative and significant effects, such as imposition of increased security measures, changes in applicable laws, market disruptions and job losses.  These events may have an adverse effect on the economy in general.  Moreover, the potential for future terrorist attacks and the national and international responses to these threats could affect the business in ways that cannot be predicted.  The effect of any of these events or threats could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.


ITEM 1B.
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2.
PROPERTIES

Our headquarters is located at 25505 West Twelve Mile Road, Southfield, Michigan 48034.  We purchased the office building in 1993 and have a mortgage loan from a commercial bank that is secured by a first mortgage lien on the property.  The office building includes approximately 136,000 square feet of space on five floors.  We occupy approximately 120,000 square feet of the building, with most of the remainder of the building leased to various tenants.

We lease approximately 14,000 square feet of office space in Southfield, Michigan and approximately 20,000 square feet of office space in Henderson, Nevada.  The lease for the Southfield, Michigan space expires in June 2013 and the lease for the Henderson, Nevada space expires in November 2014.

ITEM 3.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

In the normal course of business and as a result of the consumer-oriented nature of the industry in which we operate, industry participants are frequently subject to various consumer claims and litigation.  The claims allege, among other theories of liability, violations of state, federal and foreign truth-in-lending, credit availability, credit reporting, consumer protection, warranty, debt collection, insurance and other consumer-oriented laws and regulations, including claims seeking damages for physical and mental damages relating to our repossession and sale of the consumer’s vehicle and other debt collection activities.  As we accept assignments of Consumer Loans originated by Dealer-Partners, we may also be named as a co-defendant in lawsuits filed by consumers principally against Dealer-Partners.  We may also have disputes and litigation with Dealer-Partners relating to our dealer servicing and related agreements, including claims for, among other things breach of contract or other duties purportedly owed to the Dealer-Partners.  The damages and penalties that may be claimed by consumers or Dealer-Partners in these types of matters can be substantial.  The relief requested by plaintiffs varies but may include requests for compensatory, statutory and punitive damages, and plaintiffs may seek treatment as purported class actions.  A significant judgment against us in connection with any litigation or arbitration could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity and results of operations.

ITEM 4.
(REMOVED AND RESERVED).


PART II

ITEM 5.
MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Stock Price

During the year ended December 31, 2010 our common stock was traded on The Nasdaq Global Market® (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “CACC”.  The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices as reported by the Nasdaq for the common stock for the relevant periods during 2010 and 2009.  Such bid information reflects inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.

   
2010
   
2009
 
 Quarters Ended
 
High
   
Low
   
High
   
Low
 
March 31
 
$
53.97
   
$
38.57
   
$
23.99
   
$
13.73
 
June 30
   
49.65
     
41.24
     
25.00
     
19.01
 
September 30
   
63.45
     
47.18
     
33.96
     
22.10
 
December 31
   
63.58
     
54.12
     
44.93
     
30.56
 


As of February 16, 2011, we had 138 shareholders of record and approximately 3,000 beneficial holders of our common stock based upon securities position listings furnished to us.

Dividends

We have not paid any cash dividends during the periods presented.  Our debt agreements contain financial covenants which may indirectly limit the payment of dividends on common stock.


Stock Performance Graph

The following graph compares the percentage change in the cumulative total shareholder return on our common stock during the period beginning January 1, 2006 and ending on December 31, 2010 with the cumulative total return on the Nasdaq Market Index and a peer group index based upon approximately 100 companies included in the Dow Jones – US General Financial Index.  The comparison assumes that $100 was invested on January 1, 2006 in our common stock and in the foregoing indices and assumes the reinvestment of dividends.




Stock Repurchases

In 1999, our board of directors approved a stock repurchase program which authorizes us to repurchase common shares in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions at price levels we deem attractive.  As of December 31, 2010, we had authorization to repurchase up to $29.1 million of our common stock.  On February 9, 2011, we commenced a tender offer to purchase up to 1,904,761 shares of our common stock at a price of $65.625 per share.  The tender offer is scheduled to expire at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 10, 2011, subject to our right to extend the offer.  The tender offer is conditioned upon, among other things, consummation of a new debt financing (the “Debt Financing”) on terms reasonably satisfactory to us.  We anticipate that we will obtain all of the funds necessary to purchase shares in the tender offer, and to pay related fees and expenses, through a combination of the proceeds of the Debt Financing and by borrowing under our $170.0 million revolving secured line of credit facility.  The tender offer is being made pursuant to an offer to purchase issued in connection with the tender offer, and this Form 10-K is not an offer to purchase any of our shares of common stock.

The following table summarizes our stock repurchases for the three months ended December 31, 2010:

Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased
   
Average Price Paid per Share
   
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
   
Maximum Dollar Value that May Yet Be Used to Purchase Shares Under the Plans or Programs
 
October 1 through October 31, 2010
   
-
   
$
-
     
-
   
$
29,113,295
 
November 1 through November 30, 2010
   
124
*
   
-
     
-
     
29,113,295
 
December 1 through December 31, 2010
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
29,113,295
 
     
-
   
$
-
     
-
         


*Amount represents shares of common stock released to us by team members as payment of tax withholdings due to us upon the vesting of restricted stock.


ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The selected income statement and balance sheet data presented below are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, and notes thereto and Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, included elsewhere in this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.

(In thousands, except per share data)
 
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
   
2007
   
2006
 
Income Statement Data:
                             
Revenue
 
$
442,135
   
$
380,664
   
$
312,186
   
$
239,927
   
$
219,332
 
Costs and expenses:
                                       
Salaries and wages
   
61,327
     
66,893
     
68,993
     
55,396
     
41,015
 
General and administrative (A)
   
26,432
     
30,391
     
27,536
     
27,202
     
36,491
 
Sales and marketing
   
19,661
     
14,808
     
16,776
     
17,493
     
16,624
 
Provision for credit losses
   
10,037
     
(12,164
)
   
46,029
     
19,947
     
11,006
 
Interest
   
47,752
     
32,399
     
43,189
     
36,669
     
23,330
 
Provision for claims
   
23,429
     
19,299
     
2,651
     
39
     
226
 
Total costs and expenses
   
188,638
     
151,626
     
205,174
     
156,746
     
128,692
 
Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes
   
253,497
     
229,038
     
107,012
     
83,181
     
90,640
 
Provision for income taxes
   
83,390
     
82,992
     
39,944
     
29,567
     
31,793
 
Income from continuing operations
   
170,107
     
146,046
     
67,068
     
53,614
     
58,847
 
(Loss) gain from operations of discontinued United Kingdom operations
   
(30
)
   
137
     
307
     
(562
)
   
(297
)
(Credit) provision for income taxes
   
-
     
(72
)
   
198
     
(1,864
)
   
(90
)
(Loss) gain from discontinued operations
   
(30
)
   
209
     
109
     
1,302
     
(207
)
Net income
 
$
170,077
   
$
146,255
   
$
67,177
   
$
54,916
   
$
58,640
 
                                         
Net income per share:
                                       
Basic
 
$
5.79
   
$
4.78
   
$
2.22
   
$
1.83
   
$
1.78
 
Diluted
 
$
5.67
   
$
4.62
   
$
2.16
   
$
1.76
   
$
1.66
 
Income from continuing operations per share:
                                       
Basic
 
$
5.79
   
$
4.77
   
$
2.22
   
$
1.78
   
$
1.78
 
Diluted
 
$
5.67
   
$
4.61
   
$
2.16
   
$
1.72
   
$
1.67
 
(Loss) gain from discontinued operations per share:
                                       
Basic
 
$
-
   
$
0.01
   
$
-
   
$
0.04
   
$
(0.01
)
Diluted
 
$
-
   
$
0.01
   
$
-
   
$
0.04
   
$
(0.01
)
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                                       
Basic
   
29,393
     
30,590
     
30,250
     
30,053
     
33,036
 
Diluted
   
29,985
     
31,669
     
31,105
     
31,154
     
35,283
 
                                         
Balance Sheet Data:
                                       
Loans receivable, net
 
$
1,218,013
   
$
1,050,013
   
$
1,017,917
   
$
810,553
   
$
625,780
 
All other assets
   
125,502
     
126,223
     
121,437
     
131,629
     
99,433
 
Total assets
 
$
1,343,515
   
$
1,176,236
   
$
1,139,354
   
$
942,182
   
$
725,213
 
                                         
Total debt
 
$
685,667
   
$
506,979
   
$
641,714
   
$
532,130
   
$
392,175
 
Other liabilities
   
183,374
     
171,047
     
159,889
     
144,602
     
122,691
 
Total liabilities
   
869,041
     
678,026
     
801,603
     
676,732
     
514,866
 
Shareholders' equity (B)
   
474,474
     
498,210
     
337,751
     
265,450
     
210,347
 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
 
$
1,343,515
   
$
1,176,236
   
$
1,139,354
   
$
942,182
   
$
725,213
 

(A)  
2006 includes $11.2 million of additional legal expenses related to an increase in our loss related to a class action lawsuit in the state of Missouri.
(B)  
No dividends were paid during the periods presented.


ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Overview

We provide auto loans to consumers regardless of their credit history.  Our product is offered through a nationwide network of automobile dealers who benefit from sales of vehicles to consumers who otherwise could not obtain financing; from repeat and referral sales generated by these same customers; and from sales to customers responding to advertisements for our product, but who actually end up qualifying for traditional financing.

For the year ended December 31, 2010, consolidated net income was $170.1 million, or $5.67 per diluted share, compared to $146.3 million, or $4.62 per diluted share, for the same period in 2009 and $67.2 million, or $2.16 per diluted share, for the same period in 2008.  The growth in 2010 consolidated net income was primarily due to (1) an increase in the size of our Loan portfolio and (2) an improvement in the performance of our Loan portfolio.  The growth in 2009 consolidated net income was primarily due to (1) an improvement in the performance of our Loan portfolio, (2) higher yields on new Consumer Loan assignments, and (3) an increase in the size of our Loan portfolio.

Critical Success Factors

Critical success factors include our ability to access capital on acceptable terms, accurately forecast Consumer Loan performance, and maintain or grow Consumer Loan volume at the level and on the terms that we anticipate, with an objective to maximize economic profit.  Economic profit is a financial metric we use to evaluate our financial results and determine incentive compensation.  Economic profit measures how efficiently we utilize our total capital, both debt and equity, and is a function of the return on capital in excess of the cost of capital and the amount of capital invested in the business.

Access to Capital

Our strategy for accessing capital on acceptable terms needed to maintain and grow the business is to: (1) maintain consistent financial performance; (2) maintain modest financial leverage; and (3) maintain multiple funding sources.  Our funded debt to equity ratio is 1.4:1 as of December 31, 2010.  We currently utilize the following primary forms of debt financing: (1) a revolving secured line of credit with a commercial bank syndicate; (2) revolving secured warehouse facilities with institutional investors; (3) Term ABS financings with qualified institutional investors; and (4) Senior Notes.

Consumer Loan Performance

At the time the Consumer Loan is submitted to us for assignment, we forecast future expected cash flows from the Consumer Loan.  Based on these forecasts, an advance or one-time purchase payment is made to the related Dealer-Partner at a price designed to achieve an acceptable return on capital.  If Consumer Loan performance equals or exceeds our original expectation, it is likely our target return on capital will be achieved.


We use a statistical model to estimate the expected collection rate for each Consumer Loan at the time of assignment.  We continue to evaluate the expected collection rate of each Consumer Loan subsequent to assignment.  Our evaluation becomes more accurate as the Consumer Loans age, as we use actual performance data in our forecast.  By comparing our current expected collection rate for each Consumer Loan with the rate we projected at the time of assignment, we are able to assess the accuracy of our initial forecast.  The following table compares our forecast of Consumer Loan collection rates as of December 31, 2010, with the forecasts as of December 31, 2009, as of December 31, 2008, and at the time of assignment, segmented by year of assignment:

   
 Forecasted Collection Percentage as of
 
 Variance in Forecasted Collection
Percentage from
Consumer Loan Assignment Year
 
 December 31, 2010
 
 December 31,
2009
 
 December 31,
2008
 
 Initial
Forecast
 
 December 31,
2009
 
 December 31,
2008
 
 Initial
Forecast
2001
 
67.5%
 
67.5%
 
67.4%
 
70.4%
 
0.0%
 
0.1%
 
-2.9%
2002
 
70.5%
 
70.4%
 
70.4%
 
67.9%
 
0.1%
 
0.1%
 
2.6%
2003
 
73.7%
 
73.7%
 
73.8%
 
72.0%
 
0.0%
 
-0.1%
 
1.7%
2004
 
73.0%
 
73.1%
 
73.4%
 
73.0%
 
-0.1%
 
-0.4%
 
0.0%
2005
 
73.7%
 
73.7%
 
74.1%
 
74.0%
 
0.0%
 
-0.4%
 
-0.3%
2006
 
70.2%
 
70.3%
 
70.3%
 
71.4%
 
-0.1%
 
-0.1%
 
-1.2%
2007
 
67.9%
 
68.3%
 
67.9%
 
70.7%
 
-0.4%
 
0.0%
 
-2.8%
2008
 
69.9%
 
70.0%
 
67.9%
 
69.7%
 
-0.1%
 
2.0%
 
0.2%
2009
 
78.5%
 
75.6%
 
 -
 
71.9%
 
2.9%
 
 -
 
6.6%
2010
 
75.8%
 
 -
 
 -
 
73.6%
 
 -
 
 -
 
2.2%

Consumer Loans assigned in 2002, 2003, 2008, 2009 and 2010 have performed better than our initial expectations while Consumer Loans assigned in 2001, 2005, 2006 and 2007 have performed worse.  During the year ended December 31, 2010, forecasted collection rates increased for Consumer Loans assigned in 2009 and 2010, decreased for 2007 Consumer Loan assignments, and were generally consistent with expectations at the start of the period for the other assignment years.

Forecasting collection rates precisely at Loan inception is difficult.  With this in mind, we establish advance rates that are intended to allow us to achieve acceptable levels of profitability, even if collection rates are less than we currently forecast.

The following table presents forecasted Consumer Loan collection rates, advance rates, the spread (the forecasted collection rate less the advance rate), and the percentage of the forecasted collections that had been realized as of December 31, 2010.  All amounts, unless otherwise noted, are presented as a percentage of the initial balance of the Consumer Loan (principal + interest).  The table includes both Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans.

   
 As of December 31, 2010
 Consumer Loan Assignment Year
 
 Forecasted Collection %
 
 Advance %(1)
 
 Spread %
 
 % of Forecast Realized (2)
2001
 
67.5%
 
46.0%
 
21.5%
 
99.5%
2002
 
70.5%
 
42.2%
 
28.3%
 
99.3%
2003
 
73.7%
 
43.4%
 
30.3%
 
99.2%
2004
 
73.0%
 
44.0%
 
29.0%
 
98.9%
2005
 
73.7%
 
46.9%
 
26.8%
 
98.6%
2006
 
70.2%
 
46.6%
 
23.6%
 
97.1%
2007
 
67.9%
 
46.5%
 
21.4%
 
91.4%
2008
 
69.9%
 
44.6%
 
25.3%
 
77.6%
2009
 
78.5%
 
43.9%
 
34.6%
 
57.0%
2010
 
75.8%
 
44.7%
 
31.1%
 
18.6%

(1)  
Represents advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program as a percentage of the contractual amounts of the Consumer Loans.  Payments of Dealer Holdback and accelerated Dealer Holdback are not included.
(2)  
Presented as a percentage of total forecasted collections.



The risk of a material change in our forecasted collection rate declines as the Consumer Loans age.  For 2007 and prior Consumer Loan assignments, the risk of a material forecast variance is modest, as we have currently realized in excess of 90% of the expected collections.  Conversely, the forecasted collection rates for more recent Consumer Loan assignments are less certain as a significant portion of our forecast has not been realized.

The spread between the forecasted collection rate and the advance rate declined during the 2004 through 2007 period as we increased advance rates during this period in response to a more difficult competitive environment.  During 2008 and 2009, the spread increased as the competitive environment improved, and we reduced advance rates.  In addition, during 2009, the spread was positively impacted by better than expected Consumer Loan performance.  We increased advance rates during the last four months of 2009, the first quarter of 2010, and the fourth quarter of 2010.  The decline in the spread for 2010 reflects these increases.

The following table presents forecasted Consumer Loan collection rates, advance rates, and the spread (the forecasted collection rate less the advance rate) as of December 31, 2010 for Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans separately.  All amounts are presented as a percentage of the initial balance of the Consumer Loan (principal + interest).

 
 Consumer Loan Assignment Year
 
 Forecasted Collection %
 
 Advance % (1)
 
 Spread %
Dealer Loans
2007
 
67.9%
 
45.8%
 
22.1%
 
2008
 
70.5%
 
43.3%
 
27.2%
 
2009
 
78.5%
 
43.5%
 
35.0%
 
2010
 
75.7%
 
44.4%
 
31.3%
               
Purchased Loans
2007
 
68.0%
 
49.1%
 
18.9%
 
2008
 
69.0%
 
46.7%
 
22.3%
 
2009
 
78.4%
 
45.5%
 
32.9%
 
2010
 
76.1%
 
47.1%
 
29.0%


(1)  
Represents advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program as a percentage of the contractual amounts of the Consumer Loans.  Payments of Dealer Holdback and accelerated Dealer Holdback are not included.
 
The advance rates presented for each Consumer Loan assignment year change over time due to the impact of transfers between Dealer and Purchased Loans.  Under our Portfolio Program, certain events may result in Dealer-Partners forfeiting their rights to Dealer Holdback.  We transfer the Dealer-Partner’s Consumer Loans from the Dealer Loan portfolio to the Purchased Loan portfolio in the period this forfeiture occurs.

Although the advance rate on Purchased Loans is higher as compared to the advance rate on Dealer Loans, Purchased Loans do not require us to pay Dealer Holdback.


Consumer Loan Volume

The following table summarizes changes in Consumer Loan assignment volume in each of the last 12 quarters as compared to the same period in the previous year:

   
 Year over Year Percent Change
 Three Months Ended
 
 Unit Volume
 
 Dollar Volume (1)
March 31, 2008
 
16.0%
 
23.0%
June 30, 2008
 
26.1%
 
40.1%
September 30, 2008
 
26.9%
 
21.5%
December 31, 2008
 
-13.4%
 
-27.5%
March 31, 2009
 
-13.0%
 
-28.9%
June 30, 2009
 
-16.2%
 
-33.5%
September 30, 2009
 
-5.7%
 
-13.0%
December 31, 2009
 
7.6%
 
5.9%
March 31, 2010
 
11.2%
 
21.6%
June 30, 2010
 
22.7%
 
42.2%
September 30, 2010
 
26.9%
 
51.5%
December 31, 2010
 
37.7%
 
66.9%

(1)  
Represents advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program.  Payments of Dealer Holdback and accelerated Dealer Holdback are not included.

Consumer Loan assignment volumes depend on a number of factors including (1) the overall demand for our product, (2) the amount of capital available to fund new Loans and (3) our assessment of the volume that our infrastructure can support.  Our pricing strategy is intended to maximize the amount of economic profit we generate, within the confines of capital and infrastructure constraints.  Our success in renewing our debt facilities and securing additional financing during 2009 and 2010 positioned us to grow year over year unit volumes.  During the last four months of 2009, the first quarter of 2010, and the fourth quarter of 2010, we increased advance rates, which had a positive impact on unit volumes.  While the advance increases also reduced the return on capital we expect to earn on new assignments, we believe it is very likely the advance increases had a positive impact on economic profit.  Unit volume for the one month ended January 31, 2011 increased by 35.8% as compared to the same period in 2010.


The following tables summarize the changes in Consumer Loan unit volume and active Dealer-Partners:

   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
% Change
 
Consumer Loan unit volume
   
136,813
     
111,029
     
23.2
%
Active Dealer-Partners (1)
   
3,206
     
3,168
     
1.2
%
Average volume per active Dealer-Partner
   
42.7
     
35.0
     
22.0
%
                         
Consumer Loan unit volume from Dealer-Partners active both periods
   
118,586
     
97,919
     
21.1
%
Dealer-Partners active both periods
   
2,218
     
2,218
     
-
 
Average volume per Dealer-Partners active both periods
   
53.5
     
44.1
     
21.1
%
                         
Consumer Loan unit volume from new Dealer-Partners
   
17,023
     
18,789
     
-9.4
%
New active Dealer-Partners (2)
   
926
     
1,055
     
-12.2
%
Average volume per new active Dealer-Partners
   
18.4
     
17.8
     
3.4
%
                         
Attrition (3)
   
-11.8
%
   
-16.7
%
       


   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
% Change
 
Consumer Loan unit volume
   
111,029
     
121,282
     
-8.5
%
Active Dealer-Partners (1)
   
3,168
     
3,264
     
-2.9
%
Average volume per active Dealer-Partner
   
35.0
     
37.2
     
-5.9
%
                         
Consumer Loan unit volume from Dealer-Partners active both periods
   
91,647
     
101,063
     
-9.3
%
Dealer-Partners active both periods
   
2,075
     
2,075
     
-
 
Average volume per Dealer-Partners active both periods
   
44.2
     
48.7
     
-9.3
%
                         
Consumer Loan unit volume from new Dealer-Partners
   
18,789
     
21,659
     
-13.3
%
New active Dealer-Partners (2)
   
1,055
     
1,202
     
-12.2
%
Average volume per new active Dealer-Partners
   
17.8
     
18.0
     
-1.1
%
                         
Attrition (3)
   
-16.7
%
   
-10.9
%
       

 
(1)
Active Dealer-Partners are Dealer-Partners who have received funding for at least one Loan during the period.
 
(2)
New active Dealer-Partners are Dealer-Partners who enrolled in our program and have received funding for their first Loan from us during the periods presented.
 
(3)
Attrition is measured according to the following formula: decrease in Consumer Loan unit volume from Dealer-Partners who have received funding for at least one Loan during the comparable period of the prior year but did not receive funding for any Loans during the current period divided by prior year comparable period Consumer Loan unit volume.


Consumer Loans are assigned to us as either Dealer Loans through our Portfolio Program or Purchased Loans through our Purchase Program.  The following table summarizes the portion of our Consumer Loan volume that was assigned to us as Dealer Loans:

 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
 2010
 
 2009
 
 2008
New Dealer Loan unit volume as a percentage of total unit volume
90.9%
 
86.6%
 
70.2%
New Dealer Loan dollar volume as a percentage of total dollar volume (1)
88.7%
 
83.3%
 
64.4%

(1)  
Represents advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program.  Payments of Dealer Holdback and accelerated Dealer Holdback are not included.

New Dealer Loan unit and dollar volume as a percentage of total unit and dollar volume increased during 2010 and 2009 due to pricing and program enrollment changes we implemented in order to increase the profitability of the Purchase Program.

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the net Dealer Loans receivable balance was 79.5% and 72.5%, respectively, of the total net Loans receivable balance.


Results of Operations

The following is a discussion of our results of operations and income statement data on a consolidated basis:

(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
       
% Change
 
   
For the Years Ended December 31,
   
2010 to
   
2009 to
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenue:
                             
Finance charges
 
$
388,050
   
$
329,437
   
$
286,823
     
17.8
%
   
14.9
%
Premiums earned
   
32,659
     
33,605
     
3,967
     
-2.8
%
   
747.1
%
Other income
   
21,426
     
17,622
     
21,396
     
21.6
%
   
-17.6
%
Total revenue
   
442,135
     
380,664
     
312,186
     
16.1
%
   
21.9
%
Costs and expenses:
                                       
Salaries and wages
   
61,327
     
66,893
     
68,993
     
-8.3
%
   
-3.0
%
General and administrative
   
26,432
     
30,391
     
27,536
     
-13.0
%
   
10.4
%
Sales and marketing
   
19,661
     
14,808
     
16,776
     
32.8
%
   
-11.7
%
Provision for credit losses
   
10,037
     
(12,164
)
   
46,029
     
182.5
%
   
-126.4
%
Interest
   
47,752
     
32,399
     
43,189
     
47.4
%
   
-25.0
%
Provision for claims
   
23,429
     
19,299
     
2,651
     
21.4
%
   
628.0
%
Total costs and expenses
   
188,638
     
151,626
     
205,174
     
24.4
%
   
-26.1
%
Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes
   
253,497
     
229,038
     
107,012
     
10.7
%
   
114.0
%
Provision for income taxes
   
83,390
     
82,992
     
39,944
     
0.5
%
   
107.8
%
Income from continuing operations
   
170,107
     
146,046
     
67,068
     
16.5
%
   
117.8
%
Discontinued operations
                                       
(Loss) gain from discontinued United Kingdom operations
   
(30
)
   
137
     
307
     
-121.9
%
   
-55.4
%
(Credit) provision for income taxes
   
-
     
(72
)
   
198
     
-100.0
%
   
-136.4
%
(Loss) gain from discontinued operations
   
(30
)
   
209
     
109
     
-114.4
%
   
91.7
%
Net income
 
$
170,077
   
$
146,255
   
$
67,177
     
16.3
%
   
117.7
%
                                         
Net income per share:
                                       
Basic
 
$
5.79
   
$
4.78
   
$
2.22
                 
Diluted
 
$
5.67
   
$
4.62
   
$
2.16
                 
Income from continuing operations per share:
                                       
Basic
 
$
5.79
   
$
4.77
   
$
2.22
                 
Diluted
 
$
5.67
   
$
4.61
   
$
2.16
                 
(Loss) gain from discontinued operations per share:
                                       
Basic
 
$
-
   
$
0.01
   
$
-
                 
Diluted
 
$
-
   
$
0.01
   
$
-
                 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                                       
Basic
   
29,393
     
30,590
     
30,250
                 
Diluted
   
29,985
     
31,669
     
31,105
                 



Continuing Operations

The following table highlights changes in income from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2010, as compared to 2009:

(In thousands)
 
Change
 
 Income from continuing operations for year ended December 31, 2009
 
$
146,046
 
 Increase in finance charges
   
58,613
 
 Decrease in premiums earned
   
(946
)
 Increase in other income
   
3,804
 
 Decrease in operating expenses (1)
   
4,672
 
 Increase in provision for credit losses
   
(22,201
)
 Increase in interest
   
(15,353
)
 Increase in provision for claims
   
(4,130
)
 Increase in provision for income taxes
   
(398
)
 Income from continuing operations for year ended December 31, 2010
 
$
170,107
 

(1) Operating expenses consist of salaries and wages, general and administrative, and sales and marketing expenses.

Finance Charges.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, finance charges increased $58.6 million, or 17.8%, as compared to 2009.  The increase was the result of an increase in the average yield on our Loan portfolio and an increase in the average net Loans receivable balance, as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
Change
 
Average yield on our Loan portfolio
   
34.4
%
   
31.5
%
   
2.9
%
Average net Loans receivable balance
 
$
1,128,012
   
$
1,046,378
   
$
81,634
 


The following table summarizes the impact each component had on the increase in finance charges for the year ended December 31, 2010:

(In thousands)
 
For the Year Ended
 
Impact on finance charges:
 
December 31, 2010
 
Due to an increase in the average yield
 
$
32,912
 
Due to an increase in the average net Loans receivable balance
   
25,701
 
Total increase in finance charges
 
$
58,613
 

The increase in the average yield on our Loan portfolio for the year ended December 31, 2010 was due to improvements in forecasted collection rates on Loans assigned in 2009 and 2010 as well as higher yields on Consumer Loans assigned during the first quarter of 2010.  The increase in the average net Loans receivable balance was primarily due to growth in new Loan volume throughout 2010.

Premiums Earned.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, premiums earned decreased $0.9 million, or 2.8%, as compared to 2009.  The decrease was primarily due to a decline in the size of our reinsurance portfolio, which resulted from the termination of our arrangement with one of our third party insurers during the fourth quarter of 2009.  Prior to the fourth quarter of 2009, VSC Re reinsured vehicle service contracts that were underwritten by two of our three third party insurers.  VSC Re currently reinsures vehicle service contracts that are underwritten by one of our two third party insurers.



Other Income.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, other income increased $3.8 million, or 21.6%, as compared to 2009.  The increase in other income was primarily a result of $3.4 million of income recognized during the second quarter of 2010 related to an arrangement with one of our third party vehicle service contract providers.  This arrangement was discontinued in 2008 and no additional income is expected beyond the amount recognized to date.  While we continue to generate income from vehicle service contracts, such amounts are captured through VSC Re and recorded over the life of the contracts as premiums earned less provision for claims.

Salaries and Wages.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, salaries and wages decreased $5.6 million, or 8.3%, as compared to the same period in 2009.  The decrease was primarily the result of:

·  
Reduced expenses related to stock compensation due to the timing of expense related to long-term incentive compensation;
·  
Reduced expenses related to information technology primarily due to an approximately 25% reduction in information technology headcount, partially offset by the expensing of internal information technology salaries during the third quarter of 2010 that were previously capitalized as software developed for internal use; and
·  
Reduced expenses related to collections primarily due to efficiencies realized through the implementation of strategic initiatives and fewer delinquent accounts which reduce the amount of collection effort.

These decreases were partially offset by increased expenses related to medical claims and an increase in our 401(k) matching contributions.

General and Administrative.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, general and administrative expense decreased $4.0 million, or 13.0%, as compared to 2009.  The decrease primarily resulted from (1) decreased legal costs, (2) decreased consulting fees primarily related to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) examination which is now complete, (3) decreased sales tax expense, and (4) decreased depreciation expense primarily related to a reduction in capital expenditures, partially offset by (5) increased consulting fees primarily related to the development of software.

Sales and Marketing.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, sales and marketing expense increased $4.9 million, or 32.8%, as compared to the same period in 2009.  The increase was due primarily to the expansion of our field sales force and increased sales commissions resulting from an increase in the commission per Consumer Loan assignment and an increase in the number of Consumer Loan assignments.

Provision for Credit Losses.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, the provision for credit losses increased $22.2 million, or 182.5%, as compared to 2009.  Under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), when forecasted future cash flows decline relative to the cash flows expected at the time of assignment, a provision for credit losses is recorded immediately as a current period expense and a corresponding allowance for credit losses is established.  For purposes of calculating the required allowance, Dealer Loans are grouped by Dealer-Partner and Purchased Loans are grouped by month of purchase.  As a result, regardless of the overall performance of the portfolio of Consumer Loans, a provision can be required if any individual Loan pool performs worse than expected.  Conversely, a previously recorded provision can be reversed if any previously impaired individual Loan pool experiences an improvement in performance.

During the year ended December 31, 2010, overall Consumer Loan performance exceeded our expectations at the start of the period.  However, impaired Loan pools within our portfolio experienced net declines in forecasted cash flows, resulting in provision for credit losses of $10.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2010.  During the year ended December 31, 2009, overall Consumer Loan performance also exceeded our expectations at the start of the period.  Consistent with the overall performance of the portfolio, impaired Loan pools experienced net improvements in forecasted cash flows, resulting in a reversal of provision for credit losses of $12.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2009.


Interest.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, interest expense increased $15.4 million, or 47.4%, as compared to 2009.  The following table shows interest expense, the average outstanding debt balance, and the pre-tax average cost of debt for the year ended December 31, 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Interest expense
 
$
47,752
   
$
32,399
 
Average outstanding debt balance
 
$
581,074
   
$
575,482
 
Pre-tax average cost of debt
   
8.2
%
   
5.6
%

For the year ended December 31, 2010, the increase in interest expense was primarily due to increases in our pre-tax average cost of debt due to the issuance of the Senior Notes during the first quarter of 2010 and higher average pricing on our revolving credit facilities.

Provision for Claims.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, provision for claims increased $4.1 million, or 21.4%, as compared to 2009.  The increase was due to an increase in claims paid per reinsured vehicle service contract, partially offset by a decline in the size of our reinsurance portfolio.

Provision for Income Taxes.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, the effective tax rate decreased to 32.9%, from 36.2% compared to 2009.  The decrease was primarily due to the reversal of reserves for uncertain tax positions and associated interest as a result of the completion of the IRS examination during the second quarter of 2010 and adjustments to our state tax liability.

Year Ended December 31, 2009 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2008

The following table highlights changes for the year ended December 31, 2009, as compared to 2008:

(In thousands)
 
Change
 
Income from continuing operations for year ended December 31, 2008
 
$
67,068
 
Increase in finance charges
   
42,614
 
Increase in premiums earned
   
29,638
 
Decrease in other income
   
(3,774
)
Decrease in operating expenses (1)
   
1,213
 
Decrease in provision for credit losses
   
58,193
 
Decrease in interest
   
10,790
 
Increase in provision for claims
   
(16,648
)
Increase in provision for income taxes
   
(43,048
)
Income from continuing operations for year ended December 31, 2009
 
$
146,046
 

(1)  
Operating expenses consist of salaries and wages, general and administrative, and sales and marketing expenses.


Finance Charges.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, finance charges increased $42.6 million, or 14.9%, as compared to 2008.  The increase was primarily the result of an increase in the average yield on our Loan portfolio and an increase in the average net Loans receivable balance:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
Change
 
Average yield on our Loan portfolio
   
31.5
%
   
29.3
%
   
2.2
%
Average net Loans receivable balance
 
$
1,046,378
   
$
978,485
   
$
67,893
 



The following table summarizes the impact each component had on the increase in finance charges for the year ended December 31, 2009:

(In thousands)
 
For the Year Ended
 
Impact on finance charges:
 
December 31, 2009
 
Due to an increase in the average yield
 
$
22,712
 
Due to an increase in the average net Loans receivable balance
   
19,902
 
Total increase in finance charges
 
$
42,614
 

The increase in the average yield on our Loan portfolio resulted from pricing changes implemented during the first nine months of 2008, partially offset by pricing changes implemented during the fourth quarter of 2009, and an increase in forecasted collection rates during 2009.  While new Loan dollar volume (advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program) during 2009 declined 21.2% from 2008, the average net Loans receivable balance for 2009 increased as cash paid to fund new Loans and Dealer Holdback payments exceeded principal collected on Loans receivable.

Premiums Earned.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, premiums earned increased $29.6 million, or 747.1%, as compared to 2008.  The increase was the result of our formation of VSC Re during the fourth quarter of 2008.

We formed VSC Re in order to enhance our control over and the security in the trust assets that are used to pay future vehicle service contract claims.  Prior to October 31, 2009, VSC Re reinsured vehicle service contracts that were underwritten by two of our three third party insurers.  Effective October 31, 2009, we terminated our arrangement with one of our three third party insurers.  VSC Re currently reinsures vehicle service contracts that are underwritten by one of our two third party insurers.  Premiums from the reinsurance of vehicle service contracts are recognized over the life of the policy in proportion to expected costs of servicing those contracts.  Expected costs are determined based on historical claims experience.  A provision for claims is recognized in the period the claims are incurred.  The amount of income we earn from the vehicle service contracts over time is not impacted by the formation of VSC Re, as both before and after the formation, the income we recognize, excluding our commissions, is based on the amount by which vehicle service contract premiums exceed claims.  However, the formation of VSC Re impacts the timing of income recognition and the income statement presentation.

Prior to the formation of VSC Re, our agreements with vehicle service contract TPAs allowed us to receive profit sharing payments depending upon the performance of the vehicle service contract programs.  Profit sharing payments were received periodically, primarily during the first quarter of each year, and were recognized on a net basis (premiums earned less claims incurred) as other income in the period received.

Premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2009 include $3.5 million of revenue related to a revision in our revenue recognition timing.  We revised our revenue recognition timing in order to better match the timing with our expected costs of servicing those contracts.

Other Income.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, other income decreased $3.8 million, or 17.6%, as compared to 2008.  The decrease was primarily the result of:

·  
The formation of VSC Re, as discussed above, which eliminated the profit sharing arrangements related to vehicle service contracts, except for vehicle service contracts written prior to 2008 through one of the TPAs.  For the year ended December 31, 2008, we earned $3.1 million related to vehicle service contract profit sharing payments compared to $0.1 million for the same period in 2009.
·  
Decreased interest income on restricted cash related to the secured financings due to a decrease in interest rates earned on cash investments relating to secured financing transactions and a decrease in the average outstanding balance.  For the year ended December 31, 2008, we earned $1.4 million in interest income related to secured financings compared to $0.2 million for the same period in 2009.
·  
Decreased GAP profit sharing payments resulting from an increase in GAP claims paid as a percentage of premiums written.  For the year ended December 31, 2008, we received $0.7 million in GAP profit sharing payments compared to $0.1 million for the same period in 2009.



Salaries and Wages.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, salaries and wages expense decreased $2.1 million, or 3.0%, as compared to 2008.  The decrease was primarily the result of:

·  
A decrease in expense related to Information Technology.
·  
An increased percentage of Loan underwriting costs being deferred due to an increase in Dealer Loan unit volume as a percentage of total unit volume.  For Dealer Loans, certain underwriting costs are considered Dealer Loan origination costs and are deferred and expensed over the life of the Dealer Loan as an adjustment to finance charge revenue while, for Purchased Loans, all underwriting costs are expensed immediately.  Since Dealer Loans represent a larger proportion of total unit volume during 2009 as compared to the same period in prior year, the deferral was higher for the year ended December 31, 2009, as compared to 2008.
·  
These items were partially offset by an increase of stock-based compensation expense primarily due to the grant of restricted stock awards during 2009.

General and Administrative.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, general and administrative expense increased $2.9 million, or 10.4%, as compared to 2008 primarily resulting from (1) increased legal costs and (2) expenses related to the ongoing examination by the IRS.

Sales and Marketing.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, sales and marketing expense decreased $2.0 million, or 11.7%, as compared to 2008.  The decrease was primarily due to lower sales commissions reflecting a decrease of 8.5% in Consumer Loan unit volume for the year ended December 31, 2009 and the discontinuance of certain Dealer-Partner support programs and lower utilization of various other Dealer-Partner programs.

Provision for Credit Losses.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, the provision for credit losses decreased $58.2 million, or 126.4%, as compared to 2008.  The decrease was the result of an improvement in the performance of our Loan portfolio.  During the year ended December 31, 2009, forecasted collection rates increased on previously impaired Loan pools and as a result, a portion of this increase was recognized as a reversal of previously recorded provision for credit losses.  During the second quarter of 2008, as a result of lower than expected realized collection rates, we reduced estimated future net cash flows by $22.2 million, or 1.7% of the total undiscounted net cash flow stream expected from our Loan portfolio, which resulted in a provision for credit losses of $20.8 million.  During the fourth quarter of 2008, we reduced estimated future net cash flows by an additional $9.5 million, or 0.7% of the total undiscounted net cash flow stream expected from our Loan portfolio.  In addition, during the fourth quarter of 2008, we revised the estimated timing of future collections to reflect reduced prepayment expectations as a result of recent trends.  The fourth quarter of 2008 forecast modifications resulted in a provision for credit losses of $10.6 million.

Interest.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, interest expense decreased $10.8 million, or 25.0%, as compared to 2008.  The following table shows interest expense, the average outstanding debt balance and the pre-tax average cost of debt for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008:

(Dollars in thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Interest expense
 
$
32,399
   
$
43,189
 
Average outstanding debt balance
 
$
575,482
   
$
660,804
 
Pre-tax average cost of debt
   
5.6
%
   
6.5
%

For the year ended December 31, 2009, the decrease in interest expense was due to a reduction in the average outstanding debt balance and a reduction in our pre-tax average cost of debt due to reductions in market rates.  The reductions in market rates were slightly offset by less favorable pricing on our revolving credit facilities.

Provision for Claims.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, provision for claims increased $16.6 million, or 628.0%, as compared to 2008.  The increase was the result of our formation of VSC Re during the fourth quarter of 2008 as discussed above in Premiums Earned.



Provision for Income Taxes.  For the year ended December 31, 2009, the effective tax rate decreased to 36.2%, from 37.3% in 2008.  The decrease was primarily due to the decrease in the reserve for uncertain tax positions recorded during the third and fourth quarters of 2009.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP.  The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments 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.  On an ongoing basis, we review our accounting policies, assumptions, estimates and judgments to ensure that our financial statements are presented fairly and in accordance with GAAP.

Our significant accounting policies are discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.  We believe that the following accounting estimates are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating our reported financial results, and involve a high degree of subjective or complex judgment, and the use of different estimates or assumptions could produce materially different financial results.

Finance Charge Revenue & Allowance for Credit Losses
 
Balance Sheet Captions:
Loans receivable
 
Allowance for credit losses
 
Income Statement Captions:
Finance charges
 
Provision for credit losses
 
Nature of Estimates Required:
Estimating the amount and timing of future collections and Dealer Holdback payments.
 
Assumptions and Approaches Used:
For accounting purposes, we are not considered to be an originator of Consumer Loans, but instead are considered to be a lender to our Dealer-Partners for Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program, and a purchaser of Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program.  As a result of this classification, our accounting policies for recognizing finance charge revenue and determining our allowance for credit losses may be different from other lenders in our market, who, based on their different business models, may be considered to be a direct lender to consumers for accounting purposes.  For additional information regarding our classification as a lender to our Dealer-Partners for accounting purposes, see Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 




 
We recognize finance charges under the interest method such that revenue is recognized on a level-yield basis based upon forecasted cash flows.  For Dealer Loans, finance charge revenue and the allowance for credit losses are calculated after first aggregating Dealer Loans outstanding for each Dealer-Partner.  For the same purpose, Purchased Loans are aggregated according to the month the Loan was purchased.  An allowance for credit losses is maintained at an amount that reduces the net asset value (Loan balance less the allowance) to the value of forecasted future cash flows discounted at the yield established at the time of assignment.  The discounted value of future cash flows is comprised of estimated future collections on the Loans, less any estimated Dealer Holdback payments related to Dealer Loans.  We write off Loans once there are no forecasted future collections on any of the associated Consumer Loans.
 
Actual cash flows from any individual Dealer Loan or pool of Purchased Loans are often different than estimated cash flows at the time of assignment.  If such difference is favorable, the difference is recognized prospectively into income over the remaining life of the Dealer Loan or pool of Purchased Loans through a yield adjustment.  If such difference is unfavorable, a provision for credit losses is recorded immediately as a current period expense and a corresponding allowance for credit losses is established.  Because differences between estimated cash flows at the time of assignment and actual cash flows occur often, an allowance is required for a significant portion of our Loan portfolio.  An allowance for credit losses does not necessarily indicate that a Dealer Loan or pool of Purchased Loans is unprofitable, and in recent years, very seldom are cash flows from a Dealer Loan or pool of Purchased Loans insufficient to repay the initial amounts advanced or paid to the Dealer-Partner.
 
Future collections on Dealer and Purchased Loans are forecasted based on the historical performance of Consumer Loans with similar characteristics, adjusted for recent trends in payment patterns.  Dealer Holdback is forecasted based on the expected future collections and current advance balance of each Dealer Loan.
 
Key Factors:
Variances in the amount and timing of future collections and Dealer Holdback payments from current estimates could materially impact earnings in future periods.  A 1% decline in the forecasted future net cash flows on Loans as of December 31, 2010 would have reduced 2010 net income by approximately $3.7 million. For additional information regarding methodology changes and modifications to our forecast of future cash flows associated with Consumer Loans, see Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
 



 

Premiums Earned
 
Balance Sheet Caption:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
Income Statement Caption:
Premiums earned
   
Nature of Estimates Required:
Estimating the pattern of future claims on vehicle service contracts.
 
Assumptions and Approaches Used:
Premiums from the reinsurance of vehicle service contracts are recognized over the life of the policy in proportion to the expected costs of servicing those contracts.  Expected costs are determined based on our historical claims experience.  In developing our cost expectations, we stratify our historical claims experience into groupings based on contractual term, as this characteristic has led to different patterns of cost incurrence in the past.  We will continue to update our analysis of historical costs under the vehicle service contract program as appropriate, including the consideration of other characteristics that may have led to different patterns of cost incurrence, and revise our revenue recognition timing for any changes in the pattern of our expected costs as they are identified.
Premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2009 include $3.5 million of revenue related to a revision in our revenue recognition timing.  We revised our revenue recognition timing during the third quarter of 2009 in order to better match the timing with our expected costs of servicing those contracts.
 
Key Factors:
Variances in the pattern of future claims from our current estimates would impact the timing of premiums recognized in future periods.  A 10% change in premiums earned for the year ended December 31, 2010 would have affected 2010 net income by approximately $2.1 million.


 

Stock-Based Compensation Expense
 
Balance Sheet Caption:
Paid-in capital
   
Income Statement Caption:
Salaries and Wages
   
Nature of Estimates Required:
Stock-based compensation expense is based on the fair value on the date the equity instrument is granted or awarded by us, and is recognized over the expected vesting period of the equity instrument.  We also estimate expected forfeiture rates of restricted stock awards.
 
Assumptions and Approaches Used:
In recognizing restricted stock compensation expense, we make assumptions regarding the expected forfeiture rates of the restricted stock awards.  We also make assumptions regarding the expected vesting dates of performance-based restricted stock awards.
 
The fair value of restricted stock awards are estimated as if they were vested and issued on the grant date and are recognized over the expected vesting period of the restricted stock award.  For additional information, see Notes 2 and 11 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which are incorporated herein by reference.
 
Key Factors:
Changes in the expected vesting dates of performance-based restricted stock awards and expected forfeiture rates would impact the amount and timing of stock-based compensation expense recognized in future periods.  A 10% change in stock-based compensation expense for the year ended December 31, 2010 would have affected 2010 net income by approximately $0.3 million.
 

Litigation and Contingent Liabilities
 
Balance Sheet Caption:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
Income Statement Caption:
General and administrative expense
   
Nature of Estimates Required:
Estimating the likelihood of adverse legal judgments and any resulting damages owed.
 
Assumptions and Approaches Used:
With assistance from our legal counsel, we determine if the likelihood of an adverse judgment for various claims and litigation is remote, reasonably possible, or probable.  To the extent we believe an adverse judgment is probable and the amount of the judgment is estimable, we recognize a liability.  For information regarding the potential various claims against us, see Note 13 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
Key Factors:
Negative variances in the ultimate disposition of claims and litigation outstanding from current estimates could result in additional expense in future periods.
 



 

Uncertain Tax Positions
 
Balance Sheet Captions:
Income taxes receivable
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
Income Statement Caption:
Provision for income taxes
   
Nature of Estimates Required:
Estimating the impact of an uncertain income tax position on the income tax return.
 
Assumptions and Approaches Used:
We follow a two-step approach for recognizing uncertain tax positions.  First, we evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates it is more-likely-than-not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any.  Second, for positions that we determine are more-likely-than-not to be sustained, we recognize the tax benefit as the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being sustained.  We establish a liability for unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties.  We adjust this liability in the period in which an uncertain tax position is effectively settled, the statute of limitations expires for the relevant taxing authority to examine the tax position, or more information becomes available.
 
On June 7, 2010, we reached a settlement with the IRS which concluded the examination of our federal income tax returns for 2004 through 2008 and closed the respective years.  As a result of the settlement, we agreed to pay a total of $7.6 million in federal and state taxes and interest related to these years.  The settlement includes $6.2 million of taxes that represent an acceleration of taxes already provided for in prior periods and the payment did not have an impact on our net income during the reporting periods.  We also concluded that all 2004 through 2008 uncertain federal jurisdiction tax positions taken in previous periods are effectively settled and we recorded a reversal of corresponding accrued reserves and interest.  This reversal had a favorable impact of $6.2 million (after-tax) on our net income for the year ended December 31, 2010.  For additional information, see Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
Key Factors:
To the extent we prevail in matters for which a liability has been established or are required to pay amounts in excess of our established liability, our effective income tax rate in future periods could be materially affected.


 
Liquidity and Capital Resources

We need capital to fund new Loans and pay Dealer Holdback.  Our primary sources of capital are cash flows from operating activities, collections of Consumer Loans and borrowings under: (1) a revolving secured line of credit with a commercial bank syndicate; (2) revolving secured warehouse facilities with institutional investors; (3) Term ABS financings with qualified institutional investors; and (4) Senior Notes.  There are various restrictive debt covenants for each financing arrangement and we are in compliance with those covenants as of December 31, 2010.  For information regarding these financings and the covenants included in the related documents, see Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.

During the first quarter of 2010, we issued $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of 9.125% First Priority Senior Notes.  Concurrently with the issuance of the Senior Notes, we amended the agreements governing our revolving secured line of credit facility with a commercial bank syndicate to facilitate the issuance of the Senior Notes and future secured indebtedness.  The net proceeds from the offering of the Senior Notes were used to repay all outstanding borrowings under our revolving secured line of credit facility and to repay all outstanding borrowings under our $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility, subject to our ability to reborrow in each case.

The Senior Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of February 1, 2010 (the “Indenture”), among us, BVPP and Vehicle Remarketing Services, Inc. (“VRS”), as guarantors (the “Guarantors”), and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (the “Trustee”).  The Senior Notes mature on February 1, 2017 and bear interest at a rate of 9.125% per annum, computed on the basis of 360-day year composed of twelve 30-day months and payable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning on August 1, 2010.  The Senior Notes were issued at 97.495% of the aggregate principal amount for net proceeds of $243.7 million, representing a yield to maturity of 9.625%.

During the second quarter of 2010, we extended the maturity of the revolving secured line of credit facility with a commercial bank syndicate from June 23, 2011 to June 22, 2012.  The interest rate on borrowings under the facility was changed from the prime rate plus 1.0% or the Eurodollar rate plus 2.75%, at the Company's option, to the prime rate plus 1.25% or the Eurodollar rate plus 2.25%, at the Company's option.  The floor on the Eurodollar rate decreased from 1.50% to 0.75%.  None of the financial covenants were modified.

Also during the second quarter of 2010, we extended the date on which our $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility will cease to revolve from August 23, 2010 to June 15, 2013.  The interest rate on borrowings under the $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility was decreased from a floating rate equal to the commercial paper rate plus 5% to the commercial paper rate plus 3.5%.  In addition, the agreement was modified to provide that in the event that the facility is not renewed and the borrower is in compliance with the terms and conditions of the agreement, any amounts outstanding will be repaid over time as the collections on the loans securing the facility are received.

During the second quarter of 2010, we commenced a tender offer to repurchase up to 4.0 million shares of our outstanding common stock at a price of $50.00 per share.  Upon expiration of the tender offer during the third quarter of 2010, we repurchased 4.0 million common shares at a cost of $200.0 million, which included approximately 2.9 million shares beneficially owned by Donald A. Foss, our Chairman of the Board, and approximately 0.8 million shares beneficially owned by the trustee of certain grantor retained annuity trusts created by Mr. Foss.  We financed the repurchase of our common stock in the tender offer by borrowing under our $170.0 million revolving secured line of credit facility and $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility.

During the third quarter of 2010, we extended the date on which our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility will cease to revolve from August 31, 2011 to September 10, 2013.  The maturity of the facility was also extended from August 31, 2012 to September 10, 2014.  The interest rate on the facility was decreased from a floating rate equal to LIBOR plus 3.75% to LIBOR plus 3.0%.  There were no other material changes to the terms of the facility.



During the third quarter of 2010, we increased the amount of the revolving secured line of credit facility from $150.0 million to $170.0 million.

During the fourth quarter of 2010, we completed a $100.5 million Term ABS financing which was used to repay outstanding indebtedness.  The financing has an expected annualized cost of approximately 3.1% (including the initial purchaser’s fees and other costs) and it will revolve for 24 months after which it will amortize based upon the cash flows on the contributed loans.

On February 9, 2011, we commenced a tender offer to purchase up to 1,904,761 shares of our common stock at a price of $65.625 per share.  The tender offer is scheduled to expire at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 10, 2011, subject to our right to extend the offer.  The tender offer is conditioned upon, among other things, consummation of the Debt Financing on terms reasonably satisfactory to us.  We anticipate that we will obtain all of the funds necessary to purchase shares in the tender offer, and to pay related fees and expenses, through a combination of the proceeds of the Debt Financing and by borrowing under our $170.0 million revolving secured line of credit facility.  The tender offer is being made pursuant to an offer to purchase issued in connection with the tender offer, and this Form 10-K is not an offer to purchase any of our shares of common stock.

Cash and cash equivalents increased to $3.8 million as of December 31, 2010 from $2.2 million as of December 31, 2009.  During 2010, we (1) secured additional borrowing capacity with the issuance of Senior Notes and by increasing the amount of our revolving secured line of credit facility, and (2) extended the maturities of our revolving secured line of credit facility and revolving secured warehouse facilities.  As a result of the increase in borrowing capacity and the extension of the maturities of our revolving credit facilities, we determined that not all the additional financing was needed to fund new Consumer Loan assignments, and used a portion of our borrowing capacity to repurchase $200.0 million of our common stock. As a result, our total balance sheet indebtedness increased to $685.7 million as of December 31, 2010 from $507.0 million as of December 31, 2009.  We had over $340.0 million of available borrowing capacity as of December 31, 2010.

Restricted cash and cash equivalents decreased to $66.5 million as of December 31, 2010 from $82.5 million as of December 31, 2009.  The following table summarizes restricted cash and cash equivalents:

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Cash collections related to secured financings
 
$
35,160
   
$
42,115
 
Cash held in trusts for future vehicle service contract claims (1)
   
31,376
     
40,341
 
  Total restricted cash and cash equivalents
 
$
66,536
   
$
82,456
 

(1)  
The unearned premium and claims reserve associated with the trusts are included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.  As of December 31, 2010, the outstanding balance includes $31,246 related to VSC Re and $130 related to the remaining profit sharing trust.  As of December 31, 2009, the outstanding balance includes $39,127 related to VSC Re and $1,214 related to the remaining profit sharing trust.

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, restricted securities available for sale were $0.8 million and $3.1 million, respectively.  Restricted securities available for sale consist of amounts held in accordance with vehicle service contract trust agreements.


Contractual Obligations

A summary of the total future contractual obligations requiring repayments as of December 31, 2010 is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
Payments Due by Period
 
   
Total
   
Less than
1 Year
   
1-3 Years
   
3-5 Years
   
More than 5 Years
   
Other
 
Long-term debt, including current maturities (1)
 
$
691,323
   
$
54,573
   
$
325,976
   
$
60,774
   
$
250,000
   
$
-
 
Operating lease obligations
   
2,183
     
704
     
1,147
     
332
     
-
     
-
 
Purchase obligations (2)
   
937
     
586
     
351
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Other future obligations (3)
   
7,815
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
7,815
 
Total contractual obligations (4)
 
$
702,258
   
$
55,863
   
$
327,474
   
$
61,106
   
$
250,000
   
$
7,815
 

 
(1)
Long-term debt obligations included in the above table consist solely of principal repayments.  The amounts are presented on a gross basis to exclude the unamortized debt discount of $5.7 million.  We are also obligated to make interest payments at the applicable interest rates, as discussed in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.  Based on the actual amounts outstanding under our revolving secured line of credit, our warehouse facilities, and our Senior Notes as of December 31, 2010, the forecasted amounts outstanding on all other debt and the actual interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2010, interest is expected to be approximately $37.0 million during 2011; $31.5 million during 2012; and $108.0 million during 2013 and thereafter.
 
(2)
Purchase obligations consist primarily of contractual obligations related to our information system and facility needs.
 
(3)
Other future obligations included in the above table consist solely of reserves for uncertain tax positions.  Payments are contingent upon examination and would occur in the periods in which the uncertain tax positions are settled.
 
(4)
We have contractual obligations to pay Dealer Holdback to our Dealer-Partners; however, as payments of Dealer Holdback are contingent upon the receipt of consumer payments and the repayment of advances, these obligations are excluded from the table above.

Based upon anticipated cash flows, management believes that cash flows from operations and its various financing alternatives will provide sufficient financing for debt maturities, including the Debt Financing and other borrowing incurred in connection with our announced tender offer, and for future operations.  Our ability to borrow funds may be impacted by economic and financial market conditions.  If the various financing alternatives were to become limited or unavailable to us, our operations and liquidity could be materially and adversely affected.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a material current or future effect on our financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.



Market Risk

We are exposed primarily to market risks associated with movements in interest rates.  Our policies and procedures prohibit the use of financial instruments for speculative purposes.  A discussion of our accounting policies for derivative instruments is included in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Interest Rate Risk.  We rely on various sources of financing, some of which contain floating rates of interest and expose us to risks associated with increases in interest rates.  We manage such risk primarily by entering into interest rate cap and interest rate swap agreements.

As of December 31, 2010, we had $136.7 million of floating rate debt outstanding on our revolving secured line of credit, without interest rate protection.  For every 1.0% increase in rates on our revolving secured line of credit, annual after-tax earnings would decrease by approximately $0.9 million, assuming we maintain a level amount of floating rate debt.

As of December 31, 2010, we had $49.1 million in floating rate debt outstanding under our $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility covered by an interest rate cap with a cap rate of 6.75% on the underlying benchmark rate.  Based on the difference between the underlying benchmark rate on our $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility as of December 31, 2010 and the interest rate cap rate, our maximum interest rate risk on the $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility was 6.43%.  This maximum interest rate risk would reduce annual after-tax earnings by approximately $2.0 million, assuming we maintain a level amount of floating rate debt.

As of December 31, 2010, we had $12.5 million in floating rate debt outstanding under our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility covered by an interest rate cap with a cap rate of 6.75% on the underlying benchmark rate.  Based on the difference between the underlying benchmark rate on our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility as of December 31, 2010 and the interest rate cap rate, our maximum interest rate risk on the $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility was 6.50%.  This maximum interest rate risk would reduce annual after-tax earnings by approximately $0.5 million, assuming we maintain a level amount of floating rate debt.  Additionally, we had $2.5 million of floating rate debt outstanding on our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility, without interest rate protection. Assuming we maintain a level amount of unprotected floating rate debt on our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility, our annual after-tax earnings would decrease by a nominal amount for a 1.0% increase in the interest rate. The remaining $25.0 million in floating rate debt outstanding under our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility has been converted into fixed rate debt by an interest rate swap, bearing an interest rate of 4.36%. The fair value of this interest rate swap is based on quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, which are influenced by a number of factors, including interest rates, notional amount of the derivative, and number of months until maturity.  We have designated this interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge.  The effective portion of changes in the fair value of the swap is recorded in other comprehensive income, net of income taxes, and the ineffective portion of changes in fair value is recorded in interest expense.  There has been no such ineffectiveness in the swap since the inception of the hedge through December 31, 2010.

New Accounting Pronouncements and Updates

See Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference, for information concerning the following new accounting pronouncements and updates and the impact of the implementation of these pronouncements and updates on our financial statements:

·  
Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets
·  
Amendments to Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 46(R)
·  
Effect of a Loan Modification When the Loan Is Part of a Pool That Is Accounted for as a Single Asset
·  
Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses
·  
Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts



Forward-Looking Statements

We make forward-looking statements in this report and may make such statements in future filings with the SEC.  We may also make forward-looking statements in our press releases or other public or shareholder communications.  Our forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and include information about our expectations and possible or assumed future results of operations.  When we use any of the words "may," "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "assume," "forecast," "estimate," "intend," "plan," “target” or similar expressions, we are making forward-looking statements.

We claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for all of our forward-looking statements.  These forward-looking statements represent our outlook only as of the date of this report.  While we believe that our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially since the statements are based on our current expectations, which are subject to risks and uncertainties.  Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, the factors set forth under Item 1A of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference, elsewhere in this report and the risks and uncertainties discussed in our other reports filed or furnished from time to time with the SEC.

ITEM 7A.          QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The information called for by Item 7A is incorporated herein by reference from the information in Item 7 under the caption "Market Risk" in this Form 10-K.


ITEM 8.             FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
Page
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 



REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and
Shareholders of Credit Acceptance Corporation

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Credit Acceptance Corporation (a Michigan corporation) and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010. 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 the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  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, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Credit Acceptance Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Credit Acceptance Corporation and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated February 24, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

Southfield, Michigan
February 24, 2011





CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except per share data)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
ASSETS:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
3,792
   
$
2,170
 
Restricted cash and cash equivalents
   
66,536
     
82,456
 
Restricted securities available for sale
   
805
     
3,121
 
                 
        Loans receivable (including $9,031 and $12,674 from affiliates as of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively)
   
1,344,881
     
1,167,558
 
Allowance for credit losses
   
(126,868
)
   
(117,545
)
Loans receivable, net
   
1,218,013
     
1,050,013
 
                 
Property and equipment, net
   
16,311
     
18,735
 
Income taxes receivable
   
12,002
     
3,956
 
Other assets
   
26,056
     
15,785
 
Total Assets
 
$
1,343,515
   
$
1,176,236
 
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
               
Liabilities:
               
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
 
$
75,297
   
$
77,295
 
Line of credit
   
136,700
     
97,300
 
Secured financing
   
300,100
     
404,597
 
Mortgage note and capital lease obligations
   
4,523
     
5,082
 
Senior notes
   
244,344
     
-
 
Deferred income taxes, net
   
108,077
     
93,752
 
Total Liabilities
   
869,041
     
678,026
 
                 
Commitments and Contingencies - See Note 13
               
                 
Shareholders' Equity:
               
Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 1,000 shares authorized, none issued
   
-
     
-
 
        Common stock, $.01 par value, 80,000 shares authorized, 27,304 and 31,038 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively
   
273
     
311
 
Paid-in capital
   
30,985
     
24,370
 
Retained earnings
   
443,326
     
474,433
 
        Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax of $64 and $526 as of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively
   
(110
)
   
(904
)
Total Shareholders' Equity
   
474,474
     
498,210
 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
 
$
1,343,515
   
$
1,176,236
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share data)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenue:
           
Finance charges
 
$
388,050
   
$
329,437
   
$
286,823
 
Premiums earned
   
32,659
     
33,605
     
3,967
 
Other income
   
21,426
     
17,622
     
21,396
 
Total revenue
   
442,135
     
380,664
     
312,186
 
Costs and expenses:
                       
Salaries and wages
   
61,327
     
66,893
     
68,993
 
General and administrative
   
26,432
     
30,391
     
27,536
 
Sales and marketing
   
19,661
     
14,808
     
16,776
 
Provision for credit losses
   
10,037
     
(12,164
)
   
46,029
 
Interest
   
47,752
     
32,399
     
43,189
 
Provision for claims
   
23,429
     
19,299
     
2,651
 
Total costs and expenses
   
188,638
     
151,626
     
205,174
 
Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes
   
253,497
     
229,038
     
107,012
 
Provision for income taxes
   
83,390
     
82,992
     
39,944
 
Income from continuing operations
   
170,107
     
146,046
     
67,068
 
Discontinued operations
                       
(Loss) gain from discontinued United Kingdom operations
   
(30
)
   
137
     
307
 
(Credit) provision for income taxes
   
-
     
(72
)
   
198
 
(Loss) gain from discontinued operations
   
(30
)
   
209
     
109
 
Net income
 
$
170,077
   
$
146,255
   
$
67,177
 
                         
Net income per share:
                       
Basic
 
$
5.79
   
$
4.78
   
$
2.22
 
Diluted
 
$
5.67
   
$
4.62
   
$
2.16
 
                         
Income from continuing operations per share:
                       
Basic
 
$
5.79
   
$
4.77
   
$
2.22
 
Diluted
 
$
5.67
   
$
4.61
   
$
2.16
 
                         
(Loss) gain from discontinued operations per share:
                       
Basic
 
$
-
   
$
0.01
   
$
-
 
Diluted
 
$
-
   
$
0.01
   
$
-
 
                         
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                       
Basic
   
29,393
     
30,590
     
30,250
 
Diluted
   
29,985
     
31,669
     
31,105
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In thousands)
                                     
Accumulated
 
   
Total
                                 
Other
 
   
Shareholders'
   
Comprehensive
   
Common Stock
   
Paid-In
   
Retained
   
Comprehensive
 
   
Equity
   
Income
   
Number
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
Earnings
   
Income (Loss)
 
Balance, January 1, 2008
 
$
265,450
           
30,241
   
$
302
   
$
4,134
   
$
261,001
   
$
13
 
Comprehensive income:
                                                     
Net income
   
67,177
   
$
67,177
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
67,177
     
-
 
Other comprehensive income:
                                                       
Unrealized loss on interest rate swap, net of tax of $1,488
   
(2,580
)
   
(2,580
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(2,580
)
Unrealized gain on securities available for sale, net of tax of $(3)
   
5
     
5
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
5
 
Total comprehensive income
         
$
64,602
                                     
-
 
Stock-based compensation
   
4,309
             
-
     
     
4,309
     
-
     
-
 
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures
   
-
             
64
     
1
     
(1
)
   
-
     
-
 
Repurchase of common stock
   
(66
)
           
(4
)
   
-
     
(66
)
   
-
     
-
 
Stock options exercised
   
2,375
             
306
     
3
     
2,372
     
-
     
-
 
Tax benefit for exercised stock options
   
1,081
             
-
     
-
     
1,081
     
-
     
-
 
Balance, December 31, 2008
   
337,751
             
30,607
     
306
     
11,829
     
328,178
     
(2,562
)
Comprehensive income:
                                                       
Net income
   
146,255
   
$
146,255
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
146,255
     
-
 
Other comprehensive income:
                                                       
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap, net of tax of $(957)
   
1,667
     
1,667
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
1,667
 
Unrealized loss on securities available for sale, net of tax of $5
   
(9
)
   
(9
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(9
)
Total comprehensive income
         
$
147,913
                                     
 
Stock-based compensation
   
6,805
             
-
     
-
     
6,805
     
-
     
-
 
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures
   
-
             
103
     
-
     
-
     
     
 
Repurchase of common stock
   
(541
)
           
(31
)
   
-
     
(541
)
   
-
     
-
 
Stock options exercised
   
1,941
             
359
     
5
     
1,936
     
     
 
Tax benefit for exercised stock options
   
4,341
             
-
     
-
     
4,341
     
-
     
-
 
Balance, December 31, 2009
   
498,210
             
31,038
     
311
     
24,370
     
474,433
     
(904
)
Comprehensive income:
                                                       
Net income
   
170,077
   
$
170,077
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
170,077
     
-
 
Other comprehensive income:
                                                       
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap, net of tax of $(466)
   
802
     
802
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
802
 
Unrealized loss on securities available for sale, net of tax of $4
   
(8
)
   
(8
)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(8
)
Total comprehensive income
         
$
170,871
                                     
-
 
Stock-based compensation
   
4,127
             
-
     
-
     
4,127
     
-
     
-
 
Restricted stock awards, net of forfeitures
   
-
             
13
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Repurchase of common stock
   
(202,247
)
           
(4,047
)
   
(41
)
   
(1,022
)
   
(201,184
)
   
-
 
Stock options exercised
   
2,903
             
300
     
3
     
2,900
     
-
     
-
 
Tax benefit for exercised stock options
   
610
             
-
     
-
     
610
     
-
     
-
 
Balance, December 31, 2010
 
$
474,474
             
27,304
   
$
273
   
$
30,985
   
$
443,326
   
$
(110
)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
                 
Net income
 
$
170,077
   
$
146,255
   
$
67,177
 
Adjustments to reconcile cash provided by operating activities:
                       
Provision for credit losses
   
10,037
     
(12,164
)
   
46,029
 
Depreciation and amortization
   
11,080
     
9,660
     
9,606
 
Loss on retirement of property and equipment
   
65
     
100
     
74
 
Loss on impairment of software
   
1,362
     
-
     
-
 
Provision for deferred income taxes
   
13,863
     
17,740
     
11,777
 
Stock-based compensation
   
4,127
     
6,805
     
4,309
 
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
                       
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
(730
)
   
(4,029
)
   
46
 
(Increase) decrease in income taxes receivable / (decrease) increase in income taxes payable
   
(8,046
)
   
(4,837
)
   
21,593
 
(Increase) decrease in other assets
   
(1,137
)
   
831
     
(781
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
200,698
     
160,361
     
159,830
 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
                       
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents
   
15,920
     
(2,123
)
   
(6,231
)
Purchases of restricted securities available for sale
   
(1,063
)
   
(1,451
)
   
(1,514
)
Proceeds from sale of restricted securities available for sale
   
2,111
     
-
     
373
 
Maturities of restricted securities available for sale
   
1,256
     
1,661
     
1,094
 
Principal collected on Loans receivable
   
785,947
     
661,246
     
610,029
 
Advances to Dealer-Partners
   
(786,909
)
   
(516,093
)
   
(506,070
)
Purchases of Consumer Loans
   
(100,430
)
   
(103,283
)
   
(280,326
)
Accelerated payments of Dealer Holdback
   
(32,629
)
   
(17,372
)
   
(18,426
)
Payments of Dealer Holdback
   
(44,220
)
   
(44,269
)
   
(58,503
)
Net decrease (increase) in other loans
   
207
     
(152
)
   
(120
)
Purchases of property and equipment
   
(3,440
)
   
(2,925
)
   
(6,341
)
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(163,250
)
   
(24,761
)
   
(266,035
)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
                       
Borrowings under line of credit
   
1,097,900
     
630,900
     
809,700
 
Repayments under line of credit
   
(1,058,500
)
   
(594,900
)
   
(784,700
)
Proceeds from secured financing
   
327,700
     
397,000
     
605,700
 
Repayments of secured financing
   
(432,197
)
   
(566,578
)
   
(519,590
)
Principal payments under mortgage note and capital lease obligations
   
(559
)
   
(1,157
)
   
(1,526
)
Proceeds from sale of senior notes
   
243,738
     
-
     
-
 
Payments of debt issuance costs
   
(15,171
)
   
(7,581
)
   
(4,350
)
Repurchase of common stock
   
(202,247
)
   
(541
)
   
(66
)
Proceeds from stock options exercised
   
2,903
     
1,941
     
2,375
 
Tax benefits from stock-based compensation plans
   
610
     
4,341
     
1,081
 
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
   
(35,823
)
   
(136,575
)
   
108,624
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
   
(3
)
   
(9
)
   
23
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
   
1,622
     
(984
)
   
2,442
 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
   
2,170
     
3,154
     
712
 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 
$
3,792
   
$
2,170
   
$
3,154
 
                         
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:
                       
Cash paid during the period for interest
 
$
42,548
   
$
27,559
   
$
38,991
 
Cash paid during the period for income taxes
 
$
81,750
   
$
67,563
   
$
3,681
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
54

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

Principal Business.  Since 1972, Credit Acceptance Corporation (referred to as the “Company”, “Credit Acceptance”, “we”, “our” or “us”) has provided auto loans to consumers, regardless of their credit history.  Our product is offered through a nationwide network of automobile dealers who benefit from sales of vehicles to consumers who otherwise could not obtain financing; from repeat and referral sales generated by these same customers; and from sales to customers responding to advertisements for our product, but who actually end up qualifying for traditional financing.

We refer to dealers who participate in our programs and who share our commitment to changing consumers’ lives as “Dealer-Partners”.  Upon enrollment in our financing programs, the Dealer-Partner enters into a dealer servicing agreement with us that defines the legal relationship between Credit Acceptance and the Dealer-Partner.  The dealer servicing agreement assigns the responsibilities for administering, servicing, and collecting the amounts due on retail installment contracts (referred to as “Consumer Loans”) from the Dealer-Partner to us.  We are an indirect lender from a legal perspective, meaning the Consumer Loan is originated by the Dealer-Partner and assigned to us.

We have two programs: the Portfolio Program and the Purchase Program.  Under the Portfolio Program, we advance money to Dealer-Partners (referred to as a “Dealer Loan”) in exchange for the right to service the underlying Consumer Loans.  Under the Purchase Program, we buy the Consumer Loans from the Dealer-Partners (referred to as a “Purchased Loan”) and keep all amounts collected from the consumer.  Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans are collectively referred to as “Loans”.  The following table shows the percentage of Consumer Loans assigned to us based on unit volumes under each of the programs for each of the last 12 quarters:

Quarter Ended
 
 Portfolio Program
 
 Purchase Program
March 31, 2008
 
70.2%
 
29.8%
June 30, 2008
 
65.4%
 
34.6%
September 30, 2008
 
69.2%
 
30.8%
December 31, 2008
 
78.2%
 
21.8%
March 31, 2009
 
82.3%
 
17.7%
June 30, 2009
 
86.0%
 
14.0%
September 30, 2009
 
89.0%
 
11.0%
December 31, 2009
 
90.8%
 
9.2%
March 31, 2010
 
90.9%
 
9.1%
June 30, 2010
 
90.5%
 
9.5%
September 30, 2010
 
90.5%
 
9.5%
December 31, 2010
 
91.8%
 
8.2%

Portfolio Program

As payment for the vehicle, the Dealer-Partner generally receives the following:

·  
a down payment from the consumer;
·  
a non-recourse cash payment (“advance”) from us; and
·  
after the advance has been recovered by us, the cash from payments made on the Consumer Loan, net of certain collection costs and our servicing fee (“Dealer Holdback”).

 
55

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

1.
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS – (Continued)

We record the amount advanced to the Dealer-Partner as a Dealer Loan, which is classified within Loans receivable in our consolidated balance sheets.  Cash advanced to Dealer-Partners is automatically assigned to the originating Dealer-Partner’s open pool of advances.  We require Dealer-Partners to group advances into pools of at least 100 Consumer Loans.  At the Dealer-Partner’s option, a pool containing at least 100 Consumer Loans can be closed and subsequent advances assigned to a new pool.  All advances within a Dealer-Partner’s pool are secured by the future collections on the related Consumer Loans assigned to the pool.  For Dealer-Partners with more than one pool, the pools are cross-collateralized so the performance of other pools is considered in determining eligibility for Dealer Holdback.  We perfect our security interest in the Dealer Loans by taking possession of the Consumer Loans, which list us as lien holder on the vehicle title.

The dealer servicing agreement provides that collections received by us during a calendar month on Consumer Loans assigned by a Dealer-Partner are applied on a pool-by-pool basis as follows:

·  
First, to reimburse us for certain collection costs;
·  
Second, to pay us our servicing fee, which generally equals 20% of collections;
·  
Third, to reduce the aggregate advance balance and to pay any other amounts due from the Dealer-Partner to us; and
·  
Fourth, to the Dealer-Partner as payment of Dealer Holdback.

If the collections on Consumer Loans from a Dealer-Partner’s pool are not sufficient to repay the advance balance and any other amounts due to us, the Dealer-Partner will not receive Dealer Holdback.

Dealer-Partners have an opportunity to receive an accelerated Dealer Holdback payment at the time a pool of 100 or more Consumer Loans is closed.  The amount paid to the Dealer-Partner is calculated using a formula that considers the forecasted collections and the advance balance on the closed pool.

Since typically the combination of the advance and the consumer’s down payment provides the Dealer-Partner with a cash profit at the time of sale, the Dealer-Partner’s risk in the Consumer Loan is limited.  We cannot demand repayment of the advance from the Dealer-Partner except in the event the Dealer-Partner is in default of the dealer servicing agreement.  Advances are made only after the consumer and Dealer-Partner have signed a Consumer Loan contract, we have received the original Consumer Loan contract and supporting documentation, and we have approved all of the related stipulations for funding.  The Dealer-Partner can also opt to repurchase Consumer Loans that have been assigned to us under the Portfolio Program, at their discretion, for a fee.

For accounting purposes, the transactions described under the Portfolio Program are not considered to be loans to consumers.  Instead, our accounting reflects that of a lender to the Dealer-Partner.  The classification as a Dealer Loan for accounting purposes is primarily a result of (1) the Dealer-Partner’s financial interest in the Consumer Loan and (2) certain elements of our legal relationship with the Dealer-Partner.

Purchase Program

The Purchase Program differs from our Portfolio Program in that the Dealer-Partner receives a one-time payment from us at the time of assignment to purchase the Consumer Loan instead of a cash advance at the time of assignment and future Dealer Holdback payments.  New Purchase Loan unit and dollar volume as a percentage of total unit and dollar volume decreased during 2010 and 2009 due to pricing and program enrollment changes we implemented in order to increase the profitability of the Purchase Program.  For accounting purposes, the transactions described under the Purchase Program are considered to be originated by the Dealer-Partner and then purchased by us.

 
56

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

1.
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS – (Concluded)

Program Enrollment

Dealer-Partners that enroll in our programs have two enrollment options available to them.  The first enrollment option allows Dealer-Partners to assign Consumer Loans under the Portfolio Program and requires payment of an upfront, one-time fee of $9,850.  The second enrollment option, which became effective September 1, 2009, allows Dealer-Partners to assign Consumer Loans under the Portfolio Program and requires payment of an upfront, one-time fee of $1,950 and an agreement to allow us to keep 50% of their first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment.  Prior to September 1, 2009, we offered Dealer-Partners an enrollment option that allowed us to keep 50% of their first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment with no upfront fee.  For all Dealer-Partners enrolling in our program after August 31, 2008, access to the Purchase Program is typically only granted after the first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment has been made under the Portfolio Program.

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and our wholly-owned subsidiaries.  All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated.  Our primary subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 are:  Buyer’s Vehicle Protection Plan, Inc. (“BVPP”), Vehicle Remarketing Services, Inc. (“VRS”), VSC Re Company (“VSC Re”), CAC Warehouse Funding Corp. II, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1, and Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2010-1.

Business Segment Information

We currently operate in one reportable segment which represents our core business of offering auto loans, and related products and services to consumers through our network of Dealer-Partners.  For information regarding our reportable segment and related entity-wide disclosures, see Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements.

Discontinued Operations
 
 
Effective June 30, 2003, we stopped originating Consumer Loans in the United Kingdom and we sold the remainder of the portfolio on December 30, 2005.  The United Kingdom business was formally dissolved in 2010. The results for the United Kingdom business are reported as a discontinued operation in the consolidated statements of income for all periods presented.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires us 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.  The accounts which are subject to significant estimation include the allowance for credit losses, finance charge revenue, premiums earned, stock-based compensation expense, contingencies, and uncertain tax positions.  Actual results could materially differ from those estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of readily marketable securities with original maturities at the date of acquisition of three months or less.


 
57

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents

Restricted cash and cash equivalents decreased to $66.5 million as of December 31, 2010 from $82.5 million as of December 31, 2009.  The following table summarizes restricted cash and cash equivalents:

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
 Cash collections related to secured financings
 
$
35,160
   
$
42,115
 
 Cash held in trusts for future vehicle service contract claims (1)
   
31,376
     
40,341
 
 Total restricted cash and cash equivalents
 
$
66,536
   
$
82,456
 

(1)  
The unearned premium and claims reserve associated with the trusts are included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.  As of December 31, 2010, the outstanding balance includes $31,246 related to VSC Re and $130 related to the remaining profit sharing trust.  As of December 31, 2009, the outstanding balance includes $39,127 related to VSC Re and $1,214 related to the remaining profit sharing trust.

Restricted Securities Available for Sale

Restricted securities available for sale consist of amounts held in accordance with vehicle service contract trust agreements.  We determine the appropriate classification of our investments in debt securities at the time of purchase and reevaluate such determinations at each balance sheet date.  Debt securities for which we do not have the intent or ability to hold to maturity are classified as available for sale, and stated at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, net of income taxes included in the determination of comprehensive income and reported as a component of shareholders’ equity.

Restricted securities available for sale consisted of the following:


(In thousands)
 
As of December 31, 2010
 
   
Cost
   
Gross Unrealized Gains
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
   
Estimated Fair Value
 
 US Government and agency securities
 
$
298
   
$
3
   
$
-
   
$
301
 
 Corporate bonds
   
504
     
5
     
(5
)
   
504
 
 Total restricted securities available for sale
 
$
802
   
$
8
   
$
(5
)
 
$
805
 
                                 
   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
Cost
   
Gross Unrealized Gains
   
Gross Unrealized Losses
   
Estimated Fair Value
 
 US Government and agency securities
 
$
726
   
$
18
   
$
(2
)
 
$
742
 
 Corporate bonds
   
2,381
     
7
     
(9
)
   
2,379
 
 Total restricted securities available for sale
 
$
3,107
   
$
25
   
$
(11
)
 
$
3,121
 


 
58

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

The cost and estimated fair values of debt securities by contractual maturity were as follows (securities with multiple maturity dates are classified in the period of final maturity).  Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
Cost
   
Estimated Fair Value
   
Cost
   
Estimated Fair Value
 
 Contractual Maturity
                       
 Within one year
 
$
499
   
$
496
   
$
1,486
   
$
1,495
 
 Over one year to five years
   
303
     
309
     
1,621
     
1,626
 
 Total restricted securities available for sale
 
$
802
   
$
805
   
$
3,107
   
$
3,121
 

Finance Charges

Finance charges is comprised of: (1) servicing fees earned as a result of servicing Consumer Loans assigned to us by Dealer-Partners under the Portfolio Program; (2) finance charge income from Purchased Loans; (3) fees earned from our third party ancillary product offerings; (4) monthly program fees charged to Dealer-Partners under the Portfolio Program; and (5) fees associated with certain Loans.  We recognize finance charges under the interest method such that revenue is recognized on a level-yield basis based upon forecasted cash flows.  For Dealer Loans only, certain direct origination costs such as salaries and credit reports are deferred and the net costs are recognized as an adjustment to finance charges over the life of the related Dealer Loan on a level-yield basis.

We provide Dealer-Partners the ability to offer vehicle service contracts to consumers.  A vehicle service contract provides the consumer protection by paying for the repair or replacement of certain components of the vehicle in the event of a mechanical failure.  BVPP, our wholly-owned subsidiary, has relationships with third party administrators (“TPAs”) whereby the TPAs process claims on vehicle service contracts that are underwritten by third party insurers.  BVPP receives a commission for all vehicle service contracts sold by our Dealer-Partners when the vehicle is financed by us.  The commission is included in the retail price of the vehicle service contract which is added to the Consumer Loan.  We provide Dealer-Partners with an additional advance based on the retail price of the vehicle service contract.  We recognize our commission from the vehicle service contracts as part of finance charges on a level-yield basis based upon forecasted cash flows.  We bear the risk of loss for claims on certain vehicle service contracts that are reinsured by us.  Effective January 1, 2010, the commission received by BVPP increased due to a change in our relationship with the TPAs.  Prior to 2010, we relied on the TPAs to market their vehicle service contracts to our Dealer-Partners.  Effective January 1, 2010, we now market the vehicle service contracts directly to our Dealer-Partners.

BVPP also has a relationship with a TPA that allows Dealer-Partners to offer a Guaranteed Asset Protection (“GAP”) product to consumers whereby the TPA processes claims that are underwritten by a third party insurer.  GAP provides the consumer protection by paying the difference between the loan balance and the amount covered by the consumer’s insurance policy in the event of a total loss of the vehicle due to severe damage or theft.  We receive a commission for all GAP contracts sold by our Dealer-Partners when the vehicle is financed by us, and do not bear any risk of loss for claims.  The commission is included in the retail price of the GAP contract which is added to the Consumer Loan.  We provide Dealer-Partners with an additional advance based on the retail price of the GAP contract.  We recognize our commission from the GAP contracts as part of finance charges on a level-yield basis based upon forecasted cash flows.

Program fees represent monthly fees of $599 charged to Dealer-Partners for access to our Credit Approval Processing System (“CAPS”); administration, servicing and collection services offered by us; documentation related to or affecting our program; and all tangible and intangible property owned by Credit Acceptance.  We charge a monthly fee of $599 to Dealer-Partners participating in our Portfolio Program and we collect it from future Dealer Holdback payments.  As a result, we record program fees under the Portfolio Program as a yield adjustment, recognizing these fees as finance charge revenue over the forecasted net cash flows of the Dealer Loan.

 
59

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

Reinsurance

During the fourth quarter of 2008, we formed VSC Re, our wholly-owned subsidiary that is engaged in the business of reinsuring coverage under vehicle service contracts sold to consumers by Dealer-Partners on vehicles financed by us.  Prior to October 31, 2009, VSC Re reinsured vehicle service contracts that were underwritten by two of our three third party insurers.  Effective October 31, 2009, we terminated our arrangement with one of our three third party insurers.  VSC Re currently reinsures vehicle service contracts that are underwritten by one of our two third party insurers.  Vehicle service contract premiums, which represent the selling price of the vehicle service contract to the consumer, less commissions and certain administrative costs, are contributed to trust accounts controlled by VSC Re.  These premiums are used to fund claims covered under the vehicle service contracts.  VSC Re is a bankruptcy remote entity.  As such, our exposure to fund claims is limited to the trust assets controlled by VSC Re and our net investment in VSC Re.  We formed VSC Re in order to enhance our control and security of the trust assets that are used to pay future vehicle service contract claims.  The amount of income we earn from the vehicle service contracts over time is not impacted by the formation of VSC Re, as both before and after the formation, the income we recognize, excluding our commissions, is based on the amount by which vehicle service contract premiums exceed claims.  The only change in our risk associated with adverse claims experience relates to our net investment in VSC Re, which is now at risk in the event claims exceed premiums.  Under the prior structure, our risk was limited to the amount of premiums contributed to the trusts.

Premiums from the reinsurance of vehicle service contracts are recognized over the life of the policy in proportion to expected costs of servicing those contracts.  Expected costs are determined based on our historical claims experience.  Claims are expensed through a provision for claims in the period the claim was incurred.  Capitalized acquisition costs are comprised of premium taxes and are amortized as general and administrative expense over the life of the contracts in proportion to premiums earned.  A summary of reinsurance activity is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Net assumed written premiums
 
$
34,461
   
$
29,100
   
$
27,485
 
 Net premiums earned
   
32,659
     
33,597
     
3,895
 
 Provision for claims
   
23,429
     
19,300
     
2,654
 
 Amortization of capitalized acquisition costs
   
763
     
737
     
81
 


We are considered the primary beneficiary of the trusts and as a result, the trusts have been consolidated on our balance sheet.  The trust assets and related reinsurance liabilities are as follows:

 (In thousands)
   
As of December 31,
 
 
 Balance Sheet location
 
2010
   
2009
 
 Trust assets
 Restricted cash and cash equivalents
 
$
31,246
   
$
39,127
 
 Unearned premium
 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
24,757
     
22,955
 
 Claims reserve (1)
 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
1,029
     
965
 


(1) The claims reserve is estimated based on historical claims experience.

 
60

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

Prior to the formation of VSC Re, our agreements with two of our vehicle service contract TPAs allowed us to receive profit sharing payments depending upon the performance of the vehicle service contract programs.  The agreements also required that vehicle service contract premiums be placed in trust accounts.  Funds in the trust accounts were utilized by the TPA to pay claims on the vehicle service contracts.  Upon the formation of VSC Re during the fourth quarter of 2008, the unearned premiums on the majority of the vehicle service contracts that had been written through these two TPAs were ceded to VSC Re along with any related trust assets.  Vehicle service contracts written prior to 2008 through one of the TPAs remain under this profit sharing arrangement.  Profit sharing payments, if any, on the vehicle service contracts are distributed to us periodically after the term of the vehicle service contracts have substantially expired provided certain loss rates are met.  We are considered the primary beneficiary of the remaining trust and as a result, the assets of the trust and the related liabilities have been consolidated on our balance sheet.  As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the remaining trust had $0.9 million and $4.3 million, respectively, in assets available to pay claims.  As of December 31, 2010, there was a nominal related claims reserve and as of December 31, 2009, there was a related claims reserve of $3.5 million.  The trust assets are included in restricted cash and cash equivalents and restricted securities available for sale.  The claims reserve is included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.  A third party insures claims in excess of funds in the trust account.

Our determination to consolidate the VSC Re trusts and the remaining profit sharing trust was based on the following:

·  
First, we determined that the trusts qualified as variable interest entities.  The trusts have insufficient equity at risk as no parties to the trusts were required to contribute assets that provide them with any ownership interest.
·  
Next, we determined that we have variable interests in the trusts.  We have a residual interest in the assets of the trusts, which is variable in nature, given that it increases or decreases based upon the actual loss experience of the related service contracts.  In addition, VSC Re is required to absorb any losses in excess of the trusts’ assets.
·  
Next, we evaluated the purpose and design of the trusts.  The primary purpose of the trusts is to provide TPAs with funds to pay claims on vehicle service contracts and to accumulate and provide us with proceeds from investment income and residual funds.
·  
Finally, we determined that we are the primary beneficiary of the trusts.  We control the amount of premium written and placed in the trusts through Consumer Loan assignments under our Programs, which is the activity that most significantly impacts the economic performance of the trusts.  We have the right to receive benefits from the trusts that could potentially be significant.  In addition, VSC Re has the obligation to absorb losses of the trusts that could potentially be significant.

Other Income

Other income consists of the following:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Dealer support products and services
 
$
7,184
   
$
7,011
   
$
6,630
 
 Marketing income
   
5,798
     
6,276
     
4,198
 
 Vehicle service contract and GAP profit sharing income
   
4,083
     
228
     
3,738
 
 Dealer enrollment fees
   
2,743
     
1,943
     
1,905
 
 Interest income
   
108
     
394
     
2,019
 
 Other
   
1,510
     
1,770
     
2,906
 
 Total
 
$
21,426
   
$
17,622
   
$
21,396
 


 
61

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

Dealer support products and services revenue primarily consists of remarketing fees retained from the sale of repossessed vehicles by VRS, our wholly-owned subsidiary that is responsible for remarketing vehicles for Credit Acceptance.  VRS coordinates vehicle repossessions with a nationwide network of repossession agents, the redemption of the vehicle by the consumer, or the sale of the vehicle through a nationwide network of vehicle auctions.  VRS recognizes income from the retained fees at the time of the sale and does not retain a fee if a repossessed vehicle is redeemed by the consumer prior to the sale.  Dealer support products and services revenue also includes income from products and services provided to Dealer-Partners to assist with their vehicle inventory and is recognized in the period the service is provided.

Marketing income primarily consists of payments received on a monthly basis from vendors that process payments.  We recognize marketing income in the period the services are provided.  Marketing income also includes fees we receive from third parties for providing Dealer-Partners in certain states the ability to purchase Global Positioning Systems (“GPS”) with Starter Interrupt Devices (“SID”).  Through this program, Dealer-Partners can install a GPS-based SID (“GPS-SID”) on vehicles financed by us that can be activated if the consumer fails to make payments on their account, and can result in the prompt repossession of the vehicle.  Dealer-Partners purchase the GPS-SID directly from third parties and the third parties pay us a marketing fee for each device sold.  GPS-SID revenue is recognized when the unit is sold and installed in the consumer’s vehicle.

Dealer enrollment fees include fees from Dealer-Partners that enroll in our programs under our two enrollment options.  The first enrollment option requires payment of an upfront, one-time fee of $9,850.  A portion of this fee is considered to be dealer support products and services revenue.  The remaining portion of this fee is considered to be a dealer enrollment fee, which is amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated life of the Dealer-Partner relationship.  The second enrollment option requires payment of an upfront, one-time fee of $1,950 and an agreement to allow us to keep 50% of their first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment.  For Dealer-Partners that choose the second enrollment option, the entire upfront fee is considered to be dealer support products and services revenue and the 50% portion of the first accelerated Dealer Holdback payment is considered to be a dealer enrollment fee.  Under this option, we do not recognize any dealer enrollment fees until the Dealer-Partner has met the eligibility requirements to receive an accelerated Dealer Holdback payment and the amount of the first payment, if any, has been calculated.  Once the accelerated Dealer Holdback payment has been calculated, we defer the 50% portion that we keep and recognize it on a straight-line basis over the remaining estimated life of the Dealer-Partner relationship.

Interest income primarily includes income on restricted cash relating to collections on securitized Loans and vehicle service contract trust accounts and is recognized in the period earned.

Vehicle service contract and GAP profit sharing income is from payments received from TPAs based upon the performance of vehicle service contracts and GAP products provided by BVPP.  The formation of VSC Re eliminated the profit sharing arrangements related to vehicle service contracts, except for vehicle service contracts written prior to 2008 through one of the TPAs.  Profit sharing payments from the TPAs are received periodically during the year, if eligible.  Profit sharing payments are currently not estimable and therefore, revenue related to these payments is recognized in the period the payments are received.

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses

Consumer Loan Assignment.  For accounting purposes, a Consumer Loan is considered to have been assigned to us after all of the following has occurred:

·  
the consumer and Dealer-Partner have signed a Consumer Loan contract;
·  
we have received the original Consumer Loan contract and supporting documentation;
·  
we have approved all of the related stipulations for funding; and
·  
we have provided funding to the Dealer-Partner in the form of either an advance under the Portfolio Program or one-time purchase payment under the Purchase Program.

 
62

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

Portfolio Segments and Classes:  We are considered to be a lender to our Dealer-Partners for Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and a purchaser of Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program.  As a result, our Loan portfolio consists of two portfolio segments: Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans.  We have only one class of Consumer Loans assigned under our programs, which are retail installment contracts with deteriorated credit quality that were originated by Dealer-Partners to finance consumer purchases of vehicles and related ancillary products.

Dealer Loans.  Amounts advanced to Dealer-Partners for Consumer Loans assigned under the Portfolio Program are recorded as Dealer Loans and are aggregated by Dealer-Partner for purposes of recognizing revenue and evaluating impairment.  We account for Dealer Loans in a manner consistent with loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality.  The outstanding balance of each Dealer Loan included in Loans receivable is comprised of the following:

·  
the aggregate amount of all cash advances paid;
·  
finance charges;
·  
Dealer Holdback payments;
·  
accelerated Dealer Holdback payments; and
·  
recoveries.

Less:
·  
collections (net of certain collection costs); and
·  
write-offs.

An allowance for credit losses is maintained at an amount that reduces the net asset value (Dealer Loan balance less the allowance) to the value of forecasted future cash flows discounted at the yield established at the time of assignment.  This allowance calculation is completed for each individual Dealer-Partner.  The discounted value of future cash flows is comprised of estimated future collections on the Consumer Loans, less any estimated Dealer Holdback payments.  We write off Dealer Loans once there are no forecasted future collections on any of the associated Consumer Loans, which generally occurs 120 months after the last Consumer Loan assignment.

Future collections on Dealer Loans are forecasted based on the historical performance of Consumer Loans with similar characteristics, adjusted for recent trends in payment patterns.  Dealer Holdback is forecasted based on the expected future collections and current advance balance of each Dealer Loan.  Cash flows from any individual Dealer Loan are often different than estimated cash flows at the time of assignment.  If such difference is favorable, the difference is recognized prospectively into income over the remaining life of the Dealer Loan through a yield adjustment.  If such difference is unfavorable, a provision for credit losses is recorded immediately as a current period expense and a corresponding allowance for credit losses is established.  Because differences between estimated cash flows at the time of assignment and actual cash flows occur often, an allowance is required for a significant portion of our Dealer Loan portfolio.  An allowance for credit losses does not necessarily indicate that a Dealer Loan is unprofitable, and in recent years, very seldom are cash flows from a Dealer Loan insufficient to repay the initial amounts advanced to the Dealer-Partner.

 
63

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

Purchased Loans.  Amounts paid to Dealer-Partners for Consumer Loans assigned under the Purchase Program are recorded as Purchased Loans and are aggregated into pools based on the month of purchase for purposes of recognizing revenue and evaluating impairment.  We account for Purchased Loans as loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality.  The outstanding balance of each Purchased Loan pool included in Loans receivable is comprised of the following:

·  
the aggregate amount of all amounts paid during the month of purchase to purchase Consumer Loans from Dealer-Partners;
·  
finance charges; and
·  
recoveries.

Less:
·  
collections (net of certain collection costs); and
·  
write-offs.

An allowance for credit losses is maintained at an amount that reduces the net asset value (Purchased Loan pool balance less the allowance) to the value of forecasted future cash flows discounted at the yield established at the time of assignment.  This allowance calculation is completed for each individual pool of Purchased Loans.  The discounted value of future cash flows is comprised of estimated future collections on the pool of Purchased Loans.  We write off pools of Purchased Loans once there are no forecasted future collections on any of the Purchased Loans included in the pool, which generally occurs 120 months after the month of purchase.

Future collections on Purchased Loans are forecasted based on the historical performance of Consumer Loans with similar characteristics, adjusted for recent trends in payment patterns.  Cash flows from any individual pool of Purchased Loans are often different than estimated cash flows at the time of assignment.  If such difference is favorable, the difference is recognized prospectively into income over the remaining life of the pool of Purchased Loans through a yield adjustment.  If such difference is unfavorable, a provision for credit losses is recorded immediately as a current period expense and a corresponding allowance for credit losses is established.

Credit Risk:  Substantially all of the Consumer Loans assigned to us are made to individuals with impaired or limited credit histories or higher debt-to-income ratios than are permitted by traditional lenders.  Consumer Loans made to these individuals generally entail a higher risk of delinquency, default and repossession and higher losses than loans made to consumers with better credit.  Since most of our revenue and cash flows are generated from these Consumer Loans, our ability to accurately forecast Consumer Loan performance is critical to our business and financial results.  At the time the Consumer Loan is submitted to us for assignment, we forecast future expected cash flows from the Consumer Loan.  Based on these forecasts, an advance or one-time purchase payment is made to the related Dealer-Partner at a price designed to achieve an acceptable return on capital.  We use a statistical model that considers a number of credit quality indicators to estimate the expected collection rate for each Consumer Loan at the time of assignment.  Since all known, significant credit quality indicators have already been factored into our forecasts and pricing, we are not able to use any credit quality indicators to predict or explain variances in actual performance from our initial expectations.  Any variances in performance from our initial expectations are the result of Consumer Loans performing differently than historical Consumer Loans with similar characteristics.

When overall forecasted collection rates underperform our initial expectations for certain Consumer Loan assignment periods, the decline in forecasted collections has a more adverse impact on Purchased Loans than Dealer Loans.  For Purchased Loans, the decline in forecasted collections is absorbed entirely by us.  For Dealer Loans, the decline in the forecasted collections is substantially offset by a decline in forecasted payments of Dealer Holdback.

Forecast Methodology Changes and Modifications.  For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, we did not make any methodology changes or significant modifications to our forecasts of future collections on Consumer Loans.  For the year ended December 31, 2008, we implemented a new forecasting methodology and made significant modifications to our forecasts of future collections on Consumer Loans, which are described more fully in Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements.

 
64

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)


2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

Property and Equipment

Purchases of property and equipment are recorded at cost.  Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset.  Estimated useful lives are generally as follows: buildings – 40 years, building improvements – 10 years, data processing equipment – 3 years, software – 5 years, office furniture and equipment – 7 years, and leasehold improvements – the lesser of the lease term or 7 years.  The cost of assets sold or retired and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the balance sheet at the time of disposition and any resulting gain or loss is included in operations.  Maintenance, repairs and minor replacements are charged to operations as incurred; major replacements and improvements are capitalized.  We evaluate long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.

Costs incurred during the application development stage of software developed for internal use are capitalized and generally amortized on a straight-line basis over five years.  Costs incurred to maintain existing product offerings are expensed as incurred. For additional information regarding our property and equipment, see Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements.

Deferred Debt Issuance Costs

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, deferred debt issuance costs were $15.6 million and $6.4 million, respectively, and are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets.  Expenses associated with the issuance of debt instruments are capitalized and amortized as interest expense over the term of the debt instrument using the effective interest method for term secured financings and senior notes and the straight-line method for lines of credit and revolving secured financings.

Income Taxes

Provisions for federal, state and foreign income taxes are calculated on reported pre-tax earnings based on current tax law and also include, in the current period, the cumulative effect of any changes in tax rates from those used previously in determining deferred tax assets and liabilities.  Such provisions differ from the amounts currently receivable or payable because certain items of income and expense are recognized in different time periods for financial reporting purposes than for income tax purposes.

Deferred income tax balances reflect the effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases and are stated at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when taxes are actually paid or recovered.

We follow a two-step approach for recognizing uncertain tax positions.  First, we evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates it is more-likely-than-not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any.  Second, for positions that we determine are more-likely-than-not to be sustained, we recognize the tax benefit as the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being sustained.  We establish a liability for unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties.  We consider many factors when evaluating and estimating our tax positions and tax benefits, which may require periodic adjustments and which may not accurately anticipate actual outcomes.  We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in the provision for income taxes.  For additional information regarding our income taxes, see Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.

Derivative and Hedging Instruments

We rely on various sources of financing, some of which contain floating rates of interest and expose us to risks associated with increases in interest rates.  We manage such risk primarily by entering into interest rate cap and interest rate swap agreements (“derivative instruments”).

 
65

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)


2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments, we formally document all relationships between the hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as their risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions.  This process includes linking all derivative instruments that are designated as cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet.  We also formally assess (both at the hedge’s inception and on a quarterly basis) whether the derivative instruments that are used in hedging transactions have been highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of hedged items and whether those derivative instruments may be expected to remain highly effective in the future periods.  The effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative instruments is recorded in other comprehensive income, net of income taxes.  When it is determined that a derivative instrument is not (or has ceased to be) highly effective as a hedge, we would discontinue hedge accounting prospectively and the ineffective portion of changes in fair value would be recorded in interest expense.

For derivative instruments not designated as hedges, changes in the fair value of these agreements increase or decrease interest expense.

We recognize derivative instruments as either other assets or accounts payable and accrued liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets.

For additional information regarding our derivative and hedging instruments, see Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements.


Stock Compensation Plans

We apply a fair-value-based measurement method in accounting for stock-based payment transactions with team members.  We recognize stock-based compensation expense over the requisite service period of the grant as salaries and wages expense.  As of December 31, 2010, we have three stock-based compensation plans for team members and non-employee directors, which are described more fully in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements.

Employee Benefit Plan

We sponsor a 401(k) plan that covers substantially all of our team members.  We offer matching contributions to the 401(k) plan based on each enrolled team members’ eligible annual gross pay (subject to statutory limitations).  Effective January 1, 2010, the maximum employer contribution rate was increased to 3.5 percent up from the 3.0 percent maximum employer contribution rate offered during January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009.  Prior to January 1, 2009, the maximum matching employer contribution amount was $1,250 for each enrolled team member.  For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, we recognized compensation expense of $1.4 million, $1.0 million, and $0.5 million, respectively, for our matching contributions to the plan.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.  Advertising expenses were $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2010.  There were nominal advertising expenses for the year ended December 31, 2009 and advertising expenses were $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2008.

 
66

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Continued)

New Accounting Pronouncements and Updates

Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets.  In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 166, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets an amendment of FASB Statement No. 140” (“SFAS 166”).  SFAS 166 was incorporated into the Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification (“FASB ASC”) through Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2009-16 and is intended to improve the information provided in financial statements about the transfer of financial assets and the effects of the transfer on financial position and performance, and cash flows for transfers occurring on or after the effective date.  The adoption on January 1, 2010 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R).  In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 167, “Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R)” (“SFAS 167”).  SFAS 167 was incorporated into the FASB ASC through ASU No. 2009-17 and is intended to improve financial reporting related to variable interest entities.  The adoption on January 1, 2010 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, but expanded our disclosures.

Effect of a Loan Modification When the Loan Is Part of a Pool That Is Accounted for as a Single Asset.  In April 2010, the FASB incorporated ASU No. 2010-18 into the FASB ASC.  ASU No. 2010-18 is intended to improve comparability by eliminating diversity in practice about the treatment of modifications of loans accounted for within pools under FASB ASC 310-30.  Additionally, the amendments clarify guidance about maintaining the integrity of a pool as the unit of accounting for acquired loans with credit deterioration.  ASU No. 2010-18 is effective prospectively for modifications of loans accounted for within pools under FASB ASC 310-30 occurring in the first interim or annual period ending on or after July 15, 2010.  Early application is permitted.  The guidance within ASU No. 2010-18 is consistent with how we have historically accounted for our Loan portfolio; therefore, adoption of this guidance on July 1, 2010 had no impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses.  In July 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-20 which amends Topic 310 (Receivables).  ASU 2010-20 was intended to provide additional information to assist financial statement users in assessing an entity’s credit risk exposures and evaluating the adequacy of its allowance for credit losses.  The disclosures as of the end of a reporting period were effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending on or after December 15, 2010.  The disclosures about activity that occurs during a reporting period are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2010.  The amendments in ASU 2010-20 encourage, but do not require, comparative disclosures for earlier reporting periods that ended before initial adoption. However, comparative disclosures are provided for those reporting periods ending after initial adoption.  While ASU 2010-20 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, it expanded our disclosures related to Loans Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses.

Accounting for Costs Associated with Acquiring or Renewing Insurance Contracts. In October, 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-26, which amends Topic 944 (Financial Services – Insurance).  ASU No. 2010-26 is intended to address diversity in practice regarding the interpretation of which costs relating to the acquisition of new or renewal insurance contracts qualify for deferral. The amendments specify which costs incurred in the acquisition of new and renewal contracts should be capitalized.  ASU No. 2010-26 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. While the guidance in this ASU is required to be applied prospectively upon adoption, retrospective application is also permitted (to all prior periods presented). Early adoption is also permitted, but only at the beginning of an entity’s annual reporting period.  The adoption of guidance within ASU No. 2010-26 beginning on January 1, 2012 is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 
67

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)


2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES – (Concluded)

Reclassification

Certain amounts for prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.  We have changed the presentation of our consolidated statement of cash flows to reflect the increased significance of debt issuance costs during the current period.  Under our current presentation, payments of debt issuance costs are presented as a separate financing activity and the related amortization is presented within operating activities as depreciation and amortization.  Under our previous presentation, payments of debt issuance costs and the related amortization were presented as a net change in other assets within operating activities.  We have also changed the presentation of our consolidated statement of cash flows to present advances to Dealer-Partners and accelerated payments of Dealer Holdback as separate investing activities.  Under our previous presentation, advances to Dealer-Partners and accelerated payments of Dealer Holdback were presented as a combined investing activity.

Subsequent Events

We have evaluated events and transactions occurring subsequent to the consolidated balance sheet date of December 31, 2010, for items that could potentially be recognized or disclosed in these financial statements.  For additional information regarding subsequent events, see Note 14 of these consolidated financial statements.

3.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate their value.
 
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents.  The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents approximate their fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments.

Restricted Securities Available for Sale.  Restricted securities consist of amounts held in trusts by TPAs to pay claims on vehicle service contracts.  Securities for which we do not have the intent or ability to hold to maturity are classified as available for sale and stated at fair value.  The fair value of restricted securities are based on quoted market values.

Net Investment in Loans Receivable.  Loans receivable, net represents our net investment in Consumer Loans.  The fair value is determined by calculating the present value of future Loan payment inflows and Dealer Holdback outflows estimated by us utilizing a discount rate comparable with the rate used to calculate our allowance for credit losses.

Derivative Instruments.  The fair value of interest rate caps and interest rate swaps are based on quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, which are influenced by a number of factors, including interest rates, notional amount of the derivative, and number of months until maturity.

Liabilities.  The fair value of debt is determined using quoted market prices, if available, or calculated using the estimated value of each debt instrument based on current rates offered to us for debt with similar maturities.

 
68

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)


3.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS – (Concluded)

A comparison of the carrying value and estimated fair value of these financial instruments is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Estimated
Fair Value
   
Carrying
Amount
   
Estimated
Fair Value
 
 Assets
                       
 Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
3,792
   
$
3,792
   
$
2,170
   
$
2,170
 
 Restricted cash and cash equivalents
   
66,536
     
66,536
     
82,456
     
82,456
 
 Restricted securities available for sale
   
805
     
805
     
3,121
     
3,121
 
 Net investment in Loans receivable
   
1,218,013
     
1,224,830
     
1,050,013
     
1,056,059
 
 Derivative instruments
   
56
     
56
     
82
     
82
 
                                 
 Liabilities
                               
 Line of credit
 
$
136,700
   
$
136,700
   
$
97,300
   
$
97,300
 
 Secured financing
   
300,100
     
302,377
     
404,597
     
404,725
 
 Mortgage note
   
4,523
     
4,523
     
4,744
     
4,757
 
 Senior notes
   
244,344
     
261,250
     
-
     
-
 
 Derivative instruments
   
176
     
176
     
1,445
     
1,445
 

Fair value is an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.  We group assets and liabilities at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.  These levels are:

Level 1
Valuation is based upon quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active markets.
Level 2
Valuation is based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market.
Level 3
Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use at least one significant assumption not observable in the market.  These unobservable assumptions reflect estimates or assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

The following table provides the fair value measurements of applicable assets and liabilities, measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of December 31, 2010 and 2009:

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31, 2010
   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Total
Fair Value
   
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Total
Fair Value
 
 Assets
                                   
 Restricted securities available for sale
 
$
805
   
$
-
   
$
805
   
$
3,121
   
$
-
   
$
3,121
 
 Derivative instruments
   
-
     
56
     
56
     
-
     
82
     
82
 
                                                 
 Liabilities
                                               
 Derivative instruments
 
$
-
   
$
176
   
$
176
   
$
-
   
$
1,445
   
$
1,445
 


 
69

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

4.
LOANS RECEIVABLE

Loans receivable consists of the following:

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31, 2010
 
   
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Loans receivable
 
$
1,082,039
   
$
262,842
   
$
1,344,881
 
 Allowance for credit losses
   
(113,227
)
   
(13,641
)
   
(126,868
)
 Loans receivable, net
 
$
968,812
   
$
249,201
   
$
1,218,013
 
                         

   
As of December 31, 2009
 
   
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Loans receivable
 
$
869,603
   
$
297,955
   
$
1,167,558
 
 Allowance for credit losses
   
(108,792
)
   
(8,753
)
   
(117,545
)
 Loans receivable, net
 
$
760,811
   
$
289,202
   
$
1,050,013
 

A summary of changes in Loans receivable is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2010
 
   
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Balance, beginning of period
 
$
869,603
   
$
297,955
   
$
1,167,558
 
 New Consumer Loan assignments (1)
   
786,909
     
100,430
     
887,339
 
 Principal collected on Loans receivable
   
(632,616
)
   
(153,331
)
   
(785,947
)
 Accelerated Dealer Holdback payments
   
32,629
     
-
     
32,629
 
 Dealer Holdback payments
   
44,220
     
-
     
44,220
 
 Transfers (2)
   
(17,807
)
   
17,807
     
-
 
 Write-offs
   
(3,043
)
   
(143
)
   
(3,186
)
 Recoveries
   
2,318
     
124
     
2,442
 
 Net change in other loans
   
(207
)
   
-
     
(207
)
 Currency translation
   
33
     
-
     
33
 
 Balance, end of period
 
$
1,082,039
   
$
262,842
   
$
1,344,881
 

(In thousands)
 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009
 
   
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Balance, beginning of period
 
$
823,567
   
$
325,185
   
$
1,148,752
 
 New Consumer Loan assignments (1)
   
516,093
     
103,283
     
619,376
 
 Principal collected on Loans receivable
   
(515,847
)
   
(145,399
)
   
(661,246
)
 Accelerated Dealer Holdback payments
   
17,372
     
-
     
17,372
 
 Dealer Holdback payments
   
44,269
     
-
     
44,269
 
 Transfers (2)
   
(14,935
)
   
14,935
     
-
 
 Write-offs
   
(4,234
)
   
(95
)
   
(4,329
)
 Recoveries
   
2,996
     
46
     
3,042
 
 Net change in other loans
   
152
     
-
     
152
 
 Currency translation
   
170
     
-
     
170
 
 Balance, end of period
 
$
869,603
   
$
297,955
   
$
1,167,558
 


 
70

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

4.
LOANS RECEIVABLE – (Continued)

   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008
 
 (In thousands)
 
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Balance, beginning of period
 
$
804,245
   
$
140,453
   
$
944,698
 
 New Consumer Loan assignments (1)
   
506,070
     
280,326
     
786,396
 
 Principal collected on Loans receivable
   
(506,600
)
   
(103,429
)
   
(610,029
)
 Accelerated Dealer Holdback payments
   
18,426
     
-
     
18,426
 
 Dealer Holdback payments
   
58,503
     
-
     
58,503
 
 Transfers (2)
   
(7,953
)
   
7,953
     
-
 
 Write-offs
   
(48,966
)
   
(146
)
   
(49,112
)
 Recoveries
   
-
     
28
     
28
 
 Net change in other loans
   
120
     
-
     
120
 
 Currency translation
   
(278
)
   
-
     
(278
)
 Balance, end of period
 
$
823,567
   
$
325,185
   
$
1,148,752
 

(1)  
The Dealer Loans amount represents advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program.  The Purchased Loans amount represents one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program.
(2)  
Under our Portfolio Program, certain events may result in Dealer-Partners forfeiting their rights to Dealer Holdback.  We transfer the Dealer-Partner’s outstanding Dealer Loan balance to Purchased Loans in the period this forfeiture occurs.

A summary of changes in the allowance for credit losses is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
For the Year Ended December 31, 2010
 
   
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Balance, beginning of period
 
$
108,792
   
$
8,753
   
$
117,545
 
 Provision for credit losses
   
5,130
     
4,907
     
10,037
 
 Write-offs
   
(3,043
)
   
(143
)
   
(3,186
)
 Recoveries
   
2,318
     
124
     
2,442
 
 Currency translation
   
30
     
-
     
30
 
 Balance, end of period
 
$
113,227
   
$
13,641
   
$
126,868
 
                         
   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2009
 
   
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Balance, beginning of period
 
$
113,831
   
$
17,004
   
$
130,835
 
 Provision for credit losses
   
(3,962
)
   
(8,202
)
   
(12,164
)
 Write-offs
   
(4,234
)
   
(95
)
   
(4,329
)
 Recoveries
   
2,996
     
46
     
3,042
 
 Currency translation
   
161
     
-
     
161
 
 Balance, end of period
 
$
108,792
   
$
8,753
   
$
117,545
 
                         
   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2008
 
   
Dealer Loans
   
Purchased Loans
   
Total
 
 Balance, beginning of period
 
$
133,201
   
$
944
   
$
134,145
 
 Provision for credit losses
   
29,851
     
16,178
     
46,029
 
 Write-offs
   
(48,966
)
   
(146
)
   
(49,112
)
 Recoveries
   
-
     
28
     
28
 
 Currency translation
   
(255
)
   
-
     
(255
)
 Balance, end of period
 
$
113,831
   
$
17,004
   
$
130,835
 


 
71

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

4.
LOANS RECEIVABLE – (Concluded)

Forecast Methodology Changes and Modifications.  For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, while we experienced improvements in forecasted collection rates, we did not make any methodology changes or significant modifications to our forecasts of future collections on Consumer Loans.  During the first quarter of 2008, we implemented a new methodology for forecasting future collections on Consumer Loans.  The new methodology increased the dollar amount of overall forecasted collections by 0.3%.  While the new methodology produces overall collection rates that are very similar to those produced by the prior methodology, the new methodology utilizes a more sophisticated approach which allows us to expand the number of variables on which the forecast is based.  As a result, we believe the new forecast improves the precision of our estimates in two respects: (i) the new forecast is believed to be more accurate when applied to a smaller group of Consumer Loans, which allows us to forecast more accurately at the dealer pool level and more precisely measure the performance of specific segments of our portfolio and (ii) the new forecast is believed to be more sensitive to changes in Consumer Loan performance and will allow us to react more quickly to changes in Consumer Loan performance.  Implementation of the new methodology resulted in a reversal of $3.4 million in provision for credit losses on Dealer Loans as higher forecasted collections reduced the amount of Loan impairment.  In conjunction with our implementation of the new forecasting methodology, we reevaluated our forecast of future collections on old, fully-reserved Dealer Loans.  As a result, we wrote off $22.7 million of Dealer Loans and the related allowance for credit losses as we were no longer forecasting any future collections on these Dealer Loans.  This write-off had no impact on net income for the first quarter of 2008 as all of these Dealer Loans were fully-reserved.

Our forecast of future collections prior to the second quarter of 2008 assumed that Consumer Loans within our current portfolio would produce similar collection rates as produced by historical Consumer Loans with the same attributes.  During the second quarter of 2008, actual collection rates were less than our forecast, and the economic environment began to deteriorate.  As a result, we modified our forecast to assume that Consumer Loans assigned during 2006, 2007 and 2008 would perform 100 to 300 basis points lower than historical Consumer Loans with the same attributes.  As a result, we reduced our estimate of future cash flows by $22.2 million, or 1.7% of the total undiscounted cash flow stream expected from our Loan portfolio.  Of the total reduction, $20.8 million was recorded as provision for credit losses during the second quarter of 2008, of which $15.5 million and $5.3 million were related to Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans, respectively.  We did not modify our forecast related to 2005 and prior Consumer Loans as these Consumer Loans continued to perform as expected.

During the fourth quarter of 2008, we again realized lower than expected collection rates and as a result implemented an additional modification to our forecasting methodology.  This modification reduced estimated future net cash flows by $9.5 million, or 0.7% of the total undiscounted cash flow stream expected from our Loan portfolio.  The adjustment impacted only Consumer Loans assigned during the fourth quarter of 2007 and during 2008.  Forecasted collection rates on Consumer Loans assigned on or before September 30, 2007 were not modified as collection results during the fourth quarter of 2008 were consistent with our expectations.  In addition, during the fourth quarter of 2008, we revised the estimated timing of future collections to reflect declining trends in Consumer Loan prepayments.  During 2008, we experienced a reduction in prepayments, which typically result from payoffs that occur when consumers reestablish a positive credit history, trade-in their vehicle, and finance another vehicle purchase with a more traditional auto loan.  As the availability of traditional financing was curtailed during this period as a result of economic conditions, prepayment rates had declined.  As a result of these forecast modifications, we recognized a provision for credit losses of $10.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2008, of which $4.3 million and $6.3 million were related to Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans, respectively.


 
72

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

5.
LEASED PROPERTIES

We lease office space and office equipment.  We expect that in the normal course of business, leases will be renewed or replaced by other leases.  Total rental expense from continuing operations on all operating leases was $1.0 million, $1.3 million and $1.0 million for 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Contingent rentals under the operating leases were insignificant.  Our total minimum future lease commitments under operating leases as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

(In thousands)
     
 Year
 
Minimum Future Lease Commitments
 
 2011
 
$
704
 
 2012
   
654
 
 2013
   
493
 
 2014
   
332
 
 2015
   
-
 
 Thereafter
   
-
 
 Total
 
$
2,183
 

6.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment consists of the following:

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
 Land and land improvements
 
$
2,251
   
$
2,251
 
 Building and improvements
   
11,843
     
11,790
 
 Data processing equipment and software
   
33,536
     
34,765
 
 Office furniture and equipment
   
2,941
     
2,937
 
 Leasehold improvements
   
111
     
111
 
 Total property and equipment
   
50,682
     
51,854
 
 Less:
               
 Accumulated depreciation on property and equipment
   
(34,371
)
   
(30,581
)
 Accumulated depreciation on capital leased assets
   
-
     
(2,538
)
 Total accumulated depreciation
   
(34,371
)
   
(33,119
)
 Total property and equipment, net
 
$
16,311
   
$
18,735
 


Our capital leased assets included in property and equipment were zero and $2.7 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  Depreciation expense on property and equipment, including capital leased assets, was $4.4 million, $5.1 million, and $5.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively.

For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, we capitalized software developed for internal use of $1.9 million, $1.0 million, and $3.4 million, respectively.  As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, capitalized software costs, net of accumulated depreciation, totaled $2.9 million and $4.1 million, respectively.

During 2010, we determined that we would no longer use certain components of software that we were developing for internal use.  As a result, the costs we had previously capitalized related to these software components were considered impaired.  We recognized impairment of $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, of which $0.7 million was included in salaries and wages expense and $0.7 million was included in general and administrative expense.

 
73

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

7.
DEBT

We currently utilize the following primary forms of debt financing: (1) a revolving secured line of credit with a commercial bank syndicate; (2) revolving secured warehouse facilities with institutional investors; (3) asset-backed secured financings (“Term ABS”) with qualified institutional investors; and (4) Senior Secured Notes due 2017 issued pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Senior Notes”).  General information for each of our financing transactions in place as of December 31, 2010 is as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)
                       
 Financings
 
Wholly-owned Subsidiary
   
Issue Number
 
 Close Date
 Maturity Date
 
Financing Amount
 
 Interest Rate as of
December 31, 2010
Revolving Secured Line of Credit
   
n/a
     
n/a
 
June 9, 2010
June 22, 2012
 
$
170,000
 
At our option, either the Eurodollar rate plus 225 basis points or the prime rate plus 125 basis points
Revolving Secured Warehouse Facility (1)
 
CAC Warehouse Funding Corp. II
     
2003-2
 
June 16, 2010
June 15, 2013 (2)
 
$
325,000
 
Commercial paper rate plus 350 basis points or LIBOR plus 450 basis points (4) (5)
Revolving Secured Warehouse Facility (1)
 
CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC
     
2008-2
 
September 10, 2010
September 10, 2013 (6)
 
$
75,000
 
Commercial paper rate plus 300 basis points or LIBOR plus 300 basis points (3) (4) (5)
Term ABS 2009-1 (1)
 
Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1
     
2009-1
 
December 3, 2009
May 15, 2011 (2)
 
$
110,500
 
Fixed rate
Term ABS 2010-1 (1)
 
Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2010-1
     
2010-1
 
November 4, 2010
October 15, 2012 (2)
 
$
100,500
 
Fixed rate
Senior Notes
   
n/a
     
n/a
 
February 1, 2010
February 1, 2017
 
$
250,000
 
Fixed rate

(1)  
Financing made available only to a specified subsidiary of the Company.
(2)  
Represents the revolving maturity date.  The outstanding balance will amortize after the maturity date based on the cash flows of the contributed assets.
(3)  
A portion of the outstanding balance is a floating rate obligation that has been converted to a fixed rate obligation via an interest rate swap.
(4)  
The LIBOR rate is used if funding is not available from the commercial paper market.
(5)  
Interest rate cap agreements are in place to limit the exposure to increasing interest rates.
(6)  
Represents the revolving maturity date.  The outstanding balance will amortize after the revolving maturity date and any amounts remaining on September 10, 2014 will be due.

 
74

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

7.
DEBT – (Continued)

Additional information related to the amounts outstanding on each facility is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
 Revolving Secured Line of Credit
           
        Maximum outstanding balance
 
$
141,500
   
$
128,900
 
        Average outstanding balance
   
64,788
     
90,494
 
                 
 Revolving Secured Warehouse Facility (2003-2)
               
        Maximum outstanding balance
 
$
180,000
   
$
325,000
 
        Average outstanding balance
   
81,101
     
260,798
 
                 
 Revolving Secured Warehouse Facility (2008-2)
               
        Maximum outstanding balance
 
$
75,000
   
$
75,000
 
        Average outstanding balance
   
66,000
     
55,068
 


(Dollars in thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
 Revolving Secured Line of Credit
           
     Balance outstanding
 
$
136,700
   
$
97,300
 
     Letter(s) of credit
   
500
     
514
 
     Amount available for borrowing (2)
   
32,800
     
42,186
 
     Interest rate
   
3.03
%
   
4.25
%
                 
 Revolving Secured Warehouse Facility (2003-2)
               
     Balance outstanding
 
$
49,100
   
$
152,600
 
     Amount available for borrowing (2)
   
275,900
     
172,400
 
     Contributed eligible Loans
   
83,652
     
192,921
 
     Interest rate
   
3.82
%
   
5.24
%
                 
 Revolving Secured Warehouse Facility (2008-2)
               
     Balance outstanding
 
$
40,000
   
$
75,000
 
     Amount available for borrowing (2)
   
35,000
     
-
 
     Contributed eligible Loans
   
70,950
     
94,073
 
     Interest rate
   
3.94
%
   
4.36
%
                 
 Term ABS 2008-1
               
     Balance outstanding
 
$
-
   
$
66,497
 
     Contributed eligible Loans
   
-
     
142,267
 
     Interest rate
   
-
     
6.37
%
                 
 Term ABS 2009-1
               
     Balance outstanding
 
$
110,500
   
$
110,500
 
     Contributed eligible Loans
   
142,490
     
142,315
 
     Interest rate
   
4.40
%
   
4.40
%
                 
 Term ABS 2010-1
               
     Balance outstanding
 
$
100,500
   
$
-
 
     Contributed eligible Loans
   
127,054
     
-
 
     Interest rate
   
2.36
%
   
-
 
                 
 Senior Notes
               
     Balance outstanding (1)
 
$
244,344
   
$
-
 
     Interest rate
   
9.13
%
   
-
 

(1) Senior Notes presented net of unamortized debt discount of $5.7 million.
(2) Availability may be limited by the amount of eligible Loans contributed.

 
75

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

7.
DEBT – (Continued)

Revolving Secured Line of Credit Facility

During the first quarter of 2010, we increased the amount of the revolving secured line of credit facility from $140.0 million to $150.0 million and, concurrently with the issuance of the Senior Notes, amended the agreements governing our revolving secured line of credit facility to facilitate the issuance of the Senior Notes and certain future secured indebtedness.

During the second quarter of 2010, we extended the maturity of the revolving secured line of credit facility from June 23, 2011 to June 22, 2012.  Additionally, the interest rate on borrowings under the facility was changed from the prime rate plus 1.0% or the Eurodollar rate plus 2.75%, at our option, to the prime rate plus 1.25% or the Eurodollar rate plus 2.25%, at our option.  The floor on the Eurodollar rate was decreased from 1.50% to 0.75%.  None of the financial covenants were modified.

During the third quarter of 2010, we increased the amount of the revolving secured line of credit facility from $150.0 million to $170.0 million.

Borrowings under the revolving secured line of credit facility, including any letters of credit issued under the facility, are subject to a borrowing-base limitation.  This limitation equals 80% of the net book value of Loans, less a hedging reserve (not exceeding $1.0 million), and the amount of other debt secured by the collateral which secures the line of credit.  Borrowings under the line of credit agreement are secured by a lien on most of our assets.  We must pay quarterly fees on the amount of the facility.

Revolving Secured Warehouse Facilities

We have two revolving secured warehouse facilities that are provided to our wholly-owned subsidiaries.  One is a $325.0 million facility with an institutional investor and the other is a $75.0 million facility with another institutional investor.

During the second quarter of 2010, we extended the date on which our $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility will cease to revolve from August 23, 2010 to June 15, 2013.  The interest rate on borrowings under the facility was decreased from a floating rate equal to the commercial paper rate plus 5.0% to the commercial paper rate plus 3.5%.  In addition, the agreement was modified to provide that in the event that the facility is not renewed and the borrower is in compliance with the terms and conditions of the agreement, any amounts outstanding will be repaid over time as the collections on the loans securing the facility are received.

During the third quarter of 2010, we extended the date on which our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility will cease to revolve from August 31, 2011 to September 10, 2013.  The maturity of the facility was also extended from August 31, 2012 to September 10, 2014.  The interest rate on the facility was decreased from a floating rate equal to LIBOR plus 3.75% to LIBOR plus 3.0%.  There were no other material changes to the terms of the facility.

Under both revolving secured warehouse facilities we can contribute Loans to our wholly-owned subsidiaries in return for cash and equity in each subsidiary.  In turn, each subsidiary pledges the Loans as collateral to institutional investors to secure financing that will fund the cash portion of the purchase price of the Loans.  The financing provided to each subsidiary under the applicable facility is limited to the lesser of 80% of the net book value of the contributed Loans or the facility limit.

The financings create indebtedness for which the subsidiaries are liable and which is secured by all the assets of each subsidiary.  Such indebtedness is non-recourse to us, even though we are consolidated for financial reporting purposes with the subsidiaries.  Because the subsidiaries are organized as legal entities separate from us, their assets (including the conveyed Loans) are not available to our creditors.

 
76

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

7.
DEBT – (Continued)

Interest on borrowings under the $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility has been limited through interest rate cap agreements to a maximum rate of 6.75% plus the spread over the LIBOR rate or the commercial paper rate, as applicable.  Interest on borrowings for a portion of the $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility has also been limited through interest rate cap agreements to a maximum rate of 6.75% plus the spread over the LIBOR rate or the commercial paper rate, as applicable.  We have also entered into an interest rate swap to convert $25.0 million of the $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility into fixed rate debt bearing an interest rate of 4.36%.  For additional information, see Note 8 of these consolidated financial statements.

The subsidiaries pay us a monthly servicing fee equal to 6% of the collections received with respect to the conveyed Loans.  The fee is paid out of the collections.  Except for the servicing fee and holdback payments due to Dealer-Partners, if a facility is amortizing, we do not have any rights in any portion of such collections until all outstanding principal, accrued and unpaid interest, fees and other related costs have been paid in full.  If a facility is not amortizing, the applicable subsidiary may be entitled to retain a portion of such collections provided that the borrowing base requirements of the facility are satisfied.

Term ABS Financings

In 2008, 2009, and 2010, three of our wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Funding LLCs”), each completed a secured financing transaction.  In connection with these transactions, we contributed Loans on an arms-length basis to each Funding LLC for cash and the sole membership interest in that Funding LLC.  In turn, each Funding LLC contributed the Loans to a respective trust that issued notes to qualified institutional investors.  The Term ABS 2008-1 ceased to revolve on April 15, 2009 and was paid in full during the second quarter of 2010.  The Term ABS 2010-1 and 2009-1 transactions consist of three classes of notes.  The Class A Notes were rated by S&P and DBRS, Inc. for both secured financing transactions. The Class B Notes were rated by S&P for both secured financing transactions.  The Class C Notes for both secured financing transactions do not bear interest, were not rated and have been retained by us.

Each financing at the time of issuance has a specified revolving period during which we may be required, and are likely, to convey additional Loans to each Funding LLC.  Each Funding LLC will then convey the Loans to their respective trust.  At the end of the revolving period, the debt outstanding under each financing will begin to amortize.

The financings create indebtedness for which the trusts are liable and which is secured by all the assets of each trust.  Such indebtedness is non-recourse to us, even though we are consolidated for financial reporting purposes with the trusts and the Funding LLCs.  Because the Funding LLCs are organized as legal entities separate from us, their assets (including the conveyed Loans) are not available to our creditors.  We receive a monthly servicing fee on each financing equal to 6% of the collections received with respect to the conveyed Loans.  The fee is paid out of the collections.  Except for the servicing fee and Dealer Holdback payments due to Dealer-Partners, if a facility is amortizing, we do not have any rights in any portion of such collections until all outstanding principal, accrued and unpaid interest, fees and other related costs have been paid in full.  If a facility is not amortizing, the applicable subsidiary may be entitled to retain a portion of such collections provided that the borrowing base requirements of the facility are satisfied.  However, in our capacity as servicer of the Loans, we do have a limited right to exercise a “clean-up call” option to purchase Loans from the Funding LLCs and/or the trusts under certain specified circumstances.  Alternatively, when a trust’s underlying indebtedness is paid in full, either through collections or through a prepayment of the indebtedness, the trust is to pay any remaining collections over to its Funding LLC as the sole beneficiary of the trust.  The collections will then be available to be distributed to us as the sole member of the respective Funding LLC.

 
77

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

7.
DEBT – (Continued)

The table below sets forth certain additional details regarding the outstanding Term ABS Financings:

(Dollars in thousands)
                     
 Term ABS Financings
 
Issue Number
 
 Close Date
 
Net Book Value of Dealer Loans Conveyed at Closing
 
 Revolving Period
 
Expected Annualized Rates (1)
 
 Term ABS 2009-1
   
2009-1
 
 December 3, 2009
 
$
142,301
 
 18 months
(Through May 15, 2011)
   
5.2
%
 Term ABS 2010-1
   
2010-1
 
 November 4, 2010
 
$
126,751
 
 24 months
(Through October 15, 2012)
   
3.1
%

(1)  
Includes underwriter’s fees and other costs.

Senior Notes

During the first quarter of 2010, we issued $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of 9.125% First Priority Senior Notes.  The Senior Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of February 1, 2010 (the “Indenture”), among us, BVPP and VRS, as guarantors (the “Guarantors”), and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee (the “Trustee”).

The Senior Notes mature on February 1, 2017 and bear interest at a rate of 9.125% per annum, computed on the basis of 360-day year composed of twelve 30-day months and payable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning on August 1, 2010.  The Senior Notes were issued at 97.495% of the aggregate principal amount for gross proceeds of $243.7 million, representing a yield to maturity of 9.625%.  The discount is being amortized over the life of the Senior Notes using the effective interest method.

The Senior Notes are guaranteed on a senior secured basis by the Guarantors, which are also guarantors of obligations under our line of credit facility.  Our other existing and future subsidiaries may become guarantors of the Senior Notes.  The Senior Notes and the Guarantors’ Senior Note guarantees are secured on a first-priority basis (subject to specified exceptions and permitted liens), together with all indebtedness outstanding from time to time under the line of credit facility and, under certain circumstances, certain future indebtedness, by a security interest in substantially all of our assets and those of the Guarantors, subject to certain exceptions such as real property, cash (except to the extent it is deposited with the collateral agent), certain leases, and equity interests of our subsidiaries (other than those of specified subsidiaries including the Guarantors).  Our assets and those of the Guarantors securing the Senior Notes and the Senior Note guarantees will not include our assets transferred to special purpose subsidiaries in connection with securitization transactions and will generally be the same as the collateral securing indebtedness under the line of credit facility and, under certain circumstances, certain future indebtedness, subject to certain limited exceptions as provided in the security and intercreditor agreements related to the line of credit facility.

Mortgage Loan

During 2009, the mortgage note on our Southfield headquarters was amended to extend the maturity date from June 9, 2009 to June 22, 2014.  Additionally, the interest rate on the note was increased from 5.35% to 5.70%.  There was $4.5 million and $4.7 million outstanding on this loan as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Capital Lease Obligations

We did not have any capital lease obligations outstanding as of December 31, 2010.  We had various capital lease obligations outstanding for computer equipment as of December 31, 2009 of $0.3 million with interest rates ranging from 6.41% to 8.59%.  The capital lease obligations had maturity dates between June 2010 and October 2010.

 
78

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

7.
DEBT – (Concluded)

Letters of Credit

Letters of credit are issued by a commercial bank syndicate and reduce amounts available under our revolving secured line of credit.  As of December 31, 2010, we had one letter of credit outstanding of $0.5 million.  As of December 31 2009, we had two letters of credit outstanding of $0.5 million.  The letters of credit are required by regulatory agencies and relate to reinsurance agreements.  The letter of credit expires on October 31, 2011, at which time it will be automatically extended for a period of one year unless we are notified otherwise by the commercial bank syndicate.

Principal Debt Maturities

The scheduled principal maturities of our debt as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

(In thousands)
                                   
 Year
 
Revolving Secured Line of Credit Facility
   
Revolving Secured Warehouse Facilities
   
Term ABS Financings (1)
   
Senior Notes (2)
   
Mortgage Note
   
Total
 
 2011
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
54,338
   
$
-
   
$
235
   
$
54,573
 
 2012
   
136,700
     
-
     
70,526
     
-
     
248
     
207,474
 
 2013
   
-
     
32,103
     
86,136
     
-
     
263
     
118,502
 
 2014
   
-
     
56,997
     
-
     
-
     
3,777
     
60,774
 
 2015
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
 Thereafter
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
250,000
     
-
     
250,000
 
 Total
 
$
136,700
   
$
89,100
   
$
211,000
   
$
250,000
   
$
4,523
   
$
691,323
 


(1)  
The principal maturities of the Term ABS transactions are estimated based on forecasted collections.
(2)  
The amounts are presented on a gross basis to exclude the unamortized debt discount of $5.7 million.

Debt Covenants

As of December 31, 2010, we are in compliance with all our debt covenants relating to the revolving secured line of credit facility, including those that require the maintenance of certain financial ratios and other financial conditions.  These covenants require a minimum ratio of our assets to debt and a minimum ratio of our earnings before interest, taxes and non-cash expenses to fixed charges.  These covenants also limit the maximum ratio of our funded debt to tangible net worth.  Additionally, we must maintain consolidated net income of not less than $1 for the two most recently ended fiscal quarters.  Some of these debt covenants may indirectly limit the repurchase of common stock or payment of dividends on common stock.

Our revolving secured warehouse facilities and Term ABS financing also contain covenants that measure the performance of the contributed assets.  As of December 31, 2010, we were in compliance with all such covenants.  As of the end of the year, we are also in compliance with our covenants under the Senior Notes Indenture.  The Indenture includes covenants that limit the maximum ratio of our funded debt to tangible net worth and also require a minimum collateral coverage ratio.

 
79

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

8.
DERIVATIVE AND HEDGING INSTRUMENTS

Interest Rate Caps.  We purchase interest rate cap agreements to manage the interest rate risk on certain borrowings.

As of December 31, 2010, we had interest rate cap agreements to manage the interest rate risk on our $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility with various maturities between February 2011 and May 2012.  We also had an interest rate cap agreement that matures on September 19, 2013 to manage the interest rate risk on a portion of our $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility.  These instruments limit the interest rate on both revolving secured warehouse facilities to 6.75% plus the spread over the LIBOR rate or the commercial paper rate, as applicable.

As of December 31, 2009, we had interest rate cap agreements to manage the interest rate risk on our $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility, as well as on $50.0 million of the $75.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility with various maturities between May 2010 and August 2011.  These instruments limit the interest rate on both revolving secured warehouse facilities to 6.75% plus the spread over the LIBOR rate or the commercial paper rate, as applicable.

The interest rate caps have not been designated as hedging instruments.

Interest Rate Swaps.  As of December 31, 2010 we had an interest rate swap outstanding, which matures in August 2011, to convert $25.0 million of the $75.0 million 2008-2 revolving secured warehouse facility into fixed rate debt, bearing an interest rate of 4.36%.  This interest rate swap has been designated as a cash flow hedging instrument.

As of December 31, 2009, in addition to the interest rate swap discussed above, the following were also outstanding:

·  
An interest rate swap to convert the outstanding balance of the 2008-1 floating rate Term ABS financing, which ceased to revolve on April 15, 2009 and was paid in full during the second quarter of 2010, into fixed rate debt, bearing an interest rate of 6.37%.  This interest rate swap was designated as a cash flow hedging instrument.
·  
An interest rate swap, also related to the outstanding balance of the 2008-1 floating rate Term ABS financing, that required the counterparties to make a payment depending on our actual debt balance outstanding on the facility relative to our original forecasted balance and on the level of interest rates.  This interest rate swap was not designated as a hedging instrument.

As of December 31, 2010, we had minimal exposure to credit loss on the outstanding interest rate swap.  We do not believe that any reasonably likely change in interest rates would have a materially adverse effect on our financial position, our results of operations or our cash flows.

 
80

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

8.
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS – (Concluded)

Information related to the fair values of derivative instruments in our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 is as follows:

(In thousands)
   
Fair Value
 
     
as of December 31,
 
 
 Balance Sheet location
 
2010
   
2009
 
 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
             
 Liability Derivatives
             
 Interest rate swap
 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
 
$
176
   
$
1,445
 
                   
 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
                 
 Asset Derivatives
                 
 Interest rate caps
 Other assets
 
$
56
   
$
82
 
                   
 Total Asset Derivatives
   
$
56
   
$
82
 
 Total Liability Derivatives
   
$
176
   
$
1,445
 

Information related to the effect of derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments on our consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is as follows:

(In thousands)
                                     
 Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
 
Gain / (Loss)
Recognized in OCI on Derivative
(Effective Portion)
 
Loss
Reclassified from Accumulated
OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
 
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
     
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
 
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Location
 
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Interest rate swap
 
$
523
   
$
(1,017
)
 
$
(4,903
)
 Interest expense
 
$
(746
)
 
$
(3,641
)
 
$
(835
)

As of December 31, 2010, we expect to reclassify losses of $0.2 million from accumulated other comprehensive income into income during the next twelve months.

Information related to the effect of derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments on our consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is as follows:

(In thousands)
                   
 Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
   
Amount of (Loss)/ Gain Recognized in Income on Derivative
 
   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
 Location
 
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Interest rate caps
 Interest expense
 
$
(159
)
 
$
(112
)
 
$
(117
)
 Interest rate swap
 Interest expense
   
(590
)
   
106
     
(1,193
)
 Total
   
$
(749
)
 
$
(6
)
 
$
(1,310
)


 
81

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)


9.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

In the normal course of our business, affiliated Dealer-Partners assign Consumer Loans to us under the Portfolio and Purchase Programs.  Dealer Loans and Purchased Loans with affiliated Dealer-Partners are on the same terms as those with non-affiliated Dealer-Partners.  Affiliated Dealer-Partners are comprised of Dealer-Partners owned or controlled by: (1) our majority shareholder and Chairman; and (2) a member of the Chairman’s immediate family.

Affiliated Dealer Loan balances were $9.0 million and $12.7 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  Affiliated Dealer Loan balances were 0.8% and 1.5% of total consolidated Dealer Loan balances as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  A summary of related party Loan activity is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
Affiliated
Dealer-Partner
activity
   
% of
consolidated
   
Affiliated
Dealer-Partner
activity
   
% of
consolidated
   
Affiliated
Dealer-Partner
activity
   
% of
consolidated
 
Dealer Loan revenue
 
$
3,097
     
1.0
%
 
$
3,714
     
1.5
%
 
$
4,045
     
1.9
%
New Consumer Loan assignments (1)
   
3,473
     
0.4
%
   
5,690
     
0.9
%
   
9,854
     
1.3
%
Accelerated Dealer Holdback payments
   
285
     
0.9
%
   
287
     
1.6
%
   
471
     
2.6
%
Dealer Holdback payments
   
1,788
     
4.0
%
   
1,787
     
4.0
%
   
2,121
     
3.6
%

(1)  
Represents advances paid to Dealer-Partners on Consumer Loans assigned under our Portfolio Program and one-time payments made to Dealer-Partners to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our Purchase Program.

Our majority shareholder and Chairman has indirect control over entities that, in the past, offered secured lines of credit to automobile dealers, and has the right or obligation to reacquire these entities under certain circumstances until December 31, 2014 or the repayment of the related purchase money note.

 
82

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

10.
INCOME TAXES

The income tax provision, excluding the results of the discontinued United Kingdom operations, consists of the following:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income taxes:
                 
 Domestic
 
$
253,490
   
$
228,885
   
$
107,319
 
 Foreign
   
7
     
153
     
(307
)
   
$
253,497
   
$
229,038
   
$
107,012
 
                         
 Current provision (benefit) for income taxes:
                       
 Federal
 
$
66,316
   
$
63,321
   
$
23,800
 
 State
   
3,651
     
2,197
     
3,333
 
 Foreign
   
(66
)
   
(7
)
   
(27
)
     
69,901
     
65,511
     
27,106
 
 Deferred provision (benefit) for income taxes:
                       
 Federal
   
16,654
     
15,120
     
13,541
 
 State
   
(2,837
)
   
3,583
     
(1,783
)
 Foreign
   
46
     
-
     
5
 
     
13,863
     
18,703
     
11,763
 
 Interest and penalties (benefit) expense:
                       
 Interest
   
(222
)
   
(29
)
   
1,227
 
 Penalties
   
(152
)
   
(1,193
)
   
(152
)
     
(374
)
   
(1,222
)
   
1,075
 
 Provision for income taxes
 
$
83,390
   
$
82,992
   
$
39,944
 

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities consist of the following:

(In thousands)
 
As of December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
 Deferred tax assets:
           
 Allowance for credit losses
 
$
46,343
   
$
43,070
 
 Stock-based compensation
   
5,741
     
6,102
 
 Deferred state net operating loss
   
2,450
     
659
 
 Other, net
   
4,022
     
3,911
 
 Total deferred tax assets
   
58,556
     
53,742
 
                 
 Deferred tax liabilities:
               
 Valuation of Loans receivable
   
161,232
     
142,280
 
 Deferred Loan origination costs
   
2,721
     
2,318
 
 Other, net
   
2,680
     
2,896
 
 Total deferred tax liabilities
   
166,633
     
147,494
 
 Net deferred tax liability
 
$
108,077
   
$
93,752
 

The deferred state net operating loss tax asset arising from the operating loss carry forward for state income tax purposes is expected to expire at various times beginning in 2017, if not utilized.  We do not anticipate expiration of the net operating loss carry forwards prior to their utilization.

 
83

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

10.
INCOME TAXES – (Continued)

A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to our effective tax rate, excluding the results of the discontinued United Kingdom operations, is as follows:

   
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 U.S. federal statutory rate
   
35.0
%
   
35.0
%
   
35.0
%
 State income taxes
   
0.2
%
   
1.6
%
   
0.9
%
 Decrease in reserve for uncertain tax positions as a result of settlements and lapsed statutes
   
-2.4
%
   
-0.1
%
   
-0.4
%
 Other
   
0.1
%
   
-0.3
%
   
1.8
%
 Effective tax rate
   
32.9
%
   
36.2
%
   
37.3
%

The differences between the U.S. federal statutory rate and our effective tax rates for 2010, 2009 and 2008 are primarily due to state income taxes and reserves for uncertain tax positions and related interest and penalties that are included in the provision for income taxes.  The decrease in the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2010, as compared to the same periods in 2009 and 2008, is primarily due to a settlement of the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) examination detailed below and related adjustments to accrued tax reserves and interest as well as adjustments to our state tax liability.

The state income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008 fluctuate due to variability in the amount of income taxable in various state tax jurisdictions and changes in effective state tax rates.  As a result of an adjustment to the deferred tax liability arising from changes in the effective state income tax rate, the effective tax rate for 2009 was increased by approximately 30 basis points, while the effective tax rate for 2008 was reduced by approximately 100 basis points.

On June 7, 2010, we reached a settlement with the IRS which concluded the examination of our federal income tax returns for 2004 through 2008 and closed the respective tax years.  As a result of the settlement, we agreed to pay a total of $7.6 million in federal and state taxes and interest related to these years.  The settlement includes $6.2 million of taxes that represent an acceleration of taxes already provided for in prior periods and the payment did not have an impact on our net income during the reporting periods.  We also concluded that all 2004 through 2008 uncertain federal jurisdiction tax positions taken in previous periods are effectively settled and we recorded a reversal of corresponding accrued reserves and interest.  This reversal had a favorable impact of $6.2 million (after-tax) on our net income for the year ended December 31, 2010.

The following table is a summary of changes in unrecognized tax benefits:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Unrecognized tax benefits as of January 1,
 
$
11,830
   
$
12,274
   
$
9,451
 
 Additions based on tax positions related to current year
   
2,329
     
2,564
     
1,897
 
 Additions in tax positions of prior years
   
11
     
-
     
1,081
 
 Reductions in tax positions of prior years
   
-
     
(836
)
   
-
 
 Settlements
   
(5,813
)
   
(559
)
   
-
 
 Reductions as a result of a lapse of the statute of limitations
   
(542
)
   
(1,613
)
   
(155
)
 Unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31,
 
$
7,815
   
$
11,830
   
$
12,274
 

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefit that, if recognized, would favorably affect our effective income tax rate in future periods, was approximately $7.8 million as of December 31, 2010.  Accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions were $1.4 million and $3.9 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

We are subject to income tax in multiple federal and state jurisdictions.  Substantially all material foreign tax matters have been concluded through 2009. For state returns, we are generally no longer subject to tax examinations for years prior to 2004.

 
84

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

10.
INCOME TAXES – (Concluded)

During 2010, 2009, and 2008, we remitted substantially all of our accumulated earnings from foreign subsidiaries as profits to the U.S. and accrued or paid U.S. income taxes accordingly.

11.
CAPITAL TRANSACTIONS

Net Income Per Share

Basic net income per share has been computed by dividing net income by the basic number of weighted average shares outstanding.  Diluted net income per share has been computed by dividing net income by the diluted number of weighted average shares outstanding using the treasury stock method.  The share effect is as follows:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                 
Common shares
   
29,141
     
30,475
     
30,199
 
Vested restricted stock units
   
252
     
115
     
51
 
Basic number of weighted average shares outstanding
   
29,393
     
30,590
     
30,250
 
                         
Dilutive effect of stock options
   
336
     
624
     
596
 
Dilutive effect of restricted stock and restricted stock units
   
256
     
455
     
259
 
Dilutive number of weighted average shares outstanding
   
29,985
     
31,669
     
31,105
 

There were no stock options, restricted stock or restricted stock units that would be anti-dilutive for the years presented.

Stock Repurchases

In 1999, our board of directors approved a stock repurchase program which authorizes us to repurchase common shares in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions at price levels we deem attractive.  As of December 31, 2010, we had authorization to repurchase up to $29.1 million of our common stock.

During the second quarter of 2010, we commenced a tender offer to repurchase up to 4.0 million shares of our outstanding common stock at a price of $50.00 per share.  Upon expiration of the tender offer during the third quarter of 2010, we repurchased 4.0 million common shares at a cost of $200.0 million, which included approximately 2.9 million shares beneficially owned by Donald A. Foss, our Chairman of the Board, and approximately 0.8 million shares beneficially owned by the trustee of certain grantor retained annuity trusts created by Mr. Foss.  We financed the repurchase of our common stock in the tender offer by borrowing under our $170.0 million revolving secured line of credit facility and $325.0 million revolving secured warehouse facility.

See Note 14 of the consolidated financial statements for information on a tender offer we commenced subsequent to December 31, 2010.

Stock Compensation Plans

Pursuant to our Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan (the “Incentive Plan”), the number of shares reserved for granting of restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock options, and performance awards to team members, officers, directors, and contractors at any time prior to April 6, 2019, to 1.5 million shares.  The shares available for future grants under the Incentive Plan totaled 327,218 as of December 31, 2010.

 
85

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

11.
CAPITAL TRANSACTIONS – (Continued)

A summary of the restricted stock activity under the Incentive Plan for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:

(In thousands, except per share data)
       
 Restricted Stock
 
Number of Shares
   
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share
 
 Outstanding as of January 1, 2008
   
202
   
$
23.25
 
 Granted
   
80
     
16.54
 
 Vested
   
(21
)
   
25.71
 
 Forfeited
   
(16
)
   
21.37
 
 Outstanding as of December 31, 2008
   
245
   
$
21.65
 
 Granted
   
122
     
17.82
 
 Vested
   
(106
)
   
20.17
 
 Forfeited
   
(19
)
   
17.78
 
 Outstanding as of December 31, 2009
   
242
   
$
20.23
 
 Granted
   
19
     
40.36
 
 Vested
   
(143
)
   
21.79
 
 Forfeited
   
(6
)
   
27.59
 
 Outstanding as of December 31, 2010
   
112
   
$
21.09
 

The shares of restricted stock are part of the annual incentive compensation program and are granted annually based on attaining certain individual and company performance criteria.  Based on the terms of individual restricted stock grants, time-based shares vest over a period of three to five years, based on continuous employment, while performance-based shares vest based on the increase in adjusted net income per diluted share, a non-GAAP financial measure.

 
86

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

11.
CAPITAL TRANSACTIONS – (Continued)

A summary of the restricted stock unit activity under the Incentive Plan for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is presented below:

(In thousands, except per share data)
 
Nonvested
   
Vested
 
Total
   
 Restricted Stock Units
 
Number of Restricted Stock Units
   
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share
   
Number of Restricted Stock Units
   
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share
 
Number of Restricted Stock Units
   
 Outstanding as of January 1, 2008
   
300
   
$
26.30
     
-
   
$
-
 
300
   
 Granted
   
400
     
14.61
     
-
     
-
 
400
 
(1)
 Vested
   
(60
)
   
26.30
     
60
     
26.30
 
-
 
(2)
 Outstanding as of December 31, 2008
   
640
   
$
18.99
     
60
   
$
26.30
 
700
   
 Granted
   
101
     
23.89
     
-
     
-
 
101
 
(3)
 Vested
   
(60
)
   
26.30
     
60
     
26.30
 
-
 
(2)
 Forfeited
   
(33
)
   
13.51
     
-
     
-
 
(33
)
 
 Outstanding as of December 31, 2009
   
648
   
$
19.35
     
120
   
$
26.30
 
768
   
 Granted
   
33
     
39.89
     
-
     
-
 
33
 
(4)
 Vested
   
(150
)
   
20.24
     
150
     
20.24
 
-
 
(5)
 Forfeited
   
(10
)
   
39.89
     
-
     
-
 
(10
)
 
 Outstanding as of December 31, 2010
   
521
   
$
19.99
     
270
   
$
22.94
 
791
   

(1)  
The distribution date of vested restricted stock units is February 22, 2016.
(2)  
The distribution date of vested restricted stock units is February 22, 2014.
(3)  
The distribution date of vested restricted stock units is February 22, 2016 for 81 restricted stock units and February 22, 2017 for 20 restricted stock units.
(4)  
The distribution date of vested restricted stock units is February 22, 2017.
(5)  
The distribution date of vested restricted stock units is February 22, 2014 for 60 restricted stock units and February 22, 2016 for 90 restricted stock units.

The restricted stock units are part of a long-term incentive compensation program.  Each restricted stock unit represents and has a value equal to one share of common stock.  The restricted stock units will be earned over a five year period based upon the compounded annual growth rate in our adjusted economic profit, a non-GAAP financial measure.

Pursuant to our 1992 Stock Option Plan (the "1992 Plan"), we had reserved 8.0 million shares of our common stock for the future granting of options to officers and other team members.  Pursuant to our Director Stock Option Plan (the “Director Plan”), we had reserved 200,000 shares of our common stock for future granting of options to members of our Board of Directors.  The exercise price of the options is no less than the fair market value on the date of the grant.  Options expire ten years from the date of grant.  The 1992 Plan and the Director Plan were terminated as to future grants on May 13, 2004, with shareholder approval of the Incentive Plan.  All options outstanding as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 are vested.

 
87

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

11.
CAPITAL TRANSACTIONS – (Continued)

Additional stock option information relating to the 1992 Plan and the Director Plan is as follows:

(In thousands, except per share data)
 
1992 Plan
   
Director Plan
 
   
Number of Options
   
Weighted Average Exercise Per Share
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
   
Number of Options
   
Weighted Average Exercise Per Share
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
 
Outstanding as of January 1, 2008
   
1,277
   
$
7.91
           
100
   
$
17.25
       
Options granted
   
-
     
-
           
-
     
-
       
Options exercised
   
(306
)
   
7.76
   
$
3,004
     
-
     
-
   
$
-
 
Options forfeited
   
(2
)
   
7.79
             
-
     
-
         
Outstanding as of December 31, 2008
   
969
   
$
8.14
             
100
   
$
17.25
         
Options granted
   
-
     
-
             
-
     
-
         
Options exercised
   
(359
)
   
5.41
   
$
9,200
     
-
     
-
   
$
-
 
Options forfeited
   
(2
)
   
9.01
             
-
     
-
         
Outstanding as of December 31, 2009
   
608
   
$
9.75
             
100
   
$
17.25
         
Options granted
   
-
     
-
             
-
     
-
         
Options exercised
   
(300
)
   
9.66
   
$
10,038
     
-
     
-
   
$
-
 
Options forfeited
   
(1
)
   
7.45
             
-
     
-
         
Outstanding as of December 31, 2010
   
307
   
$
9.84
             
100
   
$
17.25
         
                                                 
Exercisable as of December 31:
                                               
 2008
   
969
   
$
8.14
   
$
5,630
     
100
   
$
17.25
   
$
-
 
 2009
   
608
   
$
9.75
   
$
19,688
     
100
   
$
17.25
   
$
2,486
 
 2010
   
307
   
$
9.84
   
$
16,256
     
100
   
$
17.25
   
$
4,553
 

The following tables summarize information about options outstanding under the 1992 Plan and the Director Plan as of December 31, 2010:

(In thousands, except per share data)
   
Options Outstanding and Exercisable
 
Range of Exercisable Prices Per Share
   
Options as of 12/31/10
   
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life
 
Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share
 
1992 Plan
                     
$
7.09
     
-
   
$
9.95
     
278
     
1.0
 
 Years
 
$
9.68
 
$
9.96
     
-
   
$
13.27
     
24
     
1.2
     
$
10.24
 
$
16.59
     
-
   
$
17.05
     
5
     
3.2
     
$
17.05
 
Totals
                     
307
     
1.1
     
$
9.84
 
                                               
Director Plan
                           
$
17.25
                     
100
     
3.2
 
 Years
 
$
17.25
 


 
88

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

11.
CAPITAL TRANSACTIONS – (Concluded)

Stock compensation expense consists of the following:

(In thousands)
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2008
 
 Restricted stock
 
$
938
   
$
2,208
   
$
2,138
 
 Restricted stock units
   
3,189
     
4,597
     
2,171
 
 Total
 
$
4,127
   
$
6,805
   
$
4,309
 

While the restricted stock units are expected to vest in equal, annual installments over a five-year period, the related stock compensation expense is not recognized on a straight-line basis over this period.  Each installment is accounted for as a separate award and as a result, the fair value of each installment is recognized as stock compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the related vesting period.  The following table details how the expenses associated with restricted stock and restricted stock units, which are expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.1 years, will be recorded assuming performance targets are achieved in the periods currently estimated:

(In thousands)
                 
 For the Years Ended December 31,
 
Restricted Stock Units
   
Restricted Stock
   
Total Projected Expense (pre-tax)
 
 2011
 
$
1,877
   
$
465
   
$
2,342
 
 2012
   
902
     
106
     
1,008
 
 2013
   
429
     
9
     
438
 
 2014
   
59
     
-
     
59
 
 Total
 
$
3,267
   
$
580
   
$
3,847
 

12.
BUSINESS SEGMENT AND OTHER INFORMATION

Business Segment Overview

We identify operating segments as components of our business for which separate financial information is regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision-maker (“CODM”) in making decisions regarding resource allocation and assessing performance.  We periodically review and redefine our segment reporting as internal management reporting practices evolve and the components of our business change.  Previously, we reported two business segments: United States and Other.  The United States segment represented our core business of providing auto loans, and related products and services to consumers through our network of Dealer-Partners within the United States.  The Other segment consisted of businesses in liquidation that we strategically decided to exit in prior years.  The Other segment financial results are no longer reviewed on a regular basis by the CODM to allocate resources or assess performance since the liquidation process is near completion.  Instead the CODM reviews consolidated financial statements and metrics to allocate resources and assess performance.  Thus, we have determined that we operate in one reportable operating segment.  The consolidated financial statements reflect the financial results of our one reportable operating segment.

Geographic Information

Our revenues derived outside the United States from continuing operations were less than one percent for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008.  Our long-lived assets and total assets maintained outside the United States were less than one percent for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009.

 
89

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

12.
BUSINESS SEGMENT AND OTHER INFORMATION – (Concluded)

Products and Services Information

Our primary product consists of providing auto loans to consumers, regardless of their credit history, through our network of Dealer-Partners within the United States.  We also provide Dealer-Partners the ability to offer vehicle service contracts and a GAP product to consumers on vehicles financed by us.

Major Customer Information

We did not have any Dealer-Partners that provided 10% or more of our revenue during 2010, 2009 or 2008.  Additionally, no single Dealer-Partner’s Loans receivable balance accounted for more than 10% of total Loans receivable as of December 31, 2010 or 2009.

13.
LITIGATION AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

In the normal course of business and as a result of the customer-oriented nature of the industry in which we operate, industry participants are frequently subject to various customer claims and litigation seeking damages and statutory penalties.  The claims allege, among other theories of liability, violations of state, federal and foreign truth-in-lending, credit availability, credit reporting, customer protection, warranty, debt collection, insurance and other customer-oriented laws and regulations, including claims seeking damages for physical and mental damages relating to our repossession and sale of the customer’s vehicle and other debt collection activities.  As the assignee of Consumer Loans originated by Dealer-Partners, we may also be named as a co-defendant in lawsuits filed by customers principally against Dealer-Partners.  We may also have disputes and litigation with Dealer-Partners. The claims may allege, among other theories of liability, that we breached its dealer servicing agreement.  Many of these cases are filed as purported class actions and seek damages in large dollar amounts.  An adverse ultimate disposition in any such action could have a material adverse impact on our financial position, liquidity and results of operations.

On December 3, 2010, we received a civil investigative demand from the Missouri Attorney General Office relating to our practices regarding collections from Missouri consumers who claim to have not received title from the Dealer-Partner at the time of their purchase.  On January 24, 2011, we provided our response and are in continued discussions with the Attorney General with respect to the demand for information.  We are cooperating with the inquiry.


14.
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Tender Offer

On February 9, 2011, we commenced a tender offer to purchase up to 1,904,761 shares of our common stock at a price of $65.625 per share.  The tender offer is scheduled to expire at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on March 10, 2011, subject to our right to extend the offer.  The tender offer is conditioned upon, among other things, consummation of a new debt financing (the “Debt Financing”) on terms reasonably satisfactory to us.  We anticipate that we will obtain all of the funds necessary to purchase shares in the tender offer, and to pay related fees and expenses, through a combination of the proceeds of the Debt Financing and by borrowing under our $170.0 million revolving secured line of credit facility.  The tender offer is being made pursuant to an offer to purchase issued in connection with the tender offer, and this Form 10-K is not an offer to purchase any of our shares of common stock.

 
90

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONTINUED)

15.
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (unaudited)

The following is a summary of the quarterly financial position and results of operations as of and for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP.

(In thousands, except per share data)
 
2010
 
   
Quarters Ended
 
   
March 31
   
June 30
   
September 30
   
December 31
 
 Balance Sheets
                       
 Loans receivable, net
 
$
1,088,342
   
$
1,134,776
   
$
1,176,118
   
$
1,218,013
 
 All other assets
   
139,414
     
120,042
     
108,167
     
125,502
 
 Total assets
 
$
1,227,756
   
$
1,254,818
   
$
1,284,285
   
$
1,343,515
 
                                 
 Total debt
 
$
498,287
   
$
493,472
   
$
679,561
   
$
685,667
 
 Other liabilities
   
198,685
     
179,728
     
180,299
     
183,374
 
 Total liabilities
   
696,972
     
673,200
     
859,860
     
869,041
 
 Shareholders' equity  (1)
   
530,784
     
581,618
     
424,425
     
474,474
 
 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
 
$
1,227,756
   
$
1,254,818
   
$
1,284,285
   
$
1,343,515
 
 Income Statements
                               
 Revenue
 
$
103,262
   
$
111,779
   
$
111,661
   
$
115,433
 
 Costs and expenses
   
50,805
     
45,143
     
46,465
     
46,225
 
 Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes
   
52,457
     
66,636
     
65,196
     
69,208
 
 Provision for income taxes
   
20,442
     
17,571
     
23,149
     
22,228
 
 Income from continuing operations
   
32,015
     
49,065
     
42,047
     
46,980
 
 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax
   
(5
)
   
(25
)
   
-
     
-
 
 Net  income
 
$
32,010
   
$
49,040
   
$
42,047
   
$
46,980
 
 Net  income per share:
                               
 Basic
 
$
1.03
   
$
1.57
   
$
1.50
   
$
1.72
 
 Diluted
 
$
1.01
   
$
1.55
   
$
1.48
   
$
1.69
 
 Income from continuing operations per share:
                               
 Basic
 
$
1.03
   
$
1.57
   
$
1.50
   
$
1.72
 
 Diluted
 
$
1.01
   
$
1.55
   
$
1.48
   
$
1.69
 
 Loss from discontinued operations per share:
                               
 Basic
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
 Diluted
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
 
 Weighted average shares outstanding:
                               
 Basic
   
31,042
     
31,172
     
28,063
     
27,351
 
 Diluted
   
31,584
     
31,601
     
28,452
     
27,865
 

(1)  
No dividends were paid during the periods presented.

 
91

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (CONCLUDED)

15.
QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (unaudited) – (Concluded)

(In thousands, except per share data)
 
2009
 
   
Quarters Ended
 
   
March 31
   
June 30
   
September 30
   
December 31
 
 Balance Sheets
                       
 Loans receivable, net
 
$
1,048,100
   
$
1,056,941
   
$
1,057,100
   
$
1,050,013
 
 All other assets
   
128,877
     
114,351
     
120,801
     
126,223
 
 Total assets
 
$
1,176,977
   
$
1,171,292
   
$
1,177,901
   
$
1,176,236
 
                                 
 Total debt
 
$
627,027
   
$
590,114
   
$
544,276
   
$
506,979
 
 Other liabilities
   
181,560
     
174,017
     
182,017
     
171,047
 
 Total liabilities
   
808,587
     
764,131
     
726,293
     
678,026
 
 Shareholders' equity  (1)
   
368,390
     
407,161
     
451,608
     
498,210
 
 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
 
$
1,176,977
   
$
1,171,292
   
$
1,177,901
   
$
1,176,236
 
 Income Statements
                               
 Revenue
 
$
87,888
   
$
92,373
   
$
100,268
   
$
100,135
 
 Costs and expenses
   
41,933
     
35,299
     
37,965
     
36,429
 
Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes
   
45,955
     
57,074
     
62,303
     
63,706
 
 Provision for income taxes
   
16,943
     
20,924
     
21,491
     
23,634
 
 Income from continuing operations
   
29,012
     
36,150
     
40,812
     
40,072
 
 (Loss) gain from discontinued operations, net of tax
   
(11
)
   
35
     
(78
)
   
263
 
 Net  income
 
$
29,001
   
$
36,185
   
$
40,734
   
$
40,335
 
 Net  income per common share:
                               
 Basic
 
$
0.95
   
$
1.18
   
$
1.33
   
$
1.31
 
 Diluted
 
$
0.93
   
$
1.15
   
$
1.29
   
$
1.27
 
 Income from continuing operations per share:
                               
 Basic
 
$
0.95
   
$
1.18
   
$
1.33
   
$
1.30
 
 Diluted
 
$
0.93
   
$
1.15
   
$
1.29
   
$
1.26
 
 (Loss) gain from discontinued operations per share:
                               
 Basic
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
0.01
 
 Diluted
 
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
0.01
 
 Weighted average shares outstanding:
                               
 Basic
   
30,480
     
30,601
     
30,659
     
30,798
 
 Diluted
   
31,180
     
31,423
     
31,539
     
31,868
 

(1)  
No dividends were paid during the periods presented.





ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

Not applicable.

ITEM 9A.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures.

(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures.  Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act")) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on such evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in recording, processing, summarizing and reporting, on a timely basis, information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act and are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

(b) Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  There have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the quarter ended December 31, 2010 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
 
We are responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
 
·  
pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets;
·  
provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and
·  
provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  In addition, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions and that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
We assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010.  In making this assessment, we used the criteria set forth in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).  Based on our assessment, we believe that as of December 31, 2010, our internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

Our independent registered public accounting firm, Grant Thornton LLP, audited our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010 and their report dated February 24, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on our internal control over financial reporting and is included in this Item 9A.


 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and
Shareholders of Credit Acceptance Corporation

We have audited Credit Acceptance Corporation (a Michigan Corporation) and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).  Credit Acceptance Corporation and subsidiaries’ management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on Credit Acceptance Corporation and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Credit Acceptance Corporation and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by COSO.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Credit Acceptance Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholder’s equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010 and our report dated February 24, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

Southfield, Michigan
February 24, 2011



ITEM 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION

None.

 
PART III

ITEM 10.
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
 
Information is contained under the captions “Matters to Come Before the Meeting – Election of Directors” (excluding the “Report of the Audit Committee”) and “Section 16 (a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.
 
ITEM 11.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Information is contained under the caption “Compensation of Executive Officers” (excluding the “Report of the Executive Compensation Committee”) in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

Information is contained under the caption “Common Stock Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

Our Incentive Compensation Plan (the “Incentive Plan”), which was approved by shareholders on May 13, 2004, provides for the granting of restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock options, and performance awards to team members, officers, and directors.  We also have two stock option plans pursuant to which we have granted stock options with time or performance-based vesting requirements to team members, officers, and directors.  Our 1992 Stock Option Plan (the “1992 Plan”) was approved by shareholders in 1992 prior to our initial public offering and was terminated as to future grants on May 13, 2004, when shareholders approved the Incentive Plan.  Our Director Stock Option Plan (the “Director Plan”) was approved by shareholders in 2002 and was terminated as to future grants on May 13, 2004, with shareholder approval of the Incentive Plan.

The following table sets forth, with respect to each of the equity compensation plans, (1) the number of shares of common stock to be issued upon the exercise of outstanding options or restricted stock units, (2) the weighted average exercise price of outstanding options, and (3) the number of shares remaining available for future issuance, as of December 31, 2010:

(In thousands, except per share amounts)
                 
 Plan Category
 
Number of shares to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights
   
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options
   
Number of shares remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (a)
 
 Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders:
                 
 1992 Plan
   
307
   
$
9.84
     
-
 
 Director Plan
   
100
     
17.25
     
-
 
 Incentive Plan
   
791
             
327
 
 Total
   
1,198
   
$
11.66
     
327
 

(a)
For additional information regarding our equity compensation plans, see Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.


ITEM 13.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Information is contained under the caption “Certain Relationships and Transactions” and “Matters to Come Before the Meeting – Election of Directors – Meetings and Committees of the Board of Directors” in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

Information is contained under the caption “Independent Accountants” in our Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.

PART IV

ITEM 15.
EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)(1)
The following consolidated financial statements of the Company and Report of Independent Public Accountants are contained in Item 8 — Financial Statements and Supplementary Data of this Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 
 
Report of Independent Public Accountants
 
 
Consolidated Financial Statements:
 
— Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2010 and 2009
 
— Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
 
— Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
 
— Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
 
(2)
Financial Statement Schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable or are not required or the information required to be set forth therein is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.
 
(3)
The Exhibits filed in response to Item 601 of Regulation S-K are listed in the Exhibit Index, which is incorporated herein by reference.
 




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 to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 
CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION
 
       
 
By:
/s/ BRETT A. ROBERTS
 
   
Brett A. Roberts 
 
   
Chief Executive Officer
 
   
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
Date: February 24, 2011
 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on February 24, 2011 on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated.

Signature
 
Title
   
         
/s/ BRETT A. ROBERTS
 
Chief Executive Officer and Director
   
Brett A. Roberts
 
(Principal Executive Officer) 
   
         
/s/ KENNETH S. BOOTH
 
Chief Financial Officer
   
Kenneth S. Booth
 
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer) 
   
         
/s/ GLENDA J. FLANAGAN
 
Director
   
Glenda J. Flanagan
       
         
/s/ DONALD A. FOSS
 
Director and Chairman of the Board
   
Donald A. Foss
       
         
/s/ THOMAS N. TRYFOROS
 
Director
   
Thomas N. Tryforos
       
         
/s/ SCOTT J. VASSALLUZZO
 
Director
   
Scott J. Vassalluzzo
       



EXHIBIT INDEX

The following documents are filed as part of this report.  Those exhibits previously filed and incorporated herein by reference are identified below.  Exhibits not required for this report have been omitted.  The Company’s commission file number is 000-20202.

Exhibit No.
 
 Description
3(a)(1)
1
Articles of Incorporation, as amended July 1, 1997.
3(b)
2
Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company, as amended, February 24, 2005.
4(c)(19)
3
Amendment No. 1, dated September 20, 2006, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement as of February 7, 2006, among the Company, the Lenders which are parties thereto from time to time and Comerica Bank as administrative agent.
4(c)(20)
3
Amendment No. 2, dated January 19, 2007, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement as of February 7, 2006, among the Company, the Lenders which are parties thereto from time to time and Comerica Bank as administrative agent.
4(c)(21)
3
Amendment No. 3, dated June 14, 2007, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement as of February 7, 2006, among the Company, the Lenders which are parties thereto from time to time and Comerica Bank as administrative agent.
4(c)(22)
4
Amendment No. 4, dated January 25, 2008, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement as of February 7, 2006, among the Company, the Lenders which are parties thereto from time to time and Comerica Bank as administrative agent.
4(f)(40)
5
Second Amendment, dated as of June 10, 2002, to the Intercreditor Agreement dated as of December 15, 1998, among Comerica Bank, as collateral agent, and various lenders and note holders.
4(f)(53)
6
Contribution Agreement, dated September 30, 2003, between the Company and CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II.
4(f)(55)
6
Back-Up Servicing Agreement, dated September 30, 2003, among the Company, Systems & Services Technologies, Inc., Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, and CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II.
4(f)(67)
7
The Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, the Lenders which are parties thereto from time to time, Comerica Bank, as administrative agent, and Banc of America Securities LLC as sole lead arranger and sole book manager.
4(f)(68)
7
Third Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, certain subsidiaries of the Company and Comerica Bank, as agent.
4(f)(77)
8
Certificate Funding Agreement, dated September 20, 2006, between the Company, Credit Acceptance Residual Funding LLC, Wachovia Bank, National Association, Variable Funding Capital Company LLC and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC.
4(f)(78)
9
Indenture, dated November 21, 2006, between Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2006-2 and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas.
4(f)(79)
9
Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated November 21, 2006, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2006-2, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2006-2, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, N.A., and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.
4(f)(80)
9
Backup Servicing Agreement, dated November 21, 2006, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2006-2, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2006-2, Systems & Services Technologies, Inc., Radian Asset Assurance Inc., XL Capital Assurance Inc. and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas.
4(f)(81)
9
Amended and Restated Trust Agreement, dated November 21, 2006, between Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2006-2 and U.S. Bank Trust National Association.
4(f)(82)
9
Contribution Agreement, dated November 21, 2006, between the Company and Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2006-2.
4(f)(87)
10
Indenture, dated April 12, 2007, between Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-1 and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(88)
10
Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-1, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-1 and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.




Exhibit No.
 
 Description
4(f)(89)
10
Backup Servicing Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-1, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, and XL Capital Assurance Inc.
4(f)(90)
10
Amended and Restated Trust Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-1 and U.S. Bank Trust National Association.
4(f)(91)
10
Contribution Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between the Company and Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-1.
4(f)(93)
11
Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated August 31, 2007, between the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Wachovia Bank, National Association, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Variable Funding Capital Company, LLC, Park Avenue Receivables Company, LLC, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.
4(f)(94)
12
Amendment No. 1, dated September 11, 2007, to the Certificate Funding Agreement dated as of September 20, 2006, between the Company, Credit Acceptance Residual Funding LLC, Wachovia Bank, National Association, Variable Funding Capital Company LLC and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC.
4(f)(95)
13
Indenture, dated October 29, 2007, between Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-2 and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(96)
13
Sale and Servicing Agreement, dated October 29, 2007, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-2, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-2 and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(97)
13
Backup Servicing Agreement, dated October 29, 2007, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-2, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-2, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, and XL Capital Assurance Inc.
4(f)(98)
13
Amended and Restated Trust Agreement, dated October 29, 2007, between Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-2 and U.S. Bank Trust National Association.
4(f)(99)
13
Contribution Agreement, dated October 29, 2007, between the Company and Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-2.
4(f)(100)
14
Amendment No. 1, dated December 21, 2007, to the Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement dated as of August 31, 2007, between the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Wachovia Bank, National Association, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Variable Funding Capital Company, LLC, Park Avenue Receivables Company, LLC, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.
4(f)(101)
15
Amendment No. 2 dated as of February 13, 2008, to the Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2007, among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Wachovia Bank, National Association, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Variable Funding Capital Company, LLC, Park Avenue Receivables Company LLC, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.
4(f)(102)
16
New Bank Addendum, dated as of February 26, 2008, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, by and among the Company, the Banks and Comerica Bank, as Agent for the Banks.
4(f)(103)
17
Indenture dated April 18, 2008 between Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2008-1 and Wells Fargo Bank, National  Association.
4(f)(104)
17
Sale and Servicing Agreement dated April 18, 2008 among the Company, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2008-1, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2008-1, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(105)
17
Backup Servicing Agreement dated April 18, 2008 among the Company, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2008-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2008-1, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(106)
17
Amended and Restated Trust Agreement dated April 18, 2008 between Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2008-1 and U.S. Bank Trust National Association.
4(f)(107)
17
Contribution Agreement dated April 18, 2008 between the Company and Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2008-1.
4(f)(109)
18
Loan and Security Agreement dated May 23, 2008 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, Fifth Third Bank, Relationship Funding Company, LLC and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.




Exhibit No.
 
 Description
4(f)(110)
18
Backup Servicing Agreement dated May 23, 2008 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, Fifth Third Bank and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.
4(f)(111)
18
Contribution Agreement dated May 23, 2008 between the Company and CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC.
4(f)(112)
18
Intercreditor Agreement dated May 23, 2008 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2006-2, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2006-2, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-1, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2007-2, Credit Acceptance Auto Dealer Loan Trust 2007-2, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2008-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2008-1, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, as agent, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as agent, Comerica Bank, as agent, and Fifth Third Bank, as agent.
4(f)(113)
19
Amendment No. 4 as of August 27, 2008, to the Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2007 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Wachovia Bank, National Association, Variable Funding Capital Company, LLC, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.
4(f)(114)
19
Second Amendment dated as of August 27, 2008, to the Certificate Funding Agreement dated September 20, 2006, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Residual Funding LLC, Wachovia Bank, National Association, Variable Funding Capital Company LLC, and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC.
4(f)(115)
20
Amendment No. 3 dated as of July 10, 2008, to the Second Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2007, among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Wachovia Bank, National Association, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Variable Funding Capital Company, LLC, Park Avenue Receivables Company LLC, Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC and Systems & Services Technologies, Inc.
4(f)(116)
20
Third Amendment, dated as of July 31, 2008, to Intercreditor Agreement dated as of December 15, 1998, among Comerica Bank, as collateral agent, and various lenders and note holders.
4(f)(117)
20
Fifth Amendment, dated as of July 31, 2008, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, the Banks which are parties thereto from time to time, and Comerica Bank as Administrative Agent for the Banks.
4(f)(118)
21
First Amendment, dated as of November 21, 2008, to the Third Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, certain subsidiaries of the Company and Comerica Bank, as agent.
4(f)(119)
21
Sixth Amendment, dated as of December 9, 2008, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, the Banks which are parties thereto from time to time, and Comerica Bank as Administrative Agent for the Banks.
4(f)(120)
22
Seventh Amendment, dated as of June 15, 2009, to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, the Banks which are parties thereto from time to time, and Comerica Bank as Administrative Agent for the Banks.
4(f)(121)
23
Third Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of August 24, 2009 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Wachovia Bank, National Association, Variable Funding Capital Company LLC, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(122)
24
First Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2009 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, Fifth Third Bank and Relationship Funding Company, LLC.
4(f)(123)
25
Indenture, dated December 3, 2009, between Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2009-1 and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(124)
25
Sale and Servicing Agreement dated December 3, 2009, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2009-1, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(125)
25
Backup Servicing Agreement dated December 3, 2009, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2009-1, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(126)
25
Amended and Restated Trust Agreement dated December 3, 2009, between Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1 and U.S. Bank Trust National Association.




Exhibit No.
 
 Description
4(f)(127)
25
Sale and Contribution Agreement dated December 3, 2009, between the Company and Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1.
4(f)(128)
25
Intercreditor Agreement dated December 3, 2009, among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2008-1, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2008-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2009-1, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent, Fifth Third Bank, as agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as agent, and Comerica Bank, as agent.
4(f)(129)
26
Indenture, dated as of February 1, 2010, among the Company, the Guarantors named therein and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee.
4(f)(130)
26
Registration Rights Agreement, dated February 1, 2010, among the Company, Buyers Vehicle Protection Plan, Inc., Vehicle Remarketing Services, Inc. and the representative of the initial purchasers of the Company’s 9.125% First Priority Senior Secured Notes due 2017.
4(f)(131)
26
Ninth Amendment, dated as of February 1, 2010, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, among the Company, the lenders which are parties thereto from time to time and Comerica Bank, as administrative agent.
4(f)(132)
26
Fourth Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated as of February 1, 2010, among the Company, the other Debtors party thereto and Comerica Bank, as collateral agent.
4(f)(133)
27
Eighth Amendment, dated as of October 20, 2009, to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, the Banks which are parties thereto from time to time, and Comerica Bank as Administrative Agent for the Banks.
4(f)(134)
28
Tenth Amendment, dated as of June 9, 2010, to Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 7, 2006, between the Company, the Banks which are parties thereto from time to time, and Comerica Bank as Administrative Agent for the Banks.
4(f)(135)
29
Fourth Amended and Restated Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of June 16, 2010 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, Variable Funding Capital Company LLC, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
4(f)(136)
30
Second Amended and Restated Contribution Agreement, dated as of June 16, 2010, between the Company and CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II.
4(f)(137)
31
Second Amendment to Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of September 10, 2010 among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, and Fifth Third Bank.
4(f)(138)
32
Indenture, dated November 4, 2010, between Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2010-1 and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(139)
32
Sale and Servicing Agreement dated November 4, 2010, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2010-1, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2010-1, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(140)
32
Backup Servicing Agreement dated November 4, 2010, among the Company, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2010-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2010-1, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.
4(f)(141)
32
Amended and Restated Trust Agreement dated November 4, 2010, between Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2010-1 and U.S. Bank Trust National Association.
4(f)(142)
32
Sale and Contribution Agreement dated November 4, 2010, between the Company and Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2010-1.
4(f)(143)
32
Intercreditor Agreement dated November 4, 2010, among the Company, CAC Warehouse Funding Corporation II, CAC Warehouse Funding III, LLC, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2010-1, Credit Acceptance Funding LLC 2009-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2010-1, Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust 2009-1, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, as agent, Fifth Third Bank, as agent, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as agent, and Comerica Bank, as agent.




Exhibit No.
 
 Description
4(g)(2)
33
Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of December 15, 1998, among Comerica Bank, as collateral agent, and various lenders and note holders.
4(g)(5)
34
First Amendment, dated as of March 30, 2001, to the Intercreditor Agreement dated as of December 15, 1998, among Comerica Bank, as collateral agent, and various lenders and note holders.
4(g)(6)
26
Amended and Restated Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of February 1, 2010, among Credit Acceptance Corporation, the other Grantors party thereto, representatives of the Secured Parties thereunder and Comerica Bank, as administrative agent under the Original Credit Agreement (as defined therein) and as collateral agent.
Note:
 
Other instruments, notes or extracts from agreements defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the Company or its subsidiaries have not been filed because (i) in each case the total amount of long-term debt permitted there under does not exceed 10% of the Company's consolidated assets and (ii) the Company hereby agrees that it will furnish such instruments, notes and extracts to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon its request
10(d)(9)
35
Form of Servicing Agreement, as of April 2003.
10(d)(10)
36
Purchase Program Agreement Recitals, as of April 2007.
10(f)(4)*
37
Credit Acceptance Corporation 1992 Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated May 1999.
10(p)
38
Credit Acceptance Corporation Director Stock Option Plan.
10(q)*
39
Credit Acceptance Corporation Incentive Compensation Plan, effective April 1, 2004.
10(q)(2)*
40
Form of Restricted Stock Grant Agreement.
10(q)(3)*
41
Incentive Compensation Bonus Formula for 2005.
10(q)(4)*
42
Form of Restricted Stock Grant Agreement, dated February 22, 2007.
10(q)(5)*
42
Credit Acceptance Corporation Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement, dated February 22, 2007.
10(q)(6)*
43
Credit Acceptance Corporation Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement, dated October 2, 2008.
10(q)(7)*
44
Credit Acceptance Corporation Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement, dated November 13, 2008.
10(q)(8)*
44
Credit Acceptance Corporation Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement, dated November 13, 2008.
10(q)(9)*
45
Credit Acceptance Corporation Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement, dated March 27, 2009.
10(q)(10)*
46
Credit Acceptance Corporation Amended and Restated Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended, April 6, 2009.
10(q)(11)*
47
Form of Credit Acceptance Corporation Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement.
10(q)(12)*
47
Form of Credit Acceptance Corporation Board of Directors Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement.
21(1)(a)
48
Schedule of Credit Acceptance Corporation Subsidiaries.
23(a)
48
Consent of Grant Thornton LLP.
31(a)
48
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.
31(b)
48
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.
32(a)
48
Certification of Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32(b)
48
Certification of Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.



 

 
 
*Management compensatory contracts and arrangements.
 
1     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1997, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
2     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
3     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated June 19, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
4     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated January 31, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
5     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2002, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
6     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
7     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 10, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
8     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September 22, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
9     
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 27, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
10    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated April 18, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
11    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September 7, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
12    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September 13, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
13    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 2, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
14    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated December 27, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
15    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated February 15, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
16    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated March 3, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
17    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated April 24, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
18    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated June 2, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
19    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated August 29, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
20    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
21    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
22    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated June 18, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
23    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated August 27, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
24    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated August 31, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
25    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 9, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
26    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated February 5, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
27    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
28    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated June 9, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
29    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated June 18, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
30    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
31    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September 10, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
32    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 8, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
33    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company's Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 1998, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
34    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2001, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
35    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2003, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
36    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
37    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 1999, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
38    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2001, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
39    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
40    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 2, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
41    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 4, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
42    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated February 28, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
43    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated October 7, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
44    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated November 19, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
45    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, dated April 2, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
46    
Previously filed as Annex A to the Company’s Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A, dated April 10, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
47    
Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.
 
48    
Filed herewith.