FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P - Quarter Report: 2014 October (Form 10-Q)
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-Q
x | QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the quarterly period ended October 31, 2014 | |
or | |
o | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the transition period from to |
Commission file numbers: 001-11331, 333-06693, 000-50182 and 000-50183
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.
Ferrellgas, L.P.
Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
(Exact name of registrants as specified in their charters)
Delaware Delaware Delaware Delaware | 43-1698480 43-1742520 43-1698481 14-1866671 | |
(States or other jurisdictions of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification Nos.) | |
7500 College Boulevard, Suite 1000, Overland Park, Kansas | 66210 | |
(Address of principal executive office) | (Zip Code) |
Registrants’ telephone number, including area code: (913) 661-1500
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have 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 registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants have submitted electronically and posted on their corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrants were required to submit and post such files). Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants are large accelerated filers, accelerated filers, non-accelerated filers, or smaller reporting companies. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.: | ||||||
Large accelerated filer x | Accelerated filer o | Non-accelerated filer o (do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company o |
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp, Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp.: | ||||||
Large accelerated filer o | Accelerated filer o | Non-accelerated filer x (do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company o |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrants are shell companies (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Ferrellgas, L.P. Yes ¨ No x
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. Yes x No ¨
At December 1, 2014, the registrants had common units or shares of common stock outstanding as follows:
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. | 82,717,620 | Common Units | ||
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. | 1,000 | Common Stock | ||
Ferrellgas, L.P. | n/a | n/a | ||
Ferrellgas Finance Corp. | 1,000 | Common Stock |
Documents Incorporated by Reference: None
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EACH OF FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. AND FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP. MEET THE CONDITIONS SET FORTH IN GENERAL INSTRUCTION
H(1)(A) AND (B) OF FORM 10-Q AND ARE THEREFORE, WITH RESPECT TO EACH SUCH REGISTRANT, FILING THIS FORM 10-Q WITH THE REDUCED DISCLOSURE FORMAT.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
FERRELLGAS, L.P.
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (unaudited)
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | ||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | ||||||||
(in thousands, except unit data) | ||||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | |||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 9,869 | $ | 8,289 | ||||
Accounts and notes receivable, net (including $161,715 and $159,003 of accounts receivable pledged as collateral at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | 180,556 | 178,602 | ||||||
Inventories | 177,558 | 145,969 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 44,602 | 32,071 | ||||||
Total current assets | 412,585 | 364,931 | ||||||
Property, plant and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation of $625,752 and $626,831 at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | 618,302 | 611,787 | ||||||
Goodwill | 285,658 | 273,210 | ||||||
Intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization of $378,105 and $370,108 at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | 316,634 | 276,171 | ||||||
Other assets, net | 47,256 | 46,171 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 1,680,435 | $ | 1,572,270 | ||||
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' DEFICIT | ||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 74,847 | $ | 69,360 | ||||
Short-term borrowings | 122,230 | 69,519 | ||||||
Collateralized note payable | 105,000 | 91,000 | ||||||
Other current liabilities | 147,649 | 125,161 | ||||||
Total current liabilities | 449,726 | 355,040 | ||||||
Long-term debt | 1,332,089 | 1,292,214 | ||||||
Other liabilities | 37,373 | 36,662 | ||||||
Contingencies and commitments (Note J) | ||||||||
Partners' deficit: | ||||||||
Common unitholders (82,711,820 and 81,228,237 units outstanding at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | (69,770 | ) | (57,893 | ) | ||||
General partner unitholder (835,473 and 820,487 units outstanding at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | (60,775 | ) | (60,654 | ) | ||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | (8,692 | ) | 6,181 | |||||
Total Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. partners' deficit | (139,237 | ) | (112,366 | ) | ||||
Noncontrolling interest | 484 | 720 | ||||||
Total partners' deficit | (138,753 | ) | (111,646 | ) | ||||
Total liabilities and partners' deficit | $ | 1,680,435 | $ | 1,572,270 | ||||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | ||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS | ||||||||
(in thousands, except per unit data) | ||||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Revenues: | ||||||||
Propane and other gas liquids sales | $ | 394,361 | $ | 382,223 | ||||
Other | 48,994 | 32,807 | ||||||
Total revenues | 443,355 | 415,030 | ||||||
Costs and expenses: | ||||||||
Cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales | 264,814 | 258,754 | ||||||
Cost of product sold - other | 23,860 | 13,346 | ||||||
Operating expense (includes $3.5 million and $0.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, for non-cash stock-based compensation) | 106,428 | 103,764 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 23,309 | 20,215 | ||||||
General and administrative expense (includes $12.6 million and $3.6 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, for non-cash stock-based compensation) | 23,395 | 14,414 | ||||||
Equipment lease expense | 5,532 | 4,066 | ||||||
Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge | 4,374 | 3,043 | ||||||
Loss on disposal of assets | 961 | 357 | ||||||
Operating loss | (9,318 | ) | (2,929 | ) | ||||
Interest expense | (23,912 | ) | (22,093 | ) | ||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | (301 | ) | |||||
Other income (expense), net | (449 | ) | 216 | |||||
Loss before income taxes | (33,679 | ) | (25,107 | ) | ||||
Income tax benefit | (510 | ) | (50 | ) | ||||
Net loss | (33,169 | ) | (25,057 | ) | ||||
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | (294 | ) | (214 | ) | ||||
Net loss attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. | (32,875 | ) | (24,843 | ) | ||||
Less: General partner's interest in net loss | (329 | ) | (248 | ) | ||||
Common unitholders' interest in net loss | $ | (32,546 | ) | $ | (24,595 | ) | ||
Basic and diluted net loss per common unitholders' interest | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.31 | ) | ||
Cash distributions declared per common unit | $ | 0.50 | $ | 0.50 | ||||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | ||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(in thousands) | ||||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Net loss | $ | (33,169 | ) | $ | (25,057 | ) | ||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||
Change in value of risk management derivatives | (13,897 | ) | 10,604 | |||||
Reclassification of gains and losses of derivatives to earnings, net | (1,128 | ) | (929 | ) | ||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | (2 | ) | (121 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (15,027 | ) | 9,554 | |||||
Comprehensive loss | (48,196 | ) | (15,503 | ) | ||||
Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | (448 | ) | (118 | ) | ||||
Comprehensive loss attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, LP | $ | (47,748 | ) | $ | (15,385 | ) | ||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PARTNERS' DEFICIT | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Number of units | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Total Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. partners' deficit | Total partners' deficit | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Common unitholders | General Partner unitholder | Common unitholders | General Partner unitholder | Non-controlling interest | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Balance at July 31, 2014 | 81,228.2 | 820.5 | $ | (57,893 | ) | $ | (60,654 | ) | $ | 6,181 | $ | (112,366 | ) | $ | 720 | $ | (111,646 | ) | |||||||||||
Contributions in connection with non-cash ESOP and stock-based compensation charges | — | — | 20,077 | 202 | — | 20,279 | 207 | 20,486 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Distributions | — | — | (41,356 | ) | (418 | ) | — | (41,774 | ) | (426 | ) | (42,200 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Common units issued | 1,483.6 | 15.0 | 41,948 | 424 | — | 42,372 | 431 | 42,803 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Net loss | — | — | (32,546 | ) | (329 | ) | — | (32,875 | ) | (294 | ) | (33,169 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Other comprehensive loss | — | — | — | — | (14,873 | ) | (14,873 | ) | (154 | ) | (15,027 | ) | |||||||||||||||||
Balance at October 31, 2014 | 82,711.8 | 835.5 | $ | (69,770 | ) | $ | (60,775 | ) | $ | (8,692 | ) | $ | (139,237 | ) | $ | 484 | $ | (138,753 | ) | ||||||||||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | |||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | |||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: | |||||||
Net loss | $ | (33,169 | ) | $ | (25,057 | ) | |
Reconciliation of net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: | |||||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 23,309 | 20,215 | |||||
Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge | 4,374 | 3,043 | |||||
Non-cash stock-based compensation charge | 16,112 | 4,431 | |||||
Loss on disposal of assets | 961 | 357 | |||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | 301 | |||||
Change in fair value of contingent consideration | (1,800 | ) | — | ||||
Provision for doubtful accounts | 967 | 898 | |||||
Deferred income tax expense | 216 | 275 | |||||
Other | 864 | 1,069 | |||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from business acquisitions: | |||||||
Accounts and notes receivable, net of securitization | (2,873 | ) | (47,333 | ) | |||
Inventories | (31,589 | ) | (23,679 | ) | |||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | (17,142 | ) | (11,956 | ) | |||
Accounts payable | 5,141 | 37,175 | |||||
Accrued interest expense | 20,070 | 4,960 | |||||
Other current liabilities | (2,068 | ) | 1,022 | ||||
Other assets and liabilities | (2,779 | ) | (133 | ) | |||
Net cash used in operating activities | (19,406 | ) | (34,412 | ) | |||
Cash flows from investing activities: | |||||||
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (68,655 | ) | (460 | ) | |||
Capital expenditures | (17,562 | ) | (13,267 | ) | |||
Proceeds from sale of assets | 1,417 | 1,317 | |||||
Other | — | (8 | ) | ||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (84,800 | ) | (12,418 | ) | |||
Cash flows from financing activities: | |||||||
Distributions | (41,774 | ) | (39,935 | ) | |||
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt | 83,044 | 12,071 | |||||
Payments on long-term debt | (44,388 | ) | (1,684 | ) | |||
Net additions to short-term borrowings | 52,711 | 65,029 | |||||
Net additions to collateralized short-term borrowings | 14,000 | 15,000 | |||||
Cash paid for financing costs | (182 | ) | (1,257 | ) | |||
Noncontrolling interest activity | 5 | (408 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from exercise of common unit options | — | 106 | |||||
Proceeds from equity offering, (net of issuance costs of $52 and $0 for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively) | 41,948 | — | |||||
Cash contribution from general partner in connection with common unit issuances | 424 | — | |||||
Net cash provided by financing activities | 105,788 | 48,922 | |||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | (2 | ) | (121 | ) | |||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 1,580 | 1,971 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period | 8,289 | 6,464 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period | $ | 9,869 | $ | 8,435 | |||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands, except per unit data, unless otherwise designated)
(unaudited)
A. Partnership organization and formation
Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (“Ferrellgas Partners”) is a publicly traded limited partnership, owning an approximate 99% limited partner interest in Ferrellgas, L.P. (the "operating partnership"). Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership, collectively referred to as “Ferrellgas,” are both Delaware limited partnerships and are governed by their respective partnership agreements. Ferrellgas Partners was formed to acquire and hold a limited partner interest in the operating partnership. As of October 31, 2014, Ferrell Companies, Inc. ("Ferrell Companies") beneficially owns 22.8 million Ferrellgas Partners common units. Ferrellgas, Inc. (the "general partner"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrell Companies, has retained a 1% general partner interest in Ferrellgas Partners and also holds an approximate 1% general partner interest in the operating partnership, representing an effective 2% general partner interest in Ferrellgas on a combined basis. As general partner, it performs all management functions required by Ferrellgas. Creditors of the operating partnership have no recourse with regards to Ferrellgas Partners.
Ferrellgas Partners is a holding entity that conducts no operations and has two subsidiaries, Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and the operating partnership. Ferrellgas Partners owns a 100% equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., whose only business activity is to act as the co-issuer and co-obligor of debt issued by Ferrellgas Partners. The operating partnership is the only operating subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners.
Ferrellgas is engaged in the following reportable business segment activities:
• | Propane and related equipment sales consists of the distribution of propane and related equipment and supplies. The propane distribution market is seasonal because propane is used primarily for heating in residential and commercial buildings. Ferrellgas serves residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange, agricultural, wholesale and other customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. |
• | Midstream operations consists of eight salt water disposal wells in the Eagle Ford shale region of south Texas. Salt water disposal wells are a critical component of the oil and natural gas well drilling industry. Oil and natural gas wells generate significant volumes of salt water that is transported by truck to our disposal wells. |
Due to seasonality, the results of operations for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for a full fiscal year.
The condensed consolidated financial statements of Ferrellgas reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods presented. All adjustments to the condensed consolidated financial statements were of a normal recurring nature. The information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with (i) the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and (ii) the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Ferrellgas' Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2014.
B. Summary of significant accounting policies
(1) Accounting estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Significant estimates impacting the consolidated financial statements include accruals that have been established for contingent liabilities, pending claims and legal actions arising in the normal course of business, useful lives of property, plant and equipment assets, residual values of tanks, capitalization of customer tank installation costs, amortization methods of intangible assets, valuation methods used to value sales returns and allowances, allowance for doubtful accounts, fair value of reporting units, assumptions used to value business combinations, fair values of derivative contracts and stock based compensation calculations.
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(2) Supplemental cash flow information: For purposes of the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows, Ferrellgas considers cash equivalents to include all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. Certain cash flow and significant non-cash activities are presented below:
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
CASH PAID FOR: | |||||||
Interest | $ | 2,978 | $ | 15,842 | |||
Income taxes | $ | 260 | $ | — | |||
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | |||||||
Change in accruals for property, plant and equipment additions | $ | 1,857 | $ | 1,244 |
C. Supplemental financial statement information
Inventories consist of the following:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | |||||||
Propane gas and related products | $ | 151,750 | $ | 121,111 | ||||
Appliances, parts and supplies | 25,808 | 24,858 | ||||||
Inventories | $ | 177,558 | $ | 145,969 |
In addition to inventories on hand, Ferrellgas enters into contracts primarily to buy propane for supply procurement purposes with terms up to 36 months. Most of these contracts call for payment based on market prices at the date of delivery. As of October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas had committed, for supply procurement purposes, to take delivery of approximately 70.6 million gallons of propane at fixed prices.
Other current liabilities consist of the following:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | |||||||
Accrued interest | $ | 32,252 | $ | 12,182 | ||||
Accrued payroll | 16,747 | 37,120 | ||||||
Customer deposits and advances | 37,671 | 25,412 | ||||||
Other | 60,979 | 50,447 | ||||||
Other current liabilities | $ | 147,649 | $ | 125,161 |
Shipping and handling expenses are classified in the following condensed consolidated statements of earnings line items:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Operating expense | $ | 45,790 | $ | 45,978 | ||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 1,449 | 1,415 | ||||||
Equipment lease expense | 4,866 | 3,627 | ||||||
$ | 52,105 | $ | 51,020 |
D. Accounts and notes receivable, net and accounts receivable securitization
Accounts and notes receivable, net consist of the following:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | ||||||
Accounts receivable pledged as collateral | $ | 161,715 | $ | 159,003 | |||
Accounts receivable | 23,853 | 24,108 | |||||
Other | 254 | 247 | |||||
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts | (5,266 | ) | (4,756 | ) | |||
Accounts and notes receivable, net | $ | 180,556 | $ | 178,602 |
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At October 31, 2014, $161.7 million of trade accounts receivable were pledged as collateral against $105.0 million of collateralized notes payable due to the commercial paper conduit. At July 31, 2014, $159.0 million of trade accounts receivable were pledged as collateral against $91.0 million of collateralized notes payable due to the commercial paper conduit. These accounts receivable pledged as collateral are bankruptcy remote from the operating partnership. The operating partnership does not provide any guarantee or similar support to the collectability of these accounts receivable pledged as collateral.
As of October 31, 2014, the operating partnership had received cash proceeds of $105.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. As of July 31, 2014, the operating partnership had received cash proceeds of $91.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. Borrowings under the accounts receivable securitization facility had a weighted average interest rate of 2.1% and 2.1% as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively.
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E. Debt
Short-term borrowings
Ferrellgas classified a portion of its secured credit facility borrowings as short-term because it was used to fund working capital needs that management had intended to pay down within the 12 month period following each balance sheet date. As of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, $122.2 million and $69.5 million, respectively, were classified as short-term borrowings. For further discussion see the secured credit facility section below.
Secured credit facility
As of October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $286.4 million, of which $164.2 million was classified as long-term debt. As of July 31, 2014, Ferrellgas had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $193.3 million, of which $123.8 million was classified as long-term debt. Additionally, Ferrellgas had $252.8 million and $350.4 million of available borrowing capacity under our secured credit facility as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively.
Borrowings outstanding at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014 under the secured credit facilities had weighted average interest rates of 3.0% and 3.4%, respectively.
The obligations under the credit facility are secured by substantially all assets of the operating partnership, the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership but specifically excluding (a) assets that are subject to the operating partnership’s accounts receivable securitization facility, (b) the general partner’s equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners and (c) equity interest in certain unrestricted subsidiaries. Such obligations are also guaranteed by the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership.
Letters of credit outstanding at October 31, 2014 totaled $60.8 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and, to a lesser extent, product purchases. Letters of credit outstanding at July 31, 2014 totaled $56.3 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and, to a lesser extent, commodity hedges and product purchases. At October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas had remaining letter of credit capacity of $139.2 million. At July 31, 2014, Ferrellgas had remaining letter of credit capacity of $143.7 million.
F. Partners' deficit
Partnership distributions paid
Ferrellgas Partners has paid the following distributions:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Public common unitholders | $ | 27,788 | $ | 26,498 | ||||
Ferrell Companies (1) | 11,265 | 10,735 | ||||||
FCI Trading Corp. (2) | 98 | 98 | ||||||
Ferrell Propane, Inc. (3) | 26 | 26 | ||||||
James E. Ferrell (4) | 2,179 | 2,179 | ||||||
General partner | 418 | 399 | ||||||
$ | 41,774 | $ | 39,935 |
(1) Ferrell Companies is the owner of the general partner and has an approximate 27.2% direct owner of Ferrellgas Partners' common units and thus a related party.
(2) FCI Trading Corp. is an affiliate of the general partner and thus a related party.
(3) Ferrell Propane, Inc. is controlled by the general partner and thus a related party.
(4) James E. Ferrell is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the general partner and a related party.
On November 25, 2014, Ferrellgas Partners declared a cash distribution of $0.50 per common unit for the three months ended October 31, 2014, which is expected to be paid on December 15, 2014. Included in this cash distribution are the following amounts to be paid to related parties:
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Ferrell Companies | $ | 11,265 | |
FCI Trading Corp. | 98 | ||
Ferrell Propane, Inc. | 26 | ||
James E. Ferrell | 2,179 | ||
General partner | 418 |
See additional discussions about transactions with related parties in Note I – Transactions with related parties.
Common unit issuances
During September 2014, in a non-brokered registered direct offering, which units are subject to certain contractual transfer restrictions, Ferrellgas issued to Ferrell Companies, Inc. and the former owners of two salt water disposal wells from C&E Production, LLC ("C&E") and its affiliates an aggregate of 1.5 million common units for an aggregate purchase price of $42.0 million. Ferrellgas used these proceeds to pay down a portion of the borrowing under the secured credit facility used to fund the C&E salt water disposal wells acquisition as well as propane and related equipment sales acquisitions completed in fiscal 2014.
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”)
See Note H – Derivative instruments and hedging activities – for details regarding changes in the fair value of risk management financial derivatives recorded within AOCI for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013.
General partner’s commitment to maintain its capital account
Ferrellgas’ partnership agreements allow the general partner to have an option to maintain its effective 2% general partner interest concurrent with the issuance of other additional equity.
During the three months ended October 31, 2014, the general partner made cash contributions of $0.9 million and non-cash contributions of $0.4 million to Ferrellgas to maintain its effective 2% general partner interest.
During the three months ended October 31, 2013, the general partner made non-cash contributions of $0.2 million to Ferrellgas to maintain its effective 2% general partner interest.
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G. Fair value measurements
Derivative financial instruments and contingent consideration
The following table presents Ferrellgas’ financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, including both current and noncurrent portions, as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014:
Asset (Liability) | ||||||||||||||||
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets and Liabilities (Level 1) | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total | |||||||||||||
October 31, 2014: | ||||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | 2,138 | $ | — | $ | 2,138 | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | 1,278 | $ | — | $ | 1,278 | ||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | (4,847 | ) | $ | — | $ | (4,847 | ) | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | (8,241 | ) | $ | — | $ | (8,241 | ) | ||||||
Contingent consideration | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (4,600 | ) | $ | (4,600 | ) | ||||||
July 31, 2014: | ||||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | 2,101 | $ | — | $ | 2,101 | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | 7,006 | $ | — | $ | 7,006 | ||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | (5,075 | ) | $ | — | $ | (5,075 | ) | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | (83 | ) | $ | — | $ | (83 | ) | ||||||
Contingent consideration | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (6,400 | ) | $ | (6,400 | ) |
The following is a reconciliation of the opening and closing balances for the liability measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the period ended October 31, 2014:
Contingent consideration liability | ||||
Balance at July 31, 2014 | $ | 6,400 | ||
Increase in fair value related to accretion | 200 | |||
Change in fair value included in earnings | (2,000 | ) | ||
Balance at October 31, 2014 | $ | 4,600 |
Quantitative information about Level 3 fair value measurements
14
Fair value at October 31, 2014 | Valuation technique | Unobservable input | Range | Weighted average | ||||||||
Contingent consideration liability | $ | 4,600 | Discounted cash flow | A. | Weighted average cost of capital (WACC) | N/A | 20 | % | ||||
B. | Probability of forecast | 10% - 75% | N/A |
The valuation of the contingent consideration is based on unobservable inputs such as Ferrellgas' weighted average cost of capital and the likelihood of the acquired company meeting earnings thresholds. As of October 31, 2014, fluctuations in these inputs could have the following effect (in thousands):
Increase/(decrease) | ||||||||||||||||
5% increase in WACC | 5% decrease in WACC | 10% increase in best earnings forecast probability | 10% decrease in best earnings forecast probability | |||||||||||||
Change in the fair value of contingent consideration | $ | (350 | ) | $ | 360 | $ | 1,060 | $ | (1,090 | ) |
Methodolgy
The fair values of Ferrellgas’ non-exchange traded commodity derivative contracts are based upon indicative price quotations available through brokers, industry price publications or recent market transactions and related market indicators. The fair values of interest rate swap contracts are based upon third-party quotes or indicative values based on recent market transactions.
The fair value of Ferrellgas' contingent consideration for the acquisition of Sable Environmental, LLC and Sable SWD 2, LLC (collectively, "Sable") is based upon our estimate of the likelihood that the target EBITDA metric will be met and exceeded and the amount by which it could be exceeded then discounting that value at a risk- and inflation-adjusted rate. The inputs to this model are the likelihood of meeting and exceeding the target EBITDA metric and discount rate. Management and the sellers prepared an operating forecast based on Sable's operating capacities, historical performance, and projected oil and water volumes and set a target EBITDA metric. Management then assessed the likelihood of this target EBITDA metric being achieved and exceeded and assigned probabilities to various potential outcomes. To determine the appropriate discount rate, management used observable inputs such as inflation rates, short and long-term yields for U.S. government securities and our nonperformance risk. Due to the significant unobservable inputs required in this measurement, management determined that the fair value measurement of the contingent consideration liability is level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
Other financial instruments
The carrying amounts of other financial instruments included in current assets and current liabilities (except for current maturities of long-term debt) approximate their fair values because of their short-term nature. At October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, the estimated fair value of Ferrellgas’ long-term debt instruments was $1,462.0 million and $1,408.2 million, respectively. Ferrellgas estimates the fair value of long-term debt based on quoted market prices. The fair value of our consolidated debt obligations is a Level 2 valuation based on the observable inputs used for similar liabilities.
Ferrellgas has other financial instruments such as trade accounts receivable which could expose it to concentrations of credit risk. The credit risk from trade accounts receivable is limited because of a large customer base which extends across many different U.S. markets.
H. Derivative instruments and hedging activities
Ferrellgas is exposed to certain market risks related to its ongoing business operations. These risks include exposure to changing commodity prices as well as fluctuations in interest rates. Ferrellgas utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices. Ferrellgas also periodically utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.
Derivative instruments and hedging activities
15
During the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Ferrellgas did not recognize any gain or loss in earnings related to hedge ineffectiveness and did not exclude any component of financial derivative contract gains or losses from the assessment of hedge effectiveness related to commodity cash flow hedges.
The following tables provide a summary of fair value derivatives that were designated as hedging instruments in Ferrellgas’ condensed consolidated balance sheets as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014:
October 31, 2014 | ||||||||||||
Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | |||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Location | Fair value | Location | Fair value | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 1,042 | Other current liabilities | $ | 6,229 | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Other assets, net | 236 | Other liabilities | 2,012 | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 2,138 | Other current liabilities | 407 | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Other assets, net | — | Other liabilities | 4,440 | ||||||||
Total | $ | 3,416 | Total | $ | 13,088 | |||||||
July 31, 2014 | ||||||||||||
Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | |||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Location | Fair value | Location | Fair value | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 5,301 | Other current liabilities | $ | 83 | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Other assets, net | 1,705 | Other liabilities | — | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 2,101 | Other current liabilities | — | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Other assets, net | — | Other liabilities | 5,075 | ||||||||
Total | $ | 9,107 | Total | $ | 5,158 |
Our exchange traded propane commodity derivative contracts require cash margin deposit as collateral for contracts that are in a negative mark-to-market position. These cash margin deposits will be returned to us if mark-to-market conditions improve or will be applied against our cash settlement when the contracts are settled. The following table provides a summary of cash margin deposit balances as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | |||||||||||
Description | Location | Amount | Location | Amount | ||||||||
Margin Deposits | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 7,831 | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 156 | ||||||
Other assets, net | 3,207 | Other assets, net | 189 | |||||||||
$ | 11,038 | $ | 345 |
The following tables provide a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas' condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 due to derivatives designated as fair value hedging instruments:
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Amount of Gain Recognized on Derivative | Amount of Interest Expense Recognized on Fixed-Rated Debt (Related Hedged Item) | |||||||||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Location of Gain Recognized on Derivative | For the three months ended October 31, | For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Interest expense | $ | 457 | $ | 832 | $ | (2,275 | ) | $ | (5,365 | ) |
The following tables provide a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas’ condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 due to the effective portion of derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments:
For the three months ended October 31, 2014 | ||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI | Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | |||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | (12,758 | ) | Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales | $ | (1,128 | ) | |||
Interest rate swap agreements | (1,139 | ) | Interest expense | — | ||||||
$ | (13,897 | ) | $ | (1,128 | ) |
For the three months ended October 31, 2013 | ||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI | Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | |||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | 11,617 | Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales | $ | 929 | |||||
Interest rate swap agreements | (1,013 | ) | Interest expense | — | ||||||
$ | 10,604 | $ | 929 |
The changes in derivatives included in AOCI for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
Gains and losses on derivatives included in AOCI | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Beginning balance | $ | 6,483 | $ | 2,066 | ||||
Change in value of risk management commodity derivatives | (12,758 | ) | 11,617 | |||||
Reclassification of gains and losses on commodity hedges to cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales, net | (1,128 | ) | (929 | ) | ||||
Change in value of risk management interest rate derivatives | (1,139 | ) | (1,013 | ) | ||||
Ending balance | $ | (8,542 | ) | $ | 11,741 |
Ferrellgas expects to reclassify net losses of approximately $5.2 million to earnings during the next 12 months. These net losses are expected to be offset by increased margins on propane sales commitments Ferrellgas has with its customers that qualify for the normal purchase normal sales exception.
During the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Ferrellgas had no reclassifications to earnings resulting from the discontinuance of any cash flow hedges arising from the probability of the original forecasted transactions not occurring within the originally specified period of time defined within the hedging relationship.
17
As of October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas had financial derivative contracts covering 2.5 million barrels of propane that were entered into as cash flow hedges of forward and forecasted purchases of propane.
Derivative financial instruments credit risk
Ferrellgas is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivative financial and commodity instruments. Ferrellgas’ counterparties principally consist of major energy companies and major U.S. financial institutions. Ferrellgas maintains credit policies with regard to its counterparties that it believes reduces its overall credit risk. These policies include evaluating and monitoring its counterparties’ financial condition, including their credit ratings, and entering into agreements with counterparties that govern credit limits. Certain of these agreements call for the posting of collateral by the counterparty or by Ferrellgas in the forms of letters of credit, parental guarantees or cash. Although Ferrellgas has concentrations of credit risk associated with derivative financial instruments held by certain derivative financial instrument counterparties, the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk that, based upon the gross fair values of the derivative financial instruments, Ferrellgas would incur if these counterparties that make up the concentration failed to perform according to the terms of their contracts was $0.8 million at October 31, 2014.
Ferrellgas holds certain derivative contracts that have credit-risk-related contingent features which dictate credit limits based upon the operating partnership’s debt rating. At October 31, 2014, a downgrade in the operating partnership’s debt rating would not trigger any further reduction in credit limit. There were no derivatives with credit-risk-related contingent features in a liability position on October 31, 2014 and Ferrellgas had no collateral posted in the normal course of business related to such derivatives.
I. Transactions with related parties
Ferrellgas has no employees and is managed and controlled by its general partner. Pursuant to Ferrellgas’ partnership agreements, the general partner is entitled to reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses incurred or payments it makes on behalf of Ferrellgas and all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to Ferrellgas or otherwise reasonably incurred by its general partner in connection with operating Ferrellgas’ business. These costs primarily include compensation and benefits paid to employees of the general partner who perform services on Ferrellgas’ behalf and are reported in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings as follows:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Operating expense | $ | 51,120 | $ | 48,158 | ||||
General and administrative expense | $ | 6,597 | $ | 5,901 |
See additional discussions about transactions with the general partner and related parties in Note F – Partners’ deficit.
J. Contingencies and commitments
Litigation
Ferrellgas’ operations are subject to all operating hazards and risks normally incidental to handling, storing, transporting and otherwise providing for use by consumers of combustible liquids such as propane. As a result, at any given time, Ferrellgas can be threatened with or named as a defendant in various lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Other than as discussed below, Ferrellgas is not a party to any legal proceedings other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate disposition of these matters; however, management is of the opinion that there are no known claims or contingent claims that are reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Ferrellgas.
The Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) initiated an investigation into certain practices related to the filling of portable propane cylinders. On March 27, 2014, the FTC filed an administrative complaint alleging that Ferrellgas and one of its competitors colluded in 2008 to persuade a customer to accept the cylinder fill reduction from 17 pounds to 15 pounds. The complaint does not seek monetary remedies. Ferrellgas reached a settlement with the FTC during the three months ended October 31, 2014 without any financial payment; the settlement has been approved by a vote of the Commission and is in a public comment period.
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Ferrellgas has also been named as a defendant, along with a competitor, in putative class action lawsuits filed in multiple jurisdictions. The complaints, filed on behalf of direct and indirect customers of our tank exchange business, reference the FTC complaint mentioned above. The lawsuits allege that Ferrellgas and a competitor coordinated in 2008 to reduce the fill level in barbeque cylinders and combined to persuade a common customer to accept that fill reduction, resulting in increased cylinder costs to retailers and end-user customers in violation of federal and certain state antitrust laws. The lawsuits seek treble damages, attorneys’ fees, injunctive relief and costs on behalf of the putative class. The lawsuits have been consolidated by a multidistrict litigation panel. We believe we have strong defenses to the claims and intend to vigorously defend against the consolidated case. Ferrellgas does not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to the putative class action lawsuit.
Ferrellgas has also been named as a defendant in a putative class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court in Kansas. The complaint was the subject of a motion to dismiss which was granted, in part, in August 2011. The surviving claims allege breach of contract and breach of the implied duty of good faith and fair dealing, both of which allegedly arise from the existence of an oral contract for continuous propane service. Ferrellgas believes the claims are without merit and intends to defend them vigorously. The case has not been certified for class treatment. Ferrellgas recently prevailed on an appeal before the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals and the appellate court ordered the trial court to determine whether the case must be arbitrated. Ferrellgas does not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to this putative class action lawsuit.
K. Net loss per common unitholders’ interest
Below is a calculation of the basic and diluted net loss per common unitholders’ interest in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the periods indicated. In accordance with guidance issued by the FASB regarding participating securities and the two-class method, Ferrellgas calculates net earnings (loss) per common unitholders’ interest for each period presented according to distributions declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings, as if all of the earnings or loss for the period had been distributed. Due to the seasonality of the propane business, the dilutive effect of the two-class method typically impacts only the three months ending January 31. In periods with undistributed earnings above certain levels, the calculation according to the two-class method results in an increased allocation of undistributed earnings to the general partner and a dilution of the earnings to the limited partners as follows:
Ratio of total distributions payable to: | ||||||
Quarterly distribution per common unit | Common unitholder | General partner | ||||
$0.56 to $0.63 | 86.9 | % | 13.1 | % | ||
$0.64 to $0.82 | 76.8 | % | 23.2 | % | ||
$0.83 and above | 51.5 | % | 48.5 | % |
There was no dilutive effect resulting from this guidance on basic and diluted net earnings per common unitholders' interest for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013.
In periods with net losses, the allocation of the net losses to the limited partners and the general partner will be determined based on the same allocation basis specified in Ferrellgas Partners’ partnership agreement that would apply to periods in which there were no undistributed earnings. Additionally, there are no dilutive securities in periods with net losses.
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
(in thousands, except per unitholders' interest amounts) | ||||||||
Common unitholders’ interest in net loss | $ | (32,546 | ) | $ | (24,595 | ) | ||
Weighted average common units outstanding - basic | 82,179.7 | 79,075.8 | ||||||
Dilutive securities | — | — | ||||||
Weighted average common units outstanding - diluted | 82,179.7 | 79,075.8 | ||||||
Basic and diluted net loss per common unitholders’ interest | $ | (0.40 | ) | $ | (0.31 | ) |
19
L. Segment reporting
During May 2014, Ferrellgas entered into a membership interest purchase agreement to acquire all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of Sable, a fluid logistics provider in the Eagle Ford shale region of south Texas. With this acquisition Ferrellgas established a new operating and reportable segment referred to as “Midstream Operations” in addition to the existing reportable segment of propane and related equipment sales. The chief operating decision maker evaluates the operating segments using an Adjusted EBITDA performance measure which is based on net loss before income tax benefit, interest expense, depreciation and amortization expense, non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge, non-cash stock-based compensation charge, loss on disposal of assets, other income (expense), net, change in fair value of contingent consideration and litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit. This performance measure is not a GAAP measure but the components are computed using amounts that are determined in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of this performance measure to net loss attributable to Ferrellgas Partners L.P., which is its nearest comparable GAAP measure, is included in the tables below. In management's evaluation of performance, certain costs, such as compensation for administrative staff and executive management, are not allocated by segment and, accordingly, the following reportable segment results do not include such unallocated costs. The accounting policies of the operating segments are otherwise the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note B.
Assets reported within a segment are those assets that can be identified to a segment and primarily consist of trade receivables, property, plant and equipment, inventories, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill. Cash, certain prepaid assets and other assets are not allocated to segments. Although Ferrellgas can and does identify long-lived assets such as property, plant and equipment and identifiable intangible assets to reportable segments, Ferrellgas does not allocate the related depreciation and amortization to the segment as management evaluates segment performance exclusive of these non-cash charges.
The propane and related equipment sales segment primarily includes the distribution and sale of propane and related equipment and supplies with concentrations in the Midwest, Southeast, Southwest and Northwest regions of the United States. Sales from propane distribution are generated principally from transporting propane purchased from third parties to propane distribution locations and then to tanks on customers’ premises or to portable propane tanks delivered to nationwide and local retailers. Sales from portable tank exchanges, nationally branded under the name Blue Rhino, are generated through a network of independent and partnership-owned distribution outlets.
Salt water disposal wells are a critical component of the oil and natural gas well drilling industry. Oil and gas wells generate significant volumes of salt water known as “flowback” and “production” water. Flowback is a water based solution that flows back to the surface during and after the completion of the hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) process whereby large volumes of water, sand and chemicals are injected under high pressures into rock formations to stimulate production. Flowback contains clays, chemicals, dissolved metal ions, total dissolved solids and oil/condensate. Production water is salt water from underground formations that are brought to the surface during the normal course of oil or gas production. Because this water has been in contact with hydrocarbon-bearing formations, it contains some of the chemical characteristics of the formations and the hydrocarbons. In the oil and gas fields we service, these volumes of water are transported by truck away from the fields to salt water disposal wells where it is injected into underground geologic formations using high-pressure pumps. Revenue is derived from fees charged to customers to dispose of salt water at the disposal facilities and crude oil sales from the skimming oil process.
Prior to the Sable acquisition in May 2014, Ferrellgas managed and evaluated its operations as a single reportable segment. As the current two reportable segment structure is the result of the Sable acquisition completed during May 2014, comparative historical segment information for fiscal 2014 is not provided.
Following is a summary of segment information for the three months ended October 31, 2014.
20
Three months ended October 31, 2014 | |||||||||||||||||
Propane and related equipment sales | Midstream operations | Corporate and other | Total | ||||||||||||||
Segment revenues | $ | 435,439 | $ | 7,916 | $ | — | $ | 443,355 | |||||||||
Direct costs (1) | 393,805 | 4,733 | 10,456 | 408,994 | |||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 41,634 | $ | 3,183 | $ | (10,456 | ) | $ | 34,361 | ||||||||
(1) Direct costs are comprised of "cost of products sold-propane and other gas liquids sales", "cost of products sold-other", "operating expense", "general and administrative expense", and "equipment lease expense" less "non-cash stock-based compensation charge", "change in fair value of contingent consideration" and "litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit".
Following is a reconciliation of Ferrellgas total segment performance measure to consolidated net loss:
Three months ended October 31, | ||||
2014 | ||||
Net loss attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. | $ | (32,875 | ) | |
Income tax benefit | (510 | ) | ||
Interest expense | 23,912 | |||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 23,309 | |||
EBITDA | 13,836 | |||
Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge | 4,374 | |||
Non-cash stock-based compensation charge | 16,112 | |||
Loss on disposal of assets | 961 | |||
Other expense (income), net | 449 | |||
Change in fair value of contingent consideration | (1,800 | ) | ||
Litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit | 723 | |||
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | (294 | ) | ||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 34,361 |
Following are total assets by segment:
October 31, | July 31, | ||||||
2014 | 2014 | ||||||
Assets | |||||||
Propane and related equipment sales | $ | 1,442,779 | $ | 1,400,603 | |||
Midstream operations | 201,344 | 136,116 | |||||
Corporate and unallocated | 36,312 | 35,551 | |||||
Total consolidated assets | $ | 1,680,435 | $ | 1,572,270 |
21
Following are capital expenditures by segment:
Three months ended October 31, | |||||||||||||||||
Propane and related equipment sales | Midstream operations | Corporate and other | Total | ||||||||||||||
Maintenance | $ | 4,576 | $ | 176 | $ | 304 | $ | 5,056 | |||||||||
Growth | 11,069 | 857 | — | 11,926 | |||||||||||||
Total | $ | 15,645 | $ | 1,033 | $ | 304 | $ | 16,982 | |||||||||
M. Subsequent events
Ferrellgas evaluated events and transactions occurring after the balance sheet date through the date Ferrellgas' condensed consolidated financial statements were issued and concluded that there were no events or transactions occurring during this period that require recognition or disclosure in its condensed consolidated financial statements.
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FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. | |||||||
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.) | |||||||
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | ||||||
ASSETS | |||||||
Cash | $ | 909 | $ | 969 | |||
Total assets | $ | 909 | $ | 969 | |||
Contingencies and commitments (Note B) | |||||||
STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY | |||||||
Common stock, $1.00 par value; 2,000 shares authorized; 1,000 shares issued and outstanding | $ | 1,000 | $ | 1,000 | |||
Additional paid in capital | 15,196 | 15,106 | |||||
Accumulated deficit | (15,287 | ) | (15,137 | ) | |||
Total stockholder's equity | $ | 909 | $ | 969 | |||
See notes to condensed financial statements. |
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. | |||||||
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.) | |||||||
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
General and administrative expense | $ | 150 | $ | 50 | |||
Net loss | $ | (150 | ) | $ | (50 | ) | |
See notes to condensed financial statements. |
23
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. | |||||||
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.) | |||||||
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities: | |||||||
Net loss | $ | (150 | ) | $ | (50 | ) | |
Cash used in operating activities | (150 | ) | (50 | ) | |||
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: | |||||||
Capital contribution | 90 | 50 | |||||
Cash provided by financing activities | 90 | 50 | |||||
Net change in cash | (60 | ) | — | ||||
Cash - beginning of period | 969 | 969 | |||||
Cash - end of period | $ | 909 | $ | 969 | |||
See notes to condensed financial statements. |
24
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.)
(unaudited)
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
A. Formation
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. (the “Finance Corp.”), a Delaware corporation, was formed on March 28, 1996 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (the “Partnership”).
The condensed financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the interim periods presented. All adjustments to the condensed financial statements were of a normal recurring nature.
The Finance Corp. has nominal assets, does not conduct any operations and has no employees.
B. Contingencies and commitments
The Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for the Partnership's $182.0 million, 8.625% senior notes due 2020.
25
FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | |||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS | |||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | ||||||
ASSETS | |||||||
Current assets: | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 9,765 | $ | 8,283 | |||
Accounts and notes receivable, net (including $161,715 and $159,003 of accounts receivable pledged as collateral at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | 180,556 | 178,602 | |||||
Inventories | 177,558 | 145,969 | |||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 44,558 | 32,079 | |||||
Total current assets | 412,437 | 364,933 | |||||
Property, plant and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation of $625,752 and $626,831 at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | 618,302 | 611,787 | |||||
Goodwill | 285,658 | 273,210 | |||||
Intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization of $378,105 and $370,108 at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively) | 316,634 | 276,171 | |||||
Other assets, net | 44,926 | 43,732 | |||||
Total assets | $ | 1,677,957 | $ | 1,569,833 | |||
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL | |||||||
Current liabilities: | |||||||
Accounts payable | $ | 74,847 | $ | 69,360 | |||
Short-term borrowings | 122,230 | 69,519 | |||||
Collateralized note payable | 105,000 | 91,000 | |||||
Other current liabilities | 141,716 | 123,153 | |||||
Total current liabilities | 443,793 | 353,032 | |||||
Long-term debt | 1,150,089 | 1,110,214 | |||||
Other liabilities | 37,373 | 36,662 | |||||
Contingencies and commitments (Note J) | |||||||
Partners' capital: | |||||||
Limited partner | 54,910 | 63,024 | |||||
General partner | 561 | 643 | |||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | (8,769 | ) | 6,258 | ||||
Total partners' capital | 46,702 | 69,925 | |||||
Total liabilities and partners' capital | $ | 1,677,957 | $ | 1,569,833 | |||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
26
FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | |||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS | |||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Revenues: | |||||||
Propane and other gas liquids sales | $ | 394,361 | $ | 382,223 | |||
Other | 48,994 | 32,807 | |||||
Total revenues | 443,355 | 415,030 | |||||
Costs and expenses: | |||||||
Cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales | 264,814 | 258,754 | |||||
Cost of product sold - other | 23,860 | 13,346 | |||||
Operating expense (includes $3.5 million and $0.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, for non-cash stock-based compensation) | 106,431 | 103,889 | |||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 23,309 | 20,215 | |||||
General and administrative expense (includes $12.6 million and $3.6 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, for non-cash stock-based compensation) | 23,395 | 14,414 | |||||
Equipment lease expense | 5,532 | 4,066 | |||||
Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge | 4,374 | 3,043 | |||||
Loss on disposal of assets | 961 | 357 | |||||
Operating loss | (9,321 | ) | (3,054 | ) | |||
Interest expense | (19,878 | ) | (18,049 | ) | |||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | (301 | ) | ||||
Other income (expense), net | (449 | ) | 216 | ||||
Loss before income taxes | (29,648 | ) | (21,188 | ) | |||
Income tax benefit | (511 | ) | (50 | ) | |||
Net loss | $ | (29,137 | ) | $ | (21,138 | ) | |
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | ||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||||||||
(in thousands) | ||||||||
(unaudited) | ||||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Net loss | $ | (29,137 | ) | $ | (21,138 | ) | ||
Other comprehensive income (loss): | ||||||||
Change in value of risk management derivatives | (13,897 | ) | 10,604 | |||||
Reclassification of gains and losses of derivatives to earnings, net | (1,128 | ) | (929 | ) | ||||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | (2 | ) | (121 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive income (loss) | (15,027 | ) | 9,554 | |||||
Comprehensive loss | $ | (44,164 | ) | $ | (11,584 | ) | ||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | |||||||||||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PARTNERS' CAPITAL | |||||||||||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||||||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||||||||||
Accumulated | |||||||||||||||
other | Total | ||||||||||||||
Limited | General | comprehensive | partners' | ||||||||||||
partner | partner | income (loss) | capital | ||||||||||||
Balance at July 31, 2014 | $ | 63,024 | $ | 643 | $ | 6,258 | $ | 69,925 | |||||||
Contributions in connection with non-cash ESOP and stock-based compensation charges | 20,279 | 207 | — | 20,486 | |||||||||||
Contributions from partners | 42,224 | 431 | — | 42,655 | |||||||||||
Distributions | (41,774 | ) | (426 | ) | — | (42,200 | ) | ||||||||
Net loss | (28,843 | ) | (294 | ) | — | (29,137 | ) | ||||||||
Other comprehensive loss | — | — | (15,027 | ) | (15,027 | ) | |||||||||
Balance at October 31, 2014 | $ | 54,910 | $ | 561 | $ | (8,769 | ) | $ | 46,702 | ||||||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES | |||||||
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | |||||||
(in thousands) | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: | |||||||
Net loss | $ | (29,137 | ) | $ | (21,138 | ) | |
Reconciliation of net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: | |||||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 23,309 | 20,215 | |||||
Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge | 4,374 | 3,043 | |||||
Non-cash stock-based compensation charge | 16,112 | 4,431 | |||||
Loss on disposal of assets | 961 | 357 | |||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | 301 | |||||
Change in fair value of contingent consideration | (1,800 | ) | — | ||||
Provision for doubtful accounts | 967 | 898 | |||||
Deferred income tax expense | 216 | 275 | |||||
Other | 754 | 949 | |||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from business acquisitions: | |||||||
Accounts and notes receivable, net of securitization | (2,873 | ) | (47,333 | ) | |||
Inventories | (31,589 | ) | (23,679 | ) | |||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | (17,090 | ) | (11,816 | ) | |||
Accounts payable | 5,141 | 37,175 | |||||
Accrued interest expense | 16,146 | 1,035 | |||||
Other current liabilities | (2,069 | ) | 1,023 | ||||
Other assets and liabilities | (2,778 | ) | (133 | ) | |||
Net cash used in operating activities | (19,356 | ) | (34,397 | ) | |||
Cash flows from investing activities: | |||||||
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (68,655 | ) | (460 | ) | |||
Capital expenditures | (17,562 | ) | (13,267 | ) | |||
Proceeds from sale of assets | 1,417 | 1,317 | |||||
Other | — | (8 | ) | ||||
Net cash used in investing activities | (84,800 | ) | (12,418 | ) | |||
Cash flows from financing activities: | |||||||
Distributions | (42,200 | ) | (40,343 | ) | |||
Contributions from partners | 42,655 | — | |||||
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt | 83,044 | 12,071 | |||||
Payments on long-term debt | (44,388 | ) | (1,684 | ) | |||
Net additions to short-term borrowings | 52,711 | 65,029 | |||||
Net additions to collateralized short-term borrowings | 14,000 | 15,000 | |||||
Cash paid for financing costs | (182 | ) | (1,257 | ) | |||
Net cash provided by financing activities | 105,640 | 48,816 | |||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash | (2 | ) | (121 | ) | |||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 1,482 | 1,880 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period | 8,283 | 6,307 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period | $ | 9,765 | $ | 8,187 | |||
See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS, L.P. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise designated)
(unaudited)
A. Partnership organization and formation
Ferrellgas, L.P. is a limited partnership that owns and operates propane distribution and related assets as well as salt water disposal wells in south Texas. Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. (“Ferrellgas Partners”), a publicly traded limited partnership, holds an approximate 99% limited partner interest in, and consolidates, Ferrellgas, L.P. Ferrellgas, Inc. (the “general partner”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrell Companies, Inc. (“Ferrell Companies”), holds an approximate 1% general partner interest in Ferrellgas, L.P. and performs all management functions required by Ferrellgas, L.P.
Ferrellgas, L.P. owns a 100% equity interest in Ferrellgas Finance Corp., whose only business activity is to act as the co-issuer and co-obligor of debt issued by Ferrellgas, L.P.
Ferrellgas, L.P. is engaged in the following reportable business segment activities:
• | Propane and related equipment sales consists of the distribution of propane and related equipment and supplies. The propane distribution market is seasonal because propane is used primarily for heating in residential and commercial buildings. Ferrellgas serves residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange, agricultural, wholesale and other customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. |
• | Midstream operations consists of eight salt water disposal wells in the Eagle Ford shale region of south Texas. Salt water disposal wells are a critical component of the oil and natural gas well drilling industry. Oil and natural gas wells generate significant volumes of salt water that is transported by truck to our disposal wells. |
Due to seasonality, the results of operations for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for a full fiscal year.
The condensed consolidated financial statements of Ferrellgas, L.P. and subsidiaries reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods presented. All adjustments to the condensed consolidated financial statements were of a normal recurring nature. The information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with (i) the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and (ii) the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in Ferrellgas, L.P.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2014.
B. Summary of significant accounting policies
(1) Accounting estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Significant estimates impacting the condensed consolidated financial statements include accruals that have been established for contingent liabilities, pending claims and legal actions arising in the normal course of business, useful lives of property, plant and equipment, residual values of tanks, capitalization of customer tank installation costs, amortization methods of intangible assets, valuation methods used to value sales returns and allowances, valuation methods used to value intangibles and goodwill in business combinations, allowance for doubtful accounts, fair value of reporting units, fair value of derivative contracts, and stock based compensation calculations.
(2) Supplemental cash flow information: For purposes of the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows, Ferrellgas, L.P. considers cash equivalents to include all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. Certain cash flow and significant non-cash activities are presented below:
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
CASH PAID FOR: | |||||||
Interest | $ | 2,978 | $ | 15,842 | |||
Income taxes | $ | 260 | $ | — | |||
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES: | |||||||
Change in accruals for property, plant and equipment additions | $ | 1,857 | $ | 1,244 |
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C. Supplemental financial statement information
Inventories consist of the following:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | |||||||
Propane gas and related products | $ | 151,750 | $ | 121,111 | ||||
Appliances, parts and supplies | 25,808 | 24,858 | ||||||
Inventories | $ | 177,558 | $ | 145,969 |
In addition to inventories on hand, Ferrellgas, L.P. enters into contracts primarily to buy propane for supply procurement purposes with terms up to 36 months. Most of these contracts call for payment based on market prices at the date of delivery. As of October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. had committed, for supply procurement purposes, to take delivery of approximately 70.6 million gallons of propane at fixed prices.
Other current liabilities consist of the following:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | |||||||
Accrued interest | $ | 26,322 | $ | 10,176 | ||||
Accrued payroll | 16,747 | 37,120 | ||||||
Customer deposits and advances | 37,671 | 25,412 | ||||||
Other | 60,976 | 50,445 | ||||||
Other current liabilities | $ | 141,716 | $ | 123,153 |
Shipping and handling expenses are classified in the following condensed consolidated statements of earnings line items:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Operating expense | $ | 45,790 | $ | 45,978 | ||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 1,449 | 1,415 | ||||||
Equipment lease expense | 4,866 | 3,627 | ||||||
$ | 52,105 | $ | 51,020 |
D. Accounts and notes receivable, net and accounts receivable securitization
Accounts and notes receivable, net consist of the following:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | ||||||
Accounts receivable pledged as collateral | $ | 161,715 | $ | 159,003 | |||
Accounts receivable | 23,853 | 24,108 | |||||
Other | 254 | 247 | |||||
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts | (5,266 | ) | (4,756 | ) | |||
Accounts and notes receivable, net | $ | 180,556 | $ | 178,602 |
At October 31, 2014, $161.7 million of trade accounts receivable were pledged as collateral against $105.0 million of collateralized notes payable due to a commercial paper conduit. At July 31, 2014, $159.0 million of trade accounts receivable were pledged as collateral against $91.0 million of collateralized notes payable due to the commercial paper conduit. These accounts receivable pledged as collateral are bankruptcy remote from Ferrellgas, L.P. Ferrellgas, L.P. does not provide any guarantee or similar support to the collectability of these accounts receivable pledged as collateral.
As of October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. had received cash proceeds of $105.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. As of July 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. had received cash proceeds of $91.0 million from trade accounts receivables securitized, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. Borrowings under the accounts receivable securitization facility had a weighted average interest rate of 2.1% and 2.1% as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively.
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E. Debt
Short-term borrowings
Ferrellgas, L.P. classified a portion of its secured credit facility borrowings as short-term because it was used to fund working capital needs that management had intended to pay down within the 12 month period following each balance sheet date. As of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, $122.2 million and $69.5 million, respectively, were classified as short-term borrowings. For further discussion see the secured credit facility section below.
Secured credit facility
As of October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $286.4 million, of which $164.2 million was classified as long-term debt. As of July 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. had total borrowings outstanding under its secured credit facility of $193.3 million, of which $123.8 million was classified as long-term debt. Additionally, Ferrellgas had $252.8 million and $350.4 million of available borrowing capacity under our secured credit facility as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively.
Borrowings outstanding at October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014 under the secured credit facilities had weighted average interest rates of 3.0% and 3.4%, respectively.
The obligations under this credit facility are secured by substantially all assets of Ferrellgas, L.P., the general partner and certain subsidiaries of Ferrellgas, L.P. but specifically excluding (a) assets that are subject to Ferrellgas, L.P.’s accounts receivable securitization facility, (b) the general partner’s equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners and (c) equity interest in certain unrestricted subsidiaries. Such obligations are also guaranteed by the general partner and certain subsidiaries of Ferrellgas, L.P.
Letters of credit outstanding at October 31, 2014 totaled $60.8 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and to a lesser extent, product purchases. Letters of credit outstanding at July 31, 2014 totaled $56.3 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and to a lesser extent, commodity hedges and product purchases. At October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. had remaining letter of credit capacity of $139.2 million. At July 31, 2014 Ferrellgas, L.P. had remaining letter of credit capacity of $143.7 million.
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F. Partners’ capital
Partnership distributions paid
Ferrellgas, L.P. has paid the following distributions:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Ferrellgas Partners | $ | 41,774 | $ | 39,935 | ||||
General partner | 426 | 408 | ||||||
$ | 42,200 | $ | 40,343 |
On November 25, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. declared distributions for the three months ended October 31, 2014 to Ferrellgas Partners and the general partner of $49.6 million and $0.5 million, respectively, which are expected to be paid on December 15, 2014.
During three months ended October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. received cash contributions of $42.2 million from Ferrellgas Partners. The proceeds were used to reduce outstanding indebtedness under Ferrellgas, L.P.’s secured credit facility.
See additional discussions about transactions with related parties in Note I – Transactions with related parties.
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”)
See Note H – Derivative instruments and hedging activities – for details regarding changes in the fair value of risk management financial derivatives recorded within AOCI for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013.
General partner’s commitment to maintain its capital account
Ferrellgas, L.P.’s partnership agreement allows the general partner to have an option to maintain its 1.0101% general partner interest concurrent with the issuance of other additional equity.
During the three months ended October 31, 2014, the general partner made cash contributions of $0.4 million and non-cash contributions of $0.2 million to Ferrellgas, L.P. to maintain its 1.0101% general partner interest.
During the three months ended October 31, 2013, the general partner made non-cash contributions of $0.1 million to Ferrellgas, L.P. to maintain its 1.0101% general partner interest.
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G. Fair value measurements
Derivative financial instruments and contingent consideration
The following table presents Ferrellgas, L.P.’s financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, including both current and noncurrent portions, as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014:
Asset (Liability) | ||||||||||||||||
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets and Liabilities (Level 1) | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total | |||||||||||||
October 31, 2014: | ||||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | 2,138 | $ | — | $ | 2,138 | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | 1,278 | $ | — | $ | 1,278 | ||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | (4,847 | ) | $ | — | $ | (4,847 | ) | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | (8,241 | ) | $ | — | $ | (8,241 | ) | ||||||
Contingent consideration | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (4,600 | ) | $ | (4,600 | ) | ||||||
July 31, 2014: | ||||||||||||||||
Assets: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | 2,101 | $ | — | $ | 2,101 | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | 7,006 | $ | — | $ | 7,006 | ||||||||
Liabilities: | ||||||||||||||||
Derivative financial instruments: | ||||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | $ | — | $ | (5,075 | ) | $ | — | $ | (5,075 | ) | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | — | $ | (83 | ) | $ | — | $ | (83 | ) | ||||||
Contingent consideration | $ | — | $ | — | $ | (6,400 | ) | $ | (6,400 | ) |
The following is a reconciliation of the opening and closing balances for the liability measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the period ended October 31, 2014:
Contingent consideration liability | ||||
Balance at July 31, 2014 | $ | 6,400 | ||
Increase in fair value related to accretion | 200 | |||
Change in fair value included in earnings | (2,000 | ) | ||
Balance at October 31, 2014 | $ | 4,600 |
Quantitative information about Level 3 fair value measurements
Fair value at October 31, 2014 | Valuation technique | Unobservable input | Range | Weighted average | ||||||||
Contingent consideration liability | $ | 4,600 | Discounted cash flow | A. | Weighted average cost of capital (WACC) | N/A | 20 | % | ||||
B. | Probability of forecast | 10% - 75% | N/A |
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The valuation of the contingent consideration is based on unobservable inputs such as Ferrellgas' weighted average cost of capital and the likelihood of the acquired company meeting earnings thresholds. As of October 31, 2014, fluctuations in these inputs could have the following effect (in thousands):
Increase/(decrease) | ||||||||||||||||
5% increase in WACC | 5% decrease in WACC | 10% increase in best earnings forecast probability | 10% decrease in best earnings forecast probability | |||||||||||||
Change in the fair value of contingent consideration | $ | (350 | ) | $ | 360 | $ | 1,060 | $ | (1,090 | ) |
Methodology
The fair values of Ferrellgas, L.P.’s non-exchange traded commodity derivative contracts are based upon indicative price quotations available through brokers, industry price publications or recent market transactions and related market indicators. The fair values of interest rate swap contracts are based upon third-party quotes or indicative values based on recent market transactions.
The fair value of Ferrellgas L.P.'s contingent consideration for the acquisition of Sable Environmental, LLC and Sable SWD 2, LLC (collectively, "Sable") is based upon our estimate of the likelihood that the target EBITDA metric will be met and exceeded and the amount by which it could be exceeded then discounting that value at a risk- and inflation-adjusted rate. The inputs to this model are the likelihood of meeting and exceeding the target EBITDA metric and discount rate. Management and the sellers prepared an operating forecast based on Sable's operating capacities, historical performance, and projected oil and water volumes and set a target EBITDA metric. Management then assessed the likelihood of this target EBITDA metric being achieved and exceeded and assigned probabilities to various potential outcomes. To determine the appropriate discount rate, management used observable inputs such as inflation rates, short and long-term yields for U.S. government securities and our nonperformance risk. Due to the significant unobservable inputs required in this measurement, management determined that the fair value measurement of the contingent consideration liability is level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
Other financial instruments
The carrying amounts of other financial instruments included in current assets and current liabilities (except for current maturities of long-term debt) approximate their fair values because of their short-term nature. At October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, the estimated fair value of Ferrellgas L.P.’s long-term debt instruments was $1,272.7 million and $1,215.3 million, respectively. Ferrellgas estimates the fair value of long-term debt based on quoted market prices. The fair value of our consolidated debt obligations is a Level 2 valuation based on the observable inputs used for similar liabilities.
Ferrellgas L.P. has other financial instruments such as trade accounts receivable which could expose it to concentrations of credit risk. The credit risk from trade accounts receivable is limited because of a large customer base which extends across many different U.S. markets.
H. Derivative instruments and hedging activities
Ferrellgas, L.P. is exposed to certain market risks related to its ongoing business operations. These risks include exposure to changing commodity prices as well as fluctuations in interest rates. Ferrellgas, L.P. utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices. Ferrellgas, L.P. also periodically utilizes derivative instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.
Derivative instruments and hedging activities
During the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. did not recognize any gain or loss in earnings related to hedge ineffectiveness and did not exclude any component of financial derivative contract gains or losses from the assessment of hedge effectiveness related to commodity cash flow hedges.
The following tables provide a summary of the fair value derivatives that were designated as hedging instruments in Ferrellgas, L.P.’s condensed consolidated balance sheets as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014:
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October 31, 2014 | ||||||||||||
Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | |||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Location | Fair value | Location | Fair value | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 1,042 | Other current liabilities | $ | 6,229 | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Other assets, net | 236 | Other liabilities | 2,012 | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 2,138 | Other current liabilities | 407 | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Other assets, net | — | Other liabilities | 4,440 | ||||||||
Total | $ | 3,416 | Total | $ | 13,088 | |||||||
July 31, 2014 | ||||||||||||
Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | |||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Location | Fair value | Location | Fair value | ||||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 5,301 | Other current liabilities | $ | 83 | ||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | Other assets, net | 1,705 | Other liabilities | — | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 2,101 | Other current liabilities | — | ||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Other assets, net | — | Other liabilities | 5,075 | ||||||||
Total | $ | 9,107 | Total | $ | 5,158 |
Our exchange traded propane commodity derivative contracts require cash margin deposit as collateral for contracts that are in a negative mark-to-market position. These cash margin deposits will be returned to us if mark-to-market conditions improve or will be applied against our cash settlement when the contracts are settled. The following table provides a summary of cash margin deposit balances as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014:
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | |||||||||||
Description | Location | Amount | Location | Amount | ||||||||
Margin Deposits | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 7,831 | Prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 156 | ||||||
Other assets, net | 3,207 | Other assets, net | 189 | |||||||||
$ | 11,038 | $ | 345 |
The following table provides a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas, L.P.’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 due to derivatives designated as fair value hedging instruments:
Amount of Gain Recognized on Derivative | Amount of Interest Expense Recognized on Fixed-Rated Debt (Related Hedged Item) | |||||||||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Location of Gain Recognized on Derivative | For the three months ended October 31, | For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||||||||||
2014 | 2013 | 2014 | 2013 | |||||||||||||||
Interest rate swap agreements | Interest expense | $ | 457 | $ | 832 | $ | (2,275 | ) | $ | (5,365 | ) |
The following tables provide a summary of the effect on Ferrellgas, L.P.’s condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 due to the effective portion of derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments:
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For the three months ended October 31, 2014 | ||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI | Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | |||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | (12,758 | ) | Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales | $ | 1,128 | ||||
Interest rate swap agreements | (1,139 | ) | Interest expense | — | ||||||
$ | (13,897 | ) | $ | 1,128 | ||||||
For the three months ended October 31, 2013 | ||||||||||
Derivative Instrument | Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI | Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income | |||||||
Propane commodity derivatives | $ | 11,617 | Cost of product sold- propane and other gas liquids sales | $ | 929 | |||||
Interest rate swap agreements | (1,013 | ) | Interest expense | — | ||||||
$ | 10,604 | $ | 929 |
The changes in derivatives included in AOCI for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
Gains and losses on derivatives included in AOCI | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Beginning balance | $ | 6,483 | $ | 2,066 | ||||
Change in value of risk management commodity derivatives | (12,758 | ) | 11,617 | |||||
Reclassification of gains and losses on commodity hedges to cost of product sold - propane and other gas liquids sales, net | (1,128 | ) | (929 | ) | ||||
Change in value of risk management interest rate derivatives | (1,139 | ) | (1,013 | ) | ||||
Ending balance | $ | (8,542 | ) | $ | 11,741 |
Ferrellgas, L.P. expects to reclassify net losses of approximately $5.2 million to earnings during the next 12 months. These net losses are expected to be offset by increased margins on propane sales commitments Ferrellgas, L.P. has with its customers that qualify for the normal purchase normal sales exception.
During the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Ferrellgas, L.P. had no reclassifications to earnings resulting from the discontinuance of any cash flow hedges arising from the probability of the original forecasted transactions not occurring within the originally specified period of time defined within the hedging relationship.
As of October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas, L.P. had financial derivative contracts covering 2.5 million barrels of propane that were entered into as cash flow hedges of forward and forecasted purchases of propane.
Derivative financial instruments credit risk
Ferrellgas, L.P. is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivative financial and commodity instruments. Ferrellgas, L.P.’s counterparties principally consist of major energy companies and major U.S. financial institutions. Ferrellgas, L.P. maintains credit policies with regard to its counterparties that it believes reduces its overall credit risk. These policies include evaluating and monitoring its counterparties’ financial condition, including their credit ratings, and entering into agreements with counterparties that govern credit limits. Certain of these agreements call for the posting of collateral by the counterparty or by Ferrellgas, L.P. in the forms of letters of credit, parental guarantees or cash. Although Ferrellgas, L.P. has concentrations of credit risk associated with derivative financial instruments held by certain derivative financial instrument counterparties, the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk that, based upon the gross fair values of the derivative financial instruments, Ferrellgas, L.P. would incur if these counterparties that make up the concentration failed to perform according to the terms of their contracts was $0.8 million at October 31, 2014.
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Ferrellgas, L.P. holds certain derivative contracts that have credit-risk-related contingent features which dictate credit limits based upon the Ferrellgas, L.P.’s debt rating. At October 31, 2014, a downgrade in the Ferrellgas, L.P.’s debt rating would not trigger any further reduction in credit limit. There were no derivatives with credit-risk-related contingent features in a liability position on October 31, 2014 and Ferrellgas, L.P. had no posted collateral in the normal course of business related to such derivatives.
I. Transactions with related parties
Ferrellgas, L.P. has no employees and is managed and controlled by its general partner. Pursuant to Ferrellgas, L.P.’s partnership agreement, the general partner is entitled to reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses incurred or payments it makes on behalf of Ferrellgas, L.P. and all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to Ferrellgas, L.P. or otherwise reasonably incurred by its general partner in connection with operating Ferrellgas, L.P.’s business. These costs primarily include compensation and benefits paid to employees of the general partner who perform services on Ferrellgas, L.P.’s behalf and are reported in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings as follows:
For the three months ended October 31, | ||||||||
2014 | 2013 | |||||||
Operating expense | $ | 51,120 | $ | 48,158 | ||||
General and administrative expense | $ | 6,597 | $ | 5,901 |
See additional discussions about transactions with the general partner and related parties in Note F – Partners’ capital.
J. Contingencies and commitments
Litigation
Ferrellgas, L.P.’s operations are subject to all operating hazards and risks normally incidental to handling, storing, transporting and otherwise providing for use by consumers of combustible liquids such as propane. As a result, at any given time, Ferrellgas, L.P. can be threatened with or named as a defendant in various lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Other than as discussed below, Ferrellgas, L.P. is not a party to any legal proceedings other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate disposition of these matters; however, management is of the opinion that there are no known claims or contingent claims that are reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Ferrellgas, L.P.
The Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) initiated an investigation into certain practices related to the filling of portable propane cylinders. On March 27, 2014, the FTC filed an administrative complaint alleging that Ferrellgas, L.P. and one of its competitors colluded in 2008 to persuade a customer to accept the cylinder fill reduction from 17 pounds to 15 pounds. The complaint does not seek monetary remedies. Ferrellgas, L.P. reached a settlement with the FTC during the three months ended October 31, 2014 without any financial payment; the settlement has been approved by a vote of the Commission and is in a public comment period.
Ferrellgas L.P. has also been named as a defendant, along with a competitor, in putative class action lawsuits filed in multiple jurisdictions. The complaints, filed on behalf of direct and indirect customers of our tank exchange business, reference the FTC complaint mentioned above. The lawsuits allege that Ferrellgas L.P. and a competitor coordinated in 2008 to reduce the fill level in barbeque cylinders and combined to persuade a common customer to accept that fill reduction, resulting in increased cylinder costs to retailers and end-user customers in violation of federal and certain state antitrust laws. The lawsuits seek treble damages, attorneys’ fees, injunctive relief and costs on behalf of the putative class. The lawsuits have been consolidated by a multidistrict litigation panel. We believe we have strong defenses to the claims and intend to vigorously defend against the consolidated case. Ferrellgas L.P. does not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to the putative class action lawsuit.
Ferrellgas, L.P. has also been named as a defendant in a putative class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court in Kansas. The complaint was the subject of a motion to dismiss which was granted, in part, in August 2011. The surviving claims allege breach of contract and breach of the implied duty of good faith and fair dealing, both of which allegedly arise from the existence of an oral contract for continuous propane service. Ferrellgas, L.P. believes the claims are without merit and intends to defend them vigorously. The case has not been certified for class treatment. Ferrellgas, L.P. recently prevailed on an appeal
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before the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals and the appellate court ordered the trial court to determine whether the case must be arbitrated. Ferrellgas, L.P. does not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to this putative class action lawsuit.
K. Segment reporting
During May 2014, Ferrellgas L.P. entered into a membership interest purchase agreement to acquire all of the issued and outstanding membership interests of Sable, a fluid logistics provider in the Eagle Ford shale region of south Texas. With this acquisition Ferrellgas L.P. established a new operating and reportable segment referred to as “Midstream Operations” in addition to the existing reportable segment of propane and related equipment sales. The chief operating decision maker evaluates the operating segments using an Adjusted EBITDA performance measure which is based on net loss before income tax benefit, interest expense, depreciation and amortization expense, non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge, non-cash stock-based compensation charge, loss on disposal of assets, other income (expense), net, change in fair value of contingent consideration and litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit. This performance measure is not a GAAP measure, however, the components are computed using amounts that are determined in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of this performance measure to net loss, which is its nearest comparable GAAP measure, is included in the tables below. In management's evaluation of performance, certain costs, such as compensation for administrative staff and executive management, are not allocated by segment and, accordingly, the following reportable segment results do not include such unallocated costs. The accounting policies of the operating segments are otherwise the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note B.
Assets reported within a segment are those assets that can be identified to a segment and primarily consist of trade receivables, property, plant and equipment, inventories, identifiable intangible assets and goodwill. Cash, certain prepaid assets and other assets are not allocated to segments. Although Ferrellgas L.P. can and does identify long-lived assets such as property, plant and equipment and identifiable intangible assets to reportable segments, Ferrellgas L.P. does not allocate the related depreciation and amortization to the segment as management evaluates segment performance exclusive of these non-cash charges.
The propane and related equipment sales segment primarily includes the distribution and sale of propane and related equipment and supplies with concentrations in the Midwest, Southeast, Southwest and Northwest regions of the United States. Sales from propane distribution are generated principally from transporting propane purchased from third parties to propane distribution locations and then to tanks on customers’ premises or to portable propane tanks delivered to nationwide and local retailers. Sales from portable tank exchanges, nationally branded under the name Blue Rhino, are generated through a network of independent and partnership-owned distribution outlets.
Salt water disposal wells are a critical component of the oil and natural gas well drilling industry. Oil and gas wells generate significant volumes of salt water known as “flowback” and “production” water. Flowback is a water based solution that flows back to the surface during and after the completion of the hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) process whereby large volumes of water, sand and chemicals are injected under high pressures into rock formations to stimulate production. Flowback contains clays, chemicals, dissolved metal ions, total dissolved solids and oil/condensate. Production water is salt water from underground formations that are brought to the surface during the normal course of oil or gas production. Because this water has been in contact with hydrocarbon-bearing formations, it contains some of the chemical characteristics of the formations and the hydrocarbons. In the oil and gas fields we service, these volumes of water are transported by truck away from the fields to salt water disposal wells where it is injected into underground geologic formations using high-pressure pumps. Revenue is derived from fees charged to customers to dispose of salt water at the disposal facilities and crude oil sales from the skimming oil process.
Prior to the Sable acquisition in May 2014, Ferrellgas managed and evaluated its operations as a single reportable segment. As the current two reportable segment structure is the result of the Sable acquisition completed during May 2014, comparative historical segment information for fiscal 2013 are not provided.
Following is a summary of segment information for the three months ended October 31, 2014.
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Three months ended October 31, 2014 | |||||||||||||||||
Propane and related equipment sales | Midstream operations | Corporate and other | Total | ||||||||||||||
Segment revenues | $ | 435,439 | $ | 7,916 | $ | — | $ | 443,355 | |||||||||
Direct costs (1) | 393,808 | 4,733 | 10,456 | 408,997 | |||||||||||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 41,631 | $ | 3,183 | $ | (10,456 | ) | $ | 34,358 | ||||||||
(1) Direct costs are comprised of "cost of products sold-propane and other gas liquids sales", "cost of products sold-other", "operating expense", "general and administrative expense", and "equipment lease expense" less "non-cash stock-based compensation charge", "change in fair value of contingent consideration" and "litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit".
Following is a reconciliation of our total segment performance measure to consolidated net earnings:
Three months ended October 31, | ||||
2014 | ||||
Net loss | $ | (29,137 | ) | |
Income tax benefit | (511 | ) | ||
Interest expense | 19,878 | |||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 23,309 | |||
EBITDA | 13,539 | |||
Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge | 4,374 | |||
Non-cash stock-based compensation charge | 16,112 | |||
Loss on disposal of assets | 961 | |||
Other expense (income), net | 449 | |||
Change in fair value of contingent consideration | (1,800 | ) | ||
Litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit | 723 | |||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ | 34,358 |
Following are total assets by segment:
October 31, | July 31, | ||||||
2014 | 2014 | ||||||
Assets | |||||||
Propane and related equipment sales | $ | 1,442,779 | $ | 1,400,603 | |||
Midstream operations | 201,344 | 136,116 | |||||
Corporate and unallocated | 33,834 | 33,114 | |||||
Total consolidated assets | $ | 1,677,957 | $ | 1,569,833 |
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Following are capital expenditures by segment:
Three months ended October 31, | |||||||||||||||||
Propane and related equipment sales | Midstream operations | Corporate and other | Total | ||||||||||||||
Maintenance | $ | 4,576 | $ | 176 | $ | 304 | $ | 5,056 | |||||||||
Growth | 11,069 | 857 | — | 11,926 | |||||||||||||
Total | $ | 15,645 | $ | 1,033 | $ | 304 | $ | 16,982 | |||||||||
L. Subsequent events
Ferrellgas, L.P. evaluated events and transactions occurring after the balance sheet date through the date Ferrellgas, L.P.’s condensed consolidated financial statements were issued and concluded that there were no events or transactions occurring during this period that require recognition or disclosure in its condensed consolidated financial statements.
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP. | |||||||
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.) | |||||||
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
October 31, 2014 | July 31, 2014 | ||||||
ASSETS | |||||||
Cash | $ | 990 | $ | 1,100 | |||
Total assets | $ | 990 | $ | 1,100 | |||
Contingencies and commitments (Note B) | |||||||
STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY | |||||||
Common stock, $1.00 par value; 2,000 shares authorized; 1,000 shares issued and outstanding | $ | 1,000 | $ | 1,000 | |||
Additional paid in capital | 49,209 | 49,159 | |||||
Accumulated deficit | (49,219 | ) | (49,059 | ) | |||
Total stockholder's equity | $ | 990 | $ | 1,100 | |||
See notes to condensed financial statements. |
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP. | |||||||
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.) | |||||||
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
General and administrative expense | $ | 160 | $ | 50 | |||
Net loss | $ | (160 | ) | $ | (50 | ) | |
See notes to condensed financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP. | |||||||
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.) | |||||||
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS | |||||||
(unaudited) | |||||||
For the three months ended October 31, | |||||||
2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities: | |||||||
Net loss | $ | (160 | ) | $ | (50 | ) | |
Cash used in operating activities | (160 | ) | (50 | ) | |||
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: | |||||||
Capital contribution | 50 | 50 | |||||
Cash provided by financing activities | 50 | 50 | |||||
Net change in cash | (110 | ) | — | ||||
Cash - beginning of period | 1,100 | 1,100 | |||||
Cash - end of period | $ | 990 | $ | 1,100 | |||
See notes to condensed financial statements. |
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FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP.
(a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P.)
(unaudited)
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
A. Formation
Ferrellgas Finance Corp. (the “Finance Corp.”), a Delaware corporation, was formed on January 16, 2003 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferrellgas, L.P. (the “Partnership”).
The condensed financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the interim periods presented. All adjustments to the condensed financial statements were of a normal recurring nature.
The Finance Corp. has nominal assets, does not conduct any operations and has no employees.
B. Contingencies and commitments
The Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for the following debt securities of the Partnership:
• | $500.0 million, 6.50% senior notes due 2021; and |
• | $475.0 million, 6.75% senior notes due 2022. |
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ITEM 2. | MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
Our management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations relates to Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership.
Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. have nominal assets, do not conduct any operations and have no employees other than officers. Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for debt securities of Ferrellgas Partners while Ferrellgas Finance Corp. serves as co-issuer and co-obligor for debt securities of the operating partnership. Accordingly, and due to the reduced disclosure format, a discussion of the results of operations, liquidity and capital resources of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. is not presented.
In this Item 2 of the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, unless the context indicates otherwise:
• | “us,” “we,” “our,” “ours,” “consolidated,” or "Ferrellgas" are references exclusively to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P. and Ferrellgas Finance Corp., except when used in connection with “common units,” in which case these terms refer to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. without its consolidated subsidiaries; |
• | “Ferrellgas Partners” refers to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. itself, without its consolidated subsidiaries; |
• | the “operating partnership” refers to Ferrellgas, L.P., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including Ferrellgas Finance Corp.; |
• | our “general partner” refers to Ferrellgas, Inc.; |
• | “Ferrell Companies” refers to Ferrell Companies, Inc., the sole shareholder of our general partner; |
• | “unitholders” refers to holders of common units of Ferrellgas Partners; |
• | “retail sales” refers to Propane and other gas liquid sales: Retail — Sales to End Users or the volume of propane sold primarily to our residential, industrial/commercial and agricultural customers; |
• | “wholesale sales” refers to Propane and other gas liquid sales: Wholesale — Sales to Resellers or the volume of propane sold primarily to our portable tank exchange customers and bulk propane sold to wholesale customers; |
• | “other gas sales” refers to Propane and other gas liquid sales: Other Gas Sales or the volume of bulk propane sold to other third party propane distributors or marketers and the volume of refined fuel sold; |
• | “midstream sales” refers to fees charged for the processing and disposal of salt water as well as the sale of crude oil recovered from our skimming oil process; |
• | “propane sales volume” refers to the volume of propane sold to our retail sales and wholesale sales customers; |
• | “salt water volume” refers to the number of barrels of salt water processed at our disposal sites; |
• | “skimming oil” refers to a process our salt water disposal wells use to separate crude oil from salt water; and |
• | “Notes” refers to the notes of the consolidated financial statements of Ferrellgas Partners or the operating partnership, as applicable. |
Ferrellgas Partners is a holding entity that conducts no operations and has two direct subsidiaries, Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and the operating partnership. Ferrellgas Partners’ only significant assets are its approximate 99% limited partnership interest in the operating partnership and its 100% equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. The common units of Ferrellgas Partners are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and our activities are primarily conducted through the operating partnership.
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The operating partnership was formed on April 22, 1994, and accounts for substantially all of our consolidated assets, sales and operating earnings, except for interest expense related to the senior notes co-issued by Ferrellgas Partners and Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp.
Our general partner performs all management functions for us and our subsidiaries and holds a 1% general partner interest in Ferrellgas Partners and an approximate 1% general partner interest in the operating partnership. The parent company of our general partner, Ferrell Companies, beneficially owns approximately 27.5% of our outstanding common units. Ferrell Companies is owned 100% by an employee stock ownership trust.
We file annual, quarterly, and other reports and information with the SEC. You may read and download our SEC filings over the Internet from several commercial document retrieval services as well as at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy our SEC filings at the SEC’s Public Reference Room located at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information concerning the Public Reference Room and any applicable copy charges. Because our common units are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “FGP,” we also provide our SEC filings and particular other information to the New York Stock Exchange. You may obtain copies of these filings and such other information at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange located at 11 Wall Street, New York, New York 10005. In addition, our SEC filings are available on our website at www.ferrellgas.com at no cost as soon as reasonably practicable after our electronic filing or furnishing thereof with the SEC. Please note that any Internet addresses provided in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be hyperlinks. Accordingly, no information found and/or provided at such Internet addresses is intended or deemed to be incorporated by reference herein.
The following is a discussion of our historical financial condition and results of operations and should be read in conjunction with our historical condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying Notes thereto included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
The discussions set forth in the “Results of Operations” and “Liquidity and Capital Resources” sections generally refer to Ferrellgas Partners and its consolidated subsidiaries. However, in these discussions there exist two material differences between Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership. Those material differences are:
• | because Ferrellgas Partners has outstanding $182.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.625% senior notes due fiscal 2020, the two partnerships incur different amounts of interest expense on their outstanding indebtedness; see the statements of earnings in their respective condensed consolidated financial statements; and |
• | Ferrellgas Partners issued common units during fiscal 2015. |
Overview
Strategic Diversification Acquisition
During May 2014, we entered into a membership interest purchase agreement to acquire all of the issued and outstanding membership interests in each of Sable Environmental, LLC and Sable SWD 2, LLC (collectively, "Sable"), a fluid logistics provider that operates salt water disposal wells. Also during May 2014, we purchased the assets of a salt water disposal well in Dietert, Texas. During September 2014, we entered into an asset purchase agreement to acquire two salt water disposal wells from C&E Production, LLC and its affiliates ("C&E sellers") based in Bryan, Texas. All of these acquired salt water disposal wells operate in the Eagle Ford shale region of South Texas. With these acquisitions we have added a new operating and reportable segment referred to as our “Midstream Operations” and now have two reportable operating segments: propane and related equipment sales and midstream operations.
Propane and related equipment sales
We believe we are a leading distributor of propane and related equipment and supplies to customers in the United States as measured by the volume of our retail sales in fiscal 2014 and a leading national provider of propane by portable tank exchange. We serve residential, industrial/commercial, portable tank exchange, agricultural, wholesale and other customers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Our operations primarily include the distribution and sale of propane and related equipment and supplies with concentrations in the Midwest, Southeast, Southwest and Northwest regions of the United States.
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We use information on temperatures to understand how our results of operations are affected by temperatures that are warmer or colder than normal. We use the definition of “normal” temperatures based on information published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (“NOAA”). Based on this information we calculate a ratio of actual heating degree days to normal heating degree days. Heating degree days are a general indicator of weather impacting propane usage.
Weather conditions have a significant impact on demand for propane for heating purposes during the months of November through March (the “winter heating season”). Accordingly, the volume of propane used by our customers for this purpose is directly affected by the severity of the winter weather in the regions we serve and can vary substantially from year to year. In any given region, sustained warmer-than-normal temperatures will tend to result in reduced propane usage, while sustained colder-than-normal temperatures will tend to result in greater usage. Although there is a strong correlation between weather and customer usage, general economic conditions in the United States and the wholesale price of propane can have a significant impact on this correlation. Additionally, there is a natural time lag between the onset of cold weather and increased sales to customers. If the United States were to experience a cooling trend we could expect nationwide demand for propane to increase which could lead to greater sales, income and liquidity availability. Conversely, if the United States were to experience a warming trend, we could expect nationwide demand for propane to decrease which could lead to a reduction in our sales, income and liquidity availability.
We employ risk management activities that attempt to mitigate price risks related to the purchase, storage, transport and sale of propane generally in the contract and spot markets from major domestic energy companies on a short-term basis. We attempt to mitigate these price risks through the use of financial derivative instruments and forward propane purchase and sales contracts. We enter into propane sales commitments with a portion of our customers that provide for a contracted price agreement for a specified period of time. These commitments can expose us to product price risk if not immediately hedged with an offsetting propane purchase commitment.
Our open financial derivative purchase commitments are designated as hedges primarily for fiscal 2015 and 2016 sales commitments and, as of October 31, 2014, have experienced net mark to market losses of approximately $7.0 million. Because these financial derivative purchase commitments qualify for hedge accounting treatment, the resulting asset, liability and related mark to market gains or losses are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” "Other assets, net," “Other current liabilities,” "Other liabilities" and “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss),” respectively, until settled. Upon settlement, realized gains or losses on these contracts will be reclassified to “Cost of product sold-propane and other gas liquid sales” in the consolidated statements of earnings as the underlying inventory is sold. These financial derivative purchase commitment net losses are expected to be offset by increased margins on propane sales commitments that qualify for the normal purchase normal sale exception. At October 31, 2014, we estimate 63% of currently open financial derivative purchase commitments, the related propane sales commitments and the resulting gross margin will be realized into earnings during the next twelve months.
We also enter into interest rate derivative contracts, including swaps, to manage our exposure to interest rate risk associated with our fixed rate senior notes and our floating rate borrowings from both the secured credit facility and the accounts receivable securitization facility. Fluctuations in interest rates subject us to interest rate risk. Decreases in interest rates increase the fair value of our fixed rate debt, while increases in interest rates subject us to the risk of increased interest expense related to our variable rate borrowings.
Business Strategy
Our business strategy is to:
• | expand our operations through disciplined acquisitions and internal growth, as accretive opportunities become available; |
• | capitalize on our national presence and economies of scale; and |
• | maximize operating efficiencies through utilization of our technology platform. |
Midstream Operations - Disposal Wells
We currently own and operate eight salt water disposal wells in and around the Eagle Ford shale in south Texas. Salt water disposal wells are a critical component of the oil and natural gas well drilling industry. Oil and gas wells generate significant volumes of salt water known as “flowback” and “production” water. Flowback is a water based solution that flows back to the surface during and after the completion of the hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) process whereby large volumes of water, sand and chemicals are injected under high pressures into rock formations to stimulate production. Flowback contains clays, chemicals, dissolved metal ions, total dissolved solids and oil/condensate. Production water is salt water from underground formations that are brought to the surface during the normal course of oil or gas production. Because this water has been in contact with hydrocarbon-bearing formations, it contains some of the chemical characteristics of the formations and
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the hydrocarbons. In the oil and gas fields we service, these volumes of water are transported by truck away from the fields to salt water disposal wells where it is injected into underground geologic formations using high-pressure pumps. Our revenue is derived from fees we charge our customers to dispose of salt water at our facilities and crude oil sales from our skimming oil process.
Our gross margin is highly dependent on production activity in the Eagle Ford shale and thus from the volume of salt water delivered to our wells for disposal. We do not attempt to hedge the price of crude oil sales from our skimming activities.
Business Strategy
Our business strategy is to expand our operations and diversify our business through disciplined acquisitions and internal growth as accretive opportunities become available. We anticipate these growth opportunities will leverage our expertise in transportation, storage and terminaling of energy related products.
Financial Summary
“Net loss attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P.” in the three months ended October 31, 2014 was $32.9 million compared to $24.8 million in the prior year period. This increase was primarily due to:
• | a $11.7 million increase in "Non-cash stock-based compensation" due to an increase in the fair value of the shares of Ferrell Companies and an increase in the number of share based awards outstanding to employees; and |
• | a $3.1 million increase in “Depreciation and amortization expense” due primarily to the addition of the assets associated with the Midstream operations segment; and |
partially offset by the following:
• | a $5.9 million increase in “Gross margin – Midstream operations” and |
• | a $5.8 million increase in “Gross margin – Propane and related equipment sales”. |
We completed our last annual goodwill impairment test on January 31, 2014. We are not aware of any indicators of impairment.
Forward-looking Statements
Statements included in this report include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are identified as any statement that does not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements often use words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “projection,” “forecast,” “strategy,” “position,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “may,” “will,” or the negative of those terms or other variations of them or comparable terminology. These statements often discuss plans, strategies, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future and are based upon the beliefs and assumptions of our management and on the information currently available to them. In particular, statements, express or implied, concerning our future operating results or our ability to generate sales, income or cash flow are forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by these forward-looking statements. Many of the factors that will affect our future results are beyond our ability to control or predict.
Some of our forward-looking statements include the following:
• | that we will continue to have sufficient access to capital markets at yields acceptable to us to support our expected growth expenditures and refinancing of debt maturities; |
• | that Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership will continue to meet all of the quarterly financial tests required by the agreements governing their indebtedness; and |
• | that our future capital expenditures and working capital needs will be provided by a combination of cash generated from future operations, existing cash balances, the secured credit facility or the accounts receivable securitization facility. |
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When considering any forward-looking statement, keep in mind the risk factors set forth in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2014 as well as any changes to these risk factors set forth in "Part II, Item 1A" of this Quarterly Report on From 10-Q. Any of these risks could impair our business, financial condition or results of operations. Any such impairment may affect our ability to make distributions to our unitholders or to pay interest on the principal of our debt securities. In addition, the trading price, if any, of our securities could decline as a result of any such impairment.
Except for our ongoing obligations to disclose material information as required by federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or risk factors after the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
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Results of Operations
Three months ended October 31, 2014 compared to October 31, 2013
Favorable | |||||||||||||||
(amounts in thousands) | (Unfavorable) | ||||||||||||||
Three months ended October 31, | 2014 | 2013 | Variance | ||||||||||||
Propane sales volumes (gallons): | |||||||||||||||
Retail – Sales to End Users | 124,147 | 125,252 | (1,105 | ) | (1 | )% | |||||||||
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers | 61,935 | 65,779 | (3,844 | ) | (6 | )% | |||||||||
186,082 | 191,031 | (4,949 | ) | (3 | )% | ||||||||||
Midstream operations (barrels processed) | 3,997 | — | 3,997 | NM | |||||||||||
Revenues - | |||||||||||||||
Propane and other gas liquids sales: | |||||||||||||||
Retail – Sales to End Users | $ | 232,753 | $ | 224,254 | $ | 8,499 | 4 | % | |||||||
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers | 118,574 | 125,147 | (6,573 | ) | (5 | )% | |||||||||
Other Gas Sales (a) | 43,034 | 32,822 | 10,212 | 31 | % | ||||||||||
Other | 41,078 | 32,807 | 8,271 | 20 | % | ||||||||||
Propane and related equipment revenues | 435,439 | 415,030 | 20,409 | 5 | % | ||||||||||
Midstream operations | 7,916 | — | 7,916 | NM | |||||||||||
$ | 443,355 | $ | 415,030 | $ | 28,325 | 7 | % | ||||||||
Gross margin - | |||||||||||||||
Propane and other gas liquids sales: (b) | |||||||||||||||
Retail – Sales to End Users (a) | $ | 88,668 | $ | 81,400 | $ | 7,268 | 9 | % | |||||||
Wholesale – Sales to Resellers (a) | 40,879 | 42,069 | (1,190 | ) | (3 | )% | |||||||||
Other | 19,186 | 19,461 | (275 | ) | (1 | )% | |||||||||
Propane and related equipment gross margin | 148,733 | 142,930 | 5,803 | 4 | % | ||||||||||
Midstream operations (d) | 5,948 | — | 5,948 | NM | |||||||||||
$ | 154,681 | $ | 142,930 | $ | 11,751 | 8 | % | ||||||||
Operating loss | $ | (9,318 | ) | $ | (2,929 | ) | $ | (6,389 | ) | (218 | )% | ||||
Adjusted EBITDA | |||||||||||||||
Propane and related equipment | $ | 41,634 | $ | 36,372 | $ | 5,262 | 14 | % | |||||||
Midstream operations | 3,183 | — | 3,183 | NM | |||||||||||
Corporate and other | (10,456 | ) | (9,930 | ) | (526 | ) | 5 | % | |||||||
Adjusted EBITDA (c) | $ | 34,361 | $ | 26,442 | $ | 7,919 | 30 | % | |||||||
Interest expense | $ | (23,912 | ) | $ | (22,093 | ) | $ | (1,819 | ) | (8 | )% | ||||
Interest expense - operating partnership | (19,878 | ) | (18,049 | ) | (1,829 | ) | (10 | )% | |||||||
NM - Not Meaningful
a) | Gross margin from Other Gas Sales is allocated to Gross margin Retail - Sales to End Users and Wholesale - Sales to Resellers based on the volumes of fixed-price sales commitments in each respective category. |
b) | Gross margin from propane and other gas liquids sales represents “Revenues - propane and other gas liquids sales” less “Cost of product sold – propane and other gas liquids sales” and does not include depreciation and amortization. |
c) | Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as net loss attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., income tax benefit, interest expense, depreciation and amortization expense, loss on extinguishment of debt, non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge, non-cash stock-based compensation charge, loss on disposal of assets, other expense (income), net, |
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change in fair value of contingent consideration, litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit, and net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest. Management believes the presentation of this measure is relevant and useful because it allows investors to view the partnership's performance in a manner similar to the method management uses, adjusted for items management believes makes it easier to compare its results with other companies that have different financing and capital structures. This method of calculating Adjusted EBITDA may not be consistent with that of other companies and should be viewed in conjunction with measurements that are computed in accordance with GAAP.
d) | Gross margin from Midstream operations represents “Revenues - Midstream operations” less “Cost of product sold – Midstream operations” and does not include depreciation and amortization. |
The following table summarizes EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Distributable cash flow attributable to common unitholders for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively:
(amounts in thousands) | ||||||||
Three months ended October 31, | 2014 | 2013 | ||||||
Net loss attributable to Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. | $ | (32,875 | ) | $ | (24,843 | ) | ||
Income tax benefit | (510 | ) | (50 | ) | ||||
Interest expense | 23,912 | 22,093 | ||||||
Depreciation and amortization expense | 23,309 | 20,215 | ||||||
EBITDA | 13,836 | 17,415 | ||||||
Loss on extinguishment of debt | — | 301 | ||||||
Non-cash employee stock ownership plan compensation charge | 4,374 | 3,043 | ||||||
Non-cash stock-based compensation charge | 16,112 | 4,431 | ||||||
Loss on disposal of assets | 961 | 357 | ||||||
Other expense (income), net | 449 | (216 | ) | |||||
Change in fair value of contingent consideration | (1,800 | ) | — | |||||
Litigation accrual and related legal fees associated with a class action lawsuit | 723 | 1,325 | ||||||
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest | (294 | ) | (214 | ) | ||||
Adjusted EBITDA | 34,361 | 26,442 | ||||||
Net cash interest expense (a) | (22,890 | ) | (20,586 | ) | ||||
Maintenance capital expenditures (b) | (5,088 | ) | (4,137 | ) | ||||
Cash paid for taxes | (260 | ) | — | |||||
Proceeds from asset sales | 1,417 | 1,317 | ||||||
Distributable cash flow to equity investors (c) | 7,540 | 3,036 | ||||||
Distributable cash flow attributable to general partner and non-controlling interest | 151 | 61 | ||||||
Distributable cash flow attributable to common unitholders (d) | 7,389 | 2,975 | ||||||
Less: Distributions paid to common unitholders | 41,356 | 39,536 | ||||||
Distributable cash flow shortage | $ | (33,967 | ) | $ | (36,561 | ) |
(a) | Net cash interest expense is the sum of interest expense less non-cash interest expense and other income (expense), net. This amount includes interest expense related to the accounts receivable securitization facility. |
(b) | Maintenance capital expenditures include capitalized expenditures for betterment and replacement of property, plant and equipment. |
(c) | Management considers distributable cash flow attributable to equity investors a meaningful non-GAAP measure of the partnership’s ability to declare and pay quarterly distributions to equity investors. Distributable cash flow attributable to equity investors, as management defines it, may not be comparable to distributable cash flow attributable to equity investors or similarly titled measurements used by other corporations and partnerships. Items added into our calculation of distributable cash flow attributable to equity investors that will not occur on a continuing basis may have associated cash payments. Distributable cash flow attributable to equity investors may not be consistent with that of other companies and should be viewed in conjunction with measurements that are computed in accordance with GAAP. |
(d) Management considers distributable cash flow attributable to common unitholders a meaningful non-GAAP measure of the partnership’s ability to declare and pay quarterly distributions to common unitholders. Distributable cash flow attributable to common unitholders, as management defines it, may not be comparable to distributable cash flow attributable to
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common unitholders or similarly titled measurements used by other corporations and partnerships. Items added into our calculation of distributable cash flow attributable to common unitholders that will not occur on a continuing basis may have associated cash payments. Distributable cash flow attributable to common unitholders may not be consistent with that of other companies and should be viewed in conjunction with measurements that are computed in accordance with GAAP.
Propane and related equipment sales
Propane sales volumes during the three months ended October 31, 2014 decreased 3% or 4.9 million gallons, from that of the prior year period primarily due to 3.8 million of decreased gallon sales to wholesale customers.
Our wholesale sales price per gallon correlates to the wholesale market price of propane. The wholesale market price at major supply points in Mt. Belvieu, Texas and Conway, Kansas during the three months ended October 31, 2014 averaged 9% and 5% less than the prior year period, respectively. The wholesale market price at Mt. Belvieu, Texas averaged $1.00 and $1.10 per gallon during the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, while the wholesale market price at Conway, Kansas averaged $1.02 and $1.07 per gallon during the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Revenues
Retail sales increased $8.5 million compared to the prior year period. This increase resulted primarily from a $10.5 million increase in sales price per gallon, due to our ability to moderate our decline in sales price per gallon during the corresponding decrease in the wholesale cost of propane as discussed above.
Wholesale sales decreased $6.6 million compared to the prior year period. This decrease resulted primarily from $4.1 million of decreased sales price per gallon and $2.5 million of decreased sales volumes.
Other gas sales increased $10.2 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to $13.8 million of increased sales volumes, partially offset by $3.6 million of decreased sales price per gallon.
Gross margin - Propane and other gas liquids sales
Gross margin increased $6.1 million compared to the prior year period. This increase resulted primarily from a $4.5 million increase in gross margin per gallon nationally, due to our ability to moderate our decline in sales price per gallon during the corresponding decrease in the wholesale cost of propane as discussed above.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA increased $5.3 million primarily due to the $6.1 million of increased “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquid sales” as discussed above.
Midstream operations - Disposal wells
Our midstream operations began with our May 2014 acquisition of Sable, thus there are no comparable results for the three months ended October 31, 2013.
Revenues
Our midstream operations segment generated $7.9 million of skimming oil and salt water disposal revenues.
Gross margin
Our midstream operations segment generated $5.9 million of skimming oil and salt water gross margin.
Adjusted EBITDA
Our midstream operations segment Adjusted EBITDA of $3.2 million during fiscal 2015 was due to the $5.9 million of gross margin discussed above, partially offset by $2.8 million of operating expenses.
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Corporate & other
The Adjusted EBITDA within "corporate and other" decreased by $0.5 million primarily due to an increase in "General and administrative expense" performance-based incentives.
Consolidated
Operating loss
"Operating loss" increased $6.4 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to a $9.0 million increase in "General and administrative expense", a $3.1 million increase in "Depreciation and amortization expense" and a $2.7 million increase in "Operating expense", partially offset by a $6.1 million increase in “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquid sales” and a $5.9 million increase in “Gross margin – Midstream", both as discussed above.
“General and administrative expense” increased primarily due to $8.9 million of increased non-cash stock based compensation charges. Depreciation and amortization expense increased primarily due to the addition of the assets associated with our Midstream operations. "Operating expense" increased primarily due to $2.7 million of increased non-cash stock based compensation charges.
Distributable cash flow attributable to equity investors
Distributable cash flow attributable to equity investors increased from $3.0 million in the prior period to $7.5 million in the current period primarily due to the $5.3 million and $3.2 million increase in Adjusted EBITDA in propane and related equipment sales and midstream operations, respectively, both as discussed above. This increase was partially offset by a $2.3 million increase in net cash interest expense paid.
Interest expense - consolidated
“Interest expense” increased $1.8 million primarily due to the effect of refinancings completed in fiscal 2014 that resulted in a $3.1 million increase due to the issuance of new debt incurred to fund acquisitions, partially offset by a $1.3 million decrease due to lower rates on the new senior debt than the related redeemed senior debt.
Interest expense - operating partnership
“Interest expense” increased $1.8 million primarily due to the effect of refinancings completed in fiscal 2014 that resulted in a $3.1 million increase due to the issuance of new debt incurred to fund acquisitions, partially offset by a $1.3 million decrease due to lower rates on the new senior debt than the related redeemed senior debt.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
General
Our liquidity and capital resources enable us to fund our working capital requirements, letter of credit requirements, debt service payments, acquisition and capital expenditures and distributions to our unitholders. Our liquidity and capital resources may be affected by our ability to access the capital markets or by unforeseen demands on cash, or other events beyond our control.
Distributable Cash Flow
A reconciliation of distributable cash flow to distributions paid for the twelve months ended October 31, 2014 to the twelve months ended July 31, 2014 is as follows (in thousands):
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Distributable Cash Flow | Changes in cash reserves approved by our General Partner | Cash distributions paid | DCF ratio | ||||||||
Three months ended October 31, 2014 | $ | 7,540 | $ | 34,660 | $ | 42,200 | |||||
Year ended July 31, 2014 | 190,497 | (27,769 | ) | 162,728 | |||||||
Less: Three months ended October 31, 2013 | 3,036 | 37,307 | 40,343 | ||||||||
Twelve months ended October 31, 2014 | $ | 195,001 | $ | (30,416 | ) | $ | 164,585 | 1.18 | |||
Twelve months ended July 31, 2014 | 190,497 | (27,769 | ) | 162,728 | 1.17 | ||||||
Increase (decrease) | $ | 4,504 | $ | (2,647 | ) | $ | 1,857 | 0.01 |
For the twelve months ended October 31, 2014 distributable cash flow increased $4.5 million as discussed in the "distributable cash flow" section of results of operations above, cash distributions paid increased $1.9 million primarily due to the issuance of 3.6 million common units during the twelve months ended October 31, 2014. These changes resulted in an increase in our distribution coverage ratio to 118% for the twelve months ended October 31, 2014 as compared to 117% for the twelve months ended July 31, 2014. The changes in cash reserves of $30.4 million and $27.8 million in the twelve months ended October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively, were established to meet future anticipated expenditures.
Subject to meeting the financial tests discussed below and also subject to the risk factors identified in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2014 entitled, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” as well as any changes to these risk factors set forth in "Part II, Item 1A" of this Quarterly Report on From 10-Q, we believe we will continue to have sufficient access to capital markets at yields acceptable to us to support our expected growth expenditures and refinancing of debt maturities. Our disciplined approach to fund necessary capital spending and other partnership needs, combined with sufficient trade credit to operate our business efficiently and available credit under our secured credit facility and our accounts receivable securitization facility should provide us the means to meet our anticipated liquidity and capital resource requirements.
During periods of high volatility, our risk management activities may expose us to the risk of counterparty margin calls in amounts greater than we have the capacity to fund. Likewise our counterparties may not be able to fulfill their margin calls from us or may default on the settlement of positions with us.
Our working capital requirements are subject to, among other things, the price of propane, delays in the collection of receivables, volatility in energy commodity prices, liquidity imposed by insurance providers, downgrades in our credit ratings, decreased trade credit, significant acquisitions, the weather, customer retention and purchasing patterns and other changes in the demand for propane. Relatively colder weather or higher propane prices during the winter heating season are factors that could significantly increase our working capital requirements.
Our ability to satisfy our obligations is dependent upon our future performance, which will be subject to prevailing economic, financial, business and weather conditions and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Due to the seasonality of the retail propane distribution business, a significant portion of our cash flow from operations is generated during the winter heating season. Our net cash provided by operating activities primarily reflects earnings from our business activities adjusted for depreciation and amortization and changes in our working capital accounts. Historically, we generate significantly lower net cash from operating activities in our first and fourth fiscal quarters as compared to the second and third fiscal quarters due to the seasonality of our propane and related equipment sales segment.
A quarterly distribution of $0.50 will be paid on December 15, 2014 to all common units that were outstanding on December 8, 2014. This represents the eighty-first consecutive minimum quarterly distribution paid to our common unitholders dating back to October 1994.
Our secured credit facility, publicly-held debt and accounts receivable securitization facility contain several financial tests and covenants restricting our ability to pay distributions, incur debt and engage in certain other business transactions. In general, these tests are based on our debt-to-cash flow ratio and cash flow-to-interest expense ratio. Our general partner currently believes that the most restrictive of these tests are debt incurrence limitations under the terms of our secured credit and accounts receivable securitization facilities and limitations on the payment of distributions within our 8.625% senior notes due 2020.
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As of October 31, 2014, we met all of our required quarterly financial tests and covenants. Based upon current estimates of our cash flow, our general partner believes that we will be able to continue to meet all of our required quarterly financial tests and covenants in fiscal 2015. However, we may not meet the applicable financial tests in future quarters if we were to experience:
• | significantly warmer than normal temperatures during the winter heating season; |
• | a more volatile energy commodity cost environment; |
• | an unexpected downturn in business operations; |
• | a change in customer retention or purchasing patterns due to economic or other factors in the United States; or |
• | a material downturn in the credit and/or equity markets. |
Failure to meet applicable financial tests could have a material effect on our operating capacity and cash flows and could restrict our ability to incur debt or to make cash distributions to our unitholders, even if sufficient funds were available. Depending on the circumstances, we may consider alternatives to permit the incurrence of debt or the continued payment of the quarterly cash distribution to our unitholders. No assurances can be given, however, that such alternatives can or will be implemented with respect to any given quarter.
We expect our future capital expenditures and working capital needs to be provided by a combination of cash generated from future operations, existing cash balances, the secured credit facility or the accounts receivable securitization facility. See additional information about the accounts receivable securitization facility in “Financing Activities – Accounts receivable securitization.” In order to reduce existing indebtedness, fund future acquisitions and expansive capital projects, we may obtain funds from our facilities, we may issue additional debt to the extent permitted under existing financing arrangements or we may issue additional equity securities, including, among others, common units.
Toward this purpose, the following registration statements were effective upon filing or declared effective by the SEC:
• | a shelf registration statement for the periodic sale of up to $750.0 million in common units, debt securities and/or other securities; Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. may, at our election, be the co-issuer and co-obligor on any debt securities issued by Ferrellgas Partners under this shelf registration statement; as of December 1, 2014, these two registrants collectively had $658.0 million available under this shelf registration statement; and |
• | an “acquisition” shelf registration statement for the periodic sale of up to $500.0 million in common units to fund acquisitions; as of December 1, 2014, Ferrellgas Partners had $500.0 million available under this shelf registration statement. |
Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities was $19.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $34.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2013. This decrease in cash used in operating activities was primarily due to a $11.4 million decrease in working capital requirements and a $6.3 million increase in cash flow from operations.
The decrease in working capital requirements was primarily due to a $44.5 million decrease in accounts receivable resulting primarily from the timing of billing and collections on accounts receivable and a $15.1 million increase in accrued interest expense due to the timing of interest payments due. These decreases in working capital requirements were partially offset by a $32.0 million decrease in accounts payable from the timing of purchases and disbursements, a $7.9 million increase in inventory from the timing of inventory purchases and a $5.2 million increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets, primarily due to margin deposits made toward price risk management activities and a $3.1 million decrease in other current liabilities, primarily due to the timing of payments and collections of customer deposits.
The increase in cash flow from operations is primarily due to $6.1 million of increased “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquid sales” and a $5.7 million increase in “Gross margin – Other,” each as discussed above, partially offset by a $1.8 million increase in interest expense.
The operating partnership
Net cash provided by operating activities was $19.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $34.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2013. This decrease in cash used in operating activities was primarily due to a $11.3 million decrease in working capital requirements and a $6.4 million increase in cash flow from operations.
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The decrease in working capital requirements was primarily due to a $44.5 million decrease in accounts receivable resulting primarily from the timing of billing and collections on accounts receivable and a $15.1 million increase in accrued interest expense due to the timing of interest payments due. These decreases in working capital requirements were partially offset by a $32.0 million decrease in accounts payable from the timing of purchases and disbursements, a $7.9 million increase in inventory from the timing of inventory purchases, and a $5.2 million increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets, primarily due to margin deposits made toward price risk management activities and a $3.1 million decrease in other current liabilities, primarily due to the timing of payments and collections of customer deposits.
The increase in cash flow from operations is primarily due to $6.1 million of increased “Gross margin – Propane and other gas liquid sales” and a $5.7 million increase in “Gross margin – Other,” each as discussed above, partially offset by a $1.8 million increase in interest expense.
Investing Activities
Capital Requirements
Our business requires continual investments to upgrade or enhance existing operations and to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Capital expenditures for our business consist primarily of:
• | Maintenance capital expenditures. These capital expenditures include expenditures for betterment and replacement of property, plant and equipment rather than to generate incremental distributable cash flow. Examples of maintenance capital expenditures include a routine replacement of a worn-out asset or replacement of major vehicle components; |
• | Growth capital expenditures. These expenditures are undertaken primarily to generate incremental distributable cash flow. Examples include expenditures for purchases of both bulk and portable propane tanks and other equipment to facilitate expansion of our customer base and operating capacity. |
Net cash used in investing activities was $84.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014, compared to net cash used in investing activities of $12.4 million for the three months ended October 31, 2013. This increase in net cash used in investing activities is due to an increase of $68.2 million in "Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired" and a $4.3 million increase in "Capital expenditures".
The increase in "Capital expenditures" is primarily due to the timing of $2.9 million in Propane and related equipment sales growth and maintenance capital expenditures and $1.0 million of Midstream operations growth projects.
Due to the mature nature of our Propane and related equipment sales operations, we have not incurred and do not anticipate significant fluctuations in maintenance capital expenditures. However, future fluctuations in growth capital expenditures could occur due to the opportunistic nature of these projects.
Due to the relatively new nature of our Midstream operations, we may experience significant fluctuations in maintenance capital expenditures as our facilities age and future fluctuations in growth capital expenditures could occur due to the opportunistic nature of these projects.
Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities was $105.8 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $48.9 million for the three months ended October 31, 2013. This increase in net cash provided by financing activities was primarily due to $42.0 million in proceeds from equity offerings and $16.0 million in net credit facility borrowings, both of which were primarily used to fund acquisitions during the period.
Distributions
Ferrellgas Partners paid a $0.50 per unit quarterly distribution on all common units, as well as the related general partner distributions, totaling $41.8 million during the three months ended October 31, 2014 in connection with the distributions declared for the three months ended July 31, 2014. The quarterly distribution on all common units and the related general partner distribution for the three months ended October 31, 2014 of $41.8 million are expected to be paid on December 15, 2014 to holders of record on December 8, 2014.
Secured credit facility
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As of October 31, 2014, we had total borrowings outstanding under our secured credit facility of $286.4 million, of which $164.2 million was classified as long-term debt. Additionally, Ferrellgas had $252.8 million and $350.4 million of available borrowing capacity under our secured credit facility as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively.
Borrowings outstanding at October 31, 2014 under the secured credit facility had a weighted average interest rate of 3.0%. All borrowings under the secured credit facility bear interest, at our option, at a rate equal to either:
• | for Base Rate Loans or Swing Line Loans, the Base Rate, which is defined as the higher of i) the federal funds rate plus 0.50%, ii) Bank of America’s prime rate; or iii) the Eurodollar Rate plus 1.00%; plus a margin varying from 0.75% to 1.75%; or |
• | for Eurodollar Rate Loans, the Eurodollar Rate, which is defined as the LIBOR Rate plus a margin varying from 1.75% to 2.75%. |
As of October 31, 2014, the federal funds rate and Bank of America’s prime rate were 0.09% and 3.25%, respectively. As of October 31, 2014, the one-month and three-month Eurodollar Rates were 0.17% and 0.24%, respectively.
In addition, an annual commitment fee is payable at a per annum rate ranging from 0.35% to 0.50% times the actual daily amount by which the facility exceeds the sum of (i) the outstanding amount of revolving credit loans and (ii) the outstanding amount of letter of credit obligations.
The obligations under this credit facility are secured by substantially all assets of the operating partnership, the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership but specifically excluding (a) assets that are subject to the operating partnership’s accounts receivable securitization facility, (b) the general partner’s equity interest in Ferrellgas Partners and (c) equity interest in certain unrestricted subsidiaries. Such obligations are also guaranteed by the general partner and certain subsidiaries of the operating partnership.
Letters of credit outstanding at October 31, 2014 totaled $60.8 million and were used primarily to secure insurance arrangements and, to a lesser extent, product purchases. At October 31, 2014, we had remaining letter of credit capacity of $139.2 million.
All standby letter of credit commitments under our secured credit facility bear a per annum rate varying from 1.75% to 2.75% (as of October 31, 2014, the rate was 2.25%) times the daily maximum amount available to be drawn under such letter of credit. Letter of credit fees are computed on a quarterly basis in arrears.
Accounts receivable securitization
Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC is accounted for as a consolidated subsidiary. Expenses associated with accounts receivable securitization transactions are recorded in “Interest expense” in the consolidated statements of earnings. Additionally, borrowings and repayments associated with these transactions are recorded in “Cash flows from financing activities” in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Cash flows from our accounts receivable securitization facility decreased $1.0 million. We received net funding of $14.0 million from this facility during the three months ended October 31, 2014 as compared to receiving net funding of $15.0 million from this facility in the prior year period.
Our strategy is to maximize liquidity by utilizing the accounts receivable securitization facility along with borrowings under the secured credit facility. See additional discussion about the secured credit facility in “Financing Activities – Secured credit facility.” Our utilization of the accounts receivable securitization facility is limited by the amount of accounts receivable that we are permitted to securitize according to the facility agreement. As of October 31, 2014, we had received cash proceeds of $105.0 million related to the securitization of our trade accounts receivable, with no remaining capacity to receive additional proceeds. As of October 31, 2014, the weighted average interest rate was 2.1%. As our trade accounts receivable increase during the winter heating season, the securitization facility permits us to receive greater proceeds as eligible trade accounts receivable increases, thereby providing additional cash for working capital needs.
Common unit issuances
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During September 2014, in a non-brokered registered direct offering which units are subject to certain contractual transfer restrictions, we issued to Ferrell Companies Inc. and the former owners of the salt water disposal wells we acquired from C&E Production, LLC and their affiliates, an aggregate of 1.5 million common units for an aggregate purchase price of $42.0 million. We used these proceeds to pay down a portion of the borrowings under our secured credit facility that funded the acquisition of the disposal wells and other propane and related equipment sales acquisitions completed during fiscal 2014.
The operating partnership
The financing activities discussed above also apply to the operating partnership except for cash flows related to distributions and contributions received, as discussed below.
Distributions
The operating partnership paid cash distributions of $42.2 million and $40.3 million during the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The operating partnership expects to pay cash distributions of $50.1 million on December 15, 2014.
Contributions received by the operating partnership
During September 2014, the operating partnership received cash contributions of $42.2 million from Ferrellgas Partners pursuant to a registered direct offering as discussed above and a related $0.4 million from the general partner. The proceeds were used to pay down a portion of outstanding indebtedness under the secured credit facility that funded the acquisition of salt water disposal wells from C&E Production, LLC and their affiliates and other propane and related equipment sales acquisitions completed during fiscal 2014.
Disclosures about Effects of Transactions with Related Parties
We have no employees and are managed and controlled by our general partner. Pursuant to our partnership agreement, our general partner is entitled to reimbursement for all direct and indirect expenses incurred or payments it makes on our behalf, and all other necessary or appropriate expenses allocable to us or otherwise reasonably incurred by our general partner in connection with operating our business. These reimbursable costs, which totaled $57.7 million for the three months ended October 31, 2014, include operating expenses such as compensation and benefits paid to employees of our general partner who perform services on our behalf as well as related general and administrative expenses.
Related party common unitholder information consisted of the following:
Common unit ownership at | Distributions (in thousands) paid during the three months ended | ||||||
October 31, 2014 | October 31, 2014 | ||||||
Ferrell Companies (1) | 22,529,361 | $ | 11,265 | ||||
FCI Trading Corp. (2) | 195,686 | 98 | |||||
Ferrell Propane, Inc. (3) | 51,204 | 26 | |||||
James E. Ferrell (4) | 4,358,475 | 2,179 |
(1) | Ferrell Companies is the sole shareholder of our general partner. |
(2) | FCI Trading Corp. is an affiliate of the general partner and is wholly-owned by Ferrell Companies. |
(3) | Ferrell Propane, Inc. is wholly-owned by our general partner. |
(4) | James E. Ferrell is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of our general partner. |
During the three months ended October 31, 2014, Ferrellgas Partners and the operating partnership together paid the general partner distributions of $0.8 million.
On December 15, 2014, Ferrellgas Partners expects to pay distributions to Ferrell Companies, FCI Trading Corp., Ferrell Propane, Inc., James E. Ferrell (indirectly) and the general partner of $11.3 million, $0.1 million, $26 thousand, $2.2 million and $0.9 million, respectively.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
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We did not enter into any risk management trading activities during the three months ended October 31, 2014. Our remaining market risk sensitive instruments and positions have been determined to be “other than trading.”
Commodity price risk management
Our risk management activities primarily attempt to mitigate price risks related to the purchase, storage, transport and sale of propane generally in the contract and spot markets from major domestic energy companies on a short-term basis. We attempt to mitigate these price risks through the use of financial derivative instruments and forward propane purchase and sales contracts. We do not conduct any risk management activities related to our Midstream operations.
Our risk management strategy involves taking positions in the forward or financial markets that are equal and opposite to our positions in the physical products market in order to minimize the risk of financial loss from an adverse price change. This risk management strategy is successful when our gains or losses in the physical product markets are offset by our losses or gains in the forward or financial markets. These financial derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges.
Our risk management activities include the use of financial derivative instruments including, but not limited to, price swaps, options, futures and basis swaps to seek protection from adverse price movements and to minimize potential losses. We enter into these financial derivative instruments directly with third parties in the over-the-counter market and with brokers who are clearing members with the New York Mercantile Exchange. We also enter into forward propane purchase and sales contracts with counterparties. These forward contracts qualify for the normal purchase normal sales exception within GAAP guidance and are therefore not recorded on our financial statements until settled.
Market risks associated with energy commodities are monitored daily by senior management for compliance with our commodity risk management policy. This policy includes an aggregate dollar loss limit and limits on the term of various contracts. We also utilize volume limits for various energy commodities and review our positions daily where we remain exposed to market risk, so as to manage exposures to changing market prices.
We have prepared a sensitivity analysis to estimate the exposure to market risk of our energy commodity positions. Forward contracts, futures, swaps and options outstanding as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, that were used in our risk management activities were analyzed assuming a hypothetical 10% adverse change in prices for the delivery month for all energy commodities. The potential loss in future earnings from these positions due to a 10% adverse movement in market prices of the underlying energy commodities was estimated at $15.7 million and $9.0 million as of October 31, 2014 and July 31, 2014, respectively. The preceding hypothetical analysis is limited because changes in prices may or may not equal 10%, thus actual results may differ. Our sensitivity analysis does not include the anticipated transactions associated with these hedging transactions, which we anticipate will be 100% effective.
Credit risk
We maintain credit policies with regard to our counterparties for propane procurement that we believe significantly minimize overall credit risk. These policies include an evaluation of counterparties’ financial condition (including credit ratings), and entering into agreements with counterparties that govern credit guidelines.
These counterparties consist of major energy companies who are suppliers, wholesalers, retailers, end users and financial institutions. The overall impact due to certain changes in economic, regulatory and other events may impact our overall exposure to credit risk, either positively or negatively in that counterparties may be similarly impacted. Based on our policies, exposures, credit and other reserves, management does not anticipate a material adverse effect on financial position or results of operations as a result of counterparty performance.
Interest rate risk
At October 31, 2014, we had $391.4 million in variable rate secured credit facility and collateralized note payable borrowings. Thus, assuming a one percent increase in our variable interest rate, our interest rate risk related to these borrowings would result in a loss in future earnings of $3.9 million for the twelve months ending October 31, 2015. The preceding hypothetical analysis is limited because changes in interest rates may or may not equal one percent, thus actual results may differ. We manage a portion of our interest rate exposure by utilizing interest rate swaps. To the extent that we have debt with variable interest rates that is not hedged, our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be materially adversely affected by significant increases in interest rates.
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We have the following interest rate swaps outstanding as of October 31, 2014, all of which are designated as hedges for accounting purposes:
Term | Notional Amount(s) (in thousands) | Type | ||
May-21 | $140,000 | Pay a floating rate and receive a fixed rate of 6.50% | ||
Aug-18 (1) | $175,000 and $100,000 | Forward starting to pay a fixed rate of 1.95% and receive a floating rate |
(1) | These forward starting swaps have an effective date of August 2015 and a term of three years. |
A hypothetical one percent change in interest rates would result in a net change in earnings of $1.4 million on the $140.0 million swap and ($0.3 million) on the $175.0 million swap for the twelve months ending October 31, 2015. The preceding hypothetical analysis is limited because changes in interest rates may or may not equal one percent, thus actual results may differ.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
An evaluation was performed by the management of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P., and Ferrellgas Finance Corp., with the participation of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of our general partner, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, were effective.
The management of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp., Ferrellgas, L.P., and Ferrellgas Finance Corp. does not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures will prevent all errors and all fraud. The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Based on the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the above mentioned Partnerships and Corporations have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple errors or mistakes. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events. Therefore, a control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide such reasonable assurances of achieving our desired control objectives, and the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of our general partner have concluded, as of October 31, 2014, that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in achieving that level of reasonable assurance.
During the most recent fiscal quarter ended October 31, 2014, there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a–15(f) or Rule 15d–15(f) of the Exchange Act) that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Our operations are subject to all operating hazards and risks normally incidental to handling, storing, transporting and otherwise providing for use by consumers of combustible liquids such as propane. As a result, at any given time, we are threatened with or named as a defendant in various lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Other than as discussed below, we are not a party to any legal proceedings other than various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. It is not possible to determine the ultimate disposition of these matters; however, management is of the opinion that there are no known claims or contingent claims that are reasonably expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
The Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) initiated an investigation into certain practices related to the filling of portable propane cylinders. On March 27, 2014, the FTC filed an administrative complaint alleging that Ferrellgas and one of its competitors colluded in 2008 to persuade a customer to accept the cylinder fill reduction from 17 pounds to 15 pounds. The complaint does not seek monetary remedies. Ferrellgas reached a settlement with the FTC during the three months ended October 31, 2014 without any financial payment; the settlement has been approved by a vote of the Commission and is in a public comment period.
We have also been named as a defendant, along with a competitor, in putative class action lawsuits filed in multiple jurisdictions. The complaints, filed on behalf of direct and indirect customers of our tank exchange business, reference the FTC complaint mentioned above. The lawsuits allege that we and a competitor coordinated in 2008 to reduce the fill level in barbeque cylinders and combined to persuade a common customer to accept that fill reduction, resulting in increased cylinder costs to retailers and end-user customers in violation of federal and certain state antitrust laws. The lawsuits seek treble damages, attorneys’ fees, injunctive relief and costs on behalf of the putative class. The lawsuits have been consolidated by a multidistrict litigation panel. We believe we have strong defenses to the claims and intend to vigorously defend against the consolidated case. We do not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to the putative class action lawsuit.
We have also been named as a defendant in a putative class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court in Kansas. The complaint was the subject of a motion to dismiss which was granted, in part, in August, 2011. The surviving claims allege breach of contract and breach of the implied duty of good faith and fair dealing, both of which allegedly arise from the existence of an oral contract for continuous propane service. We believe that the claims are without merit and intend to defend them vigorously. The case has not been certified for class treatment. Ferrellgas recently prevailed on an appeal before the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals and the appellate court ordered the trial court to determine whether the case must be arbitrated. We do not believe loss is probable or reasonably estimable at this time related to this putative class action lawsuit.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes from the risk factors set forth under Part I, Item 1A. "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2014.
ITEM 2. | UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS |
None.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
The exhibits listed below are furnished as part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Act, which are not listed, are not applicable.
Exhibit Number | Description | |||
3.1 | Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of February 18, 2003. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.2 | First Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of March 8, 2005. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.3 | Second Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of June 29, 2005. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.4 | Third Amendment to Fourth Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. dated as of October 11, 2006. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.5 | Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. filed with the Delaware Division of Corporations on March 28, 1996. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.6 | Bylaws of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. adopted as of April 1, 1996. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.7 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.7 | Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Ferrellgas, L.P. dated as of April 7, 2004. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.5 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.8 | Certificate of Incorporation of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. filed with the Delaware Division of Corporations on January 16, 2003. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.8 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
3.9 | Bylaws of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. adopted as of January 16, 2003. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.9 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
4.1 | Specimen Certificate evidencing Common Units representing Limited Partner Interests. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit A of Exhibit 3.1 to our registration statement on Form S-3 filed March 6, 2009. | |||
4.2 | Indenture dated as of November 4, 2013 with form of Note attached, among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $475 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2022. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 5, 2013. | |||
4.3 | Indenture dated as of April 13, 2010, among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $280 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 8 5/8% Senior Notes due 2020. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 13, 2010. | |||
4.4 | First Supplemental Indenture dated as of April 13, 2010, with form of Note attached, among Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $280 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 8 5/8% Senior Notes due 2020. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed April 13, 2010. | |||
4.5 | Indenture dated as of November 24, 2010, among Ferrellgas, L.P., Ferrellgas Finance Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to $500 million aggregate amount of the Registrant’s 6 1/2% Senior Notes due 2021. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 30, 2010. | |||
4.6 | Registration Rights Agreement dated as of December 17, 1999, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Williams Natural Gas Liquids, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | |||
4.7 | First Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of March 14, 2000, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and Williams Natural Gas Liquids, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | |||
4.8 | Second Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of April 6, 2001, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and The Williams Companies, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | |||
4.9 | Third Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated as of June 29, 2005, by and between Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. and JEF Capital Management, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 9, 2010. | |||
10.1 | Credit Agreement dated as of November 2, 2009, among Ferrellgas, L.P. as the borrower, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the general partner of the borrower, Bank of America, N.A. as administrative agent, swing line lender and L/C issuer, and the lenders party hereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | |||
10.2 | First Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of September 23, 2011, among Ferrellgas, L.P. as the borrower, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the general partner of the borrower, Bank of America, N.A. as administrative agent, swing line lender and L/C issuer, and the lenders party hereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 26, 2011. | |||
10.3 | Second Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of October 21, 2013, among Ferrellgas, L.P. as the borrower, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the general partner of the borrower, Bank of America, N.A. as administrative agent, swing line lender and L/C issuer, and the lenders party hereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 23, 2013. | |||
10.4 | Third Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of June 6, 2014, among Ferrellgas, L.P. as the borrower, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the general partner of the borrower, Bank of America, N.A. as administrative agent, swing line lender and L/C issuer, and the lenders party hereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 9, 2014. | |||
10.5 | Amended and Restated Receivable Sale Agreement dated as of January 19, 2012, between Ferrellgas, L.P. and Blue Rhino Global Sourcing, Inc., as originators, and Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC, as buyer. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 20, 2012. | |||
10.6 | Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of January 19, 2012, among Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC, as seller, Ferrellgas, L.P., as servicer, the purchasers from time to time party hereto, Fifth Third Bank and SunTrust Bank, as co-agents, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 20, 2012. |
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10.7 | First Amendment to Receivables Purchase Agreement dated as of April 30, 2012, among Ferrellgas Receivables, LLC, as seller, Ferrellgas, L.P., as servicer, the purchasers from time to time party hereto, Fifth Third Bank and SunTrust Bank, as co-agents, and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as administrative agent. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 8, 2012. | |||
# | 10.8 | Ferrell Companies, Inc. Supplemental Savings Plan, as amended and restated effective January 1, 2010. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 10, 2010. | ||
# | 10.9 | Ferrell Companies, Inc. 1998 Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended and restated effective October 11, 2004. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | ||
# | 10.10 | Amendment to Ferrell Companies, Inc. 1998 Incentive Compensation Plan, dated as of March 7, 2010. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 9, 2010. | ||
# | 10.11 | Employment, Confidentiality, and Noncompete Agreement dated as of July 17, 1998 by and among Ferrell Companies, Inc. as the company, Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company, James E. Ferrell as the executive and LaSalle National Bank as trustee of the Ferrell Companies, Inc. Employee Stock Ownership Trust. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | ||
# | 10.12 | Change In Control Agreement dated as of October 9, 2006 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and James E. Ferrell as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed December 9, 2011. | ||
# | 10.13 | Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and Stephen L. Wambold as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | ||
# | 10.14 | Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and James R. VanWinkle as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | ||
# | 10.15 | Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and Tod Brown as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | ||
# | 10.16 | Employment Agreement dated as of August 10, 2009 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and George L. Koloroutis as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 29, 2014. | ||
# | 10.17 | Agreement and Release dated as of January 19, 2012 by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. as the company and George L. Koloroutis as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 20, 2012. | ||
# | 10.18 | Employment Agreement dated as of September 25, 2013 by and between Ferrell Companies, Inc. as the company and Boyd H. McGathey as the executive. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed September 26, 2013. | ||
10.19 | ISDA 2002 Master Agreement and Schedule to the 2002 ISDA Master Agreement both dated as of May 3, 2012 together with three Confirmation of Swap Transaction documents each dated as of May 8, 2012, all between SunTrust Bank and Ferrellgas, L.P. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed June 8, 2012. | |||
# | 10.20 | Form of Director/Officer Indemnification Agreement, by and between Ferrellgas, Inc. and each director and executive officer. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed March 9, 2012. | ||
10.21 | Membership interest purchase agreement dated May 1, 2014, among Ferrellgas, L.P. and the former members of Sable Environmental LLC and Sable SWD 2 LLC. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 1, 2014. | |||
* | 31.1 | Certification of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act. | ||
* | 31.2 | Certification of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act. | ||
* | 31.3 | Certification of Ferrellgas, L.P. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act. | ||
* | 31.4 | Certification of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act. | ||
* | 32.1 | Certification of Ferrellgas Partners, L.P. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350. | ||
* | 32.2 | Certification of Ferrellgas Partners Finance Corp. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350. | ||
* | 32.3 | Certification of Ferrellgas, L.P. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350. | ||
* | 32.4 | Certification of Ferrellgas Finance Corp. pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350. | ||
* | 101.INS | XBRL Instance Document. | ||
* | 101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document. | ||
* | 101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document. | ||
* | 101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document. | ||
* | 101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document. | ||
* | 101.PRE | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document. | ||
* | Filed herewith | |||
# | Management contracts or compensatory plans. |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS, L.P. | |||
By Ferrellgas, Inc. (General Partner) | |||
Date: | December 10, 2014 | By | /s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle |
J. Ryan VanWinkle | |||
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; President, Midstream Operations; Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | |||
FERRELLGAS PARTNERS FINANCE CORP. | |||
Date: | December 10, 2014 | By | /s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle |
J. Ryan VanWinkle | |||
Chief Financial Officer and Sole Director | |||
FERRELLGAS, L.P. | |||
By Ferrellgas, Inc. (General Partner) | |||
Date: | December 10, 2014 | By | /s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle |
J. Ryan VanWinkle | |||
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; President, Midstream Operations; Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | |||
FERRELLGAS FINANCE CORP. | |||
Date: | December 10, 2014 | By | /s/ J. Ryan VanWinkle |
J. Ryan VanWinkle | |||
Chief Financial Officer and Sole Director |
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